VIETNAM🇻🇳 VISIT DANANG INSTEAD OF HO CHI MINH | TOP 2 NOT TO MISS IN DANANG VIETNAM - THINGS TO DO

ABBEY:

Stella Maris Beach Danang Hotel

Stella Maris is our hotel of choice upon landing to Da Nang. They picked us up in the airport and was welcomed warmly upon arrival. The hotel is having that open concept so I was surprised to see our sink outside the washroom. Haha. Breakfast is also provided but I found the meats on the dryer side. They have a bar at the rooftop where the horizon shows the mountains and coast as far as your eye can see.

Boat Tour

Catching a good view of the Dragon Bridge is through the boat tour. For 150k VND, you’ll board the boat while a plate of guava and watermelon is waiting for you. It was breezy and the boat will cruise with music and lights. A cultural show is rendered for more entertainment. The highlight is the Dragon Bridge where it spits fire and water. The attendant gave us another plate of fruits which we truly enjoyed. 

Sun World Ba Na Hills 

We’re not sure if we’ll be able to go to Ba Na Hills during our trip. The website is not translatable to English so we don’t have any idea what to book. There’s even separate rate for locals and tourists. Good thing Novotel was able to secure us a pair of tickets. The catch is payment should be cash (which we’re low of as we prefer cards). We used Grab to get there. The weather is sunny below and gets foggy once you go up. Almost zero visibility when we took the cable car. Cable car and tram trips are unlimited as this is the only mode of transportation used in the park. The French village will greet you at the top with all the bricks, cobble stones and castles. Be ready to walk as you will cover a lot of ground. But don’t fret, there are food stalls as well as restaurants. There are gardens, temples and tea houses. Perhaps the well-known attraction is the Golden Bridge; in which two large hands are supporting it. It was foggy and rainy during our visit. The weather can change in a snap literally. Be sure you got your boots and raincoats ready. Our last ride is a 4D ride where you will be toured around the world. I got dizzy on that one. Hahaha.

- Novotel Danang Premier Han River

Our second hotel in Da Nang is Novotel. They gladly store our luggages when we go to Ba Na Hills and helped us to purchase the tickets. A birthday greeting in form of a cake greeted us when we entered our Executive Room which is overlooking Han River.

We also had cocktails and canapés at Premier Executive Lounge that came with our booking. I’m able to sample some beers as well. The buffet breakfast the next day is great. I had a couple of servings of barbecue pork, banh mi, and pho. I even made my own bibimbap. The black Vietnamese coffee is intense. I prefer it with condensed milk else I’ll be awake until night. 

Sun World Ba Na Hills

Stella Maris Beach Danang Hotel

Novotel Danang Premier Han River

VIETNAM🇻🇳 VISIT DANANG INSTEAD OF HO CHI MINH | TOP 2 NOT TO MISS IN DANANG VIETNAM - THINGS TO DO

WILL: I will never forget the taste of Pho when I visited Ho Chi Minh more than a decade ago. I like to revisit Vietnam but not the city. Gladly I stumbled upon Danang and from that day, I kept my eye on it. 

- Stella Maris Beach Danang Hotel

We are on budget (as always haha) and luckily we saw a golden opportunity to spend Abbey’s “Achievement” Points to buy us an experience instead of exchanging it for stuffs like headphones or hair blowers. 

We chose to book at Stella Maris Beach Danang. Our upgraded room Deluxe Double Room of Partial Ocean View with Buffet Breakfast costs us not more than S$120. The room is huge and have this unique style of lavatory in front of the closets. The king side bed is comfy, bathroom is clean and toiletries smell pleasantly. 

Stella Maris’ breakfast buffet do not offer a lot of options, not vegetarian or Muslim-friendly. But I love their cheese and small version of baguette. 

We asked concierge for help to book us a ticket to Ba Na Hills because the website has a glitch that time and only displays Viet language. The concierge seems also lost and confused. We left hotel without a ticket for Ba Na Hills. Overall experience was good for a very affordable hotel in beach front area of Danang! Totally recommended! 

- Boat Tour 

This is one of my “MUST”. I want to witness the Dragon Bridge’s Fire and Water Show through a boat tour. I do not know what boat to choose from but all I know is the boats were parked in front of Novotel. I purposely didn’t book for a ride due to the unpredictable weather in Danang but ALMIGHTY granted our wish and everything went smoothly. 

Our grab driver assisted us to the booking booth and we were happy that we reached just on time for us to watched the show. 

