Wednesday, February 28, 2018

A Tourist's Compact Guide to Palawan's Top Attractions


We're taking you on a trip down Puerto Princesa, so by the time you set foot on a Palawan beach resort, the locale's nooks won't be as strange to you. If you want to know more about the city's top tourist attractions, then keep on reading. After all, you can't go wrong with trying to know more about a place that possesses so much character.

1. Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center
This wildlife facility features a crocodile farm and a mini-zoo that features various species endemic to Palawan.

2. Plaza Cuartel
This historical site gives travelers a glimpse of the second World War. A bronze marker that contains the name of eleven prisoners of war who managed to survive a massacre is found in the plaza.

3. Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Just across Plaza Cuartel stands this magnificent edifice that was built during the Spanish era. Unlike the old churches in some parts of the country that is made of limestone, this cathedral is predominantly made of cement.

4. Mitra's Ranch
Set in the hill of Sta. Monica Heights, this place is famous for the triangular-shaped mansion built in the middle of a spacious picnic grounds. The ranch commands a panoramic view of Honda Bay.

5. Honda Bay
A 45-minute drive from the city proper will bring you to the port of Honda Bay. This is home to various virgin islands like Pandan Island, Starfish Island, Cowrie Island, and Luli Island.

6. Dos Palmas Island Resort Philippines
This all-inclusive Palawan resort offers day tours for tourists. In here, you can engage in water sports, commune with nature, or simply partake in scrumptious food.

7. Ugong Rock
Those who love thrilling adventures will surely enjoy a trip to this place that offers activities like ziplining, spelunking, and trekking.

8. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
Considered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this world-renowned attraction features an amazing limestone or karst landscape with the most complex cave system.

Whether you've been to Puerto Princesa several times, or it's your first time to explore it, the city is truly a remarkable place to discover. So, while booked in a Palawan beach resort, keep this guide in mind for a vacation that is truly unforgettable.

Sunday, February 25, 2018

7 Ace Hotel & Suites Special Deals To Watch Out For This Year!

Pasig City, Philippines — Ace Hotel & Suites recently announced the first batch of promotions that they will be offering this year. These promos come with special rates plus various inclusions to make your stay extra satisfying. All are available on the hotel’s website, www.acehotelsuites.com, but we’ve broken them down for you below:
 

1. ACE HOTEL & SUITES’ WEEKDAY SALE 

Enjoy special rates on selected weekday dates starting at PHP5,553.60 w/ buffet breakfast & free spa services for two. 

Validity: February 1-8 2018 / February 19-March 25, 2018 / June 18-March 31, 2019 

FREE CANCELLATION 

2. ACE HOTEL & SUITES’ WEEKEND SALE 

Enjoy special rates on selected weekend dates starting at PHP6,1770.60 w/ buffet breakfast & free spa services for two. 

Validity: February 1-8 2018 / February 19-March 25, 2018 / June 18-March 31, 2019 

FREE CANCELLATION 

3. HOLY WEEK OFFER Book now to experience a relaxing and reflective stay for only PHP6,864 w/ w/ buffet breakfast & free spa services for two. 

Validity: March 26-April 1, 2018 

4. ACE HOTEL & SUITES’ SUMMER PROMO (WEEKDAYS) 

Summers are for having relaxing and having fun. We’re offering discounted weekday rates plus buffet breakfast & free spa services for two. 

Validity: April 2 – May 6, 2018 & May 14 – June 11, 2018 (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday check-ins) 

5. ACE HOTEL & SUITES’ SUMMER PROMO (WEEKENDS) 

Summers are for having relaxing and having fun. We’re offering discounted weekend rates w/ buffet breakfast & free spa services for two. 

Validity: April 2 – May 6, 2018 & May 14 – June 11, 2018 (Friday & Saturday check-ins) 

6. MOTHERS DAY SPECIAL! 

Celebrate the greatest women in our lives with special nightly rates plus buffet breakfast & free spa services for two. 

Validity: May 7-13, 2018 

7. FATHER’S DAY DEAL! 

Daddy, pops, or papa? Thank him on his special day with special nightly rates plus buffet breakfast & free spa services for two. 

For more information, log on to www.acehotelsuites.com or contact Ace Hotel & Suites in Pasig City via the following details: 

Phone Number: (63 2) 628-1888 
Email: inquiries@acehotelsuites.com

Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Bataan Is Your Next Destination For Group Outings

Yes, we see them everyday at the office or online, but having a team outing is also the ideal way to get to know your co-workers outside of the workplace. You can even go out of town with your best work pals. For something memorable and a unique experience away from the city life, have a team outing among the beautiful surroundings of Bataan. They have great natural landscapes, exciting outdoor activities, and you'll have the opportunity to get to know some of the well known provincial areas of the Philippines.

