Monday, June 23, 2014

Where to Go When Aching for a Spa Treatment in Batam, Indonesia

Because of the great number of enriching yet exhausting activities in Batam, buying spa packages is a very common thing among travelers here. And if you think this is just what you need, you've clicked the right link. Here, we're giving you a list of the 5 most popular spas in this part of Indonesia.

1. Tempat Senang Spa
With a TripAdvisor rating of 4.5 stars, Tempat Senang is certainly among the best spas in Batam. It presents a wide menu of massages that utilize different materials, such as in-house oils, Tibetan hot stones, and Chinese bamboo sticks. They also offer Luk Pra Kob, a 400-year-old treatment that soothes chronic body aches with the use of herbs and spices placed inside a steamed cloth.

Address: Tanjung Periok, Sekupang
Phone Number: 778 325 616

2. Isabella Massage House
At Isabella Massage House, you can go straight from having a shopping escapade to indulging in utter relaxation. Located inside the Nagoya Hill Shop House, this spa presents a range of treatments that include ear candle therapy and a 4-hand massage. If you're traveling as a couple, you can grab the spa's romantic package that already covers full-body massage, scrub, body mask, ear candle treatment, and milk bath.

Address: Nagoya Hill Shop House, Block G No. 5, Nagoya
Phone Number: 778 749 3692

3. The Spa Secret
Standing just across Nagoya Hills Shopping Mall, The Spa Secret boasts of using only natural ingredients, the purest aromatherapy oils, and premium herbs in all its services. The relaxing benefits of its Traditional Herbal Spa Package is no longer a secret. This series of treatments, which uses the traditional Indonesian herb Bali Boreh, is said to soothe tense muscles, improve blood circulation, prevent and cure flu, and detoxify the body.

Address: Komp. Nagoya Garden Phase I, Blok D No. 1-2-3, Nagoya
Phone Number: 778 423 123

4. Tspa
Tspa is located inside and operated by Turi Beach, a top accommodation in Batam. It offers a uniquely Indonesian experience that's more than the usual Balinese massage. Among its services that you must try is the Urut, a traditional massage that was developed over a thousand years ago. If you prefer a more complete service, try its Turi Beauty Package, a 3 1/2-hour session designed after the centuries-old treatment for Javanese royalty. You can enjoy all these either in a private room or in a gazebo, a beachfront resort affording great Batam views.

Address: Turi Beach, Jalan Hang Lekiu, Nongsa
Phone Number: 778 761 080

5. Adorabella Health Club
If you're in search of a great traditional spa in Batam, then head over to Jalan Duyung Sei in Jodoh. Offered here are aromatherapy massages, body scrubs, and facial treatments. And because it's a health club, it also features a fitness center, 2 jacuzzis, and an aerobics and yoga studio, which you can freely access after you've availed any of Adorabella's Batam spa packages and other services.

Address: Jalan Duyung Sei, Jodoh
Phone Number: 778 421 111

Easy Reservations With Instant Confirmation at S Ratchada Leisure Hotel's Website

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bangkok, THAILAND – A luxurious holiday experience amid Bangkok’s lifestyle and entertainment venues is easily within reach at S Ratchada Leisure Hotel. And this new accommodation in Thailand's bustling capital now offers easy and safe reservation with instant confirmation through a booking engine on its website, which is powered by DirectWithHotels.

Benefits of Booking Directly Online
  • The website and the booking engine are both mobile-adaptive. This feature 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.

How to Book Direct Online
To start the reservation process, guests must simply select the dates of their stay on the calendar widget found at http://www.sratchadahotel.com and click the "Check Availability and Prices" button. Once they have checked room availability, they should then press "Reserve Now". There is no required prepayment. 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 S Ratchada Leisure Hotel
Located 45 minutes away from Suvarnabhumi International Airport, S Ratchada Leisure Hotel stands at the end of Tiamruammit Road, just a kilometer off both Rama IX and Ratchadapisek Roads, near the MCOT Junction. This Bangkok accommodation offers 100 rooms that are identically and elegantly appointed with signature all-Italian designer furnishings. Each lodging is a generous 45-sq-m (484-sq-ft) living space that features comfortable beds with light duvets and a spacious en-suite bathroom with premium fittings.

The hotel also affords a range of facilities catering to its guests' convenience at all hours. Here, visitors can dine in a classy restaurant or have a drink at a lobby bar. They can also utilize 3 open-air geometric saltwater pools, a fitness center, concierge, and free parking space. From 10 am to 8 pm, S Ratchada Leisure Hotel also provides free hourly shuttle service to Central Plaza Grand Rama 9 shopping complex and Fortune Tower.


