Hotels and Resorts [Archive]

bagel

March 24th, 2004, 10:02 AM

And here's the text that came from the website I found the awards info from....

Robert de Niro, Claudia Schiffer, Diana Ross, David Hasselhoff, Naomi Campbell, Claire Danes, Tom Cruise, Sharon Cuneta. They all came and were conquered. Amanpulo is definitely top drawer, set on a private island off Palawan with its own art gallery and boutique to boot. Resort guests stay in casitas inspired by the traditional Bahay Kubo (native hut).

A Peaceful Island situated on the private island of Pamalikan, 200 km east of Northern Palawan in the Philippines. The 89-hectare island, part of the Quiniluban group of Cuyo Islands-Palawan, is surrounded by 5.5km of white sand beaches, turquoise waters and a coral reef 50-300 meters from shore. Because the Cuyo archipelago has remained largely undeveloped, its vegetation and waters have scarcely been touched by tourism.

The resort's main building, The Clubhouse, contains The Restaurant and its terrace, The Lobby and Bar, The Library, Gallery and Boutique. The Beach Club is a short walk away. All watersport facilities, except scuba diving, are available from the Beach Club. The Dive Shop is a five-minute club car ride from The Clubhouse. The Windsurf Hut is by the Northeastern side of Pamalican. Beside it is the Lagoon Retreat where windsurfers or swimmers alike can take their showers and eat their ordered picnic in leisure. Take the path by the Plant Nursery which is on the left road from the Clubhouse. The Playground, across casita 24, is a world for kids.

PARADISE FOUND

Imagine this: You enter a spacious room that smells so clean and fresh, its wooden floor so shiny and spotless, you would not want to step on it. You'd prefer to take off your shoes and feel it with your bare feet. Its king-size bed is so inviting and so immaculately made in crisp white damask linens and fluffy pillows to nestle your head. Or just laze around on the comfortable lounging chairs while reading your favorite book or simply sipping freshly brewed barako coffee. Look outside through the panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Whichever side you look, you have a view of your secluded terrace, your pocket garden or your very own private beach. Yours and yours alone!

What's your favorite spot in the Philippines?

Pamalikan before it became -- rather transformed into the Amanpulo that we know today. We used to frequent the island when there was absolutely nothing there. We had to take along everything -- and I mean everything -- from drinking water to the basic necessities we needed to survive, to live. I remember the times, we slept under the stars. Magical times. Oh how we adored the island -- the source and reason of many wonderful memories.

- From: Doody Tuason

Walk through a doorway and you are in an unusually spacious bathroom, its decors and accessories following the theme of the understated bedroom. And again, it's so spic-and-span, even the most finicky can lie on its wooden floor.

Step outside and see varicolored birds hovering above you. Feel and smell the fresh air anytime of the day. Close your eyes and hear nothing but the chirping of the birds, the rustling of leaves and the breaking of the waves. It's simplicity at its height.

You are now in paradise called Amanpulo! It is unlike most beach resorts anywhere in the world. Though there are the usual biking, tennis, snorkeling, diving and other activities, there is actually not much to do in this Aman resort. But there lies the paradox: the possibilities of inactivity can be endless. After a couple of days acclimatizing yourself in the island, you'd be so busy doing nothing that you would hardly notice the passage of time. Your metabolism downshifts; your pace slows down; there is no schedule to follow; you leave all your worries behind. But your senses are at full gear! You become attuned with yourself. You commune with the birds and the lizards. There is something meditative and spiritual in the Aman lifestyle -- and yet invigorating, perhaps even intoxicating. Could this be the reason why there are 65,000 so-called "Amanjunkies" out there regularly staying in the 13 different Aman resorts around the world?

The word aman is Sanskrit for peace and pulo is Filipino for island. Designed by famous Filipino architect Bobby Mañosa, Amanpulo opened in December1993, in the island of Pamalican, Palawan. To date, it has been voted twice the Best Beach Resort in the World. It has a total of 84 hectares with 40 rooms called casitas, a beach club, and a clubhouse. Each casita is built far from each other to give guests utmost privacy and quiet. It is no wonder it is a favorite hideaway of the rich, the famous and Hollywood stars.

Ringed continuously with powder-fine white sand, one can actually walk around this feather-shaped island for an hour and a half. With its crystal clear waters, one does not have to swim far to appreciate the protected marine sanctuary. And for those who are non-beach or sun worshippers, there is the clubhouse. It has a library where they have books of various interests, a wide selection of the latest DVDs that can be borrowed and viewed in the privacy of their casitas. Amanpulo also has an art gallery, which features Philippine and other Asian art, antiques, handicrafts and other rare items. Then there is the boutique, which does not only sell the usual beachwear needs but has some famous lines: Silk Cocoon, Natori, Prizmic & Brill bags and some priceless antique batik from Indonesia. The shops' merchandise has been exquisitely handpicked and arranged by the very efficient and amiable Palaweña Janet Oquendo.

Stepping inside the clubhouse and dining areas of Amanpulo is like being inside a temple. Everyone seems to be talking in whispers and the staff waits on the guests with such solemnity and grace. Its awesomely expansive swimming pool area is the perfect place to relax and simply enjoy some solitude. One way of spending an afternoon here is have an aromatherapy massage in one of the cabanas. We had ours in one with a breathtaking view of Manamoc Island.

Going around the Pamalican island is made easy as each casita is provided with a golf cart. Or you could bike around like what we did if you want to sweat it out and work up an appetite. The meals are to look forward to. Dining at the clubhouse is such a pleasurable experience -- amid candlelight, you're serenaded by guitarist Butch with Filipino love songs. On our second night, we had a most memorable dinner of blue cheese souffle, seafood risotto and a pan-fried guinea fowl. Compliments to Swiss Chef Fritz Zwahlen for his refreshingly inventive cuisine. Another truly memorable experience we had was a picnic in a secluded part of the island, which we booked the day before. They packed our lunch of selection of cheeses, cold cuts and grapes in a fine Prizmic & Brill picnic basket, and a bottle of excellent red wine to set the mood. Having delivered the basket and set our table, we were left in isolation. It was like having the whole island entirely to ourselves! Anything was just possible from that moment on. Fortunately for us, the birds and the lizards couldn't speak.

All the staff has a way of making the guests feel so special and welcome. A guest is known whichever part of the island he/she may wander. The staff/guest ratio is 2 to 1 even on full occupancy. There's even the very good- looking house doctor Rom Gumabon who's on call 24 hours each day. Every guest's needs are anticipated, which indeed is very impressive. Small things like while sitting by the pool or by the beach, someone would appear out of nowhere to cover your lounging chair with a towel and bring you iced water every time. Move to another place and they will follow you with your drink. You could leave your things lying around without having to worry about them. And the best part of it all is you do not feel the staff's presence. They just appear when needed and quietly vanish right away. Their timing is perfect and their service so unobtrusive. And there are no bills to sign. Everything is settled on the day you check out.

Amanpulo's biggest asset is its being small. As Adrianne Zecha, the founder of the Aman resorts said: "We prefer to think small. Intimate. Involving. It's not that we are better than big hotels because we are small. We're different, that's all. Aman resorts responds to a contemporary lifestyle. That's what we offer - a lifestyle experience, one without limitations... The world is big. Our ambitions will continue to be small." - By Claude Tayag With Mary Ann Tayag

Climate

In Pamalican Island, the weather from November to March is usually dry and cool with prevailing northeast winds. April and May are mostly hot and dry. From June to October, scattered rainshowers may occur which usually do not last very long. The sea is usually safe for swimming practically all year around. Sea conditions are usually very good and ideal for diving, snorkeling, swimming, sailing, boating and other watersport activities. The Cuyo Archipelago has less average rainfall than the rest of the Philippines.

Time Difference

Pamalican Island is eight hours ahead of GMT and the same time zone as Manila.

Language

Filipino (Tagalog) is the official language. English is used for business and legal transactions and is spoken almost everywhere.

Interisland transfers:

Amanpulo has its own Airport Lounge in Manila located at Air Ads Aviation Center, Andrews Ave., Domestic Rd., Pasay City. From there, guests are flown to the island's private airstrip by chartered plane. The flight between Manila and Pamalican takes approximately one and a half-hours.

The roundtrip airfare (Manila-Amanpulo-Manila) cost US$300 per adult passenger; US$150.00 per child from 2 to 6 years old; US$30.00 per infant below 2 years old. Airfare rate is subject to change without notice.

Strictly enforced luggage allowance on all flights except for private charters are 20 kgs (44 lbs) per adult passenger including hand luggage and 10 kgs (22 lbs) per child. Infants have to share luggage with the parents.

On arrival date, we would require an allowance of at least one hour and 30 minutes between guests' international flights and our local interisland flights.

Activities and Services

Swimming; sailing (Hobie cats and lasers); windsurfing with advanced slalom boards and Neil Pryde sails; rowing in tandem kayaks; fishing; boat trips and sunset cruises; snorkeling and scuba diving; full PADI certification courses - beginner and advanced; fish viewing and feeding; bird watching; trekking; biking; tennis; star gazing, babysitting; laundry and pressing; special wedding services; and beauty and massage treatments.

renell

March 24th, 2004, 05:26 PM

ok.. here's a question.

any good resorts near MM, about 2 hours drive max?

Edmundtanso

March 24th, 2004, 09:15 PM

wow! i never hear much amanpulo until a year ago. i know it is very expensive but didn't think it won so much awards!

absent-minded

March 25th, 2004, 03:43 AM

Originally posted by Edmundtanso

wow! i never hear much amanpulo until a year ago. i know it is very expensive but didn't think it won so much awards!

yeah.. same here! it is dang expensive though! which is a good thing, cuz that keeps it from getting spoiled too quickly like what's happening to boracay now...

I can't believe Robert de Niro, Tom Cruise and Sharon Cuneta have been there...! that's how good (and expensive) it really is...!!!

mhe-ann

March 25th, 2004, 06:32 AM

I'm wondering what year Tom Cruise visited the Phils...

@edmund, why not try going there this summer? :) So that we would know more about this very interesting resort. ;)

Edmundtanso

March 25th, 2004, 07:06 AM

mhe-ann
can't afford :) i've inquired already and the cheapest room is like more than $500 a night :?

SKYLINEPIGEON

March 25th, 2004, 06:49 PM

Originally posted by mhe-ann

I'm wondering what year Tom Cruise visited the Phils...

@edmund, why not try going there this summer? :) So that we would know more about this very interesting resort. ;)

hmm i remember he came with his former wife mimi rogers and they created a scene at naia cause they were not happy with the press taking pictures of them

Edmundtanso

March 25th, 2004, 07:07 PM

botbaha
thanks for sharing the photos and texts. the lsists of awards ended on 2000, is it because they havent updated it? just curious :) thanks.

ryanr

March 26th, 2004, 04:07 PM

Amazing...absolute paradise. Amanpulo is really a MUST to visit sometime in your lifetime, thats if u have the money....it is freakin' expensive and you have to fly a chartered plane to get there. SOOO beautiful!!:cool:

mhe-ann

April 15th, 2004, 10:36 AM

ryanr

April 23rd, 2004, 02:21 PM

Well, just to get this thread going again here are some more hotels:

Cebu Marriott:
http://alltravelnetwork.com/philippines/marriott-hotel/images/front.jpg
http://www.philippineshotelresort.com/cebu/marriott/images/front2.jpg
http://www.philippineshotels.net/hotels-cebu/cebu-city-marriott-hotel/cebu-city-marriott-hotel.jpg

Davao Marco Polo Hotel:
http://www.bridgestravel.com/marco_polo/Images/front.jpg
http://image.pegs.com/images/MH/80360/80360_b1.jpg
http://www.marcopolohotels.com/jpgs/davao/index.jpg

bagel

April 23rd, 2004, 05:31 PM

I stayed at Davao Marco Polo. Nice place. There are a bunch of fruit stalls right outside the entrance. However, you can't take the durian that you buy from the fruit stalls into the hotel. :)

I also went to Pearl Farm in Davao... now that was a cooooool place. Anyone have pics of it? Or reviews of it?

renell

April 23rd, 2004, 05:39 PM

i'm guessing Davao Marco Polo is Davao City's tallest.. actually it's the only scraper i know there

apiong

April 26th, 2004, 10:31 AM

http://www.pwetko.org/gallery/albums/userpics/10039/normal_6307050.jpg

more of my shots here: http://www.pbase.com/apiong/caylabne

mhe-ann

April 26th, 2004, 10:48 AM

wow. where's that island?

apiong

April 26th, 2004, 11:08 AM

wow. where's that island?

Caylabne Bay Resort is at Ternate, Cavite (near Puerto Azul)... Luzon Island... :colgate:

ryanr

April 26th, 2004, 12:03 PM

Looks peaceful...:)

renell

April 26th, 2004, 04:25 PM

Caylabne Bay Resort is at Ternate, Cavite (near Puerto Azul)... Luzon Island... :colgate:

we've been there, my family, around 98-99. i think the Marines train there.

mhe-ann

April 27th, 2004, 03:45 AM

wow! never knew that there is a beautiful resort in Cavite.

SunKing

April 30th, 2004, 08:47 AM

Here's an artist's rendering of the Cebu Hilton:
http://gallery.cybertarp.com/albums/userpics/22080/hiltoncebu.jpg

mhe-ann

April 30th, 2004, 09:17 AM

I think it would be even better if they would change the color of the buildings. hehehe. but anyway...:applause: :applause: :applause: :cheers:

bagel

May 23rd, 2004, 06:24 PM

So since they're doing things like direct flights from Kralc to Caticlan with connections from Korea these days, we can undoubtedly say that Boracay is big time.

But the days when it was such a quiet, uncommercialized place have long gone by. Some of the people I know who have been there say that while you can do more stuff there now, it's never going to be as great as it was before it became the premier resort destination in the Philippines.

My question is, is there a place these days that will be the next Boracay? El Nido Palawan? Somewhere else?

JudeD

June 8th, 2004, 04:48 PM

Some VERY good news. The Peninsula group has reportedly acquired the shuttered Cebu Plaza Hotel (which was formerly affiliated with the Intercontinental Group). It used to be Cebu's premier hotel and it's got a pretty good hillside location overlooking the city. So hopefully we can soon see it be refurbished and re-branded as The Peninsula Cebu. Word is, the demand for 5-star accomodations in Cebu far outpaces the supply so setting up deluxe hotels is now a top priority over there. The dormant Sheraton property beside SM Cebu may also be revived.

ryanr

October 23rd, 2004, 05:22 AM

Great news! Cebu's 5 star demand is high because many companies like to hold business meetings and conferences in Cebu so that they can tie-in business with leisure. There are also many product launches, etc in Cebu hotels.

A refurbished Cebu Plaza Hotel turned into Peninsula Cebu will make the hotel very nice. And good that Sheraton might be revived. That will make a Marriott, Peninsula, Hilton, Shangri-la and Sheraton in Cebu and Mactan:)

Francis20

October 23rd, 2004, 06:23 AM

somebody told me that there's this unfinished hotel in a reclaimed area in Cebu. I forgot what hotel was that. The worse is...i forgot who just told me. this is probably one of the hotels we are just talking about.

ryanr

October 23rd, 2004, 06:41 AM

It is Sheraton, Francis;) It is right next to SM, and i think Henry Sy had something to do with its development.

