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Lifestyle, Travel

The Greatest Locations in Japan for Plum Blossom Viewing

Why not try something different and enjoy the Japanese plum blossoms, or “ume” as the Japanese refer to them, while everyone else is admiring the cherry blossoms? These reddish-pink and white blossoms, which bloom from mid-February to early March, represent perseverance and rejuvenation and mark the arrival of spring. When you travel at this time of year, you can avoid the masses that congregate for the cherry blossom season.

The following are some of the top locations to view the plum blossoms:

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto


Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

The Kitano Tenmangu shrine has been known for its plum blossoms for hundreds of years. There are over 50 varieties of and around 1,500 plum blossom trees planted in the area marking the beginning of spring in Kyoto.. Every year on February 25th, Kitano Tenmangu hosts the “Baikasai” or the Plum Blossom Festival.

The easiest way to get to Kitano Tenmangu is by bus. From Kyoto Station, take the Kyoto City bus 50 or 101 and get off at the Kitano Tenmangu-mae stop.

Kairakuen, Mito


Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

Mito is famous for its plum blooms that there is a festival held  from late February to late March at the Kairakuen Garden to celebrate their arrival. People come from all over to see the beautiful landscape light up with pink and white flowers. There are thousands of plum trees in the Kairakuen Garden with over 100 varieties of plum.

To get to Mito, take the JR Joban Line from Shinagawa, Tokyo, or Ueno Station to Mito Station. From there, it’s a 30-minute walk along the edge of Lake Senba to Kairakuen Garden.

Yushima Tenjin Shrine, Tokyo


Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

One of Tokyo’s most well-liked late-winter festivities, the 67th Yushima Tenjin Ume Matsuri (Plum Blossom Festival) is happening this year from February 8 to March 8. With its 300 plum blossom trees, the Yushima Tenjin Shrine garden is a peaceful haven in the hectic city. There are well-kept gardens, red bridges, and a general feeling of happiness.

The Yushima Tenjin shrine is next to Ueno Park and can be reached by foot in two minutes from Yushima Station’s Exit 3 on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line.

A key component of Japanese springtime are the exquisite plum blossom tree blossoms. As the flower of renewal, plum blossoms are cherished for their longevity and beauty in Japan, and seeing one will definitely pique your curiosity about the country!

You can visit the Japan Online Media Center (JOMC) (http://business.jnto.go.jp/) for more downloadable images and videos of Japan’s stunning and fascinating tourist destinations for use in media.

Travel

Take delight to Forest Crest Nature Hotel and Resort and embrace the nature’s tranquil

The appeal of nature is stronger than ever in a world where digital distractions are all around us. The Forest Crest Nature Hotel and Resort in Nasugbu is charming precisely because of this. This vast 100-hectare paradise is more than just a place to go on vacation; it’s an open invitation to escape everyday life and feel the peaceful embrace of nature.

Camping at Forest Crest means something entirely different. Not only is it a great way to decompress, but it’s also a chance to take in the tranquil atmosphere of the forest, take in the clean air, and make lifelong memories. Here, the objective is to set off on a comprehensive adventure that nourishes the body and the soul, not just to get away.

Forest Crest is more than your typical resort. With 70% of the property blanketed in rich greenery, it welcomes not just families, but also weekend adventurers and groups of friends seeking an extraordinary escape from the mundane. Picture wide-open spaces that can accommodate up to 1500 people for team-building activities and day tours for a staggering 20,000 visitors.

A camping vacation at Forest Crest is tucked away in the protective arms of nature. Imagine daring treetop excursions, thrilling ATV rides, and forest treks all set against the breathtaking backdrop of nature’s grandeur.

Forest Crest facilitates accessibility for all campers, regardless of experience level, by offering reasonably priced tent rentals for novices and experienced campers alike.

Entertainment, Travel

BingoPlus matches the Panagbenga Festival’s flowers with music

BingoPlus, the nation’s first online bingo app and a comprehensive entertainment and amusement platform, went all out to celebrate and increase the stakes at Baguio’s Panagbenga Festival.

