Travel & Lifestyle -

April 22, 2023January 5, 2024

The Philippines welcomes Vanessa Hudgens as its newest Global Tourism Ambassador

The title recognizes the Hollywood actress’ “contributions to help promote the Philippines as one of the world’s best tourism destinations.”

The Philippines offers numerous picturesque places perfect for any traveler looking for a thrilling and enjoyable getaway. For the same reason that Vanessa Hudgens believes the Philippines is a paradise waiting to be discovered. As the new tourism ambassador for the Philippines, the Filipino-American actress hopes to showcase the country’s rich heritage by retracing her Filipino roots.

On March 30, 2022, Vanessa had been appointed as the Global Tourism Ambassador for the Philippines, and she was thrilled about the opportunity.

“It’s a little bit of everything. It’s got paradise. It’s got [a] metropolitan city. It’s got kindness,” she enthusiastically expressed. “Everybody is so warm, so friendly. The people here are unique. Everyone is just so warm. I haven’t met anyone who seems like they’re not having a bad day. The hospitality is unmatched. It got wonder, and it’s just a magical place.”

The title was given by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., during a conferment ceremony at the Malacañang Palace. The title recognizes the Hollywood actress’ “contributions to help promote the Philippines as one of the world’s best tourism destinations.”

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), “The initiative is a branding campaign and marketing strategy aimed at attracting international tourists as the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Creative Arts (OPACC) and the DOT (Department of Tourism) set their sights on creating opportunities to aggressively push for the resurgence of the Philippines as a travel destination.”

The High School Musical star has started working with director Paul Soriano on a travel documentary. In partnership with the tourism department, the documentary will highlight the actress’ reconnection with her Filipino roots while promoting the country’s tourist spots. The film will also feature her relationship with her Filipino mother, Gina Guangco, and sister Stella.

Gina was born in Manila, Philippines, and left when she was 25 years old, making Vanessa half-Filipino. She has always been proud of her Filipino heritage and has been talking about it in various interviews. She even shared her desire to showcase her Filipino identity in an interview with Glamour UK in 2021.

“My mom is from the Philippines, and growing up, there weren’t many women who looked like me and my mom and my family onscreen. It’s important to share all the different stories because America is a massive melting pot, [just like the] world.”

While the 34-year-old Broadway beauty admits this was the first time she had the chance to visit the country, she made it worthwhile by visiting the crystal clear lagoons of El Nido, Palawan. Aside from her plans of visiting the beautiful beaches and historical landmarks in the country, she also would like to immerse herself in Filipino culture. She particularly wants to meet with local tribal communities.

Photo credits to PEP.ph

“I’m going to hang out with tribes, there’s so much to do,” she stated. “I haven’t even gone shopping!”

As she entered her mid-30s, her plans involved finding her roots and rediscovering herself, hence the trip to the Philippines. “I’m thinking about raising a family, and I wanna be able to know my heritage so that I can bring that forth and so that my kids can know their background, they can know more about their own blood.”

Meanwhile, Vanessa faced backlash on social media as many netizens deemed her unworthy of the title. Nevertheless, the actress opened up about how she struggled to find her place in Hollywood as a Fil-Am.

Even though the industry is slowly diversifying, there is still a lack of international representation, especially among the Filipino tribes. Thus, she looks forward to more opportunities to work and stay in the country to fulfill her goal of learning about the Philippines and discovering her Filipino identity.

“I already can’t wait to come back. I feel like the time that I have spent here has been so incredible and so special, but I need more time. The country is so big and has so much to offer,” she said.

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

Featured photo credits to GMA News

#VanessaHudgens #PHGlobalTourismAmbassador #Philippines #DOT #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

April 4, 2023

Spend Easter Break at Richmonde Hotels

Holy Week is the perfect time to rest and spend time with family, and what can be more relaxing than staying in the city away from the crowded beaches and packed roads to out-of-town hotspots.

We’ve got your back! Richmonde Hotel Ortigas (RHO) and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel (ERH) could take care of this for you.

