While most people from “the North” (Manila, Makati, Quezon City) hate commuting to “the South,” several cool places like The Bellevue Manila, Molito, and Alabang Town Center are sometimes reason enough for them to spend that extra toll fee.
Millennials are all about experience, and with the rise of themed restaurants and specialty food hubs around the metro, the South is not backing down without putting up a fight. Here’s a list of 5 restaurants that would definitely win the foodie millennial’s heart.
1. Mr. Roboto
“Let’s Volt in!” is probably what you’d be screaming once you get to this restaurant. Remember the good ol’ days and relive your childhood fantasies as one of the crews of Voltes V, Daimos, and even Mazinger Z.
Established by millennials who grew up with their parent’s 80’s music, you will surely have a trip down memory lane with their Japanese robot themed restaurant and awesome Japanese food.
2. Ramen Yushoken
We’re sure you’ve seen how decadent food is prepared in animes—steaming noodles with beef toppings, glowing as it is served and always presented in contrast to a shining background. Yes, I’m talking about the food our favorite anime characters love to devour—ramen.
If the Voltes V dream isn’t enough to quench your millennial trip, go down on some real goodness at Ramen Yushoken and see the realization of that anime food fantasy.
3. Exchange Alley Coffee House
Apart from restaurants, shopping centers, and hotels in Alabang, the South is also known for specialty coffee houses. And if there’s one thing we millennials are known for, it’s our love for adventure, photos, and caffeine (I might be stereotyping a bit here. LOL).
Expect nothing but a good dose of caffeine with their freshly roasted, ground, and brewed beans everyday. And not just that, they also serve meticulously cooked food that is sure to win your hearts and stomachs.
4. Neil’s Kitchen
Millennials love collaboration—especially if it’s a collaboration of good flavors worked into an ingenious dish. Neil’s Kitchen is probably one of the most visited restaurants in Alabang with its genius take on Filipino food. Imagine a marriage of traditional Pinoy food and modern cuisine techniques, neatly served in a platter.
Sinigang Paella with Grilled Pork Belly and Bagoong Paella with Kare-kare are two of their most ordered dishes. Talk about putting a twist to your typical Pinoy fiesta staple food.
5. Vue Bar
Everybody loves a good party, especially if it comes with a 360 view of urban skyline. Vue Bar provides serves as a much needed breather from the heaving scenes of the city. Not only that, they also serve kikiam, fish balls, and chicken balls—all the street food we loved munching on during our high school recess.
The Vue Bar is located at the 22nd Floor of The Bellevue Manila’s Tower Wing. Check out their newly revamped website and you might even score deals with their latest promos.
Thursday, July 12, 2018
Monday, July 9, 2018
How to Make the Most of a 24-hour Layover in Makati City
Let’s say you’re on a layover in Manila and you’ve booked a stay at The Mini Suites Eton Tower in Makati, what do you do with your extra time?
While layovers provide you an opportunity to squeeze in a short side-trip in big cities, you sometimes end up being swamped with a ton of options for activities. Here’s a short list to help you make sure you spend more of your time actually enjoying Makati, and not wasting it all on deciding where to go.
1. IMMERSE IN CULTURE
Hit two birds with one stone by paying a visit to Ayala Museum. Connected to shopping complexes, this well-curated museum not only brings you closer to the center of the city, but also to the heart of Filipino culture. It features an extensive display of Philippine contemporary art and pre-colonial archaeological artifacts that are sure to give you a substantial knowledge about the country and its history.
2. QUAINT COFFEE HUBS
There are a lot of themed restaurants and coffee shops around Metro Manila, but being in Makati, you don’t really have to go far. Shops such as Mudpie Haven, Habitual Coffe, and Caffe Bene offer quaint places to just relax in the middle of the bustling city. Their contemporary interiors and premium coffees are definitely a breath of fresh air from the typical Starbucks-type coffee shop.
