5 Proudly Filipino Local Products and Where to Find Them in the City

With the proliferation of hotels in Muntinlupa, casinos in Pasay, and businesses in Makati, it is quite difficult to find something cultural in the metro—a common dilemma among people with foreign friends visiting the Philippines. While museums and parks allow for some historical learning, most people wouldn’t really go out on a limb and endure Manila traffic. Luckily, we’ve come to offer a solution. What better way is there to introduce our culture than through locally made proudly Filipino products? After all, Filipinos are branded to be generous and hospitable.

Here’s a list of 5 native Filipino products and where you can find them in the city.

1. Native Décor

From wooden salad sets to home décor made of capiz, there’s a wide array of handcrafted Pinoy products to choose from. These products, like the ones showcased by Saffy Handicrafts, puts a spotlight on Filipinos’ skill in intricacies and attention to detail. Apart from promoting our heritage, they also help empower local artisans from all over the Philippines by giving them a platform to sell their products.

2. Wooden Bags and Accessories

If there’s one thing Filipinos are proud of, it’s the ability to make the most of the resources around us. Locally manufactured handbags made of acacia wood, pineapple and abaca fiber, pearls, and semi-precious gems are a validation to this ingenuity. Wooden slippers or what we call bakya have also evolved into modern forms, and can also be a good reflection of our history.

3. Hand-woven Grass and Buri Bags

A testament to Filipino resilience, Abre Linea bags came about from the destruction caused by Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda). It was initially launched as a project that aimed to assist people in various towns in Samar and Leyte, where the typhoon had the biggest impact. Woven with such sophistication and class, who would have thought that ticog grass and buri can be turned into such artful products?

4. Water Hyacinth Bags

What was once responsible for severe flooding is now the source of a community livelihood. These water lily bags are carefully crafted to bring forth export-quality products that are infused with our country’s beautiful and traditional weaves; a rather genius revival of a Filipino art for that has gone in remission with the modernization of the country.

5. Chocolate Coated Dried Mangoes

When we say world-class, we don’t only refer to talent; we also mean cuisine. Parallel to our rich culture is the richness of our palettes that is evident in the different dishes and delicacies each of our provinces take pride in. A product of innovation and creativity, these widely exported chocolate-coated dried mangoes have since been the top choice for airline snacks, diplomatic gifts, and even presidential flight treats.

Itching to get your hands on these products? You need not go far. These and a lot more are available at the Acacia Hotel Manila in Alabang, Muntinlupa, where they have a Souk, dedicated to promote innovative Filipino products while supporting the country’s marginalized communities.

Things to Do When You’ve Only Got 24 Hours to Explore Penang

I don’t know why you’ll give yourself only 24 hours to tour a whole island. Maybe you’re doing multiple city visits in a limited time or this is just a spontaneous trip. Whatever it is, it’s done. So how can you fully experience the perfect mix of the cosmopolitan and heritage in a place such as Penang?

Well, we’ve got a few ideas.

Choose the most ideal Penang accommodation

One of the first things you need to do is find a hotel with access to all the most important destinations in Penang. For instance, Rainbow Paradise Beach Resort is minutes away from restaurants, shopping centres, and heritage sites. You can’t afford to lose time commuting long distances.

Temple run

Picture from Picture from http://www.constructionplusasia.com/cheah-kongsi/

Start your tour early in the morning, and do it with temples. The reason being that it can get completely overcrowded and might not get to appreciate the architecture and the spiritual significance of the differing temples.

Make sure to visit Kapitan Keling Mosque, Penang Khoo Kongsi, and Kuan Yin Temple.

Memorials and ancestral mansions

From morning to mid-day, make your way to the memorial sites and the preserved mansions. Places like the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Peranakan Museum,  Fort Cornwallis, and the Queen Victoria Memorial.

Restaurants and the Clan Jetties

At mid-day, around 11:00 AM at least so it’s not exactly lunchtime, treat yourself to some local delights. The reason you want to grab lunch early is so you can get seats before the rush.  Visit Penang’s best hawker centres like New Lane Hawker Centre, Gurney Drive Hawker Centre, or the Long Beach Food Court.

Then just as the food centres are thick with people, you can jettison out of there and visit the Clan Jetties. Take a relaxing stroll and see rustic houses standing on stilts over water. There are at least 6 jetties you can visit here, named after the surnames of Chinese families who owned them before.

Shopping centres

By this time, it’s already evening, and you’re probably tired of touring. You can start draining your remaining adrenaline by shopping!

Make your way to Gurney Plaza Shopping Mall or Paragon Mall for your unique bargains.

Explore the Penang nightlife

Now that the day is drawing to an end, you can just chill at the local bars and pubs to get a dose of Penang’s nightlife. Head over to the Penang Upper Road and check out all the places lined along the street.

