6 Philippine Destinations That Are Perfect For Your Dream Getaway

The Philippines is indeed a country rich in beautiful landscape and warm people. This is why top hospitality brands like The Bellevue Hotels thought it smart to build home for holidays in some of the country’s best destinations.

Whether you’re a city mouse or one who’s needing a break from the bustling metro, you’ll find places in the Philippines that are perfect for a much needed getaway. Here are our recommendations for the best cities and provinces to visit in the Philippines.

CONCRETE JUNGLES

QUEZON CITY

Called by many as the North side of the metro, Quezon City claims to provide the best experience for prime lifestyle and residential living. It stands as one of the country’s most progressive cities, and boasts of shopping centers, a variety of food hubs, a thriving academic community, and great hangout locations.

With the numerous activities it presents, it’s no wonder it has been a go to place by many tourists. It is also home to some of the best hotels in Metro Manila like the edgy B Hotel QC in Sct. Rallos Street, where you can relax in picture perfect nooks that feature industrial designs in their modern interiors.

MAKATI CITY

Situated right in the heart of Metro Manila, this place has been considered as the one of the country’s most booming financial and business center. Peppered with high-rise buildings, party places, extravagant shopping malls, and world-class accommodations, this city paints a perfect scene of what a cosmopolitan is.

While Makati boosts of a variety of luxury hotels, it makes sure that a budget traveler won’t have a hard time looking for a place to stay. With Airbnb units, condotels, and service apartments available, there will surely be an appropriate choice for those traveling with tight pockets.

MUNTINLUPA

This city’s name may literally translate to a small piece of land, but its urban planners definitely know how to go big. Serving as Quezon City’s rival when it comes to being a choice for hangout spots, this city in the South is home to high-end malls, first-rate coffee shops and food crawls, events places, and a lot more options for the chillest night out with friends.

It is home to Alabang where luxury is not of shortage. Here, you can find prestigious malls that specialize on expensive brands, and premier 4-star hotels like The Bellevue Manila and B Hotel Alabang. It is also near several provinces in the south like Tagaytay, Laguna, and Batangas making it the best jump off point for a vacay in Southern Luzon.

RURAL LANDSCAPES

PALAWAN

Coron is debatably labeled by many tourists from all over the world as The Best Island in The World along with Bora Bora and Maldives. It boasts of El Nido’s stunning seascapes and towering limestone karsts, Puerto Princesa’s world renowned underwater cave, and Coron’s stunning beaches and diverse marine life.

Since 2015, it has slowly gained attention in the international travel scene and has since been visited by a lot of tourists from different parts of the world. Given that, it won’t be hard of anyone to find accommodations that would fit their corresponding budgets. With options ranging from luxury hotels to backpacker inns, Palawan has you covered.

SIARGAO

This teardrop shaped island used to be a low-key travel destination. A few years ago, only surfing geeks clamored to this paradise since it was known to be an amazing surfing spot. But it slowly attracted people for its natural beauty. Apart from surfing through its perfect curling waves, Siargao also offers a serene and simplistic community vibe that are sure to ease your worries.

As a proof of its charm, a lot of foreigners have decided to settle in this island and put up establishments that would offer tourists cozy options for accommodation. The entire island is peppered with cute themed inns, resorts, service apartments, and a lot more.

BOHOL

One of the most iconic travel destinations in the Philippines, Bohol cradles the magnificent color-changing Chocolate Hills. Within its 4,821 km2 land area are a variety of wondrous works of nature that are sure to enthrall you. It takes pride in giving travelers the complete experience through the different options it offers that range from slow paced activities, to adrenaline rushing ones.

It is also home to one of the country’s most famous island, Panglao, where pristine shorelines and crystal beaches can be found. Maximize your stay in the island by choosing the best Panglao hotel that would suit your type of activities. But if it’s immersing with nature that you want, an eco-friendly 5-star accommodation like The Bellevue Hotels would definitely be a good choice.

All The Small Things: 6 Cool Spots in Makati That Prove Size Doesn’t Always Matter

Do you often have a hard time deciding where to stay or eat in Makati? Where to shop or grab coffee? Don’t worry because you’re not alone. Faced with a ton of options, most people suffer analysis paralysis. Conventional wisdom taught us to always ‘go big or go home’, but in this busy and crowded city, choosing small is often time the right thing to do. Here are 6 shops in Makati City that show good things can come from small packages:

1. Poison Coffee & Doughnuts

Pretty shocking right? Wait till you try their ‘dangerous’ brews and ‘deadly’ confections. This up-and-coming cafe is so cute and cozy you’ll want to put in your pocket and on your Instagram. Address: GF Bldg C Karrivin Plaza, Chino Roces Ave., Ext Makati | Tel: 752-0327 | www.facebook.com/pg/dangerouscoffee.deadlydoughnuts

2. Plaka Planet

Vinyl records and vintage turntables are back. Plaka Planet, the best and most budget-friendly place to get your audio fix, is hidden inside an archery range. Bobby, the owner, is very cool and will even let you test any pressing even if you’re not planning to buy anything. Address: Kodanda Archery Range, Upper Basement, Makati Cinema Square Hours: 10:30am – 7:30pm Web: facebook.com/PlakaPlanetMakati

3. Cop Garden

Looking for rare Nikes and Air Jordans? Vintage Supreme and Stussy apparel? Or do you just want to hang with cool dudes and a cute pug who doubles as a store mascot? Cop Garden is a streetwear store that looks like your cooler older brother’s bedroom. Address: 3F ChemPhil Bldg, Antonio Arnaiz Ave, Legazpi Village, Makati Web: facebook.com/copgardenph

4. Slick Barbers Co.

From its humble beginnings of just a couple of monobloc chairs and mirrors on the first level of co-founder Christian “Indio” Bendañas house, SBCo is now a full pledged barber shop and lifestyle brand with a cult following. Their specialty? Clean fades and buzzes a.k.a ‘gentleman’s cut,” which not many barbers in the country can pull off. Address: 3919 Yague St. cor South Ave. Makati Tel.: 0935-715-2488 Web: facebook.com/slickbarbersco

5. Ta Tan Men Ramen

If you love ramen, check out this cheap and delicious spot along Dela Rosa St. This shop is so small, they can only accommodate up to 10 customers at a time. You have to wait outside for the other patrons to finish up. Address: GF Rada Regency, Castro Street corner, Dela Rosa Street Legaspi Village Makati City Tel.: 0(02) 750 2069 Web: facebook.com/TAN-TAN-MEN-HOUSE-1473922149322716

6. The Mini Suites Eton Tower Makati

The Mini Suites puts you in the center of all the sights and sounds of the city as you enjoy first-class accommodations all with full amenities and indulgent beds & pillows, you are sure to find that perfect mix of modern practicality, convenience, and touches of luxury to suit your needs. One of the best hotels in Makati, these suites will end your search for where to stay in Makati. Address: 128 Dela Rosa Street, Ayala South, Makati City 1229 Tel.: (632) 868 6868 Website: www.theminisuites.com.

Grand Ion Delemen| Where Asian Hospitality is A Way of Life

If you think staying in a luxury hotel is the height of opulence, then you’re mistaken. Because there is nothing better than staying in a premiere Genting Highland hotel where the surroundings are as breathtaking as the accommodation.

Grand Ion Delemen sits within the Titiwangsa Mountain Range, about 6,000 above sea level and surrounded by one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Indeed, this is the hotel of choice if you want to escape the fast-paced city living and slow your days down with unique and spectacular views of Malaysia.

Living Within Natural Beauty

There are 632 rooms in Grand Ion Delemen, all designed with the ancient art of Feng Shui elements in mind: water, earth, wood, metal, and fire. In this way, your suite can capture the energy abundant in the ancient mountain range.

All rooms are decorated with modern furnishing which includes a large work area, spacious bathrooms, comfortable bedding, and completed with contemporary décor. But the bedroom suites, which are perfect for big groups, come with extra amenities like a dining area, a kitchenette, and a living area.

The great part? Each room comes with a balcony where guests can relish the view of the Titiwangsa Mountain Range from their rooms.

Convenience at Arms Reach

Everything you will need to make your travel beyond comfortable can be found in this Genting Highland hotel.

Heated Swimming Pool_Grand Ion Delemen_Genting Highlands Hotel

For instance, travellers looking to get a taste of delectable local and international dishes can definitely satisfy their cravings here. With six restaurants all in all, you can get your daily fill of a myriad of dishes bursting with exotic flavour.
Restaurants you can visit include:

Hugo’s In the Sky – Mediterranean cuisine

Kembali Kitchen – Local and international cuisine

Beanz Cafe – Light fare plus a selection of deli items and desserts

Oasis Pool – Light fare by the indoor heated swimming pool

7Lounge – Light fare plus a selection of mixed drinks, cocktails, and fresh roast coffee

After a full day of eating, you can then go to the hotel Fitness Centre equipped with state-of-the-art gear. Or you can burn the calories in the indoor pool, with heated and salted water.

Ideal Backdrop for Special Events

If you have a special event coming up or an important meeting you need to prepare for, then Grand Ion Delemen may just be the perfect venue for you.

Imagine celebrating birthdays, weddings, or any memorable event in a magnificent Grand Ballroom which can accommodate up to 400 people for a sit-down banquet. And your meetings will not be too tiring or boring if it comes with a view of the Titiwangsa Mountain Range.

There is a dedicated team ready to help you with all your meetings and events needs. Grand Ion Delemen’s chefs can also prepare customise menus to please your discerning taste.

Grand Ion Delemen promises the full Malaysian experience and hospitality unmatched by any other. So treat yourself to a unique stay within Malaysia’s most beautiful setting.

Unique Activities to Enjoy When You Visit Penang

Penang, Malaysia is thought to be stuck in a time loop. At every corner of the street you will see traces of the colonial period. A time when traders from all over the world drop anchor in its ports, ready to sell their wares for money or in exchange for rare and exotic goods.

But while Penang preserved so much of its history and heritage in their architecture, they were able to incorporate modern styles and comforts in a way the harmonises the new with the old. Indeed, travelling here is more than just a trip to a Malaysian island, it is an experience.

Before you book that Penang accommodation though, let’s talk about what you can do during your visit. A lot of Penang lists talk about the destinations you should go to and the food you must try on your trip, but none will be as specific as this list. Here, we enumerate unique activities you can add in your itinerary.

Count all the artworks along the streets of Georgetown

There are countless art installations and murals you can find along the streets of Georgetown. You can turn this into a game with friends or family — the most art a person finds wins a cold dessert from the hawker centres!

It is going to be a day-long activity, so make sure hunting down these artworks is not going to eat up much of your time. Instead, make this game a trip-long activity so that you can still do other things during your stay.

Go on a food crawl

If there is one thing we love about Penang, it’s the food. Considered to be the food paradise in Malaysia, travellers can visit various restaurants, cafes, and hawker centres offering unique takes on international cuisine or serving the best local dishes.

Make sure you try Penang favourites like the Laksa or the Char Koay Teow. However, expect huge crowds in hawker centres on certain days, which means you might have to buy easy-to-carry food instead since seats will be limited.

Tour Georgetown on a trishaw

Find trishaw peddlers in Georgetown and take a tour of the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site while enjoying the cool morning breeze of Penang. It’s so easy to spot trishaws because they’re basically tricycles with brightly coloured umbrellas.

The price usually differs per driver, but prepare at least an hourly rate of RM 30.

Visit the Kek Lok Si Temple at night

The Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the most famous destinations in Penang. It is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia built with a seven-storey Pagoda of Rama VI. It also features 10,000 alabaster and bronze statues of Buddha, and a 120-foot tall bronze statue of Kuan Yin, the goddess of mercy.

It’s magnificent to look at in the light of day, but it’s a different experience at night. It’s like looking at a whole different side of the temple which is much more serene.

Plan your escape at Penang’s ESCAPE theme park No, this isn’t like an escape room where you and your friends attempt to break out of a locked space. ESCAPE offers a different kind of, well, escape. If you are tired of the city, this is where you go to chill and shake off all that stress. This is a theme park surrounded by lush greenery, very near the Penang Butterfly Farm. Here you can enjoy free falling, tower climbing, and other outdoor activities.

Chill out at Batu Ferringhi beach

Cap off a tiring day exploring the city at Batu Ferringhi beach. Here, you and your companions can just lounge at the beach, getting the sun-kissed tan plus the clear waters of the sea. There are countless water activities you can do like wakeboarding or jet skiing. But nothing beats just chilling on your beach mats with a cocktail in hand, maybe watching the sun as it dips in the horizon.

To make your trip even more rewarding, you can choose to stay in a hotel that will make your commute to and from these places so easy to do. Hotels like The Northam All Suite Penang.

Right now, they’re offering 40% off your accommodation when you book the Northam Special Deal. It comes with a buffet breakfast inclusion and Jacuzzi tub in the suites.

On your visit to Penang, make sure you include these activities in your list and enjoy all that the island has to offer.

Alona Beach is Named After A Sexy Star Plus 4 Other Mind Blowing Facts You Didn’t Know About Bohol

With the closure of the popular Boracay, a lot of other tourist destinations have gained attention, just like Panglao, Bohol. Beach resorts populate majority of the shores of the island making it the perfect getaway for a tropical paradise. But apart from the powdery white sand beaches of Panglao and the mind-boggling switching of colors of the Chocolate Hills, Bohol is also home to other mind-blowing things that contribute to its value as a tourist destination. Here are 5 fun trivia about Bohol that will probably leave you enthralled.

1. A Church Made of Food

One of the most historical places in the Philippines can be found in Bohol. The Baclayon Church, which is the second oldest church in the country, is considered a National Treasure and historical landmark. Built in 1519, this church’s foundation was made out of coral stones and were cemented together using egg whites. Yes, you read that right—egg whites. Who would have thought that the most basic ingredient we can find in the kitchen could be used to erect sturdy buildings that last centuries? Mind-blown? So are we.

2. Milk Chocolate Hills

Probably the most famous attraction in Bohol, the Chocolate Hills has been visited by many people from all over the world. With its colors that change from green to chocolate brown, it has indeed astounded many tourists both local and international. However, just recently, we were surprised to know that these Hershey Kisses looking hills aren’t actually purely chocolatey. A recent earthquake has caused some of the hills to crack open, and people were surprised to see that the insides of it were actually white. Who would’ve thought that this delicious looking display of nature could get any yummier?

3. Sexy Alona Beach

When it comes to where to stay in Panglao, Alona beach is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. With its powdery white sand and beautiful shorelines, there’s no doubt that this place is one heck of a dream tropical destination. But have you ever wondered why a provincial beach would have an extremely sexy sounding name? According to locals, its name was taken from a Filipino sexy star, Alona Alegre who filmed a liquor commercial in the shores of this very beach wearing a revealing 2-piece swim suit. Ever since, the locals have called the place Alona Beach due to this iconic commercial shoot. Didn’t know that, did you?

4. Mahogany Forest Initiative

Whenever you would browse your Instagram (or even the internet) for photos of Bohol, one of the most famous photos that you would see is the towering canopy of mahogany trees lined along the countryside roads of Bohol. But this postcard worthy display of nature is actually not a natural forest, but one that was initiated by the local government. As a response to the worsening problem of slash and burn (aka kaingin), the planting of these trees was a reforestation initiative to counter the negative effects of soil erosion in the area. No doubt these trees are almost perfectly lined, achieving that surreal forest feels.

5. Solar Panel Powered Airport

Continuing their pursuit to salvage mother nature from further damage, Bohol’s government have furthered their programs toward sustainable tourism. One of their biggest projects is the new Eco-Airport, the first international eco-friendly airport in the country, where 1/3 of the passenger terminal buildings are powered by solar panels. Dubbed as the “Green Gateway to the World,” it also makes use of natural ventilation to lessen carbon footprint, and in turn, cause less harm to the environment. While there aren’t exact dates of when the airport is going to be operational, it’s definitely one additional reason to visit Bohol. ------ These are but some of the cool trivia about Bohol. We’re pretty sure it is home to more interesting facts as it is one of the most historical places in the country. So when you get to visit this place, aside from lounging in luxury in your Panglao, Bohol beach resort, take some time to go out and ask the locals about stories. We’re sure you’ll get something out of the ordinary.

TOP PICKS: Where to Eat, Explore, Dine, Drink, and Stay in Makati

Urban centers where first-rate hotels like Eton Tower Makati are cradled definitely put you in the heart of the metropolis. But with the many places to explore in an urban center like Makati, it would be hard to decide exactly what to do and see, where to eat, drink, and dine, and where to retreat after a day of exploring.

