Lakawon Island in Negros Occidental is quickly becoming a beach resort destination in the Philippines. With that, I knew that I had to see it in person to find out what all the fuss is about. And it wasn't long until I found myself traveling off the coast of Cadiz City, walking the white sands of the banana-shaped island, and setting sail aboard Taw Hai, the first floating bar in Asia.
Philippine retailer, Puregold Price Club Inc., is going full swing and taking its retail marketing from the ground to the skies with the formal launching of its new plane livery.
It took us months to get all the required documents collected and authenticated. So I was surprised when our papers were approved after just a month. Everything moved so fast as soon as my entry permit to Dubai was finally issued. I was given a two month pass to enter the UAE, which was enough time to process my papers -- with that being said, getting the actual residency visa stamped on my passport, and passing my medical exam. I wasn't prepared to leave. But after much debate with my husband about my departure date, I left the Philippines half-anxious and half-excited. I just had to remind myself that “this was it!” My husband and I were one step closer to bridging the LDR gap.
I stopped using my luggage for a while now. And in those years, I’ve managed to explore with only a 55L rucksack and a sling bag in tow. But as time passed, I started to experience these intense back pains (due to a bad sitting posture at work), which eventually restrained me from having to carry heavy things on my spine. So I had no other choice but to use my trolley again. But on the upside, it gave me a reason to start looking for better bag alternatives, and eventually found CabinZero, “the suitcase on your back”. My mini, 28-liter, Urban Camo CabinZero is hardwearing, well-designed, stylish and more! What more can I ask for?
Booking two rooms for our May wedding a year ago was a last minute decision, as we were already set to do our preps at our house in Quezon City. But since the weather back then was very hot and humid, my husband and I both agreed that checking into a better accommodation would be more favorable for us (no melting make-up and sweat-soaked clothing). The price and location were major factors to consider, both of which were easily accommodated by Casa Pura Inn & Suites.
You can choose the Oasis Paco Park Hotel as a lodging option in Manila if you're on a budget. It can actually be a good stopover if you're planning to explore the nearby popular sites like Rizal Park and Binondo (amongst other areas that are accessible by LRT). If you also fancy staying in a hotel that's just a short walk from Paco Park, then consider booking this place. But before you do, please read my review first.
I've been to Makati several times, either to attend meetings or to hang out with friends at the mall. And Ayala Museum is just one of the many established places in the area that I frequently pass-by, but never took the time to visit. To me, I saw the gallery as another boring repository with pricey entrance fees. But I was wrong, as it got me completely hooked with its well-curated materials. And I'm glad that I finally made the time to explore the institution during my staycation at Alcoves two months ago.
I decided to check-in at Red Planet Aseana so that I can get to my Passport renewal appointment on time. Although it was a bit pricey compared to its other branches, staying at this hotel definitely saved me a few hours worth of commute time from QC to Aseana, and a lot more snooze time.
Get to enjoy a panoramic view of the farm from the VIP room, the BALAY JOSEPHINA, while being served with some of the most delectable, organic dishes in Majayjay, Laguna. Even if you're not vegan, Apong Damian's Organic Resto in Costales Nature Farms offers a great variety of food and drinks that will surely satisfy your appetite. For our 3-day retreat in the farm, we were served with tummy-filling meals that were healthy, tasty and picture-worthy. It was like a feast in every meal.
If there's a specific hotel chain in the Philippines that I keep coming back to, it would be Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham. I've always enjoyed my time with them because whichever property I’m staying in, I’m sure to get the best from them. I just love their distinct taste when it comes to the design of their rooms and facilities, as the decor is very consistent in terms of style and arrangement. I also love Microtel's hotel staff (from the front desk to housekeeping), as they always provide a pleasant customer experience.
Photo courtesy of Kaiye
I was supposed to leave for a quick trip abroad. So I booked Microtel, Mall of Asia, as it was just a short drive to NAIA 3. I was able to get a nice deal for this specific hotel at Traveloka, as they offered room rates that were more affordable compared to my usual go-to booking sites. With Traveloka, I was assured that there would be no hidden charges (no more surprises upon checkout), which was a good thing. Anyhow, here's how my booking went:
One of the things that I gave priority to after getting married was my passport renewal. It was actually timely for a name change too, as my passport was about to expire in a few months (September 2016). I also decided to take on my husband's name, by choice of course, because (1) I've long wanted to carry his surname, and (2) having the same last name would help identify my husband and I as one family unit (i.e. easier endorsements when it comes to applying for visas, opening joint bank accounts, making loans).
Moving forward... if you happen to be newly married like me (married just last year!), or already married but haven't gotten the chance to change your last name on your passport yet, you can just refer to our infographic. Please note that the one I made is more applicable for Filipinas who are married to a local as well. The requirements and documents may still differ when it comes to your application type (i.e. for spouse of foreign national who would change their civil status from single to married, for married women who would like to revert to their maiden name).
TIPS WHEN SETTING AN APPOINTMENT
It was July of last year when I got my scheduled appointment online. I still didn't have a copy of our Marriage Contract at the time (the one printed on PSA Security Paper), but I still chose to book in advance despite the odds. Of course, I made a back up plan in
Tree Top Adventure is the only "Team Building" facility in the Philippines with motorized activities, plus different kinds of Zip line adventure, and other activities in the heart of nature such as Superman, Canopy, Tree Drop, Silver Surfer, Free Fall, Funicular, Trekking, Skywalk and many more to be added.
My husband flew in two weeks ago to celebrate his birthday in Manila. So I made sure that all of his requests were fulfilled during his short 3-day vacation. From satisfying his food cravings to getting his requested spa treatments, Rubel returned abroad with a full and gracious heart. He felt revitalized, and was ready to go back to work. But out of all of our plans, he enjoyed our staycation in KL Tower Serviced Residences the most (also known as the Kalaw-Ledesma Tower). He was beyond ecstatic when I told him that we were staying in a One Bedroom Loft.
While most of us know of June 12, 1898 as the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, it was on January 23, 1899 when the First Philippine Republic was formally established. It was also this revolutionary act that helped place our country on the map as the First Constitutional Republic in Asia.
Working on a specific budget is a non-negotiable when it comes to planning my travels. So when I finally set my dates for my Bacolod trip, I started looking for accommodations that would fit my allocated savings. After making lodging inquiries online, and getting recommendations from friends, I eventually found The Hostelry.
I wanted to extend my stay in Makati, so I decided to use my reward points from an online booking site to reserve a hotel. With the points that I saved, I was able to get one night at The Hotel at Green Sun, only adding a minimal cost that's worth P136. So right after checking out from Alcoves, I made my way to the lodging via MRT.
I wanted to welcome the new year right, so I started looking for places where I could possibly enjoy some 'me time' during the first week of 2017. And I'm glad that I found Alcoves -- a cozy vacation apartment in the heart of Makati.
Being amidst a crowd of excited guests had me all the more elated to watch the much raved Le Grand Cirque -- Araneta Center's Christmas offering this December. It's not every day that you get invited to watch one of the greatest shows in town, one that's also produced direct from Las Vegas. I no longer had to travel abroad just to witness such a grandiose spectacle. Just imagine how much fun a circus show brings, especially to kids, as it gathers some of the most remarkable performers and amazing acts.
You've probably heard people say that Christmas is just for kids. And as you grow up, you tend to believe this, and you eventually lose the excitement of celebrating it. Oftentimes, we lose the real meaning of Yule and gift-giving, that we make it look like an obligation. Others simply fail to see the importance of a wrapped present, while focusing only on its physical appearance or value. Despite the changing times, may we always put in mind that Christmas is a time that brings happiness and cheer to the birth of our savior -- a time to also remind ourselves to receive everything that comes our way with a thoughtful and gracious heart.
If I were to describe my stay at San Rafael River Adventure (SRRA), it would be a safe haven. Imagine waking up inside a glass cottage, amidst a garden filled with trees and greeneries, and a gorgeous view of Angat River. You'd want nothing more than to stay and to experience the calmness that the horizon brings, as you embrace its enchanting setting. Truly, this lush sanctuary in Bulacan is an ideal place for that much needed rest and relaxation.
I enjoy being in Makati, as there's always something new to see and to discover in the city. And if there's a destination in the metro that's worth staying in, it's definitely this area. I actually spent the weekend in the urban jungle for an early Christmas gathering with friends; and fortunately found a home away from home at aurumOne Makati -- a boutique hotel located in Evangelista Street.
I wanted to spend some time out of the house, when I suddenly remembered this hostel nearby that offered bed spaces for just a minimal fee. Relieved that I had a few days to spare (no work, no errands), I made a booking to secure my overnight stay. BGC Hostel & Dorm QC (also known as Panay, Kain, Tulog, Atbp.) in Panay was definitely an accommodation in Quezon City that was worth trying. The lodging, which had a great location, was only a short walk from home. It was also near a mall, and a whole bunch of eateries.
I usually set an expectation for myself when it comes to how often I should go online, especially when I'm traveling overseas. But in reality, setting expectations don’t always go as planned because I'd still find myself checking my Facebook feed, and posting photos on Instagram. This usually happens when I'm waiting for my food to be served or while I’m on transit. Anyway, I was recently in Thailand for my birthday/honeymoon. I wasn’t always glued to my phone, checking stuff online throughout the trip. But it still helped that I had a FLYTPACK router with me, which was a lifesaver during inopportune times on the road.
I love how some locally owned restaurants continue to offer Filipino cuisines in their menu, particularly those that solely serve native dishes. I do enjoy eating international foods and global cuisines. But nothing beats munching on homegrown meals that are infused with interesting twists, like what Braska does. Braska is a cozy restaurant that serves Filipino comfort food in Bohemian Malate.
Angono isn't just the Art Capital of the Philippines. It's also a gastronomic destination that prides on a great list of local eateries in Rizal. In between our visits to museums and galleries, we were treated to mouthwatering food and drinks, some of which I continue to dream and drool over up to this day.
Angono continues to uphold its name on being the Art Capital of the Philippines, as it’s brimming with noteworthy artworks, outstanding talents and more. The inspiring town will certainly give you a walk that's worth remembering, as the city is filled with museums and galleries that display impressive paintings and sculptures, and of streets lined with murals that pay tribute to its local artists. Best of all, Angono is also the home of the Oldest Artwork in the Philippines, the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs.
Every year, Angono celebrates the Higantes Festival by honoring San Clemente, the patron saint of fishermen. If you're planning to visit the Art Capital of the Philippines, and intend to maximize your stay there, make sure to check the Higantes Festival schedule below:
Higantes Festival: Higanteng Pagdiriwang para sa Higanteng Pagkaka-isa
Go out and explore! And while you're at it, bring with you a dry bag that's waterproof, floats on water and folds flat. Wait, is there such a thing? Yes, there is! Such a bag exists and it's definitely a must-have for every globetrotter. It's ideal for people who travel with a lot of stuff (i.e. gadgets, planner, water canteen, etc.). Just like me, I never leave for trips without securing my essentials. That's why I'm happy that I found a product that suits this particular need in the form of an adventure pack called Hull & Stern.
Our weekend getaway last month was welcomed with an abundance of positive energy. We breathed in fresh air, and were constantly embraced by cool and gentle winds. We were also greeted with picturesque landscapes, served with fresh and organic meals and drinks, attended to by the friendliest staff, and were warmly received by the owners, as if we were old friends. The existence of the farm has certainly showed us how much of a precious gem it is, especially to its founders, farmers, partners and employees.
[L-R] Jherson, Mai, Claire, Paula, Mrs. Josephine Costales, Lana and Karl. :)
Focusing on Agritourism, Costales Nature Farms promote not only a farm-to-table concept. They religiously campaign for healthy living through the use and consumption of fresh organic produce and livestock.
Our 4-hour road trip to Batangas definitely put a strain on us, to the point that we wanted to stay an extra night in the resort just so we could rest. But of course, we couldn't. Though it was refreshing to know that we were extending our weekend getaway in one of the nice hotels down south. And so three toll ways and three hours later, we arrived at Microtel South Forbes.
Budget Biyahera is about finding fun and distinct food and destinations, accommodations, products/gears and activities that people can enjoy on a ‘regular’ person’s budget and schedule.