Francis20

October 23rd, 2004, 07:00 AM

ok, thanks Ryan. is it considered cancelled now?

ryanr

October 23rd, 2004, 07:03 AM

Well it is on hold right now. but according to JudeD, "The dormant Sheraton property beside SM Cebu may also be revived"

Francis20

October 23rd, 2004, 07:12 AM

there's something wrong with the soil, i heard. im not sure. i will try to recall who told me these things.

ryanr

October 23rd, 2004, 07:34 AM

something wrong with the soil? how does that affect the hotel? makes it unstable?

Francis20

October 23rd, 2004, 07:44 AM

that was the reason why it was put to hold. i guess. the building leaned sideways...i dunno. haha...:D my bad memory.

ryanr

October 23rd, 2004, 07:46 AM

oh, that makes a little sense. But i think it also had to do with some financial stuff.

I was gonna say...."whats wrong with the soil? they cant plant the plants for the hotel gardens, then?" hehehe:D

SKYLINEPIGEON

October 23rd, 2004, 11:23 AM

henry sy loves sheraton

ryanr

October 28th, 2004, 05:01 PM

Robinsons Land allots PhP21M for hotel upgrade

Property developer Robinsons Land Corp. is spending PhP21 million to renovate and modernize the twelve-year-old Cebu Midtown Hotel in a bid to attract more tourists.

The project has obtained non-pioneer tax incentives from the Board of Investments (BoI) as a tourism-related activity under the Investment Priorities Plan, an annual listing of the government's preferred economic activities. Robinsons Land will upgrade 96 hotel rooms including hallways, but without changing the original structures and amenities.

A first-class hotel on Fuente Osmeña, Cebu's newly developed commercial district, Cebu Midtown has 200 guestrooms -- 76 standard rooms, 113 deluxe rooms, and 11 suites. Facilities include a restaurant, a bar, a fitness center, a pool, and banquet halls. The grand ballroom, which can be converted into five function rooms, can accommodate 400 to as much as 800 people. -- F. F. Salvosa II

SKYLINEPIGEON

October 28th, 2004, 07:45 PM

time will come there will be more hotels in cebu than manila

cropher

October 29th, 2004, 03:50 AM

Its because Cebu can still accomodate resort hotels with beach front and non-resort hotels while Manila can't because Manila Bay is polluted already . Metro Manila however has many with business hotels big and small .

ryanr

October 29th, 2004, 04:07 AM

Yeah...Cebu has resorts and business hotels, while Manila only has business hotels.

Power-mad

October 29th, 2004, 06:14 AM

A refurbished Cebu Plaza Hotel turned into Peninsula Cebu will make the hotel very nice. And good that Sheraton might be revived. That will make a Marriott, Peninsula, Hilton, Shangri-la and Sheraton in Cebu and Mactan:)

This is all news to me. Is this going to be the real-thing Peninsula (as in managed by Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels Inc.) and not a rip-off? The last Peninsula project on the drawing board I've heard of is the one in Tokyo...

thomasian

October 29th, 2004, 06:54 AM

renell

October 29th, 2004, 08:29 AM

Yeah...Cebu has resorts and business hotels, while Manila only has business hotels.

hmm.. not really, the hotels along Roxas Boulevard and beside Manila Bay are catered for tourists.

ryanr

October 29th, 2004, 08:44 AM

What i meant was hotels and not beach resorts;) so i said business, as i couldnt think of another way to describe them.

renell

October 29th, 2004, 08:58 AM

What i meant was hotels and not beach resorts;) so i said business, as i couldnt think of another way to describe them.

alrighty.. that's true, since Manila has no beaches ;)

renell

October 29th, 2004, 01:56 PM

Pics of Manila Pen. i dunno if they've been seen before. but i haven't seen them here lately
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid120/pc0c4633718120cb15f11ac52cc8e092b/f863ba49.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid120/pd02984623717f30ca57bfbbd619ae665/f863b9cd.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid120/pbb96f4a5bc30fdb26c8238f59253c419/f863ba01.jpg

a-wire_2.0

October 30th, 2004, 07:16 AM

for me another best hotel here in the philippines is the Mactan Shangrila Hotel, the interior was done by atelier almario. Check their designs guys and surely your gonna like it...

mhe-ann

November 2nd, 2004, 08:57 AM

thanks for those pics @renell. :)

OtAkAw

November 2nd, 2004, 03:23 PM

Wow, ang ganda pala ng peninsula sa manila. Bakit ba walang masyadong nagdedevelop na mga bagong hotels sa manila? Hina ba ang demand? Sa HK nga may itatayong four seasons kahit na halos lahat na yata ng international brand na htel nandun na. Sana dumami intl hotels sa manila noh?

rustyboi

November 4th, 2004, 10:24 AM

popular resort hotels in cebu

http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL496/2290612/5615129/71988404.jpg
http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL496/2290612/5615129/71989787.jpg
Plantation Bay Resort, Mactan

http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL496/2290612/5615129/71988351.jpg
http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL496/2290612/5615129/71988364.jpg
http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL496/2290612/5615129/71988377.jpg
Shangri-La's Mactan Island Resort

http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL496/2290612/5615129/71988649.jpg
Cebu Hilton Towers & Resort (Commercial operations will start on December 2004)

rustyboi

November 4th, 2004, 10:26 AM

here are some business hotels in cebu

http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL496/2290612/5615129/71988417.jpg
Marriott Hotel, Cebu Business Park

http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL496/2290612/5615129/71988300.jpg
Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino

http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL496/2290612/5615129/71990802.jpg
The Fuente Osmeña Towers I (Club Ultima 25-floors) & II (Crown Regency Hotel 40-floors)
Tower I completion is set on December 2004.
Tower II is still under construction.

renell

November 5th, 2004, 06:29 AM

wasup with the Fuente Osmena Towers' top? :? awfully ugly.

tyronne

November 5th, 2004, 07:46 AM

Fort Ilocandia Resort & Casino
Laoag City, Ilocos Norte

http://www.fortilocandia.com.ph/fw_fircview1.gif
http://www.fortilocandia.com.ph/_Hotel/rm_vw1.jpg
http://www.fortilocandia.com.ph/_casino/Casino_pg1.jpg
http://www.fortilocandia.com.ph/_greatfun/_sports14.JPG
http://www.fortilocandia.com.ph/_greatfun/_sport30.jpg

photos from www.fortilocandia.com

kiretoce

November 5th, 2004, 06:02 PM

FORT ILOCANDIA BECKONS

LAOAG CITY – If there’s something that the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos did right during his 20 years in power, it would probably be the construction of the only 5-star resort in Northern Luzon: The Fort Ilocandia Resort Casino/Golf and Country Club.

Because of the presence of this worldclass tourism facility plus the city’s various historical and nature attractions, Laoag International Airport today draws 18 international flights a week, much more than its closest rival: The Cebu International Airport.

Tourists who come to Laoag are mostly Chinese from Hong Kong, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Taiwan and Manila.

Fort Ilocandia was constructed just to accommodate the invited guests at the wedding of Irene, daughter of the late strong man. It was conceived in 1980 and first opened its doors in 1983.

The Fort Ilocandia wasn’t quite what I’d imagine it to be: An ordinary resort so to speak. Everything I saw from the moment I stepped down from the coaster quite amazed me. It was definitely not an ordinary hotel for its wide lobby and large chandeliers hanging from its glass ceiling reminded me of the grandeur of the Grand Dame of Asia: The Manila Hotel.

The main building houses the lobby, a number of restaurants, shopping arcade, casino, discotheque, and a glass-topped atrium where you can relax as you sip your favorite drinks, tea or coffee.

If you love Asian cuisines, Lucky House and Golden Pavilion are the best places for you. It offers the finest Cantonese dishes you can find plus delicious dishes from Korea, Japan and Taiwan.

You can also have a drink with your beloved one or friends at Sunset Bar which is located at the beachside after which you can dine in a Spanish Restaurant, or CoCo Lobster where you can enjoy authentic Filipino cuisine.

After your dinner, you can visit the Casino Filipino at the second floor. It is open 24 hours a day with multi-lingual attendants. The gaming area includes more VIP game rooms to satisfy your appetite for thrill.

Or, you may proceed to Passion Night Club and Karaoke where glamorous shows are held every night. There are VIP rooms where you can show your singing prowess or none of it, and have a fun and relaxing time.

Hotel facilities include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, seven function rooms, video arcade, tennis court, badminton court, gym and sauna, driving range, golf course, paintball, beach volleyball, jet ski, sea donut, wind glides, sailing boat, bodyboard and pool toys.

You may also indulge in various recreational activities such as wind sailing, archery, shooting, horseback riding, wind gliding/wind surfing, canoeing, open sea fishing, snorkel diving, scuba diving, and rafting, among others.

The hotel’s red brick facade and roofs beautifully contrast with white round windows. Clearly, it’s inspired by the architecture of the colonial Spanish or Spanish Moroccan style.

There is an impressive and immense fountain and well-maintained gardens and flowering plants-lined walkways.

The rooms that spread out in four other two-storey buildings include 233 standard rooms; 25 deluxe rooms; eight junior suites; and two presidential suites. All of them have aircon units, cable tv, telephones, and a bathroom with hot water.

The resort also has a world-class 18-hole golf course with international standards and a perfect design to challenge one’s playing skills. The golf course, with thousands of trees built along Lake Paoay was designed by PGA champion, Gary Player for the late President Marcos. It measures 6,518 yards from the blue tee with a par of 72. Added hazards are the century-old fruit bearing trees and man-made ponds and lake.

The hotel is sprawled over 77 hectares of land at the middle of sand dunes, prime forests, and two kilometers of fine sandy beach facing the South China Sea. It is situated on the northwestern tip of Luzon island in Ilocos Norte. Laoag City and Laoag International Airport are accessible by a 10-minute ride from the hotel.

ryanr

November 6th, 2004, 03:04 AM

:eek: @ Fort Ilocandia Resort & Casino...no wonder lots of Japanese and Koreans go there.

Manila Peninsula's lobby is the best hotel lobby in MM if im not mistaken. btw, i think Manila Penn's pictures are better off in the MM hotel thread, since this is for other hotels outside MM;)

And another thing, Shangri-la Mactan is the business traveler's top resort choice for Asia. I saw it in Far Eastern Economic Review.

ryanr

December 20th, 2004, 09:00 AM

bump

jbkayaker12

December 20th, 2004, 10:04 AM

Metro Manila has boutique hotels, not a 5* hotel nor a chain but something nicer than a pension or a hostel.

Jon

absent-minded

December 21st, 2004, 12:19 AM

wasup with the Fuente Osmena Towers' top? :? awfully ugly.

what...?! hahaha! i thought the curved Chinese/Japanese-y tops looked pretty good pa naman... I think the podium/the bottom part of Tower II doesn't look too good though...

Fort Ilocandia looks really nice...

for me another best hotel here in the philippines is the Mactan Shangrila Hotel, the interior was done by atelier almario. Check their designs guys and surely your gonna like it...

I read this short little plug/feature on one of the last BluPrint issues and they said Shangri-la Mactan just underwent a pretty big renovation. they sourced much of the furniture from local Filipino makers. looked good..! Makati Shangri-la's rooms are also real nice. very modern...

the_sailor_977

December 21st, 2004, 02:43 AM

If we don't attract a lot of tourists, Manila's hotel occupancy rate will still be low. But, can you consider Manila as a touristic city? I don't think so. Manila has a lot of potentials but the city government don't value this. Manila has a beautiful bay (one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world, but actually guys, I don't like the Reclaimed areas in the bay because it spoils the natural beauty), a river (ano ba ang nangyari sa Ilog Pasig ngayon?) and canals. Manila also has a lot of history and architecture but nobody preserves this as a treasure.

kryptonite

December 22nd, 2004, 02:07 AM

^^ I also don't like the reclaimed areas in the bay.

Mas maganda sana kung yung mga building sa Makati eh nasa gilid ng Ilog Pasig. Katulad sa Singapore. :D

cropher

December 22nd, 2004, 02:27 AM

Rockwell's buildings are near the Pasig River banks

It would have happened if there is a continuous wide avenue complemented with beautifully landscaped river walk spanning the stretch of Pasig River like Roxas blvd. perhaps . Maybe , we could have taken care of the river much more because it could be a tourist spot but it did not happen , only broken span of narrow roads are there and factories line up in that river , but it still can happen , its not that impossible.

tyronne

December 22nd, 2004, 02:29 AM

stephencua

December 22nd, 2004, 04:45 AM

kryptonite, i dont think anybody would want to build anything beside the Pasig river especially with the sorry condition that it is in right now.. remember the piso para sa pasig campaign? i dont think it even made a dent on the condition of the river..

kiretoce, i agree that fort ilocandia is very very impressive.. ive been there just once but the whole are was massive and quite breath-taking.. ang layo lang kasi from manila.. about 10 hour drive or so.. hehhe

JudeD

December 22nd, 2004, 04:58 AM

Actually, if you look at the Pasig River now and compare it to how it was 12 years ago, there's really a marked improvement. Before it was really mostly garbage floating around and the river was a thick murky brown-black. Now it's mostly water lilies and it's a more natural-looking brown color. Several stretches along the river have already been converted into parks. And they've really become stricter about dumping waste into the river. I know several firms that have been fined big amounts for breaking the rules.

JudeD

December 22nd, 2004, 05:09 AM

ryanr

December 22nd, 2004, 06:18 AM

they (reclaimed areas) don't look good yet because they're still empty. when the planned developments are put into place im sure the bay, with the developed reclaimed areas will definitely look nice. other cities have reclaimed areas too and they turn out to be nice. i personally like buildings built just beside the waters, like what kryptonite said.

I agree...surely the reclaimed area will look amazing once it is developed. Roxas Blvd looks really nice since there are highrises along the shoreline.

@ stephencua - The Pasig river has improved significantly in the recent years. Yes, it is still quite dirty but it is much cleaner than lets say 10 years ago. And the piso para sa pasig helped a lot.

XetraDAX

December 22nd, 2004, 07:59 AM

Marami nang "linear parks" along Pasig River. Well, actually, sa Manila part lang.

Then before maraming cargo ships that are "docking" sa banks ng Pasig River. Ang pangit tignan, i swear. Now, wala na.

