Experience Travel & Living by Experience Travel and Living

Volume 10 • Number 2 • 2014 ISSN

SUBIC BAY

sprawling family playground

Davao’s Modern Charm Only for the Brave: Exotic Caving Wonderlands Home for the Philippine Eagles Antipolo’s Best Kept Secret Trekking in Nepal

PhP200 • US$4 www.experiencetravelandliving.com

Experience travel and living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

contents

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living • Volume 10 • Number 2 • 2014 Explore

Riding Baler’s Famous Waves 59

The romance with the rocks unfolds as writer Sara Francis bravely enters Lagun Gobingob in Samar, the second biggest cave in South-East Asia. The deep cavern leads to a maze of tunnels and chambers in various directions, with barely a speck of light to lead the way.

Park Inn Hotel: In Living Color 62

Caving Wonderlands in the Philippines 18

Experience City in Focus: Davao Davao’s Modern Charm 21

Park Inn Davao is the very first next generation mid-scale property in the Asia Pacific. The hotel is at the center of all the city happenings, yet the warm colored interiors of every room allows guests to have their much-needed quiet time.

Industry giants are slowly taking over Mindanao’s fastest growing business district. Amid such impressive developments, Davao has managed to preseve its laid back charm, with home grown products riding high along side its competitors.

Bayside Glamor 66

Art and Nature Mix at Malagos 25

Leisure Living

City dwellers rarely have the chance to watch the quiet movements of a butterfly or appreciate rare bird species. Malagos Garden Resort rekindles life’s simply joys. The 12-hectare nature park has a forest, butterfly sanctuary and a sculpture garden.

Eden Experience 28

The resort was once an open space were logs piled up on wild grass. The sprawling mountain destination is now a haven for adventure seekers, or individuals who wish to enjoy the crisp mountain air while communing with nature.

Home for the Eagle 31

The Philippine Eagle Center looks after 36 eagles in a simulated forest setting. The center educates visitors on how to preserve the country’s national bird. Because of its diminishing number the birds are now considered critically endangered.

A Walk to Remember: Trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal 33

The destination is 5380m above sea level and trekkers need to walk at high altitudes, sometimes in freezing temperatures. But the trials are absolutely worth it, thanks to the views of four of the Earth’s highest mountains, including Mount Everest.

Escape

Cover Story: Shopping and Trekking in Subic Bay 37

The freeport has attracted city dwellers to embark on the long drive for a weekend shopping spree. They can also visit the forests and commune with nature, play golf, or check out the restaurants, bars and casinos.

Accommodations

Inter Park Hotel: Your Subic Leisure Get Away 46

Home to weekend warriors who wish to relax while enjoying various bayside attractions.

Your Best Bohol Beach Holiday 49

South Palms has the longest beach in Panglao. Because of the seemingly endless stretch of sand guests can take advantage of the space without bumping into one another. Crowded beaches are a thing of the past.

Family Fun and Romantic Evening at Discovery Suites 52

The experience is nothing short of the luxurious dwellings that are featured in A-list magazines. All rooms elegantly combine the stylish hotel features with the warmth of home.

Stylish Comfort and Relaxation at Segara Suites and Villas 55 The city paradise transports travelers to a tropical destination free from stress and clutter.

One of the most talked about resorts is Costa Pacifica, a 106-room property located on Baler’s famous shores. set against a mountain. The units are done in glass, so guests have a nice view of the sea.

Experience travel and living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

The posh Subic Bay Yacht Club is a premier hub for yacht lovers. Rooms have top of the line amenities, a luxury spa, several function rooms for special events.

Life is a Beach 68

Azure is a resort themed residential condominium designed by Hollywood Socialite Paris Hilton. It also has a beach club which reflects the heiress’ personality -- hot pink chairs, ice cream and candy bar and a fitness center that turns into a club.

Wellness

Brooke’s Point to Wellness 72

Brooke’s offers a range of facial, body slimming treatments and all types of therapeutic massage. It also has a gym for those who wish to stay fit. The program covers diet plans, life coaching and group exercises like zumba and yoga.

The Medical Spa Pioneer 77

Breaking away from the traditional look of clinics, the Zen Institute offers medical procedures performed in a relaxing setting. No metal hospital beds, or scary emergency rooms. Its almost like seeking treatment from a spa.

Dining

Antipolo’s Best Kept Secret 84

The lure of authentic Swiss food served in a rustic setting was enough to convince the romantics to drive to Antipolo. Vieux Chalet is still the much recommended romantic getaway.

Bulgogi Fever 88

Kogi Bulgogi is known for its spicy barbecue dish. The spice level can actually be tempered according to the diner’s choice.The customized touch is one of the main reasons why the restaurant is consistently serving a jam packed crowd.

Encounter

Subic Family Fun 91

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) chairman Roberto Garcia rides high as Subic focuses on family activities with its theme parks, watersports facilities and duty-free shopping establishments.

Shopping in Davao 94

According to Tourism Assistant Secretary for Mindanao Arturo Boncato Jr the tourist attractions and the booming developments has turned the city into a shopping destination which creates a lot of opportunities.

Dream Gatherings the City 96

Wedding organizer Rita Nery recommends her very own R-Space located at Nicanor Garcia st. in Bel- Air Makati. Created by Architect Bong Recio with interiors by Ivy and Cynthia Almario, it turns every occasion into a memorable celebration.

Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

publisher’s note Writing the Publisher’s Note has always been very uplifting. I always have a thousand and one things to say because of the many discoveries we encountered while completing the magazine. I will never get tired of talking about my wonderful experience in every town, festival or the kind hearted resort staff who always makes every guest feel at home. Traveling around the Philippines is truly a gem of an experience, an event that will never cease to bring happiness to both local and international tourists. This is why coming up with every issue of Experience Travel and Living can be such a challenge because of the many wonderful places we wish to feature. We are committed to produce the best travel guide book every quarter and such a spirit kept us on our toes for 10 years. But like any successful presentation the curtain would eventually have to fall, the actors would have to bow and leave the stage. But its not quite the end, especially if the show resumes the next day. The same goes for Experience Travel and Living magazine. After 10 years of giving life into every issue I am passing it on to another team, who posses the same level of passion and commitment. The magazine will not disappear from the news stands in fact you can expect a newer and bolder version in the months to come. I am turning over the magazine to a good friend of mine Ms. Ana Manansala, who will happily continue what I have started, while enhancing the publication’s other potentials. This is not goodbye my dear readers. In fact a whole new road lies ahead of Experience Travel and Living. To enhance its visibility, the magazine will now have a new digital version and an active travel events presence via tie-ups and partnerships. Lastly, allow me to express my deepest gratitude for all the support you have extended for the past 10 years. I will be not be gone in the travel scene. In fact I am headed towards a more focused and exciting endeavor. My love, commitment and passion of traveling lives on... Cheers! GINGKO UNTAL President/Managing Director

Experience travel and living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

editor’s note

The heart of a traveler I am a traveler at heart. The idea of going to a new place fascinates me. It can be a whole new destination waiting to unravel, or a favorite place that I am visiting for nth time, the whole experience delights my every soul. Traveling allows us to go discover a new reality, outside our comfort zone. A channel for a new perspective, especially if we are too stressed about our day-to-day routine. My journey is made even more memorable because it gives me a chance to set my experience into words, a craft that I so passionately execute. In effect this is all about doing what I love most, traveling and writing. In order to fully experience the rare opportunity, one has to embark on the journey with a open mind, if possible, a thirst for adventure to spice up the encounter. One cannot really write about an experience, if the mind is toxic with deadlines. I will never get tired of exploring the many facets of the Philippines. For me every trip has an interesting story to tell. There could be over a hundred beaches in the Philippines, but for me, every encounter will be different. The graceful movement of the waves, as it approaches the shore will alway delight the senses. And as my eyes feast on the gentle flow, my mind focuses on its beauty, erasing all doubt, that life is truly blessed with rare treasures. Even if I have been to Subic and Davao so many times, every trip will always be exciting. Destinations change through the years and like a child that matures as it learns about the world, the beauty of every destination evolves with the traveler.

TET DEFENSOR Editor-in-Chief

Experience travel and living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

EDITORIAL

INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES

TET DEFENSOR

LOLITA DUBLIN

JOY D. GANADEN

EVA U. TRIMBLE

Editor in Chief

Creative Director

DONALD TAPAN

Chief Photographer

LESTER HALLIG SARAH FRANCIS

Liaison Officer in Washington, DC

Liaison Officer in Columbus, Ohio

PATRICIA DUBLIN

Liaison Officer in New York

NOEL D. UNTAL Liaison Officer in Thailand

Contributing Writers

PRECY G. GUMBAN

JO ANNE C. MABBAYAD Liaison Officer in Singapore

Editorial Assistant

______________

JALILUL C. CONEJOS

Liaison Officer in Toronto, Canada

SALES

STRATEGIC MINDS MARKETING Advertising/Business Development

DENNY ALONZO Corporate Secretary

GABRIEL and MENDOZA Legal Counsel

TATAK PILIPINO STORE

Circulation/Distribution in Palisade Avenue Jersey City, New Jersey

________________________ CIRCULATION

EDUARDO BULLO

Circulation/Liaison Officer

PRISCILLA C. RAMOS Liaison Officer in Cebu

Experience, a travel and living magazine is published quartery by Gusto Publishing Inc, Metro Manila Philippines. Mobile Phone nos: 0935 798 22 69 / 0916 308 22 96. Find us at www.issuu.com Email address: experiencetravelandliving@gmail.com / experiencesales03@gmail.com The magazine and its editors assumed no responsibility for all manuscript and photographs submitted. While every reasonable effort is made to verify information, facts and figures, the magazine editors assumes no responsibility for errors or misrepresentation that may appear in the publication. Opinions expressed in Experience are solely those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by the company and its editors. Printed in the Philippines All rights reserved. No part of the magazine maybe reproduced in full or in part without prior written permission from the publisher and the editors.

Experience travel and living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

contributors

Lester Gopela Hallig is a seasoned travel journalist. Very passionate about promoting local tourism, he is convinced that every town in the Philippines is a discovery waiting to happen. He enjoys food culture, too, and is eager to learn about the stories behind the flavors.

“Sarah Francis is originally from Melbourne, Australia, but after developing a passion for travel at a young age she is no longer sure where to call home. Along with having visited thirty countries in six continents, she has also lived in a remote Aboriginal community in Australia and currently lives in East Timor. She uses her skills in communications to help young people find their way out of poverty. Sarah is driven to write in order to inspire people with stories about the wonders of the world.”

Experience travel and living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

POSTINGS Priscilla, Queen of the Desert at Resorts World Resorts World Manila, known for producing world-class shows with shades of Broadway and the West End, breaks from its usual classical offerings to present, D, Queen of the Desert, a unique take on Stephan Elliot’s celebrated Australian hit movie and stage phenomenon. The production, aside from having an effective combination of situational comedy and an overflowing dose of infectious retro pop hits, tells the story of three friends (two drag queens and a transsexual), who travel across the Australian desert in their trusty pink bus named “Priscilla” to showcase their unique style of cabaret. Jam-packed with hits such as Tina Turner’s What’s Love Got To Do With It?, the Village People’s Go West, Alicia Bridges’s I Love The Nightlife, Abba’s Dancing Queen, Gloria Gaynor’s I Will Survive, Dionne Warwick’s I Say A Little Prayer, The Weather Girls’ It’s Raining Men, Peaches and Herb’s Shake Your Groove Thing and countless more hits, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert is one of the few musicals that keeps its audiences dancing from start to finish.

The local production features prominent names in both theater and local comedy with three-time ALIW awardee Leo Tavarro Valdez and Jon Santos playing two of the leads, and is directed by international stage maestro Jaime del Mundo of The Producers fame. Also on board the production is Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo. With flamboyant costumes, extraordinary headdresses, and a customized bus as its sparkling centerpiece, Priscilla is a must see spectacular “The younger generation will eat this show up. They took an interesting story and filled it with disco music,” Yulo said. “We will have audiences dancing in their seats,” she added. Priscilla Queen of the Desert is a production of Resorts World Manila. For ticket reservations, visit www.rwmanila.com or call (639) 908-8833.

Experience travel and living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

“Rak of Aegis” Returns The music of the legendary pop-rock band Aegis conquers the local theater scene as Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) brings back “Rak of Aegis”, a Pinoy rock comedy-musical featuring the songs of Aegis. From June 20 to August 31, 2014 the highly anticipated new musical is a playlist of chart-topping Aegis songs such as “Luha,” “Halik,” “Sundot,” “Christmas Bonus,” and “Basang-basa sa Ulan” performed by a mix of talented theater artists led by Isay AlvarezSeña, Robert Seña, Aicelle Santos, and Joan Bugcat. The cast also includes Kakai Bautista, Neomi Gonzales, Jerald Napoles, Pepe Herrera, Myke Salomon, Poppert Bernadas, Gie Onida, Julienne Mendoza, Ron Alfonso, Phillip Palmos, Gold Villar, Gimbey Dela Cruz, Jet Barrun, Paeng Sudayan, Carlon Matobato and John Moran. A story of love, fame and resilience, “Rak of Aegis” is set in a subdivision frequently marred with flood. The story revolves around Aileen, a young promodizer caught in the web of finding love and seeking fame to support her family. A story inspired by Filipino’s resilience, the play showcases the capacity of Filipinos to overcome the greatest peril. “Rak of Aegis” will be a box filled with musical and visual spectacles showcasing Pinoy’s innate love for music. The musical is created by the same women behind PETA’s hit comedy musical “Care Divas,” PETA Artistic Director Maribel Legarda and Palanca Award-winning writer Liza Magtoto, with arrangement and direction by actor-musician Myke Salomon.

“Rak of Aegis” features set design by Mio Infante, choreography by Gio Gahol, lighting by Jonjon Villareal, costume design by Carlo Pagunaling, shoe design by Maco Custodio and accessory design by Joan Pamintuan. “Rak of Aegis” goes onstage every 8pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from June 20 to August 31, 2014, with matinee shows every Saturday and Sunday, at PETA Theater Center No.5 Eymard Drive, New Manila Quezon City.

Sexy Detox for a healthier, sexier you A healthy juicing lifestyle leads to a hot and sexy body. Sexy Detox is a fun and tasty drink that feeds the body with valuable nutrients while aiding weight loss. Sexy Detox is a partnership between Atty. Reginald Tayag and Jessica Arsolon. The healthy drink helped Ms. Arsolon lose ten pounds in two weeks. She encouraged Atty Tayag to switich to the “juicing lifestyle” because at that time, he was suffering from high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. After weeks fo health juicing levels lowered significantly. The impressive results prompted the two to conduct extensive research on “juicing”. Atty. Tayag explains, “We need to go back to the basics of fresh fruits and vegetables. Nowadays, we seldom eat or drink fresh. Most of the products that we buy in supermarkets have been processed in order to lengthen their shelf life. However, these processes kill the enzymes that are important in order for our bodies to digest and absorb food nutrients. Enzymes and phytochemicals are very important to our bodies. Enzymes are the catalysts or starters for the chemical reactions of our cells – either to break up old cells or to form new ones. Phytochemicals are important in order for our bodies to ward of sickness and to boost our immune systems. Sexy Detox juices are rich in these live enzymes and phytochemicals.” He added, “since I started juicing and avoiding processed food, I have maintained normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels. I do not take any maintenance medicine. Drinking Sexy Detox juices has helped me a lot to be fit and healthy. Reasonably priced, Sexy Detox is guaranteed fresh and better-tasting than other detox juices currently sold in the local market. Available in Sexy Lemon, Citrus Sunshine, Hulk Green, Grape Jolt and Fast Red. Premium flavors are: Almond Delight, Cocoa Surprise, Kiwi Magic, Milky Strawberry, and Strawberry Chill.

*For more information on how SEXY DETOX can help you get into the healthy habit. Visit their Website – http//sexydetox.wix.com/juice or call Mobile number – 0917-899-28-65 and through their Social media accounts – Facebook : Sexy Detox; Instagram: #sexydetox; @s_e_x_y_detox

Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

POSTINGS Uncover Taiwan’s Hidden Beauty Onboard SuperStar Virgo

Discover Taiwan’s cultural, historical and scenic treasures when SuperStar Virgo, Star Cruises’ flagship in Asia, takes passengers from Hong Kong to Keelung(Taipei), Kaohsiung and Taichung this summer. Star Cruises,will showcase the many facets of this “Treasure Island” during SuperStar Virgo’s Taiwan cruise sailing from Hong Kong till October 2014. Covering cultural to historical, educational to shopping, and religious the is tailored to suit every traveler’s taste. History meets modern life Taipei is adorned with natural wonders. On the Yehliu and Jiufen Tour, travelers will visit Yehliu Geopark, a cape stretching approximately 1,700 meters into the ocean and formed as geological forces pushed Datun Mountain out of the sea. The cape has hoodoo stones dotting its surface. Rock formations have been given imaginative names based on their shapes -- “Queen’s Head”, among others such as “Fairy’s Shoe”, “Candle”, “Bean Curd” and “Dragon Head”. Travelers will also go to Jiufen, the mountain side village with a gorgeous sea view. The former gold mining center is now lined with teahouses and souvenir stores. Culture enthusiasts should not miss the National Palace Tour which covers Taiwan’s notable landmarks. Most of the museum’s 620,000 artifacts were part of the Chinese imperial collection, dating back t1,000 years ago from the early Song Dynasty. Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall is a place of remembrance for the respected national hero. Shoppers will enjoy buying gifts from the Taipei 101 Shopping District which is packed with designer boutiques from around the globe. To get a bird’s eye view of the vibrant city a visit to the observation deck on the 89th floor of Taipei 101 is highly recommended.

