Luneta Park and Intramuros, Manila

Rediscovering the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines!

For everyone, December 24 is a busy day of preparation for Christmas Eve, but I and my friend, Lea, decided to spend it outdoor, strolling around the historical landmarks in Manila :-D

Two of the most famous tourist attractions in Manila, Philippines that reflect the country's long struggle for independence and freedom are Luneta Park and Intramuros. These historical sites embody the Philippines' unique culture and ancestry. So if you want to get an additional piece of knowledge about the country's glorious past and cultural orientation, try to include Luneta Park and Intramuros in your itinerary of travel when coming to Manila.

LUNETA PARK

Located along Roxas Boulevard, Ermita, Manila, this urban park officially known as Rizal Park, is a massive complex of gardens, Philippine Heroes’ markers, plants and a playground. It is beautifully covered with manicured lawn, cobbled stone pathways, green plants, flowers and water fountain. There’s a large Philippine map carved in stone situated in the middle of the river near the foot bridge of the park.

At the heart of Luneta Park

Philippine map carved in stone

The park has several souvenir’s shops where you can buy gift items at an affordable price. It has park benches along the pathways. You will also find mini-shuttles and Kalisa (horse-drawn carriage, Philippine’s oldest form of transportation) that would take you around the area for sightseeing, rate ranges from 30 pesos to 50 pesos.

Two of the most famous monuments inside the park are that of Dr. Jose Rizal, Philippine national hero who fought during the Spanish era in the 19^th century, and Lapu-Lapu, a tribal chieftain in the visayas region, hailed as one of the early Philippine heroes who famously led the resistance of the Cebuanos against the Spaniards in the 16^th century. Lapu-Lapu's monument is a gift from the people of South Korea. 

At the monument of Lapu-Lapu, a gift of appreciation from the people of Korea to honor the assistance extended by Filipinos during the Korean War in the 1950s.

Luneta Park is an important site of Philippine history, it is where Dr. Jose Rizal executed on December 30, 1896. The site marker of his execution can be found not far from the water fountain. His monument, made of bronze and granite, is closely guarded by military personnels and visitors are not allowed to go closer to the vicinity of the monument.

Monument of Philippine National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal

The best time to visit Luneta park is during mid-afternoon and early evening where the environment is cooler and soothing. You will feel the relaxing breeze of the soft air coming from the Manila bay. The sprawling area is ideal for unwinding, dry picnic and simply bonding moment with friends and family. 

Visitors are allowed to bring food inside the park, just bring with you a sheet to spread in the grass for your dry picnic. But not all areas in the park are available for resting, the manicured lawn with the greenest grass is off limit to visitors, just ask the guard on duties where to stay for a dry picnic to avoid being reprimanded.

Other tourist sites and landmarks within the park are Japanese garden, Chinese garden, Children's playground, Museum, Department of Tourism, the National Library, Luntiang Pilipinas garden, Quirino Grandstand, Kilometer Zero marker, which serves as a point where all road distances from Manila are measured, Harbor View and Manila Ocean Park.

Nearest Landmarks and Establishments in Luneta Park:

1. Bayview Park Hotel Manila
2. Hotel H2O
3. La Luneta Apartment
4. Manila City Hall
5. Manila Hotel
6. Manila Pavilion Hotel and Casino
7. NBI
8. SM Manila
9. Supreme Court
10. The Corporate Inn Hotel
11. University of the Philippines-Manila
12. Philippine General Hospital

How to get there?

If you are traveling via LRT, alight at the United Nations Station, Luneta Park is just few steps from the exit area of the station. If you are traveling via the public utility jeep, disembark at the Kalaw street and walk straight ahead. Entrance Fee to the park is free. 

INTRAMUROS

This is one area in Manila where you can still experience the atmosphere of the Spanish culture.

Known as the Walled City, this ancient complex, which is preserved by the Philippine government to commemorate the country’s journey to freedom and independence, echoes the interesting past of the nation especially during Spanish colonialism.

Intramuros (Latin for "within the walls") is just as interesting as the country's tradition and culture, it will take you back in time to the old days of the Spanish Society. 

Upper part of the walled city just in front of San Juan de Letran

Lyceum of the Philippines inside Intramuros

Built around the 16th century, Intramuros is one of the fewest remaining landmarks in the Metro where visitors can experience the Spanish-era Manila through its streets, restaurants, stores, buildings and churches. Within the wall lies Fort Santiago, originally built as a defensive fortress of Spaniards but later transformed into a prison wall.

Intramuros was originally used as the seat of government of the Spaniards in the Philippines and was declared the capital of the new Spanish Colony. The defensive walls were built to protect the city from foreign invasions. It was heavily damaged during World War II but reconstructed in 1951 to preserve the cultural heritage of the Filipino people. The site was consequently declared the National Historical Monument.