Urban getaway at RHO

Available from April 1 to 10, 2023, Richmonde’s Easter Break Escape Room Package provides guests with a soothing sojourn for as low as PhP 3,400 nett per night if staying for two or more nights. Overnight rates are also reasonably priced starting at PhP 3,500 nett for Sunday to Thursday stays and PhP 3,700 nett for Friday & Saturday check-ins. For rates that come with a daily breakfast buffet for up to two adults and two children aged 5 years old and below, rates begin at PhP 4,200 nett per night for a minimum of 2 nights, PhP 4,300 nett and PhP 4,500 nett for nightly stays from Sunday to Thursday and Friday to Saturday, respectively.

All guests also get complimentary use of the Health Club’s gym and heated indoor pool, scheduled afternoon snacks at the café, and lemonade at the pool area on April 6, 7 & 8. And for the convenience of in-house guests on April 9, an Easter Sunday mass will be celebrated at the 3^rd floor function rooms at 10:30am.

For guilt-free indulgences, this Lent and the summer season, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, Richmonde Café, introduces new seafood specials featuring fresh and healthy pescatarian dishes like grilled blue marlin (PhP 810nett), sous vid black cod (PhP 940nett), and salmon teriyaki (PhP 865nett). These delightful entrées are available for a la carte orders for the whole month of April.

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

Enjoyable Eggsperience at ERH

Richmonde’s Easter Eggsperience Room Packages, available from April 1 to 10, 2023, provide three rate options guests can choose from. For a no-frills stay, rates start at PhP 3,800 nett, which is good for room accommodations for up to two adults and two children 5 years old and below. For as low as PhP 5,600 nett, get inclusions of a breakfast buffet for two and PhP 500 dining credits that can be used for food and beverage orders at Eastwood Café+Bar or from room service.

To have the ultimate Easter Sunday celebration with the little ones, there’s the Easter Celebration Package, available on April 8 and 9, starting at PhP 8,600 nett which includes a breakfast buffet for two, dining credits worth PhP 500, and two tickets to the hotel’s April 9 Easter Party event. All rates include complimentary use of the pool and gym, a 20% discount on restaurant and room service orders, and a 15% discount on all services of Lumiere Skin and Spa located beside the hotel’s mall entrance.

It will be a Beary Happy Easter at Eastwood Richmonde’s kiddie party happening on April 9, from 1pm to 5pm at the Ballroom and Amberley-Belmont Rooms. Highlighted by a sumptuous snack buffet and food carts, an Easter egg hunt, a kiddie show with musical performances, a bear-themed costume contest, a photo booth, loot bags, games, and prizes, the event promises to be a fun-filled Easter celebration to remember. Tickets are at PhP 1,499nett per child or adult. Children 2 years old and below are free if accompanied by a paying adult.

During the Holy Week holiday from April 6 to 8, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, Eastwood Café+Bar, will serve an array of well-loved Filipino snacks from 2:30pm to 5pm, including pancit canton, arroz caldo, turon, sapin-sapin, halo-halo and more at the Merienda Buffet. The buffet is priced at PhP 499nett, inclusive of a glass of iced tea.

On Easter Sunday, Eastwood Café+Bar will present its newest weekend lunch buffet. Consisting of international favorites like roast beef short plate, maki rolls, hot pot, lechon belly roll, and many more, the Sunday Lunch Buffet will be featuring a Greek station with lamb shank and fish, plus your choice of tzatziki, skordalia, or tabbouleh sauce. Priced at only PhP 1,499nett with bottomless iced tea and coffee, this buffet will make the Easter celebration with the family even more special. Children 6 to 12 years old get a 50% discount while toddlers 5 years old and below eat for free.

For inquiries and bookings, call (632) 8570 7777 / (63) 917 531 6867 or email stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com. For table reservations, call (63) 917 821 0333 or send a message via Eastwood Richmonde Hotel’s official Facebook page.

#Richmondehotels #RHO #ERH #HolyWeek #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

February 8, 2023January 5, 2024

Romantic indulgences to share with your special someone

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

Toast to Love

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

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

Love at First Bite

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

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

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

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

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

#RichmondeHotelOrtigas #ValentinesDay2023 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

January 22, 2023January 23, 2023

Luck and love at Bayview Park Hotel Manila

With hopes for prosperity to continuously hop in this 2023, Bayview Park Hotel Manila welcomes the Year of the Rabbit with a celebration rooted in tradition.

The festivity to mark the Lunar New Year started with a lion and dragon dance meant to usher in abundance. With performances and games to stir nothing but positivity, the gathering was filled with glee and good energy.

