Effective August 1, 2023, Cebu Pacific rolled out the following changes:

No Expiration of Travel Funds

Previously, travel funds were valid for six (6) months from the date of conversion. However, under the new policy, travel funds will no longer have an expiration date. Passengers can now use their travel funds as a virtual wallet to pay for new bookings or add-ons in the future without any time constraints.

In addition, those with a MyCebuPacific account can use their non-expiring travel funds not only for themselves but also for booking flights on behalf of their family members or friends, adding an element of convenience and support for their loved ones’ travel arrangements.

Longer Travel Voucher Validity

Travel vouchers will now be valid for 18 months, compared to the previous six (6) months. This allows passengers more time to use them for booking flights.

Flexible Customer Options

Starting August 2023, customers can now rebook for free if your flight is disrupted. You can log in to your MyCebuPacific Account and access Manage Booking to plan your future travels with ease.

Cebu Pacific’s newest initiative is a testament to the airline’s unwavering commitment to provide exceptional services to its growing base of loyal passengers. By actively listening to the feedback of its customers, Cebu Pacific shows that they value the satisfaction of their guests, and will not hesitate to modify their services to cater to their evolving travel needs. The airline’s continuous focus on customer-centric solutions is evident in this latest development, as they aim to prioritize passengers’ convenience and comfort above all else. With this approach in mind, Cebu Pacific is poised to remain as one of the top airlines in Asia, recognized not just for its affordability, but also for its unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction.

“The improvements in our customer care policies, especially the non-expiry of our Travel Fund, is a testament to our commitment to our passengers and our promise to keep listening and improving. With these enhancements, we hope to make air travel even more accessible to every Juan,” said Candice Iyog, CEB Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer.

“Cebu holds a special place in Cebu Pacific’s history as this where we flew our first flight 27 years ago. In this dynamic and challenging industry, our commitment to Cebuanos and all our passengers remain the same — to provide safe, reliable, and affordable air travel to every Juan,” Iyog said.

Cebu plays a crucial role in the expansion and growth of Cebu Pacific’s operations outside of Manila. There’s no denying that the city’s international airport, the MCIA, has become one of the most significant and busiest aviation hubs in the region. With its strategic location and top-notch airport facilities, Cebu has become the go-to hub for travelers who are seeking convenient and direct flight connections to various domestic and international destinations. It’s impressive to note that Cebu Pacific currently offers direct flights to 23 domestic and 5 international destinations from MCIA. This translates to providing more than 676 flights per week. This vast number of flights represents the airline’s strong commitment to ensuring seamless connectivity and accessibility to the different communities in the country and beyond. It’s no wonder why Cebu remains at the forefront of Cebu Pacific’s operations and is considered a vital contributor to the airline’s continued expansion and development.

Cebu Pacific currently flies to 35 domestic and 23 international destinations, spanning across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Hong Kong is one of the countries that Filipinos love to visit due to several factors. Firstly, its proximity to the Philippines, with just a few hours of flight time, makes it easily accessible for Filipino travelers. Several airlines like Cebu Pacific Air offer direct flights to Hong Kong from Cebu, Clark and Manila. You may visit cebupacificair.com to check flight schedules and fares. Filipinos are also not required a visa to visit Hong Kong.

Another reason why Hong Kong is popular among Filipinos is its diverse culinary scene. From mouth watering street food, local family restaurants, high-end international cuisines, to Michelin rated restaurants, Hong Kong offers a wide range of culinary delights. 

Hong Kong also offers a plethora of exciting tourist destinations that cater to a wide range of interests. Here are some of the top attractions that draw visitors to Asia’s World City.

@marcopaulo922 I’m back in Hong Kong! Sharing with you some of the places I visited during the trip. 1. Ngong Ping 360 2. Ngong Ping Village 3. M+ Museum 4. Sky 100 5. Hong Kong Disneyland 6. Victoria Harbour 7. Eyebar What’s your favorite place to visit in Hong Kong? Planning a trip to Hong Kong soon? @Cebu Pacific Air flies between Cebu and Hong Kong daily! Visit cebupacificair.com to book your flights. More details on my blog, link on bio. #hongkong #hellohongkong #discoverhongkong #ngongping360 #ngongpingvillage #mplusmuseum #sky100 #icchk #hkdisneyland #victoriaharbour #harbourcityhk #eyebarhongkong #letsflyeveryjuan ♬ original sound – Marco Paulo

Must Visit Attractions in Hong Kong

Ngong Ping 360

Enjoy a scenic view while riding a cable car from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping Village. If you are feeling extra adventurous, avail the Crystal or Crystal+ cabins featuring fully transparent glass giving riders up to 80% view of the scenery.

The highlights of the ride are the views of Tung Chung, Hong Kong International Airport, Tian Tan Buddha, and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (HZMB).

Skip the line when you book your Ngong Ping 360 cable car ride on Klook.

Ngong Ping Village

The final stop of Ngong Ping 360 cable car ride is at Ngong Ping Village which is home to Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery as you stroll through this picturesque village. 

Dare to climb the 268 steps to the foot of Tian Tan Buddha for more spectacular views of the village and surrounding islands. You may also visit the Po Lin Monastery to offer some prayers and blessings.

Victoria Harbour

One of the iconic and must visit places in Hong Kong is the Victoria Harbour located between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. The harbor offers a mesmerizing spectacle of passing ferries and the famous Hong Kong skyline.

On the Kowloon side, you can visit the Avenue of the Stars, Star Ferry Terminal, and K11 Musea and Harbour City malls. These spots are popular among tourists to view the Symphony of Lights show which is staged every night at 8pm.

