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Best destinations for your next overseas trip

Since countries have opened their borders and entertained visitors, people have been traveling and living their lives in the realm of adventure and wanderlust. Traveling can indeed heal and eventually lead us to places we didn’t know existed.  But now that restrictions are relatively relaxed, where do we go? You might want to consider adding these places to your bucket list! 

  • Dubai, Arab Emirates

Dubai is known worldwide for its exhilarating tourist spots. It stands proud of its Burg Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, reaching up to 2,716 feet tall. Dubai also takes great importance in its diverse culture, which is evident in its Dubai Museum.

Photo credits to Emirates

It is famously located at the Al-Fahidi Fort, which was built way back in 1787 to defend the Dubai Creek, which is also the home to gold, textile, and spice souks (marketplace). If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you may want to check out the hot air balloon over the desert dunes, or the IMG Worlds of Adventure speed rides. Dubai will take your breath away– both literally and figuratively!

  • London, United Kingdom 

Who wouldn’t want to explore the streets where Harry Potter came to life, and the roads where Sherlock Holmes walked on? London is definitely on the bucket list of pure-blooded literary fangirls.

Photo credits to Hotels.com

Aside from its regal royalty, London is famous for its London Eye, which is a giant Ferris wheel that offers a majestic view of the city–and it shines extra brightly at night. If you’re craving for the nightlife, Soho is the place to be, welcoming you with its bars and classy restaurants. Of course, the trip won’t be complete for film enthusiasts without visiting the British Film Institute. It shows different films every day, from recent blockbusters to cult classics. London will surely feed your pop culture knowledge!

  • Cancun, Mexico

Looking for a sunny, beach party vibe for your next trip? The ever-so-tropical Cancun is just the right place for you! Check out the fancy hotels located at their very own Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone), which also offers the wild nightlife and parties by the beach down at the Kulkukan Boulevard.

Photo credits to moonpalace.com

For the real Cancun food experience, drive down to the Avenida Tulum, which features their all-time favorite– authentic Mexican tacos! Diving and swimming is also something that Cancun offers through its numerous spots in the Ruta De Cenotes (Cenote Route), which are natural pools formed within limestone caves. It’s true– Cancun wakes the fun within you! 

  • Bali, Indonesia

Famous for the serenity and soul it brings to its tourists, Bali continues enticing people to rest in its lush spots. Also known as the ‘Island of the Gods,’ Bali provides people the rest they need with its seas and beaches.

It is also a haven for surfers, which the waves of Kuta Beach readily welcome. Bali is also famous for its intricate temples, such as the Ulun Danu Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess of the lakes. You may also seek enlightenment and relaxation in Yoga Barn’s famous retreats, each a more freeing session than the other. Or maybe you feel like flying– jetpacking in Tanjung Benoa must be on your list. Whether it’s for fun or relaxation, Bali has it all for you!

  • Crete, Greece

The birthplace of the Olympian Gods, Crete offers a tapestry of culture, lore, and adventure. One of the most historical places in Europe, the Heraklion Archeological Museum should be your first stop to acquaint yourself with the rich culture of Crete.

Traditional street restaurants and streets of Greece – Crete island. Photo credits to iStock

Explore history through the cobblestone streets of Rethymno Old Town, the best-preserved town on the island. You might also want to visit Lake Voulismeni, famous for being seemingly bottomless– reaching down as far as 64 meters. If you’re a mythology buff, the caves of Mt. Ida might just interest you, the birthplace of Zeus himself! Crete dabbles between the past and the future, so let it be your present destination!

Traveling can be such a hassle, but the majestic destination often makes up for all the trouble. Hurry now and book your next trip–have fun and safe skies, traveler!

By Princess Friel Lontoc

Featured photo: Bali, Indonesia courtesy of Hotels.com

#worldsbesttraveldestinations #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Beachside Developments in Batangas

Known for pioneering landscapes for more than 30 years, Landco raises the bar once again, offering a premier investment on its BeachTowns projects rising in Batangas.

There is a growing trend that the affluent are snapping up properties away from the city as the pandemic continues to fuel a work-from-home lifestyle that no longer tethers business owners and professionals at the office.

People see the value of working from a seaside environment. With the BeachTowns, it’s easier to have a work-life balance, stay productive, live a healthier lifestyle and reenergize by the beach in the new setting.

“Having a property in these BeachTowns is something that homeowners and property investors can enjoy now as their dream beach house, second home, or an exciting new business venture in the new normal.  At the same time, it’s a long-term investment that appraises in value,” Landco Pacific Corporation CEO Erickson Y. Manzano stated.

One of Landco’s premium developments in Punta Fuego in Batangas captured a solid footing in the upscale market. Its property appreciation is about 1,200 percent since it was launched.

“It’s the perfect time to invest in BeachTowns for its long-term property value appreciation, given Landco’s track record. It’s also a lasting legacy that can be passed on to the next generations, ensuring the well-being and financial security of many generations down the line,” he emphasized.

Setting a new standard for luxury beachside living, Landco BeachTowns are master-planned communities offering pristine white beaches, accessibility to the city, strong WIFI connection, world-class infrastructure, modern facilities, and resort amenities.

Batangas is one of the top tourist and leisure destinations near Metro Manila and is renowned as an idyllic beach getaway for city dwellers, weekend warriors, and those who opt to work from the beach in the new norm. Captivating for its dive spots, stunning beaches, golf courses, historical and cultural attractions, fresh seafood, wellness sites, local culinary offerings, and strong coffee, Batangas is the perfect location of Landco’s thriving Beachtowns. Only a two to three-hour drive from Metro Manila, it’s more accessible compared to other tourist spots.

The Beachtowns provide a sense of balance away from the hustle and bustle of city life and capture the best of what Batangas has to offer – balmy shores, seemingly endless stretches of white sand, incomparable crystal blue waters, and easy access to modern resort facilities. It’s resort living at its finest.

In Calatagan, which is known as the playground of the affluent, its BeachTowns feature a breathtaking view of sunsets, a laidback resort lifestyle, easy access to golf courses, equestrian clubs, dive spots, cultural and historical attractions.

The BeachTowns in vibrant Laiya, San Juan bustling with tourism in Batangas, are accessible to the rows of restaurants and bars along the white sand and cater to those with an active lifestyle from sailing, paddleboarding to yoga by the beach.

The properties provide the perfect seascape of their clients’ dreams, from exclusive residential beach communities of Playa Calatagan and Playa Laiya to the residential and commercial spaces in the inclusive seaside communities of Leisure Tourism Estates (LTE):  CaSoBe and Club Laiya.

LTE is master-planned mixed-use residential and commercial developments primed for the tourism market. These developments are for those who would prefer to be immersed in the middle of the vibrant tourist destination, mingle with leisure seekers and the sporty set; and have the option to build a dream business by the beach.

Sustainability at the Core of Landco BeachTowns

For decades, Landco has always been guided by its strong commitment to sustainability in its real estate developments and provided socially and environmentally responsible investment choices for its investors.

“Championing environmental stewardship, the overall health, and welfare of communities, and resource efficiency in our property developments which are aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, are at the heart of Landco’s operations especially in the BeachTowns, not because we have to, but primarily because it’s the right thing to do,” Manzano enthused.

Creating long-term sustainable value for its developments of BeachTowns in Batangas, its latest LTE: CaSoBe and Club Laiya are both LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) registered with its water recycling measures, permeable pedestrian tree-lined walkways, and scenic bike lanes around the beachside properties to reduce carbon footprints.

Recently, Millennial Resorts, which provides the hospitality facilities and services for its LTE, was awarded the very first EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Certification for a resort hospitality project in the country, for its Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe in Calatagan, Batangas.

For more information about Landco BeachTowns, visit https://www.landco.ph/ or FB page:  https://www.facebook.com/LandcoPacificCorporation.

#LandcoBeachTowns #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Love is in the Air at Savoy Hotel Manila

A delightful and romantic stay awaits you at Savoy Hotel Manila.  As we meet again, allow us to set your hearts aflutter and leave you love-struck with our month-long room package and seasonal dining promotions.

Sweet Escape Room Package

Celebrate the love month with that hotel stay you have been longing for.

For a rate of Php5,200 nett, you and your loved one can book an overnight stay in our standard room with complimentary breakfast for 2, a Valentine welcome amenity, a bottle of wine, and a 15% discount on SPA and Dining.

Sweet Surrender

Make Valentine’s Day dinner special with our Sweet Surrender dinner offering at Savoy Cafe.  For only Php1,300 nett per person, enjoy a three-course meal with a complimentary glass of red wine.  Available from 6 pm to 10 pm on February 14, 2022.

Indulge in our healthy starters, Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad or Carrot and Red Bell Pepper Cappuccino.  Followed by our main course, a choice of either Fettucine ala Vongole or Roasted Baby Back Ribs, and finally cap it with a sweet ending featuring our Blushing Strawberry Cake dessert.

Love in the Moonlight

 For those who love al fresco dining, experience our 3-course pre-Valentine dinner from February 12 to 13, 2022 by our poolside for only Php1,300 nett.

  • Savoy Hotel Manila is an accredited Multiple Use Hotel with a Certificate of Authority to Operate for Staycation (CAOS) by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ).
  • Vaccination card is required for fully vaccinated guests.
  • For non-vaccinated guests, a negative RT-PCR test valid 48 hours before check-in is required.
  • Children below 11 years old are allowed to check-in if their companion will have either one of the abovementioned requirements.

For more details, please call (02) 5317-2869 or email dine@savoymanila.com (for our dining offers) and stay@savoymanila.com (for our room offerings).  Visit our website, www.savoyhotelmanila.com.ph for details on other packages and promotions.

#savoyhotelmanila #lovemonth #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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This Wellness Resort in Bangkok helps loved ones to relax and reconnect with Secret Garden Afternoon Tea

Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok, the holistic health-focused retreat in the heart of the Thai capital, is inviting guests and local residents to enter its idyllic urban sanctuary and unwind with a wholesome new high tea experience, expertly crafted by Executive Chef Christoph Trocker using the finest and freshest ingredients.

The “Secret Garden Afternoon Tea” is hosted by Rim Klong Café, the elegant eatery that overlooks Bangkok’s Saen Saeb Canal. Inspired by the bounty of nature, this spectacular set of sweet and savory treats embraces local and seasonal produce, including proven superfoods, gluten- and dairy-free options, and vegetarian or vegan items. Every dish is clearly labeled with icons to let the diner know exactly what they are eating.

This salubrious set menu includes “The Savories”, six sumptuous bite-sized snacks such as smoked salmon tartare with avocado and beetroot caviar, wild forest mushroom pâté with truffle oil, green pea & buckwheat blinis with organic chicken, spiced purple sweet potato and organic cress, sundried tomato hummus with pumpernickel bread, beetroot quinoa salad with quail’s egg, pickled crunchy vegetables and microgreens, and gluten-free ‘Flowerpot’ bread.

These are accompanied by “The Sweets”, a sublime selection of treats served on a bed of edible chocolate soil. These delicacies include butterfly pea with lemon jelly, dark chocolate & blueberry tart, pumpkin pie, Swiss carrot cake, tomato ‘energy ball’ (muesli, almond, pumpkin & chia seeds), truffle walnut choux cream, flower chocolate pralines of the day, mini sago exotic delight, matcha scones, classic scones, and maple syrup Chantilly cream.

Naturally, these delights are accompanied by a pot of freshly-brewed coffee, premium tea, or a herbal infusion. The aim is to add a splash of color and fun to the concept of healthy eating while providing friends, family members, and couples with the perfect opportunity to reconnect with each other after a challenging few months.

New Executive Chef

Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok’s recently-appointed Executive Chef, Christoph Trocker hails from Austria and has enjoyed an impressive 16-year career at some of Asia’s leading hotels and resorts. His philosophy is to harmonize local ingredients and international flavors to create highly original yet authentic cuisine. Having wowed diners in Dubai, China, and Thailand, he is now bringing a lifetime of experience and expertise to the guests and diners in Bangkok.

Executive Chef Christoph Trocker oversees the resort’s health-focused culinary concept.

“Afternoon tea is a charming tradition; it provides a unique opportunity for people – mothers, daughters, best friends, couples – to come together and share deeply personal moments. After the upheaval of the last two years, this sense of reconnecting with loved ones is more important than ever before, so I am thrilled to introduce our new Secret Garden Afton Tea at Rim Klong Café, which will provide a wonderful way for people to share the timeless pleasures of fine food and great company,” commented Chef Christoph.

Nestled among 1.2 acres of lush gardens, with sparkling ponds, rippling waterfalls, and century-old trees, Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok is a serene setting in which to unwind. While it is located in the heart of downtown Bangkok, it retains an enchanting ambiance that feels a million miles away from the busy city streets. Reflecting this tranquil vibe, the resort’s wholesome menus focus on fresh, high-quality produce, prepared in innovative ways to deliver delicious dishes that are great for the body. This innovative approach to F&B forms a key part of the resort’s holistic wellness concept, which also incorporates personal fitness, mindfulness, professional medical services, and more.

The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea is available daily from 2 pm to 5 pm at Rim Klong Café, priced at just THB 999++ (THB 1,176 net) per set for two people. Accor Plus members will enjoy a 20% discount! Advanced reservations are strongly recommended.

For more information about Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok and to book your Secret Garden Afternoon Tea, please visit www.movenpickbdmsbangkok.com or connect with the hotel on LINE, @movenpickbdms.

#MövenpickBDMSWellnessResortBangkok #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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5 Tips to make your Chinese New Year extra special

Chinese people have always had a home in the Philippines. Their values and culture have been embedded in our nation, and their presence has impacted our economy, tradition, and beliefs.

The Chinese New Year is one of the most anticipated events in the country, and just like any other occasion, Chinese people love celebrating this holiday in their special ways. Some go all out– some opt for the traditional way– but all in all, the Chinese New Year is always something to look forward to.

  • Red, the lucky color 

It’s not a secret that Chinese people loved wearing red on several occasions and events, for it symbolizes luck and prosperity. It is the color of Chinese lanterns, doors, and window panes in traditional Chinese households. In the Chinese New Year, wearing red will surely attract luck and blessings to you and your family in the coming year. People often wear traditional clothing such as Cheongsam, one of the most popular Chinese clothing for women, and is commonly worn in special events such as this. If you’re opting for a modern celebration, any red clothing will do as well—it still attracts the same good luck! 

  • The traditional Hong Bao 

Every time New Year comes rolling around, people always look forward to the Hong Bao, or the Red Packets– more popularly known as the Ang Pao. The married couples and elders give away Ang Paos to children and unmarried people within their families, each containing a specific amount of money. It is believed that this tradition brings good luck to the receiver as well as the giver, and it certainly gives out good vibes as well!

Courtesy: Kaodim Malaysia
  • Good food, great life 

The Chinese people surely know how to prepare a feast. The customary Chinese New Year banquet never misses these symbolic foods: a whole fish for additional money and good luck, pineapples for wealth and prosperity, and the famous neighborhood Tikoy and dumplings. Of course, Chinese people also adore eating pancit for long life, and they also display citrus fruits in the center table, among them pomelos, ponkan, and kiat-kiats. These marvelous foods spice up the New Year feast and it is twice the fun with every member of the family present on this grand occasion. 

Courtesy: Thatsmags.com
  • Make some noise!

To drive away bad luck and evil spirits, fireworks and firecrackers light up the sky. This tradition is deeply rooted in Chinese culture. According to a Chinese legend, the fireworks are used to scare off Nian, a mythical beast who comes down from the mountains every end of the year to destroy cities. They also try to make a lot of noise, using all sorts of things such as pots and pans, horns, and cans, among others. It may be a rambunctious night, but surely one of great fun and excitement. 

Courtesy: TripSavvy
  • Door-to-door greetings

In the spirit of friendship and forgiveness, Chinese people go door-to-door in their neighborhoods to greet their friends and colleagues. It also means that whatever disputes or misunderstandings they might have gotten into during the past year will be forgiven and forgotten. The New Year gives people a clean slate, and the Chinese people surely take this to heart. 

Courtesy: Top China Travel

The Chinese New Year may be a rambunctious event, but surely one of great fun and excitement. It honors Chinese heritage and welcomes another year of luck and prosperity for everyone. These traditions are only a few of the things that make the Chinese New Year special, but nothing beats celebrating the holiday with your family and welcoming another chapter of your lives together. Gong Hei Fat Choy! 

 

By Princess Friel Lontoc

Featured photo courtesy of ChinaBrands

#ChineseNewYear2022 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Millennial Resorts Achieve the First and Prestigious EDGE Certification for Resort Hospitality in the Philippines

Millennial Resorts achieved the very first EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Certification for a resort hospitality project in the country, with its Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe in Calatagan, Batangas. The EDGE Certification was awarded by Philippine Green Building Initiative, Inc. (PGBI) which recognized Crusoe Cabins for its eco-efficient design that result in reduction of 34% in energy, 57% in water and 65% in embodied energy in materials compared to local base case.

“We are truly proud of this recognition of Millennial Resorts as the first recipient of the highly-coveted EDGE Certification for a resort project in the Philippines. We share this honor with our relentless team who make it possible for us to put into action Landco’s long-term commitment to social, economic and environmental sustainability in premium property developments for more than 30 years across the country,” said Erickson Y. Manzano, President and CEO of both Landco Pacific Corporation and Millennial Resorts Corporation (MRC).

“Being eco-conscious is ingrained in both Landco and MRC’s DNAs. We do it, first and foremost, because it is the right thing to do.  Millennial Resorts’ EDGE Certification complements our over-all sustainability program at our latest Leisure Tourism Estates in Batangas – 15-hectare CaSoBe and 24-hectare Club Laiya, both of which are LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Registered and incorporate water recycling, permeable pedestrian tree-lined walkways, and scenic bike lanes around the beachside properties to further reduce our carbon footprints,” he added.

“Millennial Resorts team is grateful for this certification which shows our responsibility to the environment as we preserve the resort lifestyle and the uniqueness of the beach destination of Batangas. This inspires us to continue to find new ways to minimize our impact on the environment and respect the local community,” stated Patrick C. Gregorio, Senior Consultant for Hospitality, Landco and MRC.

The EDGE Certification demonstrates the leadership and advocacy of Landco and its sister hospitality group, Millennial Resorts in green building design with the use of EDGE software.

“Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) has always championed the integration of sustainability into our business strategy and value creation. We are proud that under the MVP Group, Landco and Millennial Resorts attained the EDGE certification to create a lasting positive impact to the environment and community. This achievement is a concrete example of our holistic and all-inclusive approach to sustainability.,” remarked Chaye Cabal-Revilla, Chief Finance, Sustainability and Risk Officer, Metro Pacific Investment Corporation (MPIC).

EDGE, an innovation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), is an international green building standard, rating system and certification available in 160 countries. EDGE brings about solutions to reduce the use of energy, water and embodied energy in materials.

“Sustainable tourism plays a critical role in achieving a green recovery and I’m proud to see resort properties in the Philippines adopting globally-recognized sustainability standards, which will hopefully encourage other industry players to do the same”, said Jean-Marc Arbogast, IFC Country Manager for the Philippines.

Millennial Resorts undertake sustainability initiatives in line with MPIC’s commitment to help achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable; and strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

“Utility savings are not the only reward for a resort’s green credentials, as studies indicate that guests are more loyal to a property, with a commitment to protecting the environment and preserving natural resources,” shared Engr. Leandro A. Conti, PGBI Chairman and President.

“We hope that this EDGE Certification will encourage others to build green resort properties, in the Philippines and in other countries. Only by working together can we create an ecosystem where sustainable resorts are no longer the exception but the norm,” he noted.

Edge-certified Millennial Resorts’ Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe

Millennial Resorts feature unique resort accommodations: Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe and Costa Azalea and Cocoons at CaSoBe and Club Laiya; and leisure facilities:  Laiya Beach Club at Club Laiya and Aquaria Water Park with a three-story giant slide at CaSoBe and Costa Azalea. Its soon to be launched exciting new facilities are: Captain Barbozza restaurant and bar, Canopy and The Isle — venues for events, and Colony, a beachside co-working space. Costa Azalea is located in Samal Island, Davao.

Landco Pacific Corp. is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation. For more information about Landco and its Millennial Resorts and Leisure Tourism Estates Club Laiya and CaSoBe, visit https://www.landco.ph/ or FB page:  https://www.facebook.com/LandcoPacificCorporation.

#LandcoPacificCorp #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Quiapo, Quiapo!

On the ninth day of January, during the Feast of the Black Nazarene, the wooden statue is carried through the streets followed by thousands of devotees. Up to this day, Quiapo remains a monument to the fortitude of the Filipino spirit.

 

Visiting Quiapo is not everyone’s idea of relishing a sunshiny afternoon. The crowd, especially during religious festivals, can be intimidating because of its size. The mayhem of jeepneys, buses and bustling crowds is intractable. For the adventurous, however, Quiapo offers a fascinating microcosm of the Philippines – a place where Christians and Muslims, psychics and soothsayers co-exist, sometimes not too harmoniously.

 

Image: quiapochurch.com

History of Quiapo

The name Quiapo is derived from a water lily locally called “Kiapo” which grew abundantly in the canals and marshes. It is different from the water lily that we see nowadays floating in the Pasig River.

Founded in 1586 by Spanish Governor-General Santiago de Vera, Quiapo’s crowded streets throb with life. Commerce is the district’s lifeblood. Shoppers weave through the narrow streets, stopping to compare prices and search for the best bargains. Harried commuters race for the jeepneys that ply Quezon Boulevard, the district’s main artery. Through it all, voices chatter in a cacophony of languages – English, Filipino, Chinese and the regional languages such as Ilocano, Cebuano, Visaya, and Maguindanao.

The best place to begin a tour is at the Plaza Miranda Square in front of the Quiapo Church. The Hispanic style church looks centuries old, but the current structure dates only to 1939. It stands as a monument to the fortitude of the Filipino spirit. Spanish missionaries established the first church on the site in the 16th century. Fire, however, destroyed the bamboo and nipa building in 1639. A new church was built but it was heavily damaged by an earthquake in 1863. Reconstruction was completed in 1899 but the fire destroyed it again in October 1929. In 1930, the reconstruction of the church was made and entrusted the design of an entirely new church with two belfries and a magnificent dome to Architect Juan Nakpil.  This is the church we see today except for some improvements.

Devotion to the Black Nazarene

The church is the focal point of activity in Quiapo. Throughout the day, Filipino Catholics come and go, attending the frequent Masses, offering private prayers or paying homage to the Black Nazarene, one of the Philippines’ most venerated statues of Jesus.

The life-size image of Christ clad in a maroon-colored robe, with a crown of thorns and a diadem in the form of three silver rays, bearing a big wooden cross, is in a semi-kneeling position, indicating His struggle to stand up with a heavy load after a fall. His face, eyes, and mouth manifest the writhing pain He suffers and portrays a calling for someone to help Him carry the heavy cross. The dynamic appearance of the image inspires countless people to develop devotion to this image.

Image: remate online

There is no definite account as to the origin of the statue of Christ bearing the ignominious cross, popularly known as Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno, which in English means Our Father Jesus The Nazarene. The statue is attributed to the work of a Mexican artist (name unknown) who painted the image of Christ in dark brownish-molato color, similar to the color of his own skin. Later the image was called Black Nazarene because when it arrived in the country in the 16th century through the Spanish missionaries the color turned darker.

On the ninth day of January, during the Feast of the Black Nazarene, the wooden statue is carried through the streets followed by thousands of devotees.

Many people believe that simply touching the statue can cure illness or improve one’s life. Crowds are often so dense that they press against the walls of buildings, and occasionally there are people crushed to death in the stampede. Devotees usually go on foot with their towels slung across their shoulders.

Image: quiapochurch.com

The image is removed from the church only every New Year, January 9 (Fiesta Day); Domingo de Lazaro (one week before the Good Friday); and Good Friday.

For the rest of the year, the Black Nazarene lies in quiet repose in a glass enclosure near the front door of the cavernous church. Worshippers file by, making the sign of the Cross and touching the coffin’s glass as if paying their respect to the dead.

Based on the feature article published by the same author at the now-defunct Mirror Weekly Magazine

#Quiapo #nationallandmark #Manila #BlackNazarene #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

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Light up the Xacobeo: St. James Way

Light up the Xacobeo is an initiative where more than a hundred monuments and unique buildings throughout Spain are illuminated to mark the beginning of the Xacobeo (Holy Year) 2021. As the Holy Year was extended to 2022 due to the Covid-19 and the restrictions to travel, we will be able to enjoy again this amazing spectacle to start the year 2022. More than 52 buildings along the Way in Spain will be part of this initiative.

 

Joining in those celebrations until January 7th will be two Saint James parishes in the Philippines, Alabang, and Ibaan, Batangas. The response from the parishes has been overwhelming so the project might be extended and light up other Saint James churches along 2022, together with planned exhibitions and conferences.

 

Traveling the Way of Saint James is taking a very special journey through Spain. For many people, it’s a unique adventure that they would repeat in a heartbeat. Embarking on this historical route represents an experience that is a combination of personal challenge, finding oneself, sport, nature, and an interest in history and art. And if your trip coincides with a Jacobean, or Holy Year, the experience will be all the more exceptional.

 

Torre de Hercules A Coruña.

 

Almost every step of the Jacobean route reveals a surprise in the form of a monument, work of art, or cultural manifestation. Cathedrals, bridges, monasteries, palaces, small churches, popular architectural constructions, and so on, some of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition to the wealth of heritage, the Way of Saint James also offers visitors the chance to experience the local culture through the festivals and typical traditions of each place.

When you do the Way of Saint James, sitting down to a good meal to recharge your batteries is usually one of the best moments of the day. Among other reasons, because it’s when you get the chance to sample some of the area’s typical dishes and products. The gastronomy of the different regions along the route is full of delicious recipes and traditional flavors, prepared using quality local, seasonal produce.

 

It is hard to feel left out on the Way of Saint James. Throughout the journey, you will meet friendly strangers willing to help the pilgrims. You’ll meet people of all ages and from all walks of life who have come from all over the world and you’ll make new friends. These are special and unique days where you will experience enriching moments at both a human and personal level.

Many people say that there is something spiritual about the Jacobean route, and not just because of its religious origin and tradition. Many people go on the Camino driven by the need or desire to know themselves better, devote time to thinking, and seek inner peace. So the journey to Santiago de Compostela can also become an inner journey that will stay with you for years to come.

Just walk. Buen Camino.

For the most updated travel safe information in visiting Spain, please visit: https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/

#Xacobeo #HolyYear #Spain #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Luxe travel bubble to a private island

Take off and breeze through the skies in a private jet, helicopter, or single-engine aircraft by Ascent Flights Global (“Ascent”) to the exclusive and all-villa Banwa Private Island.

Banwa Private Island’s preferred aviation partner, Ascent features more private air options for a truly luxurious and seamless experience, whether flying directly to the island or through any of Palawan domestic airports. Every charter flight is tailored to the guest’s needs, meticulously organized from inquiry until well after arrival.

The most favored and convenient charter flight from Manila to Banwa Private Island is through an 8-seater Cessna Grand Caravan EX seaplane, landing directly on the doorstep of the exclusive sanctuary.

Complementing the seaplane and multiple helicopter options, newly available Ascent aircraft include the Cessna Turbo 206H suitable for small groups of up to 5 passengers and perfect for adventure travels with its versatility and cargo space.  While the Cessna 172SP Skyhawk for 3 passengers is considered the most successful aircraft for its reliability and comfort.

For groups of up to 8 passengers, the Swiss crafted Pilatus PC-12NG offers the ultra-modern cabin experience, equipped with all you need to relax, work or share in-flight moments.  For guests wishing to share a private island experience with larger parties of up to 14, the Gulfstream jet is the aircraft of choice.