Then yung color ng river, thats right. Now its more of natural-looking brown, compared beofre na super dirty.

jbkayaker12

December 22nd, 2004, 11:09 AM

kiretoce

December 22nd, 2004, 04:14 PM

kiretoce, i agree that fort ilocandia is very very impressive.. ive been there just once but the whole are was massive and quite breath-taking.. ang layo lang kasi from manila.. about 10 hour drive or so.. hehhe

Well, if you're the jet-setting type, you can get to Laoag by plane in under an hour flying time from Manila. But the scenic and long winded route is also great if you're time is flexible and not in a hurry to get there and back. :)

stephencua

December 23rd, 2004, 02:52 AM

ok, so i stand corrected.. the Pasig river's condition has improved already.. but do you guys think that it would return to a clear colored water where fish can live?

it would be really great if it could return to its former glory.. businesses could thrive along the riverbanks again.. and it could provide another means of transportation for city dwellers..

jbkayaker12

December 23rd, 2004, 10:19 AM

sweetness, sweetness I was only joking when I said, by right you should be bludgeoned in your bed....The Smiths :)

--

jbkayaker12

February 6th, 2005, 09:01 AM

sandrin

March 17th, 2005, 02:17 AM

Baguio opens newest hotel for tourists and travelers

With the scorching summer heat already upon helpless Metro Manilans, escaping from the Big City to a cool destination to rejuvenate is just like a manna from heaven.

No exaggeration — the temperature is so hot that practically everyone is sweating profusely these days. Coupled with the impending water shortage, then we really have a big problem.

To get away from it all, majority of us will become instant tourists and travelers starting this week. And when looking for a cool, perfect place, Baguio is still the place to be.

The City of Pines recently opened a new and elegant five-star hotel, the Hotel Elizabeth.

Nestled in the heart of Baguio City, Hotel Elizabeth is just a stone’s throw away from Wright Park and a five-minute leisurely walk from Mines View Park and the Good Shepherd Convent.

Elegantly decorated and meticulously built, each one of Hotel Elizabeth’s 60 guest rooms has a balcony where guests will be greeted by a breathtaking view of the green mountains.

The facilities are available for guests’ convenience and pleasure. Relax at the spa or work up a sweat in the gym. Unwind at the Piano Bar, where guests can order drinks while listening to good music. The Lobby has wireless Internet capabilities for laptops, while the Business Center offers a comprehensive range of services.

For families and big groups, the deluxe suites and penthouse units have living rooms with kitchen dining areas for a homey ambience. Then, visit the outdoor gazebos which are perfect for daytime picnics for the whole family.

Staying at Hotel Elizabeth will not be complete without visiting and dining at the Flora Café. Enjoy delicious cuisines from all over the world while feasting your eyes on the abundance of flora and fauna surrounding the restaurant.

What else can you ask for? A Mediterranean boutique is also available at Hotel Elizabeth.

Hotel Elizabeth is the newest venture of the Fersal Group of Hotels. It is located at the corners of Gilbraltar Road and Julian Felipe St.

renell

March 17th, 2005, 07:49 AM

I reckon it's about time we put less pressure on Baguio... maybe a new Baguio or something:D Helps Benguet or one of the CAR provinces, and decreases pressure on Baguio's ecosystem.

ryanr

April 15th, 2005, 02:50 PM

Arroyo leads groundbreaking of Shangri-La resort in Boracay
Posted 03:03pm (Mla time) April 15, 2005
By Nestor P. Burgos Jr., Kalibo, Aklan
Inquirer News Service

BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Friday led groundbreaking rites for the 60-million-dollar Shangri-la Resort and Spa here at Yapak village.

The President lowered a time capsule symbolizing the project, whichwill be operational in the middle of 2007.

The resort, the hotel chain's fifth property in the country, will feature 170 rooms and 50 villas as well as function rooms for conventions and other events.

The resort will be designed by the Hawaii-based architectural firm WATG while its interiors will be crafted by Singapore-based designer Dan Bube. It will feature a 1,350 square meter spa built on a rock peninsula overlooking a bay at the northern end of island.

The development comes amidst concerns raised by Boracay residents and resort owners that the famed resort island is in danger of being overdeveloped.

jbkayaker12

May 13th, 2005, 11:30 AM

ThisFire

May 14th, 2005, 05:48 AM

I reckon it's about time we put less pressure on Baguio... maybe a new Baguio or something:D Helps Benguet or one of the CAR provinces, and decreases pressure on Baguio's ecosystem.

THANK YOU RENELL! You said it. I see the situation like like a sports team only using their one top star player in order to win, rather than getting the whole team to seek victory.

Baguio is so beautiful and always has been but a part of keeping something beautiful and preserved is by making sure it's not the only thing focused on and overused.

ryanr

May 19th, 2005, 09:55 AM

Robinsons Land Corp. to open upscale hotel

http://bworldonline.com/BW051905/crownplaza.jpg

This June, Gokongwei-controlled realty developer Robinsons Land Corp. (RLC) is set to hold the soft launch of its newest hotel, the Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila.

Located in the Robinsons Galleria compound in Ortigas Center, Pasig City, the first hotel in the Philippines that will carry the Crowne Plaza brand will have 32 storeys, of which the lower 12 levels would be the hotel portion and the upper 20 levels will all host condominium units.

The new hotel has 265 guest rooms and boasts of extensive meeting facilities, upscale amenities, and a convenient location to satisfy the business and leisure needs of its guests.

During RLC’s stockholders’ meeting last week, Frederick Go, RLC executive vice-president, said that the new hotel will be managed by the Intercontinental Hotels Group Plc.

The United Kingdom-based group owns, manages, leases, or franchises more than 3,300 hotels and 515,000 guests rooms in 100 countries and territories worldwide.

Included in its portfolio are respected hotel brands like Inter-Continental Hotels & Resorts, the Crowne Plaza brand, and Holiday Inn.

"We have a management agreement with the Intercontinental group for Crowne Plaza. RLC is the owner, the group will manage it," Mr. Go said.

The group also manages RLC’s Galleria Suites, which was re-branded as Holiday Inn Hotel last year.

The group, Mr. Go said, will get a portion of the revenues of the hotel.

He said Crowne Plaza will cater primarily to big groups that are looking for a venue for meetings and conventions as well as business travelers.

For such a market, the hotel has a state-of-the-art grand ballroom which has a floor area of 1,272 square meters and can accommodate up to 1,500 people. The ballroom is 53 meters long and 24 meters wide, according to the hotel information.

Mr. Go also said that the ballroom is equipped with intelligent lighting and audio video equipment, and could be "conducive for concerts."

The hotel also has several function rooms which could host cocktails, banquets, conferences, and other events. All 265 guest rooms will also have ample work space.

Besides the big group market, the hotel also seeks to tap the "weekenders," or those who visit for a weekend of rest and relaxation, Mr. Go said.

Aside from a café, the hotel also has a bar and a restaurant called Xin Tian Di, which specializes in roast duck and features an Asian noodle bar.

It also has recreational facilities, including a fully equipped gymnasium, outdoor swimming pool, spa treatments, a beauty salon, a travel and tour service, and a limousine service.

Despite its proximity to the Holiday Inn Hotel, Mr. Go said that RLC is not worried about Crowne encroaching on the former’s market. "It [Crowne] will complement Holiday Inn. If you have a big booking, you get to accommodate the entire market."

Combined, the two hotels will have a total of 553 well-appointed guest rooms.

For its first three months of operations, the hotel will be charging $110 ++ a night for foreigners. Filipinos will have a special rate of P4,500 ++ a night during the same period.

Crowne Plaza is RLC’s fourth hotel. The company also owns Manila Midtown Hotel and Cebu Midtown Hotel. It also owns an apartelle.

A publicly listed company, RLC is the Gokongwei group’s corporate vehicle in the property sector. It is currently the largest domestic hotel owner with a combined capacity of 1,140 rooms.

It also develops and operates the Robinsons shopping complexes, and has embarked on high-rise development with the Robinsons-PCI Bank Tower.

The company also has a diversified portfolio in the housing sector which caters to the upscale, mid-market and mass housing. It has broad range of residential housing development, including socialized and low-cost housing provided under government programs that encourage home ownership.

thomasian

June 12th, 2005, 05:02 PM

Discovery Group to Put Up Five-Star Hotel in Boracay
BusinessWorld - 05/19/05

The Discovery Leisure Co., the holding
group which owns and operates the Discovery
Suites, will open next year a fivestar
hotel in Boracay, Aklan. To be called
the Discovery Shores Hotel, the 88-room
hotel will cater to the upscale market and
will have its soft opening on Feb. 14, 2006.
The hotel will stand on a 7,200-sq.m.
beachfront property in Station One on
the main beach. It will be the first hotel
in the area which will be operated by a
Manila-based company. Rates will start at
$200 a night and discounts may be offered
during off-peak seasons. The hotel
will have swimming pools, restaurants, a
bar, function hall, a kid’s lounge, a gym, a
Jacuzzi and other amenities. The first
phase will have 45 rooms and all the
amenities. The remaining rooms will be
opened a few months after. The group is
also set to manage a hotel and condominium
project in Shanghai under a lease
with Chinese firm HSAI Raintree.
Robinsons Land Corp. (RLC) is set to hold
the soft launch of its new hotel, the Crowne
Plaza Galleria in Manila. Located in the
Robinsons Galleria compound in Ortigas
Center, the new hotel has 265 guest rooms
and extensive meeting facilities. It also has a
1,272-sq.m. grand ballroom and can accommodate
up to 1,500 people. Among its recreational
facilities include gymnasium, outdoor
swimming pool, spa treatments, salon,
travel and tour service, and a limousine service.
It will be managed by the Intercontinental
Hotels Group Plc.

fundraiser

July 10th, 2005, 09:24 AM

freshest pic of hilton mactan island resort and spa

shang and hilton....
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/peejay_domek/pinkhilton4.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/peejay_domek/pinkhilton.jpg

thomasian

July 10th, 2005, 10:42 AM

Whatta color!!!

c0kelitr0

July 21st, 2005, 11:21 AM

WELCOME TO PANSUKIAN TROPICAL RESORT -- the only 5-star resort in Surigao located in Siargao Island. The Zobel de Ayalas are frequent guests.

Rates -- between $120/person/night to $260/person/night

Reception Area

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/reception.bmp

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/inreception.bmp

Sand Walkway

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/sandwalkway.bmp

Family Villa

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/familyvilla.bmp

Villa Gates

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/villagates.bmp

Garden Cottage

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/gardencottage.bmp

Typical Bedroom

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/firstbedroom.bmp

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/villabathroom.bmp

Bar and Restaurant

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/bar.bmp

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/food.bmp

More Pics

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/sunsalutation.bmp

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/hut.bmp

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/pagoda20at20sunset.bmp

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y215/jafhoy/windsurfing.bmp

kiretoce

July 21st, 2005, 03:02 PM

Awesome looking resort! Perfectly blends with the surroundings and doesn't stand out like a sore thumb! :okay:

absent-minded

July 24th, 2005, 09:14 AM

nice!! I never knew Surigao also had nice resorts... the islands over there look awesome! especially in those pics on the Surigao Island thread. it looks as good as Palawan! I agree it shouldn't go through the unmanaged, unsustainable and irresponsible development the way Boracay did...

thomasian

July 24th, 2005, 12:11 PM

News about the proposed Discovery Shores Resort by Discovery Suites in Boracay

New Boracay Leisure Hotel Enjoys Tax Holiday
Manila Times - 7/8/05

A subsidiary of Discovery Leisure Co. Inc.
will put up a resort hotel on Boracay Island
after the Board of Investments approved the
firm’s bid for the beach property project’s
several tax perks. The project will enjoy a
three-year income-tax holiday from the start
of operation, among other incentives, as indicated
in the Omnibus Investments Code.
Under the rules of the bureau, a company
undertaking a tourism-related project for
the first five years from the date of registration,
“shall be allowed an additional deduction
from taxable income of 50 percent
of the wages corresponding to the increment
in number of direct and unskilled
workers in the year it made use of the incentive
as against the previous year.” However,
the incentive will be applicable if a company
meets the prescribed ratio of capital
equipment to number of workers, which is
set at $10,000 for every worker.

Forumwalker

July 29th, 2005, 05:19 PM

http://www.panglaoisland.com/images/home.jpg
http://www.panglaoisland.com/images/villas/left.jpg
Panglao Island Nature Resort, Panglao Island, Bohol.. just one of the first resorts to cater to tourists after the tourist boom. other resort hotels catered already to german and british divers since the 1980s. they even live in the island already.

it's a great way to spend scuba diving, relaxing in the sun, whale and dolphin watching and be away from it all. Panglao Island in Bohol offers resorts different from Boracay's not-so-relaxing atmosphere what with the city-life literally still there. another advantage is visiting different places like:

http://www.alonapalmbeach.com/images/chocolatehills_o.jpg
Chocolate Hills

http://www.alonapalmbeach.com/images/monkey_o.jpg
The Tarsier

http://www.alonapalmbeach.com/images/undrwater_o.jpg
Balicasag Island, Pamilacan Island and the Black Coral Forest in Cabilao Island

http://www.alonapalmbeach.com/images/dolphin.jpg
http://www.alonapalmbeach.com/images/bamboobridge_o.jpg
http://www.alonapalmbeach.com/images/loboc_church_o.jpg
nightlife? cebu is just 1 hour and 30 minutes away by fastcraft.. :) you can really get away yet you can still get back to your life in a few moments.

kiretoce

July 29th, 2005, 06:45 PM

http://www.alonapalmbeach.com/images/dolphin.jpg

I'd love to swim alongside these dolphins!

absent-minded

July 30th, 2005, 11:11 AM

wow... Bohol looks just absolutely spectacular!

tyronne

August 10th, 2005, 08:24 PM

I apologize if this has been posted already.

ARROYO LEADS GROUNDBREAKING RITES FOR US$178.1 MLN RESORT
TAGAYTAY CITY, July 29

http://www.news.ops.gov.ph/images/ph4-072904.jpg

Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Friday led the groundbreaking and the capsule-laying rites for the first 100 per cent Filipino culture-inspired resort here worth P10 billion (US$178.1 million).

Filipiniana Tagaytay Vacation Resort Complex, a 20-hectare estate along the Tagaytay National Highway, is committed to please both domestic and foreign tourists.

The facility, which actually stands on a real estate that forms part of Laurel, Batangas, will showcase Filipino culture, heritage and tradition.

Featuring distinctly unique Filipino concepts and motifs, the project is certain to encourage tourists, retirees and travelers to visit the Philippines.

Its all-Filipino building design blends with and integrates modern amenities including a hotel, condotel, eco-parks and theaters.

Conceived as its ultimate tourism lure, however, will be its timely rendition of various Philippine festivities such as the Sinulog of Cebu, Ati-atihan of Aklan, Moriones of Marinduque, Masskara of Negros and the Panabenga Flower Festival of Baguio, among others.

"Promotion of such events doubly makes Filipiniana Tagaytay project a business and leisure home, and a major tourist attraction for the country," said Oriental Mindoro Rep. Rodolfo Valencia, owner of the Filipiniana Resorts Development Corp. Inc., the developer of the resort.

The project, which features three representational phases -- Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao basks in the cool climate of Tagaytay and further boosts its surrounding landscape.

It also affords visitors a commanding view of the area's green mountain ridge, the picturesque Taal Lake on which seemingly floats the majestic Taal Volcano.

