Nuwa Manila: Overvalued Luxury

 

The Oriental Leyte: A Cautionary Tale of Poor Service

 

Movenpick Resort and Spa Boracay: Missing Luxury Elements

 

Fridays Puerto Galera: A Secluded Yet Dated Resort

 

What to Expect in the New Boracay

More than a year after its closure and ongoing rehabilitation, people are excited to know what to expect on a visit to the renewed Boracay. Whether you're planning to return or visit for the first time, we're sure you're eager to see the changes personally. But with the Two Juanderers just returning from Boracay, we thought it would be great to share the changes we've seen to help you plan your visit to this island paradise. 

Cleaner Beach
Tourists looking for sun and sand in Boracay have been disgusted by foul-smelling water and mounds of algae and trash piling up on the beach, but not anymore. Just like how it was when we first visited in 2009, the shoreline is now spotless and the water is crystal clear with no unpleasant smell. We loved the vibe of the cleaner Boracay and spending time in its pristine beach will just make your day nothing less than a perfect one. 

Back in 2016, Boracay's beaches are teeming with unsightly green algae

The renewed Boracay is now spotless and pristine

To help maintain this condition, eating, drinking, and smoking are no longer allowed within the beach area. Also, there's now a noticeable presence of trash bins along the beach which aims to change visitors' behaviors on littering. Lastly, there's a ban on single-use plastics on the island so avoid bringing in sachets and plastic utensils. 

How to Get to Boracay Island

Boracay is approximately 315 kilometers south of Manila and 2 kilometers off the northwest tip of Panay Island. Being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, it is easy to get in and out of the island. 

This picture of Boracay would get you to actively plan your beach vacation

There are two airports that serve Boracay, the Kalibo International Airport and the Caticlan Airport (also known as Godofredo Ramos Airport) both in mainland Aklan. Between the two airports, Kalibo International Airport requires a longer travel time but offers cheaper airfares, larger planes, and more flight options than Caticlan Airport. 

So whether you're flying through Kalibo or Caticlan, here are some information you need to know before you make your way to the island paradise of Boracay. 

Arriving at Kalibo Airport
Kalibo International Airport is the international gateway to Boracay Island. It is the largest airport in Aklan used by almost 3 million international and domestic passengers as of 2017. It is already serving direct flights to and from major Philippine and Asian cities.

Cha Cha's Beach Cafe: Boracay Breakfast Done Right!

The best way to start your day in Boracay is, of course, having a great breakfast. Between the beach, narrow alleyways, and countless hotels, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to wholesome and hearty ways to start your day.

Cha Cha's Beach Cafe in Coast Boracay

The tropical vibes of Cha Cha's Beach Cafe

One place that had us at "Good Morning" was Cha Cha's Beach Cafe.

Lime Hotel Boracay: Captures the Endless Summer Vibe

For first-timers, figuring out where to stay in Boracay can be time-consuming as there are more than 350 hotels and resorts accredited to operate in the island. Chances are you'll be overwhelmed in finding the right one from among many options. Ideally, you should pick a hotel that fits the location, amenities, activities, and budget you are looking for. 

Station 2 is a great home base for those who want to experience the best of Boracay. It is considered as the heart of White Beach. It is where you'll find the bustling D'Mall and most bars and restaurants. It is also the perfect jump-off point to explore the rest of White Beach, to take a tour of the island's other attractions, and to engage in popular water activities.

The vibrant and youthful Lime Hotel Boracay

One of the hotels that is strategically located in Station 2 is Lime Hotel Boracay. This is where we stayed when we went on our latest trip to Boracay. We absolutely loved our stay here and we highly recommend it. 

Here's our review of this youthful and vibrant property. 
  

Location
There are a lot of things that Lime Hotel Boracay can boast about, one of which is its excellent location. It is situated along the Main Road of Boracay's Station 2. The hotel is within walking distance to many points of interest like White Beach, D'Mall, D'Talipapa, and Bulabog Beach. It is also close to supermarkets, the Department of Tourism office, and the Don Ciriano Tirol Hospital.

Boracay: A Travel Guide for First-Timers

Arguably the crown jewel of Philippine beaches, Boracay is well known for its powder-fine white sand, dazzling blue-green waters, and amazing sunsets. Year after year, Boracay has consistently been named as one of the world's best beach destinations by various travel publications. 

The powder-fine white sand and dazzling blue-green waters of Boracay

However, with word getting out on Boracay, tourists and investors flocked to the island, largely unregulated and blatantly disregarding environmental laws. By 2018, the once-clear waters were filled with green algae, the once glorious white sands were littered with trash, and the once healthy coral reefs were degraded. This prompted the government to force the closure of the island for 6 months from April to October 2018.  

Read: What to Expect in the New Boracay

We were supposed to go to Boracay in September 2018 but due to the closure, we decided to postpone it until after its reopening. 

We've been to the island several times but we were excited to check out its renewed state like first-timers. So if it will be your first time to Boracay, read through our beginner's guide for travelers to this island paradise.

The Island
Boracay Island is located off the northwestern corner of Panay Island in the Visayas. It is under the jurisdiction of the town of Malay in the province of Aklan. 