A happy first night in Danang! 

- Sun World Ba Na Hills 

Second “MUST” visit for me in Danang Vietnam is Ba Na Hills. For an Asian that needs to apply visa Ba Na Hills is the closest thing for us to experience France. Novotel helped us to book the tickets with a breeze. 

Via Grab, we went to Ba Na Hills. We were challenged to use stairs rather than escalators, I surrendered on the last three flights. It is fun. But I lost. You could try it too. Haha! We spent more or less 20mins inside a cable car with zero visibility. Clouds were all over us. 

We were greeted on top with a cool fog! What an amazing feeling. Sun rays, fog, drizzle, rain — you can experience it all in the French Village. Even with what happened, I truly enjoy galavanting in Ba Na Hills. What I truly love is the peaceful Truth Vu Tea Quan tea house on foot of Lin Ung Pagoda and the beautiful French Garden. Experience I won’t forget. 

If you wish to have a glimpse of Europe, Ba Na Hills is a must on your Danang Visit. 

- Novotel Danang Premier Han River

This is the second hotel and the only hotel we paid on this trip. Since it is Abbey’s birthday, we opted to book for Executive King Room with Terrace and Premier Lounge Access that costs S$192. We were privileged to have an access to The Balcony but we missed the afternoon tea time. 

Novotel gave us a complimentary huge premium chocolate cake and we were treated like a VIP. It seems that they know us well. That’s the service!!! Yihheee! 

The room is spacious, bed is huge, fluffy and comfortable. They have a relaxing aroma of toiletries and a nice veranda with a river view. 

The evening cocktails and canepe have a few selection of alcoholic drinks and pica-picas but I had the best Mojito that night. An exquisite pho and banh mi is present in their breakfast buffet. They also have an array of fruits, cheese and bread. 

If you are looking for special treatment, go for Novotel Danang Premier Han River. Staffs there will make you really feel special.

***

Stella Maris Beach Danang Hotel 

(W) https://stellamarisbeachdanang.com/ 

(A) 03 Võ Văn Kiệt, Phước Mỹ, Sơn Trà, Đà Nẵng 550000, Vietnam 

(T) +84 236 3555 657 

Novotel Danang Premier Han River 

(W) https://www.novotel-danang-premier.com/ 

(A) 36 Bach Dang Street, Hai Chau District, Danang City 

(T) +84 (0)236 392 9999 

Sun World Ba Na Hills 

(W) https://banahills.sunworld.vn/en 

(A) An Son Village, Hoa Ninh Commune, Hoa Vang District, Da Nang City, Vietnam 

(T) + 84 (0) 905 766 777

Value Fares with Vietnam Airlines | Singapore - Ho Chi Minh - Danang - Singapore

ABBEY: Going to Vietnam? Try their flag carrier. That’s what we did. We booked our return flights: Singapore to Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang. We got notified that our Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh flight will be moved to an earlier schedule. But they made up for it (after asking them) by giving us lounge access while waiting for our Singapore-bound plane. And they assisted once we were in the airport. 

There is enough leg room for me and very comfortable during the flights. However we encounter delays going to Vietnam. The food is nice but the moment that is memorable is when they gave us a couple of complimentary cold Vietnamese coffee on our way to Da Nang and with a note; very touching and we appreciate it.

Value Fares with Vietnam Airlines | Singapore - Ho Chi Minh - Danang - Singapore 
YouTube Videos: https://youtu.be/Kg3gSlkSnMg | https://youtu.be/cLrTvWznDx0

WILL: On my online search, I have noticed that Vietnam has its budget airline and some of it says that it is the cheapest plane ride they had. I was enticed… who wouldn’t be? But upon reading the reviews I decided to go for Vietnam Airlines. 

We booked our return Singapore-Ho Chi Minh-Danang flight 2months ahead of our scheduled vacation and yet weeks before the actual flight, Abbey received a change that will somewhat force us to wake up early and stay for 5hours in the airport. Abbey requested for a complimentary access in their lounge and without hesitation they granted the request. 

Happy to see that their seat offers enough legroom and their food is pretty fulfilling. The HCM to DAD flight attendants had given us a heartfelt message and a couple of iced coffee. That is the queue that are vacation really started and that is the best coffee we had in all of our plane ride! Wohooo!! 

Planes were clean, customer service is extremely helpful and stewards are warm and caring. This plane is totally recommendable!

