View Full Version : Cebu Hotels
Member #4351
12-18-13, 14:54
During my stay in Elizabeth Hotel the rooms were filled up with employees from WorldVision and Christian Relief Organizations.Must be the minions, higher ups probably enjoying the good life in the Radisson and Marriott.
Wicked Roger
12-18-13, 21:34
Spotted some mongerers in Parklane, Quest and Mandarin Plaza. During my stay in Elizabeth Hotel the rooms were filled up with employees from WorldVision and Christian Relief Organizations. This almost gave me a bad conscience.I enjoy walking in with some cutie and sitting there and chatting. The guys stare and the women who asses remind why I love Asians also stare but is a different type of look LOL.
More enjoyable if she is really looking hot. And yes they really stuff there faces while saving world / people.
Member #4352
12-21-13, 03:35
Hotel: Quest
Price: 2400 (room only)
Overall Rating: 1
Internet: ???
Bathroom: ???
Breakfast: N/A
Carpet: No
400+ rooms
Change rates daily and sometimes rates on agoda.com are lower. This can be a bit annoying. Nice views from the upper floors.
Hotel: Mandarin Plaza
Price: 2200
Overall Ranking: 2
Internet: ???
Bathroom: ???
Breakfast: ???
Carpet: No
100+ rooms
WiFi access points in every room.
Hotel: Parklane
Price: 2000 (room only)
Overall Rating: 3
Internet: ???
Bathroom: ???
Breakfast: N/A
Carpet: Yes
200+ rooms
Nice pool, poor internet.
Hotel: Elizabeth
Price: 2400
Overall Rating: 3
Internet: ???
Bathroom: ???
Breakfast: ???
Carpet: Yes
100+ rooms
Quite big room.
Makeupaname
01-09-14, 04:05
Cebu City budget hotel. Stay one night at Sampaguita Suites. Plaza Garcia. Across the street from the Cross of Megallan. No reservation walk up. 900 Peso. Matrimonial room. Clean but small bed. No in room safe. Free Wifi is only from the coffee shop on the 2nd floor.
Dalaguete. Stayed 8 day at Kyleville. 1300 Peso per night. No in room safe. Intermittent free wifi. Pizza place inside, not good but the locals liked it. Not so clean pool. Can be loud if karaoke or band playing. New massage place open right across the street. 250 Peso one hour legit massage. They said can also do in room massage. 5 minute walking to Charitos, small expat bar with friendly expats.
I would / will stay at both again.
Dalaguete is about 30-45 minutes from Oslob (50 Peso on bus with air con). Swam with whale sharks. 1000 P for foreigners
I need to get a consular report of birth abroad and a passport for my daughter. Instead if manila I am thinking of going to cebu. I have never been there. I understand the consular office is in the waterfront hotel. Every date I check shows no rooms available at said hotel. Does anyone recommend a hotel where my purpose is getting a passport not pussy?
I need to get a consular report of birth abroad and a passport for my daughter. Instead if manila I am thinking of going to cebu. I have never been there. I understand the consular office is in the waterfront hotel. Every date I check shows no rooms available at said hotel. Does anyone recommend a hotel where my purpose is getting a passport not pussy?My understanding is that you cannot obtain passports from a Consular Office and I assume the USA Consular office in Cebu is no exception.
I might be wrong but I thought you can get a renewal or a replacement for a lost one at a consulate office but not a new one. They might ask you why you have come from Davao to Cebu rather than Manila too.
A friend who tried to avail of Consular services told me that you have to line up for services and it is "first come first served" and, as we know, Filipinos will line up all night to be in the line so you may have a long wait. As I understand it, at least in Manila you can make an appointment in advance so you don't hang around all day waiting waiting waiting.. and waiting.
You should check this out first W or you might go on a wild goose chase just to be sure.
Stroker Ace88
01-11-14, 10:11
I need to get a consular report of birth abroad and a passport for my daughter. Instead if manila I am thinking of going to cebu. I have never been there. I understand the consular office is in the waterfront hotel. Every date I check shows no rooms available at said hotel. Does anyone recommend a hotel where my purpose is getting a passport not pussy?Wjmpsr,
FYI you do not need to stay at the Waterfront to gain entry to the USA Consulate, I'm just saying. The Waterfront Lahug rooms are a little dated / worn, and for the price you could do better. Book the Quest, Parklane or any other hotel around Ayala. Make sure to get a rate that includes breakfast. Most of the Ayala hotels are a short taxi ride to IT Park and are better situated versus the Waterfront.
Yep you can get a passport for your daughter through the USA Cebu Consulate last time I heard through the bamboo vine. They accept walk-in services only. They are available 8-9am for phone consultations only and from 9-11am on weekdays for walk-in services that include passport renewal and newly issued passports. No weekend or holiday office hours and this includes both USA and RP holidays. Get there early if you want to be seen, from what I understand there is a line most days but nothing like the lines for NBI or NSO.
Your best bet would be to go to the USA State Department website to get the complete list of requirements before your visit, including the most up-to-date landline number for the Cebu USA Consulate. A buddy of mine told me he had to get a DNA test done to prove he was the father and he also had to bring along with him several clear pictures of his 6 year old son taped to a piece of paper. You should have several pictures together with your daughter for each year of her life. Clearly label each picture and detail what date and how old your daughter was when each picture was taken. I also believe the mother has to be present to sign papers as well. There are also other requirements but those are the ones I remember due to a rather large SML session that afternoon.
All the best mate.
Wicked Roger
01-11-14, 16:42
Wjmpsr,
Your best bet would be to go to the USA State Department website to get the complete list of requirements before your visit, including the most up-to-date landline number for the Cebu USA Consulate. .Stroker,
Can you clear your Inbox please seems you have too many.
Wj, I would call the consulate and double / triple check you do what you need to do and get the documeants you want before you come to Cebu.
Just asking for suggestions here. I've been impressed with the swimming pools at Waterfront, Lahug and Montebello in Banilad. Looking for good value on a decent room, but really like my soon to be, bikini babes to enjoy a splash.
Wicked Roger
01-23-14, 17:53
Just asking for suggestions here. I've been impressed with the swimming pools at Waterfront, Lahug and Montebello in Banilad. Looking for good value on a decent room, but really like my soon to be, bikini babes to enjoy a splash.Quest has a pool, some cuties liked it there. Also the rooms are newer as I think Waterfront and Montebello need some TLC.
Hi friends,
Yeah I know, some of you will reply that all the answers to my questions are here somewhere already, but sometimes the info is not up to date anymore, sometimes new places open up so, here are my questions. What I am looking for is a nice budget (not more than 1250php) place to stay, ofcourse near the nightlife. I have stayed in Angeles ofcourse, but is there anything like that in Cebu? Is nightlife concentrated as well? I have reports about Phnom Penh, so there I would recommend street 136, but Cebu, have never been there.
So, is there nightlife near the beach? What I mean is. All info is most welcome. You think its wise to make a date via a daingsite to take me around for the fisrt time, or are there enough ladies to pick up on the spot? Where? Anyway,
Thanks in advance!
Pip Jaeger
02-09-14, 09:23
Hotels. Com is offering a great deal at the Park Lane, $35. 00 USD (+tax & +service charge) per night for a standard room including their excellent breakfast buffet; even the boutique suite is a good deal at $65. 00 (++) per night. Found it using Trivago and I have no idea how long the special will last.
What I am looking for is a nice budget (not more than 1250php) place to stay, of course near the nightlife.
Thanks in advance!A little over your budget at about 1, 570p per night, but the Park Lane certainly beats any "budget" hotel in Cebu. It's across from Ayala mall and a short 50 or 60p taxi ride to the Mango Square / go go bar area.
Just asking for suggestions here. I've been impressed with the swimming pools at Waterfront, Lahug and Montebello in Banilad. Looking for good value on a decent room, but really like my soon to be, bikini babes to enjoy a splash.Park Lane also has a nice pool.
Hotels. Com is offering a great deal at the Park Lane, $35. 00 USD (+tax & +service charge) per night for a standard room including their excellent breakfast buffet; even the boutique suite is a good deal at $65. 00 (++) per night. Found it using Trivago and I have no idea how long the special will last.
A little over your budget at about 1, 570p per night, but the Park Lane certainly beats any "budget" hotel in Cebu. It's across from Ayala mall and a short 50 or 60p taxi ride to the Mango Square / go go bar area.That special has been around for a while PJ.
I got a similar deal on Agoda for a family member 2 weeks ago.
Grab it while it lasts. ParkLane is my hotel of choice in Cebu/
Pip Jaeger
02-09-14, 21:17
That special has been around for a while PJ.
I got a similar deal on Agoda for a family member 2 weeks ago.
Grab it while it lasts. ParkLane is my hotel of choice in Cebu/Well it was news to me, it's also my preferred hotel in Cebu and yes, I did grab the deal. I needed a room for a few days as the condo I'm renting won't be available when I arrive due to a shift in my schedule. I'm sure that being the benevolent person that you are, you too would have shared a deal like this had you visited this thread sooner and seen that someone was asking about rooms offering a good value.
BTW, when I looked on Agoda their rate was USD $45. 53 ++ for a standard Park Lane room WITHOUT breakfast and jumped to $62. 72 ++ with breakfast; a boutique suite was $81. 95 ++ and 85. 12 ++ respectively. I have no idea why such a big difference on the standard room, but it could be due the special "breakfast in bed" offer on Park Lane's website (2, 400p ++).
It's worth shopping around a bit and using multi-search engine travel sites like Trivago, Hotels Combined, Kayak, etc. But it should be noted that some of the sites you get re-directed to include taxes / service charges and some don't as well as rooms with / without breakfast (for the hotels that offer it) ; so be sure to read the fine print before you book! I know, common sense advice, but I often read in the reviews how people are surprised when they learn about add-ons like that.
I noticed on Trivago, that several up-market hotels are presently offering lower rates. However, some l are being offered without their standard breakfast. For example, Marco Polo Cebu and Waterfront Lahug serve excellent breakfast buffets, but charge a hefty whack for them when non-inclusive. Also, no other easily accessible breaky alternatives close by. So, yes, read fine print as Pip advises, and also know the neighbourhood.
Cebu city does come up pretty sadly when it comes to hotel pools. Some beautiful, clean beaches aren't far, so maybe that is the excuse.
Just asking for suggestions here. I've been impressed with the swimming pools at Waterfront, Lahug and Montebello in Banilad. Looking for good value on a decent room, but really like my soon to be, bikini babes to enjoy a splash.
.Hi WR I'm staying at Mandarin for the first time in June 16. 19. The reviews on agoda seemed to indicate it's an ok place. And has a pool. A step up from Diplomat I presume. Is it within walking distance to Ayala? Thanks.
Wicked Roger
02-11-14, 16:58
Hi WR I'm staying at Mandarin for the first time in June 16. 19. The reviews on agoda seemed to indicate it's an ok place. And has a pool. A step up from Diplomat I presume. Is it within walking distance to Ayala? Thanks.Definitely a step up from the Diplomat. When I was last there it was a soft opening and the air con at times was not great
Yes is it next door to the Quest hotel so is easy walking distance to Ayala and to where I am staying.
What price are you getting (PM me if you like).
Would you guys recommend me jumping into a taxi or getting a shuttle service from the airport to Quest Hotel?
Thanks,
YG
Stroker Ace88
03-10-14, 02:36
Would you guys recommend me jumping into a taxi or getting a shuttle service from the airport to Quest Hotel?
Thanks,
YGTake a taxi. Once outside the terminal go towards your right and look for the crossing. The crossing is located outside the Domestic exit doors. There will be some local touts around who will ask you if you need a taxi or car, ignore them and look for the cross walk. There is a guard on the other side near the gate. Watch for traffic as Philippine drivers generally do not stop for pedestrians. Once on the other side turn left and walk along the sidewalk and up the ramp. You will have to double back once to get to the top, and then go through the doors to enter the domestic terminal departure area. After you enter the domestic terminal departure area look for the doors to your left (may be 30ft away) and go through them. Once outside the taxi line should be right in front of you. Stand in line to get a white metered taxi. Make sure you get a paper slip from the guy in charge of the taxi line, you will need to show the paper at the PNP (Philippine police) check point about 300meters or so outside the airport.
Tell the driver to take you to the Quest Hotel. He will know where to go. The ride should be 30-45mins depending on traffic and should cost you around 220-260php. If you get the hotel shuttle to pick you up they might charge you 750php +. Save yourself 500php mate! The only time I get a hotel shuttle to pick me up is if I'm staying 5 star at Shangri-La or another Mactan area resort where the shuttle is included, or a car service if I'm headed to a resort in the province.
Enjoy Cebu.
Take a taxi. Once outside the terminal go towards your right and look for the crossing. The crossing is located outside the Domestic exit doors. There will be some local touts around who will ask you if you need a taxi or car, ignore them and look for the cross walk. There is a guard on the other side near the gate. Watch for traffic as Philippine drivers generally do not stop for pedestrians. Once on the other side turn left and walk along the sidewalk and up the ramp. You will have to double back once to get to the top, and then go through the doors to enter the domestic terminal departure area. After you enter the domestic terminal departure area look for the doors to your left (may be 30ft away) and go through them. Once outside the taxi line should be right in front of you. Stand in line to get a white metered taxi. Make sure you get a paper slip from the guy in charge of the taxi line, you will need to show the paper at the PNP (Philippine police) check point about 300meters or so outside the airport.
Tell the driver to take you to the Quest Hotel. He will know where to go. The ride should be 30-45mins depending on traffic and should cost you around 220-260php. If you get the hotel shuttle to pick you up they might charge you 750php +. Save yourself 500php mate! The only time I get a hotel shuttle to pick me up is if I'm staying 5 star at Shangri-La or another Mactan area resort where the shuttle is included, or a car service if I'm headed to a resort in the province.
Enjoy Cebu.Thanks for the amazing directions! It cost about 187 pesos to be exact and my taxi driver was driving hella slow! I still tipped him 13 pesos because he was a really really nice guy!
YG
Take a taxi. Once outside the terminal go towards your right and look for the crossing. The crossing is located outside the Domestic exit doors. There will be some local touts around who will ask you if you need a taxi or car, ignore them and look for the cross walk. There is a guard on the other side near the gate. Watch for traffic as Philippine drivers generally do not stop for pedestrians. Once on the other side turn left and walk along the sidewalk and up the ramp.An update on the metered taxi departures as described by SA 88.
You no longer have to turn left and go up the rank and double back etc etc.
It has reverted to crossing the road, passing the guard and going through the gate and turning to the RIGHT and up a few steps and you will see on the RH side a new turning circle with a metered taxi rank with a guy who will write you out a slip containing taxi name and number.
Line up and wait your turn or get straight into the cab if nobody is ahead of you.
hey guys,
the quest hotel is in a really good location and the hotel looks great. it's right next to the mandarin hotel. from the looks of it, tons of korean guys stay at this hotel. everything is good except for the worst internet connection in the world! lol. i'm not sure if that'll bother most people but for me who lives, breathes and eats internet. it's a nightmare! i really hope they're able to fix and improve their speeds one day.
Stroker Ace88
03-12-14, 17:41
An update on the metered taxi departures as described by SA 88.
You no longer have to turn left and go up the rank and double back etc etc.
It has reverted to crossing the road, passing the guard and going through the gate and turning to the RIGHT and up a few steps and you will see on the RH side a new turning circle with a metered taxi rank with a guy who will write you out a slip containing taxi name and number.
Line up and wait your turn or get straight into the cab if nobody is ahead of you.Usually, they direct the PAX in rainy season turn left, summer season turn right.
Hey guys!
I usually stay at the Quest. Good value IMHO. But I am wondering about the Mandarin? Commets? Is it worth the extra money?
TIA
Wicked Roger
03-13-14, 00:06
Usually, they direct the PAX in rainy season turn left, summer season turn right.But yesterday it was raining when I arrived and you had to turn right. Sometimes the exit is the farthest door of international arrivals and you have to walk more as well.
Usually, they direct the PAX in rainy season turn left, summer season turn right.No. This is a new arrangement. They have reconstructed a new place for cabs to wait (it's not right up at the top as it was before).
There is a tent-type arrangement to give cover from rain (and sun).
As WR says, turn right now after you go through the gate if you want a taxi, and follow the signs that direct you.
Wicked Roger
03-13-14, 09:21
No. This is a new arrangement. They have reconstructed a new place for cabs to wait (it's not right up at the top as it was before).
There is a tent-type arrangement to give cover from rain (and sun).
As WR says, turn right now after you go through the gate if you want a taxi, and follow the signs that direct you.Correct RK and there is the choice of finding the white cab rank (cheaper but when I have 3 heavy bags can't be bothered to save 100-150 pesos) , or take the yellow or the pricier private ones.
Yesterday was a nightmare day on the roads from the airport due to road closures and had to go to Ayala via the port (when I see the Radisson I know something is up! Despite being a yellow cab fare was just under 300 pesos (and was an hour journey time (roughly) from the airport due to congestion.
Irony Monger
03-17-14, 05:39
the quest hotel is in a really good location and the hotel looks great. it's right next to the mandarin hotel. from the looks of it, tons of korean guys stay at this hotel. everything is good except for the worst internet connection in the world! lol. i'm not sure if that'll bother most people but for me who lives, breathes and eats internet. it's a nightmare! i really hope they're able to fix and improve their speeds one day.did you mention your internet troubles to the hotel staff? i had a lot of trouble connecting and slow speeds when i did connect on my first stay there in 2013, but i called the operator a few hours after check in and complained. a couple hours later everything was working great and stayed that way for the rest of my stay. no problems at all during my second stay at quest last month. i feel sorry for the poor it guy running from floor to floor bending antennas this way and that whenever someone complains though.
FreebieFan
03-17-14, 06:34
hey guys,
everything is good except for the worst internet connection in the world! lol. i'm not sure if that'll bother most people but for me who lives, breathes and eats internet. it's a nightmare! i really hope they're able to fix and improve their speeds one day.hotels tend to pay what they think they can "afford" to provide a basic service and to balance the costs of that with profit.
undoubtedly hotels can purchase larger bandwidth and therefor provide a higher speed per occupied room, but would you pay more for the room to achive that higher speed?
its quite similar to airline food. its generally all crap, because the price per meal that the airline pays, dictates the food quality.
same with hotels internet speed.
very few people checkout because of low internet speed, and very few will pay more to use a hotel with higher speeds, so hotels spend as little as they can on internet packages because isn't what drives their business model.
hotels tend to pay what they think they can "afford" to provide a basic service and to balance the costs of that with profit.
undoubtedly hotels can purchase larger bandwidth and therefor provide a higher speed per occupied room, but would you pay more for the room to achive that higher speed?
its quite similar to airline food. its generally all crap, because the price per meal that the airline pays, dictates the food quality.
same with hotels internet speed.
very few people checkout because of low internet speed, and very few will pay more to use a hotel with higher speeds, so hotels spend as little as they can on internet packages because isn't what drives their business model.i actually would pay more for faster and more reliable internet speeds.
The flight to Camiguin departs to early to connect. I need to arrive in Cebu the day before. Any recommendations for a hotel adjacent to the airport. I will be traveling with family so not concerned about bars etc.
The flight to Camiguin departs to early to connect. I need to arrive in Cebu the day before. Any recommendations for a hotel adjacent to the airport. I will be traveling with family so not concerned about bars etc.There are only two hotels adjacent to the airport, Waterfront and Silangan, which I do not recommend. Instead check ACE pension across from Gaisano Mactan and less then a ten minute cab ride to the terminal. Clean, friendly with all the amenities. Was in Camiguin a few weeks ago and the hot springs are not as hot as they used to be! Enjoy this gem of an island!
Stroker Ace88
03-25-14, 05:19
With all due respect to Mattrick, I would stay at Waterfront Mactan. It's located right at the airport, just walk across the street so no cab required. Search on Trigavo or other discount websites for a decent rate, in the 60-80USD++ per night including breakfast.
Forget about booking direct through the Waterfront website. Current rates are like 165USD++ per night which is loco. In fact almost every major hotel in the PI that I have stayed at has crazy loco rates when booked direct. A lot of them biotch and moan when foreigners book online through discount websites, but too bad. Why pay 100%+ more for the same room if I booked direct with them. Screw that. The only time I book direct is if the local rate is lower than the online rate.
When I last stayed at Waterfront Mactan the rooms were small but decent, and the breakfast was good. I slept very well with no noticeable airport noise.
Enjoy Camiguin.
Kwame Case
03-25-14, 21:34
I stayed there last year. $75 for deluxe room with bath tub. Very clean and modern. They are of course girl friendly, only a girl was asked to submit an I'd when we arrive after 11:00 PM. Others are not. It was quite new hotel, so some of the taxi driver don't know the Best Western, better to ask LEX.
Marco Polo offering incredible rate on Agoda. Only 1627 pesos for deluxe room at this real 5 star hotel. Breakfast is extra, but the price is outstanding!
Wicked Roger
03-29-14, 15:39
Marco Polo offering incredible rate on Agoda. Only 1627 pesos for deluxe room at this real 5 star hotel. Breakfast is extra, but the price is outstanding!What is breakfast as usually these are where they get you and price is not as attractive. Also while the MP is nice, it is too far from town and the taxi ride to and from the location (in the hills) is a pain most of the day. More so if the driver goes past IT Park as the traffic jams seem never ending.
Is why with the exception of 2 'special' occasions I never stay at the MP despite it being a nice hotel.
Stroker Ace88
03-30-14, 03:14
Marco Polo offering incredible rate on Agoda. Only 1627 pesos for deluxe room at this real 5 star hotel. Breakfast is extra, but the price is outstanding!Q55,
I have stayed at Marco Polo a couple of times, but they are not my preferred hotel. Mainly because of the location and the price, Both were up there.
If you stay at MP Luhug post a review. Thanks for posting the online promo, it always helps to pay it forward.
Enjoy Cebu.
