LIST: Yuletide season 'staycation' options
MANILA, Philippines — Come holiday season, people look forward to get some "R and R" (rest and relaxation).
Philstar.com lists down some "staycation" options for those looking for new ways to enjoy the Yuletide season.
Farm getaway
The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be one of the busiest times of the year. To enjoy some relaxation away from the city, Pix Republik PR In collaboration with Kilyawan recently organized a quick media getaway.
In the town of Ibaan, Batangas, approximately 95 kilometers from Manila, a bamboo farm resort offers a place for solitude that allows people to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Kilyawan, the local name for the black-naped oriole, finds refuge in this 8.5-hectare farm resort previously used as an agro-industrial complex that 55,000 chickens used to call home.
Inspired by a desire to provide an authentic rural escape, the architecture seamlessly integrates local materials and maintains the memory of the chicken farm. The Cabins Building and Reception Building incorporate original footprints and steel trusses, partly clad in bamboo. Courtyards separate cabins, constructed with bamboo, ecobricks and recycled wood, while masonry modules house bathrooms. Ceilings are lined with woven mats crafted by local women weavers.
The Reception Building features bamboo, recycled narra wood, and locally handmade clay bricks arranged in a weaving pattern. A central skylight connects the lobby, function halls, and restaurant, leading to a pool.
Guests who visit Kilyawan are taken on a tour to explore the property aboard a tractor while learning about the different produce and the day-to-day workings of the farm. A quick stop is made for a close encounter with farm animals and a feeding session with black native pigs, rabbits and heritage chickens.
Kilyawan Farm Resort has welcomed families, groups of friends, and teams from different corporations that look for the time and space to connect with each other amidst nature. The resort’s amenities include a courtyard restaurant, a 30-meter pool, a nature trail with a bamboo orchard and a cacao grove, a forest playground, and a meditation area.
Designed by renowned Architect Dominic Galicia, Kilyawan Farm Resort was highly commended in the recently concluded World Architecture Festival in Singapore. It is also shortlisted in the 2024 World Brick Awards in Vienna.
Bayview relaxation
A recent Christmas tree lighting ceremony was led by Eugene Yap, General Manager of Bayview Park Hotel, with special guests from the local government of the City of Manila, headed by Mayor Honey Lacuna, Vice Mayor Yul Servo, and DOT-NCR Director Ms. Sharlene Zabala-Batin and other key government officials.
This year, the management decided to celebrate the authentic Filipino convivial spirit with the theme “Maligaya ang Pasko sa Bayview.” Entertainment galore will abound in the morning festivity with employees participating in the event. Guests will be served the traditional staple “simbang gabi” breakfast treat, like, puto bumbong, bibingka, and other loal delicacies paired with the aromatic flavor of the “kapeng barako” (brewed coffee).
As guests visit and enter the main lobby, the area is fully adorned with the “parols” (star-shaped lanterns) which are made from bamboo frames, covered with colorful paper. It holds deep cultural and religious significance, embodying the spirit of hope, unity, and goodwill. With a rich heritage spanning decades, the Christmas Tree Lighting is a beautiful display of pride and resilience, reminding us of the importance of embracing diversity and coming together as one nation.
The “Belen’” on the other hand, is retelling the Nativity Story, depicting the birth of Jesus Christ. It is an essential Filipino Christmas décor and a real reminder of the true meaning of season. Adding local flair, the “belen” is done with the local materials for the stable with designs from images wearing Filipino attire.
To spice up the Filipino charm in the venue, local ornaments are a must. Handcrafted decors made from various native materials that exude the distinctive Filipino touch and ingenuity is necessity to be seen, such as angels fashioned into stars, flowers, or even the popular “bahay kubo,” the “banig” weaves, and jeepney frame are basic visual display at the entrance hallway of the hotel. Even the “bayong” bag, the native “sombrero” and “parol” are part of the highly integrated ancestral Filipino lifestyle.
Moreover, on Christmas and New Years Eve, the hotel is offering Buffet Dinner at a very affordable rate of P1,399net per person while being serenaded by the “Youth Harmonic Ensembles”. Every guest will be delighted with music and delectable food that will make this an unforgettable night to remember.