S Ratchada Leisure Hotel
52 Tiamruammit Road
Ratchadapisek, Huaykwang
Bangkok, 10310, Thailand

Phone Number: +66-02-2460796


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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.

Sunday, June 22, 2014

3 Activities to Kick-Start Your Leisurely Holiday in Cartagena, Colombia

Still deciding on what to do after you've checked in at your hotel in Cartagena, Colombia? With these activities on your holiday checklist, you'll be sure to make the most of your stay in this Caribbean city.

1. See attractions
With its port, fortresses, and group of monuments declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cartagena has a lot of historically relevant and visually appealing destinations to offer first-time visitors. South America's most extensive military fortifications were built in the city between the 16th and 18th century. Religious sites, such as the church and convent of San Pedro Claver, church of Santo Domingo, and what was once the monastery of San Diego give wonderfully preserved samples of architecture from the colonial period. You can also visit the former Palace of Inquisition, which is now being used as a historical and archeological museum and Palace of the Government, and Plaza de las Coches, an open area where slave auctions were previously held.

2. Hit the beach
Bocagrande can't claim to have the best beach in the city but an afternoon spent here will give one enough insight as to why it deserves to be called the Copacabana of Cartagena. The beach is a busy place during high season and weekends mainly because of the influx of people on their way to luxury hotels and entertainment establishments in the area, such as Hotel Almirante Cartagena. Aside from people-watching and dancing to electronic music in the clubs, this beach is also a perfect spot for indulging in a soothing massage and witnessing a spectacular sunset. If you find Bocagrande a little too crowded, you can try the beaches of Bocachica, La Boquilla, Islas del Rosario, Isla Baru, Tierrabomba, and Playa Blanca.

3. Sample the local cuisine
Cartagena's confluence of cultures can be best experienced by tasting the its cuisine. Start your day with a hearty breakfast of arepa, a dish made of ground corn flour and topped with cheese, sour cream, hot sauce, or guacamole. The best varieties of this tasty treat can be bought near Calle del Pozo, Getsemani, and Exito Supermarket. For lunch, you can head to Cartagena en la Olla where you can eat your fill of traditional dishes. You can cap an exciting day by taking a trip to Plaza de la Santisima Trinidad and sampling the street food sold there around midnight. Should you wish for familiar tastes during your stay at an accommodation in Cartagena, Colombia, you'll be happy to know that there is no shortage of restaurants that specialize in international dishes in the city.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Five Amazing Dive Sites in Bohol for Beginners

Dive sites in Bohol, particularly near Panglao Island where many resorts are located, are perfect for beginners because of their shallow depths, beautiful coral walls, and gentle slopes. Here are 5 spots where newbies can practice their diving skills and experience plunging down a wreckage, fish sanctuaries, and a site known as the "Hole in the Wall".

1. Balicasag Fish Sanctuary
Located southeast of Bohol is Balicasag Island, home to a stretch of great dive sites that include Balicasag Fish Sanctuary. Established by the local community as a protected marine area, the sanctuary features a number of various fish species such as silver jack, bigeye trevally, midnight snappers, and sweetlips. Here, beginners can measure their buoyancy control for wall diving, since the site has a depth of 3 to 35 meters. The area is also ideal for snorkeling since the reefs are shallow.

2. Arco Point
Another easy dive site for newbies is Arco Point, which is situated just 12 minutes by boat from the southern portion of Panglao Island. This amazing dive site is called by many as “Hole in the Wall” because it features a small cave composed of soft and hard corals. Surrounding the cave are snake eels, cuttlefish, mantis shrimps, mackerels, and the giant frogfish. Since the wall is made up of fragile coral, passing through the hole is discouraged especially for inexperienced divers. The better way is to dive around it since the depth of the site is only from 4 to 27 meters.

3. Habagat Wreck
Also located south of Panglao Island is Habagat Wreck. This dive site ranging from 8- to 35-meters deep is an exciting spot for beginners because they can easily reach the wreck that sunk around year 2000. To put their fundamental diving skills to the test, there's an S-shaped wall and a slope a few feet from the wreckage. The area is also great for underwater photography, since the S-shaped wall has an overhang of colorful corals.

4. Doljo Point
Just minutes from various Panglao Island accommodations like the Bohol Bee Farm, Doljo Point offers a range of beautiful marine life such as big sea fans, bucket sponges, leather corals, manta rays, and barracudas. This dive spot is ideal for beginners learning to control diving into deeper depths because it can go as far as 40 meters. On some occasions, whale sharks may appear at lower levels.

