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The global loyalty program welcomes guests to the next chapter of travel

The travel industry is roaring back to life.

From epic summer vacations to much-needed family reunions, people are making up for lost time and memories. IHG Hotels & Resorts is here for it – debuting a new global loyalty program: IHG One Rewards, as it welcomes guests to the next chapter of travel.

With nearly 6,000 hotels in over 100 countries, IHG Hotels & Resorts has been hard at work while the world was on hold – building its portfolio, repositioning itself in the industry with exciting new brands and partnerships, investing significantly, and taking loyalty to new heights. Today as travelers pack their bags, dreaming of their vacations or the satisfaction of successful business trips, IHG is launching a best-in-class loyalty program, IHG One Rewards, which is centered around its guests – giving them richer benefits, more ways to earn, all powered by leading technology on its new mobile app.

The reimagined program connects IHG One Rewards members to IHG Hotels & Resorts’ growing portfolio of 17 brands, including one of the largest Luxury & Lifestyle collections in the world.

The launch of IHG One Rewards follows the announcement in January 2022 of the program’s new tier and bonus point earning structure – designed to help members earn more points faster and have more ways to use them.

IHG One Rewards will offer industry-leading value and relevant benefits for members to enhance their stays. Highlights of the program include:

Faster Earn

A new tier and bonus point earning structure will allow members to earn more points faster and gain rewards sooner. The new tier and bonus point earning structure start on April 13, 2022and will be reflected in all member accounts on or before April 17, 2022.

Richer Benefits

Further enhancements and member benefits include:

    • Free Breakfast for Diamond Elite members as a Welcome Amenity choice
    • Exclusive access to Reward Night Discount Promotions for Platinum Elite and Diamond Elite members
    • More opportunities for Elite members to receive early check-in, late check-out (if available), and room upgrades (to suites, if available, or another premium room type for Platinum Elite and Diamond Elite members)

Exceptional Choice

Recognizing that not all members want to use their points in the same way, IHG One Rewards marks the introduction of Milestone Rewards – a new, technology-enabled platform that will allow members to choose the rewards that matter most to them. Starting at just 20 nights stayed, members will be offered a choice from a selection of rewards every 10 nights, through 100 nights stayed. These Milestone Rewards choices include points, $20 F&B Rewards, Confirmable Suite Upgrades, and Annual Lounge Membership.

In the coming weeks, IHG Hotels & Resorts will also roll out the new IHG One Rewards mobile app, which will power IHG One Rewards and put the loyalty experience in the palm of guests’ hands. The app is a key element to IHG One Rewards and sets a foundation for future growth. The new, modern experience is more personalized, offers streamlined booking, and allows members to stay informed, check-in faster, stay connected to the hotel, and travel with flexibility. IHG One Rewards members will be prompted to update their app on their device either through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

At its core, IHG One Rewards is about real people taking care of real people, championing individuality, and rewarding guests in a way that works for them. The new brand includes a redesigned logo featuring a singular “One” icon. The “One” in IHG One Rewards is a nod to the long-term values of our new program – “One You” – a celebration of individuality and “One Future” – our commitment to make a positive impact on our people, our communities, and our planet.

Claire Bennett, Global Chief Customer Officer, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “This is one of the largest and most comprehensive investments that IHG Hotels & Resorts has made in recent years. It’s also the biggest development we’ve made in the loyalty space since introducing the industry’s first loyalty program. We’re truly transforming guest experiences by giving our loyal members more of what they want, more value, and exciting benefits individually delivered via new technology with our new mobile app.

Built on feedback from our guests, hotel teams, and owners, IHG One Rewards has a fresh look and feel and puts guests in control of their journey. It recognizes that no two members are the same and celebrate it – allowing guests to travel, and mark milestones, in their way.  Every day, we welcome more guests to our hotels, and while a love of travel is universal, the reasons and ways people travel differ. With IHG One Rewards, our members can create the rewards that are right for them.”

