VW Passat pampers Makati Shangri-La guests
IT’S NOT just the destination, but the journey that counts.
While guests can expect to be pampered at Makati Shangri- La hotel, a new partnership ensures that guests can also be pampered going to and from the hotel.
Two days ago, Volkswagen turned over 31 VW Passat limousines which completed the 80 Volkswagen cars ordered by Makati Shangri-La hotel. “Along with the hotel’s acquisition of Jetta sedans, there is now that luxury package that the partnership between a world-class hotel and a world-class automaker can offer,” announced John Philip Orbeta, President and
CEO of Volkswagen Philippines ( VW Philippines), during the Passat Ceremon ia l Turnover at the Makati Shangri-La hotel last November 5.
The collaboration brings together luxury hotel service with premium transportation experience by two world- renowned brands. Makati Shangri-La is a fivestar luxury hotel strategically located in the heart of the Philippines’ financial center. Through Nissan Car Lease, VW Passat extends the premium hotel experience literally beyond the premises of Makati Shangri-La.
The VW Passat, with a prestigious 42- year lineage, has earned rave reviews around the world. It was crowned the 2015 European Car of the Year for its passenger and cargo space, refined and quiet ride, powerful engine, and top safety standards. It was also recognized in the 2015 Geneva Motor Show for Best in Class Performance on interior and technology. Also rating highly in safety, the Passat was awarded with a 5-Star Euro NCAP Crash Test Rating.
The VW Passat is a perfect fit for the level of excellence reached by Makati ShangriLa. For seven consecutive years since 2009, Makati Shangri-La has been named by the Business Traveller (Asia Pacific) as the “Best Business Hotel in Manila.”
I personally discovered what’s in store for Makati Shangri- La guests when they ride the VW Passat. Guests are guaranteed to be pampered in the Passat’s stylish and comfortable soft Nappa leather seats. Spacious leg room, several compartments, and large drink holders characterize the passenger area. Guests also have an option to view the sky through the Passat’s large sun- roof. There is enough room for luggage with the Passat’s generous trunk space.
The interiors are elegant with a color touchscreen in the center console, which mirrors many apps from a smartphone when connected via USB plug. Technology features include Bluetooth phone connectivity and audio streaming, a CD player and two SD card slots cleverly hidden inside the Passat’s glove compartment. The Passat’s three- zone climate control allows the driver, front- seat passenger and rear passengers to set temperatures independently.
Some people say that the journey is more important than the destination. If that were true, the VW Passat is the type of car that will make guests want to stay in Makati Shangri- La just to get the Passat experience.
Mr. Orbeta put it succinctly when he said, “in the Passat, hotel guests can find their own Shangri-La.”
Atty. Karen Jimeno is a lawyer licensed to practice in the Philippines and New York. She co- anchors for New Day on CNN Philippines Mondays to Fridays, 6- 7: 30AM. She is also an avid motorist who incorporates different cars and her driving experiences with her professional life.