***

Vietnam Airlines 

(W) https://www.vietnamairlines.com/ru/en/home

FREE and RELAX Sailing Adventure in Singapore🇸🇬 Setting Sail with DBS Bank / How to book DBS Sailing

ABBEY: Sailing at Marina Bay, let’s go! You will be transferred by some kind of dingy boat to the sail boat. 

We were aboard a bigger boat this time. It took a couple of minutes before we caught wind and the skipper used this to explain to us the safety protocol and assure all of us that it won’t capsize. However he told us that this is not “really” sailing as we won’t get wet. Haha. It’s good to cruise in Marina Bay; you’ll get different view of the Singapore skyline. We were also given the opportunity to put the sail up (it was hardwork) and not only that but also to be a helmsman. 

Imagine steering the wheel of the boat. Wow! Don’t worry it is fun and you’ll be guided. Until next sailing!

FREE and RELAX Sailing Adventure in Singapore🇸🇬 Setting Sail with DBS Bank / How to book DBS Sailing

WILL: Be creative how you’ll date your partner. No budget to splurge? Don’t worry DBS is there to help you “wow” your loved ones for FREE. DBS Sailing is free for all. Yes for all. The registration is open every 17th of a month and ticket is pretty fast to be filled up. 

What to expect? A dingy boat to pick you up near Marina Bay Customs House’s wharf, a sail boat and DBS Bank introduction, and 30-minute sailing filled with waves and breeze! 

I guarantee you not all have a chance to experience this kind of date. Mark your calendar and goodluck! Fastest Fingers First!

*** 

SAILING AT THE BAY 

(W) https://www.dbs.com/sailing/index.html 

(A) Pontoon beside Customs House, Singapore (70 Collyer Quay 049323) 

(E) marinabay@singaporesailing.org.sg 

PHS HAIRSCIENCE® Singapore🇸🇬 | Scalp and Hair Loss Care and Treatment Review, Promotion & Freebies

ABBEY: I do have a case of thining hair at the crown. Can be hereditary as this was the same with my uncles. The best that I can do is to give more care to it.

We went to PHS Hairscience at Wheelock Place and gave my head the treatment it deserves. I got the Signature renew scalp treatment. My scalp was assessed and it was oily and have patches of dirt. Haha. Next step is shampoo. I can’t believe you can shampoo that many times. You get that cooling effect from the menthol. A serum was jet-sprayed to my scalp for better absorption. On the next visit (yes I came back a second time), a balloon-like contraption was put over my head and the serum is applied this time by steam.

Both sessions are rejuvenating and you can feel that all is clean up there. We bought shampoos and tonic to keep the scalp and hair healthy.

PHS HAIRSCIENCE®  Singapore🇸🇬 | Scalp and Hair Loss Care and Treatment Review, Promotion & Freebies

WILL: If something is hereditary and the signs of those are already manifesting will you wait for it to fully take its course? Well for us, specially me, I want to delay the grey hairs and thankfully PHS is there to help. This will be Abbey’s second year using their products and I was given an anti-ageing treatment.

The anti-ageing scalp treatment only took 1-hour from me. That hour consisted of few times of bubbly-cooling shampoo, head massage, scalp treatment application and blow dry. The PHS HAIRSCIENCE Wheelock is clean, the staffs are lively and you will feel that they really caring about your mane and not just to sell any product. Our hair specialist knew everything about our scalp and its progress. 

Splurging in this kind of treatments is not a waste of time. It is a MUST to take care of yourself. See you again PHS HAIRSCIENCE!

*** 

PHS HAIRSCIENCE 

(W) https://www.phshairscience.com/ 

(H) WEEKDAY 11:00am – 8:30pm | WEEKENDS & PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 10:30am – 7:00pm 

(A) 501 Orchard Road, Wheelock Place, #04-12, 238880 

(T) +65 6220 6948 | +65 6737 6286

Panthére de Cartier - BEST CARTIER PIECE | Singapore 🇸🇬 First-ever Cartier Into The Wild Experience

ABBEY: The Cartier’s Into the Wild experience was held at Bayfront Pavilion, Gardens by the Bay. It was a guided tour where you can see how the Cartier Pathere unfolded and evolved. 

Three concepts; naturalist, abstract and graphic were displayed. The process it takes for a single piece of jewelry takes so much time and passed to different artisan. Now I knew how those spots are placed specially the eyes as they require time, skill and precision.

At the end of the tour you can relax while you sip your coffee, tea or juice and take a snap with the panther to take home with you.