Existing member stays from January 1, 2022, will count toward their new-and-improved status. The new tier and bonus point earning structure starts on April 13, 2022, and will be reflected in all member accounts by April 17, 2022. All member benefits – including the launch of Milestone Rewards – will become available for members in early June 2022.

To learn more, please visit ihg.com/one.

 

#IHGOneRewards #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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WTTC lauds PH successful hosting of Int’l tourism Summit

The global tourism industry leaders praised the Philippines’ successful hosting of the 21st Global Summit of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) as it closed with high hopes for an industry battered by two years of the pandemic.

“I’m not often stumped for words, but I am now. Wow! What an amazing summit. We have rediscovered travel,” said Julia Simpson, president, and CEO of the WTTC, who considered the “extraordinary Philippine welcome” as her highlight of the two-day summit.

“That warmth, that passion, that generosity, that smile. I haven’t walked out one corridor without people saying to me ‘Good morning!’. It’s incredible. You live it. It’s not a show – it is in your DNA,” she said after the closing ceremony.

In her closing speech, Simpson said the success of the summit was a “testament that the country’s tourism industry is well on its feet.”

The summit, which gathered world leaders of the tourism industry, has allowed the Philippines to showcase “how beautiful the country is,” Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat said on Friday.

She said the Philippines is now a top-of-mind destination for delegates, many of whom had decided to stay to savor the rest of the country where “we are setting an example of how to open safely.”

“This has been a wonderful global summit and, to echo your brand campaign, we certainly had lots of fun in the Philippines. This is an experience all the delegates of the Summit can attest to,” WTTC Chairman Arnold Donald said in his closing address.

The special advisor of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism and former president and CEO of WTTC, Gloria Guevara said the Philippines “has exceeded all of our expectations. Thanks to the leadership of Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat before and during the pandemic, the Philippines has been successfully repositioned as a top destination and she delivered an impactful Summit. The Filipino hospitality has also made it memorable.”

Puyat thank the delegates and participants for the success of the summit and for the “outstanding commitment you have shown in support of the recovery and continued growth of the global travel and tourism industry.”

She said that as the pandemic forced the global tourism industry to raise its game and change the way it gets things done, “we have likewise put much effort into discerning the most effective combination between the enforcement of health and safety guidelines and personal convenience – the delicate balancing act of implementing measures to ensure everyone’s safety without placing unreasonable burdens on the traveling public.”

“Our shared hopes and dreams for the future are reflected in the policies we have developed, and the measures we have put in place to plan and realize this sector’s complete recovery,” Puyat said.

Citing the need for sustainable tourism, she said the summit also gave way to “passionate advocates for responsible tourism, and a greener environment.”

“Our destinations must not be allowed to go back to the old unsustainable ways of the past. Instead, we must move forward guided by strategic and evidence-based planning and aimed towards building further resilience,” she added.

Source: https://beta.tourism.gov.ph/news/wttc-lauds-ph-successful-hosting-intl-tourism-summit

Featured photo: Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat at the closing ceremony of the 21st Global Summit of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) / DOT

#WTTC #internationaltourismsummit #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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A roundup of irresistible Easter offerings

This Holy Week, you can choose to retreat to a serene sanctuary in the heart of the metro, delight in an enjoyable family urban getaway, or travel to a pleasurable destination where fun and relaxation meet. We made a roundup of these irresistible Easter offerings from top hotels in the country to suit your needs for a meaningful and relaxing Holy Week break.

  • Eggstraordinary Easter at Richmonde Hotels

Situated at the centrally accessible Ortigas Center in Pasig City, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas presents Metro Manila residents with a soothing haven for some well-deserved R&R filled with all the essentials for a blissful mini-vacation at a very affordable price with its Easter Break Escape promotion. From now until April 17, 2022, you can cozy up to the hotel’s comfortable rooms and enjoy family time for as low as Php 3,000 nett per night for a two-night stay inclusive of daily breakfast at the Richmonde Café for two adults and two children aged 5 years old and below, and use of the Health Club’s gym & heated indoor pool.

