Utopia at Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu

I’d always wanted to go to the Philippines but with its 7100 islands it was hard for me to choose which one to visit first. After a little research I decided that my first visit to the Asian paradise would be the island of Cebu.

Cebu is a short 3.5-hour flight from Singapore and several airlines offer flights daily. I chose to start my adventure with Cebu Pacific Air. They offer dozens of flights daily and their knowledgeable, friendly staff made it an easy choice for me.

There are a myriad of choices when choosing where to stay and I chose the Movenpick Hotel Mactan. Its contemporary style, excellent service, and Mediterranean atmosphere appealed to me. It ended up being utopia at Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu

I’d arrived extremely early in the morning and was a bit worried if the hotel would be able to accommodate me. My worries proved to be fruitless. A warm, friendly driver, who was happy to chat about the surrounding area, activities, and weather during the short 15-minute drive to the hotel, met me at the airport.

Once I arrived, check in was extremely easy and quick and I was even given an upgrade to a one-bedroom ocean suite! What a way to start my adventures.

My room was beautifully decorated with a panoramic view of the ocean. My suite had every amenity imaginable including a delicious array of fresh, local fruits. My first priority was a quick nap and once my head hit the plush, king-sized bed I was out!

After a glorious few hours of sleep, I headed down for some sustenance. The hotel offers an extensive buffet breakfast at The Sails all day dining restaurant. The choices were endless and it was a wonderful way to start my day.

The hotel’s other restaurant is the Ibiza Beach Club. It’s an exciting and unique scene where guests can enjoy Tapas, fine wines, and a delicious array of mouthwatering meats, which are grilled to perfection. I had a variety of Tapas that were exceptional…I ended up ordering seconds!

During one of my dinners an amazing band was playing on the outdoor stage. Their singer could rival any American Idol winner and I was thrilled by their performance. (Click here to see a clip of one of their tunes.)

The open expanse of space in the lobby and decking area around the pool invites guests to lounge around and enjoy snacks, drinks, and the beautiful ocean views. I was impressed at how many people where curled up reading books, magazines, or enjoying the free Wi-Fi while sipping a coffee or cocktail. I loved the relaxed, communal atmosphere.

No stay of mine is complete without experiencing a Spa. I booked an hour and a half massage at the Spa Del Mar and was not disappointed. The peaceful ambiance, just a stone’s throw away from the ocean, is perfect for enjoying relaxing, and rejuvenating therapies and treatments. The expert, friendly masseurs had me fully relaxed and blissfully happy.

Moevenpick has an exceptional activities department and the staff was more than happy to help me find activities to fill my day. I’m a water girl so, of course, I always check out the best places to snorkel, scuba, and island hop. There is a dock adjacent to the hotel where guests can rent boats with captains or go on group tours to various islands.

The activities associates where delighted to help me organize a private boat that guided me on a day of snorkeling and relaxing on my very own white sand, private beach. Seriously…there was no one else on the island; it was awesome!

In addition to their extensive water sports activities, the hotel offers tours into the city to explore their rich historical sights. There are several museums, religious sites, and shopping areas: literally something for everyone.

All in all I would say that Moevenpick is a must stay resort when visiting Cebu. Located 6 km away from Mactan-Cebu International Airport and 22 km (13 miles) from the city it is far enough away for that private oasis feel and close enough for convenience.

For more information the hotel can be contacted at:

+63-32-492-777 (Direct Phone Number)
hotel.cebu@moevenpick.com

I would like to thank the Department of Tourism Central Visayas Product Development Division for their generosity in making this trip possible.