Meanwhile on the Hong Kong Island side, you can visit the IFC building, Hong Kong Observation Wheel, and Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

You can visit Hong Kong Island from Kowloon and vice versa by riding the Star Ferry. Want a unique and memorable experience? Book a Star Ferry Harbour Tour and experience Victoria Harbour like no other!

M+ Museum

M+ is a captivating haven for art enthusiasts and culture aficionados. As part of the West Kowloon Cultural District, this modern and contemporary museum showcases an unparalleled collection of various visual arts from Asia and beyond. 

The museum also showcases special exhibitions from various artists like Angela Su and Yayoi Kusama.

You may also access the rooftop garden for an amazing view of the Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island skyline.

Get your M+ Museum tickets here.

Sky 100 Observatory

Immerse yourself in breathtaking views of Hong Kong’s dynamic cityscape from the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre (ICC). This iconic observation deck offers a panoramic spectacle of the city’s skyline, Victoria Harbour, and beyond.

Book your Sky 100 Observatory tickets here.

Hong Kong Disneyland

A trip to Hong Kong is not complete without visiting the happiest place on earth, Hong Kong Disneyland. Step into a world of enchantment and magic, where fairy tales and our beloved Disney characters come to life.

Explore seven themed lands, from the classic Main Street USA to the futuristic Tomorrowland. This November 2023, Arendelle: The World of Frozen is also going to open featuring Frozen-themed attractions and rides.

Don’t skip on highly anticipated shows in Hong Kong Disneyland like The Festival of The Lion King and Follow Your Dreams.

Cap your visit to Hong Kong Disneyland with Momentous, a nighttime spectacle filled with magic as the Castle of Magical Dreams lights up from animated projections, dazzling fireworks and amazing fountains.

Get your Hong Kong Disneyland tickets on Klook here.

If you have more time, you can also visit Victoria Peak, Hong Kong Ocean Park and the shopping streets of Mongkok.

Where to Stay in Hong Kong

One of the best areas to stay in Hong Kong is at Tsim Sha Tsui or TST. This vibrant neighborhood boasts a perfect fusion of arts and culture, shopping, and of course food. Stroll along the bustling streets, explore world-class museums, indulge in delectable eats, and shop till you drop at high-end malls and shopping streets. 

If you are looking for a hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui, check out Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotel, a 5-star hotel that offers elegant interiors, impeccable service, and captivating panoramic views of Victoria Harbour.

With its prime location along Canton Road, the Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotel provides easy access to the city’s premier shopping, entertainment, and cultural hot spots, making it an ideal base for both leisure and business travelers. Whether you seek relaxation, exploration, or a seamless corporate retreat, Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotel is a perfect venue when you’re in Hong Kong.

You may also check out Marco Polo Hong Kong sister hotels, the Marco Polo Gateway Hotel and Marco Polo Prince Hotel which are also both located along Canton Road and connected to Harbour City mall.

Sample Hong Kong 4 Day Itinerary

Planning a trip to Hong Kong soon? Here’s a sample 4 days itinerary:

Day 1

8:00am – Arrival
10:00am – 2:00pm Ngong Ping 360, Ngong Ping Village, Citygate Outlets
3:00pm – Hotel check-in, free time
6:00pm – Dinner
8:00pm – Eyebar

Day 2

10:00am – 12:00pm – M+ Museum
12:00pm – Lunch
2:00pm – Sky 100 Observatory
4:00pm – Tsim Sha Tsui, K11 Musea, Harbour City and Avenue of the Stars
6:00pm – Dinner
8:00pm – Victoria Harbour for Symphony of Lights
9:00pm – Shopping Street Markets

Day 3

9:00am – Hong Kong Disneyland

Day 4

6:00am – leave for airport

*this sample itinerary is based on Cebu Pacific Air flight schedule between Cebu and Hong Kong.

HK Goodies

Hong Kong is giving tourists a warm welcome with HK Goodies. Get a cash voucher for shops, restaurants, attractions, and exclusive gifts and freebies from hundreds of establishments around Hong Kong. You may claim your HK Goodies at the Hong Kong Tourism Board booth at the arrival hall and designated channels around Hong Kong. You may visit the HK Goodies website for more details.

Hong Kong offers a unique blend of East-meets-West culture, making it an exciting and vibrant city to explore. If you’re planning to visit Hong Kong visit cebupacificair.com to book for your flights, and Discover Hong Kong website for updated guides to make your Hong Kong adventure more fun and convenient.

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A post shared by Marco Paulo マルコ パウロ (@countocram)

A month later, lockdowns around the world started to be implemented because the COVID-19 virus has started to spread globally. These lockdowns have forced many industries to limit or shutdown their operations because of various restrictions. Two of the hardest hit were the airline and tourism industries.

Fast forward to December 2021, almost 2 years into the pandemic, I was finally able to travel outside Cebu again, this time to Boracay. With the number of COVID-19 cases decreasing, travel restrictions and requirements are also easing up making travels less of a hassle.

Traveling to Boracay is now easier because the Aklan LGU doesn’t require a Negative RT-PCR test result as long as you are fully vaccinated. Airlines, like Cebu Pacific Air also increased their flight frequency to/from Boracay. Cebu Pacific Air now flies between Manila and Boracay, 15x weekly, and between Cebu and Boracay, 3x weekly (Tue/Thurs/Sat). Another thing that I love about Cebu Pacific Air is that they provide a section in their website with information about the travel requirements of our destination.

Requirements for tourists traveling to Boracay

Here are the requirements needed if you are traveling to Boracay as a tourist.