5. Crystal Sanctuary
If there's one diving spot in Bohol advisable for newbies, it has to be Crystal Sanctuary. Its shallow depth of 3 to 25 meters makes it easy for those divers feeling out their equipment for the first time. In addition, the sanctuary has imposed restrictions to keep them on the safe distance. The Crystal Sanctuary is the closest dive spot from Alona Beach and other Panglao Island resorts.

Journey to Wellness is Just a Click Away at Nurture Wellness Village in Tagaytay

Tagaytay City, PHILIPPINES – Nurture Wellness Village, an eco-tourism resort in Tagaytay City, has integrated a direct online booking engine that will make securing its accommodations more convenient for guests. Featuring a quick reservation process, this easy-to-use booking system, which yields instant confirmation, makes the journey to wellness just a click away.

Visitors can do the reservation themselves on http://www.nurturewellnessvillage.com by clicking the 'BOOK WEEKDAYS for Instant Confirmation' button. This will launch the booking engine that is powered by DirectWithHotels. The process only takes 4 simple steps and a few minutes to complete, eliminating the hassle of constant communication with third parties.

After a minimal 10% prepayment payable via credit card, instant confirmation is guaranteed, complete with an email notification. This amount will be deducted from the total cost of stay, which is settled upon check-in at the Tagaytay eco-tourism resort.

Nurture Wellness Village's online system warrants a worry-free booking experience with the following benefits:

Transparent details – Guests will get to check and book available rooms at the best rates. Nightly rates of each accommodation and the total cost per room, already inclusive of taxes and fees, are shown.

User-friendly interface – For easier navigation and referencing, the booking engine is equipped with a bookmarking button, modification option, print feature, and an up-to-date currency converter. These enhancements permit guests to enjoy a smooth and intuitive reservation process.

Safe and secure booking – All transactions made using this channel are protected by Trustwave and VeriSign, 2 of the most trusted information security providers on the Internet. This feature protects individuals from fraud and safeguards the privacy of all information shared within the system.

Promo access – By using the resort's online system, guests will enjoy exclusive access to special promos, deals, and packages.

A pioneer in the Philippine spa industry, Nurture Wellness Village takes pride in its distinctive brand of eco-therapy. Here, guests can expect a delightful selection of local and foreign holistic services provided by trained therapists and wellness butlers. The resort offers accommodations that are cradled in a lush tropical garden. Among these is the Ifugao Spa Suite that is inspired by “ulog” or native huts in the Mountain Province. To get even closer to nature, guests can try Glamping — a more glamorous take on camping.

To know more about this eco-tourism resort in Tagaytay and experience firsthand an efficient booking process, interested parties may visit Nurture Wellness Village's website at http://www.nurturewellnessvillage.com.


Nurture Wellness Village
Pulong Sagingan, Barangay Maitim II
West Tagaytay City, Philippines

Phone Numbers: +63 2 7109786; +63 46 5126273

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, June 16, 2014

Eco-Friendly Accommodations Offer Guilt-Free Holidays in Palawan, Philippines

To answer the call of preserving the biodiversity of Palawan, the Philippines' Last Frontier, hospitality service providers put up eco-friendly accommodations in Puerto Princesa and other parts of the province. These are the type of hotels and resorts that strive to be more environmentally friendly through the efficient use of energy, water, and materials while providing quality services. Some of these practices include the use of solar panels, motion sensors for lighting, rainwater harvesting, natural ventilation, and waterless urinals. The immediate goal of these eco-friendly accommodations is to minimize, if not completely abandon, the use of conventional resources. But in the long-term, the aim is to raise a new generation of eco-conscious travelers. By opting to book a room in these types of properties, you get the chance to enjoy a fun holiday and develop a deeper appreciation for nature.

A good example of a 'green' resort is Astoria Hotels and Resorts’ latest addition to its list of luxury properties, the Astoria Palawan. This beach resort in Puerto Princesa utilizes sustainable building materials, practices, and methods that are meant to make the guests' experience unique and keep the natural resources pristine.

For instance, it has its own state-of the-art sewage treatment plant that not only allows the resort to cut down on its water consumption, but also makes sure that waste is properly disposed. A retention pond was built close to the resort to catch the overflow of a nearby creek; it supplies irrigation to the mango trees in the area and can also be used for recreational fishing. To create Astoria's combination of rustic and modern design, ecological materials, raw concrete, and stones in the area were used for the structural components and interior partition walls.

All these coincide with the local government’s efforts and initiatives to protect the environment through green technology and improving energy efficiency. Hotel entrepreneurs guarantee travelers that these processes will not in any way affect the high level of comfort, relaxation, and luxury that is expected of such tourist destinations. In fact, guests will be amazed to find themselves staying in a beachresort in Puerto Princesa that is implementing low or zero carbon footprint such as the aforementioned Astoria.

