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Live, Work and Play: JERDE introduces new projects around the world

Taking on projects of varying scale and programs, JERDE (The Jerde Partnership) is introducing new mixed-use, commercial and hospitality projects opening in 2021 around the world that allows societies to live, work and play. The iconic and internationally renowned architecture and urban planning studio has a team based in the Los Angeles headquarters, as well as offices in Singapore, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, with projects across continents.

 Highlight projects opening in 2021 include Universal CityWalk at Universal Studios in Beijing, Powerlong Zhuji Plaza in Zhejiang, Distrito Armida in Monterrey, Peninsula in Tijuana, Powerlong Zhuhai in Guangdong, and Rykadan Office Headquarters in Hong Kong SAR.

 “We spend most of our lives in buildings, whether this is our flats, our offices, or the nearest mall. But in architecture, it’s not about just the building itself as it is the experience you are able to have within. As part of our placemaking philosophy at JERDE, we create experiential designs, designs that provide an experience, an emotion.  We are trying to create spaces and objects that are attuned to the human emotion so that these spaces are exciting, welcoming, subtly achieves the ultimate goal, and provides wonderful memories,” says Kenneth Ho, JERDE Shareholder and Senior Design Principal based in Singapore.

  • Universal CityWalk at Universal Studios Beijing, Beijing, China (Opening July 2021)

JERDE was appointed to recreate the magic of the original CityWalk in Los Angeles, for Universal Studios Beijing. Unlike the more linear concept used in the original in Orlando, also designed by JERDE in 1994, the Beijing concept calls for a hub and spoke design, with a central plaza where people gather.

JERDE – Universal CityWalk at Universal Studios Beijing, Beijing, China

 At the core of CityWalk in Beijing, spanning 53,350 square meters, a grand plaza serves as a central meeting place and the junction of bustling pedestrian pathways. This urban hub is adjacent to the Entertainment Terrace as well as surrounded by restaurants and retail, all enlivened by street performers and dynamic graphic visuals including a giant LED screen that offers an immersive digital experience. Visitors can access CityWalk through the theme park, metro station, and water taxi hub.

  • Powerlong Zhuji Plaza, Zhuji, Zhejiang (Opened June 2021)

Known for its picturesque mountains and rivers, Zhuji is one of China’s breathtaking tourist cities, in which there is a state-level scenic region, Huanjiang River-Wuxie Scenic Region. JERDE’s master plan for Powerlong Zhuji Plaza positions the 190,000 square meters site to be the main community gathering space for the ChengXi ShangWu district, located near the high-speed train station and connected to Wuxie Lakefront park.

JERDE – Powerlong Zhuji Plaza, Zhuji, Zhejiang

 Consisting of a four-level mall, a lush park with trees and water pools to cool down summer days and host festivities, a street retail village featuring local community retail, and an amphitheater with a large LED screen, the new destination will be filled with enriching and uplifting experiences.

  • Distrito Armida, Monterrey, Mexico (Opened June 2021)

With views of the iconic mountain skyline of Monterrey, Distrito Armida is a new multi-phase mixed-use project created to support a fully serviced lifestyle in the upscale city of Monterrey, Mexico. Masterplanned and designed by JERDE, the project offers new offices and a full-spectrum community that has been conceived in a space covering 25 hectares. Phase 1, opening this summer, features an iconic office tower atop a commercial podium full of shops, restaurants, and outdoor spaces at the south end of the site. The 20-floor office building, branded Torre Malva, is next to a WeWork and a 170-key boutique hotel that is currently under construction.

JERDE – Distrito Armida, Monterrey, Mexico

 Future phases include connection to an adjacent hospital and school, as well as residential towers that will open in a couple of years. Distrito Armida will attract young professionals, families, and business owners with a modern outlook and appreciation for urban living. The curving loop of the Distrito Arminda master plan creates a quieter, more residentially scaled, and activated zone, with slower traffic speeds, less noise, and more pedestrian activity than the main thoroughfare.

  • Peninsula, Tijuana, Mexico  (Opening Autumn 2021)

Part of a mixed-use project, JERDE designed the retail space of Peninsula – an experiential destination created by Grupo DLG for locals and visitors alike to engage and explore. Located at a prime gateway site just south of the Tijuana International Airport, this 750,000 square feet project was designed to create a strong identity for individual tenants and eliminate the feel of the traditional mall in every way. This dynamic mixed-use neighborhood district offers state-of-the-art retail and dining concepts, entertainment, offices, residences, and hotels.

JERDE – Peninsula, Tijuana, Mexico
  • Gaoxin Powerlong Plaza, Zhuhai, Guangdong (Opening November 2021)

JERDE master-planned Powerlong Zhuhai, a mixed-use lifestyle center for the growing regional market, on behalf of Powerlong Group. With a focus on healthy lifestyles, this smart development is set to be the new ‘living room’ for Zhuhai with a culture to leisure programming curated for the community. Integrated technology ensures an experiential yet healthy workplace and hospitality type environment, complete with outdoor merchandising, an art walk that allows for seasonal pop-up stalls and food festivals, digital art and media shows on the lagoon walk, and gathering spaces for families complete with interactive experiences and connections to nature.

