#aroundph

[takeoffphilippines]

Tanduay’s Roots is PH’s First Economic History Museum

The country’s first Museum of Philippine Economic History has recently opened in what was once the Ynchausti Commercial House in Calle Real in Iloilo, home of the company that started what will eventually become the world’s number one rhum, Tanduay.

Before the National Historical Commission restored the building into an economic history museum, it was used as the provincial offices of the Commission on Audit. For the longest time, however, it was known as the Elizalde building.

In 1854, according to local historians, the building was home to a conglomerate Ynchausti y Compania (also Ynchausti y Cia), whose founders were the basques José Joaquin Ynchausti, Joaquin Elizalde and Valentin Teus. They consolidated their companies’ assets including Tanduay. When the Elizaldes bought the Ynchausti shares in 1934, they renamed the company to Elizalde Y Cia.

Other than historical data, the museum showcases many of the important artifacts of companies that thrived in Iloilo, especially during the golden days of the sugar industry. Aside from being one of the oldest companies established in the country, the Tanduay Distillery was featured in the museum because of its huge contribution to the sugarcane industry.

There's a display of an old Tanduay dama juana; early advertising print ads of Tanduay; tools from the haciendas of Western Visayas' sugar plantations; looms from the oldest weavers in Miagao, Iloilo; and t'nalak cloth from South Cotabato, among many others.

It is appropriate that these items are housed at the Ynchausti Commercial House, which was built in 1905 and used as a trading store. Like most Spanish colonial houses in the country, it is the typical bahay-na-bato with solid red-brick walls on the first floor and wood panels on the second floor. It also has wide Capiz-shell windows that are a distinct design of old Spanish houses.

“Tanduay has a rich history that started in the island of Negros. As we celebrate the 165th year of Tanduay Distillers this year, we would like to ensure that Tanduay will  always be remembered, especially by the next of generations of Filipinos,” said Lucio K. Tan, Jr., president and chief operating officer, Tanduay Distillers, Inc.  

Incidentally, as part of its anniversary celebration, the Lucio Tan Group-owned Tanduay Distillers, Inc has embarked on the conversion of its distillery in Manila into a museum that will showcase its rich and colorful history. It will likewise give its visitors a multi-sensory experience on how its products are made.

“The Tanduay Museum will be housed at our old office in Quiapo, where Ynchausti Y Cia operated their liquor facility. We plan to restore part of the original building, but since it will be a brand museum, expect that it will have a modern façade and will utilize technology at par with the world’s contemporary museums,” Tan, Jr. revealed.

For more Daily Dose Of Eyegasmic Occurrences follow our Social Media Accounts:

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

[retrat1sta-blog]

[cestlavieves]

Now at: Koreaaaaa!! Hahaha! #TrailMadness #Gadventures #TeamLanggam #travel #happykids #SulfurSpring #spring #AroundtheWorld #AroundPH #ItsMoreFunInThePhilippines

[takeoffphilippines]

AirAsia’s Biggest Ever FREE Seats* Sale Up for Grab!

Kuala Lumpur, 20 September 2022 - AirAsia is celebrating its rapid comeback as all airlines are flying sky high once again. Five million FREE* seats go on sale today to mark the milestone proving as always, AirAsia is Asia’s low fare leader, enabling everyone to fly.   

For a limited time, from today until 25 September, value seekers can snap up unbeatable flight deals across Asean and beyond for travel between 1 January 2023 and 28 October 2023 by clicking on the ‘Flights’ icon on the airasia Super App or website.

The FREE* seats are available now on many popular domestic and international destinations across Asean including Langkawi, Penang, Johor Bahru, Krabi, Phu Quoc and Singapore.  

For those who’d like to spread their wings further, fares are also on sale on the longer haul AirAsia sister airlines AirAsia X and Thai AirAsia X where flights to South Korea, (Seoul), Australia (Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Auckland), and India (New Delhi)  are also on sale from just RM499 (PHP6,286.97) for economy seats and from RM1,499 (PHP18,886.12) for premium flatbed seats for travel between 3 October 2022 and 28 October 2023 (all inclusive of taxes and charges). 

As all airlines continue to resume operations in key markets, AirAsia X also today announced new direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Jeddah in the Middle East and to Tokyo (Haneda), and Sapporo in Japan, launching in November and December this year which are on sale now. Back by popular demand, the Kuala Lumpur to Jeddah route will operate six times weekly starting from 14 November with all-in-fares starting from only RM1,799 (PHP22,665.86) for economy and MYR2,999 (PHP37,784.84) for premium flatbed for a travel period between 14 November 2022 to 25 March 2023. Direct flights to Tokyo (Haneda) and Sapporo are also back! One-way flights  are on sale today from just RM599 (PHP7,546.89) (inclusive of taxes and fees) for economy and RM2,599 (PHP32,745.18) for premium flatbed for a travel period between 21 November 2022 to 24 March 2023 for Tokyo and 1 December 2022 to 1 February 2023 for Sapporo.

Karen Chan, Group Chief Commercial Officer of AirAsia, said,“It is great to be back, better, stronger and more united than ever before, a unity we hope to share with the masses who’ve greatly supported us all these years. While COVID changed the world forever, some things never change. As the people’s airline that prides itself on connecting people to places, AirAsia continues to put our guests  at the core of everything we do, and this is what drives us to create more value deals and opportunities for everyone to  fly. 

