Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Destinations that make Penang, Malaysia Enchanting

There’s something magical about the island of Penang. It’s located where the great kingdoms of Asia meet the colonial empires of Europe. Today it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Malaysia, perfectly mixing culture and heritage with modern and urban magnificence. Yet Penang also provides palm-fringed beaches and mountainous jungles that show the exoticism the island can offer. So if you’re planning to go to the island, look for more than just the best in Penang accommodation, take a look at the sites that make the place enchanting. To help, we’ve listed down places you must visit on your vacation in Penang.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

Cheong Fatt Tze came from a poor family living in Guangdong Province in the South of China. When the Second Opium War broke out, he left China and went to Southeast Asia. He was a water-carrier then shopkeeper in Jakarta before starting a trading company with the help of his father-in-law. He expanded his business from Jakarta to Medan, and then finally to Penang, Malaysia. Here he built the Cheong Fatt Tze Manzion, or what is fondly called the Blue Mansion. It was built in 1880 and has 38 rooms, 220 windows, and 5 courtyards paved with granite. The mansion features Gothic louvre windows, stained glass panels, and beautiful traditional Chinese style architecture.

Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple

The Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple is the only Burmese temple in Malaysia. In 1988, it was designated as one of Penang state’s historical sites to be preserved as an attraction. It’s made up of a main shrine hall, dining hall, monk’s quarters, library, and a lecture hall. The walkways are lined with panel paintings on the life of Buddha where the characters are dressed in colourful Burmese costume. The temple is managed by a Chief Monk who is responsible for facilitating the practice of Buddhism in the temple.

Kek Lok Si Temple

Known as the Temple of Supreme Bliss, the Kek Lok Si Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia, and the most famous temple in Penang. It was built in 1890 by an immigrant Chinese Buddhist and remains to be the foundation of the relationship between the Malay and Chinese communities who provided the funding to finish the 20-year construction of the Kek Lok Si.

Khoo Kongsi

Kongsi’s were built in Penang in the 19th century by immigrant Chinese clan members so that they could band together, represent their social and spiritual commitments, and as a symbol of their solidarity. The Khoo Khongsi has been around for more or less 650 years and is part of the goh tai seh (five big clans) and is the most famous clan house in Penang. Today, clan houses serve as a means for educating the children of members, settle disputes, and advance loans.

These are among the spots you can visit to get to know Penang island and its history a little better. Conveniently, they can all be found in George Town, a UNESCO Heritage Site and the multicultural capital of Penang. But going deep into Penang’s culture may also be experienced leisurely with Penang hotel promotions and their affordable accommodation. So, for added comfort and expedience, check out Hotel Sentral Seaview Penang, a Penang business hotel that is centrally located at the heart of George Town city. This way you won’t have to worry about getting to these amazing spots, you’ll just be a few minutes away from them.

What are you waiting for? The amazing island of Penang awaits!

Bakgatla Resort in Pilanesberg Introduces Laps Health & Beauty Spa

Bakgatla Resort in Pilanesberg, South Africa invites you to step outside of your comfort zone and step out into a great world of adventure. This haven of an accommodation embraces you in a world of essential comforts that serves to highlight the raw beauty of your great escape. These include a signature spa that is always available anytime you decide to get some well-deserved pampering. 

Laps Health & Beauty Spa was established in 2009 in Manyane and Bakgatla Resorts; which are found along the foothills of the majestic Pilanesburg Mountains. Using African practices blended with Western massage techniques, the spa is the ideal oasis for a holistic healing and rejuvenating experience to the body and soul. 

Laps Health % Beauty Spa offers an endless supply of packages where guests can choose their preferred massage treatment or beauty service. Our body-care treatment range from healing properties of wild-grown marula and aromatherapy oils, organic nourishing creams, and superior quality natural products that soothe, enrich, and pamper. 

We combine the natural tranquility of nature with the comfort of luxury and offer the best treatments that caters to the guest's every whim and brings their bodies and spirits back into harmony. Choice include hands-on treatments from a number of cultural traditions that have survived the test of time. Our expansive array of traditional approaches allows each therapist to address the every guest's needs. Communication with the therapist about pressure, temperature and specific concerns as they arise will allow them to customize the guest's preferred treatment. 

