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Showing posts with label philippines stay. Show all posts
Showing posts with label philippines stay. Show all posts
Monday, April 9, 2018
THE FUNNY LION HOTEL IN PALAWAN: Amazing Stay in Coron

The most iconic view that you would always see in postcards and in magazines would be this one. It's from the Kayangan observatory deck in Coron, Palawan. Now, this place is an amazing tourist spot that is one for the books. It's all island hopping and ship wreck diving. A lot of snorkling and swimming would be involved. One of the things that would make any adventure and vacation to this wonderful set of islands perfect would be to have a wonderful place to stay at every single night. Lucky for me, I was able to book a couple of rooms from the boutique hotel, THE FUNNY LION.
 Roughly 30-45 minutes from the airport, THE FUNNY LION PALAWAN sits near the mangrove area on the outskirts of town. It's perfectly situated that it only takes 5-10 minutes via tricycle to get to the town center and that it gives a nice quiet and relaxing time for its guests.
 Even if the lobby is open air, you are assured that they will take care of your every needs. From check-in, they would assist you with you luggage without question and would even give you a small tour of the property. With only roughly 30+ rooms, this boutique hotel really gives importance to its guests by prioritizing their needs and wants. As you enter, you are greeted by the swimming pool area. It has a jacuzzi on the side, a shallow area for kids, and ledge that gives an infinity touch. On its sides are day beds and chairs perfect for sunbathing.
Just beside it is their quaint in house restaurant. This is where they serve their breakfast buffet in the morning and also where guests could have complimentary snacks from 3-5pm. Their breakfast usually consists of 3-4 viands, an egg station, salads station, soup, breads, cereals, fruits, and even cold cuts. Don't forget to try out the traditional hot chocolate.
 For snack time, they usually offer old school Filipino dishes like bananas and sweet potatoes with some fresh juice mix. To be honest, their food in the hotel was delicious. Granted that it may seem a bit expensive. To compare it with some of the restaurants that we tried in town, my family and I agreed that we enjoyed the dishes from the hotel more. Please don't forget to try out their squid rings and other dishes.
The 4th floor offers a view of the different islands near Busuanga. Here, they also have a couple of jacuzzis over looking the bay. The menu for this rooftop bar is different from their restaurant down stairs. They offer a list of bar chows that really works. Try their small pizzas and even their special snacks. Also, you may want to have a go at their version of a BOODLE FIGHT.
You could go for their happy hour promo from 4pm to 7pm while reading a book and relaxing in a jacuzzi while waiting for the sunset. During Saturdays, they have a bbq buffet here, plus they also have a band playing twice a week.
When we checked in, we were pleasantly surprised with all the gifts we received. We were given a couple of bandanas and even a bag. There's even a turn down service every night. If you're lucky enough to stay at a PRIDE ROOM, you are given a veranda or a lanai for extra space. Usually, CUB ROOMS are perfect as there is a provision for a pullout bed. Furthermore, you need not worry about your wet clothes, there are free spaces outside your rooms hang them dry.
 At the FUNNY LION, they're all for sustainability and lessening thrash. AS such, they offer water in a glass bottle. The shampoos are in refillable containers as well. I also liked the fact that they have a welcome fruit tray and also drinks that are replenished daily. You see, this mini-bar is part of the amount you pay for your stay.
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The FUNNY LION knows how to take care of their guests. Aside from having an in-house massage service, they also go above and beyond. Guests are called in their rooms when their tour van arrives. Plus, they also offer different activities through their partner tour operators. If you will be going for the private and exclusive tours, you may bill it to your room and pay for it when you check out. If it's a joiner, you would need to pay for it in cash.  If there was one thing I didn't like, it would be the internet connection and the phone signal. According to the manager, the internet connection was down because of on-going upgrades being done by the telecoms. As for the phone signal, it's available in some parts of the property. Overall, I enjoyed my stay at the FUNNY LION. The staff from the front desk and the restaurant and bar were all amazing and very thoughtful.

