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
lobby and reception area provided a refreshing ambiance. Ushered to the reception area, checking-in
were done swiftly after proper identifications made.
DELUXE
ROOM
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
 |
| DAVAO KINILAW (PHP300.00) |
 |
| ROASTED TOMATO AND BASIL SOUP WITH FOCCACIA AND MOZZERELLA TOAST (PHP200.00) |
 |
| SIGNATURE BABY BACK RIBS WITH POMELO SALAD (PHP570.00) |
 |
| POMELO SALAD |
 |
| RASPBERRY CHEESECAKE (PHP180.00) |
 |
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.
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.
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.
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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