Did you know that the Philippines is renowned for it’s shopping? The nation of mega malls is a treat for shopaholics and while Manila hogs the limelight, Cebu should not be overlooked. When deciding where to stay in Cebu, savvy shoppers will seek out a hotel near SM Cebu City, one of the premier malls in the region. Radisson Blu Cebu is a 5 star hotel in Cebu that ticks all the boxes and should be on your short list. Here’s why …
Where To Stay In Cebu City
Cebu is the 9th largest island in the Philippines and is billed as the Queen of the South. There are many reason to visit Cebu and it is estimated that 35% of foreign visitors make a stop in Cebu during their stay in the Philippines. Cebu City is the gateway to this fabulous island and we flew from Boracay to Cebu with Philippine Airlines. While you might be tempted to skip Cebu City in favour of the many attractions on the island, I highly suggest spending a couple of days in the capital before moving on. Cebu City is a bustling metropolis and we chose to base ourselves at Radisson Blu Cebu for a number of reasons. Radisson Blu Cebu is one of only a handful of 5 star hotels in Cebu, the hotel is near SM Cebu City where we planned to indulge in a fair bit of retail therapy and the Radisson Blu name is one we know and trust. Radisson Blu’s more than 380 unique hotels in the world’s most desirable destinations are perfect for the modern savvy traveller. Each stylish property incorporates leading edge design and individual experiences to their delight guests and service is a priority. If your budget doesn’t stretch to 5 stars, it is possible to do Cebu on a budget.
Read More: 15 Luxury Hotels In The Philippines (That Will Blow Your Mind!)
Radisson Blu Cebu Overview
Security is tight at Radisson Blu Cebu. Having been in the Philippines for a while I was expecting a car check on entering but I was surprised by the metal detector at the hotel lobby entrance. After the initial shock, I barely noticed and it was comforting to know guest safety was a priority. We arrived at Radisson Blu Cebu around 5pm, but those that arrive early will appreciate Radisson Blu Cebu’s commitment to ensuring your room is ready (subject to availability) if you advise your arrival time when booking. Staying at a hotel near SM Cebu City was a priority and it doesn’t get any closer than this. Radisson Blu Cebu has a dedicated walkway which will deliver you straight into one of Cebu City’s biggest malls; SM Cebu City. As you would expect from a 5 star hotel in Cebu, Radisson Blu’s common areas are seriously impressive. The luxurious lobby is vast but intimate areas encourage you to linger. The expansive grounds are lush with exotic plantings making it a favourite for weddings. One area that Radisson Blu Cebu truly excels is in service. The staff are attentive without being intrusive and are genuinely eager to please. All Radisson Blu hotels live by the service ethos ‘Yes I Can’ and they provide a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If you are not satisfied and they cannot make it right, you don’t pay. It’s as simple as that. We never had cause to call them on this as every element of our stay was seamless but it’s good to know it’s there.
Facilities at The Best Hotel Near SM Cebu City
As you would expect from the premier 5 star hotel in Cebu, the facilities at Radisson Blu are outstanding. The resort style pool offers a refreshing respite from the heat and the kiddies have their own dedicated space. Gym junkies are taken care of but I was more inclined to relax in the spa. We chose the couples suite and I got a facial while The Hubs went for a more traditional massage. I generally avoid hotel spas as the cost is usually prohibitive but the spa at Radisson Blu Cebu was very reasonably priced. The facial was first class and my skin felt amazing afterwards. Three restaurants are available for guest to choose from and the lobby and pool bars will quench any thirst. Of course in room dining is also offered in case leaving your luxurious room becomes all too much hassle.
Radisson Blu Cebu Rooms
Radisson Blu Cebu has 7 categories of rooms for discerning guests to choose from staring from a superior room and working up to the Presidential Suite. We lucked out and were assigned room 828 where the corner design afforded us a little more space. The neutral tones were calming and set exactly the right scene for a comfortable nights sleep. The complimentary chocolates provided on arrival were devoured in an instant! We had some pretty awful weather during our stay in Cebu City having caught the tail end of two typhoons. We had intended to explore Kawasan Falls and Cebu’s other stunning waterfalls but instead spent more time than we were expecting in our room. The Hubs enjoyed the free cable TV and binge watched the Philip Island Moto GP that he was missing from home while I indulged in the free wi-fi. The modern bathroom had everything we needed and I loved the ‘This Works’ toiletries. The body lotion was a keeper 🙂
Breakfast at a 5 Star Hotel In Cebu City
One of the perks of staying in a 5 star hotel is an amazing buffet breakfast. I am not a big breakfast eater, but I couldn’t resist the morning feast at Feria restaurant. The spread is incredibly diverse and every taste is catered for. I wandered slowly around checking everything out before I put a single item on my plate as I knew I would have to pace myself. The quirky signs made me smile each and every time I passed. My all time favourite item were the Berliners. These tasty little balls of dough filled with custard were divine. Go on, have two. I won’t tell.
