Love is in the Air at Resorts World Manila

Things are starting to look rosy with Coronavirus cases finally going down. And for the longest time, it seems like we're on our way to the old normal. I get all giddy thinking of all the stuff we can do with Sam. From traveling to a simple dine-out, these can all be possible soon without heightened fear and paranoia. But you don't even have to wait as there are several trusted establishments that you can visit with the whole family to celebrate milestones and this day of Love. One place you can count on to make Valentine's Day special is Resorts World Manila. 

Hello, Resorts World Manila!

Resorts World Manila lined up several amazing deals for everyone this Valentine's. From its signature restaurant, Casa Buenas, to La Cupula (which offers private dinners), you, your loved ones, and your taste buds are sure to have a wonderful time.

When in Boracay: Coast Boracay

Boracay is one of the most popular summer destinations in the Philippines. Its long stretch of fine white sand, scrumptious finds, and a wide range of accommodations make this island a paradise for everyone. And for this year's visit, we decided to try TripAdvisor's number 1 resort on the island which is Coast Boracay.

Hello, Coast Boracay. 

Coast is one of the newer establishments in Boracay but it didn't take long for this modern resort to get the top spot in TripAdvisor with its topnotch service. I have to admit, I was so curious when I heard that it got the coveted spot for two years in a row. This resort must be doing something right for its guests to leave in high spirits! 

When in Cebu: Shangri-La Mactan

The Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has been synonymous with stellar service. Having it as one's accommodation during a vacation almost equates to a wonderful and memorable trip. However, with boutique resorts offering more personalized service and more attention to detail, can big hotels like Shangri-La compete? 

Hello, Shangri-La Mactan.

Shangri-La Mactan is one of the popular resorts in Mactan. With its massive lot housing two wings, Garden and Ocean, plus numerous restaurants and amenities, it is not surprising for this resort to be packed with guests, local and foreign alike.

When in El Nido: Huni Lio

El Nido Resorts never fail to deliver exceptional service and gift us with great memories to cherish. This is why we opted to book Huni Lio after finding out that it is also part of the same group. 

Hello, Huni Lio.

Huni is the newest addition to the Lio Estate Resorts group. Knowing that it opened just last June made it so easy for us to confirm our reservation. 

When in El Nido: The Red Crab Alimango House

After days of swimming, snorkeling and climbing in Apulit and Miniloc, R and I were looking forward to finally relax at Lio, El Nido. Just thinking about lounging on its long shore and enjoying the area's chill vibe made us excited. But another thing made us giddy to spend a few days in this newly developed area... and that was to feast on good seafood.

Hello, The Red Crab Alimango House.

The Red Crab Alimango House opened in Lio Estate just last April and it's one of the best places to dine in the area.

Now Open: The Empress Dining Palace

I used to dislike Chinese food. I had no appreciation for it till I was in middle school. But it turned out that it wasn't the cuisine that I did not like, I was just eating at the wrong places. And when I got to have a taste of the real deal, a space in my heart (and tummy) opened up for this cuisine with rich history. Now hooked with dumplings, bird's nest soup and so much more, I was excited to visit The Empress Dining Palace.

Hello, The Empress Dining Palace. 

When in Palawan: Miniloc Island Resort

Our eco adventure in Apulit Island Resort made us realize that it might have been a bad idea to head to Miniloc right after. With more complimentary activities to try, we had to delay our plan to recover from hours of snorkeling, swimming and climbing lime stones. 

Hello, Miniloc Island Resort.

Located just 50 minutes away from Lio Airport, Miniloc Island is one of the more popular islands of El Nido Resorts. 

Instagram Stop: Zhongshe Flower Market, Houli, Taiwan

Taiwan is one of my favorite travel destinations. Just thinking about the night market grubs make me drool. But there's more to Taiwan than just street food, milk tea, Shifen, Yehliu, and Jiufen. Down south is Taichung which has an impressive (and not to mention massive) night market with even more pocket friendly finds. And one of the popular spots in Taichung is the Zhongshe Flower Market.

Hello, Zhongshe Flower Market. 

Thanks to Instagram geotags, I got to discover the picturesque Zhongshe Flower Market in Houli District. The diverse variety of flowers caught my interest and thought that it was worth skipping Sun Moon Lake. 

When in Baler: Costa Pacifica

I was never a beach person. In fact, I was the typical Asian who avoids the sun as much as I could. And no, it's not because I fear getting dark. I was quite sensitive when I was younger and a short exposure to the sun leaves me with a bloody nose. Thank goodness though that I'm out of that phase as frolicking by the beach is fun! And when R's mom wanted to go to the beach, we decided to drive to Baler and stay in Costa Pacifica as we chase the last days of summer. 

Hello, Costa Pacifica. 

Costa Pacifica is regarded as one of the premier resorts in the surfing destination Baler. Located right in front of Sabang Beach, this resort is surrounded by several small resorts and inns. 

First Bite: East Ocean

Chinese cuisine is no stranger with us Filipinos. We were exposed to several of its dishes ever since we could eat solid food. But only a few could be named worthy to be called great. And recently, several taste makers claim that a ginormous Chinese restaurant at the golden Entertainment City is a real deal.

Hello, East Ocean.

