A Place Rooted in Conservation

At Mount Purro, everything starts with a commitment to conservation. As soon as you step into the reserve, you’ll notice the lush greenery that surrounds you, a testament to the park's ongoing reforestation efforts. The trees, rivers, and wildlife in the area are part of a delicate ecosystem that the people at Mount Purro work hard to protect.

Their conservation initiatives go beyond just maintaining the beauty of the place; they’re ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same natural wonders. It’s an inspiring reminder of the importance of protecting our environment, not only for ourselves but for the planet as a whole.

The Dumagat Culture: Living in Harmony with Nature

One of the highlights of our visit was learning about the Dumagat culture. The Dumagat are the indigenous people of the Sierra Madre, and they’ve lived here long before modern development touched these lands.

At Mount Purro, we were given the opportunity to immerse ourselves in their traditions. We visited their traditional huts, learned about their way of life, and heard stories of how they coexist with nature. The Dumagat people have a deep respect for the land, and through their stories, we gained a greater appreciation for what it means to live sustainably.

This cultural exchange was one of the most meaningful parts of our trip. It gave us a sense of connection not only to the environment but also to the history and people of the area.

Trekking Through Nature's Wonderland

If you’re an adventure seeker, trekking at Mount Purro won’t disappoint. The trails here are perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers. As we walked through the forest, we were greeted by the fresh scent of pine trees, the chirping of birds, and the cool mountain breeze. It was the kind of peacefulness you can only find in nature.

The trek leads up to Malvar's Peak, where you can take in panoramic views of Rizal’s untouched landscape. The sight of the rolling hills, dense forests, and distant mountains is simply breathtaking. It’s a reminder of how beautiful the Philippines is when nature is left to flourish.

Cooling Off with a River Trek

After our trek, we took part in another of Mount Purro’s activities—the river trek. Wading through the clear, cool waters of the river was both refreshing and fun. It’s the perfect way to cool off after a hike, and the beauty of the surrounding forest adds to the experience.

The river is clean and inviting, a testament to the efforts of the reserve to maintain the purity of the environment. Whether you’re walking through the shallow parts or simply sitting by the water’s edge, it’s a relaxing and invigorating experience.

Packages and What to Expect

Mount Purro offers a variety of packages for guests, whether you're planning a day trip or an overnight stay. We opted for an overnight package, which included cozy, eco-friendly accommodations nestled right in the heart of the forest. The rooms are simple but comfortable, blending perfectly with the natural surroundings.

One of the things that stood out during our stay was the tranquility of the place. Waking up to the sounds of birds, feeling the fresh mountain air, and enjoying the peacefulness of nature—these are experiences that are hard to come by in our fast-paced, urban lives.

For those seeking relaxation, there are plenty of quiet spots around the reserve where you can just sit, breathe, and take in the beauty of the environment. For the more adventurous, activities like trekking and river trekking are available to keep you engaged with the land.

Why Mount Purro is Worth a Visit

Our visit to Mount Purro Nature Reserve was more than just an adventure—it was an experience that reconnected us with nature, culture, and conservation. The reserve is a reminder of how important it is to preserve our natural resources, and it offers a space where we can truly appreciate the beauty of the environment.

Whether you’re looking for an adventurous trek, a cultural experience with the Dumagat, or simply a peaceful retreat into nature, Mount Purro has something to offer. It’s a place where you can escape the noise of the city, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and take home not just memories, but a renewed sense of connection to the natural world.

So if you’re planning your next trip, consider a visit to Mount Purro Nature Reserve. It’s a destination where nature and conservation come together to create a truly meaningful experience.

If you're from the Philippines you've already known that there are 7,641 known islands in the country. 

The Philippines is a tropical paradise with some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. With its number of islands, it can be challenging to choose where to go. So, to make it easier for you, we've compiled a list of the 10 best beaches in the Philippines. Take note that this is our compiled list based from experience, stories from friends, and of course from others who have experienced it. Also we added a few tips and tricks to get there in a more convenient but affordable way, hopefully it's cheaper.

