Inflight October-November 2011

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october-nov ember 2011

Secret Place

Eat, drink and be merry in laid-back Puerto Princesa

Macau

Asia’s Las Vegas

Manila

by Manilans Top tours and chill-out places P L U S !

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p r i n c e s a

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advertorial

Dining, Drinking & Partying By The Sea

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ptly named Bamboo Lounge, this posh resto-bar is in a beachfront setting on Boracay Island’s main White Beach on Station 1. The beauty of White Beach is a perfect backdrop while sipping cocktails and enjoying good company at Bamboo Lounge.

At day time, the place converts into Bamboo Lounge that serves Filipino-Chinese fair in an elegant and laidback atmosphere. Come sun down, the lounge transforms into a hip party venue that is Bamboo Lounge, perfect for chilling out. Bamboo Lounge has also been known for putting on breathtaking fire dance performances that never fails to entertain.

Bamboo Lounge is the place to be if craving for good old dependable comfort food and succulent dishes. Must try are the steaming and spicy Vigan Longganisa (local

pork sausages) served with eggs and garlic rice, authentic Chinese cuisine like the flavorful Lechon Macau Sisig and Steamed Shrimp Dumpling. The chef recommends the premium juicy Roast Peking Chicken and Beef and Broccoli SautĂŠ. For cocktails, to try are the Red Sangria, White Sangria, and signature drink Bamboojito.

The service is efficient and satisfying. You can ask the servers about special requests that they will surely try to accommodate.

Bamboo Lounge will set you back about P250 to P400.

BAMBOO LOUNGE Station 1, Brgy. Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Tel: (036) 288 3161 Open Monday-Thursday from 6am-2am, and Friday-Sunday from 5pm-3am

www.inflight.ph

e di t o r ial

executive Editor Editor-In-Chief managing EDITOR Art Director Writer

Inside

inflight | october-nov ember | 2011

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Nikos Gitsis Giselle Javison Monica De Leon Jocas See Margarita Francisco

06 Cale ndar What not to miss in October and November 08 What’s In Music, books, and shops

C o n t r ib u t ing p h o t o g r ap h e r s

Mario Babiera, Ferdz Decena, Joel Garcia, Ken Go, Oggie Ramos, Jeffrey Sonora, Daniel Soriano, Steve Tirona C o n t r ib u t ing w r i t e r s

Lei Chavez, Chip Childers, Freida Dario, Ferdz Decena, Marian Hernandez, Catherine Kirchhoff, Jan Lao, Ces Rodriguez, Mari-an Santos

04 in the news Puerto Princesa’s Subterranean River competes in the New 7 Wonders of Nature

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10 In the shop Tough Gear: You may never go on a wild trek, but if you do, we’ve prepared a list of essentials 14 In My Bag Cliff-diving and surf-crazy John James Uy reveals what he throws in his weekend bag

A d v e r t ising S al e s and M a r k e t ing

Sales and marketing director account executive media representative

16 Manila , Manila Things to do, places to see in the city

Margie Defensor Kathleen Joy Parayno Joyce Ann Moros

18 In Room Hotel reviews: Calypso Resort, Midas Hotel and Casino

P u blis h ing

publisher Publishing director

Dornier Media Int’l.

Nikos Gitsis

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22 In Pe rson Me and my travels: Dennis Sabangan, photographer

B o a r d o f A d v is e r s

Seair chairman Publishing director Editorial director Director General manager Legal counsel

26 cove r s tory: SECRET PLACE Eat, drink, and be merry in laid-back Puerto Princesa

Iren Dornier Nikos Gitsis Giselle Javison Delza Apostol Monica De Leon Atty. Celina Cua

34 puerto princesa supplement 39 In The Fr ame Culture Talk: The Philippine Jeepney

Inquiries

Editorial: +632/ 553 7976; Email: editors@inflight.ph; Press releases: press@inflight.ph Advertising: +632/ 553 7978; Email: ads@inflight.ph Subscription and Archive: Email: subscribe@inflight.ph p h ilippin e C o p y r ig h t © 2 0 1 1

Dornier Media International 4F Lerose Building, 832 Edades Street corner Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City, Philippines Telefax: +632 840 2802 • Email: editors@inflight.ph

Like inflight.ph on Facebook

Follow inflight_travel on Twitter

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45 INFLIGHT Guide s Insider Macau: City guide from our roving correspondent.

PLUS! Destination guides to the Philippines and neighboring countries, updated every two months

Cover credits Concept by InFlight ; Photo by Jeffrey Sonora Art direction by Jocas See; Styling by waldo villados Modeling by Hevelyn Santos for Reco Modeling Location: Canigaran Beach, Microtel Puerto Princesa, Palawan october-november 2011

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INTheNews t r av e l | l i f e s t y l e | h o t e l s & r e s o r t s | a r t s & fa s h i o n | a n d m o r e

Puerto Princesa’s Subterranean River Competes in New 7 Wonders of Nature Finals

Puerto Princesa’s Subterranean River is one of the 28 finalists to the New 7 Wonders of Nature (N7WN), a global campaign started in 2007 that rely on consumer votes to pick out the winners.

Voting ends on November 11, 2011.

Philippine president Benigno “NoyNoy” Aquino III said, “There are 80 million cellphone users in the Philippines, sending two billion messages a day. If we need a billion votes to win, that’s only half a day.”

Also known as the Puerto Princesa Underground River, the Subterranean River is located in the Saint Paul Mountain Range, 50km north of Puerto Princesa city, and stretches 8.2 kilometers, the longest navigable underground rivers in the world. It features a limestone karst mountain landscape, including major formations of stalactites and stalagmites and several large chambers. Two-thirds of the site is forested and its coastal area has mangroves, mossy forest, seagrass beds and coral reefs. The site contains a full mountainto-sea ecosystem, protects the forests and has an important role in biodiversity conservation.

Puerto Princesa City mayor Edward Hagedorn enumerates six reasons that make the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River a true wonder of nature: “One, it is one of the most important underground estuaries of the world.

Two, it hosts one of the most complex if not the most complex karstic or cave system in the world. Three, it has a very high amount

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of energy due to its unique thermal equator location. Four, it contains scientifically and aesthetically unique speleothems or cave formations. Five, it hosts unique macro and micro cave formations or karst morphologies.

And six, it has a 20 million year old sirenia (sea cow is embedded in the walls of the PPUR) which is a one in a billion find.”

Between February and March this year, an Italian research group comprised of scientists and explorers from La Venta Esplorazioni

Geografiche came to Palawan and discovered a small underground river within the Subterranean River that could only be reached by foot, a bat burial site, and a well-preserved fossil of a sea mammal from the Miocene age, which was also confirmed by paleontologists as a “sirenia” or a sea cow. ■ To vote, visit www.new7wonders.com or type in PPUR and send it to 2861 for text voting (covers all networks in the Philippines).

R eport b y M a r g i e F r a nc i sco

Calendar What not to miss in October and November

October

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Lenka

Disney Live!

Mickey’s Musical Festival

Disney Live! brings to Manila for the first time its newest stage show Mickey’s Music Festival featuring hit songs from the blockbuster movies Aladdin, The Little Mermaid and Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story, and rock, pop, reggae, hip-hop, jazz and country music performances.

The show will be performed at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Call Ticketnet at +632/ 911 5555 or visit www. ticketnet.com.ph

9 Lenka: Live in Manila

Australian singer-songwriter Lenka, who popularized the singles “The Show” and “Trouble Is A Friend” played in US TV series Grey’s Anatomy, Ugly Betty and 90210, will perform at the World Trade Center on Roxas Boulevard on October 9.

Lenka’s album “Lenka” hit number three on Billboards Heatseakers Charts in 2008, while her latest album “Two” hit number one on HMV Album Charts.

Call Ticketnet

16 Sum 41: Live in Manila

Canadian pop-punk rockers SUM 41’s is holding its first concert in Manila at the World Trade Center, Pasay City on October 16. Up-andcoming Bee Eyes and

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modern Pinoy Rock Chicosci will open the show.

SUM 41 is known for their rock hit singles Over My Head, The Hell Song, Pain and Pleasure and In Too Deep. Their album “All Killer No Filler” was certified platinum in the US, Canada and UK. Presented by Pulp Live World.

Call SM Tickets at +632/ 470 2222

Quezon City. Kowalczyk’s first album, Alive, was released in June 2010.

Call Ticketnet

18-30 The Little Mermaid

November

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Ed Kowalczyk Live in Manila

Atlantis Production’s The Little Mermaid comes alive at the Meralco Theatre, with Rachelle Ann Go and Erik Santos playing the lead role of mermaid and prince. Directed by Bobby Garcia and Chari Arespacochaga.

