#overnight stay in makati

[thehungrykat1]

Sharing My Memorable Accor Plus Member Stories

I was recently chosen by Accor Plus as their Member Ambassador representing the Philippines! This was really such an honor for me since most of their other ambassadors are from Australia and other Asian cities. As long time Accor Plus members, we always use our 50% dining discounts and complimentary stays to explore the many Accor hotels in the country. When I got promoted to an Accor Plus Gold membership last year, we were so happy with the free room upgrades we received every time we traveled and stayed at Accor hotels throughout Asia Pacific.

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A post shared by Kat Lee (@katleenlee)

That's why I was even more surprised when I got chosen to tell my own Member Stories for the 30th Anniversary of Accor Plus. The shoot and interview was done a few weeks ago at Fairmont and Raffles Makati, another Accor hotel that is very close to my heart. Of course, we also got treated to the lunch buffet at Spectrum Restaurant and even got an overnight stay with breakfast after the photo and video shoot. So here's the video posted on the Accor Plus website. You can also read the full article and video on this link: https://www.accorplus.com/member-stories/kat-lee.

[takeoffphilippines]

Seda Residences Makati Shines Bright for the Holidays with the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Client Appreciation Night

Seda Residences Makati, the city's premier destination for seamless stays and topnotch service, recently celebrated its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, an event that marks the beginning of the festive season and sets the stage for a month-long celebration of joy, giving, and community spirit.

This year's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony holds a special significance as Seda Residences Makati once again collaborates with Seda Hotels’ charity partner Smile Train, an organization dedicated to providing cleft repair surgery and comprehensive cleft care to children in need. The lighting of the Christmas tree not only symbolizes the start of the holiday season but also kickstarts the hotel's charity campaign for Smile Train.

Guests and attendees are invited to contribute to this noble cause and make a difference in the lives of children around the world. Adding to the hotel’s festive decorations is the newly unveiled Gingerbread Tower, meticulously crafted in the likeness of Seda Residences Makati – complete with a whimsical fondant display of restaurants and shops at the mall below the hotel. This yuletide masterpiece features intricate sugar and chocolate creations showcasing the dedication to craftsmanship and detail that Seda Residences Makati is known for.

Coinciding with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is the hotel’s Annual Client Appreciation Night to express gratitude to its valued partners who have played a pivotal role in its success throughout the year. The event honors top corporate accounts and online travel agency partners. Also in attendance is a list of long-time clientele from embassies and multinational groups, representatives of other Ayala Corporation subsidiaries, media friends, and special guests from local government agencies and the Department of Tourism.

The month-long celebration of the yuletide holidays at Seda Residences Makati includes exciting offers for both rooms and dining outlets: Holiday Countdown Buffets; A gingerbread-making contest for kids; Christmas and New Year’s Eve room packages, and this year’s festive room offer: ‘12 Days of Christmas’ where guests availing of the overnight stay package are welcomed with a Christmas plushie, tsokolate batirol plus ensaymada at the Santa Café, a photo session at the Christmas corner, and vouchers to get gifts from Santa’s Gift Wagon. You may visit the hotel website at www.residencesmakati.sedahotels.com or call them at 0917 875 1871.

About Seda Residences Makati Located within Makati Central Business District, with 293 serviced residences ranging from studio to larger, pet-friendly 1- to 3-bedroom apartments. A roof deck bar and an a la carte and buffet restaurant are available for hotel and walk-in guests.

About Smile Train World’s largest cleft-focused organization, with a sustainable and local model of supporting surgery and other forms of essential care. Over the last 20+ years, they have supported safe, high-quality, and free cleft care for 1.5+ million children

[beingjellybeans]

Get the #LubdExperience at Lub d Makati (because you didn't come for the normal)

Get the #LubdExperience at Lub d Makati (because you didn’t come for the normal)

Whether you’re a foreigner backpacking the Philippines and looking for a place to serve as your “base of operations” while you’re touring the capital, a domestic traveler who wants to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the metro’s busiest district or an urbanite who’s seeking for a change of scenery, Lub d Makati is the place for you. The biggest hostel in the Philippines, Lub d Makati…

[truthshield]

Rakuten Viber champions Pinoy MSMEs Manila Bulletin

Filipino entrepreneurs vying for a chance to realize their business dreams came to a head last July 14 as Rakuten Viber gathered the Pinoy Dream Negosyo event in Makati City.  The event rounds off the series of online challenges and activities that the top three participating entrepreneurs from the Raket PH and FoodPH Viber channels had to undergo for the opportunity to pitch their business ideas and receive a business grant from Viber and its partners Inquirer Group of Companies and Grab Express. Pinoy Dream Negosyo is in line with Rakuten Viber’s mission to educate, enable, and empower Filipino MSMEs by giving them a platform to share their entrepreneurial journey and by providing business owners with the know-how and tools to help implement their business plans, and scale their business operations. Dana Parado, marketing manager at Rakuten Viber Viber, one of the world’s leading apps for free, secured, and easy communication, has been instrumental in helping small businesses grow and stay connected to their consumers and each other, especially during the pandemic. Viber saw an increase in the use of its Channels feature during the Covid-19 lockdowns. Viber Channels helped entrepreneurs reach out to potential customers and like-minded individuals, allowing them to grow and manage their businesses. Among the helpful tools for small businesses were the Raket PH and FoodPH Viber channels. Raket PH serves as a Viber channel for MSME owners and side hustlers who want to promote their side businesses. Since its launching, Raket PH now has over 203,000 subscribers.  Food PH, on the other hand, is an online food channel that helped small and micro food entrepreneurs adapt to the “new normal” during the pandemic through contactless online purchases. FoodPH eventually evolved through its bot, serving as a transaction point for buyers. The Food PH channel has grown significantly to attract over 560,000 subscribers.  Making MSME dreams a reality Pinoy Dream Negosyo opens the doors to MSMEs who want to share their business journeys and acquire the knowledge and tools to make their entrepreneurial dreams a reality.  “Pinoy Dream Negosyo didn’t happen overnight. It is a byproduct of the team’s hard work to meet and answer the needs of the Filipinos back in 2020,” said Lana Macapagal, APAC PR Lead for Rakuten Viber. “When there was a surge in users and communities actively using Viber, we asked ourselves how we could help them further. That led us to our goal, which is to champion Filipino MSMEs.”  Pinoy Dream Negosyo has two categories, Raket Mo ‘To and Da Best of FoodPH.  At the event, three entrepreneurs from Raket PH and three from Food PH had the opportunity to inspire other aspiring Filipino entrepreneurs by sharing their stories and pitching their final business ideas for a chance to receive a business grant from Viber and its partners. In the end, two budding Filipino entrepreneurs became one step closer to fulfilling their entrepreneurial dreams as they each received a business grant from Viber and its partners.  Mon Cabsag of The Bistro Box wowed the judges with his version of nilupak, a traditional Filipino delicacy, to win as the GRAND BESTie of FOODPH.  Richmond Argosino of Ken Goods and Apparel, on the other hand, gave a clear pitch of his desired business path to ultimately capture the grand prize for Raket Mo ‘To of RaketPH. Cabsag, during the media QnA segment of the event, said that he will use the prizes to upgrade his business equipment to better serve his customers. “It was a memorable and exhilarating experience for me. I met and interacted with a lot of entrepreneurs like me and gained more perspective about running a business,” he added. Viber, a long-time supporter of entrepreneurs in the country, looks forward to the next set of enterprising individuals whose dreams it can help make a reality.   SIGN UP TO DAILY NEWSLETTER CLICK HERE TO SIGN-UP   https://ift.tt/Loau4Ny https://ift.tt/mRscroy

