Quick Trip at Tagaytay

This is a very short trip to Tanauan, Batangas with a quick sidetrip to Tagaytay.

Our main reason for this Batangas trip is to attend Marvin and Jane’s wedding (January 8, 2016) at St. John the Evangelist Church, Tanauan, Batangas. The reception followed at Tanauan Event Center.

So, we went a day ahead and had a sidetrip at Tagaytay. We just commuted, by the way. I actually enjoyed it! I took it as a real road trip experience. We boarded the Balibago-Tagaytay jeepney.

Upon arriving at Tagaytay Public Market around 7pm, we were greeted by tricycle drivers that offered us a ride. We told the driver to bring us to Tagaytay Econo Inn, which was referred by our friend but, the driver offered another hotel. So, we went and saw its location. We decided to stay at Maganda Hotel, the one referred by the driver, since it would give a better view of Taal Volcano during the day.

We inspected the room and found it good. Room rate is at 2,000/day for two, with breakfast included.

We walked to a nearby 7-11 store and grabbed light dinner. We then ended the night and woke up early to catch the sunrise view. It’s indeed beautiful!

It was a very quick trip to Tagaytay. I am definitely going back!

20 Free Things To Do In Singapore

Singapore is such a beautiful country that you shouldn’t miss visiting. A first time traveler to another country should consider Singapore as top destination. Definitely, worth it!

1. Stroll around Orchard.

2. Window shop at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

3. Enjoy the breathtaking rooftop garden.

4. Pass through Helix Bridge, Singapore’s longest pedestrian bridge. Have a glimpse of The Float @ Marina Bay, world’s largest floating stage.

5. Take a closer look at the durian-shaped The Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay.

6. Strike a pose at Merlion Park. Of course, you really haven’t been to Singapore if you don’t have a photo with the Merlion, Singapore’s traditional creature.

7. Catch the light  and music show at Gardens By The Bay. The supertrees are superb! Don’t forget to check the schedules and get a good spot for viewing.

8. Have a glimpse of Singapore Flyer.

9. Roam around Bugis. The Bugis Junction is a famous place for shopping of souvenir items. Don’t be shy to ask for discounts.

10. Be creative at Haji Lane. Take lots of photos here because the cafes and walls are designed so artistically.

11. Don’t miss Chinatown. This is another famous shopping center for affordable souvenir items. The Chinatown Cultural Heritage Center was closed when we visited.

12. Pay respect at Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. No entrance fee collected but, proper dress code should be observed. You may use the cover up provided at the entrance.

13. Observe another culture at Little India. Most Indians working in Singapore reside here.

14. Visit a Hindu temple, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, located in Serangoon, Little India.

15. Roam around Suntec City, one of Singapore’s largest malls and make a wish at the Fountain of Wealth. FOW is considered as the largest fountain in the world in 1998 Guinness Book of Records.

16. Spend the night at Clarke Quay. This is where party goers chill out.

17. Walk around Sentosa Island. Before reaching the island, drop by Vivo City. In Sentosa, you get to see various attractions such as Universal Studios, Sentosa Merlion, Madame Tussauds, iFly and more but, going for a ride has fees, though. There are also man-made beaches.

18. Wander around IKEA, the famous furniture company.

19. Take a tour at IMM, (International Merchandising Mart) Mall, Singapore’s largest outlet mall. Huge discounts await pus, there's a free shuttle going there.

20. Go for a walk around Changi International Airport, one of the world’s best airports, while waiting for boarding time.

There are more free things to do in Singapore so, don’t limit yourself and explore more. Enjoy!

Hotel Hopping In Macau

Known as the Las Vegas in Asia, Macau is full of luxurious hotels and lavish casinos. Since we were traveling from Hong Kong, we opted for the easiest way going to Macau by taking the ferry ride.

So, we took the Taipa route through Cotai Water Jet. The travel time was just a quick 60 minutes.

What’s more exciting here in Macau is you get to have a free shuttle ride to and from the nearby hotels. So, take advantage!

Here’s a glimpse of the most famous hotels in Cotai Strip.

1. Galaxy Hotel Macau

The hotel’s boasts its lobby that features Fortune Diamond and Wishing Crystals. When you get near the crystals, it somehow senses your movement and sends a response of good luck and fortune.  It is totally amazing!