1. Proof of full vaccination. It can be from VaxCertPH, locally-issued vaccination card with verifiable QR or contact details, WHO International Certificates of Vaccination and Prophylaxis, Vaccination Card or certificate issued abroad. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated tourists may submit a Negative RT-PCR (swab / saliva) test result, conducted within 72 hours before travel. Tests must be done by a DOH-accredited testing center.
2. Flight booking details.
3. Hotel booking/reservation details from DOT-accredited accommodations.
4. Fill out Boracay’s Online Health Declaration Card (OHDC) at least 24hrs before the flight. Make sure you have a printed or digital copy of the generated QR code. This will be required when checking in to your flight, and it will be scanned when you arrive at Caticlan Airport and Jetty Port.

Where We Stayed in Boracay

Boracay Island is home to hundreds of hotels and resorts with rates ranging from budget to luxury. If you are looking for an accommodation with reasonable rates and superb customer service, check out Belmont Hotel Boracay. The hotel is located in Boracay New Coast, a promising township by Megaworld Corporation. Located in the eastern part of the island, this property is a perfect spot for guests who want to stay away from the crowds of White Beach. Boracay New Coast is also home to Megaworld’s homegrown hotels, upscale residential condominiums, commercial and retail establishments, and an exclusive residential village. If you want fun under the sun, the Newcoast Beach is also waiting for you!

After a fun-filled day, rest and relax at Belmont Hotel Boracay. The hotel has 442 well-equipped rooms, outdoor swimming pool, function rooms, bar and restaurant, gym and spa.

If you want to visit downtown Boracay, they also provide scheduled shuttle rides for guests for free.

Things to do in Boracay

A Boracay trip wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the different activities the island offers.

Swimming at Boracay beaches

Boracay is home to a number of white sand beaches, with the White Beach where Station 1, 2 and 3 can be found, the most popular one. White Beach is about 4 kilometers of powdery white and pristine waters and is home to a number of resorts, restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops. Here you can spend your day swimming, sunbathing, trying some water activities and of course watching the famous Boracay Sunset.

If you want a laid back and away from the crowd, try visiting New Coast Beach at the Boracay New Coast. Here you can have the same fun-filled day minus the crowd. Also don’t forget to try their Crystal Kayak!

Biking to the famous Keyhole

One of the newest activities you can do in Boracay is biking to the Keyhole, a unique rock formation located in the eastern coast of the island. The best time to do this is during sunrise when you get to enjoy the cool morning breeze while the sun is peeking through the horizon. Also don’t forget to try Belmont Hotel Boracay’s iced coffee plus freshly baked doughnuts at their Bike & Brew Cart.

Paraw Sailing

One of the popular activities you can do in Boracay is Paraw Sailing during sunset. Boracay is famous for its sunset views and one the best spots to witness this is during Paraw Sailing.

Food Trip

Of course, a Boracay trip is not complete without tasting the finest cuisines the island offers.

Belmont Cafe

If you are staying at Belmont Hotel Boracay, don’t miss their delicious breakfast buffet to fuel your day. Also try the new addition to their ala carte menu which includes healthy breakfast choices and delectable international dishes.

Chambery Pool Bar

If you want to have a special dinner by the pool, do it at Chambery Pool Bar at Savoy Hotel Boracay. The hotel is currently closed but the pool area is open to Belmont Hotel Boracay guests.

Plato D’ Boracay

If you want freshly-cooked seafood, don’t miss one of the first “paluto” service restaurants in the island, Plato D’ Boracay. Located at the boundary of Stations 1 and 2, just across the floating port. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a meal while waiting for your boat tour.

Cha Cha’s Boracay

Enjoy the flavors of fun at Cha Cha’s Boracay. Choose from their selection of sumptuous local and international dishes, and refreshing drinks and cocktails. They are located at the Coast along Station 2, just a stone throw away from the beach. If you want fresh seafood, make sure to try their Cold Seafood Platter. Their pork barbecue is TDF too!

After being stuck at home for almost 2 years because of the pandemic it really felt good to be able to travel again and support our tourism and airline industry. I’m hoping that everything will continue to ease up so that more and more people can travel again, and more businesses will be able to get back on track.

Whether they are flying home to their loved ones, going on essential business travels, or planning for that long overdue vacation, passengers may avail of these special fares from July 13 to 19, 2020.

To avail of the offer, passengers may book via www.philippineairlines.com or call PAL Reservations at (+63 2) 8855 – 8888 or visit any PAL ticketing office or any partner travel agents or through the PAL mobile app.

To ensure the safety and protection of all passengers, PAL is strictly implementing an all-out ‘Fly Safe’ set of new normal safety measures and practices – dubbed “New Normal, Same Heart” – that adopts international health and safety protocols while keeping the signature heartfelt service that the airline is known for.

Passengers are encouraged to check in on-line and arrive early at the airport to allocate extra time for new safety procedures. They are also required to wear face masks or facial coverings at all times – at the airport and throughout the flight – and observe physical distance whenever queueing in line or while seated at waiting areas at the airport.

The Philippine flag carrier is one of the first in the world to require cabin crew to wear full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while on board the flight; PAL’s cabin crew also undergo medical evaluation prior to their duty. PAL has modified its inflight meal and snack service, using sealed packaging instead of traditional meal arrangements. On top of these, PAL also offers Onboard Distancing Seat Options in Business Class, Premium Economy, and a designated zone of the Economy Class cabin for passengers who wish to be extra safe when they fly.