THE FUNNY LION
Sitio Jolo, Poblacion 5, Coron, Palawan


Disclaimer: Wrote this based on my experience. Paid for our stay and our meal.
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Monday, April 2, 2018
WHERE TO EAT IN ANGELES, PAMPANGA: Kamangpangan Food Trip

 Believe it or not, I found myself in Angeles, Pampanga not once, not twice but three times in the past couple of weeks. One of the biggest problem that I had to endure was that I didn't know where to eat. Seriously, I had no clue where to go and what to have for lunch, merienda, and dinner. For Pete's sake, my mother is from Pampanga and some of my friends are from this beautiful city. Thankfully, I had a couple of days worth of food with some friends that gave me insights on where to go or what to check out.
The first stop of the day was lunch at FORTUNE TEAHOUSE. Fortune is a well known restaurant in these parts. They have a couple of upscale fine dining spots and also a relaxed establishment in malls.

 Aside from the usual Dimsum dishes that you may wish to try out, their combination shabu-shabu is quite impressive. The stock used will surely make your stomach warm up. Plus, the fish fillet wasn't bad as well. Fortune Teahouse is located in Sm Clark, Newpoint, and Vista Mall.
 
 To cleanse the palette, one might head on over to GILL'S SHERBET and Ice Cream. Every time I visit our family in Pampanga, sherbet has been the highlight in every meal. Gill's is well known in Nepo Mart, Angeles. Just ask anyone and they could direct you to the stall.
There are actually different flavors and it's quite a treat. Personally, I prefer the old school coconut based one.
 Now if you're looking for something more authentic and local, you might want to head on over to MILA'S TOKWA'T BABOY and SISIG. This place is known to many as the best hole in the wall for the tokwa't baboy or tofu with pork. Outside, you get to see different grilled items that you may want to try out. Don't be scarred as these are different parts of the pig.
Inside, you'll be surprised at the converted home. A lot of tables and chairs are prepared for the guests. It's somewhat basic. You get everything that you may need. Aside from the grilled items and the other Filipino dishes, don't ever leave without trying their version of the Tokwa't Baboy. I believe the addition of the celery adds crunch and a different texture for this perfect beer match chow. MILA is just off the main highway so it's not hard to find. They're at #195 San Andres St., Sto Domingo, Angeles City.
 
 For the sweet tooth, one might head on over to TEASPOON CAFE. Located on the Fil-Am Friendship Highway, this cafe will definitely make you jump with joy. Sweets and pastries and cakes placed TEASPOON CAFE in the map. Don't forget to get a box of those cashew petite fortune as they are highly addictive.

 For dinner, you may want to head on over to NAMARI JAPANESE BISTRO. Inside the Best Western Hotel Metro Clark along McArthur Highway, this Japanese Restaurant is a sight for sore eyes.
 Fresh dishes like SUSHI and SASHIMI are prepared in a way that would excite a dinner. It's not the usual california maki that you get here. There's some flare with the items. It seems that Namari is trying to tackle different dimensions of the Japanese food culture. It has fresh sashimi, then cooked items like steak, plus noodles.
 If you want more bang for your buck, you might want to try out their teppanyaki buffet. It's pretty solid.
Found in the same building as NAMARI, it has it's sister restaurant the CACTUS JACK SMOKEHOUSE. From it's name, you know that they mean business.
 They brought out everything but the kitchen sink. They had a couple of platters that would make any foodie jump for joy. One was filled with ribs. Fall of the bone and super tender, it went perfectly well with the corn bread. The other platter, must not be overlooked. There, you have your very own cochinillo, a young pig roasted and cooked to perfection.
 Everything was actually a blur so I think Namari and Cactus Jack would be better off discussed in a different post. Yes, they make their dessert in house as well.
Breakfast wise, there's this one place that you should check out. They serve unlimited drinks, and unlimited rice. The meals that they have also have a number of viands that makes everything worthwhile. I'm talking about KANIN UNLTD. Literally means unlimited rice, this place is perfect for heavy eaters. 

