Pack Your Bags! Here Are Underrated Destinations a Ride Away from Manila

Luxury wellness retreat The Farm at San Benito is the first resort in the Philippines to be under Marriott International’s The Autograph Collection.

This announcement was made on Apr. 30, 2025, following Marriott International Inc. and CG Hospitality’s signed agreement. The Farm at San Benito, Autograph Collection is expected to welcome guests towards the end of Q3 this year. 

The Autograph Collection by Marriott International includes over 100 upscale to luxury hotels worldwide, with its Asian portfolio including the Hotel Muse in Bangkok, the Maxwell Reserve Singapore, and The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

With its brand promising “Exactly Like Nothing Else,” the brand is known for its curated collection of boutique hotels, with each chosen for their inherent craft and distinct perspectives on design and hospitality that offer rich and immersive moments for their guests. 

The Autograph Collection is categorized into four curated experiences: Beachside Getaways, Rich with History, Hidden Gems, and Centered in the Arts. 

The Farm at San Benito is the first wellness-focused property in the Autograph Collection, falling under the categories “Beachside Getaways” and “Hidden Gems.” 

“We’re excited to collaborate with CG Hospitality on the debut of Marriott International’s Autograph Collection brand in the Philippines — a milestone that expands our footprint in this vibrant market,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International.

“With wellness emerging as a key driver of travel decisions, this is a timely and strategic entry for us. The Philippines, with its rich natural beauty and growing reputation as a rejuvenating destination, offers the ideal setting for the Autograph Collection and underscores our continued commitment to bringing differentiated experiences to new markets across the region.”

The Farm at San Benito, Autograph Collection is a wellness retreat rooted in transformation and personal growth. The property’s philosophy is centered on nurturing personal growth through holistic care — where nutrition, movement, integrated medicine, and mindful living converge to support each guest’s evolving journey towards long-term well-being. 

Located in Lipa, Batangas City, the property is a 90-minute drive from Metro Manila, featuring one-bedroom villas and exclusive two and four-bedroom private pool villas. Upon its relaunch, the resort will feature a swimming pool with a bar, a fully equipped fitness center, a tranquil spa, and a medical wellness center — setting a benchmark for next-generation wellness hospitality in the region. 

Guests can also look forward to a curated culinary journey across five dining venues, the lobby lounge, and two additional bars. 

Offering convenience for both leisure and corporate guests, The Farm at San Benito meets the rising demand for restorative escapes from Manila and beyond. The resort is also near cultural and recreational attractions such as “Little Rome of the Philippines,” the Mount Malarayat Golf & Country Club, and Casa de Segunda, a preserved 19th-century heritage home. 

You may visit The Farm at San Benito, Autograph Collection on their website here. Follow their Facebook and Instagram pages for more information. Book your stay here.

Location: The Farm at San Benito, 119 Barangay Tipacan 4217 Lipa City, Batangas, Philippines

Celebrate the woman who sheds light into our homes by giving her the ultimate special treatment at Solaire Resort Entertainment City.  

This Mother’s Day, treat your mom to a special weekend filled with relaxing stays, lavish brunches, and luxurious spa treatments. Solaire Resort invites you to make your mom feel like a queen by availing some of their special offers, such as booking a Sky Studio room using the Weekend Family Fun offer, which includes a complimentary buffet breakfast at Fresh for two adults and two kids up to 12 years old. By booking a stay, you can also enjoy P2,000 worth of F&B credits at the Pool Bar, and treat mom to a Solaire Signature massage or a soothing facial that will surely make her feel refreshed and relaxed throughout her stay.

Exciting Dining Offers

One thing to love about Solaire Resort is their wide range of culinary delights that satisfy every craving. Make the most of your indulgent stay by starting with a delightful afternoon tea session with mom at Oasis Garden Café, where you can enjoy an assortment of sweet and savory delights from a chamomile macaron and cassis white chocolate petit to a flavorful Salami Milano croquette and cranberry salmon gravlax topped with dill cream cheese. 

