November 2021 | Thunderbird Resort

November 16, 2021

Discover Philippines: Five Places to Visit in Rizal

Sitting to the east of the Philippines’ capital city and largest metropolitan, Rizal, is a mountainous province that is only a few hours’ drive away from the city.

Located approximately 19 kilometers away from the capital, Rizal is perched on the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountain, and if you have not guessed by now, it is named after the country’s national hero, Jose Rizal.

Considering its proximity to Metro Manila, it is inevitable for it to become one of the most-visited destinations by families, couples, and large groups for weekend excursions. Unfortunately, it is also because of its accessibility that some visitors tend to overlook it. Indeed, Rizal is easily eclipsed by other nearby cities such as Tagaytay and Batangas, but if you gave this charming destination a chance, it might just surprise you. Rizal is generally cooler, which makes it an attractive and ideal spot for those who wish to escape the stifling warm weather of Metro Manila.

So, if you are wondering where to go in Rizal, below are just a few of the places you should include in your weekend itinerary:

1.) Avilon Zoo

If you have been wanting to visit the Zoo with the largest collection of animals in the Philippines, you are in for a treat at the Avilon Zoo. A 7.5-hectare facility, Avilon Zoo is a family-friendly destination situated in the town of Rodriguez. It boasts of at least 3,000 specimens of exotic wildlife all under its roof. Their extensive and impressive collection consists of more than five hundred types of amphibians, birds, freshwater fish, invertebrates, mammals, and reptiles.

The Zoo also has an array of animals endemic to our country, many of which were born in captivity under the Zoo’s off-site conversation program. A visit to the Zoo with your kids will certainly be educational as freely exploring the facility is encouraged. For those who wish to go on tours, Avilon Zoo also offers guided tours and invites visitors to feed some species for a more immersive and friendly encounter.

2.) Treasure Mountain

Outdoor and hiking enthusiasts looking for a nearby hiking trail will love Treasure Mountain. Known for its effortless sea of clouds sitting atop the majestic view of the Sierra Madre mountain ranges, Treasure Mountain has become more of a tourist spot than anything else. For those who wish to experience the sights and nothing else, this Tanay Rizal tourist spot offers day tours for families and friends who just wish to see the clouds. For the best experience, be sure to visit the mountain at dawn to catch the sunrise and take in the breathtaking and magnificent views. If you wish to see the sea of clouds, be sure to be at the mountain between 5AM to 8AM. Keep in mind, however, that this largely depends on the weather conditions for that day.

3.) Angono- Binangonan Petroglyphs

Regarded as an important historic site, The Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs houses one of the oldest known artworks in the country. The ancient images carved into a wall of solid rock in the mountainside of Angono and Binagonan are something to marvel at. Visitors who wish to immerse themselves in something that touches on history should definitely make it a point to include this place in their itinerary. In total, there are about 127 engraved figures that date back to the Neolithic period in the rear recesses—all of which would give you a glimpse and an insight into how our earliest ancestors once lived. The images themselves, which are said to be associated with magic and healing, are worth the visit.

4.) ATV Adventure Rizal

If you are looking for something a little different to do on your weekend getaway, why not try something that gets your adrenaline pumping? ATV riding across the rugged terrain and muddy trails of lush forests in Rizal remains to be one enjoyable weekend activity that visitors seemingly come back for again and again. If you wish to take part in this adrenaline-pumping activity, you can do so at ATV Adventures Rizal, located along Sapinit Road in Antipolo. Travelers can then choose to ride 4X4 vehicles across different trails. The inexperienced need not worry as they offer safety demos for beginners.

5.) Pililla Wind Farm

If you wish to see windmills, you no longer need to go way up north to Bangui, Ilocos Norte. Now, you can marvel at these tall structures in the province of Rizal. Admittedly, the Pililla Wind Farm is not exactly a tourist spot of Tanay Rizal as it is already within the vicinity of Pililla, but its proximity to Rizal often leads visitors to think that the area still forms part of Tanay, Rizal. Upon reaching the Pililla Wind Farm, you can already see 27 wind turbines strategically scattered over the mountains overseeing Laguna Lake. These are erected to supply renewable energy to neighboring areas. Moreover, visitors who wish to take amazing photos will definitely love the dramatic backdrop the wind farm offers.