Dinner at Radisson Blu Cebu
As I mentioned the weather was pretty gnarly during our stay. The rain was pouring and the wind was howling. It even uprooted a fairly large tree in the grounds. While we typically venture out for dinner, the prospect of heading out in search of sustenance in a typhoon wasn’t really appealing so we chose to eat at Feria. We had initially intended to order a la carte but when we saw the buffet we were sold. The Indian station was a hit with me and the sheek kebab was very tasty. The Hubs was a fan of the Italian station and went back more than once for his fill of pizza and pasta. Make sure you save room for dessert and I highly recommend the crepes.
The Final Word On Radisson Blu Cebu
Despite the weather we thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Radisson Blu Cebu. We had intended to explore more of this fabulous island including heading down to Kawasan Falls but it would have been miserable in the conditions and it was no hardship spending a little extra time in the fabulous grounds. Our hosts at Radisson Blu Cebu were exceptional. We wanted for nothing during our stay and the combination of the proximity to SM Cebu City and the dreary weather meant we parted with a little more cash than we intended to in the mall but what can you do. I highly recommend you check out Radission Blu Cebu for your next trip to Cebu. I just hope you have better luck with the weather than we did 🙂
Have you been to Cebu City? Does Radisson Blu Cebu sound like the place for you? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Until Next Time …
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Radisson Blu Cebu Is The Best Hotel Near SM Cebu City
Disclaimer: I stayed as a guest at Radisson Blu Cebu. As always, all opinions are my own. This post may contain affiliate links which will earn me a few cents to contribute to the running of this site if you make a qualifying purchase at no extra cost to you.
Agness of Fit Travelling says
Wow! This is an awesome review and a great read, Allison. Hotels like this seem like a dream to stay in. I am definitely adding it to my bucket list! 😉
Allison Smith says
It really was a dream Agnes. We had an amazing stay at Radisson Cebu ?
Megan Jerrard says
Thanks for the tip on spending a few days in Cebu city before moving on throughout the island. Radisson Blu Cebu sounds like a fabulous base – I really like the Raddison brand. I’ve been in a couple of hotels now which have metal detectors at the front entrance, U agree, I think the first time it’s a bit of a shock but it’s quite comforting knowing that their top priority is guest safety.
The staff and the facilities sound wonderful. That pool looks divine! How good is it getting a corner room! And breakfast does look amazing – I agree, nothing beats a good buffet breakfast done right! Sorry to hear that the weather was crappy, but at least you had a wonderful hotel to spend time during the rain!
Allison Smith says
I quickly got used to the level of security in the Philippines Megan but it really was a shock to start with. I had an Uber driver in Cebu that had visiting Australia so we got to chatting and he was equally as shocked at our lack of security. I guess it’s just what you get used to!
Kate says
What a luxurious hotel! And, I can’t believe they have a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Very impressive. I wasn’t aware that the Philippines are known for their shopping. But, now I definitely need to book a shopping trip!
Allison Smith says
The 100% satisfaction guarantee sure is a big call but we couldn’t have been happier with our stay so thankfully did don’t have to call them on it.
Elisa says
I know that you went to Cebu for a shopping treat but with a hotel like that one, I have all the treats I can imagine without leaving the building! As usual, you sold me with the swimming pool and the lush plantations around but I would not mind trying your facial massage, looks great! In addition, blue is my favorite color 🙂
Allison Smith says
The facial was amazing Elisa! I really need to do this more often!
Dorene Wharton says
Thanks for the informative post. I haven’t been to Cebu yet, but you had me at pool, Ramen bar, spa, gym. Great photos, wonderful spot to relax, as its not easy to travel around some parts of the Phillippines, this would be a welcome break to relax (and shop!)
Allison Smith says
The poor weather forced us to relax Dorene and in hindsight that’s not at all a bad thing lol
Shruti says
Haha, I absolutely agree with you about the breakfast thing. The reason I like booking a 5 star is the buffets! Nothing better than a good breakfast spread to start the day right. The hammock thing in the grass also looks like the perfect place to relax with a book.
Allison Smith says
5 star breakfast are just the best aren’t they Shruti! It’s such a bummer coming home to toast lol
Jennifer says
I much preferred the smaller islands for beautiful beaches and diving when I visited the Philippines. But it’s necessary to usually spend at least an overnight in the big cities on the way and a nice, safe hotel is essential. I’ve always loved the Radisson brand whenever I’ve stayed at their properties around the world. It’s good to know the same standards of quality I expect from them are also present at their Cebu property. And the signs at breakfast are adorable and clever – “lettuce celebrate”!
Allison Smith says
We loved El Nido and Coron also Jeniffer but I need a dose of the city every now and then ?