Other restaurants also offer a delightful brunch buffet perfect for Mother’s Day morning. At Finestra, you can savor an array of recommended dishes such as the Radicchio Risotto with caramel walnuts and guanciale and the Pan-fried Mackerel with broccolini and lemon sauce. The restaurant also offers sweet desserts and unlimited flutes of champagne or Aperol and Campari spritz from their roving aperitivo trolley. You can also have a grand seafood tower, as well as hand-carved roast beef and a curated selection of cold cuts and luxurious desserts served directly to your table. Talk about a feast fit for a queen!

If mom is craving for some Chinese food, Red Lantern has an all-you-can-eat dim sum buffet and offers a variety of dishes from Crystal Skin Lobsters to their Baked Signature Black Pepper Wagyu Beef Tarts. 

For meat lovers, there are eight interactive live stations at Yakumi offering a great selection of seafood and red meats from grilled Boston lobsters and scallops to Kinross lamb chops and US ribeye steak. The marinated miso foie gras teppanyaki and the Tai sake mushi (Japanese sake-steamed seabream with seasonal vegetables) are also a must-try!

Beat the heat at Waterside with a traditional “boodle fight” and savor a vibrant spread of your favorite Filipino dishes. For an even wider selection, Fresh offers diverse buffet stations featuring the finest seafoods and meats, alongside a variety of cuisines including Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Italian, and Chinese. What’s even more awesome is that moms will be served exclusive drinks on the day, right at their table!

What are you waiting for? Plan a weekend of indulgence for mom by booking a room via their website. For reservations, call ahead at 8888-8888 or email [email protected].

Discover more celebratory perks and offers by following Solaire Resort on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram. 

Great news, travelers! If you’re planning to visit Vietnam’s stunning coastline, Philippine Airlines (PAL) has got you covered as they're set to begin operating flights between Manila and Da Nang from July 1, 2025.

The Philippine flag carrier announced on Apr. 7 that it will be mounting a new thrice-weekly service, starting with late morning and early afternoon departure schedules. 

PR 585 (Manila to Da Nang) will fly every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, departing from Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 11:10 AM and arriving in Da Nang at 12:45 PM. Its return leg, PR 586 (Da Nang to Manila), will operate on the same days, departing Da Nang at 1:35 PM and arriving in Manila at 5:10 PM. It will be deploying Airbus A321 aircraft, which can accommodate up to 199 passengers. PAL will also give travelers the choice of Business Class and Economy Class services. 

“We at Philippine Airlines are excited to strengthen our close relationship with the Vietnamese people with the introduction of direct Manila-Da Nang flights,” said Capt. Stanley K. Ng, PAL President and Chief Operating Officer. “PAL is committed to offering greater connectivity and promoting tourism and commerce between our capital city and the central Vietnamese heartland. We look forward to welcoming more leisure and business travelers onboard our flights to Da Nang.”

The new route is PAL’s third major expansion move in Vietnam this year, with the Manila-Hanoi-Manila route being recently upgraded to a daily service and the new flights between Cebu and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) set to launch on May 2. 

Da Nang is the commercial and educational center of Vietnam, and is considered one of its most important port cities. This coastal destination offers tourists a chance to immerse themselves in rich history, picturesque beaches, and modern attractions and landmarks such as the famed Marble Mountains and Golden Bridge. Several UNESCO World Heritage sites are also within a hundred kilometers of the city, including Hoi An Old Town, the fabled Imperial City of Hue, and My Son ruins. 

Don’t miss this chance to explore this lively coastal destination, and book your flights today via their website. You can also book through the mobile app, contact the PAL Hotline at (+632) 8855-8888, or reach out to their preferred ticketing offices or travel agents. 

For updates on new routes and flight deals, follow Philippine Airlines on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram. 

Reaching Canada won’t take almost a day’s worth of flights anymore. 

Air Canada, the flagship carrier of Canada, says Kumusta! to the Philippines and inaugurated its newest international flights linking Vancouver and Manila on Apr. 3, 2025, further solidifying its presence in Southeast Asia. This service also positions Air Canada as the only North American airline presently serving the most destinations non-stop in Southeast Asia. 