November 16, 2021

Discover Philippines: Five Places to Visit in Antipolo for A Quick Getaway

Metro Manila, albeit a progressive city, can be quite a stressful environment.

For those of us who have an affinity with bustling cities, Metro Manila reminds us of beautiful chaos where amid the pandemonium, we see aspects and elements that we can appreciate. However, a busy city is better appreciated when you can easily escape it every once in a while. When you are unable to, the sights and sounds can easily overwhelm and suffocate you.

Considering how the pandemic has compelled most of us to quarantine at home, many of us are itching to visit nearby areas for that much-needed break from the city. Luckily, a lot of cities in proximity to Manila have already opened up their borders to visitors, so much so that it is now possible to go on day trips to nearby towns. Antipolo, a town just a few kilometers away from Metro Manila, is famous for its famous pilgrimage spots and quirky cafes. Until today, it remains a charming destination for groups of friends, families, and couples who are looking for a quick jaunt away from the busy city.

So, where to go in Antipolo this GCQ?

If you are asking yourself the same question, read on below for the town’s most famous spots and attractions:

1.) Hinulugang Taktak

If you are itching to take a dip in one of Mother Nature’s gifts, visit one of the nearest and most accessible waterfalls in Antipolo. What makes this destination even better is that it requires no hiking to reach. Hinulugang Taktak is one of Antipolo’s most famous landmarks, and the surroundings of this 12-meter high waterfall are designated as a national park.

While visitors were permitted to swim in the basin of the falls, pollution, and rapid urbanization has made it unfit for swimming that it is no longer recommended for visitors. Not to worry, however, the park is renovated with a view deck, gazebos, and swimming pools which everyone can enjoy.

2.) Pinto Art Museum

Known for its several galleries separated by doorways from where its name was coined, Pinto Art Museum is another famous destination in Antipolo. What makes Pinto Art Museum such a compelling visit is the Spanish architecture interspersed with Mediterranean elements. The museum also offers a picturesque view of the metro, so those who wish to pepper and update their social media feed with great photos have limitless chances to do so here.

3.) Cloud 9

Anyone looking for an overlooking view of the busy metropolis should definitely make it a point to stop by Cloud 9. Incredibly popular among the younger crowd, Cloud 9 gives visitors a panoramic view of the busy city amid a cool and romantic ambiance. It is an ideal spot for friends and families to congregate as they can enjoy a number of recreational activities in the area with the city as your backdrop.

4.) The Burrow’s Cafe at Antipolo Beehouse

Antipolo is known for its array of garden cafes and restaurants perfect for romantic dates and family getaways. While there are plenty of established cafes and restaurants that have already made their mark on tourists, Antipolo still has a handful of hidden gems that only a few seemingly know about. One of these is the newly opened nature-inspired restaurant known as The Burrow’s Cafe at Antipolo Beehouse. Located literally underground craved beneath a sloping terrain, The Burrow is an excellent choice for travelers and visitors seeking a little privacy or who just wish to be away from the crowds. The

lush and verdant cafe has large airy windows that give diners a generous view of the surrounding forest.

5.) Yellow Bird Cafe X Kitchen

After a long and tiring drive to Antipolo, you definitely deserve to treat yourself to a hearty meal, whether that may be a full lunch or a delightful afternoon snack. With that in mind, make sure that Yellow Bird Cafe X Kitchen is one of your stops in Antipolo. The restaurant has a rather expansive menu with delectable items. If you are craving something heavy, you may want to try their fork-tender Grade 6 Wagyu Flat Iron steak that already comes with potato gratin and French beans. However, if you are only stopping for a snack, be sure to order their sinfully delicious White Chocolate Sans Rival and complement it with their Coconut x Mocha flavored latte. While this place may not give you any panoramic or overlooking views of Antipolo, it certainly has a lot of instagramable spots, plus the food is affordable, filling, and mouthwateringly good.

While Antipolo is often overlooked as a weekend getaway owing to its proximity to the city, the town certainly has plenty to offer in terms of sights and activities. So, on your next weekend excursion, try this nearby town, and you may just be surprised at the myriad of interesting and unique things it has to offer.

November 16, 2021

Unwind and Relax: Five Things to Do in La Union

Long ago, La Union was considered a sleepy town by many.

It was mostly known for its surfing spots, but little to nothing else apart from that.

Over the recent years, however, the once sleepy town is not so sleepy anymore and is recognized by many as one of the best destinations to visit in the country. Today, it is regarded by many as the surfing capital of the Philippines. Incidentally, it is considered by many as the playground of city folk, Manileños in particular. That said, it did not take long before La Union became what would be an inevitably popular weekend and holiday destination. While it may be a little bit far from the country’s capital, Metro Manila, many remain undeterred by its far-flung location, with tourists and locals alike flocking to this surfing hotspot almost every weekend.

Located 4-5 hours away from the city, “Elyu,” as the locals have lovingly dubbed it, is famous for the beach town of San Juan. This beach town has also been regarded as “The Surfing Capital of Northern Philippines” and remains to be one of La Union’s major tourist destinations. Luckily, La Union is not only known for surfing as there are myriad more activities for visitors to do.

Indeed, there are many things to do in La Union, and if you are itching to explore what these are, read on below:

1.) Surf in San Juan

Of course, a visit to the surfing capital of the country would be incomplete without shredding some waves. As La Union is dubbed as the country’s surfing capital, it should come as no wonder that surfing would be a beloved and favorite activity among the visitors. If you have no experience in surfing, you need not worry as surf schools can be found along the shores of Urbiztondo Beach, which boasts of swells ideal for surfing.

2.) Marvel Ma-Cho Temple’s beauty

Never miss the opportunity to visit the Ma-Cho Temple whenever you are in San Fernando, La Union. Considered as one of the tourist spots in La Union, this magnificent and impressive temple overlooks the West Philippine Sea and is considered a living testament to the great influence the Chinese had in the province. Named after the Chinese deity Ma-Cho, this Taoist temple is said and believed to be the counterpart of Our Lady of Caysasay in Tall, Batangas. Similarly, an image of the Virgin Mary sits inside the temple as well.

3.) Climb up Pagoda Hill

The Pagoda Hill, or otherwise known as the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Pagoda, is another notable and must-visit hotspot in La Union. It is located northeast of Capitol Hills in Barangay II (Poblacion). Once there, visitors are treated to stunning and picturesque panoramic views of the city and San Fernando Bay.

4.) Cool yourself with Halo-Halo de Iloko

If you have been under the sweltering heat all day, why not cool yourself off with one of the best cold sweet treats La Union has to offer? Located in a residential area in San Fernando City, Halo-halo de Iloko is an eatery that serves the best halo-halo in the city. Like the traditional and conventional halo-halo, it comes with all the standard ingredients such as red beans, tapioca, bits of cheese, nata de coco, coconut strips, ube Halaya, ice cream, and yema, among many others. However, what sets this frosty treat apart from the rest is that the mountain rice added to it tastes like pulvoron. As a result, it adds another dimension to an already beloved dessert. So, if you ever find yourself in San Fernando City, make sure you try Halo-halo de Iloko and never leave La Union without tasting it.

5.) Relax at Thunderbird Resort

At Thunderbird Resort, relaxation is paramount, and if you need a little break from the constant stress of the city, you may just want to treat yourself to a night at Thunderbird Resort. Located in Poro Point and in a peninsula perched on a 100-foot cliff, Thunderbird Resort is a 65-hectare world-class Santorini-inspired beach resort. Promising relaxing and stress-free days, Thunderbird offers a stylish and ambient atmosphere to its guests. To unwind, guests may choose to try their hand at the resort’s in-house international casino, play a round of golf or relax by the magnificent seaside beach. Considered as one of the best hotels and resorts in La Union, Thunderbird offers exceptional and superb amenities and superb facilities at an excellent location. So, if you wish to take your excursion to the next level and treat yourself to a relaxing stay, book your vacation at Thunderbird Resorts. Here, you can be assured of a luxurious and comfortable stay that makes for a memorable and enjoyable experience in La Union.