Discover the Wonders of Winter in Toyama

Photo courtesy of VisitToyama

Japan, with its serene, snow-covered destinations, transforms into a winter wonderland. Among its winter treasures, Toyama stands out as a haven for those who appreciate the beauty of the season. This coastal prefecture, located just a 2 to 3-hour ride from Tokyo via the Hokuriku Shinkansen, provides access to Japan's snow-covered areas.

From Gokayama's postcard-perfect villages to the soul-soothing Unazuki Onsen, we've curated the must-see Toyama attractions for an unforgettable winter adventure. So pack your bags, grab your gloves, and prepare to explore this polar paradise!

Gokayama 

Gokayama, nestled in the mountains of Toyama, resembles a scene from a snow globe. The area is known for its 40 small villages, two of which—Ainokura and Suganuma—are UNESCO World Heritage sites. It comes alive in the winter, covered in a thick blanket of snow. These steeply pitched roofs, built to withstand heavy snowfall, are surrounded by peaceful, pristine landscapes that invite you to stop and take it all in. Gokayama, accessible by bus from JR Takaoka Station, is your gateway to Japan's rich cultural heritage, set against a backdrop of white topography. During the winter, the villages of Ainokura and Suganuma host magical lighting events that illuminate the snow-covered landscape and create a peaceful winter spectacle.

Photo courtesy of VisitToyama

Amaharashi Coast

The Amaharashi Coast, which runs along Toyama Bay, is a captivating combination of rugged coastline and the breathtaking Tateyama Mountain Range. In the winter, the snow-covered mountains provide a stunning contrast to the crashing waves that attract surfers to the area. This peaceful and dramatic landscape makes the Amaharashi Coast ideal for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature's beauty, whether it's the tranquility of the beach or the energy of the sea.

Photo courtesy of VisitToyama

Toyama Castle

Toyama Castle has a unique kind of winter charm. Located in the city center, the castle serves as a reminder of the region's history and culture. Surrounded by a peaceful park, the scene becomes even more magical in the winter, when snow covers the traditional architecture and reflects in the still waters of the moat. The castle, which was built in the 16th century, provides visitors with a glimpse into Japan's feudal era just outside of the city.

Photo courtesy of VisitToyama

Shogawa Gorge

Shogawa Gorge offers a tranquil yet stunning setting. During the winter, the Shogawa River's dramatic cliffs and clear waters transform into a serene, icy beauty. Scenic boat rides and walking trails offer stunning views of snow-covered landscapes. This hidden gem, located just a 70-minute bus ride from Takaoka Station on the JR Hokuriku Main Line, is a peaceful retreat into nature, ideal for those seeking quiet beauty.

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization

Unazuki Onsen

After a day of snowy adventures, relax at Unazuki Onsen, a quaint hot spring town nestled in Toyama's mountains. This resort, situated along the Kurobe River, is the ideal place to soak in thermal waters while admiring the white-capped view. Traditional ryokan inns add to the charm, making Unazuki Onsen the ideal combination of relaxation and nature. It is easily accessible by train from Toyama City, allowing you to enjoy the rejuvenating warmth without difficulty. In addition to its famous footbaths, Unazuki allows visitors to purchase handmade necklaces made by local artisans, which make an ideal souvenir to remember your peaceful escape.

Photo courtesy of VisitToyama

Toyama’s Traditional Seafood 

Experience the authentic flavors of Toyama, where fresh seafood from Toyama Bay, such as white shrimp and firefly squid, take center stage. Don't miss the local Winter Yellowtail, dubbed the "king of winter delicacies" and paired perfectly with the region's smooth craft sake. Each dish reflects Toyama's strong connection to the land and sea, providing a taste of the region's local heritage and natural resources.

This winter, avoid the tropical heat and enjoy the quiet magic of Toyama's snow-covered landscapes. From the fairytale charm of Gokayama to the towering snow walls of the Tateyama Mountains, Toyama exemplifies winter at its best. Add the cozy retreats of Unazuki Onsen to the scenic beauty of Shogawa Gorge, and you've created the ultimate snowy paradise.

Discover Japan’s best-kept winter secrets—Toyama is waiting to take your breath away.

