5 Philippine Destinations to Visit this Holiday

Image source

With the Christmas holidays looming over us, it is to be expected that people will not only be drafting their Christmas shopping list or even their wish list, they would also have a Christmas and New Year itinerary ready.

However, considering that most people would be getting and celebrating their Christmas and holiday vacations at the same time, several vacation places will be inevitably fully-booked.

With the deluge of potential vacationers, this coming December, booked-up airlines and crowded mall areas are to be expected. For those seeking a quiet time to bond with the family and enjoy the season, this can be a bit of a hassle. But this does not mean that you can no longer enjoy an excellent holiday with your family.

Try visiting any of the places listed below that are a bit closer to home but nonetheless, beautiful and picturesque destinations this coming holidays.

1. Bacolod City

Image source

For a gastronomic Christmas feast, visit the city of smiles known as Bacolod City. Apart from the warm smiles and gentle warmth the locals treat their guests with, this city is known to have some of the best restaurants in the country.

Other than the famed chicken inasal, the city is known for their delectable and sweet cakes and pastries—a feat that is nothing short of what is to be expected from the sugar capital of the Philippines. So, if you are looking for a culinary excursion this coming December that would not hurt your pockets one bit, visit this city and experience a different kind of holiday food trip.

2. Laguna City

Image source

This town is teeming with sights and various tourist spots that your itinerary would be filled to the brim. There are a lot of places to visit in Laguna, and without a doubt, it is the best choice for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies. The city is known to host the nationally famous theme park known as the Enchanted Kingdom, a theme park which is excellent not only for kids but the kid at heart as well.

This Christmas time, if you are bringing the entire family for a holiday trip, Laguna would be the premier choice—especially when you are traveling with little tots in tow.

3. Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Image source

A summer getaway on Christmas time might seem a little unorthodox, but it is certainly not unheard of. If you have been meaning to go to Palawan for a while now, make it a point to visit this December.

As it is off-season, you would not have to contend with hordes of tourists and other crowds of travelers and will have a more enjoyable experience and smooth-sailing experience than you would during the summer peak. This December, try seeing and immersing yourself in one of the seven natural wonders of the world and visit Palawan.

4. Sibale Island, Romblon

Image source

For something a bit more extraordinary and unconventional, visit the Island of Sibale in Romblon. It is relatively unknown so you would not expect throngs of tourists and travelers being all around the place.

The island is perfect for your Instagram portfolio and social media pages as everywhere you go would be an opportunity for a photo session. The picturesque views and sprawling landscapes would be enough to make any traveler wide-eyed with wonder. It is guaranteed that the island would not only take your breath away but steal your heart as well.

5. Cebu City

Image source

The Queen City of the South is not only known to be the prime locus for the best tasting lechon in the Philippines but is also known for its several iconic and archaic churches. These churches are best visited during the Christmas season as they light up their stone walls with various Christmas lights and offer something a bit more colorful and bright for the season.

Additionally, if you are not in much of a hurry, spend New Year and a few more weeks in Cebu to see the biggest festival in the Philippines: Sinulog—the pride of the queen city of the south.

Why Nuvali is one of The Places You Should Visit before the Year Ends

 

Image Source

As the year draws to a close, we are starting to get more free days than usual. Human resources may grant office holidays that are good for at least a couple of days or may opt to give their employees half the day off before the holidays commence. And because this is the case, this is the perfect opportunity for a holiday stroll or getaway. With so many days without having to go to the office, you would be left with absolutely no excuses as to why you could not find the time for a weekend getaway.

And with the year drawing to a close, it is high time that you visit these places. If booking a ticket for a Christmas getaway is not within your options then among all the places you could potentially visit come holiday season, Laguna should rank first on your list. There are boundless activities one could potentially do, and a Christmas Laguna getaway is something a little closer to the metro and is something a little different than usual. Additionally, Laguna plays host to Nuvali, which is a sustainable community development—a collaboration between top developer Ayala Land and the Yulo family. One of its long-standing primary goals is to remain a wholly sustainable community. 

