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A great advantage of living on a tropical island is having the beach a short drive away. One particular weekend found some free time, we made the trip across the bridge for a sojourn resort, Plantation Bay is a distinct character style buildings arranged around a landscaped man-made lagoon is practically iconic. As we plunge into the plush comforter of the massive four-poster bed in our room, it becomes clear that getting out of bed wasn’t going to be easy. Of course, there was no rush— this was a staycation, and we only needed to attend to the world when we felt like it. Eventually, the view of the clear waters outside became too beautiful too resist, and we decide to finally venture out. There’s an array of activities here: the stand-up paddleboards and kayaking in the big lagoon, bicycles to leisurely ride around the property in, wall climbing and archery for those looking for something more alternative. That day, we were content with wading around the saltwater lagoon before taking a leisurely stroll through the resort’s amenities, admiring the paths that cut through the bodies of water. We were lucky enough to be at the resort Competition, where participants from the Portrait Artists Society of the Philippines were invited to paint a scene that depicted Plantation Bay. The event was spearheaded by renowned artist Romulo Galicano, whose work has won accolades both in the Philippines and abroad. From the iconic volcano in the middle of the resort to snippets of guests frolicking in the water, the artists presented different tableaus that captured the resort’s laidback lifestyle while representing the amenities that are available to guests. Winning first place was Wilfredo Canete, whose piece A Fine Day at Plantation Bay showed the gondola, which is occasionally taken out for a ride on the lagoon. With their talent, this pool of artists captured the spirit of Plantation Bay’s appeal, from energetic activities under the sun, to wellness programs for rejuvenation and a selection of exemplary dining outlets. The unique experience it offers makes Plantation Bay a true haven for weekends, a place to look forward to visiting again and again. 




Temple of Leah
Transcentral Highway, Cebu City, Cebu
This Roman-inspired location was built as a symbol of Teodorico Adarna’s undying love for and ceaseless devotion to Leah Villa Albino-Adarna, his wife of 53 years. The regal statues and structures can stun you with their grandeur. The Temple of Leah is perfect for the soon-to-be-wed couple who wants a royal-themed pre-nuptial photo shoot — and what better place to have it where the whole place itself was built because of love?

Chateau de Busay
Transcentral Highway, Cebu City, Cebu
Nestled on a hill with a breathtaking view of lush green mountains and the cityscape beyond, Chateau de Busay Inn and Restaurant offers a rejuvenating break from the humdrum of urban living. With its lush green gardens and amazing view of the Queen City of the South, couples can have their tea party-themed or fairytale-themed photo shoot here.

La Vie Parisienne
371 Gorordo Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
What started out as a French cafe is now one of the most popular photoshoot locations in Cebu — whether it be for a pre-debut, a pre-nuptial and whatnot, La Vie Parisienne’s interiors are a recreation of a European wine cellar cum old hotel in France that narrowly treads the fine line between classic and gothic with his clever use of elements.

Cebu Yacht Club
Lapu-Lapu, F. Martir St, Lapu-Lapu City, 6015 Cebu
The Cebu Yacht Club has a charming marina with restaurants, shops and a stunning view of the water. As the sun sets and bathes the marina in soft changing hues, it’s ideal as a backdrop for a couple in love.

Circa 1900
Sanjercasvil Road, Gorordo Avenue, Lahug, Cebu City 6000 Philippines
The old-house-turned-restaurant is reminiscent of the Spanish era in the Philippines. Its charm lies in its colonial-style architecture and interiors. Emulate a Don or Doña as you schedule your photo shoot at this location. They even have a pool, too.

Plantation Bay
Marigondon, Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City, 6015 Cebu
One of the most popular resorts in Cebu, Plantation Bay is known for its saltwater lagoons that take up most of the resort’s 11-hectare area. Couples can have their photoshoot on the wooden walkway right in the middle of the lagoon.

Terrazas De Flores Botanical Garden
Budlaan – Busay Rd, Cebu City
Cebu’s first flower terraces are a superb location for couples who wish to capture their romance with an enchanting backdrop. Bits of inspiring quotes and beautiful pieces of literature are scattered all over the area, adding romance and drama to the garden. Meanwhile, the fresh mountain breeze, exquisitely arranged flowers, and cozy cabanas will surely relieve the pre-wedding jitters.

