“LOCATION is Seda Cebu’s primary strength,” said Frances Alfafara, Seda’s director of sales and marketing, of the recently-opened 301-room Seda Ayala Center Cebu. The hotel is at the heart of Cebu’s financial district and the only hotel within the Cebu Business Park. “The hotel is the Seda brand’s flagship property in the Visayas, and its address in Cebu will be attractive to both business and leisure travelers,” she added. That, I will agree to. I was in Cebu for work and leisure, and I was in the ideal location for both. Even in its soft opening, the hotel is busy. This validates Andrea Mastellone’s statement when CBP property became available last year, “Seda is ready to compete with all the other established hospitality brands in Metro Cebu.” The hotel’s refurbishing is in full swing with architect and interior designer Conrad Onglao on the helm. Of the 302 guest rooms rooms, 120 now sport the signature modern, minimalist layout in earth tones and appointed with modern conveniences; Misto, the all-day dining restaurant, Misto, the pool and the function rooms, which sport a lighter and brighter look with contemporary finishes and design accents, are open. “We look forward to completing all our facilities by Q4,” said Alfafara. The lobby though is impressive. It exhibits Seda’s signature open layout. The chic, contemporary look may leave you thinking if the hotel is indeed undergoing a facelift. Seating has been expanded and the reception area now flows seamlessly into the bank of iMacs for the free use of guests at the e-lounge and onto the all-day dining facility Misto. “Guests have always found the hotel convenient, a springboard to Ayala Center Cebu and all its entertainment and retail options, as well as to the key offices of multinational and international firms within walking distance,” she said. “Seda is unique in its brand proposition of creating seamless experiences. We strive to create a seamless guest experience by providing the best ‘Filipino Hospitality’ from the moment our guests walk thru our doors and all throughout his entire stay at the property—from checking in and out; to the functionality, ease, and comfort of our guestrooms.” The experience of warm Filipino reception in the most ideal address is a winning formula. The thought will linger long after checking out. “How do we build customer loyalty? Aside from our loyalty programs, sincerity of service and genuine hospitality,” shared Alfafara. For more photos of this feature and other travel stories, visit www.jeepneyjinggoy.com. For lifestyle stories, visit www.ofapplesandlemons.com. Email me at jinggoysalvador@yahoo.com