Movenpick

During the nineties, Cebu was marketed as an island in the Pacific, without reference to it being a city in the Philippines.  That was an effective strategy--despite continuous depressing news bits from the rest of the country (e.g. kidnappings, coup attempts, terrorist bombings, and the like), the city was pretty much isolated from the negative publicity in the eyes of the international tourists.  Mactan Island was a favorite of the weekend tourists and the boom led to the construction of several resorts, among them the Hilton complex.  This project consisted of three buildings--a residential condominium, a time-share building, and a hotel, all sharing a common beachfront.

I recently learned that the Hilton contract had expired, and that the owners decided to enter into a management contract with Movenpick, the Swiss chain.  The hotel is due for a total shutdown in July 2012, and will reopen in January 2013, after undergoing a full renovation. If you look at the pictures below, you will notice that the room interiors are very 90s, and a much-needed face lift is in store for next year.  Present room rates for regular rooms hover around the level of P6,500 per night.

The Mactan seawater is absolutely so inviting!  The view from the room makes one want to dive right in.  The fresh water pool is located right next to the sea, and one has a choice where to swim.  Just the perfect place for a lazy day at the beach!