The Philippines is Air Canada’s 12th destination in the Asia Pacific region and is the airline’s third Southeast Asian destination, following Bangkok in 2022 and Singapore in 2024. The news was first announced during the celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Canada-Philippines diplomatic relations in December 2024. 

The first flight from Canada, flight AC017, departed from Air Canada’s Vancouver International Airport (YVR) Pacific Hub on Apr. 2, 2025, at 1:55 AM, and arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) on Apr. 3, 2025, at 6:04 AM. 

Upon its arrival, flight AC017 was welcomed with a water salute by local authorities and a cultural performance by Banda Kawayan Pilipinas by the Philippine Department of Tourism. Festive celebrations also took place at the departure gate before flight AC018 departed, with key government officials present and departing passengers being gifted commemorative luggage tags.  

“We are proud to be the only Canadian carrier flying to the Philippines, building on the longstanding ties between our countries to make visiting family and friends, conducting business, or heading on vacation more convenient than ever. With more than one million Filipinos living in Canada representing an important market, direct air services are a catalyst to facilitating tourism, trade and connectivity, and represent the fastest way of travelling to Manila,” said Mark Galardo, Air Canada’s Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning, & President, Cargo.

“The new route from Vancouver to Manila is welcome news for British Columbians and will help better connect the more than 170,000 Filipino Canadians living here with their loved ones,” said BC Premier David Eby.

Air Canada Manila – Vancouver Flight Schedule

Air Canada will be flying thrice a week for the month of April and will be increasing its frequency to four times a week for their year-round service starting May. They will be flying on their flagship Boeing 787 Dreamline aircraft. 

Air Canada Manila – Vancouver Nonstop Flight Media Press Conference

Air Canada unveiled its newest international route from Vancouver to Manila at a media press conference held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom on Apr. 3, 2025. 

Present at the conference were Rocky Lo, Managing Director of International Sales at Air Canada, Kiyo Weiss, Senior Director of Sales – Asia Pacific at Air Canada, and Hon Lam, Regional General Manager in Hong Kong and Southern China at Air Canada. 

When asked on why Air Canada had chosen the Philippines as its 3rd Southeast Asian destination, Rocky Lo, Air Canada’s Managing Director of International Sales said, “There are one million people in Canada with Filipino descent according to the 2021 Canadian census, so we know that this will help a lot of Canadian with Filipino descent to come home to visit their friends and relatives, as well as people bringing their friends and family from the Philippines to visit Canada.” 

He also said, “A new route is more than a new route, it’s connecting two nations together. It’s connecting friendships, connecting family, connecting business. I’m looking forward to this new route and how it will create memories for our friends in the Philippines.” 

Hon Lam, Air Canada’s Regional Manager in Hong Kong and Southern China echoed this sentiment and said, “We are here to bring not just the two nations, but the two cultures together, and we are actually as much of an ambassador of Canadian culture and also to bring Filipino culture to Canada.” 

Special promotional prices for flights from Manila to Canada are available until Apr. 10, 2025. Customers and interested flyers can visit Air Canada’s website or contact their travel agents for more information. 

Japan has long been a favorite destination among Filipino travelers. From its iconic neon-lit cities and breathtaking natural landmarks, there’s just so much to see, do, and discover there, making it the ideal travel destination no matter what the season. 

Filipinos hoping to make their hanami (flower viewing) dreams come true this Sakura season should know about some changes in the visa application process. 

Starting Apr. 7, travelers will need to process their Japan visas via the new Japan Visa Application Centre (JVAC), handled by VFS Global. These centers are located in five cities across the country, including Manila, Cebu, and Davao. This shift intends to make the application process more efficient, and ensure that more Filipinos will be able to make that Japan trip a reality without delays or stress.

Ready to explore the Land of the Rising Sun? Don’t be intimidated by the change, because we’re here to walk you through the process. Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to apply for your Japan visa today at the new JVAC. 

