Courtyard by Marriott makes for a great stop

Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo has become the hotel of choice of many tourists going to Iloilo.

The aggressive push to make the Philippines a tourism destination bodes well for the economy. Apart from providing local companies new opportunities for growth and expansion, it also attracted renowned international brands to invest heavily in the country.

More specifically, one can see the influx of international hotels not only within Metro Manila, but also in many key provinces that offer potential.

Marriott International, for one, had bet big on the “City of Love” when it opened the Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo in May 2018. And with it, Marriott brought its globally renowned brand of intuitive services and design, and seamlessly fusing these with the famed Filipino warmth and hospitality.

Since that year, Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo has become the hotel of choice of many tourists going to Iloilo, or those making a stop in this province en route to the other equally stunning islands in Visayas.

Your itinerary

Iloilo, in itself, is a destination worth exploring. If you haven’t been here, now is the best time to book that flight and make your reservation at the Courtyard by Marriott.

Here’s an itinerary for you.

At the Iloilo International Airport, you’ll be greeted with a dose of Ilonggo hospitality with their warm smiles and gentle demeanor. If you’re famished after an early flight, Iloilo offers a delectable cuisine. So better forget about your diet and dive in to taste the original La Paz Batchoy, Tatoy’s famous lechon manok, and fresh seafood at Breakthrough Restaurant.

After a hearty meal, head over to Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo, which offers 326 spacious rooms designed to meet the needs of the modern traveler. Take a quick nap or a nice warm bath before heading out.

Island hopping

Ready for an adventure? Hop on a boat that will take you to Guimaras Island where the world-famous Guimaras mangoes are yours for the taking.

Aside from the local restos, which usually include mangoes in their recipes, you can also take a tour to visit famous sites such as Guimaras’ Navalas Church, Trappist Monastery, San Lorenzo Wind Farm, and Guisi Lighthouse and Beach Areas.

Spa time

All that walk in Guimaras would have you feeling exhausted for sure. So when you return to the Courtyard by Marriott, it’s best to give those sore muscles a treat: a relaxing “Filipino hilot” massage to soothe your mind and body. You may also choose a rejuvenating chocolate or rose body scrub or a hydrating facial to regain a much missed glow, too.

You may avail of your massage in the comfort of your own room, at the spa, or the hotel’s outdoor massage canopy for a truly relaxing experience. Afterwards, a sumptuous four-course meal will be delivered to your room.

Next day, get your breakfast fill from the delectable selections served at the Runaway Kitchen—the hotel’s all day buffet restaurant.

Venture in the city

If you have time, best to venture out in the city and to Iloilo’s other famed tourist destinations. Marvel at the majesty and a whisper a prayer at the famed Jaro Cathedral or St. Anne Parish. Revisit history in the city’s many heritage and decades-old houses. Take a quick tour of Calle Real and soak in the city’s rich cultural history. Before heading to the airport, don’t forget to drop by at the Biscocho Haus where you can get your fill of Ilonggo delicacies.

This perfect retreat for the mind and body at the Courtyard by Marriott is priced at P8,627 per night, good for two people.

If you plan to visit Iloilo in December, Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo has got you covered. You can avail of their Holiday Indulgences package which includes overnight hotel accommodation, an international breakfast buffet for two and your choice of a festive holiday feast for either Christmas or New Year’s Eve dinner buffet for two or Countdown Party passes for two. This promotion is available only from Dec. 21 to 31, 2019. Rates start at P6,717 a night.

For more information, visit www.courtyardiloilo.com or call (033) 330-7600