Cebu Pacific Raises Aircraft Deliveries to 21 for 2023

“This aircraft delivery allows us to increase our operational resilience while continuing to provide safe, reliable, and affordable air travel to our passengers. Our ongoing re-fleeting with new-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft and our continued use of sustainable aviation fuel will also help our decarbonization efforts in making the aviation industry more sustainable.” ~Alex Reyes, CEB Chief Strategy Officer

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the leading airline in the Philippines, has raised the number of aircraft deliveries for 2023 to an all-time high of 21, up from the initial plan of 15. This decision comes as a strategic move to enhance the company's operational resilience, considering the increasing demand for air travel.

Recently, CEB received its ninth aircraft for 2023, an Airbus A321neo (New Engine Option), which was delivered from Airbus' Delivery Centre in Hamburg, Germany, to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. Notably, the flight was powered by blended sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), demonstrating the airline's commitment to sustainable practices.

Of the 21 expected aircraft deliveries this year, 17 are NEOs, while four are CEOs (Current Engine Option) on short-term lease. The airline aims to shift to a more fuel-efficient, all-NEO fleet by 2028.

Last June 30, CEB received a brand new A320neo aircraft from Airbus’ final assembly line in Tianjin, China, powered by SAF with a blend of 41%, marking a major milestone for CEB’s sustainable aviation initiatives.

SAF is a drop-in fuel with similar characteristics as conventional jet fuels. It does not require any adaptations to the aircraft or engines and does not have any negative impact on performance. The use of SAF results in up to 80% reduction in carbon emissions across the fuel’s lifecycle.

First Filipino-Owned Travel Booking Platform, Happy Hotels App, Launched For Filipino Travelers

"Our goal at Happy Hotels is to empower local business owners and their workforce by providing them with a platform to expand their market and reach more customers. We are dedicated to understanding the needs of the local market and offer a variety of accommodations that cater to various preferences and financial capabilities. Our tagline, ‘Share Happy Moments with Happy Hotels’ embodies our commitment to delivering a memorable experience that will stay with our guests long after their stay." ~Emmanuel Jason Lao, Happy Hotels CEO, who has 25 years of experience in the service and hospitality industry

The first-ever Filipino-owned travel booking app, Happy Hotels', has been officially launched, according to the company. Local and international travelers can easily and conveniently book hotels, bed and breakfasts (BnBs), and dormitories across the nation using the Happy Hotels app. Happy Hotels hopes to give customers a smooth and hassle-free experience with this new booking platform while also growing its clientele and empowering regional entrepreneurs and employees. 

Mr. Emmanuel Jason Lao, CEO & founder, Happy Hotels App

The Happy Hotels app offers a variety of accommodations to suit a variety of preferences and budgets, designed to meet the diverse travel requirements of Filipinos and tourists visiting the country. The "Near Me" section of the app lets users see and browse the closest accommodations to their current location. This is one of the app's main features.

The Happy Hotels app provides a range of locations across the Philippines, including well-known locations like Metro Manila, Cebu, Boracay, Siargao, Tagaytay, and Siargao. Happy Hotels gives visitors more options to design their ideal vacation while also supporting neighborhood businesses by offering a diverse range of locations.

L-R - Mr. Emmanuel Jason Lao, CEO & founder, Happy Hotels App; Mr. Fabio Ide, Brand Ambassador, Happy Hotels App, and Ms. CheChe Perez, head of business Development & Sales, Happy Hotels App.

Over 100 properties across the nation have already partnered with Happy Hotels, which has plans to annually buy 500 hotels, hostels, and bed-and-breakfasts. More Filipinos and visitors will have a simple and effective way to book their travel accommodations thanks to this expansion, which will also help promote and support the regional tourism sector.

On top of offering convenient booking services, Happy Hotels will also be donating 5-10% from each user’s booking fee proceeds to their charity of choice available in the charity options menu.

Happy Hotels Philippines booking app is now available for download on the App Store and Google Play Store. Users can enjoy the following promos from the Happy Hotels app: Vue Tagaytay 50% off, Asiatel Pasay 20% off, Skytel Puerto Princesa 25% off.

Mr. Fabio Ide, Brand Ambassador, Happy Hotels App

Happy Hotels app grand launch was held at Vue Tagaytay Boutique Residences and sponsored by Mei Wei Chinese Kitchen, and Antidote Gin.

