The holiday spirit in the Philippines is definitely in full swing now that December has come around. From malls blasting Christmas carols to streets lined up with colorful lights and parols, it definitely feels like Christmas wherever one goes!
For Filipinos looking for festive spots to visit during this season, several destinations around the country have gone the extra mile to spread the holiday joy. From the wintery mountaintops of Baguio down to the sparkling lights displays in Makati, here are some of the must-visit Christmas getaways in the Philippines this year — plus amazing Airbnb Stays for those planning to spend a night or more exploring these destinations.
Witness the giant lanterns of San Fernando, Pampanga
Pampanga not only dishes up the most delicious sisig, but it is also home to giant lanterns adorned with colorful motifs and dazzling lights. Every year, the province holds its Ligligan Parul where they display the excellent craftsmanship of Kapampangans and award the “brightest star” among the year’s lanterns. People flock to the province not only to witness these “stars” in action but also to bring home gorgeous lanterns to be displayed in their own homes.
For large families or barkadas planning to visit Pampanga, the province boasts spacious villas with pools and amenities such as this modern tropical villa specifically built for staycations. This three-bedroom guesthouse is another option, and previous guests have raved about how every nook and corner is aesthetically curated — serving as the perfect backdrop for those holiday photos.
Experience Baguio’s cozy Christmas vibes
The City of Pines is a popular go-to for the holidays for incredible Christmas vibes. Besides its cool temperature and breathtaking scenery, travelers can enjoy holiday favourites including the famous tsokolate de batirol, and explore fun destinations like the Christmas Village known for its gigantic lanterns, lights, and even artificial snow!
Complete your Baguio experience by booking a cosy cabin getaway, like this mid-century A-frame cabin that can comfortably sleep 8 guests and is located near favorite spots like Wright Park. For an additional Christmas spirit, what about this rustic cabin that comes adorned with Christmas decorations plus a working brick fireplace? Both cabins are also pet-friendly so your fur babies won’t feel left out!
Watch the spectacular lights show in Ayala Triangle Gardens
The Festival of Lights has been widely considered to be a contemporary Christmas tradition in Makati. Trees bedecked with lights twinkling in unison to holiday music — it’s sure a magical sight. Now in its 14th year, the lights and sound display promises Filipinos a more thrilling and whimsical experience this year.
Skip the traffic and book these well-designed homes within the metro that are sure to be family favorites. This cozy three-bedroom family home in Taguig makes a perfect home away from home with its well-equipped living, dining, and kitchen areas. Another option is this luxury home in Makati complete with a fully furnished master suite, ensuite jacuzzi, and a cozy recliner to boot!
Discover more incredible homes for the holidays by downloading the Airbnb app or visiting https://www.airbnb.com/.
All stays referenced are intended purely to inspire and illustrate. Airbnb does not recommend or endorse specific stay or experience listings on the Airbnb platform.
Details and images provided in a recent press release.
As the holiday season awaits and the travel rebound continues to unfold, more Filipino travelers are embracing flexible travel while more homeowners turn to hosting on Airbnb for additional income. A new survey commissioned by Airbnb* reveals that over half of Filipinos polled expressed interest in becoming Airbnb Hosts to take advantage of the new appetite for travel.
Around the world, Airbnb has seen strong growth rates of new Hosts, especially in countries with high inflation rates. Notably, 77 percent of Filipinos polled said they were looking for ways to offset rising costs of living. The survey also shows that desire for travel remains high, with over a quarter of respondents saying that they will continue to find ways to travel even if general costs of living rise.
In a trend that started since the pandemic, millions are now enjoying their newfound freedom to live and work anywhere. Notably, 65 percent of Filipinos polled said that they are now more flexible in terms of their type of holidays and time of travel. Notably, of those who plan to travel within the next year, 1 in 4 Filipinos said they plan to travel without set dates.
This new approach to travel and living continues to shape the choice of accommodation among Filipino travellers. When asked about factors that influence when and how they travel:
Almost half indicated they are likely to travel if they can find accommodation that makes longer stays easy and comfortable
35% pointed to destinations offering unique styles of accommodations
25% prioritised access to amenities that make it easy to combine remote work with travel, such as a dedicated workspace and a fast, reliable internet connection
This growing appetite for travel among Filipinos puts homeowners in a unique position to take advantage of the Airbnb Setup, the all-new easy way to Airbnb one’s home which was announced early this month. In Q3, Pasay ranked as the #1 trending domestic destination for Filipino guests on Airbnb, followed by El Nido, Cebu City, Paranaque, and Iloilo City.**
Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong and Taiwan, said the fundamental shifts towards long-term stays and flexible travel point to the increasingly important role that short-term accommodations (STRA) like Airbnb play in the new era of travel.