Food Trip: Digman's Hyped Halo-Halo

For Juans, no dessert screams summer more than the halo-halo. Literally means mixed, halo-halo is typically a concoction of shaved ice, milk, sweetened beans, banana, jack fruit, purple yam, coconut strips, root crops, sago pearls, colorful gelatin, flan, and topped with ice cream. This colorful layered dessert is one great cold treat. And as the Philippines' favorite summer time food, a cup or bowl of halo-halo is available just about anywhere. 

One place that media outlets rave about as the halo-halo capital of the Philippines is Digman in Bacoor, Cavite. With the summer heat becoming unbearable these days, the Two Juanderers decided to visit Digman to check out if the halo-halo there are actually all that. We had to taste it to believe it.

Is is really the talk of the town?

Don't be confused though as the popularity of the halo-halo in the area spawned a multitude of restaurants offering their own versions of the cold treat. Each claiming to be either the first or the best. So in our visit, we tried out two of the most featured restaurants in Digman. Here's our verdict.

Kamay ni Hesus: Lucban's Iconic Pilgrimage Site

For many Filipino Christians, a pilgrimage to the Kamay ni Hesus Shrine is an experience that enriches their relationship with God. It is therefore not a surprise that in 2018 more than 2 million devotees visited and made it the Philippines' most popular Holy Week pilgrimage site. While in Lucban, we couldn't let the chance to visit this sought-after sanctuary slip by. So a day after we checked out Villa Elma, we set out to Barangay Tinamnan to see the shrine. 

The iconic 50-foot statue of the Risen Christ in Kamay ni Hesus

From Lucban town proper, we drove for just under 15 minutes to reach the gates of Kamay ni Hesus. We came inside and was surprised to find out the entrance to the site is free of charge. However, if you are bringing your car just like us, prepare PHP30 for the parking fees.

Batis Aramin Resort and Hotel: Lucban's Refreshing Destination

Sure, hiking through Villa Elma or Kamay ni Hesus is rewarding. You know - great exercise, fresh mountain air, epic views, and peace and quiet. But there is nothing more rewarding than a hike that ends with a dip in a cold mountain spring. And with Lucban being situated at the foot of Mount Banahaw, several spring resorts have sprouted up all over the town. You can drop by one of these resorts after your pilgrimage. 

The lagoon of Batis Aramin Resort and Hotel

One resort where Juans will surely enjoy the cool, relaxing waters and the lush beautiful landscape is Batis Aramin Resort and Hotel. 

Clear spring waters fill the pools of Batis Aramin

Here's what you need to know about this nature and spring resort.

Villa Elma: A Beautiful Pilgrimage Site

Upon arrival in Lucban, we immediately asked around to get insight on places to visit. One suggestion was to visit Villa Elma, said to be an alternative pilgrimage site to the popular Kamay ni Hesus. So we set out, excited to be heading into the foothills of Mount Banahaw into what we hoped would be a quieter and less crowded place.

The beautiful Villa Elma at the foothills of Mount Banahaw

Leaving the town proper behind, we drove for just under 15 minutes to reach the gates of Villa Elma. We came inside and settled the entrance fees of PHP100 per person. We were told we can also dip and swim in the cold mountain stream for another PHP100 but we opted out.

The conspicuous sign outside the resort

Lucban: A Travel Guide for First-Timers

With just a few days left before the Holy week, everyone is already busy preparing to make the most out of the long holiday break. However, if reading this just reminds you that you still haven't figured out where to spend the Holy Week, there is no need to worry. The Two Juanderers recommend visiting the town of Lucban in Quezon. Aside from being close and accessible to Manila, Lucban offers many notable spots to relax and to embrace the days of Lent. 

Lucban is a popular pilgrimage destination south of Luzon

Find out more about seeing Lucban with Two Juanderer's beginner's guide for travelers to this beautiful pilgrimage destination.

The Town
Lucban is an inland town at the northwestern border of Quezon province. It is nestled at the foot of the majestic and mysterious Mount Banahaw. It stands at an elevation of 1,500 feet above sea level. The town enjoys gentle, cool mountain breeze and experiences pleasant temperatures throughout the year. As such it is sometimes dubbed as the Summer Capital of Quezon.

Villa Elma in Lucban with views of the majestic Mount Banahaw

Fraser Place Manila: Holiday Apartment Meets Hotel

Update: As of August 30, Fraser Hospitality has sold all its units across different floors in Forbes Tower Manila, the building that originally housed Fraser Place Manila. These properties will cease to operate as serviced residences.

Choosing a place to stay is usually a challenge for any city break. However, another option that can be considered aside from hotels or Airbnb is a serviced apartment. Usually geared towards business travelers, serviced apartments can be great alternatives for those traveling as a family. It gives you the extras found in hotels like toiletries, room cleaning, and 24-hour front desk while getting more space, savings, and flexibility. 

A place that fits the bill of a holiday apartment meets hotel tag is Fraser Place Manila.

Fraser Place Manila

We stayed there in February and here's what it was like. 
  

Location
Fraser Place Manila is situated in the heart of the central business district of Makati. It is along Valero, a street lined with tall office buildings and commercial establishments. But even being in the bustling downtown, the hotel blocks out the street noise to give guests a quiet space to work and a great night's sleep.

Star City: Tips to Getting the Most Out of Your Day!

Update: Star City was hit by a major fire on October 2, 2019, which burned down about 80% of the park. The management announced plans for rehabilitation in 2020. Stay tuned for announcements on its reopening. 

The good thing about Star City is that it's a theme park for all ages. There is an array of indoor and outdoor attractions to captivate every Juan, from the young to the young at heart. 

The Star City marker

But before you visit, check out some of these tips to help you maximize your day and find the fun as soon as you walk into the park.

Get There Early?

The usual advice we get about visiting popular attractions is to arrive early. Is it a big deal for Star City? 

If you are visiting on a weekend or a holiday, it will be so much better to arrive early than to arrive late and get in line behind everyone else. Stand by times to the rides tend to get longer over time. We suggest arriving at least 15-30 minutes before the park opens. By arriving early, this gives you enough time to make your way to the entrance and buy tickets.

The carousel was surprisingly empty on a weekday visit

If you are visiting on an ordinary weekday, your time of arrival won't really matter since it will be relatively quiet. We arrived late in the afternoon but we were still able to get on and off the rides and experience more of the park in less time.

Star City: A Guide to Exploring the Park

Update: Star City was hit by a major fire on October 2, 2019, which burned down about 80% of the park. The management announced plans for rehabilitation in 2020. Stay tuned for announcements on its reopening. 

If there's a birthday, a free weekend day, or even just a few hours in the afternoon, you'd definitely think of some family-friendly fun activities to do. A theme park visit has no doubt crossed every Juans' mind at some point during these occasions. After all, it strikes a perfect blend of fun, entertainment, and thrill that every Juan seeks on a hangout day. Amongst the most popular hangout places in Metro Manila, Star City takes a spot as an option.  

Star City is one of the hangout places in Metro Manila

Star City is considered as one of the Philippines' pioneer theme parks. It was established in 1991 as an offshoot of the Toys and Gift Fair that was popular in the late 1970s to 1980s. Although it has been almost three decades since it's first opening, the park has expanded through the years and continues to delight millions of visitors. 

A Guide to the Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX)

Updated as of June 30, 2019

Exactly a month ago, the Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) was officially opened to the public. Dubbed as the country's first landport, PITX is a 75,000 square meter modern terminal that serves as a transfer point for passengers from Metro Manila going to Cavite, Batangas, and Quezon, and vice-versa. With inputs from inter-modal stations in London, Singapore, and Melbourne, the terminal promises to deliver a first world experience with passenger-friendly facilities, multiple connection options, and a myriad of dining and shopping options. 

The Two Juanderers decided to check out PITX and see how things are for Juans who will be visiting the nearby provinces of Cavite, Batangas, Quezon, and the Bicol region. Update: Daily Lucena, Daet, Naga, Legazpi, and Sorsogon trips are now available in PITX.

The Terminal

The terminal is organized into three levels that integrate in-city and provincial vehicle transfers. The ground level houses the ticketing counters, the departure bays for premium point-to-point, city, and provincial buses, and the departure and arrival bays for jeepneys, taxis, and ride-hailing services. The second level holds the arrival bays for buses. The third level contains the departure and arrival bays for UV Express, the private vehicle facilities such as parking spaces, and will eventually be the connecting level to the Asia World Station of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension project.   

Bus bays within PITX

Food Trip: Islas Pinas Food and Heritage Village

Are you growing tired of the usual food courts? We've got some great news. Things are looking up in the food court industry. Some food courts are now becoming restaurant type of experiences rather than just places for quick bites. These have been turned into places to hangout and enjoy the atmosphere. 

One such place is Islas Pinas in Pasay City. Dubbed as a food and heritage village, this indoor dining hub is a collaboration between the Double Dragon Group and Chef Margarita Fores. 

Islas Pinas is a new food hub in Metro Manila

Islas Pinas is an expansive 2,500 square meter food hub that features various flavors from the different regions of the Philippines. It also features a picturesque interior design showcasing the country's most popular landmarks. There are recreations of the old-town charm of Vigan's Calle Crisologo and the breathtaking Ifugao Rice Terraces, and re-imaginings of the Chocolate Hills, the Palawan Limestone Cliffs, and the enormous walls and buttresses of Paoay Church. 

Tarsier Conservation Area: Not Exactly A Conservation Sanctuary

An up-close encounter with a Tarsier is probably one of the top must-dos for visitors to Bohol. After all, the Philippine Tarsier is considered one of the smallest primates in the world and is very rare. 

So when we planned our trip, we made sure to include seeing the Tarsier in our to-do list. We may have made thorough work on our flights, accommodations, and itinerary but we admit we missed to research on the right sanctuary we should be visiting as we left it to our tour driver to make the decision. 

The Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area looks promising from the outside

After making a mandatory stop at the Chocolate Hills, we were dropped off at the Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc. We bought the tickets and walked through the entrance while under the impression that it is a responsible and non-exploitive animal sanctuary.

From the inside, it looks like a huge animal cage