Apart from enjoying the fine white sands and crystal clear waters of Boracay, the island is also the best place to fulfill your gastronomic adventures. There are countless restaurants in the island serving various dishes such as Filipino, American, Mexican, French, Chinese and many more. If you love seafood, skip these restaurants as there is only one place to enjoy one of a kind seafood dining experience in the island – D’ Talipapa in Station 2 Boracay.
Where to eat seafood in Boracay? – D’ Talipapa
D’ Talipapa is a popular food destination among tourists visiting Boracay island. Located in the busy and crowded Station 2 of Boracay, D’ Talipapa has established its name as the ultimate food destination for seafood lovers. Just like the Seaside Dampa Macapagal in Manila, diners at D’ Talipapa get to enjoy a unique seafood dining experience.
What makes the D’ Talipapa dining experience unique?
Wet market
Talipapa is a Filipino word which means a small wet market.
Unlike in a typical Boracay restaurant, at D’ Talipapa, you get to choose and shop from various fresh seafood in wet market. The market offers fresh seafood such as shrimps, lobsters, crabs, oysters, squids, sea urchins, fishes and different types of shell fishes such as mussels, scallops and many more!
Scallops
Shrimps
Fishes
Tip: Use you hanging skills in the wet market. Jen and I strolled around the market to check-out the prices of fresh seafood. A kilo of medium-sized shrimps is sold from 550 Php ($11) to 600 Php ($12) . We bought a kilo of shrimps at only 500 Php ($10). Scallops is sold at 400 per kilo. We bought ours a half kilo for only 150 Php ($3).
After shopping, you will have to bring your fresh seafood to a paluto restaurant within the area. Paluto is a Filipino word which means to have the food cooked for you. Just like Seaside Dampa in Manila, you shop for seafood in the wet market and choose a restaurant. Ask the retaurant to cook the seafood for a cooking service charge.
Etniko Bar Resto, Paluto restaurant at D’ Talipapa Boracay
Entiko Boracay Resto Bar, Station 3
After shopping for seafood, we immediately headed to Etniko Resto Bar. This eye-catching restaurant is literally few steps away from the wet market. Etniko Resto bar has this ethnic theme which makes it stand out from other paluto restaurants.
We browsed the menu and asked one of the staff to cook buttered shrimps and baked scallops. Cooking charge is 200 Php ($4) for the 1 kilo of shrimps and 150 Php ($3) for the half kilo of scallops. Please see the complete list of paluto (cooking) charge below:
This seafood haven is located in Station 2. If you are coming to any part of the main road, ride a tricycle. Fare if you are coming from Stations 1 or 2 is only 10 Php each ($0.20). Alternatively, if you are coming from any part of the white beach, just walk to Station 3 and ask some locals where D’ Market is. D’ Talipapa is just within the area of D’ Market.
Highly Recommended
If you want a unique and one of a kind cultural dining experience, visit D’ Talipapa in Station 3 Boracay. You get to experience shopping in an authentic Filipino wet market and have it cooked at a nearby Filipino-owned restaurant. Would I recommend this Boracay food place? Definitely yes!
Visiting Boracay? Book you discounted Boracay hotel HERE.
Henann Prime Beach Resort Boracay is the newest addition in Henann Group of hotels chain in Boracay island, Philippines. Situated in Station 1, Henann Prime Beach Resort offers the best beachfront experience to its in-house guests. This luxury Boracay resort also offers mouth-watering dishes at its al fresco Sea Salt Cafe which provides an incomparable view of the white sand and pristine waters of Boracay.
Henann Prime Beach Resort building in main road Boracay
From the main road, the hotel looks very new and well maintained. It stands out among its neighbouring resorts, 2 Seasons resort and Las Brisas Resort. Henan Prime Beach Resort as 2 main buildings, the Beach wing and the East wing. Rooms at Beach wing are near to the beachfront. East wing rooms on the other hand are situated near the main road. I was amazed that Henann Prime Beach Resort made a walkway connecting both East wing to the Beach wing of the resort. It definitely provides convenience to its guests whose rooms are situated on the East wing building.
Classy Lobby and Al Fresco Common Area
Lobby
Common area
The hotel’s lobby is located on the ground floor of East wing building. The lobby is simple, minimalist but classy. It is spacious and cater a huge number of guests checking-in and out of the hotel. When we arrived, there were 3 welcoming front desk staff and a concierge who assisted us with our backpacks.
The common areas along with the hallways are amazingly clean and classy. Just like the lobby and reception area, the common area and hall ways give a minimalist yet classy vibe.
Please watch my video below of Henann Prime’s reception area, lobby and hallway:
Henann Prime Beach Resort Boracay Premier Room Review
Premier rooms at Henann Prime Beach resort are located on the Beach wing of the hotel. A premier room is approximately 36 square meters.
The key cards provided by the receptionist work perfectly. The room’s door comes with an eyelet for in-house guest’s security. Unlike in a typical hotel where the key card also serves as the power switch, rooms at Henann Prime have an automatic key card for the power. You can go outside leaving the air-conditioning unit running.
Premier Room
Premier Room at Henann Prime Resort Boracay
Upon entering the room, on the left side is a spacious dresser with hangers, 2 Hennan bathrobe, 2 pairs of room slippers and a safe deposit box. There is also a Henann plastic bag if you wish to avail for their in-house laundry service. On the right side is a space between the wall (with an intricate accent) and the king-sized bed.
The bed is very comfortable, definitely of high quality. Same as with 6 pillows where 2 of which are cylindrical in shape. The bed, the 300 thread count linens and pillows are the one you get to experience in 5-star hotels. There are also bed side tables with classy lamp shades.