Drop by Slippery Senoritas, Three Sixty Rooftop Bar, or Soho Free House.

That’s your 24-hour itinerary! Make your Penang trip extra special when you take advantage of Rainbow Paradise Beach Resort's website exclusive offers!

Enjoy taking that odd trip!

3 Places To Visit In Bataan To Cap Off Summer 2018

This summer season, a trip to Bataan should be in the books. Pack your bags and head to Central Luzon to experience the beauty and culture that this province has to offer.


Miraculous Images

For the religious, Orani Church is a must-see. Also called the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish Church, this site is a pilgrim shrine which many Catholic devotees come to visit every year.

The Orani Church features majestic architecture comprised of old and new techniques. Pay close attention to the Batingaw ng Orani, the church’s heritage bell which shows the loyal faith of the people of Orani to the Lord.


Never Forget the Death March


Bataan was the site of some especially gruesome parts of history. The Death March of World War II would definitely top the list in terms of historical impact.

During the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, 60,000 to 80,000 Filipino and American prisoners of war were forced to march on foot from Bataan to Tarlac.


This was a journey of 97 km to 112 km, for prisoners who were tired, starved, injured from severe physical abuse, and lacked sleep. Anywhere from 5,650 to 18,000 died as a result of this Death March, forever cementing the Japanese as one of the cruelest military colonizers in Asia.


To honor the lives of the fallen, the Bataan Death March Marker was constructed in Mariveles and Bagac, Bataan to mark ground zero of this event. You can visit this to pay your respects as well as view the site of this moment in history to remember how many people sacrificed their lives for democracy.



Historical Heritage Houses


A trip to Bataan isn’t complete without a visit to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, the best beach resort in Bataan. The only Historic Hotels Worldwide property in the Philippines, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is the Bagac, Bataan resort that will make you feel as if you traveled back in time.


Each casa or house is painstakingly restored to its former glory; however, if you book a stay in one of them, you will be treated to modern amenities such as Wi-Fi access, air conditioning, and in-room coffee and tea facilities.


If you’re short on time, you can enjoy a heritage walking day tour with family and friends, or else book a room for a night and have more time to marvel over the majestic Spanish-era architecture. Reservations are easy; head over to https://lascasasfilipinas.com and check availability and prices for your preferred dates

5 Ways to Enjoy a Quiet and Relaxing Holiday in the Bustling City of Makati

Although Makati City is one of the busiest places in Metro Manila, Philippines, anyone can still enjoy a laid-back retreat here. And this is possible by trying different activities, such as visiting spas, museums, and churches.

For many, a quick stay in a serviced apartment in Makati City amounts to being enveloped in the lively spirit of the bustling metropolis. Since it is among the most important financial and commercial areas in the country, this is highly expected. However, what others don't know is, any traveler can have the opportunity to savor some peace and quiet during their visit to the city. And they can experience this by trying these different activities and things to do in Makati.

1. Taking a walk in the park
Ayala Triangle Gardens – easily the most charming park and one of the best places to visit in Makati – is a sight to see if you desire to spend a laid-back day. Here, you'll find yourself cradled in an arboreal retreat, which, although seated in the heart of the Central Business District, is sure to let you savor some quiet time.

2. Visiting a church
If wanting a place where you can reflect for as long as you desire, then it is a good idea to visit a church. An ideal choice is Nuestra Senora de Gracia Church, a Baroque building that is located along Bernardino Street in Gudalupe Viejo – one of the oldest parishes in the city. Indeed, the peace and quiet that this Makati attraction lends to its visitors makes it a must-visit site.

3. Entering museums
If you fancy hopping from one gallery to another, then the city will be just right for you, since it has museums to fill your fancy. An example is Yuchengco Museum, which is found within RCBC Plaza at the intersection of Ayala and Gil Puyat Avenues. It features a collection of works from renowned local artists, such as Juan Luna, Fernando Amorsolo, and Carlos “Botong” Francisco. You may also head over to the corner of Makati Avenue and Dela Rosa Street, and enter Ayala Museum, where you'll find more galleries that embody Philippine art and culture.

4. Shopping spree
Makati is home to some of the best shopping malls in the country, and most of them are in the CBD. Greenbelt is where you will find luxurious restaurants, cafés, and boutiques set in a lush green landscape. If you're searching for the best place to watch movies or knock some pins down in game of bowling, you should head over to Power Plant Mall in Rockwell Center. And if it is affordable yet quality apparel that you want, then The Landmark should be your destination.

5. Spending a few hours at the spa
What better way there is to end a fun-filled day than by entering an establishment that promises nothing but relief? Whether it is a full-body massage, your much-desired pedicure session, or a soothing aromatherapy bath, you can have it in Makati. And among the most well-known places that deliver these services is Aegle Wellness Center, the on-site integrative health and wellness center of The Alpha Suites. To get an exclusive access to this facility, book a room in this serviced apartment in Makati.