Make your ‘Revenge Travel’ Easy with the First-Ever Filipino-Owned Booking App

The pandemic disrupted life and plans; there were “lost time” as millennial and generation Z would describe it. It was time away from friends and family, away from different pursuits - one of which is travelling. But as COVID-19 restrictions have started to ease, travel, once highly restrictive and prohibitive, has become possible again.

If there’s anything better than travelling again, it’s the build-up. Daydreaming of the perfect destination, scrolling through unique places to stay, and browsing travel guides for the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants and local must-sees are all opportunities to start wanderlusting before you’ve even packed your bags.

But when does the journey begin? While planning may sometimes be overwhelming - mapping out nitty gritty flights, connections, accommodation, and a whole lot of pit stops. But, for today’s travellers, expectations are always set by non-travel experiences. They want flexible solutions with a simple click experience.

Both local and foreign tourists are in for a treat as the first-ever Filipino-owned booking app is set to launch next year to help travellers explore the Philippines with ease. Happy Hotels will give you easy, accessible, and packed information about your favourite local destinations. They have teamed up with the best, budget-friendly, and most accessible hotels nationwide. Its features include but are not limited to comparing prices, finding hotels with your specific requirements, determining the best accommodation through the app’s rating and review system, and different activities you can do in your favorite destinations.

What’s even more exciting is that the app empowers local hotel owners to showcase what real “Filipino hospitality” is and at the same time gives the opportunity to local workers and communities. Happy Hotels aims to bring everyone a smile by giving a wide range of choices from hotels, resorts, restaurants, and destinations at the tip of your fingertips.

To know more about Happy Hotels and its official app launch, please visit their Official Instagram page and/or website.

ChristMAS SULIT 12.12 Sale from Cebu Pacific

"We want to inspire everyJuan to fly so we're holding our final seat sale for the year. Do not miss out and grab the chance to book your dream trips for you and your loved ones." ~Carmina Romero, Cebu Pacific Corporate Communications Director

Book flights to domestic, international destinations for as low as PHP 12.

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines' leading airline, caps off the year with another  #CEBSuperSeatFest on December 12 as it gifts everyJuan with a ChristMAS SULIT sale for everyJuan who wishes to travel  to domestic and select international destinations.

For as low as PHP 12 one-way base fare (exclusive of fees, surcharges), Cebu Pacific's three-day offer will run from December 12-14. Travel period is from June 1 to November 30, 2023.

The 12.12 #CEBSuperSeatFest allows everyJuan to experience the best of the Philippines - whether that's a food adventure in General Santos, Zamboanga, Manila, Davao, or Iloilo; or a beach getaway in Palawan, Siargao, Bohol, Cebu, or Boracay.

CEB also made it easier for passengers to book those much-awaited international trips of their dreams to Dubai, Bali and Jakarta in Indonesia, Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia, Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi in Vietnam, and Singapore.

Passengers with existing travel funds may use these to pay for flights and add-ons during CEB’s seat sales. Apart from Travel Fund, other payment options may also be used, such as payment centers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets.

To date, CEB flies to a total of 34 domestic and 19 international destinations. The airline continues to implement a multi-layered approach to safety while it operates with a 100% fully vaccinated crew, 98% of whom have been boosted - all to ensure everyJuan flies safely and conveniently on Cebu Pacific.

Book your trips now at https://bit.ly/CEB121222SSFcc

Cebu Pacific holds special PHP 499 seat sale to Singapore

"We look forward to flying more Juans, not only within the Philippines but also internationally. We launched this seat sale to encourage travelers to fly and enjoy traveling between the Philippines and Singapore at the lowest fare possible." ~Carmina Romero, Corporate Communications Director at Cebu Pacific

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the Philippines’ leading airline, is holding a seat sale for flights to Singapore on December 10, 2022, as it remains at the forefront of providing low fares for everyJuan.

Promo fares to Singapore from Manila, Cebu, and Davao are for sale for five days, for as low as P499 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. The travel period for these flights are from February 1 to May 31, 2023.

The airline regularly operates flights to Singapore - up to four times daily from Manila, five-times-a-week from Cebu, and thrice weekly from Davao.

Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) have partnered to co-produce three episodes of Actress Julia Barretto's YouTube vlog series, "Juju on the Go.” In her first episode, the actress explores Singapore's breathtaking adventures and leisure spots like iFly Singapore, Kelong Boat Tour, S.E.A. Aquarium, and Skyline Luge Sentosa.

