They say Cebu offers everything you need – from a weekend getaway on a lush and tropical island, to the most exquisite food fare, to all the luxury that a first class city can provide. And in Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island, there is no other place you’d rather be but there.

It’s no secret that Cebu is a fantastic place to visit. With its pristine waters, white sand beaches, delectable cuisine, and warm people, the Queen City of the South is one of the most visited destinations in the country—which is why “secret hideaway” may not come to mind immediately when you think of the city. If you ask me though, I’d still love a quiet, secret place in Cebu to lounge around, drink margaritas, and read a new book in. I found my Cebu hideaway in the backyard of Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is an international upscale hotel management company based in Switzerland, with over 90 world-class hotels and resorts located in 26 countries. Among its roster is the five-star hotel and resort on Mactan Island, the Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu. After undergoing an extensive renovation in 2012, the resort is ready to offer guests the ultimate, luxurious resort lifestyle with its world-renowned Swiss brand of hospitality.

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by the expansive white lobby, made even more dynamic and sophisticated with turquoise and apple green details and natural rosewood floors. Every piece of furniture makes a sleek and stylish statement, with world-class Filipino designers Manny Samson, sisters Ivy and Cynthia Almario, and Fred and Butch Valdes at the helm of the spectacular interiors.

The lobby then opens up to a space that connects the guests to all the hotel’s key features, such as The Forum—an elegant lounge featuring hard-to-find Cognac brands (most of which are exclusively available at the hotel)— and the Sails Restaurant, Mövenpick’s all-day dining restaurant. Other brand new dining establishments include the Ibiza Beach Club Churrasco Grill, which offers an authentic Brazilian churrasco experience, and the Ibiza Beach Club Tapas Bar, the ideal place to indulge in authentic Spanish and Mediterranean tapas and fine wines.

Mövenpick tries to move away from the conventional hotel or resort experience with fantastic facilities and a unique roster of activities. Aside from the private beach, their swimming pool (which affords you a spectacular view of the ocean) is a great place to take a dip in. Guests can also enjoy a wide variety of activities during the day, including yoga, Pilates, salsa dancing, culinary and mixology sessions. Mövenpick is also the best place to go for a wellness weekend, as the hotel’s Spa del Mar has fully equipped treatment rooms, a Jacuzzi and various relaxation areas. There’s even a game room where children can hang out.

Guests can also look forward to simply staying in. The island’s unique location gives guests a spectacular view of the ocean or the Mactan channel, depending on which room you stay in. (There are over 244 to choose from.) Each room is equipped with a mini bar, CD and DVD players, satellite and cable TV, and an expansive blue-marbled bathroom with shower and tub. The luxurious one-bedroom suite features a living room and a veranda, plush linens, and Chopard toiletries. The Presidential Suite, located at the hotel’s top floor, gives guests a 180-degree view of the picturesque Hilutungan Channel. With two spacious rooms, a living room and dining room, this is every family’s dream room.

The Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu is a premium example of unique Filipino hospitality combined with the professional expertise, reliability and attentiveness of the Swiss. Impeccable service, exquisite dining and unique resort lifestyle in a posh beachside setting is now within reach.

Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island is located on Punta Engaño, Mactan Island, Cebu. For more information, phone (+63 32) 492 7777, email <hotel.cebu@moevenpick.com> or visit <moevenpick-hotels.com/cebu>