Henann Prime Premier Room Boracay
work area
welcome fruits
Beside the bed is a spacious sitting area with a small sofa and a small marble clad table. On the table is Henann Prime’s welcome gift – a plateful of fruits. If you’re bringing your laptop or macbook, across the sitting area is a work area with a huge mirror.
The room also comes with a 43″ LCD cable TV, personal refrigerator, coffee and tea making facility with a complimentary coffee and complimentary daily bottled water, individually controlled air-conditioning unit and telephone with IDD and NDD.
Toiletries
shower are and bathtub are separated from toilet
Spacious vanity area
Surprisingly, the toilet and bath is very spacious. There is a vanity area with a long marble clad partnered with a long mirror. On the vanity area are Henann Group of resorts toiletries. We personally loved the Henann soap and shower gel. The toilet comes with a bidet spray. Bath and face towels along with a toilet matt are provided too. The hot and cold shower area and bathtub are separated from the toilet by a glass partition. My only review for improvement is the water pressure of the bidet spray. Nonetheless, the water pressure in the shower and sink in the vanity area are excellent.
One of my favorite spot in the Premier room is the spacious balcony. There is a dinette set and an area to hang your wet clothes. We also had a Premier room on the third floor where smoking is allowed in the balcony. The room has a swimming pool view which looks very beautiful and elegant especially at night.
The entire room, toilet and bath and balcony are very clean and elegant. I love the attention to detail of the interiors. Furnishings and fixtures look expensive and of high-quality. Truly at par with high-end hotels in Manila such as Shangri-La and F1 Hotel Manila.
On our second day, we posted the make-up room outside our door. The housekeeping staff is commendable as the room was very clean the moment we returned after visiting Diniwid beach and D’ Mall.
Here’s the video clip of our room in Henann Prime Beach Resort:
Henann Prime Beach Resort Promo Package
We were grateful to have checked Henann’s website and seen Henann Prime Beach Resort offers promo packages which are cheaper to their published rates. Jen and I availed for a Splendid Package for Lean Season for 8,223.00 Php per person Ppus 275 Php government fees per person. The promo package includes the following:
roundtrip airport transfers (inclusive of environment and terminal fees)
3 days and night accommodation
2 days buffet breakfast for 2
2 nights buffet dinner for 2
welcome drinks
free use of swimming pools
Tip: For Splendid Package rates and reservation, e-mail reservations.hpb@hennan.com. If you want non-package and cheaper rates, book via Agoda.
Henann Prime Boracay Philippines
Highly Recommended Boracay Hotel
I should say that Henann Prime Beach Resort Boracay sets its own standards of being best in class. Henann Prime Beach Resort is truly a world-class hotel right in the Philippine’s most beautiful island – Boracay.
D’ Mall is located in station 2 of Boracay’s white sand beach. This al fresco shopping center has been around Boracay for quite some time. D Mall has become a popular landmark in the island. It has established itself as the very first and the best one stop shop for anything that any tourist needs.
D Mall Boracay Island Philippines
The entire D Mall complex is jam-packed with restaurants, bars, cafes, souvenir shops, travel agencies, money changers, ATMs and even hotels.
Things to do in D’ Mall
There are countless of things to do in D’ Mall. Fulfil your gastronomic adventures through a wide variety of restaurants. If you love shopping, D’ Mall will not disappoint you. There is a number of shops, mostly international brands, selling apparel from swimwear to casual attire. If you are a party animal, there is a good number of bars that will truly make your Boracay trip memorable. If you just want to simply hangout and relax, milk tea, coffee shops and cafes are everywhere. Souvenir shops are also all the place, you can buy your Boracay souvenirs from keychains, refrigerator magnets, t-shirts, bags and many others.
Tip: If you are buying Boracaray souvenirs, skip D’ Mall and go to D’ Market or D’ Talipapa instead. Souvenirs at D’ Mall are a bit expensive. You can buy souvenirs at D’ Market or D’ Talipapa at a cheaper price.
Below is a short video clip of our D’ Mall visit:
List of shops and establishments in D’ Mall Boracay:
French Nail
Hallowich
Sharetea
Bells & Blooms
Country Jeans
Levi’s
Rudy Project
The Tides hotel
Hama
Island Chicken Inasal
Lemini Cafe
Chanet Spa
Funkie Souver Shop
Fiesta Favorite Souvenir
Ralph’s Wines & Spirits
Golden Bamboo
Fila
a piece of green
Gem Talk
Hugo Home Lifestyle
Itti
Department of Tourism
Goldstar Inn
Happy Planet
Andok’s
Aria
Pick & Match
Big Mouth
The Hobbit
Crocs
Master Twister
Tres Amigos
Ram’s House of Wine
V.B. Queen’s Money Changer
Queen Bee Fruit Shake
Ole
Jeepney Stop
Rumba’s
Bite Club
Epic
Budget Mart
Cyma
Jammers
D’ Mall at Station 2 Boracay
How to get to D’ Mall
Just walk along Station 2 and you will definitely pass by D’ Mall. The are signs indicating the entrance of D’ Mall. If you are staying in a resort, hotel or accommodation in Station 2, D’ Mall can be reached by foot in a couple of minutes. If you are staying in Stations 1 or 3, you can also walk along the white beach to Station 2. You will know that you are already in D’ Mall entrance if you see Epic bar along the white beach. Alternatively, you can ride a tricycle along the main road. Fare is 10 Php ($0.20) each for non-special trip. Just inform the driver to drop you off in Budget Mart convenience store at D’ Mall.
