La Rose Noire : Patisserie by Gerard Dubois

La Rose Noire Patisserie started its operation in 1991 in one of Hong Kong's well-known shopping malls. Over the years, it continues to grow and its success can be attributed to the man behind La Rose Noire, Gerard Dubois. Back in 1991, he only started with a cake shop and restaurant and then it became an enterprise. From 28 items in his product line, it grew to over 500 variety of products. The company opened a factory in Clark Freeport Zone in 2012 which is expected to supply products to the growing international market.

We visited La Rose Noire on the first day of Metro Angeles Food Tour 2014. We were able to sample their top-of-the-line and export quality products. They are actually producing frozen pastries and they're kind enough to bake some for us to taste test. I'd say their products are of high quality and really tasted good.

Assorted La Rose Noire Products

La Rose Noire offers different varities of hand made baskets and tart shells and elegant cones. They both have sweet and savory items. 

Assorted Sweet and Savory Cones

A variety of VIP and Regular Croissant

I must say they have the best croissant I have tasted so far. They only used premium quality raw material and the outcome is just so delectable. 

Assorted Muffins

Assorted Danish Pastries

This is my most favorite pastry during the taste test. It's mouthwatering that you always want for more after your first bite. The bread and the filling complement each other. They's just perfect!

Assorted Premium Breads

Hand Crafted Macarons

La Rose Noire's macaron is of premium quality. It tastes good and it melts in your mouth. Again, it's one of the best tasting macarons I ever tried so far.  

La Rose Noire Factory at Clark FreePort Zone

Blogger Participants of Metro Angeles Food Tour 2014 with the management and staff of La Rose Noire Philippines (Photo credit to Rob of Palibut)

La Rose Noire - Philippines 
Address: Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga Philippines Telephone 
Number: (+632) 840-3771 to 82 
Website: www.la-rose-noire.com 

Disclosure: La Rose Noire is one of the Partner-Establishments of #MetroAngelesFoodTour2014. 

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TRAVEL Guide : Cagayan de Oro City

Important things you need to know about Cagayan de Oro City : Where to Stay, Where to Eat, Things to Do and How to Get There.

Cagayan De Oro City is populary dubbed as the City of Golden Friendship and is one of the Adventure Destinations in the Philippines. It is located along the central coast of Northern Mindanao and is bordered with the province of Bukidnon and Lanao del Norte. It is famous for its white water rafting which is being widely promoted by the City Tourism Office.

Where to Stay In Cagayan de Oro City

There are a number of hotels and inns in CDO which caters to both budget and leisure travelers. Some of the recommended hotels are:

Tune Hotels Cagayan de Oro City

Tune Hotel CDO is strategically located at the heart of Cagayan de Oro City. It is located at CM Recto Avenue just about 5 minutes walk from Centrio Ayala Mall and about 10 minutes walk from LimKetKai Mall. It offers affordable and comfortable accommodation ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Tune Hotel - Cagayan De Oro
Address: C.M. Recto Avenue, Cagayan De Oro City Cagayan De Oro
Website: www.tunehotels.com
Facebook Page: Tune Hotels Philippines
Twitter: @tunehotelsPH
Instagram: @tunehotels

DDD Habitat Pension House
DDH Habitat Pension house is situated at corner of Ysalina bridge in the Carmen side. They have comfortable rooms with tribal motifs at very affordable prices.

Address: J. Serina Street Corner Vamenta Boulevard
Carmen, Cagayan de Oro 9000 
Phone Number: (088) 858 5101

Mallberry Suites Business Hotel
Mallberry Suites Business Hotel provides chic accommodation and mdern amenities at affordable rates ideal for business and leisure travelers. It is located at the heart of Cagayan de Oro City right next to major shopping malls. 

D'Morvie Suites
D'Morvie Suites is ideal for backpackers who's looking for a place to stay at night nad leave the next morning. The rooms are small but it has its own restroom, a single/double bed and a flat screen TV. The rate usually starts at P250 for 12 hours stay. There's nothing fancy in this inn.

Where to Eat in Cagayan de Oro City

There are a lot of restaurants and food stalls in Cagayan de Oro City where you can satisfy your gastronomic cravings. Here are some recommended restaurants to eat in CDO.

Chub's Diner
Chubs Diner is known for its giant, juicy and tasty burgers. The place is relatively small and it is usually packed with people. This only goes to show that people life their food especially their burgers and cheesy fries.

Photo grabbed from Chub's Diner Official FB Page

Address: Corrales Avenue (across Xavier University Gym), 9000 Cagayan de Oro City
Telephone Number: (088) 310 2039
Facebook Page: Chub's Diner

Ababu Persian Kitchen
Ababu Persian Kitchen serves Persian cuisine and is the first Mindanao franchise of the restaurant. I recommend this restaurant if you like kebab and other Persian dishes. Food is affordable and good. 

