“Wise and balanced business decisions, cost efficiency methods, consistent process improvements, and continuously raising the level of hygiene and sanitation all became a factor in being able to survive the pandemic”
Nestled on the Tagaytay Ridge is a timeless hotel that holds a stunning view of the famous Taal Lake and Volcano and leaves guests floating in nostalgia with treasured past times and countless generations.
Located in the place known for its fresh cool breezy winds — Tagaytay City, Cavite — and away from the ordinary city life, the hotel’s cozy rooms and excellent service will bring people closer together.
In this time-honored place, bring back the early tradition of family gatherings when they stay in its elegant and classy rooms. Each room has everything they need to make their stay memorable and comforting such that it is equipped with complete modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi access, toiletries, welcome drinks and treats.
Everyone knows that a sumptuous and delicious feast will always bring people together.
From í la carte to buffet setting dishes, its highly skilled chefs have generously prepared a variety of traditional food to share with the new generation.
Besides staying in its rooms that give an opportunity to create timeless stories, there are places of nearby interests from the hotel where guests can go should they want to add “more fun” in their staycation itinerary. These are the Sky Ranch, Gourmet Farms, Casino Filipino, Flower Farm, Ilog Maria Bee Farm, Pink Sisters, Caleruega, People’s Park, and Orlina Museum.
When the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) struck two years ago, the hotel was one of the businesses which was not spared from the wrath of this global public health crisis.
The hotel was able to retain its focus on the safety of its guests and employees. While adjusting and coping with the changes and strictly following health protocols, the way it communicates has also changed.
Ramon Makilan, Taal Vista Hotel’s general manager, said that there is a new normal now and the more that they are creative in communicating these new ways, the better the business will do.
“Wise and balanced business decisions, cost efficiency methods, consistent process improvements, and continuously raising the level of hygiene and sanitation all became a factor in being able to survive the pandemic,” Makilan also said.
The hotel used the time during the low occupancy in several months to cross-train select colleagues, he added. Its Human Resources (HR) team ensured that to be able to maximize the colleagues full time, multi-skilling/job re-purposing has to be done not only for cost-efficiency but to create a multi-skilled approach.
The HR department has also provided services as assistance for the employees during the pandemic such as the 13th month pay was released in advance and leave credits were given in full despite the limited workdays of employees.
Among others, a work-from-home room package was also introduced, offering the conveniences of a hotel, a stable Wi-Fi connection, and a relaxing backdrop of the Taal lake and volcano.
The vaccination program of the hotel was held at SMX Manila. “We are proud to say that 100 percent of our workforce are fully vaccinated and 75 employees have already received their booster shots,” Makilan said.
Taking into consideration the lessons learnt from COVID-19, the hotel has capitalized on future trends, Makilan added, such as sustainability projects, new outdoor dining concepts, emphasis on educational and historical information, digitalization for safety (touchless/contactless transactions), and equipment (thermal imaging systems, electrostatic sprayers and UV disinfection lamps).
Taal Vista Hotel has strengthened its safety and health protocols by adapting several approaches to protect both employees and guests.
In the last quarter of 2021 (as compared to last quarter of 2020), our occupancy had a six percent increase and the average daily rate increased to 20 percent, according to Makilan.
“We noticed that (Metro) Manila residents were very much eager to experience holiday staycations and the joy of short domestic travels. Restaurant outlets experienced full capacity almost on a daily basis especially during the holidays and revenue increased to 79 percent,” he noted.
The hotel considers the availability of vaccines in the world as the start of the light at the end of the tunnel. “And with the continuous vaccination and adherence to safety protocols, may this be the start of building up the confidence of people to travel again even domestically. Based on the collective studies of the hospitality industry, we may be able to achieve pre-pandemic levels by the year 2023,” he stressed.
In line with the local government unit’s COVID-19 policies, only guests who are fully vaccinated and above 18 years of age will be allowed to stay and dine-in at the hotel. A completed COVID-19 vaccination card and valid ID are required upon check-in and dine-in.
Children or those below 18 years of age will not be allowed at the hotel, while pregnant women and those with immunodeficiencies, comorbidities, or other health risks are restricted from booking.
Meanwhile, SustainablySafe is SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.’s (SMHCC) health and hygiene program designed to provide its guests and staff with utmost safety and comfort.
Ultimately, the program is aimed at ensuring the wellbeing of everyone under the care of SMHCC.
SustainablySafe includes intensive and holistic sets of policies, following efficient and methodical procedures. It heralds a guest-centric approach in the prevention and mitigation of COVID-19 and other diseases.
The program is a clear reflection of SMHCC’s ideals that drive the company to remain dedicated, grateful, and mindful.
