Press Releases
Jun
Top 15 markets you must visit in Metro Manila
Image courtesy of insights.looloo.com The 15 top markets in Metro Manila, Philippines With new shopping malls and hip, trendy restaurants constantly popping around in Metro Manila, marketplaces still remain popular tourist attractions. No surprise, as markets not only offer cheaper alternatives to goods and services, but a diversity of products, both local and international, handmade, retail, wholesale, that make marketplaces a popular shopping destination. Also, today’s markets also offer activities and other gimmicks, which attract visitors from all social classes. The modern market is no longer a space for consumers or shoppers, but promotes another kind of experience that no shopping mall can replicate. Here are our picks of some of the best markets in Metro Manila that will gratify more than your shopping urges. 1. Legazpi Market Herrera st.cor Legazpi and Salcedo V.A. Rufino St, Makati City, Metro Manila Opens 7:30 AM up to 2:00 PM. (Every Sunday only) Image courtesy of tripadvisor Located at the Legazpi Car Park inside Legazpi Village, the Legazpi Market is the biggest weekend food market in Metro Manila. It also earned a reputation as one of the best markets in the metro for its wide array of foods and artisanal goods, both local and foreign. The market only opens on Sundays, which makes it pretty crowded but still very much enjoyable. Like a once-a-week treat. The diversity of foods that you’ll find in Legazpi Market is what makes it so popular; from regional dishes, Asian cuisine, to Middle Eastern, American, and Spanish fare. If you’re a noodle lover, you’d be delighted to find that tere is even a stall that serves a wide selection of noodle dishes in Southeast Asia. Truly a foodie’s paradise. But the bestseller of all in Legazpi Market is Imang Salud’s classic ensaimadas. An ensaimada is an authentic local delicacy; bread baked to a fluffy, golden glow sprinkled with the special queso de bola (Edam Cheese). Don’t let the price of the ensaimada scare you, because each serving is generous enough to make this popular merienda (snack)—inherited from a generation-passed recipe—truly a bang for the buck. But make no mistake, as Legazpi Market also sells more than just food. Although about 70% of the products are food, you’ll also find an assortment of clothes, handicrafts, fresh produce, accessories and more. And it is important to take note that the items sold in Legazpi are not available in malls; they are unique products, which keeps patrons going back again and again. The market also exudes a neighborly ambiance, where regular patrons bond over food and shopping that the market came up with the tagline, “Eat, Shop, and Mingle.” Established in 2005, the outdoor market started with only around 40 vendors, and now it has nearly 200 vendors. Patrons are a delightful mix of locals, celebrities, tourists, expats, shopping and food enthusiasts. 2. AANI Weekend Market FTI Complex, Taguig City, Metro Manila Opens 5:00 AM up to 5:00 PM (Every Saturday and Sunday only) The history of the AANI (Weekend Market has become complicated due to its frequent changes in location. From the TESDA Compound at the South Superhighway service road, it is now located at the FTI (Food Terminal, Inc.) Compound (both in Taguig City). The 74-hectar land, which exudes a charmingly rustic and provincial ambiance, is a dream market for foodies, chefs, aspiring chefs, and gardening enthusiasts. The market boasts of high-quality produce that come from various regions of the Philippines, including produce from the Cordillera highlands, like sub-tempered vegetables, like violet cabbages, salad tomatoes, and sitsaro, as well as fresh bounty from various, neighboring seas. The organic…
Sep
Manila Street Food: 11 Things You Have To Try
Manila Street Food: 11 Things You Have To Try So you want to try Filipino food while you’re in Manila, but you don’t know where to begin? The best place to sample Filipino recipes is in the streets! Here’s our guide to the street food you need to eat in Manila. The Philippines has a rich food history that goes back centuries, and today Manila is home to a flourishing food scene. How can you experience it? Street food is the best way to explore Filipino food! Street food in Manila is cheap, delicious, and out of this world (you’ll see what we mean below). It’s also easy to find: you’ll pass food stalls on every corner as you make your way around Manila. Your visit to Manila is incomplete until you’ve