[realdanebdc1995]

We loss share thoughts (Romeo Bautista,Sr’s life story)

on last week 3 months feeling sad thoughts my mom’s side my life story my mom about talk story family background my mom’s family middle “bautista” means (Spanish for “baptist”) is a Spanish language surname Peña, meaning “rocky outcrop” or “rocky summit” in the Spanish language (Aragonese: Penya, Catalan: Penya).my great grandfather Felix Bautista married my great grandmother benita pena born children 10 5 boys and 5 girls growing up last 10 my grandfather romeo bautista,sr true catholics priest granduncle msgr.nico bautista my great grandfather felix passed away april 5,1979 what happened wrong don’t think later my grandparent divorce away why reason i’m okay my mom comfort thoughts courage big better growing up.later my parent’s wedding 1994 my grandfather romeo,sr i’m happy so for my parent blessing later 1995 my great grandmother nov 7,1995 passed away very sick and weak my mom’s pregnant with me 8 months my mom’s emotion remember thoughts feeling okay december 31 my mom’s give birth with me welcome family my grandfather romeo,sr congrats my daughter menda god gift thoughts i’m happy so for you new granddaugther feeling loved.past ago never my grandfather romeo,sr long time no see growing up 3 granddaughter learn my dad’s side grandfather benito passed away june 26 2009 very sick and weak past ago my birthday 7 years my parent’s father chat stories good thoughts december 26 2018 romeo’s children and grandchildren reunion see you nice enjoy day last january 24 2020 my family visit makati lolo oyo’s birthday surprise cake birthday song enjoy day march 2020 pandemic coronavirus lockdown worry prayer continue patience stay home july 2020 my grandfather and family visit going cavite my house lunch and chat good thoughts jan 2021 lolo oyo birthday mama and me video call messengers feb 21 2021 my grandfather and family visit my mom’s birthday gift cake thoughts blessing good chat telephone how’s family u ? fine ok good ! last see moment oct 22 2021 my sister work resign citi leave going soon america work my mom and 3 girl going visit again makati lolo oyo’s house lunch and chat lolo oyo’s last word : “take care blessing my 5th granddaughter gale good luck” later nov 5 2021 what really happened my grandfather oyo’s motorcycle accident night 7:30pm rushed hospital my uncle bobby video call emergency need talk my mom shock learn lolo oyo’s accident don’t worry call my aunt vec from la union learn shock my grandfather oyo’s react accident my mom’s cried and sad wake morning nov 6 feeling sad my mom and me going catholics church pray thoughts stay strong 11:30am lolo oyo’s death my mom cried and depression learn 5pm feeling emotion very cried over me true depression, anxiety and panic attack not okay visit makati me very cried over learn about lolo oyo’s death what really happened very wrong? meet tito rj comfort hugs me gone too soon feeling frustrated justice my support lolo oyo’s passing thoughts hurt check autopsy not yet cremation overnight going sleep 4am wake breakfast eat before bath prepared 9am worship dii teacher, friend filipino and foreign say what happened your grandpa oyo? wrong react accident need prayer request comfort me my lolo oyo’s passing panic attack thoughts condolences thank you bro phuc and dii and gdmi family nov 8 lolo oyo’s body cremation back home my uncle rj video call lolo oyo’s children see emotion cry lolo oyo’s urn my last message letter thoughts can’t goodbye okay nov 15 my lolo oyo’s burial going heaven return pls meet hugs lolo felix,lola benita,lolo moncis,lolo maning,lolo rey,tito noel and kuya ejay i’m happy so for you thoughts good my 4th granddaughter dream work and life future family growing no matter be strong better new life 2022 think goal.on wednesday visit lolo oyo’s grave 40th days departed heaven thinking of you very emotion feeling sad break slience peace i’m okay suffering and pain 

Thank you very much Sending lots hugs !

Dane

[joiedelantar-blog]

Daranak Falls | Rizal, Philippines

Daranak Falls is one of the most visited places in Tanay, Rizal because of its refreshing surroundings and accessibility. The place is at Brgy. Tandang Kutyo Tanay, Rizal, Philippines. It is well-known for its 14-meter high falls and rock balancing.

According to Google, Daranak Falls came from the phrase “Dadanak ang dugo” or “The spilling of blood.” I can’t find any articles or blogs about its history on the internet that's why I thought that maybe there was a shedding of blood happened way back in Spanish Era at the exact place where it is located and since then they called it “Dadanak ang dugo” and later on “Daranak Falls.”

Our Journey

Last November 30, 2012, my friends and I visited Daranak Falls without any itinerary on hand. We rented a jeep for the whole trip because we don't know how to get there and the only thing we got was the direction map from Google. After our long and exhausting travel, we reached the place. 