Eastwood Richmonde Easter Eggsperience

For an Easter Eggsperience to remember, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel brings fun-loving families with special room packages for a splendid respite within the vibrant Eastwood City community. For as low as PhP 4,500 nett for two adults and two children 5 years old and below, relish the comforts of the hotel’s well-appointed rooms and breakfast buffet at Eastwood Café+Bar. Satisfying cravings won’t be a problem for those checking in on April 14, 15, and 16, 2022, because the hotel’s café serves package takers with a FREE afternoon snack buffet of all-time favorite merienda items valued at PhP 500nett per person for walk-in guests. At rates starting at only PhP 5,900 nett, make your Easter Sunday a spectacular one for you and your little ones by booking the Easter Celebration Package on April 16 or 17, 2022, which includes room accommodations, breakfast buffet for two, late check-out at 5 pm, and two tickets to the hotel’s Easter Fun Fair Party happening on April 17, 2022, from 10 am to 3 pm at the Grand Ballroom.

Ready to travel? Take time out from your routine and spend the Lenten season at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, the City of Love’s premier world-class hotel within the cosmopolitan township of Iloilo Business Park. With Richmonde’s Easter Eggsclusives available from April 10 to 17, 2022, savor the plush coziness and luxurious space of Richmonde’s modern rooms and get discounted rates as low as PhP 3,780 nett (Sunday to Thursday) and PhP 4,050 nett (Friday and Saturday), when you stay 2 nights or more. All rates come with a hearty breakfast buffet for two adults and two children 5 years old and below at The Granary, and use of the Fitness Center’s gym and outdoor pool, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip while soaking in the summer sun and marveling at the scenic view of Iloilo.

Richmonde Iloilo Easter Eggsclusives

For more information on Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, log on to www.richmondehotels.com.ph and follow @richmondehotels on Facebook and Instagram.

 

  • Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria rejoice in the Easter Festival 2022

 Celebrate your Easter with the whole family and make one memorable weekend. Our Easter Festival in Galleria packages helps craft memoirs that will stay with you and your little ones.

Offers start at Php 5,500 nett for an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room at Crowne Plaza or Php 4,500 nett at Holiday Inn with tickets to the Easter Festival. Enjoy the merriments with different activities like your favorite arts and crafts, singing, dancing, and Easter egg hunting. It will surely be a load of fun! We also have great surprises that the children will surely love.

Add-On: Complete your Easter Festival with a special lunch buffet for 4 persons at Seven Corners Restaurant!

For inquiries and reservations contact: Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria: call 02 8790 3100 or email cpgm.reservations@ihg.com. Holiday Inn Manila Galleria: call 02 8790 9400 or email higm.reservations@ihg.com

 

  • A one–of–a–kind Easter at Century Park Hotel 

 Century Park Hotel, one of the finest hotels in Manila, will hold a live Easter Sunday celebration on April 17, 2022, 9:00 AM – 12:00NN at the Grand Ballroom.  The affair signifies the return of the hotel’s much-awaited kiddie event which was temporarily put on hold due to the pandemic.

A yearly tradition, children and parents alike eagerly look forward to Easter Sunday at Century Park Hotel. The games, raffle, egg hunting, and other activities have made an impact on each family and all hands are on deck at the hotel to ensure a good time for the guests.

This year, showstopping surprises are in store at Century Park Hotel’s Easter Carnival 2022!  Kids aged 12 and below are welcome once again and can slide & jump for joy with the giant inflatables, be creative with their face painting, get wacky in the photo booth, win exciting prizes in the raffle & games, be enthralled in the magic show, and search for the popular eggs in the most-anticipated egg hunting activity.

Easter Carnival 2022

Tummies are also sure to be filled on this grand day! Aside from the delicious set meal that comes with the ticket, an array of food cart treats (popcorn, ice cream, French fries, and hotdog on a stick) can be availed for a nominal fee.

Last but not the least, kids get to take home a special loot bag courtesy of Century Park Hotel’s Easter partners.

