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Restaurant round-up for the week

“Authentic” is an important aspect of these two restaurant brands from Japan and Korea – Ramen Nagi and Kiwa Express.

“It is true-to-heart Korean food. Not fusion. Not localized. And we offer high-quality Korean cuisine at a very affordable price. The quality is identical to the food that they would sample from Kiwa in Solaire,” said  Dr. David Shim, CEO and owner of Kiwa Express.

Meanwhile, Ramen Nagi is giving us another unbelievable authentic Japanese experience in a bowl.

Visit them soon!

 

  •  A gift of authentic Japanese ramen

A heartfelt gift from Ramen Nagi’s Ramen Master Chef Satoshi Ikuta-san, the Nori Niboshi King is the sum of in-depth collaboration with Ramen Nagi’s chefs. The Niboshi King is filled with fresh, handcrafted noodles and small dried fish infused with Tonkotsu broth and topped with chashu, peanuts, seaweeds, and the signature Nagi spice blend.

For only Php 590, you can now experience a true Japanese culinary masterpiece.  However, like all good things, the Nori Niboshi King is only available for a limited time only!

For the whole month of February, get a taste of authentic Japanese Niboshi in a delightful bowl in all Ramen Nagi stores nationwide or have it delivered to your doorstep through Grab or Foodpanda.

For more details, check out Ramen Nagi PH (Facebook) or @ramennagimanila (IG).

 

  •  Premium and affordable Korean cuisine

Kiwa Express opened its doors at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, introducing to mall patrons exceptional Korean dining options at an affordable price point. The quick-service casual Korean restaurant is an offshoot of Kiwa Korean Grill at Solaire Resort, promising to bring premium Korean menu offerings not yet offered by other Korean restaurants.

Dr. David Shim, CEO and owner of Kiwa Express, explains his reasons for this new direction. “I’ve been operating Kiwa Restaurant in Solaire since 2015 and there has been this growing demand from Filipino regulars wanting easier access to my authentic Korean food.”

Kiwa Express menu features items hand-picked by Dr. Shim and classified as Kiwa signature dishes or chef’s special recommendations. He explains his personal recommendation for first-time diners, ”Kiwa Galbitang, the Korean version of bulalo. I will guarantee you that it will make you very happy.” The hearty, nourishing beef stew is a great gateway to the world of Korean food. Beef short ribs are stewed slowly in aromatics resulting in a clean, delicate broth that is a feast to the senses. Dr. Shim also highly recommends the must-try Kimchi Jjigae — a warming, spicy stew highlighting their signature kimchi, Doenjang Jjigae, Jap Chae, and Shrimp Tempura.

Kiwa Express offers authentic and value-for-money Korean dishes.

Kiwa Express in Ayala Malls Manila Bay is the first of many branches already in the works. “This restaurant is our launch pad, the model on which new branches will be based. When this clicks, we already have other upcoming outlets.”

Kiwa Express is located on the 3rd floor, Building B, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Macapagal Boulevard corner Aseana Avenue, Paranaque City. For inquiries, guests can call (02) 7004 7472 or send a message via Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/kiwaexpress/) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089962269105).

 

#RamenNagiMadeinJapan  #KiwaExpress #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Manifesto: Where the Beautiful Rise and Converge

Everything that reminds us of the life that was becomes a beacon of hope. As the world emerges from a difficult few years, it’s nice to discover a place for people to rise above the mundane and connect with like-minded individuals.

Manifesto, a modern café, and restaurant located on Valero Street in the heart of Makati’s Central Business District, understood the assignment and nailed it right on the head. They did not only know what people wanted, they knew what they needed – a respite from the monotony of daily life and the chance to enjoy great food in the company of friends and strangers.

Serving what is probably one of the busiest and chicest areas of Makati, Manifesto has an enviable menu that features the best comfort foods from l’Orient et l’Occident. All-time Filipino favorites like beef tapa, spiced bangus, and longganisa are available to those who crave a hearty Pinoy breakfast, while an assortment of mouthwatering kebabs like chicken, beef, and lamb are available to those who crave the flavors of the Middle East.