Call Atlantis Products at +632/ 892 7078 or 840 1187

Former lead singer of the defunct 90s rock band Live (that popularized Lightning Crahes) Ed Kowalczyk will be in Manila for the first time for a concert at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in R eport b y M a r g i e F r a nc i sco

What’s In S h o p | p l a y | L i s t e n | READ | CLIC K

READ

Linamnam: Eating One’s Way Around the Philippines Written by food columnist and chef Claude Tayag and his entrepreneur wife Mary Ann Quioc, Linamnam: Eating One’s Way Around the Philippines is a 300-page culinary travel guide book that takes readers on a gastronomical adventure from north to south. Published by Anvil Publishing.

For more on Claude Tayag, visit www.inflight.ph.

Available at all National Bookstore and Powerbooks branches at P295 (about US $7)

Before Ever After Mom-turned-Random House published author Samantha Sotto takes readers on a journey from London to the Philippines and all over Europe in her first novel, Before Ever After, the story of Shelley who receives a mysterious visitor named Paolo claiming to be the grandson of Max, her husband who’s been dead for three years. Shelley and Paolo embark on an adventure across historical European landmarks and try to piece together the mystery of her husband’s death. Before Ever After redefines “happily ever after” with new revelations and an unexpected ending.

Available at all National Bookstore and Powerbooks branches at P499 Linamnam’s book cover

CLIC K

SHOP

Visit www.sarisarisounds, the newest online music station and lifestyle website to promote original Filipino or “Pinoy” music. Founded by vocalist and urban/funk alternative band Out of Body Special frontman Carlos Magno, the website plays Pinoy rock and flip-hop or mixed hiphop and electronica to jazz, reggae, ballads, and blues, among others. www.sarisarisounds.com

For on the go coffee lovers, pack these Filipino ground coffee in 70g sachets. Blends are from Iloilo province’s Yrong Yrong blend, to the famous Barako or Liberica, and South Cotobato’s Lake Sebu. www.lebistro.ph, +632/ 519 1216

Sari-Sari Sounds

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Le Bistro Vert, ECHOstore

INVogue

Tough Gear in the shops | in my bag

1 Olive Green nylon water repellent backpack, P19,490, by Tumi

8 The North Face olive green insulation beanie, P1,290, from Bratpack.

“A micro-fleece ear band lining adds extra warmth where you need it most”

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9 Thermometer compass with belt clip, P290, from R.O.X 10 Men’s high performance trekking shoes, P7,490,

by Columbia

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2 MED foldable, dust and waterproof and abrasion resistant map case, P1,890, from R.O.X 3 Brown versatile glove mittens, P2,490,

by Columbia 4 Lexan unbreakable watertight body case, P550, from R.O.X

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5 Pac-Safe anti-theft hip and shoulder bag, P2,480, from Bratpack.

“This slash-proof, tamper resistant shoulder bag keeps belongings secure” 6 Princeton Tec Attitude LED pocket flashlight, P2,390, from R.O.X

11 Teal rubber grip and blue refillable water bottle, P990, from R.O.X “With double wall that prevents condensation and keeps beverages cold longer”

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7 The North Face men’s red waterproof jacket, P7,290, from R.O.X. “It’s waterproof, breathable, with seam sealed hard shell, durable fabric with mechanical stretch for unrestricted range of motion, ideal for mountaineers”

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You may never go on a wild trek, but if you did, you’d probably need all these 07

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S tyl i n g b y V a ness a J ohnson

P hotos b y J eff S onor a

INVogue

in the shops

1 Purple and gray waterproof and stain resistant hiking backpack, P4,990, by Columbia

8 Women’s relaxed fit cargo shorts with sun protection and quick dry technology, P1,490,

by Columbia

2 Sea to Summit yellow light and compact waterproof dry sack, P690, from R.O.X. “Made of Ultra-Si nylon, one of the lightest and toughest waterproof nylon fabrics available”

09 Jansport blue and purple plaid stylish belt bag, P850, from Bratpack

3 Women’s high performance trekking shoes, P4,490,

by Columbia

10 The North Face tan water and stain resistant mullet hat with removable flap, P1,190, from Bratpack.

“The flaps help keep bugs away”

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11 Teal blue wind resistant vented umbrella,P3,990,

by Tumi. “With a 38.5” vented, wind-resistant canopy with reflective edge trim for high visibility”

4 Sea to Summit compact pocket towel, P950, from R.O.X. “Amazingly compact, ultra absorbent and quick drying” 5 Princeton Tec Attitude LED pocket flashlight, P2,390, from R.O.X

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6 Pink refillable water bottle, P990, from R.O.X 7 Women’s Ramble Rain Jacket, P6,490,

by Columbia.

“Fully waterproof and breathable”

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Turn to

page 40 for store contact info

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Relish Spend Fridays at Fridays Boracay for the best dinner buffet grill with entertainment in our piece of Paradise.

Executive Chef/General Manager Bill McGrath will excite your palate with his spread of culinary creations. Buffet opens at 7 p.m.

Entertainment begins with an acoustic band; Cultural show at approx. 9 p.m.

Reservations and inquiries, contact our Makati Sales Office at 632.8929283 fax at 632.8929118 or email at reservations@fridaysboracay.com

www.fridaysboracay.com

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John in Real, Quezon

INVogue

In My Bag

Cliff diving, Surfing, and The Beach

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TV personality John James Uy reveals where he goes for short breaks P roduct shots b y M a r i o B a b i er a

“For short breaks, I like going to Punta Fuego and Nuvali in Batangas, just a few hours’ drive from Manila. It’s very private. They offer cliff diving there, which is an adrenaline rush for me! I also go to Pagudpud, a 10-hour drive up north. It’s one of those places that not a lot of people know about, and I just wish that people knew how beautiful the beach was there. I also love to go surfing. I used to surf like thrice a week.

I go with my friends to Zambales, La Union and Real, Quezon. When I travel I always take my puppy with me. He’s like my perfect wingman.”

– John James Uy, TV personality

Things I take when I travel: 1 Polo Ralph Lauren duffle bag (available at www.ralphlauren.com) 2 Guitar (P5,450) 3 Topman camouflage sunglasses (P1,750) 4 Reef Sandals (P1,950) 5 Van Gogh art case (P4,995) 6 Nivea Sun Moisturising Immediate Sun Protection 7 Hawaiian Tropic tan amplifier oil (P350)

Turn to

page 40 for store contact info

For more ideas on travel gear and essentials, visit www.inflight.ph

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Manila, Manila T h i n g s t o d o, p l a c e s t o s e e , p e o p l e t o wat c h

A list of things to love about the city of smiles P hotos b y jocas see

See

Join performance artist and tour guide Carlos Celdran’s (www.carlosceldran.com) walking tour and see the capital’s old quarters as well as the Hispanic walled city of Intramuros (www. intramuros.ph), while enjoying Celdran’s lively commentaries. A “Living La Vida Imelda” tour takes you to controversial landmark buildings the former Philippine first lady Imelda Marcos championed.

The Southern Fair (www.southernfair.blogspot. com) held on Sundays at Alabang Spectrum Midway, Filinvest, features stalls showcasing products from farmers to artists and offers live entertainment such as food showdowns and workshops.

Celdran’s “If These Walls Could Talk” tour

lamps, wooden salad bowls, and mother of pearl picture frames.

Eat and Drink

Rustan’s Filipiniana. This is one of Makati City’s more upmarket shops, selling Philippine homeware, accessories and clothing from Fidela’s for jusi dresses and piña cocoon shawls in bright colors and patterns.

Bistro Filipino (Tel: +632/ 856 0634). Book a table if you like Filipino cuisine with a modern twist.

TryThe theresort’s kangkong chapel crisps, silken tokwa’t baboy, tuna kilawin roll, crispy pigeon with mushroom sauté, grilled eggplant torta with spicy crab meat, and lengua estofado.

Kultura Filipino (Tel: +632/ 556 0417). Sells Filipiniana garb and a wide range of furniture, houseware, home décor, wearable fashion, souvenir items and food.

Via Mare Oyster Bar (Tel: +632/ 757 4020).

Best known for traditional Filipino dishes. Also serves Filipino snacks such as bibingka (with Laguna cheese and salted duck egg or with Edam cheese), and pancit luglog or noodles in shrimp based sauce.

Pino Resto Bar (Tel: +632/ 441 1773). For a taste of Filipino fusion cuisine, book this place. On the menu are such fusion dishes as kare kareng bagnet, red wine adobong tadyang and crispy tenderloin tapsilog, and Chocnut turon and mango banana peanut butter roll for dessert.

Shop

Balikbayan Handicrafts (Tel: +632/ 893 0775

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Do

Via Mare's bibingka

to 77). Although quite touristy, this place is a convenient stop if you’ve forgotten to buy a Filipino souvenir. Sells Philippine-made home accessories and furniture. Must buys are their capiz shell

Take a break from your hectic lifestyle and visit Shui Hilot Healing Spa (Tel: +632/ 664 9369) on Arnaiz Avenue, Makati to try its hilot, a Filipino therapy dating back to some 500 years ago.