Here are the treatments and services offered by our Laps Health & Beauty Spa: 

FROM CAMP TO COMFORT 

To suit the tastes and budgets of different travellers, a wide range of accommodations is available at Bakgatla Resort. Here, you can choose between a homey cottage or a stay that's closer to nature, as the resort offers fully furnished chalets and safari tents with electricity. For those who are more adventurous, Caravan Sites and Campsites with electricity are also available. Regardless of your choice, all accommodations offer access to centrally-located ablution facilities. 

NOT JUST THE WILDERNESS 

The resort's biggest attraction is its easy access to Pilanesberg National Park, one of the best places to go on a safari in South Africa. Various species of flora and fauna reside here, from lions and leopards to the interesting Kiwano fruit. But it doesn't stop there. A number of facilities and services here—such as pool and playgrounds—prove that there's so much more to Bakgatla Resort than just seeing the Big 5. 

CONVENIENT SAFARI EXPERIENCE 

Pilanesberg National Park is right next to the resort, which means easy access to the exotic sights and sounds that the park has to offer. No need to travel far from the comforts of your Chalet, Tent, or Caravan to experience the exciting adventures of the safari. 

If you want to explore sights beyond the national park, you can easily head to the nearest tourist hotpots in the area. Go for an exciting night out at Sun City or a day trip to Rustenberg's historic churches and museum. 

Booking accommodations is fast and safe. Just visit their websites, www.manyaneresort-pilanesberg.com/ and www.bakgatlaresort-pilanesberg.com for reservations and inquiries.

Monday, June 20, 2016

4 Factors That Make Cherry Blossoms Hotel Your Ideal Manila Home

Traveling to Manila soon? Sifting through the list of hotels to stay at? Let Cherry Blossoms Hotel make its case for being the accommodation choice for your visit. Here are four reasons why this Ermita hotel is a good pick among all the other lodging options in the area:

1. A very strategic location. Cherry Blossoms Hotel is situated in a vibrant district in Manila where business and leisure surround you. Its address along Jorge Bocobo Street is just a few blocks from Roxas Boulevard, allowing you to visit places like Luneta Park, Intramuros, Manila Ocean Park, Cultural Center of the Philippines, and the US Embassy. Malls like Robinsons Place Ermita and SM Mall of Asia are easily accessible from the hotel. The international and domestic airports can also be reached within a few minutes’ drive, making this Manila accommodation a superb option for travelers on a layover.

2. Impressive facilities and services. This hotel in Ermita, Manila understands that guests seek a home-like environment, where the things they require are at their fingertips. That’s why here you’ll find a host of conveniences that cater to your personal and professional needs. Feeling hungry? Drop by its on-site restaurant and coffee shop for satisfying chow, or have your food delivered to your room via the 24-hour room service. Had a long day? Have the staff arrange a soothing massage for you. Need to work or stay connected with colleagues? Take advantage of the hotel’s free Wi-Fi access. Moreover, if you’re looking for a great venue for your event, Cherry Blossoms Hotel can help you with that with its banquet packages and a function room that can comfortably seat up to 300 guests.

3. Cozy rooms. Designed to give you a delightful and relaxing stay, the 145 rooms are fitted with air-conditioning, cable TV, video-on-demand, a mini-bar, refrigerator, and NDD phone. Inside each space is a private bath with a hot and cold shower. Rooms come in queen or twin bed configuration. The 2 Level Suite further boasts a separate living area that’s a perfect spot for fun conversations or informal get-togethers.

4. Budget-friendly rates. When traveling, it’s important that you get great value for your money so you’ll be able to enjoy more. And Cherry Blossoms Hotel guarantees just that. Compared to other lodgings in the area, this accommodation may be on the economical side yet you get more than what you actually pay for: comfortable and quiet spaces, a comprehensive set of conveniences, and a good location. Plus, when you book through its website, you may be able to score special rates for your stay.

So the next time you travel to the Philippine capital, choose Cherry Blossoms Hotel as your temporary abode.

Sunday, June 19, 2016

5 Things to Enjoy at Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar

Explore the historical houses

It is a pride and honor of Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar that it is a heritage resort and as such, its entire property consists of houses from a different time. These houses speak proudly of the Philippines' history in which some of it go beyond aesthetics. Some have a unique story to tell which the skilled tour guides will tell you about.

