Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA Soon to Operate

Wazzup Pilipinas!

On the night of July 31, we attended the launch of the newest hotel in the North operated by Radisson hotels and to soon add to the many luxury accommodations available in the Philippines.

The night was led by Nils Rorhbarth, General Manager of the hotel, giving the welcome remarks, with an opening remarks by Peggy Angeles, EVP of SM Hotels and Convention Center. Also in attendance were Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, and Hon. Joy Belmonte, Mayor of Quezon City, who came in later after the launching ceremonies so she was initially represented by her local tourism officer.

Awesome entertainment numbers were provided by Michael Barry Que & DanceRs and Talahib People's Music, The Nightingales, and Gian Magdangal.

Hopefully, we would be able to visit the hotel again when it is finally operational be so we could show you the rooms and amenities.

If the buffet spread is an indication of the dushes available at their restaurants, then we are positive about the sumptuous food soon to be served at the hotel.

Congratulations!

Cebu Pacific Launches Three New Flights from Clark

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Cebu Pacific (CEB) new flights from Clark are now operational. August 9 was the inaugural flights going 4 times weekly to and from Narita (Tokyo, Japan), and daily to Iloilo and Bacolod, all direct from Clark. By October 16, it will also add Clark to Puerto Princesa, and back, among its new routes.

CEB is the first Philippine carrier to mount direct flights between Clark and Tokyo, largest in terms of capacity by end 2019, capturing 28% of total number of seats offered by all carriers operating in Clark.

Cebu Pacific President Lance Gokongwei led the media launch together with DOTr Secretary Art Tugade and other executives from different government and private organizations, including Alexander Lao, VP for Corporate Planning of Cebu Pacific.

The aim is to fly 200 million passengers vy 2020, and 300 million by 2022, enabling more Juans to travel conveniently and affordably through year-round low fares. The airline also expects to receive over 60 more aircrafts in the next eight years.

DOTr Secretary Art Tugade has praised the airline for its support to the transport industry, specifically to his agency, and also mentioned additional good news in terms of transportation developments within the country.

There were also statements of increased tourism activities for both Philippines and Japan residents.

The airline also announced the opening of its cadet pilot program with "study now, pay later, zero interest" especially for residents of Clark and nearby areas. Application will run from August 9 to 18.

The Best Destinations to Travel with Your Friends in the US

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Traveling with a group of friends, even your closest ones, can be daunting.

Most often, picking a destination can be extra challenging, because let's admit it, we all have one friend or a group of friends that makes the entire planning stage a bit of a hassle.

Despite the challenge that comes with different personalities, at the end of the day, you still want to travel to a place that everyone in the group will enjoy.

So, we've scoured the globe (well, the internet ‒ that is) to search for the perfect places in the US that everyone, even the hard to please bunch, will enjoy.

For the Foodie Friend: Houston

If eating delectable tasting dishes is a priority for everyone in your group, then Houston perfectly fits the bill. From food trucks to fusion cuisine, Houston gives foodies a lot of opportunities to indulge their taste buds. While you're at it, take your group for a Tex-Mex tour, and indulge yourselves at Midtown or the heights afterward.

On the other hand, if food isn't everyone's top priority, but you still need an unforgettable food experience then check out UB Preserve. What's great about this restaurant is that it offers dishes that were inspired by the city's most popular eateries in the area. If you want to have a taste of Houston's culinary and cultural diversity, then it's definitely worth checking out.

For Your Friends Who Won't Drive: New York

Not everyone from your group of friends will love a good ol' road trip. For others, it's their worst nightmare to be all cramped up in a car just to get to their next destination. To avoid being in this kind of scenario, book yourselves on a trip to New York.

New York has one of the most extensive transportation systems in the entire country, so you can spend an entire trip there, without having to be behind the wheel. All of the city's airports can be accessible via public transport, so as soon as you land, you can easily catch a bus or a train to go to wherever you need to go.

The great thing about the city is that all its main attractions are conveniently reachable, thanks to its substantial public transit system. You can easily take the subway going to Central Park, Yankee Stadium, Empire State Building, and so on.

If the weather's excellent, you can even ride the Staten Island Ferry to get breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty as well the skyline. After a long day of exploring the city, take the subway back to your accommodation even in the wee hours of the morning.