Panthére de Cartier - BEST CARTIER PIECE | Singapore 🇸🇬 First-ever Cartier Into The Wild Experience

WILL: We experienced first hand how important the customers’ feeling for Cartier. They treated everyone like their VIPs. They got us hooked-up by that. 

Cartier’s Into the Wild Experience is pretty immersive. You will be greeted with a poem by a famous Ah Boys To Men lead actor. Then touching the historic and birth of PANTHÈRE DE CARTIER. They gave us the three impressions of the design: Graphic, Naturalist and Abstract. These are the ways of Cartier for a greater customer conversion rate and they are successful with that. Cartier have three two-storey stores in Singapore and the most prominent is their Ion Orchard Boutique. 

VIP or not, they will treat you like a royalty! Book your visit now.

*** 

Cartier® Official Website - Luxury Jewellery & Watches 

(W) https://www.cartier.sg/ 

(H) 11:00AM to 10:00PM 

(A) 2 Bayfront Avenue The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands Singapore 018972 

(T) 6929 8703

Authentic Hermès Bookmark for FREE - Trained by Hermès Artisan Hermès in the Making Exhibit

ABBEY: This is the third Hermes exhibition we attended. But this one really showcased how the products are sourced and be made in to an art. 

I related to the silk screen of the scarves as I did that process back in the days. And they’re doing it large scale and with help of machines. We also saw the ceramic paintings, hand gloves and saddles. They even offer how to stitch and create your own bookmark. And boy, that is no joke but fun. 

The time spent on every product is remarkable. 

Authentic Hermès Bookmark for FREE - Trained by Hermès Artisan Hermès in the Making Exhibit

WILL: This will be our third time to attend an Hermes Exhibit. First was held in Tanjong Pagar Railway Station, second was in ArtScience Museum and the most recent was at Marina Bay Sands Events Plaza. 

Of all, this is one of the most hands-on! We got the chance to mount a Hermes Saddle, color a scarf design, and the limited Hermes-Bookmark sewing session. The artisans are all from France and some of them need English translators. We enjoyed every second of it and we were there for two hours curiously observing.

Thank you Hermes for the experience. Definitely will always be in my mind that someday I will own something from your brand.

***

Hermès Singapore Marina Bay Sands

(W) https://www.hermes.com/sg/en/

(H) Monday to Thursday - 11 am to 10 pm / Friday to Saturday - 11 am to 11 pm / Sunday - 11 am to 10 pm

(A) 2 Bayfront Avenue, B1-32-33-34 B2-30-31, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, 018972, Singapore

(T) + 65 6688 7111

ALL YOU CAN EAT Italian Burrata, Mozzarella with Truffles and Porchetta | Luxury Buffet in Singapore

ABBEY: We have a mission coming to this restaurant at Regent Hotel. Basilico offers a buffet of cheese. And not just cheese; we’re talking of burrata, fresh mozzarella and with truffle. And they didn’t disappoint even though the burrata is not that gooey or runny. But still they’re creamy, bouncy and delicious. I ate them with artichoke, cherry tomatoes and asparagus.

Along with that they also have pecorino, piemonte and asiago cheese as well as cold cuts like mortadella and salami and salad.

For hot food we got porchetta, honey glazed chicken, baked salmon, grilled chicken and beef stew. Pasta like pesto, spaghetti with squid ink and beef lasagna are also available.

And to wrap we have a couple scoops of vanilla and chocolate gelato and pralines. 

ALL YOU CAN EAT Italian Burrata, Mozzarella with Truffles and Porchetta | Luxury Buffet in Singapore

WILL: We watched a travel show that showcased how an Italian farm makes burrata cheese and it hit us hugely that we went out to look in Singapore and we found a restaurant specialising in fresh burrata every day. Sadly, they didn’t survive the pandemic era. Gladly, we found another restaurant.

Basilico in Regent Hotel serves not only burrata but an array of delectable cheese! We were there for cheese so once we got our seats, we straight away took cheese, meats, cracker and nuts. Yep! We made ourselves a charcuterie in an instant. Wine please! Haha! We stayed a little bit longer than everyone (as usual) because I want to settle down the main courses in my stomach for desserts but is is a shocker when they serve porchetta. Of course I took some of those! Don’t forget to taste their vanilla gelato and praline. 

Very recommendable for Italian cusine buffs. You might strike a conversation too with their Italian Chefs.

*** 

Basilico | Dining | Regent Singapore

(W)https://www.ihg.com/regent/hotels/us/... 

