After a refreshing night at Microtel Cavite, you can explore more of General Trias and its famous landmarks and rich history. Visiting these attractions from your Cavite accommodation not only offers you an opportunity to fill your eyes with the sights and sounds of this quaint municipality. A tour will also present you with stories of people who, when faced with difficult situations, chose to struggle and eventually succeeded in life.
1. St. Francis of Assisi Parish
True to its name, St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church was founded by Franciscans in 1661. After which, it was transferred to the Jesuit order of Cavite Puerto in 1624, and finally, it became a separate parish in 1753. Known as the first church in General Trias, the church building itself was constructed in 1769. Typical of churches founded during the Spanish period, the parish was built at the local town center, close to many hotels. Cavite's St. Francis of Assisi Parish was repeatedly damaged by earthquakes and refurbished and enlarged between the 1880's to 1991. In 1992, the National Historical Institute of the Philippines (now National Historical Commission of the Philippines) declared the church a historical structure.
2. Our Lady of Guadalupe Church
A product of faith, the church was built as the fulfillment of a father's promise to Our Lady of Guadalupe after his daughter's successful heart operation. The structure was patterned after the Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe at the hills of Guadalupe in Mexico and was consecrated in 2007. One of the church's special feature is a 6-foot replica of the tilma displayed in the Prayer Room. Right outside the church is an 18-bell computer-operated carillon from the Netherlands.
3. Eagle Ridge Golf and Residential Estate
This 72-hole course brings together 4 distinct designs for a different golfing experience. The Nick Faldo Golf Course has well-defined and highly visible features. Andy Dye Golf Course maximizes the site's natural contour, allowing the player to see the lines of the bunker, lakes, mounds, and greens. Verdant thickets, water displays, and fairways characterize the Greg Norman Golf Course, while sound environmental design makes the Isao Aoki Golf Course stand on its own.
These 3 locations can be covered within a day, each journey filled with sights of charming houses and tranquil scenery. The tour can drain one's energy but Gen. Trias has plenty of affordable food outfits where you can refuel with sumptuous local and international dishes. If you want a bit of action, you can also play golf at the Eagle Ridge Golf, then relax yourself with stay at the nearby Microtel Cavite.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
4 Important Information for a Wonderful Vacation in Stellenbosch, South Africa
Yearning for a vacation in an exquisite enclave? Stellenbosch, South Africa is a great choice, being home to Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate and other similar hotels that invite you to experience the lap of true luxury. Travelers, especially wine lovers, consider this place as an ideal base for holidays because it is located at the heart of the Cape Winelands. If you wish to come to this top destination, it will not hurt if you'll take note the following travel information before heading on to this part of the world.
Town Profile
Seated along the banks of the Eerste River, Stellenbosch is a captivating town in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Known as the City of Oaks, it is regarded as the second oldest European settlement in the country. Travelers must be reminded that the closest international airport in this place is the Cape Town International Airport, which is about 35 minutes away from the town proper.
Local Attractions
Coming and staying in a Stellenbosch accommodation presents a number of opportunities to learn more about the interesting culture and history if the locale. From your abode, you can easily go to Stellenbosch Museum, which operates from Monday to Saturday. This depository showcases the architectural development of the town. It features houses and gardens that illustrate the particular style that defined a specific era. You can also visit the Fick House to see a well-preserved Dutch structure, which boasts an impressive collection of traditional furniture and kitchen utensils and equipment.
Must-Try Treat
Of course, no one leaves the town without relishing a few glasses of fine wine that are available in several restaurants, bars, and accommodations in Stellenbosch. Here are some of the much-recommended drinks that you should check out:
Sauvignon Blanc - a well-balanced blend that is filled with green tropical fruit flavors, like kiwi, starfruit, and melon;
Chenin Blanc - a rich mix of pineapple, apricot, and granadilla flavors; and
Pinotage - made of chocolate, vanilla, red berry, and sweet wood spice flavors.