Ayala Museum (www.ayalamuseum.org) features 60 handcrafted dioramas that chronicle the rich tapestry of Philippine history and a one-of-a-kind boat gallery showcasing miniature watercraft that contributed to the development of Philippine maritime trade and colonial economy. ■

INRoom hotels and resorts

C a ly p s o R e s ort

Not Just for Divers Whether you’re a diver or non-diver, you get your money’s worth at Calypso, says Margarita Francisco

FIRST IMPRESSIONS. Soon as you set foot at Calypso Resort, you immediately get the message that this is a dive resort. The grounds has five dive buildings, a dive shop and office, which also rents out dive equipment, situated next to the resort’s pool, conveniently located just a few feet from the beach front. All of the resort’s seven rooms and two suites occupying the 2,500sqm grounds are newly renovated.

There are loungers under thatched huts and a bar on the beach.

Nemo Suite

Location. White Beach, Station 3 on Boracay Island. On the beach are beach beds and the Calypso Lounge bar service.

Not So Keen. Rooms are a little pricey, but you get your money’s worth.

VERDICT. I would love to stay here again and would highly recommend. ■

ROOMS. I was booked in the Nemo Suite, a 45sqm room, a room I was told was usually booked for VIPs and the resort owner’s relatives. The resort describes its interiors as “tropical chic” – neutral tones paired with strong tropical-themed accents, natural materials alongside comfortable modern décor.

The beach view room is spacious, has a king size bed, a sleek armoire, an LCD television and a work space with a comfortable chair. I love the way the room has been decorated.

Essentials

Rates start P9,500 (about US 221) per night for a minimum of two-nights stay.

Station 3, White Beach, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Tel: +63336/ 288 3206 Url: www.calypso-boracay.com

FOOD. Swiss and Filipino specialty dishes. On request, the staff can prepare special seafood platters and fondue. Try the Thai beef salad (P350), and the Wiener Schnitzel (P350), and the pork cordon bleu (P390) WE LIKE. Absolutely everything! The staff are attentive, efficient, and make you feel right at home.

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HOW TO GET THERE SEAIR flies daily from Manila directly to Caticlan (www.flyseair.com. For our Boracay Guide, www. inflight.ph).

Dive in: A refreshing pool a few feet away from the beach front

RELATED STORIES For more on diving in Boracay, visit http://inflight. ph/to-dive-for/

INRoom

Mida s Hotel a nd C a sino

New Luxury at the Bay Area

Freshly-renovated Midas Hotel and Casino gets the thumbs up from Catherine Kirchoff Deluxe room

FIRST IMPRESSIONS. The lobby greets you with modern sophisticated look – an eye-catching fiber optic chandelier hanging from the high ceiling and Italian furniture designed by Philippe Starck and Poltrona Frau in the lounge areas. The impeccably dressed concierge, reception staff, elevator man and hallway staff are all too happy to help their guests.

The hotel lounge has a clean, modern look and punchy lime color

The 2702 bar at the lobby offers live music, featuring a regular singer and pianist.

SETTING. This 11-storey building was originally built and designed by renowned Philippine National Artist Architect Leandro Locsin. It has since undergone a few makeovers but none as extensive as it has when it became the Midas in 2009.

WE LIKE. The peace and quiet, efficient car service, and competent staff.

Not So Keen. A fuller view of Manila Bay and its famous sunset from the balcony would have been nicer.

Location. Along the sunset strip of Roxas Boulevard, a 15-minute drive from the International and Domestic Airports and the Makati business district.

VERDICT. The hotel has reinvented itself in great style while keeping the Filipino hospitality. It’s a welcome addition to the roster of luxury hotels in the Metro. ■

ROOMS. There are a total of 227 rooms, either deluxe or executive. All are spacious, combining old Filipino-Spanish design style.

Every room has a balcony, free WiFi, cable TV and safety vault.

FOOD. The hotel has a team of Swiss, German, French, Japanese and Filipino chefs, able to dish out Eastern and Western flavors. There are two restaurants, the Café Midas and the Yanagi Japanese restaurant at the mezzanine, the latter opening late this year or early next year.

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Essentials

Room rates start at P7,360 (about US $171) for the deluxe room, including breakfast.

Tel: +632/ 902 0100 Url: www.midashotelandcasino.com Leather and glass and a statement wall

For more hotel reviews, visit www.inflight.ph

INPerson

Me and My Travels: Photographer Dennis Sabangan I n te r v ie w b y L ei C ha v e z

What got you into sports photography? In 2004, my editor asked me to go to Australia for the Australian Open. That was my first sports coverage – and I had no idea at all about tennis. The photos were not powerful but my editor was happy. The photos were used in the New York Times, Euro Times, and TIME Magazine. Newsweek used my photos of Roger Federer.

They bought it for a commercial ad and spent around €2,000 for the rights. That’s when I entered sports photography.

What was your most memorable coverage? Africa in 2008 for the World Cup, because I got lost, drove for eight hours. From Johannesburg, we went to Sun City in the north. According to the GPS, we’ll spend two hours driving, but we spent eight. I had a German teammate who insisted we use GPS. He called our office in Germany to track us through GPS and find a route to Sun City. Nothing happened. So I told them to use the Filipino way – the human GPS. I picked up a gasoline boy and I told him, “‘I’ll pay you $50 just show us the way to Sun City.”

We found out there were two Sun Cities – the richer Las Vegas-like city that’s our destination and the slum area – where the GPS took us.

Locally, my most memorable was my trip to Jolo in 1999. We went to Patikul and the place, the white-sand beaches, were really beautiful – but unsafe.

Another favorite spot is Boracay. It’s a good place to go for pleasure: the goods are cheap and there are always many people.

What’s your favorite assignment? Football, the World Cup because it only happens every six years. Your editor must have incredible respect for you to send you there.

What is your idea of paradise? A place without stress, where there’s fresh air,

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Sabangan in Melbourne during the 2011 Australian Open

nature around me — and I get to eat crabs the whole day. I bought a beach in Surigao. It doesn’t have a name yet but that’s my paradise.

Tell us about your favorite outdoor activity. I love scuba diving. My favorite is Tubbataha Reef.

At 10 feet you already see soft-shelled turtles. My deepest dive was at 50 feet.

How do you unwind after a long day at work? When I can’t dive, I play football or I go to a firing range to practice shooting.

Name five things you don’t leave the house without. Camera, compass (in case I get lost, yes, even in Manila), my pistol, prayer book, and my anting-anting (protection amulet).

What is your favorite local destination? I love Coron in Palawan because the diving area is different and spectacular.

Favorite food? Deep-fried crabs. There’s a restaurant in Yogyakarta that serves all different types of crab dishes but they don’t have deep-friend crabs.

I taught them how to cook it and whenever I drop by, they give me a 50% discount. Locally, I get the best deep-fried crabs from King Crab (San Juan branch: +632/ 723 8820).

Dennis Sabangan is chief photographer of the European Pressphoto Agency. His works had been published in The New York Times, TIME Magazine, Newsweek, and Euro Times. Sabangan teaches photojournalism at the University of the Philippines

“Newsweek used my photos of Roger Federer for an ad.

That’s when I got into sports photography” Sabangan in his many travels for work. Clockwise from top: In a Manila slum area; goofing around in Austria during the European Cup 2008; in Beijing during the 2008 Olympics; and on a boat traversing the floody roads of Laguna during the typhoon Ondoy aftermath

october-november 2011

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Cover Story

Secret Places

In laid-back Puerto Princesa it’s best to go with the flow — and eat, drink and be merry, says entrepreneur Jo Mitra

S to r y b y C es Rod r ig u e z map ill u st r atio n b y ma r k da v id a . see

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P hoto b y alla n ba r r edo

Cover Story

Honda Bay Beach in Puerto Princesa, Palawan’s capital

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Cover Story About Our insider Entrepreneur Jo Mitra, 45, owns palawanbeaches.com, engaged in real estate in Palawan. Jo is a scion of the Mitra political clan in Puerto Princesa.

His father is the late House Speaker Ramon Mitra, Jr. and his brother, Baham, is the governor of Palawan.

WHY GO NOW. Just because. There is no reason not to go to Puerto Princesa — whatever the time of year and whatever the weather Palawan is always a joy to visit.

When it’s dry, canopies of trees keep you cool and it’s a breeze to island hop on the glassy waters of Honda Bay. During the monsoon season, Palawan is often spared the typhoons that tear across the rest of the country. And the rainy season brings with it its joys — the greenery comes alive, and the light turns milky white. Find a cabana (a beach hut) and enjoy Palawan whatever the weather.

