Wednesday, May 30, 2018

3 Places To Visit In Bataan To Cap Off Summer 2018

This summer season, a trip to Bataan should be in the books. Pack your bags and head to Central Luzon to experience the beauty and culture that this province has to offer.

Miraculous Images

For the religious, Orani Church is a must-see. Also called the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish Church, this site is a pilgrim shrine which many Catholic devotees come to visit every year.

The Orani Church features majestic architecture comprised of old and new techniques. Pay close attention to the Batingaw ng Orani, the church’s heritage bell which shows the loyal faith of the people of Orani to the Lord.

Never Forget the Death March

Bataan was the site of some especially gruesome parts of history. The Death March of World War II would definitely top the list in terms of historical impact.

During the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, 60,000 to 80,000 Filipino and American prisoners of war were forced to march on foot from Bataan to Tarlac.

This was a journey of 97 km to 112 km, for prisoners who were tired, starved, injured from severe physical abuse, and lacked sleep. Anywhere from 5,650 to 18,000 died as a result of this Death March, forever cementing the Japanese as one of the cruelest military colonizers in Asia.

To honor the lives of the fallen, the Bataan Death March Marker was constructed in Mariveles and Bagac, Bataan to mark ground zero of this event. You can visit this to pay your respects as well as view the site of this moment in history to remember how many people sacrificed their lives for democracy.

Historical Heritage Houses

A trip to Bataan isn’t complete without a visit to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, the best beach resort in Bataan. The only Historic Hotels Worldwide property in the Philippines, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is the Bagac, Bataan resort that will make you feel as if you traveled back in time.

Each casa or house is painstakingly restored to its former glory; however, if you book a stay in one of them, you will be treated to modern amenities such as Wi-Fi access, air conditioning, and in-room coffee and tea facilities.

If you’re short on time, you can enjoy a heritage walking day tour with family and friends, or else book a room for a night and have more time to marvel over the majestic Spanish-era architecture. Reservations are easy; head over to https://lascasasfilipinas.com and check availability and prices for your preferred dates.

Tuesday, May 29, 2018

5 Ways to Enjoy a Quiet and Relaxing Holiday in the Bustling City of Makati

Although Makati City is one of the busiest places in Metro Manila, Philippines, anyone can still enjoy a laid-back retreat here. And this is possible by trying different activities, such as visiting spas, museums, and churches.

For many, a quick stay in a serviced apartment in Makati City amounts to being enveloped in the lively spirit of the bustling metropolis. Since it is among the most important financial and commercial areas in the country, this is highly expected. However, what others don't know is, any traveler can have the opportunity to savor some peace and quiet during their visit to the city. And they can experience this by trying these different activities and things to do in Makati.

1. Taking a walk in the park
Ayala Triangle Gardens – easily the most charming park and one of the best places to visit in Makati – is a sight to see if you desire to spend a laid-back day. Here, you'll find yourself cradled in an arboreal retreat, which, although seated in the heart of the Central Business District, is sure to let you savor some quiet time.

2. Visiting a church
If wanting a place where you can reflect for as long as you desire, then it is a good idea to visit a church. An ideal choice is Nuestra Senora de Gracia Church, a Baroque building that is located along Bernardino Street in Gudalupe Viejo – one of the oldest parishes in the city. Indeed, the peace and quiet that this Makati attraction lends to its visitors makes it a must-visit site.

3. Entering museums
If you fancy hopping from one gallery to another, then the city will be just right for you, since it has museums to fill your fancy. An example is Yuchengco Museum, which is found within RCBC Plaza at the intersection of Ayala and Gil Puyat Avenues. It features a collection of works from renowned local artists, such as Juan Luna, Fernando Amorsolo, and Carlos “Botong” Francisco. You may also head over to the corner of Makati Avenue and Dela Rosa Street, and enter Ayala Museum, where you'll find more galleries that embody Philippine art and culture.

4. Shopping spree
Makati is home to some of the best shopping malls in the country, and most of them are in the CBD. Greenbelt is where you will find luxurious restaurants, cafés, and boutiques set in a lush green landscape. If you're searching for the best place to watch movies or knock some pins down in game of bowling, you should head over to Power Plant Mall in Rockwell Center. And if it is affordable yet quality apparel that you want, then The Landmark should be your destination.

5. Spending a few hours at the spa
What better way there is to end a fun-filled day than by entering an establishment that promises nothing but relief? Whether it is a full-body massage, your much-desired pedicure session, or a soothing aromatherapy bath, you can have it in Makati. And among the most well-known places that deliver these services is Aegle Wellness Center, the on-site integrative health and wellness center of The Alpha Suites. To get an exclusive access to this facility, book a room in this serviced apartment in Makati.