Valencia said the total project cost will reach P10 billion including the P2 billion that will go to land development alone. Fifty per cent of the total cost, he added, will be funded by a Singaporean firm partner, the City State Holdings Pte, Ltd.

The Luzon wing of the complex will include a hotel and world-class restaurants, 144 condotel units, four to six-storey low-rise condotel and a six-storey Bellview hotel-condotel.

The project's Visayas wing will consist of four-storey condominiums, two-storey garden apartments, 17 units of typical villas clustered together, two-storey quadruplexes and other quadruplex structures.

The design of the Mindanao wing is still in the drawing board.

Valencia said majority of the buildings to be built will face Taal Lake with most of the units having an awesome view of the Taal landscape. The project, he added, is in support of President Arroyo's tourism program.

The President has tapped the tourism sector in her goal to create 10 million jobs before her term expires in 2010.

This project will also beef up the much-needed tourism infrastructure in the country.

Assisting the President in laying the time capsule were Valencia, Laurel Mayor John Benedict Panganiban, Ambassador Antonio Cabangon-Chua who is also an investor in the project, Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano, Batangas third district Rep. Vicky Reyes, Manila Mayor Lito Atienza and Leow Siak Fah of the Citystate Holdings of Singapore.

Valencia likewise briefed the President on the project and presented her a scale model of the resort.

(PNA)
July 29, 2005

source (http://www6.lexisnexis.com/publisher/EndUser?Action=UserDisplayFullDocument&orgId=616&topicId=12552&docId=l:299166916&start=23)

bustero

August 11th, 2005, 04:21 AM

Vol. XIX, No. 12
Thursday, August 11, 2005 | MANILA, PHILIPPINES
Property & Infrastructure

BY JENNEE GRACE U. RUBRICO, Senior Reporter
Cebu tourism banks on Marco Polo hotel

For Cebu, the closure of the Cebu Plaza Hotel in 2003 was a big blow to the province’s tourism program.

The hotel, one of the biggest and most popular in Cebu City, was closed after its previous owner, Pathfinder Holdings Philippines Inc., defaulted on a P900-million obligation to Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank).
Tourism Secretary Joseph Durano addressing guests during the formal contract signing between The Marco Polo Hotel Group and the Asia Pacific Management Corp. (APMC) The agreement was signed by (from second left) Clarence Shun Wah, senior vice president of the Marco Polo Hotel Group; Jeffrey Flowers, president of the Marco Polo Hotel Group; Alfred Ty, president of APMC and Federal Land, Inc.; and Francisco Sebastian, chairman of APMC and president of First Metro Investment Corp.

The bank foreclosed the property and later transferred the hotel to asset management company Asia Recovery Corp.

This year, the hotel will again be in Cebu’s tourism landscape, albeit under a different name, owner and management group.

Still standing on a five-hectare property in the upscale Nivel Hills district, the structure is now owned by Asia Pacific Management Corp., a joint venture between the Ty family’s Federal Land, Inc. and some Hong Kong investors. The Tys also own Metrobank.

The company purchased the property from Asia Recovery for P1.2 billion. Another Metrobank subsidiary, publicly listed investment company First Metro Investment Corp., is also part owner of the hotel.

The new owners tapped the Hong Kong-based Marco Polo group to manage the new hotel under a revenue sharing scheme.

With the marriage between the subsidiaries of the country’s strongest bank and one of Asia’s strongest hotel brand, the Cebu Plaza Hotel was renamed Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.

In a speech delivered at the signing of the memorandum of agreement between the Marco Polo group and the Metrobank group, Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said the reopening of the hotel was a welcome development for Cebu, as it would help accommodate the increasing number of tourists in the island.

"Cebu continues to be the number one tourist spot in the country," said the secretary who also hails from the province.

Citing government statistics, Mr. Durano said that of the 2.2 million tourists in 2004, half went to Central Visayas and 80% of which went to Cebu.

He noted that for the first half of this year, tourist arrivals in the island-province have increased by 12.7%.

When it opens in the first quarter of 2006, the Marco Polo Plaza Cebu will provide 335 guest rooms and will also have 2,400 square meters of space for meeting, conferences and events.

The hotel, which is 25 minutes away from the Mactan International Airport and five minutes away from the central business district, will also be marketed as an urban resort.

Asia Pacific is now in the final stages of discussion with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. for the operations of a casino within the hotel premises.

GROWTH INDUSTRY

First Metro President Francisco Sebastian said that the Metrobank group forayed into the hotel business because it is a "growth industry."

"It’s great for foreign exchange. It’s great for employment, it generates business. It’s a particular niche in which we want to be involved. It’s one investment in which we hope we can do well and do more in the future," he said.

He added that the Metrobank group first wants to see how the venture does before further expanding in the hospitality industry.

Jeffrey Flowers, president of the Marco Polo group, said that the location of the hotel is ideal for attracting Asians.

Besides being nestled on a hillside that overlooks the city, the hotel is also situated in a place that would be attractive to people from temperate countries, he said

"It’s a wonderful warm weather destination. There is very easy access to Cebu from Hong Kong, from Taiwan, from Singapore. Regionally, it will do very well."

Mr. Flowers said Cebu’s tourism industry has an edge over others; for instance, Cebu accepts 88 international flights a month, while Davao, where Marco Polo operates its only other hotel in the country, only has one or two international flights a week.

"This will generate operating ratios that are some of the best in Asia. I think that it will be stronger than Manila in terms of operating ratios," he said, as he projected hotel occupancy to be at 80%.

With such high expectations, the hotel owners have not been scrimping in preparing the hotel for operations.

Federal Land President Alfred Ty said that the company has allocated P500 million for refurbishing the old hotel.

The renovation includes the upgrading of fire safety systems, electrical wiring and plumbing systems to international standards.

It also includes installation of the latest communication and audio-visual systems as well as the enhancement of all public and guest room areas.

The management also said that the air-conditioning units are being rehabilitated to become fully centralized.

"It is the intent of Federal Land and Marco Polo to position this as the leading hotel in Cebu," Mr. Flowers said.

JudeD

August 21st, 2005, 04:31 PM

Some pics from the Baguio Country Club. I still prefer staying here over The Manor, even if that's newer. I love their heated pools, although I avoid them if I see little kids going in or coming out. Why? Simple equation: young kid with poor bladder control + heated water + full body immersion = increased nitrogen content in the pool water (if you get my meaning). I told this to a friend of mine who also likes using the pool there and from now on he plans to stay away from it!

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid183/pe691e8f325b70d2c2afa6e311204cac4/f2ba5166.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid183/p57be30160fe909500e4821ac130e67cf/f2ba5a6b.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid183/p3cddbbc9c94ef2bdb3f97acd630b3f2c/f2ba5a69.jpg

kiretoce

August 21st, 2005, 04:49 PM

^^ Nice photos Jude! Where in Baguio City is this located?

OtAkAw

September 11th, 2005, 05:46 PM

sloid

September 11th, 2005, 06:29 PM

http://img108.imageshack.us/img108/16/badian6pz6qp3qu.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img108.imageshack.us/img108/3002/resto6rv6wn.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

rustyboi

September 11th, 2005, 07:45 PM

Major international hotel chains in Cebu

Shangri-La Resort Mactan
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/cebu%20hotels/shangmactan1.jpg

Marriott Hotel
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/ayala%20cebu/Picture090.jpg

Hilton Towers and Spa Resort
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/cebu%20hotels/cebuhilton2.jpg
Currently on soft launch. Grand opening on mid-September 2005

Major international chain hotels opening soon! as of Press time

Sheraton International
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/cebu%20hotels/SMSheraton.jpg
Target opening: 1st Quarter of 2006

Marco Polo Hotel (Cebu Plaza)
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/cebu%20hotels/Cebu-0001-600.jpg
Target reopening: October 2005

Crown Regency Suites (Club Ultima Towers)
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/ClubUltimaCebu.jpg
Target opening: December 2006

Park Lane Hotel
Target opening: December 2005

Park City Central
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/parkcitycentralhotel.jpg
no sign of construction yet

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/SSC/skyscrapercity-cebu.jpg

SKYLINEPIGEON

September 12th, 2005, 08:09 AM

both shangrila cebu and makati were recently on the top ten of asias best resort hotel and city hotel in asia

jbkayaker12

September 12th, 2005, 08:16 AM

Hey, may nanood ba sa inyo ng Handa na ba kayo sa Channel 2 nung Sunday?

balita: Eric Cua owner of temple bar, embassy bar and many other bars is going to build the first boutique hotel in the country!!!! At 25 years old, he's a millionairre na! Fineature siya ni Korina Sanchez...

Yung mga boutique hotels ba yung kagaya ng Carlyle Hotel sa NY at Ritz sa London? Yung may pabutler butler pang nalalaman...?

I think you could classify Orchid Garden Suites in Metro Manila as a boutique hotel. It has the old world ambiance on its architecture and definitely not massive in size. Boutique hotels doesn't necessarily have to be affiliated with a top name chain.

ryanr

September 12th, 2005, 05:19 PM

Park City Central has been planned for a long time. And its design is really nice. Any additional info on it?

dancethingy

September 12th, 2005, 06:42 PM

Thanks for that bit on Badian Island sloid. Yet, another place in this country i haven't heard of. Wowzers

rustyboi

September 22nd, 2005, 07:06 AM

These could be the best Hilton Hotel photos I've ever seen. Nice angle and the color pink is not too emphasized.]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v696/edifice_complex/HiltonHotel1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v696/edifice_complex/HiltonHotel3.jpg

Cebu Hilton is now 100% operational... well, almost! :D

absent-minded

September 23rd, 2005, 08:39 AM

woah...! awesome shots!! nice work, rusty! haha Cebu Hilton looks pretty nice!

I never knew so many hotels are planning to open up in Cebu so soon... they all look so nice too! not the usual tall boxy hotels you see from international chains in Manila. the Sheraton looks really nice, and same goes for the Crown Regency building! Park Regency almost looks like a mix of the Residences GB and the Oakwood Towers. haha! hopefully that one pushes through...

I guess this just definitely validates reports that tourism is really booming there! hopefully, the endless politics in Metro Manila isn't going to hamper any efforts down in Cebu and the rest of the country.

by the way, I don't know if this has been posted here yet... haha but I just found out now too. the Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila website has finally been updated! it looks stunning! everything from the lobby, the restuarant, the common areas, the guest rooms and especially the suites!! ang ganda! haha! hopefully they do well...

boholanoko21

September 23rd, 2005, 08:54 AM

http://manila.casino.hyatt.com/z724/picsbig/z14711p018.jpg

hyatt hotel and casino manila

Sinjin P.

September 23rd, 2005, 02:01 PM

http://manila.casino.hyatt.com/z724/picsbig/z14711p018.jpg

hyatt hotel and casino manila
similar to Cebu's HYATT :D

rustyboi

September 23rd, 2005, 03:42 PM

^^ totally new refreshing look :D

rustyboi

September 23rd, 2005, 03:45 PM

woah...! awesome shots!! nice work, rusty! haha Cebu Hilton looks pretty nice!

I never knew so many hotels are planning to open up in Cebu so soon... they all look so nice too! not the usual tall boxy hotels you see from international chains in Manila. the Sheraton looks really nice, and same goes for the Crown Regency building! Park Regency almost looks like a mix of the Residences GB and the Oakwood Towers. haha! hopefully that one pushes through...

I guess this just definitely validates reports that tourism is really booming there! hopefully, the endless politics in Metro Manila isn't going to hamper any efforts down in Cebu and the rest of the country.

Yeah, tourism is really booming not only in Cebu but the whole country! it just so happen that Cebu has been getting more attention outside the country :)

i'm really dying to get the rendering of King's Island Hotel, Mactan. it looks really stunning... damn!

daDJ

September 24th, 2005, 04:59 PM

daDJ

September 24th, 2005, 05:23 PM

Boutique hotels seem to be the trend in the hospitality business nowadays. The major difference between a regular hotel and a boutique hotel is that the latter has only few rooms - less than a hundred. Some boutique hotels boast of having only 8 - 15 rooms. Then of course, the service is more personalized. Some hotels are so classified as "boutique" bec they have cool, artsy, avant-garde interiors. They are most often designed by artist cum interior designers cum architects. Think Philippe Starck, Versace (there was a plan to build a Versace Boutique Hotel in Bali a year ago). I dont know if the plan did push through.

If I were as rich as Erik Cua, I'd buy the decrepit Luneta Hotel along Kalaw Ave. near Luneta. The architecture is so grand - very old world. It'll make a really classy boutique hotel. Has anyone been to Hotel Miramar opposite the US Embassy? That's a boutique hotel - small and has a very art deco exterior and the building is original. I would also classify the Admiral Hotel and the one beside it (forgot the name) as boutique hotels. Whatever happened to the Admiral Hotel? How come it is not operational? The building is grand.

daDJ

September 24th, 2005, 05:23 PM

similar to Cebu's HYATT :D

Is there a Hyatt in Cebu?

ryanr

September 25th, 2005, 05:28 AM

similar to Cebu's HYATT :D

Cebu has a Hilton not a Hyatt;)

Sinjin P.

September 25th, 2005, 07:58 AM

sorry, wrong post..I wrote Hyatt instead of Hilton... Just confused because they sound alike... my mistake. sorry :)

OtAkAw

September 26th, 2005, 01:21 PM

Paris Hilton should visit her dad's Hotel in Cebu!

rustyboi

October 9th, 2005, 01:30 PM

Major international hotel chains in Cebu *updated*

Shangri-La Resort Mactan
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/cebu%20hotels/shangmactan1.jpg

Marriott Hotel
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/ayala%20cebu/Picture090.jpg

Hilton Towers and Spa Resort
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/cebu%20hotels/cebuhilton2.jpg
Currently on soft launch. Grand opening on mid-September 2005

Major international chain hotels opening soon! as of Press time

Sheraton International
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/cebu%20hotels/SMSheraton.jpg
Target opening: 1st Quarter of 2006

Marco Polo Hotel (Cebu Plaza)
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/cebu%20hotels/Cebu-0001-600.jpg
Target reopening: October 2005

Crown Regency Suites (Club Ultima Towers)
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/ClubUltimaCebu.jpg
Target opening: December 2006

Park Lane Hotel Rendering obtained by Slerz
http://www.cgarchitect.com/user_artwork/P2-1copy.jpg
Target soft opening: December 2005

Park City Central
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/parkcitycentralhotel.jpg
no sign of construction yet

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/SSC/skyscrapercity-cebu.jpg

chymera00

October 9th, 2005, 01:37 PM

Cebu dominates all other provinces in the Phils in 'Hotels and Resorts of the Philippines', maybe even putting a close fight to Manila. very impressive

ryanr

October 9th, 2005, 07:39 PM

Can you post construction photos of Park Lane Hotel, since its opening december 2005?

ewh1

November 15th, 2005, 09:15 PM

ThisFire

November 16th, 2005, 05:19 AM

Paris Hilton should visit her dad's Hotel in Cebu!

hey, we already have a trash problem in the country so don't make suggestions like this!

ryanr

November 16th, 2005, 05:25 AM

Looks Like the Westin Philippine Plaza is rebranding to a Sofitel Philippine Plaza

BANGKOK -- Sofitel Philippine Plaza will open in 2007 after a multi-million USD renovation programme to rooms and public areas is completed. Accor has been awarded the management contract.