Tickets are available for P1,500 net which includes a loot bag and set meals for one adult and one kid.  Bringing extra company? You may also purchase a ticket at P1,000 net good for one person (kid or adult) together with a set meal and a loot bag.

To purchase your tickets, call or send a message via SMS at 0917-6332545 or email sales9@centurypark.com.ph.

“We are eager to fill our hallways with the laughter and squeals of our young guests once again. A lot of wonderful treats and surprises have been prepared in anticipation of this merry event.   We hope that the Easter Carnival 2022 will always remind kids and parents that Century Park Hotel will always be their home away from home,” said General Manager Anthony Tan.

Complete your celebration with an Easter Staycation Package at your home away from home this April 11-18, 2022!   

Our Easter Carnival Room Bundle comes with a complimentary Easter Carnival 2022 ticket good for one adult and one kid on April 17, 2022.

If staying in is more your thing, avail of the Easter Week Getaway! Room rates start at P5,000 net/night for a Deluxe Room, P6,000net/night for Park Tower, and P7,000net/night for a Premier Suite.  On top of the set breakfast for two, you may also enjoy the summer with a dip at our outdoor temperature-controlled pools and jacuzzi.

For reservations, contact 0956-5232880 or email at reservations@centurypark.com.ph.

 

#Easterofferings #HolyWeek2022 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Travel again with these amazing deals and steals

If you’re getting ready to travel again, choosing a domestic destination should be the first on your list. You not only get to see more of the beauty of the Philippines, but you also get to help the many Filipinos in the tourism industry whose jobs were affected due to the pandemic.

And while there are many beautiful local attractions to choose from, Iloilo City is your best bet if you are looking for a destination with a myriad of charms that will appeal to any kind of traveler. Here you will discover historical attractions, enjoy nature expeditions, relish regional culinary specials, marvel at modern urban landscapes, and so much more.

To jumpstart your Iloilo adventures, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo brings first-time tourists and returning visitors alike first-class accommodations with the most spacious rooms, superb facilities, gourmet food, and exceptional service. Room packages include Wi-Fi access, a breakfast buffet at the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, The Granary, and complimentary use of the 24-hour gym and breezy outdoor pool.

RHI deluxe twin room

Book your weekend trip at rates starting at PhP 4,500 nett for a Deluxe room. Got time to travel from Sunday to Thursday? Rates go for as low as PHP 4,200 nett. If you want to opt-out of breakfast, rates start at only PhP 3,700 nett (Sunday to Thursday) and PhP 4,000 nett (Friday & Saturday). All rates are valid for single and double occupancy for bookings until May 31, 2022.

City and island getaway bundle

To get a head-start on your summer tan, add the beautiful Boracay beach to your travel itinerary with an all-in deal from Richmonde Hotel Iloilo and Belmont Hotel Boracay located in the idyllic Newcoast station. Get the best of both worlds with the City & Island Getaway Bundle available until June 30, 2022, and delight in two (2) nights at Richmonde Iloilo and two (2) nights at Belmont Boracay plus an array of exciting inclusions for only PhP 15,300 nett for two persons.

Experience with your travel bestie a total vacation package from Richmonde and Belmont Hotels complete with exquisite room accommodations, daily buffet breakfast, welcome drinks, and use of the swimming pool and gym. At Boracay Newcoast, Belmont provides wonderful amenities like Wi-Fi access in the room, public areas, and at the beachfront, free shuttle service to and from the hotel and Station 2 (D’Mall), and a 15% discount on food & beverage orders. Weather permitting, you can add complimentary activities from Belmont to your itinerary, namely a guided sunset tour of the viewing deck, Cove 3, and the iconic Boracay keyhole, and use of non-motorized activities like paddleboarding biking, and kayaking.

For hassle-free traveling, get all of the above with transfers good for two for only PhP 23,300 nett. This includes comfortable transportation from Iloilo International Airport to Richmonde Hotel Iloilo; from Richmonde Hotel Iloilo to Caticlan Jetty Port; from Caticlan Jetty Port to Belmont Hotel Boracay; from Belmont Hotel Boracay to Caticlan Jetty Port; and from Caticlan Jetty Port to Caticlan Airport.