Visiting Nuvali before the year ends is very much possible as it only takes an hour to get there from Metro Manila via private vehicle depending on traffic of course.  Additionally, there are buses and jeepneys that can take you there. So, now that you have decided to give Nuvali a go, what should you do?

Well, there is a lot in store for you!

1.)    VISIT THE EVOLIVING CENTER

Image Source

 This architectural genius deserves a visit whenever you are in Nuvali even just for the fact to see the breathtaking view and the artistic brilliance incorporated into structuring and designing this particular building. Apart from appreciating the visual aesthetics, this is the place to go to have an in-depth view and insight of what exactly it is that Nuvali does. This is where visitors learn how they integrate the green principle of Reducing, Reusing and Recycling in their backyard along with other earth friendly and green applications such as energy efficiency, waste management, etc. The evoliving center is located at the heart of the community and features their interactive exhibits (which is worth looking out for) and their corporate offices.

2.)    GO ON A BOAT RIDE IN THE LAKESIDE

Image Source

 For individuals in search for a refreshing ride, Nuvali features a Lakeside, which you can peruse from and appreciate from a distance or can try navigating for only thirty pesos a head (Operating hours are between 8:00AM-5:00 PM every day). The boats can carry a minimum of six persons and a maximum of twelve persons per ride so the ride can easily accommodate family members or friends. Walking and biking around the area for those who wish to stay away from the water is also an option for sixty pesos an hour. This is the perfect opportunity to choose a cozy spot surrounding the area and have a picnic together with family or friends.

3.)    APPRECIATE ART

Image Source

 Art lovers, photographers, and selfie-enthusiasts will find a multitude of activities to do in Nuvali with its scenic backdrop and creative art installations. Traipse around Nuvali’s picnic grounds  and look for perfect backdrops for artistic photography or for your selfies to post on Instagram (with the breathtaking view, you would hardly need a filter)-- or you can simply appreciate the artistic installations by some of the well-respected artists in the country such as Juan Carlo Calma, Eduardo Castrillo, and Mariano Mallari. If you book an overnight stay or eat at Seda Nuvali, you will find more works from local artists everywhere. This is one spot where Ayala shows its support for local artists by utilizing their talents and featuring their pieces all over.

4.)    SHOP AT SOLENAD

Image Source

 Running behind on your holiday shopping? Well, Nuvali has you covered with Solenad 1 and 2 which feature a cluster of buildings teeming with diverse shops, seasonal stalls (some good only for the week) and an array of various restaurants. Considering the Christmas season, you can see the whole area decked with lights and decorations having the general feel and aura of the Christmas spirit.

5.)    ENGAGE IN SPORTS

Image Source

 Individuals wanting to burn some accumulated holiday and Christmas calories can start in Nuvali as the place features a wide selection of activities and sports to choose from. Offroad biking, field sports, trekking, or wakeboarding—there is never a shortage of activities to burn those extra calories in Nuvali.

Adventures 101: Top 7 Things To Do in Nuvali

Image Source

Once in a while, we also need to take a break from a tiring day at work or school. Agree? Who wouldn't like that? Of course, taking some vacation can also boost and rejuvenates our energy that motivates us to do things passionately.  And one of the top destinations for most travellers is in Nuvali. It is where they can do a lot of activities for relaxation, fun and adventure.
If you are one of those people who are hype when it comes to having fun and adventures, below are the activities you can do in Nuvali.

1. Go leisure biking

It is one of the places where bikers love to go and have fun biking. You have the opportunity to do some biking techniques without some hesitations at all since there are roads and designated bike paths that offer for leisurely road biking. Well, if you don't have any bikes at all yet you want to learn or do some biking activities, and then you don't have to worry since there are bikes available at the Lakeside Evozone.  Moreover, you will eventually realize that biking Philippines can also be fun and exciting.