Link to Article (http://www.hospitalitynet.org/news/154000320/4025297.search?query=manila)

Why did Westin decide to pull out? I think Starwood Hotels (parent company of Westin) has better management than Accor. Anyways, at least the hotel got renovated:okay:

olineil

November 16th, 2005, 05:42 AM

Main Gate With the Miss Earth Winners..
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Earth-5.jpg

Inauguration
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/1104-001LCC.jpg

Main Gate
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Earth-7CHOICE.jpg

One of Miss Earth Winners Havin a time in the sun
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Earth-17.jpg

Gate Emblem
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/MISIBISMAINGATE-BRASSNAME.jpg

Gate
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Pa310078a.jpg

Architects Rough House Renderings
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/modelcrelativelyflat.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/modelbdownslope.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/modelbdownslope2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/modelaupslope.jpg

Cable Car connecting other Islands
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Pa090043.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Pa090042.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Pa090048.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Pa090056.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Pa090057.jpg

View from Cable Car
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Pa090049.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Pa090051.jpg

Typical Road Network Under construction
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Pa310083.jpg

Miss Earth Activities
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/gate.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Earth-19CHOICE.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Earth-10.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Earth-8CHOICE.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Earth-5.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/1104-007HV.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/1104-003HV.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_2173.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_2152.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_2019.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_2011.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_1936.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_1930.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_1926.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_1883.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_1863.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_1743.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_1654.jpg

rustyboi

November 16th, 2005, 06:13 AM

Another hotel will open soon in Cebu! although no official announcements were made yet. Based on our fellow forumers, it might be a Golden Valley Hotel or Manila's Legend Hotel. :D

slerz

November 19th, 2005, 06:01 AM

Can you post construction photos of Park Lane Hotel, since its opening december 2005?

aS of October

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/peejay_domek/cebuayala3.jpg

ryanr

November 19th, 2005, 06:18 AM

^^ Thanks:)

slerz

November 19th, 2005, 04:02 PM

^^ Thanks:)

ok but here's the latest of the latest...Nov 19... thank me again:D :jk:

http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/1395/ssc15hg.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

ryanr

November 19th, 2005, 06:55 PM

^^Thanks, again:) Ayala Cebu is starting to have a small clustered skyline.

rustyboi

November 20th, 2005, 08:10 AM

oh, i was just informed Golden Valley Hotel and Manila's Legend Hotel are two different projects :D

ok but here's the latest of the latest...Nov 19... thank me again:D :jk:

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c201/Slerz/Malls/SSC1.jpg

oh, ParkLane is just across the WTC tower?? i thought it was on the other side haha. silly me! :bash: thanks for that great shot Slerz! i don't think they can make a soft opening this december. hopefully in time for Sinulog festival this January :D

There should be at least a walkway or pedestrian dedicated lane. is it hard for someone to cross from CBP to Parklane vice-versa? whats the present condition slerzy? :D

slerz

November 20th, 2005, 10:38 AM

[B]
There should be at least a walkway or pedestrian dedicated lane. is it hard for someone to cross from CBP to Parklane vice-versa? whats the present condition slerzy? :D

Kinda, coz the traffic volume in the area is tremendously increasing but it's not that far naman to cross from CBP passing under the flyover then crossing Escario st. to Parklane...

BTW, what do you mean by WTC?

thomasian

November 20th, 2005, 03:48 PM

hey, we already have a trash problem in the country so don't make suggestions like this!

:hilarious:

rowell_sk

December 3rd, 2005, 11:43 PM

Cebu's Best Resort Hotels

SHANGRI-LA

http://www.daaaaa.com/cebu/cebu031.jpg

http://www.daaaaa.com/cebu/cebu030.jpg

http://www.daaaaa.com/cebu/cebu054.jpg

PLANTATION BAY
http://www.daaaaa.com/cebu/cebu036.jpg

sugbuanon

December 4th, 2005, 01:45 AM

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/1893/c18ft.gif (http://imageshack.us)

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/4214/c20zr.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/277/c31px.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/2317/c48ep.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

At Badian Island you will find a white sandy private beach next to the hotel. And we offer free boat transport to our romantic beach at Coral Garden Bay. All of our rooms and suites are generously large and luxurious, impressive atmospheres of style surpassing international standards, our secluded balconies with enticing hammocks unfold enraptured panoramas. Experienced diving instructors with modern equipment will guide beginners and profis into the rainbow world of coral reefs and vivid tropical fish. Or take a ride on our glass bottom boat or snorkel in radiant coral gardens. Golfers will enjoy the 18 hole golf course in 15 minutes distance. If you just want to be lazy, relax at the pool or our private beach, enjoy the sunset or chat with other guests. You will notice quickly that the Badian Island Resort & Spa is refreshingly international.The Badian Dive Center is conveniently located at the beachfront of the Badian Island Resort & Spa. It operates all year round and is equipped with the highest standards of dive equipment. Every meal is a culinary delight, our ingredients are from the surrounding waters and land. Our exquisite wines are imported from across the world: California Chablis, Red wines from Bordeaux and the Provence, and Rhine wines from Germany. Enjoy balmy evenings with Folklore performances rich in exotic music, dance and song; experience Philippine "joie de vivre" as our guest on Badian Island.

TYPE OF ROOMS RATES
Deluxe Rooms
Junior Suite (min. 2 persons) US$ 120.00++
Double 95.00++
Family (4 beds/min. 3 persons) 78.00++
Single 150.00++
Extra bed 35.00++
Supplement per person per night 25.00++

Facilities: Restaurants, Bars, Beauty Parlor, Souvenir Boutique, Swimming Pool, Convention facilities, Sport, Entertainment and Excursions.

TRANSFERS:
Round-trip transfer from Cebu airport/ Cebu City to Badian Island:
FIT’s (min. Of 2 persons) Adult US$ 59.00/person
Groups (from 10 person) Adult US$ 35.00/person
Children’s reduction: when sharing with at least one adult:
*4 to 12 years old, 50% discount on rooms, meals and transfers.
*3 years and below, Meals on parents account, room and transfer free.
*We have special children’s menu.

*Rates inclusive of Welcome drink, Transfer by boat or carriage to the Coral Bay Beach for snorkeling/ swimming, evening entertainment, goodbye serenade with shell-lei.
*Rates are subject to change without prior notice.

http://www.badianhotel.com/e/index.html

sugbuanon

December 4th, 2005, 01:47 AM

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/3853/c11jo.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/9325/c26ix.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img500.imageshack.us/img500/3071/c39az.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Alegre Beach Resort is an Internationally known five star resort, close to the charming town of Sogod on the northeastern coast of Cebu. Alegre's cottages are set in lush tropical grounds many of which offer ocean views and private gardens. The resort boasts a coconut grove, and three private beach coves. Diving is a popular pastime and the house reef offers a 100 ft. wall dive.
Perched above Cebu's most spectacular natural and uncorrupted white sand beach, Alegre Beach Resort offers its guests friendly, unobtrusive service in an idyllic tropical location. Upon arrival, the reception area offers uninterrupted views over the spacious swimming pools to the islands in the east set in delicious turquoise blue waters.
Accommodations are surrounded by lush gardens and comprise of twenty elegant, tastefully designed Filipino-spanish inspired cabañas with native thatched roofs, each of which includes two spacious bedrooms, oversized bathrooms and private verandas. Minibars, cable television and in-house movies, hairdyers, personal safes, coffee and tea makers, airconditioning and many other facilities expected of a world class resort are all included.
Adjacent to the pool, the Pavilion Restaurant and Lounge Bar offer a choice of airconditioned or alfresco dining where a variety of native and international dishes are available. Alegre also prides itself on the preperation of freshly caught seafood.
On the beach coves -- relax beneath swaying coconuts trees. For the more energetic, our aquasports area provides snorkeling, diving, jetskiing, windsurfing, kayaking and the housereef. For the adventurous and romantics: diving and island hopping to beautiful islands whose natural beauty is a source of pride for the inhabitants and the resort. Other resort facilities includes tennis court, putting green, game room, library, conference room and banqueting.
One can also indulge in bird watching, mountain biking and trekking in the rural countryside and to observe flora and fauna endemic to limestone areas. The late afternoon is punctuated by a relaxing cruise with a chance to see dolphins.
Looking at the stars on a clear night sky is also a satisfying experience. We offer one unique and enchanting atmosphere, which only our discreet and elegant resort can provide. An oasis of calm in hectic daily life. We pamper our select clientele with comforts and luxuries meticulously crafted by people who care. At Alegre Beach Resort, guests lose themselves in the enveloping arms of nature ... its scents, stunning colors, lyrical sounds right outside their very doors.
Alegre Beach Resort is approximately 75 kilometers from Mactan International Airport. Transfers can be arranged and are free of charge. On the way to the resort, one sees the island's rich cultural history through picturesque houses and old Spanish churches.

TYPE OF ROOMS RATES
Deluxe US$ 240++
Deluxe Oceanview 260++
Super Deluxe 290++
Super Deluxe Ocean w/ Garden 325++
Deluxe Suite 460++
Deluxe Oceanview Suite 480++
Deluxe Oceanview Suite w/ Garden 515++
Extra Person charge 25++

*A child below the age of 12 is lodged free of charge provided he shares a room with parents. Baby cots are provided free of charge.

FACILITIES: Restaurant, Three beach coves, Conference Room, Game room, Aqua Sports, Lounge, Three Swimming pools, Library, Tennis Court, Gift Shop, Putting Green, Mountain trekking and biking.

http://www.alegrebeachresort.com/

sugbuanon

December 4th, 2005, 01:48 AM

http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/1092/c16gh.gif (http://imageshack.us)

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http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/4395/c58vf.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

On an island off the northern coast of Cebu, a disenchanted traveler can find unspoiled beaches as beautiful as those of Boracay, Palawan and Bohol, surrounding an old town steeped in history and rooted in faith. This is Bantayan Island, a haven for soul-searchers and sun-worshippers and, for a time, Cebu’s best-kept secret. Enhanced communication connectivity, an improved road network, and a small well-maintained airstrip for charter flights have opened up the island to the rest of the Philippines. And with the Department of Tourism identifying Cebu as one of its eight priority destinations, the tourists cannot be far behind.

The name “Bantayan” comes from the watchtowers that were built all over the island in the 17th century to serve as lookout stations warning against attacks of the seaborne Moros. People called these towers Bantayan sa Hari or “Watchtowers of the King,” in reference to the King of Spain. It became common for the locals to say they were from “Bantayan sa Hari”; later, they shortened it to “Bantayan.” The roots of Bantayan town as a Hispanic settlement are unmistakably stamped in its layout, with the old church and its plaza located in the center, and the houses and other establishments built around it. The town plaza and the well-preserved antebellum houses recall a bygone era.

The Spanish influence is also evident in the old Bantayan folks’ religious traditions. On Holy Thursday and Good Friday, Bantayanons hold the Pasko sa Kasakit or Semana Santa sa Bantayan, a procession of life-size statues depicting the passion and death of Jesus Christ, mounted on huge, richly decorated carrozas. Children dressed as angels solemnly follow the carriages, which also bear images of their favorite saints. These statues, hand-sculpted by Spanish artisans in the 1800s, have been handed down from generation to generation. Yet this somber observance has a curious twist: while the rest of Christianity abstains from eating meat, the people of Bantayan Island do the exact opposite. A papal permission granted in the 1800s exempts them from this duty, in recognition of the fact that Bantayan fishermen do not set out to sea for seven days so as to participate fully in the Lenten rites—their penance for the season. It is a practice tourists enjoy as they feast with the locals on crisp, juicy lechon, usually served with adobo liver sauce. The key to this scrumptious delicacy is the coconut milk used to baste the lechon as it roasts. One does not have to wait for Lent to taste this local delight, though, as it is available throughout the year. But for those who prefer to observe Lent the traditional way, Bantayan offers an abundance of seafood, fresh and dried.

For the less spiritually inclined, Bantayan Island’s beaches present a welcome respite from the chaos of city life. The municipality of Santa Fe, in particular, is known for its expansive coastline, with fine, white sand and waters so clear one can watch small fish swim and feed. Off the beaten track and without the commercial bustle characteristic of more touristy areas, Santa Fe’s beautiful resorts present more than just privacy; they offer the rare commodity, serenity. To get to Bantayan Island, one can take a brief 30-minute flight from Cebu City. By land, one can ride a bus ride from Cebu City to San Remigio, where inter-island ferries to Santa Fe are available. There is also a night ferry direct from Cebu City to Santa Fe.

KOTA BEACH RESORT

TYPES OF ROOM RATES
Beachfront Suite
Air-conditioned Deluxe cottage
Superior cottage
Standard
Economy Rowhouse

Facilities: Souvenir shop, restaurant/ coffee shop, conference/convention hall, picnic hut, parking space.

*Rates are subject to change without prior notice.
*No credit cards accepted.

SANTA FE BEACH RESORT

TYPES OF ROOM RATES
Cottage without aircon
Good for 2
Good for 3

Rooms with aircon
Good for 2
Good for 3
Good for 4
Extra Bed : Cottages
Aircon room

*Rates are subject to change without prior notice and are subject to government tax. Accept major credit cards.

http://home.online.no/~erfalch/bantayan.htm

sugbuanon

December 4th, 2005, 01:52 AM

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/337/c12ho.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/4646/c27co.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/5113/c31gy.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
LOCATION:
Situated within the sparkling blue waters of the south, a two hour north drive from Cebu City, in the quiet and beautiful village of San Remigio lies Casa Del Mar Golf and Dive Resort. Cebu's newest travel destination, the resort rests on a 150 hectare lot with a 250-meter stretch of natural white sand beach, and an 18-hole golf course and dive shop to match.

ACCOMMODATION:
26 spacious rooms inspired by Spanish and Mediterranean interiors with beach front views await each guest at Casa del Mar, each one with remote controlled air-conditioning, internal telephone, cable TV, hot and cold water, separate toilet and bath and room service. All our suites are equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning for your comfort. Beautifully finished with Italian tile floors and plush fittings and decor. Plus each suite has wonderful sea views allowing you to watch the sunrise and set over the clear waters of our beach. With hot and cold water, standby generator, phone contact with reception, room service and all the other frills of a fine resort you will find it hard, not to want to stay an extra day or two.

ROOM RATES:
Single / Twin
Deluxe Bungalow USD 70.00
Deluxe Garden Terrace USD 82.00
One bedroom Safari Suites USD 92.00
Two Bedroom Safari Suites USD 112.00
Penthouse USD 180.00
Extra Person USD 30.00
• Inclusive of American breakfast
• Welcome drink
• Coffee/Tea making facilities
• Free use of recreational facilities
• 10% discount on water sports facilities
• 10% discount on Sauna
• Above rates are based on per room per night basis
• Rates are NET of taxes, inclusive of Service Charge

DINING:
Dine at the sunset café' and bistro bar and indulge in Asian and Western cuisines specially selected to fit your taste. Open from 6am to 11pm daily.