At the heart of Manifesto is their carefully crafted coffee menu, featuring 17 unique and expertly brewed drinks, including traditional Italian classics.  One sip of their doppio could instantly transport you to a Roman café, as you sit amidst elderly peanut-eating gentlemen wearing berets and plaid trousers held up by suspenders. For the faint of heart, they also serve mochaccinos, macchiatos, and cappuccinos.

Fresh fruit juices and shakes are also available for patrons who want to beat the tropical heat. And for days and nights when one needs to wind down or “can’t even,” try their strawberry daiquiri or mojito, or order a bottle or two of Stella Artois or Peroni.

Manifesto is a haven for every soul, lost or found. It is a place where they can let their hair down and just be. Visit today and experience a true renaissance in dining.

For inquiries and reservations, call 0915 821 6852.

 

#Manifesto #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Romantic indulgences to share with your special someone

The season of love calls for romantic indulgences to share with your special someone. At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, you can surprise your beloved with a relaxing staycation in the metro and an exquisite dinner for two in celebration of the St. Valentine’s holiday.

Toast to Love

Whether you want to snuggle up and chill or add more excitement to your couple’s rendezvous, Richmonde’s month-long Toast to Love room promotion gives you a selection of packages to suit your date plans this February. Room-only deals start at PhP 3,500nett per night, inclusive of cozy room accommodations for two, a 15 percent discount on a la carte orders from Richmonde Café and Room Service, and use of the heated indoor pool and gym.

Looking forward to a hearty breakfast together? For as low as PhP 4,300nett per night, get to delight in a sumptuous breakfast buffet at Richmonde Café when you wake up. Want to make your evening extra special too? Go all out and book the Valentine room package starting at PhP 6,000nett with breakfast for two persons, plus a bottle of wine, and a special charcuterie board for your in-room dinner date. Both packages are also inclusive of a 15% discount on a la carte orders, as well as access to the Health Club’s gym, heated indoor pool, sauna, and steam room.

RHO Valentine’s room promo.

Love at First Bite

Wine and dine with your significant other on February 14th as Richmonde Café presents the ultimate gustatory experience—a special dinner aptly called Love at First Bite. You’ll swoon and gush with delight as each dish tickles your taste buds and fills your tummies.

Begin your meal with an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, crackers, and fruits brought to your table via a rolling cart, and customize your own charcuterie board to complement your first glass of wine. Then, head on over to the grazing table where a variety of French and Italian-inspired canapé style appetizers and slices of bread are spread.

As a prelude to your main course, the king prawn and pumpkin bisque de viande will be served tableside. For the premium entrée, choose between the Angus flank steak, served with classic tahini, crispy onions, and shimeji mushroom for a tender and buttery delight, or the black cod, cooked sous vide and served with peas, mint risotto, and black caviar. Then, end the night on a sweet note with bite-sized desserts from the grazing table.

This Valentine’s Day Dinner is served from 6 pm to 10 pm and is priced at PhP 3,500 nett, inclusive of unlimited pours of red or white wine and bottomless beer, Valentine’s cocktail drink, soda, or iced tea. Guests who are checked-in on February 14 may avail of the discounted dinner rate of PhP 3,200 nett per person.

For bookings and inquiries, call Richmonde Hotel Ortigas at (632) 8638 7777 or email stay@richmondeortigas.com. You may also call or message via mobile/Viber at 0917 859 7914 (Room Reservations) and 0917 534 4352 (Richmonde Café).

  

#RichmondeHotelOrtigas #ValentinesDay2023 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Enjoy Chinese New Year Traditions at F1 Hotel Manila

The new year signifies a new cycle of opportunities and prosperity for most people. It’s a time to both manifest and be resolute with actions to better one’s outlook and outcome in life. The best way to herald this is a festive ritual that would bless the mind, body, soul, and spirit.

F1 Hotel Manila celebrates the new lunar year with a bountiful Chinese New Year lunch buffet at F All–Day Dining for Php 2,188 net per person on January 22, 2022.

A traditional Lion Dance performance will ignite the festivities accompanied by the beating symphony of drums, gongs, and cymbals. As the lion snakes its way through the crowd, it brings about harmony, prosperity, and fortune, and the noise is also believed to ward off evil entities. 

