Okada Manila is thrilled to announce an exceptional event celebrating the 65th Anniversary of Barbie, the quintessential icon of inspiration and empowerment across generations. Dubbed “Barbie 65th Anniversary – Inspiring Stories, Shaping the Future,” this grand celebration will unfold at Cove Manila from April 27 to June 2, 2024, commemorating Barbie’s profound influence on encouraging dreams and aspirations since her inception in 1959. This celebration is designed to bring together Barbie fans of all ages, highlighting her significant impact on culture and society.
Event Highlights
The Barbie 65th Anniversary celebration will see Cove Manila transformed into a colorful journey through Barbie’s storied history. Highlights include:
Barbie Interactive Tunnel (Crystal Pavilion): A spotlight feature where attendees can traverse Barbie’s iconic moments. It includes a beautifully lit Barbie acrylic logo with spaces for visitors to engage in activities such as sharing inspirational stories on a post-it note wall and expressing how Barbie has inspired their futures.
Barbie Dream Camper: For the first time ever, a life-sized Barbie open camper will be presented, divided into three play areas for an immersive experience into Barbie’s world.
Barbie Diorama: An extensive exhibition featuring over 130 Barbie Career Dolls from 1959 to the present day, showcasing the evolution of Barbie’s roles and professions.
Barbie Ice Cream Cart and Food Truck: Offering toys-inspired treats and actual food, creating a delightful experience for kids and families.
“You Can Be Anything” Pop-Up Booth: Lighted booths depicting various Barbie careers to inspire visitors about the endless possibilities they can achieve.
Barbie Activity Area and 65th Photo Op Box: An area dedicated to interactive activities including a diorama display, a free play table, and a TV for webisode playback. It also features a mini-mirror for kids’ selfies and an interactive wall where visitors can post their dreams.
Year-Round Family Getaway at Cove Manila
The Beach Club of the iconic Cove Manila.
In addition to the Barbie celebration, Cove Manila continues to be a premier family destination throughout the year. Its 9,000-square-meter dome, equipped with temperature control and UV protection, offers a unique beach club experience right in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect year-round getaway for families seeking fun and relaxation.
Empowering the Next Generation
This event transcends mere nostalgia, aiming to inspire the next generation with interactive and engaging exhibits that encourage children to dream without limits.
“We are honored to host the 65th Anniversary of Barbie at Cove Manila, showcasing her lasting impact in empowering young minds to break traditional boundaries,” said Vikki Aquino, Director of Spas, Recreation, and Kids’ Club at Okada Manila. “We invite everyone to join us in this inspirational celebration.”
Moreover, the celebration includes a “Daycation” package, allowing guests to experience Barbie’s world firsthand, exploring her house and the myriad of careers she has represented over the years.
Mark your calendars for this memorable event at Cove Manila, Okada Manila, from April 27 to June 2, 2024. It’s an opportunity to honor Barbie’s enduring legacy and the unlimited possibilities she symbolizes. The ticket price for this once-in-a-lifetime event is PHP1,988, inclusive of a set meal, promising a celebration that will be both inspiring and fun.
About Okada Manila
Okada Manila, a Forbes 5-star luxury destination in the Philippines, showcases unparalleled hospitality, gaming, and entertainment across 30 hectares. Home to the world-renowned The Fountain, a $30 million water choreography marvel, and Cove Manila, the world’s largest indoor beach club and nightclub, it leads in leisure and nightlife. Offering the Philippines’ largest gaming floor with a vast array of table games and electronic gaming machines, Okada Manila is a hub for luxury and innovation in gaming, with exclusive clubs like Perlas, Maharlika, and the VIP Club providing elite experiences. Family entertainment options include PLAY and Thrillscape, catering to developmental and recreational needs. The Forbes 5-star-rated The Retreat Spa and The Sole Retreat promote wellness, complemented by 17 dining venues and luxury shopping at Retail Boulevard. With 993 luxurious accommodations and state-of-the-art event spaces, alongside digital innovations like the Okada Online Casino and Okada Manila App, Okada Manila is the ultimate destination for thrill, relaxation, and luxury. Visit https://www.okadamanila.com/ to explore.
SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) properties reap multiple awards during the recently concluded 2024 Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) South East Asia Pacific GM’s Conference held at Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu last March 25-28.
Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA was voted 2023 Hotel of the Year beating other properties in the Philippines and Fiji. To be bestowed such an accolade means that the hotel has achieved all its KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and is a clear testament of the hotel’s steadfast dedication to unaparalleled service excellence, exceptional guest experience, and continuous innovation.
