It holds bittersweet memories among its locals who have left its hills and lakes and the watchful presence of Mt. Banahaw and Mt. Cristobal for the big cities here and abroad. Hence, the publication of the new coffeetable book called Tiaong: Coming Into Its Own is very timely.

The book was launched recently at the Filipinas Heritage Library, Nielson Tower in Ayala Avenue, Makati City.Published by the Tiaong Lubid-Lubid Foundation, Inc. under the helm of its president Cris Aquino, the book is written by journalist Abe Florendo, with archival research done by Dulce Festin-Baybay and Dr. Luis Camara Dery, images by Donald Tapan and Ramon Jeffrey Florendo, and book design by Teody Hidalgo.

The book revives Tiaong’s illustrious place in history since its establishment as a visita then as encomienda of Nayum in the early 1600s: its important role in the coconut economy and political expansion during the Spanish colonial times, its contributions to the independence efforts during the war, the inspiring heroism and nationalism of its sons and daughters, among them, Claro M. Recto and the “Anak ng Tiaong” who was sent by his father to study in China and went on to become the distinguished commander of Mao Tse Tung’s People’s Liberation Army, Gen. Ye Fei.

Tiaong’s changing skyline and landscapes beautifully captured in photographs are positive indications of its determined thrust toward progress and modernity.

Through the photographs, readers will be acquainted with the beauty and bounties of Tiaong’s placid coconut plantations and rice fields, the majesty of Lake Tikub, the allures of its hot water springs and resorts.

Tiaong: Coming Into Its Own is a book essentially of Tiaongins, who belong to the old families: the Rectos, Umalis, Castillos, Robleses, Punzalans, Escuetas. Here also are the prominent people that define what Tiaong is today: the entrepreneurs, businessmen, artists, forward-looking politicians, and many other other notable personalities

Cris Aquino founded the Lubid-Lubid Festival that set the pattern and direction for a more meaningful celebration of Tiaong’s fiesta and was the mind and muscle behind this book.

People who may not be from Tiaong will find the book interesting and compelling to read as well, with its insights into the nature, character and vision of this Little Town that Could.

The publisher said the book is not meant to be an “annual report” of sorts of the present administration, although some people may think it is so. The latter chapters provide a straightforward description of Tiaong’s ‘real-time’ infrastructures and urbanization, tourism attractions and business thrusts, while making out a case for increased developments in these and other areas.

The book has also gone to great lengths to dig up the authentic historical origins of Tiaong, from the gray dawn of colonial times to the turbulent eras of revolutions and democratizations.

In a nutshell, here are a few good things about P.F. Chang’s at ATC: unlimited rice (and brown rice!), a menu for vegetarians and those who want it gluten-free. The food isn’t strictly Chinese but is Chinese-inspired and really good. I was glad to know that they don’t use MSG.

One of my favorites was Chang’s Spicy Chicken (P320 an order). I liked the fact that it was breaded so lightly and not drowning in sauce. An exquisite version of sweet and sour.

If you’re tired of the usual hot shrimp salad, then try PF Chang’s Shrimp with Candied Walnuts 9P460 for two). I revelled in this dish’s creamy light sauce, the crunchiness provided by the nuts and the surprise addition of honeydew. It’s a new way to enjoy shrimp which is good since I love seafood!

The meat dishes are perfectly tender and their bestselling Mongolian beef (P695) is no exception. One order consists of 12 oz. high-grade US Angus beef cooked in a hot wok then quickly tossed with scallions and garlic.

Another dish I highly recommend is the Chengdu Spiced Lamb (P900 a serving) which is listed in the Emperor’s Choice portion of the menu ( premium items, which means they’re a tad more expensive). I am so used to my lamb curry and grilled lamb chops and I would say this dish was one of a kind. The flavor hinted at being seasoned with cumin and mint. It also had a topping of onions and cherry tomatoes.