Here are our top picks for places to try in Makati which will definitely give you the complete city experience.

DO

It doesn’t really matter if you’re a shopaholic or not, exploring the shopping centers in Makati is a city experience of its own. Found near Ayala avenue are a group of malls comprised of Greenbelt, Glorietta, Landmark, and SM.

All of these are connected to each other by bridges and walkways that make exploring a lot easier. Apart from that, each mall also caters to people of different tastes and backgrounds, so you are sure to find something you would like.

SEE

One of the great things about Makati is that despite the fact that it’s all about progress and innovation, it never forgets to pay homage to the Filipino culture and heritage. A small distance from the city’s main shopping centers, the Ayala Museum stands proud.

With its collection of artifacts, artworks, and other pieces that speak of the country’s rich history, this place will give you a glimpse of the foundations of the nation that we are now.

EAT

The whole Makati Central Business District is a melting pot of several food hubs and restaurants. But hopping from one restaurant to another could take so much time, which is why trying out food from Legazpi Sunday Market is our best recommendation.

In this weekend communal event, a portion of the Legazpi Park is transformed into a farmer’s market where the best restaurants in the city set up food stalls. Ease yourself of the hassle of going several places for food. In this community event, you get served the best meal options all in one place.

DRINK

Among the many places to visit in Makati, the district of Poblacion is known because of its numerous pubs and watering holes. Whether you’re into some wholesome drinking or if you want to waste the night away with an awesome time with friends, this district has a bar that would suit your liking.

One notable pub is called The Apartment wherein they have beds and other house fixtures making the whole place resemble an apartment. This provides customers a different nightlife experience wherein people can easily crash into the beds whenever they feel like they’ve had enough to drink.

STAY

Being one of the booming cities in Metro Manila, it’s no longer a surprise that you have a ton of options of where to stay in Makati. But if you would like to experience the ease of being near places, The Mini Suites Eton Tower Makati is the best option.

As the only hotel that is directly connected to elevated walkways, it makes it easier for you to get from one place to another. It also puts you within comfortable distance to the above-mentioned attractions, allowing you to get the fuller Makati experience without the transportation hassle.

5 Things to Enjoy in Leyte That is Not Kalanggaman Island

After troubling yourself about where to stay in Leyte, the next thing to worry about is arranging your itinerary to maximize the experience. And when people think of Leyte, the first thing that comes to mind is Kalanggaman Island. Famous for its blue waters and fine white sand bar, this island has attracted many tourists from all over the world. However, Leyte has more to offer than this beautiful strip of sand. Here are 5 non-mainstream tourist destinations in Leyte that is not Kalanggaman Island.

Ulot River Torpedo Boat

Resembling the thrills and adventure of white water rafting, riding a torpedo boat along this 10.5km river is perfect for adventure seekers. Let the water lead you to Deni Point where you can enjoy additional activities like having snacks, sipping some fresh coconut juice while wading in the water, or taking a plunge at this refreshing natural stream.

Sohoton Cave

Cradled in Sohoton Natural Park, this cave is full of astounding rock formations. Explore a glorious world that is not known to many and be amazed by stalactites and stalagmites that form columns inside this cave. Apart from spelunking, you can also opt to ride a kayak to head to its majestic natural bridge.

Fire Dance

Considered as one of the best hotel in Palo, Leyte, The Oriental Leyte have exquisite dining options that provide you more than just the delectable dishes. Enjoy your evening with fire dance performances as you munch on your sumptuous meals at Samsara Restaurant or the Sand Bar.

MacArthur Park

A great historical marker to all Filipinos, this park is a protected area that commemorates the return of General Douglas MacArthur to liberate the Filipinos from Japanese colonization in 1944. Perfect for some history and cultural immersion, this place also doubles as a good Instagram bait where you can take stunning vacation photos.

San Juanico Bridge

Spanning 2 kilometers in length, this ingenious infrastructure used to be the defining icon of Leyte. The San Juanico bridge takes the form of the letters S and L to symbolize the initials of the provinces it connects, Samar and Leyte. You can witness the sight of this engineering marvel without having to go far if you decide wisely on where to stay in Leyte.