The Asian Pacific Poker Tour is once again descending on the gorgeous Philippine province of Cebu. This stop is a favorite among players and often referred to as the PCA of the APPT. Cebu is nestled among the beautiful mountainous islands of South East Asia and offers endless adventure. One can find rock climbing, trekking, water skiing, scuba diving, golfing, fishing, and even safaris right at your fingertips. The aquatic life is said to be among the most incredible in the Australasian region.
Although players may be inclined to never leave the luxury of the Shangri-La Mactan Resort which will again play host as the official hotel for PokerStars players. The Shangri-La is a world-renowned holiday destination and with good reason. It features white sand beaches, well kept grounds, water activities, an assortment of restaurants and bars, and also one of the most of prestigious spas in the Philippines. This is a stop where a bust out might just land you pool side with a frozen beverage.
This tropical paradise is more than meets the eye. The area is rich with tradition and history. Embedded throughout the city are monuments memorializing the epic moments of the past.
Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan arrived in Cebu in 1521 arrived in Cebu to colonize its natives and introduce them to Christianity. Interesting Cebu touts both a monument to Magellan and a shine to honor the man who killed him. Magellan’s Cross is also available to see and free not far from the Magellan Shrine or the Shrine of Lapu-Lapu. Magellan’s Cross is the original cross planted by Magellan upon his arrival in Cebu.
Last seasons APPT Cebu made poker history when Team PokerStars Pro Young-shin Im became the first woman to win an APPT event. She bested a field of 236 players to take home the first place prize of PHP 5.81 million. She will return to defend her title this season.
The event will be taking place at the Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino from April 25 through 30. The Main Event will cost PHP100,000, but there will side events ranging from PHP 10,000 to PHP 250,000. As always PokerStars will be offering a variety of games and you can follow all the action on the pokerstarsblog.com.
VITALS:
Time: GMT+8
Language: The official language is Tagalog but English is widely spoken.
Climate: Cool in April when the APPT takes place; light casual clothing is recommended.
Currency + money: the Philippine Peso. Approximate exchange rates: $1 US = 44 Pesos. International credit cards are accepted in major establishments.