All PAL aircraft are equipped with advanced cabin air systems that continuously infuse fresh air across the cabin (cabin air is replaced every 2 to 3 minutes), as well as High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters (or HEPA filters) that remove viruses, bacteria and other contaminants with 99.99% efficiency. The onboard air creates a controlled and cleaner environment comparable to hospital operating rooms that is safer than most enclosed public spaces.

The flag carrier has partially resumed regular commercial flights to various domestic destinations and key international cities in the US, Asia, Europe, Australia, the Middle East and Canada. PAL has also been operating special missions to repatriate stranded Filipinos and foreign nationals to and from different parts of the world, as well as all-cargo services to transport essential supplies across the Philippines and overseas.

Camiguin maybe the smallest province in the Philippines but it is also one of the most blessed when it comes to natural attractions- highlands, waterfalls, springs, white sand beaches and amazing underwater scenery, Camiguin simply has everything!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Marco Paulo マルコ パウロ (@countocram) on Jul 7, 2016 at 6:29pm PDT

My first visit to Camiguin was in 2017 with my officemates. We toured around for 3 days and visited some of the most amazing spots in the island like the famous White Island, Sunken Cemetery, Katibawasan Falls, and Old Church Ruins just to name a few. I was supposed to blog that experience but I lost all my photos when my phone broke. Sad.

Last August 31, 2019, I visited Camiguin for the second time to attend the closing ceremony of Camiguin Dive Fest, try freediving and experience what this exotic paradise has new to offer.

My best friend Doyzkie and I got invited by the Local LGU to cover the closing ceremony of the first-ever Camiguin Dive Fest. It’s a two-month long event which aims to promote the island’s rich and pristine dive sites and at the same time raising awareness to sustainable and responsible tourism.

There were a total of 800 plus dives recorded during the duration of the Camiguin Dive Fest which was participated by hundreds of divers not only from the Philippines but also from the other parts of the world.

One of the highlights of the event was the underwater photography contest. The winners were announced during the closing ceremony of Camiguin Dive Fest held at Black Beach Divers Camiguin. The event was also attended by representatives of participating dive shops, divers, guests, and the Honorable Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo.

It was amazing to see how the dive sites of Camiguin are thriving through the photographs of the divers.

Freediving in Camiguin

The next day, my most anticipated activity in Camiguin happened, and that is to freedive! I’ve been wanting to try freediving for the longest time and I finally did it!

We started our day at Kurma Eco Lodge with a yoga class to help our body relax and control our breathing. After the yoga class we prepared for the freediving trial. It started with a briefing for us to be aware of basics, and do’s and don’ts. We then headed to the shore and swam to our freediving point. It was quite a long swim from the shore so swimming skills is a must.

There were five guests who availed the freediving trial and we were grouped based on our experience level. We were all first-timers in our group and the maximum depth that we can dive was set to 5 meters, while the other group’s maximum depth was set to 10 meters. 3 buoys were setup, 1 for us to cling on and the other 2 were used to setup the guide ropes that we used as guides during descend.

We took turns in freediving and I was the first one to do it. Before diving down, our instructor reminded me to relax, take a deep breath and equalize. On my first dive, I was able to reach 4 meters down but I forgot to equalize. When diving, as you go deeper, you will feel the pressure in your ears. It is important to release the pressure by pinching your nose and blowing the pressure off your ear. I did a total of 3 dives but I was not really able to reach the 5 meter mark because I had a hard time equalizing. I was still happy though because I was able to somehow do it. After almost 2 hours, we swam back to the shore to enjoy Kurma’s brunch buffet.

Every first Sunday of the month, Kurma holds Kurma Karma Day. Guests who avail their brunch buffet can join the yoga class and freediving trial for free! The brunch buffet cost Php475 per person.

Freediving, bucket list checked!

Where to Eat in Camiguin

During my first trip in Camiguin I wasn’t really able to enjoy the food scene of Camiguin. On my second visit, I was amazed that Camiguin has these amazing restaurants and I’m glad our friend Potpot brought us to some of these.

La Dolce Vita

La Dolce Vita is a italian restaurant serving homemade pizza, pasta and other Italian dishes. It is located just across Camiguin Airport and it is a perfect spot to grab a bite while waiting for your flight.

Location: Open Map

Hayahay Cafe

If you are into healthy and organic dishes, Hayahay Cafe is the restaurant to visit. The restaurant and food are very “Instagrammable”. Perfect for your feed goal.

Location: Open Map

Kurma Eco Beach Lodge

During our visit in Camiguin, we availed Kurma’s Brunch Buffet for us to try their freediving for free. For only Php475 pesos, you’ll get to enjoy a spread of international selection and homemade goodness. I personally love their homemade jams!

Location: Open Map

Guerrera Restaurant

If you are craving for some South East Asian flavors during your trip in Camiguin, Guerrara Restaurant is the place to visit. They serve, Thai, Vietnamese and other Asian dishes. Guerrara is also situated in the middle of a rice paddy with a clear view of Mt. Hibok-Hibok.

Location: Open Map

The Beehive Driftwood Cafe

Located in Catarman, The Beehive Driftwood Cafe is known for its organic products and dishes. You can buy here organic coffee, honey, and snacks that you can bring home as “pasalubong”. They also serve meals if you are hungry. Please note that there is no mobile signal in this area.

Location: Open Map

That’s it for my weekend trip in Camiguin. Thank you Camiguin Tourism Office for inviting us to experience your exotic paradise. I’m looking forward to Camiguin Dive Fest 2020! But before that, Lanzones Festival is coming up! Are you going?