Entrance to Fort Santiago near the Pasig river

When you visit this place, you will be surprised with the ancient appearance of the environment, even the guards on duty are wearing the Spanish-era tailored uniform. The cobbled streets look like the old days, very quiet and peaceful, the pathways and walls have no traces of modernization, felt like you are traveling back in time and as you walk through the quiet street, you will see the ancient structures of buildings and stores.

There are educational institutions inside the walled city: Mapua Institute of Technology, San Juan de Letran, Collegio de Sta. Rosa and Lyceum of the Philippines.

How to get there?

Intramuros is accessible by any types of transportation. If you are traveling via LRT, you may alight at the Central station then walk ahead across Manila City Hall, you will pass two intersections, from there you will see a fenced lawn and ahead of that is the entrance of Intramuros. If you are traveling via public utility vehicles, choose the routes going to Lawton/SM Manila or Pier. Intramuros is just around the area.

In my experience visiting Intramuros with a friend, we just walked from Luneta Park to Manila City Hall then we crossed the street on the left side, and headed to Intramuros.

Nearest Landmarks and establishments in Intramuros:

1. Bayleaf Intramuros Hotel
2. Manila City hall
3. Palacio del Gubernador
4. SM Manila
5. US Embassy
6. White Knight Hotel Intramuros

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Weekend Getaway: Batangas & Albay

I've been contemplating to take another travel in the countryside in the coming weeks, need to breath fresh air and rest my tired soul under the cool shade of verdant plants. I need to create a concise itinerary to determine the cost and how much I would spend.

Since relocating here in Manila last June 30, 2013, my excitement to visit historical provinces in Luzon grew everyday. As a travel blogger nothing more satisfying and fulfilling than taking an outdoor adventure in the countryside, the sharing of the experience is more lively and inspiring when coated with the natural beauty of the environment, the serenity of nature and the scenery of lush tropical plants.

The farthest destinations I took outside Metro Manila so far are Tagaytay and Laguna. I already visited Baguio City in 2008 and no plan to take a re-visit in the coming months because I am more excited to see other destinations.

There's something in traveling that I find very alluring and liberating, it's the freedom of being in a completely different place, discovering something in the environment and learning from its culture and tradition. I am always fascinated with history, research and discovery and taking a road trip far away from where I am living is a perfect way to satisfy my curiosity.

I want to go back to Tagaytay to take a leisure visit to Sonya's Garden and the Highlands, I heard extraordinary comments about these spectacular places and it's my wish to see it for myself and experience the charm and comfort they have been raving.

Batangas is another fascination which hopefully I could visit before the year ends. Other provinces I would love to hop in for a quick getaway are Camarines Sur, Bicol, La Union and Ilocos Norte. The travel might be taxing and quite costly but the rare experience of marveling at the landmarks of these exciting places is priceless so I would not mind spending for the trip, it's a great escape and one of the best ways to loosen up and wind off a very tiring day.

Speaking of Batangas, there's one resort in Lipa City featured in the tripadvisor site that I find very relaxing, Valentino Resort and Spa. Ranked number 2 among the 5 hotels in Lipa City, Batangas,  and ranked number 10 among the numerous resorts in the Batangas province, Valentino Resort and Spa is located at Brgy. Pinagtung-ulan, Lipa City. Its villas and lounges in any of its ten cabanas surrounding the three swimming pools magnify luxury, modern comfort and elegance. The tropical garden adds romance to the natural beauty of the resort. I want to no more about this resort, since the clients' testimonies are very inviting. Visit the resort's website HERE.

This photo of Farm at San Benito is courtesy of TripAdvisor

This photo of Farm at San Benito is courtesy of TripAdvisor 

 But if you want luxury, glamour combined with comfort and wellness under the natural backdrop of nature visit The Farm at San Benidto. It offers a great value for visitors' money according to tripadvisor site. The Farm, already featured in numerous lifestyle magazine and TV shows, is located at 119 Brgy. Tipakan, Lipa City, Batangas. It has an approval satisfaction rate of 95% from visitors. Explore the The Farm through its site HERE to check the details of its amenities, villas, accommodations and rates.

Another exciting place to hop in for a quick roadtrip is Albay. I was deeply enthralled with the breathtaking landscape of Misibis Bay Resort after watching the TV 5 teleserye of the same name. It is located in the province of Albay just a few hour drive from Manila. It's a private tropical resort with casino particularly located in Cagraray Island, Bacacay, Albay. Travellers may take a bus from Manila to Legaspi, since this is a luxury resort, the accommodation is quite expensive but the place is so elegant and gorgeous you don't mind setting aside a large chunk of your income for this getaway. For more details, visit the official site of the resort, click here.