GET YOUR BEARINGS. Puerto Princesa City, the capital of Palawan, lies in the middle of the island province about 550km southwest of the capital Manila. It’s not really a city — more of a friendly town where you can get around on foot and enjoy the sights without hassle.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants along the main drag of Rizal Avenue. About two hours’ drive from Rizal Avenue, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the western coast of Palawan, about 50km north of Puerto Princesa, is one place you should make an effort to see. The park covers a protected area of more than 22,000 hectares. This is the sight most visitors to the area want to see. It’s the longest underground river in the world, meandering for more than 8km beneath the surface, passing a bewildering array of stalactites, stalagmites, caverns, chambers and pools, the formations made eerier on your ride through by the shadows cast by the boatman’s paraffin lamp.

WHERE TO STAY. “It’s not where you stay, it’s what you do in Puerto that’s important,” says Jo Mitra, our insider guide for Puerto Princesa . That said, he recommends the Marina de Bay as a place to more than just park your bags. Twenty minutes from Puerto Princesa Airport, Marina de Bay has 12 air-conditioned villas surrounded by mangroves and landscaped gardens. Each room has a balcony with a view of the Puerto Princesa Bay. There are eight executive villas (P2,780/day). Two of the executive villas are suitable for families as they have lofts with three additional single beds. Junior suite villas (P2,180/ day) have one queen-size bed with a pull-out and a single bed. All rooms have a TV and WiFi access. The resort is known for its cabana on an overlook, a “nice spot where you can have afternoon tea while watching yachts in the distance,” Jo says.

Jo is looking forward to the opening of Sheridan Hotel on Sabang Beach, a popular seaside area en route to the Subterranean River. The good news is the hotel bar is already open for orders.

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| october-november 2011

Marina de Bay’s T-house

If you’re feeling adventurous, stay overnight on Starfish Island, one of several small islands that are part of the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour. On his honeymoon, Jo and his bride spent the night in a hut on the island. “The accommodation is rustic,” he says. But what makes the stay both romantic and adventurous is the fact that at high tide, the island submerges, leaving only the hut and the stilts it’s perched on visible.

Marina de Bay Brgy. Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa, Palawan Tel: +6348/ 723 1754 Manila tel: +632/ 782 9704 Email: info@marinadebay-palawan.com URL: www.marinadebay-palawan.com Starfish Island Contact the City Tourism Office of Puerto Princesa Airport Compound, Rizal Avenue Extension, Puerto Princesa Tel: +6348/ 434 4211, 433 2983 WHAT TO DO. There are ziplines at Mitra’s Ranch, Jo’s family home. Located in a subdivision known as

P hotos b y jocas a . see

Away from it all: Jo Mitra and his wife spent their honeymoon night in a lone hut on Starfish Island

Cover Story

Millionaire’s Village, the home has breathtaking views of lush plains and mountains, and a keyhole glimpse of Honda Bay. A sloping area has been converted into a park with three ziplines that take you from the top of the hill to the bottom. The views and the park are free. A ride on all three ziplines costs P500.

In Barangay Santa Monica, visit the Butterfly Garden.

Butterflies and moths native to Palawan and other parts of Southeast Asia flit about.

While the Honda Bay Island Hopping tour offers white sand and blue seas on any number of small islands in the bay, Jo recommends staying put all day in one island. He especially likes Snake Island, which has a serpentine sandbar and crystal-clear waters, making it a great spot for sunbathing and a dip.

Most resorts and hotels offer island tours. Average cost: P1,100 per person inclusive of transfers, lunch, and entrance fees to some of the islands.

If, like Jo, you like your beaches isolated and undeveloped, make the 90-minute trip out of the city to the western coast of the capital, to a beach the locals call Go West. It’s a spectacular three-kilometer stretch of white sand notable largely for being empty. “It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the world,” Jo says. There’s

nothing else on the beach but a few cabanas.

Instead of taking the usual boat to the Subterranean River National Park, hoof it. “The trail to the underground river allows you to experience the jungle,” says Jo. Cellphones are best kept hidden, he adds, because the monkeys you meet along the way are a curious lot and have been known to snatch mobile phones from hikers. The trek, called the monkey trail, is also bayawak or monitor lizard territory.

The trail to St. Paul’s Subterranean River, left, and above, the 8.2km underground river, which winds through a cave before flowing directly into the South China Sea

Ziplines at Mitra’s Ranch Baker’s Hill Brgy. Santa Monica, Butterfly Garden 27 Bunk Road Brgy. Santa Monica Entrance: P20 Open from 7am to 5pm Go West Call the City Tourism Office of Puerto Princesa Airport Compound, Rizal Avenue Extension, Puerto Princesa, Palawan Tel: +6348/ 434 4211, 433 2983

T he t r ail to u n de r g r o u n d r i v e r P hoto b y fe r d z dece n a

october-november 2011

| InFlight | 31

Cover Story

WHAT TO EAT. The freshest seafood. Try the local lamayo fish, which is one of the tastiest and most popular, often served butterflied and fried.

Jo recommends Kinabuchs Bar & Grill, owned by motocross legend Butch Chase. Kinabuchs serves grilled squid, grilled blue marlin steak, baked mussels, and the local delicacy tamilok, a wood worm. Kinabuchs also has an outdoor TV where diners and tipplers can enjoy a Pacquiao fight or a basketball game.

KaLui specializes in fresh seafood, says Jo. It’s an informal sort of hangout, where shoes are checked into lockers at the entrance to keep the highly-polished wooden floors the way they are. KaLui serves only seafood and vegetables and the menu varies according to the catch of the day. Possibilities include sashimi, tempura, shellfish soup, sinigang (a hot and sour soup) and baked mussels. There’s also a vegetarian option.

Jo also recommends the Marina de Bay Resort restaurant. There’s an open-air dining hall with a view of the bay and the mountains, and another mini-restaurant on stilts at the end of a wooden bridge, popularly called the T-house.

Kinabuchs Bar & Grill 369 Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa Tel: +6348/ 434 5194 KaLui 369 Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa Tel: +6348/ 433 2580, +63928/ 753 9621 URL: www.kaluirestaurant.com. ■

Essentials

HOW TO GET THERE SEAIR (www.flyseair.com; +632/ 849 0100) and ITI (www.itiair.com) offer daily flights to El Nido in Palawan.

From El Nido, it’s about five to six hours by road to Puerto Princesa.

From Puerto Princesa airport to the city, tricycles are P50.

• City Tourism Council Tel: +6348/ 433 6079

their front cover shoot in Puerto Princesa.

Contacts • Puerto Princesa City Tourism Office Airport Compound, Rizal Avenue Ext., Puerto Princesa Tel: +6348/ 434 4211, 433 2983

Travel tips • Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, SPF lotion, and emergency kit • Spray on insect repellent particularly when visiting the Subterranean Underground River • The Underground River sits in total darkness so take your own flashlight so you won’t have to share the one provided by the guides with a tour mate

• Association of Travel & Tour Operators of Puerto Princesa 2nd Floor, Basaya Bldg., Junction 1, National Highway, Puerto Princesa

InFlight would like to thank Puerto Princesa City mayor Edward Hagedorn and his tourism staff for assisting the InFlight team during

InFlight also thanks Mr. Aquilles Guzman of Ellen’s Travel and Tours for providing transportation for the team. Ellen’s Travel and Tours offers van rentals in Puerto Princesa City.

A three-hour city tour costs P1,500 plus P300 per succeeding hour surcharge. A van rental for the tour to the Underground River costs P3,500. Best to book a van at least a week before arriving to Puerto Princesa. Call +6348/ 434 7052 for bookings and inquiries.

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| october-november 2011

Ka L u i i n te r io r P hoto b y alla n ba r r edo ; seaso n bestselle r P hoto b y jocas a . see ; k i n ab u chs photo b y jeff r e y so n o r a

Underground River Call the City Tourism Office.

Airport Compound, Rizal Avenue Extension, Puerto Princesa Tel: +6348/ 434 4211, 433 2983

Kinabuchs

Go local; book at KaLui

KaLui’s season best seller fresh tuna made into a scrumptuous salad

puerto princesa supplement

Skybox Sports Bar & Grill

Units 4 & 5, Mercado de San Miguel, National Highway, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan Mobile: +63918/ 923 9394, +63917/ 831 9394

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| october-november 2011

photos by jocas see

Bouillabaisse

H o t e l f e at u r e

The resort’s pool

Junior suite villa

Dining hall

City getaway

A hidden resort in Puerto Princesa close to city stops is not that hard to find at all S t o r y b y M a r i - a n S a n t o s Ph o t o s b y j o c a s s e e Marina de Bay is only 20 minutes away from the Puerto Princesa Airport and a stone’s throw away to the city center. On the way from the airport, you will pass important city landmarks such as the Puerto Princesa Bay, City Hall, and international motocross track.

can reach by walking down a 100-meter wooden bridge from the main resort. Here, you can enjoy grilled seafood, hot and fresh, with the sea breeze blowing and the soothing view. At the “M-House” you can dine on top of a hill, overlooking the sea while ensconced by the forest and mountain.

