Hotel Shangri-La di Bandar Lapu-Lapu

Mixed Experience at Maribago Blue Waters Maribago Blue Waters has always held a special place in our hearts, as we’ve loved coming here since we were kids. However, during our recent stay, we noticed some areas that could use improvement. While the more expensive rooms are definitely worth the price, the deluxe rooms at 7k don’t quite live up to expectations. They feel outdated, like they haven’t been updated in 20 years. The restaurant and spa are also quite pricey, especially the spa, which felt a bit too expensive for what it offers. During weekends, the resort can get pretty crowded, likely due to the number of walk-in guests. However, the staff are super friendly and always make you feel welcome. One highlight of our stay was the amazing breakfast, offering a great variety from local Filipino favorites to international dishes. We especially loved the guy selling ”taho”—it brought back some wonderful childhood memories! While we still have a soft spot for Maribago Blue Waters, it feels like some things need improvement to live up to the resort’s reputation.

Our stay was pleasant and smooth. Though the place is a bit old, it still serves its purpose with the pool and the beach access. It is also conveniently near essential stores.

Plantation Bay is again my favorite hotel on Mactan. I was there August of 22, January of this year and just finished a stay in May. Here are some things to consider about Plantation Bay: - It’s the only large Filipino owned resort on Mactan and they must treat there staff incredibly well because everyone I spoke with has worked there 10+years - unlike other resorts they have a no tipping policy - The large salt water lagoons are beautiful and large enough that they never feel crowded - Plantation Bay offers a variety of food options for every taste - They have a wide variety of on site activities and offer multiple excursions outside the resort for reasonable prices To be fair there were a couple of things that could improve but those are minor - The beach towels need to be replaced. The bathroom towels are great but the beach towels were old and thin - During busy periods when you call bell service or guest relations the phone just rings with no answer. Overall though, this is the best place to stay on Mactan. Great service, unique activities, great staff, and some of the best swimming pools anywhere Here are some tips: - if you are not traveling with kids, the waters edge rooms are amazing. You can step from your deck directly into the lagoon - Consider the Route 66 Diner for breakfast. Good food and never crowded -A romantic dinner at Palermo’s is a great option on site - I paid the extra $50 to have a car drop us off and pick us up at our room and it was definitely worth it. You get checked in/out at your room saving time Highly recommend this great hotel

Here’s a more detailed and broader version of your review: ”The hotel provides an incredible sunset view, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The staff are exceptionally friendly, accommodating, and responsive to any requests, making the stay even more enjoyable. The property is well-maintained, with clean and tidy rooms that are inviting and comfortable. There’s a pleasant, fresh scent throughout the hotel, adding to the overall positive atmosphere. A highly recommended place for a relaxing stay!”

My children had a fantastic time at this place! They enjoyed the waterpark so much that they spent the entire day there. Pororo Land was also a fun experience, although I felt that the two hours allotted wasn't quite enough and seemed a bit pricey. Nevertheless, we all really enjoyed the various activities my partner and the kids participated in. Overall, it was a memorable day!

Liked · Well-located, close to malls, businesses and restaurants. Just about 15-20 minutes to the airport by taxi, maximum. Room was huge and had a safe for valuables. Disliked · Where do I begin? I had to book this property last-minute, after my AirBnB cancelled on me also on the same day of arrival. The free shuttle they advertised came one hour late and only after I called at least 5 times once I arrived (and they picked-up the phone only twice). I arrived late to work remotely because of this. It did not get much better after that, as the restaurant food was WAY overpriced (much more expensive than in the USA or Europe, no less), and so were the snacks offered (if you get hungry, just walk across the street to Robinson's or SM and get something to eat there). The internet kept going down, at some point, 3 times within the same 2 hours (lost much more time of work because of this, and it was just a mess). I stayed here for 3 nights and NOT ONCE was the room cleaned or tidied up. The shower had low water pressure, and the bathroom also had a couple of very tiny cockroaches that came out at night. Will not be staying here again.

TV was not working but overall the stay and the experience was great. The breakfast buffet was also good altho if you want to avoid the crowd you have to wake up early.

Although our room was a little bit old, we enjoyed the garden and relaxing environment. Originally booked a night at Bluewater, but they were fully booked so we booked here. Although Bluewater has a better beach and pools, white sands is definitely more relaxing.

Very friendly staff which happily go out of their way to assist guests.Modern decor, room was comfortable with A/C, cable T.V and mini bar. There was an issue with the wifi which persisted over 3 nights, presumably connection to the whole premises was down.Great value considering the included buffet breakfast. Swimming pool is not big/deep enough for a proper swim, but nice to cool off on hot days.