FruitNinja
03-30-14, 03:38
i actually would pay more for faster and more reliable internet speeds.as would i. i was looking at the aloft in bkk and they offer basic internet with an upgrade to high speed. in general hotel wifi service in se asia is crap. i spent half a day in cebu trying to book airfare and hotel. very frustrating. and don't think if you ask about the service they will tell you it sucks. at the elizabeth in cebu after numerous complaints i had one of the "engineers," farmer with a uniform tell me "our system is old sir." in vietnam i had to go out daily and reset the access point in the corridor. fortunately it was right outside my door. again, it took me hours to book my flight and hotel for my next destination. time i could have been doing other things. couple the slow intermittent speed with a site that is not well coded and the time-outs are atrocious. the st giles in makati wasn't much better. the place i stayed in tokyo had screaming fast internet.
i tried to "not plan" deliberately so that i could stay where i was at if i was enjoying myself, but with the internet service it becomes very difficult.
i think next time i will consider getting a air-modem and buy service through the local cell company. might not be fast but i'm sure more reliable.
I stayed at Summit Circle my last visit. Some people still know of it as Midtown Hotel.
Cheaper rooms are listed at 3400p, but they have all kinds of promos. You should pay less than 2500 a night. Boarding passes from PA and CP, as well as 3-day discounts apply. X
If I were in Cebu in mid-April, I would most surely take advantage of this promo. Photo taken in the elevator in March 2014. Another photo taken at the 4th floor lobby.
I stayed on the 12th floor. There is a 14th floor, but no 13th. Superstitious I presume. Be aware that some rooms on the lower floors get some machine noise from the air conditioning units. Tiny pool is good for wading. LOL. I tested the mattress with half a dozen ladies, and I was quite happy with the bounce.
Some people still know this place as Midtown Hotel. This may or may not include taxi drivers. When taxi drivers play dumb, I assume they are sussing me out. The convenience is that the hotel is on top of Robinson's Fuente (a smallish mall)."Meet me at the mall" sounds nicer to some of the online gals than,"meet me at my hotel".
The listed price at 3400 isn't good value. 2400 is competitive, IMHO. A promo of 1600 is going to make someone happy. X
Stroker Ace88
04-06-14, 18:36
If I were in Cebu in mid-April, I would most surely take advantage of this promo. Photo taken in the elevator in March 2014. Another photo taken at the 4th floor lobby.
I stayed on the 12th floor. There is a 14th floor, but no 13th. Superstitious I presume. Be aware that some rooms on the lower floors get some machine noise from the air conditioning units. Tiny pool is good for wading. LOL. I tested the mattress with half a dozen ladies, and I was quite happy with the bounce.
Some people still know this place as Midtown Hotel. This may or may not include taxi drivers. When taxi drivers play dumb, I assume they are sussing me out. The convenience is that the hotel is on top of Robinson's Fuente (a smallish mall)."Meet me at the mall" sounds nicer to some of the online gals than,"meet me at my hotel".
The listed price at 3400 isn't good value. 2400 is competitive, IMHO. A promo of 1600 is going to make someone happy. XBooking a promo room in Cebu City for a long weekend (local holiday) is a bad idea. Usually groups of locals will chip in for a hotel room close to Mango to crash and party in. They usually stay up all night drinking, laughing, playing music and bonding with groups of people coming and going. The bonding means if your room happens to be close to theirs you get to enjoy the noise for free.
No thanks, I value a good nights sleep so when it's a local long weekend I get the flock out of Cebu to somewhere like Duma, Siquijor or shangli-la mactan.
The 1600p price is competitive, but rack rates at Midtown are always over priced. New CC hotels are opening all the time and the old ones never close, they just fade away.
Presently staying at the Marco Polo, Lahug, Cebu City, for the third time this year. Incredible rate on Agoda is only 1560 pesos at this time. No other first class hotel comes close to MP in aggressive online pricing. I always request a high floor for commanding views of the mountains or the city and sea below. Yes, the Marco is a short distance from downtown, but the 100 P taxi fare isn't any big deal. In return one receives a quiet location. 5 star accommodation, excellent staff, great swimming pool, and a true international level of service. Breakfast will set you back an extra 750 P for a great international buffet, or catch a cab todine at I T Park or Ayala. MP is girl friendly, although bringing a girl dressed in either wear or slum wear, wouldn't be a good idea. The staff are always discreet and display commendable reserve as I come back with a different babe each time. This present online rate is a fabulous value in my opinion. BTW, for the cynical among us, unfortunately I don't have shares in this hotel chain and so far have not received any freebies from the management.
Wicked Roger
04-08-14, 16:43
Presently staying at the Marco Polo, Lahug, Cebu City, for the third time this year. Incredible rate on Agoda is only 1560 pesos at this time.
Yes, the Marco is a short distance from downtown, but the 100 P taxi fare isn't any big deal.
Breakfast will set you back an extra 750 P for a great international buffet, or catch a cab todine at I T Park or Ayala. .That is a good rate but it that net net or excluding tax and also is wifi free as sometime the rack rate discount is very good but the add on make it pricey than first thought.
For me I prefer to walk to Ayala but I do use the MP for more discrete liaisons when I don't won't some to know where I am for a day or so.
Questor, check the PMs.
I stayed on the 12th floor. There is a 14th floor, but no 13th. Superstitious I presume.Most condos (mine included) , don't have a 13 on the elevator buttons. Neither do planes have a row 13.
One day I was making small talk with a woman who had pressed button 14 for her floor. I was joking about how even though there was no number 13 listed on the buttons her floor, labelled 14, was still actually the 13th Floor and she looked panic-stricken as if she had not realised it before.
I reckon she probably shifted units the next day
Stroker Ace88
04-09-14, 07:30
That is a good rate but it that net net or excluding tax and also is wifi free as sometime the rack rate discount is very good but the add on make it pricey than first thought.
For me I prefer to walk to Ayala but I do use the MP for more discrete liaisons when I don't won't some to know where I am for a day or so.
Questor, check the PMs.If Q55 booked using the Agoda MP promo, it's a big fat +10 percent service charge +12. 8 percent local tax (Agoda lists anywhere from 12. 8-12. 5 percent local tax depending on booking location) on top of the listed price.
When I took a look at the promo rate a few days ago the listed rate was $36. 36USD, and that increased to $44. 64USD with taxes and fees. That's still a very good rate considering it includes free wifi. No breakfast included.
FreebieFan
04-09-14, 08:30
Most condos (mine included) , don't have a 13 on the elevator buttons. Neither do planes have a row 13.
One day I was making small talk with a woman who had pressed button 14 for her floor. I was joking about how even though there was no number 13 listed on the buttons her floor, labelled 14, was still actually the 13th Floor and she looked panic-stricken as if she had not realised it before.
I reckon she probably shifted units the next dayAnd in Chinese speaking countries no 14 either. Elevators will go 12 to 15.
Good report, but a negative report. Do you have a place to recommend or do you just analize these hotel reports?
Booking a promo room in Cebu City for a long weekend (local holiday) is a bad idea. Usually groups of locals will chip in for a hotel room close to Mango to crash and party in. They usually stay up all night drinking, laughing, playing music and bonding with groups of people coming and going. The bonding means if your room happens to be close to theirs you get to enjoy the noise for free.
No thanks, I value a good nights sleep so when it's a local long weekend I get the flock out of Cebu to somewhere like Duma, Siquijor or shangli-la mactan.
The 1600p price is competitive, but rack rates at Midtown are always over priced. New CC hotels are opening all the time and the old ones never close, they just fade away.
Stroker Ace88
04-13-14, 19:36
Good report, but a negative report. Do you have a place to recommend or do you just analize these hotel reports?X,
You suggested members opt for a promo deal on a Mango based hotel that runs on a long weekend. Midtown / Summit Circle happens to be very close to Mango where a lot of younger people will be enjoying the holiday. I pointed out (based on my actual experiences) that the chances of being kept awake by locals who book that promo and party and drink all night long close to Mango is increased.
Why is my post negative if it provides additional info that might be helpful to members who have never stayed close to Mango on a long weekend?
You need to go back and read my reply again, as I clearly stated my preference for an alternative, Shangri-La Mactan.
Presently staying at the Marco Polo, Lahug, Cebu City, for the third time this year. Incredible rate on Agoda is only 1560 pesos at this time. No other first class hotel comes close to MP in aggressive online pricing. I always request a high floor for commanding views of the mountains or the city and sea below. Yes, the Marco is a short distance from downtown, but the 100 P taxi fare isn't any big deal. In return one receives a quiet location. 5 star accommodation, excellent staff, great swimming pool, and a true international level of service. Breakfast will set you back an extra 750 P for a great international buffet, or catch a cab todine at I T Park or Ayala. MP is girl friendly, although bringing a girl dressed in either wear or slum wear, wouldn't be a good idea. The staff are always discreet and display commendable reserve as I come back with a different babe each time. This present online rate is a fabulous value in my opinion. BTW, for the cynical among us, unfortunately I don't have shares in this hotel chain and so far have not received any freebies from the management.Just booked the MP for the first week in May. Couldn't pass up the great deal!
It would be nice to see a few pictures, and a proper review about a Mactan beach resort.
For anyone who hasn't been to Cebu, S Ace is referring to a hotel on a different island, with a different target market, and at a far different price.
For the price of Shangri la Mactan you could book three rooms at Summit and then stay at the room which doesn't have those pesky and noisy "locals" in the next room. And yes, I've been in hotels where people slam doors, let the kids run and scream down the hallway at 7am, etc. X.
QUOTE=Stroker Ace88; 1554378]X,
You suggested members opt for a promo deal on a Mango based hotel that runs on a long weekend. Midtown / Summit Circle happens to be very close to Mango where a lot of younger people will be enjoying the holiday. I pointed out (based on my actual experiences) that the chances of being kept awake by locals who book that promo and party and drink all night long close to Mango is increased.
Why is my post negative if it provides additional info that might be helpful to members who have never stayed close to Mango on a long weekend?
You need to go back and read my reply again, as I clearly stated my preference for an alternative, Shangri-La Mactan.[/QUOTE]
Stroker Ace88
04-14-14, 16:47
It would be nice to see a few pictures, and a proper review about a Mactan beach resort.
For anyone who hasn't been to Cebu, S Ace is referring to a hotel on a different island, with a different target market, and at a far different price.
For the price of Shangri la Mactan you could book three rooms at Summit and then stay at the room which doesn't have those pesky and noisy "locals" in the next room. And yes, I've been in hotels where people slam doors, let the kids run and scream down the hallway at 7am, etc. X.First off, I spend a lot of time in Cebu, on average 200+ days per year. You on the other hand spend one week max per year in Cebu.
You really get your panties in a bunch when someone questions your posts, but instead of dealing with the subject like an adult you decide to talk down to me, which made me LOL.
BTW I get the local rate at Shang, which is usually around 5000php less than the rack rate.
SexBomb123
04-14-14, 22:21
I am potentially looking to book at the Quest for my next stay there. They are running a promo of 1680 per night for a Deluxe or 1890 for Premier Deluxe (no breakfast). Has anyone stayed there that can comment? It doesn't have a gym but I can get over it if the wifi and rooms are adequate and it's GF. Reviews on tripadvisor for the most part seem favourable.
Thanks all.
FruitNinja
04-14-14, 23:12
i am potentially looking to book at the quest for my next stay there. they are running a promo of 1680 per night for a deluxe or 1890 for premier deluxe (no breakfast). has anyone stayed there that can comment? it doesn't have a gym but i can get over it if the wifi and rooms are adequate and it's gf. reviews on tripadvisor for the most part seem favourable.
thanks all.i did not stay at the quest but was in one of the rooms. i liked the rooms, decent sized. decent amenities and the wifi seemed fine during slow periods. but as with most hotels in the philippines that i've stayed at which arguably isn't a lot the internet slows to turtle speed under use. so if you're used to speed and reliability forget it. i get 52 meg dload speed at home which i'm getting upgraded to 104 in a few days. and that's rock solid 52 as i would expect the 104 to be.
i tried to book a cebu flight from the elizabeth and finally gave up and went to the airport. frustrating to say the least. next time i will get an air-card and see how that works. i can deal with slower but time-outs are frustrating. especially if you're working under pressure.
my 2 cents
You don't know me, and you don't know how much time I spend in Cebu. And "one week a year" is a surprising fabrication on your part. I spent nine days (eight nights) there just last month.
I recommend that you use your 200-days a year Cebu expertise more constructively at ISG, rather than deliberately posting incorrect information about me. X.
First off, I spend a lot of time in Cebu, on average 200+ days per year. You on the other hand spend one week max per year in Cebu.
You really get your panties in a bunch when someone questions your posts, but instead of dealing with the subject like an adult you decide to talk down to me, which made me LOL.
BTW I get the local rate at Shang, which is usually around 5000php less than the rack rate.
Wicked Roger
04-15-14, 12:20
i am potentially looking to book at the quest for my next stay there. they are running a promo of 1680 per night for a deluxe or 1890 for premier deluxe (no breakfast). has anyone stayed there that can comment? it doesn't have a gym but i can get over it if the wifi and rooms are adequate and it's gf. reviews on tripadvisor for the most part seem favourable.
thanks all.quest is ok but i always prefer the elizabeth as rooms are bigger and i get a rate of around 2400 per night net net.
the rate is good so go for it, hotel is clean, nice but the rooms can be small for me.
internet speeds never great as this is the philippines so i go to coffee shops also to use but the hotels are ok just some days are off more than others.
Presently staying at the Marco Polo, Lahug, Cebu City, for the third time this year. Incredible rate on Agoda is only 1560 pesos at this time.This present online rate is a fabulous value in my opinion. BTW, for the cynical among us, unfortunately I don't have shares in this hotel chain and so far have not received any freebies from the management.Thanks for the report Qestor55 but you make no mention that the whole area is a construction zone as they are erecting another tower! Could that be the reason for the promotional rate?
Have to disagree with you as there is only one five star property in Cebu; Blu. Like the Blu, the building was not originally built by Marco Polo and the rooms reflect that. Otherwise, it is a fine hotel with sweeping views of the smog filed city below. The pool area is gorgeous and the best in the city without a doubt. The food is top notch as well.
What is laughable is guys on here saying: "MP is too far out of town" or "It is not a good location". Recently took a jeepney from the old casino (a little farther up the hill from Marco Polo) and I was at Ayala in 15 minutes! Of course it might be a different story going up the hill on a Friday afternoon as the traffic is bad everywhere.
I am potentially looking to book at the Quest for my next stay there. They are running a promo of 1680 per night for a Deluxe or 1890 for Premier Deluxe (no breakfast). Has anyone stayed there that can comment? It doesn't have a gym but I can get over it if the wifi and rooms are adequate and it's GF. Reviews on tripadvisor for the most part seem favourable.Yes I would recommend the Quest as it has become many peoples favorite hotel due to it's location and it's relatively new. For that price it is a great deal! Sure it is girl friendly as most hotels in Cebu are. The problem I have is it is not very discreet!
The listed price at 3400 isn't good value. 2400 is competitive, IMHO. A promo of 1600 is going to make someone happy.There is no promo rate of 1600 php. The current promotional walk-in deal is 2300 php with your Cebu Pacific boarding pass and includes buffet breakfast and two free drinks of your choice.
I just checked hotels. Com, and it seems all these rates mentioned are legit, except the 1600 quote. Does anyone have a better booking process or website?
PM
Wicked Roger
04-15-14, 14:51
With all these rates being quoted maybe we should clearly state if it is net net (ie including all tax) or gross (ie add the tax as well) as some of the hotel websites quote it excluding tax so when you book the promo rate it comes out much higher (and many seem surprised or pissed off)
A 1600 promo rate is more like 2300 or more net net and does it include free wifi and breakfast?
See the earlier comments on the Marco Polo. Looks good but then add tax, breakfast (at 750 pesos) and wifi it is not a great rate and there are better around than that IMHO (see my comments about the MP in the earlier FR)
So if we can say which rate we are writing about it may help all of us get a better feel of what we really be paying for the room.
Over and out LOL.
Has anyone stayed here on Mactan? I booked for two nights and of course will BYOG. Thanks for any replies.
LOL, I'm starting to regret ever posting that review of Summit Hotel.
Buko, the post you are replying to had a photo of an ad which advertised a promo rate of 1588 for the period April 15-20. Technically you are correct. The promo was for 1588, not 1600. I thought this was a great price and wanted to share. Stroker has commented that the hotel may be noisy during this period since it is around the Easter holiday.
Furthermore, the passage of time may have changed the situation. Maybe the rooms are all booked. Regardless, the promo period is almost over and if you are in Cebu at the moment I sincerely hope you are having fun rather than reading hotel reviews.
Boarding passes for CP gets you 2300, and PA gets you 2400. A three day stay also kicks in the 2300 promo. A fairly nice breakfast included as BM has already pointed out (the short lady chef has a big smile and makes a good omelette).
WRog asked a great question earlier about before or after taxes price. I paid the promo rate of 2400 from Philippine Airlines.
There is no promo rate of 1600 php. The current promotional walk-in deal is 2300 php with your Cebu Pacific boarding pass and includes buffet breakfast and two free drinks of your choice.
I took this picture from the Radisson in March. Bayfront Hotel will probably open sometime this year. It might be a good option for those wanting to stay in the area of SM mall and at a cheaper price than the Rad.
The rudimentary web site promises an ironic hotel.
*This affordably priced ironic mid-rise hotel sits at the center of a thriving business district of Cebu City.
Why would you want to stay in this area?
- SM mall / Rad (Rad has a nice vibe and some good photo opportunities. Get her in the mood)
- early wake up for the airport, North bus terminal, Pier 4.
- more convenient for gals coming from places like Danao / Consolation / North Cebu Island, etc.
- it's ironic
I took this picture from the Radisson in March. Bayfront Hotel will probably open sometime this year. It might be a good option for those wanting to stay in the area of SM mall and at a cheaper price than the Rad.
The rudimentary web site promises an ironic hotel.
*This affordably priced ironic mid-rise hotel sits at the center of a thriving business district of Cebu City.
Why would you want to stay in this area?
- SM mall / Rad (Rad has a nice vibe and some good photo opportunities. Get her in the mood)
- early wake up for the airport, North bus terminal, Pier 4.
- more convenient for gals coming from places like Danao / Consolation / North Cebu Island, etc.
- it's ironicAny idea about the date of the opening? I plan to revisit soon again (July or August).
LOL, I'm starting to regret ever posting that review of Summit Hotel.Well since I stayed here recently, I might as well make a few more comments. Had not stayed here since it was called the Midtown when there were cockroaches in the bathrooms, mildew smelling rooms and strict front desk staff. It has had a complete makeover and I'm pleasantly impressed!
The same guy who owns Cebu Pacific Airlines owns the hotel so hence the promo (2300 php). Showed up at 10:00 AM on a Saturday and they let me check in at no additional cost. Never heard any loud disruptive behavior until the maids came around in the morning. Was late for the free breakfast buffet due to a discrepancy between the hotel literature and the hotel signage. So they were happy to cook me a breakfast of my choice.
The only negatives that I noticed was that the security personnel leave once Robinson's closes at 10:00 PM and I did not see any uniformed guards in the lobby. No problem bringing women in as reported before. Also people that have stayed here before know it takes two elevator rides to get to your room with the possibility of a 'walk of shame'.
Fritobugger
04-23-14, 02:59
I liked this place and stayed there a couple of times but each time it seemed that the air conditioning was a bit too weak to handle the hottest days.
Well since I stayed here recently, I might as well make a few more comments. Had not stayed here since it was called the Midtown when there were cockroaches in the bathrooms, mildew smelling rooms and strict front desk staff. It has had a complete makeover and I'm pleasantly impressed!
The same guy who owns Cebu Pacific Airlines owns the hotel so hence the promo (2300 php). Showed up at 10:00 AM on a Saturday and they let me check in at no additional cost. Never heard any loud disruptive behavior until the maids came around in the morning. Was late for the free breakfast buffet due to a discrepancy between the hotel literature and the hotel signage. So they were happy to cook me a breakfast of my choice.
The only negatives that I noticed was that the security personnel leave once Robinson's closes at 10:00 PM and I did not see any uniformed guards in the lobby. No problem bringing women in as reported before. Also people that have stayed here before know it takes two elevator rides to get to your room with the possibility of a 'walk of shame'.
Can anyone tell me if the Mandarin Plaza in Cebu is guest friendly?
I apologize if I posted in the wrong section. But I'm new to the site.
Thanking you in advance.
Stroker Ace88
04-30-14, 18:10
Can anyone tell me if the Mandarin Plaza in Cebu is guest friendly?
I apologize if I posted in the wrong section. But I'm new to the site.
Thanking you in advance.Yes, Mandarin Plaza is GF if you book your room with double occupancy.
The cost to book double occupancy is the same vs booking for one person, but you might have to pay a joiner fee if you bring more than one guest to your room at a time.
If you bring a new guest to your room after 9pm most hotels require her to show identification and sign in.
Enjoy Cebu!
I am going to have a date meeting me in Cebu city on the weekend. I booked a room at Mandarin Plaza hotel but my date is going to be in Cebu one day before I am. I was wondering is it possible for her to check in our reservation without me been there, if I have gave her all the inform? The hotel already charge my credit card already.
Wicked Roger
06-09-14, 17:34
I am going to have a date meeting me in Cebu city on the weekend. I booked a room at Mandarin Plaza hotel but my date is going to be in Cebu one day before I am. I was wondering is it possible for her to check in our reservation without me been there, if I have gave her all the inform? The hotel already charge my credit card already.Not with the hotel you mention but I have done this with other hotels as long as you inform the hotel in advance and give all the details. Maybe it will take an additional deposit on the credit card in case she attacks room service.
Another thing to consider is whether you booked double occupancy as that would help IMHO.
Stayed 3 nights at about $45 USD / night. Have not been there since it was Midtown. The A / C in my room, with city view, was OK. Shower was good. Had a deluxe King room, no breakfast, which was OK, because I would rather go downstairs in Robinsons when it opens at 10 am. Even to walk the short distance to McDonald's worked up too much of a sweat for me. Was a regular at Finland massage, sometimes 2 x a day! Planet X bar had some nice women. Thunderdome is closed, the fat papasan at Volvo's still irritates me, but they do have some awesome women. Love City looked good, took one from there. Papillon girls did not look good this time, Jabberwocky was fun, and I did try Arena, near SM mall.
