Intercontinental Manila.

Introduction

InterContinental Manila, affectionately known as “InterCon,” stood as a beacon of luxury and modern Filipino architecture in the heart of Makati, Metro Manila. Opened in 1969, it was the city’s first five-star hotel and only the second InterContinental property in Asia, designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin. For nearly five decades, InterCon shaped Makati’s skyline, hosted world leaders, and became a symbol of cosmopolitan sophistication and Filipino hospitality (Wikipedia). Its closure in 2015 marked the end of an era, but its legacy still echoes in Makati’s vibrant urban landscape.

This guide details the history and cultural importance of InterContinental Manila, the current status of its former site, practical travel tips, nearby attractions, and what’s next for the InterContinental brand in the Philippines. Whether you’re seeking information on “InterContinental Manila visiting hours,” “InterContinental Manila tickets,” or “Makati historical sites,” this article is your comprehensive resource.

Architectural and Historical Legacy

InterContinental Manila—often called “InterCon”—was a landmark hotel located at the intersection of Ayala Avenue and Makati Avenue in Makati City, Metro Manila. Designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin, the hotel’s modernist style fused Filipino motifs with innovative concrete forms, setting new standards for luxury accommodations in the Philippines (Wikipedia).

Originally announced in 1958 as the Rizal InterContinental Hotel, the project was realized a decade later under the InterContinental Hotels Group. When it opened on April 11, 1969, it immediately became a symbol of Makati’s transformation into the Philippines’ premier business and lifestyle district (Philstar).

The hotel featured 332 luxury guest rooms and suites, two acclaimed restaurants (including the iconic Jeepney), two bars, a large outdoor pool, and extensive event spaces. After a major renovation in 2006, the hotel’s interiors reflected a harmonious blend of classic Filipino and contemporary design (Oyster.com; Trivago).

Cultural Impact and Notable Guests

InterContinental Manila was more than a hotel—it was a cultural and social hub for international dignitaries, celebrities, politicians, journalists, and local elites. The Jeepney Restaurant became a legendary gathering place, especially for media during historic periods such as Martial Law (Philstar).

The hotel pioneered hospitality innovations like the Guest Relations Officer (GRO) concept, which would be adopted by InterContinental properties worldwide (Inquirer Lifestyle). InterCon’s ballrooms and function spaces hosted countless political, business, and cultural events, weaving the hotel into the fabric of Philippine society (Oyster.com).

Closure, Demolition, and Redevelopment

On December 31, 2015, InterContinental Manila closed after the expiration of its management contract between Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts Corporation and IHG, paving the way for the redevelopment of Makati’s Ayala Center (Rappler). The hotel’s closure was marked by farewell events, packed final dinners at the Jeepney, and a wave of nostalgia from loyal guests and staff (KateWasHere).

Demolition took place between April 2016 and March 2017. The site is now home to One Ayala, a modern mixed-use complex featuring an intermodal transport facility, a Seda Hotel, and office towers (GMA News).

Visiting the Former Site: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Can You Visit InterContinental Manila Today?

• Status: The original hotel building has been demolished.
• Visiting Hours: There are no visiting hours or on-site tours, as the hotel no longer exists.
• Tickets: No tickets or entrance fees are required; the area is a public commercial district.
• Location: The intersection of Ayala Avenue and Makati Avenue, now part of the One Ayala complex.

While you can no longer tour the hotel, the site remains a bustling hub in Makati. Visitors can walk the area, take photos, and explore the thriving commercial and transport facilities that have replaced the hotel (Business Inquirer; The Lost Boy Lloyd).

Nearby Attractions in Makati

If you’re interested in Makati’s rich history and contemporary lifestyle, explore these nearby sites:

• Ayala Museum: Showcasing Filipino art, culture, and history.
• Ayala Triangle Gardens: A lush urban park ideal for relaxation and art appreciation.
• Greenbelt and Glorietta Malls: Premier shopping and dining destinations.
• Salcedo and Legazpi Villages: Known for weekend markets, galleries, and trendy cafes.
• Poblacion District: A vibrant nightlife and heritage area.
• Bonifacio Global City (BGC): A short drive away, offering more culture, dining, and art (ManilaFYI; Explore City Life).

The Return of InterContinental to the Philippines

The InterContinental brand returns to the Philippines with the announcement of InterContinental Clark at Hann Reserve in New Clark City, Pampanga. Slated to open in 2031, this luxury hotel will feature 250 rooms, multiple restaurants and bars, a spa, a health club, and retail outlets. The new property aims to set a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in the Philippines and will be just 15 minutes from Clark International Airport (IHG News Release; Manila Standard).

Travel Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Practical Advice

• Transport: The One Ayala area is accessible via MRT-3 Ayala Station, buses, jeepneys, taxis, and ride-hailing services.
• Safety: Makati is one of Metro Manila’s safest business districts, but normal urban precautions apply.
• Language: English is widely spoken.

FAQs

Q: Can I visit the original InterContinental Manila hotel?
A: No, the hotel is permanently closed and demolished. The site is now part of the One Ayala complex.

Q: Are there any memorials or plaques commemorating InterContinental Manila?
A: There are currently no official markers or exhibits at the former site.

Q: What luxury hotels can I stay at in Makati?
A: Consider Fairmont Makati, Raffles Makati, or Makati Shangri-La. For InterContinental fans, watch for the opening of InterContinental Clark in 2031.

Q: What are the nearest historical and cultural attractions?
A: Ayala Museum, Ayala Triangle Gardens, Greenbelt and Glorietta malls, and the villages of Salcedo and Legazpi.

Summary and Final Tips

InterContinental Manila’s story is woven into the evolution of Makati from swampy fields to a world-class financial and cultural center. As the city’s first five-star hotel, it set the standard for Filipino hospitality and served as a stage for major historical, political, and social events for nearly half a century (Philstar; Rappler).

Today, while the hotel itself is gone, its legacy continues in Makati’s thriving urban environment and the memories of those who experienced its grandeur. The area remains a dynamic destination for visitors seeking shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Looking forward, the upcoming InterContinental Clark promises a new chapter in the brand’s luxury legacy in the Philippines (GMA News).

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