Destinations
lyf Malate Manila and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate open
The latest properties managed by The Ascott Limited (Ascott), lyf Malate Manila and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate, celebrated their opening last June 30.
The latest properties managed by The Ascott Limited (Ascott), lyf Malate Manila and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate, celebrated their opening last June 30. The event marked a milestone for Ascott as it expands its presence in the vibrant area of Malate, Manila. The two properties are set to offer a wide range of exceptional accommodations and experiences for travelers and locals alike.
The event formally began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Ascott’s Country General Manager Philip Barnes, lyf Malate Manila’s POP Champion and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate Residence Manager Joyce Pascual – Agsaway, Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation COO Cathy Casares – Ko, City of Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah Honrado “Honey” Lacuna–Pangan, Department of Tourism Supervising Tourism Operations Officer Ivannovich Dmitri Tan Agote, and Singapore’s Ambassador to the Philippines Her Excellency Constance See Sin Yuan. The symbolic gesture unveiled the properties, and signified the brand’s commitment to continue delivering unparalleled hospitality to the Filipino public.
Philip Barnes, Ascott’s Country General Manager, expressed his excitement and pride, stating, “It’s been an eagerly awaited opening, but we are incredibly proud and excited to introduce lyf Malate Manila and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate to the city of Manila. These properties are just the beginning, bringing us one step closer to our vision of creating accessible spaces where everyone can thrive, build a community, and freely express themselves.”
Guests were treated to an exclusive property tour to showcase the amenities and facilities that make The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate a truly exceptional combination of comfort and convenience.
Simultaneously, the guests also had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the distinct ambiance of lyf Malate Manila, experiencing its innovative co-living concept designed to foster connectivity, community, and a dynamic living experience for the modern generation.
“We are so thrilled to finally welcome guests in The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate and lyf Malate Manila. With the help of our lyf Crew, we are able to provide all our guests with an amazing experience. Even if they step out of lyf to explore the beautiful city of Manila, our crew is ready to provide them with insider information so they can have the full local experience” said Joyce Pascual–Agsaway, lyf Champion and Residence Manager of The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate.
With the completion of both properties, The Ascott Limited has achieved its 11th and 12th milestone properties in the country. These two will join the ranks of established Ascott names, including Ascott Makati, Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila, Somerset Millennium Makati, Somerset Alabang Manila, Somerset Central Salcedo Makati, Citadines Bay City Manila, Citadines Millennium Ortigas, Citadines Amigo Iloilo, Citadines Cebu City, and Citadines Salcedo Makati, to showcase the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional serviced residences and meeting the evolving needs of modern travelers.
Destinations
Singapore Airlines launches travel-themed afternoon tea experience
Available from 20 September to 20 November 2024, this culinary adventure offers guests1 a unique opportunity to savour global flavours inspired by destinations in SIA’s extensive network.
Singapore Airlines (SIA) announced the launch of “Singapore Airlines Cafe at the Writers Bar – Teatime Experience Around the World”, an exclusive travel-themed afternoon tea experience in partnership with Raffles Makati and Mastercard.
Available from 20 September to 20 November 2024, this culinary adventure offers guests1 a unique opportunity to savour global flavours inspired by destinations in SIA’s extensive network. The carefully curated menu features delectable treats such as spicy roasted duck salad with homemade sambal sauce, foie gras parfait on brioche, Belgian hazelnut praline crunch, Australian lamingtons, and Manhattan-style blueberry cream cheese scones.
Liwei Tai, General Manager Philippines, Singapore Airlines, said: “Our carefully curated Singapore Airlines Cafe afternoon tea experience at the Writers Bar offers customers a glimpse into exciting flavours from around the world, and invites individuals to visit unique destinations in Singapore Airlines’ extensive network. We look forward to offering customers a world-class travel experience when they travel with us to embark on their next culinary adventure.”
Bernd Schneider, Cluster General Manager, Raffles and Fairmont Makati, said: “Each bite of this meticulously curated teatime set unfolds a narrative inspired by the rich tapestry of global flavours. Raffles Makati is thrilled to collaborate with a world-class brand like Singapore Airlines, creating a unique experience that celebrates culinary artistry and captures the spirit of exploration and adventure.”
Customers who purchased an SIA ticket with their Mastercard debit or credit card during the promotion period can enjoy 50% off the afternoon tea set (full price at PHP 3,200++) when they pay for their culinary experience with a Mastercard card. KrisFlyer members may also choose to redeem the afternoon tea experience for two with 7,500 KrisFlyer miles. New and existing KrisFlyer members who have not purchased an SIA ticket during the promotional period can also enjoy the experience at PHP 3,200++ using a Mastercard card. The afternoon tea experience will be available daily from 2.00pm to 5.30pm, between 20 September and 20 November 2024.
Simon Calasanz, Country Manager, Philippines, Mastercard, said: “Mastercard is excited to partner with Singapore Airlines and Raffles Makati to bring people closer to their culinary passion – and each other. At Mastercard, we know that shared experiences matter more than things. This specially curated afternoon tea experience will bring Mastercard cardholders – and their loved ones – on an exploration around the world through food, elevating their culinary experience and creating truly unforgettable memories for them.”
Additionally, every afternoon tea experience purchase or KrisFlyer Experiences redemption enters customers into an e-raffle for a chance to win attractive prizes such as deluxe overnight stays at Fairmont Makati, as well as the grand prize of a pair of round-trip Singapore Airlines business class tickets to Singapore with a luxurious two-night stay at Raffles Singapore.