Astoria Palawan Resort boasts 40 luxurious guestrooms that combine contemporary and traditional elements that make a charming and relaxing atmosphere for all types of travelers. All rooms have either a king size bed or queen size beds, individual climate control air-conditioning, LCD television, DVD player, and Wi-Fi Internet access. Moreover, this accommodation in Puerto Princesa has a restaurant facing the Sulu Sea, an infinity pool, and recreational pavilion.

4 Budget-Conscious Tips for Travelers Staying in Astoria Plaza, Ortigas, Pasig



Without a doubt, the best travel experiences are not determined solely by budget. For instance, a successful budget-friendly vacation in Astoria Plaza Hotel in Ortigas Center, Pasig City is definitely possible and manageable for anyone. It is all about planning. The better you organize your stay, the more value you enjoy, and the less expenses you incur. To start the savings from rolling in, just follow these tips:

1. Look at available promos first. Before making a reservation, check for current deals that you can grab for better value. There is no shortage of bargains offered by the hotel to guests, so make sure you visit the promo page first to see what deals are available. Depending on the time of the year, you are likely to find packages with high-value inclusions and rooms at discounted rates.

2. Pick a room rate plan with breakfast included. You might think you are saving up by choosing to get accommodation on a room-only rate, but if you really look at it, a rate plan with breakfast proves to be more money-savvy. A complimentary breakfast can get you a long way. You savor a big meal in the morning, which leaves you fuller for a longer time. This means you can enjoy a smaller lunch, and because you did not have to pay extra for breakfast, maybe you can even afford to splurge a little for dinner.

3. Check out prices ahead of time. For many travelers, comparing Ortigas hotel rates is a common practice, but most forget checking out the prices of everything else. To save the most money on a destination, take the time to research all relevant costs before deciding to go there. The expenses do not end with booking a hotel. There are restaurants to eat at, admission fees to pay for at the gates of attractions, transportation costs, and other essentials to complete a fun vacation.

4. Shop off the beaten path. Naturally, no vacation is complete without getting souvenirs. It gets trickier if you also have to buy a lot for your family, friends, and officemates. But don't worry. This is perfectly manageable, even on a budget. The secret is in buying trinkets at local street markets instead of the bigger malls and on the entrance of big tourist spots. Walk around and look at the small stalls and shops near your Ortigas hotel to score cheaper but definitely more authentic finds. Have fun!

Explore Makassar, Indonesia From Continent Centrepoint Panakkukang Hotel

You will never run out of things to do outside of Continent Centrepoint Panakkukang - Makassar Hotel in Makassar, Indonesia (or any other accommodation at the capital of South Sulawes province). As a tourist destination, the port city exudes so much color and character that there is hardly any end to discoveries for travelers.

Take a single step outside of your accommodation and you are instantly transported to a new world dominated by strong aromas, loud honking horns, and overall pandemonium — but of the best possible sort. If you are ready to get to know the place, put on some sunscreen and visit a few of these beautiful sights outside of your hotel:

1. Taman Anggrek Clara Bundt – Channel your inner Alfred Wallace and explore the natural wonders of the city. Begin by taking a lovely walk at Taman Anggrek Clara Bundt, located at Jl. Mochtar Lufti 15. It is a local park and garden that features exotic hybrids, a lovely fruit orchard, and expansive shell collection.

2. Monumen Mandala – If you passed by Jakarta, you have probably seen the popular Monas or National Monument. Makassar has a smaller version of this known as Monumen Mandala, found on Jl. Jendral Sudirman. The towering monument is a celebration of the Irian Jaya liberation, which is now known as Papua.

3. Pelabuhan Paotere – See Bugis sailing ships rest and enjoy what is probably the most atmospheric part of the city. Pelabuhan Paotere is along Paotere Harbour, a very popular attraction in this port city. To get here from the city center, take a 15-minute becak ride to reach the dock. Also, don't miss going around the fish market nearby to see where the fantastic seafood warungs or food stalls get their main ingredients.

4. Fort Rotterdam – A reminder of the Dutch occupation, Fort Rotterdam is Makassar's most popular tourist attraction. It used to be a Gowanese fort that guards the harbor back around 1545. Now it is one of the best-preserved examples of Dutch architecture in the city that stands on Jl. Pasar Ikan, after it was rebuilt in 1667 when the Treaty of Bungaya was signed. Two museums are currently housed inside the fort, the more popular being Museum Negeri La Galigo. Some of the exhibits found here include a selection of costumes, Tana Toraja rice bowls and kitchen tools, and musical instruments.

