Business

True to Its Name, Balance is the Key at Mezzo Hotel

Adding to Cebu Citys roster of recommended accommodations is the recently-opened 4-star business hotel with its 151 guest rooms: Mezzo Hotel.

With numerous developments springing up left and right over the city, it’s clear that Cebu is a flourishing economic hub. Times have changed, and the city’s landscape has evolved drastically, and will continue to do so over the next couple of years.

If the changing skyline isn‘t enough of a progress indicator, then perhaps the influx of tourists—foreign and local—is a better measure. Naturally, to accommodate these tourists, the need for hotels rose. Depending on preference, one may choose a beach resort for a relaxing escapade or a city hotel for business trip. Whichever the case, a wide range of options are available.

Adding to this roster of recommended accommodations is the recently-opened 4-star business hotel with its 151 guest rooms: Mezzo Hotel in Cebu City. Standing in a prime location that’s a short walk away from enjoying what the city has to offer, Mezzo Hotel allows access to Cebu’s business district, premier shopping centers, and main tourist attractions. This means that guests get to experience a little bit—and more—of everything in the city.

Pronounced as /met.tso/, the hotel’s name is derived from an Italian word, which means “balance”, “middle”, or “center”. True to its namesake, Mezzo Hotel is a center between two big cities—Mandaue City and Cebu City—and two major malls. A huge advantage, especially for guests who need to move around often.

Upon entering the hotel, these lights in the lobby immediately catch your attention

“Mezzo Hotel features a minimalist concept, allowing extra space to unfold and relax,” says Joan Osabel-Caparoso, their hotel manager. “Complemented with modern amenities and facilities, Mezzo is your partner in providing upscale service, both for business and leisure.”

Aside from its 151 guest rooms, Mezzo Hotel also has 35 serviced units for guests who want to enjoy a seamless stay. Other amenities include a Grand Ballroom that can accommodate up to 1000 guests, a business center that can accommodate up to 15 people, a meeting room that can accommodate up to 50 people, Café Mezzo, Piscine (the pool bar), a swimming pool, a fitness gym, a convenience store and a clinic.

Mezzo Hotel’s manager, Joan Osabel-Caparoso

“Apart from being near the shopping and business district, guests feel at home when they make it Mezzo, especially due to our service enhancement directives of a more personalized service,” Joan adds.

She further shares that guests who book directly on their website, through walk-ins, by phone-ins or through email, can get early and/or late checkout perks depending on availability and a one-time turndown service.

What makes the hotel a more charming accommodation, though is in the details. While Joan describes their aesthetic as “straight-forward, clean and minimalist” at best, what adds depth are the hotel’s lighting fixtures, which immediately draw attention. In every space of the hotel, there’s bound to be a source of light that doubles as an art piece, of sorts.

“Our concept is more of a minimalist approach with elements of clean lines and curves which was assisted by Polaris Anne Tiro, our Interior Designer,” Joan adds.

Joan, who has been in the hospitality industry for ten years now, is on her second year with Mezzo Hotel. Her favourite part of the property—which they are looking to develop soon—is a vacant space on the 4th floor which grants a view of the sky above. Joan divulges that it could soon be developed into a mini-garden or lounge for in-house guests.

The hotels function room on the third floor

There’s a lot of thought put into the hotel’s design, and it’s interesting to note that their very own Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Henry T. Tan, was very hands on during construction until turnover.

“Every nook and cranny of its design marries functionality,” Joan shares. “We made sure that there’s no dead investment in the whole of the building—that whatever we put in are very useful to guests and associates alike.”

A closer look at the chandelier in the hotels lobby lounge

For the rest of this year, Joan, together with their President, Shannen Keisha L. Tan, plan to continue to work towards their thrust, so they can be ready for full systematization come 2020.

“As we’re serious on our Vision to the choice of our guests and associates, we will make sure to continue what we already do best and be consistent to the commitment to deliver consistent top-notch service to all our guests and stakeholders,” she says.