As a team, there are plenty of things to do in Bataan where you can all enjoy each other's company. For those who wish to stay within the hotel, it will still work too and you get to relax after weeks of working. Here you will be able to find a fun and comforting Bataan accommodation that is suitable and for the whole team. This is the time to plan exciting food trips or some outdoor activities within or outside of the hotel. If you were able to reserve a place to stay, check their website for some significant places to visit and facility at the hotel where you can conduct your team building activities.

When travelling with the people you work with every day of the week, you get to know them better as a person. If the hotel provides a facility where you can do some team building activity, go for it. Maybe a simple buffet dinner or lunch where everyone can bond with each other through stories and great food. A day or night swim by the pool can be a great way to chill as well. Doing these kinds of mini-corporate events is not only fun but it will help everyone learn how to build trust when it comes to working with each other.

Whether it's during the summer or leaning towards Christmas, plan something fun with your workmates like an overnight stay somewhere amazing. So for team outings or travelling with your best work pals, stay at The Oriental Hotel in Bataan where you'll get great online rates and one of the finest accommodation in the province. Simply book your reservations when you visit directly through their website at https://bataan.theorientalhotels.com.

3 Places to Go For the Ultimate Tagaytay Food Trip

Tagaytay is a haven of relaxation and rest for the Manila-weary citizens of the Philippines. This town is a quick escape from the busy city and can be reached via a plethora of transportation options, so it’s no wonder Tagaytay is packed on long weekends and holidays.

One great way to unwind in Tagaytay is to go on a food trip. Filipinos love to eat and hang out with their friends and family - and preferably do both of these things simultaneously. Here, we’ve compiled a list of classic Tagaytay restaurants to visit for some serious RnR.

1. Breakfast at Antonio’s

Have you really been to Tagaytay if you haven’t been to Antonio’s? Nestled by the side of the Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway, the bright blue sign of Breakfast at Antonio’s welcomes you to this cozy restaurant.

The interiors are wooden and in muted colors, exuding a homey feel. Enjoy their all-day breakfast menu while appreciating the stunning view of Taal Volcano from the balcony.

Must try: Tapa Breakfast Meal

2. Bag of Beans

Better call up and reserve a table at Bag of Beans because this restaurant always gets full. Bag of Beans is downright chill - the chairs have throw pillows to lean back on, and tables have curtains you can use to obtain some privacy.

Each nook and cranny is Instagrammable, but it’s the superb food and coffee that will keep you coming back for more.

Must try: Breakfast Platter (2 eggs, bacon strips, pork sausage, ham, hash browns, and 2 buttermilk pancakes), Shepherd’s Pie

3. Tsokolateria

Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Tsokolateria. Try out traditional breakfast dishes infused with tsokolate and tablea for a sweet tang that you never thought you’d like. You can sit inside in the cool shadows or outdoors to soak up some Vitamin E while enjoying the cool Tagaytay breeze.

Tsokolateria is part of The Boutique Bed and Breakfast, so you can also opt to stay here whenever you’re in town.

Must try: Champorado, Tablea

However, for a unique staycation experience, you can’t go wrong with staying at The Oriental Luxury Suites Tagaytay. Each room is designed tastefully with Asian artistry to enhance your Oriental experience.

In between trips out to restaurants and tourist spots, take your time hanging out in the hotel’s al fresco lobby, swimming in the wonderful infinity pool, or just watching TV in your room. For your stay in Tagaytay, hotel rates at The Oriental Tagaytay are a great deal for the quality of service you’ll be receiving. To check rooms and availability, book online through their website.

Keep Calm and Visit Caves In Leyte

If you’re looking for some adventure outside the city, you can visit this glorious place that’s not too far from this one unique resort in Leyte. For all our outdoor enthusiasts, there’s something special among the tropical wonders of the island that doesn’t always involve white sandy beaches or clear waters.

Though you will definitely get the dream getaway you wanted, you will realize that there’s more to see beyond the city. This is the opportunity where you’ll get to do something different and be in an activity where it will take you out of your comfort zone. For this particular part of your trip, you and some friends will take a van, following a boat ride to one of the most spectacular caves on the island. It may take a while to get there but it's guaranteed that you'll be rewarded with such an experience.

