It’s been more almost eight years since the last time I experienced Strawberry Festival in La Trinidad. If I can remember it right, I went there during the time when La Trinidad tried to beat the record for the World’s Largest Strawberry Shortcake. Which makes me wonder, Are they baking Strawberry Shortcake yearly? This year, thousands of both local and foreign visitors are expected to visit La Trinidad Benguet for the 14th Strawberry Festival on March 16, 2012.

World’s Largest Strawberry Shortcake

The Guinness World Record website itself lists the Municipality of La Trinidad as the record holder of “largest strawberry fruit shortcake,” for a 21,213.40-pound cake that was whipped up in 2004.

According to the organizers, some 180 strawberry farmers in La Trinidad are about to harvest tons of their fresh strawberries in time for the festival. This year’s festival features activities like the organic trade fair, biggest strawberry cake parade and program strawberry fields walk through.

Strawberry Festival 2012

For the past 13 years, the thousands of foreign and local visitors found the festival to have been instrumental in making strawberry as an export product of the town by the use of modern farm technologies, primarily organic farming.

Strawberry Festival Street Dancers

Organic farming over the past decade had increased the acceptability of the world market of products here as consumers have become more health conscious. This was manifested when some two years ago, Benguet farmers raising primarily organic broccoli had started to export their fresh produce to Japan.

With the cold weather, affordable accommodation and delicious food – theres no reason for a festival lover not to experience the Strawberry Festival 2012. (Source : PNA)

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Once again Boracay Island has been ranked number one in the list of the top ten Best Beaches in Asia by the popular travel website ‘TripAdvisor’. The travel website that provides helpful user generated travel tips, restaurant reviews, hotel ratings have listed Boracay as the best beach in Asia over Maldives which came in second and Koh Phangan in Thailand which came in third.

Boracay is the Best Beach in Asia

“Boracay was chosen for its powdery white sand, affordable accommodations and courteous and hospitable people,” a statement in Tripadvisor read. “At only 4.5 miles long, Boracay is small enough to navigate by rented bicycle or motorbike. But don’t let its small size fool you – you’ll have several excellent beaches to choose from.

Yapak Beach is known for beautiful white shells; White Beach has picture-perfect sunsets; and Balinghai Beach is a secluded spot, perfect for honeymooners,” the TripAdvisor wrote.

Aside from Boracay, the famous surfing destination in Mindanao named Siargao was also voted as the 8th top surfing beach out of 50 across the globe.

It’s More fun in the Philippines isn’t it?

Leading budget hotel brand Tune Hotels is set to open three hotels in the Philippines this year. It is said that these hotels will be opened in first quarter of 2012 and the locations include Manila, Cebu and Angeles City Pampanga. The one in Manila is planned to be opened on March 9th, Cebu City on February 24th and the one in Angeles City on February 10th.

Tune Hotels in Ermita Manila

Increase in demand for budget stay
The Tunes Hotels in the Philippines now offers discount for their rooms and is low as RM 14 per night. The main reason for starting more hotels is the increase in number of budget tour packages from the airline and the increase in the number of business travels to the region. The demand for trouble free hotels that would offer budget stay with safe, comfortable and clean environment has increased as a result.

Favourite destination for tourists
Philippines with more than 7000 beautiful islands, it has become a favourite destination for tourists. Philippine has become a favourite location for international tourist and for local tourists alike. There has been an increase in the number of tourist visiting this island nation every year. The beautiful beaches attract tourists from around the world and in addition to this the Filipino culture is another main attraction for the tourists.

The Tune Hotels see huge potential and opportunities in the Philippine which has encouraged them to open up more hotels in the islands. The Tune Hotels plans to open 44 hotels across Asian countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, China, Philippines and Bangladesh by next year. In Philippines they plan to open 7 hotels by 2013 and the locations include Makati, Mindanao, Ortigas and Quezon City.

Affordable luxury
The one in Angeles city will have 165 rooms, the one in Cebu city will have 150 rooms and the one in Manila will have 167 rooms. Most of the travellers who have stayed at Tune hotels comment that the concept of budget hotels by Tune suits their needs. The basic room rate is very low when compared to other hotels. They follow a pricing system similar to that of the airline fare. The early you book, the lower will be the rate. More over you need to pay only for those things you would want. For example air conditioner, towel etc. The advantage travellers enjoy with such a system is that you can bring all those you need and need not pay any additional fare.

What makes Tune Hotels Unique?
It is not the pricing system that makes Tune Hotels attractive, but the blend of modern well furnished hostel and a contemporary hotel. They have integrated technology and comforts to offer a budget experience for the travellers. It does not call it a five star luxury hotel, but combines affordability and high standard facilities.

With the increase in tourists, the demands for budget hotels will increase in the years to come and everyone will certainly enjoy the stay at Tune Hotels in the Philippines and across other countries too.

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Restaurants in Iloilo is a culinary delight. Whether you are looking for Filipino food or international food, you can definitely find it in Iloilo. The city’s busy streets are packed with things to eat and even if you only want a fast snack, you can find something exquisite. An example of that are the Siopao buns at Roberto’s.

Roberto’s Famous Siopao

For those who aren’t familiar with Siopao, it’s a sweet bun filled with pork, chicken, adobo and other sweet ingredients like Ube, Monggo and Leche Flan. It’s a traditional Chinese snack and you can find it all over the Philippines but in my opinion the best ones can be found in Iloilo City and specifically at Roberto’s.

Special Pancit Sotanghon

People say that the largest and the best Siopao come from Roberto’s and I believe it. When you walk in it’s old restaurant, you will feel as if you are back in the 1950′s and you can just tell that this is a place where the labor is of love.

Lumpiang Shanghai

The smells, the look, even the -dare I say – aura of the place gives off something beautiful. If it sounds like I’m rhapsodizing about these, perhaps it’s because I just had one and I’m still feeling the rosy glow of it inside me.

Roberto’s makes a Siopao that is filled with bacon, eggs, and yummy asado and bola bola goodness. They call it the Queen Siopao and they don’t always make them, when they do it’s as if the Krispy Kreme ‘Hot Donuts Now’ sign is flashing so make sure you don’t get run over in a stampede. Don’t worry though, if they sell out, they offer plenty of other tasty snacks and drinks too.

You’ll find Roberto’s at #61 JM Basa Street and if you want you can call ahead to see if they are making the Queen Siapo, she’ll stop you in your tracks if you let her. My mouth is watering just thinking about it, I think I’ll go buy an airline ticket to Iloilo and visit the resto soon…

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This February 17-18, 2012, Amadeo town in Cavite will be celebrating its “Pahimis” Coffee Festival to showcase the best coffee-produce of this fourth class municipality. For the townfolk, the Pahimis Festival is a thanksgiving offering to God for the bounty He continues to bestow upon them year-in and year-out to date, Mayor Villanueva said.

Pahimis Festival 2012

The quiet town in the upland district is dubbed as the “Coffee Capital of the Philippines” and the town mayor said his municipality is listed in the tourist map as an area where the best coffee in the world are being cultivated and can be procured.

The municipal government and its officials have installed a giant coffee kettle and cup concrete image near a flagpole fronting the municipal hall here to manifest its pride and honor being the country’s No. 1 coffee-producing municipality in the country.

The Coffee Festival started in 2002, the festival was celebrated every year with a Mass, commemoration, street parade or mardi gras and other revelries.

Source : PNA

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Philippines is the home of a diverse variety of plants, animals and sea creatures. The extensive coastlines, the great rainforests and the scenic beauty of a number of islands make Philippines one of the best tourism destinations in the World.

Plantation Bay Resort and Spa

Hospitality, accommodation facilities and other services are simply first-rate. If you are planning to travel to the Philippines for a vacation, then you would soon be confused as to choosing which resort to say.

Considering your interests in the best resorts with the best services, we list five finest Luxury resorts in Philippines. Evidently there are more than a handful of great luxury resorts in Philippines. The list below, however, considers feedback from a lot of people who experienced the luxury.

Top five luxury resorts in Philippines are :

• Amanpulo in Palawan
• Buri Spa and Resort
• Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa
• Plantation Bay Resort and Spa
• Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa

Aman Resorts, Amanpulo : The beautiful and spectacular Pamalican Islands in the Philippines houses Aman Resorts. Cirrus streaked skies, powder white sands, and brilliant coral reefs are the main attractions of the Aman resorts. The dwellings are of native style and there are hillside and treetop casitas, which offer incredibly beautiful and scenic views.

Amanpulo Resort

Buri Spa and Resort : Inside Puerto Galera Bay in the Batangas channel, is where Buri Spa and Resort is located. You will learn to appreciate and respect even the simple pleasures in life after spending your time in this spa. The Spa treatments and the hospitality are exemplary. With the magnificent outdoors and the beautiful indoors, Buri Spa is one of the best. Rates start at Php 5,500.

Buri Spa and Resort

Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa : On Panglao Island, this calm, serene and unexplainably beautiful Resort resides amid 16 hectares of tropical gardens. With an outstanding spa and 15 private villas, this resort respects your privacy and treats you with humbling hospitality. The breathtaking views and the serene atmosphere would relieve you of all stress and tension. Rates start at $500.

Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa

Plantation Bay Resort and Spa : Only 30 minutes from Cebu city, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa is the classiest of all resorts, residing in over 11.3 hectares of secluded grounds. This resort features the private way, which is said to be the largest privately owned water way. This refreshing spa will heal you of all negative thoughts and lets you experience the real flavors of life. With mini bars, split AC and brilliantly crafted furniture, your room will blow your mind. Rates start at $150.

Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa : You can’t explain the beauty of this resort in words. Look up and you will see azure blue skies. Look down and the sight of clear, calm water would soothe you even in your worst mood. Bellarocca Island Resort sports a Santorini inspired architecture and a wide array of spectacular scenery such as seaside cliffs, green hills, misty valleys, hot springs, waterfalls etc. You can even take a dip to see for yourself, the beauty of the flora and fauna underwater. For adventurers, this is the best resort, which still houses many regions which still remains unexplored or documented. Rates start at $400.

These are just our pick of the top five luxury resorts in Philippines.

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This February 5, 2012, 360 trail runners will be joining the Columbia 5th Eco-Trail Run in the mountain barangays of Liloan, Cebu as part of a drive to promote eco-tourism in this central Philippine island province.

Columbia Eco Trail Run in Cebu

This leg has attracted the most number of participants compared to its four other legs. The first trail run was held in Family Park. The second was in Barangay Pulang Bato, Talamban, then in Barangay Napo, Guadalupe. The fourth one was in Barangay Budlaan, Talamban.

Adventure Eco Trail Run

According to race director Ralp Pilapil, the eco-trail run, which features a 10.5-kilometer route, has attracted a lot of newbies. ”There are about 108 female runners and more than half of the participants are first-timers. We are praying for good weather, so that the participants will have more fun,” Pilapil said.

He added that the participants could expect an adventure-filled run and a very challenging route especially the part where runners need to cross a river. ”In all of our trail running races, we usually include a river,” Pilapil added.

Pilapil also emphasized that this is also one way of promoting trail running in Cebu because most of the Cebuanos are into road running.

”We want to show nature’s beauty, for our participants to appreciate it. We expect the participants to be surprised. One participant checked the route and was taken with the breathtaking view,” Pilapil said.

”During the race, aside from the river crossing, participants will be passing through a small waterfall and amazing rock formations,” Pilapil said.

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The Department of Tourism Davao Regional Office and the municipal government of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur recently launched the 2nd International Mount Apo Boulder Face Challenge slated this April 28-29, 2012.

Mount Apo Boulder Face Challenge

“Davao boasts of fun ‘Islands to Highlands’ Adventures that will take you from the white sand beaches, breathtaking island destinations, scenic mountain ranges, to plunging waterfalls and more,” said Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez in a statement. “Mt. Apo, the highest peak in the country, is one of them,” he added.

Dubbed as one of the toughest adventure races of the Philippines, the competition is a 24-hour extreme challenge for up to 35 participating teams. It will start from the beach lines of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, as participants navigate themselves through the town’s tough trails and raging rivers, scale the boulder face of Mt. Apo, and culminate in the skyline of the country’s highest mountain.

For four consecutive years, the conduct of the Mt. Apo Boulder Face Challenge has made the Davao Region the leading destination for eco-adventure tourism. It will be running on its fifth year as a local competition, and second year as an international race.

“We certainly welcome both our international and local tourists, who will come over and experience this exhilarating extreme sports challenge. As they race their way to complete this journey, they will surely have fun seeing all the sights in Davao and in Mt. Apo, at the same time experience the warmth of the Filipino people,” added Secretary Jimenez.

This extreme sports adventure will entail four disciplines: mountain biking, trekking, white water tubing, and road running. The race is open to teams with three members (2 racers and 1 logistics crew) each.

The Mt. Apo Boulder Face Challenge aims to create awareness among outdoor and sports enthusiasts and the people on the importance of conserving the environment, cultivating the value of sportsmanship and the spirit of camaraderie, and developing a lasting peace and order situation in Mindanao through sports.

Major supporters include event coordinator ROX (Recreational Outdoor eXchange) Philippines, Aboitiz Power Corporation, San Miguel Corporation, Hi Primer Group of Companies, Zest Air and Columbia Sportswear.

“It’s more fun in the Philippines, and especially in Davao, as the 2nd International Boulder Face Challenge promises to be an unforgettable adventure experience,” said DOT Region XI Director Art Boncato.

To participate, one may register online at http://www.boulderface.com.

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South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR), the Philippines’ premier leisure airline, announced today that it is offering a special introductory one-way fare of PhP 999 to Kota Kinabalu, and PhP 849 to Kalibo until February 9, 2012 for travel on May 1 to December 31, 2012. Passengers can log on to www.FlySeair.com and www.tigerairways.com to book seats.

Boracay Island in Aklan

Starting May 1, 2012 the airline will start flying Clark – Kota Kinabalu at 15:00 – 17:00 and Kota Kinabalu – Clark at 17:30 – 19:30 every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. On May 4, SEAIR flies to Clark – Kalibo at 12:15 – 13:30 and Kalibo – Clark at 14:00 – 15:15 every Friday and Sunday.

Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of Sabah, Malaysia. Top places of interest include Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park which is composed of five islands and only 10-20 minutes away via speedboat from the city and popular among tourists and locals alike for snorkelling, diving, and relaxation. Kota Kinabalu is a popular jump-off point to Borneo Island and Sabah, renowned for its lush forests and coral reefs. Travelers can opt for day trips to Likas Bird Sanctuary and The Green Connection, an aquarium focused on conservation of endangered species. The city is also home to Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in South East Asia.

Boracay Island

Kalibo is a major gateway to Boracay Island, ranked ‘Number 4’ in the list of Top 10 Islands by Travel and Leisure Magazine. Boracay has lured travelers from the four corners of the world to its pristine four-kilometer stretch of white beach, considered one of the top 50 beaches in the world by CNN. For those with an adventurous streak, Bulabog Beach on the ‘wilder side’ of the island is one of the top windsurfing spots in Asia. Kalibo International Airport is an hour and 30 minutes by bus from Boracay.

The SEAIR-Tiger Airways Partner Airline Programme allows SEAIR to distribute its seats through Tiger Airways’ established internet booking system, www.tigerairways.com. SEAIR is the first Tiger Airways Partner Airline in the Asia Pacific region.
SEAIR is the Philippines’ second oldest airline, and is the first airline based in Clark. It has the reputation of having pioneered commercial flights to the country’s fastest growing tourist destinations including Boracay, Batanes and northern Palawan. Now on its 16th year of operation, SEAIR is expanding its reach regionally with its current jet services to Singapore, Hong Kong, and Bangkok.

For more information, please visit www.FlySeair.com. Like SEAIR Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/flyseair for updates on promos and new routes.

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Finding a perfect Honeymoon destination in Philippines is pretty hard because there are too many to choose from. You may be able to spot a good destination that matches yours and your partner’s tastes with ease since there are many options. Out of several honeymoon destinations in Philippines, we list the following destinations which had the best feedback – scenic, serene and spectacular.

Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa

Based on my research, Here’s the nine best Honeymoon destinations in Philippines:

• Batangas – Acuatico Beach Resort and Hotel
• Boracay – Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa
• Bataan – Anvaya Cove Beach and Nature Club
• Bohol – Amorita Beach Resort
• Marinduque – Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa
• Albay – Misibis Bay
• Palawan – Club Paradise
• Cebu – Maribago Blue Water Beach Resort
• La Union – Thunderbird Resort in Poro Point (rates)

Exotic beauty is what makes each of the destinations mentioned above, unique. There are a number of luxurious resorts and you also have the luxury to search and find the resort which matches your preference.

Amorita Resort in Bohol

Cebu : With so much beauty and unparalleled hospitality, Cebu remained the most visited tourist destination in the Philippines. Name the activity you like and it’s probably available in Cebu, from heritage walk to whale shark watching in Oslob – there’s no shortage of adventure in Cebu. For a simple but romantic getaway, try Island Banca’s Sunset Cruise for a romantic cruise in Mactan Island Cebu. If you are looking for a perfect resort, I recommend Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort in Mactan. The resort is complete with spa, beach front cottages and other fun and adventure activities for your most awaited honeymoon. If you hate crowd, you should try Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort. For a day or two, you can have an island of your own with complete amenities that is just too perfect for your honeymoon.

Boracay Island Philippines

Batangas : Popular for people who prefer land transportation, Batangas is a very good tourist spot with good roads, restaurants and transportation facilities, not to mention its proximity from Manila. If you are into diving, then you better book a room in Eagle Point Resort. If you are thinking about having a good time in a pool, Acuatico resort is the best choice, famous for the cool infinity pool.

Boracay : Although Boracay is not as popular as it used to be, probably because it has a lot of buildings now, Boracay is still one of the best locations with powdery white sand beaches, good and friendly people and the best restaurants with mouth-watering delicacies. Apart from the famous Shangri-La Resort and Spa, Boracay also houses good resorts like Club Panoly Resort Hotel, Nami Resort and Spa and the locally popular Boracay Regency Hotel.

Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort

Bataan : It used to be one of the most underrated destinations before but not anymore. Bataan has become one of the best Tourist destinations with nature’s beauty at its prime. The Anvaya Cove Beach and Nature Club is the major attraction, but it is permitted only for members. All the greenery and the clear blue skies represent relaxation and recreation.

Plantation Bay Resort in Mactan Cebu

Bohol : An island province with 75 smaller islands surrounding it, Bohol is popular for the Chocolate hills and the diverse varieties of animals and birds. The 5-star Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa and Amorita Beach Resort will give you the experience of a lifetime, and a honeymoon you will always cherish. The spectacular mountain views and scenic sea views are just but a few of the attractions in this place. The services and hospitality are outstanding. No doubt it is counted in the best honeymoon destinations in Philippines.

Club Paradise Resort in Coron Palawan

Marinduque : You are in for an adventure of a lifetime if you choose to come here for a honeymoon. Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa is famous for the valleys, hills, seaside cliffs, hot springs and exotic waterfalls, not to mention great food. Those who have adventure in their hearts will definitely like this place. Feel like the king of the World by taking a dip and observing the flora and fauna underwater. Explore unexplored areas and enjoy the Ultimate beauty of nature.

Albay : In the Albay province, the Misibis Bay is situated in the Cagraray Island. The legendary Mayon Volcano, the enchanting beauty of the tropics, and the extraordinary views are what makes this destination unique.

Palawan : No different than other destinations mentioned above, Palawan still houses numerous places of exquisite, indefinable beauty such as Honda Bay and Coron Resorts. The Mangenguey Island Hotel and Club Paradise is one of the best, offering excellent services, immaculate first class accommodations and complete privacy whenever you need it. Mangenguey Island is truly candy for your eyes.

You can see that you have lots of options when comes to enjoying a honeymoon trip. Just choose one of these honeymoon destinations in Philippines and have a great time.

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