3. POCKETS OF GREEN
While Makati looks highly urbanized with its towering skyscrapers and busy streets, it doesn’t forget your need for a dose of nature and greenery. Scattered around the Central Business District are parks that allow you to be in the heart of the city while doing away with the unwanted heat and pollution. One of the most famous parks, the Ayala Triangle, also doubles as an events place in Makati where free performances are sometimes available. It also provides food options with a variety of restaurants within the park’s vicinity.
4. AN ENERGETIC NIGHTLIFE
One of the things Makati is most known of is its vibrant scenes once the daylight retires. This city is peppered with a variety of options for a night out. Dine a-la Great Gatsby in the classy halls of The Penthouse 8747, or have a taste of Asian cuisine while partying at Buddha Bar. Really, the options are almost limitless. From clubs to pubs, laid-back jamming sessions to exhilarating parties, you will never run out of things to do in Makati at night.
5. RETIRE IN FULL COMFORT
There’s no better way to cap off the day than a restful sleep. Get fully energized before you take on another long flight to your final destination and book a room in one of Makati’s favorite accommodations. While many options are available around the area, among the top choices for travelers is The Mini Suites Eton Tower Makati. Returning guests rave about its rooms’ neatness and affordability. Check their newly launched website for promos and packages.
1. IMMERSE IN CULTURE
Hit two birds with one stone by paying a visit to Ayala Museum. Connected to shopping complexes, this well-curated museum not only brings you closer to the center of the city, but also to the heart of Filipino culture. It features an extensive display of Philippine contemporary art and pre-colonial archaeological artifacts that are sure to give you a substantial knowledge about the country and its history.
2. QUAINT COFFEE HUBS
There are a lot of themed restaurants and coffee shops around Metro Manila, but being in Makati, you don’t really have to go far. Shops such as Mudpie Haven, Habitual Coffe, and Caffe Bene offer quaint places to just relax in the middle of the bustling city. Their contemporary interiors and premium coffees are definitely a breath of fresh air from the typical Starbucks-type coffee shop.
3. POCKETS OF GREEN
While Makati looks highly urbanized with its towering skyscrapers and busy streets, it doesn’t forget your need for a dose of nature and greenery. Scattered around the Central Business District are parks that allow you to be in the heart of the city while doing away with the unwanted heat and pollution. One of the most famous parks, the Ayala Triangle, also doubles as an events place in Makati where free performances are sometimes available. It also provides food options with a variety of restaurants within the park’s vicinity.
4. AN ENERGETIC NIGHTLIFE
One of the things Makati is most known of is its vibrant scenes once the daylight retires. This city is peppered with a variety of options for a night out. Dine a-la Great Gatsby in the classy halls of The Penthouse 8747, or have a taste of Asian cuisine while partying at Buddha Bar. Really, the options are almost limitless. From clubs to pubs, laid-back jamming sessions to exhilarating parties, you will never run out of things to do in Makati at night.
5. RETIRE IN FULL COMFORT
There’s no better way to cap off the day than a restful sleep. Get fully energized before you take on another long flight to your final destination and book a room in one of Makati’s favorite accommodations. While many options are available around the area, among the top choices for travelers is The Mini Suites Eton Tower Makati. Returning guests rave about its rooms’ neatness and affordability. Check their newly launched website for promos and packages.
Thursday, June 21, 2018
5 Proudly Filipino Local Products and Where to Find Them in the City
With the proliferation of hotels in Muntinlupa, casinos in Pasay, and businesses in Makati, it is quite difficult to find something cultural in the metro—a common dilemma among people with foreign friends visiting the Philippines. While museums and parks allow for some historical learning, most people wouldn’t really go out on a limb and endure Manila traffic. Luckily, we’ve come to offer a solution. What better way is there to introduce our culture than through locally made proudly Filipino products? After all, Filipinos are branded to be generous and hospitable.
Here’s a list of 5 native Filipino products and where you can find them in the city.
1. Native Décor
From wooden salad sets to home décor made of capiz, there’s a wide array of handcrafted Pinoy products to choose from. These products, like the ones showcased by Saffy Handicrafts, puts a spotlight on Filipinos’ skill in intricacies and attention to detail. Apart from promoting our heritage, they also help empower local artisans from all over the Philippines by giving them a platform to sell their products.