“This growing appetite for travel is a positive sign as tourism recovery gathers pace. More keenly, this is an opportune moment for aspiring Filipino entrepreneurs to Airbnb their homes and earn additional income to mitigate rising living costs or support their travels,” he added.
* Online survey of 1063 respondents in the Philippines commissioned by Airbnb and conducted by YouGov between 6-12 October 2022
** Based on increase in searches of destinations (minimum 1,000) in Q3 2021
About Airbnb
Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 4 million Hosts who have welcomed more than 1 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.
This week marks World Animal Day, an international day celebrating all animals and promoting a better future for animals all over the world. As the festive season rapidly approaches, there’s no better time to start planning a getaway for your loved ones – with fur kids in tow.
Around the world, Airbnb Hosts have welcomed hundreds of thousands of guests and their beloved pets. As the pandemic pet boom continues and travel resumes, guests are increasingly looking for domestic stays that allow them to bring their furry friends along, with ample outdoor space for all to roam around.
More than 3 million pets have checked into Airbnb since last November. As of June 2022, pet-friendly stays make up almost one-fifth of all Philippines listings on Airbnb, a 44% increase compared to June 20192. The top ten destinations for pet-friendly travel in the Philippines in Q2 2022 are:
Manila, Metro Manila
Baguio, Cordillera
Calabarzon
Quezon City, Metro Manila
Taguig, Calabarzon
Cebu City, Central Visayas
Olongapo, Central Luzon
Nasugbu, Calabarzon
San Fernando, Ilocos
Calamba, Calabarzon
Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong and Taiwan said that when it comes to pet-friendly Airbnb stays, owners are seeking stays with additional space for their furry friends, often in locations outside capital cities.
“If you’re an avid pet lover, you’ll know that no holiday is quite complete without taking your family pet along. We have something for even the fussiest four-legged family members, and certainly, homes with spacious yards and deck areas are always among the most popular for guests with pets,” Bajaj added.
In the Philippines, over 15,000 guests have traveled with their pets on Airbnb3. To inspire more fur moms and dads planning to bring their pet friends on their next getaways, here are some amazing pet-friendly listings in the Philippines — from spacious homes with huge backyards for your pets to roam to stays co-hosted by equally hospitable pooches!
Spacious farms for the zoomies
If you’re itching for a quick weekend away from the 9-to-5 routine, these farm stays that are drivable from Manila can certainly give you and your fur baby that relaxing getaway you both deserved.
The Alperi Farm is a newly built private farmhouse in Amadeo sitting on an expansive 2,000 sqm — perfect for non-stop fetch and the occasional zoomies. Offering guests plenty of opportunities to unplug and bond with loved ones (pets included!), the farmhouse comes with entertainment and activity options including a playhouse, bird sanctuary, a gym, and even a theater and arcade room.
Another farmstay south of the metro is Campo Canueza, which provides the best of both mountain views and beach access. It has a two-storey air-conditioned bahay kubo, a private pool, and an expansive space where you can freely walk your pets. At night, you can pitch a tent outside and enjoy uninterrupted views of the night sky.
Beachfront homes for the water-loving breeds
While some will just dip a toe, other dogs are born for the water — and will be truly delighted to hit the beach. Head on to these beachfront stays if you and your canine companion are dreaming of sands in your toes and paws.
Saya Nest is one of the seven nests hosted by proud fur-mom and Airbnb Host, Tamara. Located in the rainforest of Subic Bay, it lies just a few minutes from the beaches and falls. There is a fenced-in patio so your pets can run off-leash, a bathtub overlooking the forest, an outdoor table and grill, and a hammock by the porch. If you’re lucky, you might even be welcomed by Tamara’s own fur babies!
If you and your pet are up for a little island adventure — check out this Beachfront Loft in Palawan. It is located in a 2-hectare beachfront community in Aborlan just south of Puerto Princesa, and sits right by the sandy beach. Go boating with your pet by day and warm up around the bonfire at night while listening to the calming waves.