The Pingxi Tour takes travelers to tourist hotspots Jiufen, Jintong Train Station, and the Ching Tong Mining Museum. At Pingxi, you can make a wish and light a sky lantern with your loved ones. Other splendid Keelung excursions include the Taipei Historical Tour with stops at the Yingge Ceramics Museum, Sanxia Old Street and Qingshui Master Temple; the Taipei Cultural Tour covers the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, the Martyr’s Shrine and Ximenting; and the North-Eastern Coast Tour features the National Center for Traditional Arts, Beiguan Tidal Park, Nanya Rock and Keelung Night Market. Multidimensional southern charm Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second largest city, has a unique charm of folk and religious activities. The 100-hectare Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center is a mustsee attraction in Kaohsiung. On the Fo Guang Shan Tour, travelers can pay a spiritual visit to this Buddhist cultural, religious and educational complex, which houses one of the tooth relics of Gautama Buddha, the founder of the Buddhist faith. At E-Da World, Taiwan’s first outlet mall situated in a top-notch resort, visitors can find discount stores of more than 300 international designer brands. Chijin is a popular destination for city dwellers looking for beachside relaxation. The tour encapsulates the best of the island. The Chihou Lighthouse commands a beautiful panoramic view of the Port of Kaohsiung. The Chihou Fort, built at around 1711, is a Chinese-style fortification replete with engravings and many other traditional designs. The heavily visited Tianhou Temple is dedicated to the goddess Matsu. In 1979, it was designated as a grade three historic site. The Chijin Wind Power Park is the first wind-powered recreational area in Taiwan. In front of the seven uniquely shaped 3-blade wind turbines, are viewing platforms and a performance square for artistic events.

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The nearby city of Tainan serves as the window to native culture. It includes a visit to the well-preserved Chikanlou, a mansion built in the Ming Dynasty, and Guoxingye’s Shrine, built in memory of the Pioneer King of Taiwan Cheng Cheng Kung. Travelers may also choose go on a shore excursion like the Sizihwan Tour to Sizihwan, the Former British Consulate at Dagou, 85 Sky Tower Hotel and Kaisyuan Night Market; the Kaohsiung Highlight Tour to Lotus Pond, Dream Mall and the Pier-2 Art Center; and the Culture Park Tour to Taiwan Indigenous Peoples Cultural Park, Qingdao Beer Brewery and Liu-He Night Market. A Showcase of cultural and natural heritage Sun Moon Lake is the largest fresh water lake and one of the 13 national scenic areas in Taiwan. The takes travelers to the the breathtaking alpine lake by boat and v lakeside Wenwu and Xuanguang Temples. The contemporary Paper Dome is an elegant contrast to the tranquil lake. The church made of paper tubes was designed by renowned Japanese architect Shigeru Ban in 1995 after the Great Hanshin Earthquake. It was moved to Taichung post the 921 Earthquake in Taiwan. It now serves as a venue for religious, art and cultural activities. As the night falls, shoppers can look for their next favourite items at Fengia Night Market. Once a major seaport, Lugang’s glory is preserved through its well-kept historical buildings. The Historic Tour includes a visit to the Lugang Folk Arts Museum a former residence of a prestigious Taiwanese family. The museum holds more than 6,000 artifacts. Valuable historic articles are also be found at the sublime and solemn Lugang Tianhou Temple which is filled with elegant murals and paintings. On Lugang Old Street, you can purchase souvenirs while admiring the period exteriors of the different shops . Bask in the beauty of Changhua, when you visit the Great Buddha Statue sitting at Bagua Mountain. The 86-foot hollow statue features vivid dioramas depicting the life of the Buddha. Other recommended Taichung excursions include the Chun Tai Chan Monastery Tour which includes Chun Tai Chan Monastery and Taiwan Times Village, where you can get an insight into the Taiwanese, Hakka and Aboriginal cultures through artistic performances, food and architecture. If you like to shop then take the Shopping Tour to Taichung Park, Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, Eslite Bookstore and Chun Shui Tang, while students can take the Educational Tour to the National Museum of Nature Science and the 921 Earthquake Museum of Taiwan. On Star Cruises, every journey is a voyage of discovery and surprise.

Flying Adventure If you have a fear of heights, you might just get rid of it when you embark on the Tower of Power Ropes Course, a 12-stage High and Low Wire obstacle course complete with a Multisided Rockwall. For a real adrenaline rush go for the Dropzone, an extreme pendulum swing that starts with 120 ft free fall into a manmade lake, followed by a big swoop back to deck. The attraction is often the source of the loudest scream. Top this incredible experience with a leisurely ride through the forest trees. The flying lizard allows riders to pedal from the high wire while going around tree tucks and vines. Want to try the adventure with your friends or workmates? Why not include flying in your company outing? Dahilayan can organize adventure tours which include ziplining, rafting or even the drop zone.

Tired of the usual beach and road trip adventure? How would you like to be Superman and fly across the forest? Dahilayan adventure park is certainly not for the faint hearted. Imagine gliding though the air at 90 kph, 4,700 above sea level. If that won’t wack you out of your boring life, then nothing else will. A trip to Dahilayan is a few days of a life less ordinary. Don’t expect to do the usual stuff when you decide to visit the popular destination. The Adventure Park has two 840m Ziplines that drops to 100 meters. Zipriders are transported via 4WD Safari Cruiser to a launch tower at 4500' ASL. Riders can touch the sky as they Zoom through the rainforest canopy at 60-80kph and then land at our Carrier-type flight deck via a special arresting gear system. This is certainly an incredible way of exploring lush greenery and breathtaking view of Dahilayan mountains. The ride is guaranteed safe and fun for every adventurous soul which includes a brave 2 year old, and and thrill seeking 77 year old grandpa.

Those who wish to spend the night at the park, can book a room at the Pine Grove Mountain Lodge. A cozy eight room dwelling, the place resembles ski chalet complete with a nice view of Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park. It has a restaurant and a garden patio for bonfire and barbecue parties.

Cozy Hideaway Tucked within the quiet side of Sto Nino, Puerto Galera is Elizabeth Hideaway is a homey yet stylish resort away from island party scene. After a long day of swimming, shopping and sight-seeing a warm bed in a clean, spacious and quiet room is a welcome treat. One of the advantages of spending of going to Puerto Galera is its convenient distance from Manila. The drive to Batangas port and a short ferry ride to the island and the beach weekend is set. No need to book planes or rush to airports. When in the island, book a room at Elizabeth Hideaway. Unlike other hotels which offer nothing more but cramped sleeping quarters, this particular resort accommodation, allows guests to enjoy a few relaxing moments, before hitting the beach. The rooms are very spacious, some even have their own veranda.

The resort has 24 rooms, all equipped with amenities guaranteed to make your Puerto Galera stay comfortable and memorable. The verandas open to a beautiful view of the sea or the hillside, depending on he location. Elizabeth Hideaway also has a swimming pool and a tennis court. All rooms have cable television, internet, mini bar, hot and cold rain shower. Both the Sea View and Hillside View rooms have two single beds and with basic amenities like rain shower and mini bar. Budget travelers can stay in the standard room. It has one double size bed perfect for couples or backpackers. Come meal time, hotel guests can savor hearty native cuisine while enjoying a relaxing view of the waves. Should you wish to explore the sea, the resort can arrange group diving and snorkeling trips. The crystal clear waters of Puerto Galera is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Divers need not head for a separate island to see the majestic underwater creatures. Barely a few meters from the coast, divers can immediately encounter frog fish, Moorish idols, lion fish and the like.

Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

EXPLORE

Falling Down the Rabbit Hole: Caving wonderlands in the Philippines By: Sarah Francis Photos by: Joni Abesames & Sarah Francis

oing on a trexploreadventure is like falling down the rabbit hole. A rush of adrenaline and sensation take you to worlds you could not have even imagined. Tree-surfing in the clouds on an island’s summit.Standing in a perfect black void surrounded by an orchestra of drips.Confusing bumbling fireflies with shooting stars.Crouching in a rocky enclave behind a veil of tumbling water. Seeing a spider’s eyes flash like jewels. Bathing in mounds of bubbles in an underground river.Relishing the squelch of knee-deep mud.Assuming your own royal chamber that glitters like gold. And the characters you meet along the way are equally wonderful. A fearless

Experience travel and living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

Above: The magical entranceway to Langun-Gobingob, the biggest cave in the Philippines

explorer who understands the cavernous depths of the earth so well that he has almost become a cave creature himself.A playful apprentice who sings love songs, and laughs easily and loudly. A ponytailed man with a beautiful round belly who can tell an epic tale with his body but no words. But this isn’t a world of Alice’s imagination, this wonderland is a real place, and the characters are real people. Trexplore, a small company on Samar Island in the Philippines, takes ordinary people on extraordinary adventures. It was created in the year 2000 by cave master Joni Bonifacio, a young family man with an unusual hobby. Although Trexploreoffers all types of adventures

including trekking, canyoning and mountain-biking, its main focus and Joni’s real passion is caving. Joni Bonifacio’s‘romance with the rocks’, as he fondly calls it, began when he was a teenager. Joni’s interest was aroused by the discovery of LangunGobingob cave in Samar, the biggest cave in the Philippines and at the time, the second biggest known cave in South-East Asia. He wondered why international spelunkers were exploring Samar’s caves, while Filipinos were afraid of the spirits and snakes caves are said to hold. His first caving expedition took place when he was only sixteen years old. He went with a group of friends and a local guide into Langun-

POSTINGS

For fourteen years, Trexplore has shown tourists the secret wonders of Samar Island

Gobingob for two nights and three days. From then on he was hooked.Sometimes he would memorise the map of a cave and explore it by himself, remaining in the cave overnight. It takes a brave man to do what Joni has done. When entering a deep cave,the complete darkness and the maze of tunnels and chambers going in all directions instils the sense that caving is serious business. The average person experiences apprehension even when accompanied by an expert with equipment, as for most the chance of being lost in the dark underground is terrifying. To enter a cave alone, especially one with the magnitude of Langun-Gobingob, certainly takes

a resilient and curious mind. In the early days Joni’s caving skills were completely self-taught, but after joining with international expeditions he learned advanced caving techniques. Today with twenty years’ of caving experience, he annually joins international speleologists as they undertake expeditions to discover and map new caves in Samar. To an adventure lover, Samar Island is a bountiful playground. The rugged landscape dares mountain bikers to accept its challenge. Waterfalls and rivers spill down mountains tempting thrill-seekers with the more dangerous sport of canyoning. The topography is also ideal for the formation of caves. Of the thousand or so caves that populate

Samar’s terrain, fewer than ten per cent have actually been explored. Aside from being home to the biggest cave in the Philippines, Samar delivers an exquisite variety of underground environments. Subterranean rivers, lakes, waterfalls, earthen chandeliers and twinkling candlesticks, craggy stalactites and mammoth stalagmites, giant gill-shaped sparkling crystals, gardens of coralshaped calcite, fields of mud, massive spaces and tiny tunnels, natural bath-tubs and bubbling flowstones. You probably won’t come across any talking rabbits or pipe-toting caterpillars, but these environments are still inhabited by some seriously strange creatures, including the blind fish, crabs, bats, birds, eels, snakes

Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

and spiders. Some are harmless, some will kill you, and some are yet to be identified. Trexplore is the only company properly qualified to take tourists caving in Samar. It is popular with both Filipino tourists who are looking for an adventure holiday, as well as international travellers who are passing through. It caters for beginners who may need someone to hold their hand as they face their fears, and can equally impress seasoned explorers with authentic expeditions. Every tour is different. There are no robotic tour guides repeating the same tired lines. These adventures are unpredictable, which is part of what Joni loves about his job. His fresh sense of humour keeps the mood light and

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his clients’ nerves calm,ensuring an enjoyable experience. And if you want to follow in the footsteps of the great explorers and spelunkers he may even take you on your own expedition into the wilderness. Who knows, you could discover the next Langun-Gobingob. These trips are not for the fainthearted, and like all adventure sports they carry with them certain risks. Joni knows the terrain, he knows how to use his equipment, he knows how cave-fauna behave and he knows how to look after his clients. But there are unavoidable dangers and help is usually a long way off. You rely on each other, potentially for survival. Being underground is a completely different experience to any other. If you

haven’t done any serious caving, and we’re talking caves that are kilometres long, then there’s a whole part of this glorious planet that you’re missing out on. It’s a real-life fairy tale.

Above: Cave master Joni Bonifacio’s keen sense of humour never fails to entertain his guests

EXPERIENCE

“CITY IN FOCUS”

avao’s Modern Charm By: Tet Defensor

Like any busy city, Davao has the usual suspects two SM malls, a shopping complex by Ayala, BPO establishments and soon-to-rise towering condos. But amid such developments Davao has managed to preserve its laid back charm. There is no stopping international brands from setting up outlets in the area. And while residents look forward to the variety of choices available home grown goodies like Blue Grey cafe or Merco Cakes are proudly holding court.

So far the competition has been healthy. Davao’s uniqueness is appreciated by both locals and tourists. Davao is located at Southwestern Mindanao, at the Northewestern part of the Davao Gulf. It is right across Samal another booming island attraction. Davao is the largest city in the Philippines in terms of land area. It is the center of business in Mindanao. Almost most all major trade, commerce and industrial negotiations take place in the area. It also has the highest population in Mindanao. Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

Mount Apo The province’s main attraction is Mount Apo, the highest land form in the Philippines. Standing at 3,412 meters (11,194 ft) high, Apo is the grandfather of all the mountains in the country. Tourists can have a good view of the majestic peak when they visit the Mount Apo National Park. Inaugurated by President Manuel Quezon in 1936, it was created to protect the lush greens and various species that can be found within the mountain range. Mount Apo is home to almost 272 types of bird species, 11 are endemic. It also the shelter of pithecophaga jeffreyi one of the world’s largest eagles. The country national bird has been classified as critically endangered. The eagles are facing a very high risk of extinction and for several years now the province have been organizing several efforts to preserve the treasured bird specie. The region is also known for producing mangosteen and durian. The fruits abundantly grow in Mount Apo The thick foliage surrounding the mountainous region allows a cool tropical rainforest climate. Davao, does not experience the dry season. Even the summer months are accompanied by regular light rains. Upswing Development Being the largest city in Mindanao, the population is concentrated in the city. The urban landscape in Davao has been experiencing brisk growth. Top developers Ayala, Robinson’s, Vista land have started building residential and commercial condominiums in the region. The response from the local community has been very encouraging . Locals view the vertical structures as sound investments. Residential units, by popular developers are selling like crazy. The city boasts of several commercial areas namely Poblacion (the city center), Davao Chinatown, Bajada, Lanang, Matina, Ecoland, Agdao, Buhangin and, at the city’s southern edge, Toril and Minta. The country’s premier mall developers are all over Davao. Abreeza, which opened 2012, is the largest Ayala Mall in the south. The very first SM in Mindano is located in Davao. Just recently the city witnessed the rise of SM Lanang, a premier shopping complex, which houses international and local brands. It is also the largest mall in the region. Food Food lovers will have a heyday exploring the region’s grilled and skewered dishes. The city is known for kinilaw, tuna, mackerel, or swordfish mixed with cucumber and chili marinated in vinegar. Another favorite is sinuglaw, diced pork belly mixed with kinilaw. Desserts and snacks made from durian and bananas are also very popular. The famous banana ginanggang started in Davao. A favorite afternoon snack, the banana brushed with margarine and sugar before grilling. The famous durian is also used as a main ingredient for pies, ice cream and shakes. Fastest Growing City In 2011, Davao City was ranked 87 among the worlds’s fastest growing cities. This is according to the list made by the City Mayors Foundation, an international think tank dedicated to urban affairs. Davao was cited for its projected average annual growth of 2.53% over a 15-year period. It is the only Philippine city in the top 100 list.

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The City Mayors Foundation consists of professionals from Europe, North and South America, Asia and Africa, with an objective to promote strong and prosperous cities and good local government practices. Established in 2003, the foundation encourages city leaders from across the world to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to urban challenges like governance, society, housing, transport, education and employment. The independent foundation is not associated with any city or organization and runs strictly on a non-commercial and non-profit basis. The city’s robust economic growth is attributed to its stable power source - the Aboitiz owned Davao Light and Power Co., also the third largest electric utility in the country. Compared to the other areas in Mindanao, Davao has fewer power interruptions.

Public Safety The drop in crime rate is credited to the policies of law and order as strictly enforced by Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. Davao is the first City in the Philippines to have a Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC). It handles all 911 emergency cases and controls traffic signals. The command center also serves as the head quarters of 170 close-circuit television (CCTV) camera. The units are installed in different strategic areas like access roads, downtown areas and outside the Davao International Airport. Cameras are also installed in the city’s major bridges to monitor the rise of water level in the city’s rivers.

Safest City The exciting southern destination is also the fourth safest city in the world. Numbeo.com ranked Davao as no. 4 in the list of safe cities world wide. Of the 349 entries, Davao was the only Philippine city in the top 10 list. Davao has a crime index of 13.27 and safety index of 86.73. Makati was no. 20, with a crime index of 18.75 and safety index of 81.25 while Manila has a crime index of 64.54 and safety index of 35.46. Numbeo is the world’s largest database of user contributed data about cities and countries worldwide. The site provides current and timely information on living conditions which includes cost of living, housing , health care, traffic, crime and pollution. The data is based on the perception of website visitors during the past two years.

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No Smoking It will be a challenge for smokers to enjoy the beauty of Davao. Apart from the modern development the city is famous for its anti-smoking ordinance. Smoking is only allowed in designated areas, even President Aquino had to abide by the city’s strict rule, whenever he is in the region. In 2013, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte also signed Executive Order 39 for the 30 kilometers per hour speed limit in the downtown area, 40 kph in the city perimeter and 60 kph on roads away from the downtown. The party scene is just as peaceful. Singer-wannabes need to adhere to the 9pm curfew of sing-a-long get-togethers both at home and in videoke bars. Absolutely no singing should be heard beyond 9pm. Bars and lounges are also prohibited from serving liquor beyond 1 a.m., however they can stay open until 2 a.m. Indeed, Davaoenos are assured of fresh air all year round. Aside from the no-smoking ordinance, the sale, use, transport and possession of firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials are strictly prohibited. New Year’s celebration in the province is always calm and peaceful.

