10 of my Favorite Travels and Adventures in 2016

2016 has been an exciting and overwhelming year for me. I got to visit a lot of new places, build new friendships, and do things I've been wanting to do. I am so happy for all the travel opportunities, new experiences, and personal accomplishments that came along my way. Before the year ends, let me say THANK YOU for being part of my awesome 2016. With this, let me share to you "10 of my Favorite Travels and Adventures this 2016."

Etihad Airways wins top Airbus A380 accolade

Airbus, manufacturer of the A380 aircraft, has presented Etihad Airways with the award for ‘Top Operational Excellence’ for A380 operations in 2015-2016.

The Etihad Airways A380 fleet recorded a remarkable 99.63 per cent operational reliability between January 2015 and October 2016, the highest of all 13 airlines which operate the Airbus A380 aircraft.

Where to Get Best Affordable Batanes Tour Packages

Planning a trip to Batanes? If you're looking for the best affordable Batanes tour packages, I highly recommend the services of BISUMI Tour and Services!

To date, I've been to Batanes 4 times. And in all of my previous trips, I always get the services of Mr. Ryan Cardona of BISUMI Tours and Services in Basco, Batanes. Ryan and his tour services team is my most-trusted and highly-recommended Batanes tour guide. No wonder, his team is also the most recommended of almost all the top travel bloggers and travelers who have visited Batanes.

RESTAURANTS IN TAGAYTAY: Cafe Veranda at Taal Vista Hotel, Tagaytay City

Taal Vista Hotel Tagaytay is one of the most-regarded hotels in Tagaytay City. Its proximity from Metro Manila and its wide array of attractions and restaurants makes it a favorite weekend destination among travelers and tourists seeking for a quick weekend getaway away from the Metro. I've stayed at Taal Vista Hotel for three times already and it's definitely one of my favorite hotels in Tagaytay.

Star Cruises announces the First Cruise Ship to Homeport in Manila for Filipinos to Cruise to Taiwan and Hong Kong

Last October, I got to experience a 4-day cruise aboard Star Cruises SuperStar Gemini. We traveled from Manila to Singapore and had a wonderful cruise along Malacca Strait with onshore excursions in Penang and Langkawi, Malaysia. Indeed, it is one of the best and most memorable travel experience I had this year.

As low as 500 Pesos per Night! Top Best Budget Hotels and Hostels in Makati, Philippines (PART 1)

Best Affordable Budget Hotels and Hostels in Makati City, Philippines

Are you looking for the Top Best Budget Hotels and Hostels in Makati City?

I have compiled here a list of the best budget hotels and hostels in Makati that you may consider on your next visit to the Metro - whether for that much-needed "staycation" or for your business or leisure trips in Makati City. Be it an affordable budget hotel, a backpacker's hostel or a condo unit for rent, you'll definitely find a reasonably priced hotel and value-for-money hostels in Makati that will suit your needs and of course, your budget.

TOP PICKS: Best Budget Hotels and Hostels in Makati, Philippines (PART 2)

Are you looking for the best affordable budget hotels and hostels in Makati City? Here is the 2nd part of my compilation of the best budget hotels and hostels in Makati that you may want to check out if you're planning to stay for a night in the city. In case you missed Part 1, click HERE.

TOP PICKS: Best Budget Hotels and Hostels in Makati, Philippines (PART 3)

There are many lovely hotels in Makati. But if you have limited budget, why not stay in an affordable hotel or a value-for-money hostel located at the heart of the city? Here is the 3rd part of my compilation of the best budget hotels and hostels in Makati that you may want to check out if you're planning to stay for a night in the Metro. In case you missed Part 1, click HERE and Part 2, HERE.

HOTELS IN CLARK, PAMPANGA: Royce Hotel and Casino (Hotel Review)

Isn't great if you could take a break from the stress of your daily life even just for a while; get into your car and drive off to a memorable holiday near the Metro?

If you've been wanting to have a quick weekend getaway with your family, friends, or special someone, why not travel to Clark, Pampanga? With its numerous hotels to stay in and activities to enjoy, Clark Freeport is one of the best places if you want to have a quick vacation, just an hour away north of Metro Manila.

Who do you want to thank this Christmas season and why?

Boracay Island, Aklan

It has been an exciting and overwhelming year! I am so happy for all the travel opportunites, new experiences, and personal accomplishments that came along my way. First of all, I thank the good Lord for the blessings He showered upon me this year. I only asked a few but He gave me more than I deserve. My appreciation for family and friends has grown and I would like to thank them for everything. Thank you so much for the love, for always supporting me, for believing in me, and for letting me soar high as I live the life I wished for.