Ortigas iconic hotels
Two of the most iconic hotels in Ortigas, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, are celebrating 18 and 30 years in the business respectively by relaunching their renovated rooms and amenities this 2023. With the support of an all- women leadership and their decades of experience, they aim to give back to every guest with only the best experience possible with their every stay.
Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria’s renovated rooms feature a modern classic take on comfort and familiarity. Aside from that, they also have the biggest spaces with more than 40 square meters for every Standard Room which is double the average studio unit in Metro Manila.
Every guest will also have the luxury of a nearby hangout area where they can grab a drink and eat a snack with their friends and families at The Gallery Bar. The bar offers an extensive list of food and cocktails that everyone will enjoy. With direct access to the mall, it’s the perfect pit stop while waiting for the city traffic to come down as non-hotel guests are also welcome to come in.
Guests looking for an extension to their hotel rooms are also given access to exclusive lounges where they can have privacy for intimate gatherings. Summit Lounge at the Holiday Inn Manila Galleria and Club Lounge at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria serve breakfast, mocktails, and cocktails for every visitor to enjoy. They also have private areas that guests may use for small gatherings with close friends and families.
Aside from these amenities, the guests’ stay will not be complete without the amazing food of their choice. Seven Corners offers some of the finest food with an impressive selection of dishes on their menu items. They feature an ample selection of local and international dishes that lure guests into having second and third helpings. Craving for some Chinese food? Leading Xin Tian Di is Chef David, a passionate Chinese chef who creates delicious Chinese cuisine without worrying about MSG. Xin Tian Di is also perfect for any gatherings such as ting huns, weddings, and more.
All of these are made possible by the leadership of an all-women executive committee - unique in the hospitality industry. General Manager, Patria Puyat, is leading the hotels along with Gibeth Gloria, Executive Assistant Manager, Merceditas Santos in Human Resources, Jane Paulino in Sales and Marketing, and Mary Ann Vallesteros in Finance. Their collective experience of over 150 years, empathic leadership, and heart for genuine hospitality are set to help the hotels regain their iconic status.
“We’re one of the few, if not the only, all-women executive committee in the country. Working together every day, we see that a woman nurturing leadership can actually bring empathic leadership into the organization, which melts and melds into what our younger generation needs now: empathy. Leading with this also melds into the kind of service that we give to our guests, always putting their comfort and best interest our number one priority.” said Patria Puyat, General Manager.
Modern hotel in Timog
Harolds Evotel, a beacon of luxury in the hospitality industry, unveiled a night of opulence and celebration at the 19th floor H Cafe within its iconic hotel building recently. The event brought together a distinguished audience, including media, influential vloggers, and esteemed clients, creating an unforgettable evening of music, gastronomy, and eloquent addresses.
Romier Elizar Torres, the Marketing Officer of Harolds Evotel, set the stage with a captivating opening, welcoming guests and emphasizing the hotel’s commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences. Mr. Torres’s introduction marked the beginning of a night filled with sophistication and entertainment.
Following Torres, the Area General Manager of Harolds Evotel for Quezon City and Cebu City branches, Dominic Dorol, took the stage with insightful opening remarks. Dorol’s eloquence underscored the hotel’s dedication to excellence, positioning it as a premier destination for luxury accommodation and outstanding service.
As the evening unfolded, Dorol returned to the spotlight to provide closing remarks. Before doing so, he introduced Harolds Evotel’s Executive Chef, Jonathan Bautista. Chef Bautista, an acclaimed culinary maestro, added to the grandeur of the event by sharing insights into the gastronomic delights prepared for the evening.
Attendees were treated to a harmonious blend of live music and a culinary journey featuring delectable foods curated by Chef Bautista. The 19th floor H Cafe, with its breathtaking views, served as the perfect backdrop for this spectacular gathering.
Harolds Evotel expresses gratitude to the media, vloggers, clients, and all participants who contributed to the success of this extraordinary event. The night at the 19th floor H Cafe showcased the hotel’s unwavering dedication to providing a world-class hospitality experience.
Celebrate the festive season in F1 Hotel Manila
As the holiday season approaches, F1 Hotel Manila is inviting guests to experience the epitome of comfort and luxury with our Home for the Holidays at the Fort Suite for P7,800 net per night with complimentary in-room massage for two persons. This limited-time offer is available from December 1 to 30, providing a perfect retreat for those seeking a memorable holiday getaway.