Best Accommodation
Make the most of your vacation by staying at Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate, a 4-star splendor that is highly recognized by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa. Juxtaposed to the majestic Simonsberg Mountains, this hotel houses well-appointed accommodation set amid a true wine-producing haven. It also presents an array of facilities for those who want to enjoy leisurely pursuits. These include an outdoor swimming pool, BBQ facilities, and massage services. Moreover, Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate is only 5 minutes from the historic town center of Stellenbosch, making this abode an idyllic sanctuary for any visitor.
Town Profile
Seated along the banks of the Eerste River, Stellenbosch is a captivating town in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Known as the City of Oaks, it is regarded as the second oldest European settlement in the country. Travelers must be reminded that the closest international airport in this place is the Cape Town International Airport, which is about 35 minutes away from the town proper.
Local Attractions
Coming and staying in a Stellenbosch accommodation presents a number of opportunities to learn more about the interesting culture and history if the locale. From your abode, you can easily go to Stellenbosch Museum, which operates from Monday to Saturday. This depository showcases the architectural development of the town. It features houses and gardens that illustrate the particular style that defined a specific era. You can also visit the Fick House to see a well-preserved Dutch structure, which boasts an impressive collection of traditional furniture and kitchen utensils and equipment.
Must-Try Treat
Of course, no one leaves the town without relishing a few glasses of fine wine that are available in several restaurants, bars, and accommodations in Stellenbosch. Here are some of the much-recommended drinks that you should check out:
Sauvignon Blanc - a well-balanced blend that is filled with green tropical fruit flavors, like kiwi, starfruit, and melon;
Chenin Blanc - a rich mix of pineapple, apricot, and granadilla flavors; and
Pinotage - made of chocolate, vanilla, red berry, and sweet wood spice flavors.
Best Accommodation
Make the most of your vacation by staying at Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate, a 4-star splendor that is highly recognized by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa. Juxtaposed to the majestic Simonsberg Mountains, this hotel houses well-appointed accommodation set amid a true wine-producing haven. It also presents an array of facilities for those who want to enjoy leisurely pursuits. These include an outdoor swimming pool, BBQ facilities, and massage services. Moreover, Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate is only 5 minutes from the historic town center of Stellenbosch, making this abode an idyllic sanctuary for any visitor.
3 Subic Activities for Adventurous Travelers
Adventure is never far away with a visit to Subic, Philippines. Once you head out of your accommodation at Court Meridian Hotel & Suites, you won't have a hard time looking for fresh experiences to spice up your holiday. Now, Subic is a bay area located on the west coast of Luzon and, as such, you'll have plenty of chances to indulge your sea-loving self with water sports. And even if you're looking for adrenalin-pumping activities that don't involve a change of clothes, you can be sure that Subic will not disappoint.
1. Zoobic Safari
Among the highlights of Zoobic is a guided tour where visitors can see, feed, and pet parakeets, bearcats, and camels in their simulated natural habitat. If your love of tigers demands that you see the real thing, you can join the Tiger Safari Tour where you'll ride a customized Jeep and experience the thrill of seeing these big cats on the loose. You can also catch a glimpse of the Aeta's way of life with the Aeta Trail. Ask your hotel or Subic accommodation for more info, or contact Zoobic Safari through (+632) 895-7142.
2. Jungle Environment Survival Training
Now that you've spent a few hours looking at the wild side, you might be a bit curious about the practical aspects of living in the jungle. And little did you know that you've just met the masters of making it in the undeveloped lands — the hardy yet gentle Aetas who trained many Vietnam veterans on jungle survival. These days, visitors can join a 3-day lesson where they'll learn the tricks of living in the forest first hand, from catching dinner to surviving alone (or with a buddy) for a night.