Wicked Roger
07-01-14, 04:29
This is a newbie to the hotel scene offering a PHP 1500 per night rate (minimu 2 nights) but is a SOFT opening so remember what that means. Reports say the internet seepd is good also. I have not been there but the links atached give an idea of the location. In between Ayala, Mango and Fuente Circle (sort of).
http://aziasuites.com/
https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Azia+Suites+and+Residences/@10.3109416,123.9017238,15z/data=!4 m2!3 m1!1s0x33a99946c83e3d5b:0x59fe9bc91a8a5445
For those looking for something new.
WestCoast1
07-31-14, 06:03
literally in the circle. next to kfc and chowking. mcdonalds is less than a block. two bread shops are within 10 meters. its about 2-3 blocks from sampaguita suites (around the corner on mango).
i think there are 6 floors. once you exit the elevator on the 6th floor, you are staring out a bevy of large windows, with a lovely view of the circle, robinson's, cybergate, etc. i think i paid p1300 for a deluxe room. the room was clean but spartan, with a small table and chairs and a window, matrimonial bed. plenty of room. the breakfast was included. the wifi was strong and fast all the time. brought a number of ladies in at various times of day, nobody batted an eye. security guy at the door and lots of videocams visible on a large screen right in the lobby. front desk staff was polite and efficient. room has no safe. if you want basic accommodation with good wifi, this is a good choice; similar to diplomat not far away. in the vicinity is bo's coffee, abuhan's restaurant across from bo's (a good filipino restaurant when they are not super-busy), and behind bo's is a strip mall with dentist, laundry, and a gun shop.
downside: its in the circle, with plenty of small beggar kids (very small, most of them are **** 6).
the very last pic is taken from the mango overpass, looking up mango ave towards sampaguita suites and then j-ave disco on the left, with the inc church spires visible directly center-background.
PolyOrchid
08-06-14, 02:46
I can elaborate on WR's info on Azia Suites and confirm it's damn good value. I've been there for the last 6 days and can state it's a great hotel.
PROS:
Brand new and very clean.
Great bathroom and showers.
Always-On and fast WIFI(small inconvenience, you need a separate login for each device).
High quality mattress and pillows.
You can enter elevator from ground floor and completely avoid reception once checked in, should you be bringing in a gaggle of nuns for evening vespers.
Great location: 8 minute walk to Ayala, 2 minutes to Mango Ave, 10 minutes to Mango Square and Fuente Robinson's.
Quiet and secure.
Great price of 1500 php for soft opening. They tell me that price will be extended indefinitely.
Good, safe, protected parking if needed.
CONS:
A bit out of the way, means you may need to walk a block to get a taxi.
Meals only so-so. Breakfast included.
18 year-old Pinays not included in price but they are always welcome.
I don't get to Cebu often but when I do, this shall be my new home. The address is 8 Rahmann Extension. Phone: +(6332) 260 1111, web: www.aziasuites.com.
Hello folks,
I will spend a week in Cebu and as it's going to be my first time there I am a bit doubtful if book a hotel downtown (Marco Polo or Radisson Blu) or a resort at Mactan Island like Moevenpick, Maribago Blue Water or Shangri La (I am on business trip so price doesn't matter) as I wouldn't mind some beach and pool beside action. Are those resorts easy-distance from bars and restaurants mall area or would I be cut-off the action?
Thanks in advance!
Stroker Ace88
08-10-14, 05:56
hello folks,
i will spend a week in cebu and as it's going to be my first time there i am a bit doubtful if book a hotel downtown (marco polo or radisson blu) or a resort at mactan island like moevenpick, maribago blue water or shangri la (i am on business trip so price doesn't matter) as i wouldn't mind some beach and pool beside action. are those resorts easy-distance from bars and restaurants mall area or would i be cut-off the action?
thanks in advance!mactan resorts are around 40 mins-1 hr driving time from ayala in a taxi. that depends on weather and traffic. mactan resorts are nice, but imo they are strictly byog (bring your own girl).
if this is your first time in cebu i would stick to hotels in cebu city vs mactan resorts atleast for your first few days. you stated you will be in cebu for a week, so time is money and staying near ayala will save you a lot of time by meeting any filipina friends there for a bite to eat and then back to your room for a session if things go well. i would book a hotel around ayala for a few days, and once you find a filipina you really like, you can book a resort on mactan to spend some time on the beach. if money is not a problem i would stay at shangri-la. best beach / pool / resort option on mactan.
keep in mind that august is the rainy season with several lpa's moving through and the rain can come down in buckets for days at a time. there will of course be sunny and hot days here and there but not so many. being at a beach resort when it's raining sucks, so watch the pagasa weather forecast to figure out if it's worth it to stay on mactan.
also you were considering staying at marco polo. the hotel is located up in nivel hills overlooking cebu and sometimes traffic can be bad near jy square mall. the hotel is nice and they have a decent pool, but it's a 10-15 min taxi ride from ayala depending on traffic. if it's raining hard around rush hour it could be a solid hour to get to ayala. ymmv.
radisson blu is a nice option. it's located right next to sm cebu, the biggest mall currently open in cebu. everyone knows it and it's a bit easier to get to from mandaue and areas south of colon (if you have filipina friends that live there). i highly recommend the executive suite! any filipina you bring there will flip out for sure. i know they giggled and laughed so hard when they jumped into the large king size bed. if the executive is unavailable the other rooms are smaller but nicely appointed.
if you need strong wifi or lan connection to work, marco polo, shangri-la and radisson blu all have very good speeds. if you book at a mid-market hotel the internet might be spotty.
enjoy cebu.
Wicked Roger
08-10-14, 06:39
Hello folks,
I will spend a week in Cebu and as it's going to be my first time there I am a bit doubtful if book a hotel downtown (Marco Polo or Radisson Blu) or a resort at Mactan Island like Moevenpick, Maribago Blue Water or Shangri La (I am on business trip so price doesn't matter) as I wouldn't mind some beach and pool beside action. Are those resorts easy-distance from bars and restaurants mall area or would I be cut-off the action?
Thanks in advance!Apart from SA's excellent FR the Mactan hotels are much longer than 40 minutes away unless it is the middle of the night and a Sunday. Recently took me nearly 2 hours. Far too much traffic nowadays in Cebu coupled with poor infrastructure and road works.
Marriott is also available as close to Ayala which is my preferred mall (SM is large but has little to commend it from a food perspective while Ayala has better shopping etc IMHO).
If you really want to spend a day at the beach take a taxi to the resorts and pay the day rate. Some meals could be included, but it has been very wet in Cebu recently (sometime rains 3 times a day) so it maybe a worthless trip so bear that in mind.
Pip Jaeger
08-11-14, 15:40
Hello folks,
I will spend a week in Cebu and as it's going to be my first time there I am a bit doubtful if book a hotel downtown (Marco Polo or Radisson Blu) or a resort at Mactan Island Are those resorts easy-distance from bars and restaurants mall area or would I be cut-off the action?
Apart from SA's excellent FR the Mactan hotels are much longer than 40 minutes away unless it is the middle of the night and a Sunday
Marriott is also available as close to Ayala which is my preferred mall (SM is large but has little to commend it from a food perspective while Ayala has better shopping etc IMHO).I too was going to recommend the Marriot. In addition, if it's raining you can cut thru the parking garage to the mall and stay dry (rear exit from lobby, straight on sidewalk to end, right into the garage and then left thru the garage); it's not really any extra distance to go that way.
Also, staying on Mactan may limit the girls you will see. A lot of the girls from Cebu City will not make the journey there as it's too long. For many Ayala is just one ride away, even so, don't expect them to be on time. As a side note, whether it's dating site girl or mall pick up, avoid telling them your hotel's name until you are ready to go and have agreed on the donation (obviously for pro's and semi-pro's). Many, upon hearing that you are staying in upscale hotel like the Marriot, will try to jack up the rate as they will believe you are a "very rich" guy.
If you decide on the Radisson they have a sky bridge to the SM mall, so you can stay dry there too. But given the option my first choice would be the Marriot.
Lammtara got some good advice, hoping he can give a new person report. Fair is fair.
I arrived in Cebu around Aug 15th and the weather was great. I spent a few days in Luzon too (8. 11), lucked out on the weather there as well. I think there was one or two downpours that were at night or just didn't last long. There was also a pretty scary thunder and lightening display in Dumaguete as I boarded an overnight ferry for Cebu (midnight to 5 am). Having spent a part of my youth on a ship in the middle of the ocean in high seas of all sorts of ill weather, I was able to laugh it off and calm my delightful Filipina partner. We survived. Despite the many months of living on a ship as a young man, I do believe this was the first time I experience coitus while on a ship. LOL.
Rainy season is less rainy the farther south you go in the Philippines. On average. I once posted some average rainfall shorts for Manila / cebu / Davao. X.
Thanks for advices. I had already in mind exactly what I read from you, already guessed Mactan would have been a long way from everywhere. Will try to go there not alone. And fair is fair. Yes, as soon as I will return from there I will post a report. Due to some unexpected business in SG I had to delay my trip so maybe I will skip rains and typhoons. Thanks again to all who answered my post.
Cheers
Wicked Roger
09-17-14, 07:17
recently opened in the press, unusual name imho, good rates. just fyi for anyone who needs a change from the usual offerings.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/pillows-hotel-cebu/120312894805622
http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/42547/new-hotel-uses-pillows-to-attract-guests
http://www.philstar.com/cebu-business/2014/09/12/1368183/new-hotel-open-cebu
not been there myself but will swing by and have a peek for sure soon.
Well after several trips for work to Manila I finally have made my way to Cebu City. I have to say I much prefer this smaller city even though traffic sucks just as much. So for my first tip down which was just back in August I spent the first few days at the Quest Hotel. I liked the location and the price. The room was fine except the shower in the bathroom leaked onto the bathroom floor and the towels were a bit thin though housekeeping brought extras because I was busy with my guests. Oh, and also the internet went dark on me during my 3 night stay but a tech guy came up pretty quickly to resolve the issue. All in all it was a good hotel for the money and close to Ayala. For the middle of this trip I ran off with one of the ladies I met to Bantayan Island, great place, great time. But back to Cebu. So for the latter part of my trip to Cebu City I stayed at the Radisson Blu. Yes, it was much more expensive than Quest but the hotel was immaculate. I got upgraded to an executive suite because I have such a common name and my profile sheet at check in said I was some sort of platinum hotel member so I rolled with it. Anyway, the location while not near Ayala (just a 5-10 minute taxi with no traffic but when is there no traffic when you want to go somewhere) it is connected to the SM Mall and the hotel is fantastic. Awesome buffet breakfast, great gym and pool, and service is immaculate. And my lady on this leg of the trip was really impressed. I am back in October and may check out one of the boutique hotels that are cheaper. If money isn't important than I would stay at Marriott if around Ayala or Radisson Blu if being by the SM Mall is where you want to be.
Stroker Ace88
09-19-14, 04:22
Well after several trips for work to Manila I finally have made my way to Cebu City. I have to say I much prefer this smaller city even though traffic sucks just as much. So for my first tip down which was just back in August I spent the first few days at the Quest Hotel. I liked the location and the price. The room was fine except the shower in the bathroom leaked onto the bathroom floor and the towels were a bit thin though housekeeping brought extras because I was busy with my guests. Oh, and also the internet went dark on me during my 3 night stay but a tech guy came up pretty quickly to resolve the issue. All in all it was a good hotel for the money and close to Ayala. For the middle of this trip I ran off with one of the ladies I met to Bantayan Island, great place, great time. But back to Cebu. So for the latter part of my trip to Cebu City I stayed at the Radisson Blu. Yes, it was much more expensive than Quest but the hotel was immaculate. I got upgraded to an executive suite because I have such a common name and my profile sheet at check in said I was some sort of platinum hotel member so I rolled with it. Anyway, the location while not near Ayala (just a 5-10 minute taxi with no traffic but when is there no traffic when you want to go somewhere) it is connected to the SM Mall and the hotel is fantastic. Awesome buffet breakfast, great gym and pool, and service is immaculate. And my lady on this leg of the trip was really impressed. I am back in October and may check out one of the boutique hotels that are cheaper. If money isn't important than I would stay at Marriott if around Ayala or Radisson Blu if being by the SM Mall is where you want to be.I have stayed at the Radisson Blu off and on since it officially 'reopened'. The Executive Suite is hands down the best non-resort hotel room that I have ever booked in Cebu. In fact it's bigger than a lot of the CC condos I have been in! Fully equipped with a dining area, sala area, three-piece guest CR, an office with western sized desk, a super king sized bed, walk in closet, large master CR with stand alone tub and glass shower. The suite just goes on and on and every Filipina that I invited to stay with me literally jumped into the bed giggling. I also enjoyed the business club access that goes with the room. Many a night has been spent eating a light snack and enjoying a drink (or three) then down to the room to have dessert.
Very baller style so definitely not for the cheap charlies out there. Although when I stayed there last the price was around 16 K++ php per night but I see after some searching online the executive suite can now be booked in the 8-9 k++ php per night range. That's a great rate IMO when it includes free breakfast buffet for two, free internet and 24 hr club lounge access.
Wicked Roger
11-05-14, 14:46
En route to see Pip J away from the masses at Ayala (well a new place is always fun), I passed this hotel, looks bright and habitable, staff outside well dressed etc.
Pip had not seen it either so this is posted for those who want budget type hotel. It is not near Ayala or SM but is on V Rama not that far from the Crown Regency Residences and the Family KTV.
Links below will help any interested monger.
https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/CANBERRY+HOTEL / at 10.3144763,123.8840237,15 z / data=!4 m2!3 m1!1 s0 x0:0 x38 b233 ecd40 da8 b2.
http://canberryhotel.com/
A quick glance at the hotels website shows you very good rates from around PHP 800 to around PHP 1200.
Can say if the free wifi works etc but those prices seem OK (the Azia suites see earlier FRs was a promo of PHP 1500 (2 days minimum and walkable to Ayala for comparison).
Maybe this will tempt a monger to try? But FYI for all.
I am looking to book a hotel in the 1500 p or lower range in Cebu with a good in-room WiFi (or DSL Cable) and central location (as it is my first time there better be in centre). I have a few options near Fuente or there about:
- Elegant Circle Inn.
- Fuente Oro Business Suites.
- M Citi Suites.
- Beverly Boutique Business.
- Richmond Plaza Hotel.
- Crown Regency Residences Cebu, Mango Park Hotel (these are further out and more expensive but have a pool).
And a few more in similar areas (BTW Azia now asks for 2000 p on their website and on Agoda).
I was wondering if these are ok to bring a joiner (day or night), do I need to book double occupancy (some have the option on Agoda). Generally are 3-star hotels in Cebu ok with this or are some very strict and you have to double check to make sure?
Does anyone have a favorite short time hotel near Ayala? I usually stay at the Qwest but every now and then you know. You just can't bring a lady to where you sleep. I'm just looking for something clean, used to mongers, ok with a group maybe. Near Mango is alright also.
Wicked Roger
11-18-14, 16:35
Does anyone have a favorite short time hotel near Ayala? I usually stay at the Qwest but every now and then you know. You just can't bring a lady to where you sleep. I'm just looking for something clean, used to mongers, ok with a group maybe. Near Mango is alright also.Queensland in Banilad is close enough cheap taxi ride, not to be confused with the other Queensland around the SM mall area. Try google for Moonlight and Princes Court as these are cheap short time places and not too far. But none are walkable from Ayala.
Cheaper hotels in Mango for sure and maybe that is the answer instead of a Sogo type hotel.
I am looking to book a hotel in the 1500 p or lower range in Cebu with a good in-room WiFi (or DSL Cable) and central location (as it is my first time there better be in centre). I have a few options near Fuente or there about:
- M Citi Suites.
-I was wondering if these are ok to bring a joiner (day or night), do I need to book double occupancy (some have the option on Agoda). Generally are 3-star hotels in Cebu ok with this or are some very strict and you have to double check to make sure?This one is perfect with the entrance to the elevator separate from the lobby. Walking distance to McDonalds at Fuente. Perfect place to meet shy DIA ladies.
This one is perfect with the entrance to the elevator separate from the lobby. Walking distance to McDonalds at Fuente. Perfect place to meet shy DIA ladies.
Thanks for the reply, funny enough, as no one replied to my post (BTW, did I say something nasty in that post! ? I just read a few reviews and decided to go with M Citi Suites, I'll give some feedback next week.
(I haven't gone on DIA, used Badoo a bit but not much of an interest there in Cebu, we will see how it goes.).
I stayed in M Citi for a few days, it is a reasonably priced and modern place, staff are very helpful and location is ideal. Everything works and it's hard to complain really, it has a safe in the room, WiFi works at good speed. Sometime they have occasional issues but that is from the provider not the hotel.
Perhaps if you want to be very picky, the TV is a bit small, room not that big and a / see is a hole in the wall type, no remote, and a bit noisy at times. Breakfast not worth waking up for but it is included for the 1500 single (1600 double) price.
I also saw Adelfa Hotel just down the street, it has an offer of 1090 for double room (cheaper for a single) for 3 days or more stays (no BF), room is not bad (not as modern, bigger TV 32", no safe) but has everything and a bit larger. I have also checked quite a few other hotels in the area, ask if you have any questions. Some offer discount of you contact them directly and want to stay longer, a week or a month etc.
Fuente Osmena area is ideal, close to everything and loads of restaurants and walking distance to Mango Square and not far from the girlie bars and of course Colon. I use Jeepey to get to everything more than 10 minutes walk and they are not bad at all (unless if you are a bit tall). I write more later about the places I have been.
Some advice for the new guys in town. Beware riding jeepnies. There are numerous bad hats who make a living, not only pick-pocketing on the jeepnies, but actually committing armed robberies on them. Taxis are relatively cheap and far safer. Caveat emptor.
SergeantRay
12-09-14, 04:09
Some advice for the new guys in town. Beware riding jeepnies. There are numerous bad hats who make a living, not only pick-pocketing on the jeepnies, but actually committing armed robberies on them. Taxis are relatively cheap and far safer. Caveat emptor.A couple of years back I said good-bye to a friend who was going back to Australia. I saw him later that day and asked what happened. I thought he had a flight out.
He had decided to take a jeepney to the pier. Just as he was getting out, with all his money in his pocket, several packages, bags, his pocket was picked. He didn't realize he'd been robbed until the jeepney was gone. He had to borrow money just to get back to the hotel.
I take the jeepney when it's not too packed, during the day, and when I don't have valuables on me. I make certain my money is in multiple secure (zipped) pockets.
I checked out a few more hotels around here (well, quite a few) and a couple of good ones are the Escario Central Hotel (1500 p), almost bungalows as rooms, nice mall in front and right on main road for taxis. Also Maxwell Hotel, also on Escario, they have nice modern furniture but very small rooms (their entry level one), I think they said around 1250 p or so, but interesting offer was for a month you pay 24000 p (up front), not bad.
Adelfa hotel also wasn't bad, cheap and fairly nice / large rooms, furniture was acceptable (not modern though), a bit far from the main road, but no problem during the day, you pass the hospital with all the hot nurses around! Wouldn't want to walk there at night though. Fully booked when I asked, so they are busy. You can see all the reviews and location on Agoda.
Paragon Suites has nice big room but furniture a bit worn out. The location is not good though, you have to walk to the road and at night I wouldn't walk, you need a taxi in and out, not sure if they are always around at various time of the day. The day I went there was a terrible traffic on that road too, cars lined up to get to Escario.
I have seen many other hotels, but their mainly had really old furniture and facilities (TV, A / see etc.), this is in the 1000-1500 p price range. Go to 2000 and 2500 and you have no problem finding a nice place of course.
If they have a single person option / price, then they all told me I need to pay extra if I bring someone in and that extra is quite more than just booking a double, so check that, better off booking double. But generally no problem with joiners.
Wicked Roger
12-18-14, 02:02
I checked out a few more hotels around here (well, quite a few) and a couple of good ones are the Escario Central Hotel (1500 p), almost bungalows as rooms, nice mall in front and right on main road for taxis.
I have seen many other hotels, but their mainly had really old furniture and facilities (TV, A / see etc.), this is in the 1000-1500 p price range. Go to 2000 and 2500 and you have no problem finding a nice place of course.
Nice FR on other hotels. Another to try is MJ Suites which is very close to Ayala and offering PHP1700 net.
I agree that above PHP 2000 there is more choice and better quality (generally but not always). My choice was always Elizabeth as I get that net net in the price range you mentioned. No pool but that does not bother me as it is walkable to Ayala. MJ Suites is walkable also.
ChinaTimes
01-20-15, 12:08
I asked about this before but no one responded. I'm planning to stay in Cebu and meet 2 girls I know from before. But, one of them lost her I'd and she won't have a new one in time. So, I'll be specific.
Can anyone recommend the best (price is not a problem) hotel near Colon Rd. That will not check ID's, has good internet and a large (hopefully king) bed?
Please let me know.
Thank you
I asked about this before but no one responded. I'm planning to stay in Cebu and meet 2 girls I know from before. But, one of them lost her I'd and she won't have a new one in time. So, I'll be specific.
Can anyone recommend the best (price is not a problem) hotel near Colon Rd. That will not check ID's, has good internet and a large (hopefully king) bed?You are asking for a lot in Colon! Two of the better properties, GV Tower and Century are spartan compared to other hotels in the city. She should not have a problem with her identification during the daytime. If you really need internet, get Smart Bro. You will not get a real king sized bed (box spring with mattress) unless you stay in a three or four star hotel. I suggest you stay in Midtown and use the Sogo for your evening soiree.
I stayed in M Citi for a few days, it is a reasonably priced and modern place, staff are very helpful and location is ideal. Everything works and it's hard to complain really, it has a safe in the room, WiFi works at good speed. Sometime they have occasional issues but that is from the provider not the hotel.Thanks for the FR Uzinuzin! But having a hard time locating the hotel. Is it east or west of Osmena Blvd?