This can all be enjoyed as guests indulge in the Chinese New Year lunch buffet, which will be meticulously prepared by F1 Hotel Manila’s culinary team and will feature special Chinese dishes including the following: Yee Sang, a prosperity salad that symbolizes abundance and vigor, which is tossed for good luck; DongPo Pork Knuckle, pan-fried braised pork flavored with secret Chinese spices;  Duck Wrap pancakes with hoisin sauce; Suckling Pig and Tang Yuan, sweet glutinous rice balls with a hint of ginger, which may remind diners of local guinataan but with a twist.

A legendary Money Tree will stand in the foyer of the F All-Day Dining restaurant, which brings good chi or “energy” and is believed to bring wealth and prosperity to anyone who touches it.

For inquiries and table reservations, please call 7908-7888 or visit our website at www.f1hotelmanila.com.

 

#F1HotelManila #ChineseNewYear2023 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Hop On to the Year of the Water Rabbit!

Celebrate this special occasion with your loved ones at Xin Tian Di, and Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria.

Indulge in the abundant offerings of Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria this Chinese New Year!  Celebrating this occasion with your loved ones will make it even more special at Xin Tian Di until January 23, 2023.  

 Give them a treat of our Nian Gao and Yu Sheng. Relish the unique flavors from the a la carte and special set menu’s auspicious and mouthwatering selections. Toast for good luck and health as we welcome the year of the water rabbit!  

 On January 22nd, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria will be filled with cheerful energy brought by the Dragon and Lion Dances starting from 11 AM onwards. This will be accompanied by the traditional Eye Dotting Ceremony and Exchange of Gift Ceremony!  

 Make your reservation today! Contact 02 98790 3100, fandb.reservations@ihg, or +63 927 163 0128.  

 

#XinTianDi #CrownePlazaManilaGalleria #ChineseNewYear2023 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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The Bellevue Manila appoints new Executive Chef

The Bellevue Manila is pleased to announce the appointment of Chef Xerxes John D. Narciso as its new executive chef. In addition to overseeing daily food and beverage operations of the hotel’s restaurants and banquet, Chef X also brings new ideas to the table.

Narciso holds a hotel and restaurant management degree from De La Salle University – Dasmariñas. In 2001, he earned a culinary arts and technology management diploma from the Center for Culinary Arts Manila, the country’s premier culinary school.

He marked his professional beginnings in the culinary world in the pastry section of the Marco Beach Ocean Resort in Naples, Florida. He then brought his career to the Philippines in 2003 working for a wide range of big-city properties and upscale resorts.

Chef Narciso then rose the ranks in his over 20 years of experience, with roles ranging from menu planning, junior chef training, recipe development, and overseeing banquet kitchens before sharing his expertise with The Bellevue Manila. The breadth of his work gives Chef X unique insight into the culinary field that will further elevate The Bellevue Manila’s food and beverage lineup.

Cafe D’ Asie

“I am grateful for this new venture,” shares Narciso, who is known as Chef X. “I’m looking forward to showcasing even better food and beverage concepts to our guests. It is a privilege to work alongside my Bellevue family.”

The Bellevue Manila is a world-class hotel nestled in the heart of Filinvest City in Alabang. It has 456 modern rooms, fully equipped meeting and banquet venues, a gym, swimming pools, and wellness centers (Azurea Spa, Jing Monis Salon, and PrettyLooks). The hotel also offers gastronomic delights through its food concepts Phoenix Court, Café d’Asie, Pastry Corner, Vue Bar, and Cellar 22.

 

#TheBellevueManila #CafedAsie #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Watch the New Year unfold with Tia Belle’s sumptuous dishes

For Tia Belle’s, great food is a big part of how Filipino families brighten up the holidays and anticipate the unfolding of a new year.

The New Year’s celebration in the Philippines is always something to look forward to. Being a Filipino means that you get to partake in occasions that actively involve family spirit and fondness for one another. The New Year festivities, in particular, shine brighter than the others. Aside from our fun traditions and customs, Filipino food has a culture of its own. From our heirloom dishes to fusion food, the Philippines never runs out of recipes and twists that come with its diverse palate. In addition, each region has its holiday staples and specialty dishes – the New Year is absolutely a feast for everyone!