Tieza Botanical Garden
Budlaan – Busay Rd, Cebu City
A scenic garden of celosia flowers by the lake, Tieza Botanical Garden offers an exquisite view for couples who want to have outdoor pre-nuptial photoshoots. Located at the foot of Sirao Peak, this hidden paradise in Busay is home to some of the gorgeous flowers perfect for that authentic romantic setting.

Azienda Milan
Talisay City, Cebu
With an alluring pool and a garden sitting on the top of the hill that overlooks Talisay City, Azienda Milan truly is a picturesque venue for couples. The intimate vibe partnered with the well-tended garden creates an enthralling moment sure to be remembered.

Big Q Farm
Sitio Cantipla, Barangay Tabunan, Cebu City
An escapade in the forest on a foggy afternoon, with tall trees hiding a cute little wooden cabin sounds a little dreamy — but we assure you, it’s real! For outdoor and fantasy-loving couples, Big Q farm is the spot for you. Achieve that enchanted pre-nuptial set-up in the center of wilderness and with a white horse just like in fairytales.
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“Last year we watched Deadpool and ate at Chicken Deli in Robinsons Galleria. We’ll probably do the same this year: Movie and cheap dinner. Will check what’s showing this week.”
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Virgin Island, Bantayan
“We would probably go to Bantayan. It’s close to the city but far enough from the hustle and bustle. We just love to bike around the island, chill by the beach, and simply enjoy each other’s company. We guess that’s what Valentine’s is all about.”
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“For Valentine’s we like going on road trips to the beach with our daughter or staying home, cooking lots and lots of bacon and watching old movies (like The Princess Bride)”
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“In the nine years we have known each other, I’d say we’ve sort of graduated from the passé Valentine’s date night outs. This year may be different as we are planning to spend that weekend by going out of town at our family’s beach house with our pet Finn, away from the hustle bustles of the city. And since my husband has started to love cooking steaks off the grill, he wants to venture into experimenting with another cooking feat for that weekend. Here’s looking forward to that celebration!”
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“We don’t really celebrate Valentine’s Day, but we always make sure to take spontaneous trips throughout the year. Preferably in the waters since we’re quite fond of freediving. However, for this year’s Valentine’s Day we might spend it at a nearby island.”
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The Henry Hotel
“We’d usually staycation and head out only to try Valentine set menus at different restaurants throughout the weekend. Plantation Bay‘s Romantic Rendezvous proved interesting. The Henry is our perennial favorite and offers a honeymoon/romantic weekend package. Anzani Mediterranean Restaurant is a good bet for a full-course dinner any given day. The Pig & Palm would be, too. We enjoyed their recent tasting dinners tremendously. I’d also suggest the upcoming pop-up Blind Date: Dinner in the Dark at District On 53rd. You don’t have to limit yourself to one. Trying a variety of places makes Valentine’s even more fun and meaningful.”
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“We’re going to Argao Wharf on a pilgrimage of sort. There’s a spot there where we sealed our relationship. We realized we had already done all the crazy things imaginable together, and there was only one crazy thing left to do: get married.”
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Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa
“Our love for Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa goes back to the time we first got together as a couple in high school over 20 years ago and so it has always held a special place in our hearts. From having the best beachfront in Mactan, its amenities and facilities, selection of delectable eats and excellent service that ensures we always feel at home, Shangri-La continues to be our happy place in Cebu. If we had the time, we would love to take a quick break there with our kids. Valentine’s has evolved for us through the years from romantic dates to group dates. We are celebrating Valentine’s at Café Sarree with colleagues and their other halves with a special menu created by Chef Sarree.”
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“We used to eat out in the previous years, but the last 3 years, I cook for her at home. And the last three years, we would be working on the day itself. She would be at Ilaputi, and I would be at Irie—except for 2016 where we both just stayed home.”
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Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton of The Pig & Palm