This multi-level Chinese restaurant has been the talk of town since it opened. With several private rooms and massive luxurious dining hall, it is no surprise why this is favored by socialites. 

R's parents decided to treat everyone to dinner here after our Pangulasian trip since it's just a few minutes away from the airport.

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas: Snake River Farms (SRF) Gift Box

Valentine's Day is fast approaching and many are stressing out on what to give their significant other. Thankfully, R and I are not too big on buying each other gifts and prefer to spend time with each other. And there is no better way to spend quality time than over a good home cooked meal. 

Hello again, Snake River Farms. 

My favorite steak brand came up with the perfect Valentine's Day gift idea. It bundled several favorites--Wagyu Strip Loin, Wagyu C. Cut Sirloin, Wagyu Flapmeat, Wagyu Ground Beef and Wagyu Frankfurter. Each pack weighs 330 grams with the exception of Wagyu Ground Beef which weighs 500 grams and Wagyu Frankfurter with 454 grams. 

Staycation Chronicles: Bayleaf Cavite

I hardly consider Cavite as a location for a quick getaway. In fact, I couldn't think of a single thing to do in the area. But who would have thought that there's a gem waiting to be found along the long Governor's Drive? 

Hello, Bayleaf Cavite.

Bayleaf may not be exactly a new name in the hospitality industry as its Intramuros branch has been around for over five years. Built as an extension to Lyceum of the Philippines, Bayleaf served as the culinary arm of the university. And it was not long after the success of Bayleaf Intramuros when the Laurel family decided to open another one, this time in Cavite.

Staycation Chronicles: Crowne Plaza Galleria

Living in Manila could be very toxic. The insane city traffic, never ending heat and busy lifestyle could easily drive one nuts! I myself have been on the edge these past days due to tight deadlines, shoots and upcoming trip that needs a detailed itinerary. And a staycation at Crowne Plaza Galleria was just what I needed to de-stress. 

Hello, Crowne Plaza Galleria. 

Managed by the prestigious Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG), Crowne Plaza Galleria is the hotel of choice of several business travelers. Its premiere location of being at the heart of Ortigas and right beside Robinsons Galleria gives it a strong advantage against its competitors in the area. 

A Colorful Night with Rémy Martin VSOP

You don't have to wait for Christmas or an occasion to take a sip of your favorite cognac. And with Rémy Martin's new look, we'd have more reason to celebrate.

Hello, Rémy Martin. 

Christmas just got even earlier with Rémy Martin's new limited edition bottle designed by world renowned artist, Matt W. Moore. 

Cruising Around: Star Cruises Superstar Virgo

To travel around the world is every wanderlust's dream. It is always fun to see new places and experience different cultures. But one thing I absolutely hate when traveling is going through airport security. It's a pain to queue and to keep having your bag screened for security, especially when you have a laptop in your luggage. Thankfully, Star Cruises occasionally dock in Manila which gives us an opportunity to travel to different parts of Asia without having to deal with airport mayhem. And the best part... no luggage weight restrictions!

Hello, Star Cruises Superstar Virgo!

Star Cruises Superstar Virgo was back in Manila last March and with Taiwan and Japan as its destinations, R and I figured that we give this cruise another try. We boarded this cruise ship back in 2015 where its port was in Hong Kong with Sanya, China and Ha Long Bay, Vietnam as its destinations. Though our experience then was mediocre to terrible, we gave it another shot after hearing that some of R's relatives booked as well. 

Must Try: Samba's Sabado de Fiesta

Weekends are made for lazing around the house and recharging for another battle with reality come Monday. However, there are times when I find myself excited to wake up early on a Saturday despite a grueling Friday because good food awaits! And such is the case a few Saturdays ago. 

Hello, Samba!

Samba is one of my favorite Peruvian restaurants. As one of the few establishments that offer top notch fresh ceviche and to die for Arroz con Mariscos, I found myself visiting this place quite a number of times. 

Staycation Chronicles: Seda Vertis North

What do you love to do on rainy days? 

I love staying in on bed weather days and just watch the rain pour down while I indulge in a hot cup of coffee by the window. And a staycation at Seda Vertis North came timely two weeks ago!

Hello, Seda Vertis North. 

My first Seda experience was in Davao back in January this year. It started off with the delayed check in, clogged sink and noisy guests staying next door. But one thing I liked about my stay was how Seda won me back with its superb service. Hence spending the night at Seda Vertis North made me excited. 

A Paradise in Jiangsu: Wuxi Hubin Hotel

China never fails to amaze me. From its mouthwatering regional cuisines to jaw-dropping infrastructures, each trip to China leaves me mesmerized and makes me yearn for more. I sure am lucky to have an opportunity to visit areas such as Shandong, Chongqing, Guangzhou and Shanghai among others as seeing these places gives me better appreciation of the country and its beautiful complexities. And one of my favorite experiences to date was with Wuxi Hubin Hotel.

Hello, Wuxi Hubin Hotel.

Located beside the scenic Lihu Lake in the beautiful Jiangsu province, Wuxi Hubin Hotel is a marriage of elegance, pristine nature and unparalleled comfort. Its huge compound covering 80,000 square meters and houses top class facilities and amenities that would make anyone's stay a memorable one.