Anyone who’s been to Cebu should know why it is consistently voted as one of the best islands in the world. Now, there’s another good reason to plan a return trip, as Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) opens the Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu, its first foray into the luxury resort niche.
Owned by RLC and managed by Thailand’s Dusit International, the five-star beachfront resort is located on the northwestern tip of Mactan Island, in the picturesque barangay of Punta Engaño.
“Teaming up with Dusit International, a well-established international brand, is a step in the proper direction for the company,” says Arthur Gindap, SVP and Business Unit General Manager of Robinsons Hotels and Resorts. “We are proud of our real estate development experience, and are driven to constantly introduce new and exciting brands and concepts to this quality-conscious market. As the market matures in sophistication and as competition continues to increase, introducing a global brand will further fortify our presence in Cebu.”
Just 11 km. from the stunning Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the resort hotel is putting the finishing touches on its exclusive water transfer service, says David Baldwin, the resort’s General Manager. “We are building our dock so that we may offer water transfers for arriving and departing guests. The Marina is just a short ride from the airport, where guests will board a catamaran for a lovely ride to Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu. What a great way to begin a resort holiday!”
As you enter the premises, you are greeted by the inviting architecture of the resort’s main buildings, three low-rise structures in total harmony with their surroundings. In the open-air Grand Lobby, the sweeping views of Magellan Bay, with the hazy hills and mountains of Liloan, Cebu, in the distance compete for your attention. It only been a few days since the hotel’s soft opening, but guests already have their favorite spots. “While the scale and design of the see-through lobby gives a great first impression, our striking 100-meter Infinity Pool is already a guest favorite. This goes hand-in hand with the beautiful sunset views, as we are the only western-facing resort in Mactan. This creates so many beautiful photo opportunities. There are no bad angles here, thus we’re sure to be a favorite spot for selfies,” says Baldwin.
Exactly as he describes, the resort’s signature 100-meter long infinity pool seems to merge into the sea. The pool is complemented by the boardwalk promenade below, beautifully landscaped and perfect for sunbathing or a leisurely stroll. These unique features will overlook the resort’s upcoming beach, offering exceptional views and an unparalleled experience to every guest.
After a day of fun in the sun or exploring the other wonders of Cebu, guests can relax in their luxurious accommodations. These include the cozy Deluxe Garden View or Deluxe Sea View rooms, and the well-appointed Dusit Club Rooms, the spacious suites (Governor’s, Captain’s, and Executive suites), and finally, the superb three-bedroom suites: the JG Suite and the Admiral’s Suite. Each of the resort’s almost 300 rooms has complimentary wi-fi, internet-ready TVs, coffee and tea-making facilities, comfortable beds, and a host of other thoughtful amenities.
Cebu is becoming known as a prime destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE). With its complete facilities, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu is poised to become the venue of choice. It has six event venues that can host celebrations, meetings, or seminars. The largest of these is the 1,235 sq.m Dusit Ballroom--the largest pillarless ballroom in Mactan--which can comfortably seat 600 guests for banquets or up to 1,000 guests for cocktails. At 500 sq.m, the Pre-Function Area can host cocktails for 400 guests, while the four smaller Salons, ranging from 95 to 100 sq.m., seat up to 60 guests for dinner or 80 guests for cocktails. The versatile Sky Garden, which has a sweeping view of the sea, the resort’s pool, and the beach, is perfect for teambuilding sessions, receptions under the stars, or health and fitness-related activities during the day.
In other areas around the facility, the resort also offers the TechnoGym-equipped D-FiT Fitness Center and a wide variety of water sports and activities. Works in progress include the Namm Spa for relaxation and a world-class dive center. For children up to 12 years old, there is the indoor Fun Zone, which Baldwin describes as “500 square meters of pure bliss.”
After a day’s worth of activities, replenish your burnt calories at Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu’s world-class restaurants, such as the Sea Breeze Cafe featuring an international buffet; the Sunset Bar, a poolside sports bar and gastro pub; the open-air Lobby Lounge, and the upscale Dusit Club Lounge. With tall coconut fronds swaying gently overhead, laze away the afternoon here with a refreshing drink in hand, and experience the best sunset view on the island. “Being the lone resort on the west side of Mactan, we enjoy magical Cebu sunsets on a daily basis!” says Baldwin.
As spectacular as the sunsets are, what will solidify the hotel resort’s status is its service. “Graciously Dusit by caring people,” says Baldwin, introducing the brand’s customer-centric philosophy. “Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu combines the best of Filipino and Thai hospitality and grace, and we look forward to contributing to Mactan’s hospitality landscape. The growth of internationally-known resort brands like Dusit Thani in Mactan and the new international terminal at MCIA are strengthening Mactan’s position as the country’s top tourism destination. We are proud to enter the dynamic Mactan market.”
Just a few days into its soft opening, the response from guests has been encouraging. “The feedback in these early days has been fantastic, with raves about the resort design, infinity pool, sunsets and views. The best feedback by far, however, is about the warmth and sincerity of our young team,” says Baldwin proudly. “The smiles and enthusiasm are genuine, and they have been so eager and proud to open our doors.”
Robinsons Land has other developments in Cebu with its 3 malls, 3 office projects, 7 residential buildings, 2 subdivisions, as well as 2 other hotels. For inquiries, email Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort General Manager David Baldwin at dtmc@dusit.com.
