Marco Polo Plaza marks another fruitful year

An exciting and delightful evening awaited each guest as Marco Polo Plaza celebrated its anniversary recently.

After five years, the property is unparalleled. But it hardly needs any accolade to show off its magnificence. From the impressive winding driveway, lined with lush greens and flowering plants, to the massive lobby with its imposing Swarovski chandelier, one is immersed in the hotel’s grandiose style, distinctive service, and warm welcome and hospitality.

The festivities began at the lobby lounge. Sparkling champagne, excellent wine and spirits, and mouthwatering canapés were served to the many invitees. Guests of honor were Cebu Provincial Governor Gwen Garcia, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, Federal Land president Alfred Ty, and Marco Polo Hotels president Steve Kleinschmidt.

British Honorary Consul Moya Jackson and her husband Anthony

The menu, masterfully created by executive chef Luke Gagnon, was a blend of continental, Asian, and western ingredients. The dishes offered innovative creations marked by exquisite texture and delicate flavors. Expert food and beverage director Stephan Wieprich made certain that every dish would prove to be an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

The highlight of the evening was the awarding ceremonies that honored the property’s top accounts. Emerging Travel Trade awardee was Tophil-Wow Cebu, while Top Travel Trade Account awardees were Tour Topia Travel for Korean market, Attic Tours Philippines for Japanese market, and Dong Fang Phil. Leisure Corp. for Chinese market. Emerging Corporate Account awardees were Vicsal Development Corp. and JP Morgan Chase and Co. Top Corporate Account awardees were Stream Global Services, Lexmark Research & Development, and Dash Engineering Philippines. For Top Banquet & Catering Accounts, the recipients were Metrobank, Pfizer, Inc., United Laboratories, and American Bar Association. Top Airline Partner awardees, as expected, Philippine Airlines, Korean Air, Inc., and Cathay Pacific Airways. Top Online Partners were Expedia and Agoda Co.   

Special citations were likewise given to Lexmark Research and Development for the Top Booker of Long Staying Guests. Top Travel Trade Account awardees were Tophil-Wow Cebu, Metropolitan Tours Phils., and Performance Travel and Tours.

Cebu International School superintendent Deidre Fischer, Marco Polo Hotels president Steve Kleinschmidt, and Bo Hauri 

The Philippine STAR emerged as Top National Media Partner, followed by Mabuhay magazine, Philippine Daily Inquirer, and Business Mirror. Top Broadcast Media Partners included GMA 7 Network, RCTV 36, Real Cebu Television, ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp., Amazing Cebu TV, and DYRK 96.3 Wrock Cebu. Top local Media Partners were Zee Lifestyle Cebu, Cebu Pot, Phil So Good magazine, the Freeman, SunStar Cebu, and Cebu Daily News.

The lively entertainment was provided by the Serendipity Band and the Company Band.

For general manager Hans Hauri, there is a special personal pride which he has injected into every aspect of the hotel. Setting very high standards, the personable, hands-on GM makes certain that desires are anticipated by the accommodating staff and no request goes unmet. He adheres to his firm belief that extraordinary guests deserve an extraordinary experience or, in the words of Marco Polo, “simply outstanding, always astounding.”