I was amazed how beautiful the place is. I love the fresh air coming from the trees and the sound of running water from the falls. Very relaxing indeed. Even though we never last that long in the water due to its coldness, we enjoyed taking our pictures and also the scenery. Thank you to our friend Melvin because he brought his high-end camera. 

We met some young locals there, and they asked us if we want to visit other sites near the place. We agreed, so we trek for about an hour or so to Calinawan Cave and then walked again up to Grotto of Our Lady of Rawang and back to Daranak Falls.

After we had cleaned ourselves, we started our journey back home. But since everyone wanted to rest, we looked for a small cabin or motorist hotel that can accommodate us just for a night. And luckily, we found Kenos Lodge, they gave us a family-sized room, free parking area, free use of the rooftop and free hot water for our coffee. I can say that their customer service and the lodge itself are superb. On that note, I want to take this chance to say Thank you very much to the Owner and staffs of Kenos Lodge for accommodating us.

And if you want to know more about our Trip to Daranak Falls, Calinawan Cave and Grotto of Our Lady of Rawang click this link -->> Travel with Maverick.

Facts:

The traveling time from the Metro to Daranak Falls is 1-2 hours if you have a ride and 2-3 hours if you will be commuting and it depends on the traffic condition.

Entrance fee is Php 50.00 per head (as of 2012).

No Liquors and overnight stay.

Open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm only.

Cottages rates are Php 100 per day (as of 2012). Always keep the receipt because some personnel will check it from time to time.

There are Local Tour Guides that will offer you a tour to the nearby Tourist Spots. The guide/tour fee varies depending on your negotiations.

Source:

Google

http://travelwith-maverick.blogspot.com

Photo Credit: Melvin & Ate Joed Post Updated Last: October 30, 2015 | Makati

** This post was originally from my previous blog and was transferred here because I need to delete the other blog.

[coleendalida]

24-Day Stay in One Pacific Place Serviced Residences

I’ve been posting a lot in my social media accounts about my stay in One Pacific Place Serviced Residences in Salcedo Village, Makati City but to tell you guys — it’s a company expense. Yes, you are hearing it right! I attended more than three weeks of training in BPI Philam Life as a Bancassurance Sales Executive.

I was credited to have a free accommodation in the hotel because the company wants their employee to be flexible enough on the training if they are far from the area or outside Manila. It’s really a big help for me because it’s not a good idea commuting everyday from Calamba City to Makati.

I checked-in last May 23 (since it is the start of our training) together with my co-BSE’s, Jas and Tita Baby. At first, I felt a little emotional because I missed my family but as days passed I enjoyed living in the hotel.

As you can see, I became comfortable and relaxed because the room that was given to me is a complete package — it has living room, dining area, kitchen, bedroom, and huge bathroom; I also like to witness everyday the scenery of the whole city from above since I was in the 19th floor. One Pacific Place has also a pool and gym in the 6th floor; and a Strand Cafe in the ground floor which you can enjoy their free breakfast buffet. If you find their cuisines expensive, you can still have a lot of choices since there are fast-foods, restaurants, and mini groceries around the place.

I brought my brother there to experience the cozy and tranquil ambiance of the hotel which he really admire. He also wants to go back and stay overnight but unfortunately, I have only a little time to lodge. 

On our last night, we had a little farewell party in 32nd floor with some of my co-BSE’s. Somehow, we all felt forlorn because we became family for a short period of time but unfortunately, we still need to say good bye to one another.

One Pacific Place Serviced Residences is a nice spot for staycation, short accommodation, and event place.

For more information and bookings you can visit their site. 

https://www.onepacificplaceresidences.com/

[edwingalvez]

Cooked Chicken Afritada last night. Let it stay overnight and now ready for my late lunch. #filipinofood #quarantinelife #quarantinecooking (at Barangay Bangkal, Makati City) https://www.instagram.com/p/CIP2itSnzkA/?igshid=1vfb9mr185dvn

[phgq]

Staycation hotels in NCR now at 13

#PHnews: Staycation hotels in NCR now at 13

MANILA – The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Thursday announced that three additional hotels have been allowed to operate for staycation in the National Capital Region, which remains under general community quarantine (GCQ), raising the total to 13.

The following hotels have so far secured Certificates of Authority to Operate as Staycation from the DOT: --Sheraton Manila Hotel --The Peninsula Manila --Aruga by Rockwell --Okada Manila --Grand Hyatt --Makati Shangri-La --Nobu Hotel --Shangri-La at the Fort --Solaire Resort --Edsa Shangri-La --Joy-Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila --Hyatt Regency --Nuwa COD

To date, there are 28 DOT star-rated hotels in Metro Manila -- 16 five-star and 12 four-star.

Under current DOT guidelines, contactless and cashless transactions for taking bookings and payments are mandatory to promote minimal physical contact between staff and guests amid threats of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

Authorized hotels are required to develop staycation packages that are appropriate for the present market demands and conditions.

Staycation refers to leisure activities involving a minimum of an overnight stay in an accommodation establishment that is not used as a mandatory Covid-19 quarantine facility. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Staycation hotels in NCR now at 13." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122393 (accessed November 20, 2020 at 03:18AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Staycation hotels in NCR now at 13." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122393 (archived).

[askikamle]

A Kdrama inspired gem in the middle of a bustling city

 As much as I wanted to keep it to myself coz it feels like something that would be overbooked and much more expensive once people gets word of it, I can’t seem to contain my amazement over the fact that something like it exists in Makati.

 It was out of sheer luck that the place was available when we were scouting for a place to stay in over the weekend. With the pandemic, it’s always such a hassle to go on dates without feeling rushed trying to find a carpool to and from the city. So the most practical option for us was to book for a place we could crash in overnight. When we found Andres and Melanie’s place and read the reviews, we realized it’s always booked and most of the visitors express their intention to extend their stays.

 The premise of the Airbnb listing was “a cozy and homey Rooftop Condo”. What sold us in were the Electric Grill perfect for samgyup/grill night and the wide expanse of the roof deck lined with plants (I’m a bit of a plantita after all). The pictures consisted of the room and the deck as well as how the deck looks at night: with fairy lights to boot! It says in the listing that it’s a perfect place to hold parties for small group of friends.

