Oktoberfest rocks Cebu
Oktoberfest started in 1810 and is an important part of Bavarian culture. It is a two-week beer festival celebrated annually in Munich, Bavaria, Germany. It is the world’s largest fair with more than five million people participating each year.
For the Oktoberfest celebration in Cebu, the place to be was Movenpick Resort and Spa at the tip Mactan Island.
The fun-filled event opened with the traditional tapping of the keg of beer by guests of honor Provincial Governor Gwen Garcia and Lapulapu City Mayor Paz Radaza assisted by Helmut Gaisberger, director for business development, Movenpick Resort and Spa, and general manager Klaus Graesslin.
Drink-all-you-can beer was served with platters of sausages that were grilled, steamed or simmered in sauce at several food stations. There were various German potato salads and sauerkraut available in traditional styles.
Executive chef Terry Styles whipped up fantastic dishes that showcased authentic German cuisine such as old Munich beef-pot roast cooked with cabbage, pork schnitzel, glazed ham with honeydew melon, and for dessert, the ever-popular apple strudel and Frankfurt ring cake.
There were lots of parlor games, but easily the most popular one was the beer-drinking contest for men. The dashing Rico Amman won hands-down.
Enjoying the evening were fun couples Bobit and Jessica Avila, Cheling and Susan Sala, Hurst and Queenie Amman, Franz and Elizabeth Seidenschwarz. Opting to go solo but having just as much fun were Agnes Huettel, Mayen Tan, Baby Schaap, and Ronald Conopio.
With the venue filled to capacity, a festive German ambience pervaded the entire evening.
The French-Mediterranean style resort has a beautiful private beach and marina with several types of water-sports equipment to choose from.
Most of the rooms offer direct sea views and the suites are designed in striking Art Deco style, offering balconies with sea views, living rooms and expansive bathrooms with a Jacuzzi.