The gorgeous tropical resort of Misibis Bay popularized by the TV series
with the same title via TV 5

For foreigners who want to take a leisure visit in the Philippines in the days, months to come, don't worry about the recent insurgencies that erupted in Zamboanga, the area is far from Luzon and Visayas and there are breathtaking and exciting places around the Visayas and Luzon worthy of your time and travel plus the accommodation is relatively cheaper compared to other holiday destinations in Asia.

Come and experience the natural wonders and beauty of the Philippines and see for your self why the country is dubbed the Pearl of the Orient Sea.

Lots of discovery awaits here, the people are warm and very hospitable, weather is moderate and enjoys a tropical climate whole year round. The Philippines uses Philippine peso as local currency. 1 US dollar is more or less Php 43.00 as of September 13, 2013. The manner of transportation around the metro is by land, jeepney, taxi, bus, FX and train.

It's more fun in the Philippines!!

Southwinds Resort, Laguna

I am a country girl by heart so a place with a natural backdrop of nature -- rolling hills, lush plants and flowers -- easily attracts me.

I've come to visit Tagaytay for the first time last week, the place is so cool!Moderate weather, scenic atmosphere, romantic landscape, indeed, an ideal destination to loosen up after a very tiring day, it is also a place where you can get a perfect view of the Taal Volcano. Laguna is another historic province in the Philippines favored by travelers due to its numerous hot spring resorts, it's a magnificent place to hop in for a quick relaxation because of its proximity to Metro Manila.

Our road trip in Tagaytay was a very exciting one. We drove around the place, Then went to a Mushroom Burger joint and to Starbucks along the Aguinaldo Highway, we're able to see the romantic skyline and panoramic view of the city at night. It was so cold but I was able to enjoy the night, laughing, giggling and breathing the soft tang of the midnight air.

Two days later, I was on the road again with Rowie Tagaan, this time in Laguna. We stayed at Southwinds Resort in Pansol, Calamba City after a tricycle driver suggested it to us.

Entrance area of the resort with my friend, Rowie Tagaan

At the pool side

Southwinds Resort is quite far from the national highway but the location is not really remote because it is just along the road, it can be reached either by a jeepney or by a tricycle. From SM City -Calamba where we disembarked from the bus, we hired a tricycle going to Southwinds. The travel took almost 40 minutes.

 Pool side, playground and view of the resort's rooms

I love the cool surrounding of Pansol, very soothing especially the imposing mountain in the background. Southwinds Resort has four large swimming pools: two for children and two for adults, there are siesta beds and tables along the pools. The accommodation is quite expensive because the room rate is good for 12 hours period only and not 24 hours.

Resort's room good for two

Poolside in the morning

Morning swimming. I enjoyed the warm water, no guests yet :-D

Air-conditioned room costs Php1,383.00 (12 hours) while non-aircon room costs Php980.00. The resort welcomed guests  who may want to avail the swimming pool facility only. Entrance for adults is Php78.00 while for children Php 68.00. Guests can bring food and drinks but there's a corkage fee for beer and hard liquors.

There are Videoke machines available in the area too. There's a pavilion that can cater large groups. 

But don't expect too much about this resort. It has no wifi connectivity and the accommodation does not include freebies like shampoo, conditioner, lotion and toothpaste, stuff we normally found in hotels and resorts.

For inquiries, you may contact Southwinds Resort:

Southwinds Resort
National Highway, Bo. Pansol, Calamba City, Laguna
(049) 545-0244 / (049) 502-8854


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AMANPULO: Philippines' hidden paradise

Perhaps, only few people know that there's one unique haven of paradise somewhere in Philippine archipelago that is truly world-class with an extraordinary gift of nature in a very intimate environment.

Amanpulo is perfectly favored with mother earth, with its spectacular location shrouded with tropical plants, idyllic surroundings, gorgeous seaside, scenic view of the horizon and crystal blue water, this very romantic resort is no doubt one of the best destinations for honeymooners in the world.

It was in Amanpulo where His Royal Highness Prince Joachim of Denmark made his marriage proposal to his fiancee, Christina Manley (now the Countess of Frederiksborg following their divorce in 2005), in 1994.

If you are looking for a great paradise escape where privacy juxtaposed with luxury, Amanpulo is the perfect place to hop in. Set against the backdrop of natural sea wonders of clear turquoise water, rich corals and  powdery sand plus lush tropical plants cascading in the surroundings, Amanpulo is one paradise of pleasure and comfort which offers excitement and adventure.

