Paradise.

That’s how I would describe Shangri-La’s Mactan Island Resort in one word.
I’ve stayed in the hotel twice already, once in 2000 and the most recent just last February. In between, I’ve visited the hotel on day trips. The place always manages to amaze me.

The rooms are splendidly designed and fully furnished. The beds, pillows and linen guarantee a good night’s sleep. Other amenities include the television, minibar, ref, inroom safe and the bathroom which has its own tub.

It’s however more than just accomodation. It’s a destination in itself.

Last February while in Cebu for a conference, my friends and I decided to skip the city tour and just relax at the hotel. After all, we were just too happy to have time off. Doing nothing was really our agenda and yet Shangri-La offered many possibilities.

It was fun just walking barefoot along the powdery beach sand lining the coast stopping only to take pictures. We got our feet wet too and marveled at the clarity of the water. We could see schools of fish in the water and knew that those who were swimming or snorkeling near us were having loads of fun.

It was also easy walking around the hotel grounds because of the well-lighted paved paths. Our walk took us to the newly built wedding chapel and the old one where an anticipated Sunday mass was held the Saturday we were there.

We also visited their Chi spa but only stayed long enough to inquire. I’ve never been to a spa before so my role there was as a dakilang alalay to my friends. The spa is definitely world-class but our budgets were very third world. So it was a no go for my spa-loving friends.

They ended up swimming in one of the many pools of the resort while I lounged around or took pictures.
Breakfast was at the award-winning Tides restaurant where we sampled a buffet of international selections topped off with a wide variety of dessert choices plus the best fruits Cebu has to offer.

They say that you never really get the rest that you long for when on vacation but our recent trip renewed my spirit. I think Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa had a hand in destressing me. I wish I could have stayed longer.

About the Author
Em Dy is a female physician practicing in the Metro Manila area. She started Pulse, her personal blog, in March 2007. Here, she writes about anything that strikes her fancy but mostly it’s about things she loves to do like watching movies, traveling and eating out.

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