(H) Lunch (Mon to Fri): 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm 

(A) 1 Cuscaden Rd, Level 2 Regent Singapore, Cuscaden Rd, Singapore 249715 

(T) 6725 3232

BEST CHOCOLATE CAKE SHOP AND FAMOUS CAFE IN SINGAPORE - The Awfully Chocolate Bakery & Cafe

ABBEY: We visited The Awfully Chocolate Bakery and Cafe at Katong. This is their flagship store and we came for brunch. I had their Breakfast Plate that comes with bratwurst, scrambled eggs, pancetta, tomato and arugula and croissant. 

The eggs are creamy and went well with the croissant and bratwurst. I washed them down with classic dark hot chocolate. While eating we keep on seeing orders of cake slices going out. We can’t help but to order their all chocolate cake with scoop of vanilla ice cream and fresh cream and we weren’t wrong. The cake is decadent and delicious. 

What you see is what you eat and taste. I also saw the rich chocolate flowing from the tap. Should I try that too? Haha.

BEST CHOCOLATE CAKE SHOP AND FAMOUS CAFE IN SINGAPORE - The Awfully Chocolate Bakery & Cafe

WILL: Awfully Chocolate is one of the finest/high level bake shop here in Singapore. They are a local bakeshop that expertize in making chocolate cakes and other chocolate products. Recently they expanded to offer hot meals and as we want to explore Tanjong Katong site, we chopped by to their flagship store. 

It’s late lunch and I ordered Eggs Benedict for SGD18. I am famished that time and because it is delicious too, I only shared one bite with Abbey. I am there because I am craving for chocolate cake and their signature cake with cream and ice cream answers my taste buds' longing of chocalate that us not too sweet and bitter! 

Awfully Chocolate’s Cake is indeed one of the best gift you can give to any celebration. Totally recommended not only for locals but a line of products to be proud and shared globally!

***

The Awfully Chocolate Bakery & Cafe 

(W) https://www.awfullychocolate.com 

(H) Sun - Thu: 8am - 10pm | Fri - Sat: 8am - LATE 

(A) 131 East Coast Road Singapore 428816 

(T) (+65) 6345 2190

Mama Lou's Italian Kitchen - Ayala Malls Vertis North

ABBEY: We’re looking for a place to catch up with our nephews and nieces and Mama Lou’s provided just that. We talked about their careers and lovelife over dinner. 

We got two pizzas (spinach and goat cheese and pepperoni), three pasta (Vesuvio, ravioli spinach, and truffle) and fried chicken. I recommend Vesuvio not only with the beautiful presentation but also with flavor and the kick at every scoop. The raviolis are creamy and the chicken is crispy and juicy. As with the pizza they are good; dough and toppings-wise. Good thing we went there early before a long queue built up.

Mama Lou's Italian Kitchen - Ayala Malls Vertis North 

WILL: Trinoma is just unlikely to be the same as before. It feels that the mall is gloomy and lost it glory. It is crowded too! Luckily I found Vertis North Mall that housed many new restaurants like Mama Lou’s. 

We waited 30mins to have a seat and immediately order the things that appetized my eyes. For pizza we had Pepperoni and pizza with goat cheese. For pasta we had Vesuvio, Lucio’s Truffle Pasta and Ravioli Spinach. We also had a basket of Fried Chicken. Amongst all, we ordered Quattro Formaggi and Vesuvio! The pizza tastes nearing in blue cheese side. The Vesuvio’s pasta is perfectly standing in a bath of sauce! 

Delighted we chose to dine and have a catch-up with my nephews and nieces here in Mama Lou’s! It not only offered us a good food but a homey feeling too!

***

Mama Lou's Italian Kitchen - Vertis North

(W) https://www.mamalous.com/en/

(H) 11AM - 8PM

(A) Vertis North, Ground Floor, Ayala Malls, Quezon City, 1105 Metro Manila, Philippines

(T) +63 2 8426 9196

Bicol Isarog Transport | Manila - Legazpi - Manila | Skybus with CR

ABBEY: Instead of flying to Bicol we chose the 12-hour bus ride and it is with Isarog Bus (Skybus with Comfort Room). Don’t ask why Skybus when it is only a bus. We preferred to board it at PITX than in Cubao; anyway the fare to PITX is free at the time of this writing and PITX is a newly-built transport hub. 