JERDE – Powerlong Zhuhai, Zhuhai, Guangdong

 Designed as a transport-oriented design catalyst site of 46,000  square meters, the project mimics a tropical lush island landscape with the bold presence of native trees, contrasted by the vibrant commercial district in the foreground. To top this masterpiece, sustainable design strategies of harvested rainwater and recycled materials are used throughout the project.

  • Rykadan Office Headquarters, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong SAR (Opening End 2021)

Adding to its portfolio of office building design and interior design, JERDE’s newest award-winning project is the talk of the town. Winning Gold for Interior Design at MUSE Design Awards, and First Place for Interior Workplace (Concept) at Rethinking the Future Awards 2021, the interior design of the building’s public space includes the main entrance corridor, lobby, lounge, parking garage, and restrooms. To compete with similar office buildings in the Wong Chuk Hang district, the chosen personality archetype was ‘The Ambassador’ – cultured, worldly, erudite, and sophisticated – exactly the artistic edge and distinct identity and story this project needed. The design theme can be seen through all materials and artworks chosen to bring life to space.

JERDE – Rykadan Office Headquarters, Hong Kong SAR

 Keeping with the times and insights on the importance of mindfulness and a sense of calm in co-working spaces, the 130,000 square feet site was designed with a sky garden on the sixteenth floor, offering building occupants a place of refuge and respite, and a zen garden that sits in the transitional space between the front desk and elevator lobby, greeting visitors and occupants alike with a reminder of another culture.

#Jerde #newprojects #aroundtheworld #design #architecture #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Spreading love and faith in Pangasinan

The province of Pangasinan has a lot to offer than just its famed Hundred Islands. There is surely something for everyone to enjoy – from the crystal-clear waters of its many beaches and the freshest seafood to the awe-inspiring churches and heritage towns, Pangasinan is a well-loved tourist destination.

Thousands flock to the province annually, not only for tourism but also for a religious pilgrimage to several historical churches, particularly the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaog which houses the 17th-century ivory and silver image of the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus.

As the country reels from a global health crisis, Pangasinan has to adapt to the current situation.  Communication solutions have become God-sent as people cling to faith and family to help weather the pandemic.

Parishes have gone digital to live stream their eucharistic services to their congregation, but technology also comes with its own challenges.

“Yung live streaming ng misa, nagfe-freeze video, hindi naman pwedeng hihinto kami sa pagmimisa. Tapos sabi ng mga parishioner namin, patalon-talon daw ang video na napapanood nila, hindi sila maka-focus sa misa, hindi nila maisa-puso kasi distracted sila sa problema ng mabagal na koneksyon,” said Rev. Fr. Allan V. Lopez (O.P.), Parish Priest of Our Lady of the Rosary Manaoag.

Even at home, families try to cope with the new normal. Video calls, for instance, allow Drs. Ana and Federico Peralta III to keep tabs on their three children who are all doctors stationed at different hospitals in Metro Manila.

Dr. Ana shares how important video calls have become to their own family: “Kapag nag-vi-video call kami ng mga anak namin, dahil nakikita namin sila online, hindi kami nag-iisip kung bumabagsak ba ang katawan sa hirap sa trabaho sa ospital o maysakit ba sila. Kaya nawawala yung agam-agam at parang katabi lang sila na kausap. Napapanatag kaming mag-asawa.”

Peralta family

 With the growing dependence on data-heavy technologies, Globe has stepped up to the plate for the public. To be able to provide the best service to its subscribers, Globe has been upgrading its cell towers in Pangasinan and other nearby provinces for faster and more stable 4G LTE service.

The improvement was immediate. Rev. Fr. Allan exclaimed: “Salamat at dumating din sa aming probinsiya ang 4G na ito. Kahit sa abroad malinaw na kaming mapapanood ng mga deboto. Pwedeng pwede kayong mag comment, mag type ng amen!”

Even Drs. Ana and Federico Peralta III shared how the upgraded 4G LTE connection has improved the quality of their online connection. “4G pala yang hi-tech na sinabi na solusyon sa pagka-miss ko sa mga anak ko. Wala na akong kaba sa sitwasyon ng mga bagets. Proud na proud ako sa lakas ng loob at malasakit na ipinapakita ng mga anak ko sa bayan.”

Joel Agustin, Globe Senior Vice President for Program Delivery, Network Technical Group assures the public, “We are bringing connectivity to everyone, especially to areas where a strong, reliable, and accessible internet can spell the difference between surviving and thriving. This is the new normal, and together we will triumph.”

To enjoy these improved services, customers in Pangasinan and other parts of the country who are still using old and slow 3G SIM cards must shift to the 5G-ready 4G LTE SIMs now.  Globe assures customers that their mobile numbers will be retained when they switch to the new technology. If quarantine protocols in their respective areas allow, customers can go to the nearest Globe Store to change their SIM cards for FREE.  For more information, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/help/mobile-internet/lte/faqs.html.

