7/3/11

Diving within the Philippines - 8 Attractive Things For Adventurers, Scuba Lovers, and Travelers

To Scuba Join in the Philippines! If there is only one reason a globe-trotter would look at the world's second largest archipelago, that could be it.Why, you could ask? Read through the 8 interesting facts below and possibly your following question is going to be - why not?



1. The Philippines, specifically
a definite area within the Verde Island Passage between Mindoro Island and mainland Luzon, have been dubbed by experts given that the "center from the center within the world's marine life biodiversity." This will make to have an underwater museum of nature's sea life art.
a couple of. All the cluster of islands comprising the Philippines offers all-year-round diving destinations. Therefore, you can get tons of dive shops open 365 and 1/4 days annually catering to advanced technical adventurers, recreational divers, as well as yet to "get wet."



3. The Philippines
can be a major player from the Coral Triangle - based on the WWF as "A Place of Unrivaled Richness, Importance and Beauty - The Nursery with the Seas." The good variety of vibrant coral gardens around the islands offers second by second picturesque encounters when diving.



4.
Out from the 7 types of marine turtles (locally: Pawikan) on earth, 5 seem to be encountered by divers exploring Philippine waters. These species are definitely the Green, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley, as well as the Leatherback and that is the biggest marine turtle based in the country.



5. Nudibranchs - those sea slugs (and non-slugs)
that have caught a person's eye and imagination of divers internationally. You can find hundreds of nudibranch species scattered in locations for instance the Sinandigan Wall (Nudibranch Paradise) in Puerto Galera, Malapascua, etc.



6.
It could take regarding green calendar year to completely appreciate Philippine scuba diving. For limited dive vacations, choose top destinations. Most are: Sabang in Puerto Galera, Malapascua in Cebu, Coron in Palawan, Anilao in Batangas, and Balicasag Island in Bohol, among others.



7. LiveAboards
are excellent different ways to explore several areas right away in your Philippines. Bankruptcy attorney las vegas trips that provide a so-called Visayan Safari where almost all of the must explore diving destinations are. Such LiveAboards will include a trip to the Tubbataha Reef based in the protected Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park from the southernmost part of the Philippines.



8. Perhaps the best thing about booking a dive holiday in the Philippine Islands is the "never-a-dull moment" feel one experiences whether actually diving or in-between dives. Most areas See entry number 6.The next time you plan your scuba visit to the Philippines, bear the facts above in mind. You may go back home wanting more but each and every visit will, without a doubt, be a magnificent experience.

7/2/11

Cat Ba Water Park Resort

Only a few years ago Cat Ba Island was a virtual paradise / wasteland, depending on what side of the development divide you stood, with few hotels of that elusive 'International standard. The town has certainly come on in some not-inconsiderable steps since and these days the view from the approaching hydrofoil is that of a nearly-built up holiday hotspot, with some hotel towers rising well over 10 stories and looking almost ill at ease against the verdant backdrop of the island.Cat Ba water park resort is less obtrusive than the high rises and crowded buildings of the town. Though the swimming pool can be seen from the sea there's a more seamless look to the place. It doesn't jar with its surroundings.Cat Ba water Park resort has the all-important things a resort should have and a few nice extras you'd wish more did have. Set only a couple of minutes' walk to the main beach, the densely-packed Cat Co 1, and sharing the sand of its kind-of private beach with it, Cat Ba water park resort has those out-to-see views that can cost much more in other places. Less than a year old, it's already doing well, with an exceptionally friendly staff which exude genuinely warmth more than enforced civility, perfectly-main-tained surrounds and the kind of laid-back feeling the larger hotels can occasionally struggle to inspire.With two generously sized swimming pools, one public and other solely for guests, plus plenty of space to recline and relax under blue umbrellas, Cat Ba Water Park Resort makes a nice break from the congestion of the town in summer months.The water park, with two water slides looping down to a pool filled with big, floating toys, is open to the public for an entrance fee of 80000 VND. Despite this it remains relatively calm compared to the afternoon chaos of the main beaches.As yet, spa facilities are very basic with small 'jacuzzi'. Which is more like a small indoor pool, and massage options limited to 'foot' or 'body' and sold in hour and half hour blocks. Saunas are also on offer, in rooms surrounding the jacuzzi area.Rooms come in two basic varieties, Superior ($90/ night) and Deluxe ($110/night), with several suites in a separate building and one $500 a night President Suite, a multi-room apartment with huge private balcony.The standard rooms are comfortably sized and decked out in white wicker. All have private balconies overlooking the sea and are the kind of light and breezy space you hope desperately for when booking at a beach resort - a perfect complement to the gorgeous view.The seemingly large selection of TV channels is, in fact, small. Unless you're a fan of state-run television, of course. The mini-bar offers a little more than many hotels', with small small bottles of spirits along with the two cans of Tiger beer and soft drinks.Cat Ba Water Park Resort has three restaurants, the western Captain's Cup, a mainly al fresco dining experience which includes seating in the prow of a ship and overlloks the private pool, the Asian-style Seashare restaurant and the upper-level Pirate's Grill.A set menu at the Captain's Cup will set you back 120 000VND and consists of a salad, a soup, a main and a fruit plate. This being Cat Ba Island there is an obvious focus on seafood.Cat ba Water Park Resort is still quite obviously finding its feet, but already the place is a relaxing way to spend a few days away from the city, or a luxurious alternative to sleeping on-board a boat at Ha Long Bay.