So, let's begin with our list.   

1. Boracay Island, Aklan - Boracay Island is known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The best areas to stay in Boracay are Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3, which offer a variety of accommodations, including luxury hotels, budget hostels, and private villas. To get to Boracay, fly to either Kalibo or Caticlan, and then take a ferry or a pump boat to the island.

2. El Nido, Palawan - El Nido is a paradise on earth, with towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and clear waters. The best areas to stay in El Nido are Corong-Corong and Lio Beach, which offer a range of accommodations from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. To get to El Nido, fly to Puerto Princesa, and then take a bus or a van to El Nido.

3. Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte - Siargao Island is known for its world-class waves, white sand beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. The best areas to stay in Siargao are General Luna and Cloud 9, which offer a variety of accommodations, including surf resorts, budget hostels, and private villas. To get to Siargao, fly to either Sayak Airport or Surigao City, and then take a ferry or a van to Siargao.

4. Coron Island, Palawan - Coron Island is known for its crystal-clear lakes, WWII shipwrecks, and stunning beaches. The best areas to stay in Coron are Coron Town and Busuanga Island, which offer a variety of accommodations, including budget-friendly guesthouses and luxury resorts. To get to Coron,
fly to Busuanga, and then take a van or a boat to Coron.

5. Panglao Island, Bohol - Panglao Island is home to some of the best beaches in Bohol, with white sand, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling spots. The best areas to stay in Panglao are Alona Beach and Dumaluan Beach, which offer a range of accommodations, including budget-friendly guesthouses and luxury resorts. To get to Panglao, fly to Tagbilaran, and then take a tricycle or a van to Panglao.

6. Calaguas Island, Camarines Norte - Calaguas Island boasts powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. The best area to stay in Calaguas is Mahabang Buhangin Beach, which offers budget-friendly camping tents and cottages. To get to Calaguas, take a bus from Manila or Naga to Paracale, and then take a boat to Calaguas.

7. Bantayan Island, Cebu - Bantayan Island is a quiet paradise with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The best area to stay in Bantayan is Santa Fe, which offers a range of accommodations, including budget-friendly guesthouses and luxury resorts. To get to Bantayan, fly to Cebu City, and then take a bus or a van to Hagnaya Port. From there, take a ferry to Bantayan Island.

8. Malapascua Island, Cebu - Malapascua Island is famous for its thresher shark diving and white sand beaches. The best area to stay in Malapascua is Bounty Beach, which offers budget-friendly guesthouses and dive resorts. To get to Malapascua, fly to Mactan-Cebu International Airport, and then take a taxi or a private car to Maya Port. From there, take a ferry or a pump boat to Malapascua Island. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Cebu City to Maya Port, but the journey can take up to 4-5 hours.

9. Camiguin Island, Northern Mindanao - Camiguin Island is known for its stunning beaches, hot springs, and waterfalls. The best areas to stay in Camiguin are Mambajao and Yumbing, which offer a range of accommodations, including budget-friendly guesthouses and beach resorts. To get to Camiguin, fly to either Cagayan de Oro or Butuan City, and then take a bus or a van to Balingoan Port. From there, take a ferry to Camiguin Island.

10. Caramoan Island, Camarines Sur - Caramoan Island is a hidden gem in Camarines Sur, with white sand beaches and limestone cliffs. The best area to stay in Caramoan is Paniman Beach, which offers a variety of accommodations, including budget-friendly guesthouses and beach resorts. To get to Caramoan, take a bus or a van from Manila or Legazpi to Sabang Port. From there, take a boat to Caramoan Island.

In terms of getting to these islands, the most convenient and affordable way is to fly to the nearest airport and take public transportation to the port where you can catch a ferry or a boat to the island. Alternatively, you can also hire a private car or van to take you directly to the port. 

Another tip to save on your travels is to plan your activities and book your flights at least a month before your travel. You can save much on air travel costs. 