Outside Galaxy Macau

Galaxy Macau

Wishing Crystals

2. Wynn Macau

This luxury hotel presents a Performance Lake just outside and holds a short water fountain show, synchronized with background music for about 3 minutes. The show is repeated every 15 minutes, though. Too bad we were during daytime so, there was no light effects.

Outside Wynn Macau

Performance Lake Wynn Macau

3. MGM Macau

A high rise resort with a grand, MGM also holds events with luxury and style.

MGM Macau

4. Grand Lisboa Macau

One of the first 5-star hotels in Macau, Grand Lisboa still stands delightly even with the modern hotels around the area.

Grand Lisboa Macau

5. The Venetian Macau

This Venice-themed luxury hotel and casino is superb. It houses an indoor arena, Cotai Arena, which is the usual venue for boxing, tennis, concerts, and awards shows. And, don’t miss the gondola rides!

Outside The Venetian Macau

Outside Cotai Arena

The Gondola Ride

6.  City of Dreams Macau

Vquarium (virtual aquarium) is its famous free attraction. CIty of Dreams is the home of three hotels: Crown Towers, Hard Rock Hotel and Grand Hyatt Macau.

Crown Towers, Hard Rock Hotel and Grand Hyatt Macau

City of Dreams Macau

On The Way To City of Dreams Macau 

7. Sands Cotai Central

Another hotel owned by Las Vegas Sands, this hotel competes with the newest nearby hotels.

Sands Cotai Central

10 Things To Do In Hong Kong

This was our trip to Hong Kong last year 2015 to celebrate Chinese New Year.

Want to travel in Hong Kong? Join me in my journey as I take you to the significant places and events in Hong Kong that I’ve been and you should too.

1. Ride the Big Bus or Rickshaw Sightseeing Bus

Availing the bus tour allows you to have a glimpse around the city and its significant tourist spots. A TV is equipped in the bus and explains each of your stopovers. For best viewing, I suggest you to take the front seat of the upper deck.

2. Know the artists at the Avenue of Stars

Similar to Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, the Avenue features all famous celebrities who made it big in the film industry not only locally but internationally. See Bruce Lee’s sculpture and don’t forget to take photos of your favorite artist. Of course, I couldn’t miss Jacky Chan!

3. Enjoy the Symphony of Lights

Every night at 8pm, the buildings from the Central District collectively light up and make a creative laser and light show synchronized with a lovely music. I had the chance to witness the show which was then followed by the great fireworks display as a celebration for the Chinese New Year.

4. Watch the Pulse 3D Light Show and the Clock Tower

What’s spectacular about the 3D show is its interactive art display and synchronization with audiovisual effects. The Clock Tower, the only remaining reminder of the Kowloon-Canton Railway, is part of the show which adds more life to the already colorful scene.

5. Walk your way up to the Big Buddha

The 268 steps you need to take will all be worth it once you reach the top. You can see the Tian Tan Buddha, made of pure bronze, up close. It literally is big!

6. Meet and greet with Mickey Mouse at Disneyland

Welcome to the happiest place on Earth! Indeed, this place holds true to its mission: bringing happiness to everyone, regardless of age, who sets foot at Disneyland. Enjoy various themes,shows, rides, and food.

7. Ride the famous peak tram.

To reach Victoria Peak, take the peak tram ride and enjoy the scenes outside. Upon reaching the Peak Tower, stroll around and see Hong Kong’s city view. For a best night viewing, go to the Sky Terrace (with an additional cost). We did not try this since it was very hazy.

8. Wander around various gardens and parks.

Get in touch with nature at Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. Take a pose at the Garden Fountain. Head on to Tamar Park and breathe fresh air.

9. Say “Hi” to the Pandas at Ocean Park.

Panda fans would definitely fall in love with the place and see pandas right before their eyes. The Giant Aquarium is also a must-visit. The Hair Raiser ride is considered favorite among the adventurous type.

10. Take the ferry ride to Macau.

Cross to the “Las Vegas of Asia” and hop on to the top hotels in Macau. Free shuttle rides are available. The Venetian is not to be missed. Try the gondola ride.