What place comes to mind when we say fine chocolate, the Alps, luxury watchmaking, ski resorts and impeccable banking systems? Here’s a clue — it’s home to Toblerone.
We’re talking about Switzerland, of course! Many people don’t know too much about this cultural melting pot of a country (it’s a combination of the heritage of its predominantly Italian, French and German citizens), yet the peace-loving nation celebrates its 725th “birthday†this year.
(All Things Swiss Set Menu)
It truly is a beautiful place to visit that’s full of natural wonders and manmade structures perfectly fitting together. Only, all that beauty does come with a considerable price tag that deters tourists more often than it should.
But what if we brought the best of Switzerland to you — while taking away the hefty travel price tag — beginning with their chocolate, followed by their freshly made cheeses, then ending with musical delights performed by the Swiss Military Band?
August holds some pretty great news as Marco Polo Ortigas does exactly that and more. The hotel invites everybody to celebrate the historic day with all-Swiss festivities beginning on August 19 lasting up to September 4, 2016.
Chocolate, cheese and wine buffets await the hungry guest, with cooking classes headed by Marco Polo Hong Kong Executive Chef Rolf Jaeggi to teach sophisticated palates the secrets behind traditional Swiss dishes like Beef Carpaccio with Beef Tartar, Quail Egg, Mache Leaves and Lemon Pepper Marinade, tender Veal Zurichoise with Roesti Potatoes, and the scrumptious dessert Plum Tart with Vanilla Snaps and Whipped Cream.
(Marco Polo Hong Kong Executive Chef Rolf Jaeggi)
More of a dessert person? There are praline making workshops to top off the experience for the sweet tooth!
Go for a walk and marvel at Victorinox timepieces that will also be on display and before you know it, all that walking is leading you to right back for a second round at that buffet.
All of these activities are set against a backdrop of the Swiss Military Band composed of fourteen members that will welcome yet another year of peace, prosperity and stability ahead with upbeat tunes and sounds that are sure to keep the Swiss spirit soaring.
For more information about schedules, rates and venues for these activities, contact (02) 720 7777, email manila@marcopolohotels.com or visit facebook.com/MarcoPoloOrtigasManila and follow @MarcoPoloManila on Twitter or Instagram.
(The Swiss Military Band)