3. Camping
If the survival boot camp seems a bit hardcore or you just don't have time for a 3-day lesson, you can always opt for a 2-3 hour walk where you'll know how to trek safely and cook your own meals using bamboo. There is also a whole day camping course where you'll live off the land, build a natural shelter, and purify water, among a bunch of other very useful skills. For more information, you may contact Jungle Environmental Survival Training Camp through 045-499-1179 or 045-499-0695.
Trekking and camping can definitely be tiring. After spending an exciting day in the forest, come home to the comforts of Court Meridian Hotel & Suites in Subic and get your well-deserved rest to prepare for more adventures tomorrow.
1. Zoobic Safari
Among the highlights of Zoobic is a guided tour where visitors can see, feed, and pet parakeets, bearcats, and camels in their simulated natural habitat. If your love of tigers demands that you see the real thing, you can join the Tiger Safari Tour where you'll ride a customized Jeep and experience the thrill of seeing these big cats on the loose. You can also catch a glimpse of the Aeta's way of life with the Aeta Trail. Ask your hotel or Subic accommodation for more info, or contact Zoobic Safari through (+632) 895-7142.
2. Jungle Environment Survival Training
Now that you've spent a few hours looking at the wild side, you might be a bit curious about the practical aspects of living in the jungle. And little did you know that you've just met the masters of making it in the undeveloped lands — the hardy yet gentle Aetas who trained many Vietnam veterans on jungle survival. These days, visitors can join a 3-day lesson where they'll learn the tricks of living in the forest first hand, from catching dinner to surviving alone (or with a buddy) for a night.
3. Camping
If the survival boot camp seems a bit hardcore or you just don't have time for a 3-day lesson, you can always opt for a 2-3 hour walk where you'll know how to trek safely and cook your own meals using bamboo. There is also a whole day camping course where you'll live off the land, build a natural shelter, and purify water, among a bunch of other very useful skills. For more information, you may contact Jungle Environmental Survival Training Camp through 045-499-1179 or 045-499-0695.
Trekking and camping can definitely be tiring. After spending an exciting day in the forest, come home to the comforts of Court Meridian Hotel & Suites in Subic and get your well-deserved rest to prepare for more adventures tomorrow.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Manila in a Jiffy: Top Attractions, Malls, and Accommodations
Realize how convenient it is to take a leisure trip when you choose to stay at a hotel near NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) in Manila, Philippines. You'll be able to access key landmarks, attractions, commercial establishments, businesses, and entertainments spots easily. To warrant a hassle-free holiday in this bustling city, here's a list of what to see and where to go in the Manila.
What to see
Begin your tour around Manila by visiting the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help. Popularly known as the Baclaran Church, it is the largest Marian churches in the country. Devotees flock to this place every Wednesday to take part in a Marian novena dedicated to the Virgin Mary's reckoned providential help and intercession. This shrine is open 7 days a week for 24 hours a day, offering masses in Filipino and English languages.
Where to shop
Manila is home to myriad of shopping centers that house local and international stores, restaurants, and recreational facilities. Two of the finest shopping destinations that you should visit here are the Resorts World Manila (RWM) and SM Mall of Asia (MOA). RWM is the first integrated tourist hub in the country, which is comprised of a high-class mall, casino, theater, and luxurious accommodations. Meanwhile, MOA is considered one of the largest malls in the Philippines and has 4 buildings interconnected by walkways. You can find a hotel near MOA where you can settle down after an exhausting day of shopping.
Where to enjoy
If you're vacationing with your family, make sure to bring your kids to the favored theme parks in the city. Among these are:
Manila Ocean Park - it features a 25-meter long walkway tunnel where you can observe different species of marine life;
Manila Zoo - it shelters nearly 100 species of endemic and endangered animals; and
Star City - it has several kiddie rides and amusement facilities.