ChinaTimes
01-21-15, 04:39
You are asking for a lot in Colon! Two of the better properties, GV Tower and Century are spartan compared to other hotels in the city. She should not have a problem with her identification during the daytime. If you really need internet, get Smart Bro. You will not get a real king sized bed (box spring with mattress) unless you stay in a three or four star hotel. I suggest you stay in Midtown and use the Sogo for your evening soiree.Thank you for the feedback. When you say "midtown", does this mean near Ayala Mall? If so, I've heard Cebu Parklane International Hotel will NOT check I'd's. I'll check on a smart bforo r internet use (thank you for the advice there). Sorry for more questions, but please let me know your advice for the following questions:
1. Is Ayala Mall area part of "midtown"?
2. Do you know if Cebu Parklane International Hotel checks I'd's?
3. I looked up SOGO, but I only found a SOGO hotel near Colon. I guess you are talking about a different place. Please tell me what place you are referring to.
Thank you again.
Thanks for the FR Uzinuzin! But having a hard time locating the hotel. Is it east or west of Osmena Blvd?Going from Fuente Circle on the Osmena Blvd towards the Capitol (opposite Colon direction), you turn left on the first street junction (with traffic lights). Then it is about 50 meter on your left. It is directly opposite Quatro Hotel.
Pip Jaeger
01-21-15, 23:35
1. Is Ayala Mall area part of "midtown"?Yes, and most of the better hotels are in this area. The exception of course are the Rad Blu and the new Bayfront which are near SM Mall (Mandaue).
2. Do you know if Cebu Parklane International Hotel checks I'd's? For the most part, no they won't check (neither does the Manderin, which is also a good choice for a hotel) unless the girl looks really young or you bring her in between 10 pm and 6 am. Both the PL and Manderin also have "side entrances" thru their respective parking garages; wherein you can avoid the lobby (but the after 10 pm rule still applies).
3. I looked up SOGO, but I only found a SOGO hotel near Colon. I guess you are talking about a different place.You answered your own question, SOGO is near Colon and is often used as a ST hotel. Stay at the PL or at another hotel near Ayala and if you have a problem bringing your girl there then get a room at the SOGO to bang her in.
As a rule of thumb, most hotels here do not ask for a girl's I'd, but they CAN.
Wicked Roger
01-21-15, 23:46
3. I looked up SOGO, but I only found a SOGO hotel near Colon. I guess you are talking about a different place. Please tell me what place you are referring to.
Thank you again.SOGO is also a generic term used for short time hotels. Others not in Colon are Queensland (two of them at least I know of), Victoria Court, Jade Court and Moonlight. Google and you will see a location map.
Fritobugger
01-22-15, 03:02
I have been trying to get the good rate at Elizabeth but the manager I used to contact seems to be gone and when I call all I get is the "Sorry sirrrrrrrrrrrrr, we don't have a promotion right nowwwwwww. ".
So am stuck looking at Diamond and Mandarin.
Nice FR on other hotels. Another to try is MJ Suites which is very close to Ayala and offering PHP1700 net.
I agree that above PHP 2000 there is more choice and better quality (generally but not always). My choice was always Elizabeth as I get that net net in the price range you mentioned. No pool but that does not bother me as it is walkable to Ayala. MJ Suites is walkable also.
Thank you for the feedback. When you say "midtown", does this mean near Ayala Mall? If so, I've heard Cebu Parklane International Hotel will NOT check I'd's. I'll check on a smart bforo r internet use (thank you for the advice there). Sorry for more questions, but please let me know your advice for the following questions:
1. Is Ayala Mall area part of "midtown"?
2. Do you know if Cebu Parklane International Hotel checks I'd's?
3. I looked up SOGO, but I only found a SOGO hotel near Colon. I guess you are talking about a different place. Please tell me what place you are referring to.
Thank you again.The Ayala Center is located in Cebu Business Park and not part of Midtown. The area in and around Osmena Circle is considered Midtown and also known as Fuente.
Personally, I do not like the Parklane due to the location and horrible service although their outdoor poolside bar is nice.
Smart Bro will set you back for the initial investment of their USB stick but if you really need the internet and don't want to depend on WiFi, that is the way to go. It is more private and secure as well.
There is only one Sogo in Cebu City regrettably: http://hotelsogo.com/branch/cebu.html.
Wicked Roger
01-22-15, 23:38
I have been trying to get the good rate at Elizabeth but the manager I used to contact seems to be gone and when I call all I get is the "Sorry sirrrrrrrrrrrrr, we don't have a promotion right nowwwwwww. ".
So am stuck looking at Diamond and Mandarin.PM me FritoB.
Yes the previous lady has gone but I still have the contacts for the rates you got before.
Smart Bro will set you back for the initial investment of their USB stick but if you really need the internet and don't want to depend on WiFi, that is the way to go. It is more private and secure as well.
Best is to buy a USB 3 G dongle with quad-band frequency, this works in almost any country and with any company. I bought one years ago in Bangkok and it has served me very well.
But a word of warning, internet here in Cebu (and I found the same or worse in Dumaguete and Tagbilaran) is very unpredictable, even when it is good it cuts out frequently and leave you waiting for a minute or two. What I also found was that if the hotel's internet has trouble, then switching to 3 G data using the USB stick has the same problem, it seems they are all going through the same cable / hub or something! ?
Also I have tried 3 G on Globe and Smart and they are not that different and both struggle to get up to high speeds. One of the most problematic thing for me is I found if I use non-default ports for say SSH and RDP (that is to remote connect to another computer) the speed is far slower than your normal internet browsing (default ports like 80 and 443 etc.). I have tested this in various places, methods and companies and they are all the same, very slow speed on ad-hoc ports. I think the companies might have some filtering or throttling mechanism, this is for those IT techies who are interested. . .
ChinaTimes
01-27-15, 09:03
You are asking for a lot in Colon! Two of the better properties, GV Tower and Century are spartan compared to other hotels in the city. She should not have a problem with her identification during the daytime. If you really need internet, get Smart Bro. You will not get a real king sized bed (box spring with mattress) unless you stay in a three or four star hotel. I suggest you stay in Midtown and use the Sogo for your evening soiree.I want to say a very big "Thank You!" to WR, Buko Max, & Pip J. For your feedback. I'm arriving tonight and I'm staying at the Mandarin Hotel near Ayala Mall. I think the entrance from the parking garage is a big plus for me. I'll provide feedback after my stay. Again, thank you for your feedback.
I want to say a very big "Thank You!" to WR, Buko Max, & Pip J. For your feedback. I'm arriving tonight and I'm staying at the Mandarin Hotel near Ayala Mall. I think the entrance from the parking garage is a big plus for me. I'll provide feedback after my stay. Again, thank you for your feedback.Mandarin is in a good spot. I've stayed at Quest, Elizabeth (WR's solid reco), and Radisson Blu. While the Blu was the nicest hotel it felt remote except for SM but good for me for work and convenient for one of my ladies coming down. As for Mandarin, Once you finally cross the non pedestrian friendly street you pop through the garage and Ayala and terraces is right there. Also easy cab rides to nightlife and other restaurants at Mango, in Mandaue, and in IT Park. Enjoy your trip. I'm back in Cebu mid Feb and will be staying next door.
Pip Jaeger
01-28-15, 23:03
I want to say a very big "Thank You!" to WR, Buko Max, & Pip J.You're welcome. Sent you a PM too.
As for Mandarin, Once you finally cross the non pedestrian friendly street you pop through the garage and Ayala and terraces is right there.The garage you refer to is the "PUV" jeepny terminal and the entrance to the mall directly across from is still closed. It's much safer to walk down the hill (left out of the Maderin's parking garge) and cross the street under the flyover.
ChinaTimes
01-29-15, 16:54
Mandarin is in a good spot. I've stayed at Quest, Elizabeth (WR's solid reco), and Radisson Blu. While the Blu was the nicest hotel it felt remote except for SM but good for me for work and convenient for one of my ladies coming down. As for Mandarin, Once you finally cross the non pedestrian friendly street you pop through the garage and Ayala and terraces is right there. Also easy cab rides to nightlife and other restaurants at Mango, in Mandaue, and in IT Park. Enjoy your trip. I'm back in Cebu mid Feb and will be staying next door.Cjetset,
Thank you for the information. I haven't been to Mango area yet because the girls I met online have been keeping me occupied since my arrival. But, I'm meeting up with WR & Pip J tomorrow and maybe the 3 of us will be a bad influence on each other.
I appreciate the pointers and I'll try to do a report afterward.
Ayala Mall may be the middle of modern Cebu City, but I've never heard it called Midtown. Sorry Pip. This is my understanding. . .
Downtown: Colon / Carbon Market, etc. I stayed here on my first visit to Cebu in 1990. It was an edgy area then and is edgier now.
Midtown: Fuente Osmena Circle where you will find Robison's Mall and the Summit hotel above that. The Summit Hotel used to be called Midtown Hotel. Also on the circle, you can find a newer, but smallish mall called Cybergate, which is where Pip and I had lunch last year. This is also where a large hospital is located.
Uptown: That would be the area around the Capital building.
Thank you for the feedback. When you say "midtown", does this mean near Ayala Mall? If so, I've heard Cebu Parklane International Hotel will NOT check I'd's. I'll check on a smart bforo r internet use (thank you for the advice there). Sorry for more questions, but please let me know your advice for the following questions:
1. Is Ayala Mall area part of "midtown"?
2. Do you know if Cebu Parklane International Hotel checks I'd's?
3. I looked up SOGO, but I only found a SOGO hotel near Colon. I guess you are talking about a different place. Please tell me what place you are referring to.
Thank you again.
Dear all,
I'm looking for a hotel in Cebu, that meets the following criteria:
- Girl friendly obviously.
- Good Wifi.
- Proper desk (need to do some freelance work every now and then).
- As close to Ayala as possible.
- Max 2500 PHP per night.
I hope you have some suggestions for me. Thank you all in advance!
Wicked Roger
03-05-15, 10:58
Dear all,
I'm looking for a hotel in Cebu, that meets the following criteria:
- Girl friendly obviously.
- Good Wifi.
- Proper desk (need to do some freelance work every now and then).
- As close to Ayala as possible.
- Max 2500 PHP per night.
I hope you have some suggestions for me. Thank you all in advance!Elizabeth, Quest, Golden Prince, Mandarin Oriental. Walking distance to Ayala. Also Parklane but a tad further. Tune is in between Quest and Elizabeth and that can be less than 2000 - Luv Asian Tang has used that a lot and likes it. For me room too small if I am staying more then a night.
PM me for more information.
I'm looking for a hotel in Cebu, that meets the following criteria:
- Girl friendly obviously.
- Good Wifi.
- Proper desk (need to do some freelance work every now and then).
- As close to Ayala as possible.
- Max 2500 PHP per night.
There has to be something on the order of 50+ hotels that are within a ten minute cab ride of Ayala Mall, so that is a moot point. All the hotels Wicked Rodger suggested are way over P2500 except for Tune. You might be able to get a better price for these properties via consolidators or dealing with the hotel directly. The Tune is a basic hotel with small rooms and charges extra for everything including TV and aircon.
My recommendation would be Harolds Hotel on Gorordo. Ten minute walk to Ayala. Another BM stayed there recently and loved it. Read back through the threads. http://harolds-hotel-cebu.com/index.htm.
Wicked Roger
03-08-15, 20:35
There has to be something on the order of 50+ hotels that are within a ten minute cab ride of Ayala Mall, so that is a moot point. All the hotels Wicked Rodger suggested are way over P2500 except for Tune. You might be able to get a better price for these properties via consolidators or dealing with the hotel directly. The Tune is a basic hotel with small rooms and charges extra for everything including TV and aircon.
My recommendation would be Harolds Hotel on Gorordo. Ten minute walk to Ayala. Another BM stayed there recently and loved it. Read back through the threads. http://harolds-hotel-cebu.com/index.htm.BM,
All the hotels I mentioned are not way over 2500.
Friend got Madarin at 2300 (I got it at 2200), Golden Prince has specials and promos virtually all the time with prices as low as 1700, Tune I agree is cheap but unless you small rooms go elsewhere.
Quest can be over 250 but can also be far less so check the discount web sites.
Elizabeth I can get at around 2500- my ate not to be found on any web site and I got this for other mongers visiting.
Harolds. Agree another I forget that one but for me 10 minutes is too far as am lazy LOL.
As I live in Cebu a fair bit of the year I see lots promos for far less but not within walking distance.
Frimu Also try Azia Suites. FR on it by Polyorchid last year and this is OK and not far from Ayala. Look for specials also as many will offer.
And Golden Peak and Escario again too far to walk if you want immediate access to Ayala but less than 10 minutes in my estimation.
If you want around that price opposite Ayala try Tune, Elizabeth, Quest and Mandarin.
But there is the Regency hotel in between Tune and Quest. Looks old and frayed at the edges so I have never stayed there.
Dear all,
I'm looking for a hotel in Cebu, that meets the following criteria:
- Girl friendly obviously.
- Good Wifi.
- Proper desk (need to do some freelance work every now and then).
- As close to Ayala as possible.
- Max 2500 PHP per night.
I hope you have some suggestions for me. Thank you all in advance!I'm staying at the Mandarin Plaza Hotel for 2450 pesos per night.
It's a nice modern room with:
- double bed (King).
- refrigerator.
- in room safe.
- free in room WiFi.
- good water pressure, although not hot hot water.
- breakfast included.
It is Girl Friendly, but Security check's I'd upon entering the lobby.
The front desk stated 2800 peso per night, so I booked the room through Agoda.com and the "all In" price including fees and taxes is 2450 Php per night.
nocbj4me.
Wicked Roger
03-15-15, 17:05
I may not agree with this but then the choice is fairly limited in Cebu and the usual contenders got he nod but if you are not a budget these are nice hotels. While I prefer the Elizabeth I have stayed in each of them and all are good. Crimson is very nice but is hard to find (very bad signage).
http://bestofcebu.sunstar.com.ph/category/hotels/
Dear all,
Thank you for your hotel advises. I'll stay for 6 nights mid of April and this is what I found from the hotels you recommended:
Booking.com for Quest hotel about 270 USD (I manually added the taxes in this price) for 6 nights without breakfast or.
Mandarin Plaza 310 USD on Agoda for 6 nights with breakfast.
I chose Mandarin Plaza and it will be 2310 PHP per night, so meeting my criteria. Perfect!
Both options are non refundable, so I hope Cebu Pacific will not screw up my incoming flight. .
A question was raised, why many prefer the Ayala area:
Well, for me it's not the girls you can sometimes find there (not impressed by them), it's the food options. I always stayed near Fuente Osmena and I'm fed up with the food options there (as well as with the cheap hotels) and hence I'll try the Ayala area once even though most hotels there are about 1000 PHP more per night, but therefore nicer it seems. .
Regards to you all!
Frimu.
Dear all,
Thank you for your hotel advises. I'll stay for 6 nights mid of April and this is what I found from the hotels you recommended:
Booking.com for Quest hotel about 270 USD (I manually added the taxes in this price) for 6 nights without breakfast or.
Mandarin Plaza 310 USD on Agoda for 6 nights with breakfast.
I chose Mandarin Plaza and it will be 2310 PHP per night, so meeting my criteria. Perfect!
Both options are non refundable, so I hope Cebu Pacific will not screw up my incoming flight. .
A question was raised, why many prefer the Ayala area:
Well, for me it's not the girls you can sometimes find there (not impressed by them), it's the food options. I always stayed near Fuente Osmena and I'm fed up with the food options there (as well as with the cheap hotels) and hence I'll try the Ayala area once even though most hotels there are about 1000 PHP more per night, but therefore nicer it seems. .
Regards to you all!
Frimu.I agree with you about the location. While I have an office in Mactan and have stayed at Radisson before (which is an awesome hotel), Ayala has the best food choices and it feels like the most central location to be in Cebu. With a little effort and communication you can find girls no matter where you stay. As for Ayala hotels I have stayed in Elizabeth, Quest, and Marriott. I like the location and the rooms at the Elizabeth the best but I think the breakfast is not so great. Marriott is nice but costs twice as much as Quest and Mandarin so for a long stay I wouldn't recommend unless you have deep pockets or its on the company (I'd rather travel and spend time with the ladies than in a fancy room). Quest has a great breakfast and good rooms but every time I have stayed there the shower was the big problem there as it had lousy pressure and never got hot enough. Internet is up and down no matter where you go. If you can get a good rate at Elizabeth that would be my first choice despite the not so good breakfast. Rates are usually cheaper at Mandarin and Quest. Elizabeth used to be a nice value but rates have crept up lately. I haven't been to Mandarin but I hear its on par with Quest and right next door. Both have a pool which is something I only used once at Quest in the 9 days I was there in February. Anyway, you really can't go wrong using Ayala as a base. Enjoy your trip!
Wicked Roger
03-17-15, 06:38
Quest has a great breakfast and good rooms but every time I have stayed there the shower was the big problem there as it had lousy pressure and never got hot enough. Internet is up and down no matter where you go. If you can get a good rate at Elizabeth that would be my first choice despite the not so good breakfast. Rates are usually cheaper at Mandarin and Quest. Elizabeth used to be a nice value but rates have crept up lately. I haven't been to Mandarin but I hear its on par with Quest and right next door. Both have a pool which is something I only used once at Quest in the 9 days I was there in February. Anyway, you really can't go wrong using Ayala as a base. Enjoy your trip!Elizabeth is relatively cheap if you PM me as the rates on the web are higher than before as CJ says. The breakfast is more focused on pinoy than western but I tend to go outside to A Café (now part of the bakery in Crossroads), Café Georg, Tinderbox. All not in Ayala. In Ayala the coffee shops are OK but the menus not great but friends like Bos Coffee for breakfast. For those that like pancakes I see many eating them at the Pancake House. Not my style, and also Maple is a newbie place that has similar sticky sweet breakfasts.
Plenty of choice in and near to Ayala.
Mandarin is OK nice rooms and if you like a pool then never chose Elizabeth as does not have. Despite that it remains my favourite as rooms are big and beds very comfy (plus you can get 3 pinays in the shower at the same time LOL.
Its my favourite place to be. The environment itself is ugly but the hotel is great, love it and wll be there again, for sure.
The hotel is placed at Banilad, its near the Countrymall there. Some good resto's are nearby too and if you want to go visit places like IT Park or Ayala or MO3 or Time Square.
You need to take a cab but every place is attainable in a very short time (more or less).
The rates aren't that small but the hotel is it worth.
Really nice place to stay and the girls liked it too!
Its my favourite place to be. The environment itself is ugly but the hotel is great, love it and wll be there again, for sure.
The hotel is placed at Banilad, its near the Countrymall there. Some good resto's are nearby too and if you want to go visit places like IT Park or Ayala or MO3 or Time Square.
You need to take a cab but every place is attainable in a very short time (more or less).
The rates aren't that small but the hotel is it worth.Nice FR and photos! Have heard some good things about the 'Henry' but have not had a chance to stay there. Only two years old and right in my stomping grounds of Banilad and Mandaue! Was there any wiggle room on the price of the room or did you have to pay the rack rate?
Will arrive in Cebu City and planning to stay in Royal Crown Hotel & Towers.
Is that a good choice considering Girl Friendly? Or ID-check?Me thinks you are referring to Crown Regency and Towers which is the tallest hotel in RP. Very girl friendly but I believe they check identification after hours for unescorted women. They have numerous CCTV cameras located throughout including in the elevators! Lots of activity in the lobby area with Starbucks and many restos and bars. Girls love the Sky Experience if you want some not so cheap thrills!
http://www.crownregencyhotelandtowers.com/
Nice FR and photos! Have heard some good things about the 'Henry' but have not had a chance to stay there. Only two years old and right in my stomping grounds of Banilad and Mandaue! Was there any wiggle room on the price of the room or did you have to pay the rack rate?At first I booked it over www.booking.com. So I had the "normal" rate but then, after extended my stay and after I spoke to a hotel-guest who lived there, they offered me a very good rate. Not sure if its was the "local" rate but it was cheaper then all the online rates.
[QUOTE=Buko Max;1691395.
My recommendation would be Harolds Hotel on Gorordo. Ten minute walk to Ayala. / QUOTE] It's also a stone's throw from Silver Dollar, my favorite Cebu bar.
It's nice to see some activity on the Cebu threads.
I stayed at MJ Suites which is just a short walk to the Terraces at Ayala. It's a new place and some taxis might not be familiar with it.
At 1700 (as of March 2015) the price is very good. They will tack on 350 if you want a refrigerator in your room. The other problem was that there is very little storage space. No drawers and very few flat spaces and / or shelves.
There was no remote for the AC, which would be a minor inconvenience if you or your date got chilly in the middle of the night. The staff were fine and the complimentary breakfast was adequate -- but only for one.
Dear all,
Thank you for your hotel advises. I'll stay for 6 nights mid of April and this is what I found from the hotels you recommended:
Booking.com for Quest hotel about 270 USD (I manually added the taxes in this price) for 6 nights without breakfast or.
Mandarin Plaza 310 USD on Agoda for 6 nights with breakfast.
I chose Mandarin Plaza and it will be 2310 PHP per night, so meeting my criteria. Perfect!
Both options are non refundable, so I hope Cebu Pacific will not screw up my incoming flight. .
A question was raised, why many prefer the Ayala area:
Well, for me it's not the girls you can sometimes find there (not impressed by them), it's the food options. I always stayed near Fuente Osmena and I'm fed up with the food options there (as well as with the cheap hotels) and hence I'll try the Ayala area once even though most hotels there are about 1000 PHP more per night, but therefore nicer it seems. .
Regards to you all!
Frimu.I'm interested in staying at the Mandarin in the next few months. How did the stay work out for you and did you encounter any issues with the hotels regarding girls?
Wicked Roger
04-25-15, 01:33
I'm interested in staying at the Mandarin in the next few months. How did the stay work out for you and did you encounter any issues with the hotels regarding girls?If you pent a minute (or less) on RTFF you would know the answer to your question but you have 6 FRs and likely felt there was no need to spend that minute when the answer to your rather inane question is printed many times over in this forum.
If you pent a minute (or less) on RTFF you would know the answer to your question but you have 6 FRs and likely felt there was no need to spend that minute when the answer to your rather inane question is printed many times over in this forum.Punctuation does help. But yes <comma I did a search and read through the forum before asking. It was a specific question to a specific member, but thank you for not answering the question for him. Much appreciated.