Indulge in arts and culture

At Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar, arts and culture are everywhere. Every inch of the property speaks about the history of the Philippines. Aside from the historical houses, you can explore the museum which showcases the ancestors of modern day items or you can have a look at Hotel De Oriente. The interiors of Hotel De Oriente are filled with intricately carved wood and the entire place is very visually appealing and artistic. It's definitely not to be missed when you visit Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar.

Splash around in swimming activities

Aside from being a heritage attraction, Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar is also a Bataan beach resort. It boasts of its stream-inspired pool (which looks like an actual stream!) and aside from taking a dip in it, guests can also enjoy various water sports. Plunge into the seas with some cool activities you can do at this heritage resort.

Take photos. Lots of it.

Remember, Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar is the only resort of its kind in the Philippines. As you spend your time in this resort in Bataan, don't forget to document every moment by taking lots and lots of photos. Every inch of the resort is very social media worthy! Plus the photos look good in print, too. If you want fancier shots, you can always ask the friendly staff from the resort about their photo packages where you can wear some traditional clothes while having your photos taken around the place.

Have a great staycation at the only Heritage Resort by the sea

This Bagac, Bataan resort is such a good choice for people of all ages from all walks of life. With great rooms that come with your accommodation, your stay at Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar will be with you throughout time.

Visit the website for more information: http://lascasasfilipinas.com


Wednesday, June 15, 2016

AlDub Spends Time at Dakak Beach Resort and Gloria Fantasyland

Dakak Beach Resort recently welcomed Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza, known as AlDub of Eat Bulaga!, as the newest endorsers of this resort in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte. The two flew in last March to spend 3 days shooting for a TV commercial for Dakak and Gloria Fantasyland, as well as enjoying a well-deserved break from showbiz commitments.


Like Alden and Maine, travelers can also have a wonderful time at Dakak Beach Resort. It’s a luxurious destination for serene holidays where fun and recreation are also at the forefront. Here, you can relax inside air-conditioned rooms and bungalows that are furnished with plush beds, a mini-bar, and a private bath and shower with towels and complete bath amenities. When adrenaline sets in, you can engage in the myriad water sports at the resort; or have an adventure doing rock climbing, ziplining, or riding the ATV. For recreation, you can also drop by Gloria Fantasyland, which is just 5 minutes away from the resort.

For a truly amazing time at this Dapitan City resort and at great value for money, book the Barkadahan Package for your stay. It comes in 2 options: an overnight package and a 3-day/2-night deal, both of which include breakfast, complimentary passes to Gloria Fantasyland, and other perks.


Take advantage of this promo and other Dakak Beach Resort packages for a holiday that’s not only memorable but also easy on the pocket.

Dakak Beach Resort is located at Baranggay Taguilon, Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines 7101. Online bookings may be done at http://www.dakakresort.com. For more information, log on to its website or visit its Facebook Page.

Tuesday, June 14, 2016

4 Reasons Why Best Western Plus Lex Cebu is Worth the Trip

If you are searching for a prime accommodation where you can relax and do business at the same time, Best Western Plus Lex Cebu in Cebu City, Philippines is the place to go.

If you are searching for a prime accommodation where you can relax and do business at the same time, Best Western Plus Lex Cebu in Cebu City, Philippines is the place to go. Located over 500 km from Manila, this 2015 TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence recipient guarantees that choosing to come and stay here is worth the trip by lending the following treats:

1. 4-Star Quality Accommodations
Best Western Lex Cebu houses 83 exquisitely-designed rooms that seamlessly combine form and function. Each is spacious and fitted with comfortable furniture and select amenities. These include an air-conditioning, memory beds and goose feather pillows, free Wi-Fi Internet access, a 32” LED satellite TV, mini-bar, iPOD dock, voicemail, free 30-minute local call, radio, alarm clock, hair dryer, digital weighing scale, working desk with lamp, dental kit, shampoo, bath gel, soap, lotion, shower cap, comb, bath robe, shaving kit, and rain shower.

2. First-Rate Conveniences
This Cebu hotel is also a recipient of 2014 Booking.com's Award of Excellence. As such, guests can expect only the finest services and facilities for their stay. Here, they can conduct business seamlessly or indulge in recreational leisure. Best Western Hotel Cebu has a gym, infinity pool, meeting rooms and business center, laundry and dry cleaning, foreign currency exchange, Cebu City Mall shuttle service, car rental, massage services, free wired and wireless Internet access, and 24-hour room service.

3. Dining Venue
Lex Hotel also features a first-rate dining venue — the Kai Cafe and Restaurant. It offers International cuisines with a perfect blend of artful concoctions and soul-satisfying indulgence. For those who want to eat outside, this Cebu City accommodation is a short distance away from Larsian BBQ and Bintana Coffee House, 2 of the most favored dining options around the area.

4. Central Location
Presenting easy access to the city's commercial district, and situated near a few tourist attractions, Lex Hotel is truly the ideal accommodation for on-the-go travelers. Its address at the corner of Escario Street and Juana Osmena Extension is very close to shopping centers, government offices, and universities. It is also just a 15-minute drive from Cebu Port and about an hour's drive from Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

To reserve a room, log on its website at http://www.bestwesternlex.com/. Click on the "Check availability and prices" button to launch the direct booking engine that is powered by DirectWithHotels. Direct online bookings give guest exclusive access to promos and packages offered by Best Western Plus Lex Cebu.

Thursday, June 9, 2016

Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila: The Perfect Accommodation for Bleisure Travelers

Bleisure — the mix of business and leisure — is fast becoming a lifestyle of many business travelers today. And Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila understands this perfectly. That’s why at this Pasay City hotel, you’ll find a host of features that don’t separate work and play but instead bring them together, resulting in a unique experience.

Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila places guests in the midst of the metro’s premier conference venues. A few minutes’ drive away, you’ll find SMX Convention Center, World Trade Center Metro Manila, and Philippine International Convention Center. Moreover, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and the business districts of Makati and Taguig are just within reach, especially if you take advantage of the hotel’s car hire and shuttle service. But while it’s near business destinations, the hotel is also a stone’s throw away from SM Mall of Asia, MOA Arena, Manila Ocean Park, and Intramuros. Indeed, the location alone is a big plus for those who want to enjoy relaxation while traveling on business.

Inside this hotel in Pasay City, you’ll find a modern minimalist design, already evident in the spacious lobby that features a splendidly designed chandelier. There’s a dining area that serves an impressive selection of scrumptious Continental fare for breakfast until dinner. The swimming pool, spa and wellness center, and fitness center provide the perfect spots on site from which to stretch and relax your muscles.

And speaking of relaxation, the hotel’s 281 rooms and suites provide the perfect spots to unwind after a long day. Neutral and earth tones on its walls and furnishings already bring a sense of tranquility the moment you enter. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide a sweeping view of the urban scenery, which can be covered by blackout curtains for when you need a bit of privacy.

The best part of every room would probably be the chiropractic-approved mattresses, guaranteeing you of sound and comfortable sleep. The fluffy pillows and premium linens add to the feeling of coziness. Complementing these are an array of superb in-room amenities like LCD plasma TV with cable channels, an iPod docking station, mini-bar, refrigerator, and tea maker. The bathroom has bathrobes and a hair dryer. A desk and seating area are provided, for those times when you need to use the Wi-Fi Internet for work or to connect with family back home.

And when you need anything else — room service, concierge service, safe and luggage storage, currency exchange, and laundry and ironing service — trust the competent and friendly staff to take care of them.

So when in Metro Manila for work or pleasure, Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila is an ideal accommodation choice, the hotel that gives you a bleisure-able stay.

Monday, June 6, 2016

5 Must-Visit Cultural Landmarks in Makati City, Philippines

Aside from the wealth and glamor of Makati, this city also boasts an affluent heritage as it is home to several cultural and historical landmarks. Read on and discover 5 remarkable places that might capture your interest.

Makati City is known as the Philippines' economic center where prime business firms, first-class malls, and upscale hotels, like the Makati Diamond Residences, thrive. Being one of the busiest districts in the metro, it acquired the name "Wall Street of the Philippines”. But aside from the wealth and glamor of this city, Makati also boasts an affluent heritage as it is home to several cultural and historical landmarks. Read on and discover 5 remarkable places that might capture your interest.

1. Santuario de Guadalupe
Considered as the oldest historic landmark in the city, this iconic church in Guadalupe Viejo was transformed into an art and history museum. It houses an impressive collection of Mexican baroque artworks and carved images of New Mexico patron saints. Jose de Alzibar's “Our Lady of Guadalupe”, which is regarded as the largest oil painting of the Spanish Southwest, is one of the treasured masterpieces of this museum.

2. Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church
This 400-year-old church is known for its intricate design that is reminiscent of late Spanish Renaissance and early Baroque architectures. The main entrance of the edifice has the typical rose window and simple Doric columns. But as you step inside this glorious structure, you'll notice that its interior shows Romanesque embellishments. Because of this superb aesthetics, the Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church has become a favorite wedding venue in the metro.

3. Museo ng Makati
Located at J. P. Rizal St. in Poblacion, just a short drive from Diamond Residences Makati, this museum was actually the original town hall of the city. It was completely restored in 1992 as the repository of Makati's heritage and culture. This community museum houses anthropological artifacts, which include fossil remains of per-historic animals and earthenwares. One who's interested about the yesteryear of the city will appreciate the collection of rare photographs and murals displayed in this museum.

4. The Philippine Army Museum
This landmark comprehensively tells the story of the Philippine Army from 1898 up to the present. It exhibits various episodes of the army's evolution, photographs of revolutionary heroes, and a collection of AFP medals and weaponry. The museum's special feature, which entices a lot of visitors, is a tunnel with several arteries leading to different exits.

5. Ayala Museum
Regarded as a valuable private institution of art and culture, this museum showcases Philippine fine arts and iconography. It displays 60 handcrafted dioramas that chronicle the rich tapestry of the nation's history and a collection of water crafts' miniatures to show the development of Philippine maritime trade and economy. The Ayala Museum is one of the most accessible place of interests in the city for it is close to Makati Diamond Residences and other hotels in Makati.

South Africa's The Aviator Hotel OR Tambo Offers Smartphone Users 40% Discount!

The Aviator Hotel OR Tambo in South Africa is offering huge discounts to guests who will book a stay using their smartphones. The newly launched 'Mobile Exclusive' deal presents 40% discount and many other freebies until January 31, 2017. 

Here are the complete details: 

Mobile Exclusive 

- Get up to 40% discount if you book through your mobile phone! 

- Inclusions: breakfast, airport transfers, free Wi-Fi Internet, complimentary parking 

- Validity: until January 31, 2017 

In addition, along with the cooler weather comes a special promo called Winter Rate Special. This website-exclusive deal offers discounts and other privileges that guests will truly love. 

Winter Rate Special 

- Get 30% off regular rates this winter season! 

- Inclusions: breakfast, airport transfers, free Wi-Fi Internet, complimentary parking 

- Validity: until June 30, 2016 only 

Via your smart phone, book direct at the hotel's website through its online reservation system that is powered by DirectWithHotels. Visit http://www.theaviator.co.za and click on the ‘Check Availability and Prices’ button to catch this deal. Instant confirmation is guaranteed and all transactions are secured by Trustwave and Digicert. Cancellation and modification is allowed within a set period. Promo details may change but successful bookings made prior to any adjustment will still be honored. 

Great accommodations in a superb location…this is what The Aviator Hotel OR Tambo offers for the traveller who wants utmost comfort and convenience. Situated just 3 kilometres from OR Tambo International Airport, the hotel is the perfect place for those who are staying at Johannesburg and those who are looking for a nice stopover before catching the plane to other destinations. 

Style, practicality, and comfort are what we provide with ease with our modern, minimalist rooms. Enjoy great views of the garden or city while relaxing in our clean, air-conditioned dwellings. Satellite TV, private toilet and bath, and free toiletries are only some of the essential amenities that we offer. We take away the unnecessary frills but still give guests what they really need to make their stay as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. 

Whether you’re an adventure traveller, a business guest, or you’re just here for a brief stopover in between flights, The Aviator Hotel OR Tambo has the facilities and services that will cater to your needs. We got you covered with our free Wi-Fi internet, spacious conference rooms, swimming pool, and restaurants, among many others. We have airport transfer services ready to take you to and from the airport to complete the total convenience that we are committed to deliver. 

The Aviator Hotel OR Tambo 
Corner of Bosch Avenue & Kempton Road 
Kempton Park, Johannesburg, 1619, South Africa 

Phone Number: +27-11-921 8300