Celebrate Adventures, Enjoy that Cloud 9 Moment!

As they say, "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." Aside from the pristine beaches, extravagant festivals, wonderful sights and sumptuous food that the Philippines have to offer, adventurous activities have always been part of my travels. Be it riding a zip line, island hopping, camping, surfing, spelunking, chasing a waterfall, hiking or any exciting outdoor activity, I see to it that I don't miss an adventurous activity in the place I am visiting.

Yoga Retreats in Asia

Image by sasint, used under Creative Commons license CC0 1.0

Yoga is known as one of the best ways to reduce stress levels, relax, and feel your body, mind and soul connected. Most times taking a couple of classes a week isn’t always enough for a person to relax and really experience what yoga can do for you, so visiting some of the fabulous yoga retreats in Asia can be a wonderfully therapeutic experience. Anyone who would like to truly experience yoga should definitely consider India, The Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand as their top destinations to go to.

Awesome Glamping Experience at Nayomi Sanctuary Resort in Balete, Batangas

Glamping in Batangas

As a hiker for several years, I've climbed mountains and stayed overnight in a tent many times in the past; and I know very well how inconvenient it is. Truly, camping in a tent is not for everyone. Uncomfortable sleep, where to take a bath and toilet are just some of the concerns we encounter when staying in a tent.

CEBU SINULOG FESTIVAL 2017: Schedule of Activities, How To Get There, Things To Do and Where To Stay

With Sinulog Festival 2017's theme, "STO NIÑO : Source of Communion, Protector of Creation," Cebu City's grandest festival in honor of the beloved Senyor Sto. Niño will be held in the whole month of January 2017. Sinulog Festival's highlights will be happening on the 3rd Sunday of January 2017 with Sinulog Grand Parade to be participated by performers and dancers coming from different regions of the country.

HOTEL REVIEW: Go Hotels Manila Airport Road (Affordable Hotel near NAIA)

Do you have an early morning flight and don't want to get stuck in traffic and eventually missing your flight? Or you just want to have a quick rest after a long flight?

Being a bustling and over populated metropolis, the traffic congestion in Metro Manila has always been a problem for everyone - especially for travelers going in and out of the airport. So, staying in one of the budget hotels near Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) will make traveling fun and stress-free, whether you're traveling to Manila for business, leisure or just a quick layover.

Getting Connected Online in Thailand with #FlytpackTravels

Landing a travel writing assignment to cover places in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Thailand means I have to be constantly connected to the internet. A few months ago this would mean spending more money availing of my Philippine network via roaming or enduring the hassle of buying a Thai sim card and paying daily internet rates that could prove costly for a 6-day trip.

HOTELS IN TAGAYTAY WITH POOL: One Tagaytay Place Hotel Suites, Tagaytay City

TAGAYTAY HOTELS: One Tagaytay Place Hotel Suites

As one of the top tourist destinations near Metro Manila, Tagaytay City has many hotels and bed & breakfast accommodations that cater to the needs of visiting tourists whether on business or leisure travels. Be it a luxury hotel, a condo unit for rent, a mid-range/budget hotel or a backpacker's hostel, you'll definitely find a hotel in Tagaytay City that will certainly suit your needs and preferences for a memorable Tagaytay holiday.

Etihad Airways awarded Best First Class and Best Long Haul Airline Middle-East and Africa

Etihad Airways has won awards for Best First Class and Best Long Haul Airline Middle-East and Africa in the AirlineRatings.com 2017 Airline Excellence Awards. The Abu Dhabi-based airline was also named in the global Top Ten.

THE LAKE HOTEL TAGAYTAY, "Charming and Lovely Hotel in Tagaytay City"

TAGAYTAY HOTELS WITH INFINITY POOL: The Lake Hotel

No doubt, Tagaytay is one of the most accessible and top weekend destinations near Metro Manila. The cool weather, sumptuous food offerings and the wide array of things to do makes me want to visit it again and again. Just the thought of spending a weekend in Tagaytay always makes me feel excited. And guess what?! just two weeks ago, we spent 2 nights in one of Tagaytay's most charming hotels - The Lake Hotel Tagaytay.

Delightful Dining Experience at Beach Café at Le Soleil de Boracay Hotel and Resort

Beach Café is Le Soleil de Boracay's all-day dining restaurant. Located at the resort's ground floor and fronting the beach, it offers a wide array International, Asian and Filipino food favorites. Every booking comes with a complimentary buffet breakfast at the Beach Café. The buffet breakfast is composed several well-selected and flavorful local and international dishes. There are different meat, fish, chicken and vegetables dishes to choose from. There's also a variety of pastries and fresh fruits for desserts. We were really full when we left the restaurant. It's such a great way to start up our day.

