The underwater world is like a carnival！ Mactan Island, a “healing” holiday paradise

Reporter Chen Ziying / Report from the Philippines

A carefree, do-nothing style of travel is increasingly favored by busy modern people.“Being able to leave worries behind and bask in the sunshine of the south—this is my Shangri-La.” A blogger once wrote these words, describing none other than Shangri-La Mactan in Cebu, Philippines.Nestled within the calm waters of the Mactan Channel, with its azure sea and pristine, fine sandy beaches, the all-white buildings of Shangri-La are located on the easternmost tip of Mactan Island, a premier holiday destination.


▲ Shangri-La Mactan is situated within the tranquil waters of the Mactan Channel, with its stunning blue seas and clean, delicate beaches—an unforgettable beauty. (Photo provided by Shangri-La Mactan)


▲ The healing view of the sea meeting the sky and tropical jungle can be enjoyed from Shangri-La. (Photo by reporter Chen Ziying)

With its unhurried pace, leisurely atmosphere, and healing ambiance, Mactan Island—with its international airport located right on the island—has become a must-visit for travelers heading to Cebu in recent years. Shangri-La, located in Lapu-Lapu City on Mactan Island, spans 13 hectares and boasts 350 meters of white sandy beach.China Sales Manager Li Yongfeng said that this hotel is the only five-star resort in the area. Its 13 hectares are filled with tropical plants and mesmerizing seascapes. Out of the hotel’s 530 rooms, 161 offer ocean views.The sense of comfort Shangri-La provides can be felt as soon as you enter its spacious and grand lobby.

 
▲ The sea-view suites are designed so you wake up facing the ocean. (Photo by reporter Chen Ziying)

Change into something simple in your room, take a few steps, and you’ll arrive at the hotel’s private beach, stepping onto the tangible soft white sand.You can get close to the crystal-clear waters and swim alongside fearless fish at any time. Activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, water skiing, and kayaking are available, making them some of the most appealing offerings of the hotel.It is understood that Shangri-La established a marine conservation zone in 2007, preserving over 160 species of fish, clams, and various corals here. Different kinds of fish continue to “migrate” into the protected area.These include angelfish, butterflyfish, clownfish, Moorish idols, pufferfish, and more, turning the underwater world here into a lively carnival.

 
▲ Endless enjoyment of sun, sand, and sea. (Photo by reporter Chen Ziying)


▲ % Before entering the sea, one can... (text cut off, but context suggests it's about the variety of underwater life and colors, showing Filipino inclusiveness toward historical events). (Photo by reporter Chen Ziying)
  



▲ % The marine conservation zone here preserves over 160 species of fish, clams, and various corals, with new species continually "moving in," creating a lively underwater carnival. (Photo provided by Shangri-La Mactan)