The Venice recreates Italian splendor

MANILA, Philippines - For a dose of the old world charm, high European splendor, and the fabled romanticism that Italians may claim superior over the French, Venice is the one. Called the “undoubtedly the most beautiful city built by man” by Luigi Barzini of the New York Times, Venice ranks among the top destinations in the world.

Little surprise then, that leading property developer Megaworld Corporation set its sights on recreating the sights and sounds of one of Europe’s most breathtaking cities here in Metro Manila. Dubbed simply as “The Venice,” Megaworld’s 2.1-hectare development is sure to make both figurative and literal waves on the urban set.

For starters, seven majestic residential towers will be made available, each one designed to look like a Venetian ferro, the gondola’s unique iron head. Add the hue of chrome yellow and bright orange throughout the building’s exteriors and what you get is the shimmering spectacle of boats sailing in sunny skies. Inside is no different, as the lobby and its plush receiving area, replete with high ceilings, tall curtain glass, and period paintings welcome your entry to la dolce vita.

Each of the towers — Alessandro, Bellini, Caruso, Domenico, Emanuele, Fiorenzo, and Giovanni — offers residences ranging from executive studio units to three-bedroom affairs. But why spend all day inside when there’s just so much to do outside The Venice?

Take a lovely romantic gondola cruise along the water and end up a full-blown romantic once you pass a stunning replica of the Rialto Bridge. Of course, other famous landmarks in Venice have also been brought to life back here. Climb St. Mark’s Tower just for the heck of it, enjoy the vibrancy of the Clock tower as you lose track of time and enjoy the festive, carnival-like atmosphere at the Piazza Grande. Whatever your whims, getting there becomes enjoyable with the surrounding lush greenery and the classical Italian sculptures of mythic gods and goddesses.

As Megaworld FVP for marketing and project head Noli Hernandez observes: “The Venice provides an experience not only of the best of Italy, but also the time when the Old World was at its finest. But instead of bringing people over to Europe to experience the delights of Venice, Megaworld takes Venice to you – all of its finery and none of the hassles.”

Of course, when the demands of modernity strike you, you can take your pick from 20 amenities – from pools to gyms to saunas to athletic courts and meditation gardens. Even mythical gods and goddesses have to maintain their shape, right? And within the new township of McKinley Hill, an Olympus of shopping, entertainment and dining choices await our heroes.

Investors and aspiring homeowners may know more about The Venice Luxury Residences by calling 815-1888 or by visiting the showroom at Upper McKinley Road corner Florence Way, McKinley Hill, Fort Bonifacio. Or check out www.themckinleyhill.com.