2. Wooden Bags and Accessories
If there’s one thing Filipinos are proud of, it’s the ability to make the most of the resources around us. Locally manufactured handbags made of acacia wood, pineapple and abaca fiber, pearls, and semi-precious gems are a validation to this ingenuity. Wooden slippers or what we call bakya have also evolved into modern forms, and can also be a good reflection of our history.
3. Hand-woven Grass and Buri Bags
A testament to Filipino resilience, Abre Linea bags came about from the destruction caused by Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda). It was initially launched as a project that aimed to assist people in various towns in Samar and Leyte, where the typhoon had the biggest impact. Woven with such sophistication and class, who would have thought that ticog grass and buri can be turned into such artful products?
4. Water Hyacinth Bags
What was once responsible for severe flooding is now the source of a community livelihood. These water lily bags are carefully crafted to bring forth export-quality products that are infused with our country’s beautiful and traditional weaves; a rather genius revival of a Filipino art for that has gone in remission with the modernization of the country.
5. Chocolate Coated Dried Mangoes
When we say world-class, we don’t only refer to talent; we also mean cuisine. Parallel to our rich culture is the richness of our palettes that is evident in the different dishes and delicacies each of our provinces take pride in. A product of innovation and creativity, these widely exported chocolate-coated dried mangoes have since been the top choice for airline snacks, diplomatic gifts, and even presidential flight treats.
Itching to get your hands on these products? You need not go far. These and a lot more are available at the Acacia Hotel Manila in Alabang, Muntinlupa, where they have a Souk, dedicated to promote innovative Filipino products while supporting the country’s marginalized communities.
1. Native Décor
From wooden salad sets to home décor made of capiz, there’s a wide array of handcrafted Pinoy products to choose from. These products, like the ones showcased by Saffy Handicrafts, puts a spotlight on Filipinos’ skill in intricacies and attention to detail. Apart from promoting our heritage, they also help empower local artisans from all over the Philippines by giving them a platform to sell their products.
2. Wooden Bags and Accessories
If there’s one thing Filipinos are proud of, it’s the ability to make the most of the resources around us. Locally manufactured handbags made of acacia wood, pineapple and abaca fiber, pearls, and semi-precious gems are a validation to this ingenuity. Wooden slippers or what we call bakya have also evolved into modern forms, and can also be a good reflection of our history.
3. Hand-woven Grass and Buri Bags
A testament to Filipino resilience, Abre Linea bags came about from the destruction caused by Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda). It was initially launched as a project that aimed to assist people in various towns in Samar and Leyte, where the typhoon had the biggest impact. Woven with such sophistication and class, who would have thought that ticog grass and buri can be turned into such artful products?
4. Water Hyacinth Bags
What was once responsible for severe flooding is now the source of a community livelihood. These water lily bags are carefully crafted to bring forth export-quality products that are infused with our country’s beautiful and traditional weaves; a rather genius revival of a Filipino art for that has gone in remission with the modernization of the country.
5. Chocolate Coated Dried Mangoes
When we say world-class, we don’t only refer to talent; we also mean cuisine. Parallel to our rich culture is the richness of our palettes that is evident in the different dishes and delicacies each of our provinces take pride in. A product of innovation and creativity, these widely exported chocolate-coated dried mangoes have since been the top choice for airline snacks, diplomatic gifts, and even presidential flight treats.
Itching to get your hands on these products? You need not go far. These and a lot more are available at the Acacia Hotel Manila in Alabang, Muntinlupa, where they have a Souk, dedicated to promote innovative Filipino products while supporting the country’s marginalized communities.
Tuesday, May 29, 2018
3 Places To Visit In Bataan To Cap Off Summer 2018
This summer season, a trip to Bataan should be in the books. Pack your bags and head to Central Luzon to experience the beauty and culture that this province has to offer.
Miraculous Images
For the religious, Orani Church is a must-see. Also called the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish Church, this site is a pilgrim shrine which many Catholic devotees come to visit every year.
