Rieseling Boracay Beach Resort: Where the Sun Shines Brighter

For a busy international tourist destination such as Boracay Island, many would assume that it is already saturated with all the bests that it could offer to its guests. But I think, what makes this island worth-visiting OVER AND OVER AGAIN is its unique, loving people and their hospitality regardless where you came from and whatever activity you have in mind.

I celebrated my 33rd birthday in this beautiful island a month ago. It was an out-of-the-blue decision, filled with excitement to drown the broken-hearted feeling that I had that time. But just like most of the travelers, I have to watch out for my budget as I don’t wanna go broken and broke at the same time. Haha! Special thanks to my three Superfriends for tagging along, the expenses were cut down to almost half and to this this new-found place here in Boracay that offers a outstanding escape from the typical Boracay experience.

Instead of going the usual Boracay trip of enjoying the White Beach and partying at night, our group decided to book two rooms at Rieseling Boracay Beach Resort. A tranquil and very accommodating beach resort fronting Bulabog Beach, which is located on the opposite side of the world-famous White Beach of Boracay. Rieseling Boracay offers a sun-shinier spot equally filled with beautiful view, amazing amenities, exciting activities and loving Aklanons. The only difference, which I personally appreciate is its peacefulness and superb service that you don’t normally get in an off-site accommodation.

The Linden Suites and Ortigas on a Weekend

Before the unimaginable and towering skyscrapers start occupying the once peaceful skyline of the business district of Pasig City – The Linden Suites has been a nestling place for the hardworking business class of Ortigas District and its neighboring cities. Sharing a much-needed space and comfort, The Linden Suite was the “escape” destination in this side of town back in the days.

But now, as towering architectural masterpieces fill on what’s left in this bustling district, and the demand and competition of relaxation and accommodation get tougher, The Linden Suites is proud to share its modernized service and facilities that will continuously delight its loyalists and new patrons.

Located at the very heart of Ortigas, #37 San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City to exact, The Linden Suites offers combined elegance and functionality fit to those who need a break from their strenuous work or just a place to gather all those ideas to come up with a great work piece that will impress the bosses. I’m glad to say that I went here for some total relaxation.

And even though my stay here at The Linden Suites is just some random “staycation” on a fine, sunny weekend, I did enjoy my cozy, bright room as well as exploring the less-crowded Ortigas District.

A Weekend Staycation at Alabang’s Primmest Hotel

Just when I thought that I’d be having a super-duper boring weekend, where I would be bummed out at home with nothing to do but to stare at our walls - two of my sweetest friends, Maan and Hati, invited me to join them on a weekend getaway at southern Manila's prime hotel, Crimson Hotel.

An invitation that is so hard to say no, in a jiffy, I packed my bags and readied myself to travel and explore one of cities in the metro that’s so close to my heart, Muntinlupa.

Standing grand and mighty at Entrata Urban Complex, Filinvest City, 2609 Civic Dr, Muntinlupa, Crimson Hotel is less than an hour away from Manila via South Luzon Expressway. This prime destination can welcome a great number of people who wish to escape that fast-paced and bustling northern part of Metro Manila, with its heartwarming accommodation, delicious dishes, friendly neighborhood and relaxing vibe.

Amélie Hotel Manila: Your New Boutique Hotel in Town

Manila has been in the shadow of the more advanced cities of Metro Manila for years now. And though it may take some more years, decades or even century to gain back the glory that this prime city once had, it is slowing moving as it continues an exemplary experience not only to its residents, but also to its guests.

A few days ago, I was invited to be a part of a hotel opening in the red-light district of Manila City, the Malate. Bustling with people from different walks of life, Malate was made popular by its rich history in the early 1900s and was followed by blinding truth inn the 80's and 90's. Though lately, Malate is loosing it limelight, it seems like it is taking anew direction, something that would entice more local and international tourists to see the place.

Highlighting the colorful past of Manila, Amélie Hotel Manila recently opened its doors to the public offering a well-rounded city experience painted with red, black and white.

Hamilo Coast's Pico de Loro Cove: A Balance of Everything

While most of you are busy booking flight through  "Piso Seat Sale" to see and experience your dream destination at an affordable price, two hours away from the busy and crowded Metro Manila lays a beautiful, peaceful and maybe adventure-filled spot hiding behind the green slopes of Hamilo in Nasugbu, Batangas. And yes, you don't need a long weekend to enjoy the beauty that Hamilo Coast's Pico de Loro has to offer.