Where to stay
Visitors who wish to delight in optimum comfort, convenience, and security can stay in a place like the Microtel by Wyndham - Mall of Asia, Manila. This hotel offers 150 air-conditioned rooms that are fitted with a cable TV, NDD/IDD phone, and Wi-Fi Internet access. Moreover, its address inside the Mall of Asia Complex gives guests access to the country's major trade halls, such as the SMX Convention Center and Philippine International Convention Center. It is also within easy reach of the city's top attractions, like the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Rizal Park, and Intramuros. Moreover, this Mall of Asia hotel is near NAIA, making it an ideal base for foreign travelers.
What to see
Where to shop
Where to enjoy
If you're vacationing with your family, make sure to bring your kids to the favored theme parks in the city. Among these are:
Manila Zoo - it shelters nearly 100 species of endemic and endangered animals; and
Star City - it has several kiddie rides and amusement facilities.
Where to stay
9 Puerto Princesa Festivals for Nature
Staying at a hotel in Puerto Princesa, Palawan like Microtel by Wyndham - Puerto Princesa, Palawan lets tourists enjoy the country's best attractions. These include 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, an ecologically sound urban environment, glorious sunsets, lush greenery, and a rich marine environment. But beyond these, the capital city of Puerto Princesa also presents visitors with a number of festivities that they can participate in. These occasions are marked by lively celebrations and genuine care for nature.
1. Love Affair with Nature is celebrated every Valentine's Day. Proving that love encompasses all, the city holds an annual mangrove planting activity and programs that heighten the residents' awareness on the ecological relevance of mangroves.
2. Balayong Festival is Puerto Princesa's foundation anniversary every March 14. Balayong (Palawan Cherry Blossoms) tree planting, street dancing, market fairs, and colorful floral parades mark this happy event.
3. Pangalipay sa Baybay makes summer even more memorable at Puerto Princesa's baywalk area. The celebration by the shore is packed with contests, firework displays, daily coastal clean ups, and numerous street exhibitions.
4. Kamarikutan Pagdiwata Arts Festival focuses the community's attention on its homegrown artists with week-long workshops, exhibitions, fora, and performances. The festival is inspired by the Tagbanua's Pagdiwata ritual of the thanksgiving -- but instead of a bountiful farm harvest, Kamarikutan Pagdiwata expresses thanks for creativity and talent. It is usually held every full moon of April, before or after the Holy Week.
5. Seafood Festival is something everyone looks forward to. This gastronomic treat of fresh, superbly cooked seafood happens every 3rd week of April. Aside from contemporary dishes, the festival also features tasty Palawan specialties and colorful cultural shows.
6. Karagatan Festival happens on the first week of May, the month of the ocean. For 4 days, the city's west coast comes alive with coastal clean ups, beach games, and grand parties and concerts by the sea. Of course, the revelers make sure to leave a clean shore after the party.
7. Feast of the Forest gathers everyone, from residents to guests of hotels in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, to plant thousand of tree species on the province's denuded forest areas. The fun event also comes with eco-camping programs, games, and performances.
8. Baragatan sa Palawan coincides with the Feast of the Forest every 3rd week of June. The anniversary of the founding of Palawan's civil government is marked by a trade and food fair, street dancing, and cultural shows of different municipalities, the private sector, and the ethnic groups.
9. The City Fiesta on December 8 is also the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary and the start of the Christmas celebration.
It's never hard to see how Palawan's capital fosters its succeeding generations' care for the environment. So mark your calendars and plan your trips to join in these proactive and community-wide environmental excursions and celebrations. Go ahead and book a comfortable holiday at Microtel by Wyndham - Puerto Princesa, Palawan but prepare to dirty your hands and feet to show your love for the planet we call home.
1. Love Affair with Nature is celebrated every Valentine's Day. Proving that love encompasses all, the city holds an annual mangrove planting activity and programs that heighten the residents' awareness on the ecological relevance of mangroves.
2. Balayong Festival is Puerto Princesa's foundation anniversary every March 14. Balayong (Palawan Cherry Blossoms) tree planting, street dancing, market fairs, and colorful floral parades mark this happy event.