When nature calls, there are 2 paid public comfort rooms within D’ Mall complex. Just make sure to prepare 5 Php everytime you use the comfort rooms. D’ Mall shops opens at 7:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM.
Overall, I highly suggest visiting D’ Mall if you are going to Boracay. The places if fun and truly a haven for food lovers and shoppers!
Tip: If you are visiting Boracay, get huge discounts on your Boracay hotel HERE.
Henann Prime Beach Resort is the newest and very first Henann beachfront resort in station 1 Boracay. Opened in November 2016, Henann Prime Beach Resort is becoming a popular choice of station 1 Boracay hotel among tourists.
Me being a first timer in Boracay, Jen made sure that to book the best but not the priciest hotel in the island. We were lucky to have booked Henann Prime Beach Resort’s Splendid Package which is a 2 nights and 3 days stay including 2 buffet breakfast, 2 buffet dinner and airport transfers.
We loved everything about Henann Prime Beach Resort and we’re definitely recommending it to anyone who’s planning to visit Boracay. Here are my 7 Reasons why Henann Prime Beach Resort is a Perfect Hotel for your Boracay Trip:
1. Breathtaking Beachfront Resort
Me enjoying the beautiful beach front of Henann Prime Beach Resort
Situated in station 1 which is known to as home of luxury and high–end resorts in Boracay, Henann Prime Beach Resort has the best beachfront compared to other Henann resorts in Boracay island. It’s beachfront is as equally beautiful as other station 1 hotels and resorts. The beachfront is the perfect spot to enjoy the breathtaking view of fine white sands and pristine waters of Boracay. From afar, Henann Prime Beach resort’s facade stands out for it’s signature blue-green beach beds with stylish white umbrellas.
Henann Prime Beach Resort
The facade is truly eye-catching. It has a high-end look and feel. The beautiful beach beds are just few meters from the shore and are perfectly placed for relaxation. Almost all tourists walking in the shore take a glimpse of the carefully arranged and classy beach beds of Henann Prime Beach Resort.
Watch my short video featuring Henann Prime Beach Resort’s beachfront:
2. Superb Customer service
Henann Prime Beach Resort knows what customer service is! The superb customer service starts the moment you arrive in the in the airport. You will experience a VIP treatment throughout your stay, from your Caticalan airport transfer to Henann Prime, during your stay in the resort, until your transfer from Henann Prime to Caticlan airport.
The moment we arrived at Henann Prime Beach Resort, we were warmly greeted by the security guard, luggage attendant and Jcel- resort’s front desk. Since we way too early for the 3:00 PM check-in, we were allowed to check-in at 1:30 PM. We even asked to give us a smoking room. Jcel was kind enough to provide us a Premier room on the 3rd floor, where smoking in the balcony is allowed. While waiting, we checked out Sea Salt Cafe and relaxed at the beach bed. We have not officially checked-in yet but the beach attendant surprised us by serving cold glasses of water and giving us towels while we were on the beach beds.
With Sir Art, Henann Prime’s Manager on Duty
All the staff were very welcoming and accommodating. Every time we bump into a staff in the resort’s vicinity, we were sincerely and politely greeted. There were occurrences where we had to cross the main road and the lady guard made sure of our safety while crossing road. We felt very special.
Some of the staff of Sea Salt Cafe, Henann Prime
During buffet breakfast and dinner, Sea Salt Cafe staff were very accommodating. They were very helpful and were always ready to serve guests. Sir Art, the manager on duty, was very welcoming and accommodating. He makes sure that food are readily available throughout the duration of buffet. He always ensures that chaffers are always refilled so you will need not to worry about running out of your favorite food in the buffet.
3. Smooth Airport Transfer
It amazed me how organized and seamless the airport transfers were. Since we booked via Henann’s reservation, we did not experience any issues at all. The airport transfers went well. We arrived at Henann Prime Beach Resort fresh and relaxed.
Caticlan Airport to Cagban Port
Henann Group of Resorts Boracay van
The moment you arrive in Caticlan airport, there are Henann staff with a Hennan placard waiting for you. These Hanann staff will direct you to your van transfer from Caticlan airport to an exclusive Henann Group of Resorts port. This port is nearby to Caticlan port where tourists go for a boat transfer to Cagban port. Since Henann group of resorts has its exclusive port, you will need not to worry about enduring the long lines and waiting time in Caticlan port. In addition, you also get to ride a Henann Group of Resorts’ speed boat. Meaning, you will not have to undergo the usual process of falling in line, paying for the environmental fee and waiting for the boat to fill up.
Henann Group of Resort’s boat immediately leaves for Cagban port once you aboard. And it only takes less than 10 minutes boat ride from Caticlan port to Cagban port compared to approximately 20 to 30 minutes when you board a public boat in Caticlan port.
Once you reach Cagban port, they will direct you to a Hennan group of resorts van that will bring you to Henann Prime Beach resort. If you have a heavy luggage, no need to worry as the Henann staff will take good care of your luggage throughout the transfers.
I should say that Hennan Prime Beach resorts exceeded my expectations. I did not really expect that the transfer was a breeze.
4. World-Class and Elegant Rooms
Henann Prime Beach Resort has a total 104 world-class elegant rooms. 50 rooms are located on the Beach wing and the other 54 rooms are on the East wing (main road side).
Rooms at Henann Prime Beach Resort is at par with that of luxurious hotels in Manila. High-end furnitures and fixtures are carefully selected making the rooms very functional and elegant. I personally love the attention to detail they have put into the rooms.