“It's been so long since I last went to Singapore so I was beyond thrilled to have the opportunity to be back. Thanks to Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board, I got to discover and enjoy more of what Singapore has to offer. Beyond the sights, skyscrapers and food, there are lots of new, unexpected, and exciting experiences in Singapore that await Filipinos on their next trip to 'The Lion City.” ~Julia Barretto, Actress

Cebu Pacific ensures that everyJuan can #ReimagineSingapore with its special seat sale that will allow travelers to hop on a flight to enjoy the Lion city's undiscovered treasures, must-try cuisine, and one-of-a-kind adventures.

To date, CEB flies to a total of 34 domestic and 18 international destinations. The airline continues to implement a multi-layered approach to safety while it operates with a 100% fully vaccinated crew, 95% of whom have been boosted - all to ensure everyJuan flies safely and conveniently on Cebu Pacific.

For more information visit https://www.cebupacificair.com/.

Make New Travel Memories with Singapore Airlines

Did you miss flying and going to different destinations to travel with your family and friends after  more than 2 years of being locked-in inside your home? Remember the thrill and excitement you feel when planning for a spontaneous weekend getaway or an adventure-filled grand vacation - the sights to see, places to go, unique eats to enjoy and whatnot? You count down the days till your bags are packed and passports ready as you march to the airport, hold your precious boarding pass that will render your dream holiday a reality. 

Gone are the days of dreaming and reminiscing as you can now rediscover the world and enjoy quarantine-free travel with the relaxed safety protocols in place to Singapore and more. It’s the perfect time to go on that much-deserved trip with amazing places to choose from, such as Singapore, Los Angeles, New York, and London. 

 

Seeking somewhere close to you? It’s your chance to revisit Singapore’s scenic attractions and relive the passion and energy of the lion city. Explore new food spots at Ghim Moh Market or at Food Centres, be amongst nature in Sister’s Islands, or grab bargains in the many stores along Orchard Road;

Feel the Hollywood vibe in the mountains of Santa Monica with its famous sign or take a photo-spree of the picture-perfect sights in Beverly Hills, all situated in the beautiful city of Los Angeles;

Tag the kids along and explore different museums rich in history and culture, watch the latest Broadway musicals, and revel in the sight of the famous billboards in New York City’s Times Square;

Or you can visit London and listen to the chimes of Big Ben, walk across Tower Bridge, try to catch a glimpse of the royals at Buckingham Palace, and go on a chill tour on the River Thames.

 

Singapore Airlines (SIA) invites you to experience all these and more when you fly with them to these destinations and other exciting destinations all over Asia, the USA, Australia, and Europe. 

• An elevated travel experience awaits

Fly with Singapore Airlines from various points from the Philippines, as SIA now operates daily connecting flights from Singapore to Davao and Cebu. This is on top of the four daily flights from Manila, offering greater connectivity and consistency in products and services across the SIA Group’s premium network. 

You can also look forward to SIA’s award-winning suite of in-flight offerings. From flavourful culinary creations to the warm hospitality from SIA’s cabin crew, enjoy a world-class experience on board SIA. 

• Experience safe and seamless travel 

From check-in up to your arrival, you can count on the airline’s enhanced safety measures, recognised with a ‘Diamond’ rating in the APEX Health and Safety Audit3 and 5-star rating in the Skytrax Covid-19 Airline Safety Audit. 

Upon boarding, a complimentary SIA care kit is given to all customers which includes a face mask, antibacterial wipes and disinfectant surface wipes.

Before the flight, download the SingaporeAir mobile app to access KrisWorld and an e-Library for your inflight entertainment and explore more features for a contactless journey. The app also offers a digital menu via which you can place your meal order, as well as personalized updates for every passenger. 

 

Every aircraft in the SIA Group fleet is equipped with HEPA filters which remove more than 99.9% of the microbes in the air. Cabin air is refreshed every 2-3 minutes throughout the flight and common surfaces are disinfected regularly.

 

Customers with tickets issued on or before 31 May 2022 can also delight in the convenience of complimentary rebooking4, regardless of fare type. With the ability to adjust your plans along the way to best suit your travel needs, you can set your mind at ease when you choose to fly with SIA. 