sampled some street food! Street Food #1: Balut Image courtesy of tripadvisor Balut is a developing duck or chicken embryo, boiled. This is the ultimate street food to try in Manila for daredevils and adventurous travelers! Balut has been featured on shows like Fear Factor and Survivor because only the bravest dare to taste this delicacy. The embryo is incubated for 2 or 3 weeks before it’s boiled or steamed, sprinkled with salt, and eaten directly from the shell. No way around it, the appearance is off-putting (sometimes hair, feet, and soft bones are already visible). If you can get past that, though, it’s quite delicious – and high in calcium and protein! Street Food #2: Kwek-Kwek Kwek-Kwek is a hard-boiled quail egg deep-fried in a vibrant orange batter. You’ll see this popular street food piled high at stands all over Manila. To enjoy your Kwek-Kwek like the locals do, dip it in vinegar! This is the best-selling street food in Manila because it’s tasty, filling, and cheap. The snack called “Tokneneng” is almost the same thing, but made with a chicken egg. Street Food #3: Bananacue or Banana-Q Image courtesy of wikihow Bananacue/Banana-Q is a famous late afternoon Filipino snack. Local bananas are deep-fried in brown sugar and skewered. This truly classic snack never gets old, and like so much of the street food in Manila it’s kind of addictive. Sinking your teeth into the crunchy, caramelized coating and the sweet banana within is uniquely satisfying. This staple, best-selling Filipino food snack can be bought anywhere in Manila. Street Food #4: Isaw Isaw is barbequed chicken or pig intestines on a stick. Stay with us, though – there’s no need to be grossed out! The intestines are repeatedly cleaned, turned inside out, and cleaned again. And again, and again. Once they’re squeaky-clean, they’re boiled and grilled. Contrary to what you might think, Isaw doesn’t have a strong taste. It has a distinct texture but the flavour is quite mild. The best way to enjoy this popular street food is with its signature dipping sauce: a mix of vinegar, peppers, onions, and spices. Street Food #5: Taho Image courtesy of wikipedia Taho is a drink of fresh, silken tofu mixed with hot caramelized sugar and “sago” (tapioca balls). This best-selling hot beverage is a common Filipino food breakfast, especially for those on the go. It’s perfect when you need something quick and hot to fill your stomach! If you’re keen to try this mouth-watering street treat, just listen for the nearest vendor calling “Tahoooooooooo”. Street vendors balance buckets loaded with Taho at either end of a long stick slung across their shoulders. It’s usually served in a clear plastic cup, but you can ask the vendor to fill your own glass or mug instead. Street Food #6: Adidas…
Sep
Manila Nightlife Guide: The 20 Best Bars
Image courtesy of ph.phonebooky.com Manila Nightlife Guide: The 20 Best Bars (2017) If you came to the Philippines hoping to party, Manila nightlife won’t disappoint you! This capital city is teeming with awesome bars. From cheap ‘holes in the-wall’ to high-end pubs, from hippie cafes to comedy bars, you’ll be happily surprised by the diverse selection. We’ve rounded up a list of the 20 best bars in Manila. Choose a few and head out on your own Manila nightlife pub crawl! Or go for gold and try to visit them all during your stay. Cheers! Best Bars in Manila #1: The Bar @ 1951 The Bar@1951 is a quiet watering hole in Malate. It’s always crowded with the bohemian, hippie crowd: local visual artists, poets, filmmakers, writers, and actors. It was once known famously as The Penguin Cafe, and regulars that have been around since before the re-branding will still refer to it as such. The Bar@1951 is known for its cheap beers, live performances, and bohemian atmosphere. It’s easy to see why it won Lonely Planet’s “Editor’s Choice Award” back in 2010. The space doubles as an art gallery, so you can enjoy artwork by local and international artists while you sip your drink and soak up some hip, laid-back Manila nightlife. Address: 1951 Adriatico St, Malate, Manila, Metro Manila Website: bar1951.weebly.com facebook.com/thebar1951 Best Bars in Manila #2: Encore Superclub Encore Superclub (formerly known as the Embassy Club) is one of the most popular bars in Taguig City, Metro Manila. This is the go-to bar for the rich and famous of Manila – expect to party alongside a mix of socialites, local celebrities, and expats. The high-end, futuristic club plays mostly techno and hip hop, and boasts state-of-the-art