Great NYC Statues to See On Your New York City Tour

New York has scores of statues that l have a special appeal. These iconic pieces of art are present everywhere: parks, plazas and other public places and all tell rich and varied stories. You can’t escape the sight of statues standing tall around the city as this is what makes NYC unique in the truest sense of the word. Tourists can visit these famous sculptures and learn a lot about the city, its eventful past and its legendary artists. These creative pieces, ranging in subject, style and size, give a peek into a bygone era and will capture your imagination almost instantly. While in NYC, check out some of these iconic statues and get to know New York better. Here are some of popular statues to see on your New York City tour:

Three of the Most Picturesque Destinations for a Cycling Holiday

Nothing’s more exhilarating than a cycling holiday where you discover new landscapes on two wheels. Taking things at your own pace as you cycle around, you can stop off when you find a small undiscovered village or you can spend the afternoon strolling around a stunning vineyard. The possibilities really are endless when you choose this type of holiday and there are plenty of
destinations for you to pick from.

All Nippon Airways (ANA) will Start Flying to New York and Chicago from Tokyo, Japan

Great news Adventuristas!

All Nippon Airways (ANA) will start flying to the United States of America via Tokyo's close-to-downtown Haneda Airport. Just recently, ANA got 3 more daytime slots which they’ll be using to fly direct to New York and Chicago, USA. Flights will commence in Winter 2016.

3 Reasons to Visit Cuba’s Incredible Capital Now

Havana by Night. Photo by Crisijuan0 via Wikipedia Commons.

The city’s colonial past and communist present make for a unique combination that makes Havana one of the most lively and most beautiful cities on earth. A place where salsa rhythms reverberate through the streets and the hum of Cadillac’s is music to your ears, Havana’s old-worldly charm captivates thousands of tourists’ year upon year. So, what exactly is it about heady Havana that makes it so mezmerising?

A Quick Introduction to Barcelona, Spain

Many readers may be curious about travelling or even moving to a new city, and have many questions and concerns about it. If some of you have ever considered moving to Barcelona in sunny Spain, this post will cover what you need to know! The Barcelona experts over at OK Apartment made a large-scale study by interviewing and surveying hundreds of expats that made the move to Barcelona and here they share their thoughts with us about the city. It might just whet your appetite to visit the Catalan capital!

8 Reasons Why You Should Experience a Cruise Holiday Aboard Star Cruises Superstar Gemini

Going on a holiday in a cruise ship is just one of the many items in my bucket list. I really thought it would take a long time before I'd be able to cross it out on my list. But luckily, I was invited by Star Cruises Asia to experience their Superstar Gemini that cruises along Malacca Strait from Singapore with onshore excursions in Penang and Langkawi Malaysia and then back to Singapore.

Midori Clark Hotel's Christmas Tree Lighting and Angels' Dream 2016 Project

Earlier this week we were invited by our friends from Midori Clark Hotel and Casino as they welcome the most awaited season through a meaningful celebration of joy and goodwill in their Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony as well as the launch of their first Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project called "Angels' Dream 2016."

TOP PICKS: Best Hotels in Manila, Philippines

Are you looking for the Top Best Luxury Hotels in Manila, Most Affordable Budget Hotels and Hostels in Manila or perhaps a Mid-range Hotel in Manila for your next Staycation?

I have compiled here a list of hotels in Manila that I have personally tried. Be it a luxurious 5-star hotel, a 3-star mid-range hotel, an affordable budget hotel or a backpacker's hostel, you'll definitely find a hotel in the City of Manila that will suit your needs and preferences for your business or leisure travels in Manila.

GIANT LANTERN FESTIVAL 2016 Schedule of Events and List of Winners (San Fernando City, Pampanga)

Are you ready for this year's grand display of Giant Lanterns? The City of San Ferdnando, Pampanga will once again showcase the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Kapampangans with the yearly Giant Lantern Festival on December 17, 2016 in Robinsons Starmills Pampanga. Dubbed as "The Biggest, Brightest and Most Colorful Christmas Event in the Philippines," the Giant Lantern Festival 2016 or "Ligligang Parul", will definitely delight and bring joy to everyone with larger than life and grandiose Christmas lanterns in glittering and colorful lights, dancing in spectacular and kaleidoscopic patterns accompanied by lively Christmas songs participated by various barangays of San Fernando City, Pampanga.

Visiting the USA: East Coast or West Coast?