When the trip ends, not only will you realize that you've saved up a lot of cash to car rentals and parking fees, but it also saves you from the headache of being stuck in traffic, and whining friends asking you impatiently, "are we there yet?"

For Your Friends Who are on a Budget: St. Loius

If some of your friends have a limited budget to spend on their vacation, go to a place that has plenty of things to see, but with a lower price tag. St. Loius is the perfect destination to go to.

Filled with free attractions and appetizing restaurants that are just within your price range, St. Louis is excellent if you want to plan a budget-friendly getaway.

Culture seekers will love the History Museum, Art Museum and Science Center. The best part is that all of these facilities are free of admission. Nature lovers will appreciate the 1,300 acre Forest Park, which is also where the Saint Louis Zoo is located.

Drop by St. Louis Walk of Fame as you browse some shops in the area before eating at the iconic Blueberry Hill or the local favorite Salt + Smoke. Before you leave, get an up close and personal at the Gateway Arch for free.

For Your Friends Who Want to Unwind: Miami

Miami is excellent for your friends who want to escape from work commitments, have gone through a recent breakup, or just anyone who wants to have plenty of good vibes on your upcoming trip. Check-in and book a spa treatment at the Standard, Miami Beach. While you're there, you can also participate in the stand-up paddleboarding.

Embark on a walking tour, and go sight-seeing at the Ocean Drive, and grab something in the area's most notable restaurants. After you're done with your daytime activities, take the time to recharge on the city's vibrant nightlife. Most clubs and bars open until 5 am.

For Your Friend Who Doesn't Have a Passport: Hawaii

If one of your friends doesn't have a passport, yet still want to enjoy a far-away getaway, then we recommend Hawaii. There's no other state like it, thanks to Hawaii's unparalleled climate, and unique, one-of-a-kind culture, including the best luau in maui, that has been passed down for generations

Going here is a five or six-hour flight from the nearest state. Get your adrenaline rush as you go see an active volcano on the Big Island and hike a waterfall in the beautiful rainforests of Kauai. Swim with the sea turtles of Maui, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Oahu.


For Your Friends That Are Itching for a Road Trip

If going for long road trips isn't on everyone's vocabulary, don't compromise your vacation by being in a car for too long. The Southwestern United States has wide stretches of desserts with a number of cities and national parks.

Visit the bustling city of Phoenix, and drop by the Grand Canyon. Take a sunrise tour at Monument Valley, before venturing to Antelope Canyon. Then, work your way to Zion National Parks before you head to your final stop ‒ Vegas.

When it comes to making the most of your United States vacation and spending your precious day-offs with your closest friends, picking the ideal location is essential. Also, spending some days, weeks, or months time traveling will give you a deep sense of appreciation of what the country has to offer.

4 Reasons Why the Philippines Is the Most Underrated Travel Destination in Southeast Asia

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Asia is a big hit with tourists. Every kind of traveler can find something they’d love in this huge continent. Southeast Asia, in particular, has a plethora of beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich ecosystems filled with unique flora and fauna. It’s certainly an appealing travel destination, with hidden gems just waiting to be explored.

Most first-time travelers in Southeast Asia would choose countries like Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, or Vietnam, but it’s also worth considering the Philippines. This archipelago, composed of more than 7,600 islands, is located in the West Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by water, the country has the world’s fifth longest coastline of 36,289 kilometers (22,549 miles). As such, the Philippines has plenty of gorgeous beaches and island destination, including Boracay, Cebu, and Palawan.

However, the Philippines is more than just about beaches and island hopping. In fact, when you look beyond the sparkling waters, you’ll realize that the country is one of Southeast Asia’s more underrated destinations. If you need some more convincing, here are a few reasons to visit the Philippines.

Cheap but Accessible Hotels

If you’re the kind of traveler who doesn’t need five-star accommodations but needs to be in the center of the action, you’re in luck. There are a lot of clean, comfortable, and affordable hotels in and around Metro Manila, and even in the farther provinces. In fact, if you’re planning to stay in Metro Manila and explore the city, you can find plenty of hotels near NAIA Terminal 2, which is where many international flights land. Filipinos are also arguably the most hospitable people in the world, so no matter how small the hotel, you can expect a warm welcome and good service.