Photo grabbed from Ababu Persion Kitchen FB Account

Address: Ground Floor, One Montecarlo Building 
Corrales Avenue 9000 Cagayan de Oro, Philippines
Telephone Number: 0932 743 1333
Facebook Page: Ababu Persian Kitchen

Dessert Strip
Dessert strip offers freshly baked cakes and pastries. They are 100% homemade baked by Chef Maribel. They are located at the 3rd floor of Centrio Mall and 2nd Level of Robinsons Cagayan de Oro City. You may call them at 09228245933 or email at dessert_strip_bistro@yahoo.com. 

Things to Do in Cagayan de Oro City

Experience Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking

Cagayan de Oro is considered as the Whitewater Rafting Capital in the Philippines. It is the only city in the country that offers rafting all year-round. Its river depth, incline and rock formations make rafting at the Cagayan River a fun and exciting experience. Rafting enthusiasts can connect with any of the several whitewater rafting operators and choose the level of thrill they can handle from 'beginner' to 'advance' to 'extreme'. KAGAY offers affordable packages for whitewater rafting and other activities. 

Visit Macahambus Cave

Macahambus Cave was the site of the memorable Battle of Macahambus on June 4, 1900. A marker from the Natonal Historical Institute is displayed at teh entrance to commemorate the first victoory of the Filipinos agains the Americans during the Philippine-American war. 

Explore the Mapawa Nature Park

Mapawa nature park is know for its enchanting waterfalls, magnificent views and fun-filled activities located in the forest park in Cugman. It offers a soothing environment ideal for those who wants to relax or have fun in the park's activities.

Celebrate Higalaay Festival

Higalaay Festival is Cagayan De Oro's annual fiesta celebration which is a week long festivity full of colorful and culturally-rich and fun-filled activities. It's major highlight is on the 28th of August which is also the feat of the city's patron, St. Augustine.

How to Get to Cagayan De Oro City

By Air: Cebu Pacific Air and Philippine Airlines have daily flights to Cagayan de Oro City from major cities in the Philippines : Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo and Bacolod. 

Basic Phrases to Get you Started

Philippine Airlines : (088) 857-1124 

Cebu Pacific : (08822) 72-66-98

By Sea: Shipping companies have daily schedule of boats departing from CDO to Cebu, Bohol, Bacolod, Iloilo and Manila.

2GO Travel : (088) 231-4176 

Trans Asia : (088) 856-9371 

Sulpicio Lines : (088) 856-8781

By Land: Buses from Davao, Butuan, Surigao, Iligan and Tacloban have daily trips to and from Cagayan de Oro City.

Getting Around: Jeepneys and motorela or rela (tricycle) are the most common mode of transportation in the city. Taxis are also available. 

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A Relaxing Stay at Microtel Inn & Suites Baguio City

Microtel Inn & Suites Baguio is the most convenient place to stay while in the City of Pines. It is situated right next to Victory Liner terminal and is very close to Session Road, Lourdes Grotto, Burnham Park and and Baguio Cathedral. It is ideal for solo travelers and families on vacation as you can choose from their single, double and suite rooms.

The Facade

Microtel Baguio probably has the most attractive facade in the city. I love its architectural design and the bright blue color of the hotel. Once you enter the lobby, you will feel the good vibe of the hotel. It's an old building but has a quaint look and feel. 

The Room

I got the single room and I like how it looks like. It has a double bed equipped with an air-conditioning unit, a LED TV, s small table and a toilet and bathroom. The room is ideal for solo travelers or couples who wants to enjoy a soothing night in the summer capital of the Philippines. 

Roaming Around Baguio

When you stay at Microtel, you will be able to visit nearby attractions just by walking. The famous Baguio Cathedral and Session Road are just a few minutes walk from the hotel. Burnham Park is also just a walking distance. The city is known for its cold temperature so walking at night is enjoyable. 

Satisfying your Gastronomic Cravings

Microtel Baguio has an in-house restaurant, Te Quiero Tapas Bar & Restaurant. It offers Spanish inspired dishes at very affordable prices. The complimentary breakfast is also served at the restaurant. Aside from breakfast, Microtel Baguio also offers unlimited coffee stationed at the lobby available for self-service.  

Verdict

The best part about this hotel is its location. I know a lot of people consider location as their first concern when choosing a hotel to stay. I say, this has the best location as it just sits beside Victory Liner terminal and is at the heart of Baguio City. Staying at Microtel was definitely satisfying. 