3. Pangalipay sa Baybay makes summer even more memorable at Puerto Princesa's baywalk area. The celebration by the shore is packed with contests, firework displays, daily coastal clean ups, and numerous street exhibitions.
4. Kamarikutan Pagdiwata Arts Festival focuses the community's attention on its homegrown artists with week-long workshops, exhibitions, fora, and performances. The festival is inspired by the Tagbanua's Pagdiwata ritual of the thanksgiving -- but instead of a bountiful farm harvest, Kamarikutan Pagdiwata expresses thanks for creativity and talent. It is usually held every full moon of April, before or after the Holy Week.
5. Seafood Festival is something everyone looks forward to. This gastronomic treat of fresh, superbly cooked seafood happens every 3rd week of April. Aside from contemporary dishes, the festival also features tasty Palawan specialties and colorful cultural shows.
6. Karagatan Festival happens on the first week of May, the month of the ocean. For 4 days, the city's west coast comes alive with coastal clean ups, beach games, and grand parties and concerts by the sea. Of course, the revelers make sure to leave a clean shore after the party.
7. Feast of the Forest gathers everyone, from residents to guests of hotels in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, to plant thousand of tree species on the province's denuded forest areas. The fun event also comes with eco-camping programs, games, and performances.
8. Baragatan sa Palawan coincides with the Feast of the Forest every 3rd week of June. The anniversary of the founding of Palawan's civil government is marked by a trade and food fair, street dancing, and cultural shows of different municipalities, the private sector, and the ethnic groups.
9. The City Fiesta on December 8 is also the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary and the start of the Christmas celebration.
It's never hard to see how Palawan's capital fosters its succeeding generations' care for the environment. So mark your calendars and plan your trips to join in these proactive and community-wide environmental excursions and celebrations. Go ahead and book a comfortable holiday at Microtel by Wyndham - Puerto Princesa, Palawan but prepare to dirty your hands and feet to show your love for the planet we call home.
Sunday, July 7, 2013
5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Batangas, Philippines For Your Next Getaway
Planning a getaway? Skip the stress of traveling to Palawan or Boracay. Book a hotel in Batangas, Philippines and enjoy a nice weekend with family or friends just a 2-hour drive away.
1. Just a few hours outside of Metro Manila
Why spend a huge amount on airline tickets and fancy resorts when you can save a lot by driving just an hour or two to any spot in Batangas? Stay at Microtel by Wyndham - Sto. Tomas, Batangas, a place which is pleasant and cost-effective at the same time and then check out destinations like Anilao and Tanauan.
2. Great food options
It is possible that you've tried dishes like Bulalo, Kalderetang Kambing, Tapang Taal, and Lechon during your travels. But here, you will have the opportunity to feast on all these dishes and learn the Batangas way of cooking these delicious dishes that has been imitated countless times in many restaurants in Metro Manila.
3. It has its own collection of attractions
While it has no long stretches of fine white-sand beaches and underground rivers, Batangas has many terrific attractions. Towns like Anilao is a great place for diving and other underwater pursuits. Matabungkay Beach in Lian is a popular spot for water sports. Laurel has the best view of the submerged Taal Volcano, lighthouses can be found in Calatagan, and the biggest cathedral in the country is in the town of Taal. If you are not familiar with these places, don't fret. There are many Batangas accommodation packages that include tours to several of these sites.
4. Add a dose of history and education on your vacation
Batangas has produced many significant personalities that played important roles in the country's revolutionary wars and politics that shaped the history of the Philippines. That is the reason why there are many sites and structures here that pay tribute to these native heroes, like the Mabini Shrine and Jose Laurel Memorial Library.
5. Souvenir shops are plenty
Never leave the province without checking out some of the souvenir stores scattered in the area. Here are many local treats, crafts, and the balisong, the local butterfly knife. A balisong comes in many sizes and can be used for many purposes. It is said to be a uniquely Filipino product, so make sure get yourself one when you pass by a store on your way home after checking out of your hotel in Batangas.