Last August 23, I attended the media preview of Cebu Ocean Park to experience the marine themed park before its soft opening day on August 24. Cebu Ocean Park was developed by Cebu Sealife Park, Inc., the same developer who made Manila Ocean Park happen. One of the key features of the marine themed park is its oceanarium which is the largest in the Philippines.

Cebu Ocean Park features exciting educational displays that can be enjoyed by the whole family. These are Jungle Trek, Lorries, Creepy Critters, Seven Seas, Fish Spa and Oceanarium.

Jungle Trek

Creepy Critters

Seven Seas

Fish Spa

Oceanarium

For those who want to make their Cebu Ocean Park experience more memorable, you can try the Crocodile Cage, Sea Trek and Stingray Interaction activities. These activities requires additional payment on top of your entrance fee.

Some of my favorite displays at Cebu Ocean Park are the clown fish aquarium in Seven Seas, and Oceanarium’s 360 Viewing Tunnel and Deep Tank Lagoon, the deepest aquarium in the country with a depth of 7 meters.

Cebu Ocean Park also features an event hall for private functions and a food hall. They are currently on soft opening and some of the educational displays and attractions are not quite ready yet. Expect the marine themed park to be fully operational on their grand opening this coming October.

Cebu Ocean Park is located at the SM Seaside Complex in South Road Properties (SRP). They are open from 10am to 8pm daily. Entrance fees are Php600/person on weekdays and Php800/person on weekend for both adults and children. Children below 2ft are free of charge.

Follow Cebu Ocean Park on Facebook and Instagram or visit their website for more details.

On this blog post, I will be sharing with you an itinerary on how you can maximize your 24 hours of stay in Shanghai. This is perfect for those who are transiting through the city or for those who just want to explore another city from another country for 24 hours.

Last April 15, 2019, I was invited to join Cebu Pacific Air inaugural flight from Cebu to Shanghai. With my work schedule and upcoming trips, I can’t really afford to file another long vacation that’s why I decided to spend only 24 hours in Shanghai. Good thing, 2 of my blogger friends decided to join along my itinerary. The flight schedule of Cebu Pacific Air from Cebu to Shanghai is perfect to achieve this 24 hour itinerary.

Cebu Pacific 5J 58 left Cebu at 6:50pm and we arrived in Shanghai around 11pm. Our flight back to Cebu the following day was scheduled at 11:55pm, so it’s a little over 24 hours stay technically.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport to/from Shanghai City Center

Shanghai Pudong International Airport is located about 30 kilometers away from the city center. You have an option to ride a bus, taxi or train going to the city. Train services from/to the airport and the city halts at around 11pm though. We decided to take the bus because we arrived late and to save some money.

Before we heading to the bus stop, we picked up our Maglev & Metro Pass that we purchased on Klook. We will be using this pass on Shanghai Metro and Maglev train on our way back to the airport.

The bus fare from the airport to our bus stop near The Bund is RMB22. It is important that you have your hotel and bus stop name written in Chinese characters because people who speak and read English in Shanghai are limited. The travel time from Shanghai Pudong International Airport to our bus stop (East Yan’an Road Middle Zhejiang Road) took about an hour.

Where to Stay in Shanghai

If you want to maximize your 24 hours in Shanghai, I suggest you stay in The Bund area. This location is perfect because it’s very near to most of the must visit places in Shanghai. We stayed at Captain’s Hostel and it is literally a few steps away from The Bund Promenade.

Sample 24 Hour Itinerary in Shanghai

11:00pm – arrival in Shanghai
1:00am – arrived at the hotel and rest

5:00am – Sunrise at The Bund

The Bund or also known as Waitan is a waterfront area in Shanghai located along the west bank of Huangpu River. It is famous for western-style architectures featuring Gothic, baroque and neoclassical designs.

The Bund waterfront promenade is a popular spot to see the futuristic skyscrapers of Luziajui. I suggest going early in the morning if you want to avoid the crowd. Waking up early was so worth it because it was almost empty except for the locals who do their morning exercises.

One of the notable statues located at The Bund is the Shanghai Bull. It was designed by the world-famous sculptor Arturo Ugo Di Modica who also designed Wall Street’s Charging Bull sculpture in New York. Shanghai Bull is a symbol of Shanghai’s effort to build a financial center that serve China’s economy.

After taking lots of photos, it’s time to head back to the hostel to prepare and eat breakfast.

Getting There
Access by Train: East Nanjing Rd Station, Line 2 and Line 10

6:00am – prepare for check out and eat breakfast

8:00am – Gucun Park

One of our travel goals in visiting Shanghai is to see cherry blossoms, and this lead us to Gucun Park. We visited Shanghai mid-April and according to our research, the cherry blossoms around the park bloom as late as early may.

Gucun Park is a large park located in Baoshan District north of the city center. The park is popular to locals on regular days because of its picnic areas, green spaces, lakes and running/biking paths.

As soon as we arrived outside Gucun Park, we were welcomed by a line of cherry blossom trees and most of them were still in bloom! It was so surreal to see thousands of pink petals being blown by wind and creating a carpet of petals on the ground. Inside there were only a few trees that were in bloom but it still looks amazing.

The park features variety of flowers that blooms in different seasons just in case you visit outside spring.

Getting There
Access by Train: From East Nanjing Rd Station take Line 2 to Jing’an Temple Station then transfer to Line 7 and get off at Gucun Park Station. Take Exit 3. Travel time is about 30 minutes.

12:00pm – Yang’s Fried Dumpling in Huanghe Road

We went to Huanghe Road primarily because of xiaolongbao or soup dumplings. We were supposed to go to the famous Jia Jia Tang Bao but the line was so long. We spotted Yang’s Fried Dumpling across the street with a lesser crowd and it did not disappoint.