Partake in an exquisite culinary celebration with our exclusive Festive Flavors Dinner Buffet priced at P2,899 net per person. Available only on December 24, 25, 31 and January 1, 2024, this dining experience promises to elevate your festivities and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Satisfy your sweet cravings with our Holiday Christmas Cake in the classic Red Velvet flavor for Php 2,200 net. This cake, available for redemption daily until January 5, 2024, is a delightful addition to your festive celebrations.
Prepare to bid farewell to the year gone by and embrace the dawn of a new beginning at The Canary's exclusive New Year Countdown Soiree on December 3, from 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., offering an enchanting experience at P3,088 net per person. The highlights of the soiree include unlimited drinks, a grazing table, and live acoustic music.
Experience the utmost relaxation and extravagance with our New Year Treat package. For P9,900 net per night, enjoy a relaxing overnight stay in our Fort Suite, inclusive of breakfast for two persons. Additionally, avail a 30% discount on the 'New Year Countdown Soiree' ticket, late check-out until 4 PM (subject to availability), access to our facilities including the swimming pool and gym, and unlimited in-room Wi-Fi usage.
For reservations, ticket purchases, or inquiries, please contact 8928-9888 or visit our website at www.f1hotelmanila.com. F1 Hotel Manila is dedicated to providing exceptional hospitality experiences, ensuring comfort, luxury, and personalized service. Located at the heart of Bonifacio Global City, our establishment aims to create memorable stays for every guest, ensuring unparalleled satisfaction and relaxation.
New Year at City of Dreams
End 2023 on a high note at City of Dreams Manila, where a countdown event and indulgent year-end menus beckon at CenterPlay and signature restaurants Crystal Dragon, Nobu Manila, and Haliya. Complementing these festive menus are signature drinks that evoke the season’s flavors at Cafe Society, Hidemasa, Rossi Pizza, Haliya, and Wave poolside restaurant and bar.
At DreamPlay, DreamWorks movie characters from Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Puss in Boots, Madagascar, and Trolls are bringing the holiday cheer with an all-star parade at 5:30 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday of December, including New Year’s Day at The Shops at the Boulevard. In the spirit of holiday gift-giving, guests checking in between December 20 and January 1 at Nüwa Manila, Nobu Hotel and Hyatt Regency Manila will receive a welcome amenity.
Nobu Manila is ringing in the new year with a special seven-course dinner tasting menu exclusively offered on December 31 and January 1. Available for P5, 600++ per person, it starts with an amuse-bouche compliments of the chef, followed by Scallops with anchovy salsa and grilled vegetables, and Assorted Sushi and Inaniwa Noodle Soup with rolled beef and asparagus. Salmon Apple with ponzu, extra virgin olive oil, wasabi salsa, chives, and garlic chips; Ika (squid) Salad with spicy lemon dressing, kelp salad roll, vegetable salsa, asparagus and yamagobo (pickled burdock root); King Prawn with shitake butter and seasonal vegetables; and Wagyu Short Ribs Nabeyaki with sake, soy, and mirin reduction, udon noodles, bok choy, and tofu come after. A lip-smacking dessert of Passion Fruit Mousse with flourless peanut caramel and crunchy peanuts concludes the meal.
Diners looking for an indulgent brunch can opt for unlimited helpings of Nobu-style dishes at the restaurant’s New Year Sunday brunch on December 31. A hybrid of a la carte and buffet, it highlights whole tuna, and chilled seafood such as oysters, blue crab, and slipper lobsters. Whole Rib Roast and Wagyu Brisket served with mushroom wasabi pepper sauce and creamy wasabi; and Wagyu Striploin with au jus are the brunch’s pièce de resistance along with Nobu signature sashimi including the Tuna Matsuhisa, Yellowtail Jalapeño, Salmon Karashi Su Miso and maki rolls. Special ala carte choices, a ramen bar, a kushiyaki station, salads, and a wide array of desserts complete the new year’s brunch spread, for 4, 388 net per person.
Guests who check in on any night from December 20 to January 1 at any of the three Forbes Travel Guide-rated hotels Nüwa Manila, Nobu Hotel and Hyatt Regency Manila will be gifted with a bottle of wine. The holiday welcome amenity is available for bookings made via direct channels and on applicable Best Available rates, or Rack rates.
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