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.

Turi Beach in Batam Launches Mobile-Exclusive Discount Deal For 27th Anniversary

Turi Beach in Batam, Indonesia is celebrating its 27th anniversary this month. To show their appreciation to their loyal guests through the years, they are launching a new discount deal called '27th Turiversary (Mobile Exclusive)'. 

Here are the complete details: 

27th Turiversary (Mobile Exclusive) 

Get up to 27% off your next stay anytime from June - Aug 2016 (redemption code will be sent via email) 

Stay period is from June 11, 2016 to August 30, 2016 

Inclusions: 

- International buffet breakfast at Taming Sari Cafe 
- Birthday or anniversary cake (advance booking & ID required) 
- Complimentary Room Upgrade (subject to room availability) 
- Free Wi-Fi Internet (up to four devices) 
- Round-trip transfer to Nongsapura Ferry Terminal 
- Welcome drink upon arrival 

This promo is only valid if guests books at http://web.turibeach-batam.com using their smartphones! 

Just click the ‘Book Now’ or ‘Book Online’ button to launch the direct booking engine that is powered by DirectWithHotels. Promo details may change but bookings made prior to any changes will still be honored. 

Grab these chances to experience a spectacular holiday that sits right on the budget. Also, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy these comforts presented by the ultimate beachfront haven: 

– 7.7-hectares of panoramic views of pristine beaches and tropical landscape 
– 140 luxurious, modern-minimalist Batam accommodations that bring a new level of ease and pleasure 
– Gourmet dining options, water sports activities, and a spa for utmost relaxation 
– Excellent business amenities, including 5 meeting rooms and high-speed Internet access for business travelers 
– Great location between Nongsa Point Marina and Nongsa Village 
– Easy access to golf courses, shopping malls, museums, and entertainment spots 
– The Hang Nadim Airport is reached in a 15-minute drive while Singapore is only a 35-minute ferry ride away  

For more information about Turi Beach Resort, visit www.turibeach.com or call (+62)778-761-080 and find the updated news about the resort by liking the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/turibeach and following the Twitter page at @turibeach. 

Turi Beach 
Jalan Hang Lekiu, Nongsa, Batam 
29465 Indonesia

4 Factors That Make Cherry Blossoms Hotel Your Ideal Manila Home

Traveling to Manila soon? Sifting through the list of hotels to stay at? Let Cherry Blossoms Hotel make its case for being the accommodation choice for your visit. Here are four reasons why this Ermita hotel is a good pick among all the other lodging options in the area:

1. A very strategic location. Cherry Blossoms Hotel is situated in a vibrant district in Manila where business and leisure surround you. Its address along Jorge Bocobo Street is just a few blocks from Roxas Boulevard, allowing you to visit places like Luneta Park, Intramuros, Manila Ocean Park, Cultural Center of the Philippines, and the US Embassy. Malls like Robinsons Place Ermita and SM Mall of Asia are easily accessible from the hotel. The international and domestic airports can also be reached within a few minutes’ drive, making this Manila accommodation a superb option for travelers on a layover.

2. Impressive facilities and services. This hotel in Ermita, Manila understands that guests seek a home-like environment, where the things they require are at their fingertips. That’s why here you’ll find a host of conveniences that cater to your personal and professional needs. Feeling hungry? Drop by its on-site restaurant and coffee shop for satisfying chow, or have your food delivered to your room via the 24-hour room service. Had a long day? Have the staff arrange a soothing massage for you. Need to work or stay connected with colleagues? Take advantage of the hotel’s free Wi-Fi access. Moreover, if you’re looking for a great venue for your event, Cherry Blossoms Hotel can help you with that with its banquet packages and a function room that can comfortably seat up to 300 guests.

3. Cozy rooms. Designed to give you a delightful and relaxing stay, the 145 rooms are fitted with air-conditioning, cable TV, video-on-demand, a mini-bar, refrigerator, and NDD phone. Inside each space is a private bath with a hot and cold shower. Rooms come in queen or twin bed configuration. The 2 Level Suite further boasts a separate living area that’s a perfect spot for fun conversations or informal get-togethers.

4. Budget-friendly rates. When traveling, it’s important that you get great value for your money so you’ll be able to enjoy more. And Cherry Blossoms Hotel guarantees just that. Compared to other lodgings in the area, this accommodation may be on the economical side yet you get more than what you actually pay for: comfortable and quiet spaces, a comprehensive set of conveniences, and a good location. Plus, when you book through its website, you may be able to score special rates for your stay.