 It was a little more pricey than a usual Airbnb room in Makati. But I’d say it was worth it. When we got to the place, we were welcomed by a very accommodating Melanie who was still trying to catch her breath while explaining to us the house rules and making a short tour of the place as well as showing us where things are. You see, the rooftop was about six (6) flights of stairs – yup, you have to walk to get there as the place don’t have an elevator.

 Upon entrance to the place, we were greeted with the bed and the view of the kitchen. The space was actually bigger than it seems in the listing. But what captivated us was the relaxing view from outside the glass doors. The pictures, we instantly realized, didn’t do the place justice.

Most especially when nighttime came and we finally got to try our planned samgyup dinner. The fairy lights and the newly added Christmas lights decorating the shed and the poles made for a fun and lively dinner. We had our usual conversation/chismisan over grilled plain pork samgyeopsal and beef samgyeopsal, our DIY bulgogi marinated beef (which tasted more like tasty garlic tapa much to our surprise) and our experimental kimchi ramyum with jamonillo. The next morning, we cooked sunny side up eggs, leftover jamonillo, bulgogi turned tapa and arla slathered bagels while drinking our coffee. In no part of our stay did we ever feel like we do not belong to the place. It actually felt like home away from home. In Drew’s words “The place was so rustic and homey and felt like it brought the comfort you usually get from being in your own house”.

 That’s not to say it was without its flaws. For one, being at the topmost floor, water pressure from the shower was a bit low. The walls of the deck were old and rustic. Some tiles had noticeable chips and stains on them. There’s no source of the usual entertainment like TV and the plates and utensils were limited. But the overall experience we’ve had, outweighs all of it. Besides, who needs a TV when they have WiFi and you have your phone or laptop anyway, right?

 Areas of improvement? I think a repaint (which we heard the admin’s already in the move for) would make the place look cleaner and brighter. Adding a towel rack in the bathroom as well as tissue holder would also be nice. Placing provision for more dining wares like saucers, bowls, extra spoons and forks, and even chopsticks (to make your dining experience more “kdrama feels”) would be very much appreciated especially for people who intend to actually make use of the cooking amenity. Design-wise, it could do well if the entire place was consistent with the minimalist style of the kitchen where all the plates and coffee mugs are in black and white. Also, if they really wanted to attract more kdrama fans, they could very well replace the tables and chair setup with a “papag” or bamboo bed outside where people can cook their samgyupsal and drink their soju, or lie down while stargazing and having deep convos.

 I have tried a couple of Airbnbs, and some even had themed rooms. And all of those experiences had one thing in common: they all felt like hotel rooms. The Rooftop Condo experience was something else altogether. It was like having an entire mini kdrama house to yourself. We’ve only been in it for one day and already, we felt like we live in it (more like want to live in it haha). In fact, looking at the surrounding taller condo buildings, we were appreciating how lucky and happy we were to have found the place because it gave us a unique and better weekend getaway.

[shadow-kit]

Hey I might not make posts or reblogs for a day or two, I'm going to DB-Makati for an overnight stay, so when I come back, there better be no discourse or else

[verningitup]

“You’re not Filipina no?” -By Laverne Floris

Kamusta Everyone

So a lot of you have been asking me so many questions about my recent trip to the Philippines and I thought I’d write a lil something to give you a good summary on the whole trip. Please note that the exchange rate was R0.27 = 1 Philippine Piso.

Let’s take it back to the beginning. I met Kiddo and Sylvester in South Korea in 2017 at the World Barista Championships in Seoul. Team South Africa and Team Philippines hit it off so well that it made me want to visit my new friends in their awesome country.

A year later, I found myself getting on that plane, jetting off to the Philippines.

So the journey began at Cape Town International Airport and the commute was as follows:

Cape Town to Manila. Manila to Puerto Princesa. A 6 hour bus ride from Puerto Princesa to final destination El Nido. I travelled for 2 whole days and when I arrived at my accommodation, I just fell on my bed, laying on my stomach because my backside was so lame from all the SITTING!

I flew with Cathay Pacific airlines. The great thing with them is that they fly to Hong Kong and you can choose a really short layover (mine was 55 minutes) or you can choose a longer layover (around 13 hours) and explore the city of Hong Kong if you’re keen. I’ve done that before and it’s a great way to save on the ticket price and see another side of the world.

For domestic flights I used Air Asia. I found them to be the most affordable airline but they struggle with punctuality. Their insanely beautiful and friendly flight attendants make up for it haha. Also they play really cool music in the aircraft before and after the flight. Other airlines one can use fly domestically in the Philippines is Cebu Pacific and Philippines airlines.

https://www.airasia.com

https://www.cebupacificair.com/

https://www.philippineairlines.com/en

If you don’t feel like the bus commute and you just want to get to the island, I would suggest AirSwift for a quick and easy flight from Manila to El Nido. Here’s a link to their website.

https://air-swift.com/

El Nido, Palawan Island:

I spent 4 days in this incredibly breath taking island all by myself. I stayed at this lovely super authentic cottage in Corong Corong. It’s called Eco Sommer Cottage. I found them on Airbnb for R365 a night with breakfast included. The staff and their services were so accommodating, the only thing that sucked is there was absolutely no signal. Please note that El Nido is one of the most untouched islands out there hence the under developed infrastructure. Give that place 5 more years and it will be the next Bali. So much construction happening all over in terms of hotels and hospitality.

El Nido was voted most beautiful island in the world in 2016 and one can seriously believe that once you get off that plane. Even flying over El Nido was one of the most incredible things to witness. The crystal clear beaches makes you feel like you are swimming in salty warm heaven. Heads up, beaches in the Philippines are so much more salty than South Africa.

Tric or Tricycles are the ubers of the islands and the most common way to get around but I suggest renting a scooter, you get to see so much more of the island and the fresh air is amazing. To rent a scooter  per day is P500/ R133 and you can get it at one of the many scooter hire shops or some accommodation places have scooters to rent right there.

Things I did in El Nido:

Solid beaching, there are hardly any rough waves and the water is so tranquil. For those craving a surf (like I always do haha), there’s a beach called Duli beach, about a 50 minute scooter drive from the main town. A long but incredibly beautiful drive.

·         Free diving is pretty big in El Nido so if you’re wanting to explore the waters, free diving is your best bet.

