Pets Approved: Travel with your furry friends with Airbnb this festive season

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This week marks World Animal Day, an international day celebrating all animals and promoting a better future for animals all over the world. As the festive season rapidly approaches, there’s no better time to start planning a getaway for your loved ones – with fur kids in tow.

Around the world, Airbnb Hosts have welcomed hundreds of thousands of guests and their beloved pets. As the pandemic pet boom continues and travel resumes, guests are increasingly looking for domestic stays that allow them to bring their furry friends along, with ample outdoor space for all to roam around.

More than 3 million pets have checked into Airbnb since last November. As of June 2022, pet-friendly stays make up almost one-fifth of all Philippines listings on Airbnb, a 44% increase compared to June 2019². The top ten destinations for pet-friendly travel in the Philippines in Q2 2022 are:

●     Manila, Metro Manila

●     Baguio, Cordillera

●     Patuto, Calabarzon

●     Quezon City, Metro Manila

●     Taguig, Calabarzon

●     Cebu City, Central Visayas

●     Olongapo, Central Luzon

●     Nasugbu, Calabarzon

●     San Fernando, Ilocos

●     Calamba, Calabarzon

Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong and Taiwan said that when it comes to pet-friendly Airbnb stays, owners are seeking stays with additional space for their furry friends, often in locations outside capital cities.

“If you’re an avid pet lover, you’ll know that no holiday is quite complete without taking your family pet along. We have something for even the fussiest four-legged family members, and certainly, homes with spacious yards and deck areas are always among the most popular for guests with pets,” Bajaj added.

In the Philippines, over 15,000 guests have traveled with their pets on Airbnb³. To inspire more fur moms and dads planning to bring their pet friends on their next getaways, here are some amazing pet-friendly listings in the Philippines —  from spacious homes with huge backyards for your pets to roam to stays co-hosted by equally hospitable pooches!

Spacious farms for the zoomies

If you’re itching for a quick weekend away from the 9-to-5 routine, these farm stays that are drivable from Manila can certainly give you and your fur baby that relaxing getaway you both deserved.

 

●     The Alperi Farm is a newly built private farmhouse in Amadeo sitting on an expansive 2,000 sqm — perfect for non-stop fetch and the occasional zoomies. Offering guests plenty of opportunities to unplug and bond with loved ones (pets included!), the farmhouse comes with entertainment and activity options including a playhouse, bird sanctuary, a gym, and even a theater and arcade room.

●     Another farmstay south of the metro is Campo Canueza, which provides the best of both mountain views and beach access. It has a two-storey air-conditioned bahay kubo, a private pool, and an expansive space where you can freely walk your pets. At night, you can pitch a tent outside and enjoy uninterrupted views of the night sky.

Beachfront homes for the water-loving breeds

While some will just dip a toe, other dogs are born for the water — and will be truly delighted to hit the beach. Head on to these beachfront stays if you and your canine companion are dreaming of sands in your toes and paws.

 

●     Saya Nest is one of the seven nests hosted by proud fur-mom and Airbnb Host, Tamara. Located in the rainforest of Subic Bay, it lies just a few minutes from the beaches and falls. There is a fenced-in patio so your pets can run off-leash, a bathtub overlooking the forest, an outdoor table and grill, and a hammock by the porch. If you’re lucky, you might even be welcomed by Tamara’s own fur babies!

●     If you and your pet are up for a little island adventure — check out this Beachfront Loft in Palawan. It is located in a 2-hectare beachfront community in Aborlan just south of Puerto Princesa, and sits right by the sandy beach. Go boating with your pet by day and warm up around the bonfire at night while listening to the calming waves.

Breathtaking views for your best bud

Looking for vacation rentals with picturesque views where you can bring your fur babies? Search no further! These homes are not only pet-friendly — they make you want to bask in the scenery and stay for longer.

 

●     Anto House is a secluded farm nestled in the highlands of Antipolo, offering a 360-degree view overlooking the distant Metro Manila skyline, Angono hills and ridges, and the Laguna de Bay. Featuring two beautiful bamboo casitas that can accommodate up to 14 guests, it’s perfect for family gatherings and even reunions. There are also animals on the property like goats and sheep that both kids and fur kids can interact with.