Customers are also encouraged to update their mobile devices to 4G LTE-capable ones and their handset firmware to the latest available on the system for a better mobile data experience.

Interested customers can inquire at Globe stores nationwide for affordable 5G-ready 4G/LTE capable mobile devices.

Globe reinforces its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 9 that highlights the roles of infrastructure and innovation as crucial drivers of economic growth and development.  The company also fully supports the 10 UN Global Compact principles and contributes to 10 UN Sustainable Development Goals.

To know more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

#pangasinan #4GLTEcapable #digitalization #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Harvest Hotel: Your hotel of choice in Cabanatuan City

For travel to be delightful, one must have a good place to stay time and again. Whenever I feel like going out of town, my favorite staycation would always be at the Harvest Hotel, the only modern 4-star hotel located in the center of Cabanatuan City.

Whether you’re going away on a family vacation, a short getaway, or a business trip, you can definitely have a pleasant stay here for many good reasons. Recent reviews from guests and visitors support this encouraging feedback. Harvest has now become the hotel of choice in Cabanatuan City for business and leisure travelers, as well as, for the local residents who prefer to hold their social events and business functions here.

Photo from Gorospe FB page
Harvest GM Lou Bermejo Gorospe (Photo from the FB Page of Ms. Gorospe)

Harvest Hotel General Manager, Lou Bermejo Gorospe feels thankful and inspired to hear positive reviews from hotel guests. “The reviews range from being satisfied on how the hotel staff attended to them, having comfortable rooms, beds, pillows, room interior; bathroom fixtures, and personal care sets; to good food and value for money. Guests remarked that Harvest is stunning for the price,” Gorospe happily shares. “Guests are immediately impressed with just about everything!”

GM Gorospe (center) with her entire team.

Part of the entire delightful experience is the people who make up the Harvest Hotel team.  “We make sure we carry out our Corporate Core Values in our daily work,” says the lady General Manager.

They uphold such values on Innovation, Integrity, Service, Passion, and Teamwork that make them a cut above the rest of the hotels in Cabanatuan City.  “Our hotel standard is no less than to provide our valued guests with exceptional care and top-notch products and facilities.”

Superb accommodation

One thing that you will definitely appreciate while on a staycation at Harvest Hotel is its cozy, clean and comfortable air-conditioned rooms – totaling 81 well-appointed rooms. Each room feature beds that are composed of good quality mattresses and beddings for a restful sleep, an LCD cable television, a bathroom with a hot and cold shower, a medium-sized working desk with a telephone, a minibar, an electronic safe, a coffee and tea making facility, iron and ironing board and fast broadband internet connection – everything that will make your stay truly delightful.

Guests can choose from room categories such as Standard Twins, Standard Queens, Executive Suites, Loft 1 and 2. The Standard Twin Room is the basic room category and it comprises the majority of the total room inventory of the Hotel. This 29-square meter room comes with two (2) single beds, a bathroom with shower, a working table, LCD cable TV, a coffee/tea making facility, an in-room safe, and a mini-bar.

The Standard Queen room is also a 29-sqm room with one queen bed, a bathroom with a shower, a working table, an LCD cable TV, a coffee/tea making facility, an in-room safe, and a mini-bar.

Next to the Standard Room is the Suite Room which boasts of a 38-square meter space that comes with one queen bed, a bathroom with a shower, a working table, an LCD cable TV, a coffee/tea making facility, an in-room safe, and a mini-bar.

The best room of Harvest Hotel is the Loft located on the topmost floor. This 67-square meter consists of two floors with a separate living area, dining space, and a king-sized bed, and a bathroom. These are best for honeymooners, couples, and family guests.

For an uninterrupted workout, you can still sweat it out at the fitness gym located on the third floor. It offers the latest and complete gym equipment.

For guests looking for a venue for their events and meetings can consider the hotel Ballroom that is convertible into two function rooms. Ballroom A can occupy 130 persons, while Ballroom B, 70 persons. The whole Ballroom can accommodate 200 person sit-down, 300 cocktail, and 350 theatre types.

Satisfying Dining Experience

Aside from the comfortable rooms, one can always look forward to the delicious food being served at Café Ecija Restaurant and Bar, located in the lobby. It is ready to serve a sumptuous buffet for breakfast and an all-day a la carte menu every day featuring Filipino and international dishes. It has a 76-seating capacity and is open to in-house guests and walk-in diners daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. An outdoor swimming pool is just right outside Café Ecija.

Chef Lester Bergado

During our visit, Chef  Lester Bergado, the affable in-house chef of Harvest Hotel happily served to us the dishes he prepared for our photoshoot. He shared that they have added more Pinoy comfort food to the menu. Aside from the regular Salmon Head Sa Miso and Hipon sa Kamatis, additional dishes are the all-time favorites, such as Kare-Kare, Caldereta, Pininyahang Manok, Pork Lechon and Harvest Sinigang Beef Buko.

The Experience team was also lucky to have tasted the Friday Feast of the World Buffet with choices ranging from salad, cold and hot appetizer, soup, grilled, hot dishes, and dessert. For the salad, they served Mixed Green Salad with Croutons, Parmesan, corn kernels, tomato, Onion, Cucumber, Capsicum, and Bacon. For the dressing, choices were Caesar, Thousand Island, and Italian Dressing.

Cold and hot appetizers were Assorted Maki Rolls and Mixed Cold Cuts; Crispy Pork Belly infused in Chili jam and Eggplant Parmigiana with Cheese Sauce. For the soup, it felt calming to have tried Seafood Shabu-Shabu and Tuscan Tomato Soup. From the carving station, we surely tried the Slow Roasted Beef Short Plate with Wild Mushroom Sauce; and the grilled Beef, Pork, Chicken, Fish, and Sausage. Happy tummy, indeed!

For hot dishes, they served Asian Beef Kofta in Sour Cream Sauce, Hainanese Chicken, my favorite Phad Thai, and Shanghai Fried Rice. For the Western offering, they prepared Pork Escalope with Peppercorn Sauce, Seafood Gnocchi, Vegetable Polonaise, and Mushroom Risotto Rice.

Choices for dessert vary from Crème Brule Shots, Panacotta Shots, Chocolate Bar. There were also Marshmallows, Breadsticks and Wafer stick at the Chocolate Fountain Station.

Our gastronomic experience didn’t end at the buffet station. There were also additional plated dishes served for our feature and consumption. We tried BBQ Baby Back Ribs, a Texas-style smoked BBQ baby back ribs served with buttered corn, coleslaw, and French fries. Followed by Beef Kare-Kare, slow-cooked ox tripe, beef chunks, and tropical vegetables simmered in Filipino-style peanut sauce served with famous bagoong. For the beverage, they offered us to try the Harvest Potion and Winty Citrus Dew.

Harvest Potion and Winty Citrus Dew

I had a fill of Adobong Pusit, a Classic Filipino Adobo dish where sliced squid is cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, onion, and tomatoes. I must say this was my favorite from among the dishes served to us. I always crave Adobong Pusit since this is seldom prepared at home.

The writer in one of the cozy rooms at Harvest

The Seafood and Aubergine Salad in Turmeric and Cider Reduction, was by far, what Chef Lester has recommended. Seeing the assorted fresh lettuce, grilled seafood, and aubergine with reduction of turmeric and cider vinegar in an ensemble made it an irresistible dish to try. 

As a finale, one not to miss the appetizing desserts – a choice of Choco Cream Cake, a Black Forest cake filled with chocolate ganache; and Sans rival, a layered meringue cake with buttercream and chopped cashew nuts.

All in all, it was a satisfying hotel experience made truly special by meeting the hotel owners themselves while enjoying the night away with friends. The team even had a jamming session with Leo Pisces Duo’s band playing that night.

(For more information about Harvest Hotel, please contact: T:(044) 9508888 M: (+63) 917-539-6125  or E: info@theharvesthotel.com. Please visit its website at:  www.theharvesthotel.com  and Like them on Facebook)

Reposted from Experience Travel and Living magazine. Photos By Renjie Tolentino

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Travel associations appeal for more support for the tourism industry

The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) and other travel groups are seeking more assistance from the Department of Tourism.

In a letter to the DOT, the PTAA noted “ongoing financial challenges and impact to business” from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are one with the department’s endeavor towards recovery and to support businesses severely hit by the continuing coronavirus disease,” PTAA President Michelle Taylan wrote in the letter addressed to DOT Sec. Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.

The travel association is requesting further assistance from state insurers like the Social Security System, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG in maximizing the availment of benefits for PTAA members and other stakeholders in the travel industry who may currently be suffering from financial constraints due to either limited or shuttered business.

The group also seeks discounted lifeline packages for other recurring monthly bills that need to be settled while on an operation. This includes utilities and telecommunication payment dues.

“You can just imagine the financial burden of having to pay off these otherwise usual items, without actual income,” Taylan said. “We are hoping to give tourism industry workers a bit of relief kahit sa simpleng mga bayarin kada buwan.”

The PTAA launched its “Bills Support Care” campaign, taking inspiration from the various community pantries being set up in different parts of the country.

The PTAA launched its “Bills Support Care” campaign, taking inspiration from the various community pantries being set up in different parts of the country.

The association expects momentum for the tourism industry to take off following the vaccination of the A4 priority group which includes tourism workers.

“We see some silver lining as vaccination of economic frontliners begin. It would just be a matter of time until we see the tourism boom again. But until such time, we hope to provide whatever help we can to ailing businesses,” Taylan said.

Leisure travel to and from the NCR Plus to areas under more relaxed restrictions or those in modified general community quarantine has been allowed but limited to point-to-point travel.