So the next time you travel to the Philippine capital, choose Cherry Blossoms Hotel as your temporary abode.

AlDub Spends Time at Dakak Beach Resort and Gloria Fantasyland

Dakak Beach Resort recently welcomed Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza, known as AlDub of Eat Bulaga!, as the newest endorsers of this resort in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte. The two flew in last March to spend 3 days shooting for a TV commercial for Dakak and Gloria Fantasyland, as well as enjoying a well-deserved break from showbiz commitments.

Like Alden and Maine, travelers can also have a wonderful time at Dakak Beach Resort. It’s a luxurious destination for serene holidays where fun and recreation are also at the forefront. Here, you can relax inside air-conditioned rooms and bungalows that are furnished with plush beds, a mini-bar, and a private bath and shower with towels and complete bath amenities. When adrenaline sets in, you can engage in the myriad water sports at the resort; or have an adventure doing rock climbing, ziplining, or riding the ATV. For recreation, you can also drop by Gloria Fantasyland, which is just 5 minutes away from the resort.

For a truly amazing time at this Dapitan City resort and at great value for money, book the Barkadahan Package for your stay. It comes in 2 options: an overnight package and a 3-day/2-night deal, both of which include breakfast, complimentary passes to Gloria Fantasyland, and other perks.

Take advantage of this promo and other Dakak Beach Resort packages for a holiday that’s not only memorable but also easy on the pocket.

Dakak Beach Resort is located at Baranggay Taguilon, Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines 7101. Online bookings may be done at http://www.dakakresort.com. For more information, log on to its website or visit its Facebook Page.

4 Reasons Why Best Western Plus Lex Cebu is Worth the Trip

If you are searching for a prime accommodation where you can relax and do business at the same time, Best Western Plus Lex Cebu in Cebu City, Philippines is the place to go. If you are searching for a prime accommodation where you can relax and do business at the same time, Best Western Plus Lex Cebu in Cebu City, Philippines is the place to go. Located over 500 km from Manila, this 2015 TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence recipient guarantees that choosing to come and stay here is worth the trip by lending the following treats: 1. 4-Star Quality Accommodations Best Western Lex Cebu houses 83 exquisitely-designed rooms that seamlessly combine form and function. Each is spacious and fitted with comfortable furniture and select amenities. These include an air-conditioning, memory beds and goose feather pillows, free Wi-Fi Internet access, a 32” LED satellite TV, mini-bar, iPOD dock, voicemail, free 30-minute local call, radio, alarm clock, hair dryer, digital weighing scale, working desk with lamp, dental kit, shampoo, bath gel, soap, lotion, shower cap, comb, bath robe, shaving kit, and rain shower. 2. First-Rate Conveniences This Cebu hotel is also a recipient of 2014 Booking.com's Award of Excellence. As such, guests can expect only the finest services and facilities for their stay. Here, they can conduct business seamlessly or indulge in recreational leisure. Best Western Hotel Cebu has a gym, infinity pool, meeting rooms and business center, laundry and dry cleaning, foreign currency exchange, Cebu City Mall shuttle service, car rental, massage services, free wired and wireless Internet access, and 24-hour room service. 3. Dining Venue Lex Hotel also features a first-rate dining venue — the Kai Cafe and Restaurant. It offers International cuisines with a perfect blend of artful concoctions and soul-satisfying indulgence. For those who want to eat outside, this Cebu City accommodation is a short distance away from Larsian BBQ and Bintana Coffee House, 2 of the most favored dining options around the area. 4. Central Location Presenting easy access to the city's commercial district, and situated near a few tourist attractions, Lex Hotel is truly the ideal accommodation for on-the-go travelers. Its address at the corner of Escario Street and Juana Osmena Extension is very close to shopping centers, government offices, and universities. It is also just a 15-minute drive from Cebu Port and about an hour's drive from Mactan-Cebu International Airport. To reserve a room, log on its website at http://www.bestwesternlex.com/. Click on the "Check availability and prices" button to launch the direct booking engine that is powered by DirectWithHotels. Direct online bookings give guest exclusive access to promos and packages offered by Best Western Plus Lex Cebu.