To save on accommodation costs, consider staying in budget-friendly guesthouses or hostels, or opt for camping if available. It's also a good idea to book your accommodations in advance to secure your preferred room type and avoid last-minute price hikes.

Overall, these 10 beaches offer a range of experiences for travelers looking for relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Of course, you'll have to do your own planning and research so you can easily get to these destinations and enjoy a memorable vacation without breaking the bank. We've just listed down this beaches for you to check out and when that time comes enjoy!

The key feature of this game-changing travel app is the ability to book your stay or destination effortlessly by watching short videos shared by fellow travelers. Whether you dream of a chic urban apartment, a lavish beach resort, or a cozy countryside bed and breakfast, Travereel has got you covered.

“Travereel was born out of a passion for exploring the world and the belief that travel should be accessible, personalized, and unforgettable for everyone,” said Debbie Nebaya, Travereel CEO. “Our team has poured their hearts into creating this app, and we are thrilled to bring this vision to life and empower travelers to embark on journeys that leave a lasting imprint on their hearts.”

Travereel goes beyond being just a travel app; it's your personalized travel concierge. Some of its notable features include:\

Discover Hidden Gems: Find off-the-beaten-path attractions, local eateries, and cultural experiences through curated recommendations and user-generated content.

Travel Social Network: Connect with fellow travelers, share experiences, and receive real-time advice from the Travereel community. You can even find travel buddies and create lasting memories through your own travel experiences.

Seamless Booking: Booking your preferred hotel is a breeze, with just a click and a tap.

Flexible Payment Terms: Enjoy the convenience of various payment options, including debit and credit cards, GCash, Maya, and Billease. Users can also opt for "Buy Now, Pay Later" payment terms.

Earn Commission: Become a content creator and share your travel experiences. Post videos and earn an affiliate commission for bookings made through your shared travel reels and vlogs.

Safety Features: Stay informed about travel advisories, emergency contact information, and receive safety tips to ensure your well-being while exploring new destinations.

Travereel is now available for both iOS and Android devices, ensuring that the world is at your fingertips no matter what phone you use. The commitment to providing a user-friendly, accessible platform is at the core of Travereel's development.

If you want to learn more, visit Travereel's website at www.traveleer.com or connect with them on their social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. This is a game-changer for travelers, and it's time to explore the world in a whole new way.

For a frequent mall-goers like our family, we have somehow witnessed its changes through time. Just recently, Ever Gotesco Commonwealth officially launched its FAMtastic! Family Entertainment Center. Famtastic is the newest and most exciting hangout spot for everyone who loves spending time with their loved ones. With various amenities such as an arcade, indoor playground, and the biggest fully immersive experience wonderland of lights and sound installations, there's something for everyone at Famtastic.

EVER Commonwealth, The Staple Entertainment Destination

With the success of the launch, I believe more and more families and friends will enjoy the various attractions that the Family Entertainment Center had to offer. From parents showing off their ball shooting skills to kids experiencing their first arcade games, Famtastic is a sure hit in creating moments of pure joy.

Your All-in-One Entertainment Haven

Ever Commonwealth’s Famtastic! Family Entertainment Center is a thrilling vision that has come to life, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Tales of Illumina, Fun City, Tom's World, and many more. This incredible partnership has brought this wing of the mall a diverse range of amusements that makes mall-goers crave for more.

Famtastic! brings a different world of excitement and wonder for its visitors. It's more of they've created a dimension specifically for you to experience. A world of sound and attractions from the renowned entertainment brand Tales of Illumina. In this place the adventure never ends. Whether you are battling mythical creatures, solving puzzles, or exploring magical realms, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Famtastic! does not stop with the attraction but it is all filled with mouth-watering treats that catered to every palate. From delectable delights to savory dishes, food options at Famtastic! are just as impressive as the entertainment offerings. Whether you are in the mood for a quick snack or a full meal at Hang Out, you will surely won't be disappointed.