The Orani Church features majestic architecture comprised of old and new techniques. Pay close attention to the Batingaw ng Orani, the church’s heritage bell which shows the loyal faith of the people of Orani to the Lord.
Never Forget the Death March
Bataan was the site of some especially gruesome parts of history. The Death March of World War II would definitely top the list in terms of historical impact.
During the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, 60,000 to 80,000 Filipino and American prisoners of war were forced to march on foot from Bataan to Tarlac.
This was a journey of 97 km to 112 km, for prisoners who were tired, starved, injured from severe physical abuse, and lacked sleep. Anywhere from 5,650 to 18,000 died as a result of this Death March, forever cementing the Japanese as one of the cruelest military colonizers in Asia.
To honor the lives of the fallen, the Bataan Death March Marker was constructed in Mariveles and Bagac, Bataan to mark ground zero of this event. You can visit this to pay your respects as well as view the site of this moment in history to remember how many people sacrificed their lives for democracy.
Historical Heritage Houses
A trip to Bataan isn’t complete without a visit to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, the best beach resort in Bataan. The only Historic Hotels Worldwide property in the Philippines, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is the Bagac, Bataan resort that will make you feel as if you traveled back in time.
Each casa or house is painstakingly restored to its former glory; however, if you book a stay in one of them, you will be treated to modern amenities such as Wi-Fi access, air conditioning, and in-room coffee and tea facilities.
If you’re short on time, you can enjoy a heritage walking day tour with family and friends, or else book a room for a night and have more time to marvel over the majestic Spanish-era architecture. Reservations are easy; head over to https://lascasasfilipinas.com and check availability and prices for your preferred dates.
Miraculous Images
For the religious, Orani Church is a must-see. Also called the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish Church, this site is a pilgrim shrine which many Catholic devotees come to visit every year.
The Orani Church features majestic architecture comprised of old and new techniques. Pay close attention to the Batingaw ng Orani, the church’s heritage bell which shows the loyal faith of the people of Orani to the Lord.
Never Forget the Death March
Bataan was the site of some especially gruesome parts of history. The Death March of World War II would definitely top the list in terms of historical impact.
During the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, 60,000 to 80,000 Filipino and American prisoners of war were forced to march on foot from Bataan to Tarlac.
This was a journey of 97 km to 112 km, for prisoners who were tired, starved, injured from severe physical abuse, and lacked sleep. Anywhere from 5,650 to 18,000 died as a result of this Death March, forever cementing the Japanese as one of the cruelest military colonizers in Asia.
To honor the lives of the fallen, the Bataan Death March Marker was constructed in Mariveles and Bagac, Bataan to mark ground zero of this event. You can visit this to pay your respects as well as view the site of this moment in history to remember how many people sacrificed their lives for democracy.
Historical Heritage Houses
A trip to Bataan isn’t complete without a visit to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, the best beach resort in Bataan. The only Historic Hotels Worldwide property in the Philippines, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is the Bagac, Bataan resort that will make you feel as if you traveled back in time.
Each casa or house is painstakingly restored to its former glory; however, if you book a stay in one of them, you will be treated to modern amenities such as Wi-Fi access, air conditioning, and in-room coffee and tea facilities.
If you’re short on time, you can enjoy a heritage walking day tour with family and friends, or else book a room for a night and have more time to marvel over the majestic Spanish-era architecture. Reservations are easy; head over to https://lascasasfilipinas.com and check availability and prices for your preferred dates.
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
7 Alternative Travel Destinations While Everyone Is Waiting For Boracay’s Comeback
You’ve probably heard by now that the Philippines’ most famous travel destination, Boracay Island, will be closed to the public for rehabilitation. The government announced that it could take up to 6 months or more for the entire rehabilitation process to finish.
During this period, all hotels, resorts, and other related properties and businesses will stop all operations. This is an unfortunate timing because aside from the fact that livelihoods are going to be affected, it’s the middle of the summer in this part of the globe and many will miss the island and its many attractions.
