The islands of the Philippines are pure heaven for an avid traveller and one that stands out is Cebu. With its warm sand beaches, near perfect weather, and endless miles of underwater wildlife to explore the country is fast becoming one of my favorites.
On my last visit to Cebu I chose to stay at Costabella Tropical Beach Hotel. I stay at many resorts and one aspect I think makes a resort or hotel stand out from the rest is its service and hospitality. I can honestly say that I experienced pure bliss at Costabella Tropical Beach Hotel.
Nestled along a private white-sand beach on the enchanting island of Mactan the cozy tropical paradise has 156 Spanish styled rooms expertly decorated with local, natural materials. With private balconies to enjoy the breathtaking views of either the pool surrounded by lush greenery or the private, white sand beach, Costabella is a peaceful, romantic getaway.
From the moment I arrived I felt as if I was among friends. My check-in was handled quickly and the staff showed a genuine interest in ensuring my every need was met with a smile.
My room, with its private balcony, was on the top floor perfectly situated so I could enjoy a beautiful sunrise. The décor was a fusion of modern perceptions and natural materials, the Capiz wall accents and indigenous furniture combined perfectly with the surrounding atmosphere.
There are two restaurants on site and both offered exceptional menus. La Marina is a casual out door seating area and is where buffet breakfast is served in the morning. It is open 24/7 and its informal setting allows guests to relax while enjoying local and international selections. The chef uses only the freshest ingredients and it is evident in each dish he prepares. My favorite, I must say, was his desert of local Flan. The Spanish custard dish, although simple, is not always easy to prepare but he did it perfectly!
Brisa Pan-Asian Restaurant sits next to the pool with direct access to the beach. The al fresco dining offers a menu with extraordinary dishes inspired by various Asian countries. They are happy to set up a table on the beach just at the water’s edge when private, romantic occasions require it.
During dinner they have a strolling band who are happy to take requests. The music adds to the romantic, specialized atmosphere and is great even if you’re not with a significant other.
If, for some reason, guests want to go off site, the hotel has a fantastic guest services department that can help organize shopping, water sports, and day trips around Cebu. There is an expert diving and snorkelling centre who’s staff is happy to help set up every kind of water sport imaginable.
Of course it is my mission in life to try as many spa services as I can from every country in the world and my visit to Costabella gave me the opportunity to do that. Lema Filipino Spa is Costabella’s answer to pure bliss when it comes to spa treatments. Each service that is offered is based on traditional, centuries old techniques inspired, of course, by East Asia. Using only organic ingredients, expertly trained masseurs, and a variety of services, Lema delivers a perfect combination of rest, relaxation, and indulgence.
From management to room services it was the people at Costabella that made my stay one that I won’t soon forget. Everyone I encountered was eager to help and explain the resort, surrounding areas, and activities. The interest they showed in me personally, from where I live, my likes and dislikes, and my cultural background helped me feel welcome. It was the personal attention and genuine concern for each visitor that made the difference between a nice stay and an exceptional one. I would highly recommend Costabella to anyone who visits Cebu. I came a stranger and left a friend…
For more information about the resort or for reservations please see contact information:
Sales and Reservations: (6332) 231-4244
Resort: (6332) 238-2700
Check Availability and Prices
I would like to thank the Department of Tourism Central Visayas Product Development Division for their generosity in making this trip possible.
I would also like to thank Cebu Pacific Air for providing me with transportation to their namesake island.
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