For appetizers, try also the Dynamite Shrimp (P295) and the Chicken Lettuce Wraps (P285).

I found the prices to be reasonable but of course, beef, lamb and fish items are priced higher. Expect to allot a budget fo P350 to P500 per person.

I just noticed that the menu doesn’t offer much in terms of desserts (there are only two cakes listed) which probably means you look for it elsewhere.

I am just glad to try this popular US chain and to be invited to their press preview before they opened to the public.No doubt this will be a destination for the family whenever we crave for Chinese food. It’s a good thing that they chose to locate their maiden branch in the South of Manila since it’s a short drive away from us.

Welcome to the Philippines, P.F. Chang’s!

The room package is inclusive of buffet breakfast, welcome fruits and drinks. (Okay, special mention must also be made of the hotel’s 24-hour free wifi!) Superior deluxe is priced at P7,500 net for single occupancy and P8,500 for double. If you’d like to avail of the luxurious Sunset/Sunrise suites, it’s P15,500 net for single occupancy and P16,500 net for double.

Above: Manila Hotel’s grand lobby. Other establishments may be newer, but I’ve always liked this hotel for its character and sense of history. The 100-year old building has played host to countless international statesmen, celebrities and events.

We were invited to see for ourselves the Intramuros tour that comes with the hotel package and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I always pride myself with knowing a big part of Manila. I came out of this tour humbled and thoroughly enlightened of the past life of our ancestors, notably the national hero Jose Rizal.

We rode to Intramuros and Rizal Park in horse-drawn carriages or kalesa. Trailing us was a tranvia (old style street tram) with a group of musicians onboard.

It’s been a long time since we visited Fort Santiago and it was refreshing to see the serene greenery of its small park.

This fort was envisioned as a citadel by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and it was also here that Rizal was imprisoned prior to his execution. Inside Fort Santiago, there’s a Rizal Shrine museum where one can see Rizal’s sculptures, memorabilia and a striking painting of Rizal by Carlos “Botong” Francisco.

Stopping by Casa Manila gives one an idea of the sprawling houses of the rich in the 18th and 19th centuries. I enjoyed seeing antique furnitures, intricately designed four-poster beds and even a manually-operated fan.

Our tour guide led us to this little-known spot in the sprawling Rizal Park which reenacts Rizal’s execution through a series of sculptures.

After visiting Fort Santiago, Casa Manila & trudging through the rest of Intramuros in our kalesa, Rizal Park was our last stop. We returned to the hotel at the stroke of dusk.

In Manila Hotel, don’t miss the Gen. Douglas MacArthur Suite. It’s $2500 a night but you can request for a free look-see. Gen. MacArthur lived in the hotel for a long time and some of his personal effects are still here, like his military cap and a pair of chairs that survived the bombing of the Second World War.

Note: the tours are administered by the Castillian Carriage and Tour Services specializing in guided trips of Intramuros and other historical sites administered by English-speaking guides.

The Manila Hotel
One Rizal Park, Philippines
Tel. No. (632) 6270011

If you’re a foreigner reading this entry, it’s hard to love the Philippines just by seeing Manila (for you will really love it less!) In this country of 7,107 islands, I’ve seen beautiful places like Cebu, Leyte, Davao, Coron, Puerto Princesa, Zambales,Pampanga, Boracay and I still feel it’s not enough. That’s because the Philippines is one big natural vault with many hidden gems.

Take for example the vibrant Batanes Islands in the North which we had the good fortune of visiting in 2007. My husband said it reminded him of Hawaii. I thought it was more like the hills in The Sound of Music

Or the Banaue Rice Terraces. Truly a majestic wonder but how many Filipinos make the effort to see it in their lifetime?

As a true-blue Filipino, I can count the many ways it’s more fun in the Philippines

1. Eating is more fun in the Philippines. Especially in Manila which is turning out to be a great culinary melting pot.Cuisines from all over are thriving. Or you can choose to stay home and do it the local way…eat with your fingers!