This is what Tia Belle’s offers for every Filipino family this New Year – a feast of sumptuous dishes that binds the family together. For Tia Belle’s, great food is a big part of how Filipino families brighten up the holidays and anticipate the unfolding of a new year. Their holiday menu consists of Filipino specialty dishes that evoke memories and hope for the coming year. Armed with their cozy ambiance and hospitality. They offer a variety of food that becomes the center of attention this holiday season. Whether for the whole clan or a family of three, Tia Belle’s got you back!

As a Filipino, one of the staples in each occasion is the famous Lumpiyang Bukid. Tia Belle’s version of this traditional dish is both satisfying and creamy and is sure to become the star of the table. They also offer regional favorites such as the delectable Laing enriched with coconut milk. Seafood fans can have a field day with their specialty Dinengdeng, an Ilokano favorite. Other seafood dishes include Steam Pompano and Relyenong Bangus, a healthy alternative to greasy dishes. Moreover, if the holidays prove to be taxing for your health, you can also try their Ampalaya Sotanghon Guisado, which combines healthy eating and tasty food. They also have Ginataang Sitaw Kalabasa for vegetarians or those who want a healthy detox for the New Year!

Tia Belle’s history of serving people Filipino food all goes back to the heart and soul of its owner, Evelyn Wise. “Every time I am in the kitchen, cooking and concocting sauces, I feel like dancing  — dancing with my wok,” she shares. To this Nueva Ecija native, being in the kitchen gave her power to produce dishes that became a core memory for her customers, which is what made her leave Europe after staying there for 20 years, a sacrifice she made to finally follow her dream to build her own restaurant. Tia Belle’s seeks to give people the homey vibes and hospitality they crave, which makes them feel like they belong, just like how Evelyn has wholeheartedly embraced Filipino cuisine.

Being hospitable is Tia Belle’s way of paying homage to the illustrious Filipino culture. “We want to be of service to our fellow countrymen while keeping and incorporating the important values and traditions of what being Filipino is all about,” Evelyn says. Tia belle’s also gives you the Filipino dining experience with their regional dishes, and great service, partnered with authentic Filipino architecture. “We make sure we provide an optimal dining experience for our customers by making sure that their dining experience is our responsibility the minute they step into our restaurant.”

Whether you want to dine in or celebrate at home, Tia Belle’s will surely make you feel like a true-blooded Filipino with its dishes. Tia Belle’s is waiting for you to make this occasion memorable. Let’s enjoy ourselves this New Year with Tia Belle’s mouth-watering menu– the Filipino way!

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/TiaBellePansitMalabonAndPichiPichi or call 0956 470 8145.

 

#TiaBelles #NewYear2022 #filipinodishes #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Celebrate the Holidays with Tia Belle’s Special Christmas Dishes

Tia Belle’s special Christmas dishes revolve around pasta and noodles. Aside from the symbolism of long life, these dishes are also a staple in every Christmas celebration and even in the New Year.

Filipinos are known for their hospitality, strong family ties, and super long Christmas holidays. Most families tend to celebrate in their homes or gather in restaurants and other venues to catch up with relatives. What’s never missing in these gatherings is food – lots and lots of it. It’s the holiday season, everybody deserves to eat good food while enjoying the festivities.

They say love is best expressed through food – and for Tia Belle’s Tagaytay, these scrumptious Christmas dishes are just the perfect addition to your holiday feast. Armed with its Christmas specials, Tia Belle’s is ready to serve customers with a smile and a warm heart. Whether you want to prepare food for two or the whole clan, Tia Belle’s got you covered. Be sure to feast your eyes and stomachs with these delectable dishes and the overflowing hospitality that Tia Belle’s offers!

Tia Belle’s special Christmas dishes revolve around pasta and noodles. Aside from the symbolism of long life, these dishes are also a staple in every Christmas celebration and even in the New Year. A celebration is not complete without these Filipino dishes we love and adore so much. Each dish will surely bring back a lot of memories, and eventually, make way to create new ones this year!