STEP 1 – Identify Your Visa Type

Like in any travel documentation, it’s important to know the visa type your trip requires and to check whether you’re eligible for it. There are three types you can apply for via the new JVAC: Temporary Visitor (90 Days), Long Term Stay, and Temporary Visitor (Multiple Entry). Also, take note that the VFS will collect a service fee of P520 for each visa application.

If you’re planning on visiting for holiday or business purposes (without reward or pay), this is the visa type for you. Temporary Visitor visas for Philippine nationals are free of charge, and allow you to stay for a maximum of 90 days. 

Required documentations vary depending on the purpose of the visit. You can find more information here. But for tourists, here are the documents that you’ll need:

1. A valid passport
2. Application Form (with 4.5×3.5 cm photo attached）
3. PSA issued Birth Certificate, issued within a year
4. PSA issued Marriage Certificate (for married applicants), issued within a year
5. Trip Itinerary
6. Bank Certificate (balance within the last six months must be shown)
7. Tax Payment Certificate (Form 2316 for employees) - Business owners must also submit proof of actual payment in addition to the BIR Tax Payment Certificate Form (copies acceptable)
8. Employment Certificate (for employees) - For business owners, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) “Certificate of Business Name Registration” and Mayor’s Permit from the City Hall must be submitted
9. School ID or Certificate of Enrollment in School (for students)

Some additional requirements:

• If for any reason other than being a retiree, full-time housewife, or unemployed, you're unable to submit documents 6 and 7, you must submit a letter of explanation.
• Document 3 is unnecessary if you have been granted a Japan visa before.
• If a guarantor in the Philippines will shoulder all or a part of your expenses, a Guarantee Letter, Proof of relationship between applicant and guarantor, Bank Certificate, Tax Payment Certificate, and Employment Certificate must also be submitted. 

Photo Specifications:

• Your photo should have been taken no more than six months before the application time and should be a colored photo with a plain background.
• The size is 45x35 mm and should clearly show your face. 

If you’re applying for a multiple-entry visa, you also need to submit proof that you’re a frequent traveler with financial capacity, and the Request Form for a Multiple-Entry Visa. In addition to that, used Japan visas and landing permissions, as well as visas from G7 countries in the last three years, should also be submitted.

STEP 2 – Start Your Application

Once you’ve confirmed your visa type, it’s time to complete the application form. You can download them here.

Make sure to include all the information needed. It’s recommended to accomplish it in typewritten form for legibility, but if you’re doing it handwritten, make sure to write in print or block letters. Surnames should be capitalized, and boxes should be ticked with an “x.” For more tips on filling up the form, click here.

Once finished, print the form and attach your photo on the upper right side. Bring this form along with the other required documents to your chosen visa application center. 

STEP 3 – Find a Center and Book Your Appointment

The first step is to create your VFS account here. This will grant you access to their booking portal. On the form, you’ll be asked to input details like your full name, nationality, contact number, passport number, appointment category (visa type), and preferred visa center. You can choose from any of the five cities below. All of the centers are open on weekdays from 7 AM to 4 PM, and accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards as modes of payment. 

• Makati City: Ground Floor, Makati Circuit Corporate Center Tower Two, AP. Reyes St. Brgy Carmona, Theater Drive Circuit, Makati City, 1207
• Quezon City: Level 3 Gateway Tower Mall Araneta City Quezon City 0810
• Parañaque City: Level 3, Parqal Mall, Building 5, Diokno Avenue corner Macapagal Boulevard, Paranaque City, Barangay Tambo, Postal Code- 1701, Metro Manila
• Cebu City: Unit 9, 7th floor Faustina Center, Bonifacio District, Cabahug St. Kasambagan, Cebu City, 6000
• Davao City: FES -09 , Second Floor, Alfresco Are, Felcris Centrale, Quimpo Boulevard, Barangay 40 – D, Davao 8000

Once you’ve filled in the necessary details, simply choose a date and time slot for your appointment. It’s important to note that applications only run until noon, so all appointment slots are in the mornings. 

