Quezon City: My Luxent Hotel Staycation via Deal Grocer

When you love to dine or experience hotel staycation, one good tip on getting a great deal at bookings is to check websites like Deal Grocer.  I was happy with my stay so I'm sharing to you how to get a great deal such as this.

Traveling to Thailand For The First Time? Don't Miss These Attractions

With so many affordable flights to Thailand, there’s never been a better reason to visit this Southeast Asian paradise. Famed for its world-class beaches and spectacular islands, this is the perfect destination for a laidback holiday in the sun. For those visiting for the first time, we’ve put together this handy guide on some of the best things to see and do.

The Beach

No trip to Thailand’s southern islands would be complete without visiting Maya Bay, a secluded cove made famous by the Leonardo DiCaprio blockbuster, The Beach. Set amongst a lush backdrop of dramatic limestone cliffs, white sands meet turquoise waters for a picture postcard setting. Located on the small island of Phi Phi Ley, many tour operators provide daily excursions visiting the bay that include a stop for snorkeling.

Phuket

Known as the pearl of the Andaman, Phuket has long been regarded as one of Thailand’s major tourist hot spots. Many visitors flock to the sin city of Patong which offers a thumping mix of nightclubs and beachside bars. Partygoers should head to Bangala Road which offers all-night fun, every day of the week. For a more refined experience, visit Phuket’s old town which is home to Buddhist temples alongside art deco inspired shop fronts and quaint cafés. It is best explored in the early morning to beat the crowds and midday heat.

Scuba Diving

With an endless choice of world-class diving spots, Thailand is great for an underwater adventure. Travel to the island of Koh Tao on the east coast and you’ll find plenty of dive schools offering certified tuition and accreditation. Alternatively, the dazzling reefs of Krabi on the west coast offers something for the experienced diver. Here you can explore underwater tunnels, caverns and even shipwrecks.

Full Moon Party

This all night beach party has gained legendary status with thousands travelling to the island of Ko Pha Ngan to rave into the early hours. Bars and clubs line the beach with something to suit all tastes from thumping techno to dance and reggae. There’s also an exciting mix of performers from fire eaters to jugglers which keep the crowds entertained until sunrise. The island also hosts ‘Half Moon’ and ‘Quarter Moon’ events, which means the party never has to end.

Elephant trekking

For a once a lifetime experience, visit one of the many elephant camps which are located throughout Thailand. Always choose a camp which follows international safety standards or those which focus on animal welfare. Local guides can provide information on the animals and you can even help on a range of conservation duties.

Take in some of these sights and attractions on your first holiday to Thailand and you won’t be disappointed.

Images by Thomas Sauzedde - idirectori used under Creative Commons License. 

Part 3: Trip to El Nido, Palawan Day 3 - Island Hopping Tour C (Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island)

Here's what we did on our El Nido island hopping Tour C.

Sunset in Corong Corong

Part 2: Trip to El Nido, Palawan Day 2 - Island Hopping Tour A (Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon, Papaya Beach)

The next day, we were very much excited with our island hopping trip.  Well, being first timers, we opt to choose the famous and default Tour A and Tour C because we only have limited time that we wouldn't be able to avail all of the island hopping tours in El Nido.

Corong Corong in the morning.

Part 1: Trip to El Nido, Palawan Day 1 - How To Get To El Nido | Telesfora Beach Cottages | Corong Corong | Art Cafe

Top 5 Attractions in Orlando Florida

Image by Anthony Quintano used under the Creative Commons license.

Orlando is one of the United States’ most popular holiday destinations as it features an eclectic mix of fun that caters to all ages. Whether you’re after a relaxing time at the pool and spa, want to hit some the country’s best golf courses, or are looking to explore a variety of the world’s best theme parks, the city of Orlando in Florida is a destination that you won’t want to miss. Here are just five of the top attractions it has to offer.

1. Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World Resort provides visitors with the ultimate all inclusive vacation offers, and is the perfect destination for any family looking to get away. With PGA tour quality golf courses, a huge mix of theme parks, ranging from the Magic Kingdom to Animal Kingdom, as well as some of the region’s best hotels, it’s no wonder this spot is the flagship of Disney’s worldwide empire.

2. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

For anyone with kids, or anyone who is a fan of Harry Potter in general, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter will let you stroll through all of your favourite Potter sites, from the shops of Diagon Alley to the halls of Hogwarts, making it certainly the most magical of Orlando’s many attractions.

3. Wet ‘n Wild Orlando

On a hot Florida day there are few better places to escape the heat than the Wet ‘n Wild Orlando water park, which features a mix of signature thrill rides and pools for cooling down and relaxing. The park also allows you to customize your experience, by reserving a cabana for your own exclusive summer BBQ feast.

4. Old Town

Travel back in time by visiting the Old Town Them park, which is home to a mix of family fun options, including go-karts, bumper cars, an arcade, and a variety of great eating options. Be sure to pay a visit to the Haunted House and the Great Magical Hall, two of the parks most iconic attractions.

5. Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is a private museum dedicated to experience-based learning, and provides its visitors with the opportunities to test and try a number of scientific experiences, from the Weather Center and Space Base, to Dr. Dare’s Lab and the Electron Microscope. A visit to the O.S.C. is the pinnacle in educational fun.

Whatever you reason for wanting to get away, there are few places that will provide you with more options for fun and excitement than the city of Orlando, so what are you waiting for?

Sagada Itinerary and Expenses 4 Days / 3 Nights | Travel Guide

Two years ago, I made a post about the picturesque Sagada.  But this year, me and my college friends went to Sagada.  It's my fourth visit so I think it's best to share our itinerary and expenses during the trip. There are also available adventures in this post.  Hope to be of help!

5 Sights To See In Pisa

The Tuscan City of Pisa is a bucket list destination for many travelers. Plenty of tourists flock here each year for that perfect picture in front of the iconic, leaning tower. For many, it’s just a brief stop in a European tour before moving on to another beautiful region. It’s a shame because this historical city has plenty more to offer than its famed, architectural blunder. 

The Baptistery

Once you've marveled at the leaning tower, your next stop should be the Baptistery of St John which is also located in Cathedral Square. Dating back to the 12th century, this masterpiece is the largest Baptistery in Italy – the creation of famed architect, Diotisalvi. You’ll be impressed by the incredible attention to detail, especially the religious sculptures on the outer façade. Once inside, be sure to check out the stunning acoustics. If you’re lucky, one of the guards may sing to demonstrate the beautiful sound effect.

Museo del l’Opera del Duomo

Art fanatics cannot visit this city without heading to this former 12th-century convent. Now the Museum of Duomo Artwork, it’s home to many of the pieces that were once inside the Duomo Cathedral. First opened in 1986, you can enjoy masterpieces from Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, not to mention historic artifacts and statues from the buildings in the Campo Dei Miracoli.

Botanical Gardens of Pisa

The perfect stop for an afternoon stroll. These were the first botanical gardens in Europe, created by the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo l de Medici. Although, it has been relocated twice over the years, now you’ll find it at Via Luca Ghini 5 – it’s not too far from the leaning tower. It’s free to enter and you’ll be able to explore, unique plants, fountains, and a botanical museum.

Piazza Dei Cavalieri

During the 16th Century, this Piazza - translated to Knights Square - was once the political hub of Pisa. Many of these buildings were given over to the Nights of the Order of Saint Stephen. It now draws plenty of tourists for its historic charm. Fans of Dante’s Inferno will also enjoy visiting the Torre della Muda, a former tower which featured in The Divine Comedy.

Shopping in Pisa

Borgo Stretto is a street famed for its Italian boutique’s and the perfect stop for any shopaholic. You’re best starting your shopping splurge at the Piazza Garibaldi and be sure to visit Caffe Settimelli – the building where Galileo was born. For tasty delicacies, head to Piazza delle Vettovaglie and you’ll find local cheese, exceptional wine, and cured meats.

There’s so much to see in this vibrant city, we've barely scratched the surface. If you’re planning on booking those Pisa flights, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to visit all the great attractions. 

Batangas: Summer Company Outing at Stilts Resort in Calatagan

Last month, our company went to Stilts Resort in Calatagan, Batangas for a summer outing.  I wasn't able to join for the last two summer outing, but thankfully, I was present this year. :)

Calatagan beach front

Quezon City Foodtrip: Bulaluhan sa N. Ramirez

Beef Bulalo, aka Beef Shank Soup, is a dish that is achieved by cooking beef shanks and marrow bones until the collagen and fat has melted into the clear broth. Bulalo is native to the Southern Luzon region of the Philippines.  Every time the weather gets cold, some of us would think of getting a hot bowl of Bulalo.  Eating Bulalo is also famous in Tagaytay because it is perfect for the cold weather.  But if you're just around Welcome Rotonda in Quezon City, there's this humble dining place where you can eat and try Bulalo. 

entrance in Bulaluhan sa N. Ramirez

Zambales: Crystal Beach Resort & Surf For Life Music Festival

It was December of 2013 when me and my friends attended a surf and music festival in Zambales, an event called Surf For Life, for the benefit of people from Guiuan, Samar.  The event was held in Crystal Beach Resort in San Narciso, Zambales.  I've never been to other resorts in San Narciso, in fact I haven't explore Zambales that much. But, I feel like when you're in Crystal Beach its like hitting two birds in one stone.  You get to experience camping or sleeping on a nipa hut but the resorts facilities are merely available for your convenience.

 

Quezon City: Photowalk at UP Diliman and Quezon City Circle

Last year, my officemates decided to do a photowalk session around UP Diliman and Quezon City Memorial Circle.  It was a short afternoon trip nevertheless we enjoyed the stroll.  

    

beautiful trees around UP

Singapore Your Best Weekend Ever

We all knew how Singapore is such an interesting tourist spot in Asia.  With all the pretty structure and architecture to a wide variety of food choices and theme parks, one could never get tired exploring Singapore.  Still, Singapore made an effort in providing us wide spectrum of offerings to have innovative and unique experiences.

overlooking from 71 Gramercy where the event was held

Zumba Class / Schedule in Quezon City

Zumba with Kristie

Zumba is a dance fitness program created by Colombian dancer and choreographer Alberto "Beto" Perez during the 1990s. It involves dance and aerobic elements. The choreography incorporates hip-hop, soca, samba, salsa, merengue and mambo.  Every once in a while, I join Zumba classes.  I love Zumba! That being said, I made a list of gym and dance studio who offers Zumba classes in Quezon City.  What I like about Zumba is you don't need to memorize the steps, you just have to follow the instructor. It doesn't matter if you're great at dancing or not.  What's important is you just enjoy the exercise routine.

To gym and studio owners: Please email or message me on facebook if you'd like me to update the info below.

Disclaimer: Rates and schedule may change without prior notice.  Kindly contact them!

Travel Guide: El Nido Palawan - 4 Days 3 Nights Itinerary and Expenses (4D/3N)