Bayview Park Hotel never fails to showcase its brand of hospitality. While being serenaded, guests were treated to a delectable feast of Chinese dishes specially curated for the event.

Considered to be among the practical preferred accommodation options in the district, Bayview Park Hotel constantly comes up with offers to make everyone fully enjoy their stay on the property.

Just as January is about to close, the hotel is already preparing for the season of love with its Valentine’s promo promising its clients a Magical Night to Remember.

As a gift to its guests, couples can indulge in a romantic dinner for two for as low as PhP 3,299.00/net which already includes a bottle of wine, a photo booth souvenir, and a long-stemmed rose for the ladies.

For a more memorable celebration, they can book the Superior Room or Deluxe Room at Php 6,750.00 and Php 7,750.00 respectively. The package covers overnight accommodation with complimentary late checkout until 2 pm, a romantic candlelight dinner for two, a stemmed rose for the ladies, and Valentine’s souvenir.

Opening its doors to a year brimming with health, wealth, luck, and love, Bayview Park Hotel also wishes to welcome you with its signature service that’s only meant to please you.

Learn more about our offerings for the coming months. For more information, visit bayviewparkhotel.com or check their social media pages @bayviewparkhotel. You may also reach them at (02) 8526 1-555 or book directly via bookings@bayviewparkhotel.

#bayviewparkhotel #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

January 16, 2023January 25, 2024

Conrad Singapore Orchard debuts in the heart of the city

Singapore – Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is pleased to announce the opening of Conrad Singapore Orchard, its second Conrad Hotel & Resorts property in Singapore, joining Conrad Centennial Singapore. Set to create seamless connections between bold design and impactful experiences, Conrad Singapore Orchard will provide guests with a new sense of hospitality that is inspiring, meaningful, and purposeful.

Inspiring Culinary Experiences

Among the highly-immersive experiences at the hotel is the selection of distinct dining concepts that will truly bring guests on a culinary journey. The array of cuisines at the hotel’s ten restaurants and bars, including Manhattan, Basilico, Summer Palace, Dolcetto, and the Tea Lounge, enable guests to explore different cultures through the sense of taste while sparking connections as they reconnect over food.

To welcome the new year, one-Michelin-starred Summer Palace, well-known for serving authentic Cantonese fare in a sophisticated environment, has curated an impressive range of Chinese New Year set menus and special menu offerings perfect for intimate family reunions and business events. Guests can also look forward to sumptuous Chinese New Year buffet brunches and dinners with an Italian touch at the award-winning Basilico, which emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and authentic Italian flavors.

Exceptional Events

The hotel’s 14 event spaces are also primed to host an array of memorable weddings and social events of any scale. Over 1,600 square meters of contemporary events and meeting spaces, including a 583 square-meter ballroom for up to 500 guests, are complemented by thoughtfully curated cuisine by the hotel’s culinary team.

Served by a passionate team that intuitively offers purposeful and personalized service, Conrad Singapore Orchard’s unique approach to hospitality includes pet-friendly solemnization ceremonies and 14 different floral themes to choose from for an unforgettable wedding.

Elevating Luxury Through Distinctive, Bold Design

From now till late 2023, the hotel’s 440 rooms will undergo extensive reinvention and refurbishment. Combining Conrad’s contemporary, bold design ethos that draws in local influences with best-in-class amenities, Conrad Singapore Orchard will bring new levels of sophisticated, modern luxury to Singapore when it opens fully in early 2024.

‘Like A Member’ Dining Offer

Conrad Singapore Orchard will be part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 distinct hotel brands. As part of the ‘Like A Member’ dining offer, Hilton Honors members will enjoy discounts and opportunities to earn Bonus Points when they dine at Summer Palace, Basilico, Manhattan, Dolcetto, and the Tea Lounge at Conrad Singapore Orchard.

For more information, guests may visit www.conradsingaporeorchard.com, call +65 6733 8888, or email conrad_singapore_orchard@conradhotels.com.

#ConradSingaporeOrchard #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

November 20, 2022July 15, 2024

Five beautiful Baguio hotels perfect for your Christmas getaway

Christmas is fast approaching and the festive season is making us crave for the cold, the perfect combination with the warmth the holidays bring. Baguio is the place to be – with its cool climate and family-friendly attractions. Your trip to this magical place will certainly be memorable with these beautiful hotel accommodations, just in time for your Christmas getaway!