Breathtaking views for your best bud
Looking for vacation rentals with picturesque views where you can bring your fur babies? Search no further! These homes are not only pet-friendly — they make you want to bask in the scenery and stay for longer.
Anto House is a secluded farm nestled in the highlands of Antipolo, offering a 360-degree view overlooking the distant Metro Manila skyline, Angono hills and ridges, and the Laguna de Bay. Featuring two beautiful bamboo casitas that can accommodate up to 14 guests, it’s perfect for family gatherings and even reunions. There are also animals on the property like goats and sheep that both kids and fur kids can interact with.
How about calling an entire island your home for the weekend? This rustic, tiny island is right in the middle of Lumot Lake, with astounding views of the Sierra Madre mountain ranges. If your fur bud’s love language is quality time, you can set up a mini obstacle course, go swimming at the lake, or simply just watch the world go by.
1 Based on Airbnb internal data from June 30, 2019 to June 30, 2022
2 Based on Airbnb internal data from June 30, 2019 to June 30, 2022
3 Based on Airbnb internal data from November 11, 2019 to June 30, 2022
Note: All stays referenced are intended purely to inspire and illustrate. Airbnb does not recommend or endorse specific stay or experience listings on the Airbnb platform.
About Airbnb
Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home and has since grown to 4 million Hosts who have welcomed more than 1 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and one-of-a-kind activities that make it possible for guests to experience the world in a more authentic, connected way.
Burlington is a city of about 42,000 people in Vermont that is known as the “City of Lakes” and “City of Parks.” It’s also known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
It is the perfect place for people to get away from the hustle and bustle of life.
The city offers an abundance of things to do that are both relaxing and exciting. There are lots of natural beauty spots, such as Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains. The city also has a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops that will make any visitor feel like they want to start looking at Burlington houses for sale.
In Burlington, you can find everything you need to enjoy your time off from work or school-and it’s all within walking distance!
Here are some enjoyable things to do in Burlington, Vermont, this summer.
Visit the Vermont State House
Lake Champlain is the largest lake in New England and a popular tourist destination.
The lakefront is one of the most beautiful places to walk in Burlington. It is a short walk from the waterfront to the State Street Bridge and back again.
Lake Champlain has clear water, a sandy beach, and a wide variety of wildlife. The Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife manages the lakeshore for fishing, boating, swimming, and other recreational activities, all of which you’ll love in summer.
This walk will take you along Lake Champlain with its clear water, sand beach, and wide variety of wildlife. You can enjoy fishing or swimming on the sandy beach or simply just walking along the waterfront as you see some beautiful views.
Get Some Good Food and Drinks
Burlington has many great places to eat, but these are some of the best restaurants worth checking out:
1) The Friendly Toast – Breakfast, lunch and dinner. This restaurant offers great food with friendly service. They have a wide variety of breakfast and lunch options like omelets, muffins, sandwiches and bagels.
3) Cosmic Grind Coffee Shop – Cosmic Grind Coffee Shop is a small coffee shop in Burlington. The success of Cosmic Grind is highly due to its welcoming atmosphere and great customer service. Cosmic Grind is a great place to stop by for an iced coffee or a warm drink on a cold day. They also have delicious pastries that are baked fresh in-house every morning.
The Burlington Greenway is an eight-mile-long bike and pedestrian path that runs through the heart of the city.
The Burlington Greenway stretches from the South End to Burlington’s waterfront, and it connects to other bike paths along the Lake Champlain shore.
The greenway has a few small bridges and footbridges over the tracks. It is also home to a large number of trees and plants, which provide shade for walkers and cyclists, as well as a natural habitat for all the wildlife.
If you’re on your way to Tagaytay, or on your way back to Manila while traversing the Sta. Rosa – Tagaytay Road, you will most likely pass by Nuvali Park.
This expansive area is designed to be an integrated self-sustaining eco-city, where various residential communities, commercial and hospitality establishments, as well as schools can be conveniently situated while also highlighting the beauty and importance of nature.
The highlight of Nuvali Park is a four-hectare multi-functional lake. This man-made water feature not only beautifies the park but it also serves as a catch basin for rainwater and a water reservoir. It also functions as a fire reserve and as a means for alternative transport within the park.
In this sprawling green space, motorists can take a break from their journey to rest and and find some fun activities to occupy their time while allowing nature’s healing touch to rejuvenate them.
Take a stroll. With all the lush greenery and tree-lined designated walking trails around the park, it would be a shame not to put on your comfy shoes and go for a leisurely ramble. It would be an enjoyable way to achieve your 10,000 steps, wouldn’t it?
Work up a sweat. If a more strenuous type of activity is more to your liking, you can always go for a a bike ride around the park (bring your own or rent one at the Lake Evozone for Php60/hour. More adventurous bikers can take a crack at the 50-kilometer mountain bike trails which may provide scenic views of Mount Makiling, Laguna de Bay and Tagaytay Ridge. The post-workout buzz will surely be worth the exertion. Be sure to bring your own safety gear (helmets and pads) as well wear closed shoes. Register at the Evo-living Center concierge with a valid ID.
Go bird-watching. Nestled within the park is a 17-kilometer buffer zone and open area where migratory birds and other creatures make their home. It’s best to time your bird-watching activity between 6am to 9am or 4pm to 6pm when these creatures are most active and the sun is not so hot. Bring your binoculars so you can watch the birds up close without disturbing them.
Take a boat ride. Take advantage of the awesome views afforded by a scenic boat ride on the lake for Php100 per person.
Dine al fresco. Here, you can savor a delightful meal while in the great outdoors to refuel you for the rest of your journey. You can have a lakeside meal at one of the restaurants at Nuvali’s Solenad 1, or nibble as you browse through the food stalls every weekend during the Nuvali Mercato Centrale weekend food market.
Feed the fish. The lake is also home to a pod of koi fish who will gamely rise to the water surface for your entertainment when you drop some fish food their way.
Clearly, a stopover at Nuvali will give you a respite from the stresses of your travel and provide you with happy memories that you can take with you when you move on to your next destination.
I wish you safe travels, dear reader!
Nuvali is located along the Sta. Rosa – Tagaytay Road, Bgy. Sto. Domingo, Sta. Rosa City, Laguna. For updates on its events and activities, visit its website or follow Nuvali on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
With the sweltering heat of the summer permeating the drab and grey streets of metro, it would be nice to go somewhere cool, fresh and green.
Well, wouldn’t you know it! Right in the heart of Quezon City is a place where you can escape to enjoy a bit of nature: the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center.
This 22.7 hectare area located in Diliman, Quezon City is a zoological and botanical garden, named after Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr. It is one of the ninety-four legislated Protected Areas in the Philippines under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS) Act of 2018.
It is also dubbed as the “Nature Park in the City’s Heart” being the home of various species of flora and fauna while still situated in a busy metropolis.
Here, park visitors can go exploring on pathways that weave through the park’s trees and open grassy areas, perfect places to jog or stroll while enjoying the peace and quiet.
With over 3,000 species of trees, some of which are endemic to the country, the park is also one of Metro Manila’s last remaining green spaces, which serve to mitigate urban air pollution and help counter the emergence of Urban Heat Islands (UHIs), metropolitan areas that are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas due to the daily activities of urban populations concentrated in a small area.
Aside from enjoying the lush greenery, park visitors can view animals as well. As a wildlife rescue and research center, it serves as a quarantine area and rehabilitation center for wild animals captured while lingering in residential areas, or undomesticated animals confiscated from people involved in the illegal wildlife trade or exotic pet owners who are abusive to their animals.
The center also serves as a training ground for practitioners and students or veterinary medicine, zoology, botany, biology and natural science.
For park visitors who want to do a bit of sight-seeing or picture-taking, the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center also contains a manmade lagoon which houses various fishes. Within its vicinity is a picturesque Fishing Village which consist of five houses on stilts along the edge of the lagoon. These structures are patterned after fishing villages in Mindanao.
The park also houses other attractions which may be rented out:
A Tea House that may serve as a venue for workshops, meetings and other small parties
A 250-seater Amphitheater for larger gatherings
Picnic sheds to shelter people during their visit
For plantitos and plantitas, the Bernie Dizon Botanic Fruit and Techno-Demo Center is also located within the park. Owned and managed by the country’s leading pomologist the garden offers high-quality cuttings and seedlings that will grow into fruit trees for home gardens or farmlands.
So if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, you won’t have to travel far. Simply visit the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center to enjoy that precious bit of nature.
The Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center is located along Elliptical Road and North Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, open daily from 7am to 5pm.
The following entrance fees apply:
Adults: Php30
Students: Php15
Foreigners: Php100
Senior citizens, PWDs and children below seven years old: FREE
For inquiries, call +63 2 89246031 local 236. For more details, visit its website or follow Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center on Facebook.
One of the most popular things to do in Bali is going on a tour of the nearby Ubud area.
During our trip in Bali, Indonesia, Hubby and I decided to take a breather from lounging about at the Nusa Dua Beach and strolling around the enclave surrounding Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort where we were staying.
We hired a van to take us on a day trip to the region widely considered to be the cultural capital of Bali.
About Ubud
The town of Ubud is situated in the uplands of Bali. Surrounding it are rain forests and rice paddies, an area lush with greenery and dotted with temples and shrines.
The place gets its name from the Balinese word ubad which translates to “medicine,” indicative of the area’s first claim to fame as a source of medicinal herbs and plants.
Today, it is the center of Bali’s art and culture scene, being home to a number of museums, artist communities and art markets that we were able to check out during our Ubud Tour.
Barong and Keris Dance
The village of Batubulan has been known for daily performances of the Barong and Keris Dance.
This dance dramatizes the mythical battle between the good spirit Barong and the evil spirit Rangda, and provides a fascinating insight into Balinese culture.
Artists’ Villages
Balinese art takes centerstage in Ubud where local artisans inhabit their own villages where they craft traditional paintings, textiles, jewelry and carvings, many of which are for sale at reasonable prices.
Batuan is also home to awesome temples that feature Balinese architecture and elaborate carvings.
Batuan also prides itself on its traditional paintings which are characterized by detailed designs in sombre colors depicting mythical or religious elements against black or white backgrounds that call to mind the supernatural.
Tohpati, on the other hand, is home to batik, a decorative textile technique involving the use of wax and dyes to create intricate patterns. Aside from clothing, batik is used for a myriad of items including household accessories, furniture fabrics and giftware.
Meanwhile, the silversmiths in Celuk are masters in creating intricate jewelry and luxurious decor.
Lunch at Batur Sari Restaurant
We had our lunch in a restaurant perched on top of the Kintamani. Called the Batur Sari Restaurant, it provides its guests with a traditional Indonesian meal served buffet style meant to be enjoyed while marveling at the view of Mount Batur and its surrounding crater lake.
Unfortunately, the view was covered by a thick fog during our visit. However, the fog did give the effect of dining while surrounded by clouds, which is an experience in itself.
Sebatu Temple
After a long-ish drive from Kintamani, our next stop is the Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple, known locally as Pura Tirta Dawa Gunung Kawi Sebatu.
Dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu who is said to hold dominion over water, it is one of the least visited temple complexes in Bali, but is also one of the most tranquil and picturesque, marked by spectacular water features (including bathing pools for pilgrims), fountains teeming with carp and lush gardens.
One of its most breathtaking scenery is a sculpture of the Hindu goddess Sarasvati at the center of a large pool.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
A short distance away from the Sebatu Temple is the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces, a vast expanse of beautifully arranged rice paddies carved from the hillsides by ancient Balinese farmers following the traditional Balinese irrigation system called subak.
It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding to its “must-visit” appeal.
From the viewing deck, one can see the cascade of green crops down the slopes while enjoying the cool mountain breeze.
Given my general avoidance of any physical exertion, we declined the opportunity to traipse down the slopes and walk across to the greenery.
It’s just too bad that I chickened out of having my picture taken at the swing. I guess my acrophobia is stronger than my desire for a good picture!
Coffee and Tea Tasting at Alam Bali Agriculture
Indonesia produces some of the world’s finest coffee and also happens to be fourth largest coffee producer in the world.
Within Tegallalang region is a coffee and tea plantation called Alam Bali Agriculture which houses gardens that grow various kinds of beans, leaves and herbs.
After a short tour of the grounds, we were treated to a flight of freshly brewed coffee and teas which were grown on site such as Arabica, Coconut, Vanilla and Ginseng coffee, as well as Lemongrass, Ginger and Mangosteen tea.
Sunset Seaside Dinner at Ayu Bali Resto
After such a jam-packed itinerary, our day of sight-seeing culminated at Ayu Bali Resto in Badung.
There, I was finally able to find a swing that doesn’t make my fear of heights go haywire.
While getting serenaded by live acoustic music accompanied by the sound of waves, we enjoyed a sumptuous seafood dinner by the beach.
This one-day tour of Ubud gave Hubby and me an interesting glimpse of Balinese life and culture.
This award-winning hotel is one of Courtyard by Marriott’s 1360 properties across 65 countries. It caters to business and leisure travelers by providing quality comfort.
Aside from our well-appointed room, we also hung out at the hotel’s poolside and beach club.
Read more about my full experience at Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort here.
Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort is located at Kawasan Pariwisata Lot SW1, Nusa Dua, Bali 80363 Indonesia.
Disclosure: Our Bali trip happened before the COVID-19 pandemic. Download Indonesia’s protocols for cleanliness, health and safety for its tourism sector here.
Bali, located between the isles of Java and Lombok in Indonesia is said to be the island of gods. From its towering mountains covered with lush forests that give way to verdant rice paddies and glittering shorelines, Bali is definitely blessed with nature’s wonders.
Rice paddies
White sand beach
Its populace is no less unique; while most of Indonesians are Muslims, the Balinese are predominantly Hindu, and are expressive of their spirituality, not just through prayer but also in the form of structures and iconography that provide interest their surroundings as well as through other vibrant works of art.
Hindu goddess
Sebatu Temple
Bali’s premier resort area, Nusa Dua, is located in the southern part of the island. Its name translates to two islands which refer to the two headlands found just off the peninsula’s coast.
Within this 350-hectare upscale enclave are twenty-plus resorts catering to tourists and visitors, one of which is Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort.
This award-winning hotel is one of Courtyard by Marriott’s 1360 properties across 65 countries. This upscale brand caters to business and leisure travelers by providing quality comfort.
Courtyard by Mariott’s Facade
Hotel entrance
This is where Hubby and I stayed during our trip to Bali to celebrate our wedding anniversary.
A luxurious hotel stay
Everything about Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort speaks of luxury in touch with nature.
Upon entering its driveway, we were welcomed with verdant green grass dotted with statues.
View from the driveway
Overlooking the driveway
Its sprawling lobby is cool, airy and surrounded by water, adding to the relaxing atmosphere hat welcomes the resort’s guests.
Looking down from the Lobby
Open-Air Lobby
Its lagoon-like swimming pool meanders along the outdoor seats of the resort’s on-site restaurant, Momo Cafe. Here, guests can lounge while enjoying their meals or taking a dip in the pool.
Lagoon-like Pool
Squirrels in the Trees
View of the Pool from Room Balcony
At the Poolside
Our air-conditioned deluxe room is furnished with a king-size bed topped witu plush pillows and a comfy duvet.
King-size Bed
King-size Bed
It is also furnished with a sitting area for resting as well as a desk bureau for working (which, thankfully, were few and far between during our vacay).
Bureau
Sitting Area
The marble bathroom is equipped with a shower and toilet, as well as a hairdryer, robe, slippers and Nirvae bath products for our use during our stay.
Bathroom
Shower
Our room has a balcony that overlooks the pool area. I found it a perfect spot to read a book or enjoy the Bali evening breeze.
Balcony
Reading at the Balcony
The room is also equipped with high-speed wireless internet, a 32-inch LED TV with cable channels, as well as a radio.
Other amenities provided to make our stay nice and comfy include:
Alarm clock
In-room safe
Iron and ironing board
Complimentary bottled water
Coffee maker and tea service
Should we wish for some work off a few pounds, the hotel’s gym is equipped with treadmills and other exercise machines.
Treadmill
Gym equipment
The hotel’s C Spa offers a wide range of Balinese massage and beauty treatments, administered by expert therapists.
Well, Hubby and I didn’t travel all the way to Bali just to stay indoors, right? So off we went to Nusa Dua Beach to enjoy the sand, surf and the sun.
White sand, azure sky
All blue and white
Here, the resort operates a Beach Club that provides beverages and snacks to guests.
Beach Lounge Chairs
Here we are, lounging
Coconuts!
Yeah, coconuts!
Sunset at the Beach
Sunset drinks
With these comfortable and luxurious amenities, as well as the excellent service of its staff, our stay Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort helped make our anniversary sojourn of #BaskingInBali one of the books!
Nearby tourist attractions
Being a resort hub, Nusa Dua is filled with sites and establishments that appeal to tourists which are all within a short and easy walking distance from the hotel (or an even shorter and easier ride in the shuttle!)
Strolling around is no problem for Hubby and myself, thanks to Nusa Dua’s comfortable walkways lined with lush greenery and tastefully graced with Balinese architectural structures and mythic sculptures.
We also got a little dose of retail therapy at the Bali Collection. It is a commercial hub enveloped with touches of nature, housing an extensive collection of outlet stores and local merchants that offer great finds and exciting deals.
We were also pretty lucky that our stay coincided with the Nusa Dua Light Festival.
Organized by the Indonesia Tourism Coincil, it is the biggest lantern festival in Bali, featuring a spectacle of lights and lanterns to be enjoyed by tourists and residents alike.
Good eats in the vicinity
Nusa Dua is also home to great restaurants so epicureans will be able to go on a gastronomic adventure without having to venture far from the hotel.
Momo Cafe
Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort’s on-site restaurant’s offers convenient all-day dining with indoor and al fresco seating.
For the duration of our stay, Hubby and I started our day with a scrumptious fusion continental and local cuisines through our complimentary breakfast buffet.
On our last night, we treated ourselves to a Babi Guling buffet dinner, highlighting Bali’s version of the suckling roast pig, the Babi Guling.
Other Balinese delicacies that we were able to try include the Ayam Betutu (Balinese Spice Chicken), Tambusan Be Pasih (Baked Snapper in Base Genep), Be Sampi Menyayat (Slow Simmer Balinese Spiced Beef), Sate Lilit (Balinese Minced Seafood Sate), Lawar Kacang (Green Bean Salad) and Jujut Urab (Balinese Cold Tossed Vegetables with Coconut Dressing).
While eating, we were also serenaded with live acoustic music.
Babi Guling
Ayam Betutu
Be Sampi Menyayat
Poolside Serenade
Spicy Geg Indonesian Kitchen
Hubby and I found a restaurant in a commercial hub just outside the hotel that serves light Indonesian fare.
The tropical feel of Nusa Dua was brought indoors, thanks to the wood and rattan furniture and the vibrant palm print walls and lush hanging plants with a bit of contrast from the restaurant’s marble bar and gold fixtures.
Interiors
Interiors
At Spicy Geg, we continued our exploration of local cuisines with our delicious orders of Nasi Goreng Rendang (Beef Rendang with Rice), Ikan Tuna Bakar (Tuna dish from North Sulawesi) and Sate Rembige Lombok (Beef and Chicken Skewers).
Nasi Goreng Rendang
Sate Rembige Lombok
Ikan Tuna Bakar
Lunching with Hubby
Kagura Authentic Japanese Cuisine
Hubby and I also discovered a piece of Tokyo right in the heart of Nusa Dua.
We took a breather from our explorations ny having lunch at the trendy yet cozy Kagura Authentic Japanese Cuisine.
Outdoor Dining
Interiors
We wasted no time ordering our Japanese food faves such as Tuna Sashimi, Salmon Maki, Katsudon and Ebi Tempura.
Tuna Sashimi
Salmon Maki
Katsudon
Ebi Tempura
Easily go on an Ubud Tour
We took advantage of Nusa Dua’s proximity to many well-known tourist spots by hiring a van to take us on a tour around the Ubud region.
Highlights of this tour include watching the Barong and Keris Dance, a visit to enclaves of batik and jewelry artists in Batuan, lunch overlooking a cliff at Batur Sari Resto, coffee and tea tasting at Alam Bali Agriculture, exploring the Sebatu Temple, viewing the Tegalallang Rice Terraces and, finally, a seaside dinner at Ayu Bali Resto.
Barong and Keris Dance
Batik
Batur Sari Restaurant
Sebatu Temple
Alam Bati
Ayu Bati Resto
More deets on our jam-packed day trip to Ubud here.
Want to have a similar adventure of #BaskingInBali? Book your stay via Klook today!
Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort is located at Kawasan Pariwisata Lot SW1, Nusa Dua, Bali 80363 Indonesia.
Disclosure: Our Bali trip happened before the COVID-19 pandemic. Click here to know more about what to expect at Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort.
Ankor Wat, located north of Siem Reap in Cambodia, is one of the country’s most visited tourist spots as well as its most iconic symbols. In fact, being a source of pride for the country, it has appeared on Cambodian national flags since the 1860s, and is the reason for more than fifty percent of international tourist visits to Cambodia each year.
If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, a visit to Angkor Wat is sure to be part of your itinerary.
It is located five kilometers from Siem Reap, which affords tourists with various options for accommodations and transportation to and from the site.
Why don’t you wow your traveling friends when you tour the area armed with these interesting tidbits about this famous tourist attraction?
1. It is the world’s largest religious monument.
Sprawling across 1.6 square kilometers (162 hectares or 402 acres), it is considered to be the largest religious monument in the world by land area covered.
Its construction consumed five million tons of sandstone quarried from the holy mountain of Phnom Kulen located over fifty kilometers away from the site.
2. It is a holy place to two major Asian religions.
Although originally built in the twelfth century by the Khmer King Suyavarman II as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, Angkor Wat was converted to a Buddhist temple twenty-seven after his death by a devout Buddhist king Jayavarman VII.
3. It was originally called by another name.
The temple was originally named Vrah Visnuloka or Parama Visnuloka, which means the “sacred dwelling of Vishnu” in Sanskrit.
Its current name, on the other hand, translates to “city of temples” in Khmer, from Angkor which means “city” and Wat which means “temple grounds.”
4. It may have been intended as a funerary temple.
Deviating from the norm among Khmer temples, Angkor Wat is oriented to the west rather than the east. A western orientation normally relates to death in Hinduism leading archeologists and scholars to conclude that Suyavarman intended it to serve as his funerary temple.
Adding strength to this inference is the counter-clockwise direction of the bas–reliefs as rituals occur in reverse order in Brahmanic funerary services.
5. Here, nature and human architecture make for picturesque views.
In the centuries after it was built, Angkor Wat suffered neglect. During this time, the surrounding forest has swallowed many parts of the complex until the site was rediscovered by French naturalist and explore Henri Mouhot in 1860.
For many years, silk cotton, thitpok and strangler fig trees have grown over, under, around and even through the sandstone structures. This sets various breathtaking sceneries in the complex wherein nature is seen to have overtaken the man-made structures.
6. Various countries are working to preserve it.
Given its historical and cultural significance, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, which encouraged international efforts to save it. Countries such as China, France, Germany and Japan are involved in various conservation projects to repair and preserve various parts of the complex.
Excited to tour Angkor Wat yet? Book your tours and accommodation via Klook. Use my code JELLYBEANS to enjoy discounts (5% for new users, 3% for existing users).
Disclosure: Photos featured here were taken during a 2012 trip to Angkor Wat sponsored by A&E Networks.
Tarlac offers an awesome neighborhood in Northern Luzon. Pangasinenses, Ilocanos, Kapampangans, Bulakenyos, and even Tagalogs flock to the province to enjoy a time for adventures and leisure.
If you’re looking to explore the neighborhood in Tarlac, here are some of the best spots that you need to visit.
Capas National Shrine
If you want to learn about the stories of the war, then Capas National Shrine is the best place to visit in Tarlac. This was built to commemorate those who lost their lives in the Bataan Death March. It’s an even more meaningful place as the site used to be a concentration camp, even reminding us today about the repercussions of war.
Isdaan Village
Looking for an awesome place with great food? Then, Isdaan Village is the place to go. It’s a floating restaurant that offers a variety of Filipino and other Asian cuisine. Dining in at Isdaan is also an experience with singing cooks and overlooking picturesque views. The place is perfect eating with your family or a large group.
Aquino Ancestral House
If you want to appreciate the democracy of the Philippines more, then you should head on over to Aquino Ancestral House. This is the house where the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino lived before he entered into local and national politics.
Kart City Tarlac
Do you enjoy the adrenaline rush? You should check out Kart City Tarlac! The place is perfect for kids at heart with their F1 carts available for driving! If you’re bringing your children, you won’t need to worry as there’s a designated place specially designed for them.
Mount Pinatubo
As the province borders Mount Pinatubo, this means more adventure for you! You can enjoy a nice ride by 4×4 trucks going uphill and a hike by foot going to the summit. What’s even more wonderful is meeting friendly Aeta locals along the way.
Tarlac has indeed an awesome neighborhood that makes for a perfect getaway spot in Luzon. More than visiting from time to time, the great thing is that you can also easily secure a home in the province!
If you want to purchase a home in Tarlac, there are affordable houses that BellaVita offers. Settling a home in the province means that you’re one skip away to these amazing destinations – which is a great benefit for you.
The Jellybeans Edit 