Showing posts with label Philippines. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philippines. Show all posts

Saturday, October 26, 2019

Why You Should Book A Family Staycation at Novotel Manila Araneta Center




If you browse my blog, you'll find that I have quite a number of hotel stays in the past!  Due to my extremely busy schedule, instead of traveling outside the Metro for a local trip, I'd rather book a weekend staycation at hotels because I find it the easiest way to relax without the hassle of long drive.  

Families with active kids, I'm sure you understand why I dislike the long drive!  *winks*

After Kyle's 2nd quarter examination week, it was perfect timing for my family to be invited by Novotel Manila Araneta Center to spend a weekend there!  

My husband used to live at the area and told me loads of stories on how busy the area gets!  From Araneta Center BusPort to Gateway Mall, SM Mall, Ali Mall, Farmers' Plaza to Araneta Coliseum.  No wonder this area is nicknamed the "City of the Stars".  As much as Makati and BGC is the "it" place for hotel staycations, I find myself loving the vibe Novotel Manila Araneta Center offers and let me share to you the reasons why!



BEDROOM
There are a total of 401 rooms divided into 5 categories - Superior Room, Deluxe Room and Executive Room, Executive Suite, Presidential Suite with 1 Premier Lounge (which is the highlight of this Staycation as well!  Will talk about it soon!)

We were booked at the Executive Room and upon entering, we were greeted with such warm welcome!  



Personal note from the hotel staff.  Thank you!

Saturday, March 17, 2018

Why I Love Aureo La Union



A lot of you who follow me on Social Media probably saw that I spent a couple of days in Aureo La Union with my family after my birthday.  It was a nice post-birthday celebration with my family and it was a good breather to be out of the city!


Aureo Resort is located in the heart of La Union and it took us a good 4-hour drive going there (thanks NLEX and TPLEX!)

Let me tell you just SOME of the many reasons why I love it there.



LOCATION
I did say it took us 4-hour long drive but it was the easiest drive for us (I like the drive going there better than Tagaytay as it is less congested, just make sure to travel off-peak hours)

Located at San Fernando, you can easily find it there via Waze.  You won't miss this sign!

And if you're the type who loves to go surfing or maybe food trip in La Union?  You can easily drive for about 30 minutes and you are there at San Juan, La Union.

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Happy Independence Day Philippines!

Do you love your country as much as I do?
Show it to the world by wearing My Philippines Lifestyle Shirt!

Thanks to my family from Sampleroom for sending me these!  At least I can proudly wear this with my favorite pair of jeans!


The name Philippines at the back

Friday, December 14, 2012

Weekend Getaway: Taal Vista Hotel, Tagaytay

Happy Friday AMW Friends!
The year is almost ending and I believe a lot of you shares the same sentiments as I do --- "I'm suffering from burnout!  I need a break!"

I've been burnt out not because of my regular job plus freelance makeup job, I felt so tired and lifeless after going through 4.5 months of morning sickness!  In between throwing up, I mentioned to Mr. AMW how much I would love to relax and travel, it doesn't have to be by plane but a short trip outside MY ROOM!  *laughs*  

I have mentioned Tagaytay so many times and would you believe I never asked for food?  Just a simple relaxing day at Tagaytay will do!  (Something about the short travel, fresh air and cool breeze.)

Since I'm adorable, super cute....and (the real reason) Pregnant!  *laughs*  Mr. AMW caved in and it was perfect timing as I got an invite to stay at Taal Vista Hotel anyways after missing the Christmas Lighting Ceremony last November!  I happily packed my overnight bag and left my "makeup kit"!  (Darn "forgetful" hormones!)

The weather was on our side when we arrived!  And let me boast for once, I didn't study Tourism for nothing!  Let me tour you around Taal Vista Hotel like a real PRO! *winks*



Taal Vista Hotel isn't a stranger to me as I've stayed here several times but it was decades ago! Today, the most cherished heritage hotel Taal Vista unveiled their newly restored Lobby...


Lobby Lounge and Bar.


The feeling of comfort does not end there!  Once we were done checking in, we were ushered to our Deluxe Room located at the Lake Wing. 

Very comfortable king-sized bed with 3 pillows (4th pillow available on top of the dresser).  A comfortable couch where you can sit back, relax, raise your legs on the round table and watch television as you add some pounds pigging out! :P


The room is equipped with flat screen television with cable TV channels.  Complimentary, water, tea and coffee and a mini bar!


What sets Taal Vista Hotel apart from other hotels nearby?  The spacious bathroom!  2 people can do jumping jacks inside without hitting each other!  Okay, fine!  There's no reason why you need to do jumping jacks inside a bathroom but it's a nice (and weird) "visual" right?  *laughs*


Basic toiletries
2 sets of toothbrush, soap, shower cap, sanitary bag, 
body lotion, bath foam and conditioning shampoo.

You also get a pair of slippers and each room has a safety box to store your belongings.