Ever Famtastic! truly is an all-in-one entertainment haven. It is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your family and friends. From thrilling adventures to just simply bonding with your squad, there is never a dull moment at Famtastic!

And that would probably be my line dreaming!

So, this vast majestic land is actually called the Esguerra Farms & Stud Inc., comprising the 54 hectare of property nestled in Lipa City, Batangas. It beckons with its diverse array of animals, lush vegetation, and delightful experiences. However, before we embark on a journey to this idyllic farm, there are five (5) things to know that would somehow give you a second thought... not to give in to this opportunity.

1. A Sanctuary for Animal Health:
Upon visiting Esguerra Farms, guests must abstain from visiting other farms or markets for at least three days. This seemingly peculiar rule serves a critical purpose: to safeguard the health and well-being of the animals within the farm's confines. By reducing potential exposure to external contaminants, the risk of spreading viruses and diseases is minimized. Such measures is common in various farms, showcase a thoughtful and responsible approach to animal welfare.

2. Beware the Allure of Nature and Farming:
If you possess an unyielding love for nature, farming, and raising animals, you must proceed with caution. Esguerra Farms possesses an enchanting quality that can captivate hearts and ignite dreams of starting your own farming venture. The sheer beauty of this sanctuary can awaken a deep-seated desire to embark on a similar journey of agricultural pursuits.

3. An Immersive Learning Experience:
A visit to Esguerra Farms offers a rare opportunity to gain a holistic perspective on animal husbandry. From nurturing of the famous Kurobuta or black pigs of Berkshire, Boer and Anglo Nubian goats, lambs, racing horses, Peking ducks, and Tilapia fish to cultivating fruits and vegetables, the farm embraces a comprehensive approach to sustainable living. Engaging with this diverse ecosystem imparts invaluable knowledge, making it a compelling destination for anyone seeking hands-on, educational experiences.

4. The Irresistible Temptation of Kurobuta Meat:
Prepare yourself for a tantalizing culinary encounter at Esguerra Farms! The farm proudly presents the exquisite Kurobuta, or Black Pig, meat—a delicacy that surpasses the ordinary pork found in the market. It's the wagyu of pork! Kurobuta are farmed in a strictly regimented natural and stress-free way without any synthetic antibiotics and growth hormones. It is similar to how wagyu is raised. Once you have savored the delectable flavors of this premium meat, purchasing regular pork might forever be a choice marred by hesitation.

5. A Priceless Encounter with Mr. Herminio "Hermie" Esguerra:
If fortune smiles upon you during your visit, you might have the incredible opportunity to be personally guided by the farm's visionary, Mr. Herminio "Hermie" Esguerra. A veritable treasure trove of wisdom and experience, Mr. Esguerra's guided tour is an extraordinary privilege. While the experience comes with a symbolic price tag of $100 per hour, the memories and insights gained from this encounter are utterly priceless.

The Farm Tour Experience

When I say priceless, it is indeed priceless! Sometimes words aren't enough to describe the emotion, the feeling, and the experience. The Esguerra Farms & Stud Inc. offers far more than the enticing blend of nature and agriculture but of human-animal connections.

Before entering the premises all are subjected for disinfection or decontamination. Even vehicles are sprayed with disinfectants to kill any contaminants, bacterias or viruses. This is one way of keeping the farm uphold with its health and sanitation standard for the safety of the animals inside the farm.

For me, it is a rare opportunity that the owner, Mr Herminio "Hermie" Esguerra personally led the tour and shared his stories on how the farm started and formed to what it is now. From just a simple horse farm it grew to include other livestock such as the Berkshire pigs, goats, lambs, ducks, chickens, fruits and even vegetables. 