“In the last 21 years, AirAsia has carried more than 700 million passengers, and nearly 100 million guests annually pre-pandemic, revolutionising the industry and giving everyone access to affordable air travel. We were here for you then when we started, and we are here for you now. With the progressive re-opening of borders and in preparation of our 21st anniversary, we wish to thank our loyal passengers who have stood by us and flew with us with the biggest ever FREE Seats* campaign. Not only have we resumed many of our much-loved routes, we’re also introducing new and exciting ones for greater value and choice. 

“Watch this space and spot us around Kuala Lumpur as we continue to paint the skies and the ground red, for more exciting announcements in the upcoming months as part of our 21st anniversary celebrations.”

The FREE* seats promotion is available exclusively on the airasia Super App and website, until 25 September 2022.

Stay up to date on the latest in flights, travel, lifestyle and more following @flyairasia on Instagram/Facebook or @airasia on WeChat/Weibo for the latest updates.  For a seamless and enhanced experience, download your airasia Super App from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei AppGallery. 

–

📧 If you wish to send an invite and feature your province/company brand/event; Just ask the author of this vlog, email us at team.takeoffph@gmail.com

Follow our Social Media Accounts: Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

Website: https://takeoffphilippines.com

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TakeOffPhilippines

[takeoffphilippines]

SM Supermalls begins 100 Days of Happiness

To kickstart the Christmas countdown, SM Supermalls began its 100 Days of Happiness last September 16, where they aim to create a circle of happiness with 76 participating malls, shoppers, the marginalized communities of women, persons deprived of liberty, artisans, cause-oriented organizations, and select local government units.

"We want to create a circle of happiness in all our SM malls by featuring products of cause-oriented programs which we will offer to our shoppers who, in turn, give them to friends and family, and ultimately, benefit the communities that created these products," said SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan.

Through the campaign, SM Supermalls encourages Filipinos to support the advocacies of individuals and organizations that provide opportunities and create livelihood for their communities. For this year, SM partnered with bag designer Zarah Juan, Spark PH, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP), the Association of Foot and Mouth Artists of the Philippines, UNICEF, and the Quezon City LGU for its Vote to Tote initiative, among others.

The launch event held at SM North EDSA The Block was attended by SM Supermalls President Steven Tan and SVP for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin; Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Vice Mayor Gian Sotto, and select councilors of the city; Spark PH Founder Mica Teves; GSP President Dr. Nina Lim-Yuson; designer Zarah Juan; and Brownies Unlimited Marketing head Dustin Ngo.

Equipping young girls to lead and build the future, one box of brownies at a time

For this year’s 100 Days campaign, SM Megamall, along with 9 other SM malls, is collaborating with Brownies Unlimited and the Girl Scouts of the Philippines. For every purchase of a special GSP-themed box of brownies in-mall and via the SM Malls Online App, one girl will be sponsored with a GSP membership for a year. 

"We have a lot of young girls across the country and they've had such difficult times during the pandemic. Our membership dropped significantly. By buying a box, you can sponsor a girl for one year and she can learn so many things like being independent, loving her country more, and helping her community," said GSP President Nina Lim-Yuson.

Recently, SM Supermalls helped the GSP vaccinate all its 70,000 members nationwide. By providing them with convenient and safe COVID-19 vaccines, SM Supermalls was able to ensure that the GSP members have access to quality healthcare services. 

SM shoppers can purchase a box of brownies from 46 Brownies Unlimited branches nationwide and the SM Malls Online App.

Giving marginalized women and persons deprived of liberty hope for the future

Apart from the GSP partnership, SM Supermalls also partnered with the local government of Quezon City for its Vote to Tote program, Spark PH, and bag designer Zarah Juan to sell upcycled tarpaulin handmade tote bags sewn by marginalized women and female persons deprived of liberty.

"Christmas is all about giving. We are very happy that this year, the communities of Quezon City are included as beneficiaries in this program. And apart from helping the women in our communities, we are also able to help the environment by upcycling 70 tons of election tarpaulins that we've collected." said Mayor Belmonte.

Juan, the designer, was the brainchild of the upcycling initiative. "During the elections, there were tons of election campaign wastes. I wanted to do something and I thought I have my platform– my designs. If my designs can actually solve this problem, then it's worthwhile. Then I pitched the idea to Maica Teves, the founder of Spark PH. From there, we gathered all the help we can– from the Quezon City LGU who will help us collect tarpaulins, the women communities that can help us create, and SM Supermalls who can provide us the platform to distribute."

A Happiness Walk was done to showcase the upcycled tote bags that shoppers can buy in SM malls. Joining the Happiness Walk were men and women of substance including select Girl Scouts members, Jeremy Lapena and Bernce Sevilla of the Downs Syndrome Association of the Phils, Mylene Abiva of WomenBiz, media celebrities Ces Oreña Drilon, and Gina Pareño among others.