Xiaolongbao is a type of Chinese dumpling that is filled with soup inside. It is usually prepared in Xiaolong, which is a small bamboo steaming basket. What makes Yang’s Fried Dumpling unique is they fry them after steaming. I like how it gives the dumpling a crunchy and fried taste. It is also amazing how they retain the soup inside.

Getting There
Access by Train: From Gucun Park Station take Line 7 then transfer to Line 2 and get off at People’s Square Station. Take Exit 9 or 10.

1:00pm – People’s Square

Located at the south-end of Huanghe Road is the People’s Square, a large public square home to a vast greenery where the locals love to gather for family bonding, relaxing or exercising.

People’s Square is also home to Shanghai’s largest and busiest metro station where 3 major subway lines passes through.

Some of the major sights in People’s Square are the Shanghai Museum and the Shanghai Municipal Government Building.

Getting There
Short walk from south-end of Huanghe Road.
Access by train: Shanghai Metro Lines 1, 2 and 8 passes through People’s Square Station.

2:00pm – Starbucks Reserve Roastery

For Starbucks fanatics, Starbucks Reserve Roastery located in West Nanjing Road is a must visit. This multi-story store opened in December 6, 2017 and considered as the second largest Starbucks in the world. Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Shanghai features its own roasting facility, and unique coffee and tea based drinks that are not available in a normal Starbucks store. The food available here is also prepared by Princi Cafe, a Milan-based cafe that offers pastries, pizza and alcoholic beverages.

Getting There
Access by Train: From People’s Square Station take Line 2 to West Nanjing Rd Station. Take Exit 11.

3:00pm – Shanghai Old City and Yuyuan Garden

Shanghai Old City is a picturesque and touristy area in Shanghai that features old style buildings. This place is also popular for shopping for local snacks and food, and souvenirs.

Yuyuan Garden is located within Shanghai Old City. It is a classical Chinese garden that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. It features pavilions, halls, rockeries and ponds. Some of the notable features of the garden are the Nine-turn bridge, Cuixui Hall, Sansui Hall, Wanhua Chamber and the Exquisite Jade Rock.

Getting There
Access by Train: From West Nanjing Rd Station take Line 2 to East Nanjing Rd Station then transfer to Line 10 and get off at Yuyuan Garden Station. Take Exit 1.

4:30pm – Lujiazui

Just across the Huangpu River from The Bund is Lujiazui, an area in the Pudong New District that was developed to be Shanghai’s new financial district. In 1992 , Lujiazui was allocated as a special investment zone. This was also the time when the development of Lujiazui’s skyline started.

Some of the modern and tallest skyscrapers in the world are located in Lujiazui. Some of the notable and popular ones are the Shanghai World Financial Center, Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and the second tallest building in the world, the Shanghai Tower.

Getting There
Access by Train: From Yuyuan Garden Station ride the train to East Nanjing Rd Station then transfer to Line 2 and get off at Lujiazui Station. Take Exit 3.

5:30pm – The Bund

It’s almost sunset and it’s time to marvel on Lujiazui’s skyline at night. If you think Luijiazui’s skyline looks futuristic already during day time, wait until the skyscrapers light up at night. The playful and colorful lights will make you feel like you were teleported to another dimension.

Getting There
Access by Train: From Lujiazui Station ride a train to East Nanjing Rd Station.

7:30pm – leave Shanghai Pudong International Airport

It’s time to head to the airport and one of the best ways to get there is by riding the Shanghai Maglev Train. This is the fastest commercial train in the world with the highest speed of 430 km/hr. It runs between Longyang Rd Station and Shanghai-Pudong International Airport. It’s a 30 km journey but only takes 8 minutes.

Getting There
Access by Train: From East Nanjing Rd Station take Line 2 to Longyang Rd Station.

That’s it for a whole day of touring around Shanghai. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as this involves lots of walking too.

24 Hour Shanghai Budget

RMB22 – Bus fare from Shanghai-Pudong International Airport to city center
RMB60 – One night stay at Captain’s Hostel
RMB20 – Dinner
RMB20 – Breakfast
RMB20 – Gucun Park entrance
RMB20 – Lunch at Yang’s Fried Dumplings
RMB40 – Snacks and other essentials
RMB20 – Dinner at Airport
RMB212 – Php1580* TOTAL

*RMB1 = Php7.50

One of the reasons why I love Cebu is, I could be working in the office in the morning, and then relaxing by the beach in the afternoon. This is exactly what I just did few days ago. I went straight from work to Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu for a quick beach escapade.

This summer, Mövenpick Cebu has prepared exciting packages and new offers to make summer even more fun and enjoyable. You can choose from the Day Tour or Cabana Rental packages.

Day Tour Package

• Access to white sand beach and swimming pool from 8am to 8pm
• Use of gym, Little Birds Club and Game Room
• Complimentary breakfast or lunch buffet at The Sails Restaurant or 15-course Balearic dinner at Ibiza Beach Club

Cabana Rental Package

• 4 hours of exclusive rental of one Cabana for 2 guests
• Access to white sand beach and swimming pool
• Includes a beach kit with cold towel, beach towel, toilet and bath amenities and a pack of sweet treats

All guests who availed these packages will also get access to the fun group activities scheduled at various times at the Beach Garden. These packages will surely make your beach escapade at Mövenpick Cebu more relaxing, hassle-free and enjoyable.