Harsh says
Hey, Is it okay to start the Phillip trip from Cebu or should I consider Manila? I’d love to stay in Radisson hotel – their properties are always luxurious and lovely.
Allison Smith says
You could do either depending on what islands you want to visit Harsh. We started in Manila because it is way to get a direct flight from Sydney but flights around the islands are frequent and reasonably priced so island hopping is relatively easy ?
Sandy N Vyjay says
The Radisson Blue in Cebu looks like the perfect place to launch your explorations from. What I really like about this hotel is that it seems to be perfectly integrated with nature and the environment without a single jarring note. It seems to deliver on the brand promise of the Radisson Blue brand.
Allison Smith says
It was perfect for us Sandy! Very close to the mall and given the weather as so bad it was nice to have a very comfy base!
vanessa workman says
Wow, as much as I absolutely love a great mall adventure, I would have great difficulty tearing myself away from this hotel. It looks like my dream hotel.
Allison Smith says
The struggle was real Vanessa lol
Lucy says
This hotel looks lovely and all your photos are beautiful. Shame about the weather, but at least you were somewhere safe and the hotel surrounding were five star! The food looks delicious and you are making me hungry!
Allison Smith says
The one thing you can’t control is the weather Lucy but we made the most of our stay that’s for sure!
Claire says
Wow, that looks like a lovely hotel and a definite oasis in the city! I have been to Cebu before and that looks like a lovely respite from the busy city
Allison Smith says
It sure was Claire. We had a great stay at Radisson Blu and would love to go back!
Kellyn says
This place is so beautiful, it looks like paradise. Thanks for sharing this review. I’d definitely book a visit here. I’ve been to the Radisson before in the states, but nothing anything like this.
Allison Smith says
It was my first stay at Radisson Blu Kellyn but I know it won’t be my last!
Kevin Del Prado says
I agree that Cebu is one of the touristy places here in the Philippines that’s why they put up much high-end malls and hotels there. I honestly haven’t heard of this hotel even if I had gone to Cebu several times until I read your post. It looks so elegant! I would consider staying in this the next time I visit Cebu.
Allison Smith says
Hope you get to stay in Radisson Blu Cebu soon Kevin!
Fiona Maclean says
I don’t know Cebu at all, but the Radisson looks perfect. I’ve stayed in Radisson Blu hotels in Europe and they are indeed, quite special. What’s impressive here though is that the hotel just doesn’t look as if is part of an international group – it has its own local identity. And some excellent facilities too.
Allison Smith says
I’d love to stay in some more Radisson Blu’s to compare Fiona but I find it hard to believe they would outdo Cebu!
Nathalie Caty says
The Radisson has to be one of my favorite hotels. My first time staying in one is in Iceland. I can’t wait to visit the this one in Cebu. It is so beautiful. I love the surrounding grounds. It is photographer’s heaven….very vibrant and lush.
Allison Smith says
This was my first stay at Radisson Blu Nathalie but it won’t be my last! We saw lots of weddings being photographed in the grounds and I bet they turned out amazing!
FS Page says
Radisson Blu is a chain of hotels that always lives up to customer’s expectations. Seems that you had a lovely time while your stay here. The photographs are amazing. The food looks delicious. Thank you for such an honest review.
Allison Smith says
It was my first experience with Radisson Blu so I can’t compare to other sites but Cebu nailed it. I’d love to go back in better weather.
Suruchi says
The Radisson Blu Hotel near sm Cebu city looks great. Rooms look quite cozy and the food is tempting too. Great Review.
Allison Smith says
The food was indeed tempting Suruchi!
Exploring Curiously says
This looks like a nice place! And it seems to be centrally located.
Allison Smith says
The location was a big draw card. Being so close the SM Cebu City was very handy indeed!
Chloe says
That lobby is incredibly gorgeous!!! I would love to go here sometimes! I miss the gorgeous tropical fruit (your photos had my mouth watering!), especially since it is winter here in NYC. And sign me up for a spa- I would love to spend a morning in the spa then an afternoon at that pool!!
Allison Smith says
I don’t think I would survive a NY winter Chloe. I like you plan for spending the day at the pool and spa ?
Anushka says
Raddision Blu always tends to make it guest happy. I love the lobby, it can light up mood of tired guest and those pancake looks yum.
Allison Smith says
I guess that’s why they have the confidence to give a 100% satisfaction guarantee Anushka. Certainly helps you book with confidence!
interNATionalcaty says
I stayed at a Radisson Blu in Iceland. The one is Cebu is phenomenal. I love the different options of food available. The lobby will make any photographer very happy.
Allison Smith says
I’d love to try the one in Iceland just to see how it compares!
PossesstheWorld says
Cebu and the Radisson look very beautiful, you have included all the information we would need. Thanks for sharing
Allison Smith says
It was lovely! Very worthy of the 5 star rating!
