Nusa Transport - The Best Way to Travel with Kids from Singapore to Legoland Malaysia

ABBEY: When traveling between Singapore and Malaysia, there are plenty of transport options available, but we’ve found that Nusa Transport stands out for a few key reasons. First off, their website is a breeze to navigate. It's clear, concise, and gives you all the information you need—pricing and vehicle options—without any unnecessary fluff. 

Booking with them is a hassle-free experience, too. Their customer support team is quick to respond to any queries, and they make sure to keep you in the loop by sending driver details and arrival card links the day before your trip. 

As for the ride itself, it’s top-notch. Our driver was not only professional but also incredibly helpful, assisting us with our luggage, ensuring we were comfortably seated, and even guiding us through the immigration process. The Starex vans were spacious and spotlessly clean, giving us that premium, private car experience we were looking for.

Nusa Transport - The Best Way to Travel with Kids from Singapore to Legoland Malaysia

WILL: While taking a bus directly from Singapore to Legoland Malaysia is a popular choice, we opted for a private car service instead. With two kids and all our luggage in tow, this option offered us the convenience and comfort we needed for an stress-free journey.

Benefits of Using a Car Service:

—Convenient Pick-Up and Drop-Off: The service picks you up from anywhere in Singapore. For a small additional fee, you can even arrange for multiple pick-up or drop-off locations.

—Hassle-Free Immigration: Unlike buses, you won’t need to unload your luggage or step out of the car during the immigration process.

—Spacious and Comfortable: The van provided was large enough to comfortably fit all our luggage and accommodate all six of us. The seats were comfortable, and the driver was friendly and professional.

Nusa Transport service is highly recommended for families who value comfort and ease when traveling to Legoland Malaysia. It made our trip smooth and enjoyable, letting us focus on the fun ahead!

2-Way cost :: SGD290

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Nusa Transport

(W) https://www.nusatransport.com/

Lloyd’s Inn: An Honest Review of Our Singapore Staycation

ABBEY: Lloyd’s Inn always comes up whenever I check where we can accommodate our visitors. At last the day has come and we booked an overnight stay on their Big Garden and Garden rooms. 

The place is filled with plants and trees. Our rooms are Japanese-inspired wherein the mattresses are in elevated floors. We even had yukata. Toilet and bath are outdoors but still maintain privacy. We’re not able to lounge in the garden as we have to leave early to our next destination. You have to fill your water bottles from the dispensers stationed at every floor. The same goes for vending machine coffee. Don’t worry they are free for the guests. 

A traditional kaya toast set (with soft-boiled egg and hot drink) can be claimed to a nearby Kopitiam with the provided voucher.

Lloyd’s Inn An Honest Review of Our Singapore Staycation - Pool 

Lloyd’s Inn An Honest Review of Our Singapore Staycation - Garden Room

WILL: During the pandemic, Lloyd’s Inn kept appearing in my feed, suggesting it as a staycation option. I initially dismissed the idea, thinking it was too far or not easily accessible. However, when the need arose to book a room for 6 people, Lloyd’s Inn became a strong option.

As I researched more, I discovered that some of the myths I had heard about Lloyd’s Inn were far from true.

Myth 1: It's Too Far from the City
Lloyd’s Inn is actually very well situated, just a 10-minute walk from Singapore’s Orchard Road, the heart of the shopping district. Despite being close to the city, the tranquility of the place is remarkable. There’s no loud music or crowds of pedestrians on the street outside.

Myth 2: It’s Expensive
When you break down the cost, Lloyd’s Inn is surprisingly budget-friendly without compromising on quality.

Myth 3: No Amenities
This couldn’t be further from the truth. Lloyd’s Inn offers a serene pool area and an unlimited coffee supply in their common pantry.

Lloyd’s Inn goes the extra mile to make your stay special. When they learned we were celebrating a special occasion, they surprised our niece with a chocolate bar and a handwritten note.

Overall, our stay was pleasant—until bedtime. I had trouble sleeping due to some itchiness while lying in bed. Since we were only staying for one night and I didn’t have the energy to complain, I slept without the quilt, and the itching subsided.

Another drawback is the lack of a driveway. If it’s raining and you have a lot of luggage, be prepared for it to get a bit wet.

Cost: Starts from SGD200... 