3. Shopping is cheaper in the Philippines. You don’t need to go to Hong Kong or Bangkok if you discover the local bargain havens.

3. Having household help is one comfort of living in the Philippines. This aspect is a bit overrated, but you can still find a few good ones if you keep looking

4. Life is more lonely in other countries where people keep a fast-paced schedule to get the life they deserve. I’d like to believe that in the Philippines, we enjoy life itself …. the simple pleasures of being with friends, family & extended families….. sharing many meals, trips & experiences…. is life itself!

How about you… why do think it’s more fun in the Philippines?

For example, if you’re a lover of the great wildlife, Kenya can be a good alternative to South Africa. For a minimal amount, Filipinos can have a visa issued upon arrival and just be in time to view the Masai Mara (the Great Animal Migration) from July to September. This is the season when hundreds of thousands (!!) of animals like zebra, gazelle and Big cats mass together in search of greener pastures. Masai Mara certainly beats Miss Universe in being the “most spectacular wildlife pageant on earth”

Other things to explore in Kenya are the Private Wildlife Preserves in the Central Highlands, the Little Governor’s Camp, Mount Kenya Safari Club and the Pemba Channel Fishing Club.

For more of the wilderness, the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania is a must-see since it is the world’s biggest. Tanzania is also where Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa is located as well as the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the natural wonders of the world. Tanzania visa issued upon arrival to Pinoys for $50.

In Morocco, where Pinoys can have a 90 day stay, one can join an expedition to The Great Sahara Desert or the High Atlas Mountains, dine at the Yacout Restaurant located in a 200-year old house in Marrakech’s old quarter, or feel the vibe (including the snake charmers, cartwheeling dancers and exotic food!) at Djemaa El-Fna Square, also in Marrakech.

Filipinos can stay for a record 183 days in Peru, giving one enough time to explore the Machu Picchu, the Peruvian Amazon, Lake Titicaca and Cuzco, the ancient capital of the Incas.

Another visa-free country getting popular with Filipinos is faraway Brazil, but it seems I also want to go to Ecuador to see the Galapagos Islands, shop in the Otavalo weekend market up in the A and ride the Riobamba Express

I still have many more must-see, visa-free places to add to the list like Seychelles, Fiji, Maldives, Nepal, Israel and Sri Lanka. The truth is, if Bob Marley sang no woman no cry, we can also sing no visa, no problem, no cry… it just takes effort to go to the exotic-looking places I just mentioned

Speaking of travel, here’s one I just recovered from my treasure chest of memories, somewhere in Holland circa kopong kopong. Parang bukid lang!

I still love this quote from St. Augustine: “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” Whether near or far, here’s to great travel in 2012!

It has been my dream to go to Boracay and stay at the Discovery Shores.Mostly because am curious about this resort which has been garnering all these acclaim from independent travellers, the latest of which is being on the Top 100 Hotels in the World from Travel+Leisure.

We were able to get a discounted rate of $220 a night from a travel agent, still not cheap but cheaper when compared to Amanpulo or Shang-ri La Boracay.After staying in Discovery Shores for a couple of days, I now know the reason. Being in a paradise like Boracay makes it already dream-like as it is, and staying in Discovery caps the whole euphoric experience. You’d want to go back to Boracay. You’d want to stay here again.

We got the Junior Suite which is their basic room category. It had a queen size bed and a spacious divan in a corner where your underage children can stay (otherwise get the one- to two-bedroom suites).

The only deal breaker for me was the small bathroom (which had no bath tub, by the way). But soon enough I did not mind this as I realized that the room we stayed in (No. 204) was just a walk down to their huge swimming pool. Yes, we did not swim in the beach, but I had a great time relaxing in the heated jacuzzi by the pool.