Façade of Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA, the 2023 Hotel of the Year.
Furthermore, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA General Manager Ms. Ann Olalo was awarded Talent Developer of the Year. This is a category that has just been introduced this year in recognition of General Managers who significantly invest in their team’s growth. As such, the company takes pride in saying that Ms. Olalo is the first recipient of such an award. She was chosen over other nominated GMs in Medan and Batam, Indonesia. The award acknowledges Ms. Olalo’s outstanding leadership in determining, cultivating, and empowering talent within the organization. Inspired by her unwavering commitment to drive the professional growth and development of the hotel’s team members, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA has established a standard for talent management in the region, showcasing a commitment to the fulfillment of the hotel’s goals and promoting a culture of excellence.
Last but not the least, Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu won the Operational Excellence Award for two years in a row. The award is accorded to the hotel whose exemplary performance across the region exhibits an impressive delivery of all its KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), together with a meticulous assessment of the hotel’s overall portfolio optimisation, brand management, sales and revenue management, conduct of responsible business practices, and the like with an overall compliance to Radisson Hotel Group’s stringent quality standards.
Gracing the occasion are no less than SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. President Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. Executive Vice President Ms. Peggy E. Angeles, and Radisson Hotel Group Area Senior Vice President for South East Asia & Pacific Mr. Andre de Jong. Not to mention, Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu GM Marko Janssen, who hosted the three-day conference, as well as Park Inn by Radisson GMs of SM Hotel’s other properties, and all other RHG GM’s from the region were also present.
As one of the country’s major hotel developers, SMHCC is poised to embark succeeding years of innovation, expansion, and multiplication of more hotel properties, giving Filipinos and foreigners alike additional quality accommodation options that suit every occasion and celebation.
Imagine sinking your teeth into the cheesy goodness of a crispy yet moist prosciutto pizza slice that’s baked fresh inside a wood-fired brick oven, prepared by an Italian Chef, no less. As you take the bite, strings of melty cheese are pulled away, and you savor the flavors of Italy bursting on your palate. You look at the view of sparkling blue seas from a comfortable second-floor dining balcony and feel the fine, powdery sand between your toes as you head out. No need to imagine for long, this is a reality at ARIA Cucina Italiana.
Established in 2003 on world-renowned Boracay island, the 21-year-old beachfront restaurant stands the test of time with its authentic cuisine, owned by entrepreneurs Juan Elizalde and Paolo Occhionero, under the leadership of Italian Executive Chef, Salvatore Vincentis. Vincentis’ delectable and authentic creations continue to wow people from all over the globe. No wonder, his standards in the kitchen are strict, especially when it comes to the freshness and quality of ingredients, as some are even flown in straight from Italy so as not to compromise their delicious Italian fare. ARIA’s curated menu is the most comprehensive one on the island, with dishes catering to various tastes and preferences.
ARIA has been providing the best Italian fare in Boracay for 21 years and counting.
Other than their high-quality ingredients, it’s the wood-fired brick oven that makes their pizzas truly delicious. It packs on the flavor, thanks to the intense heat it generates that cooks the pizza quickly, resulting in a crisp crust while locking in moisture and flavor. The wood imparts a distinctive smoky flavor to the pizza you can’t achieve with other cooking methods. It also tends to keep authenticity alive as they have been used for centuries in Italy and other parts of the world for baking bread and cooking pizza. The tradition and craftsmanship associated with these ovens add an element of authenticity to the pizza-making process, which ARIA guests surely love.
Their extensive selection of 26 pizza varieties inspired by various regions in Italy is sure to impress you. For other menu items, you can also indulge in their Fritto di Calamari con Maionese Elle Erbe and Prosciutto e Mango, both considered some of the best appetizers on the island. As for salads, it’s the Cocomero Salad that people quite regularly enjoy.
Pizza large
For pasta lovers, there are the special black fettuccine pasta dishes with the Fettuccine Nere and Al Nero. The Chicken Parmigiana, baked to perfection in their brick oven, is also a crowd favorite. To try something new, our Gnocchi alla Sorrentina AKA potato dumplings are an underrated delight. To quench your thirst, they also offer Italian cocktails with an extensive list of wines that are sure to complement your mouth-watering dishes. To end your meal on a sweet note, treat yourself to ARIA Tris di Dolci or their perfectly creamy ARIA Gelato with a wide selection of 18 flavors, made fresh daily with imported ingredients. With all gelato flavors crafted daily, it’s undeniably the finest ice cream dessert experience in Boracay.