I called them one morning and they said they had a room available. Packed my bag and hopped in a taxi. When I got to the the reception they told me the room would not be available until 2 or 3 in the afternoon. Great location though.
There is only one hotel in Cebu that seems to have a problem with guests. I can't remember the name at the moment.
I'm interested in staying at the Mandarin in the next few months. How did the stay work out for you and did you encounter any issues with the hotels regarding girls?
I called them one morning and they said they had a room available. Packed my bag and hopped in a taxi. When I got to the the reception they told me the room would not be available until 2 or 3 in the afternoon. Great location though.
There is only one hotel in Cebu that seems to have a problem with guests. I can't remember the name at the moment.Thanks, I've been torn between the Mandarin and Quest. Both have ideal locations for a first timer, but I read a few people had problems with the level of service at the Mandarin. I guess it's true, you get what you pay for. At least they're girl friendly, I guess I'll have the girl clean up the room after we're done.
Wicked Roger
04-26-15, 14:28
Punctuation does help. But yes <comma I did a search and read through the forum before asking. It was a specific question to a specific member, but thank you for not answering the question for him. Much appreciated.Clearly you did not as in 10 - 15 second there are 3 fairly recent FRs to answer your 'lazy' question. Given that 99.99% of hotels in the country don't care but some ask for ID you did not do much RTFF.
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?1004-General-Information&p=1640963&viewfull=1#post1640963.
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?3160-Cebu-Hotels&p=1578702&viewfull=1#post1578702.
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?3160-Cebu-Hotels&p=1561556&viewfull=1#post1561556.
Simple really if you use both hands to type LOL.
Also I have taken girls there.
XMan. At time Kiwi Lodge and another RK stayed at have had issues, the latter as it is some religious / family pension place.
Clearly you did not as in 10 - 15 second there are 3 fairly recent FRs to answer your 'lazy' question. Given that 99.99% of hotels in the country don't care but some ask for ID you did not do much RTFF.
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?1004-General-Information&p=1640963&viewfull=1#post1640963.
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?3160-Cebu-Hotels&p=1578702&viewfull=1#post1578702.
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?3160-Cebu-Hotels&p=1561556&viewfull=1#post1561556.
Simple really if you use both hands to type LOL.
Also I have taken girls there.
XMan. At time Kiwi Lodge and another RK stayed at have had issues, the latter as it is some religious / family pension place.Yes, I believe my other hand was busy giving you some type of gesture. Since it will be my first time there, I'm relying heavily on past reports or advice from members. The Mandarin website is running some nice promos, so it looks like that will be base camp for time I'm there. Thanks again for the advice, I will try to put it to good use.
Fast Eddie 48
04-30-15, 21:51
literally in the circle. next to kfc and chowking. mcdonalds is less than a block. two bread shops are within 10 meters. its about 2-3 blocks from sampaguita suites (around the corner on mango).
i think there are 6 floors. once you exit the elevator on the 6th floor, you are staring out a bevy of large windows, with a lovely view of the circle, robinson's, cybergate, etc. i think i paid p1300 for a deluxe room. the room was clean but spartan, with a small table and chairs and a window, matrimonial bed. plenty of room. the breakfast was included. the wifi was strong and fast all the time. brought a number of ladies in at various times of day, nobody batted an eye. security guy at the door and lots of videocams visible on a large screen right in the lobby. front desk staff was polite and efficient. room has no safe. if you want basic accommodation with good wifi, this is a good choice; similar to diplomat not far away. in the vicinity is bo's coffee, abuhan's restaurant across from bo's (a good filipino restaurant when they are not super-busy), and behind bo's is a strip mall with dentist, laundry, and a gun shop.
downside: its in the circle, with plenty of small beggar kids (very small, most of them are **** 6).
the very last pic is taken from the mango overpass, looking up mango ave towards sampaguita suites and then j-ave disco on the left, with the inc church spires visible directly center-background.To westcoast.
There are no mini bar inroom just a basic hotel just look at Agoda is 26 usd a night I need a frig is a must for me to keep the beer cold.
Fast eddie 48.
Oh, you'll have "the girl" clean up the room? She may very well do it, but will roll here eyes just like most of the ISGers did after reading our post. WTF are you thinking? LOL. I've had plenty of gals clean up a bit, but only after ignoring my protests. Someone gets paid to clean up.
Thanks, I've been torn between the Mandarin and Quest. Both have ideal locations for a first timer, but I read a few people had problems with the level of service at the Mandarin. I guess it's true, you get what you pay for. At least they're girl friendly, I guess I'll have the girl clean up the room after we're done.
BrainDrain
05-17-15, 06:06
In a couple of weeks I'll arrive back in Cebu for first time in two years. As I have a morning flight arrival and no meeting that day, I have a little bit of time to shop around the hotels for any front counter rates.
I have just an overnigth bag, so easy to move around this time.
I was thinking to first taxi to.
Marriott. To see of I can get a deal, then onto.
Hotel Elizabeth, as recommended by WR.
As previously reported I love the Ayala mall restaurants and the mall pickups I've had from there. Marriott suits me as it is all connected and convenient. Any of the girls I meet there first and let them go home if not to my style.
See you soon.
BD.
Member #4698
05-17-15, 13:55
In a couple of weeks I'll arrive back in Cebu for first time in two years. As I have a morning flight arrival and no meeting that day, I have a little bit of time to shop around the hotels for any front counter rates.
I have just an overnigth bag, so easy to move around this time.
I was thinking to first taxi to.
Marriott. To see of I can get a deal, then onto.
I can't recommend the Marriott. It has a great location, but it is the worst Marriott I ever stayed at. Moldy smelly old rooms / high prices. Radisson Blu is much better. No comparison and it is cheaper. The Blu is connected to a mall with possibilities too and their pool is large and CLEAN algae free(ha ha). My tip: forget the Marriott Cebu.
BrainDrain
05-18-15, 04:09
I can't recommend the Marriott. It has a great location, but it is the worst Marriott I ever stayed at. Moldy smelly old rooms / high prices. Radisson Blu is much better. No comparison and it is cheaper. The Blu is connected to a mall with possibilities too and their pool is large and CLEAN algae free(ha ha). My tip: forget the Marriott Cebu.Thanks for the post. The Radisson Blu is off limits for me. One of my dates works there.
Such a tangled web I weave, if I stay there, she won't come back to my room. If I stay there I can't entertain my other dates in the case she will get reports of the tall handsome Aussie guy seems to have a lot of visitors.
I'm so looking forward to being back in Cebu.
BD.
Thanks for the post. The Radisson Blu is off limits for me. One of my dates works there.
Such a tangled web I weave, if I stay there, she won't come back to my room. If I stay there I can't entertain my other dates in the case she will get reports of the tall handsome Aussie guy seems to have a lot of visitors.
BD.Years ago, in Cebu city, I liked the hotel maid and, after work, I met her outside, but then she made the mistake of coming back to my room at the very hotel she worked at. The guard turned her in and she was fired. I felt very bad about it. Separate incident: one of my massage girls told me that the guard at the hotel (same hotel) asked her for money when she left my hotel. Apparently happens a lot. I turned in the guard. He was fired. What a country.
Wicked Roger
05-19-15, 02:48
Years ago, in Cebu city, I liked the hotel maid and, after work, I met her outside, but then she made the mistake of coming back to my room at the very hotel she worked at. The guard turned her in and she was fired. I felt very bad about it. Separate incident: one of my massage girls told me that the guard at the hotel (same hotel) asked her for money when she left my hotel. Apparently happens a lot. I turned in the guard. He was fired. What a country.Agree, I met 2 cuties at NE hotel where I was staying some years back, so booked into another hotel (checked out the one I was in) and we had fun there. Best for them and you.
BrainDrain
05-19-15, 09:04
Years ago, in Cebu city, I liked the hotel maid and, after work, I met her outside, but then she made the mistake of coming back to my room at the very hotel she worked at. The guard turned her in and she was fired. I felt very bad about it. Separate incident: one of my massage girls told me that the guard at the hotel (same hotel) asked her for money when she left my hotel. Apparently happens a lot. I turned in the guard. He was fired. What a country.Exactly why I am cautious too.
SexBomb123
05-23-15, 09:04
Hi guys,
Has anyone stayed at St. Mark before? I am looking for a change from my usual hangout but I sent them a few emails with questions and they never replied, which in itself worries me about their customer service. The rates available are good for the location and feedback on Tripadvisor etc is decent in context of the cost.
Also, do they have a gym / fitness room? Some comparison sites suggest they do and others suggest they don't.
Any feedback much appreciated. My back-ups are either Quest or Harolds.
Thanks.
SB.
I am at MPH, the rate is about $50 a night. If you book for 2 people at check in they ask for the name of your guest. This is only so they can give you breakfast vouchers with her name in it. No name no voucher no breakfast. After check in I looked at the voucher and it only lists the person's surname so I guess you can just say Mrs. So and So. At the breakfast you just hand the voucher to the hostess and she doesn't check the name or your ID. The price for the breakfast buffet is P300, which is fair including brewed coffee and other drinks. The buffet is pretty decent. So with free breakfast for 2, I think the price is pretty good. BTW, I did not see the coffee bar and assumed they would bring you coffee to the table. I nastily asked the hostess for a cup of coffee and she politely brought one to me without saying a word. Later I noticed the self serve coffee bar.
Checking in was quickly handled by a very professional staff lady. No complaints there. Bell man got my luggage from the taxi, waited for my check in and then brought it up to my room. P50 tip. CazzC's don't tell me I ruined it for you with a P50 tip.
The room is actually very nice, clean and large. The air con works good with different fan speeds. The only minor drawback is the old bathtub but it has good shower pressure and hot water.
In room body massage is P500/ hour. Well worth it. I highly recommend Faith for firm massage. No extras or a hint of it. I tipped her P100.
Now the important matter. Is it girl friendly? I will find out this afternoon. I highly doubt I will have any problems with the lobby so busy. You can just walk in and right up to the elevators and up to your room. If you get 2 room keys at check in then you can hand one to the girl to show to the doorman.
Only drawback is you can get yourself run over trying to cross the street to Ayala Mall. You have to look both ways 4 times! Best to walk further over where it is safer to cross.
Stroker Ace88
06-05-15, 08:42
Now the important matter. Is it girl friendly? I will find out this afternoon. I highly doubt I will have any problems with the lobby so busy. You can just walk in and right up to the elevators and up to your room. If you get 2 room keys at check in then you can hand one to the girl to show to the doorman.The two room key perk is so you can leave one in the room that keeps the power flowing, the AC on and the adult beverages in your hotel ref cold. Carry the other one with you. Some CC hotels require a valid room key to activate the elevator to stop at certain floors.
Giving a Filipina you just met a valid room card, gives her the power to access your room whenever she wants. FFS keep the card with you and away from any Filipina. If she looses it the standard replacement charge for the card is 500 php. I have often found lost hotel room cards in various taxis, malls and even on the street. If your date happens to have an old key card from your hotel, she could give you back the old card and keep the one you gave her. Simple scam but effective. Now she can come back when you're not around and get in your room. Think with your big head not your little one.
Why are you so nervous about walking into the hotel with a Filipina? You're in the Philippines and as long as you booked the room as double occupancy, and you don't drag in shabu street pros, there should be no problems. Most hotel staff have seen it all before, with Korean guys bringing in multiple GRO's every night. Be confident, polite and head straight up to your room with your date. If asked by security or the front desk who she is just tell them she is your GF so long as she is not in full warrior GRO makeup. They should back off after the initial line of questions. They usually only ask to see her ID if you bring in a new date after 9 or 10 pm. I usually chat with the security guards and make friends with them. They ask where my GF is tonight. I simply reply with a smile "oh we broke up, but I will look for a new one tonight".
If hotel security is giving one of your dates a hard time there's usually a reason for it. It's a red flag that she might have caused trouble at the hotel before.
Enjoy Cebu.
FreebieFan
06-05-15, 08:59
The two room key perk is so you can leave one in the room that keeps the power flowing, the AC on and the adult beverages in your hotel ref cold. Carry the other one with you.
FFS keep the card with you and away from any Filipina. If she looses it the standard replacement charge for the card is 500 php.
.
Enjoy Cebu.Hotels must be running an interesting money making scheme if that's what they charge for a replacement card. The cost of these things is generally about US $1- 1. 50.
The two room key perk is so you can leave one in the room that keeps the power flowing, the AC on and the adult beverages in your hotel ref cold. Carry the other one with you. Some CC hotels require a valid room key to activate the elevator to stop at certain floors.
Giving a Filipina you just met a valid room card, gives her the power to access your room whenever she wants. FFS keep the card with you and away from any Filipina. If she looses it the standard replacement charge for the card is 500 php. I have often found lost hotel room cards in various taxis, malls and even on the street. If your date happens to have an old key card from your hotel, she could give you back the old card and keep the one you gave her. Simple scam but effective. Now she can come back when you're not around and get in your room. Think with your big head not your little one.
Why are you so nervous about walking into the hotel with a Filipina? You're in the Philippines and as long as you booked the room as double occupancy, and you don't drag in shabu street pros, there should be no problems. Most hotel staff have seen it all before, with Korean guys bringing in multiple GRO's every night. Be confident, polite and head straight up to your room with your date. If asked by security or the front desk who she is just tell them she is your GF so long as she is not in full warrior GRO makeup. They should back off after the initial line of questions. They usually only ask to see her ID if you bring in a new date after 9 or 10 pm. I usually chat with the security guards and make friends with them. They ask where my GF is tonight. I simply reply with a smile "oh we broke up, but I will look for a new one tonight".
If hotel security is giving one of your dates a hard time there's usually a reason for it. It's a red flag that she might have caused trouble at the hotel before.
Enjoy Cebu.Calm down. I was only suggesting you let the girl flash the room key and get it back from her before the elevator for the newbies. I don't have a problem walking the girl (s) up to the elevator to the room. I would have already prepared the yellow brick road in advance.
But you do have some good points.
Hotels must be running an interesting money making scheme if that's what they charge for a replacement card. The cost of these things is generally about US $1- 1. 50.I think the lost key price is set high to prevent certain ethnic group from quadrupleing in the room. Like that would stop it. At best it makes it a little more inconvenient for them. Plus less keys are lost with a higher charge. Also a room key may have expired for room access but not for locked main doors or elevator access in some hotels. It is important for the hotel to at least try to control these keys. I highly doubt it is a money making scheme.
Stroker Ace88
06-09-15, 21:02
Hotels must be running an interesting money making scheme if that's what they charge for a replacement card. The cost of these things is generally about US $1- 1. 50.FF,
Sure it's a source for additional revenue for the hotels. When I recently chatted with a hotel manager I know very well, that the key cards given to me were brand new, he lamented that a percentage of the key cards they give out are lost which is to be expected. That means an extra 500 php per card, and it adds up at the end of the month. According to the manager they only provide extra key cards to select foreigners and some preferred locals. In other words guests who look like they can afford to pay the extra 500 php.
They no longer give out extra cards to the tour groups (Chinese, Korean) because the rooms are pre-paid and the hotel has a hard time collecting any money for lost cards. Instead the one card per room they do get is usually the oldest POS the front desk can find.
Stroker Ace88
06-09-15, 21:09
Calm down. I was only suggesting you let the girl flash the room key and get it back from her before the elevator for the newbies. I don't have a problem walking the girl (s) up to the elevator to the room. I would have already prepared the yellow brick road in advance.
But you do have some good points.No harm no foul. Sorry if I caused a bruise, not my intention.
How was the Mandarin Plaza?
No harm no foul. Sorry if I caused a bruise, not my intention.
How was the Mandarin Plaza?No bruise either. I thought the Mandarin was great and a bargain price especially with the 2 free breakfast included. Also each morning they have different breakfast items. They do not have laundry service but there is one to your right coming out of the hotel. The guard will point it out to you.
The king size bed held me and 4 other girls. There is a bathtub in the CR, which the girls loved taking baths while I am banging one of them. No 3 some but the usual taking turns on one on one play.
A word of caution. Upon check in they take P1000 cash deposit and will refund on check out. BUT you must produce the receipt for the refund. It was told to me at check in and I forgot about it. I had an early morning flight to AC and let the girls check out later. They would not give them the deposit without the receipt. I have not ever had that happen anywhere else.
Wicked Roger
06-10-15, 15:12
A word of caution. Upon check in they take P1000 cash deposit and will refund on check out. BUT you must produce the receipt for the refund. It was told to me at check in and I forgot about it. I had an early morning flight to AC and let the girls check out later. They would not give them the deposit without the receipt. I have not ever had that happen anywhere else.That must be new DG as I have used the hotel for naughty reasons even though I had a place to stay. Booked the hotel via hotels.com and was asked for a credit card.
But if you have no card then it will ask for some cash to cover incidentals.
Whatever that is a bad example of customer service.
That must be new DG as I have used the hotel for naughty reasons even though I had a place to stay. Booked the hotel via hotels.com and was asked for a credit card.
But if you have no card then it will ask for some cash to cover incidentals.
Whatever that is a bad example of customer service.I believe I gave a credit card at check in for incidentals along with the requested 1 k for room damages. I was a little taken back with the 1 k cash request.
Member #4351
06-10-15, 15:56
Upon check in they take P1000 cash deposit and will refund on check out. BUT you must produce the receipt for the refund. It was told to me at check in and I forgot about it. I had an early morning flight to AC and let the girls check out later. They would not give them the deposit without the receipt. I have not ever had that happen anywhere else.Same thing happened to me at this hotel after I paid for a girl's room in advance. I gave her the receipt to hold and of course she bailed early the next day after grabbing the 1 K.
Stroker Ace88
06-10-15, 20:32
I believe I gave a credit card at check in for incidentals along with the requested 1 k for room damages. I was a little taken back with the 1 k cash request.From time to time at various hotels around CC I'm asked for a credit card to cover incidentals. I flatly refuse to provide the hotel with a card and they will request 1000 php be put down as deposit. I pony up the 1000 php bill without a lot of fuss. It's a pretty standard request. I make sure the receipt has my name, room number and check out date written CLEARLY on it, so even a fresh HRM student on an OJT 6 month temp job can read it.
I make sure they staple my deposit to my room card so it won't go walking around. That happened one time and it cost me an extra hour waiting for the duty manager to come sign a waiver allowing the front desk to refund my 1000 php from the general funds drawer. I know, a staple is no insurance from money walking away, but every time they staple the deposit, I have always got it back.
I find the nicer hotels that have stocked in-room mini-bars are the ones who ask for a deposit. If I will be changing company a lot during my stay with filipinas I do not know, I often get house keeping to remove all the items from the mini-bar and provide me with an 'all clear' receipt the day I check in. I will hit up a Robinsons, S& R, Metro Ayala supermarket and fill the mini ref with items I like and a few items I know Filipinas like at a much lower cost. That way if they stuff their purse with chocolate bars on the way out the door it's no big deal and I do not get a surprise bill when I check out.
That happened to me way back when at the Pacific Breeze my first trip to AC. The girls were removing / using eating everything in sight and I didn't really care. I mistakenly thought it's only a few pesos so no big deal but when I got a check-out bill for in-room consumables totally over 8000 php for a four day stay I took notice and learned a valuable lesson.
Very good ideas and informative. I noticed last time I was in Cebu Marriott, they put 14000 p incidental deposit to my credit card.
From time to time at various hotels around CC I'm asked for a credit card to cover incidentals. I flatly refuse to provide the hotel with a card and they will request 1000 php be put down as deposit. I pony up the 1000 php bill without a lot of fuss. It's a pretty standard request. I make sure the receipt has my name, room number and check out date written CLEARLY on it, so even a fresh HRM student on an OJT 6 month temp job can read it.
I make sure they staple my deposit to my room card so it won't go walking around. That happened one time and it cost me an extra hour waiting for the duty manager to come sign a waiver allowing the front desk to refund my 1000 php from the general funds drawer. I know, a staple is no insurance from money walking away, but every time they staple the deposit, I have always got it back.
I find the nicer hotels that have stocked in-room mini-bars are the ones who ask for a deposit. If I will be changing company a lot during my stay with filipinas I do not know, I often get house keeping to remove all the items from the mini-bar and provide me with an 'all clear' receipt the day I check in. I will hit up a Robinsons, S& R, Metro Ayala supermarket and fill the mini ref with items I like and a few items I know Filipinas like at a much lower cost. That way if they stuff their purse with chocolate bars on the way out the door it's no big deal and I do not get a surprise bill when I check out.
That happened to me way back when at the Pacific Breeze my first trip to AC. The girls were removing / using eating everything in sight and I didn't really care. I mistakenly thought it's only a few pesos so no big deal but when I got a check-out bill for in-room consumables totally over 8000 php for a four day stay I took notice and learned a valuable lesson.
While I was staying there last week, their reservation manager approached me and asked me to contact her for direct reservations with better terms. If you are interested, I can give her information via PM.
Wicked Roger
06-19-15, 03:17
While I was staying there last week, their reservation manager approached me and asked me to contact her for direct reservations with better terms. If you are interested, I can give her information via PM.I would have thought that would be the case in most places. For me I know the Elizabeth hotel well and get 2600 pesos net net (and have done so since it opened excepting Sinulog). I get the same rate for ISG members if asked. Depends on budget and where you want to stay. Me I prefer Ayala over SM any day.
BrainDrain
06-25-15, 00:24
Recently I wrote in this forum to ask about hotel choices and appreciated the feedback that I had.
My trip ended up being just two nights in Cebu and coming back from the provinces I was well ahead on my budget with some money spare. I tried for the Marriott but they were fully booked the day I arrived. I had an Agoda special on my phone for Marco Polo. Seems that Agoda will run 50% off on last minute bookings for some hotels. Ended up booking for the same price direct with hotel after some negotiation over breakfast.
The hotel itself is located up the hill and out o the city. This was against my stated requirement of being close to Ayala Mall. By this tie of the trip I was tiring of the monger scene so I was OK to have some space.
The room, foyer, staff and fittings were all excellent. For the P4000 per night AUD $120 or USD $90 per night it is an excellent deal including breakfast for two.
Poolside was nice and relaxing. Didn't use the gym facility but it looked like an after thought.
Taxi fare back to Ayala was about P75 from memory. First time I caught a return taxi was form the steps near Starbucks which basically lead he taxi into a traffic jam at my expense. The second time I walked through to the rank on Bohol St which was a much better option.
I had an early 3 am departure for the airport on checkout day. I expected to forfeit the breakfast for that day. Instead the hotel offers a room service breakfast (from a limited menu) or they will do a traveller breakfast to takeaway for the trip. I thought this was excellent service. (I'm sure Australian hotels would laugh and let the forfeit go through for my loss.).
In summary, I loved the staff and the service at Marco Polo. Location and view were nice. Room amentities and room servicing was good.
Obviously the hotel was girl friendly which is why I needed those taxi rides. .
BD.
Any experience with the Bayfront hotel?
http://www.bayfronthotelcebu.com/
2400 Peso all inclusive looks as if its a good deal for a new hotel, opposite SM. Looks impressive for DIA-dating.
The perhaps a step higher Radisson around the corner does cost double.
Stroker Ace88
06-25-15, 04:34
Recently I wrote in this forum to ask about hotel choices and appreciated the feedback that I had.
My trip ended up being just two nights in Cebu and coming back from the provinces I was well ahead on my budget with some money spare. I tried for the Marriott but they were fully booked the day I arrived. I had an Agoda special on my phone for Marco Polo. Seems that Agoda will run 50% off on last minute bookings for some hotels. Ended up booking for the same price direct with hotel after some negotiation over breakfast.
The hotel itself is located up the hill and out o the city. This was against my stated requirement of being close to Ayala Mall. By this tie of the trip I was tiring of the monger scene so I was OK to have some space.
The room, foyer, staff and fittings were all excellent. For the P4000 per night AUD $120 or USD $90 per night it is an excellent deal including breakfast for two.
Poolside was nice and relaxing. Didn't use the gym facility but it looked like an after thought.
Taxi fare back to Ayala was about P75 from memory. First time I caught a return taxi was form the steps near Starbucks which basically lead he taxi into a traffic jam at my expense. The second time I walked through to the rank on Bohol St which was a much better option.
I had an early 3 am departure for the airport on checkout day. I expected to forfeit the breakfast for that day. Instead the hotel offers a room service breakfast (from a limited menu) or they will do a traveller breakfast to takeaway for the trip. I thought this was excellent service. (I'm sure Australian hotels would laugh and let the forfeit go through for my loss.).
In summary, I loved the staff and the service at Marco Polo. Location and view were nice. Room amentities and room servicing was good.
Obviously the hotel was girl friendly which is why I needed those taxi rides. .
BD.I like the MP and often book it mid-week if I want to spend a few days relaxing with a regular. That usually keeps my taxi rides to a minimum. Traffic can be hell around JY Square when school is in or when it's raining.
Good review and great tip on the fifty percent off Agoda deal. Did you have to use a coupon code / promo code to get the discount or was it open source, meaning anyone can avail of the promo?
Wicked Roger
06-25-15, 12:49
Any experience with the Bayfront hotel?
http://www.bayfronthotelcebu.com/
2400 Peso all inclusive looks as if its a good deal for a new hotel, opposite SM. Looks impressive for DIA-dating.
The perhaps a step higher Radisson around the corner does cost double.I pass the Bayfront quite a lot, looks nice on the inside. My problem would be the location as it is very busy there being very close to the port with lots of trucks passing by and a screwed up intersection as well. Was there today and it was horrible in the morning. It is close to SM which is cool but my preference is Ayala and for that price Elizabeth, Quest, Tune and Mandarin can match as well as Golden Prance and further afield Castle Peak, Harrolds etc.
Depends how far you like to walk to the mall.
Marco Polo comments. Was there the other night, traffic is bloody terrible all the day especially if you travel up Salinas past IT park. Gridlock. JY Mall area is a total mess and is why despite it being a good hotel I just go there for the odd dinner with friends who are paying LOL.
I pass the Bayfront quite a lot, looks nice on the inside. My problem would be the location as it is very busy there being very close to the port with lots of trucks passing by and a screwed up intersection as well. Was there today and it was horrible in the morning. It is close to SM which is cool but my preference is Ayala and for that price Elizabeth, Quest, Tune and Mandarin can match Depends how far you like to walk to the mall.
.Thanks for the input. Agree that Ayala is better for hunting and dining. My preferred area to stay is around Fuente.
Tune-rooms are tiny, Quest is a good if you on business. But walking in as monger with 2 overdressed lasses will attract zealus guards around. Mandarin is an option. Yes.
This time its a different game: a 30 year old DIA virgin, as she said, will pick me up at the airport at 10:30 pm. The Bayfront is at that time an easy ride to get her into the hay. Also impressive rooms as it looks on the internet, for a province girl, coming all the way from Bogor (yes, she has the fare.). Plan to stay next day most time in the room, perhaps walking for lunch at SM. So, trapik not so much of my concern. Will book 2 nights first. And then see how.
Wicked Roger
06-26-15, 02:57
Thanks for the input. Agree that Ayala is better for hunting and dining. My preferred area to stay is around Fuente.
Tune-rooms are tiny, Quest is a good if you on business. But walking in as monger with 2 overdressed lasses will attract zealus guards around. Mandarin is an option. Yes.No one care who you walk in with etc. I seen guys at breakfast with LBs (really fugly) and no one bothers. Maybe thinking WTF LOL.
No zealous guards, jealous maybe but for sure they won't bother. Try Golden Prince as big rooms and good prices as well as close to Ayala.
Bayfront looks good on the web and I wandered inside the lobby was cool. For me the location is not great but each to his own.
PM me if you like.
Back in March I stopped in to look at a room. Unfortunately, the lobby area was congested with locals and the staff seemed overwhelmed. Hopefully they've worked out the hiccups by now. I never did get to see a room, so will look forward to your review.
Any experience with the Bayfront hotel?
http://www.bayfronthotelcebu.com/
2400 Peso all inclusive looks as if its a good deal for a new hotel, opposite SM. Looks impressive for DIA-dating.
The perhaps a step higher Radisson around the corner does cost double.
BrainDrain
06-27-15, 08:46
Good review and great tip on the fifty percent off Agoda deal. Did you have to use a coupon code / promo code to get the discount or was it open source, meaning anyone can avail of the promo?It was via the Agoda iphone app. I was searching it form the day before, before I left Mindanao. Got busy and checked it again in the taxi when I had arrived at Mactan. I had a few of the hotels pre-loaded to look for deals. I gave the driver the Marco Polo as the destination and started doing my shopping online looking for the deal knowing I had 30 minutes and we would be going close by Ayala and the bevy of hotels around there.
Thanks for the input. Agree that Ayala is better for hunting and dining. My preferred area to stay is around Fuente.Yes Fuente is much better for mongering and much more discreet IMHO. Ayala is too commercial and homogenized for my tastes. Many good malls for hunting and pick-ups besides the obvious.
WestCoast1
07-11-15, 04:34
I think I reviewed this once a few years ago. Update.
On Maxilom Ave. I think I reviewed this place a couple of years ago. I spent 6 nights there recently.
The good: prices are about 1800,2200, and 2500 for the 3 different sized rooms. Includes wifi, breakfast (small buffet meat, rice, fish, scrambled eggs), and pool (small pool on the roof is nice). Staff is pleasant. One morning my date and I awoke late, and she started a nawty session. That put is 20 minutes past the 9 am breakfast closing. Kindly, they were serving breakfast in another conference room to conference attendees, and they let us eat in that conference room.
The bad: My Deluxe (largest) room would not connect to the wifi (the router in the hallway was, yes indeed, an old "be" rated puppy). I asked to move to a similar Deluxe room that hit the wifi. They moved me down the hall to a mid-sized room that hit the operational wifi. Upon checkout, after they looked thru the minibar and were sure all was fine with the room, and they got me a taxi to the airport, they thanked me for my stay. I asked them to refund the price difference between my reserved large room, and the wifi-provided medium size room. The girl said "Oh yes. Of course sir". Once she started looking at her computer screen, she (of course) had to call another receptionist for help. Then a third.
There was consternation. "Sir we cannot refund your money. The refund should be p1500. But I cannot refund". Why not? "You prepay on our website with credit card sir". Yes, I'm aware. "We cannot refund to your credit card. When you prepay there is no refund for cancellations sir". Yes, I'm aware. And I did not cancel. "Yes sir, but you change to smaller room. You cancel the large room". Not so, ma'am. I asked for a similar large room with wifi for the switch. You yourself transferred me to the smaller room. I did not request that. "Oh. Yes. You are right sir. Let me call the manager". She grabbed her cell and placed a call. Hushed talk on the phone with her hand over her mouth and phone. The other two employees standing there had concerned looks upon their faces.
She hung up. "Sir, my boss says OK to your refund. But I don't know how to refund to credit card. Sorry po. Enjoy your ride to the airport". I guess she thought I'd just jump in the taxi and leave. Hun, just give me p1500 in cash. "Sir I cannot in cash. We don't have that much here". A lie. Call your boss and ask how to refund to my credit card. The girl stepped back, and the 3 receptionists began to talk in hushed tone. Finally she did something on the computer, and refunded the money to my CC. Walah!
It was all a lie. If I had not spoken up about the refund, they would not have offered it. When I did, they did every twisting thing they could to not refund it. Reminds me of Cebu Pacific, owing me about 80 pesos, taking over an hour of my time and the same hour of several of their own employees time to figure out how to refund the money to me in cash, or to my CC.
The other bad: "Tropic" is awful on Maxilom from 2 pm-8 pm. I mean awful. Not just congested, but you could stand for an hour to catch a jeep with room onboard, or an empty taxi to ride in. I've never seen an area where so many occupied taxis go by (without an empty taxi in the mix).
Wicked Roger
07-11-15, 15:45
I
The other bad: "Tropic" is awful on Maxilom from 2 pm-8 pm. I mean awful. Not just congested, but you could stand for an hour to catch a jeep with room onboard, or an empty taxi to ride in. I've never seen an area where so many occupied taxis go by (without an empty taxi in the mix).As you said (and now) taxis or jeepneys from the hotel location is very difficult. Frustratingly so for many (and you as I know). But the hotel is close to the bars, Mango Square etc so that is a plus and some cheap restaurants but the paucity of taxis would drive me nuts.
Ms Account
07-12-15, 11:47
Over multiple trips over the last 2 years my assessment of hotels are as follows:
Drivers for my choice of hotel:
- fast reliable WiFi internet.
- close to mall for both ease of meeting dates and availability of dining options.
- under 4000 pesos per night.
- minimized walk of shame / general ease of entry for girls.
- gym.
Near SM Mall (OK mall but I prefer Ayala as better dining options and more girls prefer to meet Ayala).
- Radisson Blue. Best hotel in Cebu City. Great pool / great rooms. Although the attractive girls greeting you at the ground lift level is a nice touch, becomes a little uncomfortable if you have multiple girls visiting. But at 5500-6000 pesos per night beyond my budget.
- Bayfront Hotel. Recently opened and at <2500 pesos is great value. Router in each room results in super fast internet. If I want to stay near SM I will stay here.
Near Ayala Mall (preferred location and currently preferred hotel Quest).
- Marriott. Total waste of money. Many BPO business people staring at you in disgust in the lift. Crappy pool. Very convenient to the mall though.
- Mandarin. Relatively new at around 2500-3000 pesos with a free barely edible breakfast is OK. But feels like a hospital with very noisy corridors. Twin beds, queen bed pushes price above the other hotel options.
- Parklane. Around the 2500-3000 pesos looking a bit tired and double bed not queen bed. OK pool and gym.
- Elizabeth. Around the 3000 pesos includes quite a reasonable breakfast. Nicer rooms than Parklane / Mandarin etc. No pool but has gym. Lower traffic hotel so walk of shame high. Big problem is internet. Last trip over 5 days internet never worked despite increasingly angry complaints. Have given up on this hotel in protest. But if internet and pool not important. This is the best option around Ayala.
- Quest. Around the 3000 pesos. First experience was poor. Subsequent experiences have made this my preferred hotel near Ayala. High volume traffic in foyer means walk of shame low. Still not my style of room with wooden floors but have settled on this as my preferred choice.
- Diamond Hotel. Too dingy and run down for me.
- Harold's hotel. Around 3000 pesos. Newer hotel with good rooms. Great roof top bar. But the walk to Ayala just a bit too far.
Near Fuentes Circle / Robinson's mall.
- Summit Circle. Too basic for me.
- Crown Regency. Largest hotel in Cebu? So walk of shame very low. Inconvenient access to room with two lift rides. Always something wrong with room eg leaking taps, internet poor. I prefer to avoid.
Others.
- Marco Polo. Was getting big discounts of $50 USD back in 2013/2014. Now around 3500 pesos. Great rooms 5 star hotel. Nice pool. But remote location and difficulty getting taxis means cheap price for 5 star (compared to Radisson) not worth it.
- Waterfront Hotel and Casino. Around 3500 pesos. Had read bad reviews about tired decor but I was quite impressed. Most impressive foyer in Cebu city. Rooms are older but large and still well maintained. Big problem is remote location (although walking distance to IT park) and very difficult to get taxi.
- Best Western Lex hotel. Newer hotel with great modern rooms. Around 3500 pesos. Location not ideal with taxi trip to Ayala or Robinson's mall although strip of shops next to hotel is quite good with good cheap bar. Big problem is traffic noise if facing street. Walk of shame high with low traffic in foyer.
Keen for some feedback on hotels under the 2000 pesos level and advice on why staying near Ayala not the best choice.
Wicked Roger
07-13-15, 11:06
Over multiple trips over the last 2 years my assessment of hotels are as follows:
Drivers for my choice of hotel:
- fast reliable WiFi internet.
- close to mall for both ease of meeting dates and availability of dining options.
- under 4000 pesos per night.
- minimized walk of shame / general ease of entry for girls.
- gym.
Keen for some feedback on hotels under the 2000 pesos level and advice on why staying near Ayala not the best choice.Not a bad summary. My choice is Elizabeth as I can get for around 2500 pesos net net (and do sine I opened. If you ask I can get for other members as well). WiFi has been noted before but I never faced an issue as I know where the router is and just reboot it myself as I am tall enough to unplug and re plug LOL. But it was rare I had issues.
Diamond Suites was OK IMHO but the WiFi sucked when I was there.
Quest I like but the rooms are way to too odd for me an then you need to cross the road etc.
Never stay near Fuente. Way too busy and crowded for me.
Under 2000 near Ayala. Golden Prince has a few promos, Tune (but small room but still an easy walk). Islands hotels (next to Tune) - similar to Tune but clean and around 1000 pesos a night. Plenty others but more of a walk eg Azia Suites (Polyorchid did a review recently).
Why Ayala. Each to his own, I prefer Ayala always over SM and Robinsons, nicer shops, layout and better 'scenery' but lots LBs at the wrong time of day LOL.
Ms Account
07-14-15, 04:48
Not a bad summary. My choice is Elizabeth as I can get for around 2500 pesos net net (and do sine I opened. If you ask I can get for other members as well). WiFi has been noted before but I never faced an issue as I know where the router is and just reboot it myself as I am tall enough to unplug and re plug LOL. But it was rare I had issues.I work in the room so internet is critical. This wasn't a router access issue or even a router reboot issue. We had already moved rooms so we had direct line of sight to the router in the hallway. There was something fundamentally wrong with their server (or maybe their ISP but given it was over 5 days it never worked I was say is was internal to Elizabeth). I took the tech guy down to their PC in the foyer to prove the internet was not working there as well (which I might add was running an older version of Windows no longer having security updates from Microsoft). In general most hotels now are moving to a router per room to avoid the line of sight access problems to routers in the hallway. The Bayfront (as a newer hotel) has a combined router / power adapter built into the wall. I was promised the manager would contact me every day to explain why the internet was not working but after 5 days I never heard from him despite embarrassed receptionists apologizing every day. I know it is easy for us foreigners to get on the soap box but in general the Elizabeth is an example of inept Filipino management. A pity because it is a nice hotel. Having said that I somewhat nominate Quest as my preferred hotel under sufferance and may venture back to Elizabeth after my anger has subsided. Maybe I will investigate getting my own WiFi to avoid these problems. I remember reading some reports a while ago about reliability of WiFi plans.
Under 2000 near Ayala. Golden Prince has a few promos, Tune (but small room but still an easy walk). Islands hotels (next to Tune) - similar to Tune but clean and around 1000 pesos a night. Plenty others but more of a walk eg Azia Suites (Polyorchid did a review recently).Thanks I might try one night next visit. I might add I also booked an apartment at Padgett place at Easter (around 3200 pesos). Nice apartment but maybe too much transparency with the owner living next door and just a little too far to walk to Ayala. In general booking apartments through AirBNB might be something I explore more.
Wicked Roger
07-14-15, 16:02
Maybe I will investigate getting my own WiFi to avoid these problems. I remember reading some reports a while ago about reliability of WiFi plans.
Thanks I might try one night next visit. I might add I also booked an apartment at Padgett place at Easter (around 3200 pesos). Nice apartment but maybe too much transparency with the owner living next door and just a little too far to walk to Ayala. In general booking apartments through AirBNB might be something I explore more.Pip J uses a pocket WiFi that he swears by when in Cebu and this is something a few guys have invested. RTFF and you find what Pip bought (as I can't remember!
Airbnb? I know another monger has used and Mactan but in general looking at that as I have on a few occasions, the pricing structure is crazy for the most part. Some owners want a ridiculous amount so I ted to go to he Elizabeth as I get really good rates there.
Cheaper the hotel the worse the WiFi generally IMHO so there s always a trade off.
I used the hub while in Cebu and my room was next to a smart transmitter while it said 4 g connection it was the top range model so I was told, 4900 when purchased. I still found a certain amount of drag using it, If you go back in the Cebu forum Greg London was the member you will find he he had a a room with Ethernet connection in the room he named the Hotel, but is how critical the speed is that counts.
Nice summary of Cebu hotels from MsA.
Under 2 k? I did a review of the fairly new MJ suites back in early April which included pics. Router in room, but no refrigerator (350 extra) and in dire need of a closet or dresser. Was 1700.
A bit run down, but Holiday Plaza on Ramos comes in at 1800 with a decent buffet breakfast. It's an older building so finding the convenient electric socket can be a pain. Rooftop restaurant is a good option for a nice breeze and good view, although the food and service are only okay.
I like this areas because you are walking distance to Bo's (next door), laundry, money changers, Robinsons, laundry, National bookstore, J ave, V salesmen, etc. Downside is that there are many child beggars. There are restaurants, but nothing like you'd find at Ayala Mall. Not everyone will agree, but you are also walking distance to the Mango bars and an excellent restaurant called Vienna Cafe.
St. Moritz probably comes in around 2 k for the cheapest rooms. The last time I was there I found the rooms spacious, but a bit dated. It's fairly close to Ayala Mall. X Man
SNIP SNIP
Keen for some feedback on hotels under the 2000 pesos level and advice on why staying near Ayala not the best choice.
Wicked Roger
07-22-15, 02:37
excellent restaurant called Vienna Cafe.
St. Moritz probably comes in around 2 k for the cheapest rooms. The last time I was there I found the rooms spacious, but a bit dated. It's fairly close to Ayala Mall. X ManXMan,
I forgot the St Moritz which is in between the Elizabeth hotel and the LBC outlet. Easy to walk to Ayala from there.
The Alba Uno in IT Park is also under 2000 pesos, new (ish) clean and rooms are OK. Not close enough to walk to Ayala IMHO but easy for the restos etc in IT Park.
Vienna Café is one of the few reasons I would stay in any hotel in that area (you like if for the reasons I probably dislike it LOL) but the resto is excellent (see the relevant thread anyone for the comments) and many westerners can be seen there during the week.
Ms Account
07-23-15, 11:44
Under 2 k? I did a review of the fairly new MJ suites back in early April which included pics. Router in room, but no refrigerator (350 extra) and in dire need of a closet or dresser. Was 1700.
XMan,
I forgot the St Moritz which is in between the Elizabeth hotel and the LBC outlet. Easy to walk to Ayala from there.Thanks for the feedback WR and XMan. Next trip I will give them a try. I think I will stick to my near Ayala strategy.
WR I will send you a PM to ask if I can get your special 2500 Elizabeth deal. I might venture back there. It is still the best value.
Just returned from my 5 days Cebu trip. It was my first trip to Cebu. I liked the place. Special thanks to Wicked Roger for meeting me twice, sharing his knowledge and experience of the place. We remembered the good old days in the Middle East.
During this trip my Phili girl friend stayed with me for 4 days and nights in the same hotel room which made my trip extremely enjoyable. It was like my second honeymoon! There are many clubs, bars and massage places and very easy to find WG.
I would definitely like to return at the earliest opportunity to explore other interesting places in Philippines.
Just my 2 cents contribution!
Deon123.
Asian Lover Oz
08-07-15, 12:29
While I was staying there last week, their reservation manager approached me and asked me to contact her for direct reservations with better terms. If you are interested, I can give her information via PM.Thanks, I used this option last month. Price was slightly cheaper than what I could find off the net and included breakfast.
Pool is awesome, but busy with kids on weekends.
No problems bringing in an array of young ladies, sometimes just a few hours apart. The lift girls seemed to be used to it and just smile. But I admit it is uncomfortable feeling.
Wicked Roger
08-07-15, 13:42
APEC is very close to starting in Cebu and the well heeled delegates are complaining about the really high hotel rates for the next month. So monger beware, the rates are truly outrageous. Plus the area / traffic from IT park (Waterfront hotel) to Marco Polo will be messy.
http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/65699/apec-delegtates-complain-over-cebus-high-hotel-rates
Wicked Roger
09-18-15, 12:03
Some hotels in Cebu are using software to block any porn content including ISG. Need to use a VPN t to bypass.
Quest is one of those hotels but I wonder if this be a growing trend and what next? Not letting girls into the rooms LOL.
WestCoast1
09-19-15, 04:10
Some hotels in Cebu are using software to block any porn content including ISG. Need to use a VPN t to bypass.
Quest is one of those hotels but I wonder if this be a growing trend and what next? Not letting girls into the rooms LOL.Hope to high heaven that they find that at at sshole who keeps taking pics of naked pinay in their hotel rooms and posting them in ISG, then ban him from their hotels. Hahaha.