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EXPERIENCE

“CITY IN FOCUS”

ArtMixandatNature Malagos

Davao is known for being a nature paradise. For city dwellers its a chance to commune with natural elements, from the lush foliage to the rare opportunity to play with friendly animals. Most city-born individuals rarely have the chance to watch a butterfly quietly move about or appreciate rare bird species. Malagos Garden Resort in Davao can easily rekindle one’s fondness for life’s simple joys. In a world where everyone is glued to their gadgets holding a parrot in your hand, can be an invigorating experience.

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The cool mountain breeze calmly welcomes the garden guests. The receiving area is forever a buzz with guests arriving in buses, inquiring about their tours. The adjacent restaurant is just as busy. Coffee and snacks are served at the View Deck Cafe and Grill that overlooks the entire property filled with plants, fruits trees and orchids. The refreshing view lures every one to linger and bask in the quiet peace. The resort also has garden restaurant and a Koi cafe. The 12-hectare nature park offers interesting attractions. It has a bird park, a waling-waling forest, a butterfly sanctuary, orchid farm, petting zoo and garden of Abueva Sculptures

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Its the perfect venue for a nature day trip or a relaxing weekend. It has lodging accommodation for families and groups who wish to stay for the weekend. There are family cottages that can house up to six guests, the resort also has a dorm type cottage that can fit up to 50 people. Malagos is not just a fun destination, guests are also treated to an educational adventure. Along with the attractions are several tour programs for families and groups. Kids and adults will enjoy a visit to the bird park, bird feeding dome, butterfly sanctuary, orchid park, Abueva garden and play ground. A special bird show can also be arranged .

Bird park The birds park is the home to free flying Mindanao lorikeets, Guaiaberos, Sunbirds, Peafowls, and a number of rehabilitated raptors, hornbills, parrots and ducks. The park also looks after imported ornamental poultry and livestock species like the ostrich, pheasants, ducks and game fowls. The fowls are actually bred in at Malagos. The income help fund the research for the conservation, husbandry and breeding of other species. The park has developed natural micro habitats that encourage the repopulation of different bird species. The garden has successfully bred Palawan Peacock Pheasant, Mindanao Tarictic Hornbill, Eclectus

Parrots, Umbrella Cockatoos, Nicobar and Victoria Crowned Pigeons, Whistling Ducks, Quails and Jungle fowls. Guests can learn more about birds when they visit the feeding dome. Park guides discuss the bird’s diet and breeding process while on tour. The highlight of every visit is the interactive bird show, the first and only full production, free flight bird show in the country. Prepared by the Malagos Wildlife Preservation Foundation it features rehabilitated birds displaying their natural behavior. The show is meant to instill environmental awareness among the park guests.

Waling Waling Forest These mango and grapefruit trees serve as the shelter of over a hundred Waling-Waling, a native Philippine orchid specie. Malagos has embarked on a campaign to encourage the appreciation for the wild orchid. The wild orchid can be found in the wild only in Davao and some parts of the Cotabato province. Other Attractions Park guests can have their photo taken with the butterflies when they visit the sanctuary. The country’s biggest butterflies in the Philippines, the Triodes Radamanthus and the Triodes Megallanus, are found at Malagos garden. Guest can also feed the donkeys, turtles, guinea pigs, rabbits,

cows, horses, and other animals at the Petting Zoo area. For a real treat they can go horseback riding or take the horse-drawn calesa around the facility. Abueva Garden Art lovers will be appalled with the Abueva sculptures all over the garden of Malagos. The country’s national artist happily lent his works for the enjoyment of the guests. Unlike in museums, where the figures are off limits at Malagos, guests can appreciate every inch of his art. They can even have their photos taken with the sculptures. The mere sight of the magnificent figures by the father of Modern Sculpture, makes the trip to this destination worth while.

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EXPERIENCE

“CITY IN FOCUS”

Eden Experience

The

Going back to nature, can be a very rejuvenating experience. One of major causes of lifestyle ailments is today’s stressful environment. A weekend devoted entirely to the appreciation of nature, can do wonders to one’s health. Aside from the relaxing ambiance, the fresh mountain breeze can clear the mind, making way for new ideas and solutions. The Eden experience is all about appreciating the unique crisp mountain air. The light wind is cool but not chilly, with the rare treat of listening to the actual sound of the blowing wind. Apart from the breeze, resort guests are surrounded by pine trees, grass and lots of trees. Eden Mountain resort is actually 3000 feet above sea level. The lovely destination is a recreation of an environment that pays tribute to the beauty of nature. The attraction is man made, yet it teaches guests the how to appreciate the gifts of Mother Nature. The resort used to be a log wood stacking area filled with wild grass. It was discovered by the owners in 1971. The breath taking view of the Davao Gulf convinced them to develop the destination. The mountain slope was carved to come up with the terraces and thousands of pine trees were also planted, to keep the air, cool and refreshing. The full grown pine trees provided canopies for other trees and plants thereby creating another forest. To date there are over 100,000 pine trees in Eden, spread all over the 80-hectare property. Eden is all about going back to basics, rediscovering the beauty of nature. Before all these technological changes that have taken over human lives, people found happiness watching birds and butterflies.

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The sprawling ground is home to herbs, organic vegetables, tropical plants, fruit and pine trees. It allows guests to come face to face with friendly animals at the deer park and bird walk. Pea hens freely roam the area, treating cafe guests to a unique experience. The birds are a bit shy though, they move away, when people try to go near. It can be quite a challenge to catch their image from your phone camera. Visitors can stay for the a few days or, go for the day tour. The resort has a tour desk that can assist guests who wish to see resort’s various attractions. Families and organizations who wish to stay for the weekend can choose from the accommodations available. The resort has a villa that can house as many as 11 guests or a dorm style log cabins that can accommodate 12 people.

For an honest to goodness adventure guests can pitch their own tent, or stay at the native huts at the camp site. Guests at Eden will never run out of things to do. First timers are advised to take the shuttle tour. This can be arranged at the front desk. Recreational activities include the Skyrider where adventure seeker will cross a 200 meter long steel cable, while suspended 20 meters high. Apart from the thrill it allows a breath taking view of the gulf. Kids and adults can go horse back riding. The ride is so much fun especially with the cool air. For first timers, there are trained guides that can accompany them as they explore the trails. If your never tried fishing, now is the best time to finally experience it. The fishing village allows guests can fish in the pond and ask the kitchen to cook whatever they caught. The ponds are filled with dory, tilapia and hito. The resort also has swimming pools and the vista park where kids and adults can try the famous Indiana Jones ride.

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Eden is also a healing haven. Those who wish to have some quite meditative moments can explore the prayer garden. Complete with the soothing sound of the trickling water the calming ambiance easily clears one’s tired mind. Devotees of the Virgin Mary will appreciate the beauty of Plaza Maria, a garden dedicated to the blessed mother. If you love flowers then you can ask the shuttle to drop you off at the colorful flower garden. Flower seeds purchased abroad were planted in Eden giving life to colorful blooms like the Blackeyed Susan, Buddleia Lavender,Sunflowers Blue Rose,Cleome White Brush and Gerbera (Daisy). Visitors can also visit the Tinubdan outdoor museum and learn about the lumad, an indigenous tribe from the south. Globalization has threatened their disappearance and Eden has embarked on a mission to teach visitors about their customs and traditions. Eden also offers the freshest cuisine. You may choose to take your meals at the Vista restaurant or at the snack bar. The vegetables used in the salad are grown at the resort’s hydroponic greenhouse. Eden is also the top choice for weddings, birthday and all kinds of gatherings. The event can take pale at the amphitheater, or at any of the functional halls. Engaged couples also rent the place for their pre-wedding photo shoots.

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EXPERIENCE

“CITY IN FOCUS”

Htheome for Eagle When in Davao a trip to the Philippine Eagle Center should not be missed. Run by a non-stock non profit organization, the Center is looking after 36 eagles, in a simulated forest environment. The bird exhibit helps educate the visitors on ecosystem conservation. Located in Calinan, the place is often visited by students, environmentalists and other individuals who are interested in preserving the country’s national bird. The scientific name ot the Philippine eagle is Pithecophaga jefferyi. It is a giant raptor that is commonly found in Luzon, Samar, Leyte and Mindanao. It is known to be one of the most powerful eagle breeds. Unfortunately the rare specie is now critically endangered due to its diminishing number, This is attributed to the massive loss in their natural habitat brought about by deforestation.

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Before taking the trip to Calinan it is recommended to book in advance to make sure that the tour guides are available. The services of the guides are free of charge, however due to the volume of visitors that frequent the place, sometimes there aren’t enough guides to assist the guests. Aside from answering basic questions, the tour guides can fully explain why the public needs to support the Philippine eagle. Guest are often delighted to find out that the eagles are monogamous, and during courtship the male raptor often stays near the nest of his choice female raptor. Unlike other animals, the attraction is not automatic. If the female is not interested, then the courtship comes to an end. The gentleman fowl would have to set his eyes on another female eagle. However if the female eagle responds via mutual soaring, for instance she joins him in flying over a nesting territory, then there is a possibility that breeding may occur. This is one of the reasons why the numbers are diminishing. The courtship process is very challenging.

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Aside from caring for the birds the center has several programs to aid the public in appreciating the foundation’s commitment. The Keeper Talk is a sharing session where the bird’s caretaker talks about Philippine eagle, its characteristics and other interesting facts about the center. For a more interactive activity guests can sign up for the Falconry. The guests are allowed to see the birds outside their cages as they watch them fly out into the air. Students can also take part in the Open Classroom project a fun afternoon of games and activities dedicated to broadening the understanding on eagles and other branches of science. The modules are specifically designed for different students- pre-school, kindergarten, elementary and high school. The center is managed by The Philippine Eagle Foundation a private, non-stock, non-profit organization dedicated to saving the eagle and its rainforest habitat. Organized in 1987, it began as a project that focused on the research, rehabilitation, and captive breeding of eagles. In time, it became the premier organization for the conservation of raptors.

The foundation conservation approach involves research, off-site and on-site protection, community efforts and public education. The breeding program involves the development of the eagle’s gene pool. The offspring is released back into the wild to in order to increase the bird’s population. The work also covers the rehabilitation of injured birds recovered from the forests. On the field of research, the foundation addresses concerns that can help improve the care extended to the birds. It looks into the eagles’ active nests, monitoring patterns in breeding and home ranges, habitat use and the like. The program also rescues eagles captured by local folks. It is also currently developing forest corridors that will link the remaining forests in Mindanao. The Conservation Education teams continue to come up with programs and activities that will instill public awareness to save the critically endangered raptors. The Center is home to 36 Philippine Eagles, 18 of which are captive-bred. It also houses other species of birds, species of mammals and reptiles.

EXALT

A Walk to Remember:

Trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal

By: Sarah Francis

For those who have already climbed Mt Apo and are looking for a new challenge, consider trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal. With rocky yet accessible trails and a few stretches of arduous ascents, the trek is labelled moderately difficult. Because the destination is 5380m above sea level, trekkers will encounter the added struggles of walking at high altitudes, sometimes in freezing temperatures. The trials of the trek are absolutely worth it though; the scenery includes world-class panoramas and views of four of the Earth’s highest mountains, including Mount Everest itself. The journey begins with a scenic flight from Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu, to the small town of Lukla. The early morning treats passengers to sights of hills emerging from oceans of thick fog as first light breaks, and in the distance are previews of the snow-capped mountains to come. Deemed one of the world’s most ‘extreme’ airports, Lukla has highly variable localised weather and a very short runway precariously located on the edge of a mountain.

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The Everest Base Camp trek is what is referred to in Nepal as a ‘tea-house trek’. This means that the walk can be done in a fair amount of comfort, with cooked meals and accommodation available at regular intervals along the trail. The scenery is, in a word, stunning. If scenic beauty was measured in potential postcards, the Everest Base Camp trek would give plenty of options for writing home about it. The trail winds around giant peaks, plunging valleys and rushing turquoise rivers, which become even more impressive as the trip progresses. Lakes appear to have frozen mid-splash, rivers of ice reveal hints of exquisite blue, and delicate icicles adorn water-wheels. Craggy mountains soar into the sky, snow and rocks spill down, and huge boulders dot the landscape. When the countryside is blanketed in snow it takes on a magical dreamlike quality. Along with fantastic views, the Khumbu region has a rich and welcoming culture. Monks patiently create intricate sand mandalas then unceremoniously destroy them to observe the law of impermanence. Sherpa villagers greet visitors with hospitality and humour.

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Prayers are carved into ‘mani stones’ ranging in size from small to giant, which have been laid in rows and piles across the countryside. The all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha watch over the land from their painted positions on Buddhist stupas. Undertaking the journey is just as enjoyable as reaching the destination, however there is undeniable excitement about reaching Everest Base Camp. While views of Everest are obscured from the base camp itself, the summit of nearby

Kala Patthar (5644m) provides an excellent 360° vantage point, and is only a two-hour climb away. Approaching base camp the trail follows the world’s highest glacier, the Khumbu Glacier, which tumbles down from Mount Everest along a 12km stretch. While it’s impossible to actually see the glacier moving, its raw power is clearly evident from the way it has sculpted the surrounding landscape. Rocks and boulders have been crushed and pushed to

either side of the glacier’s fusion of ice and debris. Despite its magnitude, the glacier is threatened by climate change, and climatologists estimate that it is retreating at a rate of 20m per year. Everest Base Camp is situated on the glacier itself and reaching it involves a slightly nerve-wracking walk, with icy crevasses, threatening landslides and the echo of avalanches warning that nothing is as sturdy as it looks. Though the collection of celebratory flags marking the endpoint are an inadequate token of the place’s significance, base camp rewards visitors with a close-up view of the spectacular Khumbu Icefall. The icefall is the first challenge for those actually climbing Mount Everest, and is reputably as treacherous as it is beautiful.

Plan & Prepare It’s wise to leave at least fourteen days for this trek, which allows for unexpected weather or illness. The most popular season is autumn from September to November, which brings good weather and brilliantly clear skies, but also crowds of tourists. From March to mid-May, spring is also a popular time with its glorious displays of blossoming rhododendrons, however dusty conditions are not ideal for mountain views. In summer scenery is also obscured, this time with rain and clouds, though carpets of blooming flowers and numerous festivals offer some compensation. In winter temperatures fall well below zero degrees, and yet some people brave the freezing climate for excellent views and a relatively tourist-free trail.

The trek can be done in an organised tour group, with a guide and porter, or independently. A group may provide entertainment and comfort, or conversely irritation and inflexibility. A good guide can tailor the trip to individual needs, but a bad guide can ruin it. Trekking unaccompanied can carry more risks and more freedom. Depending on your level of experience, your budget and personal preferences, it’s important to seriously consider which option is right for you. If you elect to go with a travel agency or an individual guide, remember, a traveller’s recommendation is worth a thousand touts! Whatever you decide, make sure that you understand safety issues, have adequate insurance and a plan in case of emergency, because the risks, including potentially fatal altitude sickness, are real. To prepare for your trek, it’s advisable to be reasonably fit. You don’t need to be an athlete, but training in the preceding months will make the trek more enjoyable. Go on regular walks or runs, occasionally involve steep hills and walking for extended periods of time, and if possible try walking at high altitudes. It’s a sound investment to bring a good pair of worn-in waterproof trekking boots, as the range and quality is limited in Nepal. Other gear can be hired or purchased very cheaply in Kathmandu and shopping lists for what to take on the trek in the different seasons can be found online. Don’t forget sunscreen! While you can book a trek online in advance this is not essential, they can be easily and more cheaply arranged once in Kathmandu.

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A Day on the Trail Peeking out the window from my cosy bed I see the first hints of sunrise. Passing clouds glow a soft pink and the tips of faroff peaks are highlighted with an intense crimson, but the sun itself is obscured from view by towering mountains. My growling stomach pushes me out of bed and into the freezing cold morning. I hurry with the promise of a cup of hot tea and a bowl of porridge. My guide and I hit the trail without delay. Low-lying mist begins to dissolve as the sun finally appears and turns morning frost into rising steam. Zigzagging up the mountainside my breath is heavy and my heart is racing, but turning each corner

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I’m rewarded with new and incredible vistas. Up above eagles soar in an invisible breeze, teasing me with their effortless grace. Layers of clothes are added and discarded as the wind rises and subsides and the sun plays hide and seek behind the clouds. We cross a suspension bridge, laughing as we try to maintain balance while the world bounces beneath us. Strings of colourful prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and a hundred metres below a river rushes through the valley. Freshly cooked Tibetan bread covered in melted yak cheese makes a delicious lunch. The midday sun blissfully warms my body like a reptile basking on a rock. We set off again. An oncoming procession

of yaks is announced with clanging bells and flying dust, thick hair is matted over their powerful bodies. We wait on the inside curve of the path as they pass while their master clicks and whistles in encouragement. Landscapes morph along the journey, comprised of flowing lines, bold shapes and earthen tones. Piles of rocks mark the onward trail, or sometimes bear another significance; the terminus of fallen explorers. In the late afternoon the sun disappears for another day, leaving behind refracted orange light on a rocky mountain-top and a dot of the full moon rising through purple haze. Inside the tea-house a fire is lit, and travellers are drawn in close to warm their hands. Rosy-cheeked children dance to cheerful Tibetan music as we devour an energy-rich dinner of lentils, vegetable curry and rice. After a hard day’s trek everything tastes twice as good! Outside the frosty night glitters with stars like a cave full of glow-worms.

