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!

***

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.

***

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.

***

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

Citadines Roces Quezon City : Have You Stayed in an Apartment Hotel?

ABBEY: Due to appointments left and right we opted to book a hotel for a couple of nights when we landed at Metro Manila. It was at the newly-built Citadines Roces at Quezon City. We got the one-bedroom unit and I can say that made a lot of difference. After all the guests that had come you can still have your clean, pristine and private space to enjoy. 

The unit has larger fridge, microwave, and dishes and utensils. I hope they can look on ways to improve internet connectivity to be faster and to be more thorough in cleaning the pool as we found cockroach at one of the edges. 

There is a complimentary barista coffee but only once in your whole stay and only for one guest; would be better if it’s per day and per hotel guest that is checked in. Front desk staffs Krystle and Vanie really ensure that we are taken care off specially for the rush printing of the document I needed. 

Citadines Roces Quezon City : Living Room

Citadines Roces Quezon City : Bedroom

WILL: Another year and another vacation for us in Philippines. Yay!! To tell you frankly — we do not have a home to live in Manila. My parents’ house have 4 rooms and it were all occupied by my sister and her sons. Abbey’s parents house is way too far and time consuming for us to commute daily for our business affairs. So we make it a point that we budgeted our stays in hotels. For this year our first stay is Citadines Roces Quezon City. 

We chose Citadines One Bedroom Deluxe. Why? Since we are always holding a business meeting, a living room equipped with TV with HDMI is a good fit. After the meeting, we do not need to hail a taxi for a dinner since a lot of restaurant and cafe is around the hotel. 

The comfort? The location is perfect and away of everyday noise of traffic; on that you will be ensuring that you have a good night sleep. Breakfast is included in our room which a good thing that we wonder around the city for a quick bite. They have a covered pool that which I do not get a chance to dip in. 

Overall, this is a hotel that I will be considering to book again. Not only for me and Abbey but also for our next family staycation! 

***

Citadines Roces Quezon City

(W) https://www.discoverasr.com/en/citadines/philippines/citadines-roces-quezon-city

(A) 100 Don A. Roces Ave, Diliman, Quezon City, 1103 Metro Manila, Philippines

Is Singapore Airlines Business Class Worth the Upgrade from Economy?

ABBEY: This is my first to fly in Business Class. With a budget and the itch to get the experience of sitting in the first few rows of a plane, we booked a pair of round-trip prized real estate in Singapore Airlines to the tune of almost SGD 3000. This is for our trip to Manila. 

Aside from the full kit amenities and free-flow champagne and wine, we also got the Book the Cook experience wherein you can choose your food from a curated menu. This needs to be done before your flight. I got the Grilled Angus beef burger and it was delicious. I paired it with red wine as I watched an episode of a TV series I liked. 

Even though slippers were not available in the Manila-bound flight, our experience is better than the one going back to Singapore. Aside from the business class is almost fully packed, I felt like the warmth from the staff service was diminished. The vibe I got is “since this is an evening flight and the day is almost done, let’s just get this over with”. 

The noodles is so salty and the fish meal they replaced it with was having soggy veggies to the point like it was melting. I think apart from the seat comfort and price there is not that much difference between the classes. I may have spoken too soon but let’s see in the First Class.

Is Singapore Airlines Business Class Worth the Upgrade from Economy?

Is Singapore Airlines Business Class Worth the Upgrade from Economy?

Is Singapore Airlines Business Class Worth the Upgrade from Economy?

Is Singapore Airlines Business Class Worth the Upgrade from Economy?

WILL: Abbey often asks, "What does it take for people like us to afford a business class flight? When will it be our turn?" On our 2024 trip to the Philippines, Abbey upgraded our tickets to Singapore Airlines’ Business Class. Here’s a detailed, and a bit giggly, review of our experience.

Singapore to Manila

Singapore Airlines provides dedicated counters for Business Class passengers, ensuring a seamless check-in process. The queue management staff greeted us immediately and directed us to the counter. With a generous 40kg baggage allowance each (compared to the 25kg allowance in economy), we felt quite pampered. Despite the early morning hour, the check-in was efficient, and from Terminal 2, we took the free skytrain to Terminal 3 for some delightful Baccha coffee.

