Connect to you favorite travel apps abroad for free with Smart's RoamFree app

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People always loved the adventure of travel. Traveling has been something that has become a part of you. Here's the great news for all travelers and adventure lovers. 

Traveling abroad is now a lot easier and more convenient with RoamFree, Smart’s groundbreaking app that lets you connect to your favorite travel services without data roaming charges.

Downloadable on Google Play Store and iTunes, the app offers free access to up to 21 travel apps in 26 destinations abroad, allowing overseas travelers to book transportation and accommodations, navigate the city, sign up for tours, and get food and travel recommendations, among others, for a travel experience like never before.

Designed as a one-stop portal, RoamFree gives you free instant access to up to 21 partner apps at your destination, even if you haven’t subscribed to a roaming data package. 

With RoamFree, relevant travel information and services are right at your fingertips: you can easily check in your flights, reserve and confirm hotel accommodations, book rides, sign up for local tours, and check out top food spots, among many others, for a hassle-free getaway. 

The app is now available for use in 26 destinations, including the United States, Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, and United Kingdom. It is also accessible for free in Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Albania, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Malta, Portugal, Romania, and the United Arab Emirates.

One-stop travel portal without data charges

To use the portal, simply download the RoamFree app on Google Play Store if you are an Android user, or iTunes if you have an iOS device. Once abroad, just turn on your mobile data and open the RoamFree app to access your accounts on various partner sites and services – without worrying about data charges.

Through the app, you can sign in to your account and book rides on Uber, reserve your accommodations through AirBNB, Agoda, or Booking; and navigate your way around the city using Google Maps. You can also check in your flights ahead of time on PassnFly; get valuable local tips on Musement; pore over recommendations from fellow travelers on TripAdvisor and Triip; or get together with locals who share your passions via Meetup.com.

You can also book tours on Klook and Tiqets; order food or reserve a table in top restaurants via Foodpanda, OpenTable, and TheFork; and snag deals on Groupon, KeyFlow, and Viator. You also have practical travel apps at your fingertips, such as Google Translate, XE Currency Converter, and ATM Finder.

Download RoamFreenow on Google Play Store and iTunes for a travel experience like never before.

Miss Universe 2015 and Smart World endorser Pia Wurtzbach toasts to the launch of Smart's RoamFree App. Joining Pia are (from left) celebrity host and blogger Nicole Andersson; PLDT Global Corp. CEO and President Kat Luna-Abelarde; and PLDT Global Corp Head for Business Development Alice Ramos.

Smart World for hassle-free getaways

“Staying online while traveling abroad makes for a hassle-free travel experience, but unfortunately, many travelers still choose to go offline out of fear of racking up enormous data roaming charges. The RoamFree app addresses this by allowing you to freely connect to relevant content and services that make for a travel experience like never before,” said Kat Luna-Abelarde, PLDT Global Corp. President and CEO.

Kat Luna-Abelarde, PLDT Global Corp. President and CEO

“Working with key players in the digital travel space, we are able to deliver sponsored data to cater to the growing number of overseas travelers, and reinforce our thrust to connect Filipinos wherever they are. In the same way that we are expanding and improving our nationwide network, we are continuously enhancing our global services to give our subscribers the best mobile experience - whether they are in the Philippines or abroad,” said Eric R. Alberto, Chief Revenue Officer of PLDT and Smart.

Track your online activities abroad

Among Smart World’s innovative solutions is the Data Roam Manager, a one-stop portal that lets you buy data roaming packs, and keep track of your data usage while on the go. Accessible to all Smart Prepaid and Postpaid subscribers traveling in over 130 countries, the Data Roaming Manager pops up when you open your mobile browser, such as Google Chrome or Safari, after turning on your mobile data and data roaming. 

The Data Roaming Manager lets you monitor your active subscription, so you never have to worry about going over your set data package and racking up unwanted charges. It gives you specific details, such as your running data volume consumption, as well as the start and expiration of your subscription, so you can take full control of your roaming experience.

Smart’s biggest data roaming pack

Smart World has also introduced GigaRoam, its biggest data roaming pack, providing 1GB data valid for 7 days for only Php999. 

GigaRoam lets you enjoy all your online activities as you travel, whether its video streaming, downloading, surfing, or updating your social media accounts.

To give travelers utmost flexibility, the RoamFree App and the Data Roaming Manager also allow users to register to data roaming packs perfect for their needs – whether its GigaRoam, Surf Abroad or Chat Abroad.

Surf Abroad lets you enjoy 24-hour data roaming for a flat-rate of Php550 per day, while Chat Abroad, lets you stay connected to chat apps like Messenger, WhatsApp, Telegram, Line, WeChat, and Viber for only Php150 per day.

Enjoy free access to 21 apps including Uber, Google Maps, and Booking in 26 destinations

To know more about the Smart’s RoamFree app, Data Roaming Manager, and the data roaming packs perfect for your needs, visit smart.com.ph/world and follow Smart’s official account on Facebook (www.facebook.com/SmartCommunications), Twitter and Instagram (@LiveSmart).

GLOBE, PAL, MIAA spread cheer to arriving OFWs, tourists with special Christmas surprise

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Globe Telecom’s International Business Group, together with Philippine Airlines (PAL) and Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) held a special Christmas surprise for arriving Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and tourists as a way to spread cheer and make them feel the spirit of the holiday season.

Passengers of PR 659 from Dubai to Manila who landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 were welcomed by representatives from MIAA, Globe and Philippine Airlines with heart-warming messages as soon as they disembarked the plane. 

The best surprise were waiting for them at the baggage carousel. Instead of their luggage, the carousel were filled with surprise treats for everyone. In the background, a lively Filipino Christmas tune was playing to create a festive atmosphere at the arrival hall. Santa Claus, on the other hand, had his huge sack filled with toys for the kids.

“Christmas is something that Filipinos love to celebrate together with their family and friends, thus, homecomings during this season becomes more meaningful. We at Globe, in collaboration with PAL and MIAA, wanted this occasion to be very special to returning Filipinos and to tourists alike to make them happier and for them to appreciate why Pasko is truly more fun in the Philippines,” said Mike Frausing, Senior Advisor for Globe International Business Group.

The surprise was in celebration of the first year partnership of Globe and PAL. Globe IBG has been giving away free Mabuhay Traveler SIM to all international PAL flight passengers which gives them 500 bonus Mabuhay Miles, free 300 MB of data and unlimited calls to Globe valid for one day, and 10% discount at selected Duty Free Philippines shop.

Globe and PAL are working together to be of service to more Filipinos in and out of the country with a common advocacy of delighting international visitors and returning Filipinos by giving them a wonderful experience every time they arrive in the Philippines.

Amaia Land lights up the Christmas season with ‘Christmasaya sa Amaia’ fest

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The Philippines is touted to have the longest Yuletide celebration, with families putting up Christmas trees, lights, and all sorts of festive décor as early as the first ‘ber’ month. And now that the “most wonderful time of the year” is upon us, top-of-mind real estate provider Amaia Land is doing its part to make Christmas merry and bright by mounting a flurry of activities for its residents. 

Dubbed as “Christmasaya sa Amaia,” the celebration will feature fun competitions like the “Star of Hope” and “A Carol for Christmas”—and the lighting up of Christmas Trees in select Amaia communities nationwide.

“Star of Hope” is a parol or lantern-making contest open to barangays. To promote resourcefulness, creativity, and a regard for the environment, all Star of Hope entries should be made of recycled materials. 

Each participating barangay may submit only one Star of Hope entry. Registration of interested parties is ongoing until Dec. 1, with the first 15 entries qualifying for the final judging. 

“A Carol for Christmas,” meanwhile, is a singing competition open to church choir members with the goal of creating original Christmas music or doing unique renditions of Christmas songs that are inspired by the theme, “Christmasaya.” 

Registration for A Christmas Carol is ongoing until Dec. 1, with each church limited to fielding only one participating choir group.

To wrap up its Yuletide agenda, Amaia Land is likewise lighting up a 20-feet-tall, fully decorated Christmas tree at Amaia Steps Sucat and Amaia Scapes Iloilo.

According to Sixto Sengson of Amaia Land, ‘Christmasaya sa Amaia’ was conceptualized as a visual and auditory feast that would help foster a sense of camaraderie and community among Amaia homeowners and residents of neighboring barangays. 

“By spreading holiday cheer,” Sengson said, “Filipino families will have a more meaningful celebration of this truly special season. And ‘Christmasaya sa Amaia’ wants to encourage everyone to do just that—to get together with family and friends, all in one thriving community.”

Choose Your Alliance :Make your holidays truly epic with collectible Star Wars headgear and accessories

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Make your holidays truly epic with collectible Star Wars headgear and accessories. 

For 40 years, the Skywalker family saga continues to enthrall audiences around the world. Now SM Men’s Accessories dives back in with the classic characters in a special collection that reinvents the spirit of Star Wars. Choose your alliance in rebel or empire caps, drawstring bags and fun novelties. Grab your favorite pieces before they run out!

In Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi, the story continues as the heroes of The Force Awakens join galactic legends in an adventure that unlocks age-old mysteries of the Force and shocking revelations of the past. Star Wars: The Last Jedi opens in Philippine theaters on December 13, 2017.

Cast: Daisy Ridley, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong’o, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Gwendoline Christie, Andy Serkis, Benicio del Toro, Laura Dern, Kelly Marie Tran

Licensed Star Wars merchandise by Retailasia, Inc. and available at all SM Men’s Accessories in SM Department Stores nationwide.

Darth Vader – Come to the dark side

Drawstring bag – fan favorites Mug

Light up lamps

Umbrella

#ChristmasShinesAtBayview - Christmas feels at Bayview Park Hotel Manila

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Bayview Park Hotel Manila with an intimate gathering officially welcome the Christmas season with their annual Christmas Tree lighting ceremony on December 4, 2017. 

Mr. Eugene Yap, Bayview Park Hotel Manila's General Manager started the event with a welcome remarks. Then followed with a medley of Christmas carols performed by the Bayview Minstrels serenading the hotel guests having their breakfast at the Cafe.

The Bayview Minstrels, the hotel's all­ girl­ employees chorale group will provide the Christmas Spirit to the guests by rendering songs everyday throughout the Christmas season.

Bayview Park Hotel Manila, one of the most classic hotels in the city, offers a budget-friendly, yet first-class accommodations, facilities and amenities. Steeped in historic significance, now elevated to modern, international boutique hotel standards; Romantic, but sensibly pragmatic and practical. A discreet sanctuary, at the hub of world-renowned entertainment, artistic and cultural venues; Serene and venerable, still hospitable and comfortable.

In its over 75 years of existence, Bayview Park Hotel Manila has held sway as one of the longest-enduring, sought after destinations for both business and leisure travelers in Manila, offering very affordable and friendly rates, while providing unparalleled service and exclusive privileges for the most discriminating guests.

Steeped in the traditions of a graceful era gone by, yet designed to exceed the demands of contemporary lifestyles, Bayview Park Hotel Manila offers all the modern functions and conveniences of freshly-renovated, “personalized” boutique hotel. Stylish and welcoming accommodations, function-driven facilities and amenities, guest-friendly rates, and a level of service that can only be described as Filipino hospitality at its best.

A distinguished destination in itself for nearly eight decades, Bayview Park Hotel Manila is situated just minutes away from other historic and renowned landmarks including Luneta Park, the Manila Catherdal, the walled city of Intramuros, and the vibrant art and entertainment milieu, Malate. Across it, towards the bay are the U.S. Embassy, Manila Yacht Club, and further on, the CCP Complex, the country’s premier cultural hub. Its proximity to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, a mere 20 minutes away, offers extra convenience much desired by the travel-weary visitor.

Bayview Park Hotel Manila has prepared special packages for almost any occasion, be it for once-in-a-lifetime debuts, themed children’s parties, momentous milestones and anniversaries, and that dream wedding you’ve always longed for. Thoughtfully planned and creatively executed by our events professionals to suit your personal preferences, requirements and budget, Bayview Park Hotel Manila packages are designed to ensure any event’s success, without the usual accompanying stress and worries.

Besides splendid accommodations and its noted hospitality, Bayview Park Hotel Manila is best known for its value wedding packages that leave newlyweds with all the best lasting memories. It has become the preferred hotel of soon-to-be-married’s who want their special day to be celebrated with elegance and grandeur, yet with the right balance of practicality.

For corporate needs such as business events, launches, sales rallies, seminars and conferences, Bayview Park Hotel Manila offers functionally-designed rooms with complete audio-visual and other technical facilities. There are 15 function rooms to accommodate every particular requirement, with the Manila Bay Ballroom having a maximum seating capacity of 300. All your needs will be attended to promptly by the hotel’s courteous staff, with our friendly and experienced Banquet Sales Team working with you at every stage to help make your corporate functions as productive and output-driven as possible.

Hospitable, dependable, modest, respected, distinguished. Words meant to be lived by. It’s simply the Bayview Park Hotel Manila way.

Christmas and New Year's Eve Buffet Promo. For just PHP 980.00 per person, enjoy their buffet dinner that comes with free­flowing selection of mouthwatering dishes and cocktail drinks.

Bayview Park Hotel Manila is currently offering a "Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve Festivity Package" for as low as PHP 6,300 net for an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room. The package includes an overnight accommodation for two, buffet breakfast and buffet dinner for 2 persons with bottomless cocktail, surprise gift, complimentary late checkout, tickets with 5 attractions to their partner theme park, and a lot more!

Visit Bayview Park Hotel Manila and have a wonderful Holiday! 

Bayview Park Hotel Manila

Address: 1118 Roxas Boulevard corner United Nations Avenue Manila, 1000 Philippines 

Telephone Number: +63­02­5261555 

Website: www.bayviewparkhotel.com