ESCAPE

Shopping and Trekking at

Subic Bay

The well-loved destination is considered a mecca for shopaholics and nature lovers. The former home base of the U.S. Naval force, this Freeport has attracted city dwellers to embark on the long drive for a weekend shopping spree. In between store trips, weekend visitors can choose to commune with nature, play golf, or check out the restaurants, bars and casinos.

It’s the country’s version of a stylish life by the bay. The posh Subic Bay Yacht Club is known for hosting water sports competitions as well grand events. Because of its close proximity to Manila, it is fast becoming a favorite venue, especially for gatherings that require a certain level of exclusivity.

The harbor is surrounded by a lofty mountain range and blessed with thick lush forests. The jungle like setting was once utilized by the U.S. Marines for their training, during the years when the US bases occupied the area. The century old trees are still standing tall. The venue is now used for company team building exercises and various types of adventure challenges.

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Rainforests Subic Bay happens to have one of the very few triple canopied rainforests. The canopy refers to the foliage cover which is formed by adjacent large trees. The tall branches of a canopy is approximately 30-45 meters high. It is known to be the thickest part of the biodiversity where at least 50 plant species grow. Subic bay rainforests are classified triple canopied because they are three times bigger and can hold a wider array of plants, birds, butterflies, bats, monkeys, lizards and many others. Environmental care and protection is considered a serious responsibility in Subic. In fact, the country’s first free port has a whole set of environmental rules and regulation for residents, companies and visitors. It is mandatory for the entire community to live harmoniously with all living creatures that thrive in its natural surroundings. Eco-Adventure Subic Bay is often at the top of the list for eco-adventure activities. For hikers and campers the Pamulaklakin Forest Trails offer the unique thrill of experiencing a real jungle. The rough trails lead deeper into the forests and mountain where campers like to pitch a tent and spend the night in forest surrounded by the big trees. Historians and sociologists can have a first-hand experience of life in the Aeta village. They can join the rituals, dine by the river while savoring bamboo cooked food and even learn ethnic dance. The indigenous tribe has learned to co-exist with the changing environment, including the presence of tourists who visit their village. The Triboa Bay Mangrove Park is another sight-seeing attraction. From the bamboo deck, visitors can clearly see different types of baby fish, mud crabs, and other subterranean habitats. Drop by the park in the afternoon and be treated to a majestic view of the Subic Bay sunset. The mangroves of Triboa are also a good source of tannin compound. Extracted from tree barks, tannin is used in manufacturing leather. The compound is used for treating animal hides and skins before they are made into shoes and bags. Bird lovers will easily fall in love with the bayside destination when they see the various types of birds soaring in the area. Subic Bay has been declared as one of the country’s bird watching sites. Whether you are standing by the road side or trekking down the rough trails, the colorful flying species are bound to leave you in awe. On any given quiet afternoon, one might just see Crested Serpent Eagle, Brahminy Kite, Collared Kingfisher, Tarictic Hornbill, Whitebellied Woodpecker, Glossy Swiftlet and many more.

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No dull moment There are no dull moments when one decides to spend a leisurely weekend in Subic. Day or night there is always some new endeavor that will excite the senses, while enjoying the convenience of a quiet, secure and laid back community. Kids and adults can savor the fresh air while walking in the park, an activity that is no longer very common in Manila. Subic Bay has various types of natural and recreational parks. Located by the mountain side, or by the sea, these fun places allow visitors from the city to actually listen to the refreshing sound of nature while feasting their sights on the lush greens. Those in search of thrill and excitement can test their limits with the activities at Treetop Adventure. Visitors can enjoy a rare forest view while suspended 100 feet above the ground. Are you scared of heights? This is one unforgettable experience that can release you from the fear. The suspension trail is attached to the high branches and part of the thrill is crossing suspension bridges.

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If you are scared to embark on the challenge alone, the park offers a motorized canopy tour for groups. The brave can also try the Superman Ride, soaring above the trees while suspended face down just like the super hero. One can also rappel from a 60-foot tree, or glide through the rain forest like a bird. The choices are endless. For those traveling with kids, then the marine water park at Ocean Adventure will keep them preoccupied. Located at the foot of the rainforest, it provides a natural habitat for friendly sea creatures like dolphins, whales, and sea lions. Visitors can even shoot their own video while swimming with the dolphins. Adults wishing for some quiet meditative moments can visit the Holy Land Sanctuary. The park engages visitors on a spiritual journey with life size dioramas of popular scenes in the bible. It is also a fun way to teach children about the bible.

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Lifestyle Destination The sights and sounds of Subic Bay are enough to thrill travelers of all ages. From the typical basic back packer who cannot seem to get enough of eco-adventure, to the glamorous set that hangs out at the yacht club marina, Subic Bay has everything a tourist can possibly seek. Whether one is traveling alone, or with a group, homey and comfortable accommodations will always be available. Visitors can choose from stylish villas to a long list of hotels that suit all types of budget. Shopping is another favorite activity at Subic Bay. As a free port zone, imported goods like branded garments and shoes are sold at popular prices. Big-box stores line the down town area selling all kinds of goodies like chocolates and snacks by the crates, gadgets, appliances, car accessories and the list can go on and on. In between shopping and trekking, travelers can enjoy a delightful culinary experience. Whether it’s Filipino, Asian or international cuisine, the variety of dining establishments will keep your taste buds looking forward to the next gustatory delight. At night, chill out with your friends by checking out the different bars and restaurants. Order your favorite cocktail by the bay or join the gang as they party under the stars or hang out in clubs. The weekend night life is always in high spirits after a fun-filled day. There are videoke bars for passionate vocalists, while those in a playful mood can go to the casino and try their luck at the gaming tables and slot machines. For a more laid back evening, cap the experience with dessert and hot beverage at any of the cafes around town. Most places are open till the wee hours of the morning. Night life in Subic is safe and secure, as well-trained law enforcers roam the area round the clock.

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ACCOMODATIONS Inter Park Hotel: Your Subic Leisure Get Away

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Inter Park hotel in Subic is home to weekend warriors who wish to relax while enjoying various bayside attractions. Subic is the choice destination for golfers, nature park enthusiasts or friends and family members who simply want to have a good time. Staying at Inter Park certainly builds weekend excitement because it is at the midst all the action. Located in Dewey Avenue, Subic Freeport zone the hotel a minutes away from shopping malls, restaurants, entertainment and business establishments. Hotel Inter Park has been looking after Subic’s weekend guests since 2007. It started out as a small hotel with 18 rooms, serving mostly families, golfers and business travelers. In 2012, hotel officials headed by Chairman Deeyoung Lee, President and CEO Sung-yong Park and General manager and Chief Operating Officer Christian Tae-jun Lee felt the need to expand the property. With its growing number of regular clients a new structure was built complete with swimming pool, functions rooms, indoor garden. Coffee shop and restaurant All 56 new rooms now for occupancy. Guests look forward to staying in Inter Park because the rooms are very homey and spacious. Elegantly styled in black and gold it has a luxurious bathroom, telephone, LCD TV, and high-speed wifi connection. All guests are entitled to complimentary breakfast for two persons, free in-room coffee and tea. The newly opened structure offers a magnificent, view of the city. For family weekends parents can also opt for a view of the pool especially if they wish to watch their kids from the veranda.

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After a fun day in the city guests can relax in their rooms, take a refreshing dip in a pool or have their favorite coffee and snack at the lobby restaurant. Wi-fi is free so guests can surf or update their social media account while savoring some quiet moments. For special gatherings Inter Park has function rooms that can accommodate as many as 200 guests. The church is right next door making the hotel a practical and accessible reception venue. Food lovers will enjoy the barbecue dishes served at Bulgogi restaurant. Business travelers can also hold their meetings at the lobby coffee shop. The hotel is also scheduled to open an Italian restaurant. Believe it or not, the cozy room and friendly service however does not come with a hefty price tag. Guests cannot help but smile at the hotel’s budget-friendly rate, especially after enjoying its wonderful service.

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ACCOMODATIONS Your Best Bohol Beach Holiday By: Lester Gopela Hallig

It was the perfect weekend to be in Bohol. The weather was sunny but not burning, and there was enough cool air to breathe and give us freedom to move. What made it all absolutely perfect was South Palms Resort Panglao. The resort is right up our beach-loving alley: it boasts of a 9.3-hectare heaven-on-earth within 45 hectares of jawdropping beach front property. Surely one cannot go wrong with 700 meters of natural white sand and cobalt blue waters. It seemed like an image straight out of a postcard. It was too perfect, but all too real. Now, when we say beach holiday here, we are talking about spending it at South Palms Resort Panglao. The resort is a glorious 9.3-hectare paradise within a 45-hectare spread of fantastic beach front property. By ‘fantastic’, we mean 700 meters of natural white sand and sapphire blue waters. It

is all picture-perfect, only made better when one is actually frolicking there, enjoying the sun instead of admiring it on paper or screen. South Palms Resort Panglao managing director Hope Marie ‘EtEt’ Uy told us that this attribute is more than just eye-candy. Uy said, “South Palms has the distinction of possessing the longest beach in Panglao because of this stretch of sand. Because of that length of space, our guests are assured that they will not be bumping into one another. Crowded beaches will be a thing of the past here at South Palms.” A luxurious beach should definitely be matched by an equally luxurious accommodation. South Palms’ 90 guestrooms and suites speak nothing but comfort, cleanliness, and convenience. The fact that these rooms are so near the beach makes it all the more inviting.

The rooms are classified into deluxe garden view, deluxe pool view, deluxe beachfront, premium beachfront, beach villa, family villa, and Panglao villa. Each features a 32-inch LCD TV, cable TV, free Wi-Fi access, mini bar, coffee- and tea-making facilities, and in-room safe. The youthful Uy directed our attention to the all-villa property. “Notice that there are no tall buildings and hotels in the property. Everything has a single floor. We decided that South Palms Resort Panglao should exemplify true islandliving concept. Nothing about its architecture and design is forced. We want to keep the natural surroundings, to make it look more organic. You came all the way from Manila to see nature, then that is what we are giving you: nature in all its glory.” She said the design of South Palms is also the result of careful observations among beach-resort guests. “We intend to make it easy for guests to get to the beach hassle-free. Guests feel awkward having to pass through the lobby, or walk down flights of stairs or take an elevator, in their swimsuits, going to the beach. The villas are situated by the beach, so all they have to do is step out and enjoy the sun, sea, and sand.” “Having to suffer from embarrassing situations and be subjected to any inconvenience is not the perfect beach holiday,” she reasoned. “Here we offer privacy to our guests. It is their time for themselves, then let them enjoy their time away from the stress and the work.” Uy stated, “We have an abundance of trees in the resort, the better for guests to feel that they are in a more relaxing place. At South Palms, the coconut trees are close to the beach, although we also have the beach huts which have become icons of Panglao tourism.” All she said was true. We loved how accessible the beach was, how easy it was to step out of the door and dive into the cool waters. Of course, at South Palms, it is all about choices. While the creature comforts are there for the taking, it is still up to us to choose how to turn that perfection into action. We had a hard time choosing between the beach and the resort’s indoor pools. Yes, plural because South Palms has two: the East Pool and the Coast Pool. The East Pool is right smack in the middle of the eastside portion of the resort while the Coast Pool is at arm’s length of the fabulous Oceanica Seafood Restaurant. Wouldn’t we know it, each pool has its own bar with its impressive drinks and chow menu. Oceanica Seafood Restaurant is the standard-bearer of all things culinary at South Palms. It is bound to become Bohol’s latest ‘It’ restaurant, with a menu boasting of creative Filipino and international cuisine. We found the food and beverage offerings exceptionally well-executed. Sometimes what is written on the menu card does not translate well to what is served on the plate. However, you can trust us on this one. South Palms F&B operations and R&D manager Lolita Lyn Uy and her team have crafted the type of cuisine guests would want to eat on holiday. That is, delicious and on-point. Surely there are no short-cuts involved.

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Hope mentions that guests can always look forward to the freshest catch this side of Panglao. Since their family has long been respected for their seafood business, it would come as no surprise that the seafood served at Oceanica adheres to the same strict quality control. She added, “We plan to put up our own fish farm within the resort so that our guests are guaranteed that South Palms’ commitment to quality is never compromised. Guests can try Bohol’s best culinary dishes with the resort’s half board meals package. It is a special treat from the resort so guests do not have to worry about their next meal.” Also aplenty at South Palms is the variety of water activities, including diving, island-hopping, and whale shark and dolphin viewing. Because Bohol is known for its marvelous marine life and exotic islands, it would be a great idea to do all of the above. We managed to get to Pamilacan Island on our island-hopping trip and it was truly out of this world. The tiny island has the friendliest inhabitants, with a beach to die for, and a tropical setting to soak in. If stress-busters are your thing, Palm The Spa should do the trick. Treatments range from hilot to hot-stone massage. One can choose between having the massage in one of the cabanas by the beach or in the comfort of one’s room. We chose the latter, on a very late evening, and ended up snoozing all throughout the session. Now if that is not bliss then we do not know what is. Did we mention that the evening massage was made even better by the sound of waves? In the daytime, should guests intend to wander within the beach radius and plan to do lunch in a little more private corner, South Palms would happily arrange for an onsite lunch. Yes, the lovely staff will bring you your meals, hot and

fresh, wherever you are in the resort. Talk about a tailor-made meal, designed by you, realized by the resort staff. We are also more than glad to find resort staff that anticipates our every need, who are always smiling and accommodating. We were told that they are committed to making Bohol hospitality happen. Well, from what we have experienced, we did not feel like strangers from Manila who happened to vacation in Bohol. The staff treated us like one of their own fellow Boholanos, with the same loving care and attention found at home. Things to watch out for at South Palms include: fitness center, tennis court, business center, dive shop, and souvenir shop. South Palms offers its banquet and conference facilities for corporate groups. The Green Palm function room can accommodate up to 300 persons theater-style, while the Blue Palm can house 80 people. Each room comes with state-ofthe-art amenities and equipment. With all these on offer, and in bountiful quantities, we were assured that come next vacation, we would return to South Palms Resort Panglao to experience once more the joys of a perfect beach holiday. We used to think such a holiday was impossible. South Palms proved us wrong. (South Palms Resort Panglao is at Barangay Bolod, Panglao Island, Bohol. For more information, call +63 38 411-1007, mobile +63 917-716-7609, RSVN at +63 38 411-1008, toll-free at 1-800-1888-7777, or fax at +63 38 502-9106. Email at info@southpalmsresort.com. Visit the website at www.southpalmsresort or www.facebook.com/ SouthPalmsResortPanglao.) Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

ACCOMODATIONS Family Fun and Romantic Evenings at Discovery Suites

Discovery Suites may be right in the middle of bustling Ortigas, but if you do not have the time to treat your family to that much needed holiday, a weekend in one of their Serendipity Suites can easily take the place of the long awaited vacation.

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Looking at the bright side, at least you do not have to endure the long drive at the express way. It is near the mall, yet you can still have all the privacy and bonding moments that you will ever need, thanks to their cozy rooms and other five star amenities. Discovery’s Suites are nothing short of the luxurious dwellings that are featured in A-list magazines. You can choose from the junior rooms, one bedroom suites, twobedroom suites, or three bedroom suites located at the sixth, seventh and eighth floor. All rooms elegantly combine the stylish hotel features with the warmth of home. Business travelers have ample work space, thanks to the internet connection. Kids will likewise appreciate the play space from the kitchen to the living area. The rooms have

2 LCD TVs, sound system and a jacuzzi. In case, kids get bored they can all go to the pool or just soak in the jacuzzi. Guests will also be visited by the pillow concierge. To guarantee a good night’s sleep, guests can select the head rest of their choice – goose feather, foam or cotton. Hypoallergenic pillows are also available. All units have fully-equipped kitchen. Guests can actually cook and have their meals in the room or the can head to Restaurant 5 at the fifth floor, for their famous allday buffet. For late evening snacks the room service menu is printed right behind the channel guide. The Terra Wellness Spa is also open for hotel guests. The spa’s Hilot Haplos treatment, a local healing art that soothes aches and pains is highly recommended.

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ACCOMODATIONS

22 Prime Those who are planning a romantic dinner for someone special, then booking the special table at 22 Prime is a must. Aside from the superb food, the staff is so used to staging such magical moments. Quite a number of “will you marry me” lines have been uttered at 22 Prime. And just like in the movies, the dinner is capped by the magical “yes” You can start your special evening with the Happy Hour at Serendipity Lounge. There is an appetizer buffet, and all-you-can drink beer, and cocktail menu. On Wednesday and Friday, a female vocalist leads the band, and so you can even request your theme song. Come dinner time you can proceed to the main dining area. If you have made prior arrangements, then you will be seated on the table by the window, with a mini divider for utmost privacy, separate from the rest of the crowd. To minimize the hassle from choosing from the menu, where every item seems heavenly, the Surf and Turf special is highly recommended. It consists of soup, salad, Grilled US Angus Rib Eye (200g) prawns, potatoes, vegetables, a glass of wine and dessert sampler. The Angus steaks are prime and USDA certified. The cuts are unusually big, in fact two people can share one piece. With the hearty meal, good music topped with the romantic view of the skyline from the glass windows, it is bound to be a memorable evening.

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ACCOMODATIONS

Stylish Comfort and Relaxation at Segara Suites and Villas Travelers can savor traditional Balinese ambiance when they stay in Segara Villas and Suites.