Not that much feature on the bus aside from USB port, lazyboy-type seat, and CR. But you’ll definitely be able to sleep in comfort. Please do bring your own jacket or blanket. There are stopovers for you to stretch and buy quick snacks. A good feature of the bus is that a beep will sound whenever the speed reaches 80-90kph. With this you’ll be assured that the bus will cruise at recommended speed. 

The 6PM timing really worked for us. It allowed us to sleep almost the whole duration of the trip and woke up refreshed and ready for our Bicol day activities.

Bicol Isarog Transport | Manila - Legazpi - Manila | Skybus with CR 

Bicol Isarog Transport | Manila - Legazpi - Manila

LUXURY VACATION IN BICOL REGION PHILIPPINES! Condotel and Beach Resort in Albay and Sorsogon!

WILL: There are two ways for people from Manila to reach Bicol Region… by plane and luckily we can also travel by land. Why we chose land? The simple answer is, it is somewhat hassle free. The early arrival and late departure to and from Legazpi is perfect for us to see and immerse ourselves in the beauty of Mayon Volcano and Sorsogon’s Beach.

So how’s the bus? It is comfy and enough room to recline your chair and fall asleep. The problem is, the air conditioning is too cold for my liking. As in it is shivering cold. The bus has a water closet. It is small, not dirty but there’s a strong smell of urine. So still not advisable to use for ladies.

Will I recommend to pay again more than the plane ticket to ride a sleeper bus? Hmmm. Let me think again. Haha!

***

Bicol Isarog 

Skybus with CR -- Php3,000.00 PITX to Legaspi (Roundtrip) -- 10-hour ride 

(W) https://bicolisarog.com/

LUXURIOUS SANTORINI VIBES BEACH RESORT IN SORSOGON - Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front in Santa Elena

ABBEY: I was hooked when I saw the blue and white buildings of Residencia del Hamor. It’s like Santorini. This is where we stayed in Sorsogon. 

Welcome drinks were served upon arrival and a few moments later we were led to our rooms. Each room has its own balcony facing the pool and beach. This is a good place to see the sunrise. A big bed is at the center of the room and you have a kind of living room as well. Extra beds can be requested for other guest but of course for a fee. The restaurant served as our dining table. I liked their crispy pata; you can eat all except for the bone. Haha. I had espresso martini at their bar to wrap up the day. 

And in the morning we walked the stretch of the beach which is very therapeutic. It is indeed a relaxing stay.

LUXURIOUS SANTORINI VIBES BEACH RESORT IN SORSOGON - Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front in Santa Elena - Santorini Vibes

LUXURIOUS SANTORINI VIBES BEACH RESORT IN SORSOGON - Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front in Santa Elena - Exclusive Pool

LUXURY VACATION IN BICOL REGION PHILIPPINES! Condotel and Beach Resort in Albay and Sorsogon!

LUXURIOUS SANTORINI VIBES BEACH RESORT IN SORSOGON - Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front in Santa Elena - Restaurant

LUXURIOUS SANTORINI VIBES BEACH RESORT IN SORSOGON - Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front in Santa Elena - Sunrise

WILL: We are glad that we chose to stay in Recidencia than in beeeep*beepp*. Haha! Recidencia del Hamor Beachfront’s customer care knocks off the competition. It is easier to communicate with them. I mean, it won’t take days for you to to wait on their responds. I sent a mail around midnight and my delight when I checked my email in the morning they had replied me by 2AM. Kuddos to Front Office Associate named Ms Sheena Dig! Just one call and few exchanges of emails, everything was settled. Who wants a stress before their vacation right?

We were picked-up by Recidencia del Hamor van exactly on the time we prefered. The van is roomy and accomodated us comfortably. On our way from Legazpi to Sorsogon our driver gave insights what Sorsogon is known for, what are their primary crops and pointed out the Chiz’s Abode. We have a lovely ride to the beachfront.

Once we arrived, we were welcomed by front office staffs, taken our vaccines cards to get a copy, given a welcome drink and we were assisted by a golf cart to our rooms.

The Junior Suite Room is lovely and spacious, the bed is comfy and the toiletries is fragrance is quite calming. In front of the room is the pool exclusively available for resort guests. 

The beach! The sea! It is calm! Love it! And due to low tide you can walk/swim far and yet the water is still a chest deep. Haha!

We do not have an intention to go out of the resort and glad that they have a restaurant, bar and spa that is highly recommended for guests to try. Don’t forget to order their Crispy Pata and Bangus Belly for breakfast On our way back to Legazpi, our driver gladly dropped us off to some places that sells pasalubong. Abbey got a tablea in Aling Vicky’s store.