After a long day of swimming, head out to Ibiza Beach Club for some Happy Hour cocktails while enjoying the golden sunset in the Jacuzzi or on the net pods. From 4pm to 6pm, enjoy Buy-One-Get-One-Free on a glass of beer, juice or cocktail.

Ibiza Beach Club also recently introduced their Premium Gin and Tonic Collection featuring 6 drinks. All these are at Buy-One-Get-One-Free exclusively on Sundays during Happy Hour.

Come dinner time, don’t miss Ibiza Beach Club’s nightly themed shows featuring Cebu’s local talents. Enjoy the one-of-a-kind theatrical experience while savoring Ibiza’s Balearic-inspired signature 15-course dinner. Indulge with generous serving of meat and seafood – Filet Mignon, Angus Rib-Eye Steak, Ostrich Meat, Lamb Chops and Tiger Prawns, to name a few.

Don’t forget to pair your meal with Manny O. Wines, or if you want to be creative, order Ibiza’s “Cocktail in the Box” where you can craft your own drink. Each box comes with cocktail ingredients, a full bottle of spirits, and mixers.

If you’re are looking for a quick beach escapade near the city, Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu is waiting to welcome you.

For reservations and inquiries, contact +63 32 492 7777 or email hotel.cebu@movenpick.com. For updates events and promotions, visit www.movenpick.com/cebu or follow @movenpickcebu and @ibizacebu on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

The Lubao IBMF 2019 was a three day event featuring ground and aerial activities that were enjoyed by the whole family. Some of the activities include aerial shows, car shows, off road and rally cross racing, and ultralight flying. A food festival and a bazaar were also present at the venue to cater to hungry visitors and shoppers. The highlights of the event were the early morning balloon flight, night glow, fireworks display and music festival.

I am originally from Pampanga but it was my first time to attend the Lubao IBMF, and actually setting foot in Lubao. Thanks to Cebu Pacific Air, this first moment finally happened.

We are able to watch the music festival on the first day with JK Labajo, Ben & Ben and December Avenue on the lineup. I was really amazed by the huge turnout. Thousands of Cabalens and visitors from neighboring towns flocked at the event venue to enjoy the concerts and ongoing festivities.

On the second day of Lubao IBMF, we woke up early to see the hot air balloons fly. Early morning is the best time for hot air balloon flights because the wind condition and temperature are more stable. 31 hot air balloons painted the sky of Lubao with colorful and beautiful designs. My favorites are the Elvis and White Bear balloons.

I was able to make another first moment happen during this trip and that is riding a hot air balloon! It was a short but memorable ride. Bucket list checked!

Going to the venue was very convenient thanks to the direct flights of Cebu Pacific Air from Cebu to Clark which takes about 1.5 hours. The airline flies from/to Cebu-Clark route twice daily. The Lubao IBMF was held at Pradera Verde in Lubao, Pampanga, from Clark, it takes about an hour drive by car via SCTEx by taking the Dinalupihan exit.

Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone (CFSEZ) is slowly becoming a center for economic development in Central Luzon. The former US airbase was converted into a special economic zone in 1992 and since then attracted global investors from various markets.

With the development and upgrades of Diosdado Macapagal International Airport in Clark, more and more flights are being routed to the airport. Cebu Pacific Air recently announced that they will be flying direct between Clark and Narita (Tokyo, Japan), Iloilo and Bacolod in August, and Puerto Princesa in October. From Clark, Cebu Pacific Air currently flies direct to Cebu, Bohol, Boracay (Caticlan), and Davao for domestic flights. For international flights, they fly direct to Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore.

Flying to Clark is the best option if you want to explore the Central and Northern Philippines because it can cut your travel time for two to three hours compared to flying to Manila. This summer, if you’re planning an island hopping adventure at the Hundred Islands in Pangasinan, a surfing trip in La Union, a heritage tour in Vigan or a food trip in Pampanga, make sure you book a flight through Clark via Cebu Pacific Air.

I’ve been to Seoul thrice already and I would like to share with you the 10 must see and do things in Seoul, South Korea if it is your first time.

1. Wear Hanbok

Hanbok is traditional South Korean attire. In the past, this attire is what Koreans wear on their day to day lives. Today, it is now only being worn during festive and special occasions such as festivals, birthdays and weddings. Hanbok design is usually represented by vibrant colors, laces and embroideries.

Tourist in Seoul can experience wearing a Hanbok even without a special occasion. Various Hanbok rental shops are available around the city and it will only cost you as low as 10,000 won for a 1.5 hour use. One of the places where you can rent a Hanbok is at Hanboknam which is located in the neighborhood of Bukchon Hanok Village and just outside Gyeongbokgung Palace. These two sites are perfect backdrop for your photos wearing the traditional Korean attire. It will make you feel like you were transported to the olden times of Korea.

You can get a free Hanbok rental at Hanboknam using a Discover Seoul Pass. All you have to do is present the card at the shop.

2. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the biggest among the five palaces in Seoul. It is also referred as the Northern Palace because of its location. Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung features Joseon Dynasty type of architecture and considered as the most beautiful among the five remaining palaces around Seoul.

Entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace is 3,000 won for adults and 1500 won for children. If you’re wearing a hanbok you’ll get to enter for free. If you’re not wearing a hanbok, you can also enter for free using a Discover Seoul Pass.

3. Bukchon Hanok Village

If you want to see traditional Korean houses called “hanok”, Bukchon Hanok Village is the place to visit. The village is home to hundreds of traditional houses that dates back to Jeoson Dynasty. Most of these houses still has residents that’s why it’s important to respect their privacy and stay silent during your visit. Some of the houses around the village were converted to cultural center, restaurants, and shops for more immersive experience. Admission to Bukchon Hanok Village is free.