The rich flora and fauna of Palawan surround Marina de Bay. Aside from the mangroves, the resort features a fresh water infinity pool with Jacuzzi that overlooks the Puerto Princesa Bay; and there’s a salt water pool too. At night, you can look across the water and enjoy the delicate lights from the private yachts and boats docked nearby, and further away, the lights of the city. On a clear night, you can enjoy a pleasant view of the starry sky.

ROOMS .

LOCATION .

FIRST IMPRESSIONS .

Open from 7am to 11pm, the “T-House” is a restaurant on stilts that you FOO D .

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| october-november 2011

Marina de Bay offers six newly refurbished rooms built inside a ship-like structure.

The villas are made of clay bricks and surrounded by landscaped gardens and natural mangroves. The Executive Suite Villas have a queen-size bed with a pull-out bed and bathroom with hot and cold showers and bath tub. Some of the villas have a loft with three single beds ideal for families or groups. The main draw is the private verandah offering a spectacular sea view.

There are also four Junior Suite Villas with a queen-size bed with a pull-out bed, a single bed, bathroom with hot and cold shower, and

a small balcony also with an amazing view.

All rooms are air-conditioned and have a TV. WE LI K E . Marina de Bay’s Spa and Wellness center, the setting, and the free WiFi in the whole of the resort’s complex. ■

ESSENTIALS Executive Suite Villas are at P2,780 per night while the Junior Suite Villa, P2,180.

Brgy. Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan Tel: +6348/ 723 1754 Telefax: +6348/ 433 7345 Email: info@marinadebay-palawan.com Url: www.marinadebay-palawan.com

How to get there There are daily flights from Manila to Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Marina de Bay offers airport transfers to and from the resort.

puerto princesa supplement

Kinabuchs Grill a nd Bar 348 Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa City 5300, Palawan Tel: +6348/ 434 5194 to 95

photos by jeffrey sonor a

october-november 2011

| InFlight | 37

puerto princesa supplement Adobo overload

L a Ter r asse

Guilt-free Dining in the Port City La Terrasse is a tropical oasis that sits on Rizal Street, Puerto Princesa.

It’s a spacious two-storey restaurant that sets a relaxing mood for dining, and exudes modern, minimalist and “green”. Lush bamboo plants surround the airy dining area where one can enjoy a fine healthy meal amidst the “green” ambience. Furniture and fixtures are made of eco-friendly materials like the bar that’s made of recycled hardwood salvaged from old houses and the floors that used renewable compressed bamboo. Lamps made of banana fiber paper hover from the ceiling. The roof is designed to collect rainwater. There are even plans of setting up solar panels to power up some appliances.

SETTING .

FOO D . Find hearty, value for money food in La Terrasse’s family platters that can satisfy up to four. The Adobo Overload uses organic native chicken and pork and lots of garlic, and served on a bed of adobo fried rice topped with shredded fried adobo and green mango relish. Tropical Billy is deboned goat meat braised slowly in mixed spices and pineapple then deep fried. Groups can share the Grilled Seafood Platter of grilled fish, squid, shrimps, and clams.

The soon to open delicatessen will offer local organic produce picked from the restaurant’s own garden or local organic producers, breads, chorizos, smoked bacons, yogurts and cheeses.

Try the fresh fruit shakes.

Highly recommended are the mangoes. The Mixed Fruit Shakes allows own concocted shakes.

Drinks.

SER V ICE .

Warm and efficient.

Budget about P300-P400 per person. Mixed Fruit Shakes are from P125 to P140. ■

PRICE .

LA TERRASSE Rizal Avenue, Bancao Bancao, Fullbright School, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan Tel: +6348/ 434 1787 Url: www.laterrassepalawan.com Prior reservations recommended

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InFlight

| october-november 2011

Pork orange photos by philippe gir ardeau

Living indulge | in the fr a mes

In The Fr ame

Filipino Icon: The Jeepney Chit Juan on the history of the Philippine jeepneys whose days on city streets, she says, are numbered

J

eepneys are those ubiquitous colorful, open-sided vehicles that ply our main roads and used to be the major means of transportation, until buses and the light rail transits or Mass Transit Railway took over.

Still, it is the favored public transport for short rides and allows passengers to get off at convenient points.

But who invented this jeepney? Well, jeepneys evolved from the US Military jeeps left over from World War II. Filipinos converted the Willys and M38 model jeeps by removing the tailgate (backdoor), making a rounded canvas or tin roof, and painting them in wild vibrant colors. The first models were called “auto Calesa” (a calesa was a horsedrawn carriage) or AC, seating four in the rear and two in front beside the driver. Then, the Filipinos innovated and had longer chassis made, that could accommodate from four to ten passengers on either side. The bigger jeeps had to hire a fare collector.

The Jeepney also had its own “rules” or

etiquette. Passengers relied on the courtesy of fellow passengers to pass on the fare to the driver who doubles up as fare collector. The driver also had a wide rear view mirror so he could see all the passengers, take note of where they boarded and charge them just the right fare for the distance covered.

Famous names in jeepney manufacturing are Sarao Motors, Francisco Motors, Legaspi and Malaguena.

Though it is a symbol of pop culture, the jeepney is facing increasing road restrictions due to its remanufactured diesel-powered engines that have been proven to cause a lot of air pollution. Each jeepney transporting just 10-12 passengers pollute just as much as a bus that can transport 50 or so people.

The jeepney has also employed or given entrepreneurial businesses to thousands of men, making the jeepney operators and drivers’ associations a formidable lobbying group.

These days, however, jeepneys are relegated to secondary streets, its days numbered.

In Makati City, the local government did one better by deploying Electric Jeepneys. And many towns now follow suit, replacing their jeepneys with electric versions. ■ Find out more about the jeepney and the rest of its other cousins among the military vehicles in JEEP NI JUAN: A History of the Jeep In the Philippines now available at all National Bookstores and Powerbooks stores.

Edsa Shangri-La’s Summer Palace

october-november 2011

| InFlight | 39

INdex

store directory

For Cover

Nothing But H2O 2nd Level, Glorietta 3 Ayala Center, Makati City Tel: +632/ 894 0278

For INVogue

Aloha Boardsports Km. 12, Industrial Park East Service Road, Western Bicutan, Taguig City Tel: +632/ 837 0118 Aquazorb Archaeology Wing, 2/F, Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Drive, Makati City Bratpack 2/F, Greenbelt 5, Legaspi St., Ayala Center, Makati City Tel: +632/ 728 4028 Columbia Sportswear 2/F, Greenbelt 5, Legaspi St., Ayala Center, Makati City Tel: +632/ 729 9308 RJ Guitar Center 3/F, Robinsons Galleria, EDSA cor. Ortigas Avenue, Quezon City Tel: +632/ 635 9275 R.O.X B1, Bonifacio High St., The Fort, Taguig City Tel: +632/ 856 4638 Topman G/F, Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, Makati City Tel: +632/ 756 2015

INVogue

Tough gear in the shops | in my bag

1 Olive Green nylon water repellent backpack, P19,490, by Tumi

8 The North Face olive green insulation beanie, P1,290, from Bratpack.

“A micro-fleece ear band lining adds extra warmth where you need it most”

01

9 Thermometer compass with belt clip, P290, from R.O.X 10 Men’s high performance trekking shoes, P7,490,

by Columbia

11

02

2 MED foldable, dust and waterproof and abrasion resistant map case, P1,890, from R.O.X 3 Brown versatile glove mittens, P2,490,

by Columbia 4 Lexan unbreakable watertight body case, P550, from R.O.X

04

03

5 Pac-Safe anti-theft hip and shoulder bag, P2,480, from Bratpack.

“This slash-proof, tamper resistant shoulder bag keeps belongings secure” 6 Princeton Tec Attitude LED pocket flashlight, P2,390, from R.O.X

11 Teal rubber grip and blue refillable water bottle, P990, from R.O.X “With double wall that prevents condensation and keeps beverages cold longer”

05 10

7 The North Face men’s red waterproof jacket, P7,290, from R.O.X. “It’s waterproof, breathable, with seam sealed hard shell, durable fabric with mechanical stretch for unrestricted range of motion, ideal for mountaineers”

06

09 08

you may never go on a wild trek, but if you did, you’d probably need all these 07

10 | InFlight |

St yling by Van eSSa Joh nSon

PhotoS by Jeff Sonora

october-november 2011

2

1

John in Real, Quezon

invogue

In My Bag

Cliff diving, Surfing, and The Beach

Tumi G/F, Greenbelt 5, Legaspi St., Ayala Center, Makati City Tel: +632/ 728 0711

3

4

Watsons G/F, SM Mall of Asia, Bay Boulevard, Bay City, Pasay City Tel: +632/ 556 0763

TV personality John James Uy reveals where he goes for short breaks Product shots by Mario babiera

“For ShorT BreakS, I like going to Punta Fuego and Nuvali in Batangas, just a few hours’ drive from Manila. It’s very private. They offer cliff diving there, which is an adrenaline rush for me! I also go to Pagudpud, a 10-hour drive up north. It’s one of those places that not a lot of people know about, and I just wish that people knew how beautiful the beach was there. I also love to go surfing. I used to surf like thrice a week.

