US-based Microtel hotel chain to open Cebu branch

Cebu’s quest to become the next tourism hub in Asia got a boost after American hotel developer Microtel recently announced plans to establish next year its biggest project in the country so far on Mactan Island.

US-based Microtel Development Corp. (MDC) plans to construct a 150-room “bed and breakfast” theme hotel between two major hotels in Lapu-Lapu City.

”This will be the biggest Microtel Inn in the Philippines,” said Dean Cid, Microtel Philippines resident manager.

Microtel Inn Cebu will be MDC’s seventh development in the country. Microtel has branches in Baguio, Tarlac, Batangas, Cavite and Boracay, which opened last Oct. 25.

Cid said apart from Cebu, the company is planning to put up a branch in Cabanatuan City.

He added that Microtel Davao is expected to open next year.

Cid also bared that Microtel plans to establish more branches in the country to add to its worldwide chain.

”As long as there’s traffic, ample business environment and good partners we hope to expand in every major province in the country,” he said.

Microtel opens its outlets to franchising at a rate of P1.5 million per room with a minimum requirement of 50 to 60 rooms per development.

The average area requirement for Microtel hotels is 3,000 square meters with a room size of 25 to 30 square meters.

The construction of Microtel Inn Cebu is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2007 with the target soft opening 10 months later, Cid said.

He said Microtel hotels have standard design and can be operational in less than a year.

Amenities in Microtel branches include chiropractic beds, restaurant, Internet connection, swimming pool, parking space and 24-hour security, among others.

Cid said unlike Microtel Boracay, which cater to the high-end market, Microtel Cebu will focus on “budget” travelers as its niche market.

He said room rates for the future Cebu branch will range from P2,000 to P3,000. (PNA)