San Rem's 9th

CEBU, Philippines - What lured me to come to San Remigio Beach Club are the positive feedbacks I received from colleagues who are there on a regular basis.

They noted that San Rem has superb accommodations aside from its breathtaking views, lush gardens, serene atmosphere and spacious playgrounds.

The invite came in line with San Rem's ninth anniversary last May 14. Pickup time, at the Northwing Area of SM City Cebu, clearly indicated 8 a.m.

My son and I arrived at 7:45 a.m. for the long trip up northern Cebu. But there were already over 50 invited guests who, I learned later on, were travel agents and operators. Half past 8 a.m. and still the group couldn't move out from the assembly area, so some went asking what could have prevented us from boarding the assigned Natalie Buses.

It was a relief though when at past 9 a.m. we were already ushered to the waiting buses. Still, we had to wait. At nearly 10 a.m., a number of guys and gals arrived but earned the ire of one of the guests seated at the front row of the bus. "We have been here 7:30 a.m. It's so unfair. You could have told us to come at 10 on the dot," the woman started grumbling.

I would be very honest to admit that I felt the same way too. Imagine having a three-year old in tow? If we can come at 7:45 a.m., why do others have to keep us waiting? Later on, the hush-hush passed on and I learned they were the entertainers for the night's event. I rolled my eyes in utter dismay at the premium they give themselves – having very little respect for other people's precious time!

At 10:30, we got stuck for quite a time in the Mandaue City traffic up to that in Consolacion, a little past Barangay Jagobiao. So, you would know what time we arrived at the resort – it takes two hours and 45 minutes to be in San Remigio on private vehicle.

Even though it was an irritating start, it still was a right decision to come for the task of chronicling the event because, indeed, the Executive Suite where my son and I and our photojourn were billeted, stood up to its promise of allowing annoyed guests to "unwind and take a much deserved rest."

At P4,400 net, the suite has two queen-size comfortable beds with very soft and fresh-scented linens and comforters, as well as sweet-smelling towels; aircon, comfort room with hot/cold shower and bath tub, TV (local channels only), mini-ref, and a functional service area. This is best for a group of four persons. Another feature I appreciated about the Executive Suite is its porch/terrace and the pebble-strewn pathway. The area is off limits to cars, so it saved me from worrying about my child playing outdoors.

San Rem's pool is one of its many attractions. With a depth ranging from three to six feet, children's safety is assured and grown-ups had their fun too, most especially with the Zorball. Some took advantage of the two water slides, some relaxed at the Jacuzzi and reveled in its bubbling waters.

We checked the beachfront after lunchtime. The boat for the supposed coastline viewing and sandbar tour couldn't set out to sea because of the low tide. So, off we checked the sea pool where there's enough water for my son to wade in. He enjoyed it so much I had a hard time pulling him out of the waters.

Cocktail was carried out at the vicinity of the sea pool. Wide and with panoramic views of the sea and the awesome sunset, great feasting and partying happened that night with poi dancers, Lupon Anduyo Percussion Ensemble, Femme Aura, and San Rem's very own talents.

Great performances toned down the tension between those irritated guests and the entertainers who earlier caused the late departure from Cebu City.

To cap the feast, sky lanterns were lit and flown up San Rem's beachscape.

Here's my two cents worth on the meal crew, though: Stick to the rule of collecting meal stubs for control purposes. This would prevent people from rushing to buffet tables from every corner. Provide an attendant in-charge of serving sizes so guests won't be helping themselves to more than they can consume!

And another two pennies worth on how guests treat attendants: Respect San Rem crew's workplace. Present your meal tickets. Get only enough food you can consume. The leftover during the anniversary dinner was enough to feed those seven people, and another woman with a child in tow, who ended up glaring at empty food containers and a deserted lechon station. Crew had to later usher them to Gloria Café's Ala Carte.

I do feel the invitation came with a task to help promote Cebu as a place where people enjoy life - eating included - decently. Oh, well...