Located at the secluded portion of bustling Subic bay, the serene environment is a far cry from the busy freeport shopping scene, or the adventure-filled nature parks. Segara is an Indonesian word which means Sea View. The resort opened in September 2008 offering a quiet and relaxing setting that can balance off a hectic weekend. The city paradise transports travelers to a tropical destination free from stress and clutter. One look at the Balinese gods at the entrance and the fountain with happy baby elephants, one can immediately look forward to a relaxing and unforgettable weekend. Guests can choose to stay at the stylish rooms at Segara Suites, or at Segara villas, where they can savor the natural greens outside their beautifully designed

units. Segara is all about basking in comfort and relaxation. Guests will feel right at home at the wellappointed rooms. Each room is elegantly styled in subdued colors mixed with modern Asian accents. The result is a luxurious yet cozy weekend dwelling. “We are the only boutique hotel here in Subic Bay that provides personalized services to our clientele. And our rooms are uniquely different from each other. All the pieces you will find in each room are personally handpicked by us, making no two rooms alike. Our goal here is to pamper our guest, giving them the feeling of staying in a hotel not away from their home, “ explains Dave Baldeo, Managing Director of Segara Hotel. Those traveling with their families will certainly welcome the amenities at Segara’s spacious villas. Done in tasteful Asian decor, highlighting the beauty of natural wood and colorful fabrics, the villas are certainly a cut above the rest. Apart from the sleeping area, each unit has a living room which can transform

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into a private chill out place. Come lunch or dinner, guests can have their fill of delectable treats at Asian Spices Bar and Restaurant, the chic casual establishments serves sumptuous Indonesian, Thai, Filipino and Malaysian fare. “We masterfully use the best spices, herbs and authentic seasonings, with fresh local produce and choice seafood and meats. “ For starters try their flavorful vegetable spring rolls. Meat lovers will enjoy their juicy pineapple spare ribs. The meat is so tender, it actually slides off the bone. Menu favorites include Bagoong Fried Rice, Tom yang Soup, Pad Thai, Pomelo Salad, Beef Rendang Chicken Cashew Nuts, Pork Spareribs and many more Segara Suites and Villas are so cozy, guests often think twice about leaving the premises. More often than not they are tempted to stay put and savor the soothing ambiance, a luxury they do not normally encounter in Manila. The leisure complex also has a pool, and a bar, for a refreshing yet quiet afternoon. Guests can lounge in the sun while enjoying their favorite cocktail or fruit juice. At night, the pool area, takes on a new look, with dim lights and floating candles perfect for those special private moments. For the ultimate indulgence guests can proceed to Segara Spa, and choose from the many treatments available. An afternoon at the spa, guarantees a complete rejuvenation of the mind body and soul. All treatments are done using the spa’s signature Pure Indulgence Essential line. 58

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ACCOMODATIONS

Riding Baler’s Famous Waves All roads to Baler, the newest northern destination for surfers and beach lovers. Located 230 km northeast of Manila, the destination is accessible by bus and private vehicles. As the capital and oldest municipality of Aurora Province, Baler is at the forefront of trade and industry. It is the most progressive town in the province with the main roads lined with resorts, public institution and business establishments.

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Baler is packed with tourists during the surfing season. Surfers ride the town’s famous waves from September until the last few days of February. The province made its mark in the 1970s when Francis Fold Coppolla shot the movie “Apocalypse Now” in the area The scene where a helicopter attacked a quiet village was done in Baler. There were also several scenes that featured the famous waves of Baler bay. One of the most talked about resorts is Costa Pacifica, a 106-room property located on Baler’s famous shores. The rooms are big and spacious, with an outdoor pool, an all-day-dining restaurant and an events hall that is big enough for 200 guests. The rooms and villas are set against a mountain. The units are done in glass, so guests have a nice view of the sea. The beach is blessed is fine sand similar to the white sands of Boracay. The rooms are done in white, blending modern design, with vivid marine life details. Some walls are adorned with colorful mats in tropical colors, as executed by the artists of Aurora. The amenities include hot and cold shower, Wi-Fi Internet connection, cable television, In- room safe, laundry services and mini bar. Tourists will never run out of things to do in Baler. They can take surfing lessons for as low as Php 350 an hour inclusive of a surf board and instructor’s fee. Boards are available for rent no need to bring one from Manila. Beginners will be taught how to balance on the board while catching the waves. Sabang bay is ideal for first timers. Even if they fall of the board they can safely land on soft fine sand. A tour of Baler’s famous sites is a must for travelers. A fun tricycle tour includes a visit to Baler church, ,the ancestral house of Dona Aurora Aragon Quezon, Museo de Baler, Quezon Park and Ermita Hill. Those who love trekking must visit Ditumabao Falls. The 30-minute walk will lead to the Mother falls. Make sure to use the right footwear for the long walk and prepare to pass wooden bridges as you cross the river. Joggers will love an early morning run at Sabang beach.The shoreline faces the east, so it gives a good view of the sunrise. The sand is so fine, you can actually walk barefoot.

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Tourists are also invited to take part in the Pukot fishing tradition. Locals gather by the shore and help the fisher men in pulling the fish net filled with the day’s catch From the net, the catch is collected on a pail. Those who helped out are given free fish. The trip to Baler takes about 5 hours. Motorists can drive from McArthur Highway and Daang Maharlika or through NLEX and SCTEXT until Cabanatuan City. From Cabanatuan, take the Nueva Ecija-Aurora highway, Rizal and Pantagabagan until the Aurora border, and then through the town of Maria Aurora, San Luis and finally Baler. Public transportation is also available. Genesis transport bus in Cubao, provides direct route to Baler from Metro Manila. For surfers, the best time to visit Baler is during the northeast monsoon or Amihan season which falls on September until April the following year During this period the wind goes westward thereby creating bigger waves. For travelers who simply want to enjoy the sighs Baler’s attractions are open all-year-round.

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ACCOMODATIONS Park Inn Hotel: In Living Color

The vibrant colors of Park Inn By Radisson Davao paints a new leaf in the city’s list of exciting attractions. Located beside SM Lanang Premier shopping complex and the SMX Convention Center, its the perfect home-away-from-home for business and leisure travelers.

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Park Inn Davao is the very first “next generation” mid-scale property of the Radisson brand in the Asia Pacific. The global brand is under the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, one of the world’s largest hospitality chains that runs more than 1300 hotels in 81 countries and territories. Park Inn was specifically created to embody the spirit of the global generation. Vibrant and very colorful, guests cannot help but take a second look at the bright hues, from multi-colored squares all over the walls, to the modern artworks in the rooms and brightly colored chairs and tables at the lobby restaurant. Everything about Park Inn is lively and chromatic. Apart from the colors, the rooms offer a beautiful view of Davao’s highlands. Room amenities include LCD television DVD player and coffee and tea provisions. The hotel’s free wireless internet provides all the possible connections you may ever need for work, or for posting your latest adventures on Facebook and Instagram.

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Davao is blessed with exciting attractions and after a busy day, a hot cup of tea, while watching the skies from your hotel room window, is enough to help you relax. Park Inn is at the center of all the city happenings, yet the warm colored interiors of every room allows guests to have their muchneeded quiet time before heading to the next adventure. Park Inn also has a pool, a short swim before dinner is therapeutic after a long day of sight-seeing. Before heading for your dinner engagement you can also spend a lazy afternoon by the poolside bar meeting friends, or just having a refreshing drink.

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You can actually feel the city vibe when you are booked at Park Inn. It’s a few minutes away from commercial centers, restaurant and bars. The hotel is only 15 minutes from the airport and right across SM Lanang Premiere, the very first high end shopping complex in Davao. You are literally a few stops away from designer stores, the supermarket and a multitude of food choices. The mall also carries lots of homegrown goodies so you need not travel far for souvenirs or pasalubong. If you are in the mood for a hearty meal , the buffet at RBG should not be missed. Located at the hotel lobby, the hip acronym simply stands for Restaurant Bar and Grill. It serves meat and seafood right off the grill as well local as and international cuisine. Park Inn also has function rooms, which you can book for meetings and special events. Incidentally, President Noy opted to stay at Park Inn when he visited Davao.

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LEISURE LIVING

ayside Glamor B

Subic Bay Yacht Club is fast becoming a home away from home, for people who love, the sun, sea and water.

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Built in 1998, the Subic Bay Yacht Club is a premier facility for yacht lovers in the Philippines, and a luxurious attraction for both local and international water sports enthusiasts. Located in Rizal Highway the sprawling club opens to a huge swimming pool surrounded by the beach. One of the most stunning yacht clubs in Asia, it is open to members and their guests. Outsiders who are free to have a look of the stylish facility, however, would need a membersponsor to avail of any service. The club does not only cater to yacht owners and sports lovers. it is also a favorite vacation getaway with leisure facilities for every family member. Dads can hit the waters with his friends, Mom can go to the spa, while the kids and teeners hang at the poolside. The rooms have top-of-the-line amenities like a jacuzzi and mini bar. For VIP guests, the club has a presidential suite with its own living and dining area. A weekend will not be complete without delectable cuisine. The Cambusa restaurant at the main club house serves Italian and Asian dishes alongside Continental favorites. It has a bakery and deli, for light snacks, cakes and pastries. And since it’s an all-day dining service, guests can have their afternoon snacks like halo-halo and bibingka, or their favorite beer or wine for cocktails. Those hanging out at the pool can also have their meals and snacks at the Recreation cafe. At night, guest can have dinner at the main dining hall, or dine al fresco with a nice view of the moon and the waters silhouettes of the yachts moored right across the open deck area. After dinner, guests can have a drink at the lounge and listen to soft music at the piano bar . The Subic Bay Yacht Club is also the favorite venue for family gatherings and company activities. In fact, the club itself is a choice destination for special events because it is only a few hours’ drive from Manila. Guests can also visit Subic Bay’s many attractions while attending the special affair. Subic Bay Yacht Club has several function rooms for small or big gatherings. For grand events, the Jaques party lounge can accommodate as many as 150 guests. After a fun-filled day guests can visit the spa and check out the massages and other treatments. The Romanesque inspired luxury spa is like a scene from a period film, complete with hot tubs set in marble, separate whirl pools for men and woman and high ceiling and towering pillars. It’s the ultimate indulgence for those who desire top-of-the-line pampering. For water lovers, the club rents out yachts, speedboats and other water sports equipment. Subic Bay is also known for its dive sites. If you are in for a real adventure, try going on a wreck diving quest. The club can arrange for a professional diver to guide you through the waters. The club also has a basketball court, tennis court, bowling center and a gym. Kids will not feel out of place, while adults are busy doing their own thing with peace of mind as their children play and interact out with the other kids at the daycare, the nursery center or the outdoor play area.

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LEISURE LIVING

ife is a Beach L

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Hollywood Socialite Paris Hilton was in Manila to launch her very own Paris Beach Club, the lifestyle and entertainment complex of Azure Urban Resorts and Residences. A premium development by Century Properties, Azure is a resort themed residential condominium designed by Paris. The units are scheduled to be turned over to its owners within 2014. The 6-hectare prime property is located in Parañaque City and is composed of nine residential towers named after popular resort destinations Rio, Santorini, St. Tropez, Positano, Maui, Maldives, Miami, Bahamas and Boracay. The international heiress initially visited Manila 2011 for the ground breaking ceremony. She was in Manila once again this year to launch her multi-level beach club. Located beside the white sand, man-made beach, the facility is exclusively for residents. Just like the residential towers, every detail in the club is a reflection of the heiress’ personality -- cozy nooks, hot pink chairs, colorful ice cream and candy bar and a trendy fitness center that easily turns into a club. The ground floor will have a high ceiling lobby with chandelier and black velvet chairs. On the second floor are separate spas for men and women, a locker room and a lounge. The top floor will have an indoor and out door restaurants, with a full view of Azure beach. The club will have ample facilities for meetings and functions. It will also have a game room, theater room and day care facilities for children. Azure is truly luxurious beach resort right in the heart of the city. Even the towers resemble five star hotel structures complete with grand fountains at the entrance. It has beach volley ball area, a Zen garden, and a playground for kids. Residents at the lower floors can hear the sound of splashing waves from the man made beach. It has a waterfall, a poolside bar and an infinity pool that flows into the private beach coves. Living in Azure is like being on a vacation every day.

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“The feeling is indescribable!” the celebrity socialite exclaimed when asked how it felt to have her very own residential resort complex. “When I was young, I always really admire my great grandfather (Conrad Hilton) who founded Hilton Hotels. And this beach club is one step for me to achieve that milestone,” she said. She is looking forward to seeing residential resort in full operation, especially her beach club. “Its an incredible place to live in. I really love the concept of Azure because I thought of how cool it is in the middle of the city to have a man-made beach that is so beautiful and breathtaking. I’m planning to return here every now and then and hold parties here.” According to Century Properties Chief Operating Officer John Victor Antonio it took them six months to finish the design of the beach club. The team was in close coordination with Paris from the conceptualization, down to its finishing touches. “We have envisioned Azure to be an urban paradise, wherein residents can enjoy the beach and resort amenities without having to leave the city 365 days a year,” he added. said Mr. Antonio. Incidentally, the white sand in Azure is from Balesin island. According to Mr. Antonio resorts in Macau and Singapore also get their white sand from the island. The company chose to work with Paris because her inputs would be most valuable in designing Azure the very first beach community in the city. After all the international socialite is often circling the world’s top resort destinations. For the beach club, Paris said that she put together everything she has experienced in her favorite travel destinations . “I traveled all around the world. I’ve been to the most incredible places — Ibiza, South of France, Fiji so I basically took all my favorite aspects out of all those different locations and put it all in the Paris Beach Club,” Paris said. Asked about her top five favorite destinations she answered “That would be Ibiza, St. Tropez, Fiji, London and the Philippines”, she said.

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As her first real estate venture made sure she did not just sign her name, she was deeply involved in the every aspect of the business. “Real estate is something that I’ve always been involved in and this project is so perfect for me. I love designing. I have 17 different product lines and I’ve been doing this now for 18 years. It’s been a lot of work and I enjoyed doing it so much.” she added. According to Antonio, the exchange of ideas took several months and were executed via computer generated images .“For this project, Paris gave us 15 design books—like a bible—as a guide in designing the beach club,” said Antonio. The 33-year-old actress designed every single room in Azure. “She helped us choose the material and color palettes for the project, and had compiled her style inspirations into a book for us. Now, we have a truly world-class beach club for the residents of our Azure development.” Buyers can look forward to a glitzy and glamorous life when they move into their units. The man made beach is adjacent to a bar, residents can relax and have a drink without leaving Azure. They can also look forward to party nights, with no less than DJ Paris Hilton hitting the beat.

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Experience travel and living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

WELLNESS

Brooke’s points to Beauty & wellness By: Lester Gopela Hallig

With the sun out, it proved to be a good day to go on a roadtrip to the Subic Bay Freeport Zone and visit Brooke’s Aesthetic & Wellness Center. There, we found its owner Susan Grimm, busily inspecting quality control reports behind her desk. She looks up smiling, informing us that there are more surprises happening at Brooke’s, considered one of the Freeport zone’s top draws. As to why Brooke’s attracts a sizable number of clients in and out of Subic, and indeed in and out of the country, Grimm replies that her establishment is true to its goal: to provide world-class aesthetic and wellness services that are effective, safe, and affordable. Brooke’s houses two sections: an aesthetic area and a wellness center (a gym, if you please). Grimm says that coming to this point in the PCTC Commercial Complex was no easy task. “We were never here in the first place. We started from scratch, and it was my passion that propelled Brooke’s to move forward,” she shares. “The initial concept of Brooke’s began in 2005. We already had a flourishing company by then, but my husband felt that I could still do more,” she relates. It did not take her long to tap into the chemist in her. After all, she had extensive industrial experience, particularly in ink and printing products.

“I still felt the need to create products. My passion happened to be personal beauty and wellness. So by combining my knowledge and expertise in my field of science with my passion, it was simply a matter of time before I honed in on cosmetics and anti-ageing products,” she explains. She started by asking herself, after careful study, was there a way to take the active ingredients of these products to produce instant results? Grimm then researched and attended conventions abroad, arming herself with the necessary information about the field she was getting herself in. She also tested machines herself, just to make sure. Grimm eventually found a machine that incorporates the active ingredients, solving particular skin problems. The machine was intended for personal use, but since the results were so positively obvious, her friends could not help asking her to open a skin clinic.

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“I started outside the freeport with my machines from the United States and Europe. I rented a place and fixed it according to clinical requirements. For three years we served clients there. As business improved, so did our machines. In fact, we were the first in the Philippines to have a fractional laser with a .45 micron size,” she says. Her husband greatly impressed by her perseverance and passion, finally decided to build the clinic in 2009. She beams, “Now everything is housed here.” Brooke’s offers a wide range of treatments: facial antiageing, facial slimming, body slimming, fractional laser, and permanent hair removal. “We promise that we provide more than just the treatments. It is an experience,” she declares, while ushering us to their treatment rooms. On its aesthetic agenda are four of Brooke’s most popular: the HydraFacial, the Oxygen Facial Treatment, the Collagen Facial Treatment, and the RF Ultra-Cav Facial Treatment. It must be said right now that one comes out of these treatments feeling clean, lighter, better.