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham - Baguio

Upper Session Road Baguio City 2600 Philippines 

Phone Numbers: +63 (74) 619-3333 to 34, (074) 619 3342 

Fax Number: (074) 619 3344 

Mobile Number: (0927) 516 4129 / (0922) 816 8436 

Email: baguio@microtel.ph 

Website: www.microtel-baguio.com

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Tune Hotel Aseana : An Affordable Place to Stay Near NAIA

Tune Hotel Aseana is the newest Tune Hotel to open in the Philippines. It is 214-room budget hotel located very close to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), Mall of Asia Arena and SMX Convention Center. It is situated at Lot 38 Block 2, Bradco Avenue, Aseana City, Paranaque City.

I must say that Tune Hotel Aseana's location is very convenient as it is very close to the airport. There is no restaurant in the hotel yet but a Jollibee store is just few steps away from the hotel. S&R Shopping Center is also just right across the hotel, so you may easily buy stuff from there. Soon, a Family Mart Convenience Store will also be opened so it will even be more convenient for guests. Since it is close to the airport, Tune Hotel Aseana is also ideal for those travelers with connecting flights the following day.

Tune Hotel Aseana Lobby

Aside from being close to the airport, Tune Hotel Aseana is also within few minutes from major destinations and attractions like SM Mall of Asia, SMX Convention Center, SM Arena, Entertainment City popularly known as Bagong nayon Pilipino, Baclaran Redemptorist Church and Las Pinas Bamboo Organ.

Overlooking view from the 5th floor

Checking In
It was already late when I checked in as I have to meet some friends first. I am very happy with how I was handled by the receptionist. She was very friendly and took care of me. After just few minutes, she gave me the key card and I went to my room which was on the third floor. The room was big enough for me. The room was equipped with a double bed which can comfortably accommodate two people. I was already tired when I arrived in the hotel so I immediately lay on the bed and I noticed the good quality of the mattress and the clean and fresh smell of the linen and comforter. It's always good to stay at Tune Hotels as they had a 5-star quality beds in a budget price.

5-star quality bed

Toilet & Bath

Hotel Amenities

The room is equipped with a T&B which has a hot/cold shower. It has an electronic safe where guests can leave their valuables, a ceiling fan and a hairdryer which are already part of the basic amenities included in the room rates. Tune Hotel Aseana's introductory room rate starts at P889 exclusive of applicable taxes and optional add-ons. The promotional rate is strictly applicable for stays from Now – 31 August 2014.

If you want a more comfortable stay, you may add up additional in-room amenities according to your needs and preference. Below are the rates for their add-ons:

Towel Rental & Toiletries Kit costs P90. The kit includes one soft absorbent white towel, a small bar of soap and a small tube of shampoo. It is placed in a red Tune Hotel eco-bag. 

Wifi access for 24 hours cost P240. You can purchase this from the front desk and they’ll provide you for a password to use and will expire exactly after 24 hours from the first time you use it. 

Air-conditioning for a 24-hour credit costs P350. Some Tune hotels in other countries have a 12-hour or a 24-hour option for air-conditioning access, however in the Philippines, only the 24-hour access is available. Each room is actually provided with a split-type air-conditioning system but the usage will be charge separately from the room cost. It is programmed depending on your room access card. Hours are being deducted on a per-use-basis. If you only use 12 hours of your credit on your first day, the next 12 hours can be used on the next day. 

Early Check-in is available from 11AM onwards for an additional cost of P300. 

Late Check-out costs P300 up to 2PM. 

Comfort Package includes 24hr A/C credit + Towel & Toiletries for an additional cost of P300. 

Cozy Package provides you with 24hr A/C + 24hr TV + 24hr Wifi + Towel & Toiletries for only P420. 

If you want to connect to the internet, there is a kiosk at the lobby where you can use free of charge for 30 minutes. Just approach the front desk and ask for your user ID and password.

When at Tune Hotels, don't forget to take a souvenir photo at their photo booth. It's very simple to use and you can immediately send it to your desired email address and share it on your social media accounts. Enjoy staying at Tune Hotel Aseana!

Tune Hotel Aseana 

Lot 38 Block 2, Bradco Avenue, Aseana City, Paranaque City, Philippines

Website: www.tunehotels.com 

Like them on Facebook: Tune Hotels Philippines 

Follow them on Twitter: @tunehotelsPH 

Share a photo on Instagram: @tunehotels

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Exploring CARAGA Part 2 : Discovering the Wonders of Surigao del Sur

After our Bucas Grande adventure, the boatmen dropped us at Hayanggabon Port. We took our lunch at a small eatery along the highway. We were supposed to eat at the nearby restaurant at the port but the owners were so unfriendly, they even lied to us and told us that their restroom was locked and the key was taken by the guest so we cannot use it. Instead of arguing, we left the place and head to the eatery along the highway. The owner was friendly and allowed us to take a bath. While waiting for the bus, we also took our lunch. After about an hour, the bus arrived and we hopped in on our way to Tandag City.

Tandag City

Tandag City is about 3-4 hours bus ride from Hayanggabon. It was already a little dark when we arrived in Tandag so we decided to spend the night in the city. We do not know of a specific place to stay so we started asking the locals where to stay on a budget. They pointed us to a lodge near the boulevard but unfortunately they are already fully booked. We were already hungry so we decided to eat first before scouting another place to spend the night. We went to the boulevard and had barbecue for dinner.

Tandag City Boulevard

Where to Stay in Tandag?

We were lucky to find Shacene Hotel which was referred to us by the lady we asked for a place to stay. We scored a really good deal. The receptionist has allowed us to stay in a family room which was ideally good for 4 people but we managed to squeeze ourselves. It was a decent hotel. It was clean and just a short distance from the main road.

Shacene Hotel Rates

The Surigao del Sur Adventure Begins

We woke up early and left Tandag City on our way to the town of San Agustin, home to the famous Britania Group of Islands. We took a van instead of a bus to reduce the travel time. We were lucky to have a nice van driver who offered his services for the later tours and also referred us to his relative in San Agustin for our breakfast and Britania Island Hopping tour. We arrived in Salvacion, San Agustin and took a short habal-habal ride going to the jump-off point of our island hopping. We took our breakfast and started exploring the islands of Britania.

@traveladik @scherzelle @jayrezzy_gimpao @aldeready @artisticavan @urbrataleks @jepepips

Island Hopping at Britania Group of Islands

We rented a boat for P1,500 to explore the four major Islands of Britania. We first visited Hagonoy Island. It was the farthest among the four major islands. There were coconut trees in the island and a large area for swimming. It was low tide when we arrived so we had to go farther to swim as the water was too shallow near the shore.

Hagonoy Island

The second island we visited was Naked Island. Actually it is more of a sand bar than an island. It looks really good. I think it is one of the most picturesque among the major islands.

Naked Island

The third Island we explored was Buslon and the nearby islets. The beach in this island is not as good as the previous two so we decided to just roam around instead of swimming. There were a number of locals selling sea urchin in the island and we managed to buy some and taste it for the first time. The meat looks like a miniature tongue. It tastes bland and it's something I would not try again. It's definitely not my cup of tea.

Buslon Island

The last island we visited was Hiyor-Hiyoran. We were kinda tired already and the island looks boring so we just took a photo of it and did not leave the boat. We headed back to the mainland and prepped ourselves for another awesome adventure.

Hiyor-Hiyoran

The Road to Hinatuan and Bislig
We chartered a van to pick us up in San Agustin, tour us around Hinatuan and Bislig and then drop us to Butuan. We paid P6,500 for the whole trip plus some tip for a very good service the van driver provided us. We had a sumptuous lunch at Anne's relative in the town of Tagbina. Her relatives cooked native chicken adobo which we ate with gusto. Her relatives also offered us some fresh buko after lunch. It was indeed a satisfying meal.

Hinatuan Enchanted River
We didn't have much time so we immediately left Tagbina after having our lunch and proceeded to Hinatuan to visit the Enchanted River. It was my second time to visit the place and I must say I was quite disappointed when I saw the crowd. The last time I was there was amazing as there were no other people aside from the Travel Mindanao team. There were just too many people the second time around so I decided not to dip in the water. It still looked enchanting though.

Aleks, Scher, Van, Anne, Jay-R, Jep, Alde, Moi

Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig
After spending an hour at the Enchanted River, we moved our way to Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig. It was already late in the afternoon so we made sure we maximize our time in taking photographs and just enjoy the beauty of the clear water as it cascades from above. It's good to see Tinuy-an falls on another perspective. The last time I was there was rainy season so the water was overflowing, the second time around, there was less water so we were also able to climb up to see the view from above. A different level of experience but the same zest. 

Goodbye Surigao del Sur, Hello Butuan
It was already dark when we left Tinuy-an Falls. We went straight to the city proper to take our dinner. We ordered the city's specialty called "Mutya ng Bislig" - a creamy seafood chowder.

After satisfying our gastronomic cravings, we left Bislig and headed to Butuan where we spent the night full of fun.

Where to Eat and Stay in Britania
J-Francess Homestay
Britania, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur
Manager: Francisca Acero (Ate Francing)
Mobile Number: 0939-5930677
Dorm type accommodation good for 8/10pax is only for P2,000/night and Good for 4pax is at P1,500/night. You may also ask Ate Francing to cook for your meal at an extra charge.

For van rental you may call Kuya Roel or Pawi at 0910 806 7280. 

Read more from CARAGA Series...
Exploring CARAGA Region Part 1 : Island Hopping in Bucas Grande
Exploring CARAGA Region Part 3 : Itinerary & Expenses
Exploring CARAGA Region Part 4 : Bucas Grande Travel Guide
Travel Mindanao : Bislig and Hinatuan Travel Guide

*Pardon me with the quality of the photos. All photos are taken using my phone only as I did not bring a DSLR during the trip.

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