A month-long flower show, the Panagbenga Festival was established as a memorial to Baguio’s flora and the resilience of the Filipino people amid the 1990 Luzon Earthquake. BingoPlus, for its part, recognized the significance of the celebration and wished to recognize the labor of love that usually comes before recreation and enjoyment.

BingoPlus opened up shop in two places where guests may play a range of games. During the period it was open from February 23 to February 25, 2024, the Melvin Jones Football Grounds booth featured several activities such as color game, ring toss, photo wall, mirror selfies, and The Wall. Similar to this, the Session Road booth, which was operational from February 26 to March 3, 2024, encouraged onlookers to participate in Bingo Rush and the color game as well as to hang out at its mirror selfie station and picture wall.

On top of giving away merchandise to those who played at its booths, BingoPlus also awarded the victors of the Grand Street Dance Parade and the Grand Floral Parade Php 50,000 each. Furthermore, BingoPlus was seen participating in the floral parade with a float featuring brand mascot BingBing.

Notably, BingoPlus hosted an additional event to ramp up the liveliness and energy of the festival.

The BingoPlus Concert Stage, a variety show, at the Melvin Jones Football Grounds brought in various artists to take the stage. There were performances from Tony Labrusca, The Nameless Kids, Pop 3HSome, Project Z, A Class, and Trainee AE to name a few. Some of the performers took part in the variety show’s Acoustic Idol segment, with the grand winner receiving Php 20,000.

ArenaPlus and BingoPlus are brands that are committed to the well-being of Filipinos and the advancement of Philippine culture. They do not waver in their support of regional sports, entertainment, and leisure pursuits. They are still working on creating channels and opportunities to increase the accessibility and relevance of sports and leisure for Filipinos.

Digiplus Interactive Corp.’s core brands, BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, firmly establish the company as the nation’s top supplier of gaming and entertainment. Visit www.bingoplus.com and www.arenaplus.net for additional updates, or get the apps right now from Google Play and the App Store.

Travel

An Exploration and Adventure Trip

“Banwa Private Island – A Two-Part Adventure” premiere screening
filmed on location and produced by Asian Air Safari

This week, more than 200 visitors from the Philippines, Hong Kong, and other countries saw a sneak peek at the documentary “Banwa Private Island – A Two Part Adventure,” which was produced by Asian Air Safari and shot on location.


Guests enjoy the hospitality ahead of the movie screening.

The entrance to Palawan’s extraordinarily rich and varied terrestrial and marine ecosystem is located on Banwa Private Island. In the local Palawano language, “banwa” literally means “community,” and the Tagbanwa people are regarded as the protectors of the area’s natural heritage. Through its Aquos Foundation, whose mission is to maintain, nurture, and protect the island’s unique biodiversity, proceeds from the island directly benefit infrastructure and educational initiatives in the region.

The documentary highlights how guests are coming from around the world to explore the culture, history and ecology of this unique region.  A truly private island with just 6 beautiful villas, guests enjoy un-paralleled hospitality from the Banwa Private Island team whilst being entranced by the nature, wildlife, beaches and stunning turquoise water in this mosquito free environment.  Within just a 20-minute radius, there are an array of activities including snorkeling, diving, hiking, an underground river, waterfalls and unique wildlife indigenous to the area.

The documentary was produced by the enigmatic and humbling Captain Joy Roa, CEO Of Asian Air Safari, who commented:  “I was given a beautiful opportunity to visit this incredible island with its rich bio-diversity, right in our own backyard in the Philippines. Flying with the helicopter for only two hours from Manila allowed me to see this private world – a distinctive combination of luxurious pampering and hospitality, wildlife encounters, and authentic, meaningful interactions with the local community. Experiencing it all first-hand makes me proud that an award-winning, world-class property like Banwa Private Island can be found in the Philippines, because it defines what positive, impactful travel should be.”


Captain Joy and Richard Beattie (centre) flanked by  Banwa Private Island and Asian Air Safari teams.

Banwa Private Island is the vision of Richard Beattie who has been exploring the region for over 20 years and cannot escape the charm and lure of these islands.  Richard commented, “We are so grateful to Captain Joy and his brilliant team for this incredible documentary.  It enables people to have an insight into the sounds, smells, culture and scenery of this almost unknown region and Captain Joy immersed himself into every aspect of what the region offers.  His generosity is unbounded, and he appears to have found quite a few future pilots for his team from the eager local school children!”

The finest of the luxury travel industry, who have already scheduled guest visits to the island from far-off places like Brazil, China, and Europe, as well as a surprising number of people from Manila who were previously unaware of the adventure that awaits them in Palawan, made up the international audience that attended the screening.

A fantastic teaser of the two-part documentary can be viewed
 via this link. The video will be available for general viewing in March.

Lifestyle, Travel

Japan Is A Winter Wonderland: Five Other Places to Go

In the winter, Japan is a lovely place. Some of the greatest places to visit when the weather cools off are revealed! Despite its reputation for having superb snow, Japan is a place of boundless discovery with a plethora of other things to see and do. Check out some other possibilities for the snow enthusiast who isn’t into skiing or snowboarding if you want to avoid the slopes.

Rejuvenate Your Body In an Onsen


Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

Winter is the ideal season to visit onsens, which are open year-round and offer the opportunity to soak in mineral waters that relax muscles and improve blood flow. These onsens are a great spot to unwind and enjoy the breathtaking scenery that is only visible in the winter.

Take Hyogo Prefecture’s historic hot spring resort, Kinosaki Onsen. In the winter, the entire town is illuminated. Put on a yukata, explore the town, then stop by one of the seven public bathhouses that are open to tattoo artists.

Kinosaki is on the San’in Main Line on the JR railway and is accessible from Osaka and Kyoto. It’s definitely worth a visit!

Watch The Snow Monkeys Play


Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

When the winter gets cold, even the monkeys hit the onsen! Japanese Macaques or “Snow Monkeys” are a highlight of the Japanese winter season. Watch them bathe and frolic in the snowy forest at the Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture.

The monkeys visit the park year-round and can be seen soaking in the hot springs in winter. December to March is usually the best time to witness them bathing. To get there, buses run to Kanbayashi Onsen near the trail leading into the park from many popular destinations around the prefecture. From Kanbayashi Onsen, it’s a 25 to 40-minute walk to the Snow Monkey Park. Alternatively, if you’re coming via train or bus, you may also disembark at the Snow Monkey Park bus stop and walk 35 minutes to the park. Be advised that visitors are prohibited from touching or feeding the wildlife.

Check Out The Sapporo Snow Festival


Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

One of the most famous events in Japan is the Sapporo Snow Festival. Every year in early February, about 400 giant ice sculptures draw crowds from all over the world.

Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido and has its own international airport so it’s easy to get to as well as being one of the most popular destinations in Japan. Take in the sights and stunning illuminations while enjoying the local beer! It’s worth a trip.

See The Snow Monsters of Zao


Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

Mt. Zao is known for its ski resort but also for the unique formations that turn the mountain trees into “Snow Monsters” or “Juhyo”. In the winter, these fir trees get covered in ice and turn into towering pillars of snow. This phenomenon is rare and Mt. Zao is one of the few places in the world where conditions allow for it.

Zao Onsen Ski Resort is located in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture and is accessible by bus from Yamagata Station.

Go Ice Fishing on Lake Gando

Nestled in Iwate Prefecture is Lake Gando. It’s called “the coldest place in Honshu”! From mid-January to late March, you can rent some gear and try your hand at ice fishing for smelt. Once you’ve caught enough, you can ask the rest house to fry it up for you tempura style.

The Tohoku Shinkansen runs service between Morioka and Tokyo, so getting to Iwate prefecture is easy. Once you’re there, the lake is about an hour from Morioka Station. You can rent fishing gear at the Gandoko Rest House.

An amazing destination to visit in the winter is Japan. There are tons of interesting activities and experiences that you shouldn’t pass up! It’s fantastic how the many lit-up, picture-perfect cities contrast with the austere beauty of the surrounding countryside! Japan has a plethora of things to explore in the winter. These are only a few suggestions!

You can visit the Japan Online Media Center (JOMC) (http://business.jnto.go.jp/) for more downloadable images and videos of Japan’s stunning and fascinating tourist destinations for use in media.

Travel

GET AWAY THIS JOLLY SEASON

Savor a party designed for perfection amid the marine sanctuary of Banwa Private Island.

A magical and eco-friendly Christmas tree, lively Filipino carols performed by our own island’s chorale group, and holiday dinners including “World Cuisine” influenced by bright Asian flavors?

Indulge your senses in our exclusive beachfront villas, which have a modern interior style mixed with tropical influences. One-bedroom villas for two people start at $3,250 per night.

Savor delectable meals every day for breakfast, lunch, supper, and sundowner, as well as massages and non-motorized water sports. Included in your island getaway are free speedboats and return airport transportation to Palawan. Take an adventurous cruise on the Barbacan River as well.

Come celebrate with us in a way that is beyond the norm.


BOOK OUR FESTIVE HOLIDAY ISLAND STAY


Early Booking Island Stay
 

Unlock timeless experiences. Whether celebrating life’s milestones under the stars or fostering business connections with a torch-lit beach banquet, Banwa Private Island offers a sanctuary of possibilities.

DISCOVER OUR ISLAND OASIS

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Experiences

Beyond Banwa Private Island, a world of adventure, marine marvels, and cultural immersion awaits. Escape to a pristine sandbank for a day trip or spend a captivating sundowner, embark on traditional line fishing at Constance Shoal, and for those seeking cultural enrichment, visit the Tumarbong Organic Farm.

13 GREAT EXPERIENCES

https://banwaprivateisland.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=89ad1f2376511a1d0cc1a386e&id=f863dbfc57&e=3e1094de06

Embark on a journey of unparalleled luxury

For additional details and inquiries, please visit www.banwaprivateisland.com., send an email to [email protected] or call the Reservations staff at +639178882864.

Lifestyle, Travel

Memorable October Experiences in Japan

There is always more to learn on each trip to Japan. Even though Japan has numerous well-known tourist attractions, some visitors prefer to stray from the crowds. Here are some suggestions to look into if it describes you and your visit! Festivals and fandom converge in October to create remarkable experiences ideal for both occasional and devoted guests.


(Mimaru Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo main entrance)

Mimaru Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo

Consider staying at the Mimaru Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo if you ever find yourself in Kyoto! This hotel has newly reopened, and you are cordially invited. It offers good lodging in a variety of entertaining rooms, including one with a Pokemon theme for those seeking a lively experience.

There are family rooms and single rooms, both of which are large and immaculate. While having access to communal spaces, you will also have your own private space. If you plan on staying for more than a few nights, this location is the best spot to stay.


(Pokemon Room)

Mimaru Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo is located very centrally, close to Kyoto Station, so it would make an excellent home base for you to see other cities during your stay in Japan. You may leave your bags at the hotel’s luggage storage before checking in or after checking out, so you can explore Kyoto hassle-free!

Hita City

Are you a fan of the international sensation Attack on Titan? If that’s the case, then you will love Hita City! It’s the birthplace of Hajime Isayama, the creator of the smash hit anime.

Many spots in Hita City were featured in the story, so any fan will go wild over those locations. The whole city participates in the Attack On Titan fandom! There are bronze statues of the main characters at the foot of the Oyama Dam, and there is also a statue of the character of Levi Ackerman in front of JR Hita Station.

Be sure to visit the Attack on Titan Museum–it features some of Isayama’s drawings and is free to enter. If you have a Japanese phone, you can even play an Attack On Titan game specially designed to be played in Hita City.

The closest hub to Hita City is Fukuoka. Hita City is an 80-minute ride via JR trains. There is also an option to use the highway bus which should take about an hour and a half.

Tokyo

Staying in Tokyo means all sorts of excellent events and activities all year round. This October, tons of unique experiences are open to you!

teamLab Planets

teamLab Planets was just recently named Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction by the World Travel Awards. Do not miss out on this incredible visual feast. It’s so popular that its run has been extended until 2027!

Walk through different halls of wonder. There are rooms full of flowers and enchanted spaces that take on a dream-like quality. Don’t forget to bring your phone because the Instagram stories you can make in this spot will surely be a hit!

teamLab Planets is easily accessible from Shin-Toyosu Station and about 10 minutes on foot from Toyosu Station. It’s also 5 minutes on foot from Shijo-mae Station and Toyosu Market.

Tohaku Chakan


Photo provided by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization)

At the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park, you will find the tranquil grounds of the Tohaku Chakan. It’s a slice of Japanese history with cultural shows, authentic Japanese activities, and delicacies inside the museum’s Okyokan, a traditional 270-year-old Japanese house. If you are interested in Japanese culture, this is an excellent place to visit.

The Ueno Park Station is the closest train station if you want to check out the Tohaku Chakan. While you are in the area, there are a few other attractions in Ueno Park like the zoo and the Ueno Royal Museum.

Japan Mobility Show

Do you like motorcycles? Then you must include the Japan Mobility Show (formerly the Tokyo Motor Show) on your list. This event features a wide range of topics, including automobiles, motorsports, and whatever the future of the sector holds. Expect an intriguing roster this year as the autofest returns with a vengeance! The event has been taking place since the 1950s but was put on hold owing to the pandemic. Visit Tokyo Big Sight from October 28–November 5, 2023, to see it. There are various rail options to get to Tokyo Big Sight, but the Yurikamome monorail is the most practical.

This October in Japan, there is something for everyone! Whether you have a passion for Pokemon or Japanese history, you’ll always find something intriguing to learn. Every trip to Japan is unique, and this October there is a fantastic program of cultural events that will make your journey extraordinary.

News, Travel

A Top Destination Is Banwa Private Island

Banwa Private Island, a multi-award-winning all-villa getaway in the Philippines’ Palawan province, is proud to announce that it has once again received the prestigious “Private Island of the Year” award from Destination Deluxe. This acknowledgment highlights Banwa Private Island’s persistent dedication to giving its visitors an amazing and sustainable experience.

Private Island of the Year 2023 Winner: Banwa Private Island

The Commercial Director of Banwa Private Island, Pamela Balce, expressed her happiness upon learning of the honor by saying, “We are truly humbled by this recognition as it highlights the dedication of our team to sustainability, authenticity, and exceptional service. Banwa Private Island’s commitment to creating an extraordinary guest experience remains unwavering, and we are honored to be acknowledged alongside environmental innovations by the Aquos Foundation.”

The extraordinary quality, honesty, and innovation that Banwa Private Island continually provides are attested to by the Destination Deluxe Awards, which honor leaders and innovators in wellness and travel. The awards honor and praise change-makers who push the boundaries and innovate in their respective industries. The awards are judged by a distinguished panel of 20 judges, which includes well-known industry professionals.

Banwa Private Island was also recently honored with the prestigious award for “The Philippines’ Best Beach, Island, or Upcountry Resort” in the first Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023, further reaffirming its position as a top tourist destination in the region. Additionally, Banwa Private Island rose to a lofty echelon of world-class hospitality after being hand-selected by the esteemed Robb Report editors for inclusion in their inaugural list of “The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth.” This carefully picked list of classic hotels from around the world that transcend trends and achieve genuine—and sustained—greatness was created by Robb Report, a publication renowned for its rigorous standards.

In the midst of breathtaking natural beauty, Banwa Private Island offers a haven of solitude and peace. Modern beachfront residences on the garden island guarantee seclusion and tranquility for discerning visitors. Banwa Private Island raises the bar for opulent hospitality in the area with its dedication to eco-friendly methods and experiential travel.

Contact the bookings team by phone or WhatsApp at +639178882864, send an email to [email protected], or visit their website for additional details.

Lifestyle, Travel

Hassle free travel in Banwa Private Island and be amaze with it

Eliminate the trouble of traveling!

Sunlight Air has been adding flights to its schedule steadily lately, and they are getting closer to their pre-pandemic frequency of almost daily flights from Manila to San Vincente airport in Palawan.

Enjoy our VIP meet-and-greet and fast track service at the Manila International Airport, a quick transfer to Sunlight Air’s private lounge, and a thrilling one-hour flight on an ATR 72 aircraft to the center of Palawan.

From there, take pleasure in a one-hour scenic ride through Palawan’s breathtaking tropical interior to the quaint coastal town of Roxas while being pampered in luxury. For a relaxing 25-minute trip to Banwa Private Island, you will board our amphibious Iguana Commuter Yacht here.

Contact the reservation team by phone or WhatsApp at +639178882864, send an email to [email protected], or visit their website www.banwaprivateisland.com. for additional details.

Lifestyle, Travel

Getting Ready for the First Historic Victory Day Bike Ride in Baguio Honoring WWII Veterans is the Philippine Veterans Bank

A historic occasion that combines sporting and history will take place in Baguio City. On September 3, 2023, the Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) will host the first-ever Victory Day Ride, which will take cycling enthusiasts and history buffs on a tour to remember the sacrifices made by World War II veterans and spread awareness of Baguio Victory Day.

Mike Villa-Real, PVB first vice president for marketing and communications, said “the enactment of R.A. 11216 in 2018, marks September 3rd of each year as a special working holiday, marking Yamashita’s surrender and Victory Day in the Philippines. This day in 1945 is clearly a significant historical event marking the success and along with it, the toil and sacrifices, of the soldiers of both the United States and the Philippines. However, it is not as well-known as the “Araw ng Kagitingan” (Day of Valor) commemorated April 9 each year.”  

Organized in partnership with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), City Government of Baguio, Wartime Heritage Guild Philippines (WHG), Without Limits, Salgado PR, this ride aims to foster a deeper understanding of the city’s significant role during WWII while encouraging active participation in the sport of cyclists of all ages and backgrounds.

Inspired by the annual Ride for Valor that retraces the infamous Death March, the Victory Day Bike Ride takes a different route, focusing on the historical sites and landmarks associated with Baguio City’s role in World War II. Cyclists and participants will embark on a 44.5 kilometer route that meanders through the city’s picturesque landscapes and historical spots, providing a unique opportunity to relive the past and honor the heroes who fought valiantly for freedom.

While the Ride for Valor primarily focuses on the Death March, the Victory Day Bike Ride aims to balance the narrative by shedding light on the broader scope of World War II history in the Philippines. The Victory Day Bike Ride seeks to increase awareness about Baguio City’s role during the war. The event intends to give due recognition to the countless Filipino and American soldiers who fought for the country’s liberation

The Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) invites sports and cycling enthusiasts to join the Ride for Victory Day, a bike-for-a-cause event that aims to raise funds for the maintenance of the country’s historical markers and other World War 2 heritage sites.

The ride is open to fully vaccinated cyclists and all types of bikes with brakes. Villa-Real said participants may ride at their own pace, and will also implement a “No Helmet, No Ride” policy to ensure the safety of the participants.

Villa-Real also said a mechanic will be available to help those who encounter mechanical difficulties, while roving marshals will be present to keep track of the riders’ progress. Support vehicles are allowed, but riders should only ride in the vehicle if they choose to drop out of the event.

The non-competitive bike ride will have 5 pitstops: Start at Baguio City Hall, First Stop, Camp Allen, Second Stop, USAFIP-NL Marker, Third Stop, Sablan View Deck, Fourth Stop, Fort Del Pilr (Philippine Military Academy), Fifth and Final Stop, US Embassy in Camp John Hay.

The Ride for Victory Day registration price is P600 and includes a commemorative medal, an official event jersey, a race bib and passport, a loot bag, and a post-ride feast.

Before September 1, interested parties may register online at https://bit.ly/victorydayride-regform, while groups may send an email to [email protected]. Participants may also register on-site at the Baguio City branch of INSERT BIKE SHOP PARTNERS.

Veterans and their families from World War 2 own PVB, a private commercial bank. After the Bank’s new Charter was enacted into law, Post War Veterans and AFP Retirees became part owners.

Follow Victory Day Ride on Facebook to learn more about the occasion.