With many diverse attractions and offerings, it’s no wonder why many people flock to this metropolis down south. So much so that Ayala-owned Seda Hotels operates not one, but two hotels—Seda Central Bloc Cebu and Seda Ayala Center Cebu– that cater to visitors old and new.
Text and photos by DEXTER FRANCIS DE VERA
Cebu City, often hailed as the “Queen City of the South,” is a captivating blend of history, culture and modern dynamism. As the Philippines’ oldest city and a bustling metropolis outside Luzon, it certainly offers a unique and unforgettable experience for both first-timers and repeat visitors.
From its storied past, evident in the city’s majestic baroque churches, to its soaring skyscrapers, Cebu is a city of contrast. Its rich heritage, vibrant culture and delicious flavors coupled with a thriving economy, make it a popular destination for both local and international travelers. For the ultimate Cebu experience, staying in the heart of the city provides easy access to all that this remarkable destination has to offer.
Heritage and cityscape
Begin your Cebu adventure with a visit to the Temple of Leah, a breathtaking tribute to enduring love. Located along the Cebu Transcentral Highway, this majestic structure was built by Teodorico Soriano Adarna in memory of his late wife, Leah. Inspired by Greek and Roman architecture, the temple houses 24 chambers, including a museum, art gallery and library, filled with personal belongings that celebrate Leah’s life. Its grandeur, adorned with statues of lions and a grand staircase guarded by brass angels, has earned it the moniker “The Taj Mahal of Cebu.”
For a splash of color, head to the Sirao Flower Garden in Busay. Often called “The Little Amsterdam,” this enchanting spot transports visitors to a virtual Dutch landscape with its vibrant fields of blooms. Lose yourself in a kaleidoscope of blooms as you stroll through meticulously manicured gardens against a stunning mountain backdrop.
For a breathtaking view of the city, make your way to Tops Observatory. Recently reopened after undergoing a series of renovations, the rebranded “The Circle” offers an expanded viewing deck for taking in the city’s skyline.
To delve into Cebu’s rich history, explore bustling Colon Street. Home to the Basilica del Sto. Niño, this historic district offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Immerse yourself in the Old World charm, take a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride and explore shops selling unique souvenirs. Colon Street also comes alive during the famous Sinulog Festival.
Whether you’re drawn to grand monuments, natural beauty or cultural heritage, Cebu City offers a diverse range of experiences.
Smooth as silk
Cebu’s dynamic spirit is evident in its thriving commercial districts. Business hubs like Cebu Business Park and Cebu IT park serve as the city’s economic powerhouses. These areas offer unparalleled convenience with easy access to ATMs, world-class dining and premier shopping destinations like Ayala Center Cebu and Ayala Malls Central Bloc.
Being a highly urbanized city, Cebu boasts a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts, there’s something for everyone. For an unforgettable stay, consider indulging in the lap of luxury of two of its newest downtown hotels, where exquisite dining, rejuvenating spas and stunning rooftop bars elevate the guest experience.
Seda Hotels has established a strong presence in Cebu with two prime locations—Seda Central Bloc Cebu in IT Park and Seda Ayala Center Cebu in the Business Park. These properties exemplify the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional hospitality in the heart of booming Cebu.
Seda Central Bloc Cebu, a contemporary 214-room tower, opened its doors in 2020. Nestled in the city’s burgeoning tech hub Cebu IT Park, the hotel offers convenient access to various lifestyle options, from shopping to food, work to recreation. Guests can seamlessly transition from work to play with direct access to Ayala Mall Central Bloc on the fifth floor. Just a 40-minute drive from Mactan International Airport, this modern oasis is perfect for both business and leisure travelers.
Seda Central Bloc Cebu offers a flexible accommodation experience. The hotel provides standard guest rooms for short stays and 41 serviced apartments designed for extended visits or family getaways. These apartments feature living and dining areas, kitchenettes and washer-dryers, offering the comforts of home. Ranging from studios to three-bedroom units, there’s a perfect space to suit every traveler’s needs.
The hotel is also leading the charge in sustainable hospitality. It has, for instance, installed a cutting-edge 53 KWP solar panel system—a first for both Seda and Cebu. This innovative initiative, aptly named “The Green Initiative,” utilizes advanced Japanese technology to harness solar power across a 100-square-meter rooftop area. By significantly reducing reliance on LPG and generators, the hotel is making strides in offsetting its carbon footprint. General manager Ron Manalang believes this is just the beginning, hinting at future green projects for other Seda locations.