 

airasia Superapp Public Communication and PR Manager Trish Terada, airasia Rewards Country Head Dana Tan, airasia Superapp Head of Travel Rowena Rivera, and airasia Superpp Managing Director Ray Berja during the airasia Superapp #ExploreYourWay Fair.

airasia Superapp recently launched its Explore Your Way campaign and welcomed thousands of mall-goers at SM Mall of Asia where they explored the wonders of each application's major features such as Flights, Hotels, Transport, and Rewards. Attendees were immersed in a travel-based experience which is focused on delivering the best value, as they took on journeys of discovery, fun games, and prizes.

Guests enjoy the booths at the airasia Superapp #ExploreYourWay Fair where they got amazing rewards and prizes for every game they played.

airasia Superapp Chief Commercial Officer Mai Yin Tan said “airasia Superapp is here to take the hassle out of booking the best value travel deals and is very useful not only for your domestic trips, but also for international travel. From flights on over 700 airlines, the best accommodation packages, to ride hailing, food, deliveries and more this should become your one stop shop for all your preferred travel bookings.

“I am also happy to announce that we have just been nominated as Asia’s Best Travel Booking App at the World Travel Awards. We hold this nomination so dear to our hearts because in just a year’s time, airasia Superapp’s efforts have been recognized in this prestigious award-giving body. I hope you can vote for us at https://worldtraveltechawards.com/award/asia-best-travel-booking-app/2023.

“We have a lot more in store for Filipinos with the airasia Superapp that you should definitely watch out for.”

airasia Superapp offers not only the best low cost airline deals, but also hotel accommodation at the best rates with a wide-range of selection and direct partnerships. Whether you are looking for a 5-star accommodation or budget hotel, you can book it via airasia Superapp as over 900,000 hotels across the globe are available on the platform.

In the Philippines, airasia Superapp has fostered strong ties with the Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, Hotel 101 Manila, Red Planet Hotels, Berjaya Makati Hotel, Sunlight Hotel Coron, and many more to ensure that all needs of the users are covered. With airasia Superapp, there is something for everyone.

airasia Superapp Managing director, Ray Berja said “Our Explore Your Way campaign is a perfect time to let everyone know that airasia Superapp is an industry leading online travel agency (OTA) that lets its users easily book flights from their airline of choice as we have a wide range of local and international carriers in the platform such as Sunlight Air, Airswift and Royal Air. Our hope is to make traveling more convenient and cost-efficient because we want our customers to make the most out of their time and budget so they have more money in their pocket when they get to their destination.”

With the theme “Explore Your Way”, mall attendees were given “boarding passes” that were used to explore the booths of airasia Superapp’s major lines of business (LOBs). The Dream Destination (Flights) Booth featured a world trivia game where participants were given the chance to dart and land on their favourite countries and locations across the world in order to win merchandise or a travel prize. The Hotel Ball Pit Frenzy gave incredible hotel discounts including exclusive Superapp vouchers and rewards, while a memory game was available at the last stop, the Rewards Paradise where prizes and promotional deals were redeemed. Winners to the Rewards Paradise also had a chance of winning the major raffle draw for attendees who finished the trip to all booths. Raffle draw prizes included special vouchers from airasia’s partner companies, airasia superapp points, and round trip international and local flights. The airasia Explore Your Way Fair was made possible in partnership with GCash, RCBC, Sunlight Air, Megaworld, Red Planet, Hotel 101, Bluewater Resorts, OceanJet, The 815 Co., Bayongciaga, and Dermo Republiq.

With the airasia Superapp, Capital A aims for travelers to have their well-deserved and worry-free vacation. Aside from its major LOBs including flights, hotels, and rewards, the airasia Superapp also offers a convenient, tax-free shopping through its shop feature while the transport allows travelers to book bus or ferry rides to the various destinations in the country. Through the #ExploreYourWay event launch, attendees got first-hand experience on navigating the airasia Superapp. With the goal to provide convenience for travelers, using the application is also convenient and easy, you just need to download the airasia Superapp from the App Store for IOS, Play Store for Android, or AppGallery for Huawei and key in your basic details. With a wide range of services to choose from, you are now ready to enjoy the superapp.

