A Review of Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort

This beautiful resort type beach front hotel is located in the Maribago Beach area on Mactan Island (Cebu, Philippines). It is completely enclosed with 24 hr. security at the gates. They also have security personnel patrolling the beach and throughout the resort. Staff are marvelous. They are everywhere, always greet you, and seem truly happy to help.A white sand beach is well maintained, and the deluxe beach-front suites provide guests with magnificent views of the ocean. All units have verandas which offer a pleasant and private opportunity to relax. A roped-off swimming area offers protection from boats and jet skis.A centrally located pool is provided for those who don't care for the ocean. It is large enough for the adults, but shallow enough for the youngsters to use in safety.Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort offers extensive, well-kept grounds. Amenities include spa, lounges, cafes, bars, beach front massage cabana, and pleasant landscaping throughout. Tours and island hopping are available on request. Scuba outings can also be arranged. A rental shop provides scuba and snorkeling gear as well as boats and jet skis.Pros: Facilities are clean and secure, with genuinely friendly and helpful staff. Grounds are beautifully landscaped. Guest rooms are spacious and well equipped. Great beach has pleasant, relaxing view. An excellent buffet breakfast is provided. Rates are very reasonable for a resort of this caliber.Cons: Rooms could do with upgrading. Floors are worn from constant exposure to beach sand. Televisions are old and have a limited selection of channels. Tubs and fixtures could stand to be replaced. On-site dining in the evening is limited and expensive. Although only approved canvassers ( tours etc.) are allowed on the beach, others lurk just off property, harassing guests with offers of every description.Overall rating: Excellent! Pros far outweigh cons.Travel deals available: accommodation only, all-inclusive with air.Rates: Highly variable. Check around. Price on resort's website for mid- August: Deluxe Garden suite from $139, Deluxe  Beach- front from $204. Bungalows are also available. All rates include buffet breakfast.For anyone planning a vacation in the Philippines, this is a worthwhile add-on. If your travel plans involve Manila, go for an all-inclusive package. This should include air (both Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific have frequent flights), transfers and accommodation with breakfast. As dinner is buffet and costly if purchased at the door, it might be worthwhile  to include this as part of your package.Cebu is a great travel destination and even the most discerning traveler should enjoy a stay at Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort.