Thursday, July 24, 2014

5 Places to Visit for a Glimpse of Philippine History in Makati City

This coming weekend, book a room at Crown Regency Hotel - Makati and get a relaxing time off from work or school. But in addition to enjoying its stylish rooms, function rooms, and restobar, you can also learn more about Philippine history by going on a little trip around Makati City.

Best known as the country's financial capital and one of the prime destinations for shopping, Makati offers more than business opportunities and leisure activities. Here are the places you must visit in the city to know more about the local culture and history:

Ayala Museum
Located at the intersection of Makati Avenue and Dela Rosa Street, Ayala Museum is one of the most sophisticated and extensive repository of artifacts that showcases the nation's culture and arts. Built in 1967, this place has held many local and international collections over the years. It currently houses 6 permanent exhibitions including a display of handcrafted dioramas that depict specific points in time, plus chinaware that traces early commercial ties between China and Southeast Asia.

Church of Saints Peter and Paul
It is also considered as one of the best preserved Spanish architecture pieces in northern Philippines. During your visit, you can attend mass or simply look around to admire the church’s impressive mix of intricate and simple designs. From your Makati hotel, you only have to drive a few minutes to Barangay Poblacion to reach the address of this very significant landmark.

Filipinas Heritage Library

At this library, you will have access to over 13,000 titles that cover various subjects, such as the country's history, languages, social sciences, and arts. Found right inside the historic Nielson Tower, the Philippines' first commercial airport, this attraction also uses state-of-the-art information technologies, so going through their collections is guaranteed to be easy.

Guadalupe Ruins
A classic example of vintage architecture, the Guadalupe Ruins allows you to look 400 years back in time. Once you set foot here, you will find the still intact large buttresses and hewn stones that support what's left of this former Franciscan-built church known as Nuestra SeƱora de Gracia.

Makati Museum
The century-old Makati Museum is where you must go if you want to get deep into the city's history. Here, you will find archeological and ethnographic pieces that include ancient earthenware and fossils of prehistoric animals. You will get to behold murals, photos, and documents that detail events in the thriving metropolis' rich past. To get to its address from Crown Regency Hotel - Makati, you only have to drive to J. P. Rizal Street in Barangay Poblacion.

Paradise Discovered: Boracay, by the Numbers

Seasoned travelers know that choosing to spend their vacation in a resort in Boracay brings them into a paradise-like island that is endowed with azure waters, white sand, and verdant surroundings. This world-renowned destination has always been a favorite hideaway of both local and foreign tourists. But apart from its natural beauty, there's a lot more reasons why Boracay continuously enthralls many holidaymakers. Here, a by-the-numbers look:

100: meters above sea level is the elevation of Mt. Luho. The peak of this mountain can be reached by motor biking, hiking, or mountain biking. A little kiosk is found on its summit where you bask in the stunning view of the entire Bolabog Beach.

40:
to 50 feet is the measure of steep descent at the entrance of Boracay's Bat Cave. This site holds more than 10,000 fruit bats. The cave also has a trail that leads to an underground diving spot.

20: is the minimum number of exotic species of butterflies that are sheltered in Boracay's Butterfly Garden. This attraction that opened in 2005 also has over 150 varieties of plants. It is just a short distance from D'Mall, which is very accessible to several accommodations in Boracay.

13:
meters is the elevation of the highest cliff diving platform at Ariel's Point. This exciting activity is a challenge that you shouldn't miss when in Boracay. For those who are not brave enough, there are also lower boards from 7 m down to 3 m.

7: is the number of natural basins that can be found in Jawili Falls. This natural attraction, which is located at Brgy. Jawili, is set in a lush forest surrounding in Aklan.

3: is the traditional number of boat stations in Boracay. These stations are designated for each district: Station 1 in the north, Station 2 in the middle, and Station 3 in the south. Station 1 is said to have the finest white sand among other beach zones.

2:
is the number of airports in Aklan that serve as entry points to Boracay. These are the Kalibo Airport, which offers air-conditioned van service that will take you to the jetty port, and the Caticlan Airport, which is a 5-minute motorized tricycle drive away from the island.

2: is also the number of dining options at Crown Regency Resort in Boracay. The Wang Shan Lo Chinese Restaurant offers scrumptious Chinese dishes, while the Fabulous Fifties Cafe serves a great selection of light meals and beverages. This resort in Boracay accepts direct online booking on its website.

Monday, July 21, 2014

A Fun and Nature-Friendly Holiday Awaits at Bohol Bee Farm Resort

In Bohol, Philippines, there are literally hundreds of Panglao Island beach resorts to choose from. These places may vary in offerings, rates, location, and other features, but most, share the same tropical environment and make use of eco-friendly processes.

To make sure that you will have a comfortable, convenient, and fun holiday, choose a Panglao Island accommodation like Bohol Bee Farm.

Here are the things to expect during your visit:

Comfy rooms, suites, and villas
First, this resort got its name and the whole concept from the actual bee farms found inside the property. This inspiration is evident when you enter any of the various guestrooms offered here. All are built on sustainable materials and feature a pleasant, garden motif and that will make you feel relaxed and carefree, with the help of amenities such as air-conditioning, cable television, refrigerator, and hot shower.

Facilities for leisure and more
In addition to comfort, convenience is also guaranteed at Bohol Bee Farm Resort through a list of on-site features. These include a bar, cafe, Wi-Fi Internet connection, swimming pool, sunbathing platform, function rooms, and 4 different restaurants that serve all-organic meals and refreshments. A spa perched on the edge of a cliff offers relaxing body scrubs, facial treatments, foot spa, plus manicure and pedicure.

Activities for everyone
Next, you must set aside time to try the handful of activities offered here during your stay. The resort's friendly staff will teach you many things like how to make rafia and baskets as well as organic farming and paddling. You can also learn the art of traditional reflexology or hilot care of the locals. There are also guided tours around the resort's farms and bakery if you are interested.

Explore Bohol
Speaking of guided tours, adventures to the island's most important destinations and popular attractions can also be arranged for you here. Make sure to check out places like the old Baclayon Church and Museum, Loboc River, Loboc – Bilar Man-made Forest, and of course the very famous Chocolate Hills. For the more adventurous travelers, going on dolphin and whale watching tours are highly recommended tours to take during their time here.

Shop for local goodies
Before leaving Bohol Bee Farm, drop by The Buzzz Souvenir Shop so you can bring back gifts to your loved-ones. Take home stuff like pure honey, vegetarian chips, squash muffin, papaya soap, ice cream cones, pesto spread, plus arts and crafts that are all made in this Panglao Island beach resort.

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

S15 Sukhumvit Hotel's Online System Offers Safe Transactions and Instant Confirmation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bangkok, THAILAND – S15 Sukhumvit Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand brings convenience to its guests by integrating an online booking system on its website. Powered by DirectWithHotels, this enhancement offers easier, faster, and safer reservation process and guarantees instant confirmation.

Booking direct online has the following benefits:
  • The website and the booking engine of this boutique hotel in Bangkok are both mobile-adaptive. This feature permits online visitors to conveniently make arrangements using their smartphones and gadgets.
  • For easier navigation and referencing, the system has a currency converter, bookmarking option, and print button.
  • The booking engine displays both the nightly rates of each room and the total cost per room already inclusive of taxes and fees.
  • Special deals and packages, early bird promos, and last-minute offers can be obtained through the website.
  • All transactions made using the reservation system are secured by Trustwave and certified by VeriSign.

Here's how to book direct online:
Interested parties need only to select the dates of their stay on the calendar widget found at http://www.s15hotel.com and click the “Check availability and prices” button. Once they have checked room availability, they should then tick "Reserve Now" and fulfill all requirements. A confirmation email is then sent to the guests and they only need to settle the total reservation cost upon arrival at the hotel in Bangkok.

About S15 Sukhumvit Hotel
S15Sukhumvit Hotel is part of the S Group Hotel, which brings modish but affordable travel retreats in excellent locations. This 4-star boutique accommodation offers 72 guestrooms that are decked in rich dark wood, with beds featuring white linens topped with duvets. All rooms and suites rooms and suites are spacious, and feature Wi-Fi Internet access, LCD TV with cable/satellite channels, fully stocked mini-refrigerator and mini-bar, and private bath with separate rain shower and complete toiletries.

To make the stay of guests more enjoyable, the hotel has put together a set of leisure facilities, which includes a restaurant, bar, spa, and wellness center. Limousine service, airport transfer, meeting and banquet facilities, and business center are also available. Additionally, the hotel stands in a central location, close to shopping malls, airports, train stations, and local establishments.

More details on S15 Sukhumvit Hotel and its booking engine can be found at http://www.s15hotel.com.


S15 Sukhumvit Hotel
217 Sukhumvit 15
Klongtoey-Nua, Wattana
Bangkok, 10110, Thailand

Phone Number: +66-02-6512000

About DirectWithHotels
DirectWithHotels is in the business of making selling online simple and more profitable for hotels. Since 2005, we’ve helped over 1000 Hotel Partners (and counting) in 50 countries worldwide increase their direct bookings online. We attract visitors and drive traffic direct to their hotel websites with tactical online marketing, convert these visitors into bookers with a top-performing booking engine, and manage increasing reservations with an easy-to-use web interface. All this at a fixed, performance-based fee of just 10% for every direct booking.

Monday, July 14, 2014

Ascot Boutique Hotel Johannesburg Website Now Allows Direct Reservations

Johannesburg, South Africa – Ascot Boutique Hotel makes it easier for travelers to secure accommodations via an online reservation system on its website. This direct-booking engine features an easy-to-use interface that lets them select dates, choose rooms, and settle payments without hassles.

Here are some of the benefits of booking online:

- The website and the booking engine are both mobile-adaptive. This allows guests to make arrangements using their laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
- It is equipped with a bookmarking option, currency converter, and print button for easier navigation and referencing.
- Exclusive promos can be obtained through the website.
- All transactions made using the reservation system are safeguarded by Trustwave and VeriSign, 2 of the most trusted information security providers on the Internet.

This newly installed feature eliminates the need for interested parties to pay extra for the travel agencies or waste time phoning customer service. All they have to do is visit http://www.ascothotel.co.za/ and follow a simple step-by-step procedure. Instant confirmation is also guaranteed for those who will book using this booking engine, which is powered by DirectWithHotels. Outstanding payments must be settled at this Johannesburg hotel.

Ascot Boutique Hotel presents a 4-star accommodation experience through meticulously designed guestrooms that spell leisure and style. The 15 Deluxe and Superior Suites offer peace in the middle of a highly urbanized metropolis. Each is furnished with elegant fixtures and modern amenities that include a flat-screen TV, climate controlled air-conditioning, marble-clad bathroom, and a tea station.

This boutique hotel in Johannesburg also offers a list of conveniences for both pleasure and business such as an award-winning spa, bistro, conference center, and Wi-Fi Internet access. Also available are services like personal concierge, room service, airport shuttle, gym, and underground parking.

The hotel is located in the Norwood District which is surrounded by various dining venues, establishments, golf clubs, and even a zoo. It is about 15 minutes from OR Tambo International Airport and close to a number of commercial hubs and the Jo'burg's Central Business District. Visitors can also organize trips to places like the Cradle of Humankind, Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, Rhino and Lion Park, Rietvlei Nature Reserve, and Tswaing Crater via Ascot Boutique Hotel's tours assistance office.


Ascot Boutique Hotel
59 Grant Avenue, Norwood
Johannesburg, Gauteng
2192 South Africa

Phone Number: +27-11-4833371

Website: http://www.ascothotel.co.za/

Monday, July 7, 2014

Evergreen Laurel Hotel Penang Now Offers Direct Bookings, Instant Confirmation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Penang, Malaysia – Securing rooms at the Evergreen Laurel Hotel Penang is now made easier than ever thanks to an online reservation system installed on its website. This direct-booking engine, which is powered by DirectWithHotels, also features an easy-to-use interface, and offers instant confirmation.

Through this new feature, travelers can make holiday arrangements without having to endure frequent phone calls or read long email threads when dealing with travel agencies. It is also mobile-adaptive, which means prospective visitors can reserve directly from their smart phones or laptops. This improved booking method is also equipped with a bookmarking option, currency converter, and print button for easier navigation and referencing.

To start making reservations, all they need to do is log on to the resort's website at http://www.evergreenlaurelhotelpenang.com/. They must next click on the “Check availability and prices” button to launch the direct-booking engine and start the reservation process. From there, they can now select travel dates, pick room types, and provide the necessary personal information and payment. All transactions made using the booking feature are monitored by Trustwave and Digicert, two of the most trusted Internet security systems today.

About the hotel

This 5-star hotel offers the perfect base for exploring the colonial architecture and cultural heritage of Penang. It is located on Gurney Drive, one of the most popular places in Penang. The hotel gives guests access to a number of lively restaurants that come to life at night. It is also close to George Town, a UNESCO Heritage Site that features old shophouses and impressive colonial architecture. Places such as Penang Hill, National Park, Wat Chaiyamangkalaran, Ford Cornwallis, Snake Temple of Azure Cloud, and Kek Lok Si Temple are also just a few minutes’ drive from the Penang accommodation.

After a long day outdoors, visitors can come home to 368 tastefully appointed, value-for-money accommodations that come with contemporary amenities, such as air-conditioning, LCD TV with satellite/ cable channels, mini-bar, and free Wi-Fi Internet. Aside from comforting in-room features, this hotel in Penang has a business center, grand ballroom, meeting rooms, swimming pool, spa, fitness center, and salon. For the guests’ dining pleasure, the Penang hotel's restaurants proudly serve delectable International and Chinese cuisines.


Evergreen Laurel Hotel Penang
53 Persiaran Gurney
George Town, Penang
Malaysia

Phone Number: 604-226 9988


About DirectWithHotels 
DirectWithHotels is in the business of making selling online simple and more profitable for hotels. Since 2005, we’ve helped over 1000 Hotel Partners (and counting) in 50 countries worldwide increase their direct bookings online. We attract visitors and drive traffic direct to their hotel websites with tactical online marketing, convert these visitors into bookers with a top-performing booking engine, and manage increasing reservations with an easy-to-use web interface. All this at a fixed, performance-based fee of just 10% for every direct booking.