Fully-vaccinated travelers on all SIA flights will enjoy quarantine-free entry into Singapore, without the need for any on-arrival test or quarantine requirements1. Travelers, regardless of vaccination status, are also allowed to transit through Singapore on almost all SIA and Scoot flights as long as they meet the entry requirements of their final destination2. Following the simplified travel protocols, the SIA Group opens up the entire SIA and Scoot network to all eligible customers, operating from 97 destinations in 34 countries to Singapore. 

Visit singaporeair.com or enquire with your travel agent to start your journey in rediscovering the world and make new travel memories with SIA.

Facebook.com/SingaporeAir

Twitter.com/SingaporeAir

linkedin.com/company/singapore-airlines

YouTube.com/SingaporeAir

Instagram.com/SingaporeAir

SIA flies from Manila to Singapore four times daily, which conveniently connects to onward flights to the rest of the world. From 1 April 2022, SIA will fly from Davao and Cebu to Singapore on a daily circular flight, whereas Cebu-bound passengers departing from Singapore and Singapore-bound passengers departing from Davao will transit at Davao International Airport and Cebu-Mactan International Airport, respectively. 

Discover the world around you via Traveloka Xperience

“At Traveloka, we have a mission to empower our users to discover the world around them. And we believe that discovering the world is fulfilled when our users are able to enjoy rich and unique experiences. We are very pleased to introduce the brand new Traveloka Xperience in the Philippines, which is an important and growing market for Traveloka. Traveloka Philippines currently partners with thousands of product inventories in Philippines, and well above 15,000 when you include our international inventories. Traveloka Xperience’s focus on everything big and small and consistently popular ensures our wider, market leading appeal to a larger and growing customer base. Xperience is for anyone who wants to discover more of the many ‘worlds’ around them. The initial response to Xperience has exceeded our expectations and we look forward to building on this momentum and continually offering more experiences worldwide tailored to individual preferences and passions.” ~Sylvia Gunawan, VP Revenue & Growth of Traveloka Xperience share on the background of Traveloka Xperience

Traveloka Xperience

Traveloka Xperience has been officially launched here in the Philippines, For Increasing the Seamless Travel & Lifestyle Experience of Local Residents and Travelers, bringing a wide range of lifestyle and leisure attractions and activities available with a click of a button!

Traveloka, leading travel and lifestyle online booking platform, and one of the fastest-growing technology companies in Southeast Asia marked the official launch of its “Traveloka Xperience” product in the Philippines, a simple and easy-to-use platform to discover and book travel and lifestyle activities in Traveloka.

Traveloka Xperience is launched in the Philippines as Traveloka has proven to grow its business by empowering Filipinos and inbounding visitors to travel and discover the country. In addition to that, Traveloka is proud to be a travel partner for Filipinos when visiting other countries across hundreds of destinations in the world.

Traveloka Xperience is the latest product developed by Traveloka that allows for domestic and international travelers to enjoy diverse ranges of travel and lifestyle services that enable travelers to explore hidden gems inside or outside the country, and is also useful for locals who are not on vacation - to enjoy unique experiences in their own neighborhood or somewhere across the islands.

Traveloka Xperience can be accessed via desktop, mobile, and app. It is designed to make your journey memorable through our tens of thousands of experiences worldwide, offering an easy-to-use platform that is hassle-free and dependable; Hassle-free, through our various and reliable payment methods that facilitate instant booking confirmation.

You can find some product categories under Traveloka Xperience including Attractions; Events; Beauty & Spa; Entertainment; Sports; Classes & Workshops; Tours; Transports, as well as Travel Essentials, with currently offers more than 15,000 exciting inventories across more than 300 destinations across globally. 

“Traveloka is proud to form partnerships with key players in various leading markets like attractions, tours, activities, beauty and health, sports, events, transfers, and more, and introduce them to both local and international users. We would like to take this chance to recognize and thank the efforts of Traveloka's business partners for the wonderful relationship and trust toward our growing platform.” ~Milani Franco, Market and Partnership Manager of Traveloka Xperience Philippines

Traveloka remains to be the Philippines’ first and only online platform that integrates all travel and lifestyle booking services, including flights, accommodations, airport transports (including pick-up and drop-off services), and also tickets for other things to do, such as tour packages, dining, entertainment, etc. In order to provide various options for users and expand its inventories, Traveloka Xperience has built strategic partnerships with international players.