The Sohoton Cave is a timid but an enchanted place to visit. An ideal outdoor tourist spot where you get to discover some hidden mysteries that you might find amazing and fun. Getting there is even more fun when you discover a large gorge and other interesting plants you might find along the way. Have your cameras ready for some picturing taking on some of the extraordinary limestone caves that you can only see in Leyte. If you like a place that's mysterious and adventurous, this kind of activity is definitely for you. If you have a tour guide with you, make sure to listen to what they have to say for they have stories that might fascinate you. Just prepare your handy necessities like water, some mosquito repellent, and of course a camera to document this ultimate experience. You'll not only relax on your trip but a chance to learn new places that's beyond your comfort zone.

For those searching for where to stay in Leyte, book a room at one of the The Oriental properties. When you stay in one of their accommodation, you'll be close to some of the places you want to see with your loved ones. For a once in a lifetime visit to the caves, it only takes a 45 minute van ride from the resort. For reservations, book directly at https://leyte.theorientalhotels.com.

Wednesday, February 14, 2018

Bohol in 3 Ways: Different Attractions You May Visit in Bohol, Philippines


A getaway in a beachfront resort in Bohol presents a great opportunity to discover a set of must-visit attractions in the province. With the various interesting spots you will find around the locale, you will be up for a multifaceted holiday. Truly, among the many reasons the province is one of the favorite destinations in the country, is that a new type of experience is available at every turn.

Beaches
Bohol's prime tourist attraction is a set of havens for beach bums. The town of Panglao alone is home to 4 irresistable beaches.

1. Alona Beach is probably the most developed beach in Panglao. It is about one and a half kilometers long, lines with a slew of restaurants, bars, and various types of accommodation in Bohol.
2. Lying under the shallow waters of Bagobo Beach is the finest white sand you’ll ever see and touch. It’s so fine you’ll start wondering whether the beach is made entirely of cornstarch.
3. Like Alona, Dumaluan Beach is a white-sand strip running one and a half kilometers along. If you’re still undecided about where to stay in Bohol, this is the go-to place. Here, you'll find some of the most luxurious beachfront resorts in Panglao.
4. Doljo Beach takes pride in its crystal clear water. It is also within proximity to Doljo Point and Doljo House Reef, which are spectacular diving sites just off the coast of Panglao.

Diving Spots
Those who love underwater adventures will surely be thrilled to discover these diving spots in Bohol.

1. Found in the west of Danao Beach, Balicasag Sanctuary is a deep coral wall starting at 3-meter depth and going down to up to 60 meters. The wall offers a good chance to find various nudibranch, eels, frogfish, scorpion fish, and leaf fish.
2. A 15-minute boat ride from Danao Beach will bring you to Arco Point, also known as the Hole in the Wall. It is a shallow dive spot with maximum 25-meter depth. It is common to see giant frogfish, nudibranch, slugs, moray eel, and snake eels in this spot.
3. About 5 minutes to the west of Danao Beach, an old outrigger dive boat named Habagat was sunk on purpose. Habagat Wreck is a dive spot for experienced divers since the wreck is at 35 to 38-meter depth.
4. A 30-minute boat ride from Danao Beach will bring you to Napaling, steep wall dive with big gorgonians and black corals. Schools of barracuda and jackfish can also be seen here from time to time.

Historical Sites
Bohol is also a cradle of rich history and heritage.

1. Located at Barangay Bool in Tagbilaran City, the Blood Compact Site marks the location where Datu Sikatuna, a native chieftain, forged a blood compact with Don Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, representing the King of Spain.
2. The Dagohoy Historical Marker in the town of Danao was installed by the Philippine Historical Comission to honor the heroic deeds of Francisco Dagohoy. He led the longest revolt in the country against the Spaniards which lasted for 84 years.
3. Atop the Mt. Carmel Hill is a historical tower of adobe and limestone. It was built to serve as a belfry of a church which was burned down during the Philippine revolution.
4. Punta Cruz is an ancient stone watchtower built by the townspeople as a lookout for incoming pirates. The tower commands a breathtaking view of the sea facing Cebu, Siquijor, and Mindanao.

Make the most of your vacation in a beachfront resort in Bohol by exploring these tourist attractions that are surely for the books.

Thursday, February 8, 2018

Henann Crystal Sands Resort: Bliss At Every Turn

When one looks for bliss in the popular Boracay Island in the Philippines, there’s only one place to find it: Henann Crystal Sands Resort. Coming over and stepping inside its premises, you’ll discover heavenly pleasure at every turn.

The first thing you’ll love about Henann Crystal Sands Resort is its location, just along the shores of the popular Station 2. And this means easy access to the lovely powdery white sands and the crystalline waters of Boracay’s White Beach. When you’re billeted at this resort, you can savor the sights, sounds, and feel of the tropics whenever you want.

