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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.

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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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.

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 visited Coron during my birthday with my blogger bestie, Doyzkie. I usually plan whenever I go on a trip but since I don’t have anything planned for my birthday, I decided to book a flight to Coron for a weekend trip.

We arrived in Coron early in the morning and we went straight to The Funny Lion, our home for 2 nights. It took about 30 minutes to get to the resort from Busuanga Airport, and we paid Php150 each for the fare. We were welcomed by Earl, the friendly and accommodating receptionist of The Funny Lion. He also allowed us to check-in early since there’s an available room.

The Funny Lion is a modern boutique resort located along the coastline of Sitio Jolo, Poblacion V that is teeming with virgin mangrove trees. The resort has this modern yet rustic and relaxing vibe. It’s truly a perfect venue to for a relaxing getaway.

The Room

The 31 room boutique resort has 3 room categories – Cub Room, King Room and Pride Room. We stayed at their Cub Room, the most affordable among the 3 for 2 nights. The Cub Room features 2 twin beds, and pull out bed. It can accommodate up to 2 adults and 2 children below 6 years old or 3 adults. The room has a modern contemporary interiors featuring woods and earth tone colors. This gives the room a relaxing and rustic ambiance.

The Cub room is also complete with amenities like TV, mini refrigerator, AC, hot and cold shower, toiletries, and hairdryer. I love how they use refillable glass bottles for their shampoo, body wash and drinking water.

We also received complimentary The Funny Lion sling bag and bandana which are perfect accessories for an adventure filled day in Coron. Snacks and drinks inside the mini refrigerator are also complimentary.

There’s WiFi in the resort but for some reason it doesn’t work inside our room. Data signal is also weak. Good thing there’s a bench just right outside our room where we can lounge and connect to WiFi. You know, social media duties, ahah!

The Pool

It was the pool area of The Funny Lion that made me want to stay at this resort. The Funny Lion has a stunning infinity pool and jacuzzi with a view of the mangrove forest just outside the resort. It also has lounge chairs for some tanning sessions or relaxing while sipping your favorite cocktails.

We actually dipped in the pool as soon as we finished settling in our room because it was truly inviting. The hotel staff also gave us free cocktails and organic body sprays for a more relaxing experience.

Pride Rock Deck

The Pride Rock Deck is probably my favorite spot in the resort because of the sunset, and view of the bay and near by islands. After our adventure-filled island hopping activity during our 2nd day, we went straight to rooftop of the resort for some happy hour cocktails and brick oven pizza. They offer buy one take one on cocktails from 4pm to 7pm. The Pride Rock Deck also has one of the best sunset views in Coron.

Cocktails, pizza, jacuzzi and sunset! What a way to end the day!

Hunt Restaurant

We had our complimentary daily breakfast at Hunt Restaurant. The breakfast buffet spread features traditional Filipino and international selections. They have rice, eggs, waffles, pancakes, sausages, cereals and breads. The Hunt Restaurant also serves ala carte dishes for all-day dining.

Coron Tour

A trip to Coron is not complete without experiencing it’s beautiful spots. On our first day, we visited Maquinit Hot Spring and Mt. Tapyas.

Maquinit Hot Spring is quite far from the town and we booked a tricycle for Php500 which is the standard rate. Each tricycle can accommodate up to 4 persons. The entrance fee to Maquinit Hot Spring is Php200 per person. Please note that outside food and drinks are not allowed to be brought inside.

After Maquinit Hot Spring, we asked our tricycle driver to drop us at the foot of Mt. Tapyas. Getting to the top requires physical endurance as you are required to conquer 724 steps. The view from the top was worth the climb though. It will give you a panoramic view of Coron town and nearby islands. We made it just in time for sunset and it just keeps getting better and better as the sun goes down.

On our second day in Coron we went island hopping and booked Coron Ultimate Tour 1. We visited CYC Beach, Skeleton Wreck, Coral Garden, Atwayan Beach, Twin Lagoon and Kayangan Lake. The island hopping tour cost Php1300 per person and it already comes with entrance fees, guide fees and lunch.