They offer Pansit Malabon, Pansit Siomai, Miki Bihon, Pansit Bihon, Pansit Canton, and Pansit Tofu – all of which are fit for family and clan reunions. The more food, the merrier their stomachs will be!

Other than that, Tia Belle’s also offers Carbonara and Spaghetti for their pasta dishes, perfect for all ages and tastes.

Moreover, they also have Bulalo Lomi and Mucho Lomi, which most tourists crave and always come back to. There’s no stomach Tia Belle’s can’t satisfy!

Food can bind families together

Evelyn Wise, the hands-on owner of Tia Belle’s, truly believes that food can bind families together, just like how her restaurant is bound to her heart.  “Every time I am in the kitchen, cooking and concocting sauces, I feel like dancing with my wok,” she says. Cooking has become both her solace and passion, a privilege she enjoys as people appreciate her food. She has a diverse palate, and her cooking styles reflect the years she lived in Europe before she put up a Filipino-style restaurant in our country. For her, cooking can change the world, one plate at a time.

Evelyn Wise, the owner of Tia Belle’s

True to her word, Tia Belle’s reflects Evelyn’s life values. Her restaurant prioritizes its customers before anything else and seeks to uphold hospitality in all ways. “We make sure we provide an optimal dining experience for our customers by making sure that their dining experience is our responsibility the minute they step into our restaurant,” she elaborates.

The restaurant itself also bears a testament to how wonderful Filipino culture can be – adorned with a homey ambiance, it is surely the place to be during the holidays. It gives you a sense of belongingness in a bigger community – just like how Evelyn intended it to be. “We want to give our customers an authentic and genuine glimpse of the Philippines by honoring and delving into the Filipino culture and traditions through our services, atmosphere, art, and food,” says Evelyn.

This Christmas season, Tia Belle’s doors are always welcome for people who want a genuine Filipino experience of the holidays, complete with stellar service, delectable dishes, and good company. The holidays will never be boring for your heart and stomach whenever you’re at Tia Belle’s. You can contact them at 0956 470 8145 or message them on their Facebook page, Tia Belle’s Pansit Malabon and Pichi-Pichi.

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

Featured photos: Pansit Tofu, Pansit Malabon, Carbonara, and Miki Bihon

 

#TiaBelles #Tagaytay #filipinorestaurant #Christmas2022 #holidaydishes #noodlesandpasta #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Holiday Inn and Suites Makati Flavors Restaurant buffet treat!

Catch a 50% off on lunch and dinner buffet if you enroll in IHG One Rewards. Joining is free.

 

Now that the hospitality industry’s recovery is back in full swing amid the pandemic, more Filipinos are dining out both for personal and work-related gatherings. Recently, this media practitioner had a hearty and sumptuous lunch at Flavors Restaurant in the company of the media and bloggers’ group, Southern Gaze (SG); and the dynamic marketing team of Holiday Inn and Suites Makati. It was an afternoon of good food and fun times with friends as we partook in the wide selection of buffet choices.

Marie Jehan Balbanero, Holiday Inn & Suites Makati Director of Marketing Communications (4th from right); and Camille De Jesus, Holiday Inn & Suites Makati Marketing Assistant (5th from right) with Southern Gaze media and bloggers’ group.

 

An all-day dining restaurant

Holiday Inn and Suites Makati is a family-friendly, 5-star hotel in the vibrant Makati Central Business & Entertainment District. Flavors Restaurant is an all-day dining restaurant that blends Filipino specialties and international favorites. Its contemporary design and relaxed dining atmosphere make it the ideal venue for a leisurely lunch or a celebratory dinner. Flavors’ safe and secure location puts families at ease and allows kids to also eat for free.

Flavors is a vibrant restaurant that showcases exciting and contemporary cuisine both Local and from around the world. A buffet selection of the best Filipino, South East Asian, and Western fare is available showcasing a plethora of flavors that will excite your palette. An à la carte menu is also available for those looking to dine well without the expense of a buffet.