Boracay Island Honeymoon Guide

A Boracay honeymoon is a great choice for newlyweds. If you're planning to celebrate your wedding night on a romantic tropical beach then you've chosen the right place. Here's a Boracay honeymoon guide that will help you find the perfect love nest.Choosing where to stayNow that you've chosen the island, it's time to look for a resort. There are many resorts on the island and almost all of them cater to honeymooners. It is best that you reserve a package accommodation beforehand. It would be impractical to just walk in and try to compete with so many people when booking a place.Select a package that will cover practically everything: your room, transportation, and food. Microtel Resort and Suites offers a honeymoon package such as this. The hotel is known worldwide, but its first resort is in Boracay. Its secluded location makes it ideal for newlyweds.Most reservations can be done online. Check the prices of different resorts and hotels to find the package that best suits your budget.Choosing the perfect timeThere are more people in the island during peak season, which is around March to May. The same is true during Christmas and New Year. You should know that rates are higher during these times. However, you risk having rainy days on your honeymoon if you book during the off-peak months.Stays usually last 3 days and 2 nights but you can add an extra night for about a third of the original price. Accommodation rates can range from as low as Php 17,000 or USD 340 up to Php 40,000 or USD 800. Additional services and amenities naturally come with higher rates. So if you've been dreaming of having your own jacuzzi, be prepared to shell out some cash.What to expectMost hotels and resorts provide breakfast for their guests. Usually, you are given a choice between American and Filipino breakfast. Others give more alternatives. You might want to select a place that offers a view of the beachfront. You and your partner should not miss your first Boracay sunset together.A Boracay honeymoon package might also include the following: welcome drinks on your arrival, candlelit dinner with cocktail drinks on your first night, a welcome massage, daily breakfast, mini-bar items, souvenir items, roundtrip land and sea transfer via Caticlan, scheduled shuttle service to the main beach, and use of swimming pool and other resort facilities.What you should rememberSince Boracay is a popular beach resort where tourists flock almost all year round, you might think that Boracay isn't the most romantic place for a honeymoon. What is essential is to find accommodations that will provide the privacy you need as newlyweds. At the same time, don't discount the possibility of enjoying the nightlife with your partner on your subsequent nights in Boracay.In the end, what makes your honeymoon in Boracay special is not just the place, but the fact that you're there with the person you've chosen to spend the rest of your life with.

Boracay Beach Resort Review - Boracay Beach Club and Its Promotional Holiday Packages

