Espina: Marco Polo in our hearts
Marco Polo Plaza Cebu has been a salient part of Cebu, specifically in tourism and business. The multi-awarded Marco Polo, an urban and business landmark, is situated 600 feet above sea level in Nivel Hills. It showcases a panoramic view of lush greens, 329 well-appointed rooms and facilities.
A large number of events I had in this hotel was successful. I was privileged to work with highly professional managers and their staff. Who would ever forget, favorite, Hans Hauri? Thereafter, we had Julie Najar, and presently, Brian Connelly.
Hans and Bo Hauri are close to my heart because of the friendship they extended to my family. I remember how Hans and his staff went as far as Argao during the funeral of my late mother-in-law!
Marco Polo was the venue of some of my big successful events: the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tourism Congress, the Miss Cebu Tourism pageant, the American Chamber Philippines-United States Friendship Nights, many consular, Department of Tourism and East Asia Inter-Regional Tourism Forum events I produced, managed and emceed. And all were “magnum opus!”
What makes Marco Polo different is its ”personal touch” with the media and its clientele. During these pandemic days, Lara Scarrow and Manna Alcaraz sent messages of concern. How touching! The hotel has extensive community projects as well.
All the other managers made our media events meaningful. It was always almost a 100 percent attendance because every affair Marco Polo gave us, specifically, lifestyle writers Nelia Neri, Jimmy Picornell, Flor Ynclino, Honey Loop, Chinggay Utzurrum, Joe Recio, Cookie Newman, Mayen Tan and Aissa de la Cruz, were memorable bonding moments.