Stroker Ace88
09-19-15, 07:31
Some hotels in Cebu are using software to block any porn content including ISG. Need to use a VPN t to bypass.
Quest is one of those hotels but I wonder if this be a growing trend and what next? Not letting girls into the rooms LOL.WR,
Several hotels around Cebu have banned porn and any adult content websites as far back as 2012. I asked the manager of one of these hotels (who I know very well), why they blocked adult content. He told me it was because they host provincial and national conventions like barangay captain and health worker gatherings, LGU officials, ect. He told me they got complaints from some of the officials so they banned the download of adult content.
Unfortunately that also included ISG, so I bought a smart bro to get around the issue.
It's the popular mid-level hotels that have the ban (Quest, Crown Regency, ect) because they host a lot of local official gatherings. The higher end places like MP, Radisson Blu do not have an adult content block, at least they did not have one the last time I stayed there but things might have changed recently for APEC.
Wicked Roger
09-20-15, 11:11
Hope to high heaven that they find that at at sshole who keeps taking pics of naked pinay in their hotel rooms and posting them in ISG, then ban him from their hotels. Hahaha.You would be a prime suspect Westie and banned from many I the city (insert smiley here).
SA I dot tend t stay in those hotels you noted but other mid range (why stay in the expensive ones) who still have may functions have not banned.
Just was odd given the ebb and flow of young pinays into those mentioned hotels. I was in the Quest for 2 days for reasons best known to me only (smiley here also) - and noticed this. Use a VPN and one is back on the board.
LifeIsABeach
10-25-15, 23:58
Are there any short term hotels in Cebu, for a few hours where I could take a girl? I would be coming back real early from Letye on the fast ferry by 11.00 AM and could get a later flight to MNL - Jakarta than sit at MNL airport for hours?
Thanks.
Are there any short term hotels in Cebu, for a few hours where I could take a girl? I would be coming back real early from Letye on the fast ferry by 11.00 AM and could get a later flight to MNL - Jakarta than sit at MNL airport for hours?
Thanks.Try the Queensland Motel. About 5 minutes taxi ride from Ayala Mall. All taxi drivers know where it is.
Wicked Roger
10-26-15, 08:59
Are there any short term hotels in Cebu, for a few hours where I could take a girl? I would be coming back real early from Letye on the fast ferry by 11.00 AM and could get a later flight to MNL - Jakarta than sit at MNL airport for hours?
Thanks.Python. Which Queensland as neither 5 mis given the traffic near SM / port an in Mandaue. Can take more than 45 minutes! Trust me I know LOL.
If on the ferry the best bet is the Queensland in that area, near SM ad the port. Taxis are there and just ask 300-500 pesos for a few hrs, clean towel and soap also.
No WIFI in that Queensland is I Banilad).
Alternate but pricier (say 900 pesos) is book a room at Island Resorts in Mactan. This so close to the airport and to Starbucks plus a small mall. The airport is at the end of the street say 5 mins? If the girl is not from that area she will need a taxi back.
Not sure about sogo type hotels in Mactan as I stay in around Queensland, Moonlight, Princes Court and Jade Court.
Python. Which Queensland as neither 5 mis given the traffic near SM / port an in Mandaue. Can take more than 45 minutes! Trust me I know LOL.Perhaps I should have elaborated WR. Queensland has multiple short term hotels located at:
V Rama, Cebu City.
Lapu-Lapu City.
Hernan Cortes, Mandaue.
Gen. Maxilom, Cebu City.
Kings Court, Mandaue.
Prince Court, Mandaue.
Jade's Court, Mandaue.
Express Inn, Lapu-Lapu City.
Sogo Hotel, Colon, Cebu City.
LifeIsABeach
10-27-15, 04:38
Perhaps I should have elaborated WR. Queensland has multiple short term hotels located at:
V Rama, Cebu City.
Lapu-Lapu City.
Hernan Cortes, Mandaue.
Gen. Maxilom, Cebu City.
Kings Court, Mandaue.
Prince Court, Mandaue.
Jade's Court, Mandaue.
Express Inn, Lapu-Lapu City.
Sogo Hotel, Colon, Cebu City.Thank you both Python and WR for some really good information that I could use again when I return for some more action in December. I am still working on my flights to Jakarta from Cebu.
Alternate but pricier (say 900 pesos) is book a room at Island Resorts in Mactan. This so close to the airport and to Starbucks plus a small mall. The airport is at the end of the street say 5 mins? If the girl is not from that area she will need a taxi back.
The property you mentioned in Lapu Lapu is called Islands Stay Hotel and their promo for p950 is only good for one person on a COT sized bed! http://islandsstay.com/.
Out of the list of ST hotels, Queensland would be at the bottom IMHO.
Wicked Roger
10-27-15, 16:28
The property you mentioned in Lapu Lapu is called Islands Stay Hotel and their promo for p950 is only good for one person on a COT sized bed! http://islandsstay.com/.
Out of the list of ST hotels, Queensland would be at the bottom IMHO.Thanks BM I always have trouble remembering the real name!
Python. Yes they are everywhere but you need to calculate in the bad traffic at rush hour so then decide, my choice would be to stay on Mactan side wherever possible.
As I am Ayala side I never use anything Mactan and rarely go there unless I am arriving / departing from the airport. I barely use Mandaue given the awful state of road works recently. Took me 40 ins from Ayala to the Manduae one a while back!
LifeIsABeach
10-29-15, 02:03
You guys have the info and I'll ask here. Supercat fast ferry from Ormoc to Cebu 1. 45 pm arrives in Cebu at 4. 35 pm. Would there be enough time to catch my flight from the airport at 5. 55 pm, regarding traffic?
You guys have the info and I'll ask here. Supercat fast ferry from Ormoc to Cebu 1. 45 pm arrives in Cebu at 4. 35 pm. Would there be enough time to catch my flight from the airport at 5. 55 pm, regarding traffic?No, ?an then you got to get of? Get taxi, an at that time if week day could take an HR or more.
LifeIsABeach
10-29-15, 03:08
No, ?an then you got to get of? Get taxi, an at that time if week day could take an HR or more.Thank you. I'll catch the early 8. 00 am flight, arriving in Cebu port around 10.45, catch cab toward Mactan Lapu Lapu City, Cebu and try find a short stay hotel.
LifeIsABeach
10-29-15, 04:29
Has anyone stayed here as it seems to have good reviews? I am looking for a hotel close to some good mongering and chicks. If there are some decent other options, please let me know. I do have some contacts with women but who knows if they will show up. I am close to booking. Thanks.
I stayed for about five nights in Henry hotel back in October. Price was very cheap, if I remember correctly under $100 cad for the big room and much less for the regular room. That means those with usd or Eur will find it extremely cheap. I found the rooms to be "cold" with concrete floor and walls. Also, the bathroom was somewhat dated. It is a small hotel with no amenities other than the smallish pool and the bar / restaurant but I found the pool empty most of the time and bar / resto remained open until midnight making it very convenient. No gym on site but I saw at least three gyms within walking distance. I chose fitness nation located up the street in what looked like a fairly new development with several restaurants, conv store and pharmacy. The rate was 500 per day or 1500 for a week. The gym is well equipped but not for crossfit type workouts. I have only used the gyms at Marriott and Radisson so have no idea how it compares to other gyms like golds. I like the area as well as a change of pace from the usual Ayala / sm mall areas. Plenty of restaurants nearby. Staff was friendly and didn't say anything about extra charges for the two nights when I had two girls over. If anyone is looking for a change of scenery I would recommend Henry hotel except for those that require good wifi because the wifi was absolutely horrendous.
It must be almost finished by now.
It's about time (some of us) stop whinging about the newbies, and start questioning the so-called seniors.
How is it possible that no one has reported on this?
WestCoast1
11-25-15, 16:02
It must be almost finished by now.
It's about time (some of us) stop whinging about the newbies, and start questioning the so-called seniors.
How is it possible that no one has reported on this?Apology X, what is this in reference to? I assume that pic is a hotel going up?
Stroker Ace88
11-27-15, 02:13
Apology X, what is this in reference to? I assume that pic is a hotel going up?WC,
The pic in question shows the new mall over on the reclaimed SRP. SM Seaside, which opens on Friday November the 27th.
Hop on an SM owned Mybus for free this weekend to get to the mall, but be warned the place will be PACKED.
Personally I will give it a pass until the crowds have gone down some, plus I'm sure FB will be overloaded with pics this weekend so I will not be missing much.
I believe there are plans for 8 or so condo towers to surround the mall, with at least one of those being of the condotel variety, but currently no hotel.
Stroker Ace88
11-27-15, 02:22
It must be almost finished by now.
It's about time (some of us) stop whinging about the newbies, and start questioning the so-called seniors.
How is it possible that no one has reported on this?The place has been under construction for 3+ years. It was supposed to open last year but typical Philippines delayed.
IMO this is NOT the place to talk malls, there are many other sites around to sit and blab about CC malls.
Unless you want to take your honey ko skating, or Queensland opens a location in the mall.
You just found out about this recently?
Wicked Roger
11-27-15, 06:14
The place has been under construction for 3+ years. It was supposed to open last year but typical Philippines delayed.
IMO this is NOT the place to talk malls, there are many other sites around to sit and blab about CC malls.
Unless you want to take your honey ko skating, or Queensland opens a location in the mall.
You just found out about this recently?And there will be huge traffic issues there. Local government has suddenly questioned why no traffic plan, poor exit roads etc plus the controversy as to the site itself being like a swamp with the distinct chance of huge flooding. Well it was badly flooded a while back. Suggestions in the press hint that the developer felt it was way to big, rich and important to follow any by laws for development.
Open very soon of not already (today 27th November) but that was being questioned due to the by law and traffic issues.
As always if people did thing properly life would be easier but in the Philippines they don't.
And while o SRP you still need to go through a messy part of town to get to Ayala.
Huge mall though Xman so honeyko will like that part. Queensland is not too far away from the mall.
Wicked Roger
11-27-15, 09:04
The place has been under construction for 3+ years. It was supposed to open last year but typical Philippines delayed.
IMO this is NOT the place to talk malls, there are many other sites around to sit and blab about CC malls.
Unless you want to take your honey ko skating, or Queensland opens a location in the mall.
You just found out about this recently?As I said in the earlier FR SM opened today. Hectic, manic, chaotic are words that could be used to describe the event plus of course the church are involved.
http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/75852/sm-anchors-firmly-in-cebu
http://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/2015/11/27/1526443/time-sm-seaside-mall-opening-today-green-light-given-3-mybus-units
Asian Lover Oz
12-03-15, 16:04
Noticed a few guys asking about AirBnB options in the main forum.
I'm just back from Cebu and tried Airbnb.
Worked a treat, nice "luxury" new apartment right across from Ayala.
No issues bringing back girls, just leave the ID with the front desk.
Walk of shame very minimal as it's pretty much only the front desk guy that you encounter as you hardly see anyone else there.
Around US $50 a night.
Much cheaper and more convenient than when I stayed at Raddisson Blu last time.
PM if you want the details.
Brilliant question! The photo I posted clearly shows a building under construction (August BTW), but you say yourself that the mall is now open.
The answer to your question, therefore, must be "no".
You just found out about this recently?
Stroker Ace88
12-18-15, 08:08
Brilliant question! The photo I posted clearly shows a building under construction (August BTW), but you say yourself that the mall is now open.
The answer to your question, therefore, must be "no".Well.
You asked why no reports about CC Malls in the Hotel thread, ergo my comment went over your head because the answer should of been self-explanatory.
BTW why no Japanese field reports from ol' bob?
CC mall? You mean Cebu city? Those are your words / initials, not mine. I'm guessing your point is that shopping mall info doesn't belong in the hotel thread. Then where does it go?
Hotel thread has usually been a catchall for restaurant and shopping posts. If you stay in a hotel, you might also be interested in shopping and eating.
I'm pretty sure there will be Airbnb options at the new condos being built around the new SM Seaside mall. Ace88 posted that there would be eight condo towers. X.
Well.
You asked why no reports about CC Malls in the Hotel thread, ergo my comment went over your head because the answer should of been self-explanatory.
BTW why no Japanese field reports from ol' bob?
I suppose I should correct myself. The Cebu posting area does in fact have a thread just for "restaurants". AC, Manila and Makati do not.
Just checked into waterfront earlier this evening for my first stay in this hotel. Little surprised to learn that even though the booking is for two people, the girl I bring back has to register and there is a 1000 peso fee. That is unless of course you stick to one and register her for the duration of the stay. The girl I brought back today has a regular job so I was hoping to bring other girls in during the day while she is at work but the whole registration thing is a hassle not to mention the fee. Needless to say I will not be staying here again. The rooms are also in desperate need of updating although common areas are nice. Perhaps it is my fault for not doing research.
It could be that they are not so strict during the day, I shall find out tomorrow. As I was walking her out I did see multiple dudes walking in with girls without registering so I don't know if they did earlier and the guards just remember the faces. Some of them clearly look like bar or club pick ups though.
Thanks for posting. This is the first I've heard of this. Have you considered talking to a manager? I don't see how they can justify 1 k for inconveniencing you!
I've stayed at Waterfront and liked the breakfast buffet and the pool, but won't be even slightly tempted to stay there again after reading your post.
Just checked into waterfront earlier this evening for my first stay in this hotel. Little surprised to learn that even though the booking is for two people, the girl I bring back has to register and there is a 1000 peso fee. That is unless of course you stick to one and register her for the duration of the stay. The girl I brought back today has a regular job so I was hoping to bring other girls in during the day while she is at work but the whole registration thing is a hassle not to mention the fee. Needless to say I will not be staying here again. The rooms are also in desperate need of updating although common areas are nice. Perhaps it is my fault for not doing research.
It could be that they are not so strict during the day, I shall find out tomorrow. As I was walking her out I did see multiple dudes walking in with girls without registering so I don't know if they did earlier and the guards just remember the faces. Some of them clearly look like bar or club pick ups though.
Thanks for posting. This is the first I've heard of this. Have you considered talking to a manager? I don't see how they can justify 1 k for inconveniencing you!
I've stayed at Waterfront and liked the breakfast buffet and the pool, but won't be even slightly tempted to stay there again after reading your post.I did not escalate it with the manager last night but the front desk staff was pretty adamant. If I'm bored I may camp out in the lobby for a while and see how diligent they are with registering guests. If I see more girls walking in without registration like last night I may escalate it just for the hell of it. I mean I don't care about the registration part really. What gets me is the 1000 peso fee.
Xman, I tried sending you a pm but your inbox is full I think.
Been sitting in the waterfront lobby for about an hour having drinks and the security guys are nabbing everyone. Couple examples. One girl walked in on her own and stood around for a few minutes until an Asian guy came from the restaurant side and tried to get in the elevator together. One of the security guys stopped them and escorted them to front desk for registration. Another couple walked in unchecked (I suppose they could be going to a restaurant) but they headed straight for the elevators. A security guy literally ran after them and escorted them to front desk. For reference this is all before 9 pm.
I did not escalate it with the manager last night but the front desk staff was pretty adamant. If I'm bored I may camp out in the lobby for a while and see how diligent they are with registering guests. If I see more girls walking in without registration like last night I may escalate it just for the hell of it. I mean I don't care about the registration part really. What gets me is the 1000 peso fee.This is obviously a change in policy. I always stay there because I book by telephone direct with sales manager and she gives me local resident's rate (which is usually 50% regular rate).
Like X Man, it's never happened before to me. One night I got talking to a security guy and he laughed at how they see the same girls come in every night with different dudes. He said some girls only go with guys who stay at Waterfront. There was no joiner fee last year, so something must have happened to cause this change in policy.
Makeupaname
01-22-16, 03:37
Sinulog just ended. Perhaps they were more strict during this time period to keep familys from camping out in a room?
Some hotels in Cebu are using software to block any porn content including ISG. Need to use a VPN t to bypass.
Quest is one of those hotels but I wonder if this be a growing trend and what next? Not letting girls into the rooms LOL.I am doing this post from Quest hotel wifi on Monday here. Different story on Sunday, ISG was blocked then. There was a lot of people staying here Saturday night possibly for a religious group and big mass on Sunday. Lot of black shirts and pants with white collars in the restaurant.
Around noon on Sunday I had a couple of girls visit me and security made them sign in and would not allow one in without her ID. The security officer was a gung ho Rambo type. "No exceptions" he repeated. Finally he said to go talk to the manager, which I did. Manager said not allowed but after a few minutes he said "you can sign a waiver"! Wtf. 2 paragraph waiver holding the hotel harmless for your own ID less guest. Hahaha. Off we went to the room.
Later on when we ventured out the room around 4:00, there wasn't any security to speak of. Seems like they put on a big show for religious group. Kind of like clearing the streets of vagrants for some VIP visit.
Around 7:30 pm that night I had another girl come visit me. She texted me when she arrived and I went to the lobby expecting another big deal. As I entered the lobby she was walking away from registration, all she had to do was sign in.
I concluded it was all a big show for the church group.
Ms Account
01-25-16, 18:40
I am doing this post from Quest hotel wifi on Monday here. ...Around noon on Sunday I had a couple of girls visit me and security made them sign in and would not allow one in without her ID. The security officer was a gung ho Rambo type. "No exceptions" he repeated. Finally he said to go talk to the manager, which I did. Manager said not allowed but after a few minutes he said "you can sign a waiver"! Wtf. 2 paragraph waiver holding the hotel harmless for your own ID less guest. Hahaha. Off we went to the room.
.It is also my experience that the Quest is inconsistent with their visitors policy. Given there is no security on the lifts, generally during the day visitors can come straight up to the room without being stopped by security. Two trips back I was walking in with a girl late afternoon and the security guard looked the girl up and down and then said she had to register. The fact that he had such an arrogant attitude (maybe the same guy you encountered given the attitude you described) sent me off the deep end and after much push back from me he relented without registration. My basic premise to him was that large numbers of people were walking in who clearly all were not registered guests, why wasnt he stopping them. I demanded he be clear what is the visitor policy and he told me anyone after 10 pm had to be registered. On the most recent trip I entered the hotel at 9 pm and they stopped us and demanded registration. The photo ID didn't have a birthdate on it so I too had to fill in the waiver form. It is over the top.
As far as I can remember I have never had to register someone at the Elizabeth. However the Elizabeth have gone ballistic on their rates and is charging 4800-5000 pesos per night. WR are you still getting your 2500 rate?
Wicked Roger
01-26-16, 00:59
It is also my experience that the Quest is inconsistent with their visitors policy. Given there is no security on the lifts, generally during the day visitors can come straight up to the room without being stopped by security.
As far as I can remember I have never had to register someone at the Elizabeth. However the Elizabeth have gone ballistic on their rates and is charging 4800-5000 pesos per night. WR are you still getting your 2500 rate?Never had issues at Quest but as MA says during the day and with the large number of visitors plus no one standing at he elevators= easy to come and go. Now late at night? Who knows as I am always tucked up in bed by then LOL (well sort of).
Yes I can still get that rate or thereabouts and no one ever bothers you there, plus the showers are big enough for 3 girls plus you (I have tried this 'scientific' experiment before) and it is an easier walk to Ayala.
LifeIsABeach
01-26-16, 08:15
As far as I can remember I have never had to register someone at the Elizabeth. However the Elizabeth have gone ballistic on their rates and is charging 4800-5000 pesos per night. WR are you still getting your 2500 rate?Right across from Elizabeth is the Golden Prince Hotel. When I booked, they were offering special rates of about 1000 pesos // night with breakfast. I booked. Little did I know that they had an older building and a newer addition and they gave a room in the old building with old painted walls, sink not working properly and even the TV was the old box type with no cable. I made a stink at the reception that I booked a room with working bathrooms and I needed to be upgraded. The receptionists just do their part and were not going to upgrade me as they do as told. I asked to speak with the Manager and he quickly upgraded me to a better room in the new wing which was decorated way better and newer furniture, tv, cable and better bathrooms. If you can get a room in the newer wing, it's worth it and I think cheaper than Elizabeth. Plus, the breakfast is a huge spread, a lot to eat. Both Pinay and western with fruits. It has safe in the room.
Forgot to confirm earlier posts about hard bed and bad floor plan for cr. Bed is hard and awkward to open and shut door to cr.
Wicked Roger
01-28-16, 02:10
Forgot to confirm earlier posts about hard bed and bad floor plan for cr. Bed is hard and awkward to open and shut door to cr.The building was a residential unit but some clever spark then decided to make it mixed with hotel etc but did not do much to change the configuration IMHO. So the bathrooms are small and awkward.
I like a hard bed though.
Stroker Ace88
01-28-16, 07:58
I did not escalate it with the manager last night but the front desk staff was pretty adamant. If I'm bored I may camp out in the lobby for a while and see how diligent they are with registering guests. If I see more girls walking in without registration like last night I may escalate it just for the hell of it. I mean I don't care about the registration part really. What gets me is the 1000 peso fee.Was the 1000 php a FEE or a GUEST DEPOSIT?
Did you book direct through Waterfront or online using one of the discount hotel websites? (Orbitz, Expedia, Agoda)?
If you booked online I would go back and read the terms and conditions, to ensure any additional fees (in your case 1000 php) were not mentioned. Also double-check your booking confirmation to make sure your room is double occupancy.
If I were in your shoes I would have a chat with the day manager. A lot of issues can be resolved when you make friends with the people who call the shots.
Stroker Ace88
01-28-16, 08:05
As far as I can remember I have never had to register someone at the Elizabeth. However the Elizabeth have gone ballistic on their rates and is charging 4800-5000 pesos per night. WR are you still getting your 2500 rate?Many CC hotels raise rates for large events. They do it every year for Sinulog and APEC, ect.
Were the increased rates at Elizabeth for stays during Sinulog or IEC event days?
Pip Jaeger
01-29-16, 23:06
I am doing this post from Quest hotel wifi on Monday here. Different story on Sunday, ISG was blocked then.They have filters designed to block porn sites, but it also blocks many other sites like hotmail. You can call the front desk, tell them you can't access your hotmail account and they will remove the filters.