A long-standing divide that can cause problems for those choosing where to visit in America, sun drenched California or fast-paced New York? Both sides of the country have some incredible attractions and world famous cities, but which one should you choose? Here’s the low down to help you make up your mind:

Have a Resort-Like Stay in These 8 Manila Condos

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Looking for cool and unique condominiums for your visit to Metro Manila? Resort-style condominiums are fantastic because they offer all the modern conveniences of city living while providing an ambience that feels like you’re in a dream tropical vacation. Resort-style condos have become a hot trend right now, allowing guests to enjoy great amenities at the heart of the city without the hefty price tag. In fact, developers are raising the bar in offering well-appointed and reasonably-priced condos that can even be better than to those in holiday destinations. However, because of numerous options, finding the best place for you can be a bit challenging. To help you, we’ve come up with this list of resort-like condominiums in Metro Manila that are worth considering.

HOTEL REVIEW: Jinjiang Inn Ortigas, "Value-for-money Business Boutique Hotel in Pasig City"

Jinjiang Inn is a franchised hotel brand from the largest hospitality conglomerate in China, Jin Jiang Hotels. The first Jinjiang Inn hotel brand managed by Hotel 101 group was opened in Ortigas Center in September 2015. Conveniently located along San Miguel Avenue in the heart of Ortigas Business District, Jinjiang Inn Ortigas offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations for travelers whether on leisure or business travels. The hotel offers on-site features such as stable and reliable free Wi-Fi connection in all rooms, 24-hour front desk, facilities for disabled guests, luggage storage, restaurant, conference room and free use of computers with internet connection in the lobby.

Get a Chance to win an Amazing Dream Journey to Thailand!

I was recently invited on a familiarization tour of Bangkok and Chang Mai, Thailand. The moment I saw the email from the organizers, I got really excited since I haven't been to Thailand and this is my chance to visit this amazing country. Unfortunately, the schedule of the trip conflicts with my prior commitments. As much as I wanted to join the Thailand Familiarization Tour, I have to decline. That's a hard decision to make, but I have to do it.

TOP PICKS: Best Hotels in Ortigas Center, Pasig City

This list covers Luxury Hotels in Ortigas, Budget Hotels in Ortigas and Serviced Residences, Apartments and Condominium Units for Rent in Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

If you're traveling to Ortigas Center, whether for business or leisure travels, here are my most-recommended hotels in Ortigas Center that I have personally tried. Be it a luxury hotel, a condo unit for rent, a mid-range hotel or a backpacker's hostel, you'll definitely find a hotel in Ortigas that will suit your needs and preferences.

Etihad Airways introduces six new designs​ to its Business Class amenity kits

Etihad Airways has introduced a new collection of destination-inspired Business Class amenity kit designs inspired by iconic cities on its extensive global network.

RESORT REVIEW: Le Soleil de Boracay (Affordable Beach Front Resort in Boracay)

Recently hailed as the "World's Best Island" by Condé Nast Traveler, Boracay is definitely a holiday haven for families, couples and friends to have a relaxing and memorable vacation. Your stay on the exciting island of Boracay should be fun-filled and relaxing. A trip to Boracay is never complete without a place to call home. One of my recommended resorts in Boracay is Le Soleil de Boracay located at the beachfront along Station 2 which affords guests commanding views of the sea and convenient access to the island's most exciting hot spots.

The 5 Best Treks in the World

Walking is perhaps the best way to discover a new destination, admire the area’s beauty and culture and meet locals in remote destinations. But when that walk takes the form of a trek through majestic mountainscapes, exotic wildlife, starry skies and the very best of nature, you’re truly in for a treat. From off-the-beaten-path adventures to pleasant walks through sleepy mountainside villages, these are the 5 best treks in the world. So don your boots and get hiking! And don’t forget to apply sunscreen before you leave!!

A Few Simple Tricks on How to Make Luxurious Hotel Rooms Cheaper

All of us want to have the best for the smallest price possible, and this is best shown while we are traveling. After all, traveling is considered being a pretty pricey hobby where absolutely everything needs money to be spent.

However, as always, the internet offers us a few ways how you can save money. This time let’s get acquainted with a few smart ways how you can book a hotel room a lot cheaper even in the most luxurious hotels around the globe.

FLYTPACK TRAVEL WIFI: Stay Connected Online in Malaysia without Emptying your Wallet

Having a personal wireless modem or a travel WiFi is now one of my must-haves when traveling abroad. That is why, when I was invited by Star Cruises to experience a 3-night/4-day cruise along Malacca Strait via their humongous cruise ship called Superstar Gemini, I made sure that I bring a FlytPack Travel WiFi Router with me. Although the ship's internet connection is quite good, FlytPack provided me and my friends with stable and fast connection during our onshore excursions in Penang and Langkawi, Malaysia.