·         Boat trips. The most touristy thing in El Nido and one of the best. There are 4 main tours that runs every single day. I have inserted a link below and if you don’t manage to book online, don’t worry, there are so many boat tour businesses all over El Nido town. Lunch and snorkelling gear is provided on the boat which is very convenient because this boat trip last almost the whole day.

https://www.elnidoparadise.com/island-hopping/el-nido-tours/ 

·         Amazing restaurants with amazing food, make sure to check out Las Cabañas / Meri Pegpeg beach / and all the restaurants on that stripe. Paddle boarding and zip lining is available there too.

Please note that I was only there for 4 days so I didn’t explore much but check out my pinterest board to links for those who want to stay longer.

https://za.pinterest.com/lavernefloris/philippines/

Back on a 6 hour van ride to Puerto Princesa, overnight there in a hotel and on a flight to Manila the next morning. This ride costs me P1000/R266 for a return ticket. There are vans waiting for tourists at the airport so it will be easy to find a ride. I’ve inserted a website to book your bus trips upfront.

https://biyaheroes.com/#!/

When I landed in Manila, another bus was waiting for me, luckily this trip was only about 4 hours long. Arrived at my hostel 22:30, put on hoop earrings and headed out to party haha. La Union has a big partying culture and everyone is invited. The town slows down on Sunday so it’s a balance of both.

San Juan, La Union Province

So this is where Kiddo and Sylvester reside. They own this really cool coffee spot called El Union (notice the play on words form L U). It’s located right on the beach in the restaurant hub called The Great northwest. It’s a hub filled with amazing restaurants, a barbershop, tattoo parlour and some bars.  I spent most of my time chilling there during the day, hanging out with the locals and made friends for life.

There’s a stereotype that says that Filipino people are the friendliest out there and boy did they live up to that. The people were my highlight of the trip. They are so welcoming and they have this wonderful loyalty about them.

When I wasn’t drinking coffee, eating waffles or grilled cheese sandwiches (the best I’ve ever had btw), you would find me in the water at the different surf spots, Carielle and Taboc.

Another highlight of my trip was my accommodation in La Union. I stayed at this stunning and oh so aesthetically pleasing hostel called Vessel Hostel. It’s owned and designed by two architect surfers so you know that combination produces a great work of art. It costs P1200/ R324 a night and it is totally value for money. Breakfast included, the dopest music blasting through the speakers all day and it’s a great location, right across the bus stop to Manila and right in the middle of all the cool restaurants.

https://vesselhostel.com/

I extended my trip and had to find accommodation quickly. Luckily Flotsam Jetsam Hostel had available rooms. This is another great place to stay if Vessel Hostel is fully booked. A totally different look and feel but their breakfast is BOMB and you’re right in the party action if you don’t mind the noise. This grandma had to suck it up and sleep through it haha.

https://www.flotsamandjetsamhostel.com/

      Things I did in La union:

·         Surf. Tan. Surf. Repeat.

·         Visited Tangadan Falls. We drove up all the way but one can take a tricycle or jeepney (the Fiilipino version of a taxi) and then hike to the waterfall.

·         Party at Flotsam Jetsam hostel and the Shrine of Satisfaction.

There was so much more that I wanted to do, go visit a coffee farm up further up North and do more hiking trails but the water kept me busy and the people. Like I said, I made so many great connections and when I go back (yes I’m planning on going back) I will tick more things off my list. See link below for more things to do in that area.

https://twomonkeystravelgroup.com/awesome-things-to-do-in-la-union-philippines-aside-from-surfing/

Also here’s a really cool video about my friend Kiddo Cosio and his cool family. This video will have you thinking about your quality of life and how much you miss the beach haha.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhRaDG-Qbzc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RawevCuURkI

Food in the Philippines:

So I’m abit of a picky eater but I had no problem choosing meals in the Philippines. There’s tons of western restaurants and western dishes served. Rice is a major staple in the country and it is served with EVERYTHING! Bacon and eggs with rice? YEP! I didn’t try it but I’m sure it’s not that bad lol.

I had abit of the local dishes and my favourite was Beef Steak Taglog. Its like a beef stew with, you guessed it, rice. My favourite meal was the Korean beef bowl from Papa Bear in the Great Northwest hub of La union. Pulled beef short rib, kimchi, sous vide egg, bean sprouts over rice. So freaken good.

Filipinos love their pork so you find it all over the menu as well as their chicken. Unfortunately I didn’t have chance to try out the famous Jollybee and its chicken. Jollybee is HUGE in the Philippines. Even bigger than McDonalds so if you’re ever in PH, try it out. Oh and for all the fruit lovers like myself, unfortunately I didn’t come across so many fruits. Mango and banana is very common around there so that’s the fruit you see all over. Best mangoes I’ve ever tasted.

Okay so let’s talk about the weather since this conversation is almost done haha.

It is SUPER hot in the Philippines. Combine an average of 35 degrees Celsius and a nice 80% humidity and you will get a normal day. For a Cape Townian girl like me, the humidity gets to me sometimes but there’s ocean all around to cool off.

**Tip: best time to travel in to the Philippines is December to March. This is their “winter” and their dry season. They have a summer rainfall so the rainy season is June to October, which is not ideal for all the adventures.

I was so sad to leave La Union but Cape Town was calling me. Back to Manila city for me and luckily my flight was only late the afternoon so I got to spend the day exploring Manila. Makati, Poblacion area specifically. I arrived the evening so it was another booking into the hostel. By this time, I just wanted to commit to one bed but this really built up travelling endurance in me. I stayed at Z hostel. A very popular hostel in the heart of Makati. Makati is like every other city. Hipster coffee shops, fast food restaurants, businessmen all over, lots of shopping and TRAFFIC. Manila is known to be the world’s most dense city so this means traffic 24/7. I am not even joking. It was 01:30 in the morning and there was traffic. Manila also has one of the biggest malls in Asia called Mall of Asia so if you want to get your proper shopping on, this is this place to be.  Manila is a very grimy city with so much poverty and forms of eradication all over so not a pretty sight when turning corners.

For all the coffee lovers, I had coffee at this really cool place called Commune and to my surprise, it was one of the best flat whites I’ve ever had. Manila also has a %Arabica café, unfortunately I just missed it but if you’re looking for great coffee Manila, that’s your place to be. I did some shopping exploring in the Greenbelt mall area which is a stunning area. To move around in Manila, you can use the Grab app. It’s their version of uber.