Ascent – Cessna Grand Caravan EX seaplane

Roundtrip private flight rates start from US$5,700 from Manila to San Vicente, the closest airport to the island, with an onward journey in a premium sports utility vehicle followed by a short and scenic speedboat transfer to the island.

For more information and reservation, please contact the Reservations team through mobile/WhatsApp: +639178882864, send an email to reservations@banwaprivateisland.com, or visit www.banwaprivateisland.com.

For air and land transfer inquiries or bookings, email banwa@ascent.flights or visit www.ascent.flights.

 

#banwaprivateisland #ascent #palawan #philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Philippine Christmas attractions worth visiting this Christmas

Christmas in the Philippines is a uniquely beautiful experience and a truly memorable one. Join in the holiday cheer as various places in the Philippines show the world what it’s like to celebrate Christmas, the Filipino way.

Christmas Arch of Lights in Lagayen, Abra

The province of Abra has been known for its splendid Christmas festivities, and Lagayen, Abra is just the place to be at Christmas. Their Christmas Arch of Lights was formally opened on December 6, 2021, which presents the theme, “Old Churches in Luzon.” It symbolizes the people’s strong foundation of friendship and unity as they strive to keep the Christmas spirit alive despite the pandemic.

Courtesy: Province of Abra

Every arch is decorated with colorful Christmas lights, each donning its specific design made from a variety of ornaments. The arches include the ancient Paoay Church and the historical Barasoain Church, among others.

The Arch of Lights is open from 7 PM to 10 PM, and visitors are allowed to enter, provided that they bring their vaccination cards. Kids ages 11 and below are also allowed, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

 

Christmas Village in San Fernando City, Pampanga

San Fernando City has been known as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines, but they have certainly outdone themselves this year. Their Nights of Lights Christmas Village matches the Kapampangan enthusiasm and holiday spirit perfectly.

Located at The Orchid Gardens Resort complex, the Christmas Village proudly showcases huge Christmas decorations and lanterns, all partnered with plenty of artificial snow. It also honors Filipino Christmas traditions as it also contains kiosks that sell holiday delicacies such as puto bumbong and bibingka.

Nights of Lights Christmas Village. Courtesy of Dyosa the Explorer

The Christmas Village has featured a mix of modern and Kapampangan Christmas. It’s specifically designed for the people to experience a change of scenery, especially since the lockdown has rendered people their homes.

Nights of Lights Christmas Village is open daily, from 5 PM to 10 PM. Children are allowed to visit the village, and there are no vaccination cards required, as long as safety protocols are followed.

 

Tunnel of lights in Taal, Batangas

Batanguenos have certainly proved that no tragedy can ever dampen their Christmas spirit. After the height of the pandemic and the Taal Volcano explosion last year, the municipality’s traditional “pailaw” is finally back on track.

The town plaza has been adorned with the festive tunnel of lights that has attracted people from the country, including the 60 feet Christmas tree shining brightly in the night. The Minor Basilica of St. Martin De Tours has also been lit with Christmas lights, highlighting the features of the oldest church in Asia.

The plaza is well lit and open from 5 PM to 10 PM, but will only allow vaccinated people inside the grounds. Due to safety protocols, they will only allow 4000 people inside the town plaza to see the marvelous Christmas lights display.

 

Rockwell Mall’s festive Christmas decorations

Aside from their signature Christmas car raffle, Rockwell Mall has been continuously surprising people with their high-end Christmas decorations. The arches and columns of the Power Plant Mall are adorned with bright ornaments, alongside huge Christmas trees that are placed in various areas of the mall.

Being one of the grandest malls in the country, Rockwell Mall has taken its Christmas festivities to a higher level as their Christmas car raffle is back while giving other instant rewards to loyal shoppers.

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Amid the pandemic, the Filipinos will surely find ways to enjoy the holidays. These Christmas attractions are definitely worth the travel and the experience, so come and feel the holiday spirit with your loved ones!

Featured photo: Christmas Village in San Fernando, Pampanga courtesy of Era Nunag FB

 

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By Princess Friel Lontoc