I think Royal Mandaya has one of the friendliest and accommodating front desk staff among the hotels I've been to. However, I can't say that they're the most efficient. I booked a couple of rooms when I went there last week but it wasn't until I returned to Manila that I realized that the charges were short of one room and that our airport transfer which was supposed to cost P100/pax wasn't included in the bill. Well, of course I'm not complaining since it was to my advantage but the hotel would really lose some income if its people fail to do such simple computations.

The lobby of the hotel is nice, so is the complimentary buffet breakfast. If only for the breakfast, I wouldn't hesitate to stay in Mandaya again. The selection is good. I love the chicken noodles and the egg station as well as the assorted breads and pastries. The dining area is also chic and comfortable.

Btw, Mandaya has two wings. I stayed in the new one. The room is just the typical hotel fare. Nothing special or outstanding. I was able to access their free wifi but only at a certain spot in the room. There's a coffee and tea making facility but no tea or coffee. Two small bottled water are provided for free, however.

The bed is firm but I don't like the pillows. They didn't look very clean to me. The towels (they only provide bath towels) are also a bit old. But the toilet paper was soft and the hot shower is heavenly. There's a 32-inch flat TV with cable service and a mini bar.

Mandaya's location is very good. There are lots of affordable and nice restaurants around. Getting a taxi is also a breeze.

If I want to have a delightful breakfast and stay within the downtown area, I might check-in at Royal Mandaya again but if a cozy, nice room is what I'm after, I think I'll look elsewhere.