So what’s the verdict? Totally recommended! They know how to tale care of their customers, what they want and need. Thank you so much Recidencia del Hamor for this memorable stay in Sorsogon!

***

Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front 

Php13,000 Junior Suite Room with free breakfast 

Van Transfer from Legazpi to Resort (2-way) Rate: PHP 6,000 

(F) https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...

(A) Brgy. San Sebastian, Sta. Magdalena 4709 Santa Magdalena, Philippines

(T) +63 905 245 1920

(E) reservations@recidenciadelhamorbeachfront.com.ph

LUXURY VACATION IN BICOL - Gloria Tree Mayon & Park View Residences Condotel

ABBEY: This is our stop at Albay; a condotel. They picked us up from the bus terminal and straight to Gloria Tree. A few moments after we were given our rooms (2 storey, 2 rooms, 3 baths, kitchen and living room) they served us breakfast. This is super early checkin at 5AM. We just thought to drop in the bags and come back later but lo and behold, we have the whole house to ourselves. 

The sheets are clean and smooth. They can improve with their amenity kits though; the soap is thin and the toothpaste tube won’t last you a couple of brushes. The place is adjacent to a park so you can jog or have a brisk walk in the morning. You can snap a good view of Mayon at the rooftop. 

Our bill costed us for 2 days/1 night stay and breakfast add-on for our arrival. I must admit that this is not a first choice for our stay but with the service they provided before our trip, we preferred them over a hyped-resort.

LUXURY VACATION IN BICOL  - Gloria Tree Mayon & Park View Residences Condotel - 2nd room

LUXURY VACATION IN BICOL  - Gloria Tree Mayon & Park View Residences Condotel - Receiving Area

LUXURY VACATION IN BICOL  - Gloria Tree Mayon & Park View Residences Condotel

LUXURY VACATION IN BICOL  - Gloria Tree Mayon & Park View Residences Condotel

WILL: We like to have an accommodation that will give us peace of mind and relaxation while we are in vacation, we want that the breakfast should be included, an almost a travel-agency-like that will provide us what we needed during our travels and yet still budget friendly. Gloria Tree Mayon has it all. 

I am a bit skeptic about Gloria Tree Mayon, hard to find an online review on them bit when I called the given phone number and the owner answered my querries, it is the sign for me to book the place.

The two-storey cost Php8,000 with free breakfast and free van transfer from Bus Terminal (Isarog from Manila). The house consisted of 2 airconditioned bedrooms with 1 queen size bed and 1 sofa bed. 1 extra sofa bed on the staircase area, 1 bunk bed, 3 bathrooms and airconditioned living and dining room. We also booked their van for our day tour which is Php500 cheaper than people who organised group tours.

Gloria Tree’s employees always make sure that we were satisfied with our meals and we are well served with our inquiries regarding the place. We really do feel that we are more than welcome in this establishment. Love that feeling so much. We will not forget that. Haha. 

Climb their 4th floor and you’ll be awed by the unobstructed view of Mt. Mayon.

***

Gloria Tree Mayon & Park View Residences 

Php8,000 2 - Bedroom with free breakfast and hotel transfer 

(F) https://www.facebook.com/gloriatreemayonandparkview

(A) Kalayaan Park Purok 1, Barriada Road, Brgy. 38 - Gogon, Legazpi City

(T) +63 922 846 5301

Cheap Lunch Buffet in Manila Philippines | Php699 Nett Lunch Buffet at Guevarra's by Chef Laudico

ABBEY: We were looking for Pinoy cuisine and we found Guevarra’s. For Php699.00, you can have a delicious lunch buffet. They do have lechon, bacon bagnet, angus tapa, baby back ribs, chicken barbecue, laing, paella, caldereta, and chicken skin. 

For dessert, you can enjoy choco pudding, halo halo, flan, and cakes. I keep coming for more lechon and baby back ribs; falls of the bone and melts in your mouth. Be sure to eat as much as you want. They are strict in sitting times as another batch will be served after you. 

Only later we knew that Chef Laudico is a celebrity chef. Celebrity or not, the food is great. End of story. Haha.

