New hotel uses pillows to attract guests

CEBU’S growing economy encouraged two families to partner for their first venture in the accommodations sector.

The Gandionco and Genson families set up Genus Tandem Development Ventures Inc., which now operates Pillows Hotel, the first of its concept business hotels.

The property along Gov. M. Roa Street or previously Kamuning Street is the ancestral home of the Gensons before they decided to build a hotel two years ago, said hotel manager Joan-Paula G. Zanoria in an interview last Monday.

“We started building in October 2012 and we recently had a soft opening,” she said. The eight-story building houses 43 rooms.

The hotel offers something different from pension houses in the area.

“From the name itself, we offer pillow options to our guests. They can choose different types of pillows such as orthopedic pillows, anatomic, memory foam pillows and more,” Zanoria said.

The hotel is near major establishments including hospitals and business centers.

Zanoria said since they opened in September 1, they have long-staying guests including those who come to Cebu for medical treatments.

“We cater to foreign and domestic travellers, business travellers, medical tourists — those who come here for treatments that require them to stay for a longer period,” she said.

The owners value good quality sleep for their guests, affordability and five star service.
Room rates range from P1,400 to P3,400 including breakfast.

The hotel has five standard rooms, 26 superior rooms, nine deluxe rooms and six premier suite rooms, she said.

The hotel also has an all-day dining cafe which is a business partnership with Lady O. The area used to be Julie’s Fastfood which can accommodate 20 people.

“We will soon have a workout fitness gym at the seventh floor which will open by the first quarter of 2015. It will be a standard gym with equipment like those for cardio exercise and weights.”

Pillows Hotel is owned by Rico and Judith Gandionco, who are both doctors, and their son Jose Rodrigo Gandionco; and Joselito Genson and Nimfa Genson.

Dr. Rico Gandioco’s other businesses include Mang Tinapay Bakery, Doki Realty Lessor, Inc. and a franchise of 7-Eleven.

The owners invested P80 million for the hotel.

Zanoria said they are confident that their unique service will help them compete in the market and grow the business.

“We will take advantage of our location plus the unique offering we give to guests especially those who travel on a budget but want the best service for their money,” she said.

This early, the group is looking at mid-term expansion plans including another hotel in Mandaue City and Capiz in Aklan.