To enjoy dibs of discounts like special room rates and a 30% discount on all ala carte food items, use the code ‘mezzoXzee’. For more information on Mezzo Hotel, visit their website at http://mezzohotel.com, call them at (032) 231 0777, or you may check out their Facebook and Instagram.

Related Topics:Hotels in Cebu Inside Cebu Mezzo Hotel

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Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino Celebrates 25 Years of Commitment to Service

Waterfront Hotels & Casinos’ flagship property in Cebu is proud to announce its 25th-year anniversary on July 25, 2023. Over the past quarter-century, the hotel has been home to local and international tourists traveling to Cebu City for business or leisure.

Since 1998, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino has been recognized for maintaining its commitment to providing both patrons and guests with remarkable and notable services to create memorable experiences. From the hotel’s world-class amenities, luxurious accommodations, to exceptional dining experiences, and exciting offers, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino continues to be the venue of choice for special events, large conventions, concerts for local and international artists, trade exhibits, a relaxing staycation, and much more.

2013 – Top Producing Hotel by Room Nights from Expedia

2016 – Tin Gow as the Grand Slam Winner for Best Chinese Restaurant from SunStar’s Best of Cebu

Exemplary for its ability to provide for large groups and conventions, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino has warmly welcomed nationwide governing positions and well acknowledged communities for events throughout the years such as the Governors’ Workshop on Social Welfare and Development: Partnership for Devolution in 1999, the 25th Annual Convention of the Philippine Neurological Association in 2003, the United Architects of the Philippine’s 16th National Conference in 2004, the Annual General Assembly of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines in 2007, the Sangguniang Kabataan National Congress in 2008, and Liga ng mga Barangay events are set to take place in the property this year .

Being one of the city’s well visited venues for getaways, special occasions, grand events, and an appreciative dining experience, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino to name a few has been recognized for major and key awards on the following years:

– 2012: Gold Circle Award from Agoda
– 2013: Top Producing Hotel by Room Nights from Expedia
– 2014: Most Engaged Hotel Partner from Expedia
– 2015: Powering Global Travel Award from the Global Tourism Awards
– 2016: Tin Gow as the Grand Slam Winner for Best Chinese Restaurant from
SunStar’s Best of Cebu
– 2017: Chinese Preferred Hotel from Ctrip
– 2018: Venue Standard Award from MICE
– 2019: Top Taxpayers Award from the Cebu City Government
– 2020: Grand Slam Winner for Best Events Venue from SunStar’s Best of Cebu
– 2021: Traveler’s Choice from Tripadvisor

2020 – Grand Slam Winner for Best Events Venue from SunStar’s Best of Cebu

From Cebu’s humble beginnings, it’s safe to say that Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino was there in the midst of the city’s development into one of the Philippines’ most progressive areas. Since the beginning, the property and its peers have always prioritized the citizens’ convenience by strategically placing themselves at the center of it all. Right across the hotel, what used to be Cebu’s very first airport is now a well-known destination for business development and commercial establishments, commonly referred to as the I.T. Park. Although the area has drastically changed over the years, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino managed to adapt and develop just as the Queen City of the South developed.

CSR – Bureau of Fire Protection

Waterfront Cebu does not only provide a place to stay but is an avenue that evokes feelings and creates significant memories to be cherished for a lifetime. One memory that’s worth remembering was when Regine & Martin Nieverra had their concert at the Pacific Grand Ballroom in 2003. Not to mention, 2005 SEA Games held their Dancesport event at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino followed by the prestigious Mr. and Miss Cebu in 2008.

Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino is not only an essential part of the hospitality industry. The property continues to play its role as a vital force when it comes to giving back and uplifting the community. The premier hotel has contributed significant developments to the city’s growth, economy, and even tourism, but the property did not stop there. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities were also organized for Cebu’s social welfare as well as for the preservation of the environment with the aid of local NGOs and barangays.