●     How about calling an entire island your home for the weekend? This rustic, tiny island is right in the middle of Lumot Lake, with astounding views of the Sierra Madre mountain ranges. If your fur bud’s love language is quality time, you can set up a mini obstacle course, go swimming at the lake, or simply just watch the world go by.

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¹ Based on Airbnb internal data from June 30, 2019 to June 30, 2022

² Based on Airbnb internal data from June 30, 2019 to June 30, 2022

³ Based on Airbnb internal data from November 11, 2019 to June 30, 2022

Note: All stays referenced are intended purely to inspire and illustrate. Airbnb does not recommend or endorse specific stay or experience listings on the Airbnb platform.

 

The Barrettos’ iconic rest house is now on Airbnb: Gather the family for a festive getaway hosted by Marjorie and Julia!

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(Philippines) - To celebrate the advent of this year’s Christmas festivities, the Barretto family has announced that they will become Airbnb Hosts and list their luxurious family villa in Calumpit, Bulacan on Airbnb.

Entertainment veteran Marjorie Barretto and famous actress-model Julia Barretto will be opening the doors of the River Garden Rest House on Airbnb for three consecutive weekends — with the first stay on 15 October hosted in-person by the renowned mother-daughter duo, who will share their favourite spots around the villa and attractions nearby.

The rest house will be available for a one-night stay on three exclusive dates: October 15, October 22, and October 29. Priced at Php25,000 per night excluding additional fees, the rest house can accommodate up to a maximum of 16 pax.

Starting today, interested guests can make a request to book at www.airbnb.com/h/rivergardenresthouse, along with a message introducing themselves and detailing their request including their travel companions and why they are interested to stay. Guests must have a verified Airbnb profile, a history of positive reviews, and be 18+ to request to book.

“The River Garden Rest House is extremely dear to our family and holds so many precious memories for us. I am incredibly happy to now share this special space with the world through Airbnb, and for more guests throughout the Philippines and overseas to enjoy our Filipino hospitality and rejuvenating probinsya life. I look forward to many more families and friends creating their own meaningful moments here and enjoying the rest house,” shares Marjorie.

Located an hour's drive out from Metro Manila, the Barrettos’ expansive River Garden Rest House offers Filipinos an idyllic opportunity to reconnect with loved ones amidst nature. The villa offers four spacious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, a large private pool, an outdoor dining area and lounge, a fully-equipped open kitchen with grill, and a gazebo boasting scenic views of the Angat River. Guests may also be able to purchase the fresh catch of the day for dinner from the fishermen nearby.

Purchased by Marjorie over 20 years ago, the villa has since been meticulously restored and furnished by the matriarch to reflect a blend of old-world charm and modern Filipino design. Local materials including pawid roofs, bamboo and capiz shell windows feature prominently. Each room also features a unique collection of precious antiques, furniture, accessories, and even heritage paintings passed down from Marjorie’s mother.

“One of my favourite things to do is spend a quiet afternoon in the shade of the gazebo, watching the river waters glisten under the sun. It’s always heartwarming seeing our family spend the day in different corners of the house, either cooped up with a book, engrossed in conversation, or dipping in the pool. I am thrilled to be supporting my mom in sharing this space with more families, and we hope our guests will enjoy and care for this space as much as we do,” adds Julia.

Recent Airbnb data revealed that destinations outside major metropolitan hubs are increasingly popular among travelers, and earnings from hosting are helping Filipinos grow their business and improve their homes.

Interested to learn more about becoming an Airbnb Host like the Barrettos? You can get free one-on-one help from an Airbnb Superhost at airbnb.com/askasuperhost, and find more useful tips and information at airbnb.com/host. For more unique stays this festive season, visit airbnb.com or the Airbnb app.

A perfect getaway, experience Island Cove Hotel and Leisure Park

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Summer is here. Planning to experience everything you want in a getaway, fun, food trip, relaxing.

