The queen city of the south is sure to be among the top vacation destinations in 2025. A trip to Cebu is akin to receiving a gift of historical enrichment, wrapped in local festivities, customs, and food.
We visited Shangri-La Mactan, and what we discovered is that a trip here is more than just a stay. It is a complete experience filled with fun and adventure for all ages.
Arrival in Mactan
We met Shangri-La Mactan’s airport representative at the baggage claim area and were led to the private car that would take us to the hotel. The drive took less than 30 minutes.
The open-concept design of Shangri-La Mactan’s lobby is a refreshing reminder that we have arrived in paradise. The sweeping views of the ocean from the lobby instantly removed the tension of the workweek. The waters were calling, and we had responded.
After a quick check-in, we were able to rest in our hotel room before heading down for lunch. Shangri-La Mactan’s gastronomical journey had begun.
Lunch at Tea of Spring
Located on the garden level of the main wing, Tea of Spring is an elegant Chinese restaurant offering Cantonese-style dishes. We savored the dim sum before the pièce de résistance: the Peking-style roasted duck, which we enjoyed in two courses. The first was sliced and rolled in Chinese pancakes, and the second was wok-fried minced duck. This was definitely a very satisfying experience for the palate.
A feast for the senses
After getting acquainted with the different activities and offerings of Shangri-La, we had dinner at Cowrie Cove.
This restaurant boasts al fresco seaside dining and culinary creations for couples and families. Highly recommended is their Darling Downs Wagyu Ribeye, paired with a favorite Shiraz.
Breakfast on our second day here was at Tides, an international buffet offering diverse dining options day and night.
A much-awaited event during dinners is the lechon parade. Guests, both local and foreign, flock to the buffet table to get their share of Cebu’s tasty fare.
Kasadya cultural show and buffet
The Kasadya night at Shangri-La Mactan’s Buko Bar offers a Filipino-themed dinner buffet and dances from every region in the Philippines.
We were seated near the stage, and the show made me proud to be Filipino as I watched guests of different nationalities smile and clap enthusiastically after each performance.
Extending beyond the experience for the taste buds are Shangri-La’s numerous activities. There is more to explore, even just inside the huge expanse of the property.
Sustainability and responsible eco-tourism
In line with Shangri-La’s commitment to biodiversity conservation, Shangri-La’s Care for Nature program was launched. Their marine sanctuary spans six hectares from their private beach.
We were inspired when we learned how to plant corals in the resort’s coral farm, just a few meters from the beach. This family activity is a favorite among kids. Along with snorkeling and fish feeding, this is surely an effective way of teaching children about sustainability and responsible eco-tourism.
Another fun activity for the family is the eco trail walk along Shangri-La’s green route filled with foliage. The sanctuary features a growing collection of endemic, medicinal, rare, and endangered plants sprawled across the 13-hectare resort.
Resort ranger Analyn walked with us and provided insightful information about the trees and plants along the way.
The Shangri-La eco trail rangers underwent extensive training from the University of San Carlos and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. They help curate a great learning experience for the whole family.
There is always excitement in creating something in a brick oven and then eating it. Guided by Shangri-La’s chefs, kids and adults alike had the time of our lives creating our own pizzas.
This fun-filled family activity comes with a certificate of completion, souvenir aprons, and chef hats.
A complete vacation
The resort also offers healing experiences for the body and soul. We tried the traditional Philippine hilot massage, which is their most popular treatment. Virgin coconut oil and warmed banana leaves are used in the treatment. This massage was so relaxing, and we were told that it helps with blockages and the detection of energy imbalances.
A few days would not be enough to completely experience the food, the activities, and the warmth of great service. At this hotel, we were delighted by what the sea and the comforts of a luxury resort can offer. We would return in a heartbeat.