Dada says
First of all I am sorry to hear about the bad weather you guys had! That said, I think how lucky you guys were to spend the rainy days in the Radisson Blu in Cebu! I wouldnt mind getting stuck in there for a couple of days! It looks gorgeous! However, I am not sure I would have afford staying in this kind of place but I love having an insight of hotels so I could dream!
Allison Smith says
Exactly Dada! You have to look for the silver lining!
Neha says
I always like your hotel reviews since they are so detailed and cover everything that one looks for when planning to stay somewhere. The Radisson Blu surprisingly looks very similar to one I visited recently in India, at least the pool and the food spread look exactly the same. And I had a wonderful time at the one I stayed. So, I will definitely like to check this one out when in Cebu
Allison Smith says
Thanks Neha! I always try to write about the stuff that I want to know when choosing a hotel! Consistency is a great thing and I would love to compare Cebu to some other Radisson Blu properties.
Bhusha says
Radisson has a standard that it lives up to, everywhere! Good to know about the Radisson at Cebu as well. Good to know that the spa is reasonably priced. The greenery all around is so pleasing. Food looks so so so delicious…
Allison Smith says
While I’ve known of Radisson for a long time this is the first time I have actually stayed in one of their hotels. I’m sold! Can’t wait to check out more around the world.
CJ Haughey says
I stayed in a Radisson Blu at my cousin’s wedding in Cork. It was pretty nice but WOW, not on this level! Cebu is high on my list, heard so many good things and feel like I should give Philippines another chance after Boracay. Sorry you never got the weather but hey, not a bad place to be stuck inside!!
Allison Smith says
I’d love to go back and do everything the weather stopped us doing but you are right, it was no hardship being stuck at the Radisson Blu Cebu.
Lisa says
I’ve yet to visit Cebu, but have heard it’s a nice stopover before heading to the islands. Your hotel is incredible, and very luxurious too! Those Berliners look divine, and I would probably try everything in that breakfast buffet, just for research of course! A lovely read as always.
Allison Smith says
I like you style Lisa! Research is of course very important lol
Savannah says
I would stay here just for the food! They had different country stations in the buffet? Yes, please! And, I mean, if the weather is going to be horrible then it makes spending a day in the spa seem kind of like a necessity, and not a waste of exploring time.
Allison Smith says
They had so many stations in the buffet Savannah that it was hard to choose. I was disappointed the weather was not kind but it was no hardship hitting the spa that’s for sure!
Yukti says
Radisson Blu at Cebu looks so promising with all luxurious amenities and warm hospitality. As you said, the hotel staff is well behaved and treats you very well, this property has won me over. I first look the type of hospitality a hotel offers. Garden area is very nice place to relax and chill out. Despite of bad weather, it seem you had a comfortable stay in Cebu. Being a shopping destination, I would love to go Cebu.
Allison Smith says
The staff were incredible Yukti. They were genuinely interested in making our stay memorable and it was lovely. Bring your credit card with you if you love to shop!
lisa says
Wow what I way to travel… I am usually back packing LOL. That hotel looks to die for! I have been to the Philippines but to El Nido planning a trip to Cebu next. Those food pics have made my mouth water… Yum! I don’t think you have to leave your hotel looks like everything is there and the People of the Philippines are so nice.
Allison Smith says
I’ve long left my backpacking days behind Lisa but even when I was backpacking I always splurged every now and the to get out of the hostel lol. Radisson Blu is the perfect place to splurge! We also went to El Nido and there is more coming to the blog soon in that!
Samah says
This hotel looks fantastic! I haven’t been to Cebu (or the Philippines) yet, but it’s on my list. Although I’m not picky about where I stay, since I typically leave early morning and arrive late at night (basically just need a place with a bed lol) I would look into the Radisson Blu Cebu if I was taking a relaxing vacation, but that’s rarely the case as I’m always on my feet looking for the next adventure lol
Allison Smith says
There is definitely something to be said for relaxing Samah! We certainly would have gotten out and about more of the weather was kinder. You should definitely check out the Philippines for your next trip!
dennisallacross says
I haven’t spent a night in Cebu yet. When I went there once, I directly hopped onto a ferry to Bohol 😉
If I will ever return to Cebu, what I hope, this hotel will be on my list. The spa and pool areas look nice, the food delicious! 5 stars seem to be well deserved!
Allison Smith says
We didn’t make it to Bohol Dennis. There are so many lovely places in the Philippines it was hard to chose but we didn’t have time to do everything! The travellers dilemma right?
Aisha says
This hotel looks positively divine! The grounds are my favorite, so vibrant and lush! The rooms themselves also look like the perfect retreat to escape to after the end of a long day of exploring!
Allison Smith says
It sure was Aisha! I hope to return soon ?