The HydraFacial, famed for its highly effective form of skin resurfacing, was refreshing at best. Moreso the Oxygen Facial Treatment, which involves a cooling and soothing mist of oxygen, is infused into the skin. Meant to eliminate skin toxins and bacteria, the Oxygen Facial works well in rehydrating the skin. Grimm comments, “It is safe for people with sensitive skin.” We then proceeded to the Collagen Facial Treatment, a process involving the infusion of collagen into the skin to make it healthier, is just as relaxing. It did not feel like an “operation” as some are inclined to think. The same calming effect happened with the RF Ultra-Cav Facial Treatment, which is proven to improve skin laxity, lift face and saggy neck skin, and increase collagen levels. Brooke’s also offers fabulous therapeutic massages in a very comfortable setting. Their expert therapists sure know how to soothe those aching muscles. Of course, the facility has other services: underarm and bikini line whitening, salon services, body scrubs, sauna, and Jacuzzi. One of the things we noticed is the neck treatment before the other actions. Usually, aesthetic clinics simply clean and treat the face straightaway, never the neck. Grimm explains, “We are the only aesthetic spa that offers noninvasive treatment procedures that includes free neck treatment. Yes, as in free of charge. We always make sure that the face is treated as good as the neck. When I opened Brooke’s, I made sure the neck procedure would be free. Even with facials, the cleaning is free.” As if to convince everyone that she is confident about their services, “We offer free trial. You do not have to pay for it immediately. We want to convince people we can deliver what we promise.” Once a month, Brooke’s holds a Wellness Day to give people a chance to experience their treatments. She adds, “We also invite companies to give their employees their Me Time at the aesthetic spa. This is how we see it: if an employee feels good, his productivity and confidence in carrying out his job will improve.” Grimm likewise stresses Brooke’s is more than aesthetics. “It is also a center for wellness, as evidenced by the presence of our gym,” she remarks. “The same principle of providing affordable world-class services applies to the gym.” To prove her point, the gym membership is pegged at P7,500 for six months, with renewal at P6,000. And—surprise—the use of gym towels is free. Under the Brooke’s umbrella of wellness, there are diet plans, life coaching, Zumba, yoga, and soon, tai-chi.

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WELLNESS

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The Medical Spa Pioneer By: Lester Gopela Hallig

When Dr. Mary Jane Torres decided to establish the Zen Institute, she wanted it to break away from the traditional clinic. “I have always dreamt of putting up a clinic with the calming effects of a spa,” she says. “The medical procedures, done professionally, are performed in a relaxing setting.” This pioneering endeavor in the field of medical tourism has, unsurprisingly, given the travel industry a boost. Because of the Zen Institute, balikbayans and foreigners are coming in for their skin and body treatments. Dr. Torres explains this interesting trivia: “Skin and body treatments are very expensive abroad. They figured that coming to the Philippines is more affordable and has more value: they can drop in for their treatments and then they can tour the country afterwards.” The treatments are mostly non-surgical and non-invasive, so clients can move around and move about after their clinic time. “It is alright for them to travel all the way to Manila as long as they see and experience results, and they feel better about it,” she says. The Zen Institute, she adds, makes it all worth the travel (and trouble) by complementing the services with top-of-theline, up-to-the-minute technology and breakthroughs. Thus the Zen Institute has blazed the trail by introducing to the industry such advancements as the Endolift, a non-surgical face-lifting technique that makes use of the Resolift machine. The Endolift has since become a most-requested treatment because “the result is instant and, unlike other facelifts, it still gives a person a facial expression”. Now this non-surgical procedure is a hit, with no less than Dr. Torres herself encouraging clients to give it a go. But before onlookers say that she is against any form of surgery,

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the doctor has this to say, “When surgical procedures are involved, I normally take a conservative approach. If you do not need a non-invasive treatment, then why insist on invasive?” In addition, the Zen Institute insists that patients must lead a clean, healthy lifestyle if they plan to have treatments. Dr. Torres says, “There is no point in coming here if a patient still subscribes to an unhealthy lifestyle. Our manner of approach is holistic. We will never put our patient’s health in danger.” She stresses, “Here at the Zen Institute, we promote wellness. If an obese person comes to us, we help him but we also push him to embrace a healthy lifestyle, encouraging him to ditch life-threatening habits such as smoking and over-eating. There has to be a change in one’s lifestyle if one expects good results.” Take the case of their 21-Day Weight-Loss Program, a weight management program involving science and body sculpting. While the professional supervision is there, Torres says the program instill important values on the patient. “We counsel our patient to seek healthier food alternatives. We monitor his progress and support him all the way.” The program features body conditioning, personal training, and yoga. She remarks, “Clients must be able to commit themselves to their goals. Our scientifically designed program is there to help realize their objectives.” Also in the Zen Institute menu of services are scientifically-proven, safe body sculpting techniques. Noteworthy is the Mesolipo, which involves a cocktail with L-carnitine, injected only in places where fat reduction is needed. 78

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The cocktails are very scientifically designed and safe, adding that instead of taking different pills, the facility uses a cocktail that is introduced intravenously, with 100% absorption compared to 30% absorption from pills. The Zen Institute is also proud of the latest machines, such as the ultra-sound cavitational machine, which helps out drain the water content of the fat, and the lipocryo machine. How could one miss the popular Resonax, the Italianmade machine that rids the body of unwanted fat without pressure, pain, nor pinch. Torres states that the challenge for clients is really maintenance. “Clients are provided individualized protocols and maintenance programs, overseen by our doctors and wellness consultants.” “We specifically designed the Zen Institute as a spa because we want clients to feel pampered with our treatments and scrubs. Our Scout Rallos branch in Quezon City very much reflects that atmosphere, with its 15 private rooms, yoga room, personal training room, colonics room, and foot spa area. With all these provisions, the Zen Institute has truly mastered the balance of medical supervision and personal decision, and has ushered in an exciting chapter in medical tourism history.

Marriott Hotel Manila expands with Marriott Grand Ballroom

Philippines’ largest pillar-less Ballroom

Marriott Hotel Manila, already a multi-faceted event venue, is set to raise its game next year with the opening of the Grand Ballroom. Housed in the exciting Resorts World entertainment complex that also features the country’s biggest gaming facility, international dining, nightlife and superb shopping, the hotel allows meeting delegates to soak in the resort-style ambiance and stay in five-star comfort at the 342 spacious guestrooms fitted out with marbled bathrooms. The location, across the street from Terminal 3 of Ninoy Aquino International Airport, allows for easy accessibility and the friendly Marriott International-trained staff smooth things out at every step. And things are about to get better for event planners. In addition to the existing 21,259 sq ft (1,975sqm) of meeting space, the Grand Ballroom, with state-of-the-art lighting and sound system, is set to open in January next year. Whereas the existing Manila Ballroom can host up to 900, the Grand Ballroom will be able to seat 2,500 for banquets, or up to 5,000 for a performance event. And as guests enter the Grand Ballroom lobby, they will be greeted by a stunning centrepiece created by celebrated Filipino designer Kenneth Cobonpue, adding to the experience a sense of local authenticity. Part of Marriot’s grand design is its flexibility in providing the ideal setup for your event.

Social Setup

Attention to details

Ballroom Pre-Function

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Multifunction Pre-function Stage

Concert Scene

By incorporating Canada’s advanced Skyfold technology, the halls can be adjusted into different sizes and layouts at the touch of a button. Add to it the state of the art Lighting and Audio-Visual Technology, planners can arrange conferences and meetings during the day, and gala dinners or even a concert at night, all without having to move location. On top of support from the hotel’s international culinary team, the Grand Ballroom itself has three food and beverage outlets: premium coffee house Crema, Allegro delicatessen offering organic food items, and pan-Asian noodle bar. Hardware

Understated Technology

Lobby

Wedding Scene

Crema Coffee Shop

VIP Lounge

Marriott Grand Ballrroom Facade Night Scene

Excellent service by brilliant hosts

Hardware aside, it is the people that make an event successful. At Marriott Hotel Manila, the Certified Meeting and Wedding Planners take care of every detail for you, and no detail is too small. With the running of things put in their safe hands, all you need to do is enjoy your own event. Marriott Hotels and Resorts are globally recognized for the highest standards in accommodations, service, and market-leading locations. Marriott Hotel Manila has successfully brought this heritage to Manila over the past five years. And now, the Marriott Grand Ballroom will take events in Manila to the next level. To know more about Marriott and its expansion please call 988999 or visit www.manilamarriott.com

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Reliable Acer IT Doctors

Do you have endless computer-related questions running in your head? Are you often faced with a blank wall when deciding what computer or IT gadget would best suit your need? As we become more and more dependent on these gadgets that can be so many queries left unanswered. Global IT brand Acer understands the importance of quick solutions especially for busy individuals. The brand recently introduced “Acer IT Doctors,” a dedicated team of IT specialists, who can put an end to all types of tech snags and struggles. They can readily respond to all kinds of IT concerns and questions. Admittedly, a majority of Filipino computer and gadget users are not tech savvy. They can certainly benefit from guidance and technical assistance from reliable IT experts. The Acer IT Doctors can address IT-related queries and provide non-techies out there a more personalized customer service. They can even help guide customers in choosing the best and most appropriate IT device based on

their needs, lifestyle and of course, budget. But you will be glad to know that the Acer IT Doctors cater to the general public regardless whether they are Acer users or not. Whatever IT brand these users patronize, the IT Doctors of Acer are open to provide valuable assistance and as a reliable go-to option whenever you want to address and solve important IT needs and queries. This would definitely appeal to IT product users who usually encounter technology- or computer-related issues in their gadgets. You are sure to be in safe hands whenever you consult the IT Doctors since it will be represented by Acer’s expert team of trustworthy product managers from its different product divisions—mobile devices, notebooks, stationary devices and other commercial products. Before you let go of your valued savings to buy your next gadget, go ahead and consult with the Acer IT Doctors for a sure-winning deal.

You can watch the Acer IT Doctors’ online through its YouTube series that will showcase their best prescriptions that are easily understandable, especially by non-techies. Or you can find out the answers to your simple or most complex IT questions by following and ask the Acer IT Doctors your most urgent concern via their Custom Tab at Acer Philippines’ Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/AcerPH).

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The Acer Iconia W4: fit and fab for your travels Being on the go means opting for smaller devices that can provide the most basic functions. An efficient mobile worker needs a reliable device that can send and receive emails, present documents, take pictures, quick online research and update social networks. While a laptop can perform all such tasks, it can be too bulky and can cause shoulder and wrist pains. Acer Iconia W4 is a 2-in-1 netbook that is a compact, easy to carry. The mobile worker can easily read, create documents, and even play while on the go. With an 8-inch wide screen, the Acer Iconia W4 is small enough to be held by one hand and still big enough for fine and comfortable viewing. It runs on Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 8.1, and has the Intel Bay Trail 1.33Ghz CPU and LPDDR3 1067Mhz 2GB processor so you get cutting-edge performance yet uses less battery power. That means you got enough battery juice to last at least for the next 10 hours, good for long travels. Plus, pre-installed full versions of Microsoft Office Home and Student 2013 editions run PowerPoint®, Word®, Excel®, and OneNote® so students and professionals can do their tasks even while on the move. For file storage, the Acer Iconia W4 has its Acer SkyDrive, a built-in cloud storage that functions as the default location for saving documents. With the Acer Iconia W4, you can manage both local and SkyDrive storage in one place. Unlike other touch devices, the Acer Iconia W4 netbook has incredibly clear visuals because its “Zero Air Gap” technology reduces light reflection by directly binding the LCD module and touch panel. Its micro USB 2.0 and micro HDMI ports help enhance flexibility and productivity and enables your work, presentations and entertainment to be shared on big screens. The Acer Iconia W4 also comes bundled with a portable full-sized Acer crunch keyboard for those who want looking—and typing—on an actual one. So don’t worry anymore about tough days at work and at play. With the Acer Iconia W4’s functionality and performance features, trust that it will make you perform your work flawlessly, play your usual gaming mode smoothly, and your web browsing time cooler than ever. What more can you ask for? For more about the Acer Iconia W4 netbook, visit Acer Philippines at www.acer.com.ph or www.Facebook.com/ AcerPH. About Acer Established in 1976, Acer is an information and communication technology company dedicated to the research, design, marketing, sale and support of innovative products that enhance people’s lives. Acer’s green supply chain delivers environmentally friendly PCs, displays, projectors, servers, tablets and smartphones — tools our customers need to explore beyond limits and experience more. Ranked No. 3 for notebooks globally (IDC 2012), Acer employs 8,000 people, and 2012 revenues reached US$14.7 billion. Please visit www.acer.com for more information. © 2013Acer Inc. All rights reserved. Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Inc. Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and/or service marks, indicated or otherwise, are the property of their respective owners.

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DINING

Antipolo’s Best Kept Secret

Vieux Chalet has been Antipolo’s best kept secret for 30 years. Perched at edge of hilly Taktak road in Sitio Sampaguita, Vieux Chalet is still the much recommended romantic getaway especially for couples who wish to escape the typical Manila night life. “Until now, we have a lot of guests who tell me, they had their dinner dates here. Some of them have met my father, now they have grown-up children and they still come here, some even celebrate their anniversaries in the restaurant,’”shared owner Florence Hassig. Vieux Chalet was put up by her parents Tony and Susan Hassig. Her father Tony Hassig is Swiss, and preferred the laid back life outside the city. Florence describes her father as being exceptionally “adventurous” and would not think twice about doing something out of the ordinary. When her parents found their dream home in the mountains of Antipolo, blessed with a “stunning view” and “fresh air” her father

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decided to turn it into business -- a romantic, country style restaurant specializing in home cooked meals. The lure of authentic Swiss food served in a rustic setting was enough to convince the romantics to drive to Antipolo. “You have to be really in love to make the trip” Florence said. She added that back when the restaurant first opened in the ‘80s, the roads leading to Viuex Chalet were long and bumpy. Antipolo seemed like some far away province. But the physical challenge was easily overlooked by diners head over heels in love. Who cares about the traffic and the unpaved roads, when you are with love of your life? It was nothing compared to the heavenly experience of dining by candle light, as the stars watch from the evening skies. Love never goes out of fashion which is why the magic of Vieux Chalet lives on. Thanks to its online presence, the younger generation are able to savor the 30-year-old experience.

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From the very beginning, running Vieux Chalet was a family activity, with every member contributing to its growth and success. “My Dad had a ‘no work no food rule’, if you do not work, you will literally not eat, you will not be called for meals, you will really go to bed hungry,’ she said. While her parents were busy at the kitchen, she and her siblings would be tasked to clean the restaurant, vacum the floor, tend to the garden anything that needed immediate attention. As she grew older she was assigned to help out in the kitchen. “I would peel 50 kilos of potatoes or fillet 200 kilos of meat, we did everything” she said. It may have been an unusually busy childhood, but it certainly taught her the value of work and her passion for the business. To this day, everything in Vieux Chalet, is a product of their own hands . “We still sew our own table cloth, kulang na lang we make our own plates. I can actually learn but for now we will leave that to the experts.” The restaurant even has a souvenir shop that sells their arts and crafts products. Long before all hype on home cooked meals and organic food Viuex chalet has been serving vegetable dishes grown from their garden. She attributes the restaurant’s staying power to their passion to impart the unique experience. “Some say if your restaurant lasts 5 years, then that’s good. We’ve been here for 30 years, and until now, I still look forward to meeting new guests”. Florence took over the restaurant business in 2000. Her mother ran the business shortly after her father died but eventually decided to pass on the responsibility to Florence. Just like the traditional home business set-up Florence, her husband and her kids all live in Vuiex Chalet, and happily helping out in the restaurant. A few years ago, Florence added the St. Moritz Inn for those who wish to spend the night in Antipolo. “There were always inquiries for accommodations, I guess they are too tired to drive back, especially after partying and drinking,”

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she said. Aside from the rooms St. Moritz Inn also has a massage area, hot tub and sauna for utmost indulgence. While Vieux Chalet is still very popular among dating couples, the place also gets a lot of bookings for family gatherings. The restaurant is kid-friendly, aside from Florence’s son Aguila, who happily greets all guests, it has a play house,swing, and a swimming pool. Diners are welcome to bring their swimming gear and jump into the pool. With it reputation for authentic Swiss cuisine the restaurant has managed to keep its menu prices competitive. “My father used to stay, you made them drive all the way to Antipolo, you cannot slap them with a food bill similar to a five-star hotel, its just not right “ she said. Indeed, this simple formula has kept their customers coming back for more. By the way the place is just as accessible for commuters. Take any of the shuttle to Antipolo church and tell the tricycle driver to take you to the restaurant. “If the tricycle driver cannot understand you, say “vu cha-let” Florence joked. In fact because of the steep road leading to the restaurant some of the guests leave their vehicles at the car park building by the church and ride the tricycle to Taktak road.

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DINING

Bulgogi Fever

There is something magical about picking up the first strip of newly-served beef bulgogi with your chop sticks. And while the server cautions diners that the meat maybe hot, it heads straight into mouth after a few soft blows. In Korea, bulgogi means grilled marinated beef. Cut in thin strips, the meat is dipped in sweet sauce mixed with onions and spices and cooked in dome griddles. The dish is very popular worldwide, in fact when CNNGo listed the reader’s pick for World’s 50 best foods, the Korean meat dish ranked no. 23. Voting was done via Facebook poll, and received more than 35,000 votes.

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According to the CNN-Travel site, the grilled beef has been the toast of the tastebuds for over 1,000 years. “A bowl of bulgogi gives everything you need in a balanced diet -- carbohydrate (rice), protein (beef and egg), vitamins and minerals (mixed vegetables), and fat (oil). Four good reasons to order a second bowl.” The Filipino palate likes anything sweet and so bulgogi is also a local hit. Kogi Bulgogi restaurant with branches at Eastwood, Gateway and Lucky Chinatown Mall, has been receiving positive reviews for their Beef Bulgogi and other dishes like Gui or grilled favorites, Bibimbap (Korean rice toppings), Ramyeon or noddle dishes and choice Korean snacks. And while bulgogi can be really spicy according to owner Michael Soong the level of spiciness can actually be adjusted. “ Kogi Bulgogi specializes in tempering your orders’ spice level from 0 – 10. This service is specially appreciated by Filipino market.” The “customized” touch is one of the main reasons why the restaurant has been serving a jam packed crowd since it opened in 2010. Kogi Bulgogi interiors easily give a unique feel of modern Korea. The wooden earth tones create a casual dining appeal, attracting families and big groups to savor their dishes. Big groups often book their lunch and dinner get-togethers at the restaurant because the meals can be shared. The variety of offerings also makes it a top choice for gatherings and celebrations. The owner noted that that local diners are always willing to try something new. “Regular customers rave about their endless enjoyment of our famous banchan, or our six mini appetizers that are served to you as you wait for your orders to arrive.” Koreans often start their meals with banchan usually composed of kimchi, bean sprouts, onions, carrots, spicy dried fish and other vegetables. At Kogi Bulgogi even Filipino diners look forward to their spicy banchan. “The thing that makes Kogi Bulgogi special is the whole dining experience. From the time you entered the restaurant, from the ambiance, and the especially food. Overall, it is the distinct taste of authenticity that Kogi Bulgogi offers to its customers. He attributes the continued patronage of Kogi Bulgogi to the local diner’s adventurous palate and their growing interest in Korean culture. For instance, local television channels continue to air Korean shows.