The proceeds of the upcycled tote bags will be given to the women PDLs in Camp Karingal, and the marginalized women of Barangays Sto. Cristo, Greater Lagro, and Pinyahan in Quezon City. The tote bags will be sold in the following SM malls:

SM Aura Premier

SM Southmall

SM City Fairview

SM City North EDSA

SM Megamall

Helping a community of artists 

And in the south of Metro Manila, the SM Mall of Asia family will be partnering with the Association of Foot and Mouth Artists in selling painted Christmas cards to the shoppers.

"All these and more will start to unfold in the coming days as we continue spreading happiness across all SM malls around the country. Let us not waste our next 100 days and use it to make one another happy by giving. Today, let the countdown begin to a hundred days of happiness!” Tan closed.

This is the second time SM Supermalls has started a holiday countdown campaign. In 2021, the biggest mall network in the Philippines showed the world more than a hundred ways of giving through 100 Days of Caring. Underserved communities surrounding the 76 SM malls were provided with their urgent needs through in-kind and monetary donations by the malls, its various business units, and the employees. 

For the list of all partner institutions and their beneficiaries visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow @smsupermalls on all social media accounts.

–

📧 If you wish to send an invite and feature your province/company brand/event; Just ask the author of this vlog, email us at team.takeoffph@gmail.com

Follow our Social Media Accounts: Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

Website: https://takeoffphilippines.com

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TakeOffPhilippines

[takeoffphilippines]

7 Google Maps' Creepy Coordinates in the Philippines

Do you want to experience something that will leave you speechless for the rest of your life, something that will astound your mind, and something that will send shivers down your spine?

Even though Halloween is still a ways off, we have something ready to quench your hunger for some spine-tingling, scream-inducing, and mind-blowing moments.

For today, our team explores the well-used map service to look for some creepy places we've found within the island of the Philippines that was used by many when traveling or commuting, Google Maps.

Google Maps is a Web-based tool that provides precise information on geographical regions and sites worldwide. Google Maps in certain cities provides street views comprised of images shot from automobiles.

Because it provides a better approximation of a traditional map, Google Maps is a big aid to everyone. However, there are a number of disturbing objects that may be found in various regions of the world.

We've listed 7 creepy coordinates with rich, groggy, and scary history of the place.

Laperal White House (Baguio City)

Old Clark Air Base Hospital (Pampanga)

Fort Drum - El Fraile Island (Cavite City)

The Zamboanga Plaza Hotel & Casino (Zamboanga)

Balete Drive (Quezon City)

Compañia Maritima (Cebu City)

Doña Concha Umali Ancestral House (Tiaong, Quezon Province)

---

1. Laperal White House

Google Coordinates: 15.1949301,120.5269771

Roberto Laperal built the home in the 1930s. The home is built of narra and yakal wood and is fashioned in the Victorian style, complete with wooden planks, gables, and a high roof. Roberto and Victorina Laperal, the clan chiefs, made the mansion their holiday home.

During WWII, Japanese forces took the home and used it as a fortress. According to reports, the forces assaulted women, tortured, and executed suspected spies working for the US and its allies.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laperal_White_House

2. Old Clark Air Base Hospital (Pampanga)

Google Coordinates: 15.1949301,120.5269771

The USAF started building a brand-new, cutting-edge regional medical facility at Clark in 1960. The new $4.5 million Clark AB Hospital/Regional Medical Center with 200 beds opened in April 1964.

Locals think that this hospital is haunted because of the number of troops that perished there. The neglected infrastructure creates certain odd acoustics, which, when combined with the darkness of the interior rooms, might easily persuade one to believe in otherworldly occurrences. There are many parts of the hospital. Some have been recovered by squatters, although the portions most destroyed by time and weather may be easily visited.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Clark_Air_Base

3. Fort Drum - El Fraile Island (Cavite City)

Google Coordinates: 14.305042,120.6299896,19z

What looks to be a massive, blocky battleship is actually a concrete island called Fort Drum, or El Fraile Island, an abandoned military station with rusted weapons.

Following the Spanish-American War, America sought to fortify its fortifications around several of its newly acquired territories, including Manila Bay. To that aim, instead of stationing valuable naval assets in the port, it was determined that a permanent defense position would be erected on the little island known as El Fraile Island. The island was leveled and rebuilt nearly from scratch with reinforced concrete in the shape of a gigantic warship.

Unfortunately, Japanese soldiers took the facility during WWII and held it until 1945, when American troops came to reclaim Manila. After securing the men outside the fort, the Americans simply poured oil and gasoline into the garrison and set it ablaze, obliterating the remaining German forces and igniting a fire that lasted for days within the base.

After retaking Manila, the war-torn Fort Drum was simply abandoned, the burned-out fortress and its towering cannons rusting away like an immovable ghost ship.

Source: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/fort-drum-el-fraile-island

4. The Zamboanga Plaza Hotel & Casino (Zamboanga)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Z6OHJxvPvg

This hotel was formerly known as The Zamboanga Plaza Hotel & Casino. It was the first 5-star hotel and the largest hotel in Zamboanga City and Mindanao during the Marcos regime, and it was solely accessible to the rich. Celebrities, international political personalities, and even President Marcos stayed at the hotel for events and meetings.

The facilities included a large swimming pool with a pool bar, a restaurant with a coffee shop, a large event hall, a disco area, and a casino that was known at the time as the most beautiful casino in Asia. Walking into the hotel was like entering a palace.

