Celebrating Châteaux de Paris

MANILA, Philippines - On this last day of the year, there is a lot to be thankful for and much more to celebrate about. Fireworks are definitely in order.

South Forbes Golf City, the country’s largest fully-integrated and all-themed golf resort city at the forefront of the Metro Sta. Rosa – Tagaytay corridor, is proud of its French quarter, Châteaux de Paris, which was inspired by the beauty and grandeur of the French capital.

“We have made huge milestones in South Forbes this 2010, most especially with our French-themed enclave, Châteaux de Paris,” said Cathay Land president Jeffrey Ng. “This year, there are more model chateaus to choose from, the clubhouse has been completed, and then some.”

Belles Maisons. Now adorning Châteaux de Paris’ streets are its latest additions to the royal family: the elegant Louvre, the charming Clermont, and the lovely Lafayette. With the concept of the enclave revolving around the splendor of French gardens like that of the French capital, there will be more garden space in each of these new homes.

“We encourage our Châteaux residents to develop their green thumb right in their own backyard,” said Mr. Ng. “With more space for their gardens, no one gets any closer to green living than here.”

Of course, Châteaux de Paris still has its original set of chateaus in four different design styles: the classical Chambord with its princess-ly turret, the contemporary Chantilly for big families, the moderne Fontainebleau which suits the erudite, and the provincial Rambouillet bungalow ideal for retirees -- each with its unique layout to match the varying preferences of different homeowners.

Le Palais Royal. Just a few months ago, Châteaux de Paris finally unveiled its Grand Clubhouse. It is a masterpiece befitting royalty. An intricate French garden is laid out like a red carpet in front. Along with the colorful field of flowers, hedges, and topiary, a series of reflecting pools surround the clubhouse entirely like a castle moat.

Entering into the voluminous main lobby is a breathtaking experience where a grand piano that lies beneath an elegant grand staircase plays sweet melodies as residents and guests make their way through the gala. This is the perfect venue for a young lady’s début or a village soirée. On normal days, families can frequent the swimming pool or taste the café’s hors d’oeuvre selection at the al fresco lanai.

“But the most unique feature is the watchtower accessible from the mezzanine in which the landing is higher than the massive roof,” Mr. Ng added. “Our residents can climb its spiral steps to reach the top and take time viewing the whole enclave and enjoying the cool breeze.”

Qui Vivra, Verra. Located at the center of the whole enclave is the recently-completed Clocktower at the Central Rotunda which serves as the identifying mark for the community. Surrounded by green open spaces for seating, walking, and gathering, allées or alleys bordered by trees or clipped hedges for easy access from homes and other gardens, and reflection ponds, this circular park is undeniably French.

Golf. Every resident is entitled to free membership to South Forbes Golf City’s largest garden, the world-class 18-hole Golf and Leisure Club at no activation cost. Members are also given privileged access and special discounts to 42 other golf and sports clubs worldwide through the affiliation shared with the IMG Sports Club.

Move in right here, right now. Call 635-7777 or 631-8855 for a free city tour or log on to www.southforbes.com for more information.