I go with my friends to Zambales, La Union and Real, Quezon. When I travel I always take my puppy with me. He’s like my perfect wingman.”

– John James Uy, TV personality

ThingS i Take when i Travel: 1 Polo Ralph Lauren duffle bag (available at www.ralphlauren.com) 2 Guitar (P5,450) 3 Topman camouflage sunglasses (P1,750) 4 Reef Sandals (P1,950) 5 Van Gogh art case (P4,995) 6 Nivea Sun Moisturising Immediate Sun Protection 7 Hawaiian Tropic tan amplifier oil (P350)

Turn to

page 40 for store contact info

For more ideas on travel gear and essentials, visit www.inflight.ph

14 | InFlight |

ocTobeR-NoVeMbeR 2011

5

6

7

InFlight Classifieds

CLASSiFIEDS

For more information: Call: +632 840 2802 or 553 7978 Email: ksario@inflight.ph

october-november 2011

| InFlight | 41

City Guides

B ata n e s // C ebu // C l a r k // M a n i l a // Hong kong // m ac au // Si ng a p or e // Ho t el di r ec t ory // promo t ions

Updated Every Issue

p46 Insider Macau

p48 Destination guides

p52 Airline guides

map illustrations b y marlon see

october-november 2011

| InFlight | 45

InFlight City Guides Insider

Macau: Asia's Las Vegas Live like a rock star or try your hand at gambling in the old Portuguese enclave of Macau, says Ferdz Decena P hotos b y ferd z decena

M

acau, located 60km southwest of Hong Kong and only about two hours by plane from Clark, Philippines, was a Portugese Colony since the 16th century until its handover to China, and reflects the two cultural influences in its food, lifestyle, and religion. It is also known as the "Las Vegas of Asia" with its 33 casinos and glitzy resorts catering to the gambling market.

Ruins of St Paul Church

STAY. The only hotel located in Macau’s Inner Harbor, the five-star Sofitel Ponte 16 (www. ponte16.com.mo) offer views of Mainland China and the rivers Zuhai and Wanchai from the windows of its 408 luxury rooms.

Live like a rockstar at the Hard Rock Hotel (www.hardrockhotelmacau.com) at Macau’s City of Dreams along the Cotai Strip. The rooms imbibe the spirit of a rock and roll lifestyle while the lobby displays memorabilia from rock icons like John Lenon and INXS. Stay at the historic five-star Pousada de Sau Tiago (www.saotiago.com.mo) situated along the scenic tree-lined Praia Grande Bay. It was originally the Barra Fortress built in the 17th century and the St James Chapel.

DINE. For authentic Macanese food, try Ristorante Litoral (Rua do Almirante Sergio, 261-A, Macau, tel: +853/ 289 67878).

Miramar Restaurant (www.miramar.com.mo) offers seaside Portuguese feasts. It’s famous for its Lagariero-style Bacalhau, a Portuguese salted and dried codfish dish.

Horizons Restaurant (+853/ 8868 6681) for luxury dining. Try the “Kabucha” Veloute with herbs crusted Hokkaido scallop.

DO. Test your luck at the world’s largest casino at the Venetian Macau (www.venetianmacao.com).

Watch the free Tree of Prosperity show (www.wynnmacau.com) at the Wynn Hotel, a

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InFlight

| october-November 2011

Miramar Restaurant's Lagareiro-style Bacalhau

dazzling light show that culminates with the rising of a tree with 98,000 leaves made of 24karat gold and brass.

Dragon’s Treasure (www.cityofdreamsmacau. com) show is a mind-blowing 15-minute visual feast inside the Bubble Theater, the world’s largest special effects dome.

Be mesmerized by a girl’s journey into selfdiscovery in the 90-minute mega-production, Zaia (www.cirquedusoleil.com).

Bungee jump from the Macau Tower. It's the world’s highest Bungee jump (764 feet) operated by AJ Hackett (www.macau.ajhackett. com). ■

Sofitel Ponte 16's luxury room

Dragon's Treasure show

w w w.inf light.ph

Wild North

Sand, sky, and sea in rugged ilocos

april - M ay 2011

Singapore Fling

Crazy sales and high-tech parks at the lion City

Surf’s Up

Go loco over Zambales’ perfect waves

Glug, Glug, Glug

Top 5 happy hour bars

Missed an issue? Subscribe now!

Call: +632/ 840 2802 or email: subscribe@inflight.ph

InFlight City Guides The cliffs of Viang, just 20 minutes from the airport

Batanes Owners and Drivers Association (BATODA) at +63906/ 697 0679 or +63929/ 703 8404. Rate within Basco proper is at P25. itbayat island

Where to eat

• Therese Coffee Shop serves Ivatan dishes. Try

batan island

sabtang island

Country code: +63 Area code: 78 Currency: Philippine Peso (P1 = about US $43)

From the airport • Car Hire: For car and van rentals, contact Ivatanya c/o Batanes Cultural Travel Agency (BCTA). The hire costs P1,500 per day. For more information, call BCTA at +63999/ 553 2804 or email ccivatanya@yahoo.com.

• Tricycle: Tricycles can be found along Lizardo Street, Barangay Kayhuvukan in Basco. You can also call the 24-hour service of Basco Tricycle

their perfectly grilled cow ribs. Tel: +63916/ 114 2632 and +6921/ 404 0567.

• Brandon’s Restaurant serves sandwiches and fruit shakes and some Ivatan specialties.

Located along National Road and Abad Street.

• Casa Napoli’s Pizza or Pasta serves good Clark homemade pizzas and pasta dishes.

Tel: +63917/ 512 5345.

Where to stay • Batanes Resort is nestled atop a hill, facing the South China Sea. A typical cottage here has two rooms with ensuite bathroom, airconditioning, and hot water. Rates are about P1,000 a night.

Tel: +63917/ 522 1258 • Batanes Seaside Lodge and Restaurant. This 12-room lodge is popular for celebrities. There is TV, free WiFi, aircon, and hot shower. Rates start from P1,200. Tel: +63921/ 229 0120 orBATAAN +63915/ 940 4823 • Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge is a boutique hotel perched on top of a hill and has

Cebu

TARLAC

PAMPANGA

had good reviews. Rates start at P4,860, inclusive of set breakfast, roundtrip airport transfers and a three-hour cultural heritage tour. (www.

BULACAN fundacionpacita.ph). Tel: +6327/ 290 2402 • For more on places to stay in Batanes, visit www. inflight.ph

Golden Cowrie

Where to eat • Anzani is highly-rated restaurant that served affordables European food.

Tel: +6332/ 233 4054 • CNT Lechon serves the best lechon or roast pig in Cebu City.

Tel: +6332/ 254 6641 • Golden Cowrie for Filipino food and Cebuano dishes.

Tel: +6332/ 233 4243

bantayan island

cebu island

CHINA

HONG KONG

mactan island

Where to stay

• Alegre Beach Resort and Spa has 19 cabanas set in seven hectares of lush tropical gardens and with three private beach coves.

Tel: +6332/ 231 1198 Country code: +63 URL: www.alegrebeachresort.com Area code: 32 Currency: Philippine Peso (P1 = about US $43) • Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa on Mactan Island has 537 rooms and suites, with the Ocean Wing rooms boasting of view of the Visayan Sea. From the airport Tel: +6332/ 231 0288 • Car Hire: Call any of Cebu Trip Rent-a-Car's URL: www.shangri-la.com 24-hour numbers +6332/ 262 4697 or +63917/ 320 5688.

• Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino has 561 rooms with two casino floors open 24 hours.

• Taxi: Metered taxis are lined up outside the MALAYSIA Tel: +6332/ 232 9000 arrivals' terminal. Fares down town to the city URL: www.waterfronthotels.com.ph proper are about P150.

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InFlight

| october-November 2011 SINGAPORE

Nightlife • Formo is a resto-lounge frequented by Cebu’s young professionals.

Tel: +6332/ 420 7070 or 236 7700 • Vudu is the place for after-dinner drinks and dancing.

URL: www.vudu.com.ph

Clark • Jeep: Public jeepneys are available outside the airport. Rates start at P8. clark

Where to eat

• Pampanga's capital, San Fernando, just 20 minutes from Clark, is home to Everybody's Cafe

serving local dishes.