The mouth-watering ube cheesecake. Courtesy: Holiday Inn Makati

Catch a 50% off on lunch and dinner buffet if you enroll in IHG One Rewards. Joining is free. Save money, earn points and enjoy great benefits with IHG One Rewards. IHG One Rewards gives you more options and places to use your points. It’s why more people choose the benefits of our award-winning hotel loyalty program than any other worldwide.

Chef Michael Sison at the dessert area – offering a wide array of desserts to satisfy your sweet cravings!

This promotion of 50% off on the buffet is valid from August 8 to 31, 2022 only. Discount also applies to existing members. Savor the discount for up to (4) companions.

Flavors Restaurant’s lunch and dinner operation hours and rates are as follows:

  • Buffet Lunch Schedule: 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm Daily
  • Regular Price: Php2,300 nett per person
  • Discounted Price: Php1, 150 nett per person
  • Buffet Dinner Schedule: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Daily
  • Regular Price: Php2,300 nett per person
  • Discounted Price: Php1,150 nett per person

Not yet an IHG One Rewards Member? Sign up for FREE https://eej.at/F5ns0k3F.

Flavors Restaurant is located on the lobby floor of Holiday Inn and Suites Makati, Palm Drive, Ayala Center, Makati City. Contact Flavors Restaurant at +63275068132 or Viber at +639175968897 for reservations.

 

#HolidayInnandSuitesMakati #FlavorsRestaurant #buffettreat #IHG #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Taiwan Tour: Getting Closer To Nature

The atmosphere of quiet lushness from the mountain made our stay a whole new experience in getting closer to nature.

 

Monster Village during the day

Traveling through this side of Taiwan on our second day, makes you appreciate the beauty of the countryside.  In this installment, I will take you to Nantou County, where you can take a glimpse of magnificent views of the outdoors and cold weather at Monster Village and Sun-Link-Sea Forest and Nature Resort.

Photo-op of the group at Monster Village.

Monster Village is one of the most popular attractions in Nantou County. You will like it here because of its captivating scenery and cold weather, which is comparable to our very own Tagaytay City. The place is situated 1,100 meters above sea level – the reason for its cool climate – and you can almost see the mountains and the clouds covering the mountain top. There are all kinds of strange monster statues and the villagers are dressed in Japanese style.

It’s not just a tourist attraction, but a one-stop shop for the guests. Whenever you get hungry, you can choose from one of the restaurants here which served best-selling Taiwan and Chinese dishes.

Stinging Nettle or Biting Cat Bread @ Monster Village. Photo: Me-An Clemente

Interestingly, there’s a particular bread that caught our attention during our visit – the Stinging Nettle bread also known as “Biting Cat” in Chinese. The itchy part is the leaf and locals made it into bread but the inside is very savory and soft, it contains some cheese or some kind of meat as filling. But the highlight of the bread is the stinging nettle leaf on top of the bread.

Our group indulged in the set menu for lunch at Monster Village Theme restaurant. The food arrived in big servings. It was truly a mouthful of dishes served before our very eyes. We enjoyed the food, the company, and the ambiance.

You can also find some souvenir shops for your trip mementos. and a hotel within the village for long-staying guests.

The writer at the Flower Center

 

We also visited Sun-Link-Sea Forest and Nature Resort. The place has an annual average temperature of about 20 degrees Celcius and is 1600 meters above sea level. The climate is perfect like Baguio City. Here, you can enjoy a different side of Taiwan, far from the city.

You won’t feel perspired and get tired while walking; most of all, you get to enjoy being surrounded by nature. You will enjoy the atmosphere near the waterfalls, the environment surrounded by trees, and a Flower Center, which exhibited some 30 flower species, such as peony, color cabbage, hydrangea, tulip, and Taiwan cherry, fuchsia, etc.

Our accommodation at Sun-Link-Sea Hotel, an elegant building characterized by modern and neo-classical architecture, provided a total relaxation. The atmosphere of quiet lushness from the mountain made our stay a whole new experience in getting closer to nature.

#Taiwantour #TaiwanTourismBureau #destination #Asia #tourism #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

(Part 2 of a 6-part feature article)