THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

Planning made for a year.  My close friends and travel buddies have prepared for this a long time – to visit Davao City on my birth month.  There are uncontrollable circumstances though.  Some have to let go for career opportunities and others on security issues.

Days before our flight, a bombing incident took place just a few steps from where our transient abode in Davao will be.  But knowing the calibre of this international hospitality brand, we know we are safe at Marco Polo Hotel Davao.

There could be no better host when in Davao City than Marco Polo.


ARRIVAL

The evening and delayed flights is a hassle at all times.  But the arranged shuttle bus of the hotel from the airport made it more convenient and easier for us to reach the hotel.  Marco Polo Davao is extremely proximate to the airport at a distance of just 12 kms and a 20-minute drive.

It’s been more than 10 years since I visited Davao City for a much longer time not counting the overnight stay I had exactly a year ago as organized by Cebu Pacific Air

With the heightened security concerns in the city, tightened measures is in order.  Before we even reach the metal detectors and body scanner at the entrance of the hotel, our individual luggage were opened and carefully scanned.  Even cameras were taken out of our bags and instructed to be clicked just to make sure it’s not something of an explosive device (I assume).  I commend the hotel’s security measures for that.  It was a good introduction for me of how our stay in Davao City will be – safe and comfort combined.


THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

The lobby and reception area provided a refreshing ambiance.  Ushered to the reception area, checking-in were done swiftly after proper identifications made.

DELUXE ROOM

THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

Marco Polo Davao is said to be the tallest building in the city.  It consists of 245 well-appointed non-smoking guest rooms and suites and are handicap-friendly as well.  We were assigned on one of the Deluxe rooms which provides a good view of the hotel’s swimming pool.  Click to check other room types and rates.


THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

In a unique blend of Western comforts and Asian hospitality, the air-conditioned room itself provides a host of amenities in the likes of coffee and tea making facilities, dual line IDD/DDD telephone with voicemail, executive desk, ipod dock, mini-bar and refrigerator, bath tub, data points for fax and computer, electronic guestroom locks, in-room safe, LCD-colored TV with cable channels and of course, wi-fi internet service.


THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO


THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

DINING

Complimentary breakfast is served at Café Marco.  The buffet breakfast offers a lavish spread and a wide array of choices.  It comes with a combination of Filipino and western cuisine.  Breakfast is served from 6AM to 1030AM and we are always there for the last minute.




On a seating capacity of 138, the in-house restaurant is quite spacious and conducive for a gastronomic treat.  And we are fortunate enough to have our first meal served on this restaurant.


THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

One of the award-winning restaurants in Davao City is housed in the hotel.  It goes by the name of Polo Bistro, with a seating capacity of 60 and serves inter-continental ala carte.  Signature dish includes Grilled Blue marlin, US angus prime rib cut tenderloin steaks and Australian lamb cuts.


THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

We had our lunch at the said restaurant while sharing stories with friends and trapped due to heavy downpour.  But it was fun lounging and killing time then while we feast on hefty serving of the hotels’ culinary bestsellers.


THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO
DAVAO KINILAW (PHP300.00)
THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO
ROASTED TOMATO AND BASIL SOUP WITH FOCCACIA AND MOZZERELLA TOAST (PHP200.00)
THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO
SIGNATURE BABY BACK RIBS WITH POMELO SALAD (PHP570.00)
THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO
POMELO SALAD
THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO
RASPBERRY CHEESECAKE (PHP180.00)
THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

The earl grape iced tea is a must-try while in Marco Polo and it is available at all Marco Polo brands worldwide.  Cold Earl Grey tea provides the base of the beverage and is poured over seedless green grapes and elderflower-infused ice cubes.  The grapes are slightly pressed so the combination of flavors can meld together, completing the thirst-quenching drink known as the perfect summer refreshment.  The signature iced tea is presented with a freshly baked lokum or Turkish delight.



SWIMMING POOL

One of the standout features of the hotel is their 25m/ 82 ft outdoor lap pool visible from our room’s glass window.  Subject to weather conditions, the pool is open daily.  It is equipped with towels, lockers, shower and changing facilities.


THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

There are a number of amenities available at the hotel but honestly I wasn’t able to experience all for the simple reason that it feels good to lie in bed in the comforts of our room with the soft pillows and linen making my sleep more comfortable.

THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

SERVICE

Without a doubt, the hotel staff and even receptionists would make you feel you’re at home with the warm welcome and efficient service they provide.  The attentiveness to details of whatever concerns guests’ have is one of their strong points. 

Apart from amenities, hospitality service is indeed world-class.

THE HEART OF DAVAO: MARCO POLO DAVAO

MARCO POLO DAVAO
P.O. Box 81540 CM Recto Street
Davao City, Philippines
Tel: (63 82) 221-0888
Fax: (63 82) 225-0111
davao@marcopolohotels.com

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