Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa (www.shangri-la.com)

One road carelessly leads to another. The tall, green trees complementing the setting, the sea breeze gently blowing, the bamboo benches – all a reminder that this paradise is very Filipino in more ways than one.

The Philippines has so much to offer. Its rich history, colorful and indigenous traditions, friendly and hospitable people, and exotic cuisine make it a country like no other in the world. It is a nation that is full of potential in the field of global tourism.

Now, tourists, especially those given only a limited amount of time to stay in the country, need not tediously traverse our lands to experience all it has to offer. One place epitomizes everything Filipino, everything that the Philippines is proud of: Shangri-La Mactan.

Shangri-La Mactan, located in the heart of Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, is considered as one of the most impressive resorts the Shangri-La group has set up. The beautiful establishment has garnered a long list of prestigious awards. Recently, it was awarded the “ASEAN Green Hotel Standard,” a recognition given to an establishment that gives prime importance to the environment’s preservation as well as energy conservation.

Shangri-La Mactan is indeed a world all its own, but do not be fooled by the air of luxury which fills its very halls. The compound is also perfect for family-bonding and fun-filled activities.

Fun under the sun
 
Overlooking scenic Mactan Sea, Shangri-La Mactan boasts of more than 500 rooms, two swimming pools, and six restaurants and bars. People of all ages whether alone or travelling in groups, are sure to have fun here.

Shangri-La Mactan attracts both local and foreign visitors. Tall wooden gates, thick palm trees, and a warm welcome by its friendly staff all add up to the thrill of discovering its many attractions.

As expected, inside the compound is a lavishly decorated first-class resort, truly an exciting “home” away from home. A long road lined with lush greenery leads to the resort’s entrance hall. The spacious lobby was constructed purely from natural materials such as narra and bamboo.

The reception staff was very friendly and courteous and was, in fact, one of the main reasons why I enjoyed my stay so much in Mactan Shang. And if you’re tired of all the travel, it’s definitely a must to experience whiling the time away while sipping a glass of fresh fruit juice at the Lobby Lounge.

The beach and marine sanctuary
          
The primary attraction of Mactan Shangri-La is its exclusive, 350-meter, white-sand beach. Adults, children,  tourists, and nature-lovers alike will have the chance to experience something unique: Swimming with small fishes. The best part about this is that you can actually feed them! I brought a small piece of bread with me and watched as the fish excitedly clustered together the moment I threw a piece into the crystal-clear waters.

Shangri-La Mactan’s beach is also a marine sanctuary. Founded under the stewardship program of the Lapu-Lapu City government, the sanctuary encompasses five hectares of corals and fishes. This just goes to show that Shangri-La Mactan’s care and concern for the environment truly makes it one of a kind and outstanding in its field. “The Shangri-La Mactan Sanctuary will not be possible without the will for environmental preservation,” Mactan Shangri-La’s general manager Timothy Wright said.

Shangri-La Mactan is a destination for exciting activities and relaxation. For the brave of heart, banana-boating, jet skiing, and windsurfing are just some of the adrenaline-pumping activities that can be tried.  Sports enthusiasts can practice and play in the gymnasium, or in the tennis court. But if you simply want to rest and get away from all the hassles of urban living, then the infinity pool, the jacuzzi, and the spa are for you.

Actually, strolling along the remarkable complex is already a relaxing adventure by itself.
 
iCamp
 
The resort brings back the ultimate one of a kind adventure for teens: iCAMP Season 2 from July 15 to 18, 2010. Teens from 13 to 18 years can particpate in four days and three nights of non-stop fun and learning through an experiential program especially designed for their age group.  The program’s objectives include enhancing participants’ social and teamwork skills while providing them with avenues for learning valuable life lessons.  iCAMP season two is available for as low as P23,807 net per person for a “live in” package inclusive of three nights’ accommodation in a Superior Gardenview Room, meals including morning and afternoon snacks, all activities, and a summer camp kit.  A live out package option is available at P16,400 net per person and includes meals with morning and afternoon snacks, all activities, and a summer camp kit.

(The author is a 16-year-old first year college student of the Ateneo de Manila University. For inquiries and reservations, please call the sales and marketing department of Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, Cebu at (63 32) 231 8168–9 e-mail sales&marketing.MAC@shangri-la.com.  You may also visit Celebrations on the second floor of Greenbelt 5.)