For times you want to swim without getting the sand on your feet, you can take a dip at the resort’s swimming pools. There are three within the property: two located at the ground floor with the view of the resort’s façade and grounds, and the Sky pool at the second floor that offers a beautiful vista of the Boracay sunset.

A host of other facilities guarantee a splendid time at this resort inBoracay, Philippines. There’s Sapphire, the gorgeous main restaurant that serves modern international cuisine from breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There’s also the gym and fitness center featuring state-of-the-art equipment, where you can exercise and stretch out your muscles. The property also offers business services and amenities, including meeting rooms and a business center, for times you need to take care of urgent work matters while on vacation.

Of course the highlight of Henann Crystal Sands Resort is its accommodations: 188 rooms, all wonderfully designed and well-appointed. The interiors feature wood elements and neutral tones, complementing the blue hues of the sea outside, invoking a sense of calm and relaxation. Each room has superb amenities for guests’ comfort like LCD cable TV, signature toiletries, and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Some rooms also offer pool/beach views and even direct pool access.

A stay here is indeed a delightful experience — and even more pleasurable when you book the Henann Crystal Sands Bliss Package. This 3-day/2-night deal lets you enjoy complimentary daily buffet breakfast and dinner, plus round-trip land and sea transfers via Caticlan.

For those who want to up the ante and experience the loveliest Boracay holiday, you only need to take advantage of Henann Crystal Sands Bliss Package via the resort’s website. You’ll only need to complete a short booking process and then be on your way to the most amazing vacation in one of the world’s best island destinations.


Henann Crystal Sands Resort is located at the Beachfront of Station 2, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines 5608. Learn more at http://henann.com/henanncrystalsands

Prepare For These Common Travel Scams Before Your Trip

They say people have an innate inclination to avoid trouble — we call this instinct or gut feeling. And when your instincts tell you to avoid that shady person looking at you on the bus, you do it, right? This is what we’ve always done when we’re commuting to work, and this is certainly invaluable when we’re out travelling the world. Even seasoned globetrotters can fall victim to scammers and ‘no good doers.’ Getting scammed happens to the best of us, so it is extremely important that we are vigilant while we’re out experiencing the world.

Here’s a rundown of common travel scams to help you prepare for them before you go on your trip.

Sketchy deals
You might’ve already come across really cheap tour packages that cover hotel accommodation and tickets to museums and amusement parks in places like Penang or Kuala Lumpur. While there are a lot of packages that are genuinely affordable, there are a lot of sketchy deals making the rounds online. So if travel packages look too good to be true, do some research first before booking a deal. Note that even online scammers spend money on social media ads, too.

When making reservations, booking directly on hotel websites is still the best and safest option. For instance, if you’re planning a Penang trip, visit the Vouk Hotel Suites website to get exclusive discount deals on your accommodation. For tours, you can contact the hotel for partner tour guide companies and ask for recommendations.

Getting lost
Tourists are a magnet for ill-intentioned gangs. Their most common modus is to give lost tourists the wrong directions so that they can corner them and rob them. One of the best ways to thwart this is to avoid getting too much attention. You might think this is difficult to do especially if you look nothing like the locals, but there are ways not make people do a double-take. For instance, if you must consult a large map, always step to the side or get inside a secured shop. Avoid talking loudly about getting lost. And if your map isn’t doing you any favours, ask tourist stalls, shop owners, or the police for directions.

Malfunctioning taxi metres
The Broken Taxi Metre trick is the oldest modus in the playbook because it’s still very effective. When a passenger gets in a cab, the driver will tell them that the metre is broken. Other people will ask the driver to stop so they can get out and look for another cab, but there are those who will let it slide. Then after the passenger has been dropped off, they will be charged a ridiculous price. Of course, not all cabs with broken metres are out to scam tourists, but it’s to best to just be careful and find another cab.

Bump-and-Grab robbers
You probably already know what this is since this is also a commuter’s reality. This is when a person ‘accidentally’ bumps into you, only to realise too late that your wallet or watch has been stolen. However, this trick has evolved into accidental drink spills, strangers who say there’s a mysterious gunk on your back, and so on. If you experience this, the first thing you do is to secure your belongings. It’s easy if you’re travelling with a companion, you can just ask them to look after your things. However, if you’re travelling alone, make sure everything is in your pocket or in your bag.

You might want to consider keeping all your stuff in a backpack and not in your pockets, then padlock them. If a stranger offers to wipe that mystery gunk or that accidental spill, politely turn them down and do it by yourself in the nearest restroom.