MEETINGS & BANQUETS:
Ideal for business meetings and socials in small groups. Banquet package rates are available at the resort and Manila sales offices.

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES:
Various indoor and outdoor activities are readily available to keep your adrenalin running. Karaoke, billiards and darts are just a few of the indoor activities guests will surely love. If you prefer the outdoors, why not try golf, the driving range, beach volleyball, mountain biking, trekking and Frisbee. If its water sports, try out scuba diving, kayaking, snorkeling, wind surfing and saltwater fishing.

sugbuanon

December 4th, 2005, 01:53 AM

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/5463/c17cq.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

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The name means "Unfortunate Christmas". It is located only 8 km off the north coast of Cebu. It has a blindingly white bounty beach, which is one of the best in the Philippines. Time stands still as soon you step into this "Pacific Island Dream". Its exceptional long white beach stretches around the south-east coast of the island facing Cebu, Leyte and Biliran. The other side of the island has a more panoramic rocky coastline and is an attractive alternative for the ever-popular white beach. Malapascua also called "Logon" is located about 8 km. northeast of Cebu mainland and 25 km. west of Leyte. It's especially famous for its white sand beaches and unique dive spots, including the almost certain possibility to see the tresher shark.

http://www.malapascua.de/Malapascua...pascua_map.html

http://www.malapascua.net/

JAMAICUS

December 18th, 2005, 02:58 AM

Camp John Hay Hotels prepares to run John Hay

BAGUIO CITY— Developers of Camp John Hay are about to open their biggest hotel by the end of this month, ending a phase in a development project that was marked by legal problems.

The opening of the 280-room John Hay Suites will pave the way for the Camp John Hay Hotels Inc. (Hotels Inc.) to assume the control over this former American base land from its construction and development arm, the Camp John Hay Development Corp (CJHDevco).

Frederico Alquiros, Hotels Inc. chief operating officer, says the Suites allows the firm to operate most of the 267-hectare Camp John Hay special economic zone as a sprawling country club and exclusive village.

The Suites' design matches the woodland architecture of the cabins, the Camp John Hay Manor and even the economic zone's street lights, which blend the rustic nature of the camp's old American cabins and the city's history.

The US Supreme Court acknowledged Ibaloi leader Mateo Cariño in 1909 as the original owner of Camp John Hay lands, which were converted into American military garrisons.

The Suites is also the home of a reconstructed 19th Tee Restaurant, a landmark that Camp John Hay's old American caretakers used to operate for its golf course until the developers tore the original structure down.

Alquiros says the consortium has gradually collapsed many of its operations, allowing Hotels Inc. today to manage the 189-room Manor, P8 million log homes, 22 country homes and 24 forest cabins.

The developers expect to build about 150 country homes and forest cabins, and 16 log homes in the course of its lease.

But this is one country club that will be accessible to the "tsinelas" (slipper-wearing) crowd in the next five years, Alquiros says.

CJHDevco inherited the hostility that has been given previous attempts to develop Camp John Hay, since the US relinquished control over this forested property in 1991.

Alquiros, who handled CJHDevco's operations in the firm's early years, says he was aware of how the developers would need to respect the devotion residents had for Camp John Hay.

The next years will see Hotels Inc. develop camping grounds, open up more picnic areas and devote its time to have Camp John Hay residents to interact with Baguio folk.

Alquiros began efforts this week to have all long-term leaseholders of John Hay's log homes and hotel rooms meet each other in informal parties.

He says the meetings, in effect, will help form John Hay's version of a homeowners' association, which will interact officially with the public.

He says the interaction is inevitable. Locals and tourists flock to the economic zone to have their photographs taken in front of the occupied country homes.

He says many such homes would soon be leased by celebrities, increasing the odds that the zone might end up becoming a tourist attraction.

Baguio residents make Camp John Hay their weekend destination, noting that picnic grounds are often full on Saturdays and Sundays, Alquiros says.

He says the Suites is the second of a four-hotel network in a medium-term development plan that Fil Estate and CJHDevco chair Robert John Sobrepeña set out to complete to introduce about 1,000 hotel rooms to Baguio's tourism industry.

"The [medium-term development plan proposed] four hotels … There was really [a plan] to complete 1,000 rooms because that was what Baguio would have needed," he says.

The third hotel, which would have been a convention hotel, would have been the largest with 400 rooms that would service the clients of the CAP John Hay Convention Center, Alquiros says.

"The Suites … completes 440 and 450 between the Manor and the new hotel for that level of clientele … We will see when it will be necessary but in the meantime the two hotels will augment the city's convention requirement," he says.

- INQ7

manileño

December 18th, 2005, 07:23 AM

better if they were sorted by region/province.

sugbuanon

December 18th, 2005, 08:23 AM

Dakak seeks partners to help pursue resort expansion plans

Benefited by the improving tourism arrivals in some parts of Southern Philippines, Dakak Park Beach Resort will be expanding the five-star facility to utilize the entire 50-hectare property.

Running at an average occupancy rate of 60 percent, Dakak is slowly getting on its feet again, after it was heavily affected by the peace and order situation in Mindanao.

"We are currently looking for partners or investors to help us pursue our expansion plans," said Dakak resident manager Rossini J. Montecalvo.

Dakak Resort is only utilizing 25-hectare of the entire 50-hectare property, according to Montecalvo, the Jalosjos-led Dakak Park and Beach Resort Corporation has seen the need for expanding the business.

Aside from its plan to add the 130 cottage type room accommodation, Montecalvo said part of the expansion plan is to build an 18-holes golf course in the area, as the present golf course only offers 3-holes.

Next year, the company will start its renovation of the reception area, and expansion of function rooms, and other facilities, she said.

The resort, which started its operations in 1998, is located in Southern Philippines, specifically Taguilon, Dapitan City in Zamboanga del Norte. The resort property faces the Sulu Sea in the east and is surrounded by mountains in its west side.

It is the first five-star resort built on the Philippine Island in Mindanao, located along a private 750-meter white sand beach near the historic town of Dapitan City.

Montecalvo admitted that the Resort had experienced weak business performance, especially during the height of tourism drought in Mindanao, due to the peace and order issue in its neighbor province in Zamboanga del Sur.

"Now, the business is improving. We've got an increasing number of foreign visitors, as well as domestic guests," she said.

There are currently informal negotiations being made between the company and some interested parties, but no formal arrangement yet.

"We are still looking for investors that can well meet our requirements," she said.

According to Montecalvo, the entry of direct flights and fast craft to Dapitan has largely help in the recovery of Dakak, as tourists have now easy access to come to the resort.

She said the company wants to take advantage of the dynamic market for Dakak, and expansion and renovation programs will help sustain the momentum.

Also, the government of Dapitan City, which is prioritizing the development of tourism has also prompted the Dakak management to expand its facility, as the only five-star resort in the area.

sugbuanon

December 18th, 2005, 11:39 PM

Mediterranean paradise rises at Subic

A Mediterranean paradise has emerged at Subic Bay, right in the heart of this tourism hub.

Located along the Moonbay Marina Waterfront Road, this newly-built "Vista Marina Hotel & Resort" appears like the crowning jewel of the bay, attracting local and foreign tourists to its enchanting ambiance.

This magnificent Mediterranean-style hotel with a large pea-shaped swimming pool nestled at the beach of Subic to showcase the glory of its sun, sea, and sand.

"Vista Marina is a first-class international hotel and resort complex with five-star amenities that enable guests to experience paradise whether by day or by night," said Vista Marina president Sang Woo Lee.

"Our 230-square-meter Ibizza swimming pool is the biggest along the Waterfront Road and complements the beach, where various water sports can be played, including volleyball," Lee pointed out.

Vista Marina is only five minutes away from Subic’s other sports and tourist attractions, especially the golf course and the seaside airport that services international flights, including to and from Korea twice weekly. As such, foreign golfers can play upon checking in at Vista Marina, which offers airport shuttle service to tourists.

From the outside, Vista Marina appears like a pair of outstretched arms welcoming guests as they arrive. The hotel’s spacious lobby, which is designed as an atrium with a high round ceiling at the center, is enclosed by glass walls and doors. "Thus, guests, upon entering the lobby, are greeted by the spectacular view of the garden, the pool, the beach, the bay, and the mountains," Lee said.

By night, this hotel and resort complex is fully-lighted, both inside and out as it sits on a 5,800-sqm prime property, the largest at the beachfront along Subic’s entertainment strip, where practically everything a tourist needs can be found.

At the Marista Bar & Restaurant, guests can have sumptuous international cuisine at the restaurant, a private dinner in its VIP room, and a great time at the bar while enjoying the scenery at the same time. The restaurant can accommodate from 50 to 60 people, the VIP room up to 20, and the bar up to 70. The restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the bar from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Across the Marista Bar & Restaurant and the Ibizza pool is a gazebo, where bands play invigorating and romantic music on Saturday nights as guests dance in revelry.

For entrepreneurs and corporate executives, the hotel has a fully equipped business center at the ground floor, and a big conference room at the third floor for groups of up to 100 persons. Souvenir items are available at the hotel’s boutique at the lobby.

On both ends of the lobby are the hotel’s east and west wings that house its elegant rooms. This three-floor hotel has 37 big rooms, the largest in Subic. Excluding the veranda, the deluxe room has a floor area of 32 sqm, the junior suite 40 sqm, and the executive suite 62 sqm. The deluxe room has either a queen-size or two single beds, and a 21-inch TV, while the suite (junior & executive) has a living room with sala set and 29-inch TV, and a bedroom with single and queen-size beds, study table, and a 21-inch flat TV.

Every room has hot and cold shower with bathtub, individual airconditioning unit, cable TV, telephone, mini-bar, safety deposit box, and a veranda overlooking either the bay or the mountains, or both. All rooms have complimentary coffee for guests. Most of the hotel’s furniture and furnishings were imported from Korea.

The hotel also provides 24-hour security, valet, housekeeping, and room service. For inquiries, log on to www.vmhotel.com.

rustyboi

December 21st, 2005, 10:46 AM

Korean investor plans 6-tower Mactan resort

+ a 700-room resort
+ 6-7 hectares of land
+ 250 rooms for hotel, 450 rooms condotel
+ Construction starts at Year 2006
+ Project completion: Year 2007

Check this out:
Phuket Thailand has 52,000 hotel rooms while Cebu has only 7,000 rooms!
Cebu needs a total of 15,000 rooms to meet the CURRENT demand. it means, will go higher in the future. imagine that! Local hotels are hitting average 85 percent occupancy all-year-round. :cool:

_zner_

December 21st, 2005, 11:12 AM

good news for cebu..

rustyboi

December 21st, 2005, 11:23 AM

does anybody has infos which hotel in the country has the most number of hotel rooms? :D

the upcoming Korean hotel in Mactan has 700 rooms, as far as i know the biggest :D

SKYLINEPIGEON

December 21st, 2005, 03:13 PM

JustHorace

December 22nd, 2005, 04:04 PM

newbie here...

Anyway, I heard that the new Marriott will serve as an airport hotel. As far as I know, the Marriott Hotels Group had to choose between building a glamorous*slash*elegant*slash*luxurious Ritz Carlton Rockwell and a more practical airport*slash*business hotel, the Marriott Newport Manila. Of course, Marriott picked the latter due to practicality. Now, about Four Seasons...last thing I heard was that they were still reviewing certain locations in MManila, Cebu, Bohol and Boracay. There are speculations that the proposed hotel in the Araneta Center would be a Four Seasons. Another thing is the Westin Philippine Plaza. It's sad that they would soon abandon the hotel. I remember long ago that the Silahis Hotel, before it became the Grand Boulevard, was a Sofitel.
Oh, and another thing, the current Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila (which will soon incorporate the Park Hyatt trademark) was planned to be the Sheraton Marina Manila, a comeback after it left the Century Park. The plan was soon scrapped and was replaced by the Richmonde Hotel Corp., and now, as it turned out, a Hyatt Hotel

And does anyone here have news on the Shangri-la Boracay resort?

sista

December 23rd, 2005, 02:32 AM

^^ welcome cosmoManila :) thanks for the info you posted :D

JustHorace

December 23rd, 2005, 02:55 AM

^^ welcome cosmoManila :) thanks for the info you posted :D

thanks. i feel welcome

rustyboi

December 23rd, 2005, 03:03 AM

edsa shangri-la has 603 rooms, dusit nikko has 542, manial diamond 500 rooms, manila pen 498 and makati shangri-la has 699 rooms, there was a proposal back in the late 90s abt a sheraton hotel and casino complex somehwere in the manila bay reclaimed area i dont know wht happen to that porject that was to be the biggest hotel in the philippines more than 1000 rooms if i remember correct

wow, thanks a lot for those infos skyline! i cant wait for that Sheraton to rise! but is it within the SM Mall of Asia complex? coz i heard they're putting hotels surrounding the mall.

JustHorace

December 23rd, 2005, 03:14 AM

wow, thanks a lot for those infos skyline! i cant wait for that Sheraton to rise! but is it within the SM Mall of Asia complex? coz i heard they're putting hotels surrounding the mall.

It is possible that Sheraton might build a hotel near Mall of Asia. That is probably why they gave up the Sheraton Marina to Hyatt (the new one).

tyronne

December 23rd, 2005, 03:24 AM

^^pwede siguro. SM ang developer, Sheraton ang magma-manage.

welcome to SSC Pilipinas, cosmoManila :wave:

JustHorace

December 23rd, 2005, 03:30 AM

thanks. kaka-addict nga 'to eh!

ryanr

December 23rd, 2005, 04:23 AM

thomasian

December 23rd, 2005, 11:29 AM

It is possible that Sheraton might build a hotel near Mall of Asia. That is probably why they gave up the Sheraton Marina to Hyatt (the new one).

That's very possible since a hotel is very much part of MoA's masterplan.

JustHorace

December 23rd, 2005, 01:18 PM

Thanks for the info!:)

Do you know any updates on the JW Marriott that was planned for Makati or BGC? How about the Grand Hyatt in Capital Place, BGC?

I'm not sure with both JW Marriott and Grand Hyatt. But I don't think we would be able to see these two hotels operating in the near future. Hyatt has just added the Hyatt Hotel and Casino and most probably they'd wait a few more years before expanding. Same thing for Marriott since they already operate three hotels in the country namely the Marriott Cebu, The New World Renaissance Manila, and the upcoming Marriott Newport Hotel in the Villamor Airbase.

sugbuanon

December 23rd, 2005, 02:04 PM

http://img488.imageshack.us/img488/6468/img02356we.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/2937/img02445mz.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img471.imageshack.us/img471/7809/img02549so.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img471.imageshack.us/img471/1474/img02392ov.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img471.imageshack.us/img471/3018/img02416fq.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img471.imageshack.us/img471/7256/img02429hz.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img471.imageshack.us/img471/6066/img02469jy.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img471.imageshack.us/img471/7742/img02477gj.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img471.imageshack.us/img471/8264/img02517tw.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img471.imageshack.us/img471/3452/img02535fv.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img471.imageshack.us/img471/3876/img02639if.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img453.imageshack.us/img453/1563/img02655fa.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img453.imageshack.us/img453/2946/img02664oy.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

marco polo's interior as of dec. 22, 2005

rustyboi

December 23rd, 2005, 08:39 PM

^^ they're destroying the concretes on the interiors just for the renovation? amazing!! i bet the total cost of the over-haul is just the same with building a new one!

sugbuanon

December 23rd, 2005, 08:49 PM

the cost of the overhaul for the airconditioning alone reached 100 million.. almost everything inside was replaced resty..