ARIA Cucina Italianacontinues to thrive as a top-of-mind Italian beachfront restaurant, despite all the challenges it faced during Boracay’s closures for the island rehabilitation in 2018, and then followed by the pandemic in 2020. Choosing to stay open to keep staff employed, they continued operations and adapted a digital system for online orders and delivery.
With 21 years of authentic Italian food that never compromises on taste and quality, and best-rated reviews on TripAdvisor and Google, be sure to expect many more to come.
Visit ARIA Cucina Italiana at D’Mall, Station 2, Boracay Island. Follow them on Instagram @ariacucinaitaliana. See the menu here.Order via Viber: +63 998 482 8490
Lloyd’s Inn introduces its newest addition to the family with the opening of Lloyd’s Inn Kuala Lumpur this month. In the first hotel of its kind, the property brings “Garden Oasis” to the skies – each room is designed to bring the outdoors indoors, to experience a slice of “Bali” within an urban city.
Unlike their sister properties in Singapore and Bali which are low-rise, Lloyd’s Inn Kuala Lumpur sits at 15 stories high with 110 rooms. It is the first of the Lloyd’s Inn series to be a high rise city hotel. Rooms range from 17sqm – 50sqm, with a dipping pool (jacuzzi), F&B, co-working space, event & meeting spaces.
Joan Chang, Co-Founder, Lloyd’s Inn
Location
Lloyd’s Inn KL is located in the bustling area of Imbi, with the newly opened Exchange 106 mall (and the second tallest building in Malaysia) at TRX just 200-meteres away from its doorstep. KLCC, Bukit Bintang, Pavilion Mall and the iconic Petronas Twin Towers are less than 2.5 kilometres away. Whether visiting for work or leisure, Lloyd’s Inn KL offers travellers of different types an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, while still being centrally located near KL’s eateries, shopping, and iconic landmarks.
Architecture and design
At Lloyd’s Inn KL, their signature open concept, greenery, and outdoor showers are translated into a high-rise city version, keeping outdoor elements of what Lloyd’s Inn Singapore & Bali also have – cement walls, floors and raw finishes.
Instead of generic spaces determined by structure, each room seeks to provide its inhabitant with a little patch of earth, suspended in the sky.
Read more on the design process by the FARM architect here.
Sustainability
As a living and breathing green hotel (literally!), Lloyd’s Inn’s dedication to sustainability reflects their commitment to creating a better world for future generations. Each year, the team continues with updates across properties to adopt more sustainable practices, including replacing single-use shower bottles with pump dispensers and transitioning from plastic to paper amenities. All corridors in Lloyd’s Inn properties are naturally ventilated, saving energy on using around the clock air conditioning.
F&B–OpeumBistro
A wordplay on ‘opium’, Opeum Bistro is Lloyd’s Inn’s in-house dining F&B brand. The brand meticulously curates a menu in each country featuring the host country’s food, co-designed with a local chef. Opeum Bistro KL heroes Malaysian food and local delights that are sourced with fresh local ingredients.
Helmed by Chef Sharon Gonzago and local Chef Izzat, Opeum Bistro serves contemporary interpretations of international heritage cuisine to satisfy the modern palate. Diners are in for a deliciously addictive menu inspired by local ingredients and KL’s bustling café-hopping scene.
Opeum Bistro
Savour a slow afternoon at The Tea Room, or people watch at Opeum bistro’s main dining room that faces TRX building and KL’s cityscape. The dining area also extends to the 15th floor lounge areas, where guests can order in and catch up on work in their flexible spaces and meeting pods.
From postcards to art displays, Lloyd’s Inn enjoys collaborating with local artists, having done so at all properties. Lloyd’s Inn KL features a 3-meter-high hand-painted wall mural titled “Stroll The Forest Trail” by Malaysian artists Geraldine and Vincent (The Ochre Home). Featuring a neutral themed mural of seeds and pods, the mural celebrates the understated beauty of botany and its elements.
Lloyd’s Inn is a boutique hotel brand that is inspired by raw nature –brought indoors in the form of a contemporary nature oasis for modern travellers. Nestled within a hidden oasis in the city centres of Singapore (Orchard), Bali (Double Six Seminyak), and Kuala Lumpur (Imbi), the hotels are all conveniently located near modern cafes, shopping, and transport links. Lloyd’s Inn is both an abode in the city, and a space to escape and reconnect with oneself at the same time. Lloyd’s Inn is designed from inside out to bring the outdoors indoors, with natural ventilation and light in lobbies and corridors.
It’s an Easter week filled with egg-citing offerings at Richmonde Hotels. Families looking for a quick city escapade or a vacation spot with unique adventures can check out the array of discounted room rates and enjoyable activities available this Lenten season.