Below are the standard amenities you get to enjoy if you book a room at Henann Prime Beach Resort:
Separate toilet and bathtub
Safety deposit box
Telephone with IDD and NDD
Bathroom telephone
Personal refrigerator
Daily housekeeping
Electric kettle
Complimentary coffee
Daily complimentary water bottles
Bathrobes and slippers
Bidet spray in toilet
Hair dryer
Daily house keeping service
Laundry service (with a fee)
In room dining service
Henann Toiletries
Room Types at Beach Wing
Premier Room
Premier Room at Henann Prime Resort Boracay
located on 2nd, 3rd and 4th level
choice of 1 queen size bed and a single bed or 1 king size bed
approximately 36 sq. m.
veranda with a mini dining set
bathroom vanity area
43 inch cable TV
WIFI access
Premier Room with direct pool access
located on ground floor
same features as Premier room plus it’s special feature of having a direct access to the beautiful pool
Grand Room with Sea View
beachfront view
1 king size bed
approximately 56 sq. m.
veranda with a mini dining set
Spacious seating and wardrobe area
bathroom vanity area
large free-standing bathtub
50-inch cable TV
WIFI Access
Ipod docking station
Room Types at East Wing
The East Wing rooms consist of Deluxe and Deluxe with direct pool access.
Deluxe Room
located on 2nd, 3rd and 4th level
1 queen size bed and a single bed
approximately 40 sq. m.
same features as Premier room but are located on the main road side
Deluxe Room with direct pool access
located on the ground floor
1 queen size bed and a single bed
approximately 40 sq. m.
same features as Premier room with direct pool access but are located on the main road side
Published room rates at Henann Prime Beach Resort
The below published rates are generated from the Henann website and are generated as of this writing. Rates are inclusive of airport transfers and buffet breakfast. Please note that prices vary from the booking date and are subject to change.
Premier Room – 8,664 Php or Premier Room (triple)- 9,242 Php
Premier Room with direct pool access – 10,770 Php or Premier Room with direct pool access (triple)- 10,307 Php
Grand Sea View – 11,984 Php
Deluxe Room – 6,465 Php
Deluxe Room with direct pool access – 7,604 Php
Tip: Henann Prime Beach Resort offers Splendid Package promo rates inclusive of 2 nights and 3 days stay, buffet breakfast, buffet dinner and airport transfer. Jen and I compared the promo rates and found that these are indeed cheaper than the published rates. We booked a Splendid Package for lean season for 16,995 Php all-in. Alternatively, you may also book discounted and cheaper Henann Prime Beach Resort room HERE.
5. Delectable Food at Sea Salt Cafe
If Henann Regency Resort & Spa in Station 2 has Sea Breeze Cafe, Henann Prime Beach Resort’s very own Sea Salt Cafe boasts its delicious selection of dishes, pastries and drinks.
View from Sea Salt Cafe
Dining in at the Al Fresco Sea Salt Cafe is incomparable to any dining experience in Boracay’s popular restaurants. Located in front of Henann Prime Beach Resort’s property, you get to enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful view of white sand beach.
Sea Salt Cafe offers Filipino, Asian and Western cuisine.
Buffet breakfast at Sea Salt
Breakfast buffet is from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM and costs 549 Php (approximately $11). Dinner buffet on the other hand starts at 6:00 PM until 10:00 PM and costs 695 Php ($14). Sea Salt Cafe also offers 10% discount for in-house guests! If you drink, Sea Salt Cafe has a happy hour, buy 1 take 1 on selected beers and cocktails from 5 :00 PM to 7:00 PM.
I will write a separate blog post on my review of buffet breakfast and dinner at Sea Salt.
6. Uniquely Beautiful Pool
Henann Prime Swimming Pool at Beach Bing
Compared to its sister resorts Henann Regency Boracay and Henann Resort Alona Beach Bohol, Henann Prime Beach Resort is smaller. which makes it more quiet and private. Nonetheless, Henann Group of Resorts utilized its limited real estate and made 2 unique and beautiful pools on each wing of the resort. For the safety of its guests, pool opens and 7:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM.
7. Peaceful Location
Based on stories from people I know, I must admit that I pictured Boracay as a party place. I was wrong. There is still an area in Boracay white sand beach that is relatively less crowded, calm and peaceful. Being in station 1, which is a bit far from the crowded and busy stations 2 and 3, Henann Prime Beach Resort is a haven to those who want to relax. There are less tourists walking in the beachfront and there are no bars or party places nearby.
Overall, I enjoyed my very first visit in Boracay island. I must say that a huge part of the positive experience was because of us staying at Henann Prime Beach Resort. The airport transfers were hassle free, the room was elegant, beachfront was breathtaking and of course the customer service was superb! Henan Prime Beach Resort in Boracay is truly a perfect hotel if you are visiting the beautiful island of Boracay!
Henann Prime Beach Resort
Address: Station 1, Beachfront, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, 5608 Philippines
Resort Office contact number:+63 36 288 9200
Email: reservations.hpb@henann.com
Website: wwww.henann.com
Book your discounted Henann Prime Beach Resort room HERE.
Being home of the 7,107 islands, the Philippines is blessed with beautiful tourists destinations. On top of the list is the breathtaking island of Boracay. Palawan, Bohol and Davao are also popular travel destination in the country. If you are visiting these destinations or any other provinces in the Philippines, it is highly recommended to book your hotel or accommodation ahead of time. Hotels in these destinations easily get fully book especially during peak season.
Where to book hotels online in the Philippines?