2. Explore the off-road trails by mountain bike

Image Source

Aside from the designated paths for bikers, you can also bring biking to the next level. If you are one of those people who want to do mountain biking, you can achieve that kind of fun since Nuvali offers an extensive bike tracks and trails system. In fact, the venue is known for the biggest and most anticipated mountain biking events in the country. Moreover, if you just want to do some mountain biking activities, you will still definitely enjoy going around the flowy singletrack and scenic cross-country riding. And of course, you also got to enjoy fresh air and great views.

3. Go wakeboarding

Image Source

Wakeboarding Philippines is known for its adventures. And if you are one of those people who got to enjoy water skiing, surfing, and snowboarding, then you will also want to try wakeboarding. Republic Wakepark in Nuvali complex is a world-class water sports facility. It includes a 4-hectar lake, bar and restaurant. Republic Wakepark is also known to being primed as the newest and most innovative wakepark in the world.

4. Get active

Image Source

Of course, aside from doing mountain biking and wakeboarding, you can also engage in other active activities such as running, football, baseball and sand volleyball. With a 10-hectar open area, you can hold different events. Moreover, Nuvali is also known for hosting multi-sporting events and tournaments such as trail runs, marathons, duathlons and fun runs.

5. Take a water taxi ride on the lake

Image Source

If you want to try other scenery, you might as well try taking a water taxi ride on the lake. In there, you will have fun riding and sightseeing within the place. And of course, the lake doesn't just served as for relaxation, it also serves as a catchment for storm water run-off, a water reservoir, and many others.

6. Visit the wildlife and bird sanctuary

Image Source

Of course, if you are one of those people who just want to feel relax with nature, you can do some bird watching. Well, there are also a lot of advantages when you do bird watch. It doesn't just give you the feeling of satisfaction in life; it also helps you understand the nature or behaviour of each bird.

7. Enjoy a movie night outdoors

Image Source

Well, if you are one of those people who just love to enjoy a movie night, then Nuvali also caters special movie nights outdoors at their Night Sky Cinema that are equipped with a large screen and excellent sound system in the fields. Moreover, one of the things that you can do when you are hype for an outdoor movie is that you can bring your mat and do some picnic while you watch good movies.

3 Phases of Planning: Achieving a Stress-Free Vacation

Image Source

Holidays are now fast approaching, and the least we want to do is staying at home with nothing to do. Agree? Of course, who would want to stay at home and be bored when it's the season to enjoy? Vacation – that is one of the things most of us, if not all, want to do when the holiday comes. Going to places where you can chill, away from a stressful city and work is definitely one thing that you would not miss to do.

While other people would agree with this connotation, "There is no thrill and excitement when you plan, there will always be a fun factor when you do the things unplanned." However, for some, doing the things that are not planned can be the cause of trouble – and they don't want that to happen! Generally, most people who prefer unplanned activities wants to have more adventure than having a relaxing and a hassle-free vacation.

If your purpose of the vacation is to relax, then you better plan ahead to avoid headaches. Of course, you have to make sure that everything is set. And don't forget you plan B if in case plan A won't work out. At least, you won't freak out when an unwanted situation happen. And do you know that there are actually 3 phases of planning?

Before your Vacation

There will be a lot of people who are also planning to go on vacation this holiday season, and not planning ahead would definitely mean trouble. Basically, you can't have your vacation when you don't have any specific destination at all. Of course, you have to know and make sure that you will have a place to stay for days or weeks. Without careful planning to where you are supposed to go, you might be going from places to places without enjoying your stay.

Of course, planning is not just about deciding your destination, but also, you have to plan your budget whether you have some extra or just enough budget for the vacation. If you think that you just have enough budget, then make sure that you will avail promos for as not to have some financial shortage.

During your Vacation

Chilling and relaxing doesn't just mean you are going to stay in your hotel room the whole day. It also means doing some recreation for you to enjoy. Well, you might also want to consider doing some activities that involve Mother Nature. You can do some island hopping, snorkelling, fishing and/or any other thing that you want to do for fun. With that, you will gain new energy to do your work.

Moreover, the more you do some activities while having your vacation, the more you will learn and experience new and exciting things. And of course, even if it is the cheapest way to do and have some recreational activities, for as long as you enjoy it a lot, then it's a good sign that you are enjoying your vacation.