1. Just a few hours outside of Metro Manila
Why spend a huge amount on airline tickets and fancy resorts when you can save a lot by driving just an hour or two to any spot in Batangas? Stay at Microtel by Wyndham - Sto. Tomas, Batangas, a place which is pleasant and cost-effective at the same time and then check out destinations like Anilao and Tanauan.
2. Great food options
It is possible that you've tried dishes like Bulalo, Kalderetang Kambing, Tapang Taal, and Lechon during your travels. But here, you will have the opportunity to feast on all these dishes and learn the Batangas way of cooking these delicious dishes that has been imitated countless times in many restaurants in Metro Manila.
3. It has its own collection of attractions
While it has no long stretches of fine white-sand beaches and underground rivers, Batangas has many terrific attractions. Towns like Anilao is a great place for diving and other underwater pursuits. Matabungkay Beach in Lian is a popular spot for water sports. Laurel has the best view of the submerged Taal Volcano, lighthouses can be found in Calatagan, and the biggest cathedral in the country is in the town of Taal. If you are not familiar with these places, don't fret. There are many Batangas accommodation packages that include tours to several of these sites.
4. Add a dose of history and education on your vacation
Batangas has produced many significant personalities that played important roles in the country's revolutionary wars and politics that shaped the history of the Philippines. That is the reason why there are many sites and structures here that pay tribute to these native heroes, like the Mabini Shrine and Jose Laurel Memorial Library.
5. Souvenir shops are plenty
Never leave the province without checking out some of the souvenir stores scattered in the area. Here are many local treats, crafts, and the balisong, the local butterfly knife. A balisong comes in many sizes and can be used for many purposes. It is said to be a uniquely Filipino product, so make sure get yourself one when you pass by a store on your way home after checking out of your hotel in Batangas.
Thursday, July 4, 2013
5 Things That Every Traveller Must Do When in Seminyak
Dreaming of a holiday so great you will remember it for a long time? Stay at any of the gorgeous Seminyak private villas and do these 5 fun activities that will make your trip one of your best.
1. Catch the waves in Seminyak Beach
Every traveller who sets foot in Seminyak must not miss the chance to enjoy a day of mindless fun on the beach. You can breathe in the sights while sunbathing, playing beach volley, or swimming. But if you really want to have the best time, you should definitely try surfing. Rent a board at the many extreme sports shops and booths in the area and ride the waves with other surfers.
2. Discover new hotspots
Many tourists from all over travel to great lengths just to experience the many wonderful assets of Bali. But while it is great for tourism, it also has negative effects like frenetic crowds especially during peak months. Luckily, there are still places here that haven't been discovered by majority of travellers like Petitenget. This hidden beach area has a few restaurants, bars, and shops that you can enjoy checking out minus the people breathing under your neck.
3. Witness Bali’s famous sunset
Perhaps its because of its geographical location, natural resources, and unpolluted surroundings, but there's something about the sunset here that really stands out from others. To have the best view just before sundown, go to Crystal Palace Bar and enjoy some drinks with dear ones while admiring the seemingly hand-painted sky on the horizon. Afterwards, go back to your Seminyak accommodation and get a soothing massage.
4. Sink your teeth into the best pork ribs in town
With all the frolicking and exploring, you will eventually get hungry. And when you feel stomach grumble loudly, there's no better dish to tame it than with Seminyak's famous pork ribs. Naughty Nuri’s Warung serves the best version of this local favourite. Aside from the ribs, other mouthwatering choices in the menu include pork chops, tuna steak, and shots of Martini. Make sure to bring some home back to your villas in Seminyak, Bali to take care of any late-night cravings.
5. Have a cup of Kopi Luwak
After dinner or a heavy meal, there's no better thing to do than have a warm cup of coffee. And if you can afford it, kopi luwak or civet coffee is something that you should try either at a coffee shop or at the comforts of your Seminyak private villas.
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