TRAVEL 101: 5 Family-Friendly Attractions in Manila, Philippines

Find an excellent hotel in Manila, Philippines to enjoy a delightful vacation with your family. By choosing to stay in an accommodation in Ermita, you will get convenient access to several theme parks and amusement sites that offer lots of fun and adventure. Among these are:

1. Manila Ocean Park (MOP)
Considered as the first world-class marine theme park in the country, MOP is an urban resort that serves as a learning facility. It boasts marine life attractions that will surely capture the interest of your children. These include an oceanarium that showcases different kinds of coral reefs, sharks, sting rays, and other species of fish and an open water marine habitat, which is an outdoor pool where visitors can go snorkeling or diving.

2. Star City
Star City is the go-to place for families looking for an action-packed escapade. This is a 35,000 sq m amusement park that offers a wide range of kiddie and adult rides, a playground, and theater. Your kids will certainly enjoy the Kiddie Bumpercar, Little Tyke, Magic Tea Cups, and Rodeo. Meanwhile, the adults will definitely relish exciting experiences at the Jumping Star, Wild River, Star Flyer, Blizzard, and Surf Dance.

3. Museo Pambata
Children who want to visit a museum will be extremely pleased at the Museo Pambata. Located along Roxas Boulevard and near the Waterfront Manila Pavilion Hotel, this depository features hands-on exhibits that encourage children to play and explore. The museum is divided into 8 theme rooms: Old Manila, Career Options, Kalikasan, I Love My Planet Earth, My Blood Works, Karapatan Hall, Pamilihang Bayan, and Global Village. Museo Pambata is open from 8 am to 5 pm (Tuesday to Saturday) and from 1 pm to 5 pm (Sunday). Admission fee for both adult and kids is PHP100.

4. Manila Zoo
The Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden is a 14-acre sanctuary that is considered as one of the premiere academic centers in the country. Established in 1959, the zoo allows the viewing public to learn important information about the diverse Philippine flora and fauna. Here, you will see nearly 100 species of indigenous and endemic wildlife, such as the Philippine crocodile, tamaraw, and
mouse deer.

5. Luneta Park
Known as Asia's first urban park, Luneta Park is an iconic place that is home to an array of historical markers, beautiful gardens, educational facilities, and entertainment spots. Some of the attractions that you'll find here are the Rizal Monument, bronze statue of the Philippine national hero, and the gigantic Lapu-Lapu Monument that is also known as the Statue of the Sentinel of Freedom.

4 Picture Perfect Destinations in Seremban

Travellers used to trot the globe for new and exciting things to experience like thrilling adventures, adrenaline-pumping activities, unique food treats and so on. But something has changed about how travellers choose their next destinations, one other item has been added to this list: it should be photograph worthy.

With apps like Instagram and VSCO becoming so popular, a lot of people have been on the lookout for picture perfect destinations they can post everywhere. While Seremban may have been overlooked for some time, it offers a picturesque landscape and eclectic architecture that has made it a worthy stop when visitors are in Malaysia.

So while you’re rummaging for a Seremban hotel promotion you can use on your stay, check out our list of some of the best photo stops you should make when you find yourself in Seremban.

Istana Besar

Located in Johor Bahru, Istana Besar is also known as the Grand Palace, the royal palace of the Sultan of Johor. It was built in 1866 by Sultan Abu Bakr and overlooks the Straits of Johor that separates Johor to mainland Eurasia. It has an Anglo-Malay architecture design, with a distinctive Malay dome that contrasts the Anglo-influenced blue roof.

Lake Gardens

The Lake Gardens is located right in the city, spanning 92 hectares with various attractions within it. It was built around an artificial lake and is mostly known for the lush greenery that surrounds it. More than just the ideal place to rest for workers around the city, it has also become a spot for joggers. A jogging route is set in place for health buffs of Seremban where workout stations can be found along the way.