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Lloyd’s Inn Singapore

(W) https://www.lloydsinn.com/singapore

(A) 2 LLOYD ROAD, SINGAPORE 239091

(T) 65 6737 7309

Best Spa in Bulacan: The Cotton Trees Spa Review Near Guiguinto

ABBEY: When Wilma and I returned to the Philippines for a vacation, she was technically working from abroad. Her workspace was far from ideal, so after a client meeting, we decided to treat ourselves to some relaxation. We headed to Cotton Trees Spa, which is listed as Bulacan’s top spa on TripAdvisor.

The spa has its own building, lot, and parking space, which piqued my curiosity—I wondered if the service would live up to the impressive facade. The moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by a refreshing minty aroma that set the tone for the experience. We were guided to a foot-washing station where we sipped on ginger tea, a lovely start to what was to come.

The massage was exactly what my aching body needed. The therapist applied just the right amount of pressure and incorporated multiple stretches that soothed all my pain points. It was pure bliss.

A little tip: make sure to book an appointment ahead of time. We got lucky visiting during off-peak hours and didn’t have to wait or getting turned down as they are fully booked. 

Best Spa in Bulacan: The Cotton Trees Spa Review Near Guiguinto

WILL: Finding a quality massage spa in Bulacan can be a challenge, especially when many are combined with salons that might leave you hesitant to spend your money. However, one spa that stands out from the rest is The Cotton Trees Spa—even though it's a bit of a drive from my father-in-law's house, it was well worth the trip.

We indulged in the 90-minute Cotton Trees Signature Massage (Php 2,080), and it truly delivered a premium spa experience. From the moment we arrived, we were treated to a warm welcome with a hot lemon ginger tea and a relaxing water wash. The ambiance was serene, complemented by a symphony of soothing melodies.

As for the massage, it was exceptional. The masseuse focused on my shoulder area, expertly working out all the tension and knots. The back stretching and the application of hot aromatic herbal balls added to the relaxation, warming my entire body and leaving me feeling rejuvenated.

Would I visit The Cotton Trees Spa again? Absolutely! If you're in the Bulacan area, particularly near Guiguinto, I highly recommend checking it out. The spa is conveniently located just a few steps from the "Welcome to Guiguinto" Arc.

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Cotton Trees Spa

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

(H) 10am to 12mn

(A) 189 Santa Cruz, Guiguinto, 3015 Bulacan, Philippines

(T) +63 917 308 7337

Why Physio Spa Should Be on Your Must-Visit List in the Philippines

ABBEY: Whenever we return to the Philippines, we make it a priority to find a good spa to unwind. This time, our search on Facebook led us to a gem—The PhysioSpa in Banawe, Quezon City. Though the VIP rooms with showers and saunas were fully booked, we opted for the non-VIP ones, and they did not disappoint.

The massage was truly transformative. I’ve struggled with back pain for a while, but after just one session, it felt like a weight was lifted. All my joints, especially in my back, were expertly popped, leaving me feeling refreshed and recharged.

The experience was so good that we ended up going twice, both times with our loved ones. It's safe to say that we’ll definitely be back for more. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and reset, The PhysioSpa is a must-visit.

Why Physio Spa Should Be on Your Must-Visit List in the Quezon City Philippines

WILL: Every time Abbey and I visit the Philippines, getting a massage is a must. Why? The answer is simple: quality massages here are incredibly affordable. While we always keep an eye out for new spas to try, this time we decided to experience Physio Spa.

Physio Spa offers a clean environment, though it leans more towards a transactional vibe rather than a cozy, homey atmosphere. But when it comes to the massage itself, they are a solid 10/10. We opted for the 90-minute PhysioSpa Signature Massage, and it felt like being lifted onto a cloud of relaxation.

The difference lies in the expertise of their masseuses, who seem to have knowledge of chiropractic techniques. Beyond just a standard massage, they provide a satisfying cracks on my joints releasing tension and adding to the overall sense of relaxation.

For just Php1,300, you get a 90-minute massage with chiropractic elements. Our answer is a resounding yes! If you go, be sure to ask for Cindy—she’s the best!