ELIZABETH HOTEL: THE NEW PLACE TO STAY IN CAMARINES SUR

With the many hotels in Camarines Sur, travelers may find it a bit difficult to find the ideal accommodation for their trip in the Philippines’ Bicol Region. Some offer a cozy ambiance but at high rates; the cheaper ones lack not a few comforts. Fortunately, there is a newly established hotel in the area that strikes a balance between elegance and affordability: Elizabeth Hotel in Pili, Camarines Sur.

The latest accommodation to be made available to travelers in Camarines Sur, Elizabeth Hotel is found in Barangay Palestina. This location lends a residential feel, perfect for those seeking a quiet and relaxed home-away-from-home.

While relatively away from the action of CamSur’s surroundings, Elizabeth Hotel is very much accessible from Pili proper by public or private vehicles. Commercial establishments like LCC Mall and SM Savemore are less than 10 minutes away. The Pili Airport is some 6 minutes away by car via the Philippine Highway/AH2. And the popular CamSur Watersports Complex is less than 10 minutes away from the property.

Elizabeth Hotel differentiates itself from other hotels in Pili, Camarines Sur by providing both style and practicality. Adhering to its philosophy, “elegance and affordability,” the hotel offers guests 24 well-designed and amply fitted rooms at rates that are friendly on the pocket. All of these rooms, which come at up to 30 square meters in floor area, have a queen-sized bed, cable TV, Wi-Fi access, and private toilet and bath with hot and cold water. Other amenities include a work desk, closet/wardrobe, in-room safe, alarm clock, and lampshade. A magazine of tourist destinations is provided, to help you plan your CamSur itinerary.

Besides clean and comfortable rooms, the hotel also has facilities and guest services that provide guests utmost convenience. There’s a lounge area and on-site restaurant, as well as room service and Wi-Fi access. For those looking for an alternative meeting or party venue, Elizabeth Hotel has a function room that can accommodate up to 100 persons.

Similar hotels in Pili, Camarines Sur that have the aforementioned features would peg their rates on the mid- to high range. But Elizabeth Hotel keeps its rates relatively affordable, so that travelers can allot more of their budget to other things. Moreover, guests who book through the hotel’s official website will find themselves saving more money for their stay. That’s because Elizabeth Hotel has a Website Exclusive Promo that slashes 10% off the total rate of a 2-night stay. It’s a limited-time offer, however, as this special price-off runs until June 30, 2018 only. But it’s perfect for those who want to catch the tail-end of the summer in the Philippines.

For tourists making their way to the Bicol Region, make Elizabeth Hotel the choice for accommodation. This new hotel blends elegance and affordability, making it a superb option among hotels in Camarines Sur.

Know more about Elizabeth Hotel by visiting www.elizabeth-hotel.com.

6 CEBU ATTRACTIONS THAT REFLECT THE CITY’S HERITAGE

Besides booking a flight and hotel in Cebu City, one of the things travelers should prepare when visiting the Philippines’ Queen City of the South is a list of local attractions to see. Cebu holds myriad places that are surely worth going to. For those wanting an experience of the city’s heritage, here are 6 sites to put in one’s itinerary:

Magellan’s Cross

A popular landmark in Cebu, this chapel marks the spot where the Christian cross was put up by the Spanish and Portuguese explorers led by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. The original cross is said to be encased in the crucifix made of tingalo wood that is seen today.

Basilica Minore del Santo Niño

Established in 1565 on the site where the image of the Santo Niño statue was found by Spanish explorers led by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, this minor basilica is considered the oldest Catholic Church in the Philippines. It is recognized by the Holy See as the “Mother and Head of All Churches in the Philippines.” The basilica, which is under the custody of Augustinian Friars, features a museum that holds the 17th-century vestments of the Sto. Niño de Cebu as well as a library that is open to all nonclerical researchers.

Fort San Pedro

Located in the area that is now the Plaza Independencia, this fortress was built in the early 17th century primarily to ward off Muslim invaders. It was later seized by the Filipinos during the Philippine Revolution at the end of the 19th century. Today, it is now a historical park; part of it is a museum containing preserved Spanish artifacts, documents, and sculptures.

Heritage of Cebu Monument

Cebu is a storied city, and one will discover just how true this is in one glance with a visit to the Heritage of Cebu Monument. Inaugurated in December 2000, it features different sculptures depicting the history of Cebu—the galleons, churches, heroes, and personalities are put together in one artistic tableau.

Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House

Built in the late 17th century, this ancestral home has the distinction of being one of the oldest houses in the Philippines and possibly the oldest Chinese house established outside China. It has retained its original structure, consisting of hardwood, terracotta, and coral stones glued with egg whites. Today, the house has been transformed into a museum containing antique pieces and artworks, native furniture, and religious icons.

Montebello Villa Hotel

Located at the heart of the bustling metropolis, this 4-hectare Cebu accommodation boasts Spanish Colonial architecture featuring clay roof tiles, stucco walls, arched windows, and wrought-iron railings and chandeliers. A favorite of many travelers, the hotel exudes upper-class country-style living with amply furnished rooms and suites, in-house restaurants, swimming pools, and sprawling gardens.

Montebello Villa Hotel welcomes many guests throughout the year, more so during summer when there is an influx of tourists wanting to experience the Old-World charm of Cebu. This is why the hotel has come up with the Summer Room Sale wherein guests can enjoy up to 55% off when using the promo code “summersale55” upon booking on the hotel website. This Cebu City hotel promo running until May 31, 2018 comes with complimentary buffet for 2 persons; use of the swimming pool, gym, and game room; Wi-Fi access, and scheduled drop-off shuttle to 2 of the popular malls in the city. This special deal of this hotel in Cebu City is surely a budget-saver, allowing you to spend less on accommodations so you can go out and about discovering the Queen City of the South.

Montebello Villa Hotel is located in Gov. M. Cuenco Avenue, Banilad, Cebu City, Philippines 6000. Know more about this hotel in Cebu City by visiting http://www.montebellovillahotel.com.

NAGA CITY HERITAGE ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT WITH THE FAMILY

Traveling to Naga City with the family is a great idea. The Philippines’ Bicol Region brims with myriad destinations to experience. Naga City tourist spots are pretty varied: travelers will find both historical and modern attractions. If you and your family want to have a glimpse of the rich heritage of the Queen City of Bicol, make it a point to visit these places:

Naga Metropolitan Cathedral

First built in 1595, the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral and Parish of Saint John the Evangelist is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Caceres. It has quite a history of misfortunes: gutted down by a fire in 1768, damaged in an earthquake in 1820, ravaged by a typhoon in 1856, and destroyed by an earthquake once more in 1887. The cathedral has been in numerous states of renovation, yet it has kept its Spanish Romanesque Revival architecture intact.

Porta Mariae

This arch in front of the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral was built to commemorate the 300 years of the Bicolanos’ devotion to the Our Lady of Peñafrancia. At the top of this 35-foot-high edifice is a brass image of the Our Lady of Peñafrancia with two angels on each side.

Peñafrancia Basilica Minore

This Neoclassical church, which began construction in 1976 but was completed only in 1981, is a popular attraction especially among Marian pilgrims. It houses the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary sculpted in 1710. Aside from the Marian image, its stained glass windows and hand-painted ceilings take tourists’ breath away.

San Francisco Church

Built in 1578, this is the first church established by the Franciscan friars in Southeast Asia. San Francisco Church is a significant site because its infirmary and basement was used as torture halls for Filipinos during the Filipino-Spanish War in 1896, and was also the last place of refuge of the Spaniards when the Spanish colonial rule in Bicol ended in 1898.

The original structure of the church was destroyed; only the belfry remains to witness the transformation of Naga up to this day.

Plaza Quince Martires

A popular landmark located in the heart of Naga City and fronting the San Francisco Church, the monument is dedicated to the 15 Bicolano martyrs who fought against the Spaniards during the Philippine Revolution. It stands as the symbol of the pride and heroism of the Bicolanos.

Holy Rosary Minor Seminary

Constructed in 1785, this seminary is famous for its prominent graduates that include Revolution personalities Jose Ma. Panganiban and Tomas Arejola; as well as Jorge Barlin, the first Filipino Catholic bishop.

The structure, featuring a distinct colonial architecture with Italian Renaissance ornamentation, was declared a National Historical Landmark. It also houses the Museo del Seminario Conciliar de Nueva Caceres, which contains religious and archeological artifacts.

Visiting these attractions in Naga City may take a toll on your body, so it’s important to book a comfortable accommodation. And one of the hotels in Naga City that can serve as an ideal stopover and starting point for exploration is Villa Caceres Hotel. Besides offering cozy lodgings, it also has a Family Suite Hot Deal that slashes 30% off the rate of the Family Suite when checking in anytime from June 1 to 30, 2018. The deal is also inclusive of breakfast, round-trip airport shuttle service, access to the Health Resort Club, and Wi-Fi access.

Booking period for the Family Suite Hot Deal is from May 10 to June 10, 2018 only, so reserve immediately and secure a budget-friendly accommodation as you discover the best Naga City tourist spots.

Know more about Villa Caceres Hotel by logging on to www.villacacereshotel-naga.com.