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“As early as 2010, we saw the growing market. Our first branch in Eastwood Mall was a huge hit, residents, office workers and mall goers enjoyed our Kogi Bulgogi dishes. Our main goal was to offer authentic Korean dishes that is value-for-money. Aside from Beef Bulgogi, the star of the show, other popular dishes are Japchae (stir-fry glass noddles) Soft Shell Crab Salad , Sae-u Twigim (fried prawns, Deungshim Gui (grilled steak) and Kimchi. By the way there are several articles online that discuss the amazing health benefits of kimchi or fermented cabbage. It is high in fiber, low in fat, and rich in vitamins A, B and C. Aside from being a tasty side dish it is good for the skin, and delays the aging process. The Korean food maybe known for its distinct spicy flavor, but it is also a balance mix of meat and vegetables making it a complete and healthy meal.

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ENCOUNTER Family Fun in Subic By: Lester Gopela Hallig

Nowadays, it is difficult to think of Subic Bay as anything other than being the complete holiday getaway. The thousands that troop to Subic Bay for their holiday fix declare and agree that this is the destination to beat. For starters, it is highly accessible via the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). What used to take forever to reach Subic Bay now just a couple of hours’ drive through wellpaved roads, verdant greens, and quaint towns. Of course, the real star of the show is Subic Bay itself, with its accommodations and attractions that rope visitors in all year-round. At Subic Bay, as the saying goes, the itinerary is determined not by what to do but by what to do next. Indeed, families and barkadas comprise Subic Bay’s largest audience. They view it as a venue for spending quality time together; bonding, if you please. Subic presents activities and places that are best enjoyed with loved ones. So when Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) chairman Roberto Garcia declares that two to three days are never enough at Subic Bay, you have to take his word for it. Chairman Garcia says, “Subic offers more for the family.

It has everything that they will enjoy doing together, from adventure activities to shopping.” Exciting experiences are enjoyed via Subic Bay’s adventure activities. Garcia states, “We have three major theme parks here: the Ocean Adventure, the Treetop Adventure, and the Zoobic Safari. As a theme-park tourist destination, we offer activities that are far from the usual.” The Ocean Adventure, located right next door to the Camayan Beach Resort, features shows and interactive animal encounters. The Treetop Adventure, meanwhile, is for the daring type. It is nature tripping 100 feet above ground: jungle trails, made up platforms set up on branches, suspension bridges, the world’s first motorized canopy tour, Tree Drop, ziplines, and trekking. If one wants to conquer one’s fear of heights, better do it together here. But of course, this adventure is also about nature appreciation. It is therefore not surprising to see the environmentalist side of parents, teaching and pointing out to their kids how Mother Nature must be respected.

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Also on a nature trip, albeit of the four-legged kind, is the Zoobic Safari. The 25-hectare park affords families the chance to interact with animals normally seen in picture books and television. On offer under the Zoobic Safari umbrella are: the Tiger Safari wherein guests ride around a Safari jeepney with guides and observe full-sized Siberian tigers; the Croco Loco where one gets to walk over a steel gateway and view 200 crocodiles right below; the Savannah, an animal sanctuary; the Rodent World and its furry occupants; the Serpentarium where visitors can watch reptiles at close range; the Aetas Trail featuring a realistic Aeta village with its inhabitants performing a tribal show; the Petting Zoo where people can actually touch and hold trained baby tigers, iguanas, and pythons; and the Animal Moozeum featuring a collection of real stuffed animals and skeletons. Garcia takes pride in the fact that these parks welcomed close to a million visitors last year. “One day in one of these parks is not enough,” he quips. He likewise recommends even more activities away from dry land, “Here in Subic, we get a lot of families booking themselves for water activities such as swimming, jet skiing, kayaking, canoeing, yachting, and sailing.” The last two, he states, have become among Subic Bay’s strongest points. “We are promoting Subic as the sailing capital of the Philippines,” he shares. “The most important

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and most watched sailing events happen here in Subic. Just recently we had the Subic-to-Boracay race. We also host the Commodore’s Cup, which is part of the Asian yachting circuit. There is even a Hong Kong-to-Subic race here. Because of our sophisticated yacht club, people from all over the world come here just to do sailing.” Speaking of water activities, Garcia revealed that their beaches are not limited to those within the Freeport zone alone. “The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority has an agreement with the local government of San Antonio, Zambales to jointly develop the three famous beaches there: Silangen, Nagsasa, and Anawangin. We will begin first with Silangen, since it is closer to the Freeport zone. Just like the Freeport zone, these places will be fenced. Under our charter, no one, including us, can touch the natural surroundings. You see, 90 percent of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone is a rainforest. We are one of the last two rainforests in Luzon, which is why we still have the bats and the monkeys in Subic.” For families that decide to stay a little longer, Subic Bay boasts of 41 hotels with 2,800 rooms in total. He gives this important piece of advice, “During high season, it is quite difficult to get hotel rooms in the zone, which is why one has to book early. On the average, the occupancy of our hotels is 70 percent. Imagine what it’s like during holidays and weekends.”

As an aside, Garcia notes that it is also because of Subic Bay’s popularity in the accommodations arena that it is considered the premier convention center capital for Central Luzon by no less than the Department of Tourism. “The basis is, as a meetings, incentives, conferences, and events (MICE) hub, Subic has the largest convention center outside Manila. We can have 12,000 people in there. Evidence of this is the consistent upward trend of our MICE figures. In fact, the former Ad Congress, now called Ad Summit, will be held here for the third time. It just proves that we can accommodate big numbers,” he declares.

Garcia assures families coming to Subic that, as a gated community, safety and security are never compromised. There are perimeter fences covering the area, as well as CCTV cameras. “We have our own police force in Subic. Our police force is not part of the Philippine National Police. Under our own charter, we have our own Law Enforcement Department. It is authorized to investigate, fine, and ticket law-breakers. This element alone ensures that Subic is a very secure community where you can walk around without fearing for your life and property. Rest assured that you will be safe in Subic.”

He adds that Subic has its own emergency response unit: “Just dial 9-111 and in 10 minutes, the unit will come to you. For two years now, our emergency unit has won the National Gawad Kalasag Award for Best Government Emergency Response Unit.” In the same breath, he observes that Subic Bay is one of the few places in the country where Filipinos actually follow traffic rules and regulations. He laughs, “They stop on the red signal even if nobody is in sight. If they do otherwise, they will get caught. Our police are very good at catching those who disobey the rules.” Of course, all this talk about Subic Bay will not be complete without mentioning duty-free shopping. After all, this Freeport has always been known as a shopper’s paradise and, to this day, the stores (factory outlets and groceries) are alive and well, offering shopping indulgences in every conceivable way. Garcia hastens to point out that Subic Bay’s multi-faceted nature is just as family-friendly as it goes. “Because Subic has the environment for it, it is like the triathlon capital already. Sports tourism is one of our strongest suits. For sports-minded families, they will want to check out this side of Subic.” It is because of Subic’s multi-faceted nature that families, and indeed even groups on a leisure or a business-withpleasure trips in their agenda, keep coming back to Subic. The possibilities are just as endless as the choices it presents. Subic Bay even backs up these attractions with safety and security measures, indeed the ingredients of a worry-free, stress-free holiday that families approve of. Garcia rightly concludes, “There is no better place than Subic. Everything is in here.”

Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

ENCOUNTER Shopping in Davao By: Lester Gopela Hallig

Davao City is fast becoming a prime shopping destination. Earlier this is year, the city hosted the biggest and only city-wide shopping sale in the Philippines. Dubbed as “the Big Davao Fun Sale,” the monthlong sale, launched by the Department of TourismDavao Regional Office (DOT-XI), offered the best shopping deals with as high as 80 discount on dining, local crafts, fruits, and flowers, health and beauty products and services , electronics and gadgets , home and travel , and fashion and active lifestyle .

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“This was the first time for all seven malls to work together and hold this unique sale,” said Tourism Assistant Secretary for Mindanao Arturo Boncato Jr.; Patterned after the “Great Singapore Sale” the city’s top shopping malls namely Abreeza Mall, NCCC Mall of Davao, SM Lanang Premier, SM City Davao, Gaisano Mall of Davao, GMall of Toril, and Robinsons, not only spearheaded the bargain adventure, the malls also mounted exciting promos, weekly shows and events to excite patrons.

According to Art, the tourist attractions and the booming developments has turned the city into a shopping destination. Promoting the city as a shopping paradise in Mindanao creates a lot of opportunities, especially if all sectors work together to assure its success. He shared that when the country’s largest malls opened in Davao two years ago competition suddenly became very steep. Key officials in the business sector wondered if the citizens could sustain the viability of the shopping centers. “This convinced the mall executives to formally organize the Retail Association of Davao and partner with us in DOT coming up with the Big Davao Fun Sale to attract both local and foreign tourists.” The Big Davao Fun Sale coincided with the annual Araw Ng Dabaw celebration. Aside from the retail event there was also a food festival organized by the Restaurant Association of Davao where all 100 restaurant-brand members came up with their own promo, festival or special menu just for the event. Aside from the stores, the transport service also took part in the shopping spree. The city’s famous allblack Mabuhay Taxi partnered with the DOT-Davao Region. Its entire fleet of 150 units were all dressed up to promote the event. Cebu Pacific Air has also worked with the Retail Association of Davao in offering special discounts for all flights all Davao. Silk Air also had special promo packages for its international flights to and from Davao. “We tied up with the airlines for lower airfare so that it becomes an attractive package for travelers. When the tourist gets to save more on air fare, he gets to spend more on dining, shopping, and touring,” Boncato explained.

The Department of Tourism has singled out shopping as one of the country’s prime attractions. “With the increasing global attention given to the Philippines now as a tourist destination, we can anticipate more tourists to visit our country for their shopping holiday. What made “The Big Davao Fun Sale” more fun is that it coincides with the Araw ng Dabaw celebration, which highlights the culture, ingenuity, and warmth of the Dabaweños. ” Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. said. Indeed there are more and more reasons to visit Davao.

Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

ENCOUNTER Dream Gatherings the City By: Tet Defensor Photos By: Rafael Siscar

Gone are the days when brides and mothers had to take care of all the details that go with planning a wedding. Nowadays brides can actually hire event planner and coordinators who can spare them from all kinds of stress. Weddings are considered a milestone, not only for the couple who will be starting their life together, but also for the parents who wish to share the good news to everyone. More often than not big celebrations like weddings turn brides and mothers into monsters because of all the challenges involved. The emotional roller coaster is understandable. Brides have a tendency to be very emotional, especially since she has to make so many choices. Parents are just as anxious, because they are aching to put in their inputs as to how the entire event should be.

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Amid all the ideas running about, a wedding coordinator makes sure that everything is in place. Top wedding planner Rita Neri, is the bright light of hope in the midst of the hectic preparations. Rita has been in the wedding business for 18 years and she has handled weddings of various types both in and out of the country. Her successful business stemmed from her natural ability to organize. Back in the 90s, when brides or mothers of the brides were doing their own preparation, Rita opted to “ease” the stress by opening The Wedding Store in Glorietta. Instead of going to different places to source wedding paraphernalia, Rita had a one-stop-shop; she practically sold everything in her store. And because she enjoyed preparing events, she was always eager to give suggestions to anyone who walks into her store. Pretty soon, word got around on how she ably assists clients who go to the Wedding store, not just to purchase items but to seek her recommendations. Armed with her experience plus her unique skills for dealing with stressed brides she started offering wedding coordination services. Couples relied on her expertise not only in easing the tension that goes with the event but also executing their dream wedding.

In 2006 she launched the Rita Neri Event Planners (RNEP), a company that specializes in handling corporate events, debuts, baptisms, anniversaries and birthdays. Her company was behind the much talked about weddings of celebrities of Judy Ann and Ryan Agoncillo, Charlene Gonzales and Aga Muhlach and the memorable debut of KC Concepcion. She has written two best-selling books, ‘The Essential Wedding Workbook for the Filipina Bride Volumes I & II. And after being a dedicated planner for 19 years, Rita launched R-Space Events Venue at Nicanor Garcia st. In Bel- Air Makati. Designed by Architect Bong Recio with interiors concept by Ivy and Cynthia Almario, R Space is ideal for small celebrations. “We understand that there is something about simple and intimate gatherings. Whether one is planning to tie the knot, celebrate their child’s birthday, baptism, host a corporate party or launch a photo, R-Space can be converted to suit any event concept,” she said. R-Space has a main indoor dining area that can host a sit down dinner event for 160 people and a cocktail party for 180 guests. R Space also has a private garden that can host a cocktail event for 12. R Space is the first venue in the country to be owned and operated by an events planning company. “R Space

is the beginning of the realization of our dreams to expand our brand in the event planning industry. As pioneers and industry leaders, we always set our sights high and our standards higher. We believe that by opening R Space we are offering a unique service. This is the merging of two concepts, a beautiful, elegant venue for intimate events and strength of our seasoned event coordination team.” For couples planning for their big day, RNEP offers several types of services to make sure that your wedding runs smoothly. Couples who wish to work closely with a professional planner in organizing and facilitating all the details of the ceremony and reception can sign for the Full-service Planning and Coordination package. If the bride and the groom wish to

plan their own event and simply needs a professional coordinator to direct the wedding day activities then they can get the Rehearsal and Wedding Day Coordination. For couples who wish to do everything themselves but needs professional assistances on suppliers, legal documents and the like then they can opt for the One –on-One Consultations. Weddings mounted by RNEP have the reputation for being well-organized with details that reflect the couples own style. Brides are guaranteed to be at their prettiest on their wedding day, because all the work is handled by a professional team.

Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

travel directory DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM OFFICES National Capital Region

Rm. 207, Department of Tourism Bldg., T.M. Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 523-8411 to 20 Web site: www.wowphilippines.com.ph

Ilocos Region (I) Oasis Country Resort Hotel National Highway, Sevilla, San Fernando, La Union Phone: (072) 888-2411/2098 Fax: 888-2098 Email: dotregion1@pldtdsl.net

Laoag Sub-Office Room 207, Ilocano Heroes Memorial Hall, Laoag City Phone: (077) 722-1473 Fax: (077) 722-0467 Email: dotlaoag@digitelone.com

Cordillera Administrative Region DOT Complex, Gov. Pack Road, Baguio City Phone: (074) 442-8848/7014 Fax: (074) 442-8848 Email: dotcar@pldtdsl.net

Boracay Field Office Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Phone: (036) 288-3689 Web site: www.boracay.com

Central Visayas (VII) Ground floor, LDM Bldg., Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu City Tel. (032) 254-2811, 254-6077 and 254-6650 Email: dotregion7@gmail.com, dotcebu@gmail.com

Eastern Visayas (VIII) Ground floor, Foundation Plaza Bldg., Leyte Park Resort Compound, Magsaysay Blvd., Tacloban City Phone: (053) 321-2048, 321-4333 Fax: 325-5279 Email: dotreg8@yahoo.com Web site: www.visiteasternvisayas.ph

Zamboanga Peninsula (IX) Lantaka Hotel by the Sea Valderosa St., Zamboanga City Tel. (062) 991-0218 Fax: 993-0030 Email: dotr9@yahoo.com

Northern Mindanao (X)

No. 29-A, Rizal St. Tuguegarao City, Cagayan Phone: (078) 844-1621, 846-2435 Fax: 846-2435 Email: dotr02@yahoo.com Web site: www.dotregion2.com.ph

Gregorio Pelaez Sports Center, A.Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Phone: (08822) 726-394, 723-696, 856-4048 and 858-8866 Fax: 723-696 Email: dotr10@yahoo.com

Central Luzon (III)

Davao Region (XI)

Southern Tagalog Regions (IV)

Rm. 512, Landco Corporate Center Bldg., J.P. Laurel Avenue, Davao City Phone: (082) 221-6955, 487-0659 Fax: 221-0070 / 225-1940 Email: dotr11@yahoo.com Web site: www.discoverdavao.com

Cagayan Valley Region (II)

Hilaga Village San Fernando City, Pampanga Phone: (045) 961-2665, 961-2612 Fax: 961-2612 Email: celtour@yahoo.com Room 208, Department of Tourism Bldg., T.M. Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 524-1969, 524-1528 and 526-7656 Fax: 526-7656 Email: lcjurilla@tourism.gov.ph

Bicol Region (V) Regional Center Site Rawis, Legaspi City, Albay Phone: (052) 482-0712, 820-3664 Fax: 482-0715 Email: dotr5@globalink.net.ph Web site: www.wowbicol.com

Western Visayas (VI) Western Visayas Tourism Center Capitol Ground, Bonifacio Drive, Iloilo City Phone: (033) 337-5411, 509-3550 Fax: 335-0245 Mobile: 0917-722-6691 Email: deptour6@mozcom.com Web site: www.corporate.mozcom.com/dot, www.westernvisayastourism.com.ph

Experience travel and living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

Soccsksargen (XII) Second floor, COMSE Bldg., Quezon Ave., Cotabato City Phone: (064) 421-1110 Fax: 421-7868 Email: dot12@greendot.com.ph

Koronadal Sub-Office Ground floor, Marvella Plaza Hotel, Gen Paulino Santos Drive, Koronadal City Phone: (083) 228-8667

Caraga Region (XIII) Ground floor, Grateful Realty Corp. Bldg., 88 Pili Drive, Butuan City Phone: (085) 341-8413 Fax: 815-6040 Email: dotr13@yahoo.com Web site: www.dotcaraga.ph

EMBASSIES and CONSULATES Australia Level 23-Tower 2, RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City 1200 Phone: (+63) 2 757 8100 Fax: (+63) 2 7578 268 Web site: www.philippines.embassy. gov.au Email: manila.consular@dfat.gov.au

Belgium 9th floor, Multinational Bancorporation Centre, 6805 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: + (63) 2 845-1869 Fax: + (63) 2 845-2076 Web site: www.diplomatie.be/manila Email: manila@diplobel.org

Brazil 16th floor, Liberty Center, 104 H.V. dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 845-3651 to 53 Fax: (+63) 2 845-3676 Web site: http://manila.itamaraty.gov.h Email: brasemb@info.com.ph

Brunei Darussalam 11th Floor BPI Building, Ayala Avenue cor. Paseo De Roxas, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 816-2836, 891-6646 Fax: (+63) 2 816-2876

Cambodia Unit 7A-B, Country Space 1 Building, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63-2) 818-9981, 810-1896 Fax: (+63-2) 818-9983 Web site: nfaic.gov.kh Email: cam.emb.ma@netasia.net

Canada Level 6, 7 and 8, Tower II, RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 857-9000 Fax: (+63) 2 843-1082 Web site: www.manila.gc.ca

China 4896 Pasay Road., Dasmarinas Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 844-3148, 843-7715 Fax: (+63) 2 845-2465, 843-9974 Email: chinaemb_ph@mfa.gov.cn

Denmark 51st floor, PBCOM Tower, 6795 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, Manila, Philippines Phone: (+63) 2 815-8015 Fax: (+63) 2 815-8017 Email: mnlconsul@maersk.com

Egypt 7th floor, GC Corporate Plaza 150 Legaspi St. Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 843-9220 Fax : (+63) 2 843-9239

travel directory Finland

Malaysia

21st Floor BPI Buendia Center, Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 891-5011 to 15 Fax: (+63) 2 891-4107 Web site: www. nland.ph Email: sanomat.mni@formin.

29th and 30th floor., The World Center Bldg. 330 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave. Makati City Phone: (+63)2 864-0761 to 68 Fax: (+63)2 864-0727 Email: malmanila@kln.gov.my

5th floor, ACT Tower, 135 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 818-5526 Fax: (+63) 2 810-2885 Emails: emb.manila@maec.es and con.manila@maec.es

Mexico

Sweden

France 16th floor, The Paci c Star Bldg., Makati Ave. cor. Sen. Gil Puyat Ext., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 810-1981/8 Fax: (+63) 2 813-1908

Germany 25/F Tower 2, RCBC Plaza 6819 Ayala Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-4906 Fax: (+63) 2 810-4703 Web site: www.manila.diplo.de Email: germanembassymanila@surfshop.net.ph

India 2190 Paraiso St. Dasmarinas Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 815-8151 Fax: (+63) 2 815-8151 Web site: www.embindia.org.ph Email: amb@embindia.org.ph

Indonesia 185 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-5061/68 Fax: (+63) 2 892-5878, 818-4441 Web site: www.kbrimanila.org.ph Email: fungsipensosbud@yahoo.com.ph

Ireland 3rd floor, Max’s Bldg., 70 Jupiter St., Bel-Air, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 896-4668 Fax: (+63) 2 897-8534 Email: irishcon@pldtdsl.net

2nd floor, GC Corporate Plaza 150 Legaspi St. Legaspi Vill., Makati City Phone: (+63)2 812-2211, 812-2212 Fax: (+63)2 892-7635 Web site: www.sre.gob.mx/ lipinas Email: ebmex l@info.com.ph

Netherlands 26th Floor Equitable PCI Bank Tower, 8751 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 786-6666 Fax: (+63 2) 786-6600 Web site: www.netherlandsembassy.ph Email: man@minbuza.nl

New Zealand 23rd Floor, BPI Center Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63)2 891-5358 to 67, 891-3272 to 75 Fax: (+63)2 891-5357, 891-5356 Web site: www.nzembassy.com/philippines Email: nzemmanila@globelines.com.ph

Norway 21st floor, Petron Mega Plaza Bldg., 358 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 886-3245 to 49 Fax: (+63) 2 886-3244, 886.3384 Web site: www.norway.ph Email: emb.manila@msa.no

Pakistan

23rd floor, Trafalgar Plaza, H.V. dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-5330 Fax: (+63) 2 894-1027 Web site: www.manila.mfa.gov.il Email: info@manila.mfa.gov.il

6th Floor, Alexander House 132 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village Makati City Phone: (+63)2 817-2772/6 Fax: (+63)2 840-0229 Email: pakrepmanila@yahoo.com Web site: www.ctstech.org/pkembphil/ cservicesmain.htm

Italy

Russia

6th floor, Zeta Bldg. 191 Salcedo St. Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-4531/2/3 Fax: (+63) 2 817-1436 Email: informazioni.manila@esteri.it

1245 Acacia Road., Dasmarinas Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 893-0190 Fax: (+63) 2 810-9614 Web site: www.rusmanila.mid.ru Email: RusEmb@i-manila.com.ph

Israel

Japan 2627 Roxas Blvd., Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 551-5710 Fax: (+63) 2 551-5785, 551-5780 Web site: www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp Email: jicc-mnl@embjapan.ph

Saudi Arabia

Korea

Singapore

10th floor, The Paci c Star Bldg., Makati Ave. Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 811-6139 to 44 Fax: (+63) 2 811-6148

389 Gen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 890-9735 Fax: (+63) 2 895-3493

505 Rizal Drive,1634 Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. Phone: (+63) 2 856-9922 Fax: (+63) 2 856-9932

Spain

16th oor, Equitable PCI Bank Tower II Bldg., Makati Ave. cor. Dela Costa Sts., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 811-7900 Fax: (+63) 2 815-3002 Web site: www.swedenabroad.com/manila Email: ambassaden.manila@foreign.ministry.se

Switzerland

24th floor, Equitable Bank Tower, 8751 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 757-9000 Fax: (+63) 2 757-3718 Web site: www.eda.admin.ch/manila Email: vertretung@man.rep.admin.ch

Taiwan

41F, Tower 1, RCBC Plaza 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63)2 887-6688 Fax: (+63)2 887-7679, 887-4661 Web site: www.taiwano ce.org/embassy.ph Email: phl@mofa.gov.tw

Thailand

107 Rada St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63)2 815-4219/20 Fax: (+63)2 815-4221 Web site: www.thaiembassymnl.com Email: infomnl@pldtdsl.net

Turkey

2268 Paraiso St. Dasmariñas Village, Makati City Phone: (+63)2 843-9705, 943-9707 Fax: (+63)2 843-9702 Email: embassy.manila@msa.gov.tk

United Arab Emirates

2nd floor, Renaissance Bldg., 215 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 817-3906 Fax: (+63) 2 818-3577

United Kingdom

15th to17th floors, L.V. Locsin Bldg., 6752 Ayala Ave. cor. Makati Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 580-8700 Fax: (+63) 2 819-7206 Web site: www.britishembassy.gov.uk/philippines Email: uk@info.com.ph

United States of America

1201 Roxas Blvd., Manila Phone: (+63) 2 528-6300 Fax: (+63) 2 522-4361 Web site: www.manila.usembassy.gov

Vietnam

670 Pablo Ocampo, Malate, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 525-2837, 521-6843 Fax: (+63) 2 526-0472 Web site: www.vietnamembassyphilippines.org Email: vnem@yahoo.com

Experience Travel and Living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

travel directory LOCAL AIRLINES AirPhil Express R-1 Hangar, APC Gate1, Andrews Avenue, Nichols Tel. 851-7601 Ground Floor, Charterhouse, 114 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-1459/2071; 24-Hour reservations number: 855-9000

Cebu Pacific Airlines Airline Operations Center Domestic Airport, Pasay City, Phone : (+63) 2 702-0888 (reservations), (+63) 2 290-5271 to 72 (customer service), (+63) 2 852-2328 local 263 (accounting), (+63) 2 290-5321 to 22 (cargo), (+63) 2 290-5241 to 42 (group desk) Email: customerservice@cebupacificair.com (customer service) cebrefacctg@cebupaci cair.com (accounting) Website: www.cebupaci cair.com

Island Aviation, Inc. A. Soriano Hangar, Andrews Avenue, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines Phone: (63) 2 833-3855

Island Transvoyager, Inc. A Soriano Hangar, Lima Road cor Andrews Ave., Domestic Airport, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 821-5674, 851-5667 and 854-5674

Inter Island Airlines 74 Roxas Blvd., Paranaque City Phone: (+63) 2 852-8003

Philippine Airlines 2nd Floor, Power Realty Bldg., 1012 Arnaiz Ave., Makati City. Phone: (+63) 2 892-7339, 815-6481

South East Asian Airlines Domestic Passenger Terminal 1, Manila Domestic Airport, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 849-0100

ZestAir Domestic Road cor. Andrews Ave., Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 855-3333

FOREIGN AIRLINES

American Airlines

Laoag International Airlines

Ground Flr., Olympia Somerset Condominium, Makati Avenue cor Sto. Tomas St., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 817-8645, 810-3229

Terminal 1, Manila Domestic Airport, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 551-9729, 551-4813

Asiana Airlines 6th Floor, Salcedo Tower, Dela Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-5681 to 88

Legaspi Parkview Condominiums, 134 Legaspi cor. Palanca Sts., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 810-5033

British Airways

Malaysia Airlines

4th Floor, Filipino Bldg., Dela Rosa Street cor. Legaspi Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 817-0361, 815-6560

Cathay Pacific Airways Limited Room 446, 4th Floor, IPT Bldg., NAIA Terminal 1, Ninoy Aquino Ave., Paranaque City Phone: (+63) 2 832-2979

China Airlines Ground Floor Golden Empire tower 1322 Roxas Blvd. cor. Padre Faura St., Ermita Manila Phone: (+63) 2 523-6319, 524-4950/4331

Emirates Pacific Star Building, Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 858-5350, 858-5300

Eva Airways

Phil Am Life Salcedo Building, 126 L.P. Leviste St., SalcedoVillage, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 815-2441/1280

Air New Zealand 10th Floor, Ru no Pacific Tower, Ayala Ave., Makati City. Phone: (+63) 2 884-8097

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23rd Floor, LKG Tower Bldg., 6801 Ayala Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 887-3215

Northwest Airlines 8th floor, Athenaeum Building, 160 LP Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 819-7261

Qatar Airways Ground floor, 132-A The Colonnade Residences, Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 812-1888

Qantas Airways Limited 4th floor, Filipino Merchants Building, 135 Legaspi corner Dela Rosa Sts., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 812-4738

Royal Brunei Airlines G/F SGV II Blg., 6758 Ayala Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 897-3309, 895-3545

Singapore Airlines

5438 Don Tim Building, South Superhighway, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 889-5701 to 04

33rd oor, LKG Tower, 6801 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 756-8899, 756-8888

Finnair

South African Airways

10th Floor, Ru no Pacific Tower Ayala Ave,. Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 856-1427

Gulf Air 9th Floor, Ayala Life FGU Center 6811 Ayala Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-1313

Japan Airlines 2nd floor, Oledan Square, 6788 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 886-6877 to 78

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Air India

Lufthansa German Airlines

8th floor, Athenaeum Building, 160 LP Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 848-5817, 815-4790

10th Floor, Rufino Pacific Tower Ayala Ave,. Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 884-8129

Thai Airways International Country Space 1 Building, Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 812-4812

Tiger Airways 1000 Makati Ave. cor Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 884-1524

United Airlines 10th Floor, Rufino Pacific Tower Ayala Ave,. Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 884-8272

CAR RENTAL AND TAXI SERVICE

Korean Air Ground floor, LPL Plaza Bldg., 124 LP Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 815-9262, 815-9264

Alamo Rent-A-Car 211 Quirino Avenue, Tambo, Parañaque City Phone: (+63) 2 551-4923/07

travel directory Avcar Rental Corp.

Orix Auto Leasing Phil. Corp.

Jam Transit

3674 Bautista cor Dayap Sts., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 687-2212

148 Yakal St., San Antonio Village, Makati City. Phone: (+63) 2 893-2523 to 27, 893-3233 and 893-2020 (24 hrs.)

Timog St. corner Edsa Quezon City Phone: (+63) 2 724-4897

Sandeco Rent-A-Car 5446-48 South Superhighway Phone: (+63) 2 844-7954/7960/4478 to 79

816 Aurora Blvd., Quezon City Phone: (+63) 2 725-1740, 725-1756, 826-1285 and 724-9820

Sunflower Transport Services

Philippine Rabbit

Avis Philippines Manila Peninsula Hotel Shop #1, Ayala Wing Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 845-1844, 843-7140 Web site: www.avis.com.ph

Budget Rent-A-Car The Peninsula Hotel Manila Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 818-7363, 816-2211/6682

Carlines Rent-A-Car Services

7 Santa Teresita St., Kapitolyo, Pasig City Phone: (+63) 2 631-3496

Oroquieta St., Sta.Cruz, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 734-9836

Tigers on the Run

Philtranco

3rd Floor, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati.City Phone: (+63) 2 899-98-28/08

Tuscany Condominium, 6751 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 810-5421, 813-1975 to 76

Del’s Transport Services 1042 Vito Cruz St., Singalong, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 524-5187, 525-8396/2696

Executive Transport and Cars Casa Blanca, 1447 M. Adriatico St., Ermita, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 523-5595

Filcar Transport Services 2nd Floor, Unit 2-A, Torre De Salcedo Bldg., 184 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 894-1754, 817-8346 and 843-3530 Telefax: (+63) 2 893-1251 Web site: www. lcartransport.com Email: info@ lcartransport.com

Gemini Transport Services 43 B. Francisco St., New Saniega Phone: (+63) 2 811-6888

Grayline Philippines 7737-C, St. Paul Road, San Antonio Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 890-3963 to 64

Hertz Rent-A-Car Unit 101, Sunset Tower, Makati Ave. cor. Durban St., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 897-5161 NAIA Airport Terminal 1 Branch, Phone: (+63) 2 877-1406

Mobeline Charter Services 2449 Sequia St., Sta.Ana, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 890-2778

Nissan Rent-A-Car 2317 Aurora Blvd., Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 854-7099 Fax: (+63) 2 852-6599 Web site: www.nissanrentacar.com Email: lgq-sales@nissanrentacar.com

Partas Transportation Co., Inc.

BUS COMPANIES

Edsa, Apelo Cruz St., Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 851-8077 to 79 (Pasay) and 722-7567 (Cubao)

RRCG Transport

Aladdin Transit

Km. 18, Ortigas Avenue Extension, Cainta, Rizal Phone: (+63) 2 656-7503

Cayco St., Sampaloc, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 781-9168

Saulog Transit

BLTB

1377 Quirino Avenue, Paranaque City Phone: (+63) 2 825-2926 to 30

2nd Avenue, Caloocan City Phone: (+63) 2 363-4478, 365-7886

Tritran

Baliwag Transit 2nd Avenue cor. Rizal Avenue, Caloocan City Phone: (+63) 2 364-7002, 364-0860, 364-0778 and 363-4331

Dagupan Bus Line New York St. cor. Edsa, Cubao, Quezon City Phone: (+63) 2 727-2330 or 2287

Executive Carriers and Services, Inc. 153 Quirino Ave., Baclaran, Parañaque City Phone: (+63) 2 851-8701, 912-4289

Fariñas Transit Fariñas Building 1238 Lacson St. Sampaloc, Manila 743-8580 to 84 / 734-5311 / 7499645 09173279665

CMC Building, Andrews Avenue corner Aurora Blvd., Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 851-7971

Victory Liner 713 Rizal Ave. Ext., Caloocan City Phone: (+63) 2 361-1506 651 EDSA, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 833-5019 to 20 551 Earnshow St. Bgy. 401, Sampaloc, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 559-7753 Edsa near Aurora Blvd., Cubao Phone: (+63) 2 727-4688, 727-4534

SHIPS and FERRIES WG & A (Superferry)

Brgy. 8 Fariñas St. Laoag City, Ilocos Norte (077) 7721177 / 09173279526

12th floor, Times Plaza Building, UN Ave. cor. Taft Ave., Ermita, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 528-7979, 528-7171 Web site: www.SuperFerry.com.ph Email: customerinteraction@Super-Ferry.com.ph

Five Star Bus Company

Mt. Samat Ferry Express

Fariñas Terminal

2220 Aurora Blvd., Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 853-4772

Genesis Transport Services Inc. 101-A Giselle Park Plaza, Edsa Rotonda cor. H. Taft Avenue, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 733- 8622 704 Edsa cor. New York St., Cubao, Quezon City Phone: (+63) 2 709-0803, 421-1413

JAC Liner #2 Mapagmahal St. Brgy. Pinyahan, Kamias Road, Quezon City Phone: (+63) 2 927-4745/6139, 928-6140

CCP Bay Terminal, CCP Complex, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 551-5290 to 91

Negros Navigation Pier II, North Harbor, Tondo, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 243-5231, 244-0408 Web site: www.negrosnavigation.ph Email: gcabalo@negrosnavigation.ph

Sulpicio Lines Manila Terminal Office Pier 12, North Harbor Tondo, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 245-0616 to 30 Fax: (+63) 2 243-4570, 243-4571 Web site: www.sulpiciolines.com

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parting shot

“Not all who wander are lost.” J. R. R. Tolkien 102

Experience travel and living • Vol.10 • No. 2 • 2014

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