Anyway, what won this resort to me were their little touches which never failed to surprise and amuse me. For example, we came from the restaurant to find this towel shaped like a monkey hanging by our closet

They also gave us free pichi-pichi, a native dessert, by sundown. Our welcome platter when we checked in the hotel was most awesome

The welcome foot bath with foot massage was very soothing. When you arrive, you’re also given pandan water, their signature welcome drink

When night time came, we had a good dinner at the Hotel’s Indigo Restaurant. There’s nothing like dining by the beach, especially since the hotel’s location in Station 1 is far away from the madding crowds of Station 2. There was a wedding reception going on in the events tent and we had the bonus of watching Boracay’s famous fire dancers.

Breakfast was served at the Sands Restaurant. You just know the day is off to a great start when you have this view!

Food and beverage were reasonably priced for the most part considering how expensive Boracay can be, even in less stellar establishments.

The other things I appreciated about the resort: unlimited shuttle transfers to Stations 2 & 3, free use of the business center which was open 24/7, the gym, the free pick-up in Caticlan port and ride in their own boat, the welcome souvenir photo.

As I said in my Trip Advisor review, Discovery Shores is worth the money. We will be back!

Discovery Shores Boracay
Station 1, Balabag, Boracay Island
5608 Malay, Aklan Philippines

Tel. No. (63 36) 288-4500 / (63 2) 720-8888
Email: dsbrsvn@discovery.com.ph
Website: www.discoveryshoresboracay.com

H20 prides itself for being the first aquarium-themed hotel in the Philippines. Service is still rather raw coming from the mostly neophyte staff but there’s no doubt in my mind that this is one of the best hotels to stay in town right now. The first reason being its sheer newness. Its other asset is its natural scenery and being closest to the bay. Having wall-to-wall aquarium in your room or a view of the serene waters? Take your pick.

Our sponsor Samsung booked us the Aqua Supreme Room (approximately $200 a night) which stands out because of its aquarium walls. I tell you this is really something for the kids to ogle at. Room size was rather modest at 42 square meters but it was laid out well.How else can you fit a queen-sized bed, a work station, an entertainment area, a bath tub, a shower and toilet if not for the magic of great design?

The wall aquarium indeed sets Hotel H20 apart from the rest. But my favorite part of the room was actually the bath tub. This was the best size out of those I’ve seen in hotels.It was highly functional and yet didn’t take up much space.

To go to Hotel H20, you have to enter the Manila Ocean Park. The entrance beside Mabuhay Pearls was rather inconspicuous and it was just bad that they didn’t bother to put up the necessary signages. We got lost for a few minutes. Going up the elevator on the second floor brought us to their modern-looking lobby….

Afterwards, we were ushered to their Club Lounge to wait for our room to be ready. The place looked posh and well-designed (again!) but the welcome drink was a rather tacky, over sweetened iced tea.Pandan water would have been a better idea, or heck, four seasons. Still, the place looked good enough to hang out in. I busied myself reading the day’s papers.

I liked the free Oriental-themed buffet breakfast at Makan Makan Asian Food Village. It had dimsum, fried rice, noodles & the rest of them. I must say Makan Makan (formerly Makansutra) has greatly improved since our last visit.

I like this view looking out into Manila Bay & White Moon Bar below. The only thing I missed was the famous sunset, it was way too early when I took this shot.

Hotel H20 has a big pool and the Liquid Pool and lounge for chilling out. The only problem is that hotel guests will not be able to swim in peace because the swimming areas are also open to the public. There was a whole bunch of students swimming when I last checked.

Despite some shortcomings, am still happy with our stay at H20. In fact, I can’t wait for the whole family to experience “aquarium living,” maybe these coming holidays.

Hotel H20
Rizal Park, Manila
Tel. No. 238-6100
reservation@hotelh20.com

The tourism success of Malaysia is something we can all learn from. According to the latest data from the UN World Tourism Organization, it is the second most visited country in Asia after China. Boasting of 24.6 million arrivals last year, it ranks No. 9 globally among countries with the most number of tourists, next only to the UK, Turkey & Germany.