However, the 5-star hotel shuttered in 1986 for unknown reasons. There are just stories and theories about why it shut down. Some claim it was due to poor management or that someone was murdered. Finally, most people believe it was closed because it was interfering with the development of other companies. However, no one truly knows the truth.

It now remains abandoned, with legends of devils, ghosts, and a massive snake lurking deep within, guarding the chamber where the former President resided.

5. Balete Drive (Quezon City)

Google Coordinates: 14.6209771,121.0371321,3a,75y,311.14h,93.63t

If you enjoy nighttime road journeys, avoid Balete Drive in Quezon City, especially if you're alone. It is one of the most popular and intriguing tourist destinations in the Philippines.

In case you haven't heard, the White Lady of Balete Drive is the most well-known White Lady in the Philippines. According to some legends, the White Lady of Balete frequently crosses the roadway as you drive there, and occasionally rides with you! There are other horror stories surrounding the lady's death: some believe she died in a vehicle accident, while others believe she perished during the Spanish colonial era and has yet to find peace.

That being stated, you no longer need to hunt for a haunted home in Manila because you can experience the shivers and excitement you need just on Balete Drive.

6. Compañia Maritima (Cebu City)

Google Coordinates: 0.2913107,123.9024959,3a,75y,338.28h,92.06t

The massive edifice, which faces the South Road Properties (SRP), was completed in 1910. The Fernandez Building was named for the corporation that owned it at the time, Fernandez Hermanos Inc. According to historian Lucy Urgello Miller's book "Glimpses of Old Cebu: Images of the Colonial Era," the structure was inhabited by Shamrock Hotel in the 1930s, as demonstrated by the postcard below, which has withstood the ravages of time.

The roof and internal structure of the Fernandez Building were devastated by bombs and enemy fire during WWII. However, in the postwar period, the building was rebuilt and subsequently occupied by Compaia Maritima, one of Cebu City's largest shipping lines, from whence the building gained its current name.

As fate would have it, the firm declared bankruptcy in the late 1980s, and the building has since been demolished. The three-story Compania Maritima still stands today, its arched windows and balusters on the roof deck are silent witnesses to the fascinating history of this architectural gem.

Source: https://filipiknow.net/ghost-towns-and-abandoned-buildings-philippines/

7. Doña Concha Umali Ancestral House (Tiaong, Quezon Province)

Google Coordinates: 13.9632371,121.3219105,3a,75y,149.66h,90t

Tomas Mapua, a great architect, designed the mansion. Construction began in early January 1928 and was completed by mid-year. It must have been an extraordinarily big and imposing edifice for little town Tiaong, with a wide garden space decorated with a horseshoe-shaped pond, dramatized by a sculpture of Elias wrestling a crocodile, inspired by and pulled from the pages of Jose Rizal's Noli Me Tangere.

Two years ago, the dream to rehabilitate the house was once again resurrected, egged on by an impassioned sentiment to dedicate the effort to the memory of our grandmother, Lola Concha. Two months ago, the restoration started.

Source: http://www.stuartxchange.org/Rehabilitation.html

–

📧 If you wish to send an invite and feature your province/company brand/event; Just ask the author of this vlog, email us at team.takeoffph@gmail.com

Follow our Social Media Accounts: Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

Website: https://takeoffphilippines.com

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TakeOffPhilippines

[takeoffphilippines]

8 Out-of-the-Box and Affordable Staycation in Metro Manila and nearby cities featured on TikTok

Given the huge number of TikTok users and the length of time they spend browsing through the content, TikTok seems to be a helpful medium for sharing your travel tricks and ideas.

We compiled some of the hidden gems that our TikTok users have shared on their profiles giving new space to showcase the newly opened resorts in and out the Metro Manila for your next #staycation.

1.) The Cabin Resorts

Photo: The Cabin Resorts FB Page

📍 San Miguel, Bulacan

📞 09675832604 | 09750658877 | 09095131640

🌐 https://www.thecabinresortsph.com/

2.) The Villa Batangas

Photo: The Villa - Batangas FB Page

📍 San Jose, Batangas

📞 0960 692 0515

🌐 https://www.facebook.com/thevilla.tim

3.) Domescape

Photo: Domescape Glamping FB Page

📍 Nasugbu, Batangas

📞 0960 692 0515

🌐 https://www.facebook.com/domescape.ph

4.) Lime Resort Manila

Photo: Lime Resort Manila FB Page

📍 Atang Dela Rama St, Seascape Village, Pasay City

📞 Smart 0970 111 1117 / 0970 111 1119

📞 Globe 0967 400 0600 / 0967 400 0900

🌐 http://www.lime.ph/

5.) Tres Marias' Garden Cabin

📍 Silang, Cavite

📞 0926 753 8168

🌐 https://www.facebook.com/domescape.ph

6.) Moon Garden Tagaytay

Photo: Moon Garden Tagaytay FB Page

📍 San Jose, Tagaytay City

📞 0917 322 1524

🌐 https://www.facebook.com/MoongardenTagaytay

7.) Selah Pods



Photo: Selah Pods Hotel Manila FB Page

📍 F.B. Harisson, Pasay City

📞 289626796

🌐 http://www.selahpods.com/

8.) Hotel H2O

Photo: Hotel H2O FB Page

📍 Quirino Grandstand, Ermita, Manila

📞 272386190

🌐 https://www.facebook.com/HotelH2OPH

–

📧 If you wish to send an invite and feature your province/company brand/event; Just ask the author of this vlog, email us at team.takeoffph@gmail.com

Follow our Social Media Accounts: Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

Website: https://takeoffphilippines.com

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TakeOffPhilippines

[takeoffphilippines]

National Museum of the Philippines Visitors Guidelines

Following the recent announcement by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Infectious Diseases (IATF) that the National Capital Region will be placed on Alert Level 1 until May 31, 2022, the National Museum Complex in Manila will continue to accept walk-in visitors; advance booking through https://reservation.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/ will only be required for groups of 20-30 people.