Through the years here are some sustainable and transformative activities that the peers at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino have participated in:

– 2013: Lapu-Lapu Tourism Council Coastal Clean-Up
– 2019: Refurbishment Initiatives at Barangay Kang-atis Elementary School
– 2020: Waterfront Cares for Brgy. Suba (Part II)
– 2020: Weekly Round-Up – Frontliners of Brgy. Lahug
– 2021: Waterfront Bakuna Center
– 2021: Waterfront Care Packages
– 2022: Packages of Love to Barangay Looc
– 2022: Christmas Party for the Children at Barangay Pardo
– 2023: Tree Planting at Barangay Pung-ol
– 2023: Tree Planting at the Nug-as Forest Reserve

As Waterfront continues to blossom in the hospitality industry, its service with a warm smile is a Filipino value that guests would always come back to. In the effort to embody and maintain excellent guest satisfaction, the property’s department heads boast high training to its peers that remain visible in every guest interaction.

Keeping its grounds strong, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino would like to acknowledge the 25 years of support from the local government of the city as well as from the province in Cebu. Celebrating 25 years of Commitment to Service will only continue and progress for the years to come as the property and its management is looking forward to 25 years and beyond of excellent service wearing the ‘Waterfront’ smile.

Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino would also like to thank their sponsors for this year’s 25th Anniversary celebration: Global Star Motors Corp., Cebu New Life Press, Premium Sole, Metro Retail Stores Group Inc., DC Fresh Flower Shop & Supply, Kettle & Shaker, and The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

For more information, please visit www.waterfronthotels.com.ph

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WaterfrontCebuCity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waterfrontcebu

Business

An Exclusive Treat Awaits You at Seda Ayala Center Cebu

On Top of the World at Seda Ayala Center Cebu

by Ryan Daniel R. Dablo

You breathe a sigh of contentment as you sip frozen margarita, looking out onto the city skyline and a sprawling vista of the Ayala Center Cebu terraces and Cebu Business Park. This is the life, you say. You take your pick from charcuterie and a smattering of dishes, savoring your meal just as the sunset casts a halo over the buildings beyond. Moments like these are what await you at the Seda Ayala Center Cebu. Why not treat yourself to such a prize?

Fresh and reinvigorated, Seda Ayala Center Cebu opens its doors after the hiatus of recent years and, as ever, it is hellbent to impress. One of its main draws is the exclusive Club Lounge at the penthouse floor. This lofty perch is open to all who avail of Seda Ayala Center Cebu’s VIP/Club Rooms and Suites, welcoming them to a chic dining place serving breakfast, afternoon tea, and cocktails. The buffet caters to varied tastes with its continental cuisine and keeps patrons on their toes with a rotating menu. Add your choice of beverage to the ensemble and you’re set for a day and evening of satisfaction. As a clincher, you can gaze down on a bustling cityscape rendered silent by the height. The view is pretty relaxing, to say nothing of the equally entrancing food on offer.

With a prime uptown location, you’re never far from adventure and other exploits. Sally forth into Cebu’s urban jungle and come home rested and refreshed. With Seda Ayala Center Cebu on top of things and their Club Lounge that offers comfort and enjoyment, you’ll be free to savor every bit of the moment.

Their best-seller cocktail drink, the Frozen Margarita.

Avail of their Buy One, Get One promo on cocktails and wines! Available from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M daily. For more information, please call (032) 411 5800. Follow their Facebook page or visit their website at www.sedahotels.com.

Business

The Most-Used Mobile Business Apps According to 50 Entrepreneurs

Mobile Apps: The Future of Business

by Allain Dumon Fonte

The history of trade dates back to the oldest civilization. People had to cross seas or travel far and wide to get their needs in exchange for anything valuable. The ancient ways of conducting business led to the development of new cultures and new societies, as merchants settled in foreign lands and discovered new places to expand their enterprises. However, in the now, businessmen neither need to travel far and wide, nor cross seas; with just a scroll and click, a business transaction is signed, sealed, and delivered. Doing business at the comfort of one’s home, office, bedroom, or even on the favorite couch, is brought about by the advancement of mobile apps.

