Whatever the time of the year, there is always a reason to spend time with family or friends and escape the city to visit the beach. On a recent trip to Cebu, I finally found time to escape the hustle and bustle of city life to revisit one of my favourite resorts so stay at, the Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu.
I will be the first to say that my first Mövenpick Cebu experience was memorable, but my return to one of the most scenic destinations and nominated as the Philippines‘ Leading Resort in the prestigious World Travel Awards made it clear that there is always something magical to enjoy at the Mediterrnean-inspired beachfront hotel.
From the awe-inspiring alfresco lobby complete with a massive art installation that evokes sailboats, to the lagoon-style pools which feature in-pool lounge chairs, Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu’s vibe is a unique experience that is always memorable.
“Our hotel welcomes visitors to a picturesque view of the beach and lush greenery,” says Harold Rainfroy, the hotel’s general manager. “Here, one can experience barefoot elegance, whilst relaxing with a drink in hand and toes in the sand.”
Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu’s 245 guest rooms and suites, feature all the comfort and convenience of a contemporary space that opens to a private balcony overlooking the pool or sea. The comfortable beds and plus down pillows gave me many hours of blissful sleep. Whether on business or leisure, guests and families can choose from deluxe, premium and suite accommodations, with benefits and privileges that are suited to their needs.
“We offer a great variety of special deals for all types of accommodation, even for families. We also know how much Filipinos love to travel with their families for a short vacation or getaway.”
“Family travel is one of the fastest-growing segments of the tourism industry. With our new Family Programme, we want to fill in the gap in terms of meeting the real needs of parents travelling with babies and children, starting with the most meaningful and relevant services.”
“When we put together our room specials for a particular period, we consider value add-ons that are suited to the needs of our guests,” Rainfroy explains. “We package our offers with dining privileges and benefits and discounts to identified facilities, which everyone can enjoy during their Cebu sojourn.”
While some travellers may say that the Mövenpick Cebu is far from the city centre, but honestly, there is a lot to do at the hotel that are sure to while the time away. “There’s absolutely no room for boredom, with exciting adventures and activities happening under the sun, plus access to the Little Birds Club, where the little ones can play. Parents can also enjoy some down time at Spa del Mar for that much-needed quiet and tranquil time.”
“No one can resist hitting the waters, whether that of the pool or beach. And there is a whole lot of outdoor adventures waiting for you. We have arts and crafts activities for kids and group exercises in the beach garden. Health is wealth, and our gym is open to all in-house guests. There are group exercises scheduled outdoors, and a selection of island tours and water sport activities is also available for those who are craving some thrills. If you are up for some indoor challenges, kids and parents alike are welcome at our game area, complete with a pool table, chess board, an Xbox and foosball set. Guests also get free chocolate treats at the lobby lounge during The Mövenpick’ Chocolate Hour, from 3.00 pm to 4.00 pm.”
I had the luck to experience a special happy hour as the Mövenpick Cebu celebrated World Chocolate Day. In grand fashion, the Mövenpick Cebu threw a lavish party celebrating everything chocolate. From drinks, to bonbons, to cake and cookies, and even ice cream. Guests of the hotel were treated to a lavish chocolate feast.
And as the sun set, the resort’s signature Ibiza Beach Club starts is Sunset sessions and Happy Hour. Dubbed the most hip and happening dining and entertainment destination in the area, this beachside social establishment never fails to impress and delight, with an unforgettable experience that is uniquely its own.
Aside from its spectacular ocean views and the architectural design which follows today’s urban luxe, the night scene at Ibiza takes its charm and sophistication from a combination of visual and musical elements. Here, guests are not only attuned to the latest and most danceable beats, but also treated to a wide variety of cocktails and a Mediterranean feast of tapas and Balearic-inspired, signature 15-course grill, and unlimited glasses of Manny O wines. All this amidst a backdrop of performances by world-class talents.
I discovered the magic of the Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu a few years back and even as I returned, the magic is still there glistening and inviting everyone to experience it.