Hard to believe, but this is only because “in Malaysia, we treat tourism as a serious business.” These words were uttered by no less than Malaysia’s Minister of Tourism, YB Dato’ Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen, who met with the press at the Makati Shang-ri La to orient and give developments in her country’s tourism industry.

Meeting Dr. Ng Yen Yen in person, one can easily say that she fits the role of Malaysia’s chief tourism figure to a T. She appeared very elegant, articulate and knowledgeable. I was surprised to find that Malaysia’s tourism ministers are elected, not appointed, since they follow the British system of government.The fact that they’re answerable to the people and the taxpayers makes public officials like Dr. Yen Yen very driven and results-oriented.

And Malaysia has been successful in luring tourists because it has a good product to sell and provide all the necessary enticements.

” We have good food, we have culture and of course shopping. If you want duty-free at very competitive prices, go to Langkawi and Labuan, we won’t tax you there.Malaysia is also known for cheap watches and make-up. The only thing we can’t give you are snow and ice because of our tropical weather, but even snow and ice is possible now with our new theme park,” Dr. Yen Yen said.

In the end, it all depends on the sense of security that a country can give its tourists. She added that Malaysia may be racially and culturally diverse but it has always boasted of political stability.No coups, no bombing threats, no uprisings.” “Foremostly, we believe that conflict brings no prosperity, the minister said.

The tourism success of Malaysia is something Filipinos can learn from, as I said. I went home after that event impressed about Malaysia’s hard work and sense of unity in achieving their purpose. Tourism indeed brings dollars and dollars bring about jobs and a healthy economy. When does the Philippines get its act together and do the same?

See also my previous posts about Malaysia:

Kuala Lumpur streets scenes

A short journey to Georgetown, Penang

Sunway Lagoon theme park, Selangor

Ultimate cheapie trip to KL, a la Lonely Planet

Food-trippin’ in KL … no regrets!

Shopaholics unite! In case you haven’t noticed, this quarter is the season of great shopping discounts among some of our neighboring countries… Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia!

The latter, particularly, will be holding the 1Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival. It will run for 11 weeks ending August 31, 2011. Participating are outlets and stores all over the country, including big shopping complexes in Kuala Lumpur like Fahrenheit 88, Low Yat Plaza, Pavilion KL, Lot 10, Starhill Gallery, Sungei Wang Plaza, and Berjaya Times Square – all located in Bukit Bintang. Suria KLCC, One Utama, Mid Valley Megamall, The Curve, The Gardens and Sunway Pyramid provide exquisite shopping experiences as well. Visitors can get Tourist Privilege cards upon presenting their passport at the concierge or information counter of selected malls.

Please see some of my related posts about Malaysia:

Kuala Lumpur Street Scenes
My first trip to KL in 2006 was a cheap one, in the style of Lonely Planet!
Food tripping in KL…. no regrets!
Our day trip to Sunway Lagoon Pyramid

In the words of Masrina Mohd Bakri, Director of Tourism Malaysia – Philippines: “The mega sale carnival lasts for about 11 weeks and Filipinos will definitely enjoy fantastic performances, fashion shows and mall contests throughout the country.”

“Filipinos can also indulge in a wide variety of gastronomic delights and pamper themselves by visiting various spas after a full day’s worth of shopping – this is what makes the shopping experience in Malaysia more fulfilling,” she added.

In Malaysia, one can find almost all the major brands, from the luxury ones to the great bargains. Familiar labels include Jimmy Choo, Uniqlo, Kinokuniya, Vincci, Ikea, and the homegrown Beryl’s Chocolates which I featured before.

Other must-sees in KL include Central Market in Kuala Lumpur, which was originally built as a wet market in 1888. It has been classified as a Heritage Site by the Malaysian Heritage Society and has beautifully evolved into a one stop shopping center for signature Malaysian products such as souvenirs, handicrafts, antiques and a variety of delectable Malaysian cuisine.