Luckily, there are lots of other places in the Philippines that tourists could visit while Boracay Island is in recovery mode:
1. PUERTO PRINCESA
Palawan is arguably Boracay’s closest rival when it comes to best travel destination in the country.
Puerto Princesa, its capital city, has a lot of stuff to offer. It is home to the Underground River (included in the New Wonders of the World list) and the crocodile farms and sanctuaries.
Complete the nature-themed trip by booking a stay at Aziza Paradise Hotel to get a taste of a lush and carefree haven through nature-inspired interiors, excellent service, and ultra-convenient facilities.
2. BOHOL
The province of Bohol is not that far from Boracay and Cebu. The main tourist draws are the famed Chocolate Hills and those cute little tarsiers, but many forget that there are also many great beaches in this part of Visayas especially in the towns of Panglao and Danao.
Tip: try the river cruise buffet and stand-up paddling (SUP) on the Loboc River. Stay at the Loboc River Resort and enjoy the modern nipa hut lodgings, captivating river and forest views.
3. BACOLOD
The City of Smiles is famous for its colorful MassKara Festival every October and the local food scene that will make chicken lovers rejoice.
The city and province is rich with natural wonders like beaches, islands, coral reefs, forests, waterfalls, and caves.
Need a place to crash? Check out L’Fisher Hotel—the only first-class accommodation in the locale and right in the heart of the city’s business and commercial center.
4. BATANGAS
Don’t like airports or flying in general? The province of Batangas is just a few hours south of Metro Manila. People go here for the food, switchblades (balisong), tree-top adventures, and of course the beach resorts in Calatagan, Nasugbu, and Laiya.
Palm Beach Resort in San Juan is a place not just for couples on a romantic holiday, but also big groups and long-staying guests, as well as people who are looking for picturesque venues for weddings, birthdays, reunions, and other special occasions.
5. DAPITAN CITY
What Dapitan lacks in adrenaline-pumping adventures, it makes up with centuries-old architecture, amazing mix of cultures, historical sites, and quaint beach resorts.
One great example would be Dakak Beach Resort in Dapitan City. It is a 30-minute drive from Dipolog City and Dipolog Airport. The resort also offers tours, cruises, and travel packages that highlight Dapitan’s rich culture, history, and lush surroundings.
6. ILOILO
The city is known for its annual Dinagyang Festival, but people also come here to taste the local flavors, check out the museums, and explore heritage sites, and experience the nightlife.
If you ever find yourself in Iloilo City, book a night at The Mansion. It’s one of the most prominent landmarks in the locale and features a unique blend of Chinese, Spanish, and Filipino heritage and architecture.
This iconic hotel offers easy access to sites like the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral, Molo Mansion, and Calle Real; Atria Park District, Megaworld’s Iloilo Business Park, SM City Iloilo, and the Smallville Complex.
7. METRO MANILA
When all else fails, you could always just stay in the city. School’s out. Everybody is on a holiday. This is the best time to explore the historic city and see its real charm and wonder.
Walk the streets of Escolta. Shop at Greenhills. Watch the sunset at Manila Bay. Check out the nightlife at Poblacion.
There are many great and affordable hotels in the metro like Ace Hotel & Suites in Pasig City– a first-class hotel epitomizing an exceptional combination of excellent service, modern technology, and urban lifestyle.
Wednesday, April 25, 2018
For Your Summer Cravings, Dine-In At Taal Vista Hotel
Summer doesn’t always have to be about pina coladas and sunblocks. It can also be in a place where you can feel cool winds and popular food stops. Instead, enjoy an overnight stay or two at Taal Vista Hotel in Tagaytay with Taal view as your vacation from the city.
When you reserve a room in one of the longest standing hotels in Tagaytay, you will get free access to the hotel’s classy dining facilities upon confirmed reservation. Here’s what you should munch on during your stay.
LOBBY LOUNGE While waiting for your room to be prepared, sit back in this area and listen to some classical music right in front of the Taal Lake view. If you have a sweet tooth, you might want to try some of their desserts or juicy drinks to freshen up after a warm day. During your spare time, you can read a book of write an entry in your journal about your visit.