–

📧 If you wish to send an invite and feature your province/company brand/event; Just ask the author of this vlog, email us at team.takeoffph@gmail.com

Follow our Social Media Accounts:

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

Website: https://takeoffphilippines.com

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/TakeOffPhilippines

[takeoffphilippines]

El Jardin De Zaida in San Juan, Batangas (Quick Tour + Day Tour Package)

El Jardin de Zaida is an ideal resort, spa, and events venue with eleven hectares of beautiful spreading flora.  Calamansi orchards, unique tropical flora, tree canopies, and a stunning mountaintop provide a lovely background to your unforgettable getaway. 

 📍  Sitio Lagkit, San Juan, Batangas

–

📧 If you wish to send an invite and feature your province/company brand/event; Just ask the author of this vlog, email us at team.takeoffph@gmail.com

Follow our Social Media Accounts:

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

Website: https://takeoffphilippines.com

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/TakeOffPhilippines

[takeoffphilippines]

AroundPH: Calle Crisologo

Check out our Vigan - Ilocos Sur Itinerary today

For more Daily Dose Of Eyegasmic Occurrences follow our Social Media Accounts:

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

[takeoffphilippines]

Adto na ta, Dumaguete! Negros Oriental Itinerary

It's been two years since my last flight due to pandemic. The difficulty of travel restrictions caused most of my planned vacations to be canceled. 

As we ease our restrictions to Alert Level 1, international and domestic flights to and from the Philippines started to resume again. That means it's our chance to discover and relive our ultimate travel comeback.

My first destination in 2022 will be in the Visayas Region. It's not Boracay, Cebu, or Bohol, either. It's the City of Gentle People, Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental. With 131,377 estimated people as of 2015, Dumaguete is the most populous city in the province.

Because of the presence of four universities and a handful of additional colleges, Dumaguete is known as a university city. The city is also a popular educational destination for students from neighboring provinces and cities in Visayas and Mindanao.

Due to its proximity to Cebu City in Central Visayas, the availability of beach resorts and dive spots, and the appeal of dolphin and whale watching at neighboring Bais City, Dumaguete attracts a significant number of foreign tourists, mainly Europeans. Forbes Magazine has ranked Dumaguete as the fifth best place to retire in the world.

Good News! AirAsia Philippines just kicks off its 13th domestic destination this summer in Dumaguete. Offering 4x a week flights (Every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday). Book your flights today via the airasia Super App.

Sharing with you a sample itinerary of our Negros Oriental Trip:

Tourist Spots in Negros Oriental

Dumaguete City

Dumaguete City Hall

Built in 1907 to house the mayor's, deputy mayor's, Sangguniang Panglunsod's, and other government entities' offices. Quezon Park, located in front of the ancient main entrance, has monuments and a recently expanded children's playground.

Silliman University

Founded in 1901 and covering 35 hectares near to downtown Dumaguete, it has been designated as a bird sanctuary and is known for its ancient trees, cottage dwellings, and important structures such as Guy Hall, Channon Hall, Oriental and Occidental Halls, which were utilized for administrative and punitive purposes by Japanese occupation troops.

Rizal Boulevard

Dr. Jose Rizal, a national hero of the Philippines, is honored with the name Rizal Boulevard. During Spain's colonial administration of the Philippines in the 1880s, Dr. Rizal used nonviolent action to highlight many unfavorable elements of the Spanish rule and recommended governmental reforms to better Filipinos' lives. 

For his opinions on Spain's domination of the Philippines, Dr. Rizal was exiled and later killed, but his life and tragic death inspired many Filipinos to seek independence from Spain. This is a great place to visit if you're interested in Philippine history.

Bais City

Enjoy the Mangjuyod White Sand bar and Dolphin Watching in Bais Bay

The delight of viewing animals in their natural habitat is what motivates people to go on nature walks or watch Animal Planet. Visitors to the Philippines may get up up and personal with some of the most playful and clever creatures without disturbing them in their natural habitat. One of Bais' most popular attractions is dolphin viewing, which allows visitors to witness dolphins as they live out their lives in the water rather than in a tank like they would in an aquarium.

Kuya, selling its fresh catch of sea urchins to tourist

The busiest months are April and May, while September and October feature some of the calmest weather in the Tañon Strait between Negros and Cebu. Because spaces on the boats fill up rapidly in the summer, visitors should always contact ahead for bookings, preferably a month in advance.