Islamic Relation Centre

Fashioned in the architectural style of the mosque of Xian in China, the Islamic Relation Centre was built to provide Muslims a place where they can deepen their understanding of Islam and a place where they can pray together. They organise classes for the Qur’an and various community activities.

Masjid Jamek

Its distinct architectural style is what makes the old mosque unique. It used a fusion of an old Malacca mosque style with its tiered pyramid roof and a tall minaret, a Mughal influence with its yellow domes, and local elements such as the serambi and the orange hue of the mosque.

There are some who seem to miss these places, but don’t worry because The Royale Bintang Resort & Spa is a hotel at Seremban that makes these locations perfectly accessible to you. Even the hotel itself offers a picturesque view for people who would love to take a panoramic photo of the hilly landscapes of Seremban.

As you hop out of the plane, drop your bags off at the hotel, Seremban is definitely ready to model for you.

READ: A Quick Rundown of 5 of Intramuros' Many Churches

Before becoming a tourist spot with several museums, restaurants, and establishments offering Manila accommodation, Intramuros was once known as the City of Churches. And it is not surprising, as the colonial-era fortress city once had 7 churches. Here are 5 of the 7 churches and their history. 1. San Agustin Church San Agustin Church is the oldest surviving church in the Philippines. First completed in 1607, the church has withstood numerous earthquakes and the bombardment of Manila in World War II that destroyed the 7 other churches inside the walled city. Many notable persons are also interred here, such as the remains of Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Filipino painter Juan Luna. It is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the 4 Baroque Churches of the Philippines, which boasts of well-decorated interiors with an ornate trompe-l'oeil ceiling. 2. Manila Cathedral Built in 1571 as the Church of Manila, it was destroyed and rebuilt seven times throughout its history, with the present-day cathedral constructed finished only in 1958. Despite modern touches to its interior, the present design of the Manila Cathedral is faithful to its original form. It still features the only part of the original cathedral that survived the bombing of Manila in World War II — a facade made of Roman travertine stone. With a Latin-cross plan and floors made of Italian marble, the 3,000-square-foot cathedral is accented by Byzantine motifs and pineapple finials. 3. San Ignacio Church Originally built in 1632, the San Ignacio Church was destroyed by an earthquake in 1852 and rebuilt in 1888. However, it was never rebuilt again after the Japanese burned it down in 1945, during World War II. All that's left of the building are ruins, which are presently found next to the campus of the Pamantasang Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), a state-run university. 4. Lourdes Church and Convent Constructed in 1892, it was the first home of the Capuchin friars in the Philippines before it was destroyed in World War II. Today, the remains of the structure have been incorporated into the El Amanecer building, which houses several commercial establishments like gift shops and Ilustrado, a fine-dining restaurant popular with guests booked at the best Manila accommodation. 5. San Francisco Church and Third Venerable Order Chapel Managed by the Franciscans, the original San Francisco Church was built in 1602 but was heavily damaged in the 1645 earthquake. It was then rebuilt from 1739 to 1750, but like the Lourdes and San Ignacio Churches, it was destroyed during World War II. The church was destroyed along with the Third Venerable Order Chapel beside it, which was built in 1618. The site of the San Francisco Church is now the campus of the Mapua Institute of Technology, with the school's own chapel standing on the former site of the Third Venerable Order Chapel. It is located on Muralla Street, near The Bayleaf Hotel, which offers elegant and affordable Manila accommodations.

Thunderbird Resort Rizal Gives Its Website a New Look and Feel

Travelers logging on the website of Thunderbird Resort Rizal will be welcomed to a new design, with a look and feel that mirrors that of the beautiful architecture and surrounds of this Philippine property.

The website, http://www.thunderbirdresortrizal.com, now boasts a clean, streamlined look, while still offering pertinent information about the rooms and facilities of this resort in Binangonan, Rizal, which is located about an hour’s drive from Metro Manila.

The new look of the website of Thunderbird Resort Rizal

Guests who wish to book a stay here can easily do so, through the integrated booking engine that provides instant confirmation for online reservations. The booking process remains short and simple, from entering their stay dates on the virtual calendar to choosing rooms that suit their budgets and preferences.