For example:

• Resorts World Sentosa
• Universal Studios Singapore
• Hong Kong Disneyland
• Tokyo Disneyland and Cartoon Network Amazone, and more.

Traveloka Xperience has also built partnerships with local players like:

• Enchanted Kingdom
• Dreamplay by Dreamworks
• The Mind Museum
• Art In Island
• The Dessert Museum

Users can now easily discover and book things-to-do with instant confirmation from a comprehensive range of options, from beauty and spa services in your neighborhood areas to fun-filled multi-day trips abroad with your friends or family. All of the bookings will be available at competitive prices, as well as providing both convenience and comfort to customers as they can pay using different payment options with instant booking confirmation.

With this, enjoy Traveloka Xperience’s special 20% discount by using the promo code XDEALSINT20 for International Xperience and XDEALSPH20 for Domestic Xperience from 23 July to 13 August 2019. Multiple payment methods are also available for Philippines users. Traveloka Philippines is also partnered with the most reliable payment service providers to make sure every transaction is smooth and worry-free. 

With the company’s recognition by Google and Accenture as a Mobile Master Brand and the importance of easy searching for customers with Traveloka Xperience is based on Findability, Traveloka Xperience helps users quickly find the attractions they’re looking for with a reliable autocomplete search function in any travel category.

Always worry-free: because of our entry guarantee together with the 24/7 local Philippines customer support. On top of that, Traveloka Xperience always provides services at competitive rates that will allow users to turn their dreams into reality.

For further information and updated promotions, go to https://www.traveloka.com/en-ph/.

About Traveloka
Traveloka is the leading online travel company in Southeast Asia that provides a wide range of travel and lifestyle services in one platform. Today, Traveloka provides bookings for flights, hotels, trains, flight and hotel packages, activities and recreations, connectivity, airport transportations, and culinary directory. Traveloka has established partnerships with more than 100 low-cost and full-service airlines for domestic and international flights, providing more than 200.000 flight destinations across Asia Pacific and Europe. The company owns the largest accommodation inventory in Southeast Asia, varied between hotels, apartments, guest houses, homestays, resorts, and villas. Traveloka offers more than 40 options of local payment method dedicated to users in Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines, as well as 24/7 customer service in native languages. The Traveloka app has hit more than 40 million downloads, making it the most popular travel booking application in Southeast Asia. For more information, visit https://www.press.traveloka.com/.

Azalea Hotels and Residences your Secret Haven in Baguio City!

"Make every trip to the City of Pines an experience to keep with a stay at Azalea Residences, Baguio’s first and only 4-star serviced apartment hotel that will make every family vacation, group getaway, or romantic retreat more memorable. Delight in Azalea’s modern and generously appointed hotel facilities that comes complete with kitchen equipment, dining and entertainment area." ~Azalea Hotels and Residences, Baguio

Azalea Baguio

7 Leonard Wood Loop, Baguio, 2600 Benguet (across Teachers’ Camp)

Mobile Numbers

0917 861 1641 and 0919 994 4140

reservations@azalea.com.ph

Each visit brings a sense of nostalgia, and I look forward to discovering new corners of the city while reliving the familiar joys that make Baguio feel like home. We normally stay in a simple inn in which we only stay to sleep, take a bath, and of course leave some of our stuff to go roam around the city for our convenience. The crisp, cool air and the vibrant pine trees wrap around me like an old friend, reminding me of cherished memories. As I wander through the bustling markets and savor the local delicacies, I find that each visit deepens my connection to this enchanting city. The artistic spirit and warm smiles of the locals always invite me to explore further, ensuring that every trip feels like a new adventure.

On March 28, 2016, we arrived at Azalea Hotels and Residences, Baguio, and got checked in, and yes, the first impression was "WOW, ang laki hahaha." We didn't stop laughing for a few minutes; it was huge for the 2 of us, and the kitchen alone added some excitement to our stay. As we roam around, my first destination in the room is the balcony. Stepping onto the balcony, I was greeted by a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and pine trees swaying gently in the breeze. The crisp air filled my lungs, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility wash over me as I took in the beauty of Baguio. 