So the dying question, how much did this whole trip cost?

Well all in all this trip costs me roughly R20 000. This is including flights (R14 000) all accommodation (R4330), buses and scooters (R1000). This is excluding spending money and food. I use this amazing website for when I plan my budget for travelling its life changing. It compares the cost of living in different cities in the world.

https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/comparison.jsp

A few FYI points:

·         Most showers are only cold water.

·         The mosquitos are silent so you don’t hear them biting during the night.

·         Pack in a deep conditioner treatment for your hair, heat rash ointment and mosquito bite cream.

·         Bring a refill bottle for drinking water.

·         Definitely buy a waterproof beach pack bag when you get there.

·         English is taught in schools so everyone speaks pretty decent English.

·         YOU DON’T NEED A VISA FOR THE PHILIPPINES IF YOU HAVE A SOUTH AFRICAN PASSPORT :)

So how was it travelling alone?

To be honest, it was all and all amazing. I’m abit of a lone ranger so the solitude was good. Traveling alone is great because you don’t have to deal with different people’s moods, their pace of walking and their own itinerary. Being alone also forces you to speak to people, especially locals, and this leads to making friends. I ended up making friends with two German guys in my bus ride in El Nido, two cool girls from the Netherlands at my accommodation, one lovely lady from London and another two Dutch guys from my accommodation. Btw, you cannot escape the Dutch, wherever you travel

I was only technically alone for 4 days but even out of that 4 days I was hanging out with my two girlfriends from The Netherlands. One is only truly “alone” when commuting and flying in the plane.

I’ve told so many people that you’re never truly alone in the Philippines. The locals are so willing to connect with you that they’re just like “hey you got plans for tonight, let’s go for dinner”. I’m also a people’s person so that helped me a lot on this trip.

Another benefit of traveling alone is that it helps you reflect in such a big way. After the whirlwind of a year that I had. Recently single and in between changing careers, this solo trip was so needed in so many ways. You learn so much about yourself and you become your own anchor of strength. The first night I arrived in El Nido, I found myself so exhausted from the two day traveling that I just burst out crying and I was like “Omgosh, you did it and there’s a whole two week trip ahead of you”. Right there I pulled myself towards myself and started this amazing relationship with myself. You figure out your strengths and weaknesses in a whole new way. So I encourage everyone, everyone that suffers with crazy anxiety and everyone that’s extremely introverted, please do yourself and your soul a favour and try a solo trip abroad. It will be hard at times but the lessons learnt and the experienced gained is priceless.

Ps. please check out my instagram story highlights for more imagery and videos. @verningitup , for now, see pictures below :) 

[yasmeensmalley]

Finishing the Fulbright

I returned home to the U.S. a little over a month ago, after successfully completing a Fulbright research grant. I was in the Philippines for nine and a half months, and during my grant period I went on 10 research expeditions, did 64 dives and spent 96 hours underwater, all to create the 165 3D coral models below.

Corals of the Philippines by yasmeensmalley on Sketchfab

My last couple months in the Philippines flew by, with a final research expedition to Eastern Samar just three weeks before my departure. This was my second research trip in the Visayas, the group of islands in the middle of the Philippines. Our destination was the farthest distance from Manila that I’d traveled, but luckily I was able to transport all 50 kg of my scuba and camera gear by plane and van. 

I traveled to Guiuan in Eastern Samar with Darwin Raymundo, Sandra Enn Bahinting, Princess Mordeno, Reine Cabreira and Rowi Aquino. Our initial findings for 3D modeling were slightly discouraging; there just wasn’t much coral to photograph. Most sites closer to the Pacific ocean have smaller corals due to increased wave action, and we were diving where Typhoon Yolanda first made landfall three and a half years ago. Regardless of the cause for the poor coral cover, Princess was able to find some of the species on our list, and I concluded my last research expedition by photographing some unique corals, including some additional Nemenzo species.  

After returning to Manila, I began processing the models from our trip and putting together my final presentation. But with just two weeks before leaving the country, I wanted to enjoy some of the natural beauty the Philippines has to offer, this time for leisure instead of work. With that in mind, myself and two friends took an interesting overnight bus ride and arrived in Baler, one of the top surfing destinations in the Philippines. We had a blissful three days surfing, drinking mango smoothies and eating grilled pork. I even learned how to surf!

We returned to Manila with just a week before my final presentation and 11 days before my departure. Unfortunately, Mother Nature stepped in and put a halt to my frenetic pace with a nasty case of gastroenteritis and dehydration, which put me out of commission for a week. With the help of friends and the skilled doctors and nurses at Makati Medical Center I was able to get back on my feet in time for my final presentation, and my flight a few days later. 

I’ve been back in the US for a month and a half, and I’m currently working on an exciting collaboration with my advisor, Dr. Al Licuanan, and De La Salle University: a field guide publication detailing approximately 50 coral species and focusing on threatened species. The field guide will help scientists and stakeholders learn how to distinguish between similar coral species, and includes links to easily view the corresponding 3D model for each coral species.

It’s hard to believe that this amazing opportunity is over. I’m so thankful to have had this experience, and will forever cherish the memories and friendships I made in the Philippines. My sincere thanks go to the people who made my stay in this country so wonderful, and the researchers who continue to fight for the health of their coral reefs. Maraming salamat po!

[itsclairebaldueza]

Hotel H2O Staycation

For the past few months, I've been struggling with school. Tired of sleepless nights, stress, exams, terror professors and thesis defense. I became restless and my energy was drained. So when staycation invites come to my doorstep, I’m all in! Especially when it’s from HOTEL H2O!

Last March 19-20, the weekend right after my final exam week, I had a staycation at the said hotel and I must say, it’s one for the books! It gave me a chance to discover their new and improved hotel. I arrived at around 2pm with my friend, Pat. It feels so nice to be celebrating our ‘sem-ender’ at hotel H2O with the fishes at our room. After my overnight stay, I was able to conclude that Hotel H2O is my favourite hotel escape, without having to leave the city. Let me tell you why…

The staff are polite and very accommodating. Mr. Jerome Ramos, the manager, was the one who assisted us in our entire stay. He explained all the activities we can do as stated in our itinerary. He answered all our queries and arranged our schedules and reservations in the cafe, restaurant and spa. Thank you, Mr. Jerome! 