Reserving rooms via the website has its advantages, as there are special packages and promotions that are exclusively available for online bookings. That means guests can receive perks and privileges that may not be offered by other reservation channels.

Thunderbird Resort Rizal makes for the ideal destination for travelers seeking a serene mountain retreat that’s not too far from the Philippine capital. With cozy lodgings containing contemporary creature comforts and on-site facilities that promote tranquility and relaxation, this Binangongan resort that’s set in a highland valley along the renowned Sierra Madre mountain range envelops guests with utmost bliss amid nature’s beauty.

Thunderbird Resort Rizal is located at Eastridge Avenue, Binangonan, Rizal, Philippines 1940. Online bookings can be made via http://www.thunderbirdresortrizal.com. Visit its website for more information.

Thunderbird Poro Point: A Taste of Santorini in the Philippines

Close your eyes an imagine being in the island of Santorini in Greece. Think about enjoying the sight of clear blue skies and azure waters, the feel of the sun’s warm rays and the cool ocean breeze on your skin, and the laid-back ambience that’s characteristic of the Mediterranean. At this point, you’d surely don’t want to stop dreaming. But Thunderbird Resort Poro Point tells you to wake up, because this dream vacation of yours can actually become a reality.

Thunderbird Poro Point offers a taste of Santorini without having to fly off to the Greek isles.

Nestled on a cliff in La Union, overlooking the West Philippine Sea, Thunderbird Poro Point is a 65-hectare holiday destination north of Luzon. At first glance, it instantly takes you to Greece’s famous resort town, with white-washed buildings and cobalt blue domes set amid the elements of air, water, and earth. It’s like you’ve been transported to Santorini, but without leaving local shores.

This resort in San Fernando, La Union is a perfect place for romance and relaxation. Within its grounds, you can experience a feast for the senses, starting with the gustatory pleasures found at Olives Restaurant and cool drinks at Patio Santorini.

Olives Restaurant serves mouth-watering local and international fare

Chill out while savoring the view of the sea at Patio Santorini

For some pampering, head to Zaphira Spa where you can enjoy soothing body treatments. You can also opt to take a dip at the infinity pool and cool down while savoring the beautiful surroundings, or head to the private beach and watch the stunning sunset. For some sporty fun, invite your companions to tee off at the 9-hole golf course of The Cliffs Golf and Beach Club. Or if you want to try your luck, drop by the Fiesta Casino where myriad gaming tables offer endless excitement for high rollers and casual players.

A place to relax: Thunderbird’s infinity pool

The private beach facing the West Philippine Sea

As the day draws to a close, retreat into any of Thunderbird Poro Point’s elegant accommodations. Its rooms, suites, and villas will swathe you in serene comfort. Each features a design that reflects the resort’s beautiful surroundings, with white walls and sheets complemented by blue and orange highlights. All accommodations also come with a private bathroom with complete bath amenities, a pantry with coffee and tea facilities, HD LED TV, DVD player, in-room electronic safety box, and Wi-Fi Internet access.

The villas and suites are further furnished with a separate living room, dining area, and kitchenette.

Rooms at Thunderbird Poro Point can accommodate from couples to families and small groups.

Select accommodation types feature a living room, as well as separate dining and kitchen areas.

Some accommodation options are a short walking distance from the hotel proper, but still carry the blue-and-white motif of this Santorini-inspired resort.

Beyond the magnificent amenities and facilities of Thunderbird Poro Point, what makes this resort in La Union a place-to-be is the experience of utter comfort and relaxation. Because once you set foot here, you’ll be brought to a destination that not only takes your breath away but also creates magical moments that you’ll remember forever.

Now don’t you want to wake up to that?  


Thunderbird Resort Poro Point is located at VOA Compound, Pennsylvania Avenue, San Fernando City, La Union, Philippines 2500. Online bookings can be done via www.thunderbirdresortsporopoint.com. For more information, log on to its website or visit its Facebook Page.