Easter break escape at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas
Delight in a soothing sanctuary in the heart of the metro and savor a sublime holiday this Holy Week at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas with room rates starting at only PhP 3,800nett for a comfy, no-frills stay and PhP 4,700nett for accommodations inclusive of a breakfast buffet for two persons. The Easter Break Escape promo rates are valid for stays from March 25 to 31, 2024.
As a special treat on March 31st, the breakfast spread at Richmonde Café is upgraded to a brunch buffet with more dishes, added action stations, and fun delights for the family for only PhP 1,180nett per person.
For inquiries and room reservations, call (632) 8638 7777 or (63) 917 859 7914, email stay@richmondeortigas.com, or log on to www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph. For table reservations at Richmonde Café, call or send a message to mobile/Viber number (63) 917 534 4352.
Eggsperience an Easter to remember at Eastwood Richmonde
Relish a relaxing retreat as you rest and reflect this Lenten season with Eastwood Richmonde Hotel’s Easter room package options. For your Holy Week Haven from March 25 to 31, 2024, room only rates go for as low as PhP 4,000nett and room with breakfast buffet for two and a welcome token start at PhP 5,300nett.
It will be an action-packed Sunday at Eastwood Richmonde’s Easter Eggvengers superhero-themed party, happening on March 31, from 10am to 2pm at the Ballroom and Amberley-Belmont Rooms. Tickets are at PhP 1,350nett per child or adult. Children 2 years old and below are free if accompanied by a paying adult.
Eastwood Café+Bar remains open during the holidays to satisfy your snack cravings. Serving a variety of all-time favorite Pinoy items at live action stations from 2pm to 5pm on March 28, 29 & 30, Eastwood Richmonde’s restobar lets you have your fill of sweet and savory mid-afternoon treats with a glass of citrus iced tea at the Lenten Merienda Buffet for only Php 400nett. Menu varies per day.
Eastwood Café+Bar’s Sunday Lunch Buffet is served from 11:30am to 2pm and is priced at PhP 1,499nett per person. Buffet rate for children 6 to 12 years old is at PhP 750nett while toddlers 5 years old and below eat for free.
To inquire or make a booking, contact Room Reservations at (632) 6570 7777, (63) 917 531 6867 and stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com. To reserve online and get instant confirmation, log on to www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph. For kiddie party ticket inquiries and purchases or restaurant table reservations, call or message (63) 917 821 0333.
Visit Iloilo and stay at Richmonde this Easter
Explore the charm and beauty of the City of Love this extended holiday break until March 31, 2024, and book your getaway at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo at rates starting at PhP 4,300nett for a well-appointed and ultra spacious room stay and PhP 4,800nett for accommodations coupled with breakfast buffet for two persons.
Richmonde Iloilo Pool
Discover the wonders of Iloilo with 15% off on organized tour packages available at the hotel, such as sunset cruises, river tours with island hopping, heritage and culinary excursions.
Since it opened its doors in 1999, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas has been committed to providing its guests with delightful service and value-for-money offerings to create exceptional moments that turn into treasured memories. This year, this pioneering hotel in the heart of Ortigas Center celebrates a quarter of a century’s worth of meaningful experiences with exciting promotions to thank its valued patrons for their unwavering support over the years.
The 25-year milestone of Richmonde Hotel Ortigas is a culmination of not just the hard work, dedication, and determination of its management and staff, but more importantly the relationships forged with guests through the years. “This celebration is not about our hotel’s legacy but about our appreciation to our loyal clients and guests who have become like family to us,” said Jorold Montelibano, General Manager of Richmonde Hotel Ortigas. “Our journey to where we are now has been more significant and rewarding with the support from our esteemed guests and the community. As our way of extending our heartfelt gratitude, we invite everyone to take advantage of these special offers and join us in celebrating this momentous occasion and more years of creating enriching experiences.”
Richmonde Hotel Ortigas General Manager Jok Montelibano.
An array of exciting promotions
A Timeless Stay. In commemoration of its 25th anniversary, Richmonde presents its loyal guests with 25% off on a special room package that includes the essentials for a comfortable stay. Room rates start at just PhP 5,000nett, discounted from PhP 6,800nett. Available only for stays until March 31, 2024, this promotional room package provides the perfect opportunity to create new memories at an extraordinary value.
Classic Bar Chow & Drink Sets at The Exchange. Toast to 25 years of good times through the years at The Exchange with a collection of tasty bar bites, ice-cold brews, and delicious cocktails perfect for sharing during nights out with friends. Each set is good for two to three persons and is priced at just PhP 1,999nett. Available only on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays this March, except during Holy Week.
Savory Sterling Sets at Richmonde Café. No celebration is complete without the joy of dining. As Richmonde turns silver, the hotel’s all-day restaurant introduces a carefully curated delectable set meal that’s great for those team lunches with colleagues, dinner meetups with friends, and dining out with the family. Designed for groups of three, these sets that come complete with starter, two entrées, dessert, and coffee or tea, offer wonderful comfort food choices at a discounted price of PhP 1,999nett per set.
Those craving for Pinoy dishes can order the set of Richmonde’s crowd favorites that include fresh lumpia, oxtail kare-kare, lechon kawali, and saba con yelo. The family-friendly set of chicken alfredo pizza, two pasta dishes (choice of prawns aglio olio, Bolognese or cacio e pepe), Richmonde fried chicken, and Richmonde chocolate cake will delight the kids and the young-at-heart. For a taste of Asian flavors, the set with Thai beef salad, lemongrass chicken, BBQ pork spareribs with herb potatoes, and chilled mango and matcha cheesecake will surely hit the spot. The Sterling Sets are available everyday until March 31, 2024 and may also be ordered for in-room dining.
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 0917 859 7914 (Room Reservations) and 0917 534 4352 (Richmonde Café). For online bookings with instant confirmation, log on to www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph.
As Easter approaches, families and friends are seeking new ways to celebrate the season. Holiday Inn and Suites Makati offers exclusive Easter Staycation package, promising an unforgettable blend of relaxation, fun, and activities for kids.
Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the joy of Easter with our carefully curated staycation experience. Whether you’re looking for a staycation or shopcation, we have something for everyone. From accommodations to exciting entertainment options, our Easter Staycation promises to be the highlight of your Easter break.
For those seeking a relaxing city getaway, Holiday Inn and Suites Makati has exclusive offers featuring special room rates. Standard Rooms start at Php 5,200++ for stays from March 22-31, 2024. Guests staying from March 29 to 31 will receive a complimentary ticket to the Hoppy Hues Easter Activity, along with a buffet breakfast starting at Php 6,600++. *Kids Stay and Eat Free, 12 years old and below.
In addition, guests can treat themselves to the ultimate Easter feast with Easter Lunch Buffet priced at Php 2,588 nett. Enjoy eggstra savings of 22% when you book from today until March 23. Savor delectable delights while enjoying live music, balloon twisting and more!
To add to the excitement, early birds can enjoy a 10% discount on Hoppy Hues Easter Activity on March 31, 2024 for tickets purchased from March 15 to 22, 2024. Regular rate is Php 1,900 nett, includes bunny drip-painting workshop by Paint-It-Fun and Flying Tiger Copenhagen plus kid’s meal, awards, prizes, lootbags from our sponsors: Universal Robina Corporation, Jack n’ Jill Piattos, V-Cut, Cream-O, Nips, Hello, Magic Flakes,Oishi, Nestle Chuckie, Leslie’s Cheezy, Clover Chips, Farmer John Potato Chips, Ovaltine, Ceelin Gummies, Cherifer, Snackeroo Fun Treats, Orich, Healthy Tropics and more!
Whether you’re looking for a staycation, a fun-filled family activity, or simply a tranquil city escape, our Easter Staycation has something for everyone. Book your Easter Staycation with us today and embark on a journey of relaxation, celebration, and cherished moments with your loved ones.
Book Now and Enjoy Exclusive Offers! For inquiries and reservations, please call +63 2 7909 0888 or email hism.reservations@ihg.com. Visit www.ihg.com/holidayinn/makati and like and follow us in Facebook and Instagram at HolidayInnMakati. Join IHG One Rewards to enjoy exclusive discounts and benefits. Sign up at https://bit.ly/JoinHISMIHGRewards. Don’t miss out on the Easter fun – book your stay today!
F1 Hotel Manila is thrilled to announce an exciting promotion that promises a thrilling getaway for lucky diners this summer. Starting this March until May, guests can enjoy exquisite cuisine and stand a chance to win a roundtrip flight for two to the vibrant city of Hong Kong!
The Canary is pleased to present an array of enticing summer weekend offerings, promising an unforgettable dining experience. Every Friday, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm, guests can indulge in the Hot Pot with KBBQ Night for Php 1,688 net per person. Delight in Unlimited Hot Pot and KBBQ while being serenaded by live acoustic performances, creating the perfect ambiance for a night out. On Saturdays and Sundays, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, guests can enjoy Merienda Cena with Pool Pass for Php 800 net per person. Dive into delicious snacks and relax by the pool, offering the ideal recipe for a leisurely weekend retreat. And to cap off the weekend in style, join us for Sunday Brunch by the Pool, available from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm for Php 1,788 net per person. Pamper in a lavish buffet brunch, complemented by an Unlimited Mimosa Bar and Pool Pass, elevating your Sundays to a new level of luxury. Whether it’s savoring flavors, unwinding by the pool, or indulging in a sensory feast, The Canary ensures that your weekends are nothing short of extraordinary.
From March 15 to May 31, 2024, guests dining at F All Day Dining and/or The Canary will have the opportunity to win a roundtrip flight for two from Manila to Hong Kong. For every Php 3,000 spent on food or drinks in a single receipt, diners will receive one raffle coupon, offering them a shot at this exciting prize. With the promotion duration spanning from March 15 to May 31, 2024, and travel dates valid from June 16 to August 31, 2024, guests have ample time to participate and plan their potential trip. The raffle draw is scheduled for June 14, 2024.
Join F1 Hotel Manila at F All Day Dining and The Canary for a chance to win this incredible prize while enjoying a remarkable dining experience. For further information and reservations, please call us at 8928-9888 or e-mail inquiry@f1hotelsandresorts.com.
Regala Skycity Hotel and Regal Hong Kong Hotel served as home to media guests from the Philippines and celebrity influencer Ashley Ortega, who joined the 4-day, fun-filled tour in Hong Kong organized by VFC Travel and Tours.
Hong Kong is an easy place to visit. With just an hour and 45 minutes flight from Manila, many tourists (including us) would frequent here for good reasons – to enjoy its dazzling city views, attractions, dining, nightlife, arts, culture, and shopping.
A well-planned trip is important to make the most of your stay, thanks to VFC Travel and Tours, who organized our 4-day, fun-filled tour in Hong Kong together with celebrity influencer, Ashley Ortega. VFC is your very first choice and go-to expert for trips to Hong Kong and beyond.
Regala Skycity Hotel and Regal Hong Kong Hotel served as our home for four days complete with superb accommodation and shuttle service. Regala Skycity is located on Lantau Island and is still in its first year of operation. It’s the place to be in the airport area.
Some of its recent awards include: “Best Airport Hotel” by TTG Asia Travel Awards (2023), “Best New Hotel” by TTG China Travel Awards (2023), Best Hotel Restaurant Interior (Hong Kong) by International Property Media Ltd in 2023 for Vivace.
Regala Skycity Hotel Exterior.
Regala’s strengths are its airport counter (not many hotels have this service), providing free shuttle service to and from the hotel, Tung Chung, Citygate Outlet, and NP360. It’s also one MTR train ride to Disneyland; a short ride to Hong Kong-Macau-Zhuhai bridge (or 45 minutes bus ride to Macau).
The group at the Regal Hotels airport counter.
Regal is situated in Causeway Bay and is near the MTR station, tram stop, popular shopping malls, and a short walk to restaurants, coffee shops, street food, Japanese specialty stores, and street shopping. These are the reasons that would make Regal the hotel of choice when in Causeway Bay.
Regala Skycity and Regal Hong Kong are part of the Regal Hotels brand known for its international standards of comfort.
We charted the activities that summed up our delightful stay in Hong Kong.
DAY 1
The group arrived at Hong Kong International Airport in the morning and headed to Regal Airport Counter B15, Arrival Hall B. We were accorded with free shuttle bus to Regala Skycity from the airport. Then, we checked in and met the hotel staff.
We had an enjoyable lunch at Vivace.
The welcome lunch was held at Vivace, the hotel’s Mediterranean restaurant located on the third floor. Recognized for its impeccable interior designed by Alexander Wong, the vibrant restaurant picked up a silver award for outstanding interior design at the Build4Asia Awards 2022. The restaurant serves tasty and hearty dishes from Mediterranean hotspots including Spain, Italy, France, and Greece. With a robust and tempting cocktail menu and outdoor patio, Vivace is the perfect spot for alfresco dining and drinks.
They served us a Thanksgiving special menu, semi-buffet tapas lunch, anti-salad bar, appetizers, soup, and dessert. We indulged in the delectable cuisine while enjoying the company of Ivan Tso, Assistant Marketing Communication Manager.
After the sumptuous lunch, we started touring the impressive hotel rooms, themed rooms, grand ballroom, and meeting venues, a walk to 11 Skies, and Asia World Expo (AWE).
Modern and vibrant interior design of Vivace.
In the afternoon, we had the opportunity to meet the hotel’s gracious general manager, Renee Kim, who also hosted dinner for us at the Jade, the fine-dining, Chinese restaurant of the hotel located on the 12th floor. It presents exquisite delicacies in a plush environment enhanced by artistic features and breathtaking sea views. Private dining spaces are also available to elevate any gathering or occasion.
We enjoyed the 7-course Chinese cuisine served to us coupled with an interesting conversation on sundry topics.
From left: Regala Skycity General Manager Renee Kim, Ashley Ortega, and Ivan Tso.
Kim shared that they have an Executive Chinese Chef who not only specializes in Cantonese but also many regional Chinese cuisines.
As a true representation of Chinese culinary fare, the Jade brings together China’s dynamic regional cuisine ranging from Canton, Beijing, Zhejiang, Sichuan, and more. “We have dynamic dishes from Beijing, Shanghai, Sichuan province, and many more. People like to try food from different parts of the world. Dimsum is a good representation of Hong Kong,” Kim said.
Kim explained that Regal is the core brand of Regal Hotels International, while Regala is a new brand, which focuses on lifestyle, wellness, and sustainability. They’re also planning to re-brand some of the existing hotels. Regal is more conservative, and upscale; Regala is more lifestyle and trendy.
Kim related that it’s challenging to manage a new property, especially after the pandemic. “Overall, there’s a downturn in the economy not just here in Hong Kong but in other countries. Despite the challenges, we have been able to open the hotel. We can’t complain. The business is picking up. Anyone who has tried our product, they loved it.”
Welcome dinner for the group with Ms. Kim and Sir Karl at the Jade restaurant.Jade Restaurant – for your fine dining experience. It brings together China’s dynamic regional cuisine.
With the holiday season fast approaching, she said, that they are promoting Chocolate Christmas to attract more families and pet-friendly promotions.
After that wonderful dinner, we headed back to our assigned room – a comfortable twin bed – where you can immerse yourself in the Regala celebratory lifestyle to unwind your body and mind.
Cabana room – spacious and bright.
Themed Family Room_Racing Car
Themed Family Room_Princess
Themed Family Room_Pirate
It was a sweet welcome, and everyone was excited to enjoy the remaining days of our stay. As they say, “It’s time for a joyous gala!”
DAY 2
A buffet breakfast awaited us at Petra, another restaurant of the hotel located on the ground floor, which serves international cuisine.
Breakfast at Petra.Petra’s color scheme is pleasing to the eyes.
Right after, we were whisked away to experience the Tung Chung adventure and the convenience of staying at Regala. We visited the Citygate Outlet, a train ride to Disneyland, and then a free shuttle back to the hotel.
The writer is in the happiest place on earth!
We tried the mouthwatering dishes for dinner at Petra, which consisted of salad, main course (I settled on salmon, others opted for steak), and dessert. We all enjoyed it!
To digest what we ate, we took a walk outside the hotel, visited the hotel sky deck, and felt the cold weather that night.
DAY 3
It was time to check out from Regala and transfer to Regal Hong Kong for an overnight stay. This 5-star hotel provides spacious, full-service accommodations, and a choice of dining venues.
Group photo at the hotel entrance.
The group had the chance to meet the hotel’s general manager, Christo Diamandopoulos, who gladly agreed to a short interview about his work experiences and the room renovation plans. He has been with Regal Hotels for 10 years now. He also holds concurrent positions as general manager of Regal Kowloon Hotel, and vice president – the project for Regal Hotels International Limited.
Regal Hong Kong Hotel General Manager Christo Diamondopoulos (center) with Ashley Ortega and Vien Chan of VFC Travel and Tours.
He shared that he likes working in Hong Kong because the economy is very aggressive. He also cited that more tourists from the Philippines and Thailand are coming to Hong Kong either for business or leisure. “To all the lovely people in the Philippines, I wish to invite you to come and visit the Regal Hong Kong Hotel and the country of Hong Kong. We are well-prepared with attractive accommodation and services for an enjoyable stay. Hope to see you very soon!”
The Regal management also hosted lunch for us at the Chinese Restaurant, Regal Palace. The food was very satisfying. Soon after, we toured the hotel rooms, gym, and rooftop swimming pool (the only one in the Causeway Bay).
Rooftop swimming pool – overlooking a spectacular Harbour view. Courtesy: Regal Hong Kong HotelTopform gymnasium. Courtesy: Regal Hong Kong Hotel
We also rode the Peak Tram, checked out nearby shopping malls, Sogo, Sasa, Times Square, street markets, etc., and uncovered affordable souvenirs to bring home.