What usually comes to mind when one is planning an overseas holiday? Going shopping for bargains or grabbing souvenirs to bring back home would be foremost for some; while others see themselves relaxing or sun bathing at a local beach on glistening white sands and dazzling blue waters. Others still would be imagining themselves bushwalking in the luscious backwoods, or even making new friends in an incredibly distinctive local community.Well, you're not wrong, and you are not alone. These are merely a few of the reasons why Boracay Island Philippines is rated among the world's most dazzling and sought after destinations. As a matter of fact, Boracay Island Philippines, the most popular beach resort and travel destination in the Philippines, was ranked #9 in the Top 10 Beach & Sun Destinations in the World by TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice 2010, The Best Destinations.Not only has Boracay Island Philippines one of the most relaxing ambience for "winding down" -- if all you want is "to get away from it all" -- but it also has a variety of fun-filled activities to keep you and your loves ones entertained during your holidays. While in Boracay, you can:1) go on an adventure trip to Ariel's Point in Buruanga;2) go island hopping and sightseeing on a local paraw sailboat;3) kitesurf or kiteboard in perfect wind conditions;4) snorkel in crystal-clear and marine-life rich blue waters;5) scuba dive in some of the most famous dive spots in the world;6) go horseback riding by yourself or with the whole family;7) play golf on an 18-hole par 72 professional golf course;8) relax on the beach while enjoying a therapeutic massage;9) attend a local fiesta (annual feast) and savor local delicacies;10) go windsurfing on the eastern side of the Island;11) enjoy swimming in the blue waters of the world-famous White Beach;12) go kayaking which, for the experienced, can be heaps of fun;13) go fishing which can be both exciting and fruitful;14) explore the Island on a chartered helicopter;15) experience the exhilarating view at the top of the highest point;16) sail off to the blazing sunset on a 40-foot yacht;17) enjoy a game of beach volleyball with the locals;18) witness the excitement of the international Boracay Funboard Cup;19) participate in the activities of the Ati-Atihan Festival;20) be thrilled by the fierce competition of the banana boat race;21) ride the zorb, and get the thrill of a lifetime;22) learn to play the "ultimate" Frisbee;23) try your skill at skimboarding;24) explore the bat caves -- home of the nearly extinct fruit bats; and25) visit the Red Helen butterfly at the Boracay Butterfly Garden.Once you've experienced a vacation in Boracay Island Philippines, you just want to keep going back. Every year is different, and depending on the time of the year, you get to discover other memorable highlights, like for example, the staging of international beauty pageants or other famous sports competitions, or even get to see or meet famous celebrities and movie stars who are there on location shooting.Going to Boracay is not a problem. You can get access to the Island via the international airport either in Manila or Cebu and flying either to Kalibo - an hour's ride overland by bus, or to Caticlan, a few minutes' walk to the Caticlan jetty port. Next you board an outrigger boat, known locally as a banca, for a 20-minute trip to Boracay Island.Upon arriving, you can charter a tricycle (motorbike with a covered sidecar) to take you to your hotel or resort. Even if you haven't booked one yet when you get there, it won't be hard to find suitable accommodation, except perhaps during the busy Christmas and Easter seasons. There are literally hundreds of places to stay that you can choose from depending on your budget -- from the top of the range accommodation where you can expect to pay at least US$200 a night for a room to some costing less than US$50 a night.A newcomer to the myriads of resorts in Boracay is the Boracay Beach Club, recently listed in Travel + Leisure magazine's "Top 25 Secret Seaside Getaways." The Boracay Beach Club is an upscale 30-room resort featuring an endless array of modern amenities such as walk-in showers, Wireless Internet, digital closet safes, and flat-screen TVs. Whether you choose to chill-out at their beachfront lounge, swim in their lap pool, party at Ariel's House, sleep late in their spacious rooms, or enjoy the Nature's Best trip to Ariel's Point in Buruanga, the Boracay Beach Club will provide you with the ideal blend of family hospitality and first-class comfort at reasonable prices.Not only does Boracay Beach Club have this enjoyable Ariel's Point Trip offer of a half-day excursion to a beautiful corner of nature in Buruanga -- a 30-minute boat ride from Boracay Island's White Beach, famous cliff jumping, snorkeling, swimming, delicious BBQ buffet lunch, and unlimited drinks, they also have Promotional Holiday Packages which give visitors excellent value for money. For the frequent visitor to Boracay, the Boracay Beach Club has another valuable offer: a Time Sharing Offer of 70 nights anytime in 10 years at PhP150,000 or ~ US $3,260 (depending on current exchange rates).Just remember that, at the end of the day, you just have to keep everything in perspective. If you're holidaying on a budget, don't go for the cheapest accommodation that you can find and sacrifice your comfort or safety, nor should you go for unnecessary luxury and costly extras at the expense of shortening your stay. Find an affordable balance which will make your vacation in Boracay not only enjoyable, but more importantly safe and trouble-free.

Awesome Lodging and Extraordinary Facilities at Dollhouse Hotel in Angeles City in the Philippines

Situated at 1035 Fields Avenue within Balibago in Angeles City, Dollhouse Hotel is a three-star lodging facility that takes pride on its great facilities, decent services, and pleasant accommodations. This Angeles hotel has an in-house café that serves hearty meals for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Some of its specialties include Silver Dollar Pancakes, Breakfast Cereal Selection, and Omelet. At the top of the building, it has a swimming pool plus a Jacuzzi where guests can relax, have fun, and unwind all throughout the day.In terms of services, Dollhouse Hotel in Angeles City is also very remarkable, offering people some of the most convenient things that they can provide. It offers quick check in and checkout features, printing, as well as photocopying. At the same time, airport transfers, taxi services, and car rentals always come in very handy for guests who really love to be always on the go. Booking flights is never a problem when staying at this place because of the highly reliable ticketing assistance provided by the friendly and courteous staff of this Angeles hotel. Furthermore, it also offers laundry services and foreign exchange.Dollhouse Hotel in Angeles City has beautiful and elegant guestrooms that are available in three different types, namely Deluxe Rooms, Superior Rooms, and Executive Rooms. The rates are not that intimidating and are very budget-friendly, with prices set at 3,500 pesos, 4,000 pesos, and 4,500 pesos respectively. These guestrooms are of world-class standards, featuring classy, elegant, and convenient in-room amenities like daily newspapers, IDD telephone lines, and complete bathroom fixtures. Moreover, all of the rooms inside this Angeles hotel have DVD players, large flat screen TV sets, and electronic safety deposit boxes.Another great thing about Dollhouse Hotel in Angeles City is its location, which is situated right along Fields Avenue in Balibago. Some of the closest establishments from this Angeles hotel are Kokomos, Dollhouse Bar, and Orchid Inn. Likewise, this place is also near tennis, shopping, and golf facilities. There are also numerous shopping malls from this hotel including SM City Clark, Robinsons Mall San Fernando, and Robinsons Mall Balibago. Other remarkable places of interest from this lodging facility are Casino Filipino Mimosa, Mimosa Golf and Country Club, as well as Museum of Clark's History.Dollhouse Hotel in Angeles City accepts reservations and bookings through the phone number (045)-892-2720, or through the fax number (045)-892-3267. Furthermore, its email address is info@dollhousehotel.com, where people can send in their questions and requests. The official website of this Angeles hotel is www dollhousehotel com.

Affordable Philippines Vacation Rentals - Find Places in the Philippines to Go on a Vacation

When you go to different parts of the Philippines you will discover why this country is rich with natural resources endowed with the beauty of nature. Affordable Philippines vacation rentals are becoming more and more famous to tourist from other countries due to its affordability and hospitality of the people. Filipinos are known to be hospitable to guests thus; you will never go wrong if you opt for traveling to this beautiful country.The Philippines is comprised of three major parts, namely Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. This has their own tourist spots to take pride of and all are being adored throughout the world. Palawan province is one of the best islands known to be famous to foreigners of different races. This became famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, fishes and coral reefs. The Honda Bay is home to almost 14 islands when high tide and 19 islands when low tide. Honda Bay is a place where you can see the most renowned Dos Palmas Beach Resort, The Snake Island among many other islands. The butterfly farm, Underground River and crocodile farm are some of the main attractions of the land. When you plan to stay for a long vacation in the city of Palawan you will find many affordable Philippine vacation rentals that are comfortable and easy on the pocket.In the Visayas part you can enjoy the beautiful city of Bohol. Bohol is known for its tarsier animals and different diving spots. This has become prominent to tourist divers from all over the world for its bountiful and rich water resources. Cebu is also one of the best places to visit for the city's historical past.Places in the Philippines to go on a vacation are not complete if you don't go on a trip in the Philippines very own Boracay. Boracay is recognized for its captivating white sand beaches where a lot of prominent people use to go for a getaway. This is also one of the best places to go to as this have become home to a lot of foreigners in different parts of the globe.The best way to enjoy the very own tourist destinations is to avail of affordable Philippines vacation rentals. The rental houses in different provinces come in comfortable sizes and convenient locations. Rentals are relatively cheaper specifically in getting good accommodations than a five star hotel.Renting a house or villa come complete with amenities and bedrooms suitable enough to accommodate families and guests. This also comes with private swimming pools where you can get the privacy and serene living. Renting a condo unit is also one of the many options when you plan to spend your holidays in this country. There are condos accessible to different outdoor activities like golf, badminton and tennis.Truly, there is so much this vacation destination has to offer. Staying for longer vacations will let tourist know of the many resources the Philippines have and how rich the culture is. Most importantly how Filipinos are ready to welcome visitors with open arms.