The Kamiseta Hotel

This gorgeous place just screams Bridgerton vibes with its French contemporary design and its equally enchanting glass house! Located beside the famous Mansion house, it is also near the stable Baguio tourist spots: Wright Park, Baguio Country Club Golf Course, and Camp John Hay. Each suite has a distinct motif that makes you feel like royalty, and their staff and concierge will surely treat you like one! Moreover, it is surrounded by pine trees, which gives you the serenity you need. This majestic 3360-degree view can best be seen in their glass house, an area adorned with glass ceilings and a spacious patio. Their comfy ambiance will surely help you settle into the Christmas feels– book your reservation now!

The Orchard Hotel Baguio

Do you want a hotel that’s Instagram-worthy? Look no more as the Orchard Hotel Baguio combines comfort and style with its millennial-themed rooms and amenities. Promoting the #TheORCHARDlifestyle, the hotel ensures that its guests receive 24-hour service that’s worthy of praise. Conveniently located 168 km away from The Clark International Airport, the Orchard Hotel Baguio is also near SM City Baguio, Mines View Park, and the Lourdes grotto.

Whether it’s a family vacation or a couple’s getaway, the hotel makes sure to give you the best room possible!

The Forest Lodge at Camp John Hay

Christmas is incomplete without outdoor activities that bind your family even stronger than before–and The Forest Lodge provides you with an equal dose of thrill and relaxation. Surrounded by the lush pine forest of Camp John Hay, the hotel is also famous for its Twist Cafe, with sumptuous dishes from different regions cooked by the Chef Billy King of Le Soufflé Manila. It is also near Mile Hi, a shopping center that’s perfect for buying your pasalubong and souvenirs. This place is perfect for a quick getaway from the busy streets of the city, and for you to embrace your adventurous side this holiday season!

Le Monet Hotel

Showcasing scenic mountain views, the Le Monet Hotel is also within the heart of Camp John Hay. This hotel has several amenities best enjoyed with family and friends, such as the Viva Verde Spa, which includes a variety of massages. Furthermore, their heated indoor swimming pool is a wonderful treat after a long day. Don’t you worry about your appetite–The Lobby restaurant offers a variety of delectable dishes presented by famous Chef Robby Goco! Le Monet Hotel surely lives up to people’s expectations.

Grand Sierra Pines Hotel

Looking for a hotel that is both culturally inclined and has an outdoorsy vibe? The Grand Sierra Pines Hotel has got you covered! Located at North Outlook drive, the hotel is known for its rich forests, adorned galleries,and environmentally-friendly amenities. Tourists have raved about the Adkos Gallery, an in-house gallery that showcases true Filipino talent; the true marvel and pride of the hotel. It exhibits various painters, from those in the indie scene to award-winning ones. Grand Sierra Pines Hotel will certainly never bore you this Christmas season!

These hotels will surely be your home away from home these upcoming holidays. Be sure to spend it with your family and loved ones in the lush greenery and beautiful spots of Baguio!

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

Featured photo credits to Real Living PH

#BaguioCity #Philippines #Christmas #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

July 24, 2022January 23, 2025

Six Days in Taiwan: Exploring Island Geology Parks and Other Scenic Spots

Traveling expands our perspectives and provides more opportunities to enjoy and learn about the places we visit.

Traveling opens our eyes to new horizons and enriches our experiences. It invites us to explore diverse cultures, savor delicious cuisines, and discover the stories that make each destination unique. With every journey, we not only gain knowledge but also create memories that last a lifetime.

On our fifth day in Taiwan, we were welcomed by a jampacked itinerary that explored several interesting tourist attractions, such as: (1) Yehliu Geopark in Wanli District, New Taipei City, Taiwan; (2) Heping Island Park Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan; (3) Zhengbin Fishing Port Nostalgia Pier Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan; (4) Agenna Aboriginal Culture Restaurant Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan; and (5) Jiufen, Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan.

Yehliu Geopark is a park of natural wonders. Located in New Taipei City, Taiwan, it has full of sea water-eroded holes as well as numerous rocks that look so real in many shapes and forms!