The romantic resort is located in Palawan province along Pamalican island and hugged the amazing view of the pacific with cirrus-streaked cerulean sky. It has several luxury villas and casitas dwellings, the villas offer very homely architectural designs which beckon comfort and extravagance while the casitas resemble Philippine native house, the bahay kubo. Casitas offer cheaper rates compared to villas, these amazing native homes are facing the magical sea views in a sprawling wooden sun deck with vibrant tropical flowers in the background. Casitas rate ranges from P40,500 ($900) to P67,500 ($1,500) around November to May. Villas are lots expensive during holiday season with rates ranging from P94,500 ($2,100) to P139,500 ($3,100) but slight cheaper around June to October, a single bedroom villa just costs $1,400 while Treetop Casitas just cost $750.

Amanpulo is equipped with modern amenities which include an exercise gym with state-of-the-art facilities, a tennis court, swimming pool, a meeting room for small gatherings, a massage parlor, sea sport hut. windsurf hut, library and boutique selling souvenirs. There's beach club which ushers visitors from its elaborate garden walkway to the open air pavilion with reclining chairs and shade umbrellas directly facing the sea, an alternate to beach club is Lagoon Club on the east side of the Island, this elegant pavilion with highly modernized features offer Vietnamese cuisine at dinner.

With Amanpulo's distinct, highly exclusive luxury features, every visitor assures a heavenly relaxation on the island. This very private resort in the Philippines is often the favorite destinations of jetsetters around the world who love to splash in a tropical beach with assurance of total privacy.

source: Philippine travel tour guide brochure

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THE UNDISCOVERED PARADISE OF CAMARINES SUR

Camarines Sur is one of the provinces of the Republic of the Philippines and geographically located in the Bicol Peninsula in Luzon. The province is richly endowed with terrific beaches and countryside.

This Philippine province enticed travellers to marvel at its irresistible mineral resources and its environment still echoes a glorious past of a Spanish colonization as its imposing architecture still reflects Spanish influence.

But the most wonderful physical feature of Camarines sur is its finest and powdery beaches worthy to explore. One of the most famous beaches of CamSur is Gota Beach in Caramoan municipality run by the provincial government of Camarines sur, this resort is surrounded by the rugged mountains, beautiful shorelines and mystical rock formations.

Reportedly cheaper than Boracay, Gota Beach is fast catching tourists attention because of its serenity and tranquil surroundings, in great contrast to Boracay, Gota Beach however provides tourists and visitors with a peaceful and quiet environment, a perfect haven for people who want to escape from the cluttered life in the city.

Camarines Sur is an 8-hour-drive from Manila. There are so much time to explore the wonders of nature in this province.

Sunset Beach at La Union

 Sunset Bay Resort, La Union, Philippines

Sunset Bay Beach is a luxury resort rated class A by the Department of Tourism. It is located in the Northern part of Luzon at Canaoay, La Union, a province which attracts tourists and guests because of its rough and bellowing waves ideal for surfing, its crystal green water is excellent for snorkeling and diving adventures. La Union’s travel from Metro Manila takes almost five hours and less than two hours from Baguio City. This secluded Philippine province in the North is endowed with spectacular white beaches and fabulous garden with lush tropical plants covering the place, making it a perfect choice for a good holiday break and fun-filled adventure. Its untouched powdery shorelines mesmerized visitors, it provides privacy and serenity. The scenic environment and fresh air made everyone feel the wonders of nature and the aroma of tranquility near the sea.

 Swimming pool area of Sunset Beach Resort with jacuzzi and waterfall

Sunset Bay Beach is an elegant resort with first class amenities, set against the backdrop of a soft-white beach and tropical gardens, this spectacular place is a perfect holiday destination to those who want to escape the morbid weather in the city and clutters in life. The area is very ideal for relaxation and adventure because most of the seaside areas surrounding the place is deserted and not yet occupied. Visitors will enjoy exploring the place by strolling around especially at low tide.

Amenities include a billiard room, a beautiful garden, wifi internet access, elaborate swimming pool, a restaurant serving both local and international cuisine, a bar, an email and fax facilities. The sprawling seaside area is excellent for ball games and biking adventure, there is also a romantic view deck overlooking the sea where visitors can freely spend time relaxing.

White sand and crystal clear water of La Union

Sunset Bay Beach resort booking can be made by contacting this number 0063726075970. Prices vary from P1,600 to P1,800 per night. De luxe room good for two occupants is P1,600 per night, a family room of four occupants is P1,800 for low season and may reach P2,000 during peak season. The resort has a family house available to visitors who booked with large retinue, rate is at P4,500 per night for eight occupants, additional bed is available at P150 per person. The family house includes two bedrooms, an elegant living room, a bathroom and a kitchen for more privacy.