I miss the old Boracay where roads weren’t congested, and where passageways going to the beach weren’t jam-packed. I’m all for boosting the isle’s tourism and progression. But it was a bit of an eyesore to see so many construction sites sprouting up like mushrooms. I had a hard time recognizing certain areas that were so familiar before that I felt somewhat confined. It wasn’t the island vibe that I was longing to experience, as sceneries have definitely changed since I visited 3 years ago. So imagine how refreshing it was to stay on the same islet but on a more quieter and calmer side of it. Given all of the major changes in the bustling side of Stations 1-3, I’m glad I found Savoy Hotel in Newcoast Boracay. You’d be surprised that such a place existed just 30 minutes away from D’Mall in Station 2.
Aside from my love for travel and adventure, I also love watching movies and TV series that I can find travel inspirations from. Some of my favorite shows were actually filmed in Europe, specifically in Iceland, which has been on my travel bucket list. Now that I’ve relocated in the UAE, I know that my chances of exploring the island nation is much closer than it was before.
{LONDRANGAR BASALT CLIFFS} Photo courtesy of Iceland Tourism
I've been to Baguio several times, and have passed by Te Quiero all the time (given its great location in the city). So when I stayed at Microtel Baguio for the second time, I finally got to try their Spanish offerings; and boy, was I blown away!
Cebu Island is full of adventures for those who are just willing to go out and explore. Some of the destinations below are suitable for a day trip, and some are perfect for a weekend. It just really depends on how much time you have. But rest assured, you will find the adventure that you're looking for in Cebu. In this post, I will provide you with a north to south guide of Cebu Island, for you to know which spots can be paired together, especially if you're planning a longer vacation.
I have to be honest. Nueva Ecija would have to be one of the last few provinces in the Philippines that I would give second thoughts about visiting. I’ve already been to the “Rice Bowl of the Philippines” when I was a kid. Yet all I could remember was the unbearable heat, and the refreshing pool that my siblings and I enjoyed swimming in. But when I recently got invited to explore it, I said yes, hoping that my trip would somehow change the way I see the region again. Thankfully, the team behind Microtel Cabanatuan was able to show us a different side of Central Luzon’s biggest rice producer, as they brought us around the admirable towns of Cabanatuan, Muñoz and Palayan.
I’ve been to a majority of Microtel’s hotels in the Philippines. But I’m always left surprised every time I stay in a property that I’ve never tried yet. At first glance, I thought that Microtel Cabanatuan looked simple, just basing on its subtle, orange façade. But as soon as I entered the inn, I found myself uttering the word, “Wow!”. Microtel Cabanatuan instantly became a favorite, as I compared it to all the other properties that I’ve stayed in (though Microtel Baguio still tops my list!). With its warm, tropical-inspired and spacious interiors, I instantly knew that I would have a memorable experience here.
The dynamic “Melting Pot of Central Luzon”, which is a 2-hour drive from Manila, is packed with lots of local sites and exciting activities. You will surely enjoy what Tarlac has to offer, as it features notable and exciting destinations like the Monasterio de Tarlac, Aquino Center and Museum, and Kart City Tarlac. But if you’re looking for a more laid-back escape, you can hit a few golf balls at the nearby Luisita Golf & Country Club, or go kayaking at the beautifully maintained Tarlac Recreational Park. All these and more can be found just in Tarlac.
Every Microtel Hotel has its similarities, especially when it comes to its distinct architecture, classy interiors, chiropractor-approved mattresses, and room configurations (amongst other things). But for every Microtel property in the Philippines, each one is still very different from the other, just like Microtel Tarlac. While strategically positioned to serve the needs of nearby companies, this international brand also serves as a venue for both rest and recreation.
In the words of Ramon Mariñas, the Managing Director of Bienvenido Travel and Tours, “you’ll be surprised to know that one does not need to go far for a quick rest and recreation, as Antipolo’s proximity to the Philippine capital offer its visitors unique guest experiences.” Known for being the “City in the Sky”, given its highly elevated location and its scenic views of the metropolitan area, Antipolo is also recognized for its centuries-old churches (the Pilgrimage Capital of the Philippines), farms, gardens, resorts, spas, restaurants, delicacies (i.e. suman, roasted cashews) and many more.
13 years ago, I found myself taking part in a week-long immersion in Calawis, Antipolo – a social initiative that was organized by my college org (UPSCA). It was in that immersion that I was able to experience how it was to live in a barrio, and how to live together with a family other than my own. My “barriowork”, which focused on the rural poor, was an eye opener. Living without my usual comforts was challenging yet humbling at the same time. And remembering all of these memories brought me back to why I fell in love with Calawis. I was so happy to be back, and this time, to meet another gracious host: The Malvar Family. Mount Purro Nature Reserve is more than just an ecotourism destination with fully-equipped facilities and eco-friendly accommodations. They are the future.
If you’re looking for a beach escape that can be accessed by road from Manila, then head to Playa La Caleta -- an emerging beach destination in the town of Morong, Bataan. This eco-tourism resort with a 100-hectare cove is packed with all sorts of activities. You can swim by its white sand beach, trek by its lush forest, bathe in its waterfalls, or take a dip in Miguelito Island’s famous tidal pool.
My husband and I recently marked our first wedding anniversary, and Casa Alegria played a big part in our celebration. Choosing to celebrate our special day in Tagaytay was a great choice because not only was it a short drive from Manila, it also offered one of the most romantic views in the Philippines. I specifically loved the Bed & Breakfast, as it presented a panoramic view of the stunning Taal Lake straight from our window. Being able to wake up to such a gorgeous vista, with the love of my life beside me, was simply the best of both worlds.
I’ve always enjoyed my hotel stays in Microtel Inn & Suites. But I must admit, this specific property in Baguio exuded a more charming setting compared to the other properties that I've been to. Despite the cold breeze up north, I loved how warm and kind the staff were towards their guests. I also couldn't rave enough on how superb our room was, and how near the hotel was to a lot of restaurants and sites. There’s just so much to love about this hotel, that I can't help but give it 5 stars!
I’ve taken motorcycle rides plenty of times during my travels in the Philippines (i.e. Cebu, Biliran, Ormoc), mostly driven by licensed motorists. Locally, we would call this “Habal-Habal”, a motorbike that is modified to accommodate more than two passengers. I’ve managed to entrust my life in the hands of these drivers, along with just a helmet and a prayer to God for safe passage. Thankfully, I continue to live and tell my story.
I've never been the techie type. So when Supremo sent me to try their latest action camera, I was both excited and worried because it's been a long time since I used one like it. I really felt challenged given the many features that I needed to learn from scratch. But I soon got the hang of it, and I could say that it’s an entry-level camera that you can definitely use on your travels. It’s both hardwearing and affordable. Plus, it has an attractive black matte coating that I absolutely love.
My boyfriend and I decided to drive to Maginhawa after cleaning his room. It’s been ages since our last food trip there. But when we got to the famous food strip, most of the eateries that were usually open until 2 AM were already closed; yet it was just 12:30 AM at the time. Nonetheless, I kept driving. And it wasn't long until a bright and festive place came into view: 150 Maginhawa Food Park.
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.
