Two weeks ago, I received an invitation to fly to Manila for the Resorts World Manila Christmas Familiarization Tour. Like a natural muscle response, I immediately said yes without checking my calendar. Opportunities like this only knock once so I grabbed the chance even if I was unsure of my schedule yet. Thankfully, the stars aligned for me and everything just fell right into place.

We arrived bright and early on a Thursday morning and immediately had lunch with RWM’s Integrated Marketing Team. Right next to our table was the cast and production team of Annie. It was a privilege to have our photos taken with Annie Director, Mr. Michael Stuart Williams.

Right after lunch, we settled into our premier rooms at Remington Hotel. I didn’t expect to have my own private space, but it’s Resorts World Manila we’re talking about here. I did an impromptu room tour via FB Live. You can click here if you want to check that out. The room was truly spacious and it was a perfect respite for me to de-stress and rejuvenate.

Grand Fiesta 2016

After a good 3 hours of rest, I prepped up for the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony to kick-start the Grand Fiesta  2016, a month-long celebration of delightful entertainment, topnotch cuisine, great family events and a showcase of the best in Filipino culture. This is how Resorts World Manila encapsulates a true Filipinos Christmas celebration. Included in this year’s lineup of performances are 70’s Filipino Classics in Yugyugan Nation, Lea Salonga, Bamboo and a lot more.

Following the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony was the White and Silver Media Appreciation Night held at House Manila in Remington Hotel. I truly enjoyed the performances, especially when the 70’s band, Boyfriends showed up on stage. Well, what can I say? I got influenced by my dad.  There were also a lot of prizes raffled off, but geez, I never get lucky on raffles.

Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom Tour

The next day, we woke up early for a tour at the Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom. Can I just say, Marriott Hotel is nothing short of grandiose. The hotel’s interior is laced with gold details, which I’m totally digging.

After the tour, we had a quick lunch at Passion’s in Maxims Hotel and then headed back to our rooms to rest before our much awaited part of the trip, well at least for me anyway.

Annie the Musical

I have to be honest, the moment I saw our full itinerary, I almost squealed in excitement when I found out we will be watching Annie the Musical. I think the last time I watched a musical play was 4-5 years ago, and I believe it was Sound of Music.

The play was awesome. Good actors and singers. Krystal Brimner was truly lovely and adorable, and Michael de Mesa playing as Oliver Warbucks surprised me. I know he’s a good actor, but I didn’t know he could do theater acting really well. Don’t miss watching Annie, you won’t be disappointed. =)

The experience was definitely one for the books! It was an honor to represent Davao Bloggers Society with Sarah in such a prestigious event.

I would like to thank the Resorts World Manila team especially to Mae, Christine, Sir Owen, and Sir Archie for taking good care and spoiling us. Until next time! 🙂