Among other statues are named Fairy’s Shoe, Tofu Rock, Ice Cream Rock, Mushroom Rock, Candle Rock, and Ginger Rock. But the most famous one is the Queen’s Head. All these make this 1,700-meter-long cape a geology park with rich ecological resources and a prosperous fishing village.

The Queen’s Head is the most famous rock formation. Courtesy: Taiwan Tourism

At Heping Island Park, tourists can appreciate ocean views and world-class geo-scape. The Cliff at the island park is the vantage point where you can see and feel the sound of the waves. The sight brings total relaxation to the mind, body, and soul. You can take time exploring the scenic spot and feel its everyday charm. The island park is located right within the North Coast and Guanyinshan National Scenic Area.

The Cliff in Heping Island / Personal photo

Zhengbin Fishing Port, also known as “Nostalgia Pier,” gives a more laidback feel. It is located in the south of Heping Island. The Port is built by the Japanese in 1934, and it was the biggest fishing port in Taiwan during the Japanese era. Although it gradually diminished as years went by, its down-to-earth appearance endures. The city is actively seeking to preserve it as a place for relaxation and nostalgia. There has been a boat named “Folk Art” at the Port, considered the first art museum on the sea. Sports activities such as dragon boat races are also quite popular in the area.

The group had a sumptuous lunch at Agenna Aboriginal Culture Restaurant in Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan. The dishes served to us were a fusion of local and international cuisines. What a truly delightful and fulfilling feast it was! Every bite was a celebration of flavors that left me feeling completely satisfied!

Fun shot with former colleague Sara at Agenna / Personal photo

The final destination for the day was Jiufen, a popular tourist spot in Taiwan. It features a narrow street lined with shops offering a variety of items, from food to souvenirs. If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry—many stores offer free food samples for tasting.

The writer striking a pose in Jiufen / Personal photo

Jiufen is located on a hillside that faces the ocean and is surrounded on three sides by mountains, with its people still maintaining their original simple lifestyle. With the changing seasons, the scenery also varies greatly, presenting different aspects of Jiufen. In the past, the place was the dreamland of gold diggers; now it has become a sanctuary for many artists and tourists.

Experiencing and appreciating the beauty and history of scenic spots makes every trip a valuable learning experience.

#Yehliu Geopark # HepingIslandPark #ZhengbinFishingPort #AgennaAboriginalCultureRestaurant #Jiufen #Taiwan #tour #throwbacktravel #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

(Part 5 of a 6-part feature article)

July 23, 2022August 12, 2022

Taiwan Tour: Cultural immersion experience

The Atayal culture was quite interesting. We were introduced to its unique qualities of aboriginal performances, recreational activities, local food and aboriginal cuisine, cultural skills such as bamboo dance, assassination ball experience, and clothing try-on.

(Note: Bringing back Day 4 of our unforgettable tour to Taiwan when the world was still COVID-19-free. )

On our fourth day in Taiwan, we traveled to the Atayal Resort in Guoxing Township, Nantou County; the high-speed rail in Taichung station; visited the national historic monument, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Taipei 101 Observatory, and mall, and had a wonderful stay at Amba Taipei Songshan.

Atayal Resort during the day. Courtesy: pinoyformosa.com

To fully embraced the Atayal experience, we stayed at Atayal Palace Spring Hotel with a Baroque architectural style. Located amidst the fresh greeneries and natural forest, we were secluded from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. The resort features the culture of the Atayal tribe, a minority aboriginal tribe in Taiwan.

The Atayal culture was quite interesting. We were introduced to its unique qualities of the aboriginal performances, recreational activities, local food and aboriginal cuisine, aboriginal cultural skills such as bamboo dance, assassination ball experience, and aboriginal clothing try-on.

Bamboo dance experience / personal photo

Wearing the aboriginal costumes / personal photo

Enjoying the native game / personal photo

The writer in the company of Atayal aboriginals @ Atayal Palace Hotel / personal photo

A unique attraction at the resort was a popular skywalk that hangs out of the mountain located 500 meters above sea level, offering a stunning view of the mountainous landscape. The shape of the skywalk was in concise design with a geometrical pattern and tempered glass construction at the bottom.

Standing on the glass platform, 500 meters high above the mountain foot, you can admire the beautiful mountain landscape and spectacular natural scenery that leave you with many wonderful memories.

Beautiful Architecture

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall located in the heart of Taipei City / personal photo

From the resort, we took the high-speed rail to Taichung station to be able to reach Taipei City in 40 minutes. If by regular transportation, travel time would be two hours. Our next stop was at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall located in the heart of Taipei City.

It has become the landmark of the city and is most visited by foreign tourists. Its architecture is inspired by Tiantan in Beijing and is a prime example of the beauty of architecture.

At Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall / personal photo

Two stairs leading to the top, you will find the bronze statue of the historical great leader. It’s being manned by equally attentive guards. The stairs have 89 steps which represent the age of death of Chiang Kai-shek.

View from the top

@ Taipei 101 Observatory / personal photo

For first-time visitors like me, it was a must to visit the Taipei 101 Observatory. There was a fast lift up to the top and the view from the top was impressive!

I couldn’t get over how fast the elevator ride was. It was located inside Taipei 101 mall, considered Taiwan’s premier international shopping destination – featuring luxury goods, fashion, and fine dining. Here, you can enjoy your shopping in comfort and total relaxation.

Urban vibe

After a long day of the tour, we were billeted at the Amba Taipei Songshan, which was five minutes walk to Raohe Night Market. The hotel is admirable for its urban vibe, spacious contemporary rooms, dramatic views of Taipei 101 as you arrived at the chic lobby, and multi-purpose communal areas, best of all, it has one of the best lineups of buffet menus.

Amba communal space with the view of Taipei 101 / personal photo

Amba’s welcome note for this writer / personal photo

It is designed for the savvy urban traveler who appreciates creativity, connectivity, and conservation. Created by Ambassador Hotels, the amba brand was launched in 2012 to coincide with the group’s celebration of 50 years of luxury hospitality.

A sumptuous dinner in the company of Ms. Jeanie Mak, alignment officer of Amba (in yellow-orange scarf)

We had a nice time at Amba, especially with the gracious and very welcoming accommodation of the hotel’s chief alignment officer, Ms. Jeanie Mak (in a yellow-orange scarf). She joined us during dinner and introduced us to the many amenities of the hotel.

Succulent steak at amba / personal photo

With all these things that happened in just one day, we shared the joys and experiences like never before.

#Taiwantour #TaiwanTourismBureau #destination #Asia #tourism #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph #atayalresort #taipei101 #ambataipeisongshan #CKSMemorialHall

(Part 4 of a 6-part feature article)

July 22, 2022July 26, 2022

Taiwan Tour: Love for rails and amazing scenery

Sun Moon Lake provides visitors with different charms in all seasons. But my favorite is in early spring around February, and the place is embraced by cherry blossoms in full bloom. Sun Moon Lake – a stunning landscape and a romantic paradise rolled into one.

Discovering new places of interest adds excitement to any traveler who visits the destination for the first time. On our third day in Taiwan, we went to the Jiji Township, still in Nantou County, where the Jiji and Checheng Railway Stations, the Toushe Basin, and Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area can be found.

Jiji and Checheng Railway Stations

Jiji is a lovely small town surrounded by beautiful mountains and streams. Even today, the town has retained its rustic style and precious ecological resources. Tourism has been actively developed here, revealing the town’s charm to visitors.

80-year-old Jiji Station in the Japanese style. Image: Personal photo

When you pay a visit to Jiji, make sure to take photos in front of Jiji Station. It is Taiwan’s most well-known Japanese-style terminal station and has been around for more than 80 years now. It was destroyed in the 1999 earthquake but later reconstructed and restored to its original look. Since then it became a must-visit tourism destination in Jiji.

Checheng is the final destination on the Jiji line and is often referred to as “The Last Train Station.” Full of beautiful and amazing scenery, the Jiji Line is like a gallery that provides both sightseeing and educational enlightenment.

The view of Toushe Basin. Courtesy:sunmoonlake.gov.tw

Toushe Basin

The next stop was at the Toushe Basin, where an old “Bed and Breakfast” (worth 25 million in Taiwan dollars) was located. But, because of the storm, the land became soft and wasn’t cultivated well. The structures turned crooked and appeared to be like a “leaning tower of Pisa.”