My favorite part of the room?  The balcony!  Keith and I went on vacation with his family.  His parents and sister stays next door so we can easily chat and take photos even on different rooms.  *Laughs*

See?  You can't stop "camwhores"! :P

Seriously speaking, the best view of Taal Volcano can be seen without me having to leave the room, I can even enjoy my "welcome fruits" and complimentary water as I absorb the warm sunlight and breathe on fresh air that I haven't experience for the past months!


Since I need the exercise after 4.5 months of going up and down on just ONE flight of stairs, we were toured around the other wing called Mountain Wing which was refurbished recently during the hotel's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and 73rd Anniversary Celebration.


Check out the pool area and the cool breeze doesn't stop these people from having fun!



Also located at the Mountain Wing is Asmara Spa.  Different massages and body works are done here for complete relaxation!  *whispers*  They even offer Filipino Ventosa (Cupping)


The spa entrance has a welcoming vibe with a mixture of old and new. 

Various scented candles were on display as soon as you head on to the reception area.

Spa room

Couple's Room
My mom-in-law and sis-in-law enjoyed an hour of Aromatherapy Massage in which I was told puts them to deep sleep as the comfort level was beyond 100%!  They were gushing on how nice their room was and wanted me to take a peek but I can't as another couple was using the room!


Heading back to the lobby, you will also pass by the historic pictures of the hotel.

And to those who pay attention to details, the table centerpiece near the historic pictures changes every 4 days!  On that weekend we arrived, a Sampaguita Foyer Flower Arrangement of Red roses, birds of paradise and button mums were used to create a nice symbol of love, respect, courage and passion.  This was the great idea of the hotel's newest GM Mr. Walid Wafik.


Since baby AMW is still tucked inside my tummy and I can control him anytime of the day, what about families who bring kids with them on a vacation (outside their tummy?).  Well, Taal Vista Hotel itself is a huge playground for kids and kids-at-heart! 


But just in case they want something more, there's a Kid's Corner for your kids to play their hearts' content.


There's also a nearby gym to drain all their energy and game room!

Breathtaking view of the Lake Wing as taken by Mr. AMW after sunset.



Since it's the season to be jolly!  This is my favorite season to visit Taal Vista Hotel as you can feel the Christmas spirit everywhere you go!  A huge Christmas Tree that immediately greets you at the lobby area.




A cute Christmas House on your way to Cafe on the Ridge.

A real Christmas Tree complete with a huge sleigh and 
Christmas gifts located outside the hotel near the parking area.

My favorite part as of the moment, the hotel's iconic stone fireplace brings warmth and intimacy.  This area is photogenic both day and night!

**photo taken night time


**photo taken daytime
Do you believe me now?  :D 

Lucky me, I was able to meet the recently appointed GM of Taal Vista Hotel Mr. Walid Wafik.  He is responsible for the hotel's daily operations and special projects and I see him around the hotel making sure everyone's having a great time!  He's definitely doing a wonderful job making every guests feel special!

P.S. I was tip-toeing when this photo was taken!  Such a tall man! :D


That weekend, I also met new friends!  Other bloggers who visited the hotel and wonderful friends from SM Investments.

L-R Richie Zamora with his wife and super cute daughter, Ms. Celine Arenillo, 
Joanne Tan, me and Ms. Ana Carissa Daez.

I also want to thank Ro Manalo (farthest right on photo below) whom I met early this year at the Orly Feel the Vibe launch at Pico de Loro, Batangas.


It was definitely a memorable weekend and Mr. AMW and I plan to go back for another get-away before I pop!  As for the rest of you, this is the best time to treat your family and friends for a mini vacation!  Check out the activities lined up this Christmas Season.
  • December 15-16, 22-24 (12:00nn-2:00pm and 6:00pm-8:00pm) - Meet Santa
  • December 24 (Christmas Eve) room rates include Christmas Dinner for 2.  Price starts at Php10,000.
  • December 25-30 room rates starts at Php8,300.
  • December 31 Bubbles and Bling: New Year's Eve Countdown Party (7:00pm-2:00am) at the Grand Ballroom.  Tickets are Php3,000 per person includes dinner buffet with live musical entertainment and entrance to the hotel's countdown party featuring an open bar, live DJ and bands and fireworks show.
  • Guests who check in on December 31 will be given 2 complimentary tickets to Bubbles and Bling.  Room rates start at Php10,300 and include a complimentary buffet breakfast for 2, one round of cocktail drinks by the Lobby Lounge fireplace for 2 and food & beverage dining credit worth Php500.00 and a special turn down amenity.
Taal Vista Hotel
Kilometer 60, Aguinaldo Highway,
Tagaytay City 4120
Tel nos: (632) 917-8225/ (6346) 413-100/ (63917) 809-1254
Website: www.taalvistahotel.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/taalvistahotel
Twitter: (@taalvistahotel)

And to those who are on a budget, GREAT NEWS!
I will be giving away an Overnight Stay in a Premier Room with Breakfast for 2 to ONE LUCKY AMW READER!