Dubious good Samaritans
Yes, it’s rude to assume that every kind person you’ll meet during your trip is suspicious good Samaritans, but you should still remain alert all the time. Observe how strangers are acting while they are helping you. If they are too touchy, that’s a red flag. But if they ask if you need help and give you space to move around, that means they’re well-intentioned.

Tuesday, February 6, 2018

Get 50 Percent Off On Your Holiday Courtesy Of Agos Boracay’s Biggest Summer Sale!

Boracay Island, Philippines – We’re only a month into 2018 and Agos Boracay Rooms + Beds has already announced the fine print on their new summer promotion. The deal is called ‘2018 Summer Sale: 50% Off! – Limited Time Only’ and it’s exclusively available on their website, www.agosboracay.com.

Here are the complete details:  

2018 SUMMER SALE: 50% OFF! – LIMITED TIME ONLY 

Book the Deluxe Room for a minimum of 3 nights and get 50 percent off rates
 
  
Booking Period: Today until February 28, 2018 
Stay Dates: March 1-June 15, 2018 (including Holy Week)  

NOT VALID ON April 29 – May 3, 2018 (LABORACAY) 

This exciting new promo can be reserved by logging on to www.agosboracay.com. Click the ‘Check Availability and Prices’ and follow the easy instructions on the booking engine, which is powered by DirectWithHotels. As soon as the payment has been processed and accepted, a confirmation email is sent reporting instant confirmation. All guest information is secured by DigiCert, Trustwave, and AsiaPay. Promo details may change without prior notice. All reservations made before such changes will still receive the initial benefits and inclusions.  

ABOUT THE HOTEL
 
 

Agos Boracay Rooms + Beds offers the practicality of an apartment hotel and the familiar ambience of a guesthouse. Enjoy privacy and exclusivity as it only houses 27 rooms that can accommodate solo travelers up to a family of 6 people and can be rented on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. In addition, island activities, spa services and airport transfers may be arranged. The most amazing highlight is the panoramic view of world famous White beach & kite surfing beach, Bulabog, at the sundeck. 

This guesthouse is 100% Filipino family-operated so expect authentic Pinoy care and hospitality anytime, every time. Centrally located at the heart of Station 2, it is just a 5-minute walk to White Beach, in between the famous seafood market D’Talipapa & D’Mall, and various restaurants, bars and establishments. 

For more information about this hotel accommodation in Borcacay Island, log on to www.agosboracay.com or call (036) 288-2663. Email: agosboracay@yahoo.com

Thursday, February 1, 2018

Start The Year With Discounts And Freebies at QC’s Fernandina 88 Suites Hotel

Quezon City, Philippines – We’re only 2 weeks into the new year and Fernandina 88 Suites Hotel is already giving away big discounts and other treats. Their latest promotion called ‘January 2018’s Relaxing Treat’ is packed with all the things all travelers love in a hotel deal.

January 2018’s Relaxing Treat


 
Inclusions:

-20% Off on all rooms (except Economy Rooms)
-Free whole body massage for a minimum of 2-nights stay.
-88% off on room rate (except Economy Rooms) on your 4th night.
-Free airport transfer (one-way, arrival or departure) for a minimum of 5-nights stay

Promo runs today until February 6, 2018

To make a reservation, log on to www.fernandina88.com.ph. Pick your preferred dates, choose a room, review booking information, and pay the reservation fee. All personal and payment information used on the website are guaranteed safe and secure. The website and booking engine are powered by DirectWithHotels.

ABOUT THE HOTEL

At Fernandina 88 Suites Hotel in Quezon City, Philippines, you’re a world away from life’s bustle as each stay is transformed into the perfect escape — all without taking long trips and spending extra money.

Indulge in an affordable holiday made more delightful with an array of practical treats offered in-room. Hold productive conversations at our restaurant and function rooms or pamper yourself with relaxing treatments at our spa. Fernandina 88 Suites Hotel will immerse you in comfort by offering all the essentials you require, from business to relaxation. You can also choose to while the time away by visiting the shopping and entertainment hubs just outside our doors.

The Quezon City hotel is conveniently located right at the corner of Araneta Center, Cubao — one of Metro Manila’s most important entertainment, commercial, and business districts. With the accommodation being near the intersection of 2 major transit systems (MRT-3 and LRT-2) and 2 major thoroughfares (EDSA and P. Tuazon Ave.), our guests can easily travel to any location within and outside the metro.

For more information, log on to www.fernandina88.com.ph or call the hotel at +63-02-9113169.