SKYLINEPIGEON

December 24th, 2005, 04:07 PM

ashton

December 25th, 2005, 01:19 AM

^^^ it is my first time to hear the 'Marriott Newport', is it a new brand from Marriott ? as fas as I know the ff are the affiliated brands by Marriott:

Marriott Hotels & Resorts
JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts
Renaissance Hotels & Resorts
Courtyard by Marriott
Residence Inn by Marriott
Fairfield Inn by Marriott
Marriott Conference Centers
TownePlace Suites by Marriott
SpringHill Suites by Marriott
Marriott Vacation Club International
Horizons by Marriott
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
The Ritz-Carlton Club
Marriott ExecuStay
Marriott Executive Apartments
Marriott Grand Residence Club

SKYLINEPIGEON

December 25th, 2005, 08:06 AM

newport city is the name of the project of megaworld in the 25 hectare property located besides the villamor air base golf course, the mixed use project's first phase will include among others the first marriott hotel in metro manila and the second in the philippines after cebu, btw there is also a marriott hotel in newport r.i in the usa

JustHorace

December 25th, 2005, 08:13 AM

The Marriott Newport will be the first hotel in Manila carrying the Marriott name but it will be the second Marriott-operated hotel since New World Renaissance Makati is a Marriott hotel.

SKYLINEPIGEON

December 25th, 2005, 08:30 AM

renaissance is a marriot international hotel brand, marriott and renaissance are two different hotel brands operated by the marriott international htl group

Matteo

December 25th, 2005, 08:52 AM

aUen

December 25th, 2005, 09:08 AM

^^ LOL

SKYLINEPIGEON

December 25th, 2005, 09:18 AM

marriots in the us are everywhere.
theyre like mcdonalds

holidays inns are more abundant as well as similar like comfort inn and best western

Matteo

December 25th, 2005, 09:30 AM

holidays inns are more abundant as well as similar like comfort inn and best western
and days inn, and extended stay, and a lot more. theyre all little

SKYLINEPIGEON

December 31st, 2005, 07:06 AM

RP hotels the most friendly, survey finds

Philippine hotels are recognized as the friendliest and most relaxing among other countries outside the United States, a survey for the international hotel industry has revealed.

The result of the latest survey is posted at www.ehotelier.com, the most popular website for tourism and hotel executives.

The Market Matrix Hospitality Index conducted 35,000 in-depth customer interviews and the results showed that Philippine hotels ranked No.1 with a score of 89.9 percent on a list of non-US hotels that deliver superlative contentment to guests.

Other countries in the top five are Brazil (88.9 percent), Greece (88.3 percent), Singapore (87.9 percent) and South Korea (87.5 percent).

Among the categories in which the Philippines excelled were "Friendliness of reservation agents," "Efficient check-in," and "Employees’ ‘can-do’ attitude."

The survey examines how counties, hotel brands and guests differ on a global scale within the industry. The survey also rated airline and car rental companies.

"The outcome shows us a fascinating glimpse of what Philippine tourism is all about. It only goes to prove how we put a high premium and value to all our visitors. There is always the commitment to give leisure and business travelers superior overseas experience when they are in the islands," Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said.

Tourism development is associated with the consistent growth rate of tourist arrivals in the Philippines. The Philippines receives more visitors from North America, which showed an increase of 11.9 percent based on the most recent statistics from last year’s 396,185 travelers to 443,184 from January to September this year.

Americans make up the biggest number of tourists in the Philippines.

JustHorace

December 31st, 2005, 02:00 PM

Is it true that three Sheraton hotels are to be biult on Boracay?

SKYLINEPIGEON

December 31st, 2005, 03:16 PM

i dont know but i read in todays news henry sy of sm agreed to complete construction of their unfinished sheraton cebu . cebu's is currently experiencing hotel room shortages

ashton

December 31st, 2005, 03:17 PM

^^ really? what is the website, please? Im excited.

JustHorace

December 31st, 2005, 04:52 PM

>>Boracay Sheraton http://cebu-online.com/realty/fairways/ :)

SKYLINEPIGEON

January 1st, 2006, 09:40 AM

so there will be condotel, luxurious 01, 02 and 03 br villas, luxurious suites and first class hotel rooms in a self contained beach resort community with golf course, country club with sports facilities, specialty stores and other establishments, church

thomasian

May 7th, 2006, 06:19 PM

Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons Eye Boracay
Manila Standard - 3/16/06

High-end hotel chains Ritz-Carlton Hotels
and Resorts and the Four Seasons
Hotels and Resorts are looking at the
possibility of putting up luxurious hotels
in Boracay. The Ritz-Carlton hotels operate
59 hotels in 20 countries while the
Four Seasons hotels maintain 70 in 31
countries. Local groups like the
Gokongweis are also looking at business
opportunities in Boracay. Philippine Chamber
of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)
BizTour committee chairman Samie Lim
said the two hotel chains have approached
the Department of Tourism for possible
investments in the island-resort. The Ritz-
Carlton hotels operate 59 hotels in 20
countries while the Four Seasons hotels
maintain 70 in 31 countries. Local groups
like the Gokongweis are also looking at
business opportunities in Boracay. Lim said
there are still rooms for another five to
10 hotels in Boracay.

KiBeN

May 7th, 2006, 06:26 PM

wow! dami nang sosyaling hotels sa bora, di kaya ma-overcrowded yung beach? hahaha

thomasian

May 7th, 2006, 06:42 PM

RLC gets tax perks for Crowne Plaza
Business World - 3/20/06

The Board of Investments (BoI) has approved
the grant of pioneer incentives to
Robinsons Land Corp.’s P1.5-billion
Crowne Plaza hotel in Ortigas, Pasig City.
The cost of the project had qualified
Robinsons Land for pioneer incentives
under the guidelines of the 2005 Investment
Priority Plan. The grant of pioneer
incentives to Crowne Plaza hotel will allow
the firm to enjoy a host of fiscal incentives,
including income tax holiday of
up to a maximum of eight years. The commercial
operation of Crowne Plaza hotel
is expected to go full swing in October.
Robinsons Land is expected to tap 115 employees
to man the hotel’s 265 guest
rooms. While Robinsons Land had earlier
announced the soft opening of Crowne
Plaza, it is yet to complete the construction
of the guest rooms.

junax

May 8th, 2006, 09:57 AM

does anybody has infos which hotel in the country has the most number of hotel rooms? :D

the upcoming Korean hotel in Mactan has 700 rooms, as far as i know the biggest :D

here in davao we have Ekran Berhad Hotel Casino Resort built late 90's, 400 hotel rooms plus 200 cabanas for a total of 600 rooms. this 15 billion peso investment from the malaysians, unfortunately, was affected during the asian crisis and was forced to shut down in late 2000. some koreans and U.S. companies are negotiating the malaysians for a possible re-opening of this multi-million dollar investment. we hope it will re-open soon to add hotel numbers in davao city.

ashton

May 8th, 2006, 10:07 AM

^^
really? sayang no? I hope it will reopen. Based from your writings above, the hotel opened already but was forced to shut/close down, right?

junax

May 8th, 2006, 10:42 AM

^^
really? sayang no? I hope it will reopen. Based from your writings above, the hotel opened already but was forced to shut/close down, right?

it opened for several years but during the asian crisis that hit the region in the late 90's, tourists arrival slowed down, for a big hotel like ekrad berhad (it's ballroom size alone is half a football field can you imagine...really big)... maintenance alone is too much and decided to close down in 2000. koreans are eyeing it for an IT park. whatever they'll do with that facility i hope it will re-open sooner.

ashton

May 8th, 2006, 11:05 AM

junax

May 8th, 2006, 11:13 AM

^^
thanks for the above info. . .for a 600 room property I will tell you it must be very big. . Can u provide us with a photo?

I was also wondering why this building is not one of the most photographed in Davao.. you know huge structures always catch attention. . . :)

this hotel is not a highrise one... it's huge horizontally, you have to ride a golf cart from the reception area to your room. it's located in samal island, if you are watching it from the sea it seems that the resort occupied the whole mountain it is located... three storey high buildings are scattered all over the mountain. really big investment... sayang talaga.

ashton

May 8th, 2006, 11:19 AM

^^
oic. yes, this should reopen. . . Davao has great potentials but I think it needs upgrade accommodation wise.

fundraiser

May 8th, 2006, 03:35 PM

shangrila mactan and hilton resort mactan
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/peejay_domek/porto27.jpg

_zner_

May 9th, 2006, 07:21 AM

wow! dami nang sosyaling hotels sa bora, di kaya ma-overcrowded yung beach? hahaha

ngaun pa nga lang super crowded na yung shore eh, pano pa kaya kung nag open pa sila...

KiBeN

May 9th, 2006, 03:15 PM

ngaun pa nga lang super crowded na yung shore eh, pano pa kaya kung nag open pa sila...

they should try other places like Puerto Princesa, Puerto Galera, Panglao... :) they should develop these places para di maging overcrowded sa Bora. :)

shadow_can2003

May 17th, 2006, 10:33 AM

up for this thread :D

JustHorace

May 17th, 2006, 12:10 PM

Accor appoints new Philippine Plaza manager
http://www.hospitalitynet.org/picture/153012909.jpg
Bernd Schneider is the new General Manager of the recently announced Hotel Philippine Plaza in Manila. Bernd has been with Accor since 1992 originally in Germany. After relocating to Asia in 1994, Bernd held several general manager positions in Indonesia and China. Prior to this appointment Bernd was General Manager, Sofitel Central Hua Hin Resort in Thailand.

JustHorace

May 17th, 2006, 12:13 PM

Post News
2 May 2006

Marco Polo Plaza, Cebu, Philippines Now Open for Business
http://www.hospitalitynet.org/picture/153005447.jpg
Marco Polo Plaza, Cebu’s newest hub for businessmen and discerning travelers, officially opens its doors today. Nestled in 7.5 hectares of lush greenery, this classy urban resort has been reborn with a new name and offering outstanding service with remarkable elegance expected of the Marco Polo brand.

Perfectly situated at the picturesque Nivel Hills and majestically seated 600 feet above sea level, Marco Polo Plaza gives its guests a breathtaking and panoramic view of the city, the Bay of Cebu and its neighboring islands. The dazzling Swarovski-accented chandelier, the scenic elevator and soothing music in the lobby give each guest that one-of-a-kind welcome.

This fully renovated hotel features 329 guestrooms and suites, equipped with broadband Internet access, luxurious bathroom amenities, manifest aesthetically deluxe accommodations and service for the discerning traveler. Living up to its world-class reputation, Marco Polo's signature Continental Club, a grand ballroom and twelve multifunctional rooms with state-of-the-art facilities, provide the finest in accommodation and service.

Marco Polo Plaza offers a wide range of cuisine choices. Café Marco’s contemporary interior design and palatable dishes, prepared at its show kitchens, ensure an exquisite dining experience. Relaxing music and casual elegance engage guests at the Lobby Lounge; while enticing entrees, tropical refreshments, a landscaped garden, a mango-shaped swimming pool accompanied by the soothing sound of the waterfall, harmonize at the Pool Bar.

The Hotel is conveniently twenty-five minutes away from the Mactan Cebu International Airport and only ten minutes from the business and commercial centers of Cebu City.

“We are very excited to launch our hotel. By doing so, we shall officially become part of Cebu’s thriving business and tourism industry,” General Manager Hans Hauri said. “It is our privilege to provide business and leisure travelers another reason to come to Cebu. We can’t wait to serve them distinct Cebuano hospitality at its finest.”
http://www.hospitalitynet.org/picture/153014651.jpg

shadow_can2003

May 19th, 2006, 10:24 AM

Google pix of Makati Shangri-la :D

http://www.shangri-la.com/projects/uploadedImages/Hotels/Manila/Makati_Shangri-La/en/Hotel_Overview/pic_slm_main02.jpg

OtAkAw

May 19th, 2006, 02:22 PM

Makati Shangri-la's the bomb! But Peninsula can easily compete with that gorgeous lobby!

KiBeN

May 19th, 2006, 03:22 PM

Makati Shangri-la's the bomb! But Peninsula can easily compete with that gorgeous lobby!

yah, I like the lobby of Manila Pen... hehe :)

JustHorace

May 20th, 2006, 01:22 AM

Yeah, Manila Pen has that classic, colonial, European look.

a00556425

May 20th, 2006, 02:29 AM

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/8013/19ml1.jpg
White sand beach in Manila :jk:

It would be amazing if they cleaned up Manila Bay and put white sand along Roxas Blvd. With first class resorts

JustHorace

May 20th, 2006, 02:47 AM

Oo nga...mala Rio de Janeiro...
http://www.fecgp.org/assets/images/db_images/db_The_Philippine_Village_Hotel1.jpg
Does anyone know what will happen to the Philippine Village Hotel?

sugarboy

May 20th, 2006, 03:42 AM

^^Oh wow! a Ford LTD! pang Philippines in 1973 ang photo na ito a!

sugarboy

May 20th, 2006, 03:44 AM

[dx]

May 20th, 2006, 03:56 AM

repost from the travel and geography subforums...

+++

Misibis Residential Resort is a 20-hectare beachfront within a prime enclave, nestling close to the Pacific Ocean. It boasts of a wide stretch of white clean beach, easily reached in 45 minutes from Legazpi City Airport through a scenic 5-minute 3-km sea journey over Sula Channel.

Misibis Residential Resort, a privileged and private island world unrivalled in every way is replete with Mediterranean-inspired clubhouse, inspiring landscapes, theme pools and kids’ playgrounds. It offers residency areas of top property lots spreading out from the beachfront up to the spectacular tree-filled mountainside.

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j156/picfreak_2006/c34bed5a.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j156/picfreak_2006/da4f742e.jpg

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http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j156/picfreak_2006/IMG_2755-1000x700.jpg

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http://www.misibis.com/
http://tourism.albay.gov.ph/misibis.htm
http://www.tourism.gov.ph/explore_phil/place_details.asp?content=thingstodo&province=32

shadow_can2003

May 20th, 2006, 04:53 AM

Oo nga...mala Rio de Janeiro...
http://www.fecgp.org/assets/images/db_images/db_The_Philippine_Village_Hotel1.jpg
Does anyone know what will happen to the Philippine Village Hotel?

San ito?

shadow_can2003

May 20th, 2006, 04:55 AM

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/8013/19ml1.jpg
White sand beach in Manila :jk:

It would be amazing if they cleaned up Manila Bay and put white sand along Roxas Blvd. With first class resorts

I have an idea.

Hakutin nalang yung mga white sands sa Pagudpod at ilagay dyan sa shoreline ng Manila Bay para naman mapakinabangan natin :weirdo: :lol:

JAMAICUS

May 20th, 2006, 04:58 AM

So, when excactly will Sofitel take over the Philippine Plaza? Or, they already have it...

shadow_can2003

May 20th, 2006, 05:12 AM

So, when excactly will Sofitel take over the Philippine Plaza? Or, they already have it...

I don't know where is Philippine Plaza located...

nicko

May 20th, 2006, 06:01 AM

"these pictures does not even do justice to this heavenly place.."

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/5018/antulanggift4vw.jpg

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/6762/antulangflowers1yk.jpg

http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/7933/antulangcurtain8ej.jpg

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/5287/antulangcliff6jv.jpg

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/6888/antulangpool3es.jpg

http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/5307/antulanginfinity7el.jpg

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/1089/antulangsummer3nv.jpg

http://img118.imageshack.us/img118/6560/antulangwaves0qo.jpg

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/184/antulangsea2dj.jpg

http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/5457/antulangporch8sn.jpg

http://img48.imageshack.us/img48/2724/antulangpeninsula4md.jpg

http://img112.imageshack.us/img112/9650/antulangfalls7yu.jpg

(photos by royTC)

[dx]

May 20th, 2006, 06:53 AM

nice...astig yung pic ng infinity pool.

KiBeN

May 20th, 2006, 08:21 AM

San ito?

just asking, eto ba yung sa malapit sa NaIa? and thanks for sharing the cool pics nicko! :)

MarkiiBoi

May 20th, 2006, 08:35 AM

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/7692/cebuimperial9fj.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Cebu Imperial Palace Hotel

Target Completion Date:

October, 2007

Specifics:

15 storeys
424 guest rooms
200 resort-style rooms
44 full-size villas

KiBeN

May 20th, 2006, 08:40 AM

wow! that's big! where is that located? Near Shang?

MarkiiBoi

May 20th, 2006, 08:43 AM

Maybe near shang. it looks like shang! hehehe

KiBeN

May 20th, 2006, 09:13 AM

Maybe near shang. it looks like shang! hehehe

oongah, yun yung unang pumasok sa isip ko eh... hehe, anyways, it's bigger than Shang right? If it is beside Shang, ok lng, hehehe :)

sugbuanon

May 20th, 2006, 09:36 AM

Maybe near shang. it looks like shang! hehehe

http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/5282/2230920661060bg4ur.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

they do look the same.. photocopy siguro.. :D

KiBeN

May 20th, 2006, 09:46 AM

oongah, kung magkatabi sila, parang nilagyan ng mirror, hehehe, but Cebu Imperial Palace hotel is really bigger than Shang.

MarkiiBoi

May 20th, 2006, 09:47 AM

^^ Cebu Imperial is like the mirror image of Shang. :D

thomasian

May 20th, 2006, 10:05 AM

^^ Pati pala sa architecture dinedevelop na rin ang cloning technology. :hilarious

KiBeN

May 20th, 2006, 10:07 AM

if CIPH is beside Shang, would it be a hard competition?

_zner_

May 20th, 2006, 10:42 AM

if CIPH is beside Shang, would it be a hard competition?

maybe, for the fact that CIPH is all brand new and much bigger.

but shang will always be a 5-star. :D

kevinb

May 20th, 2006, 10:57 AM

they should try other places like Puerto Princesa, Puerto Galera, Panglao... :) they should develop these places para di maging overcrowded sa Bora. :)

correct! :)
like caramoan island here in cam. sur..or in san pascual,masbate..or in sorsogon..or cam.norte..(talagang in-advertise ang bicol?! :D )
or other places with the same white sand and beautiful beaches..para hindi naman magsawa yung mga tao sa iisang lugar.. :)

iyah_lujille

May 20th, 2006, 10:59 AM

KiBeN

May 20th, 2006, 11:25 AM

correct! :)
like caramoan island here in cam. sur..or in san pascual,masbate..or in sorsogon..or cam.norte..(talagang in-advertise ang bicol?! :D )
or other places with the same white sand and beautiful beaches..para hindi naman magsawa yung mga tao sa iisang lugar.. :)
diba, tama naman, hehehe, it's not better kung few lang ang mga sikat na beaches na may 5 star hotels, dapat lahat na, kahit san sulok ng pinas! hehehe :) joke, yung mga undiscovered secrets ng Pinas. :)

JustHorace

May 20th, 2006, 11:50 AM

So, when excactly will Sofitel take over the Philippine Plaza? Or, they already have it...
They already have it. Starwood's (Westin) management contract ended in Dec. 31, 2005. In the agreement with Accor, the hotel will be operating under the name Hotel Philippine Plaza while it undergoes facelifts, renovations, etc. The hotel will be reintroduced as the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in 2007.

I don't know where is Philippine Plaza located...
sa CCP Complex, Pasay
San ito?(Philippine Village Hotel)
tama si keb, beside NAIA...NAIA 2

nice pics nicko!
ang laki rin ng hotel na pinost ni Markiiboi sa Cebu...galing...world-class!

thomasian

May 20th, 2006, 12:58 PM

from: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2006/05/20/bus/sm.in.talks.with.firms.to.run.cebu.city.hotel.html

SM in talks with firms to run Cebu City hotel
Saturday, May 20, 2006

MANILA - SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SMPHI) is in “serious” negotiations with two foreign companies in the international hotel business for the management and operation of the hotel building next to SM City Cebu at the Cebu City north reclamation area.

SMPHI president Hans Sy told news reporters yesterday that he cannot say “anything concrete” yet about the negotiations.

“The negotiation level has gone up...to serious stage,” Sy said, declining to elaborate.

He said, though, that SMPHI is looking for a partner that will “put in equity” in the hotel, which remains closed.

The hotel was supposed to be managed by Sheraton but the international hotel firm pulled out of its partnership with SM Investments Corp. The building reportedly needs four to six months to finish.

Equity

Sy said the company deems it better that the firm that will manage and operate the hotel will put in equity.

As for future projects in Cebu, Sy said SMPHI focus on developing a “supercen-ter”—a complex of hyper-market (large supermarket) and small retail shops—which would have been implemented on the Cebu Province-owned lot, had the company won the bid for the property along Archbishop Reyes Ave.

Hans, the son of Henry Sr., said the company is looking for a site of its future projects in Cebu. Although he did not reveal the ideal location of its future projects, he said the company is looking for a property with an area of at least three hectares.

Potentials

“We see potentials in Cebu. We would have developed a supercenter (in Banilad),” he said at the end of a press conference on the opening of the Mall of Asia at the SM Central Business Park in Bay City, Pasay City.

The Mall of Asia (MOA), dubbed the biggest mall of SMPHI and its “most ambitious” project, so far, will open on Sunday.

The MOA has a gross floor area of 386,224 square meters(38.6224 hectares), is designed to house 600 retail stores and 150 restaurants.

Mall parking area can accommodate 5,000 private vehicles, 100 slots for buses, and 5,000 square meters for public transportation.

Among its main attractions are the 600-seat Imax theater, Olympic-size ice skating rink, six cinemas with 3,000-total seating capacity, a premier cinema and Centerstage theater with 900 seats.

The MOA, according to a statement from SMPHI, was built at a cost of P6.5 billion and took two and half years to complete.

While the SMPHI currently has 25 malls all over the country—including newly-opened SM Clark—Hans Sy is confident the shopping centers will have their markets.

“We are a nation of mall-goers with millions flocking to our air-conditioned alls daily and more so on weekends,” he said in a company statement.

SMPHI will open SM Supercenter Pasig and SM City Lipa within the year.

The younger Sy said he expects the MOA to generate employment for about 10,000.

JustHorace

May 20th, 2006, 03:09 PM

^^sana yung wala pa sa Pinas like Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton

KiBeN

May 20th, 2006, 03:12 PM

^^sana yung wala pa sa Pinas like Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton

Ritz Carlton, sa anu yun ah, sa Rockwell???

JustHorace

May 20th, 2006, 03:16 PM

^^construction was halted. kung mauunahan sila ng Cebu, ewan ko na lang..

OtAkAw

May 20th, 2006, 04:22 PM

^^Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons are both American right? I'm wondering kung bakit di pa sila nag iinvest sa Philippines considering "medyo kahit kakarampot" lang eh sikat tayo sa mga Kano.

rustyboi

May 20th, 2006, 06:06 PM

LordCarnal

May 21st, 2006, 08:08 PM

^^

Sayang if that hotel building doesn't get running. They spend a lot maintaining its landscaped gardens every week..

sugbuanon

May 22nd, 2006, 03:35 AM

http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/5920/banner7fi.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/8213/56740433mppc2forprintingdsc031.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/8143/56740434mppc2forprintingdsc031.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/9617/56740436mppc2forprintingdsc031.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/3349/56740443mppc2forprintingdsc031.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/3518/56740438mppc2forprintingdsc031.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/8452/56740435mppc2forprintingdsc031.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

the newly renovated marco polo hotel cebu

photos by: rex rafael

c0kelitr0

May 23rd, 2006, 07:56 AM

Pansukian Tropical Resort

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/Architectural.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/13.jpg http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/01.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/12.jpg http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/07.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/06.jpg http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/05.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/03.jpg http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/10.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/08.jpg http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/09.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/11.jpg

c0kelitr0

May 23rd, 2006, 12:28 PM

more...

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/p1.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/p2.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/jafhoy3/p3.jpg

KiBeN

May 23rd, 2006, 12:33 PM

wow! ganda nung marco polo hotel! hahaha, I like the lights! Very warm welcome, kay coke, ganda nung beach! astig yung lizard ba yun or palaka? hehehe, ang cute. :)

thomasian

May 23rd, 2006, 01:14 PM

Pansukian looks really good, but there's one thing I noticed, the architecture is strikingly more Balinese looking than Filipino, even the huts doesn't exactly look bahay-kubo inspired because it looks more Thai than Pinoy to me. :(

c0kelitr0

May 23rd, 2006, 01:29 PM

^^ it's actually a fusion of Bali and Mindanao's cultures...remember that Mindanao's architecture and culture are very very close to Indonesia's...and these are somewhat different compared to the architecture of Luzon and the Visayas...you are thinking as a Luzonian bud... ;)

http://aris.ss.uci.edu/rgarfias/bio-research/media/yakan1.jpg

thomasian

May 23rd, 2006, 01:38 PM

^^ Got it. ;)

KiBeN

May 23rd, 2006, 01:47 PM

sabagay, ok, salamat sa info coke.

ashton

May 25th, 2006, 03:01 AM

from www.mb.com.ph

Asia Spa Magazine hails RP resort among world’s top 10

Foreign journalist and spa expert, Marc Tessier of Asia Spa Magazine, one of Asia’s leading spa publications hailed Badian Island Resort and Spa in the island of Cebu as number eight among the world’s top 10 in its May-June 2006 issue.

The resort is nestled between a cliff and Badian Bay and is only a five-minute ride from southwestern Cebu, where an intuitive "hilot" massage awaits guests. While many rub downs have predetermined strokes, this massage, native to the Philippines, is customized to each individual.

Aside from the tranquil setting and beautiful scenery, world-class Badian boasts of its Badehaus where spa treatment use centuries’ old blends and recipes combined with modern techniques. It offers its special baths such as herbal, guava, pandan, rampe and Cleopatra.

Likewise, the healing power of island’s seawater in Thalasso coming from the word "Thalassa" meaning "ocean" is a breakthrough in spa treatment. It contains a complex blend of natural minerals and antibacterial properties, and submersion in seawater, which promotes relaxation and rebalancing of the body’s mineral deficiencies.

Currently, health holidays are growing globally significant. Asia has already developed health tourism product since health and wellness using traditional healing methods like massage, healing and herbs is very much a part of Asian culture.

The Department of Tourism (DoT) continues to broaden the marketability of the Philippines as a destination by way of diversifying its tourism product offerings such as wellness and medical tourism in a bid to position the country as a premier health holiday destination in Southeast Asia.

Tourism Secretary Joseph Durano said, "It is not difficult to invite foreign patients to come to the Philippines since treatments here are cheaper than in other countries. The Filipino’s facility in English as a second language in addition to our competent health professionals who were trained in the United States and Europe was also a plus factor."

The magazine ranked the top 10 list of island spas in the world namely: Le Taha’a Private Island in French Polynesia; Soneva Fushi Resort in Maldives; Pangkor Laut Resort, Perak Island, Malaysia; The Racha in Thailand; Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos Islands in Caribbean; Evason Hideaway and Six Senses Spa at Ana Mandara in Vietnam; Badian Island Resort and Spa, The Sentosa Resort and Spa at Sentosa Island in Singapore; and The Grand Wailea Resort Hotel and Spa in Hawaii, USA.

Number one on the list is La Taha’a Private Island Resort in French Polynesia which is situated 230 kms. from Tahiti in the South Pacific. The sheltered retreat boasts views of Bora-Bora and Taha’a Island. This ultimate island getaway tops the list for so many reasons. It boasts of 48 suites hovering above the ocean and 12 villas. The breezy Manea Spa lies in a coconut grove between a small lake and lagoon where the monoi pape miti vanira massage includes locally grown vanilla. Pushing indulgence to new heights, are two body-shaping sessions which take the massage table into the lagoon with the therapist waist-deep in water.

Ranked as second world’s best spa island is Soneva Fushi Resort, a stand out choice in Maldives. The resort’s Kunfunadhoo Island is both private and surrounded by a coral lagoon. Each villa is only a few steps from a dip in the warmth of the Indian Ocean and hidden from the others by dense vegetation. It’s enough to make it seem as though the island is uninhabited. It’s Six Senses Spa serves up an impressive range of treatments specifically its sensory spa journey where two therapists work in harmony pressing and stroking in unison during the body aroma massage. It all starts with a foot bath followed by a scalp massage and facial.

And third on the list is Pangkor Laut Resort in Perak Island, Malaysia which is a secluded resort located in the Straits of Malacca with signature sea villas built on stilts over the water. It’s cozy Spa Village nestled between the island’s rainforest and a tranquil bay with a menu that provides treatments from across Asia, is said to be addictive. The half-day Malay package using its unique lapis-lapis herbal wrap and campur-campur body treatment that highlights the extravagance soothes the body from head to toe.

The World Tourism Organization (WTO) associate health spas or resort destinations with travel where the primary purpose is to improve the traveler’s physical well-being through a regimen of physical exercise and therapy, dietary control, medical services relative to health maintenance.

Meanwhile, to further intensify marketing efforts, the DoT will participate in the Spa Industry Seminar, an international spa event to be held at Shangri-La Mactan Island and Resort in Cebu on Sept. 15-17. The country will also host the Wellness Summit in 2007 in EDSA Shangri-La where some 500 foreign participants are expected to attend.