The Henry: Hotels with character

MANILA, Philippines - Things stand out for various reasons – they could be strikingly beautiful or interestingly different, lead you to discover new things about the world and yourself, or they could simply give you an unforgettable experience.

Hotel The Henry stands out for all those reasons and more. The relative newcomer in the boutique hotel scene may only have been in the country for two years, but The Henry has proven its knack for giving guests quality, unique living experiences.

Established in Cebu in 2012 by Innovoterra Properties Inc., The Henry immediately caused a stir with its art-driven, design-forward aesthetic which features pieces from the world over, including Shanghai, Damascus and Berlin.

The Henry also became a showroom of sorts for renowned French pop artist Delphine de Lorme, whose quirky and wildly attractive paintings adorn the hotel rooms. All 38 rooms, each with its extraordinary wall mural, color story and theme, have practically become destinations themselves.

The Henry is not your run-of-the-mill hotel which features a standard or austere look. “We envisioned each room to ooze with personality and character, because The Henry is a place for those who are well-traveled, sophisticated and world-wise, those who are in constant search for one-of-a-kind experiences,” shares Innovoterra Properties chairman Hanky Lee.

The striking blending of art is just one of the things to love about The Henry. According to Hanky, The Henry’s core is still its intimate, top-class brand of service. “We’re a small hotel with only 38 rooms, which means we could really focus on the quality of service we extend to our guests. We’re already special because of how our rooms look, but what keeps the guests coming back is our service,” emphasizes Hanky.

Proof of its topnotch service is The Henry’s current ranking as the second best hotel in Cebu City based on TripAdvisor, the world’s largest peer-review-based travel site. Among its distinguished guests are international artist Patti Austin, Sen. Pia Cayetano, broadcast journalist Karen Davila, Tessa Prieto-Valdes, fashion designer Rajo Laurel, recording artist Karylle and host and television personality Bianca Valerio.

The Henry sits in the middle of a throbbing lifestyle destination at the heart of Cebu – One Paseo. Hanky says, “The Henry is also adjacent to key establishments which enhance the hotel’s experience. Just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel and guests can find themselves a nice Italian restaurant, a deli/wine store, a bar and a spa. And they’re all filled with local vibe and flavor, which offbeat travelers appreciate.”

With its success and solid reputation as the ultimate boutique hotel in Cebu, the management decided to finally bring The Henry’s unique experience to the country’s capital with the opening of its first Manila property last December.

Located in one of the historic compounds along F.B. Harrison in Pasay City, The Henry in Manila offers a look distinct from Cebu but with the same passion for unique experiences and intimate brand of service. Five houses from the country’s post-war era were lovingly restored to accommodate 34 rooms that feature modern amenities while maintaining a feel that is undeniably classic.

The Henry in Manila is meant to transport guests to a time when everything was more peaceful and simple. It’s a place that one can consider a sanctuary, an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s perfect for those who just want to unwind, read a book, while relishing in the rooms’ delightful pieces that speak of modern vintage and nostalgia,” Hanky says.

Of course guests can expect The Henry’s signature intimate service to accompany their stay at the new branch, along with the holistic lifestyle amenities characteristic of the original branch in Cebu.

Inside The Henry’s compound in Manila are destinations for those who want to dabble in culture and the arts with Eric Paras’ furniture store and studio, the Avellana Gallery and Jojie Lloren’s atelier by The Henry’s side.

We’re definitely proud of what our hotels have done and will continue to accomplish, and that is to give guests unforgettable experiences matched with intimate service. We look forward to bringing guests more enriching and meaningful moments as we mark another feat for the boutique hotel industry with the opening of The Henry in Manila,” concludes Hanky.

Experience The Henry in Manila at 2680 FB Harrison St. Pasay City, and Cebu at No. 1 Paseo Saturnino, Maria Luisa Road Banilad, Cebu City. Log on to www.thehenryhotel.com.