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The Physio Spa

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

(H) 10AM - 11:00PM

(A) R Center 89 Banawe St. , Quezon City, Philippines

(T) +63 917 859 0808

Manam’s Twist on Traditional Filipino Cuisine - From Bibingka to Watermelon Sinigang

ABBEY: I’ve seen a lot of post about Manam and I got curious on how good their Filipino dishes are. We went to their Gateway Mall 2 branch and ordered crispy palabok, bibingkang galapong and coffee. 

I disregarded the delay and my follow-ups (but I hope no need for that in the future) when I saw how they serve the palabok; the crispiness is being melted with rich orange sauce from a pot. So aesthetic. And the taste is at par with its presentation. The bibingka has a fluffy and soft texture. Best paired with coffee. Authentic Pinoy merienda. 

We liked the food that we visited the branch at Ayala Malls Manila Bay with our family. For lunch, we had kare kare, fried chicken, this time the black ink palabok along with the classic and beef short rib sinigang with watermelon. Yes, with watermelon. Kind of should-not-be-on-the-mix but I’m telling you it elevates the flavor. Truly Manam lives up to is mission to serve Filipino cuisine to provide good food, nostalgia, patriotism boost and comfort. 

Manam’s Twist on Traditional Filipino Cuisine - From Bibingka to Watermelon Sinigang

Manam’s Twist on Traditional Filipino Cuisine - From Bibingka to Watermelon Sinigang

WILL: In Manila, the trend of all-you-can-eat buffets is widespread, with many restaurants offering similar selections. However, we were thrilled to discover something refreshingly different through Korina’s YouTube channel—Manam’s innovative twist on Filipino dishes.

Our first visit to Manam wasn’t planned. We were simply looking for a spot for Abbey’s afternoon coffee when we stumbled upon Manam’s Cubao branch. We decided to try their bibingka and palabok, and what an afternoon treat it was! The flavors were exceptional, leaving us eager for more.

Unable to resist, we returned for a meal — but now with our family. This time, we ordered a variety of dishes: the original and squid ink palabok, their renowned watermelon sinigang, kare-kare, and of course, fried chicken. Each dish was a masterpiece, showcasing Manam’s creative approach to Filipino cuisine. Their commitment to refining and reimagining traditional flavors is evident in every bite.

Manam offers great value for money and is highly recommended for those looking to experience Filipino cuisine with a twist. We can’t wait for our next visit!

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Manam Comfort Filipino 

(W) http://manam.momentfood.com/

(F) https://www.facebook.com/ManamPH/about

Acuatico Beach Resort Review -- Is It Worth the Php100,000+ for a Family Getaway?

ABBEY: Our recent family trip to Aquatico Beach Resort in Batangas was filled with fun, relaxation, and plenty of memorable moments. The journey took us almost three hours, but despite arriving before the official check-in time, the resort staff were kind enough to welcome us. They set us up in their playroom, where we could cool off and unwind, keeping us comfortable in the sweltering heat. About half an hour later, we were escorted to our villas, and that’s when our adventure at the resort truly began. The welcome drinks followed shortly after, adding a refreshing touch to our start.

While the resort has its charms, there were a few quirks. Due to space limitations, we found ourselves needing to visit my sibling's room for coffee and access to a fridge. The bathroom, though functional, had no shower door, leading to splashes that were beginning to take a toll on the doorposts. As for the Wi-Fi, it was a bit of a hit-or-miss, with connectivity being intermittent at times. However, these minor inconveniences didn’t stop us from creating some truly happy memories.

Most of our days were spent between the infinity pool and the beach, especially after meals. And speaking of meals, the food at Aquatico did not disappoint. I indulged in a variety of dishes, including beef tapa, roasted pork, pancit, tacos, and chicken. They also offered taho and an assortment of desserts. For drinks, hot chocolate and kapeng barako were on the menu, perfect for a comforting treat. During our two-night stay, my wife and I enjoyed leisurely evenings with servings of margaritas, red sangrias, and mojitos—quality time well spent.

All in all, despite a few minor hitches, our stay at Aquatico Beach Resort was a delightful experience, leaving us with wonderful memories of family bonding and relaxation.

Acuatico Beach Resort Review

Acuatico Beach Resort Review

Acuatico Beach Resort Review

WILL: When choosing a luxury resort like Acuatico, expectations naturally rise, especially when the price tag is steep. After seeing photos and reading rave reviews online, I couldn’t wait to experience Acuatico for myself. So, what is Acuatico really like? Let’s dive into the details—both the highlights and the letdowns.

Rooms and Accommodation

We booked two accommodations for a family reunion and were assigned to the Masters of Casita. The bed was incredibly comfortable and spotlessly clean, which immediately put me at ease. The TV offered a good selection of channels, providing some much-needed entertainment during work breaks. Our room was just three steps away from the beautiful infinity pool and offered a fantastic view of the sea. The staff was attentive, checking in on us and offering to refresh our room on the second day, which added a nice touch to our stay.

But then there was the bathroom. The showerhead was in dire need of replacement, and the faucet’s water pressure was so intense that it turned the bathroom into a splash zone. It’s these small details that make a big difference in a luxury stay.

Dining at the Resort

I have to commend the resort on the food. The ingredients were fresh, and the meals were included in our package, which was a nice touch. However, dining was far from a relaxing experience. The flies were relentless, turning every meal into a battle to protect our plates. It was exhausting and definitely detracted from the overall experience.

The Pool Area

The pool is one of the standout features of Acuatico Beach Resort. It’s divided into three sections, which is ideal for families with young children, as it allows them to play safely in a designated area. The pool area is beautifully designed and offers a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the view.

Is Acuatico Worth the Price?

Despite the luxurious price tag, there were some noticeable lapses in quality that made us question whether the resort is being properly maintained. There’s a sense that it’s starting to show signs of wear and tear, which is disappointing for a place that promises so much.

As for the cost? Our 3-day, 2-night stay in two rooms at Acuatico set us back a hefty Php 117,000++. Given the experience, I’m left wondering if it was really worth it.

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Acuatico Beach Resort: Resort in Laiya Batangas

(W) https://acuaticoresort.com.ph/

(A) Laiya, San Juan, Batangas, Philippines 4226

Sakura Private Villa - Serene Getaway in Angeles Pampanga

ABBEY: It’s always a good idea to catch up with friends so we did that. Not only did we had dinner but sleepovers, yes with an “s” at Sakura Private Villa Angles for 3 days and 2 night. The private house is at Angeles, Pampanga but you can get there via Waze. There could be a slight hiccup finding it when you’re nearby but with a couple of asks with the locals and intuition you’ll get there. 

We were welcomed warmly by the staff as they began to handover the place to us. The rules are printed and make sure you read and adhere to them. We got five rooms, three toilets and two baths, a large swimming including a bubble jet one. It is clean, spacious and relaxing. We played darts, billiards, and even karaoke’d. You can bring your own food. The utensils and cookwares are provided. Or you can order and cook them for you. Internet connectivity is fast. No problem with the heat as well. Where should our next catch up be?

Sakura Private Villa - Serene Getaway in Angeles Pampanga: Pool

Sakura Private Villa - Serene Getaway in Angeles Pampanga

Sakura Private Villa - Serene Getaway in Angeles Pampanga: Bathroom with Tub

Sakura Private Villa - Serene Getaway in Angeles Pampanga

WILL: During our high school days, we made it a tradition to go on annual out-of-town getaways. Now, with most of us living abroad, our reunions have become rare and typically limited to simple dinners. However, we always felt that a few hours over dinner wasn't enough to make up for the lost time. This year, we were thrilled that almost everyone managed to find the time for a 3-day, 2-night vacation. Our friend Denise, the perennial organizer, chose Sakura Private Villa for our much-anticipated reunion.

The accommodations at Sakura Private Villa are modest; don't expect hotel-like mattresses or pillows. However, the inviting pool, karaoke, dartboard, and billiards table ensure that there's never a dull moment, even without televisions (a welcome change, indeed).

Downsides:

Insects: Expect mosquitoes, ants and flies.

No Basic Things: Toothbrushes and towels are not provided.

Hard to Find: The villa's location can be difficult to locate.

Cost:

We spent Php 28,500 for our stay + Php200 per towel. 

Sakura Private Villa provided us with a perfect backdrop for reconnecting and creating new memories. Despite a few minor inconveniences, the time spent together in such a peaceful setting was priceless.

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Sakura Private Villa Angeles

(F)https://www.facebook.com/p/Sakura-Private-Villa-Angeles-61557800871581/

(A) Purok 2 Sitio Radar Brgy.Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Philippines