Experience Traveling in Comfort from Batangas to Boracay with 2GO Travel

If you want to travel while enjoying the whole trip, I recommend you to try 2GO Travel Vessels. I was given the chance to try out one of their vessels named St. Ignatius de Loyola of 2GO and I must say that you can now feel the comfort of your own home while you travel.

How I stayed Connected in Singapore using FlytPack Travel WiFi Router?

On my recent travels abroad, my friends always ask me how I am able to connect to the in internet most of the time. Did I buy a local SIM, am I in international roaming or is WiFi connection free and available anywhere abroad? I said no. I told them that I brought a Flytpack Travel WiFi Router with me.

Comfortable and Relaxing Stay at Hotel 101 Manila

Nowadays, staying in the city has been a popular vacation option among city dwellers and weekend warriors. You don't have to travel far away from the city to enjoy a memorable vacation, thus making "hotel staycations" a popular weekend activity. With the many hotels around Metro Manila, the question now is where is the best place to stay in the city? Let me share to you one of my recent staycations in Metro Manila.

Luxury Stays in Tenerife

Photo Credit: Kirkjimmy | http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Sunset_las_americas_tenerife.JPG | Wikipedia Commons

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and boasts 29 well-appointed 5-star hotels. Rumours of its volcano, Mount Teide’s, potential eruption in October of 2016 are unfounded according to the Volcanology Institute of the Canary Islands which continuously monitors seismographic data. So, with a luxurious, safe stay in mind, where are the best places to rest your head and have a great holiday in Tenerife?

The Ultimate List of the Best Hotels in Makati City, Philippines

What are the best hotels in Makati?

Nowadays, searching for the best hotel comes easy with just a simple search on the internet. Depending on your needs, finding the best hotel and deciding where to book is a totally different story. Travelers' reviews matter. Good thing there's a website such as Tripadvisor where you could read travelers reviews and experiences about their in a hotel. Ever wonder what are the Top Hotels in Makati? Here's the Top 12 Best Hotels in Makati City ranked based on Tripadvisor reviews.

Awesome Shopping Finds at the New Tutuban Center!

'Tis the season of giving and receiving gifts!

It's few weeks to go before Christmas! Have you bought your Christmas gifts for your friends and loved ones? Not yet? Oh, you better hurry up! Everyone's already hitting the shops searching for the best bargains and perfect gifts and presents this Christmas. Well, I did an early Christmas shopping last week in Tutuban Center. I bought some gifts for friends, family members and for myself. Hahaha!

ASTORIA PALAWAN: Your newest ‘WorkPlays’ in Puerto Princesa

The seamless integration of business and leisure is Astoria Palawan’s newest philosophy as it celebrates the completion of two facilities: the much awaited 1-hectare Palawan Waterpark and the world-class Mangrove Convention Center. These developments usher Astoria Palawan’s bid to become Palawan’s top-of-mind venue for business travelers who seek a balance between work and play.

PROMO: Le Soleil de Boracay Special Packages

Boracay is an all-year-round destination in the Philippines. Dubbed as 2016's "Best Island in the World," Boracay is definitely a must-visit and must-experience for Filipinos and foreign visitors wanting to have a wonderful island beach vacation. If you're looking for a nice beachfront resort to spend a memorable vacation in Boracay, I recommend Le Soleil de Boracay located along Station 2.

Plan your Trip to India with The Indian Nomads!

Traveling to India has always been in many intrepid travelers' bucket list. There are many adventure seekers who swear to travel to India as it is one of the most exciting, diverse and life changing place to travel in the world! When traveling to unfamiliar destinations, it is highly recommended to get familiar with it first. The best thing to do is to get packaged tours from reliable and trusted tour companies. One of them is The Indian Nomads.

Etihad Airways expands Madrid service to daily operation​

Photo Credits: Paul Spijkers

Etihad Airways will go daily on the Abu Dhabi-Madrid route with the introduction of three new flights each week, effective 1 June 2017.
The additional frequencies reflect the airline’s commitment to offer guests greater choice and more travel options.

101 Ways to Spend Halloween in Manila

Hotel 101 Manila celebrates Halloween with its guests this October 29, 2016, at the hotel restaurant Paesan from 10am onwards. The event is highlighted by a magic show that will leave the audience spooked and bewildered. Several trick-or-treat stations are set-up within the hotel for guests to claim interesting treats. Come in your scariest or most magical costume, as the best one wins an exciting prize.