The Shangri-La Mactan is no exception to the high quality one associates with this chain of hotels. It is an outstanding five-star of hotel set in a large, 13-hectare property on a slight promonory facing the sea.

The tone of elegance and luxury is felt as soon as you step into the immense, lavish reception area — shinning marble floors toned down by wood inlay, a magnificent floral arrangement on the huge center tabl, a light breeze stirred up by the numerous ceiling fans, as the light flows in from the garden, potted plants set everywhere — a superb setting at sunset.

The reception area opens onto a vast terrace which looks onto the garden below and offer a view of the swimming pool and the sea. Comfortable rattan armchairs invite you to stop and have a drink while listening to the music of the resident pianist.

Two wide, pale wooden staircases, on each side of the reception lead down to the garden and restaurant.

The Garden Patio, as its name suggests, open onto the garden via large sliding doors. Asiatica which serves Asian specialties, is done entirely in wood and has a gentle, quiet air. The Cantonese restaurant, Shang Palace has elegant oriental decor; Paparazzi, which offers Italian cuisine, has a modern and comfortable embiance. Finally, Cowrie Cove, a romantic outdoor seafood restaurant, overlooks the sea.

The rooms are in the Atrium and the Ocean Wing, constructed in 1997. The Atrium is a square, 8-story building with a central patio. Boungainvilleas line the banister of the aisles leading to the rooms. Plush marble and glass elevators take you to the rooms. The Ocean Wing is in harmony with the rest of the structures, particularly bright with the same combination of wood, marble, and furniture in wrought iron and glass. The Horizon Club offers certain privileges such as a complementary breakfast and cocktails.

The hotel has more than 500 rooms. The rooms are of a reasonable size, with a marble bathroom equipped with a bathtub and a balcony, which is furnished with terrace furniture. The decor is classic, elegant — bright colors, wall-to-wall carpeting and rattan furniture. The Deluxe rooms are more sumptuously decorated. The suites, with their reproduction of antique furniture are absolutely superb.

The garden is magnificent with flowers and shady green lawns. The 1,500 sqm swimming pool is quite spectacular. The small cream sand beach is in a private cove, charmingly hemmed in by coconut trees. Indeed, all the communal areas of the Shangri-La Mactan are superb and the services is impeccable.

How to get there

By air and land, 75-minute daily flights on Air Philippines Cebu Pacific, Asian Spirit or PAL from Manila to Cebu. 15 minutes by car from Cebu Mactan Airport to the resort.

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