Palawan is truly one of the best islands in the world because of it’s beautiful islands, underwater scenery, and friendly locals. I really had one of the most memorable birthday trip, thanks to The Funny Lion.

Also Read: El Nido, Palawan Getaway and Sample Itinerary

As one the organizers of Influencity, we needed a hotel that was near the event venue to save us from driving though the city’s crazy traffic. Quest Hotel Cebu was generous enough to partner with us, and accommodate us during the duration of the event.

Quest Hotel & Conference Center Cebu is conveniently located at the heart of Cebu City. Its location is perfect for travelers who need easy access to their destinations. The hotel is located along Arch Bishop Reyes Avenue, just right outside Cebu Business Park, and across Ayala Center Cebu.

The Room

I stayed in one of Quest Hotel Cebu’s Deluxe Corner Rooms for three nights. The room features a floor to ceiling glass windows on each side and has an amazing view of Cebu City’s skyline and the mountains of Busay. The room boast a clean contemporary interiors featuring white and earth tone colors.

When it comes to room amenities, Quest Hotel Cebu has it all, from toiletries, complimentary water, tea and coffee, bar amenities, flat screen tv, and comfy bed and pillows.

When I arrived in my room, I was welcomed by a cute elephant towel art. How cute!

The Pool

The pool area of Quest Hotel Cebu is located on the 7th Floor of the building. It features a leisure pool and a small pool for children. It also has a swim up bar just in case you want some drink while having a dip. The pool area also features a cabana where you can have a relaxing massage.

Puso Bistro and Bar

Hungry? Head to the Ground Floor of Quest Hotel Cebu and satisfy that hunger at Puso Bistro and Bar. It’s the only restaurant in the hotel and it offers ala carte menu, and breakfast and themed dinner buffets. It also has small function rooms that can accommodate small gatherings.

I ate breakfast at Puso Bistro and Bar for 3 days. It was truly one of the best breakfast buffets in Cebu City. It’s no wonder they bagged SunStar Best of Cebu’s Best Breakfast Buffet last 2017.

The Quest Hotel Cebu Hospitality

Quest Hotel Cebu has super helpful, warm and attentive staff, and they are willing to assist you to make the best of your stay.

If you you are looking for a hotel stay in the city that is close to almost everything, I definitely recommend Quest Hotel & Conference Center Cebu. Follow their social media accounts, Facebook and Instagram for updates. For inquiries or reservations, guests may call Quest Hotel & Conference Center Cebu at (63 32) 402 5999.

The 170 hectare Cebu Safari is located in the Municipality of Carmen. It was born out of the passion of the owner, Michel J. Lhuillier to become a farmer. Mr. Lhuillier or Senyorito started by purchasing land in Carmen and planting fruit-bearing trees around his property. The land was also used to house horses, a poultry farm and an ice plant, and also care for his 30-year old orchid collection.

His visit to the famed San Diego Zoo gave him the idea on what to do with his surplus land. Senyorito wanted to bring the same level of experience at San Diego Zoo to Cebuanos at a fraction of the cost. This led to the birth of Cebu Safari and Adventure Park in Carmen, Cebu.

Last February 20th, I was invited to experience Cebu Safari together with Cebu’s media community and tour operators. We arrived at the venue just before noon time, and we were welcomed by Cebu Safari’s mascots- Bayani (a Philippine Salt Water Crocodile), Andres (a Visayan Warty Pig), and Amihan (an African Crown Crane) at the Welcome Pavilion. We were then briefed of the do’s and don’ts, as well as what to expect inside the safari. Since Cebu Safari is huge, guests can ride trams to bring them to different parts of the park.

We started our adventure at the African Savanna, the first of its kind in the country. Inside the African Savanna, you will be able to see zebras, wildebeest,waterbucks, and helmeted guinea fowls roaming freely. It’s really nice to see animals in an open environment living freely with other animals.

Just near the African Savanna, you will also be able to see otters, crocodiles, cheetahs, and sulcata tortoises.