Sibulan

Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park

The Twin Lakes of Sibulan are one of Negros Oriental's most popular tourist destinations. It is made up of two tiny but deep fresh water lakes known as Lake Balinsasayao and Lake Danao. On a clear day, the sky's azure reflects in the water of the Twin Lakes, creating the ideal setting for relaxation. The lakes are surrounded on all sides by narrow mountains densely forested with exotic vegetation.

Boating, kayaking, walking, and camping are all available. A boat trip costs Php 250 per hour and may accommodate 1 to 7 people. Take a boat trip from one end of Lake Balinsasayao to the other. Kayaking, on the other hand, would set you back Php 150 for an hour of fun. The routes are open to the public for simple hiking and trekking. For a complete exploration, a guide for a group of three persons may be booked for Php 300.

Valencia

Pulangbato Waterfalls

Pulangbato Falls has a 30-foot plunge and a deep, sloping catch basin. The Okoy River Valley highlands, which are located at the base of Mount Talinis, a potentially active volcano, provide the water. Bathing in the falls is permitted despite the presence of sulfur.

Kaipohan Sulfur Vents

The city's power comes from the Palinpinon geothermal power plant in Valencia.  

A hydrothermal vent is a crack on the seafloor that discharges geothermally heated water. They are typically found around volcanically active locations, spreading centers, ocean basins, and hotspots where tectonic plates are moving apart. The sulfur vents in Valencia was situated within the roads going to Pulangbato falls. Mt. Canlaon and Mt. Talinis is an active volcano in the province.

Along the Pulangbato is the Red Rock Hot Spring, where visitors may cool down in the river's relaxing waters. Barangay Malabo is home to the Red Rock Hot Spring.

Paunay Market

Valencia Flea Market was built to help our negrense farmers to sell their produce to the neighboring  city within Negros Oriental.

Bacong

Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage (NOAH)

Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage is a Dumaguete-based business that sells artistically inlaid Philippine jewels. A variety of designs, both created by the business and submitted by customers, are maintained on exhibit here. 

Negros oriental arts heritage designs are modified, and visitors who want to make their own craft are given with export quality stone. Stone, petrified wood, seashells, mountain stone, river stones, fossils, minerals, and many more materials are used to create souvenirs and cultural attractions.

St. Augustine De Hippo Church

Bacong church, built in 1866 and set by the sea, has the province's oldest main altar and a pipe organ from Zaragosa, Spain, which was placed in 1894 thanks to the efforts of the first parish priest, Rev. Joaquin Soriano. The belfry, said to be the highest on Oriental Negros, was utilized as a lookout post for maritime pirates who used to assault the settlement.

Food Spots (and Pasalubong Shops) in Negros Oriental

Sibaan | Valencia

Sans Rival Cakes & Pastries | Dumaguete

Gabby’s Bistro Florentina Homes | Dumaguete

-

AirAsia Philippines takes off Dumaguete Maiden Flight ready for summer!

AirAsia Philippines is officially bringing its brand of inclusive and attainable flying to the City of Gentle People, Dumaguete City! The successful inaugural flight on 08 April kickstarts the airline’s operations in its 13th domestic destination.

Watch our vlog here:

–

📧 If you wish to send an invite and feature your province/company brand/event; Just ask the author of this vlog, email us at team.takeoffph@gmail.com

Follow our Social Media Accounts:

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

Website: https://takeoffphilippines.com

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/TakeOffPhilippines

[takeoffphilippines]

List of Philippine Domestic Destination without RT-PCR for fully vaccinated individuals

In the Philippines, fully vaccinated travel is possible, although not for all countries. Several areas in the Philippines have opened to fully vaccinated visitors, exempting them from the necessity of getting a negative RT-PCR or quick COVID test for travel. The following are the places that fully vaccinated tourists may visit without having to do a COVID-19 test:

–

📧 If you wish to send an invite and feature your province/company brand/event; Just ask the author of this vlog, email us at team.takeoffph@gmail.com

Follow our Social Media Accounts:

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

Website: https://takeoffphilippines.com

[takeoffphilippines]

Mornings at Villa Escudero Plantations & Resort

–

📧 If you wish to send an invite and feature your province/company brand/event; Just ask the author of this vlog, email us at team.takeoffph@gmail.com

Follow our Social Media Accounts:

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

Website: https://takeoffphilippines.com

[takeoffphilippines]

Ultimate Vigan Escape: Budget DIY Itinerary for Ilocos Sur Tour

[ TAKEOFFPHILIPPINES.com ] A great time to end my month-long vacation on this New7Wonders in the World, Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Its rich history made it to the list of the Unesco Heritage Site as this city was established roughly 16th century now but still, the preservation of the architectural design are visible in the city even on their urban development program.

The main attraction of tourist here in Vigan is its preservation of almost 187 ancestral house in town, colonial structured churches, donation-driven museums, a free-roaming zoo and local Ilocano restaurants which is a must visit.

It was an exciting trip that I can’t forget as this was our first trip together with Gab going up north in Ilocos Region. It was really tiring but fun at the same time as we were simply backpackers. You can roam around the city within 2 - 3 days. We’ve got to experience The Ultimate Vigan Escape for a rough estimate of Php 5,000. 

Here are a travel guide and a sample DIY itinerary going to Vigan if your planning to visit this city soon.