The Peak Tram. Courtesy: Regal Hong Kong Hotel
Stamping ground at The Peak Tram
Enjoying the moment at Hong Kong Times Square
Striking a pose at the Regal Hong Kong Hotel lobby
Another delectable meal for dinner was prepared for us, which we paired with red wine to our complete satisfaction.
With the comfortable bed and spacious room, we fell into a good night’s sleep.
DAY 4
We felt energized on our last day in the hotel and partook in the buffet breakfast at Cafe Rivoli.
After we checked out from Regal, we visited ArteM, an immersive media art; Sky100, a 360-degree indoor observation deck, which offers views of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbour, the Kowloon Peninsula, and Tai Mo Shan; M+ Museum, which featured Madame Song: Pioneering Art and Fashion in China courtesy of Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), and Harbour City for some sightseeing until our departure flight to Manila.
M+ Museum – featuring Madame Song Pioneering Art and Fashion in China
Marta Fernandez Martin was appointed Spain Tourism Counsellor for South East Asia, Australia, and New Zealand last September 2023. She was originally from Zaragoza, Spain. Having graduated from the University of Zaragoza with a Degree in Legal Studies, she completed her international training in Brussels, where she worked for an NGO dedicated to the protection of Human Rights.
In 2008, she joined the Spanish Administration as a career civil servant, where she has held various positions of responsibility in the Ministries of Economy, Finance and Tourism. In particular, she has been senior advisor to the Secretary of State for Public Administrations and for the Undersecretary of Economy, as well as Head of Cabinet of the Undersecretary of Industry, Trade and Tourism and Director of Cabinet of the Secretary of State for Tourism.
The new Tourism Counsellor is very much aware of the importance of ensuring economic, social, and environmental sustainability in the tourism sector. For this reason, during her years in this position, she is committed to the firm objective of promoting responsible tourism that guarantees the sustainability of destinations and the well-being of the local population, promoting knowledge of inland Spain. In particular, Marta wants to reinforce the historical ties, the knowledge of Spain’s rich gastronomy, its cultural heritage, and the incredible natural and scenic resources that Spain offers to outbound travelers from the Philippines.
Similarly, the Spanish Counsellor of Tourism is in favor of promoting active and accessible tourism for all, taking advantage of Spain’s favorable weather conditions that allow the practice of various sports every day of the year.
Here are interesting facts about Spain:
Internationaltourist arrivals to Spain in 2023exceededforecasts
Tourist arrivals and spending at the destination are at record highs, an extraordinary starting point to continue working and improving the quality of its tourism industry in 2024. By the end of 2023, Spain registered a total of 85 million visitors; surpassing the pre -pandemic benchmark in 2019.
The8thCentenaryofToledoCathedral
This year, the Toledo Cathedral begins the commemorations of its 800th anniversary, which will last until 2026. One of the activities that is worth mentioning is the ”Lúmina Catedral de Toledo“ nighttime cultural visit that combines art, light, and sound. For more information, visit: https://www.catedralprimada.es/en/noticia/lumina-catedral-de-toledo
Spainontop ofTheWorld’s50 BestRestaurants2023
According to the Restaurant Magazine, one of the world’s most influential cuisine & beverage magazines, Spain continues to stand as a global gastronomic beacon, with three of its restaurants securing top positions in the 2023 ranking. Leading the charge is Spain’s Disfrutar, second spot on the list; Diverxo and Asador Etxebarri, ranking third and fourth, respectively. The culinary landscape of Spain boasts further gems such as Quique Dacosta, Elkano, and Mugaritz, contributing to the nation’s dazzling culinary scene. For more information, visit: http://www.theworlds50best.com/
Oviedo:2024SpanishGastronomic Capital
This year, the north of Spain becomes a gastronomic hub, specifically the region of Asturias and its capital, Oviedo. Visitors have one whole year to discover why this city is so popular amongst Spaniards with dishes that include fabada, cachopo, its 100 varieties of cheese, its fish and shellfish from the Cantabrian Sea, or its famous cider, to name just of few of its delicacies.
UNESCO WorldHeritageMonument’sAnniversaries
Five of the most unique World Heritage Monuments in Spain are approaching their 40th anniversary, having been designated in 1984 by UNESCO. These include La Alhambra in Granada, Burgos Cathedral, Monastery and the Escorial in Madrid, The Historic Centre of Córdoba, and the Works of Antoni Gaudí.
For more information on Spain visit www.spain.info/en/ or for inspiration follow @spain on Instagram.