  

Get the most out of your summer,  just a few minutes outside Manila, enjoy your day or overnight stay with fun and relaxing activities. Have fun in one place that provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. 

Island Cove Hotel and Leisure Park is the perfect destination for an easy escape, whether for a quick day tour or an overnight stay. Conveniently located 15 minutes from the Mall of Asia, Island Cove allows you to get away from the madness of the metro without having to go too far.

Island Cove Hotel and Leisure Park was once known as Pulo ni Burunggoy. My father built it in the early 70s and opened it on June 12, 1976 as Covelandia Island Resort. From 1976 until 1985, Covelandia Island Resort was highly recognized in the Philippines. Its reputation for excellent service and deluxe facilities made it a very popular tourist destination. The economic downturn of the 1980s did not spare Covelandia, it closed for 12 years. Then the island was redeveloped and reopened its doors to the public on October 11, 1997. Its new name was Island Cove. In 2003, an animal sanctuary called Animal Island was added to the island’s attractions. It is home to different species of reptiles, mammals, and birds. In 2005, Island Cove Hotel and Leisure Park was ISO 9001:2000 certified and accredited by the Department of Tourism as a triple “A” resort.

The Fishing Village provides quite a dining experience. It is a Filipino-themed restaurant with 21 bamboo huts atop the water facing Manila Bay. It has spectacular views of the Manila and Makati skylines. Diners can go fishing and may have their catch cooked. You can order Filipino favorites from the menu including dishes that are unique to Cavite, famous for the freshest mussels and oysters. 

Guests can go fishing and may have their catch cooked or can order Filipino favorites from the menu including dishes that are unique to Cavite. We recommend the Pinoy Boodle Feast.

Top recommendations are the Pinoy Boodle Feast and their new Lechon sa Pugon which their chefs prepare with much passion. Slow-cooked in their brick oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, it comes out less sinful because a lot of the oil and fat drip out.

The skin is very crunchy while the meat is moist and tender. With all the secret ingredients, their Lechon sa Pugon is noticeably more flavorful than those cooked the traditional way.

Sangley Point features western-style cuisine and must-try items are the baked baby back ribs, Wagyu burgers, and their home made bacon barbecue. iCafe offers coffee, shakes, quick meals and sweet treats. Recently added to its menu are sisig buns and adobo buns.

Bayside KTV serves pica-pica such as baked oysters and mussels.

There is something for every member of the family at the Island. You can even bring the family dog, because yes, Island Cove is pet-friendly, allowing guests with dogs to enjoy the facilities.

Aside from dining at the restaurants, you can spend hours at the Oceania Swim and Splash Park. They have a 350-square meter kid-friendly splash park to Oceania. The splashers and sprayers were imported from Australia. Safety is of paramount importance so they installed colorful, water safe rubber flooring (EPDM) to minimize the possibility of accidents. The main pools of the Oceania Swim and Splash Park retain the 4 giant slides and giant inflatables. The whole water complex spans over 3,000 square meters and their splash park is the biggest in Mega Manila. It is also notable that all their lifeguards are certified in standard first aid and basic life support by the Philippine National Red Cross.

They have just added a new playground for the kids. It is called the King Crawler.

It was designed by the Dutch company, Carve. The original King Crawler was developed when the city council of Purmerend, in the Netherlands, invited Carve to design a new schoolyard area. This vertical urban play structure combines several functions including different types of play and climbing opportunities. The brightly colored ribbon-like platforms stand out as if they are floating between the muted posts and wire mesh walls. The whimsical design of the King Crawler lends itself to enhancing any architectural landscape. The King Crawler complies with the American and Canadian playground safety standards.

You can also visit the Island Cove Wildlife Sanctuary which is home to different species of reptiles, mammals and birds. Aside from feeding crocodiles and monkeys, you can take photos of ostriches, Bengal tigers, Philippine deer, and a 15-foot python. If you want more thrill, their Adventure Zone has one of the largest paintball arenas in the country and an airsoft game site. You can try their Island Cove Maze Challenge too. Their other outdoor facilities include a basketball court, a tennis court, a 1.4-kilometer jogging path, several playgrounds for children and a giant chess set. Bikes are available for rent.