7/1/11

Advantages Of Condominiums And Apartments In The Philippines

Condominiums and apartments are some of the most popular types of housing in the Philippines today. According to many philippine real estate experts, apartments have long been recognized in the Philippine market, while condominiums have only been recently introduced in the Philippines yet today is considered as the most sought after residence in the Philippines. So what are the advantages of owning a condominium or an apartment rather than any other type of housing in the Philippines?

Advantages of apartments and condominiums
One apparent reason for its popularity in the market is because of their affordability. Compared to buying a house or a townhouse, buying a condominium unit or renting an apartment unit is much more efficient, particularly with people with not enough capital to buy a whole house. However, other than its affordability, condominiums and apartments are also known for its other advantages. One is with its location.

Most condominiums available in the market today are those found within walking distance or within mass transit distance of major business districts and commercial areas. This makes it easier for residents to avoid rush hour, which is a typical problem in the Philippines. According to many philippine real estate experts, most apartments work the same way, particularly an apartment building. However, there are certain advantages of owning a condominium from an apartment, and an apartment from a condominium.
Advantage of apartments
The advantage of apartments over condominiums is its affordability. This is because apartments are usually rented rather than bought. This makes it easier for Filipinos to find residence without having to worry about investing too much or worrying that they don't have enough capital for it. This, however, could only go as far as giving them a temporary form of residence, not unlike what condominiums can provide.

This, however, could prove advantageous for certain types of people. One example is with the students. Students living from far away, such as in provinces, could find temporary living spaces, such as the studio type apartments which are usually small and cheap.

Advantage of condominiums
The main advantage of condominiums that for the fraction of the usual cost of a house or a townhouse, people could easily benefit from permanence in residence. However, even though its much more affordable than a house or a townhouse, it still cost more than renting from an apartment. Condominiums usually cost around P500,000 Philippine Pesos to P1,000,000 Philippine Pesos, which is still very expensive for most Filipinos.

Although it may still seem expensive, some have found it affordable, particularly if the condominium has amenities such as resort facilities like swimming pools, gyms, parks and playground equipment. According to many philippine real estate experts, for the fraction of a cost, Filipinos could easily enjoy such amenities.
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A Review of Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort

This beautiful resort type beach front hotel is located in the Maribago Beach area on Mactan Island (Cebu, Philippines). It is completely enclosed with 24 hr. security at the gates. They also have security personnel patrolling the beach and throughout the resort. Staff are marvelous. They are everywhere, always greet you, and seem truly happy to help.A white sand beach is well maintained, and the deluxe beach-front suites provide guests with magnificent views of the ocean. All units have verandas which offer a pleasant and private opportunity to relax. A roped-off swimming area offers protection from boats and jet skis.A centrally located pool is provided for those who don't care for the ocean. It is large enough for the adults, but shallow enough for the youngsters to use in safety.Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort offers extensive, well-kept grounds. Amenities include spa, lounges, cafes, bars, beach front massage cabana, and pleasant landscaping throughout. Tours and island hopping are available on request. Scuba outings can also be arranged. A rental shop provides scuba and snorkeling gear as well as boats and jet skis.Pros: Facilities are clean and secure, with genuinely friendly and helpful staff. Grounds are beautifully landscaped. Guest rooms are spacious and well equipped. Great beach has pleasant, relaxing view. An excellent buffet breakfast is provided. Rates are very reasonable for a resort of this caliber.Cons: Rooms could do with upgrading. Floors are worn from constant exposure to beach sand. Televisions are old and have a limited selection of channels. Tubs and fixtures could stand to be replaced. On-site dining in the evening is limited and expensive. Although only approved canvassers ( tours etc.) are allowed on the beach, others lurk just off property, harassing guests with offers of every description.Overall rating: Excellent! Pros far outweigh cons.Travel deals available: accommodation only, all-inclusive with air.Rates: Highly variable. Check around. Price on resort's website for mid- August: Deluxe Garden suite from $139, Deluxe  Beach- front from $204. Bungalows are also available. All rates include buffet breakfast.For anyone planning a vacation in the Philippines, this is a worthwhile add-on. If your travel plans involve Manila, go for an all-inclusive package. This should include air (both Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific have frequent flights), transfers and accommodation with breakfast. As dinner is buffet and costly if purchased at the door, it might be worthwhile  to include this as part of your package.Cebu is a great travel destination and even the most discerning traveler should enjoy a stay at Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort.