If anything can be said to have been constructed in homage to the coconut tree it has to be the Coconut Place, the current residence of the Vice President of the Philippines. On a lovely site amidst well tended grounds full of coconut trees and with gorgeous views of Manila Bay, this famous structure celebrates the importance of the coconut tree to the Filipinos from its roots, trunk, fruits and flowers.
Seventy percent of the structure is believed to have been built from specially treated coconut wood and different types of hardwood found in the Philippines. Coconut shells and other parts of the tree have also been incorporated into the structure. The ground floor comprises of the dining and living rooms, the study and the library. The living quarters comprise of seven suites on the second floor named after each region in the country and display handicrafts from that region.
The building itself is shaped like an octagon and the roof resembles a traditional Filipino hat. Some interesting coconut related and other highlights are the 101 coconut shell chandelier, the dining table inlaid with 40,000 pieces of shells amongst other specially designed pieces of furniture, bedding made from banana tree and pineapple fibres, murals by national artists, the purple and green colour scheme of the room named for the Muslim Mindanao Province and the tribal artefacts in the Mountain Province Room.
Having been the centrepiece of the Cultural Centre of the Philippines and a state guesthouse since it was built in 1978 the Coconut Palace also served as a wedding reception venue and hosted a range of guests from world famous politicians to Hollywood stars. It was also featured on several well known TV shows. It underwent major renovations and was handed over to the Vice President in 2011. Visitors were allowed in the site previously but after it became the official residence of the Vice President, only group tours are allowed; they are free but on a strict schedule and can be cancelled without prior notice.
The Peninsula Manila has been a part of the luxury hotel scene in the city for many years now and is famous for its distinctive service and features. In the heart of vibrant Metro Manila close to business, shopping and entertainment areas and transport links, this standout amongst Manila luxury hotels provides guests with the ideal ambience along with comfortable and well appointed contemporary accommodation; cocooned spaces to take a break from the hectic city life. Stay at this iconic Manila hotel to experience a distinctive brand of hospitality.