Also located in the capital city is Petaling Street, popular for its traditional atmosphere and bargain shopping. Filipinos will definitely enjoy Malaysia’s Chinatown as it transforms into a busy night market (or Pasar Malam) at sundown where they will experience Malaysia’s unique sights, sounds and energy while bargain hunting for special goods.

A two-hour drive from KL is Malacca which is Malaysia’s haven for antique collectors. Filipinos can wander among the many shops located along Jonker Street, globally known for its vintage finds. The antique shops along the narrow street is where visitors will experience Malacca’s signature dish – the Hoe Kee chicken rice balls, taste Durian Cendol, find the local wooden slipper called Terompah and Nyonya Beaded Shoes, as well as discover artifacts from different periods of colonial rule, as well as unique and valuable antique products ranging from Chinese porcelain, cast iron beds, coins and money notes, to priceless Buddha statues.

Aside from these signature shopping places, visitors can also relish the sun, sea and sand, as well as enjoy duty-free shopping at the beautiful islands of Langkawi, Tioman and Labuan, where Filipinos can find myriad of goods from gadgets to cosmetics, chocolates, cigarettes and liquor – all tax free!

Get hold of special travel packages as Tourism Malaysia holds the “Tara na sa Malaysia!” Travel Fair at the Main Atrium of SM Mall of Asia on July 15-17, 2011. Be sure to catch all the exciting offers and promos that you won’t find anywhere else

For more information, visit www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my and connect on Facebook by liking the “Tara na sa Malaysia” Facebook page

I’ve never ridden the award-winning Qatar Airways but I thought this is a great promotion and it would be a sin not to share with my readers: an adult booking a flight to the Middle East by August 27, 2011 pays zero fare up to two kids. Only travel taxes and surcharges shall apply.

The promo, meant to encourage family holidays, is good to use in the following destinations: Abu Dhabi, Aleppo, Amman, Bahrain, Beirut, Damascus, Doha, Dubai, Kuwait, Muscat and Riyadh – all in the Middle East.

Here’s the complete fine print: (via Qatar Airways website)

Ticket holders must fly between August 1 2011 to August 31 2011.
– Book one adult ticket and pay taxes and surcharges for up to two kids (children or infants)

- Book two adults tickets and pay taxes and surcharges for up to four kids (children or infants)

- Child fare will have a base of zero. Only taxes and surcharges to be paid

- A nominal fare may be applied in some countries, which may range between $10 and $40

- Valid for Economy Class travel only

- Tickets are not valid for purchase from the following countries: Australia, Bahrain, Greece, Iran, Japan, Jordon, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey & the UAE

- Seats are limited so I guess this is first come, first served

In the meantime, controversy continues over the decision of Malaysia Airlines (MAS) to ban babies in the first class section of its A380s and B747-400s flying certain routes. Parents of the babies will have to choose the business and economy sections instead.

Malaysia Airlines CEO Tengku Azmil reasoned out that the policy is meant to please passengers who pay a premium to be on first class and cannot possibly be disturbed by crying infants.

Mr. Azmil said on his Twitter: ” i think it’s part of the QC (quality control) that people tend to ignore. Paying a premium means getting luxury service = no crying babies ”

He added: ” personally I think the baby ban is inevitable and necessary-until a hi tech soundproof baby pod is developed, the ban should stay.”

I really have no objection with this Malaysia Airlines policy. It’s a business decision they had to make to address the needs of a premium customer segment.

On another note, I am not really in favor of travelling with babies on long-haul flights, unless the situation is absolutely necessary. If travelling long distances can be gruelling for adults like you and me, how much more infants? Aren’t you punishing yourself too by coping with the effects of a flight and taking care of a baby too?

What I really mean is: there’s a time in the future to see the Golden Gate Bridge and Eiffel Tower. A time when your child can probably appreciate what he or she is seeing.

Just saying