Are you excited?  I am very excited to share this great gift from Taal Vista Hotel!  Please visit me back this weekend as I continue my post on the food I had at Taal Vista Hotel!  


Have you visited Taal Vista?
How was your experience?


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Keep smilin'
Stay happy!






(Service received for PR purpose.  Opinions and reviews 100% mine.)

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Weekend Getaway at: Pico De Loro, Nasugbu Batangas

Happy Sunday AMW Readers!
I want to take this opportunity to greet ALL MOMS HAPPY HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!  Everyone know how much I love both my moms so I'm celebrating the special day with them through, *ahem* FOOD! :)   

As promised, I will be sharing to you guys my experience staying at the beautiful Pico De Loro Beach and Country Club!  Once I said yes to the invite for Orly's Feel The Vibe Launch, I went to my "Google" friend and searched for the place and photos!  It is one picturesque place worth visiting!  

Upon arriving at the Hamilo Coast, we went straight to Pico Sands Hotel (where we will be staying for the night).  I love the fact that the hotel has a lot of natural light coming in from all sides!  The sunny-vibe is indeed very visible with the help of some greens.

top: bought from Zalora
bottom: G.U. shorts
Ipanema Sandals

Earth is my room mate, once we got in, it was so funny how we went straight to taking photos of the room before fixing ourselves! 

The average room size is about 45 square meters.  We got 2 double beds in our room and the mattress and pillows were very comfortable!  I did not have a hard time dozing off that night!



The "veranda" is one great addition to the room and help makes it even more spacious!  I enjoyed standing out there once in awhile to enjoy the view!  I even had a nice chat with Mr. AMW outside before I went to bed!


The room has a mini fridge with complimentary water, coffee and tea!


The bathroom is quite spacious with another set of complimentary water, toothbrush, body lotion, shower cap, soap, shampoo and conditioner!  Each hotel room has a blow dryer.


Pico Restaurant and Bar is located opposite the hotel entrance also a couple of steps away from the gorgeous pool!   Pico restaurant specializes in Mediterranean cuisine while Pico Bar serves wide range of beverages including its signature fruit juices and Mojito blends.


Our lunch menu
Iced Tea
Cream Soup
Salad with Sesame Dressing
Pork 

It is very convenient to go around the Beach and Country Club, I just tell the guys right outside the hotel to help give shuttle service a call!


 First stop: The Beach Club
This is located near the coastline where Arribada Lounge is located (where Orly's Feel the Vibe Launch happened).  You get to enjoy other facilities like the swimming pool, which was an obvious hit when I was there!


The Beach, I gave a slow "internal whistle" (as I can't whistle at all!  *laughs*) as the sands were fine and clean!  Outdoor recreation activities like kayaking, windsurfing, scuba diving, fish feeding, trekking, nature biking and ATV are possible!  All you need to do is to talk to the Outdoor Recreation Desk.


We only have a couple of minutes to walk around the beach front as we need to head back for a quick tour around Pico De Loro!  I enjoyed how clean the area was and the sand are very fine.


Even for less than an hour "break", Earth, Trixie and I were able to enjoy and put "lounging" in action! :)


 Second Stop: St. Therese of the Child Jesus Chapel
This chapel can be considered a great wedding destination!  The chapel is made of metal and glass, not too big nor too small, just right for a solemn ceremony!


You also get to see panoramic views of Pico De Loro Cove

The famous "walkway" were most magazine shoots take place!

Third Stop: The Country Club
Whatever recreational activities you can think of, I think they are mostly available in this country club!  I can live in this place forever!!!  *laughs*

Once you enter the complex, you will be greeted with a huge "living room-like" area where you can easily get relaxed.


 Fitness Center


Table Tennis and other racket sports area


Badminton and Tennis Court

Basketball Court

Studio for dancing


Game Room 
for the computer game addicts out there!

Bowling and Billiards Hall

We  headed back at Pico Sands Hotel for dinner and we had Bacon Salad, Fish and Vegetable Tempura and banana cakes!

Early morning, I'm glad Earth invited me for a walk at the beach!  It was a good walk and a nice way to bid goodbye to the gorgeous-looking beach worth re-visiting!

 top: WAGW
pants: Collective.com Marie Lad Pants
shades: Fly

Overall, I had a grand time staying at Hamilo Coast.  Hamilo Coast is actually SM Land's premier coastal development in Nasugbu, Batangas.

How to get to Hamilo Coast?
  • By Land: Travel through Tagaytay route going beyond to Nasugbu, Batangas taking approximately 2.5-3 hours.
  • By air on a helicopter for 20 minutes from Mall of Asia Complex.
  • By Ferry at Mall of Asia Complex to Hamilo Pier in Papaya Cove, Hamilo Coast for 1.5 hours.
Feel free to check out Hamilo Coast's website by smiling and clicking here.

Have you been to Pico De Loro?
Did you enjoyed your stay there?
If you haven't, have you been to Nasugbu Batangas?  Where did you stay?


Keep smilin'
Stay happy!