Where angels love to get pampered

When it comes to pampering guests, regional vice president of Dusit International and president of Philippine Hoteliers Inc. Gerhard Kropp truly knows best how to do it beyond normal expectations. Indeed, Dusit Thani Manila captures the guests’ senses with the aroma of essential oil that brings a relaxing lemon grass scent at the lobby while they are being serenaded by the playing of the percussive string instrument of the kim musician flown all the way from Thailand.

“Luxury is all about experience. By the entrance of the hotel, guests shall be ushered in by the royal Thai guard reminiscent of the royal family’s shield and protection. Upon entering any of our properties, guests will definitely be enveloped by a sense of harmony and lifted by the sense of enrichment with the presence of ladies in traditional Thai silk costume greeting the guests with a heartfelt wai, a single gesture that depicts a thousand years of Thai culture,” shared Dusit Thani Manila GM Prateek Kumar.

The hotel also takes pride in its Devarana Spa, which does not only boast of Thai-trained therapists led by the Thai spa manager Khun Sudaporn Prasertsang but more so of luxurious pampering and healing treatments that are offered with a heavenly scent in a soothing, stress-relieving and nurturing environment. And with two chefs from Japan ready to concoct one of the freshest sashimi selections this side of town, no wonder Manila’s A-listers are rushing to reserve and dine at Umu, one of Manila’s best restaurants which offers authentic Japanese dishes. “Umu, which means ‘born out of nature,’ is as authentic as a Japanese restaurant should be, complete with Western and Japanese Tatami private rooms,” said Umu restaurant manager Mark Pepping. Dusit Thani Manila depicts the gracious hospitality that is truly the Asian way of life. Beyond doubt, it is heaven on earth!

Flores de Mayo at its grandest

Keeping the rich and festive Filipino tradition alive through the years, members of the international community recently participated in a grand Flores de Mayo parade at the Tiendesitas in Pasig. Organized by Guatemala Consul and Consular Corps of the Philippines (CCP) fellowship committee vice dean and chair Mellie Ablaza together with vice chair and Angola Consul Helen Ong and El Salvador Consul Ma. Josefina Ortigas-Duarte, the vibrant affair also served as an avenue to give consuls and diplomats a better appreciation of the Philippine culture and festivals.

With all its stunning pageantry and glamour, the fabulous Santacruzan highlighted the presentation of the lovely ladies and dapper gentlemen of the international community which became more colorful with the amazing sights and sounds of kubols, bands, street dancers, fireworks and a beautiful caroza of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the honoree of the event. An excellent dance presentation of the country’s different native dances courtesy of the Bughaw Dance Troupe and a grand feast featuring a wide assortment of sumptuous native delicacies and viands capped off the celebration. Congratulations!

Great treats for the super dads

Still thinking of the perfect gift for your dad this Father’s day? On June 21, show the man of the house how much you love him by treating him to the most delectable Father’s Day buffet at Café d’Asie. Continue the celebration by letting him experience soothing facials and rejuvenating massages with the heavenly Super Dad package at The Bellevue Spa.

(For inquiries, call 771-8181.)