If you prefer to stay indoors, they have billiard and table tennis tables and a game room with Wii, Playstation 3 and Xbox consoles.

If you like to work out, you can visit their full service gym.

For those who like to sing, the Bayside KTV would be perfect. It has nine private rooms that can seat groups of 2 to 30. Each of its unique rooms has up-to-date equipment that plays more than 3,000 songs in Chinese, English, Korean, Japanese and Filipino. 

For those seeking relaxation and stress relief, the Island Spa is for you. It offers various western and oriental massage treatments. 

Island Cove has accommodations that serve guests and clients of every need and budget. They have recently finished major renovation of their accommodation facilities.

Gilbert C. Remulla showing us an old aerial view photo of Covelandia Island Resort.

According to Managing Director Gilbert Remulla, the rooms are now more in tune with the times with USB charging ports, wi-fi internet connectivity, flat screen TVs, and modern bathrooms, while still maintaining a Mediterranean feel.

They are particularly proud of their premier de luxe and family de luxe rooms, as well as the junior suites and villas. Family de luxe room occupants get 30% off on kiddie meals.

If you book the premier de luxe room, you will receive complimentary assorted pastries and you won’t be charged separately for the contents of the minibar, you can consume everything that’s there!

The junior suites and villas are very spacious and will be much appreciated by groups. Aside from a jacuzzi and pool in the hotel complex exclusive to checked in guests, some sports and recreation facilities are also available to them for free. 

Island Cove Hotel and Leisure Park is a great place for events, socials and conferences. They have 2 main ballrooms that can fit between 300 to 500 people, 10 air-conditioned function and meeting rooms (including an air-conditioned tent), various non-airconditioned pavilions and function areas. Island Cove is capable of catering and organizing events for as many as 14,000 persons. They have a concert park where they hold concerts from time to time.

They’ve had David Pomeranz, Sharon Cuneta, Side A Band, Sarah Geronimo, Vice Ganda, Daniel Padilla, Rico J. Puno, Marco Sison, Randy Santiago, Louie Heredia, Chad Borja, Nonoy Zuniga, Sitti Navarro, Jed Madela, The Company, Bamboo, Ely Buendia, Aiza Seguerra, Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Regine Velasquez, Spongecola, and Cueshe. They have also hosted wellness events, food festivals, dog shows and sporting activities. And have served as venue to TV shows such as ASAP, Umagang Kay Ganda and Unang Hirit. Movies and soap operas have frequently used Island Cove for their out-of-studio location shoots as well.

Island Cove Hotel and Leisure Park is located in Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite, only 15 minutes away from Mall of Asia.

For more information, log on to www.islandcovephil.com, call (046) 434 0210 or email inquiry@islandcovephil.com. 

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Cuddle up for the “Ber” month, Vivere Hotel & Resorts September Offerings

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Cuddle up for the “Ber” month is here, welcome this much awaited moment with your family and friends with Vivere Hotel & Resorts September Offerings. 

Jump-start the celebration and rekindle the bond with Vivere Hotel’s “Snuggle” room package. Enjoy an overnight accommodation in a Premiere Suite inclusive of buffet breakfast for four (4) at The Nest Dining in the Sky, complimentary afternoon snack, free use of Lama Pool & Gym, unlimited use of internet access & local calls, a free shuttle service within the vicinity of Alabang and kids get to play in Vivere Hotel’s Kiddie Playroom for free for Php7, 500nett/night. Or spend the night in a 2-Bedroom Suite with same inclusions for Php12, 500nett.

Settle in and simply relax as The Nest Dining in the Sky, an alfresco dining restaurant perched at the 31st floor roof top of Vivere Hotel serving home-style classics, comfort food of the finest taste, and international cuisines to satisfy even the most discriminating palate. Get in tune with life with the cozily lit ambience of soothing jazz music played every night & the newest drinking address no one should miss. The Nest Dining in the Sky revamped its selection of concoctions for the perfect after work antidote such as craft beers on tap, expertly mixed signature hand crafted cocktails and all time classic infusions by David Dennis.

Escape the city bustle and unwind in Anilao Batangas as Vivere Azure rolls out a blissful room promo “Beach & Breakfast”, get 25% discount on all room rates from Sunday to Thursday inclusive of breakfast for two (2), free use of the game room, and complimentary use of snorkeling gear and kayaks.

Vivere Hotel & Resorts is located at 5102 Bridgeway Avenue, Filinvest Ciy, Alabang Muntinlupa City 1781 Philippines and Vivere Azure is located at Sitio Aguada, San Teodoro, Anilao, Mabini, Batangas.. 

Log on to www.viverehotel.com.ph & www.vivereazure.com or call 771-7777, for inquiries and reservations. Like us on Facebook /viverehotel & /vivereazure for regular updates.

Around the World with MasterCard and Singapore Airlines Great Fares

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MasterCard, Singapore Air unveil Great Fares promo. MasterCard cardholders can fly across continents aboard Singapore Airlines at the best price. 

Looking to fly across continents aboard one of the world’s leading airlines at the best price? With the latest promotion from MasterCard and Singapore Airlines, it’s possible!

Dubbed “Around the World with MasterCard and Singapore Airlines Great Fares,” the promo features discounted round trip,all-in faresfrom Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Kalibo to some of the most popular destinations across the globe.

“Through this promo, we present our valued cardholders the chance to make exceptional travel memories flying with no less than one of the world’s best airlines,” shared MasterCard VP Jo-Ann Camacho.

From now until 20 July 2015, MasterCard branded credit, debit and prepaid cardholders can book round-trip, all in economy flights via Singapore Airlines or SilkAirto Malaysia, Thailand or Vietnam for as low as USD200; Cambodia, Indonesia, or Myanmar for USD250; Japan or Korea for USD400; and Australia for USD650.

Cardholders can also go as far as Africa, Europe, New Zealand, and the Americas, for only USD780, USD880, USD900, and USD980, respectively.These promotional fares are inclusive of a 30kg baggage allowance, a delectable Inflight meal, personal KrisWorld Entertainment, and accruable KrisFlyer miles. 

Round-trip, all-in fares for Singapore Airlines Business Class tickets also come at great prices. MasterCard cardholders can fly to Southeast Asia for as low as USD800, to Male or Dubai for USD1,800; to Australia or New Zealand for USD2,300; to South Africa for USD3,200; to Europe for USD3,300; and finally, to the Americas for USD3,500.

Business class tickets include a 40kg baggage allowance, a delectable 3-Course Inflight meal,personal KrisWorld Entertainment, priority check-in, boarding and baggage handling, SilverKris Lounge access, and 125% accruable KrisFlyer miles.

Singapore Airlines is also introducing the Premium Economy Class, which comes with the following inclusions: 35kg baggage allowance; priority check-in, boarding and baggage handling; Book The Cook service; wider seat and more space; personal KrisWorld Entertainment; and110% accruable KrisFlyer miles.

Premium Economy tickets are available for trips to Delhi or Mumbai for only USD1,250; to Sydney for USD1,350; to Auckland for USD1,800, and to the European cities of Paris, Frankfurt, London, Manchester, Munich, and Zurich for USD1,800.

Every ticket purchase of Singapore Airlines’ special offers comes with a complimentary SGD20 Changi Dollar Voucher which can be used to shop, dine or lounge at the Singapore Changi Airport; and a free USD20 Travel Voucher for booking flights originating from the Philippines for travel beyond-Singapore tickets until 31 July 2016.

To qualify for the offers, MasterCard cardholders simply have touse their MasterCard card to purchase a Singapore Airlines or SilkAir ticketfor the travel period of 25 June 2015 to 30 June 2016.

“We are happy to partner with MasterCard in providing their cardholders this opportunity tovisit beautiful international destinations where Singapore Airlines flies to, and experience the extraordinary air travel experience we offer,” explained Singapore Airlines General Manager Carol Ong.

To book tickets or learn more about the “Around the World with MasterCard and Singapore Airlines Great Fares”promotion, visit theSingapore Airlines Ticket Office or call 756-8888.