Where to Ride Going to Vigan?

As Vigan is located here in Luzon, we can either go for a land or air transportation. There are many Vigan Tour Package offerings on every travel agency that you could try. It may include a van going to Vigan for an easy and worry-free trip but As for us, we decided to ride a bus. We felt that the best way to enjoy the trip is to experience riding it on the public transportation. 

We tried Partas Bus using their Online Booking System. There are several bus companies you can try on your Vigan trip but since convenience is our priority we ride on a Partas Bus. I recommend their good and fast service on accommodating our concern during our trip.

Express Bus Via TPLEX Fare: Php 760.00 (1 route, 5 - 6 hours travel time, 1 Stopover in between)

Riding a Partas First Class Express got us the following privileges:

Cuts your travel time by up to 4 hours! (Pasay to Laoag)

No passenger pick-ups along the road

Only one stopover

TPLEX

Terminal to terminal rates apply even for drop-offs

GPS-monitored

TV

Air-conditioned

Our Terminal Origin Address:

Aurora Blvd. cor. Edang St., Pasay City, Metro Manila. This terminal is along Tramo and alongside Five Star terminal.

Other Partas Terminal Address:

Pasay City, Bus Terminal

Aurora Boulevard (Tramo) Corner Edang St. San Roque, Pasay City, Philippines Telephone Number: +63 (2) 8528194

Sampaloc Manila, Bus Terminal Telephone Number: +63 (2) 7433242

Cubao, Bus Terminal 816 Aurora Boulevard, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines Telephone Number: +63 (2) 7278278

Bangued, Bus Terminal Zone 7, Nangaycayan, Bangued Abra, Philippines Telephone Number: +63 (74) 7528262

Baguio (Temporary Station) Convention Center, Baguio City, Philippines Telephone Number: +63 (74) 4448431

For the complete lists of Partas Bus Schedules, Fares and Terminals check out here.

Touring Around Vigan: Mode of Transportation

Vigan is a capital in Ilocos Sur that you can encapsulate your activities with just a day or two since its just a small town. Tourist spots along the Vigan proper are walking distance from each other but always prepare yourselves with a big bottled water and umbrella since the scorching heat of the sun is very imminent. Places like Baluarte, River Cruise, Mindoro Beach, Bantay Church Bell Tower seems to need to go for a ride since its a bit far. 

The main transportation used by people here is either the tricycle or a kalesa (horse-drawn carriages). If you’re looking for a more intimate time I would suggest riding a kalesa to enjoy the scenery but if you have limited time like us I would prefer riding a tricycle.

Tricycle Fee: Php 20 - up (Depends on the distance)

Kalesa Fee: starts at Php 150

Where to Stay in Vigan?

While exploring the streets of Vigan, we’ve noticed that each corner has numerous choice of hotels, inns and transient houses. Name it! You won’t have any problems looking for one. All you have to do is to be keen in looking for more affordable and cheaper rooms from the internet. 

Luckily we found the right tool to search for affordable hotels in Vigan by using Traveloka. Traveloka helps you book your hotels and flights in less than 5 minutes with just a click away. They even had promos that you can use while booking.  You can check their website or download their app on Android and IOS to try it first hand on this travel booking app.

Since we want to visit all the well-known tourist spots around Vigan City with less cost but still has a decent accommodation we landed on Mel Sol’s Inn and Resort at Bantay, Ilocos Sur, a 5-6 minutes tricycle ride from Vigan Proper.

Mel Sol’s Inn and Resort

Address: National Highway Metro Vigan, Bantay, Vigan City

Phone: 0917 571 2888 

When in Vigan: Where to Go?

We arrived at Vigan earlier than expected, we didn’t foresee that our bus has a new that's why we have ample time to roam around and go to church to start our Sunday with a positive outlook.

Simbaan A Basit

Liberation Blvd, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

It is located at the edge of a Cemetery in Vigan. According to history, the cemetery chapel was built over a century now and it is dedicated to Santo Cristo also known in Ilocos as “Apo Lakay” who is believed to save Vigan’s populace from a plague in 1756 and 1882. 

The chapel’s marker bears that the cemetery was blessed by Rev. Vicente Barreiro on Nov. 9, 1852 but the chapel’s interior now looks modern with all the repairs done through the years. Its name "Simbaan a Bassit" literally means "Small Church", since it’s a small it can only accommodate up to 100 people. 

Vigan Heritage Village - Calle Crisologo

Crisologo, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur 

After a mass at Simbaan A Basit, we decided to stroll around Vigan and search the well known Vigan Heritage Village wherein it was considered as a UNESCO Heritage Site as it helps out preserved the culture and history of Ilocos Region. 

You can explore those old houses with a century older than me by riding a Kalesa (horse wagon)  or by simply walking on the streets, as it also helps out burn some calories. It is much appreciated during the night as you can feel the romantic ambiance and stunningly beautiful light post in the area.

Mostly you can have your dinner on this streets as they have plenty restaurants to choose from and buy some cool stuffs on souvenir shops.

Vigan Cathedral / St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral

Burgos St., Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

After not so far from Vugan Heritage Village you can visit again a nearby church. Vigan Cathedral, It is a Roman Catholic Cathedral in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. It serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia.

