Here comes the midterm season, and being a responsible college student veered into the night study grind when suddenly, I received a random text from my ate (an elder sister to me). So she invited me for a night stay at Nustar Resort and Casino. No reason, no occasion, only vibes. I swear I do not know why she booked it, but she usually does not entertain this kind of business. But, I mean, when was the last time you simply went for a night in the most luxurious and expensive hotel in Cebu? Have some fun!
That sorry excuse for a hesitation popped up once. But come on, it’s Nustar, and damaging my discipline was a worthy thing to do, so I packed two sets of clothes and got myself a Maxim ride there. Once I crossed the threshold, I developed no doubts in my mind whatsoever.
If you don’t know much about Nustar Resort and Casino, it is the very first integrated resort in Cebu, hence pretty much the poshest in town. Located at South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City, this five-star hotel is the heart of a vast development consisting of a casino, high-end shopping mall, entertainment center, and fine dining. In layman’s terms, this one is Cebu’s version of Macau or Las Vegas luxury resorts.
As of today, the whole area is still a construction zone, whereas the casino, hotel, and some restaurants are open and flaunting wealth. If you by chance see it, just note to prepare yourself for marble flooring and a ceiling laden with chandeliers in an atmosphere that seems to have been imported straight from a billionaire’s weekend hangout.
For our stay, my sister booked the Fili Suite City View, one of the best they have, with an impressive view of Cebu’s skyline. My goodness, talk about next level!
Entering the Most Expensive Hotel Room I Have Ever Seen
As soon as I stepped into our suite, I knew I was not going to get any studying done that evening. This has got to be the best hotel room I have ever seen in my life. Everything just felt like luxury, from the design to the furniture to the smell screaming "expensive."
Fili Suite City View incorporated a lot:
✔️ The massive bed (the softest bed ever for me)
✔️ A huge television that I even didn't get to use because I was too busy enjoying everything else
✔️ A super-comfy couch fit for a billionaire's lounge
✔️ A tub-I wouldn't deny that I used it
✔️ Loads of free stuff-trivial toiletries but I took the slippers with me because they were that good
That kind of room wherein you just sit for a few moments in silence taking it all in, 'Damn, I made it.'
So after settling in, we went to Xin Tian Di, one of the fine dining restaurants at Nustar. Elegant setting? Check. Chinese fine dining? Check. A menu that screams- this is not your typical Chowking? Double-check. I must say, I don't really recall what we ordered anymore, simply because everything tasted great. Rich and flavorful, though, it was definitely worth every penny.
After dinner, heading back to the room was where I lost total track of time when I was supposed to be reviewing for my exams. Instead, I was:
- pumping music (because that sound system in the room deserved it)
- gazing out our window (Cebu at night is totally different from up there)
- lounging in luxury, thinking about life in general
When I finally checked my phone, it was already 3 AM. My exam was scheduled for the following day, but I hadn't studied for it at all. Honestly? No regrets.
The next day, my ate and I checked out the pool area before heading out, and let me tell you, it was huge. It wasn’t just your average hotel pool—there were definitely some infinity pool vibes going on, and the view was great. The downside to the experience was that it was still under construction, so a few corners hadn’t been polished to perfection yet. But when it is finished, it will easily be among the best poolside spots in Cebu.
Oh, and in classic vacation mode, I happened to miss class that morning. Zero regrets once again.
Was it worth it?
Yes, indeed! Nustar Resort and Casino was a rare chance, and I'm glad I took it. If ever a luxury staycation in Cebu is in your mind, that is the place to be. Beautiful rooms, world-class service, and overall just pure luxury.
Going back? Yes, as hell! Maybe next time I'll do some planning and not a last-minute show-up. Or not; some of the best moments happen when one says yes.
Till next time, Hivers!