“We’d love to spend Valentine’s in the beach down south. A quick getaway would be awesome, but Valentine’s Day falls on a Tuesday this year and we have work and appointments. A fancy dinner at The Pig & Palm would be lovely!”
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“Last year, we spent Valentine’s Day in Siargao and it was wonderful! This year, we’re planning to have a quiet and romantic dinner in the mountains, where we can look down at the city lights and see the stars. Mike loves to sing, so I hope to be serenaded!”
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“We don’t over-plan for Valentine’s Day. We just make it a point to do something or go somewhere for the first time together as couple. This year, we’re planning to go to Vine Molave, a beautiful bed and breakfast at Pagadian, Zamboanga Del Sur. Other than being attracted to sleep and food (get it? Bed and breakfast?), we’re planning to go to Puting Balas sand bar and the Dao-Dao Islets there.”
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Abaca Boutique Resort
“We both lead very busy lives so when we do get to spend QT together, we prefer more relaxed environments. This Valentine’s Day, we might head to a more private beach like Abaca. But honestly, it doesn’t really matter where we go as long as we’re together.”
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“Since Jen loves peace and quet places, I’ll probably take her to Maru Restaurant inside J Park since they serve the best Korean food and sulbing. At the same time, only few people go there.”
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What do you have planned? Share your ideas on Facebook and Instagram and tag us!
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Tides Restaurant
Whether you’re checked in at the Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort or you’re just in the mood for a hearty breakfast, the extensive selection at Tides is a stellar way to start off the day. From local favorites like danggit (dried rabbit fish) and suman (sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves), intercontinental staples like waffles and bacon, or even a refreshing bowl of cold soba—you’re bound to find something here that’ll get your energy up for the rest of the day.
Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa
Punta Engaño Road, Lapu-Lapu
www.shangri-la.com/Cebu
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The Lapu-Lapu Shrine
Stand ground at the (supposed) sight where the country’s first hero battled and killed Ferdinand Magellan, if only for the photo op.
Punta Engaño Road, Lapu-Lapu
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Azure Beach Club
Enjoy the sea breeze and have your midday right on the shore at Crimson Resort and Spa. The selection of modern Asian cuisine explores various flavors and influences—like the rich Tandooris, the spiced textures of the Angus Beef Asian Burrito or (this particular writer’s favorite) the strong Garlic Noodles with Rock Scallops. And because you’re on vacation, why not wash it down with a cocktail? We won’t tell.
Crimson Resort and Spa
Seascapes Resort Town, Lapu-Lapu
www.crimsonhotel.com/mactan
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Islands Pasalubong
Make sure to bring home a little bit of Cebu by visiting the island’s most extensive offering of souvenirs. From colorful shirts to the packed delicacies of otap and rosquillos, you’ll find something here everyone back home can appreciate.
Mactan Marina Mall
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Palermo Restaurant
The newly renovated Italian restaurant at the Plantation Bay Mactan is a charming space to dine, its stained glass windows, dark wood furniture and quirky lamps create a charming ambiance. Start the meal off with some tapas—like the roasted bell peppers, calamari and Jamon Iberico—then pick a pasta or a steak for the main course. Being a carnivore myself, it’s US Rib Eye all the way, served with some of the most flavorful garlic potato wedges I’ve ever had.
Plantation Bay Resort & Spa
Marigondon, Lapu-Lapu
www.plantationbay.com
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Ibiza Beach Club
With their own in-house dancers, Mövenpick Resort Cebu’s seaside outlet features a different theme every night for its shows—retro pop, Latin American dances, and movie favorites are just some on the list. Their list of cocktails are equally as appealing, as does the selection of Manny O wines. Of course, if you’re more of a sweet tooth, there’s always the selection of Mövenpick ice cream to properly cap off the night.
Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu
Punta Engaño Road, Lapu-Lapu
www.movenpick.com/cebu
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by Shari Quimbo
Featured image from FoundersGuide.com
]]>The first time around wasn’t completely intentional: A companion and I had made plans to try out the resort’s nightly themed dinner buffets, but the terrible traffic of that particular Friday payday resulted in us missing it altogether. The night wasn’t a total waste, however, as opting to dine in Palermo instead made for a more intimate and wonderful dinner. Back then, the restaurant was decked in wood furnishings and red terracotta tiles, which, along with the red-and-white checkered tablecloths, gave off a rustic trattoria vibe.
Charming as it was, Plantation Bay decided to give Palermo a new and contemporary look to appeal to more diners. The result is a stylishly casual restaurant, with cool gray walls to balance out the warmth of the wooden accents. Lights were also significantly dimmed, in order to make the stained glass details stand out even more. All of these, general manager Efren Belarmino explains, were proudly Cebuano-made.

