Category: Philippines

Food Trip: Where to eat in Antipolo (updated 2023)

Al fresco dining has really made a comeback in the Philippines because of the pandemic. Since restrictions eased earlier this year and COVID cases are down, families and barkadas are dining out all together again during weekends, but many still prefer to meet up in al fresco spaces for safety. While mall-based restos with open air dining are an option, scenic places near Manila like Tagaytay and Tanay have just boomed with al fresco cafes and pop-up coffee stalls.

But because gas is so expensive these days, nearer destinations are becoming more appealing. For those based in the metro, Antipolo is always a popular destination that has an out-of-town feel and great views, but is still relatively near the metro and easy to drive to if you just wan to to enjoy a quick brunch or coffee with friends. For bikers, Antipolo is also one of the most popular spots near Manila to bike to for coffee or weekend rides.

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Boost your flight rewards points on Cebu Pacific with GoTyme bank

Ready for revenge travel this year? Get a chance to fly to your dream destination for FREE by boosting rewards points from daily transactions to pay for flights and add-ons on Cebu Pacific flights.

GoTyme Bank, a Gokongwei Group Bank, has partnered with Cebu Pacific and Go Rewards to enable more Juans to reach their dream destinations by boosting rewards points earned from flights from regular expenses like groceries, retail, fuel, medicine, e-commerce transactions, and more.

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Unique Airbnb stays around the Philippines

When it comes to leisure staycations, accommodations are the most important factor to consider. Camping and glamping have become more popular among families looking to spend time outdoors after months of being cooped up during the pandemic era.

In fact, there’s been an increase in demand for unique sleeping quarters like treehouses, camper vans, farm stays, and more catering to leisure travelers who want to experience something new. Data from Airbnb shows that searches for unique homes has exploded in the past three years, creating potential earning opportunities for hosts. 

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Pasig River Ferry Route Map & Schedule for 2024

As a way to combat the traffic in the metro, the Pasig River Ferry System continues to offer FREE rides for the whole year starting January 2023. This is currently the only water-based transportation in Metro Manila that cruises along the Pasig River from Pinagbuhatan in Pasig to Escolta in Manila. The route passes through several cities including Pasig, Mandaluyong, Makati, and Manila.

One of the best things about this route is that bicycles, both folding and full-size versions, are permitted on the Pasig River Ferry, making it easier for bike commuters as well as leisure bikers who want to combine their trips with a river ferry ride to get to the Escolta or Intramuros area from other parts of the metro.

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Travel Guide: Biking from Laiya to Malabrigo Lighthouse, Batangas

Laiya Beach, located in Laiya-Aplaya in San Juan, Batangas, is one of the most popular beaches within driving distance of Manila. The whole stretch here is a favorite weekend destination for families. You can enjoy water-based activities here like banana boats, kayaking, and island-hopping, or just chill out by the beach at one of the many resorts.

Since we’ve traveled to Laiya several times before, last May 2022 we decided to take our bicycles and spend a day just biking to experience a different side of the area.

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New al fresco cafes with stunning views in Tanay, Rizal

Marilaque, the highway that spans Marikina-Rizal-Laguna-Quezon, has always been our go-to destination for weekend rides. For those based in cities in the North and East of Metro Manila (like Quezon City, Pasig, Marikina, etc.), this highway leading to Infanta through the Sierra Madre Mountains is the favored destination for road trips, much like Tagaytay for Southerners.

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Travel Guide: Caliraya Lake-Pagsanjan Bike Loop

Caliraya Lake is a favorite destination among motorcycle riders and bikers based in Metro Manila for weekend rides. Located in the mountainous area of Lumban, Cavinti, and Kalayaan in Laguna, the area surrounding Caliraya Lake has also known as a top destination for outdoor recreation, water sports, retreats, and fishing.

Since travel has eased again after the pandemic, the area seems to be becoming more popular among families for car camping, glamping, and other outdoor nature activities. There are a lot more family-friendly resorts, glamping destinations, and new al fresco restaurants serving wider food options that have popped up in the area in the past two years.

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Where to eat in Naga City: New al fresco cafes and outdoor dining spots

I recently revisited my hometown Naga City in the Bicol Region for the first time since the pandemic started. Like other places impacted by the lack of tourism the past two years, there have been a lot of changes to the food scene.

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Food Trip: Naga City (updated 2022)

NOTE: As of June 2022, many restaurants in Naga City have closed because of the pandemic. I’ve rearranged this list to highlight those that are still currently operating for reference, but have retained the list of old restos in case they still reopen in the future. Most of the restaurants below are those within the main Naga City proper. Post-pandemic “Uptown Naga,” the area of Pacol and Carolina has also become popular for al fresco dining.

In recent years, my hometown Naga City in the Bicol Region has become a rising foodie destination. Every visit means that there are new restaurants waiting to be sampled, as well as old favorites that just have to be revisited.

Bikol cuisine is known as being spicy and sweet. Sili (chili peppers) and coconut milk (gata) are used in a lot of dishes, as well as pili nut products for desserts and a unique relish. Here’s a look at some of the best places where you can savor the flavors of Bikol (compiled from numerous visits to Naga to visit my folks), as well as some of the new restaurants worth checking out.

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Where to stay in Laiya, Batangas: Sabangan Beach Resort

After biking through coastal areas and up steep mountain roads, it’s always great to just head back to a comfy base to have beer by the beach, enjoy meals, and chill out without having to drive back far to the city the same day.

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