CEBU, Philippines - Cebu has just got another addition to its exciting list of business-class hotels. It is named in Greek - "Azia" meaning "sunrise." And it seems to be warming up the hospitality industry of the city.
Azia Suites, launched on June 17, is located at 8 Rahmann Extension in the city's midtown, in the area between Gorordo and Mango Avenues. Obviously, it affords easy access to the business and social hubs, including shopping malls and night spots, as well as health and fitness centers.
The business market being its target clientele, the hotel provides personalized service, good food, and a relaxing ambience. It takes pride in its high-speed internet connection to boost connectivity and productivity of businessmen guests.
The hotel has a total of 60 well-appointed rooms: 15 Standard Double Rooms, 37 Standard Twin Sharing Rooms, three Family Suites, a Bridal Suite, and three rooms for persons with disabilities.
A fine local flair is noticeable at Azia Suites. Each floor of the nine-storey building bears a fusion of sustainable and indigenous materials such as lampakanay, bamboo, abaca, rattan, assorted shells and local wood products. The warm Cebuano hospitality is everywhere.
Security is given utmost attention. The building has double-glazed windows, which also keeps the rooms cool and comfortable. Not to mention that each room is sound proof. Each floor has its own security door that may only be accessed by registered floor guests.
Eco-friendly features are in place. Solar-powered water heaters, LED lights, energy-efficient air-conditioning inverter, are complemented by the use of plant-enzyme-based cleaning agents - signify the hotel's commitment not only to pampering its guests but also to caring for the environment.
The Omada (Indonesian for "group") Function Rooms can accommodate 20 to 120 persons. A gastronomic adventure with Azia as something Bahasa, Greek and Bulgarian is offered. Café Lazat (Bahasa Indonesian for "delicious"), at the second floor, serves all-time Southeast Asian favorites. Platela (Greek for "big plate") Grill, meanwhile, offers fresh seafood and Filipino dishes.
Raya ("heaven" in Bulgarian) is the bar on the 10th floor or the hotel deck with a spectacular view of the city. From here, every sunrise - as well as sunset and night - is a vibrant picture, true to Azia Suites' tagline "Painting a Vibrant Experience" for hotel guests. Photos by Joy Torrejos (FREEMAN)