Travelers aged below 18 years old and those older than 65 must present a negative RT-PCR test result. Swab test requirements of those in-between age groups will depend on their destination’s local government unit protocol.

Aside from the PTAA and TCP, other travel associations like the PATA, NAITAS, QCTAA, PATS, ALTTA, ATTAP, ATTA, BAPTTA, BATFOI, BITATOA, BSTA, BOSZTAA, CTTA, DTAA, ITATOA, NEATOP, PTOTAA, QuePATTA, TATToO, R1TTA, and the RTAA join the call to seek assistance for travel and tourism workers gravely affected this pandemic.

Featured photo: PTAA President Michelle Taylan

#tourismindustry #appeal #support #travelindustry #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

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Raising the Benchmark in Resort Living

Landco continuing its pioneering spirit with its latest Leisure Tourism Estates  – Club Laiya and CaSoBē.

Landco raises the benchmark in resort living with the introduction of Club Laiya and CaSoBē in Batangas — its newest Leisure Tourism Estates (LTE) that are master-planned developments offering mixed-use residential and commercial lots situated in tourist destinations.

“With a legacy of premium and exclusive property development for more than 30 years, Landco revolutionizes the concept of property ownership for Filipinos with its newest beachside projects.  This LTE serves as a tourism and lifestyle destination in a community setting. Its diverse resort amenities make it an attractive weekend getaway, work from a resort option, and a venue for events and conferences,” stated Landco President and CEO Erickson Y. Manzano.

CaSoBe

“Investors have the flexibility to own premium properties that can serve as residential homes either as a dream beach house or second home, or commercial structure for a resort business, or a blend of both in the thriving destination of Batangas. Through these projects, Landco helps promote Philippine tourism and jumpstart local businesses,” he added.

These two projects under Landco BeachTowns are conveniently accessible within two to three-hour driving distance from Metro Manila and are minutes away from local facilities: hospital, public market, pharmacy, school, chapel, and tourist spots.

Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe

These beachside properties have thoughtful design elements that offer an inviting and relaxing ambiance that evokes harmony with nature. A sense of community pervades in these developments as property owners share their passion for appreciation of beachside lifestyle – with the invigorating sight of white sand, sea, and sky; water sports; gourmet dining; crafts, arts, and culture with their family and friends as well as locals and tourists.

As premium tourism estates, Club Laiya and CaSoBē are envisioned to contribute to the quality of the leisure tourism experience in its locality and promote the three main principles of sustainable tourism, namely: environment, economic, and socio-cultural sustainability. The two properties are aiming to be both Edge and LEED-certified. Ecological conservation projects particularly the conservation of marine life and sea turtles are in place in both developments.

Aquaria

Staying connected whether for business or leisure is easy at these premium estates which are built with technology-equipped infrastructure.

Moreover, these projects are future-proof investments that thrive on the burgeoning tourism market of Batangas. Property owners have the benefit of enjoying the anticipated increase of their investment’s market value as proven by Landco’s recent project in Punta Fuego, Batangas.

Elevating the resort lifestyle experience, Millennial Resorts offers a wide range of resort amenities at both properties: from unconventional accommodations like the surreal capsule-like rooms of Cocoons to Crusoe Cabins’ beachfront view of Calatagan, Batangas’ picture-perfect sunsets.

Cocoons at Club Laiya

Complementing the beach experience are water amenities such as Aquaria, a water park with a three-story pool slide at CaSoBē, and the Beach Club at Club Laiya. For foodies, Captain Barbozza restaurant and bar showcase a feast for the senses.  While those seeking a venue for corporate events and weddings, the facilities of Canopy and Isle are available.

To ensure continuous productivity, the Colony features a modern and hip beachside co-working space.

MILLI, the Millennial Resorts’ digital service app provides seamless reservations and transactions in the properties.

  • Club Laiya

The 24-hectare Club Laiya is located in Laiya, San Juan Batangas. It is a master-planned estate that features leisure living in a true supra resort community highlighting wide open spaces and beautiful promenades, with parks and retail landscapes.

The Seaside District at Club Laiya provides various offerings serving both the tourist market and the serious investor. For the leisure seeker, apart from having access to Laiya’s expansive white sand beaches, they can also avail themselves of the resort amenities in the estate.

Designed as a contemporary resort destination, it is the place to see and be seen, property owners and tourists alike enjoy an active lifestyle with water sports and activities such as windsurfing, kayaking, and yachting.

  • CaSoBē (Calatagan South Beach)

Nestled on the sands of Calatagan, Batangas is the 15-hectare CaSoBē (Calatagan South Beach).  CaSoBē offers a more laidback resort lifestyle in an intimate setting and complements the rich heritage of its location by providing relaxation and entertainment attractions that are already operational or soon to be operational to serve the residents and the tourist market.

Harbour Estates are lots offered within CaSoBē. These estates are classified as commercial or mixed-use where lots are for residential or commercial or both. Investors enjoy the stature and benefits of owning a beach property in a thriving resort setting.

Landco is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Corporation. For more information about Club Laiya and CaSoBē, visit landco.ph or FB page @LandcoPacificCorporation.

 Featured photo: Club Laiya

#Landco #ClubLaiya #CaSoBe #LeisureTourismEstates #LaiyaSanJuanBatangas #CalataganBatangas #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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My kind of long weekend escape

When you venture out of town what do you usually look for? What kind of escape do you need? After a few busy months of life in the city, seeking the right amount of serenity and stimulation is almost next to impossible. Where do you go?

Fly from Manila and land directly at Lio Airport through local flights via AirSWIFT and get to enjoy the beach faster than if you drove out of the city. With El Nido just an hour’s flight away and Lio Beach barely a 5-minute drive from the Lio Airport there’s no better way to spend your long weekends and holidays.

 

Casa Kalaw – Swimming Pool

Here you can find three boutique hotels to choose from – Hotel Covo, Balai Adlao, and Casa Kalaw; each of these hotels with its own distinct design and culture catering to those traveling with friends, a partner, or family members. You’ll not only be greeted by excellent service and world-class amenities but you’ll get to explore the entire estate through carved pathways and beautiful bridges.

The writer at Hotel Covo

Indulge in a wide range of restaurants and bars, and experience a number of relaxing land and water activities like standup paddleboarding or beach volleyball. With the estate’s newly opened hotels, Casa Kalaw has already been recognized and awarded by the Travel and Hospitality Awards with the Sea View Guest House of the Year 2018 of Mimaropa.

Casa Kalaw – Veranda

AHRC and TKDC continue to work together to create not just resorts and hotels but thriving communities in the Philippines.

(Special thanks to Sir Joey Bernardino, the TKDC team, and the Lio Resort staff for making our stay unforgettable. The writer went on a trip to Lio Beach with the Experience Travel and Living magazine team.)

#LioBeach #ElNido #Palawan #TKDC #beach #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Your tropical island getaway

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay will continue to work tirelessly to create a sustainable future for Boracay, ensuring that visitors are able to enjoy this idyllic island for many generations to come.

There were so many places in the past that I wished I could go back to. One of those was Boracay Island where I have experienced its pristine beauty in its heyday.

The white and powdery sand, which with the almost azure color of the ocean and palm trees provided a beautiful combination and a sense of being in paradise. I was saddened when its natural allure got damaged, characterized by filthy water and environmental issues. Following the recent six-month closure of the island, I was delighted to be back to this idyllic nirvana.

Welcome to Boracay!

Upon arrival at the Caticlan-Boracay Airport, we were escorted to Caticlan port where a boat whisked us to Boracay island. In less than 30 minutes, we reached the last port where a shuttle service took us directly to Movenpick Resort & Spa Boracay, our gracious, upscale resort host for this trip.

The tropical beachfront paradise nestled at Punta Bunga Cove has reopened to guests to experience this exquisite destination’s newly-restored magnificence.

Escape Into Indulgence

 

The planned itinerary was light and easy. On day one, we had our sumptuous lunch at Ssäm, which combines innovative Asian cuisine, plus a fresh sushi and sashimi bar. A relaxing break at The Café, a cozy retreat for irresistible cakes, signature sandwiches, teas, coffees, and Chocolate Hour, was enjoyable, too!

Nighttime was made special with a welcome dinner and cocktails at Sol Marina Beach Club hosted by Movenpick’s affable general manager Andre Brulhart and his team, Grace Agatep and Pia De Villa. The seafood dinner was superbly complemented with a happy conversation on sundry topics.
Hearty dinner with Movenpick team and media guests.
“It is wonderful to be able to welcome guests back to Boracay,” commented Andre Brulhart. “With our private beach on the island’s northern tip, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay did not have the same issues as the rest of the island, but we are happy with the overall impact of the island’s closure. Our amazing team is ready and waiting to provide guests with unsurpassed experiences here in Boracay.”

After dinner, we stayed a bit longer at Sol Marina Beach Club to chill out and soak up the natural beauty of Boracay. It has a nice collection of sun loungers and cabanas – great for sipping cool cocktails and gazing out over the calming seas during the night. A heart-warming catch-up with a former colleague who happened to be on the same trip added fun to our stay.

Beautiful Boracay sunset.
The next day, we had our breakfast at The Market, a bright and vibrant international restaurant that serves delectable daily buffet breakfasts and global à la carte dishes for lunch and dinner. We then went to the main beach to see how it looks like post-rehabilitation.

We were like kids excited to walk on the beach with its powdery white sand shore and crystal-clear waters. Then, it was lunch at Brezza, which offers authentic Italian cuisine, including the fastest hand-made pizzas on the island, baked in a wood-fired oven imported directly from Napoli (Naples), Italy. It has been nicknamed “The Beast,” accompanied by a wide selection of Italian “aperitivo” and fine wines.

We then headed for a spa treatment at the resort later that afternoon. I opted for the 90-minute Sagay Regenerating Ritual, inspired from sagay (shell) true essence of a protective layer role. Sagay Spa’s Signature Massage incorporates sagay’s richness in calcium that can be absorbed by the body through heat and essential oils, leaving your skin moisturized and smoother.

Best-tasting grilled food was served for dinner at a very exclusive presidential villa of the resort. The night was full of great stories — ranging from alma mater reunion, politics, food, entertainment, and of course, feedback and insights from various people on Boracay re-opening. Brulhart believes that hoteliers have a duty to preserve their destination and create benefits for the entire local community.

The writer at the pool area – enjoying her “me” time.
Our last day was a “me-time” moment to experience the hotel amenities before flying back to Manila. I felt the comfort of home inside my bright, contemporary-designed room, one of the resort’s 312 rooms and suites, and where I saw the views of the tropical gardens and shimmering sea.

After a morning swim at the spectacular pool, I cooled off at the tropical Pool Bar, with its choice of shady private cabanas and a sunken swim-up bar.

Needless to say, Movenpick Boracay has a diverse collection of F&B outlets to provide outstanding dining experiences, from romantic couples’ meals to fun-filled family feasts and bountiful banquets. Little Birds Club and playground are available also for younger guests.

Event organizers can host unforgettable occasions among several venues, including indoor meeting rooms and outdoor wedding spaces. This and more made my paradise escape an unforgettable experience.

For more information about Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay, please visit www.movenpick.com/en/asia/philippines/boracay/resort-spa-boracay.

Re-posted from http://www.experiencetravelph.com

#throwbacktravel #MovenpickResortandSpa #Boracay #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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“Flavors of Pampanga: Manyaman!” happening on May 28 in Clark, Pampanga

The Department of Tourism (DOT) invites everyone to take part in “Flavors of Pampanga: Manyaman!”, which will showcase the diverse culinary heritage and rich food history of the region, particularly in Pampanga, the Culinary Capital of the Philippines.

“Flavors of Pampanga: Manyaman!” will be held on May 28 (Friday) in Clark, Pampanga, and will feature the region’s diverse food heritage through cooking demonstrations of culinary experts, including chef de cuisines from hotels in Clark. The event will be broadcasted live and streamed online through the DOT-Region III official Facebook page, and the public is invited to be part of it[1] .

Pampanga is a leading proponent of culinary tourism in the Philippines and we would like to thank everyone from this region who has supported, promoted, and furthered culinary tourism. The desire to eat good food and immerse oneself in culture through its cuisine is a powerful motivator for traveling,” said Romulo-Puyat.

But the event is only one of several efforts of the region to enrich its food tourism. The DOT, through its Central Luzon Regional Office, is also organizing the “¡SABROSO! – A Filipino and Spanish Food Fair”, which will highlight and showcase the Filipino dishes that were influenced by the Spanish people. Such dishes will be prepared and demonstrated by renowned celebrity chefs from Central Luzon. This event is expected to be held in November 2021.

Sisig, a staple of Kapampangan cuisine, and the Flavors of Pampanga. Photos courtesy of the Department of Tourism

“Food is one of the strengths of the region and we want to enrich tourists’ experience by sharing with them our heritage and culture through our food. We will conduct food mapping for the provinces of Pampanga and Bulacan so that we have an inventory of the heirloom dishes and where all ingredients are coming from. This will be significant in a more sustainable culinary tourism plan,” concluded Puyat.

The tourism secretary also emphasized that one of the tourism circuits the DOT is creating is a “Farm, Food and Pilgrimage Tour” covering the provinces of Pampanga, Tarlac, and Nueva Ecija.

The tour includes farm-to-table activities, savoring authentic Kapampangan dishes while enjoying the scenic view of Mt. Arayat; and visiting the Herencia de Bacolor farm resort in Pampanga, the iconic Monasterio de Tarlac, the Dueg-Kapya Ken in San Clemente, Tarlac, which has breathtaking views, and the Mudita Glamping Resort in San Jose, Tarlac, where rooms are made of nipa huts and stand in the middle of rice field.

In Nueva Ecija, tourists can visit the Argamosa Farm, a Balinese-inspired resort with farm-to-table activities, the scenic Colosboa Hills, and Mt. Bulaylay in Cuyapo, as well as the Shrine of the Holy Face of Jesus in Nampicuan.

The DOT-Region III will also launch the “Slow Food, Slow Travel Caravan” featuring Slow Food of Bacolor, Lubao, and Sasmuan heirloom recipes in Pampanga. Slow food is a concept that seeks to preserve traditional cuisines and promotes sustainable preparation of food.

Aside from this, the DOT has also created tourism circuits for travelers who want different kinds of adventure. The Region circuits include Eco and Adventure Tour in Nueva Ecija and Aurora; River Adventure in Bulacan and Eco and Wine Farm featuring various farms and vineyards in Tarlac; and a Soul Circuit, an inter-regional circuit that will include the Manila Bay Cruise, Cavite’s Corregidor, and Bataan’s Mt. Samat and Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar.

Leisure travel is now allowed in the Province of Pampanga, following the health protocols. Pampanga and Clark are open to all. However, Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal, known as NCR Plus, is under general community quarantine “with heightened restrictions” until May 31, 2021. Only essential travel is allowed in and out of NCR Plus.

Source: https://beta.tourism.gov.ph/

#CentralLuzon #Pampanga #FlavorsofPampangaManyaman #culinarytourism #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Featured photo courtesy of Department of Tourism

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Farm life in times of pandemic

Being on a farm is good for your health. It fosters practicality, creativity, and bond among family members.

We live in unusual times. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted us in many ways. Our way of life has been disrupted. We are now embracing and living a “new normal” and adhering to quarantine protocols.

Having a life where things slow down just a bit means avoiding too much stress from urban living. Being on a farm is good for your health. It fosters practicality, creativity, and bond among family members.

In the midst of a crisis, you can rely on fresh produce from the farm such as veggies, fruits, and other crops. You know where your food is coming from and what goes into it. There’s also something satisfying in growing one’s own food.

My family at Lebajo ArtFarm: Wearing masks to keep ourselves protected from the virus.
  • Nature

One of the best parts of farm life is being in nature. The scenery is beautiful and peaceful. The air is a lot cleaner and cooler, too. You feel totally relaxed. The atmosphere is less suffocating. You can look forward to a picturesque sunrise and vibrant sunset early on, and be fascinated with the chirping of the birds around you.

  • Farm to table

During our stay at the farm, we harvested sweet mangoes and Bangkok santol, fresh vegetables such as ampalaya, okra, patola, papaya, and string beans. For organic string beans, we made an easy to prepare sauteed beans mixed with vegetarian meat for a hearty meal.

According to an online source, green beans are a healthy addition to almost any eating plan because they are a low-calorie, low-fat source of energy. Beans are also nutrient-dense since they provide lots of beneficial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants without many calories.

The farm-to-table scheme is beneficial for sustenance and quality of life.

  • Gardening

Gardening is good for our mental health and overall well-being, especially in this time of uncertainty. It’s always enjoyable and fulfilling to cultivate the plants either in the morning or afternoon. When you see it blooms and bears fruits, you feel the satisfaction from nurturing the floras.

A report in the Mental Health Journal cited “gardening as being able to reduce stress and improve mood, with a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety.”

Farmgirl: Harvesting the crops

Aside from gardening, you can do a lot of activities that stimulate sound body and mind, such as caring for the pets, harvesting the crops, biking, jogging, cooking, painting, meditation, yoga, badminton, basketball, reading a good book in a hammock, and a lot more.

Spending the quarantine period at the farm is a blissful and valuable experience after all.

(The Lebajo ArtFarm is a sprawling family farm cum studio gallery located in Alfonso, Cavite)

#farmlife #artfarm #coronaviruspandemic #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

(By Ruby Asoy-Lebajo)

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Plan you summer holiday to this nature park in Lucban, Quezon

Feel the tropical vibes at Batis Aramin amidst the picturesque Mount Banahaw backdrop.

Looking for a summer destination that is perfect for families and friends? Don’t look any further. Plan your summer holiday at Batis Aramin just a stone’s throw away from Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church and Via Dolorosa Grotto in Lucban, Quezon.

Batis Aramin is a nature park for families, friends, and companies looking for a place for their relaxation, swimming, and other leisure and team-building activities. It is a vast resort with beautiful and picturesque backgrounds that you will surely love. Not to mention Mount Banahaw as its main milieu.

Courtesy: Batis Aramin FB Page
Courtesy: Batis Aramin FB Page

With the ongoing pandemic, the establishment has complied with the Safety & Health Protocol-Guidelines of the DOT, DTI, and local IATF that ensure the safety of their tourists and the host community as well.

As part of health protocols, they require the signing of a health declaration form upon check-in, body temperature check upon entering, contactless “Mabuhay Gesture,” installation of barriers and markers in check-in counters promoting physical distancing, and availability of holding area for guests showing symptoms.

When you have the whole pool to yourself. Personal photo
Sunflower blooms at the resort. Courtesy of Batis Aramin FB Page

Moreover, all rooms are cleaned and sanitized with disinfectant and sanitizing spray. Beds are at least one meter apart. There is also thorough sanitation of frequently touched surfaces, limited seating capacity per table, and availability of emergency hotline numbers.

Since last year, Batis Aramin has been granted the Certificate of Authority to Operate by the Department of Tourism.

Room with a relaxing view. Courtesy of Batis Aramin FB Page

The resort has an ongoing promo for all Quezonians and Lucbanin. They get a 20% discount on entrance fees and 10% on room accommodation until April 30, 2021. Just present any ID as proof of residency and Health Certificate.

Experience Lucban, Quezon—the summer and art capital of Quezon this summer. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/batisaramin

#staycation #quezonmunatayo #lucbanquezon #batisaramin #summer #destination #philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

(By Ruby Asoy-Lebajo)