Going around town, I was awed by how some of our hotels portray the Holiday Spirit through their Yuletide trees.
Conrad Manila
The hotel opened the holiday season with its tree lighting ceremony themed “Bright Holidays, Brilliant Memories,” which was participated in by the new general manager, Rupert Hallam, who is celebrating his first Christmas here in the country.
Of course, the event’s main attraction was the hotel’s sparkling tree made of crystals, which, this year, looks even more impressive with elegant white lanterns around it. Setting the mood for the Holidays were the musical performances of soprano Lara Maigue, the UST Singers, and the Bernie Pasamba Strings and Music Master. Guests were later treated to a festive buffet dinner at the hotel’s culinary haven, Brasserie On 3.
Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila
The hotel’s towering green-and-red tree symbolized this year’s evocative theme, “Season of Joy,” which pays tribute to the timeless tradition of being together with those who make the Season truly meaningful.
The Tree Lighting ceremony was conducted by SMHCC President Elizabeth Sy, SM Prime Holdings chairman Hans Sy, executive vice-president Peggy Angeles, Pasay Mayor Imelda Rubiano, and hotel general manager Nils Rothbarth.
A beautifully curated musical program, directed by Nes Jardin, set the tone for the evening, with performances by Vien King, The Opera Belles, and Bernie Pasamba and the Music Masters. What is noteworthy is the hotel’s continued partnership with the Philippine School for the Deaf, with its year-round initiatives dedicated to enriching the lives of the children in the school. The celebration ended with an elegant cocktail buffet meticulously prepared by the hotel’s culinary team.
Pico de Loro Cove
Aligned with its commitment to marine protection and sustainability, all the Christmas trees in Pico de Loro Cove take inspiration from elements found in the property’s vast mangroves. The unusual but attractive décor comes from handmade items patterned after those that thrive in the swamp’s dense thickets, giving the trees a uniquely different—but captivating—look.
General manager Maxi Gavino said this year’s theme, “Feel the Holiday Sparkle,” invites guests to appreciate the beauty of the mangroves, nature’s quiet protectors that bring life and light to their surroundings. She also introduced her staff members, who spent several work hours assembling the Christmas tree, a source of pride for management.
Luxent Hotel
The traditional colors of Christmas—red, green, and gold—are used in this hotel’s Christmas Tree, which is set up against a backdrop of sparkling miniature lights, giving a definitely festive look to the lobby.
Before the ceremonial “switch on,” musical performances were rendered by the Adamson University Chorale and the chanteuse Venice Encinares. Some of the hotel’s staff members also presented a dance number to a jolly Christmas song, together with their mascot. General manager Melanie Siy-Pagkalinawan gave a heartfelt, impromptu message on the real meaning of Christmas, something that ran deep in my core.
Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA
A unique blend of colors makes this hotel’s Christmas tree different from the others. Illuminated in deep blue light and fenced in by an abundance of gold gift boxes, the tree has a somewhat celestial feel.
The tree-lighting ceremony featured musical performances by the University of the Philippines’ Singing Ambassadors, but what impressed me most was the solo performance of young tenor Arman Ferrer, who brought the house down with his outstanding vocal calisthenics. I approached him later to congratulate him because I have never been moved by a song as much as I was by his interpretation.
The tree-lighting ceremony was followed by a hearty buffet specially prepared by the hotel’s innovative chef, who, according to general manager Reycie Gutierrez, always comes up with a new menu every week.
Joy Nostalg Hotel and Suites Manila
The beautiful tree was already lit when I entered the hotel lobby. The hotel’s director of sales and marketing, Laurie Cardeño, later told me that the event I was invited to was a Thanksgiving dinner hosted by management, not a tree-lighting ceremony. She explained that their tree, abundantly decked with all kinds of attractive décor, symbolized prosperity and good fortune.
The dinner, set in the cozy ambience of the Nostalgia Lounge and Bar, was a superb culinary experience, with the buffet menu expertly curated by executive chef Gus Mohamed and his team. I marveled at his version of the delectable pork embutido, made more special with tiny bits of crunchy celery that enhanced its taste.
General manager Diana Batas later shared the hotel’s forthcoming developments, which are worth looking forward to. Aside from the hotel’s exemplary food, I also enjoy its al fresco restaurant, The Roof, which offers a breathtaking view of Metro Manila.
Taal Vista Hotel
Their towering Christmas tree is literally star-studded, covered with big, glowing white stars, and it dominates the hotel’s vast garden facing the lake and volcano. Since it was drizzling, the tree-lighting ceremony was held indoors at the lobby lounge. It was led by general manager Ramon Makilan, SMHCC president Elizabeth Sy, and senior vice president Cathy Nepomuceno, followed by a musical performance from the Himig San Jose Chorale.
Hotel management also introduced its charity beneficiary, the Augustinian Sisters Servants of Jesus and Mary, represented by three children from its orphanage. The highlight of the event was the six-course dinner at the ballroom, specially prepared by the hotel’s culinary team, with each course paired with a specific wine to elevate the dining experience.
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