Visit these places if you happen to be staying at Continent Centrepoint Panakkukang - Makassar. Soak in the beauty of the city and let it enrich you as a traveler.

Monday, June 9, 2014

Langkawi Seaview Hotel Presents Everything Traveler's Look For in a Hotel

Langkawi Seaview Hotel proves to be a top accommodation of choice in Langkawi, Malaysia by providing all the things that travelers need to feel great comfort.

Excellent rooms and suites
Whatever their reason for visiting, travelers would always prefer to stay in stylish and well-furnished guestrooms at the end of the day. Langkawi Seaview Hotel, in fact, boasts of 143 spacious rooms and suites with deluxe wooden flooring, a private bath, floor-to-ceiling glass panels, and balconies that offer spectacular sea views. All rooms have air-conditioning, ASTRO TV, an IDD phone, and mini-bar, and coffee/tea maker. Also, Wi-Fi Internet access is complimentary throughout the hotel, so you can check in with loved ones and work even while on vacation.

Can't-miss dining experience
While there are many establishments in the area that can soothe gastro cravings, guests can experience a range of contemporary local and international cuisines at the hotel's very own restaurant. Located in the lobby, The Kingfisher Cafe has a pleasing and casual ambience, and serves an affordable breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. It is an ideal place for various functions, for the whole family, romantic dates, or corporate dining. The cafe has a Halal certificate.

Well-equipped events facilities
Aside from corporate dining, visitors can also hold important meetings and seminars at this accommodation in Langkawi's 7 fully equipped events facilities. There's an LCD projector, PA system, cordless microphones, whiteboard, screen, pens, and writing pads. There's also a computer and printer, scanner, wireless Internet, fax and photostat service, and a DVD player. Drinking water and sweet treats will also be provided during events.

Conveniences for leisure and more
More than the great restaurant and efficient meeting rooms, guests can also enjoy onsite features for leisure: an indoor swimming pool with a jacuzzi, and spa service.

Easy access to many attractions
Another great thing about the hotel is its address: close to some of Langkawi's popular shopping complexes. These include Lagenda Park and Beach, Langkawi Fair Shopping Centre, Kuah Shopping Area, Dataran Helang (Eagle Square), and Teow Soon Huat Duty Free Shopping Centre. Kuah Jetty is just 5 minutes away, while the Langkawi International Airport is a 25-minute drive from Langkawi Seaview Hotel.

Sunday, June 1, 2014

The Best Possible Venue for Business-Slash-Leisure Travelers in Boracay

Crown Regency Resort & Convention Center is one of the best destinations for a comfortable and carefree time in Boracay Island, Philippines. This accommodation presents travelers with all the features for work-related affairs as well as the needs for pleasure and amusement. Whether you're a businessman trying to squeeze in some family time, or friends seeking awareness for a start-up brand through partying, staying here will make these goals easier to achieve.

A comfort-filled experience

After a long day meeting up with prospective partners or a night out with colleagues, you have the luxury of 400 guestrooms that offer a city vibe and modern comforts. These are all equipped with essential, top-of-the-line amenities that will create the feeling of a personal safe haven throughout. Each room has a flat-screen TV, mini-bar, and shower to help you get in the mood for a good night's sleep.

Giving all you need and more
Everything you wish to fulfill during your time here will never be too challenging thanks to an array of premier facilities. This resort in Boracay boasts of a well-equipped convention center that can seat up to 1,200 persons, perfect for conferences and summits. There's also an adventure park with team-building facilities for corporate attendees, buddies, and families. If traveling with kids, they will definitely enjoy the Boracay Oceanarium, 1,800 sq m wave pool, kiddie pool, marine aquarium, and mermaid performances. For your dining pleasure, Wang Shan Lo Chinese Restaurant offers buffet meals from 11 am to 9 pm, while Fabulous Fifties Cafe serves a pleasant setting for your caffeine and snack fix. There is also a lobby lounge, spa, garden, and aviary. Hotel services includeround-trip transfers, 24-hour room service, wake-up calls, foreign currency exchange, plus laundry and pressing.

Easy access to the island's finest spots
The resort in Boracay is located in Station 2, the island's main commercial area, which is just a 5-minute walk from White Beach, where most events and happenings take place. This holiday retreat's accessible address puts you within just minutes from D'Mall, Boracay's main entertainment and shopping area. Sites like Balabag Lake, Bulabog Beach, Ilig-Iligan Beach, Puka Shell Beach, Boracay Butterfly Gardens, Crocodile Island, and Holy Rosary Parish, are just some of the notable places you can check out with great assistance from Crown Regency Resort and Convention Center.