The cultural journey through the Silk Road at Marco Polo Ortigas Manila

THE CULTURAL journey from West to East marked a new milestone for Marco Polo Ortigas Manila with the hotel’s “Silken Voices, Silken Roads: An Opera Gala Dinner.” Opera, cuisine, and couture filled the halls of the Grand Ballroom of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila last April 18, as the hotel celebrated its second anniversary with its first-ever grand affair, commemorating Marco Polo’s 24-year journey through the Silk Road. The event was graced with elegantly dressed guests that experienced a travel from one region to another in one delightful evening. The journey on the Silk Road began with a Venetian collection of couture pieces by Renee Salud, inspired by the place that impressed the young Marco Polo and made the boy embark on a long journey. As models stood in the middle of the grand ballroom, Canapes from Spain, to China, to the Philippines were served, especially made by executive chef Lluis Pesarrodona. Chinese black marinated fungus, and Mahi Mahi Crudo, were just one of the savory dishes served to guests. As guests settled in, general manager, Frank Reichenbach, opened the ceremonies. Afterwards, guests were serenaded with Italian opera song, Libiamo, performed by Asia’s Got Talent Runner Up Gerphil Flores, the Philippine Opera Company, and Francisco Aseniero. The culinary journey continued with Italian, Middle East, and Chinese cuisine and French dessert. In one night, the hotel was able to bring its guests from West to East. The success of this cultural journey marks the start of the yearly celebration of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila. Call 720-7777, e-mail communication.mnl@marcopolohotels.com, visit facebook.com/MarcoPoloOrtigasManila or follow @MarcoPoloManila on Twitter or Instagram.