Historical and Natural Wonders

The Philippines has a rich history, being a country of mix of native Philippine, Asian, Spanish, and American heritages. In almost every province, you’ll find historical sites and landmarks that have borne witness to the various events that shaped the Philippines’ current cultural landscape. The Philippines is also home to hundreds of indigenous peoples who have been living in the islands even before the Spanish set foot in 1521. Many of them occupy their original ancestral lands, which, in themselves, have become tourist destinations. Just remember to be respectful of the various traditions and local laws when you visit these places.

The Philippines is also a gem if you’re a nature lover. While its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it prone to typhoons and earthquakes, it’s also the reason why the country has a rich biodiversity and varied and abundant natural resources. Lush forests, marine sanctuaries, mountains and rivers, rock formations and cave networks, you can find almost everything in the Philippines. If you want a slice of paradise, visit Batanes in the northernmost part of the country. Filled with sprawling fields of green, stunning beaches, and awe-inspiring views from the hilltops, Batanes is also home to traditional villages and age-old cultures. It’s quite tricky to get to, but once you’re there, you’ll realize that the effort is truly worth it.

Food, Food, Food
Filipino cuisine is as diverse as the nation’s hundreds of ethnic groups, further flavored by the influences of both Western and Asian spheres. Dish complexity range from very simple (fried salted fish) to the intricate (kare-kare and variations of adobo). Regional specialties are common, as are unique delicacies that might make some weaker stomachs turn (balut, anyone?). Many Filipino foods are also cooked with soups like sinigang and bulalo, or with sauces like menudo or pochero.

Going to the Philippines means experiencing this wide variety of dishes. Go beyond adobo, the unofficial national dish. Take a bite of dinuguan, dinakdakan, pinakbet, laing, various pancits (noodles), chicharron, chicken inasal, lechon, estofado, sambal, and many, many, many more. You also have a wide selection of kakanins (desserts and pastries made from sticky rice) and unique desserts like halo-halo, leche flan, buko salad, and “dirty” ice cream or sorbetes. What’s great is that whenever you visit the Philippines, you’re sure to find yet another version of these dishes and desserts for a whole new experience.

English is Common

If you’re an English-speaker, you don’t have to worry about language barriers. A huge majority of Filipinos speak and understand the language. This might not be a deal-breaker for most, but it can certainly make your life easier. From asking for directions to ordering in restaurants, knowing that you’ll be understood can help take a load off your shoulders and help you enjoy your vacation even more.

Of course, reading all about the destination is a lot different than actually going there. So the next time you get some time off, book a flight to Southeast Asia and visit the Philippines. Once you’ve been there, you’ll probably ask yourself why you haven’t gone before or visited more often.

10 Amazing US Cities for Nature Lovers

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Everyone loves the excitement and electric energy of America’s big cities. From world-class art galleries to offbeat bars, US cities offer a smorgasbord of fun-filled and mind-blowing experiences. Amazingly, there are also plenty of cities in the USA that will satisfy your nature-loving soul. Whether you’re into hiking or beaching, America has a host of nature-friendly cities to appease your wanderlust.

Planning on exploring a nature-friendly city in the US, but don’t know where to go? Guess what? We’ve rounded some of America’s best and most fascinating urban destinations for nature lovers.

San Francisco, California

They don’t call San Francisco as one of the top places to visit in the US for nothing. For
decades, this SoCal city has been luring travelers worldwide with its iconic man-made wonders, such as the world-renowned Golden Gate Bridge. But, the city also has a plethora of delights and surprises to offer to nature lovers. With over 200 parks in close proximity, San Francisco is
truly an urban destination hardwired for nature lovers. And, did we mention that it is home to an array of fabulous beaches, like Baker Beach, China Beach and Clipper Cove Beach?

Portland, Oregon

Portland is, hands down, one of the most diverse US urban destinations for nature lovers. After all, it offers skiing in winter as well as hiking, surfing and camping throughout the year. What’s more, it’s pretty close to the Columbia River George, the Oregon coast and snowy Cascades.
On a clear day, you can savor stunning views from Mount Saint Helens. As an added bonus, Portland is also deemed as one of the world’s top bike-friendly cities. Not bad, right?