So, how do mobile apps shape the way businesses perform? First, on the list is the improved, more accurate, and faster means of communication. Before, we needed to send mails or electronic mails to communicate agreements and to pass back and forth contracts. This means that communication takes time, and for the message to get crossed. Moreover, there are high risks of losing the message along the way. However, with mobile apps, it is easier and faster to communicate with your clients and business partners. Best Business apps have got special features where sellers and buyers can chat or call each other. Some apps even allow business owners to meet with their office staff online and discuss or plan strategies to market and enhance operations. Hence, the comfort of working remotely.

Entrepreneur and stylographer, Dexter Alazas, works as a fashion designer, manages a modelling and talent agency, and curates events for Cebu’s major brands. Alazas is very grateful to modern technologies. With a mobile app that is especially programmed for his business, he can easily communicate with clients and remotely meet with staff. At any time, clients can leave her a message, and these messages are sent to his mobile phone and email address. With this, no messages can be left unread; even if he is in Boracay for a holiday.

Entrepreneur and stylographer, Dexter Alazas

The second benefit is the agile mobile technology. Mobile apps are easy to update, and programmers are working constantly to find ways that their mobile apps become as user-friendly as possible. Mobile apps are also consistently reviewed with their functionality, speed, and comfort. The consistent reviews allow programmers to continuously improve their apps. For example, with the Gcash app, Alazas is able to compensate his staff or talents directly to their banks or gcash accounts. Alazas’ clients also find it faster to pay him through the Gcash app. Plus, the Lalamove app is a big help to Alazas and his clients because it saves them the time to travel to and from the shop. With the Lalamove app, Alazas can have his clients’ orders delivered straight to their homes.

Third benefit is mobile sales and mobile marketing. Mobile apps can include features like emails, calendars, campaign management solutions, and they are even linked to social media platforms. This allows the business owners to have a wider reach of customers as their businesses can be advertised online. These apps also allow businesses to reach out and maintain a pool of interested clients by taking advantage of online search engines. When someone searches on the Pinterest app about bridal dresses, photos of Alazas’ bridal collection appear. This helps Alazas connect with potential clients.

After interviewing 50 entrepreneurs in Cebu, these are their most loved and most used mobile apps that help them make their business operations much smoother, especially during the pandemic.

1. Gcash – this mobile app even supersedes the comfort of online banking. Anyone can easily transfer and receive cash at any time of the day. Transactions are fast and instant. Unlike banks, anyone can cash in and cash out from 24 hours Gcash service centers like 7/11 and mini stop shops. The only thing that our entrepreneurs do not like about this app are the transaction fees. Rating this app with 4.5 stars out of 5

2. Grab – is a delivery app that ties up mostly with restaurants. Many of our food entrepreneurs confessed that their sales have increased significantly with the help of the Grab app. During the strict lockdowns where most establishments are closed, it was the Grab app that keep their businesses running because people ordered food through the app. The only hiccup is on the delay of the delivery of goods. Many of our food entrepreneurs receive complaints of delayed services. Our entrepreneurs rate this app 4 out of stars.

3. Lalamove – is another delivery mobile app which is mostly used by businessmen to have their items delivered to their customers because it has fast services and accurate maps. Because of the strict quarantine protocols during the pandemic, many businesses have gone online and used the Lalamove app to help deliver the orders of their clients. Entrepreneurs gave this app a perfect rating of 5 stars.

Although, mobile apps can have a few glitches like weak internet connection or when mobile apps run slow. Yet, when you weigh the benefits over the possible troubles, mobile apps surely make doing business a pleasure.