Palermo Restaurant’s new look (Photo courtesy of Plantation Bay Resort & Spa: Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, March 2016)
As for the menu, it was heartening to know that despite the design overhaul, Palermo has retained some of its tried-and-tested favorites, along with the welcome additions of new items. The hot and spicy gambas were a crowd favorite while the roasted bell peppers were an interesting combination of soft and spicy sweet. The Jamon Bellota, made with free-range Iberian pigs fattened on acorns and cured for up to three years, also proved to be quite the hit. For the main course, there are options for pastas and steak. The blue cheese lover in me immediately went for the fusilli con gorgonzola. The macadamia nuts added texture to the otherwise creamy sauce with that unique blue cheese kick. Managing editor Shari Quimbo opted for the rib eye steak with potato wedges—a hearty dish that’s sure to be a crowd pleaser. All of these went down quite well with our wine.

Fusilli con Gorgonzola (Photo courtesy of Plantation Bay Resort & Spa: Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, March 2016)

The Banana Burnt Butterscotch Tart (Photo courtesy of Plantation Bay Resort & Spa: Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, March 2016)
Everything was so rich and filling that it was hard to make room for dessert, although it’s quite the challenge to pass up on Palermo’s delicious treats. The banana burnt butterscotch tart, also known as the Triple B, was a deliciously deadly triple threat, with a mix of flavors and textures. The gelato alla menta—mint ice cream with chocolate chips in an almond basket—is also a must-try.
As far as Italian places go, there are a lot of choices within the city. But when you want to take the extra mile, you’ll find that Palermo in Plantation Bay is a hidden gem that’s worth the visit.
PLANTATION BAY RESORT & SPA
Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City
6332. 505 9800 | website
by Patty Taboada
Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, March 2016. For full access to our current and back issues, subscribe via Magzter.
With 11 hectares of secluded grounds, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa feels like its own tranquil world apart from the rest of the island’s offerings. Large saltwater lagoons are flanked by villas and rooms in colonial-plantation architecture, complementing the overall feeling of being “away from it all.”
Take the escape even further by booking treatments at Mogambo Springs – situated in the middle of the resort but feeling like a destination on its own, the spa is inspired by an 18th century Tokugawa Japanese village and offers a wide range of relaxation and wellness packages.
Marigondon, Mactan Island
6332. 505 9800
www.plantationbay.com
With more than two decades of operation, Bluewater Maribago remains a favorite weekend destination for the consistently updated rooms and facilities, remarkable gastronomical offerings and warm Filipino hospitality.
A stay at the resort finds a wide range of dining options that will have your taste buds rejoicing at the holiday as well – the Allegro offers al fresco dining with Filipino; Asian and continental cuisine; The Cove is a live seafood restaurant that overlooks the resort’s private island; Molto Italiano is best known for its brick oven specialties; the Amuma Juice Bar and Spa Café offers light fare to complement the spa’s services; and the open-air Oyster Bar is a great place to unwind and enjoy fresh shellfish with cocktails.
Buyong Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City
6332. 492 0100
www.bluewatermaribago.com.ph
LOCALES PICK: FREEDIVE HQ IN MACTAN
For the free divers at heart and the aspiring, this is the spot for you! It is my personal quick getaway from all the hustle and bustle in the city. They have one of the most beautiful and natural coral landscapes, so that makes diving a godsend. Freedive HQ employs champion SSI free divers for your utmost convenience. So get learning and get diving! Oh, and they host amazing trips to some of Mactan’s beautiful islands as well. What’s not to love? – Veronica Chiongbian (Zee Lifestyle Directory, November 2014)
Freedive HQ is an Scuba Schools International Diamond free diving facility offering SSI programs. For inquiries, click here.
Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, April 2015. Like Zee Lifestyle Directory on Facebook.