ROOM TOUR

Hotel H2O’s accommodations include over 147 rooms and suites. There are 3 kinds: Parkview, Bayview and Aqua room. They gave us the latter and it’s the room everything you can ask for–it’s cozy but roomy at the same time, it has the softest pillows and bed, the bath area is huge. But the best thing really is the calming view of the fishes swimming in the blue aquarium. Parkview and Bayview rooms, I think, has the amazing view of the Manila Bay, a visual treat that not all luxurious hotels in Manila can offer.

We have two bathrooms in our room. When you enter, the left side is where the first bathroom is located. And on the right side is the cabinet and luggage area. 

The first half of the room is the living room/receiving area. It has a couch, and working table. There’s also an LCD tv and of course, their signature aquarium wall! 

Before entering the bedroom, you will see the mini bar with FREE foods (yay!), coffee and coffee maker, tea, soda and a mini fridge inside the cabinet below the mini bar.

Moving on to my favorite part of the room..

A comfy, queen-size plush bed- just what I needed! I really dislike hotels with thin mattresses or painful sheets, but this one was just right! Plus, the color is so me! <3

Yes, there are two televisions! One at the living room, and another one at the bedroom.

Well lit, even water pressure, complete toiletries, a trashcan below the sink and by the toilet, a big countertop for my own products, and clean white towels. This bathroom had my musts! 

After checking the room, we headed to Manila Ocean Park. We watched the Sea Lion Show and the dancing jellyfish and explored the Oceanarium and Back at the House. 

After an hour of strolling we felt our hungry stomach complaining already.

So I asked Mr. Jerome if we can the avail the Welcoming Snack at the Garden Cafe as proposed in my itinerary and fortunately, he accommodated us to the Garden Cafe and introduced me to the Head, Mr. Jeff Henner. 

Here’s what we ordered:

 Bacon and Cheese Sandwich

Watermelon Smoothie

Blueberry Cheesecake (MY FAVE)

and Java Chip coffee!

This is THE BEST welcoming snack ever. And I mean, THE BEST.  

After filling up our tummies, we watched the Symphony Show and it’s beyond amazing! It gave me goosebumps!!!

The first floor of the Hotel is where the Garden Cafe located and there’s also a lobby upon entrance. The second floor is where Makan Makan restaurant and White Moon Bar located and the third floor is the hotel itself.

Hotel Main Lobby

Front desk

Club Lounge

Club Lounge’s dining area facing the Manila Bay where we had our lunch in our second day. 

Cigar Room

Club Lounge Bar

At 8pm, we decided to have our dinner even if we’re still full lol. Mr. Jerome arranged our reservation at White Moon Bar. It is located at the second floor beside the Makan Makan Restaurant. 

Hooray for cocktails! 

It’s a cozy hang-out place. I saw some couples dining here so I think it can be a romantic place to dine in. It’s open and faces the Manila Bay.

Here’s what we ordered. Yes, these were gulped by 2! 

The next day, we woke up at 9am to *drum roll* eat again! What did we do to deserve this? lol We went to Makan Makan Restaurant for our breakfast buffet. Definitely the highlight of my day. (Too. Much. Good. Food.) We got:

Fried rice, hotdogs, beef tapa, sausage,

tuyo, dilis

Hot chocolate, coffee, bread,

fruits and fruit drinks!

You don’t need to go far to taste what other Asian countries have to offer–you can find everything in Makan Makan! I would say it’s not just a regular restaurant because they don’t just offer yummy food, they offer a unique, one of a kind dining experience!

After pigging out at Makan Makan, we had the most relaxing 60-hour full body massage at Zenyu Eco Spa. 

Thank you ate Laila for that awesome massage!

Yes, you’re seeing a menu because we’re going to eat AGAIN! We had our lunch at Club Hotel Lounge and we had the most amazing view for lunch. Check this out:

And that’s how we end our staycation at Hotel H2O.

Thank you Ms. Luisa Bernabe and Ms. Hillary Vicente for letting me experience this staycation at Hotel H2O and Mr. Jerome for taking good care of us! We had the best time at Hotel H2O! It really is the best place for anyone’s dream staycation!

HOTEL H2O FACTS:

LOCATION: Hotel H2O is situated in the northern part of Roxas Boulevard behind Quirino Grandstand near Luneta or widely known as Rizal  Park, one of the most historical sites in the country. The hotel’s location also provides a spectacular and unobstructed view of the famous Manila Bay sunset. It is only 9 kilometers away from Ninoy Aquino International Airport and 7 kilometers away from the Makati Business District.

ADDRESS: Luneta 1000

                   Philippines

                   Telehone: +63 2 238 6100

                   Email: reservation@hotelh2o.com

                   Website: hotelh2o.com

ACCOMMODATIONS: Total 147 rooms and suites including:

39 Park Rooms

4 Park Supreme Rooms

20 Bay View Rooms

41 Aqua Rooms

6 Aqua Classic Rooms

5 Aqua Supreme Rooms

7 Club Bay Rooms

6 Club Aqua Rooms

4 Deluxe Suites

13 Premiere Suites

2 Executive Suites

[thehungrykat1]

Romantic Retreat Staycation Package at New World Makati

For my birthday weekend this year, we decided to celebrate it with the Romantic Retreat staycation package of New World Makati Hotel. With our busy schedules this December, I really needed this relaxing and romantic treat. This package comes with an overnight stay in a Residence Club Deluxe Room, exclusive access to the Residence Club Living Room, buffet breakfast for two, a couple's in-room massage, plus a cheese and wine platter for two with rates starting at only P11,700 nett.

New World Makati is a world-class five-star hotel located just beside the popular Greenbelt commercial areas in Makati. The hotel features 584 gorgeous guestrooms and suites with a modern vibe and hints of Oriental influence, together with several exquisite dining options inside the hotel. The large and spacious hotel lobby welcomes visitors with its huge Christmas tree spreading cheers this holiday season.

Guests who book the Romantic Retreat package can check in at the Residence Club located on the 24th floor. This is a more private VIP check-in procedure and you don’t have to line up at the often busy front desk on the ground floor.