You can also add additional services to your booking, such as courier delivery for your passport (P370), Application tracking via SMS (P150), form-filling aid (P150), and visa ID photography (P180). There’s also premium lounge access for P1,500, which can make your visit more convenient as this includes beverages, a dedicated visa processing aid, a separate waiting room, and priority access. 

Once you’ve confirmed your appointment, you can opt to pay for everything online or pay on-site on the day of your appointment. You will then receive an appointment confirmation email along with the letter of appointment, which you’ll need to print out and bring on the day. If you’re booking as a family or group, you will have to book individual appointments for each member. 

STEP 4 – Submit Your Application On Site

Yes, you will need to submit your application in person at the visa application center of your choice. It’s advisable to be at your designated application center at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time to prevent delays and allow ample time for security checks, as well as allowances for last-minute changes. 

Make sure to bring your original passport, your visa application form, and all the necessary documents (both original and photocopies). If you’ve availed of additional services and paid online, bring the receipt. The P520 service fee will also have to be paid on-site, so make sure to have cash on you. 

Your biometric information will be collected during your visit, so expect to undergo a fingerprint scan and headshot as part of your application. It’s advisable to dress appropriately and confidently on the day. Since they will be taking your photo, don’t wear too much jewelry or heavy makeup. You also cannot wear sunglasses or head coverings unless these are worn for religious or ethical reasons. 

Staff will be there to assist you through the process. Once you’ve finished, you’ll be given a receipt that contains your reference number along with your date of birth. You can use this information to track your application online. You will also receive an update in your registered email once a decision has been made about your application. You may also receive updates via SMS for an additional fee. 

How long does it take?

Once you’re application forms, documents, and biometric information have been collected, your application is considered submitted and is subject to the embassy’s wait times, which may vary depending on your visa type. 

Assuming there are no issues with the documents and application, the processing time typically takes a minimum of six days from the day the application is received. 

However, if the volume of submissions is high, it may take longer. It’s advised that you file your visas well in advance.

STEP 5 – Collect Your Passport

Once a decision has been made, you can pick up your passports at the JVAC if you didn’t avail the courier service. Pick-up times are usually in the afternoon and last until 4 PM. You will also need to bring a valid government ID. 

If someone else is picking it up for you, a letter of authorization will be required, as well as a copy of your valid ID. 

Some Tips

• Create a checklist. To avoid forgetting anything, make a checklist. Organize the documents based on the order mentioned in Step 1. An official from the center will be checking your documents prior to your entry, and this makes it easier for them to sift through the papers. Don’t staple your documents and keep everything in a clear envelope carrier for easier access.
• Map your route and come early. Traffic doesn’t choose hours now, so it’s best to anticipate that your travel times may take longer than what Waze or Google Maps estimates. Look up parking spots beforehand if you're bringing a car, or map out your commute route in advance to avoid getting lost or delayed on your journey.
• Prepare copies in advance. Although there are photocopy machines at the center, they will most likely be crowded. Don’t wait till the last minute to make copies of your documents.
• Take a photo of your receipts. After everything has been submitted, take a snap of your invoice for backup.

FAQs

I want to go to Japan. Do I need a visa?

Philippine passport holders or nationals are required to apply for a visa to be allowed entry into the country. If you hold a different passport, you can check this list to confirm if you need to apply. 

Is there an interview?

There is no interview. Your visit to the JVAC is mainly for submitting the application and biometric information collection.

How early should I apply for a visa?

As processing times vary, we advise starting your application within one to two months of your departure date. This allows you ample time to gather all the necessary documents and anticipate any delays with the embassy. 

My visa application was denied. Can I get a reason?

Unfortunately, it is a common rule followed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic missions that the center cannot provide specific reasons for visa rejection. 

For more information and inquiries, visit the VFS Global official website or contact them via email at [email protected]

Discover Balesin Island Club’s luxurious offerings – accessible with just one exclusive membership. 

Balesin Island Club proudly introduces Balesin Key, an exclusive membership offering made to redefine luxury living. Balesin Key expands Alphaland’s prestigious portfolio for its members, providing access to new destinations beyond Balesin Island – Balesin City and Balesin Pines. 

Introducing Balesin City and Balesin Pines

Balesin City is a luxurious urban retreat where business and leisure seamlessly coexist. Formerly known as The City Club, the facility has everything for its members to enjoy, including business lounges, wide event spaces, and specialty restaurants, mostly the same restaurants found on Balesin Island. The property’s inclusive fitness and recreational facilities ensure that members’ well-being is never compromised. From indoor golf and pickleball to yoga and pilates, maintaining a fitness routine has never been easier. 

Location: 4th to 6th Levels, Alphaland Makati Place 7232 Ayala Avenue Ext., 1209 Makati City

Balesin Pines, on the other hand, is a tranquil gateway for those craving fresh mountain air. With 18 luxury accommodations, an equipped gym, and the signature Leea Spa, relaxation is king at this mountainside retreat. Balesin Pines allows Balesin Key members to recharge in complete comfort, with nature’s soundtrack setting the mood for reflection and serenity. 

Location: Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges Ambuklao Rd., Itogon, Benguet, Philippines

One Key, Three Worlds

“Balesin Key is more than a membership; it’s our members’ passport to three extraordinary worlds that provide a complete lifestyle,” says Joanna Ongpin Duarte, Balesin Spokesperson. 

“This new share allows members access to the tropical island escapes in Balesin Island, the cosmopolitan elegance of Balesin City, and the mountain serenity in Balesin Pines. Our members can experience seamless luxury across our three distinct properties with just one key.” 

Elevated Expansions and Improvements

Balesin Island has elevated its appeal with beautifully refreshed villas, eco-friendly innovations, and a variety of leisure activities, making it the ultimate destination for both relaxation and adventure. 

The villas in Balesin Village now feature a light, airy atmosphere with elegant finishes, expertly curated by Head of Design Rico Sison. Each villa represents the essence of island luxury, offering guests a serene and sophisticated retreat. 

For those seeking nautical elegance, Balesin Island’s 38.5-meter superyacht M/Y Obsessions, now sports a sleek exterior with interior enhancements. Adventurous guests can delight in boat tours, including the scenic “Secret Beach” or “Turtle Cove” excursions, or try water sports like wakeboarding, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving. 

Marine life surrounding the island has also been thriving under Balesin’s coral reef rehabilitation program. 

Foodies are in for a treat with revamped menus at Bali Warung, Costa del Sol Casa Grande, and Han-Gang Mama Lee, offering authentic flavors and memorable dining experiences. Classic Filipino dishes like the kilawin are still iconic must-tries at the Clubhouse Dining and Fish Fun. 

Sustainability remains at the heart of Balesin’s evolution. By September, a solar farm is set to supply up to 60% of the island’s energy, reducing its carbon footprint. 

In April, Hiraya Farm will start welcoming visitors for immersive farm tours. Balesin has partnered with Gourmet Farms to maximize the farm’s produce and efficiency based on the island’s food requirements. Guests can savor native snacks and fresh tea made from the island’s own produce, offering a delightful farm-to-table experience. 

Balesin Island continues to stand out as a premier destination for guests, with its thoughtful blend of luxury and sustainability. 

With Balesin Key, members can now enjoy seamless access to these unparalleled destinations, unlocking the freedom to choose how they live, work, and relax. It truly is not just a membership card — it’s an invitation to enter three worlds where luxury knows no bounds. 

Welcome to a world where relaxation, recreation, and refined living come together effortlessly. Whether you’re closing deals in the city, enjoying picturesque sunsets by the shore, or finding peace and solace in the mountains, Balesin Key ensures that comfort and convenience in your happy places are always within reach. 

All it takes is just one key to access a lifetime filled with ultimate getaways.

For more information, visit the Balesin Key website, and follow their pages on Facebook and Instagram.