facilities. The intereior has a sophisticated feel. It’s divided into two rooms: one for hardcore party-goers to dance the night away, and one for those who want to relax with a glass of champagne with friends while enjoying the party atmosphere. Address: Unit D, The Fort Entertainment Center, Bonifacio Global City, Katipunan Circle, Taguig, 1632 Best Bars in Manila #3: Handlebar Manila Handlebar Manila is one of the more cool, “dude-oriented” sports bars in Manila. It’s right in the heart of Makati. It caters to bikers but it’s worth a visit for everyone! Enjoy a cool drink while watching sports on TV (channels include Russian Grand Prix, Super Rugby, Golf, AFC Cup, and more). You can also play billiards, or show off your dance moves to a live set of rock ‘n roll. If you’re hungry, Handlebar Manila has great steak dishes and other Western offerings. With a cool crowd, free wifi, and with all-night Happy Hour Sundays through Tuesdays, you can’t go wrong with this slice of Manila nightlife. Address: 31 Polaris Street, Bel-Air village, Makati City, tel: +63 2 898 Website: handlebarmanila.com.ph facebook.com/handlebarmanila Best Bars in Manila #4: Hobbit House Hobbit House is a “Lord of the Rings” themed bar that proudly employs “the smallest waiters in the world.” Visitors can immerse themselves in J.R.R. Tolkien’s world for the evening while enjoying an impressive collection of imported and craft beer. Hobbit House was founded by Jim Turner of Iowa, and the menu offers both Filipino and international grilled dishes. The bar offers live music and entertainment, including the world’s smallest Elvis impersonator, hobbit flame-eaters, stand-up comics, dancers, jugglers, and more. It’s never a dull moment at this unique bar! Address: 1801 A. Mabini Street, Manila facebook.com/hobbit-house-manila Best Bars in Manila #5: Bunk Bunk Bar is an artsy, bohemian rooftop bar with cheap beer and great food. It’s located…
Oct
Best Vacation Spots Close to Manila
Image courtesy of atlantishotel.com Best Vacation Spots Close to Manila Manila is an amazing city, but sometimes you just need to get away. Whether you live in Manila or you’re just passing through, you won’t want to miss these best vacation spots near Manila. There are plenty of tourist destination nearby that are unbelievably gorgeous – and very affordable. Just a few hours outside the capital city of the Philippines is an awesome selection of picturesque natural wonders. Mountains, sea, rock formations, virgin beaches, take your pick—you can easily get to these places without even flying! 1. BALER, AURORA – SURFING Image courtesy of tripadvisor One of the best vacation spots near Manila is Baler. This “surfing birthplace in the Philippines” is just 230 km from Manila (about a 6 hour drive). Baler is the famous location of Francis Ford Coppola’s 1979 movie “Apocalypse Now.” Baler lies in the province of Aurora, tucked itno the Sierra Madre mountain range. The town is blessed with breathtaking rugged terrain and lush mountain landscapes. There are plenty of adventure activities to enjoy here apart from surfing. Take your pick from trekking, waterfall-hopping, or visiting interesting sites like Museo de Baler, Dona Aurora Quezon’s House, Ermita Hill, Aniao Islets, and Dicasalarin Cove. Baler has become a bit commercialized, with lots of hotels, resorts, and restaurants catering to flocks of tourists. The array of natural wonders to drink in make it worth a trip, anyways. 2. MT. PINATUBO – TREKKING Image courtesy of tripadvisor Mt. Pinatubo is located in the central range of the Zambales mountains. It’s famous for its catastrophic eruption back in 1991, which was the second largest terrestrial eruption in the 20th century. Today, tours are being offered to explore the volcano and its crater, which offers a spectacular view. Witness the crater’s rim rise from a lake of rainwater, cross the emerald-green lake flanked by the brown and gray crater, and enjoy an overnight camp. It is really intensely beautiful. Resist the temptation to swim in the beautiful crater lake, though. It’s strictly forbidden because the depth is unknown. To get to the base camp – your starting point for the long trek to paradise – you’ll experience a thrilling 4×4 ride. Lots of shops offer rentals. The Mt. Pinatubo trek, of course, is only recommended if you are physically fit. We don’t advise it if you have heart or respiratory problems, or any difficulty walking. 