While in Bukchon Hanok Village, you might want to try renting a Hanbok to complete the experience or do a Seoul Pedicab Tour.

4. Namsan Seoul Tower and Namsan Park

The Namsan Seoul Tower or N Seoul Tower is a 236.7m structure built on top of Namsan Mountain. The structure was originally built as a broadcasting tower in 1969. Today, Namsan Seoul Tower serves as one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul. It houses an observatory that offers a 360 degree panoramic view of the city. There are also restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops inside the tower.

Outside Namsan Seoul Tower is the Namsan Park where thousands of love locks can be found locked on various places around the park. Couples do this as a symbol of eternal love for each other.

Access to Namsan Seoul Tower observatory cost 10,000 won for adults and 8,000 won for children. Access is free when you use your Discover Seoul Pass. The best way to get here is by the Namsan Cable Car.

5. Namdaemun Market

One of the best places to buy souvenirs in Seoul is at Namdaemun Market. It is the biggest traditional market in the city with shops selling various products at an affordable price compared to other shopping districts. Here you can buy souvenir items like key chains and ref magnets, skin care products, clothes, bags, traditional Korean medicine, and other goods.

Various Korean food are also available around Namdaemun Market. Don’t leave without trying some. You can also join a food tasting tour to learn more about Seoul’s culinary culture.

6. Eat Korean Street Food

The street food available in Seoul is quite overwhelming. You will be blown away by the amount street food being sold all over the city. Some stalls offer traditional Korean street foods, and some offering modern choices. Some of the traditional street foods that you should try when you’re in Korea are tteokbokki, odeng, gimbap, mandu, pajeon, bungeoppang and gyeranppang. Modern choices includes, cheesy scallops, meatballs, waffles, candied strawberries and soft-serve ice cream.

If you want to learn about the history and food culture in Korea, you can join a Korean Street Food Tour with an experienced guide.

7. Eat Samgyeopsal

Samgyeopsal is a very popular Korean dish. If you will go to a Korean barbecue restaurant, samgyeopsal is surely available on the menu for sure.

Samgyeopsal means pork belly in English. When directly translated from Korean, it means “three layers” which refers to the layers of meat and fat when the pork belly is cut.

The way to eat samgyeopsal is to place the grilled meat on top of a lettuce, add sides and sauces, wrap and eat. There are also other types of meat that you can try like galbi, dak galbi, deungsim and usamgyeop. Don’t forget to order a bottle of soju for a complete experience.

8. Try Korean Skincare Products

In the recent years, Korean skincare products has become really popular worldwide. When in Korea, don’t forget to try and buy some. They give out generous amount of samples too! Some of the popular Korean skincare brands are Nature Republic, Innisfree, Missha, Tony Moly and Etude House. You will find these skincare stores all around Seoul.

Did you know that you can also make your own skincare? A qualified instructor can guide in creating your own skincare tailor-made for yourself.

9. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

The spaceship-looking structure in Dongdaemun area, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, is one of the most iconic structures in Seoul. It was designed by the late Zaha Hadid and was built primarily to hold exhibitions, fashion shows, conferences, trade shows and other events. DDP houses a museum, art hall, design lab, design market and the Dongdaemun History and Cultural Park.

DDP is also famous for its 25,000 LED Rose Garden. This was supposed to be a temporary exhibition in 2015 to celebrate the 70th year of Gwangbok-Jeol, Korea’s version of Independence Day. It became so popular that’s why they decided to keep it. The LED Roses light up automatically as soon as the sun sets.

Access to the LED Rose Garden, DDP grounds and some halls is free. Some museums and exhibitions requires a fee.

10. Nami Island, Petite France and The Garden of Morning Calm

These three destinations are all located in Gapyeong-gun which is 1.5 hours by bus north-east of Seoul. Each of these destinations offers unique experiences and attractions.

Nami Island is a half-moon-shaped island located in the middle of Han river. It is very popular for its tree-lined pathways and K-Drama shooting locations. Autumn is probably the best time to go here when the island is blanketed with colorful leaves. You also don’t want to miss eating dakgalbi in one of the restaurants in the island. It is said that they offer the best dakgalbi in Korea. There are two ways to get to Nami Island, by ferry, and if you’re the adventurous type, you might want to Zipwire your way to the island.

Just 20 minutes away from Nami Island is Petite France. This attraction is very popular because of its French architecture. When you go inside, you will immediately feel like you were transported to France.

The Garden of Morning Calm is a private garden featuring thousand kinds of plants and flowers. The garden showcases different plants and flower depending on the season. During winter, The Garden of Morning Calm transforms into a magical scenery at night when millions of LED lights were turned-on for the Lighting Festival.

Get a hassle-free access to these three destinations in Gapyeong-gun by booking a guided tour package through Klook. The tour is already inclusive of transportation, English-speaking guide and entrance fees.

Planning a trip to South Korea soon? Book your flights with Cebu Pacific Air. They fly daily from/to Cebu-Incheon. Take advantage of their ongoing #CEBSuperSeatFest this March 2019 featuring discounts up to 1 million seats and deals.

Guide Map

These are just 10 of my recommended “must see and do” things if it’s your first time in Seoul. There are more to see, do and experience for sure. I hope this will help you plan out your itinerary  or you can also use my sample 3 Day Seoul, South Korea itinerary.

You might also be interested:
3 Day Seoul, South Korea Itinerary + Travel Tips
Nami Island, an Autumn Destination