Passing through the nice and smooth CAVITEX, reaching the quiet and clean Hamilo Coast is so easy and surprisingly breathtaking. Famous for its well-preserved diverse marine life, Hamilo Coast is currently gaining popularity as a haven for fitness activities like triathlon. But of course I didn't went there to chase time, you know me. I went there to put my feet up and experience the talked about Pico de Loro luxury, only few people can really afford.

I must say, price-wise, staying here for a night is quiet expensive, most specially if you are not a member of its Beach or Country Club. But knowing that  we now have  a chance to see and feel the place, I guess price doesn't really matter at all - most specially if you are staying at their Pico Sands Hotel.

The Henry: Your Artsy Sinulog 2014 Home

If you are heading south this Sto. Niño weekend to witness and experience the resounding and really colorful Sinulog Festival of the Queen City of the South - Cebu City - and you are still clueless as to where to stay over the weekend, here's an artsy option for you that you will certainly enjoy and captivate you heart - The Henry.

 

Nestled at the posh area of Banilad, a few kilometers from Cebu-Mactan Airport, which is basically in between the Downtown Cebu and the airport, The Henry will surely fill your Sinulog weekend with much more fun and excitement brought by the inspiring and unique interior of the place.

I had a taste of its colorful world a few months ago, and more than its accommodating staff, relaxing ambiance and great food, The Henry offers an art-gallery like kind of accommodation that brought out the artist in me. 

Azumi Boutique Hotel: Alabang's Next in Line

Come January 23rd, another boutique hotel will be opening its doors to the world to offer a unique staying experience that is sure to fill its guests with inspiration good for one's eyes and soul. All prepped up by Hospitality International Incorporated (HII), who is behind some of the country's much-admired hotels and service residences like The Henry in Cebu, The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences  in Makati and Crosswinds Resort Suites in Tagaytay, Azumi Botique Hotel in Alabang is the latest from the team offering affordable, convenient and stylish accommodation suited to business people who are always on the go.

http://www.azumi.ph/

I was lucky to be invited on its "sneak peek" day last week and even luckier to stay for a while at their rooftop where their amazing infinity lap pool oversees the bustling town of Alabang. But before I share to all of you what I saw and experience there, let me tour you around first they way the hospitable staff of this hotel toured me during my visit.

Located at the peaceful section of Madrigal Business Park Phase III in Alabang, Muntinlupa, Azumi Boutique Hotel is basically a tricolor hotel that shares this kinda manly (I think) feel but with dignified and simple touch fit for a woman to appreciate.

The bottom floor, which is the lobby, also houses a cafe-slash-restaurant that is so familiar to our palette, Romulo Cafe. Though, it wasn't completely done yet when I see the place, expect a different Romulo here for it is bigger and more colorful. I went and experience Romulo Cafe in Jupiter, Makati before, and I tell you, if this is isn't enough for you to experience Azumi, wait till you see their rooms and amenities.

Ilocos Sur: An Overnight at The Cordillera Inn

Going to Vigan without any reservation during the months of July, August and September is actually the last thing any tourist should worry about. A top tourist spot with a diverse kind of accommodations - from the transient types to classy hotels - Vigan City, which serves as the heart of Ilocos Sur houses more of those accommodation that you could think of that comes with the distinct Ilocano flavor that you'll adore even more.

A top choice among tourists whose main concerns are budget and ambiance, The Cordillera Inn was our home during our visit to the historic, captivating and lovely City of Vigan in Ilocos Sur. A convenient place located right along the cobble-stone street of Crisologo, The Cordillera Inn is a must-go-to place if you really wanna experience how it feels like to be living in an upper-class Ilocano-Vigan life.

With rooms fit for couples, family or even large group of friends, The Cordillera Inn shared to me and to four of my friends an astonishing and memorable Ilocandia experience that I would definitely love to feel again. And despite of being just a walk-in, we were welcomed by a remarkable Ilocano hospitality that added color and even flavor to our Northern Luzon escapade.

Ilocos Norte: The Not So Blue Lagoon

Before I came here, I read about a dozen of blogs saying about how pristine and beautiful the place is. Some tagged it as the Boracay of the North because of its pure white sand that are made perfectly by the nature itself. But when we got, honestly, I thought I was in a wrong place, until our guide told us that we were not in the right time to see Blue Lagoon on its finest and bluest moment.