Or use a VPN, which my IMHO is a better and more secure option anyhow.
Any opinions on this choice boys?
PC out.
Ms Account
01-30-16, 12:35
Were the increased rates at Elizabeth for stays during Sinulog or IEC event days?No I was in Cebu from 1st Jan and when I searched February / March it was still showing 5000 pesos. However I notice now that they are back to 3000 pesos. So hopefully they were not getting good occupancy at 5000 pesos.
Harolds Hotel - Any opinions on this choice boys?
PC out.This is a relatively new hotel with modern spacious rooms. IMHO the Harolds rooms are better than the other Ayala hotels ie Elizabeth, Quest etc. The roof deck bar is my favorite drinking place. Better then Blue Elephant. Great wine (Australian) and not expensive. The big problem with Harolds which is why I don't stay there is that it is just on the edge of too far away from Ayala. It is a long walk and from my memory there is not a lot around Harolds like coffee shops / restaurants. So location is its downfall.
LifeIsABeach
01-31-16, 01:07
The big problem with Harolds which is why I don't stay there is that it is just on the edge of too far away from Ayala. It is a long walk and from my memory there is not a lot around Harolds like coffee shops / restaurants. So location is its downfall.I stayed near Ayala mall during my last trip after reading the posts. I simply cannot understand as to why anyone wants to be near the mall. What is the reason? I just did not see any good enough food places inside the mall. I would rather stay near some decent restaurants.
Wicked Roger
01-31-16, 01:26
I stayed near Ayala mall during my last trip after reading the posts. I simply cannot understand as to why anyone wants to be near the mall. What is the reason? I just did not see any good enough food places inside the mall. I would rather stay near some decent restaurants.I prefer near the mall as easier to pop in, wander around, see some eye candy, chat to some and grab coffees etc. I like Ayala as I ca do all tat meet the cuties and then decide next steps (if a newbie), easy for most cuties to fid (most know Ayala).
Taxis are dirt cheap IMHO and easy to get one to take you to a nice restaurant.
Example: if you like to visit Tavalota on AS Fortuna, around there are bad hotels and not much of interest to a monger IMHO. Is in Banilad and while an OK area you still need to walk to get a decent coffee, breakfast etc.
Each to his own I say but wherever I am in the world I try to stay close to a mall (not for the shopping, well not for the usual stuff people go to malls for LOL).
Wicked Roger
01-31-16, 01:30
No I was in Cebu from 1st Jan and when I searched February / March it was still showing 5000 pesos. However I notice now that they are back to 3000 pesos. So hopefully they were not getting good occupancy at 5000 pesos.
IMHO the Harolds rooms are better than the other Ayala hotels ie Elizabeth, Quest etc. The roof deck bar is my favorite drinking place. Better then Blue Elephant. Great wine (Australian) and not expensive. The big problem with Harolds which is why I don't stay there is that it is just on the edge of too far away from Ayala. It is a long walk and from my memory there is not a lot around Harolds like coffee shops / restaurants. So location is its downfall.Some hotels increase rate pre Sinulog and see what they can get. The Elizabeth is used for many seminars, parties weddings etc and can get full because of that. I still get my rate and I never book the hotel online (I go direct to my contact there).
You can walk to Ayala from Harold but if sticky and humid (I mean the weather) you would not like the walk of around 20 minutes, There is a McDo close by and 7/11 plus some ubiquitous fast food places but not much else IMHO.
If you want to stay at the Harold then see the prices of the Lex Best Western nearby also as some I speak to like that as well.
For me close to Ayala is better.
Ms Account
01-31-16, 03:35
I stayed near Ayala mall during my last trip after reading the posts. I simply cannot understand as to why anyone wants to be near the mall. What is the reason? I just did not see any good enough food places inside the mall. I would rather stay near some decent restaurants.For two reasons. Firstly Ayala is the best of the lot in terms of concentration of viable dining and coffee options. SM City and Robinsons are not in the same league. I have never stayed in IT park but there seems to be lots of choice there as well. I want to have the option to wander down for an afternoon coffee and / or quick bite. Sure there are better dining options outside of Ayala (as reported in the restaurants thread here eg I always go to Anzani each trip) but generally they are distributed and a taxi ride away. Secondly if you are in dating site meeting mode, 90% of the time they will not want to meet at your hotel but at a public place like a mall. I also wouldn't want to meet at the hotel anyway given 90% of the time I will reject them (I am fussy). Sure once you have an ongoing relationship I would have a regular just meet me at the hotel. The average late time of both regulars and newbies in my experience would be 1 hour. I read reviews that say girls are never late or if later then 15 minutes they cancel. That is not my experience. If I implemented the "later than 15 minutes I cancel" policy I would be a very lonely person. With regulars I really do berate them about being late but it still makes no difference. So being close to the mall (where 90% of the time they want to meet) means I can wait till "I am here where are you" message and then wander down in five minutes. That is why after much experimenting across different locations I have settled on sticking close to Ayala.
LifeIsABeach
01-31-16, 05:13
For two reasons. Firstly Ayala is the best of the lot in terms of concentration of viable dining and coffee options. SM City and Robinsons are not in the same league. I have never stayed in IT park but there seems to be lots of choice there as well. I want to have the option to wander down for an afternoon coffee and / or quick bite. Sure there are better dining options outside of Ayala (as reported in the restaurants thread here eg I always go to Anzani each trip) but generally they are distributed and a taxi ride away. Secondly if you are in dating site meeting mode, 90% of the time they will not want to meet at your hotel but at a public place like a mall. I also wouldn't want to meet at the hotel anyway given 90% of the time I will reject them (I am fussy). Sure once you have an ongoing relationship I would have a regular just meet me at the hotel. The average late time of both regulars and newbies in my experience would be 1 hour. I read reviews that say girls are never late or if later then 15 minutes they cancel. That is not my experience. If I implemented the "later than 15 minutes I cancel" policy I would be a very lonely person. With regulars I really do berate them about being late but it still makes no difference. So being close to the mall (where 90% of the time they want to meet) means I can wait till "I am here where are you" message and then wander down in five minutes. That is why after much experimenting across different locations I have settled on sticking close to Ayala.I agree with what you are saying. It was easier to meet the girls at the mall than them trying to come to the hotel. Yes, better coffee places inside the mall. I also found quite a few freelancers at the mall but each time I was waiting for a girl I had met before. Further, some girls who work inside the mall get chatty and could lead to more adventure. More details when I write my Cebu FR. Girls mostly were late more than an hour if they were coming from far due to Cebu traffic. Be patient. Thanks.
Jack Burton
02-02-16, 00:24
For two reasons. Firstly Ayala is the best of the lot in terms of concentration of viable dining and coffee options. SM City and Robinsons are not in the same league.Logical. I'll spend a few days close to Ayala, before moving to better / cheaper place. I'll see how the city feels. Scouting for longer term location (remote work is possible), mixing fun with business somehow pleases me.
Was the 1000 php a FEE or a GUEST DEPOSIT?
Did you book direct through Waterfront or online using one of the discount hotel websites? (Orbitz, Expedia, Agoda)?
If you booked online I would go back and read the terms and conditions, to ensure any additional fees (in your case 1000 php) were not mentioned. Also double-check your booking confirmation to make sure your room is double occupancy.
If I were in your shoes I would have a chat with the day manager. A lot of issues can be resolved when you make friends with the people who call the shots.I was told it was a fee per guest beyond the first. I booked using a third party website and yes I confirmed with the manager that booking was for two people.
Some hotels increase rate pre Sinulog and see what they can get. The Elizabeth is used for many seminars, parties weddings etc and can get full because of that. I still get my rate and I never book the hotel online (I go direct to my contact there).
You can walk to Ayala from Harold but if sticky and humid (I mean the weather) you would not like the walk of around 20 minutes, There is a McDo close by and 7/11 plus some ubiquitous fast food places but not much else IMHO.
If you want to stay at the Harold then see the prices of the Lex Best Western nearby also as some I speak to like that as well.
For me close to Ayala is better.Yeah I walked one day from ayala to harolds and was very wet when I got there LOL.
Taxis are real cheap so that's the tix all times.
PC out.
BrainDrain
02-22-16, 23:45
Having been met at the airport by my girl I didn't have a hotel booking until after 2 pm. The girl chatted to the taxi driver and arranged for us to pull into a Queenslander Hotel.
The initial entry is a little confusing the lads made us do a couple of circles of the garage complex until they indicated a stairwell for us. It's amazing to see the number of garages and big expensive cars with tinted windows that frequent this place.
The room was pretty basic but functional. The bed was OK and designed with the purpose in mind. The shower was mediocre, not quite hot enough but not cold.
Departure was a similar experience, a little confusing on whom to pay. Damage for the room was P500, maybe less. I gave the girl P500 to settle it and I didn't get any change.
The hotel did offer a service car which they said was same price as taxi. Nope, the service car is way overpriced.
Anyway, I can definitely recommend the Queensland for a quick no names recorded escape.
In researching this article I found these images : https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/Queensland+Hotel/@10.3023559,123.8866703,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sw5hmHlCeo2EAAAQo8TlDFg!2e0!3e3!6s%2F%2Flh6.googleusercontent.com%2Fproxy%2F57FATN8uOj8Va8FARXY6idPGIux77R3K8SItkN1NSFOjKsm4M2KNZwk14r57Q2PBgfA_d1gc-mCq9JvSvOgDjNSCKl6kpV2ZC9qI_R4bhdyf-hBhmTxA17WS8lPPa8UwRseRq1mbV1l1eCSSzJxTjrUOPw%3Dw86-h152!7i1600!8i2844!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x5a4b7993dfa71618!6m1!1e1
I could only see the address for one Queensland in Cebu on Google. I was busy in the back with the girl so I dont really know where we went. I have met this girl 4-5 times before.
BD
Wicked Roger
02-23-16, 11:25
The room was pretty basic but functional. The bed was OK and designed with the purpose in mind. The shower was mediocre, not quite hot enough but not cold.
I could only see the address for one Queensland in Cebu on Google. I was busy in the back with the girl so I dont really know where we went. I have met this girl 4-5 times before.
BDIf there was no chance of a taxi and service car offered BD it was more likely the one in Banilad. Did it have free WiFi? As the other Queensland does not (the rooms I use ever have except the Banilad location).
The Banilad place is way better than the one near SM / port IMHO just the location can suck.
Beds are OK but the mirrors are fun and everyone knows when you go there is not FR high tea and social chat chat LOL.
BrainDrain
02-23-16, 23:24
If there was no chance of a taxi and service car offered BD it was more likely the one in Banilad. Did it have free WiFi? As the other Queensland does not (the rooms I use ever have except the Banilad location).
The Banilad place is way better than the one near SM / port IMHO just the location can suck.
Beds are OK but the mirrors are fun and everyone knows when you go there is not FR high tea and social chat chat LOL.Yes, Banilad makes sense as my next appointment was close to there.
Google maps only shows the one location so it's hard to know.
BrainDrain
04-23-16, 10:08
I'm in the final stages of completing my bookings for my upcoming trip to Cebu. ON the hotels scene last trip (hope I wrote the FR) I stayed at Parkland for P3000 per night inc room service breakfast.
This trip I've picked up Marco Polo for P3800 inc breakfast for 2. I know there are lower cost venues. I stayed at MP for a few nights last year. Loved the extra quality and the bed was the best I have had in RP. The breakfast spread is awesome covering all nationalities.
It's a little further out of town, taxi distance from Ayala. I had no problem getting girls to come to the hotel.
The downstairs bar had a reasonable atmosphere and I continue to remain hopeful about the number of female flight attendants checking in.
BD.
Stroker Ace88
05-13-16, 23:16
I was told it was a fee per guest beyond the first. I booked using a third party website and yes I confirmed with the manager that booking was for two people.Paying 1000 php per guest is outrageous, and I would have stood my ground and told the front desk staff to call the duty manager to explain why you needed to pay the fee when you booked the room with double occupancy. If you bring in two or three different Filipinas a day, that's 2-3000 php that you could of spent on a nice dinner or given to the Filipinas for services rendered.
If the hotel insisted a 1000 php fee was required, I would have checked out the following day and never went back.
It sounds like a scam where the security and front desk staff targeting timid foreigners who are bringing in Filipinas / GRO's and just pay the 1000 php to get out of the lobby ASAP.
Personally I have only stayed once at Waterfront Lahug and that was 5+ yrs ago. The hotel charges a higher rate but IMO it's not worth it. The rooms are older and worn and for roughly the same rate (and some shopping around online) I can book Marco Polo or Radisson Blu which are much nicer.
Thanks for posting. This is the first I've heard of this. Have you considered talking to a manager? I don't see how they can justify 1 k for inconveniencing you!
I've stayed at Waterfront and liked the breakfast buffet and the pool, but won't be even slightly tempted to stay there again after reading your post.I have stayed at the Waterfront in Lahug (Cebu City) quite frequently over recent years. This guest policy, regardless of having booked a double occupancy room, has been in force for some time. As has been reported, the Front Desk will insist on booking in any casual guest after a particular time and charging you. I have been told that this is because the hotel has "visiting hours". It is outrageous and God help anyone wanting to take 2 guests up to your room! I might understand their moral indignation a little bit better if it wasn't for the fact that in the casino and in the lobby you are likely to be approached by some of the ugliest freelancers imaginable offering you a good time.
I have stayed at the Waterfront in Lahug (Cebu City) quite frequently over recent years. This guest policy, regardless of having booked a double occupancy room, has been in force for some time. I have stayed at Waterfront several times in recent years where this impost was not enforced so this is most definitely a NEW policy.
It may be due to a change of manager with some upwardly-mobile guy trying to make some mark on his CV. It may also be because there has been some major incident with a "guest" that prompted a change in policy.
I wonder how long it will last?
I have booked at waterfront on my trip this time. Main reason is my pretty GF lives near there.
Anyway I have told her that we need to check in together. Not sure if they check name if I need to bring another girl when she is working. I will post my experience.
IMHO it will hurt their business. All casino hotels need to be girl friendly in order to attract high rollers. Maybe they are treated differently.
Last time when I was staying at Harold's I did go to the casino and there were many girls in the common area ready to be picked up. Some are quite pretty. Maybe this is the way to get rid of them.
I have booked at waterfront on my trip this time. Main reason is my pretty GF lives near there.
Anyway I have told her that we need to check in together. Not sure if they check name if I need to bring another girl when she is working. I will post my experience.
IMHO it will hurt their business. All casino hotels need to be girl friendly in order to attract high rollers. Maybe they are treated differently.
Last time when I was staying at Harold's I did go to the casino and there were many girls in the common area ready to be picked up. Some are quite pretty. Maybe this is the way to get rid of them.They had my "primary" girl fill out a form as the second guest in the room. As far as if this was a scam or not, as I wrote previously they were nabbing everyone not just "timid" ones. As someone's else mentioned, this could have been temporary since I was staying there when they had that big Catholic Church conference or whatever it was. When I inquired about SUVs and security out front I was told some politicians were staying for the event.
Wicked Roger
05-16-16, 17:36
I have stayed at Waterfront several times in recent years where this impost was not enforced so this is most definitely a NEW policy.
It may be due to a change of manager with some upwardly-mobile guy trying to make some mark on his CV. It may also be because there has been some major incident with a "guest" that prompted a change in policy.
I wonder how long it will last?Odd if true. I have stayed there before and this was never the case, but I usually chose close to Ayala ad all those hotels will never charge, I would stay elsewhere unless there are specific reasons.
I just checked in to this place and my first impression scared me. The lady at the check-in asked me for the passport of the second guest. Then in the room a notice that says unregistered guests will incur a fee of 2000 peso per night!! Holy cow! I thought this place was guest friendly?
I'm at maxlome ave now just about to begin bar hopping. I'll know by midnight if booking this place was a mistake. But if anyone can quickly assure me before then, that will be a relief!
Wicked Roger
05-21-16, 16:35
I just checked in to this place and my first impression scared me. The lady at the check-in asked me for the passport of the second guest. Then in the room a notice that says unregistered guests will incur a fee of 2000 peso per night!! Holy cow! I thought this place was guest friendly?
I'm at maxlome ave now just about to begin bar hopping. I'll know by midnight if booking this place was a mistake. But if anyone can quickly assure me before then, that will be a relief!A similar story was reported fro the Waterfront but again this is very odd given friends stay there a lot and are never asked. Maybe you don't bring them back at 3 am etc, I tend to have them in the hotel early as why party outside when you can inside.
Maybe Sammon who I think is at the Waterfront can update that one but this trend is a worry IMHO.
My stay here is very good. For some reason I was upgraded to a suite. These are the rooms closest to the casino. Not the main place where most of Korean students stay. This is a separate wing. I do not know why they upgraded me. Maybe because plenty of Korean young people are here.
At least in my wing there is no security anytime day or night. I can bring in any girls anytime. Nobody asked questions. My stay includes Buffett breakfast for two. Very nice. Only problem here is most are local gamblers. There are some girls hanging around and some gets picked up by Koreans. Normal dating girls are afraid to come here because they say there is security and cameras watching. They do not want to be known as prostitutes. Girls had no qualms coming to Harold's hotel where I stayed last time. I guess for local poor girls glitzy casino hotels intimidates them. However when asked they go ga ga over everything including room.
But for mongering this may not be the right place. For casino action and entertainment this is ok. You never get bored here even if you are alone.
Last night was a rare night for me in PP without a gal in bed. Partly because my flight was late by an hour which meant I could only begin mongering by 10:30 pm and partly because a heavy downpour meant I had to stay put in a bar with gals I had no intention of barfining for a loong time until past midnight.
Like Sam posted below, - all the bar gals were intimidated by the name of the place. They lost interest or visibly had a problem, the way I read their faces. So I did not peruse the matter with them further. Moreover some of the bargirls were quoting an exorbitant 4 K for ST!! Clearly either they thought I was a moneybag because of the hotel I stayed in or they were looking for a quick lottery.
The girls in Julianns and outside were all slum dwellers who slap on some makeup and sexy clothing but fail miserably to make the grade. Whatever happened to those clean and fresh lollies that decided to make some fast buck on the sly. I was so glad and thrilled when I bumped into a few of those types on my last trips. Maybe the heavy downpour kept them away or maybe they all got picked up before 10.
In any case this morning I found that the toilet did not have a jet spray. I hate drycleaning and demanded to checkout with a 100% refund for the remaining nights due to lack of facilities on their part. They agreed and now I am frantically scanning bo**king or Ag*the for a girl friendly place to check in right now.
P.
I have stayed at Mandarin twice a year for the past three years and never had these problems. Maybe it's because I'm not a late nighter. I usually have my bed partner in bed by 10 PM unless we went to the late movie at Ayala. The worst thing when I was there in March of this year was the WiFi was not working in the rooms so I went to the lobby. QUOTE=PeeMan;1882898 I just checked in to this place and my first impression scared me. The lady at the check-in asked me for the passport of the second guest. Then in the room a notice that says unregistered guests will incur a fee of 2000 peso per night!! Holy cow! I thought this place was guest friendly?
I'm at maxlome ave now just about to begin bar hopping. I'll know by midnight if booking this place was a mistake. But if anyone can quickly assure me before then, that will be a relief!
Wicked Roger
05-22-16, 15:54
Last night was a rare night for me in PP without a gal in bed. Partly because my flight was late by an hour which meant I could only begin mongering by 10:30 pm and partly because a heavy downpour meant I had to stay put in a bar with gals I had no intention of barfining for a loong time until past midnight.
P.Tried to reply to your PM but says your inbox has 200+ PMs so I can send to you so can you do some housekeeping?
I have stayed at Mandarin twice a year for the past three years and never had these problems. Maybe it's because I'm not a late nighter. I usually have my bed partner in bed by 10 PM unless we went to the late movie at Ayala. The worst thing when I was there in March of this year was the WiFi was not working in the rooms so I went to the lobby. QUOTE=PeeMan;1882898 I just checked in to this place and my first impression scared me. The lady at the check-in asked me for the passport of the second guest. Then in the room a notice that says unregistered guests will incur a fee of 2000 peso per night!! Holy cow! I thought this place was guest friendly?
I'm at maxlome ave now just about to begin bar hopping. I'll know by midnight if booking this place was a mistake. But if anyone can quickly assure me before then, that will be a relief!As far as I know it's ok. No asking at door and no extra fees.
PC out.
I have stayed at Mandarin twice a year for the past three years and never had these problems. Maybe it's because I'm not a late nighter. I usually have my bed partner in bed by 10 PM unless we went to the late movie at Ayala. The worst thing when I was there in March of this year was the WiFi was not working in the rooms so I went to the lobby. QUOTE=PeeMan;1882898 I just checked in to this place and my first impression scared me. The lady at the check-in asked me for the passport of the second guest. Then in the room a notice that says unregistered guests will incur a fee of 2000 peso per night!! Holy cow! I thought this place was guest friendly?
I'm at maxlome ave now just about to begin bar hopping. I'll know by midnight if booking this place was a mistake. But if anyone can quickly assure me before then, that will be a relief!I have stayed here a few times. It is hit and miss. I book the room for two and get 2 free breakfast coupons. First time they asked for name of second quest before issuing the 2nd coupon. So I didn't get it. But in the morning at the resto reception podium I just gave them my room number and no problem with a guest. The last time there they want copy of guest ID for the breakfast coupon. Wtf!
On my last visit In April the security had really tighten up and asked for ID from almost every guest I had. This was around 2 pm daytime! They had never asked for ID before. The girl did not have her ID with her and they would not let her in, not even into the restaurant. Later that evening around 9 pm I had another girl come visit and the guards just opens the doors and let her walk right in!
BrainDrain
06-17-16, 06:39
I stayed one night at Mandarin hotel. Location is nice and convenient, cross a few streets and arrive at Ayala.
On checkin I had a girl with me. On the check-in form when they ask her name I just put Sarah Geronimo.
When it came to issuing that breakfast voucher they wanted to see her ID. No problems as the girl and I friends for long time.
Room was nice and big though, shower and amenities quite nice.
The included breakfast was good. It was actually a very busy breakfast buffet.
The check-in ID checking is annoying enough to give this 4 star establishment a 1 star for girlfriendly. There are better options.
BD.
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