Cheap Lunch Buffet in Manila Philippines | Php699 Nett Lunch Buffet at Guevarra's by Chef Laudico

Cheap Lunch Buffet in Manila Philippines | Php699 Nett Lunch Buffet at Guevarra's by Chef Laudico

WILL: If you are an expat that didn’t have a chance to visit Philippines due to COVID there’s a possibility that you really do miss to indulge in authentic Filipino cuisine. And when we say indulge it means that it should be unlimited food with a fair cost (stingy mode) right? I have seen Guevarra’s Lunch Buffet and we were shocked that it only cost Php699 Nett (USD 11.86) and it was tucked away in a quite secluded neighbourhood of San Juan. 

So without further words, I would say that this is totally recommended. I love their sisig in shot glasses, kare-kare, baby back ribs, laing and their ensaymada! Ahhm, not so happy with their paella.

I would love take out some of their whole cakes but we are bound to another location. The seats are very limited so please do make an advance reservation.

***

Chef Laudico Guevarra's Late Lunch Buffet -- Php699(NETT)

(W) https://guevarras.com

(H) Late Lunch (Weekdays only) - 2:30 to 4:30pm

(A) 387 P. Guevarra St, cor Argonne, San Juan, Metro Manila

(T) 0998 881 3200

BEST RESORT IN RIZAL PHILIPPINES | ESTANCIA DE LORENZO SAN MATEO RIZAL

ABBEY: After a 4-hour hike at Masungi Georeserve, our chosen place of relaxation is at Estancia de Lorenzo. It’s a couple of hours drive from the nature park but all worth the travel as the resort is quiet and peaceful. 

We stayed in a two-storey villa which has two bedrooms and three bathrooms. They have two restaurants, a sports bar, pools, a banquet hall, and spa. Off to the spa we go to rejuvenate our aching body. In the morning we took a dip at their pool and were suprised to see a crocodile pen nearby. 

Our stay also included breakfast. I got their version of bangsilog (bangus, sinangag and itlog) with matching brewed coffee. 

Great stay at a great place. But be sure to checkout on time, else you’ll be charged even for a minute.

BEST RESORT IN RIZAL PHILIPPINES | ESTANCIA DE LORENZO SAN MATEO RIZAL

BEST RESORT IN RIZAL PHILIPPINES | ESTANCIA DE LORENZO SAN MATEO RIZAL - FAMILY PRIME VILLA QUEEN SIZE BED

BEST RESORT IN RIZAL PHILIPPINES | ESTANCIA DE LORENZO SAN MATEO RIZAL - FAMILY SWING

BEST RESORT IN RIZAL PHILIPPINES | ESTANCIA DE LORENZO SAN MATEO RIZAL - LORENZOS RESTAURANT

BEST RESORT IN RIZAL PHILIPPINES | ESTANCIA DE LORENZO SAN MATEO RIZAL - POOL

BEST RESORT IN RIZAL PHILIPPINES | ESTANCIA DE LORENZO SAN MATEO RIZAL

WILL: If you’ll google Rizal resorts, the top results will be Luljetta’s or Timberland Casino. As I am Wilma (haha) I searched deeper than Google can reach, so I have found the Estancia de Lorenzo in tucked in San Mateo Rizal overlooking the Sierra Madre Mountains.

It’s a new resort, having a calming ambiance and low tolerance of noise. Well, people who are visiting the resort is willing to pay premium to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Sierra Madre.

We checked-in on time and we were assigned to Orchid Villla just in front of the reception building. This prime family villa is huge that comprised of 2 bedrooms on second floor. 1 space that can accommodate 3 extra beds in first floor, a receiving area, 8 seater dining table, 3 bathrooms and huge veranda. We were 7 adults in that villa and it is still seemingly huge for us.

We had dinner in their Farmyard Sports Bar and Grill and the pizzas their are surprisingly good. Our breakfast is in Lorenzo’s restaurant and we were given a set meal of either sausage or bangus. Yummmy!! 

The pool is huge, temperature is fine and you can stare all you want in its greenery backdrop. 

Totally recommended! 

Here are some things that you need to know in Estancia. 

1. You can’t early check-in or check-out here. You will pay a for those minutes. 

2. You can bring food or drinks for a fee. 

3. You can’t be intoxicated in this resort. 

4. You can hail a grab and BGC is just an hour away! 

Thanks Estancia de Lorenzo for this wonderful experience for me and my family.

***

Estancia de Lorenzo -- Php15439.29 

(W) http://rizal.estanciadelorenzo.com.ph

(A) St. Patrick Street Marvi Hills, Subdivision, San Mateo, 1850 Rizal, Philippines

(T) (2) 8570.61.72 +63.917.192.7062| +63.921.847.9608