One of the many popular summer destinations in the country, Pagudpud's Blue Lagoon, which houses most of the well-known resorts in the northern part was our last destination in this Ilocos Norte trip. Ideal for Holy Week retreat and relaxation, Blue Lagoon offers a captivating view of the top most part of the country.

A perfect spot for surfing too, Blue Lagoon is said to be one of the favorite destinations for those who are starting to try out the sport. Though, the pure white sand is captivating, the water wasn't as blue as its name says when we were there. Along the shoreline were some fishermen's shacks that speak of the kind of town it has.

That Sitio Boracay Dream

It was almost a year ago since I first stepped in the beautiful island of Boracay. It was first time on that world-class tourist spot and it was all courtesy of Granprix Boracay Hideaway. It was also my first time to travel alone, and to travel for free, so everything was so memorable. And though I enjoyed my 3 days-2 nights stay there, I was still longing to experience Boracay in a far more different way - a classier one. And then comes one great blessing this year, a classy gift that will take me back to this beautiful paradise - another free accommodation - and this time at the sister hotel of Granprix Boracay Hideaway, the Sitio Boracay.

If my first time in Boracay was spent on "me, myself and I," this time, I have no plans of going there alone. Thank goodness, I have a bunch of new friends that are going there, so without further ado, I booked a flight to the beautiful island of Boracay on the same dates as my friends are. And at exactly before noon on the said date - Friday before Palm Sunday, that is - I found myself inside this beautiful cabana that will serve as my sanctuary in the next few days....

Alta Vista de Boracay: A Different Boracay Experience that I Love

When I plan to see Boracay, all I'm wishing to do is to enjoy the white sand and watch the hot bodies passing on it. But when I had the chance to check-in and stay in one of the most sophisticated and high-lander hotels in this paradise-like island, my idea of Boracay escapade changes and levels up - it's more fun to stay up in the mountain of Alta Vista de Boracay!

I've been hearing a lot about Alta Vista de Boracay since the first time I visited the beautiful island of Boracay, but I honestly didn't spend so much thought of it for I know that by the sound of its name, I will never have a chance to experience the place - primarily because I know that I cannot afford it. But heaven opens its doors and an angel granted me a chance to enjoy the amazing and truly breathtaking accommodation of Alta Vista de Boracay! Thank you, angel! ^_^

Just like what they say on their brochure "Find your worry-free escape", Alta Vista de Boracay of DMCI Homes made my summer escapade in this world-class island so memorable that I myself cannot believe until now that it happened. From the pick-up point to the last minute I bid goodbye to the beautiful island of Boracay, Alta Vista made sure that every money spend here were well-spent and enjoyed.

A Peek at Bolinao, Pangasinan's Wonderful Cave

The name might be too so-so to some, but for me,  it was one of the secret gems of the beautiful province of Bolinao, Pangasinan that is ought visiting. A dip on its cool, crystal clear water might be enough, but hey, if you have more time like me, why don't you spend a day cooling down at Wonderful Cave!

Located a few minutes from our hotel resort in Bolinao, Pangasinan - Puerto del Sol - this Wonderful Cave is an attraction that you can check out while exploring this peaceful and romantic province in the northern part of Luzon.

I wasn't amazed upon hearing its name and seeing how the facade of  the place was poorly renovated to accommodate guests, but experiencing its pool of water, which we assumed came from the trees of mountain made my first visit here really relaxing and fun.

Puerto del Sol: Your Mediterranean Home in Bolinao, Pangasinan

Its been a long-time dream of mine to experience basking under the sun of Bolinao, Pangasinan, and a few months ago, together with some of my friends who worry nothing about long travel for hours, I experienced a first-class Bolinao escapade that I'm dreaming of. Thanks to Puerto del Sol for this memorable experience that I would love to try again soon.

Traversing the smooth highway to the north, after some bus stops and 8 hours of traveling I found myself standing in front of what seems to be a very quite and pleasant town of Bolinao. Alaminos was my farthest place in this side of town that I've been to, and though it didn't differ that much, Bolinao offers a more relaxing and convenient vacation spot perfect for people like me who loves to see a lot of from the place.

A quaint room at what is said to be the best accommodation you could find in this side of the world, Puerto del Sol was my home on this weekend of exploration and fun in Bolinao, Pangasinan. I've heard a lot about this place from my friends a million times before, and I cannot believe that it was only this time that I finally gave in to its call.

Christmas at CrossWinds Resort Suites

A lot of us are dreaming of a White Christmas, or maybe something not Oriental this Yuletide season. I can't blame you, guys, because I do too, despite of my love to our country, I still think, something different to end the year ain't that bad. Hehe. And I guess, it's just normal, we Filipinos, love seeing the world - having a lot of options. And while we are saving for that wonderful dreams of ours, did you know that you don't need to spend that much and travel that far to experience a different kind of Christmas?

Because just two hours away from Manila, specifically in Tagaytay City, lays a fine looking Swiss-inspired community that bears nothing but tranquility, serenity and luxury - yes, all rolled into one at CrossWinds Resort Suites.

A few days before December hits the whole world, I and two of my friends, had a wonderful and relaxing weekend here at CrossWinds. It's a community brought up by Brittany, and I actually had seen it from the outside before, so I know that it's really beautiful even before finally having a chance to stay there for a night.

Maxims Hotel Manila: I'm still dreaming of you!

Have you heard of that line from a song that say "So near, yet so far"? Well, that's what was exactly in m mind when I was invited FOR THE SECOND TIME to check out and tour around the lavish and ultra elegant hotel of Resorts World Manila - the Maxims Hotel Manila.

Filled with grandeur feel and classic elegance, Maxims is Resorts World Manila's best of the best hotel that offers the highest standard of hotel accommodation in the country. A 172 all-suite luxury hotel, Maxims Hotel is made for travelers or guests that has the most discerning tastes - and I know that you can feel it just by looking at these pictures that I took during our tour there.

Maxims Hotel takes pride of their impeccable, personalized service, including a 24 hours a day butler to attend to the guests’ every need. From their itinerary to dining reservations, the butler are said to be at every guest's service for their entire stay.

Ramada Manila Central: The Newbie at the Oldie

Crowded streets, food stalls here and there, lucky charms dangling from every window and rising tall condominiums blocking the sunlight - these are the things that you can see at Ongpin Street in Manila now. Also known as Manila's Chinatown, this one of the oldest Chinatowns in the world has been the heart of Manila for centuries. But with these current developments, is there really a place for the Ramada Manila Central?

Just recently, I was invited to check out this newly opened place in Chinatown. Famous in the Chinese region, Ramada Hotel just opened its Manila Central doors giving a modern twist to the oldie and crowded Manila's Chinatown.

Officially opened its doors last April 27th, Ramada Manila Central is located a stone-throw away from the Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz or more popularly known as Binondo Church. Ramada Manila Central is the latest addition to this historical street, and with their breath-of-fresh-air outlook that aims to give local and international tourists a more pleasing and relaxing place to stay during their visit here in Manila, they are assuring that everyone will enjoy Manila more than they'll ever know.

A Splendid Vacation with Eurotel's Baguio Bliss

Baguio City - City of Pines. Summer Capital of the Philippines.

Lion's Head in Kennon Road, Baguio City

Baguio has been a favorite place of the many here in our country. With its cool breeze and wonderful sights to see, no wonder people keeps coming back to this lovely place over and over again.

I personally LOVE Baguio City. It is actually on my top most favorite places here in the Philippines. And as I went back here last week to be a part of Eurotel's annual Baguio Bliss, I can't help but to get excited, since this will be my first time to go up here with a group of bloggers, and curious as to what has changed in this cool yet very accommodating city.

Eurotel Baguio

(read my blog about Eurotel Baguio here)

This is the second time Eurotel hosted such vacation to a group of bloggers. Lucky me, I was qualified to join them this time to experience a world-class treatment here in Baguio.

Fersal Hotel: Your Home for the 2012 Caracol Festival

If you haven’t heard, aside from the bonggacious and really world-class festivals in Cebu, Iloilo and Aklan, January is also the month where Makati City, Philippines’ most developed city, will celebrate its Caracol Festival. This festival that happens on the last Sunday of January closes down the busiest avenues in the metro such as Makati Avenue and Ayala Avenue, something you should watch out for!

And this year, with high hopes that this festival will be grander and more exciting, it’s best to book you hotels now and feast with the amazing talents of Makati’s public school students as they dance on the streets. And with that, I suggest the Fersal Hotel at Neptune Street, Makati City.

Located at the heart of Makati, Fersal Hotel offers the comforts of home that Fersal Group of Hotels has known for.