 From tapas to tamales and even champorado (chocolate rice), they make sure that you go out with a stuffed stomach.
Now for the ultimate pasalubong or take home, one might enjoy a trip to SUSIE'S. This place is known to have a number of delicacies that you may want to bring to your home. Here's a huge box that has a number of different sticky rice desserts to take to the office or even small gatherings.
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Special shout out to NANAY'S GOURMET TUYO. It's actually a nice way of having your HERRING. It's already deboned so no worries there.

After spending more than 24 hours eating in Angeles, Pampanga, I hope this little adventure would help you out and decide where to go or what to try out. Cheers!
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Monday, March 26, 2018
5 REASONS TO CHOOSE GENESIS P2P WHEN GOING TO CLARK AIRPORT

To be honest, I like to drive but with heavy traffic and the burden of finding a parking space, is something that makes me think twice. With the new P2P service that GENESIS TRANSPORT offers, it's the perfect way out. The Point to point service that I recently tried was their TRINOMA to CLARK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Route and vice versa.
Loading area right beside the MRT/Landmark Entrance along Edsa
Here are 5 reasons why I chose GENESIS P2P when going to Clark International Airport.
1. It leaves on time. This is an important factor why the P2P service from Genesis Transport is successful. The schedule that they offer is quite convenient for travelers and people that need to get to their destination on time. From Trinoma, there are 2 locations where you could hop on. The first one would be their "garage" which is located on the side of the MRT STATION along EDSA. It's actually near the Landmark Entrance of TRINOMA. The other one would be the Clark Airport Lounge on the North Edsa Avenue Side of Trinoma. Here, it's quite comfortable as there are chairs, a/c and even television for the waiting public.
2. The Buses they use are BRAND NEW. Each seat is clean and comfortable. Plus, the a/c is surprisingly cold. Don't worry though, each outlet could be turned on or off depending on your preference. They also have compartments for your big luggages. As such, you're assured that there's room for everything and everyone.
3. Since the bus doesn't make any unscheduled stops, you are assured that your trip is SECURED. Each bus is equipped with cctv and gps for your safety. Admittedly, you can't control the time that you would arrive but at least you can be prepared. Remember to be at the airport 2 hours before any domestic flight and 3 hours prior to an international one. From Trinoma, it would usually take 2 hours give or take before getting to Clark International Airport.
4. The buses are modern and uses technology for everyone's convenience. Gone are the days that riders would be bored. The buses that plight this route offers free and fast internet access. Aside from the USB ports that could be used for charging devices, I was pleased to see that the internet connection via their wifi hotspot was fast and reliable. I was able to do a little bit of work during the quick trip.
Outside of the Arrivals Area of the CLARK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. This is where the fleet of Genesis buses will wait for you.
5. They have very informative and friendly staff. Once I arrived at the station, I was assisted with my luggage. Plus everyone answered my queries with regards to the different things that I needed. They even gave a couple of tips when one visits Clark.
To further help you, this is the schedule for their trips to and from Clark International Airport via the P2P bus. As you can see, the price is quite affordable. With almost hourly dispacthes, you can definitely get to your destination on time, fresh, and well rested. Don't forget, they also have a route that services the Naia3-Clark International Aiport. 
Head on over to the Facebook Page of Genesis Transport. There, you could check out their latest updates, price changes, and other information that you may need when you travel.



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Tuesday, October 3, 2017
HENANN CRYSTAL SANDS RESORT BORACAY: One Heck of a Stay

