Southeast Asia's First Seven-Star Hotel To Rise In The Philippines

October 9, 2007 8:06 a.m. EST

Manila, Philippines (AHN) - The first seven-star hotel in Southeast Asia will be built in the Philippines and the blueprint for the ambitious plans is ready for execution.

A joint partnership of Filipino and Chinese businessmen will build the country's first seven-star hotely in a new business district adjacent to Makati or in the capital city of Manila.

"The seven-star hotel will be similar to the one in Dubai," said Susan Barlin, co-founder of the CEO Club Philippines.

Dubai etched its name in the global hospitality industry as the first to build the world's first seven-star hotel, the posh Burj Al Arab.

The Philippine project will be known as the Pentominium and will be a combination of retail outlets, offices and penthouses.

The luxury hotel will be 35 stories and, like its predecessor in the Emirates, it will be exclusive to guests who can afford the top-dollar rates.

Barlin said her group has been scouting for a land parcel at least 2,000 square meters. Ground breaking is set for the first quarter of 2008.

The CEO Club is also planning to build hotels in other Philippine provinces known for their pristine beaches such as Bohol, Palawan and Cebu - all of which are south of Manila.