According to history, The church itself was built in 1641 to replace the chapel and became a cathedral when the seat of the Diocese of Nueva Segovia was transferred here from Lal-lo, Cagayan in 1758, but not before being ravaged by a fire in 1739. 

The Cathedral of Vigan, as it is sometimes called, is a stunning tribute to Baroque architecture modified by the Ilocanos to survive earthquakes. It also has a bit of Chinese influence thanks to the carvings of lion dogs beside the outermost doors. 

Plaza Salcedo

Plaza Salcedo, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Right in front of Saint Paul Metropolitan Cathedral is the Plaza Salcedo, named after the Spanish conqueror, Juan de Salcedo who subdued the early native settlement in Vigan and established upon it Villa Fernandina for the monarchs of Spain in 1572. With this, Juan de Salcedo founded the third of many Hispanic settlements in the Philippines. Plaza Salcedo was the site of the execution of Gabriela Silang in September 1763.

According to history, the plaza was susceptible to fire during the Spanish regime. So the plan then was to create a man-made lagoon to minimize fire incidents. The original concept dating back several years ago is retained until March 2013 wherein a dramatic addition has been added to the once quiet and laid back park in between the Vigan Cathedral and the Ilocos Sur Capitol. The addition is a majestic dancing fountain.

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

See below complete sample itinerary. 

It’s More Fun To Experience The Wonders of Philippines! Brace yourself for more exciting, budget-friendly, mouthwatering and extreme trips.

Other Suggested Budget Itinerary:

Byaheng Norte: The Baguio Day Tour + Food Crawl Challenge

For more Daily Dose Of Eyegasmic Occurrences follow our Social Media Accounts:

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

[takeoffphilippines]

Discover the Underwater Treasures of Dumaguete

Dumaguete is a large city on the southeastern coast of Negros Island, the fourth largest island in the Philippines. It’s known as a university town thanks to the presence of Silliman University, the first American university founded in the Philippines and Asia. Unknown to many tourists, Dumaguete City is also secretly one of the best underwater destinations in the entire Philippine archipelago.

According to Philippine Cities, Dumaguete is home to over 120,000 Cebuano speakers. So, you might want to brush up on some phrases in the local language before heading there. A little Cebuano can go a long way, especially if you’re hoping to convince the local tour guides that you’re worthy enough to see some of the secret dive and snorkeling spots on or near Negros Island.

For starters, there’s the Dauin Coast on Negros itself. As a world-class muck diving site, the Dauin Coast presents many opportunities to encounter turtles, sea snakes, and many more of the weird critters that comprise the Philippines’ diverse marine ecosystems. It is over 15 dive sites make it a suitable area for all levels and types of diving. It’s also a favorite area for the many professional underwater photographers that live and work in the picturesque archipelago.

Next stop is Apo Island, which is situated at the south of Negros. This rather small island is surrounded on all corners by pristine dive spots and crystal-clear waters. Great visibility all year round ensures turtle sightings with almost every dive. You’ll also be able to see a lot of soft and hard corals, and if you’re lucky, even large pelagic fish like whale sharks and ocean sunfish making their way between oceans. Open water divers and drift divers are sure to have some fun.

Nearby Siquijor Island to the east of Negros Island offers its own unique diving adventures as well. The LA Times claims Siquijor is mostly known for its associations with witchcraft and mythological Filipino beasts. However, to the international diving community, Siquijor Island is a haven for experienced divers as all the dive sites that can be visited are wall dives and drop-offs. Thankfully, the local Dumaguete resorts have some of the most experienced local diving guides in the country – a testimony to the area’s diverse underwater attractions.

Getting to Dumaguete is relatively easy to with local airlines flying directly into the nearby airport.

Philippine Airlines offers flights to Sibulan Airport aka Dumaguete Airport

straight from Metro Manila. It’s just a one-hour and a half flight, and the airport itself is already close to many cheap but nice hotels/resorts located in both Sibulan and Dumaguete. If you are planning to fly to Dumaguete, make sure to check out our list of 10 In-Flight Backdoor Perks Passengers Should Ask For’ here on Take Off Philippines. Those free grooming kits and sanitizing wipes will most definitely come in handy the next time you’re on a beach that’s far from any convenience or sari-sari stores. Just make sure to do your part in keeping Dumaguete’s waters pristine by properly disposing of any and all garbage.

For more Daily Dose Of Eyegasmic Occurrences follow our Social Media Accounts:

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

Instagram/Twitter: @takeoff_ph

[takeoffphilippines]

Hmmm taste like BBQ. Lol 🤣 Follow us on our Social Media Accounts: FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog Instagram / Twitter: @takeoff_ph Website: www.takeoffphilippines.com #takeoffph #takeoffphilippines #samsunga7 #samsunga72018 #samsungphotography #travelphotography #travelblogger #travelpinas #aroundph #tripadvisor #travelokaph #pinasaya #philippines 🇵🇭 #igers #igdaily #travelgram #travellovers #vacationmode #vacation🌴 #vacationgoals #vacationtime #pringles #stayathome #workfromhome #pandemic #snackattack #pringlesroastedturkey (at Firenze Subdivision) https://www.instagram.com/p/CBuHpccnupZ/?igshid=kj808yki47a0