 Boracay is definitely an international tourist destination in itself. Guests from all over the world flock to this tiny island to enjoy the beach, sand, and the different activities it has to offer. One of the newest resort that just opened to the public, HENANN CRYSTAL SANDS might be the place for you to visit and stay at.
 Found in Station 2, this magnificent piece of property recently opened just last week. Once you enter via the beach front entrance, you are greeted by 2 amazing pools. Some patrons have the option to have their rooms upgraded with instant access to the pools. In a few weeks, their gym and infinity pool overlooking the beach would also be open.
 There are basically three room categories. Deluxe rooms are found at the back. This are the entry-level rooms that they offer. Premier rooms have views of the pool and are closer to the beach. The best rooms would be those that have instant pool access.
 Rooms have a number of amenities that would be essential to travelers. As you enter, luggage storage and the safety deposit box would greet you. Everything that you might have forgotten at home could be found here. From umbrellas to slippers and even towels and comfortable bath robes.
On the other side, would be the washroom. Installed with a rain shower head and a bath tub, this would make anyone enjoy and take their time freshening up.
 
 Tired and weary, one could prepare coffee and just enjoy the night away at their lovely veranda.
 Sleep wise, everything was perfect. The bed was comfy and there were sockets just at the headboard along with switches to dim the lights. If you're not yet sleepy, the view outside is just amazing. You could just sit and relax and let the night slip away or head on out and visit a bar or two.


 The morning after would be best at SAPPHIRE. The in house restaurant of Henann Crystal Sands, this place would be the best to cure your hangovers and have your breakfast. There are different viands to choose from. A make your own noodles and egg station is present. Fresh fruits, salad, and cheese and meat platter is also served. Bacon and Ham is always there.

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 Boracay is one amazing place. Choosing where to stay makes a big part of it as well. Henann Crystal Sands Resort is an ideal place to stay at especially if you plan to spend a lot of time going around station 1, 2, and 3. Their beach front is clean and ready for you to relax at and enjoy the sun.
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Hennan Crystal Sands Resorts has just opened to the public last September 28, 2017. Although still in soft opening phase, this property has a lot of potential. Located along Station 2 in Boracay, it is a stone throw away from D'Mall.


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Tuesday, August 1, 2017
ORMOC, LEYTE : Visiting and Checking Out Tourist Spots

A few months ago, I had the opportunity to visit this quiet city. It was part of the Leyte Province and the Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas was promoting the different places to check out. It seemed surreal for me since this place had a lot of things to offer.
For one, there was a recently discovered waterfall. Named as TRES AGUAS, this place is a bit difficult to visit. A visitor should hire a certified guide to help them out. Using an off road vehicle is a must as certain parts aren't well paved yet.
After paying an entrance fee, one would descend through a roughly made stair/ path. Be careful though as it might be slippery. Once you get down, you are greeted by 3 different waterfalls. They may not be as big as others but the place is tranquil and perfect for a small picnic gathering between friends and loveones.
Another thing that ORMOC is known for would be their PINEAPPLES. A visit to a farm should be on the top of your list. Remember to ask for permission first as these are privately owned places. Advance coordination must be done.
Luckily, I was able to check out one of the biggest. It was ORMOC FARMS PINEAPPLE. The place was stunning. Endless pineapple fields as far as the eye could see. It was like the sounds of music.
The fruit itself is quite petite compared to others but this is what makes it unique. According to the locals, one could easily eat every part. Plus, it's sweet and is actually cultivated for export.
 
If there was one place to visit in ORMOC, it should be LAKE DANAO.
 
Situated on top of a mountain, the LAKE DANAO NATURAL PARK hosts 143 hectares of lake area. Here, one could rent different boats and even floating huts to serve as rest areas and lunch places.
At the entrance itself, you could ask different stalls to cook dishes for you. There are tons of mussels and pako or fern salad that you could devour. You could even cook and grill while having a relaxing stay on the covered hut in the middle of the lake.
One great idea though would be to eat the different dishes KAMAYAN style. Place everything on top of banana leaves and go for it. It's a nice way to bond with your friends and loved ones.
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I never knew that ORMOC has lots to offer. It was interesting and a fun way to check out the local culture.

RELATED LINKS:
Visiting Eastern Visayas: Early Morning Drive in Leyte 
Flavors of Eastern Visayas: A Gathering of Different Local Delicacies.

Disclaimer:Was invited by the Department of Tourism to visit Ormoc and Eastern Visayas.
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