For more information, visit the @airasiasuperapp.ph on Facebook and Instagram.

Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores

From its humble beginnings as a kimono store during the Edo era, Daimaru and Matsuzakaya has grown to become one of the most recognizable department store brands in Japan with its wide selection of products ranging from everyday items and food to high-end luxury products. In Tokyo just outside the Tokyo Station's Yaesu North Exit, there’s a sprawling 13-level Daimaru store. At the basement floor, there is a food section called “Depa chika” with an overwhelming selection of boxed lunches, while the ground floor has a confectionary section called “Depa Ichi”, famous for the many sweets, ideal for souvenirs.

Kintetsu Department Store

In Osaka, Kintetsu Department Store is a destination of its own where you can have a shopping spree. Find your style in its wide range of retail items such as clothes, cosmetics and accessories. There are also dining spots that offer a menu of various Japanese dishes.

Tokyo Solamachi (shopping centre at the base of TOKYO SKYTREE)

TOKYO Solamachi, which spreads out at the base of the TOKYO SKYTREE, is one of the largest shopping centres in Tokyo. With easy access to Narita and Haneda airports, and more than 300 shops, you can spend all day here browsing through gourmet food, fashion, home appliances, souvenirs and cute sundries. Enjoy the view from the TOKYO SKYTREE and shop at TOKYO Solamachi.

Eat!

Kura Sushi

Eat in the restaurant that started the revolving sushi concept. Kura Sushi has the freshness, quality, and taste that you expect from Japanese food, but is served in an entertaining, memorable experience! Anything you get from this revolving sushi bar is guaranteed delicious, with crowd favorites mixed in with something new and exciting to try.

With the concept of "safe, delicious, affordable, and fun", the leading conveyor-belt sushi chain in Japan created the current conveyor-belt sushi restaurant's standard. A global restaurant brand that combines safety and experience-oriented entertainment, focusing on healthy sushi that is free of the four major additives" - chemical seasonings, artificial sweeteners, artificial colorings, and artificial preservatives - in all of its more than 200 ingredients, as well as a wide variety of side dishes.

Matsuya Foods

Matsuya is a well-known beef and rice bowl fast food chain with about a thousand stores across Japan, and most open for 24 hours. Opened since 1966, Matsuya is known for gyūmeshi: a savory, sweet dish made of tender beef and onion cooked in dashi and served over rice. It’s very filling and very comforting, while also being low-priced with quick service.

Airport

Narita International Airport

Before your flight home, you might want to wander around Narita International Airport. With its extensive restaurants offering Japanese, Chinese and Western cuisine to choose from to appease your cravings. There are also cafes and light meals for some quick bites. You can also check out their Duty Free and boutiques for last minute retail shopping.

Aside from these shopping havens and dining destinations, you can also pay with GCash in nearby convenience stores around Japan such as Lawson and FamilyMart. Ran out of travel essentials? Easily buy it there and replenish. You can also stop by for some snacks and drinks while en route to your next destination. For those looking for medicines, makeup and daily necessities, you can drop by at Sundrug or Tsuruha Drug.

Pay with GCash

Pay your way through these places with GCash which is now available in over 2.5 million Alipay+ merchants across Asia and in key countries including Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Qatar, the UK, France, Italy & Germany. GCash is the way to control your budget when you’re outside the Philippines—enjoy real-time forex, zero service fees and get access to exclusive deals all inside the app!

Simply look for the Alipay+ sign and you can pay with GCash! After logging into the GCash app, select the QR or PayQR button at the bottom of the screen. Scan the merchant’s QR code, or tap “Pay Abroad
with Alipay+” to have the merchant scan your generated QR. Then check the amount, and click Pay to see the receipt. No more traveling with large sums of money—you get to travel light and get deals and discounts from different places, but with the same payment. Just find the Plus, and Pay with GCash!

To learn more about paying with GCash in Japan, tap the “A+ Rewards” page in the app and select Japan as your destination.