Coming from our two-day Davao City stop for our recent Teal Magazine – Philippine Loop Adventure Ride 2024, we took a 146-km ride to General Santos City, marking our entry into the SOCCSKARGEN region.
It was a scenic ride from Davao City, passing through the beautiful province of Digos City in Davao del Sur and Malungon in Sarangani. The weather was a mix of scorching heat followed by a sudden downpour, but the few pit stops allowed us to revel in the beauty on this side of Mindanao.
A couple of hours into the ride, we were welcomed into the city of General Santos.
We all know this city—the famously known Tuna Capital of the Philippines, the home of world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao, and the thriving, highly-urbanized city of the region.
It is a city rich in culture and history, boasting landmarks like Plaza Heneral and of course, the lively fish port, where the freshest tuna is auctioned daily. It is also an ideal jump-off point when touring the region’s best attractions.
A Haven of Comfort in GenSan
Finding the right place to rest our tired bodies after the long ride was essential—and we are fortunate that Q Citipark Hotel offered us a sanctuary of comfort and convenience. It was our home for the next two days, and it provided an admirable experience of GenSan hospitality.
After a long day on the road, we rolled into the ample parking area of the modern hotel, where our bike was safely secured. We were greeted at the door by accommodating and friendly staff who made us feel instantly at home.
The rooms at Q Citi Park Hotel were a dream come true for weary travelers—spacious and meticulously clean, you’ll absolutely be enticed to immediately throw yourself into its plush beds that promise a good night’s sleep.
Looking into the hotel’s modern amenities, including high-speed Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV, it definitely allowed us to unwind and stay connected. The room also provided a space to catch up on work, which is definitely a plus for remote work.
The next day, we woke up to the complimentary breakfast buffet, which was one of the highlights of our stay. The variety of delicious options, from traditional Filipino dishes to continental favorites, guaranteed that we’ll be able to start our day right. Fresh fruits, hot coffee, and a selection of hearty breakfast options were perfect for fueling up before hitting the road again.
If you’re a foodie, Q Citipark Hotel won’t disappoint. Their Citi Bistro & Café serves delectable Filipino dishes, as well as classic Asian and Western cuisine, to accommodate guests from all cultures.
The café also has great reviews for its coffee, and so we tried one of their best-sellers, a mocha latte. It was a great coffee fix while we plan our next route. For dessert, we love their creamy leche flan. A small, round serving topped with a cherry capped off our delightful meal.
Q Citipark Hotel is not just about rooms and dining. It has facilities for business and events. The hotel has two function rooms, Broadway and Skyline, which can accommodate up to 80 persons, and The Boardroom, perfect for small workshops or private meetings.
During our stay, we observed that a couple of events were ongoing, which just proves that it is a leading choice for engagements and events in the city.
Despite having many guests, you won’t feel like the hotel is already crowded. You can still unwind on the stylishly designed couches in their lobby or relax in the spacious bistro.
Warm GenSan Hospitality
Throughout our stay, the staff at Q Citi Park Hotel went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed. Their genuine friendliness and willingness to assist with any request added a personal touch that made our visit even more special.
Their hospitality was second to none. From their thoughtful recommendations for local attractions to their warm and engaging conversations, they made sure that our stay was perfect.
To add, what we like about the hotel is that it is located in the heart of the city.
This hotel is also less than a kilometer away from Plaza Heneral, where you can take nice walks in the afternoon. We personally did, and it felt great to see this plaza with students doing their projects, fellow tourists snapping some photos with the giant GenSan signage, vendors selling goods, and locals just enjoying a lovely afternoon. This experience allowed us slow down and just feel the vibe of the city.
Shopping malls and government agencies’ offices are also nearby, which provides great convenience if you need to run a few errands—in our case, searching for a laundry shop and a pasalubong center was a breeze.
While its location is bustling with locals and tourists alike, you’ll still feel safe. The hotel’s 24/7 security also provided peace of mind, a key aspect for travelers like us carrying valuable gear.
Tips for Riders Coming to GenSan
For those planning their own Philippine Loop or any long ride through Mindanao, here are a few tips.
- Secure your stay at Q Citi Park Hotel in advance to ensure you get a room, especially during peak travel seasons. For room reservations, you can reach them via cell at +63 917 107 0539 or email at info.qcitiparkhotelgsc@gmail.com.
- Take advantage of the hotel’s restaurant and café to sample local delicacies and enjoy great coffee.
- Start your day early to beat the crowds at popular spots like the GenSan Fish Port and Plaza Heneral.
- The staff can help with travel arrangements and provide valuable local insights, making your stay hassle-free.
A Place to Recharge
Our stay at Q Citipark Hotel in General Santos City was an integral part of our journey. The combination of comfortable accommodations, delicious food, and warm hospitality made it a great stay.
For anyone planning a Philippine Loop or any adventure through Mindanao, Q Citipark Hotel is the perfect stop to recharge and explore the city of GenSan.
Plan your next adventure and make Q Citipark Hotel GenSan your home away from home in General Santos City. For the latest promos and updates, follow their Facebook page. For events inquiries, you can reach them via cell at +63 950 825 9329 or email at qcitiparkhotel.salesmktg@gmail.com.
Safe travels and happy riding!
This feature is in partnership with Q Citipark Hotel GenSan as part of our Teal Magazine – Philippine Loop Adventure Ride 2024.