After your Vacation

Before you decide to take on vacation, you have to make sure that you don't have any troubles and/or penalties after you get back to work. You have to make sure that there will be no serious work delays. Basically, when you take a break, you are energetic and enthusiastic enough to go back to work. Because if you don't feel like it, taking your break is useless when going back to work is a nightmare.

Not just on your work, but also the chores you have at home. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, you have to take some of your time to unpack, water the plants, do your laundry, buy some groceries, etc. With that, you will be ready to move on into your real life.

Going on Vacay? 6 Ways to Avoid Airport Delays

i.dailymail.co.uk

It's already BER months! And you'd definitely don't want to miss to visit the tourist attractions in Tagaytay. I bet, travellers and adventures, and even you too are already planning onto what and where you're going to stay in Tagaytay. Right? Exciting, isn't it? However, there is nothing more annoying and frustrating when we experience airport delays. That means, the excitement that we feel will eventually turn into frustration – and it's definitely not a good start to have a vacation.

Generally, there are a lot of reasons as to why there are airport delays. Whether if it is due to the weather, technical glitches, airport security problems and/or even congested airways. We definitely can't control these situations. However, we can avoid experiencing such. And even if you are stuck with an undesirable situation, it is still important for you to be equipped with the necessary things and knowledge for you to know on to what you should do.

1. Watch the weather

Traveling with a bad weather is definitely a dangerous thing to experience. Bad weather would definitely mean stranded, no flights are allowed to travel. Generally, when it comes to weather forecasting, you don't have to know everything about the weather – knowing just the basic will do. At least, the days before your flight or during your flight, you know what kind of weather it will have.

2. Consider getting a hotel reservation

There are just times that airport delays are inevitable. Good thing if it is just for an hour or two, but for a day? You might as well consider getting a hotel reservation. Yes, you can definitely stay in the airport lobby. However, if you want to have a comfortable stay, booking a hotel is one of the best choices you can make.

3. Make sure to save important contacts

One of the important things for you to have when you go on vacation is your cell phone. And of course, you have to make sure that you have some important and useful contacts. With that, you will be able to call for a reservation site, a hotel, and/or any person who is capable in catering your queries.

4. Know your options

One of the best things, when you go travel, is to have a plan B. If your original plan did not work out, at least, you have another option for you to do. With that, even if it did not go with the one you have expected but at least, you can still enjoy your vacation. Well, you have to do some searches for you to know what other things that you can still enjoy while having your vacation in Tagaytay. Yes, there are still a lot of things you can do for you to enjoy your trip. So, fret not!

5. Check the airline website

Basically, before you can book a ticket, you will know whether that particular flight is available for the said day. If there are certain flight delays, you will know since they will post it on their web page. Of course, you have to make sure that the post that they have are all updated. Well, if they don't, then you might as well consider calling them for more information about the flight that you will be going to have.

6. Pocket money

For in case there are any delays, you have to make sure that you bring some extra money. It is important to bring some extra for in case of emergencies. With that, it is easier for you to do or buy something within the vicinity of the airport without any hassles at all.

When you plan on having a vacation, it is better for you to be fully equipped than not preparing at all. Because when you do, you will not enjoy your trip and you might regret it later on. So, come prepared.

This is NUVALI now

www.nuvali.ph

0917-5 ASKNUV (275688)

Four (4) Ways To Spend A Meaningful Christmas This Year

December is one of the busiest months in the Philippines and Christmas is inarguably, the most celebrated event in the country. Throughout this season, the spirit of gift-giving and family bonding is strongest and at its best than anytime during the entire year.

 How To Spend A Meaningful Christmas This Year

With the recent destruction brought about by Typhoon Yolanda, celebrating Christmas has never been more meaningful than ever. The disaster is a painful reminder that it is the perfect season to help one another. The tragedy makes us all aware that we should not take things for granted and instead, we should treasure what we have, no matter how small they are and how insignificant they may seem to be.