I wanted to see the view from our room, and yes, it was just perfect; we are located at the center of the 5th floor. I could already envision the adventures we would embark on during our stay, and the excitement bubbled within me as I took in the breathtaking scene.

We stayed 3 days/2 nights at Azalea Hotels and Residences. At Azalea Hotels and Residences, everything inside the room was perfect.... especially for a couple!

In the morning we wake up early for breakfast at Tradisyon Cafe inside Azalea Hotels and Residences, and well, it was exactly what I wanted for breakfast.

When Filipinos travel, the search for the best food tops the list. Tradisyon brings you well-loved and familiar local and international food sought after by Filipinos on holiday.

Since they haven't arrived yet, we decided to take some photos around the vicinity of the hotel. 

 

 

While I and Joseph were roaming around taking pictures at the playground area, someone, a man in a "suit," came along telling us that we could stay inside the hotel. At first I thought we were not allowed to roam around or even outside the vicinity of Azalea Hotels and Residences. I told Him we are just waiting for the rest of the bloggers for the bloggers event. He then introduced himself as "Mr. Paul Kristian Fil Darang," and he will be one of the staff who will assist us for the bloggers event. 

 

As we went back inside the hotel at the reception area where 8 Degree Bar is situated, there was this cute girl who's also a blogger waiting for the rest of the bloggers. She introduced herself as Charlotte Anne de Peralta, or shortly "Char-Char," and she's originally from Baguio. How cool is that, right?

Finally around past 12pm the rest of the bloggers who came all the way from Manila arrived, perfect time for lunch. 

Our first itinerary destination of the day is to have lunch at Tradisyon Cafe, which is situated inside the Azalea Hotels and Residences. 

Seating Capacity: 70 persons

Operating Hours: 6 am to 10 pm daily

Menu: Filipino and International   

Let me make you starve with the delectable yummy lunch we had at Tradisyon Coffee Shop "Your Comfor Food".

Traditional Chicken Barbeque

Traditional Adobong Pusit

Traditional Squash and String Beans with Coconut Milk

Traditional Pork Sinigang

Traditional Beef Kare-Kare

Strawberry Cupcake

After our heavy yet delicious tummy lunch, we are guided to our designated room. We were advised that we will be sharing a room with Ms. Cherry Bells and Mrs. Nicole Paler, our roommates, for 3 days. 

And since we are a couple, we were given a room of our own—I mean, a room in a room—because our designated room comes with 2 bedrooms, a huge kitchen, separate bathrooms with a balcony just perfect for sunrise, and a sala area with a huge sofa bed. Let me show you some photos of our room for 3 days.

One of the surprising things we saw inside the room as we entered was this basket of fruits that welcomed us. How sweet is that?

 

We were given a few minutes to fix our things inside the room and be ready for our next itinerary, which is the tour inside Azalea Hotel and Residences itself. We get to see the lobby, the functions, the playground, and of course the different rooms they're offering, which are indeed surprisingly huge, perfect for a group of barkadas and/or families

Here are some of the photos of the different rooms

We had a great Dinner after the days activities, here are some of the food we had:

As the saying goes, "Once you leave a place with a happy heart, it means your heart belongs to that place..." Indeed, I kind of left my heart at Azalea Hotels and Residences. I was fascinated with the style in our rooms; we had everything that we needed—spacious, and you merely don't even want to get out of the vicinity; the kitchen alone makes you feel at home... away from home.

Customer service was all perfect; they made us feel really at home without even feeling like we just had to stay for a while! We even received some goodies while we were away for our bloggers itinerary. How sweet is it?

I may not have had a chance to get to know each and every one of the bloggers, but I had fun during the event. Hoping that we could bond again; who knows, the next destination will be at Azalea Hotels and Residences, Boracay! Here are some of the photos: 

This is one of the best hotels in Baguio. Though it's a little bit pricey, it's still highly recommended. The place is secluded and very quiet, and the ambiance is great. The front officers are very friendly and accommodating. The rooms have kitchenettes, so you are like living in a condo.

First, this place is secluded. Ample parking, very safe, quiet, and very easy to check in. Booking this hotel was easy. The buffet breakfast was average. 

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND AZALEA HOTELS AND RESIDENCES, BAGUIO. I WILL SURELY STAY HERE ONCE AGAIN WHEN I WANNA HIDEAWAY FROM THE CITY!