We stayed at the Residence Club Deluxe Room which has 34 square meters of comfort and pleasure. The room comes with panoramic city views of the Makati skyline and timeless interiors with contemporary designs and a soothing color palette with warm, textured fabrics. Mood lighting also combines to create a sophisticated yet warm atmosphere.

The Residence Club Deluxe Room comes with a 37” flat screen TV plus a work desk and minibar. Apart from the very comfortable king-sized bed, what really amazes me about the room is the innovative full-height sliding walls that allow the bathroom to be completely opened up into the bedroom, enhancing the sense of space.

Privacy is maintained by a swinging the frosted-glass door to the shower area. You can literally jump from the bed to the bathtub and vice versa! The modern marble bathroom also comes with a walk-in shower room and a full set of luxurious Malin+Goetz toiletries.

The Romantic Retreat package also comes with a cheese and wine platter for two that you can ask to be delivered to your room any time you prefer. We requested that it be sent to our room right away so it also doubled as our welcome drinks.

The biggest perk of staying at the Residence Club is the exclusive access to the Residence Club Living Room, a comprehensively equipped, tastefully designed space in which guests may relax or work. The ambience is private, warm, and cozy with floor-to-ceiling windows inviting abundant natural light. Think of it as an extension of your hotel room that you can share with just a few others.

Guests can relax and enjoy refreshments while viewing the stunning cityscape. Newspapers, magazines, and a couple of televisions can also be found inside. Not just that, the Residence Club Living Room serves complimentary breakfast, all-day refreshments, and evening cocktails. Basically, you don’t have to leave the Residence Club floors during your stay because everything you need is right here. Cookies, and mini cakes are on the table all day while you can get all sorts of drinks like sodas, juices, coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate.

From 5:30pm to 8:00pm, evening cocktails are served at the Residence Club Living Room for guests to enjoy. This can serve as a pre-dinner appetizer or even as a light dinner.

Alcoholic beverages are included so you can ask for some Prosecco sparkling wines or a glass of whiskey on the rocks. Sushi rolls, assorted cheese, hams, pastries, and hot dishes are also included so we usually have this as our dinner every time we stay at the Residence Club.

The staff at the Residence Club Living Room even gave me a surprise birthday song and birthday cake. I am always treated like a VIP whenever I visit New World Makati.

Our Romantic Retreat package also comes with a 60-minute couple’s massage for two at the Marahai Spa on the third floor. Marahai comes from the local Bicol term marahay – to be well – and you will really be well with any of their body treatments and massages that will soothe your body, calm your mind and refresh your spirit. You have the option to have the massage inside your room but we preferred to have it at the Spa center this time.

After our soothing and relaxing Swedish massage, it was time to head back to the room for a very pleasant slumber.

For breakfast, guests can choose to have this at the Cafe 1228 on the ground floor or at the more private Residence Club Living Room. Breads, hams, salads, and cheeses are on display at the buffet table but you also have a separate a la carte menu that you can order from.

You can order as many items as you want and these will be cooked and served at your table. The selection at the Residence Club Living Room is definitely smaller than the one downstairs, but if you value a more private dining experience, then this is where you should go.

I ordered the Beef Tapa with fried eggs, atchara, and garlic rice, while my husband got the Japanese Bento set with grilled fish in teriyaki sauce, onsen tamago, and natto miso soup.

We would like to thank New World Makati Hotel for providing us another excellent and memorable staycation at their well-loved property. The Romantic Retreat package is a great option for couples who want to rekindle their romance during this busy and hectic season. I’m already looking forward to our next staycation at New World Makati.

New World Makati Hotel

Esperanza Street corner Makati Avenue, Ayala Center, Makati City

8811-6888

www.newworldhotels.com/manila

www.facebook.com/NewWorldMakatiHotel

[chinchinobcena]

All About Art and Relaxation at The Picasso Boutique Hotel

If you truly know me, you will know that I love staycations. Sure, I do like going out and having a good time in the city with my friends. But nothing beats having some moments to yourself and reconnecting to what’s really important. This is why when The Picasso Boutique Hotel invited me for an overnight stay at one of their newest rooms, it was a much-needed breather!

There are many reasons to love The Picasso Boutique Hotel. One of the most unique features is how they host an art gallery inside, Altro Mondo Contemporanea. Here you will have a chance to see exhibits of artwork by upcoming Filipino artists. It’s perfect for when you need some quiet time. The art extends all throughout the hotel. Inspired by Pablo Picasso’s different phases and famous artworks, you’ll see it in the details everywhere in the hotel. Spot it in the lobby, the Harlequin Lounge, and on the corridor leading to your room. 

When I was there I stayed at the Malaga Superior Room. It’s a spacious setting for me and some of my friends. It has a big cozy bed, a guitar-shaped desk, and a balcony where you could chill and enjoy Salcedo’s quiet vibe. It’s a 45 sqm room and you can either get a queen-size bed or twin beds. The room is also an architectural tribute to Pablo Picasso’s famous Período Azul, and named after his hometown of Malaga, Spain. It’s because of this, the Malaga Superior Studio feels like the perfect getaway inside the city. You get to travel to Picasso’s hometown even just for a little bit. 

The Picasso Boutique Services Residences is full of amenities you need to create your perfect staycation. If you want to cool off via exercise, you are privileged with gym access, equipped fully to whatever your fitness routine is. I like going to the spa every now and again and Picasso has one of the best: Qi Wellness Spa so you can totally unplug and recharge your mind and body. 

Since I was with my friends, we opted to enjoy the in-house restaurant Pablo Bistro which serves Spanish Mediterranean cuisine. I loved their oven-baked pizza. For coffee and pastry lovers, there’s Kartel as well. Perfect in the morning right before you head over the Jaime Velasquez Park or any of the Salcedo stops that are so easily walkable from Picasso. For people who like to shop, malls are just nearby!

So if you’d ask me, I would definitely go back. I would also recommend it highly to anyone coming from abroad to stay in. Or to anyone in the metro who needs some art, relaxation, and a perfect staycation place. 

The Picasso Hotel Boutique Serviced Residences is located at 119 LP Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati.

For more information, Instagram: @thepicassomakati Website: www.picassomakati.com