With the long break coming in soon, here are some suggestions on how to have a meaningful holiday this 2013.

1.       Join fund-raising events. Attend a benefit concert with your folks. Prioritize eating out in establishments that support #OperationRebuildPH rather than your normal dine-in restaurants. Instead of the usual gifts such as clothes or shoes which you will normally buy at the mall during the holidays, opt for T-shirts for a cause and give them as presents to your nephews and nieces. If your batch is organizing an elementary, high-school or college reunion, take this opportunity to connect with your former classmates and come up with ideas to raise more funds for the victims of the most powerful storm to hit the land.

2.       Lend a hand. Bring a friend and become volunteers in repacking relief goods in your vicinity. Keep in mind that there’s nothing more special than putting yourself out there and being involved first-hand. For instance, if you live in the Diliman area, Project Lightline is looking for individuals who can assist in recycling old chargers into portable ones for people who were affected by the storm and currently suffering from lack of electricity.

3.       Create a home project with your sons and daughters. Clean up and de-clutter. Segregate new and partially used items that can be put up for a garage sale later on – stuff toys for kids, slippers for all ages, blankets and pillow cases. You can donate the proceeds to the typhoon survivors.

4.       Spend valuable time with your family. This one is often overlooked and especially taken for granted. Do remember that time is precious. Learn to appreciate the presence of loved ones and work towards making each moment memorable. Go sightseeing with them. Plan a productive excursion and go to Tagaytay to commune with nature.  Get to Nuvali, have a picnic, go boating or fishing. Instill the value of Mother Nature to your children. By creating awareness to them, you are helping them realize that they can help out in their own little way.

Five (5) Quick Tips On How To Be Fit And Healthy While On The Go

The demands in our daily lives could make us forget about our health. For a career person who’s out to prove his worth, work could dominate 50-70% of his entire focus. For a mother with kids, taking care of her husband and children could take up to 80% or 90% of her time. It is then important to have a regimen to keep yourself fit especially in the midst of all the happenings around you.

If you are one of those people who are always on the go, here is a quick guide on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Learn how you could apply these simple principles towards living a balanced life.

       1.       Water. Water makes up 70-75% of the body weight of an average human being. You can survive for a month with no food but without H2O, you would not last even for three days. Drink a tall glass of water every morning as soon as you wake up. Consume eight (8) glasses or 1.5 liters for the rest of the day. Bring a tumbler wherever you go and remember to always stay hydrated.

      2.       Sleep. The consequence of not getting enough rest could range from drugs, tobacco and alcohol abuse to poor decision making and traffic accidents. Therefore, make sure that you squeeze it in on your 24-hour sched. Close your eyes and take a 10 to 15 minute break from what you’re doing. Take a power nap if you could afford it. Limit your caffeine intake and when you retire for bed during the night, make your room a few degrees cooler and darker so you can sleep better.

3.       Food. Never skip breakfast. Have an apple or banana readily available in case you have a busy schedule ahead. You are what you eat. Proper nutrition could help you prevent sickness so include veggies in your diet. If you have the chance to cook in the kitchen, stick to steamed, grilled, or boiled cooking instead of fried or baked in oil. Put in some packed foods on your desk or in your car – low-fat granola bars or grain crackers, bread and peanut butter or canned fish.

       4.       Exercise. The effect of regular exercise could do wonders to your mood and stamina. It could reduce the risk of several diseases too such as stroke, diabetes and cancer. Create a plan to stimulate all your muscles. For instance, if your office is situated in the PEZA zone, make it a habit to walk the distance along the blocks. If your workstation is on the third floor, climb those stairs instead of opting for the elevator. On weekends, see to it that you participate in the ph outdoor activities held in your locality – a game of basketball with the neighbors, a yoga routine with fellow-moms in the park or a summer marathon for a cause. Be active and stretch those arms and legs.

5.       Attitude. How you deal with stress could have a momentous effect on your total well-being. Hence, develop the power of positive thinking. Do not forget to have fun. Take a moment to laugh, enjoy the sceneries and smile.