Our next stop was the Safari Outpost. Here, we were able to feed giraffes, and see meerkats, swans, pelicans and crowned cranes. We then walked through the Canopy Trail and I was able to see a huge crocodile resting underwater, and the amazing cassowaries. The Canopy Trail is also a perfect spot to shoot those OOTD photos.

It’s already lunch time and we’re getting hungry, good thing our next stop was at Michel’s Pavilion where lunch was served. The pavilion has an overlooking view of Michel’s Garden where various plants and flowers were planted. Michel’s Garden also features a flora walking trail that displays 1 million different variations of orchids. The orchids are part of Senyorito’s 30-year old orchid collection.

After lunch, we were treated to a bird show. It’s amazing how these birds were trained to do some tricks and entertain guests. Soon, guests will be able to watch this show at the Safari Stadium once it’s completed.

We spent the rest of the afternoon viewing and interacting with other animals. I really enjoyed feeding the Macaw’s at the Macaw Aviary, and seeing tigers play in water at the Tiger’s Turf. We were also able to see some monkey, capybara, llama, rheas and deer.

I’m not really a fan of zoos but Cebu Safari was an exemption since the animals can roam freely and you can really see that they are enjoying at their new home. There are currently more than a thousand animals at Cebu Safari. The management assured that all animals are well taken cared off by their 200 plus staff and vets.

More attractions and activities will soon be added to the park. The management is also building a hotel for guests who want to stay overnight.

Cebu Safari is currently on their soft opening and they’re only open on weekends. Please note that mobile network signal is currently limited to some areas around the park.

Tips When Visiting Cebu Safari and Adventure Park

• It’s a 170 hectare property, and touring around involves lots of walking so wear those comfy shoes and clothes
• Protect your skin by applying sunblock, bringing an umbrella or wearing a hat
• Selfie sticks are not allowed
• Cebu Safari opens at 8am and closes at 5pm. Be early so that you can maximize your day inside the park.
• Petting and feeding of animals is not allowed except for designated areas where you can do so.
• Picking of plants and flowers is not allowed.
• Bringing of outside food and drinks is not allowed.

Cebu Safari and Adventure Park Tickets

Cebu Safari’s current rate is Php800 per head and it already includes a lunch buffet. They are currently operating on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. You may visit their Facebook page for the announcement of preview schedules. Please note that they can only accommodate a limited number of guests per day.

Update (04-07-2018): Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is now on full swing since April 4, 2018. They are now open from 8am to 5pm, Wednesday to Sunday. Ticket price is Php800 for adults, Php400 for children (2-3 ft tall), and children below 2 ft tall gets in for FREE. The ticket price doesn’t include buffet lunch anymore.

For inquiries and reservation, Cebu Safari’s contact number is +63995 835 3460.

How to Get to Cebu Safari and Adventure Park

Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is about two hour’s drive from Cebu City. If you are coming from Cebu City, drive up-north to Carmen and make a left turn before Carmen National High School. Cebu Safari is located approximately 8 kilometers from the highway. It is advisable to ride a private vehicle going to Cebu Safari since there are shuttle service available to/from the highway yet. Signs and markers were installed along the road to help you find your way to the safari.

If you are to commute, you may ride a north-bound bus at the Cebu North Bus Terminal in Mandaue City. Ask the driver to drop you off at Carmen Public Market. From there, you may ride a habal-habal to Cebu Safari.

Watch out for the grand opening announcement of Cebu Safari and Adventure Park on their social media accounts. You may contact them at +63995 835 3460 or email them at sales@cebusafari.ph for inquiries.

Solea Mactan Resort is about an hour drive from Cebu City. It is located on the east coast of Mactan Island in Cordova which is beaming with lush greenery and a spectacular view of the Hilutungan Channel. The resort’s location is perfect for couples, family, and friends who want to experience the sun, sea, sand, and some fun!

We arrived at the resort and we were greeted by a lobby furnished with some fresh contemporary interiors. The resort lobby features locally made furniture that are unique in design. Warm smiles also welcomed us as we check-in for our room.

The Rooms

Solea Mactan Resort features 225 rooms, and suites – this include 12 Superior Garden Rooms, 200 Deluxe Rooms, 14 Suites, and Presidential Suite. Each room is equipped with a private balcony, and amenities that will surely give guests a comfortable and pleasant stay.

During our staycation, we stayed at the Presidential Suite of the resort. The room features a huge living and dining room area, and 2 bedrooms which can accommodate up to 6 guests. The room boasts modern contemporary interiors featuring neutral shades, and every corner of the rooms is very picture worthy. The Presidential Suite also provides guests with a panoramic view of the resort and the sea. The private balconies are perfect spot to watch the scenic sunrise or sunset of Cebu.

The Resort Amenities and Facilities

Besides the cozy room, another thing that I look forward to when I visit a resort are the amenities, and Solea Mactan Resort has a plenty for everyone. The resort features 3 swimming pools that the whole family can enjoy. They have an infinity pool by the lobby, a huge recreational pool with slide and fountain, a kiddie pool, and an access to Best Western Sandbar Resort’s swimming pool. Guests can also enjoy kayaking and stand up paddle board activities at the lagoon.

Solea Mactan Resort also has conference rooms, a health club, and various recreational activities.

Earth Restaurant

Solea Mactan Resort’s Earth Restaurant is an all-day-dinning outlet serving both in-house and walk-in guests. The restaurant serves buffet style dishes which is available for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They also have ala carte selection for guests who want to skip the buffet.

I really had a pleasant stay at Solea Mactan Resort. Visit them at Victor Wahing Street, Alegria Cordova, Cebu. For inquiries and reservations you may call +63 (032) 517-8889 or email info@soleamactan.com.

We transferred to Amorita Resort after we spent a night at its sister resort, Momo Beach House. As soon a we arrived, I headed to the poolside area to checkout the view, and I was in awe! Amorita Resort is the only resort in Panglao, Bohol that has an overlooking view of Alona Beach and the cerulean waters of the Bohol Sea. The resort is secluded atop of a limestone cliff, giving guests not only the tranquil view but the feel of exclusivity as well.

Amorita Resort has 98 luxurious rooms elegantly designed with modern aesthetics. I stayed in one of the Junior Suite of the resort, and I fell in love with the modern minimalist-zen vibe of the room.The room is very spacious and complete with amenities for total luxury, comfort and relaxation. Amorita Resort also has Villas for a more luxurious and exclusive stay. Each villas are equipped with its own plunge pool, patio, and ocean or garden views that will take your breath away.

After settling in into our room, we then headed to Tomar Tapas X Bar for lunch. The restaurant offers classic tapas, paellas, and pintos that are staple of Spanish cuisines. Tomar also houses carefully curated wines and whiskeys from around the globe.

Amorita Resort is equipped with sleek infinity pools both offering spectacular sea views. The pool near the reception area offers tranquil views of Alona Beach, and it’s a perfect spot to unwind while watching the sun as it sets in the horizon. The pool near Saffron Restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy swimming with the whole family.

One of my favorite spots in Amorita Resort is their private cove. Located at the north-eastern part of the resort, the private cove offers an exclusive beach experience since it cannot be accessed by other tourist. We spent most of our afternoon lounging and taking photos at this spot. You can also take advantage of the resort’s free use of snorkels and goggles if you are the adventurous type.

It’s dinner time and we headed to Saffron Restaurant for an evening of sumptuous buffet. The restaurant offers local and international cuisines served buffet style. The restaurant has various food stations that will surely satisfy your taste buds. Saffron Restaurant also serves breakfast buffet and ala carte orders.

Amorita Resort in Bohol is truly a world class resort. The service, amenities, food and overall stay were truly amazing, no wonder they’ve won several awards already like the 2017 Condé Nast Johansen Excellence Award for Best in Service.

Now it’s your turn to experience luxury in paradise at Amorita Resort, Panglao, Bohol. For inquiries and reservations, call (+632) 553 9549 or visit their website at amoritaresort.com