For inquiries and room bookings at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, contact us at +6333 328 7888, +63 917 580 9642, and stay@richmondeiloilo.com. To book online, log on to www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph. To find out more about the City and Island Getaway Bundle, get in touch with the Sales Teams of Richmonde Hotel Iloilo or Belmont Hotel Boracay at +63 917 848 4615, +63 917 867 2515, +63 917 867 3019, sales@richmondeiloilo.com or stay@belmontboracay.com.ph.

 

#richmondehoteliloilo #belmontboracay #travelagain #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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4 underrated destinations for your next summer getaway

Summer is fast approaching and we can’t simply wait to dip our toes in the beach and lie down in the lush sand. It’s what summer is for– having the utmost fun while sightseeing and unwinding as well. These underrated spots are just the right destination for your next summer getaway! 

  • Cabagnow Cave Pool in Bohol

While Bohol is largely known for its famous Chocolate hills, it is also home to beautiful caverns and caves. One of the most breathtaking cave pools in Anda, Bohol is the Cabagnow Cave Pool, locally known as “Kabagno,” which is a spot fit for swimming enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. 

Photo credits to The Pinay Solo Backpacker

Cabagnow Cave Pool is home to crystal clear waters filtering from limestones that have been a cornerstone of the pond’s features for several years now. Due to the soft nature of the rock, aided by the consistent movement of water and other geologic processes, caves were formed in several parts of Bohol. 

Located at Sitio Fatima, Bacong Anda, Bohol, the Cabagnow Cave Pool is 20-25 feet deep, and if you like cliff diving, it has an estimated height of 15-18 feet that’s satisfying for adrenaline seekers. However, if you’re on the safe side, the caretakers have also installed an iron ladder which tourists can use to go down slowly into the pool or to ease themselves into the feeling of the cold water. Ring buoys are also available, especially for amateur swimmers or those who want to ensure their safety. 

  • Danjugan Island in Negros Occidental 

Danjugan Island is located three kilometers off the coast of Brgy. Bulata, Cauayan, and Negros Occidental are surrounded by a marine sanctuary. This 43-hectare island, 1.5 kilometers long and a half kilometer wide, is rich in natural wonders that remained protected and treasured by the locals. 

Photo credits to TripAdvisor

The  Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc., a non-profit organization, conserved this particular beauty. Aside from being starstruck by the wonderful view and magnificent waters, the Danjugan Island also helps educate tourists about environmentalism and conservation of Philippine precious jewels such as this. 

With its incredible features, Danjugan Island makes people feel soulfully present. It has five lagoons, a bamboo bridge, an amazing sunset view deck, all alongside several beaches. Several activities are perfect for individuals or big families, such as trekking, bird watching, kayaking, snorkeling, skin diving, and parasailing, among others. If you want to take a breather, you can also check out their nature walks and fabulous massage packages.

  • The “Pink Beach” or Sila Island in Northern Samar

Just by its name, the Pink Beach or the Sila Island is uniquely beautiful in itself. It is called pink beach due to its reddish sand, almost suiting the shade of pink. This underrated destination has been San Vicente’s best-kept secret, which has saved it from over-commercialization.

Photo credits to Getaway. PH

The pink sand comes from the natural color of the coral and shell fragments. Through the years, these tiny materials have mixed with the beach’s original white sand. When the sun is bright during midday, it also turns to a shade of saturated red. In this lush paradise, tourists can swim, snorkel, and even go scuba diving. Moreover, camping out is also a popular activity here, as long as the claygo rule is followed. 

  • Casa Mendoza Garden Resort in Pansol, Laguna

For those looking for a resort with accommodation, all in one– Casa Mendoza has it all! Located in Pansol, Laguna, Casa Mendoza aims to give people the relaxation and the high-quality service they deserve. 

