The city of Bacolod, dubbed the "City of Smiles," welcomed a new hospitality player on June 14, 2024, with the grand opening of Citadines Bacolod City. This serviced residence marks The Ascott Limited's expansion into the heart of Bacolod, offering a stylish and comfortable haven for both business and leisure travelers seeking to experience the city's unique charm.
Citadines Bacolod City is strategically located, providing guests with easy access to the city's commercial districts and popular tourist destinations. The property boasts well-appointed apartments designed to cater to the needs of today's discerning traveler.
The serviced residence offers a variety of accommodation options, from studio apartments to two-bedroom deluxe rooms. Guests can also enjoy communal areas like the lobby lounge, a fitness center, and event spaces.
The grand opening ceremony held on June 14 was a vibrant celebration that echoed the spirit of Bacolod itself. Themed "Sinadya: Celebrating the Opening of Citadines Bacolod City," the event featured a Masskara presentation, a nod to the city's renowned trademark festival known for its colorful costumes, masks, and lively music.
The ceremony was officiated by The Ascott Limited's Country General Manager Patrick Vaysse; alongside Cebu Landmasters Inc. (CLI) Director of Hotels and Resorts Mathias Bergundthal; CLI Executive Vice President and COO Jose Franco Soberano; CLI Chairman and CEO Jose Soberano III, Capitaine Inc. President Alec Lustre; Capitaine’s Alexis Lustre-Sarrosa; DOT Region 6 Director Crisanta Rodriguez; Bacolod Mayor Albee Benitez; and Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose "Bong" Lacson.
"We are thrilled to open Citadines Bacolod City and to celebrate with the community through this special event," said Vaysse. "The opening itself, being my first in the Philippines, as a French man inaugurating a French brand, in this beautiful city, makes it very meaningful. Our goal is to provide an exceptional living experience for our guests, blending the comforts of home with the dynamism of Bacolod's cultural heritage."
The developer also highlighted the timely fact that Citadines Bacolod is now one of the largest hotels in the city, ready to accommodate guests visiting for the Masskara festival in October.
The property’s opening festivities extended beyond the ceremony, offering guests a delightful culinary journey showcasing the expertise of Citadines Bacolod City's executive chef. A wide array of dishes awaited guests, featuring the freshest local seafood alongside signature dishes like house salpicao and inasal, a famed Bacolod dish.
As the evening progressed, lively performances took center stage, highlighting the city's vibrant culture and traditions. The celebration culminated in a fireworks display that illuminated the night sky.
Cecille Teodoro, Ascott's cluster general manager, emphasized their dedication during the event, stating, "We are proud to offer a diverse array of dishes at Citadines Bacolod City, drawing inspiration from the rich culinary traditions across different regions in Asia. Our menu reflects the vibrant flavors and cultural heritage of our neighboring countries, providing our guests with a unique and unforgettable dining experience."
Citadines Bacolod City caters to diverse culinary desires. The Lobby Café offers grab-and-go options like pastries and coffee at Tam-is, while Pureza provides a sit-down bakery experience. Namit serves all-day dining, and Fuego Bar and Lounge specializes in steaks and cocktails. Poolside refreshments are available at Adlao.
"We're excited to showcase Citadines Bacolod City as a modern urban oasis with diverse culinary offerings," says Executive Chef Jose Mari Medrano, during the night’s festivities.
Beyond accommodations, Citadines Bacolod City offers an "authentic local experience" through its City Hacks program and Citazen staff. Citazens provide personalized recommendations and insider tips to help guests explore Bacolod's culture, cuisine, and hidden gems. They can also guide guests through the city's vibrant food scene, ensuring a memorable culinary journey.