VERANDA For a light ambience indoor or outdoor, you can feast yourself in a buffet or a-la-carte setting of International cuisines and other sumptuous dishes. Try not to eat with your eyes but you will certainly enjoy the desserts section. Enjoy all the variety they have to offer and they can even prepare your own meal just the way you like it!
TAZA FRESH TABLE Stating the obvious from the restaurant name itself, dine-in to something natural and filling. Located only a few steps away from the main hotel, you can embrace the beautiful weather with some of their tasty pastries. While you eat, you can see how the chefs prepare the dishes live.
So make sure you reserve a table or seat when you visit these dining facilities during your stay. They are known for their food preparations and generous servings for their guests The hotel also offers special promos not only for accommodation but for dining as well. For more information about the hotel, special offers, or significant places nearby, check out the Tagaytay hotel promo rates in the official website of Taal Vista Hotel at https://www.taalvistahotel.com.
LOBBY LOUNGE While waiting for your room to be prepared, sit back in this area and listen to some classical music right in front of the Taal Lake view. If you have a sweet tooth, you might want to try some of their desserts or juicy drinks to freshen up after a warm day. During your spare time, you can read a book of write an entry in your journal about your visit.
VERANDA For a light ambience indoor or outdoor, you can feast yourself in a buffet or a-la-carte setting of International cuisines and other sumptuous dishes. Try not to eat with your eyes but you will certainly enjoy the desserts section. Enjoy all the variety they have to offer and they can even prepare your own meal just the way you like it!
TAZA FRESH TABLE Stating the obvious from the restaurant name itself, dine-in to something natural and filling. Located only a few steps away from the main hotel, you can embrace the beautiful weather with some of their tasty pastries. While you eat, you can see how the chefs prepare the dishes live.
So make sure you reserve a table or seat when you visit these dining facilities during your stay. They are known for their food preparations and generous servings for their guests The hotel also offers special promos not only for accommodation but for dining as well. For more information about the hotel, special offers, or significant places nearby, check out the Tagaytay hotel promo rates in the official website of Taal Vista Hotel at https://www.taalvistahotel.com.
Sunday, April 22, 2018
Last Chance To Grab Boracay Haven’s Forever Summer Sale Before It’s Gone!
Have you made arrangements for your summer getaway this year? If you still haven’t done it, Club Haven Group of Hotels is giving you one more chance to book a beach holiday and save money at the same time courtesy of a new promotion on their website.
FOREVER SUMMER SALE
Summer is the most fun season of the year–but it’s short and fleeting. Spend it wisely by having as much fun in the sea and the sand as you can and get 20% discount via the Forever Summer Sale until April 2018.
Inclusions:
- Daily buffet Breakfast at the Cantina from 6am to 10am
- Free Wi-Fi Internet
- Welcome drinks
- Access pool and beachfront area
- This promo can be reserved by logging on our Boracay accommodations’ website, www.boracayhaven.com.ph. Click the ‘Check Availability and Prices’ and follow the easy instructions on the booking engine, which is powered by DirectWithHotels.
Promo details may change without prior notice. All reservations made before such changes will still receive the initial benefits and inclusions.
ABOUT THE HOTEL
Boracay Haven Resort and Boracay Haven Suites are part of Club Haven Group of Hotels. Here, you’re presented with an elegant ‘home away from homes’ that won’t break the bank.
The resort offers 63 well-appointed guest rooms plus 2 restaurants, an outdoor swimming pool, and a private beachfront lounge.
The suites on the other hand, comes with 82 luxurious and reasonably priced accommodations as well as 2 signature restaurants, an outdoor swimming pool, and a beachfront lounge with a designated butler.
These Boracay Haven properties enjoy great locations in the beautiful and quiet Station 1 and Station 2. A stay here means you’re only a few minutes from the world-famous White Beach and D’Mall de Boracay.
Caticlan and Kalibo Airports meanwhile take about a 20-minute and 90-minute drive, respectively.
For more information, check out www.boracayhaven.com.ph or email bookings@boracayhaven.com.ph.
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