Today, there are various online booking sites that provides your hotel and accommodation options prior to your travel. As a travel blogger, I have tried various hotel online booking sites. I should say that I have not encountered any issues booking my hotel or accommodation prior to my trips. I highly recommend Travelbook.ph online hotel booking site for several reasons.
All online booking sites claim that they offer rooms at a discounted rate. Based on my experience there were instances where the published hotel rate is the same with what other online booking sites offer. What I love about Travelbook.ph is that when they say discounted rates, they mean it. So far, Travelbook.ph is the most consistent and has the best hotel rates among other online hotel booking site there is today.
Apart from the discounted rates published in Travelbook.ph, an automatic voucher code will be generated in your booking. Thus, you will see how much additional savings you get in your hotel. That is on top of the discounted rates!
F1 Hotel Manila
Who would have thought that we paid around 4,320 Php instead of 11,000 Php published rate for an overnight stay at F1 Hotel Manila?
Another feature of Travelbook.ph I love is the no credit card needed, pay at the hotel. Unlike other hotel online booking sites, it is only Travelbook.ph that will let you book your hotel without using a credit card. This is perfect to those who do not have credit card or to those who are afraid for their credit card details to be compromised online. Do not get me wrong, Travelbook.ph site is very safe and secure!
3. Earn points for every booking!
Aside from the discounted rates and automatic discount voucher, you also get points for every booking you make at Travelbook.ph. This is another first of its kind feature for a hotel online booking site. The points you will be earning for a booking depends on the price of the hotel you booked. The more expensive the more points you get. A point is equivalent to 1 php. What’s exciting about this is you get to spend the points for your succeeding hotel online booking!
I booked a boutique hotel in Dumaguete City for only 362.66 Php instead of 2,600 Php! How? 2,600 Php (Travelbook.ph discounted price) less 1,728 Php (points I earned on my previous Travelbook.ph hotel bookings).
There are indeed many hotels online booking websites. Most of which are globally popular and offers hotel rates worldwide. Apart from the 3 reasons I mentioned in this article, Travelbook.ph only offers hotels, accommodations, resorts and lodgings in the Philippines. They focus in giving the best hotel rates for travelers visiting any part of the Philippines. Truly a great deal not only for business or leisure travelers but also for backpackers. This exclusivity makes Travelbook.ph stand-out among other online booking sites.
Established in 2013, Travelbook.ph maybe the youngest in the hotel online booking world but it offers the biggest hotel discounts in the Philippines!
One Armed Wanderer Recommends the following Travelbook.ph Philippine destinations:
Located in Cavite, Tagaytay city is just few hours away from Manila. Its proximity from the bustling Manila makes this city the most popular travel destination in the south. Apart from its location, Tagaytay city is known for its cold weather and not to mention its various tourists attractions such as Residence Inn Zoo, Tagaytay People’s Park, Skyranch and Picnic Grove.
Tagaytay City will also fulfill your gastronomic adventures. Don’t miss their delicious bulalo in Mahogany Market and nearby South Streat Gourmand Food Park and Twin Lakes. And of course scenic views of Taal volcano which can be enjoyed through various restaurants and hotels in the city.
If you are visiting Tagaytay, here are the 7 best hotels in Tagaytay that will truly make your vacation memorable:
1. Taal Vista Hotel
Taal Vista Hotel is the most popular luxurious Tagaytay hotel in this list. Rooms provide guests with mountain view or lake view. On lake wing, you can choose from a two-bedroom deluxe suite, premier queen, deluxe king, deluxe queen, premier king and Batangas suite, On the other hand, mountain wing rooms consist of one-bedroom deluxe suite, superior twin, superior king, premier room-mountain wing, deluxe ridge, deluxe king, Taal suite and Tagaytay suite.
Taal Vista Hotel
Guests at Taal Vista Hotel will enjoy a showcase of Filipino folkloric dance every Fridays to Sundays at 12:30 PM. The hotel also has a souvenir shop called Culture Butik for those who want to bring home Filipino souvenir items.
Taal Vista Hotel has an outdoor pool, garden, gym, view deck and a recreation facility.
Room price starts at 5,200 Php. You may book your Taal Vista Hotel room HERE or HERE at a discounted rate.
2. Lee Boutique Hotel
If you are into small and more private hotels, Lee Boutique Hotel is the perfect place to spend your night in Tagaytay. Accommodations in this chic and hip hotel are superior room, deluxe room, executive room, regency king, junior suite, 2 bedroom suite and family room.
Lee Boutique Hotel
It is highly recommended to try their delicious special tapa and boneless bangus.
This hotel offers luxurious lobby and suites with a panoramic views of Taal volcano. Accommodations in this high-end Tagaytay Hotel include an English themed Oxford suite, Nantucket Suite and Nara suite. Room rates start at 6,500 Php a night.
If you want relaxation and rejuvination, Nurture Wellness Village is the perfect Tagaytay hotel for you. Nurture Wellness Village offer various services including Filipino Spa & pampering, corporate wellness (business and team building venue), wedding and intimate event venue, detox & holistic weight loss and other holistic health services.
Nurture Wellness Village
Nurture Wellness Village was awarded Certificate of excellence by TripAdvisor from 2014 to 2016.
Accommodations in this unique Tagytay hotel include Ifugao spa suites (7,900 Php), Superior garden view room (6,200 Php) , Deluxe forrest view room (7,900 Php) and the Family room (2,500 Php).
Discounted Nurture Wellness Village room rates HERE.
5. T House
T House
T House is one among the few Tagaytay hotels with modern architecture and vibe. This hotel boasts its restaurant with locally sourced food. On their menu are Filipino dishes to Asian cuisine. All ingredients used on their menu are locally sources from neighbouring farms.
Accommodations at T House are Garden room (4,850 Php), Courtyard room (5,200 Php), Luxe room (5,950 Php), Serenity suite (6,800 Php), Serenity balcony suite (7,200 Php).
The Lake Hotel Tagaytay´s Medditeranean-inspired structure makes it unique among other hotels in the city. Rooms in The Lake Hotel are standard, superior, deluxe, deluxe lake view, junior suite, one bedroom suite and two bedroom suite.
Among the many facilities are indoor pool, Shamble garden, Lake Cafe restaurant, bar and kiddie playroom.
The Lake Hotel Tagaytay
Book your discounted The Lake Hotel Tagaytay room HERE.
7. Domicillo Design Hotel
Domicillo Design Hotel
Last on our list is Domicillo Design Hotel. This hotel reminds me of BRblock Boutique and Residences in Makati City, minimalist, industrial and modern. What makes Domicillo Design Hotel unique is its refreshing ambiance. The lush greens in the garden is truly relaxing.
Book your discounted Domicillo Design hotel room HERE.
Siquijor Island is one among the underrated Philippine tourist destination amongst Filipinos. When we visited the island, we were surprised that Siquijor is becoming a popular travel destination to foreign tourists specifically to Europeans. If you are planning to visit the breathtaking province of Siquijor, there is a good number of resorts, accommodations, lodges, pension houses and even home stays in the island.
Note that the below list is from Siquijor Provincial Tourism Office as of January 1, 2017. I highly recommend to book your Siquijor resort or accommodation prior to your trip as most these resorts and accommodations get fully booked both peak and non-peak season. I have included in the list the online booking facility of some resorts.
List of resorts, accommodations, hotels, lodges, pension houses, home stays in Siquijor Island Philippines
There are various municipalities in Siquijor Island. The list below is arranged by municipalities.
Municipality of Siquijor, Siquijor
Swiss Star Guest House & Restaurant
Owner: Geri & Aurelia Luginbuhl
Location: Pangi, Siquijor
Contact Number: +63 9274473010
Room Rates:
Aircon room 2 single beds: 950 Php
Aircon room with king size bed: 650 Php
Fan single room: 400 Php – 500 Php – 780 Php
Aircon single room: 500 Php
Villa Marmarine
Owner Toshito Harada
Contact Numbers: +63 9194659370
Room Rates:
Hifumi – aircon: 3,000
Blue Wave Inn Beach Resort & Restaurant
Location: Dumanhog, Siquijor
Contact Person: Venus Santarin
Owner: Edilberto Bravo
Contact Number: +63 4809190 / +63 9209826995
Economy: 1,150 Php
Standard: 1,600 Php
Deluxe: 2,200 Php
Superior: 2,500 Php
Entrance fee – consumable for swimming with dining only: 250 Php
If you are looking for a complete luxurious relaxation in Siquijor Island, Coco Grove Beach and Dive-in Resort is the right place for you. This resort is the largest and has the most number of rooms compared to other resorts in Siquijor.
entrance of coco grove beach and dive resort
Since we did not reserve a hotel before our Siquijor trip, we walked-in at Coco Grove Beach Resort. Unfortunately, this hotel/resorts easily gets fully booked both peak and non-peak season.
Bacolod City is the capital province of Negros Occidental. Pegged as the city of smiles, Bacolod is home of the famous annual Maskarra Festival held every October. If you are travelling Negros Occidental, make sure to visit Bacolod and its nearby cities as the region is not only popular for warm and friendly people but is also rich in culture and heritage.
Having a limited time backpacking could be challenging. Well, this happened during my Bacolod trip. I had to tour around the area from morning until early afternoon as I had to be in Dumaguete the same day. Coming from Iloilo City, I took the earliest possible fastcraft from Iloilo to Bacolod. I arrived in Bacolod port at around 8:30 AM. (related: How to get to Bacolod from Iloilo)
8:30 AM – From Bacolod Port to Nowhere
I was clueless which way to go when I arrived in Bacolod port. I just rode one of the jeepneys waiting in the port and made sure that it was headed to the city proper. While in the jeepney, I started googling and checking tripadvisor for tourist attractions in Bacolod and nearby cities. I was lucky enough to have seated to very welcoming and friendly locals. They gave me tips on what to visit and where to go in Bacolod. It happens that the nearest tourist spot from the port is the famous “Lacson Ruins” in Talisay City.
me with some locals
As instructed by one of the locals, I disembarked in Bacolod north bus terminal (Ceres Terminal) in Lacson street and took a cab instead of tricycle. A special tricycle trip from the main road to the site of Lacson Ruins would be more expensive than taking a cab. I hailed a cab from Bacolod north bus terminal and arranged a two-way trip from the terminal to Lacson Ruins. 300 Php was not bad for a two-way trip considering that the taxi driver will have to wait for me while touring Lacson Ruins. Note that the ruins is quite far from the main road and there are rarely taxis or tricycles that would bring you back to the main road.
9 AM – Lacson Ruins in Talisay City
I was very excited to check-out the Lacson Ruins as it is one of the most photographed tourist destination in Negros Occidental. I asked the taxi driver to come with me inside Lacson Ruins since he hasn’t been inside the complex. Well, I just couldn’t bear the thought of leaving him outside the parking area while I’m touring around the vicinity of Lacson Ruins. Luckily, the attendant was very nice that he let my taxi driver in for free. I also paid the discounted rate of 50 Php for PWD instead of a 100 Php regular rate.
Lacson Ruins
Lacson Ruins or also known as The Ruins is said to be the Taj Majal of Negros and os one among the 12 fascinating ruins in the world. The ruins is said to be the remains of the burnt mansion of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson. It was built-in 1920s and was burnt in 1942.
Right after touring and taking photos around Lacson Ruins, we headed back to Bacolod north bus terminal. The driver was offering to bring me to Hofilena Museum in Silay city. I refused the offer since it would cost me additional 300 Pesos. Since he dropped me off in the bus terminal, I just asked few locals which bus should I take going to Silay City.
I paid for a 12 Php fare, hopped into the bus and asked the fare collector to drop me off near Hofilena Museum.
The bus dropped-me off in along Rizal street just across an old Spanish architecture building of El Ideal bakery in Silay City. Using google maps, I walked to Hofilena museum which is just three blocks away from El Ideal.
10 AM – Hofilena Museum in Silay City
Hofilena museum is located along Cinco de Noviembre street. Hofilena ancestral house is said to be the 1st house in Silay city to be opened to the public in 1962. It is also the first house in Silay, still inhabited, to be declared as a museum in 1980s.
Hofilena museum is said to be the home of one of the Philippines’ fine art collections such as antiques owned by the Hofilena family.
10:30 AM – Stroll the street of Cinco de Noviembre, Silay City
Since I was already in Cinco de Noiembre street, I decided to stroll along the street. It was fascinating to see that most of the houses are preserved making Silay city a must visit destination for architecture and heritage enthusiasts.
Cinco de Noviembre (5th of November) street was named as such because it is was in November 5, 1898 on the exact place where locals rose in revolt against Spanish.
11.00 AM – Balay Negrense
Also located in Cinco de November street, Balay Negrense is also known as Victor Gaston Ancestral home. This mansion was built using baling hardwood in 1898 and is said to have the most beautiful exterior of any house in Silay.
Balay Negrense entrance fee is 60 Php for adults and 30 Php for children. I paid a 45 Php discounted rate for PWD/senior citizen.
After touring inside Balangay Negrense, I further wandered around Cinco de November and nearby streets. If you are into architecture, culture and heritage, walking around Silay would truly be a delight.
old building
old house
old house
old structure
old house
Spabish influenced architecture
Silly City has 29 heritage houses which are considered today as Negros Occidental’s architectural landmarks.
11:30 AM – Benita Jara Ancestral House, Silay City Hall and Church of San Diego de Alcala
I was ready to head back to Bacolod City and passed by several landmarks.
Church of San Diego Alcala was built-in 1925 with the donation of Don Jose de Ledesma. The Italian architech Lucio Bernasconi is benind beautiful architectural design of Church of San Diego de Alcala.
After checking out the beautiful architecture of old houses and landmarks in Silay City, I took a Jeepney headed to Silay terminal which is just across the Bacolod north bus terminal. From there, I rode a jeepney bound SM Bacolod.
Just across SM Bacolod is Manokan County. If you are a foodie traveller, do not dare to miss eating at Manokan Country. This food complex is the best place to fulfill your Bacolod gastronomic adventures. Manokan Country has a wide array open-air restaurants serving Bacolod Insal.
Right after a sumptuous authentic Bacolod inasal meal, I decided to go to SM Bacold to freshen up and relax. After resting in a coffee shop for about an hour, I hailed a cab and headed to Bacolod South bus terminal where I’ll take a bus going to Dumaguete.
Overall, I enjoyed my short trip to Negros Occidental. I should say that the highlight of my trip was seeing the beautiful architecture of houses in Silay City. Having the authentic Bacolod inasal was also great. I know that there are many tourist attractions in Negros Occidental and I’d definitely return to the province. The next time I visit, I’ll make sure to stay longer and not just wander around the province in 6 hours.
South Streat Gourmand Container Park along Sta. Rosa – Tagaytay Road is the newest food destination in the south. This food park is a new branch of the famous Streat Maginhawa Food Park in Quezon City.
South Streat Facade
How to get to South Streat Gourmand Container Park
South Streat Gourmand Container park is located in Silang, Cavite. It just a few minute drive away from Nuvali. If you are travelling to Tagaytay City and is taking the usual Sta. Rosa – Tagaytay route, you will pass by this food haven. So, for your next Tagaytay road and food trip with your friends, skip Nuvali for your stopover and go straight ahead to South Streat Gourmand Container Park.
South Streat Gourmand Container Park location map
Luckily, my sister who lives in the area brought us to South Streat Gourmand Container Park. It was Saturday night and we were surprised that almost all of the parking spaces were occupied. For a food park which is relatively new, I should say that South Streat Gourmand Park is becoming a popular food destination not only to the villagers in the area but also to tourists visiting Tagaytay.
Cool, hip and fun food Park
The food park’s eye-catching facade is truly inviting especially for first time visitors. It looks very cool, hip and a fun food park. In fact, most of the visitors take their selfies and groupies by the facade and right inside the food park.
The entire food park is quite small. You can stroll around the area in just 15 minutes. Nonetheless, the seats where visitors can dine are very creative and artistic and so as the stall designs.
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Stalls in South Streat Container Park
Once you get inside, there is a wide array of food stalls to choose from. From street foods to rice meals, South Streatfood Container Park will truly satisfy your gastronomic needs. If you love Japanese food, there is Spice Heaven Meal. For pasta lovers, Che Buona offers various pasta dishes. Sucre’s unique serving of mouthwatering ice cream is instagram worthy. For nutella lovers, visit Crazytella. If you want to stick to the traditional pinoy food, go to Tatang’s Extra Crispy Boneless Cebu Lechon. Quench your thirst with various Pinoy drinks of Juan Sago. Here’s the complete list of stalls in South streatfood container park:
Above Sea Level
US Roast Beef
Che Buona Pasta
Rockin’ Ribs
Greek Streets
Bowled Move
Gouphog Sizzlers
One Potato Two Potato
Rosita’s Mexican streetfood
Crazytella
Tatang’s Extra Crispy Boneless Cebu Lechon
Starr Studded
Hafa x Loha
Juan Sago
Foxtrot & Echo
Spice Heaven Meal
Squeezed
Xurreria
Chi Maek
Spice Heaven Meal, Sucre, Squeezed
Since we visited on a Saturday evening, the food park was a bit crowded. We were lucky enough to have spotted 2 vacant tables in front of Spice Heaven Meal, a stall offering Japanese food. We did not hesitate to try their shrimp tempura with rice (150 Php) and pork tonkatsu meal (175 Php).
The young guy manning outside the stall was very kind and accommodating. He even assisted my sister by giving her options for the dishes. We loved their pork tonkatsu. The tempura was okay and just right for the price.
We also bought a burger at Foxtrot & Echo (120 Php)
burger
Ice cream at Sucre (120 Php).
ice cream
For our drinks, we bought lemonade at Squeezed (65 Php).
Lemonade
Me with my nephews, my sister and Jen
Overall, we enjoyed our visit at the South Streat Gourmand Container Park. Food prices may not be super cheap for budget travelers, nonetheless, food are good. If given the chance, I would definitely return and try other stalls.
Budget: 150 Php to 350 Php per person
Schedule: The South Streat Gourmand Container Park open daily from 4pm and closes at 11:30pm
If you are visiting Tagaytay, do not skip South Streat Gourmand Container Park. This food place is truly a must try!
Tip: Make sure to book your Tagaytay hotel ahead of time as hotels get fully book especially during weekends. Discounted Tagaytay hotel rates HERE. You may also want to check my post about 7 Best Hotels in Tagaytay City.
When Jen and I embarked in Siquijor port, there were tourism accredited tricycle drivers offering cheap Siquijor island tour (Related: Cheapest Siquijor tour package). After touring the island, our tricycle driver/tour guide was kind enough to help and show our options for our accommodation during our stay in Siquijor. We visited a number resorts and accommodations and decided that Gold Sky Sea View Guest House is fairly priced for a beach front accommodation.
Gold Sky Seaview Guest House
Gold Sky Sea View Guest House
1. Good location
Gold Sky Sea View Guest House is located in San Juan municipality. Compared to other municipalities, San Juan is the nearest to Siquijor Port. Gold Sky Seaview is also few meters away from popular restaurants in Siquijor – Baha Bar & Restaurant and Marco Polo Pizza & Pasta. It is also literally few steps away from Czar’s Place – a popular drink and party destination of locals and tourists in the island.
2. Beach front cottages
Golded Sky View beach front
There are many resorts and accommodations in Siquijor Island. If you have budget, you may want to stay in White Villas or Coco Grove Beach resort. On the other hand, for budget travelers and backpackers, there are cheap accommodations. Tori’s Paradise has a 300 Php a night rate in a mixed dormitory. Das Tratum Guesthouse also has a 250 Php a night rate.
Sadly, only the pricey resorts like Coco Grove offer beach front accommodations. Rooms in cheaper accommodations don’t usually have beach front views. Gold Sky Seaview Guest House may not be as grand and high-end as the pricey resorts but all of its three cottages are beach front. So, if you love swimming, you need not to visit other areas in Siquijor as you get to enjoy the beach right outside your cottage.
3. Privacy
If you are the type who loves peaceful and quiet surroundings, you will definitely love Gold Skyview Guest House. The resort has only three cottages. Each of which has toilet & bath and refrigerator.
cottage
The cottage is spacious and very clean. Extra beds are also readily available if needed. There is no hot & cold shower, however, toiletries such as bath towels, soap, shampoo and toilet paper are provided. You also get free wifi!
room
Since there are only three cottages, you get to enjoy your privacy during your stay in Gold Sky Seaview. We learned from the caretaker that the two cottages were occupied for an extended time at a lower rate. Unlike in other resorts, it’s peaceful, quiet and you get your own privacy.
There is also a common area where guests can cook. There is also a cabana right in front of the beach where you can simply relax and enjoy some drinks or a book.
4. Cheaply priced
With its strategic location, beach front cottages, peaceful and quiet surroundings, I should say that for only 1,500 Pesos ($30) is practically cheap. There is indeed cheaper accommodations in Siquijor but you won’t get beach front, spacious and air-conditioned room.
Gold Seaview Guest House’s rate for non-conditioned cottage is 1,000 Pesos ($20).
Throughout our stay, we felt very special with Rose, the resort’s caretaker. She was very welcoming, accommodating and helpful. Rose gave us tips on where to eat in the area and even assisted us on our fastcraft ticket purchase to Dumaguete City. She was very friendly and shared tons of stories about her life in the island.
Overall, Jen and I super enjoyed our stay in Gold Sky Seaview Guest House. We were very lucky that our tour guide showed us the resort. It was perfect for us. I personally love the quiet and peaceful surroundings. Being in a good location, we also get to dine in Siquijor’s sought after restaurants and experienced the island’s night life.
Gold Sky Seaview Guest House
Contact Number: 09169236243
E-Mail: gladwinbucol@yahoo.com
You may check other Siquijor resorts and accommodations HERE.
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