Destinations
Pinoys’ top picks for weekend adventures
With the “ber-month” holidays on the horizon, Pinoys are setting their sights on short weekend, domestic getaways. These short trips provide a refreshing mix of relaxation and adventure without the pre-planning required for travel to faraway destinations.
Digital travel platform Agoda reveals the top five most searched destinations by Pinoys for a brief yet fulfilling weekend getaway or staycation. For those who are craving a quick escape but unable to commit to a longer vacation abroad, weekend breaks in the archipelago offer the perfect solution.
With the “ber-month” holidays on the horizon, Pinoys are setting their sights on short weekend, domestic getaways. These short trips provide a refreshing mix of relaxation and adventure without the pre-planning required for travel to faraway destinations.
Agoda looked at searches made by Pinoy travelers for overnight stays between late August to September. Manila, the second most populous city of the Philippines, emerged as the top choice, followed by Cebu, Tagaytay, Boracay Island and Batangas respectively.
Mike Hwang, Country Director, Philippines at Agoda shared, “Weekend getaways or staycations are an excellent way to recharge without the need for extensive planning. The Philippines offers such a diverse landscape where travelers can enjoy the cityscape, the beach or even the mountains without needing to travel too far. Each location also offers unique experiences that cater to different interests.”
Here are Pinoy’s top destination choices for a weekend break:
Manila
Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, offers a mix of iconic
landmarks and modern attractions. Visitors can do anything from exploring Intramuros,
the historic walled city, to enjoying a shopping spree at numerous malls. The
city’s vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene make it an ideal spot for a
quick urban escape.
Cebu
Known
as the Queen City of the South, Cebu is famous for its beautiful beaches and
rich cultural heritage. Travelers can visit the iconic Magellan’s Cross, dive
in the crystal-clear waters of Moalboal, or take a scenic drive to the
highlands of Busay for a panoramic view of the city.
Tagaytay
Just
a short drive from Manila, Tagaytay is a popular destination for its cool
climate and stunning views of Taal Volcano. Here, visitors can enjoy a leisurely
day at Picnic Grove, savor local delicacies at Mahogany Market, or simply relax
in one of the many cozy cafes overlooking lake Taal.
Boracay Island
Boracay Island remains a top choice for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. With its powdery white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Activities such as kite surfing, island hopping, and sunset sailing are just a few of the many attractions travelers can enjoy here.
Batangas
Batangas
is a favorite for its accessibility and diverse attractions. From the pristine
beaches of Laiya to the diving spots in Anilao, Batangas caters to both
adventure seekers and those looking to unwind. The province is also home to
historical sites like the Taal Heritage Town, making it a well-rounded
destination.
Agoda’s extensive
offerings include over 4.5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight
routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same
booking. This makes planning a weekend getaway easier and more convenient.
Travel
70% of Filipino travelers can’t get enough of their favorite spot: Agoda
Agoda surveyed travelers who just booked a new trip to their favorite destination. The largest group of respondents from the Philippines 54% cited adventure as the main purpose for their upcoming trip. 44% are traveling for food, while 25% declared celebrations to be their main travel purpose.
It turns out that one trip to Japan just isn’t enough for most of us. Agoda’s latest Return Visitor Ranking reveals that 70% of Filipino travelers return to their favorite destinations. The ranking, which was compiled from a survey conducted on the Agoda platform earlier this month, shows Japan, Thailand, and South Korea are leading the pack as the ultimate hotspots for returning visitors, followed by Taiwan and Hong Kong.
Agoda surveyed travelers who just booked a new trip to their favorite destination. The largest group of respondents from the Philippines 54% cited adventure as the main purpose for their upcoming trip. 44% are traveling for food, while 25% declared celebrations to be their main travel purpose.
55% of travelers have visited their favorite destination between 1 to 3 times in the past decade, making up the largest chunk of repeat visitors. 10% of travelers have even visited their favorite destination ten times or more.
Mike Hwang, Country Director for the Philippines at Agoda shared, “Where some make it a habit to globetrot, others find pleasure in revisiting their favorite destinations. Agoda’s Return Visitor Ranking shows that for Filipino travelers, Japan, Thailand, and South Korea are more than just destinations, they are experiences that travelers crave to relive. Agoda is proud to facilitate these journeys, offering a diverse range of accommodations, flights, and activities to make any trip enjoyable, no matter if it’s the first or the tenth.”
When asked what makes Japan, Thailand, and South Korea so irresistible, half of Filipino respondents chose “Ease of Travel” at 50% as the primary reason. “Local Cuisine” at 47% was a close second, followed by “Convenient location” at 34%, “Safety and Cleanliness” at 33%, and “Previous Positive Experience” at 30% to round out the top five.
Looking at the survey data from an Asia-wide perspective, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam are the destinations that Asian travelers can’t get enough of, respectively 44% of Asian travelers listed “Ease of Travel” as the main reason for going back to their favorite destination.
Interestingly, this aligns with the preferences of Filipino travelers, who also prioritize ease of travel and local cuisine.
Agoda offers travelers great deals on a wide range of accommodations, flights, and activities for everyone looking to revisit their favorite destinations. Whether it’s the first visit or the tenth, Agoda’s easy-to-use features helps travelers plan and book the next adventure with ease.
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