	Terminal 3	Terminal 2
Ambiance	The seating area is spacious with an open-air concept. However, it felt dim and somewhat gloomy as we arrived before sunrise.	This lounge tends to be more crowded, with seats placed close together. There wasn’t a visible bar area.
Food and Beverage	The food offerings were comparable to those in Priority Pass lounges.	The dumplings were excellent—I went back for a third serving.
Service	The attendants were exceptionally warm and welcoming, which made us feel comfortable and well-cared for.	The service here felt more transactional and less personal compared to Terminal 3.

Boarding as Business Class passengers provided a distinct advantage, marked by priority boarding and attentive service. Abbey and I were seated in a front-back row configuration. Despite the flight being delayed, the ample space allowed me to work comfortably on my emails.

The "Book the Cook" experience was a highlight, offering personalized meal choices. However, I wished I could have shared my lobster dish with Abbey, who was seated behind me. After the meal, I enjoyed a nap, appreciating the comfortable sleeping position, fluffy pillow, and warm quilt.

Manila to Singapore

The KrisFlyer Lounge in Manila was underwhelming. The food choices were limited, the wine selection was mediocre, and the lighting was dim. This was a stark contrast to the high standards experienced at the lounges in Singapore.

The in-flight service was outstanding. When I found my pork noodles too salty, the attendants were proactive in offering an alternative dish. This level of attentiveness is a hallmark of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class.

One notable moment was during our landing in Singapore, where the runway appeared slippery, and the pilot had to brake suddenly. This sudden stop highlighted the importance of safety protocols, which were efficiently managed.

The entertainment options were more limited compared to previous flights with Singapore Airlines. While the comfort and service in Business Class were commendable, the isolated seating arrangement made it difficult to enjoy the journey with a travel companion.

Recommendable? 

Overall, Singapore Airlines’ Business Class offers a high level of comfort, exceptional service, and thoughtful amenities. However, the solitary nature of the seating may not be ideal for those who prefer a more connected travel experience with their companions. For travelers seeking luxury and personal space, it is highly recommendable. For those like me, who value constant companionship and interaction, it may feel a bit isolating.

Prego: Casual Italian Dining in Fairmont Hotel Singapore

ABBEY: We went to Prego to have dinner with my wife’s boss. 

I got Pancetta di Maiale in Porchetta. I can still hear the crunch as I teeth sunk the skin. Wow. And the meat is so tender and bursting in flavors. For sharing we had the Prego pizza with mozzarella, mushrooms, sun-dried tomato, ham and parmesan. Of course we didn’t pass the opportunity to put a whole burrata on top of it. It was heavenly. 

We ate all the pieces. It was always a great idea to catch up in a good place with good food. 

Prego: Casual Italian Dining in a Hotel Setting - Authentic Carbonara

Prego: Casual Italian Dining in a Hotel Setting - Porchetta

Prego: Casual Italian Dining in a Hotel Setting - Pizza with Burrata

WILL: Dining in hotel restaurants can sometimes seem intimidating for people like me. It's not just the price but also the people that might surround you. Prego, however, serves a different experience. It is as casual as restaurants you might find inside a mall—not too noisy nor too formal. It's perfect for families or friends who want a quiet place to catch up.

Since Prego is an Italian restaurant, we ordered pizza topped with burrata, carbonara, seafood pasta, tiramisu, and of course, porchetta. The porchetta was the star of the night. The crunchy skin of the pork, plus the juicy and melting fat, was simply irresistible! Mama mia!! The tiramisu, on the other hand, might not taste like the ones you've had in Italy, but it’s still worth trying.

Highly recommended! Thanks to All Accor Plus for the 50% discount! Yayyy!

***

Prego

(W) https://prego.com.sg/

(H) 12noon to 9:30om

(A) Level 1, Fairmont Singapore 80 Bras Basah Road Singapore, 189560

(T) 65 6431 6156