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Travel Mistakes to Avoid for a Fun Weekend Getaway in Astoria Plaza, Ortigas



If you are going on a short trip and spending time in Astoria Plaza Hotel in Ortigas,Pasig City, Philippines, you have to pull all the right strings to make this brief holiday as good as one on a long weekend. It is not impossible to have all the fun you want at a limited time, just as long as you avoid these common travel mistakes:

Skipping pre-planning. Spontaneity has its place, but on a short trip, pre-planning is essential. And no, mapping out where you are once you get there does not count.

It may take a bit of effort, but before leaving, make like a student and do your homework. Study maps ahead of time, and look for the easiest and most convenient ways to go from the hotel to the attractions and other key places nearby. If you are flying in, it is worth checking out the physical location of the airport in relation to the city center, too. Additionally, for foreign travelers, grab cash from the ATM at the airport to save time later in searching for a bank near the hotel.

Booking a hotel too far from your business. Astoria Plaza enjoys a good location in Ortigas that is near many attractions in the city, such as SM Megamall, Robinsons Galleria, and Podium, St. Francis Square, Asian Development Bank, and Greenhills Shopping Center. It would take a 7 km drive to reach the Makati Central Business District and 15 km to both the domestic and international airports. For a short trip, picking the right hotel is a must. Don't go for a cheaper one that is far from your business. At the end of it, you save more time, effort, and even money, by going for a hotel with a central location.

Trying to do too much. Figure out your goals for the trip ahead of time and schedule activities accordingly. Because of the limited time, you cannot really hope to see it all. Be realistic and think about what you can do and where you can go at a leisurely pace. It does not mean you are selling yourself short; just that you are prioritizing the activities or destinations that matter most to you. Besides, the last thing you want is to come back from a vacation so exhausted you need another vacation.

Make more sense of your short trip in Astoria Plaza by following these advice. Just plan smart and you will be rewarded with a lot of fun.

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Dohera Hotel in Cebu Presents Its New Online Booking Engine

Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines – Business and leisure tourists can now experience the convenience of booking online as Dohera Hotel in Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines presents a new reservation engine on its website. Powered by DirectWithHotels, this online system has a number of great features, listed below:

  • Quick and Easy-to-Follow Procedure
    Forget the hassle of making hotel room reservations over long emails. The website of this hotel in Cebu provides instant access to booking information in just one click. Guests can go online at http://www.doherahotel.com and select the “Check availability and prices” button. A set of easy-to-follow steps will guide them through the rest of the procedure. Details about room amenities, booking policies, and other promotions are also provided.

  • Instant Confirmation
    While booking through Dohera Hotel's website does not require a deposit or prepayment, reservations are still secured under the guest's name. Those who book online will receive an instant confirmation once the transaction is completed, and they will also receive a confirmation email. The full payment will be made at the hotel upon arrival.

  • Reliable Security
    The booking engine of the website is protected by Trustwave and VeriSign, 2 of the most trusted information security providers on the Internet.
  • Simple Modification/Cancellation
    There's no need to worry about sudden changes in the itinerary because guests who have made a reservation can quickly modify or cancel their bookings. However, they should take note of the modification and cancellation policies upon booking their Cebu accommodations for the duration of getting this service for free or with a minimum fee.

A top choice for corporate and leisure travelers heading to Cebu, Philippines, Dohera Hotel is a venue for doing business and relaxation at the same time. The hotel's boardroom, ballroom, and meeting rooms can accommodate banquets, meetings, and functions for up to 150 persons. After a day of work, guests can choose among 4 different room types, all equipped with comforting amenities that include individually controlled air-conditioning, LCD TV with cable channels, and Wi-Fi and LAN Internet access. They can also find pleasure and enjoyment at the hotel's facilities that include the TOQUE Restaurant, Elements Bar, swimming pool, and gym.

For more information about the accommodations at Dohera Hotel in Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines, visit the hotel's website at http://www.doherahotel.com.

Dohera Hotel
A.C. Cortes Avenue, Mandaue City
Cebu, Philippines 6014

Phone Numbers: (032) 420-6176, (032) 520-9380 to 83

*****

About DirectWithHotels
DirectWithHotels is in the business of making selling online simple and more profitable for hotels. Since 2005, we’ve helped over 1000 Hotel Partners (and counting) in 50 countries worldwide increase their direct bookings online. We attract visitors and drive traffic direct to their hotel websites with tactical online marketing, convert these visitors into bookers with a top-performing booking engine, and manage increasing reservations with an easy-to-use web interface. All this at a fixed, performance-based fee of just 10% for every direct booking.