Time for German fun at Octoberfest
For the third consecutive year and fast becoming a tradition, Marco Polo Plaza Hotel, the property on a hill with an outstanding view of the city below recently hosted the fun-filled, full of surprises Oktoberfest that featured more than the usual brass band, Munich- based The Bavarian Sound Express flown in all the way from Germany.
The two-day celebration from sunset to almost sunrise held at the Grand Ballroom began with the time-honored tapping ceremony of the keg of beer by president of Marco Polo Plaza Rey Villar and hands-on general manager Hans Hauri. They were assisted by dedicated councilor Sylvan Jakosalem and Pagcor’s Jojo Beltran and Eric Levelo.
On the ball waiters delivered pitcher after pitcher of the cold draft of the country’s favorite San Miguel Beer.
The different food stations had several authentic German platters of grilled smoked sausages of all kinds, the ever present on such occasion pork knuckles, assorted hams, a selection of salads, baked potatoes and the all-time-favorite french fries.
An assortment of must-have condiments included pickles and relishes and a variety of mustards. The apple strudel topped with ice cream together with the famous black forest cake were simply delicious.
There were lots of parlor games some never seen or even participated in before guaranteed to bring cheers and laughter as well. As expected the beer drinking contest was one of the most popular.
Enjoying the evening were hoteliers, Fritz Kahler of Alegre Resort and his ultra feminine wife Cynthia, Hembler Mendoza of Waterfront Hotel in Mactan, and Hilton Cebu Resort and Spa general manager Harald Feurstein.
Always a joy to have around and having loads of fun themselves were glam ladies Marguerite Lhuillier, Iris Arcenas, June Alegrado, Grace Colmenares, Lani Osmeña, Kate Anzani and Agnes Huettel.
Opting to go solo but having just as much fun were tour specialists Zenaida Chua, Ricky Tio, Nikita Osharov, and world class photographer and publisher of the much acclaimed Philippine guide books Daniel Carpentier. Joining them were top airline executives such as Bob Salazar of Philippine airlines, Vicky Hue of Cathay Pacific Airways and Ajish Morris of Silkair.
The property’s officers and staff led by Lynn Romero, Marwin Velicaria, Chino Quintana, Carlo Borromeo, Portia Florenosa, Venus Guilos, Margaret Pareja simply outdid themselves.
Marco Polo Plaza Hotel once again delighted everyone with their dressed-down, fun filled Oktoberfest.