Sun Moon Lake: Beauty and tranquility. Photo courtesy of Sarion Films

Sun Moon Lake

The last location we toured for the day was Sun Moon Lake – the alpine lake with serene beauty and tranquility. It is located in the middle of Taiwan, with an elevation of 748 meters above sea level, the only natural big lake in Taiwan.

The southern part of Lalu Island is shaped like a new moon, and the northern part is shaped like a sun; for this reason, it was named Sun Moon Lake. Visitors are often captivated by the refreshingly beautiful and elegant landscapes in this location. It’s like a Manila Bay cruise if you compared it to Manila.

Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village Cherry Blossom Season. Photo courtesy of Sunmoonlake.gov

Here, you can also enjoy a fascinating ecological tour. Sun Moon Lake provides visitors with different charms in all seasons. But my favorite is in early spring around February, and the place is embraced by cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Biking at Sun Moon Lake. Photo courtesy of Sarion Films

Visitors can also appreciate the view of the lake by cycling around. It’s a must to experience the biking trails during your stay to better understand the different sides of Sun Moon Lake – a stunning landscape and a romantic paradise rolled into one.

#Taiwantour #TaiwanTourismBureau #destination #Asia #tourism #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph #throwbacktravel

(Part 3 of a 6-part feature article)

July 20, 2022July 20, 2022

Exploring Taiwan in 6 days

In this installment, I will take you to Taichung, Taiwan, where you can enjoy the tourist attractions such as Rainbow Military Village, Chun Shui Tang Cultural Tea House, Miyahara, Fengjia Night Market, and Red Dot Hotel.

Travel is a new experience that can transport you out of your everyday routine to create memories and discover new places of interest. For six days, we had the opportunity to explore the culture, beauty, historical landmarks, scenic tourist spots, and culinary offerings in Taiwan. Because this trip gave me a new way of looking at things and having new eyes – that no matter where you had been, whether the experience was good or bad – you take with you the memories and made you realize that life truly is a journey.

Colorful Rainbow Military Village in Taichung, Taiwan

On our first day, the schedules were already jam-packed. We went to the Taichung side of Taiwan and visited the Rainbow Military Village. Rainbow Village is a military housing facility. This was painted by a military soldier and was supposed to be demolished but then students petitioned for it to be retained. They decorated it by putting various beautiful works of art until it became a tourist attraction. Around 3,000 supporters are maintaining this housing project.

Sumptuous set meals @ Chun Shui Tang Cultural Tea House

Then, we proceeded to Chun Shui Tang Cultural Tea House for our sumptuous dinner. The tea house is known for its bubble tea, hotpots, meal sets, traditional noodles, and delicious side orders like dim sums, bean curds, dry noodles, etc.

The next stop was at Miyahara, a red-brick architecture built by Miyahara Takeo, a Japanese ophthalmology doctor in 1927. At present, Dawn Cake, a pastry company renowned for its pineapple cakes, acquired the building and preserved Miyahara’s original red-brick walls and archway. The interior decor was redesigned like Hogwarts in the movie Harry Potter. Visitors to Miyahara are not only recommended to appreciate the details of the historic architecture but also try Dawn Cake’s signature ice cream, bubble tea, and pastries wrapped in nostalgic packings. We loved this place!

Fengjia Night Market. Photo: roundtaiwanround

One of the most famous night markets in Taichung is Fengjia Night Market. Here, you can buy a lot of things like food, apparel, cosmetics, and other surprising pieces of stuff. It’s famous for its “cheap and yet massive quantity” of foods, luring people from all over the world. Recommended delicacies here are: Chinese sausage wrapped in glutinous rice, brown sugar tapioca milk, Chow mien (fried noodles) stuffed bread, octopus balls (takoyaki), humongous stinky tofu, and huangjinzei (aromatic rice stuffed in cuttlefish).

We stayed at Red Dot Hotel for the night. The boutique hotel was attractive with its quirky fun and functional design. It has a big slide which you can use from the hotel’s second floor to the lobby – perfect to enjoy for the young and young-at-heart! Some of our group had tried the iconic hotel slide. I stayed in one of their spacious double rooms and quickly slumbered into dreamland. I woke up the next day energized and ready for the tour itinerary.

#Taiwantour #PanahonsaTaiwan #TaiwanTourismBureau #travel #destination #Asia #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

(Part 1 of a 6-part feature article)

Category: Travel & Lifestyle