• Angeles City is the birthplace of sisig (chopped grilled pork cheeks) and make sure you taste the original at Aling Lucing's. Call +6345/ 888 2317 or +63918/ 212 6461. pampanga

Where to stay

• Mimosa Resort. Situated in a 175-hectare

Country code: +63 Area code: 45 Currency: Philippine Peso (P1 = about US $43)

From the airport • Car Hire: MLS VIP Rent A Car has daily rates from P800. Call +6345/ 892 6216 or +63918/ 906 7265.

• Taxi: Taxi stands are located in the arrival halls of the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA) and the fare is metered.

CHINA

landscaped property, Mimosa offers both standard hotel rooms and villas. Rates start at P6,600 per night. Tel.: +6345/ 599 7000 • Montevista Villas has 125 villas. A standard villa has two rooms, living room, lanai area, a modern pantry, guestroom and a spacious master's bedroom with ensuite bathroom. Rates start from P7,260. Tel: +6345/ 599 7000 • Holiday Inn Clark. A local favorite, the Holiday Inn has air-conditioned rooms and WiFi. Private garden villas are also available for families and groups. Tel: +6345/ 599 8000

HONG KONG

MACAU

Aling Lucing's sisig

Things to do

• One of the activities in Clark is horseback riding at El Kabayo Riding Stables.

• For P3,000, tourists can enjoy a dip at the Puning Hot Spring.

• Omni Aviation offers Mount Pinatubo Sky Tours overflying Mt. Pinatubo for P5,000 per

person in a 10-seater RP-C8832 aircraft.

Tel: +6345/ 892 6664 or 599 5524 • If you're a high-roller or just looking for some fun, the Clark area has several casinos including Casino Filipino Angeles, Casino Filipino Mimosa, Fontana Casino and Hotel Stotsenberg's Casablanca Casino.

For more information, call the tourism office at +6345/ 599 2854

InFlight City Guides Hong Kong china

hong kong

tickets that include unlimited use of the MTR for three days, which are very good value for money.

• Taxi: Upon arrival, make your way to the Taxi Station via the left-hand ramp outside the Arrivals Hall. Taxis are color-coded but red taxis will travel to most areas, including Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Peninsula. An approximate taxi fare to Central is HKD 290 and to Tsim Sha Tsui is HKD 230.

Where to eat

• Yung Kee is a local favorite and has been

Country code: +852 Currency: HK Dollar (US $1 = HKD 8)

From the airport

• Train: The MTR (Mass Transit Railway)-operated

Airport Expresscan get you to Kowloon in just 21 minutes and Hong Kong Island in 24 minutes.

It also operates a complimentary shuttle bus service from the stations to most major hotels. The platform is located within the terminal building, connected to the Arrivals Hall, and is clearly signed. Return fare is HKD 160 (Kowloon) or HKD 180 (Hong Kong). It is also possible to purchase

Macau

• Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong. Located in Central near the major business landmarks that’s an ideal place to stay if visiting for shopping.

With 501 guestrooms, 67 of which are suites, all

Where to eat • Wong Chi Kei (Tel: +853/ 2805 1331) for its traditional hand-made noodles and shrimp roe noodles.

• Margaret’s Café a Nata (Tel: +853/ 2871 0032) for its egg tarts.

• Camoes (Tel: +853/ 2872 8818) for authentic Portuguese food.

• Restaurante A Lorcha (Tel: +853/ 2831 3195) for good Portuguese cuisine. Ideal for large groups.

macau

Country code: +853 Currency: Macau Pataca (US $1 = 8 MOP)

From the airport • Taxi: The charge is MOP13 at flag down for the first 1.5km and then MOP1 for each subsequent 180m. To get a taxi by phone, call tel. +853/ 2893 9939 or +853/ 2851 9519.

• Bus: Public buses run daily from 7am to midnight, with fares costing MOP2.50 for travel within the Macau peninsula, MOP3.30 for travel to Taipa, and MOP4 to MOP5 for travel to Colôane.

InFlight

Where to stay

MACAU china

50 |

awarded a Michelin star in 2010. Famous are its roast meats, especially the goose, seafood and dim sum. Address: 32-40 Wellington St., Central Tel: +852/ 2522 1624 • Ajisen Ramen serves affordable and satisfying noodle soup and curries and bento boxes served in a traditional Japanese setting, with over 30 outlets across Hong Kong. Address: Shop 5, 4/F, Langham Place, 8 Argyle St., Mong Kok, Kowloon Tel: +852/ 3514 4396

overlooking Victoria Harbour and the surrounding cityscape. Operates 10 restaurants and bars, including the Michelin-starred Pierre and the threestorey Mandarin Spa. Rates start from HKD 7,600.

Address: 5 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong Tel: +852/ 2522 0111 URL: www.mandarinoriental.com/hongkong • The Peninsula Hong Kong. Hong Kong's grand old dame that features rooms with high ceilings and classical proportions, all spelling luxury. Rates start from HKD 4,160. Tel: +852/ 2920 2888 Visit www.peninsula.com/Hong_Kong • Park Lane Hong Kong offers 805 fully equipped guestrooms and suites with the view of the famed Victoria Harbour and Park ideal for business and leisure travellers alike. Rates start from HKD 2,470. Tel: +852/ 2293 8888 URL: www.parklane.com.hk • W Hong Kong has 393 rooms and specialty suites featuring interesting infusions of wood, fire, earth, metal and water and modcons in each room.

Rates start from HKD 3,300. Address: 1 Austin Road West Kowloon Station Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Tel: +852 3717 2222 URL: www.whotels.com/HongKong

| october-November 2011

Where to stay • Venetian. A 40-storey 70sqm hotel and casino resort with 3,000 suites, each with separate bedroom and living area canopy-draped beds, and Italian marble bathrooms with separate bath and shower. Rates start from MOP 12,900. Call +853/ 2882 882 for reservations.

• Hotel Lisboa. A convenient hotel with 1,000 rooms and suites that are richly decorated and furnished. Most rooms offer a magnificent view of the South China Sea and Macau landmarks. Rates start from MOP 880 to MOP 4,100. Call +853/ 2888 3888.

• Pousada De Sao Tiago Macau. 12 luxurious fully equipped spacious suites each with a balcony overlooking the Inner Harbour of Macau and

the Pearl River Delta, with bathroom that has rainforest shower, steam room and TV. Rates start from MOP 2,600 to MOP 4,500. Call +853/ 2837 8111.

Nightlife • Go to The Docks, a string of sidewalk cafes and bars lining Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-sen near the Kun Iam Statue.

• A great place to watch the sun go down is 180 Lounge and Grill in the Macau Tower (Tel: +853/ 8988 8659).

Shopping

• Largo do Senado Square sells overruns and

seconds from Macau's many garment factories.

You can pick up Chinese jackets here cheaper than those sold in Hong Kong.

• A weekly outdoor market is held Sundays from 11am to 8pm in Taipa Village, selling traditional crafts, souvenirs, clothing, toys, and food.

• In Coloane Village, check out Asian Artefacts, 9 Rua dos Negociantes (Tel. +853/ 2888 1022), which sells restored antique furniture from North China and other Asian countries.

Macau Government Tourist For info on tours, call +853/ 2831 5566

Singapore • Bus: A trip will cost you between 60 cents

and SG$ 1.20. Buy a copy of TransitLink Guide available at most bookstores for a comprehensive guide on bus time-tables, routes and fares, sold at SG$ 1.50.

• Taxi: A taxi stand is located outside the departure hall of the airport. A taxi from the airport to the city has a SG$ 3 surcharge but there is no surcharge when you travel from city to the airport.

A trip from Changi airport to the city costs about SG$ 13, excluding surcharge.

Where to eat

• 49 Katong Laksa. For authentic Peranakan

Country code: +65 Currency: SG Dollar (US $1 = about 1.30 SGD)

From the airport Getting around Singapore on foot is a pleasant and hassle-free way of seeing the center of the city, but when you want to venture slightly farther or dart between different districts, then a bus or train is the fastest and most economical option.

• Car Hire: San’s Tours and Car Rentals charges daily rates between SG$ 100 and SG$ 150.

Call +65/ 6734 9922.

specialty Laksa. Tel: +65/ 6344 5101 • Jumbo Seafood. Known for its black pepper beef short ribs, sweet and sour prawns, and Yangshou fried rice. Tel: +65/ 6442 3435 Where to stay • The Scarlet Hotel Singapore is an 80-room “lavish” hotel set in a four hectare property at the center of Singapore, close to the Thian Hock Keng Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, and Raffles Place. It’s designed in modern Moulin Rouge style. Room rates start from SG$ 320.

Tel: +65 6511 3303

New Majestic Hotel

URL: www.scarlethotelsingapore.com • New Majestic Hotel offers 30 exclusive and unique rooms that incorporate the 1920's style with being state of the art, with modern luxurious amenities. Rates start at SG$ 260.

Address: 31-37 Bukit Pasoh Road, Chinatown Tel: +65/ 6511 4700 URL: www.newmajestichotel.com • Wanderlust is a left-field and totally experimental boutique hotel set to draw madcap voyagers and curious travellers to its doorstep. Located in Little India, the hotel has four thematic levels with 29 rooms created by award winning Singapore designers. Rates start at SG$ 220.

Address: 2 Dickson Road Tel: +65 6396 3322 URL: www.wanderlusthotel.com

AirlineGuide Airbus 319

SEAIR (Low Cost) Destinations • Singapore • Hong Kong • Macau • Bangkok (Thailand)

Fleet • 2 Airbus A-319

Booking and Ticketing • Book online at www.flyseair.com or www.tigerairways.com • Clark: Unit 166, SM City CSEZ, Clarkfield, Pampanga Tel: +6343/ 499 0258-59 • Makati: Unit 202 La O' Center Building, 1000 Arnaiz Avenue (formerly Pasay Road) corner Makati Avenue, Makati City Tel: +632/ 849 0111

Dornier 328

South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR Domestic Islands) Southeast Asian Airlines (SEAIR), a premier leisure airline, is the second oldest airline in the Philippines.

SEAIR was founded in 1995 by Capt. Iren Dornier, Capt. Nikos Gitsis, and Tomas Lopez, starting operations from Manila to Rodriguez and Busuanga, Palawan. In 1996, it started the Caticlan route, servicing Boracay bound passengers.

To date, SEAIR has the longest history of flights to Caticlan for 16 years. The airline also helped develop Batanes into a major tourist destination.

SEAIR now flies to prime tourist destinations such as Caticlan (Boracay), Clark, Batanes, El Nido (Palawan) and Tablas (Romblon), as well as to regional routes Singapore, Hongkong, Macau and Bangkok in Thailand.

Destinations • Clark • Caticlan (Boracay) • Manila • Basco (Batanes) • Tablas (Romblon) • El Nido (Palawan) • Singapore • Hongkong • Macau • Bangkok (Thailand)

Fleet • 4 Dornier 328 • 1 LET 410 UVP-E • 2 Airbus A-319

Booking and Ticketing • Book online at www.flyseair.com • Makati: Unit 202 La O' Center Building, 1000 Arnaiz Avenue (formerly Pasay Road) corner Makati Avenue, Makati City Tel: +632/ 849 0100 • Cebu: SEAIR Cebu Office, YMCA Building, Jones Avenue, Cebu City Tel: +6332/ 341 4879

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| InFlight | october-november 2011

Dornier 228

Island Transvoyager (ITI) Island Transvoyager, Inc. (ITI) is the airline that operates to prime tourist destinations El Nido and Taytay, both in Palawan, offering as much as daily flights from Manila.

ITI is the official carrier of the upmarket El Nido Resorts that operates three resorts in El Nido and one in Taytay. Both El Nido and Taytay are known for having stunning limestone cliffs, white sandy beaches, and highly diverse eco systems.

ITI is also engaged in air taxi services and air charter operations using the 19-seater Dornier 228-212 aircraft. It is committed to protecting the environment and conserving the natural resources and beauty of El Nido, and is the first airline to establish a program to offset carbon emissions in 2008.

Destinations • El Nido (Palawan) • Taytay (Palawan)

Fleet • 3 Dornier 228

Booking and Ticketing • ITI Hangar No. 5-03-127, Andrews Avenue (near PAL Medical Center), Domestic Airport, Pasay City Tel: +632/ 851 5664, 851 5674, 851 5667 Email: info@itiair.com URL: www.itiair.com

CHINA

REPUBLIC OF KOREA

BHUTAN

PAL

CHINA

SEAIR (Low Cost)

JA

REPUBLIC OF KOREA REPUBLIC OF TAIWAN

HONG KONG

BANGLADESH

MACAU

MYANMAR

LAOS PHILIPPINE SEA

SOUTH CHINA SEA

PHILIPPINES

LUZON

Clark, Angeles MANILA

THAILAND VIETNAM

VISAYAS

CAMBODIA

BANGKOK

SULU SEA

MINDANAO

ANKA CELEBES SEA

BRUNEI

TAIWAN SINGAPORE

HONG KONG

KONG

AR

NEI

TAIWAN

MALAYSIA

Basco

SEAIR Route Map

ITI Route Map

BATANES

LAOS

INDONESIA PHILIPPINE SEA

PHILIPPINE SEA

SOUTH CHINA SEA

PHILIPPINES

LUZON

Clark, Angeles

SOUTH CHINA SEA

PHILIPPINES EAST TIMOR

LUZON MANILA

MANILA

THAILAND Tablas Island

VIETNAM VISAYAS

ROMBLON

VISAYAS

Caticlan AKLAN

El Nido

El Nido

CAMBODIA

Taytay

PALAWAN

PALAWAN

SULU SEA

SULU SEA

MINDANAO

MINDANAO

AUSTRA CELEBES SEA

CELEBES SEA

BRUNEI

october-november 2011

| InFlight | 53

All That Buzz InFlight launches Second Edition of Indulge Boracay InFlight launched its second Boracay edition of Indulge supplement, featuring some of the island’s best restaurants, at Epic Boracay on May 21, 2011 in Station 2, Boracay Island.

The supplement includes discount coupons of up to 10 per cent and dessert treats from select participating restaurants and bars.

Hosted by Dan Yusay Harvey, the two-hour Indulge launch party was attended by close to 100 people, including sponsors and advertisers. The Island Rhythm Force provided music for the night.

Event sponsors laid out a generous feast of their signature restaurant dishes. Sponsors included Ambassador in Paradise’s Paradise Restaurant, Aria, Bistro Valhalla Boracay, Bite Club Grilled Burgers, Cafe del Mar, Café del Sol, Cyma Greek Taverna, Epic, Escondido’s Boracay Crabhouse, Hama Japanese Cuisine, Kasbah, Le Soleil De Boracay’s Beach Café, Lemoni Café, Ole, Mandala Spa and Villas’ Prana Restaurant, Real Coffee, Tides Boracay Hotel’s Kaon and Zuzuni.

Island Souvenirs gave away bags; Loco Frio gave away tumblers and free cocktails; Mandala Spa gave sarongs; while South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR) flew the InFlight crew to Boracay. ■

PARTY VENUE: Epic Boracay

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InFlight

| OCTOBER-NOVember 2011

From left: Epic Restaurant manager Jay G Olle’, InFlight sales and marketingdirector Margie Defensor, host Dan Yusay Harvey

From left: SEAIR COO Patrick Tan, Joyce Moros, Kris Sario, Janette Cruz, Maggie Francisco, Kat Parayno and Margie Defensor, with Libelle Creative’s Van Porciuncula and Andrew Padernal (third and fourth from right), Rose Fajardo (second from last) and Dan Harvey (back)

From left: Indulge writer Catherine Kirchhoff, Cafe del Mar’s Ely Gomez and Kasbah Boracay’s Stephen Lu

P hotos b y daniel soriano

MANDALA SPA & VILLAS BORACAY IS THE FIRST PHILIPPINE DESTINATION SPA APPROVED BY TUVRheinland.

In a simple ceremony held last May 26, 2011 at the Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa, Mandala Spa & Villas was recognized as the “First Eco Spa in Asia Pacific” as certified by TÜVRheinland for quality service and eco-friendly practices. TÜV Representative, Mr. Eric Santos presented two certifications to Mandala Spa & Villas’ owner Dieter Schrottmann, for their remarkable efforts in Service Quality and Eco Tourism.

For Mandala Spa & Villas' owner, Dieter Schrottmann, this comes as a great recognition for their hard work and steadfast commitment to reinforce Mandala Spa & Villas’ position as the Asia Pacific region’s pinnacle of international standards in eco-spa, wellness and ecotourism. He states, “There is a certain pride in going green. Being willing to go the extra mile to do the right thing makes you special. It makes you feel better and makes you walk a little taller. Besides, sexy people go green!”

Witnessing the momentous occasion were Shangri-La Boracay's General Manager Mark Kirk, Elena Brugger and Nieva Mendoza (environmental consultants to Malay Municipal Mayor John Yap) and Mandala Spa & Villas representatives: Resort Manager Jove Schrottmann, Human Resources Manager Edgar Savior, Director for Sales and Marketing Abegale Clariño and Spa Operations Manager RichellSañez.

Mandala Spa & Villas further answers the global call for environmental action, by planting a tree for every spa treatment purchased and for each villa booked per night. With their successful green initiative called The TREETment Project (www.facebook.com/thetreetmentproject), they organize regular tree planting activities in the island. To find out how you or your business can participate in future greening activities, be a fan of The Treetment Project on Facebook. For more information and reservations, please visit www.mandalaspa.com or call (03 36) 288.5857-58.

Boracay