My favorite hotel-by-the-sea is sparkling once again with colorful and captivating events that draw in the metro’s leading personalities. After having been “silenced” for several months by this nasty virus, Conrad Manila, which was recently recognized in both the Haute Grandeur and World Luxury Awards, is bubbling anew with red-letter activities that are difficult to miss.
Not too long ago, the hotel opened a unique art exhibit as part of its long-running Art and Wine series of events. Entitled “Duets”, it features two renowned artists, Edna Vida and Nonoy Froilan, and explores the interaction and connection between painting and photography.
Partners in real life, these two artists have been working together through the years in multifaceted layers of art – as principal dancers of Ballet Philippines, as co-choreographers and re-stagers in many dance productions, as actors in several plays of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and as collaborators in performance art projects.
It is very interesting to see the patterns, shapes, and colors of the dance paintings of Vida combining with the sky photography of Froilan. Taking a close look at each of their masterpieces, we certainly see the harmony between emotions and perceptions, movement and stillness, energy and tranquility, and human and ethereal forms.
This unique art exhibit will run until January 9, 2022. More information on the artworks, which are available for purchase, may be obtained from Angelica Restrivera through angelica.restrivera@conradhotels.com or 0917-868-4074.
And just the other day, Conrad Manila officially welcomed the “Amazing Christmas” season with the ceremonial lighting of its iconic Christmas tree, followed by an exciting array of festive activities, experiences, and offerings.
General manager Linda Pecoraro announced that the inspiring charm and wonderful world of the holidays perfectly coincided with the hotel’s fifth year of operations which, at the height of the pandemic, highlighted the tales of courage and resiliency of her team.
She assured everyone that the hotel continues to offer its quality service and facilities for worry-free moments that the whole family can enjoy and treasure together for years to come.
The official lighting ceremony of the 16-foot sparkling Christmas tree at the hotel’s main lobby was led by Pecoraro together with Peggy Angeles, executive vice president of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, and participated in by Pasay Congressman Antonino Calixto; Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano; Malaysian Ambassador H.E. Norman Muhamad; Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary Woodrow Maquiling; executive committee chairman of SM Investment Corporation Hans Sy; and Carol Sy.
The intimate circle of invitees – members of the diplomatic corps, clients, and long-staying guests – were then treated to a musical concert at the main lobby, featuring tenor Arman Ferrer, Bianca Lopez Aguila of the Nightingales, and harpist Jane Banta.
The tree lighting ceremony also launched the hotel’s festive dining, rooms, and spa offerings: Brasserie on 3 now offers Christmas and Filipino classics delicately prepared by the hotel’s team of culinary artisans. The buffet spread includes a sumptuous carving section, sustainably sourced seafood options, and decadent desserts. Reservations for their easy-on-the-pocket Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve dinner buffet are now accepted.
China Blue by Jereme Leung invites patrons to celebrate the festive season with traditional Chinese cuisine and to indulge in an exquisite selection of Majestic Feasts masterfully presented by executive Chinese chef Eng Yew Khor. Bru Coffee Bar transforms into a storybook giant Gingerbread house this Christmas and presents well-curated holiday hampers filled to the brim with handcrafted, homemade goodies: coconut bumbong loaf, red velvet cinnamon roll, chocolate truffles, and chocolate Santa, among other mouthwatering treats.
C Lounge rings in the New Year with both wintry and warm wonders, where its chic and stylish mood transforms into a mesmerizing end-of-the-year experience as guests sip on signature cocktails while moving and grooving to live musical performances.
Of course, anyone may also share the true meaning of the holidays and the season of giving with the hotel’s luxe gift vouchers based on very affordable room rates, which include spa and dining credit vouchers.
More details on Conrad Manila’s Amazing Christmas offers may be obtained through (02) 8833-9999 or conradmanila@conradhotels.com
YOUR weekend CHUCKLE
MAN TO GORGEOUS DATE (at a fine dining restaurant): Say something that will make my heart pound, Baby.
GORGEOUS DATE: Your wife is behind you!
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