Photo credits to Agoda

Casa Mendoza unveils its main feature, the Hot Spring kiddie, and adult pools, which are perfect for families and big groups looking for a soothing bath to calm their nerves. It also has other amenities suitable for family outings. It has an entertainment area that contains a videoke and a television with cable; a sports area which has a dartboard, chess boards, and a badminton set. For kids, it has a garden play area that can keep them safe and excited. 

Moreover, Casa Mendoza has a variety of air-conditioned rooms that are suitable for up to 16 persons, and even a conference hall for company events. When convenience and pleasure collide, Casa Mendoza is truly the place to be!

This summer, make sure that you’re refreshed and rested by booking your next getaway in these exhilarating summer destinations. Have a well-deserved fun vacation!

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

#summerdestinations #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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From Disneyland to Sunway City Kuala Lumpur, the great American luncheonette experience arrives in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Sunway Resort at Sunway City Kuala Lumpur continues its trailblazing streak with the addition of Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes to its list of distinct dining experiences. The award-winning, New York-based restaurant that pays tribute to the great American luncheonette experience with its classic craft burgers and world-famous CrazyShake® milkshakes, will mark its first venture into Malaysia by the end of 2022.

Owned by husband-and-wife team, Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan, Black Tap is globally acclaimed for its signature burgers and Instagram-worthy decadent CrazyShake® milkshakes. Having earned numerous accolades since its opening in 2015, including the coveted “People’s Choice Award” (2015-2017) and “Judges Choice Award” (2020 and 2021) at the New York City Wine and Food Festival’s Burger Bash, Black Tap is now available in iconic locations in the US including The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, the Downtown Disney District® at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, CA, and internationally in Bahrain, Singapore, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates.

“We are thrilled with this partnership. Malaysia’s dining scene is thriving, and we want to be right there in the epicenter of it. Black Tap is all about bringing a New York-inspired energy around the world from the street art murals throughout the restaurant to the 80s pop and 90s hip-hop pumping through the speakers. We are so excited to introduce our new guests to our award-winning burgers such as the Greg Norman and having them experience our over-the-top shakes, which are sure to bring a smile to any child or adult who orders one,” said Barish, a leading entrepreneur, restaurateur, and film producer. Previously Barish has also served as a key player in the development, launch, and success of some notable entertainment outlets and restaurants in the United States.

Alex Castaldi, Senior General Manager of Sunway City Kuala Lumpur Hotels said, “We are delighted to welcome a prime culinary brand such as Black Tap to stand alongside our topnotch signature restaurants at Sunway Resort. Here, we believe luxury can be fun and Black Tap’s award-winning craft burgers and ingenious milkshakes will give everyone from the young and influential, to today’s generation of foodies and families, to corporate influencers and Malaysians from all walks of life, another wonderful reason to stay, play and ultimately dine with us.”

Black Tap Malaysia’s announcement is in line with Sunway Resort’s ‘once-in-a-generation transformation’, sealing its position as Asia’s leading fully-integrated destination and will be located adjacent to the main street at the lobby level of the hotel.

This transformation of Sunway Resort forms part of the evolution and elevation of Sunway Hotels and Resorts as it strives to create exceptional and memorable experiences for every guest.

A bird’s eye view of Sunway City Kuala Lumpur, location of the iconic Sunway Resort (Facebook)

Sunway Resort is located in Sunway City Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s premier event and entertainment destination, a vibrant 800-acre integrated sustainable city with a cluster of three hotels, conference facilities, Sunway Lagoon theme park, Sunway Pyramid lifestyle mall, Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway University and the Jeffrey Sachs Center on Sustainable Development, borne out of a partnership between the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation and the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN).

Sunway City Kuala Lumpur is also the Asia headquarters of the UN SDSN alongside New York City and Paris that oversee continent-wide initiatives for the Americas and Europe / Africa respectively.

For more information, please visit www.sunwayhotels.com or follow us on social @sunwayresortkualalumpur 

 

#SunwayResort #BlackTapCraftBurgers&Shakes  #SunwayCityKualaLumpurMalaysia #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Environment hero of this exclusive island sanctuary

At Banwa Private Island, team members are everyday heroes who passionately work together in the noble pursuit of protecting Mother Nature. Surrounded by the untouched beauty of the island sanctuary in North-eastern Palawan, the team’s collective love of nature has inspired each one to be custodians of the environment.

Meet Bernard, one of the invaluable team heads who leads the Aquos Foundation in its various local conservation endeavors and research initiatives.  The Aquos Foundation, with the mission to conserve, protect and nurture the rich biodiversity in and around the marine protected reserve, is the environmental arm of Banwa Private Island.

Palawan being his childhood playground, Bernard has developed his strong affinity to flora and fauna at a very young age.  As a registered nurse by profession, his intrinsic gift of care and empathy has transcended to both people and nature.  Bernard, a pioneer of the Aquos Foundation, has played a vital role in protecting and restoring the habitats of the critically endangered Mantanani Scops Owl, Hawksbill Turtle, and the Tabon Bird (Megapode).

Meet Bernard of Aquos Foundation

Bernard works with scientists and researchers of note recording the growth of birdlife from 15 species in 2014 to 60 species in 2021 through area search methods and photo documentation. Tabon Bird nests grew from only 3 nests in 2012 to 200 nests in 2021.  The thriving island landscape provides the perfect habitat for various migratory and native birds.

In 2018, there were 180 reef balls laid out on the seafloor as part of the Reef Rehabilitation Programme providing shelter to Hawksbill Turtles.  From learning how to swim with a life jacket, Bernard is currently in the process of furthering his dive education to Dive Master. He proudly inspects these reef balls with flourishing marine life and growing coral colonies.

Every morning, you will find Bernard checking on the Megapode nesting sites at the Tabon Bird Sanctuary and inspecting the Hawksbill Turtle laying grounds in the Coconut Grove and the villa gardens.  Since 2016, over 5,800 Hawksbill Turtle eggs were laid, of which 60% hatchlings emerged.

Guests can have an active part in these eco-initiatives by joining Bernard on nature walks around the island, snorkeling the house reef and exploring the radiant corals, keeping count of how many local bird species one can spot in the lush vegetation, or witnessing the magic of baby turtles being released to the turquoise waters.

For more information and inquiries on exclusive island escape at Banwa Private Island, please contact the Reservations team through mobile/WhatsApp: +639178882864, send an email to reservations@banwaprivateisland.com or visit www.banwaprivateisland.com

 

#BanwaPrivateIsland #palawan #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Experience the pristine beauty of this private island as PH opens to international travelers

Guests who yearn for privacy, serenity, and tranquility in nature can now pursue their much-awaited holiday plans to explore the ultimate exclusive destination, Banwa Private Island, as The Philippines opens its shores to international travelers without any quarantine period.

There’s no better time than now to discover a luxurious hideaway gem nestled in North-eastern Palawan, one of the world’s last frontiers of natural biodiversity.  Remote yet not removed, Banwa Private Island boasts breath-taking views, flourishing flora and fauna, and powder-white sands of the turquoise Sulu Sea.  Charter flights via seaplane, private jet, or helicopter will seamlessly take guests from Manila or Clark international airports right to the doorstep of the garden island.

Guests can choose to stay in any of the contemporary-designed villas or decide on an exclusive island charter and craft a dream holiday masterpiece.

Banwa Private Island is the perfect backdrop for shared travel experiences with family and loved ones — take a plunge in the house reef, go kayaking or paddleboarding, and walk on the wild side in the lush, verdant nature trails.

Don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path, hop on a boat to explore nearby islands, and say yes to unique adventures.  Embark on a deep-sea fishing excursion, take a short trek to a secret waterfall, or witness the quintessential Palawan sunset on a secluded sandbank while sipping your favorite cocktails.

Start planning now and see the world again. Revive your bucket list, journey across the oceans, and experience an escape unlike any other at Banwa Private Island.

For more information, visit www.banwaprivateisland.com        

#banwaprivateisland #palawan #philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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This tropical paradise offers a relaxing summer getaway

My mind craves new experiences, new adventures. By going somewhere new at least once a year, I continue to expand my horizon and my zest for travel.

Since the pandemic hit us, we have been confined to our little bubble. We stay at home most of the time, and our movement has become limited. This year, we are opening tourism destinations, and we have started to travel subject to health protocols.

If I will be given again the chance to return to the place where I was the happiest, it would be at this majestic paradise, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa located in Marigondon, Mactan Island, Cebu. It gave me new and exciting discoveries about the destination and wonderful memories of a happy and relaxing escapade.

Plantation Bay is a vast 11-hectare tropical plantation, which offers one of the largest privately-owned waterways in the world, with the clean elegance of the colonial-plantation architecture. It’s a resort, a village, a playground, a respite from a stressful world, rolled into one. The resort has a waterfront hotel, a lagoon-style pool, and a posh spa.

Kayaking is fun!

You will enjoy your stay here because it offers you more facilities, more separate lounging areas, and more things to try. You can go swimming, kayaking, archery, mountain climbing, play tennis or volleyball, have a relaxing spa at Mogambo Springs, listen to an acoustic band in one of the restaurants, have your future predicted by a fortune-teller, or simply enjoy your day while at the hammock amidst the lagoon pool.

Outstanding Dining Options

Plantation Bay takes pride in its kitchens and can assure you of consistently delicious, beautifully-presented dishes at reasonable prices.

It has five outstanding restaurants, namely:

  • Kilimanjaro Kafé – offers international and Filipino cuisine, terrific soup and vegan selections;
  • Fiji – offers seafood, Asian, and Filipino. It is often full so you need to come early;
  • Palermo – offers Spanish Tapas, Italian Pastas, and the most complex, nuanced char-broiled steaks on earth;
  • Route 66 Diner – offers Retro American diner with all-day breakfast, burgers, hot dogs, and deli favorites;
  • Alien Abduction – offers soda fountain in the late afternoon, family-friendly Night Club after dinner

During our stay, we tried some of these in-house restaurants. We dined at Fiji, the ambiance was relaxing and the food served didn’t disappoint us.

For something different, we also tried Kilimanjaro Kafe, famous for its light international fare. We also dined at Palermo, for another different ambiance and enjoyed Mediterranean-Continental dishes. Lastly, we enjoyed the delicious burgers and hotdogs served at Route 66 Diner/Savannah Grill for our afternoon snacks.

To complete our Cebu trip, we paid homage to the Cross of Magellan and Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino De Cebu and had a hearty lunch at AA BBQ, which reminded me of a happy conversation with travel buddies because of its funny-sounding name.

Overall, staying at Plantation Bay was a pleasant adventure. The charm of the place remains in you and makes you want to go back time and again.

For more information, visit their website: https://plantationbay.com, and FB page https://www.facebook.com/plantationbayresortandspa on its latest promotions for summer.

#plantationbayresortandspa #cebu #summer #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Spain Relaxes Health Entry Requirements for Non-EU Travelers Ages 12-17

Families can enjoy a more relaxing journey to Spain with the new and easier health entry requirements for Non-EU travelers between ages between 12-17. This means that those from countries where access to the COVID vaccines is difficult or not yet possible, only need to submit a negative COVID NAAT molecular nucleic acid amplification test (RT-PCR or similar) made 72 hours before their arrival to Spain. No need to present a vaccination certificate.

Likewise, children under 12 years of age, who travel with an adult, are still not subject to any type of health requirement same as before.

This is Spain´s response to the difficult situation presented to families with parents vaccinated against COVID-19 but cannot travel with their children yet due to the latter’s difficult access to the vaccine.

Whether be it for reunions with relatives or a much-deserved family holiday, Spain aims to give everyone memorable moments with its multitude of options of destinations to visit and experiences to enjoy.

For the most updated information about Travel Safe to Spain, you may visit: https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/

#Spain #travelsafe #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph