A Breathe Of Fresh Air at Green Canyon Leisure Farms

I have always been on a lookout for a nice family "staycation".  Whether it could be just within Metro Manila or a few hours away from the city.  

Why?

Because I have extremely busy schedule traveling for long period of hours is considered a waste of precious time for me!  I'd rather travel 2-3  hours 1 way and spend the rest of the time enjoying some nice activities with the family.

That said, Green Canyon Leisure Farms located at Clark Pampanga fits the bill!  

It was also perfect timing since it is Kyle's SEM break and me and my husband's 12th year Anniversary!  I accepted the invite without much hesitation and preparation and just let our senses lead the way!

Green Canyon Leisure Farms is a nature getaway and a relaxing destination. The resort is a sustainable environment that offer its guests to explore and find themselves outside with nature. Conveniently located just north outside of Manila, guests can spend quality time with families and groups of friends — with the resort's facilities, beautiful landscape and amenities to help them de-stress and shed off the clutter of the busy week.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by a guard who got all our information and ID before letting us in.  Security is very strict in this resort which we appreciate a lot!  Upon parking the car near the gate, a golf car was there with Resort Staff willing to lend us a helping hand with our luggage!  I appreciate the hospitality of the staffs and Kyle enjoyed his first cart ride!

Taipei Travel: Yomi Hotel Review

I am a researcher by profession, I also graduated with honors Bachelors in Science in TOURISM.  I used to dream to be a tour guide, a travel coordinator, an agent.  That part of my dream did not happen but it happened in so many different ways.

Me touring my colleagues when I worked in China as I speak the language.  

Me creating our special itinerary whenever we travel.

Me doing all sorts of tour guide jobs whenever friends from different countries arrive here.

So yes, that job I take seriously and our last minute decision to go on family vacation while Kyle is on summer break tested my research skill once again!  And so far, my gut-feel did not fail me!  I booked one of the best hotel in Taipei and mind you - it isn't even pricey! 

P.S. NOT SPONSORED.  But totally happy with this 3-star hotel!

A tip to mommies or even non-mommies - start with your daily accommodation budget and stat from there, that way, you won't get overwhelm with a LONG list of hotel.  Next, read reviews via TripAdvisor or Agoda.  Take time to read them one by one before you take the plunge! Thing to note for?  How far it is located from public transport, what can the hotel offer?  Do they have nearby convenience stores?  What are the places you want to visit and if all else's fail, how long will it take to take a taxi/cab from your hotel to the place of interest?   (this is very important if you have kids!  at some point, you may feel extremely tired so taxi will be the last option and you don't want to spend too much if the point of interest is far from your hotel!)

That said, I booked a hotel at ZhongShan district because our points of interest are the ff.: Children's Amusement Park, Children's Astronomical Museum, Shilin Market, Taipei Zoo, etc...

If your points of interests are touristy spots like Chiang Kai Shek, Taipei 101, Ximen, etc... you may opt to look for hotels at Taipei Main Station are, Ximenting, etc..

Now back to Yomi Hotel, I got around 3 hotels fit to our budget to go for.  The reason why Yomi won after reading reviews from fellow travelers who have kids!  Now, with pictures, let me share to you why this Hotel WON!

Kid-friendly room, meaning, good-sized bed and spacious room and bathroom!

Huge TV with several channels that are kid-friendly!  We forgot our Chromecast but yay for Disney Channel (note: you just have to change the language setting as they were originally in Chinese!)  But yes, this kid-friendly TV gave me time to put on makeup, dry my hair, change clothes while Kyle enjoy his own me-time.



Now, the FREEBIES list goes ON AND ON AND ON!  Seriously, I can't find another hotel who offers such!

Free use of WIFI unit, you just have to go to the reception area and make sure to return it by 12:00am.  If you stay for 5 days, you can borrow it every single day FOR FREE!  I did not borrow a WIFI unit as I brought my own Big Sky Nation!

Celebrating My Mom and Dad's Anniversary At Discovery Suites, Ortigas

Last year was my mom and dad's 50th Wedding Anniversary and we celebrated it with a "bang".  Story HERE.  And this year, we decided to make it simple yet memorable!  It was perfect timing that my brother is back for a short vacation so we've decided to book a hotel stay for the family for more bonding moments.

Since I had a great staycation last year at Discovery Suites Ortigas, I went ahead and suggested to my brothers and sister on booking a "3-Bedroom Suite".  They said YES.

And the day happened!  Upon entering the 3-BR suite, a photo of my mom and dad were displayed on the table which shocked them: "How in the world did they get that photo?" 

Well hats off to Discovery Suites staffs, they are indeed very good researchers!

Visit 23rd PTAA Travel Tour Expo and Book Your Staycation!

I know the PTAA Travel Tour Expo is what most travelers are watching out for each year!  As much as I would love to pack my bags and travel on a plane with my family?  Having a super active toddler will change your mind!  So for these past few months, my idea of a vacation is STAYCATION!

And because of my great experience for their impeccable service at Discovery Suites Ortigas late last year, I actually booked another family staycation for the Chinese New Years at the same location! 

Yes, I can't wait for deals but for you guys who have the time to manage your schedule and travel, the Discovery Leisure Company, Inc. (TDLCI) can fulfill every getaway desire on your bucket list!  This year's theme is "A World Of Discovery", which means the company's aim is to inspire your wanderlust with plush accommodations and creative cuisine in all their hotels and resorts!

Weekend Staycation at: Discovery Suites Ortigas

Is it possible to be treated like a Royalty in local hotels nowadays?

I used to say, IMPOSSIBLE!  Why?  Because no matter how high the star rating of a hotel is, customer service for me really comes from the heart.  (Coming from a customer service gal!)  I can say I give great customer service in my work because it is in my nature to be extra helpful!  And if staffs in a hotel don't have that, even with proper training, yes, you can still get good customer service but not the exceptional, "with a heart" kind!

And guess what?  I recently found it!  At Discovery Suites, Ortigas.

If you guys follow me on Instagram, you probably know by now how much of a busy gal I am!  On weekends, I'm always out for makeup training, makeup gigs, if I'm not working, I'd be accompanying my mom or dad for check-ups or take Kyle Nash to his Pedia!   

I've been itching to use the gift certificate I got from Discovery Suites for sharing my "Motherhood story".  It was until I flipped through my "Planner" and finally saw ONE WEEKEND Free, I immediately called the hotel and booked for our stay just to get over with the vacation!  (Yeah, I wasn't as excited because there's no vacation being a mommy you know!) 

Prior to arriving to the hotel,  the universe was telling us to really work hard for a vacation!  *laughs*  We had a flat tire and poor Mr. AMW had to change tire right around EDSA!  It was scorching hot and I had a screaming toddler who was cranky because he was extremely sleepy!  Yeah, there goes our vacation!

We arrived the hotel at 4:00pm instead of the "timed" 3:00pm!  We were an hour late and we weren't expecting anything but just to get to wash our hands, change, lift our legs a bit as I feed my son and leave the hotel to take him to a Play Area at Robinson's Galleria.

As soon as we entered the hotel lobby, we were greeted by friendly staffs and registration was a breeze!  Our things (for an overnight, we had 3-4 bags!  lol) were picked by the hotel staff as I sat on a chair trying to regain my energy from achy arms as my son ain't light anymore!  I was immediately offered a bottle of water which refreshed not only my body but heart!  THANK YOU!  I needed that!

Since my son had an hour nap and obviously hungry, I took my chance to ask for high chair and it was a relief to know they can bring a high chair in our room!  YAY! 

CHILD FINALLY LOCKED IN AND SAFE!  I can check out the room!

I immediately spotted fruits and pastries all ready for us to enjoy!  Whew, I was indeed hungry from the trip! 
 

Then someone knocked at our door and gave me a bouquet of flowers!  Awww, you can now look at the beautiful flowers, not my stressed no make up face!

I've Experienced MOMspiration at Discovery Suites and I like it!

A long-time reader would probably know by now how close I am with my mom!  And that closeness actually changed when I turned into a mom myself!  Our relationship is way closer and I really can't thank her enough for all the sacrifices, hardships and adjustments she has done!  I mean, I knew that from the start, but experiencing it first-hand is a different story!  Less than a week after I gave birth, I gave my mom a call and told her: "Ma, I can't believe how hard it was for you, I only have 1 and you had us 4!  THANK YOU and I LOVE YOU!" 

And let me tell you a bit about my mom, she is really down-to-earth, humble and very simple!  She never asks for material things and would feel bad accepting expensive gifts!  So for me, the best gift to a mom like that...is the gift of time.  As much as I would love to be there for her 24/7, with my very busy schedule, I'm sure just giving her the time she deserves, to feel special, to feel appreciated is the best gift in the world!

And recently, I experienced one BEST GIFT idea for moms out there!

MOMspiration at Discovery Suites.  No joke, I am not paid to write this post, I was just invited to "experience" how it is to enjoy a fun, relaxed lunch with fellow mommies.  And I want my mom to enjoy the same experience I had.

"MOMspiration" is Discovery Suites' way of honoring our pillar of strength.  You can choose intimate lunch or dinner or to "jump up" the total gratification experience, you can go for Staycation package that includes dinner treat like what I experienced.

I will share more about the pricing and details below but please, enjoy my photos because I am literally salivating at the moment.

Complimentary Bread from 22 Prime

My drink of choice: Mango Strawberry Shake.  The combination is surprisingly good!

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.)

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!