Jacksonville, Florida

Home to more than 400 urban parks, Jacksonville is one of America’s greenest big cities. A must-visit spot here is the Big Talbot Island State Park – a nature preserve that’s great for bird-watching and wildlife photography. And, don’t forget to check out Little Talbot Island where you’llfind untouched beaches perfect for surfing and beachcombing. Make sure to drop by Timucan Ecological and Historic Preserve when visiting the city since it’s a rare chance to see one of the few remaining unspoiled and pristine coastal wetlands along the Atlantic Ocean.

Phoenix, Arizona

There’s no shortage of majestic and jaw-dropping sunsets in Phoenix, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. And, that’s not all! The city also has a bunch of new community gardens and modern green spaces. To make things even better, the city has nature-friendly initiatives to make it a booming green mecca in the heart of the magnificent Sonoran Desert. A
great way to kick start an outdoor escape in this city is to visit the Phoenix Sonoran Preserve, which is a sprawling ecosystem of breathtaking desert animals as well as flora that you won’t find elsewhere.

Then, head to the country’s largest municipal park – South Mountain Park – to enjoy incredible views of Phoenix as well as the state’s famed sunsets.

San Jose, California

Like most of the cities mentioned on this list, San Jose boasts a wealth of natural parks. Furthermore, the city appeals to travelers of all ages. Kids, for instance, will have a blast running around as well as visiting Happy Hollow Park and Zoo’s petting farms. In addition, those who
are looking for cultural attractions will find their bliss at the Japanese Friendship Garden. On top of it all, the garden turns into a pink wonderland during spring, thanks to the budding Japanese
Cherry blossoms.

Seattle, Washington

No list of the best nature-friendly cities in the US is complete without the inclusion of Seattle, Washington. Sure, it rains in Seattle sometimes, but still it offers plenty of outdoor activities, regardless of the season. In summer, the city offers a whirlwind of experiences, including the Olympic National Park’s rainforest, hiking Mount Rainier and kayaking in the San Juan Islands.

When winter sets in, you can go on a couple of runs on Crystal Mountain’s slopes or gaze at the thousands of snow geese gliding into the Skagit Valley.

Jacksonville, Florida

Fond of national parks? Trust us, you won’t regret paying a visit to the “River City by the Sea”. Green and incredibly clean, Jacksonville has over 80,000 acres of park, including a national preserve, 10 national and state parks, an arboretum as well as a handful of city gardens and
parks.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is, without a doubt, every nature lover’s dream destination. With its awe-inspiring red-rock scenery, Sedona, AZ will give you the urge to snap countless of photographs. Trust us, there’s a beautiful sight at every turn at this desert town. Of course, the city offers a plethora of
exciting and magnificent trail, making it the ultimate destination for hikers in the United States.

On top of it all, it has plenty of healing vortexes that are believed to be therapeutic. Not a bad city to explore, right?

New York, New York

Surprised? Well, don’t be. Just because it’s an urban jungle, it doesn’t mean there are no nature spots in the city that never sleeps. As a matter of fact, New York is home to one of America’s largest and most visited urban parks - Central Park. Even better, there are tons of other awesome nature spots in and near the Big Apple, including the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, Bronx Zoo, the Adirondacks and Lake George. Still think New York is just one big concrete jungle? Think again!

Los Angeles

Like New York, Los Angeles, California isn’t exactly the first place that comes into mind when you think of nature-friendly cities in the United States. For the most part, people associate Los Angeles with America’s worst traffic jams and the glitzy Hollywood. But, there are also tons of big and stunning beaches that are pleasant to visit year-round in Los Angeles. On top of that,
there are quite a few state parks nearby that offer a wondrous escape when you have enough sun. Sweet, right?

Jacksonville, Florida

Fond of national parks? Trust us, you won’t regret paying a visit to the “River City by the Sea”. Green and incredibly clean, Jacksonville has over 80,000 acres of park, including a national preserve, 10 national and state parks, an arboretum as well as a handful of city gardens and parks.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is, without a doubt, every nature lover’s dream destination. With its awe-inspiring red-rock scenery, Sedona, AZ will give you the urge to snap countless of photographs. Trust us, there’s a beautiful sight at every turn at this desert town. Of course, the city offers a plethora of
exciting and magnificent trail, making it the ultimate destination for hikers in the United States.

On top of it all, it has plenty of healing vortexes that are believed to be therapeutic. Not a bad city to explore, right?

Did we miss anything? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions to us, using the comments section below.