3. ANAWANGIN and NAGSASA COVE – CAMPING Image courtesy of www.tripsiders.com Anawangin and Nagsasa Cove is a breathtaking mix of pine trees, ashen sand, and stunning views in every direction. Island hopping, swimming, and simple relaxation are all options here. The most popular activity, though, is camping. With no electricity or network signal in the area, it’s the perfect escape if you wan to unwind and unplug. Put away your cellphone and gaze up at the billions of stars twinkling in the night sky. Or, light a crackling bonfire to cast a glow on the faces of you and your adventurous friends. With no distracting lights from digital gadgets you can fully experience the glory of nature. If camping isn’t for you, though, there are also cottages to rent. Tents can also be rented, but pack some food – or gear for campsite cooking, if you want to be really outdoorsy. 4. TAAL VOLCANO – TREKKING Image courtesy of www.thedailypedia.com The Taal volcano and lake are a sight to behold, even from afar. So just imagine how stunning they are when you’re actually on top of the volcano itself! It’s an entirely surreal experience. To…
May
Southeast Asia Backpacking Budget – Ultimate ( Stress Free ) Guide
The (stress free ) ultimate guide to budgeting your backpacking trip, gap year or holidays in South East Asia Ancient temples, pristine landscapes, turquoise waters, tropical islands, soaring mountains, lush jungles, peaceful cultures – Southeast Asia is a region that has it all. And with such low costs to travel in the area, there is no wonder that this is usually the first destination for most young backpackers. But just how much do you need to backpack in Southeast Asia? As part of our goal to help all people come to this spectacular part of the world, we’ve put together this ultimate guide to backpacking in Southeast Asia on budget, complete with the how much accommodation costs, what you might spend on food, transport prices and a list of the most popular activities in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and the Philippines. Whether you are coming for a week or a year, have $10 a day to spend or $50, this will give you an idea of where you will be spending your money. All prices are in US Dollars, unless otherwise noted. Pre-Travel Costs Before you come to Southeast Asia, there are a few things you need to purchase and organise. Some of these can be as cheap or as expensive as you like (i.e. luggage, clothes, etc), but there are some that are pretty standard. The most expensive things you will be looking at are flights to Southeast Asia, and travel insurance. Flights Continually check websites such as Skyscanner, Expedia, Kayak and others in the lead up to your trip. As a rule of thumb, buy your flights as early as possible. But flights to Southeast Asia can work out very cheap if you are flexible with your dates (weekdays are usually cheaper), here is a rough budget for your flights. Flights from Europe: $300 – $500 Flights from North America: $500 Flights from Australia: $150 – $400 Flights From South America: $600+ Flights from Asia: $50 – $300 Flights from in Southeast Asia: $30 – $100 Insurance A wise man once said that if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. You might think that you have “nothing worth stealing” or that healthcare is cheap in Southeast Asia. But what if you are permanently injured in a motorcycle accident? Or you get decompression sickness while scuba diving? Or perhaps one of your family members falls ill and you need to go home in a hurry (yes, some travel insurance companies cover you for this!)? This is why you seriously need to consider it. And don’t worry – you can get cheap travel insurance for Southeast Asia! We recommend World Nomads, which is one of the most comprehensive travel insurance companies on the market, and have policies aimed towards backpackers. Editors note there are many other insurance policies available. Choose the right policy for you and shop around and ask questions before you make a choice. 1 Week Insurance: $40 – $60 1 Month Insurance: $100 – $170 3 Months Insurance: $200 – $300 6 Months Insurance: $320 – $500 1 Year Insurance: $1000 – $1400 Average Daily Budgets Shooting Water Guns At Songkran Festival In Bangkok, Thailand As a rough estimate, we have broken up our Southeast Asia Backpacking Budget Guide into “Broke Backpacker”, “Backpacker” and “Flashpacker”, so you can see what type of traveller you fall into. Of course some people travel for a lot more, and some people travel for a lot less. It all depends on how luxurious or basic you like to travel. Travelling as a couple,…