Misto, Seda’s signature restaurant, is home to a state-of-the-art griller capable of roasting to perfection a whole Cebu lechon — the hotel’s signature dish. Crafted by renowned lechonero and resident sous chef Crisanto Palang Jr., this seasonal specialty is a must-try. Guests can savor this exquisite feast by pre-ordering their lechon in advance. Beyond the lechon, Misto’s menu features innovative dishes like Chef Crisanto’s reimagined sinuglaw and lemongrass chicken lollipops, both award-winning creations that showcase the restaurant’s culinary prowess.
Cap off your day at Cebu IT Park’s rooftop bar, Straight Up. Perched high above the city, this stylish venue offers stunning skyline views, a diverse drink menu and daily happy hour specials. Open from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., it’s the perfect spot to unwind and socialize. As Manalang puts it, “Our commitment extends beyond exceptional accommodations and dining. We strive to create a positive impact on the community through sustainable practices while ensuring our guests have an unforgettable experience.”
On the other side of the city, Seda Ayala Center Cebu is a 301-room hotel that seamlessly blends the city’s rich history with contemporary comfort. Under a different brand during its previous life, the property underwent a significant transformation in 2018 to become part of the Seda family. Its prime location in Cebu Business Park, adjacent to Ayala Center Cebu, offers guests convenient access to the city’s financial hub and upscale shopping.
The hotel’s interior reflects a harmonious fusion of old and new. The grandeur of the past is evident in the high-ceilinged lobby, while the warm and inviting ambiance is enhanced by Filipino-inspired furnishings, including pieces by renowned local furniture designers Kenneth Cobonpue and Ann Pamintuan. This transformation has created a modern urban retreat that captures the essence of Cebu. Situated just 45 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes from the seaport, Seda Ayala Center Cebu is the perfect base for exploring the city.
The hotel offers exclusive “club rooms” and suites that provide an elevated guest experience. These accommodations provide access to the Club Lounge on the 12th floor. Enjoy complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails in this private sanctuary. Business travelers will appreciate the added convenience of a complimentary one-hour use of the private meeting room as well.
Seda Ayala Center Cebu is a versatile venue for both corporate and social events. Whether hosting a grand gala for 300 guests in their spacious ballroom or an intimate boardroom meeting, it offers a range of function spaces to accommodate any occasion.
Hotel guests can also find the all-day dining restaurant Misto that offers a tantalizing blend of local and international flavors with a contemporary twist. Guests can savor authentic Cebuano cuisine, such as salmon inun-unan (fish and vegetables cooked in vinegar), linarang (fish stew), and humba (pork stew with salted beans and spices) alongside global favorites. For casual refreshments, the Lobby Bar and Pool Bar offer a selection of refreshing beverages and enticing happy hour cocktails, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
The hotel also demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability through its partnership with GUUN, a Japanese company based in Consolacion, Cebu. The hotel’s solid waste is transformed into eco-friendly fluff fuel, a clean alternative to traditional fossil fuels like coal. This groundbreaking initiative positions the hotel as a leader in sustainable practices within Cebu.
The hotel’s commitment to the community also extends to supporting local farmers and fishermen. By partnering with local entrepreneurs, Seda Ayala Center Cebu showcases the region’s best produce, including artisanal granola, traditional sikwate (hot chocolate), savory dried fish and distinctive chorizo. Guests can savor the authentic flavors of Cebu while contributing to the local economy.
Rather than cancel each other out, Seda Ayala Center Cebu and Seda Central Bloc Cebu complement each other. According to Seda Ayala Center Cebu’s general manager, Gwen Dela Cruz, the two hotels collaborate to provide the best possible experience for guests. Through cross-selling, they refer clients to each other based on their specific needs.
For instance, if a guest requires a larger conference room, they may be directed to the other Seda property. This mutually beneficial partnership ensures that both hotels can accommodate a wider range of guest requirements. Dela Cruz emphasizes the team’s dedication to delivering exceptional service and comfort to every guest.
While Seda Hotels Cebu might seem like an indulgence, their exceptional service is something that is worth the splurge. Both properties offer unparalleled comfort, thoughtful amenities and culinary delights that elevate the guest experience. From the moment you arrive, you’ll appreciate the meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of your stay. Their consistent recognition through various awards for product, service and cuisine solidify their position as top-tier choices for discerning travelers to Cebu City.
