A Short Visit to the Strawberry Farm of La Trinidad, Benguet

I have been to Baguio several times already but every time I go there I always miss visiting the famed strawberry farm of La Trinidad, Benguet. During my latest visit to Baguio, I made sure to pay a visit to the farm and experience picking fresh strawberries.

We left Azalea Residences early in the morning because I had to leave Baguio around lunch time bound for Manila. We took a cab and arrived in La Trinidad around 5:30AM. The farm was still closed to visitors and the temperature was kinda freezing. We decided to go to a nearby hostel and had some coffee. After about an hour, someone approached us and told us that the farm was already open and we can start what we have been waiting for: to pick some fresh strawberries.

Tahoooo!
Before doing so, we bought a glass of strawberry taho. It was delicious and tasted way better than the strawberry taho in downtown Baguio. The taho in La Trinidad has preserved whole strawberries while the one in Baguio has only bits and pieces. It's definitely a must-try when in La Trinidad.

Fresh Strawberries
The price of picking fresh strawberries is almost tripled compared to buying strawberries at the market. It will cost you P350/kilo in the farm and about P100/kilo or less in the market. But of course, it's the experience that made it enticing. Not to mention you get to eat fresh strawberries in the farm as many as you can.

After almost two hours of enjoying the farm, we decided to go back to the hotel. It was definitely a great experience. 

How to go to the Strawberry Farm
Just take a cab from downtown Baguio and inform the driver to drop you off at the Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad, Benguet. It should only cost you a little over P100 for the taxi fare.

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Tune Hotel Ortigas : An Affordable Hotel at Pasig City's Central Business District

Tune Hotel Ortigas is a 182-room budget hotel located in the central business district of Pasig City. It is situated along Shaw Boulevard, Pasig City. It is Tune Hotel's 8th branch in the Philippines which opened early this year. It features Tune Hotel's 5-star quality beds at a very affordable and budget rates.

Straight from my island getaway in Calaguas, I get a chance to stay at Tune Hotel Ortigas. It's location is very convenient as it is just a walking distance from the MRT Shaw Boulevard Station. It is about 10 minutes walk from EDSA corner Shaw Boulevard and just about 600m from Shangrila Plaza Mall and 950m from St. Francis Shopping Mall. It was my first visit and I did not have any difficulty finding Tune Hotel Ortigas. Indeed, they have an excellent location ideal for those budget travelers wanting convenience at an affordable cost.

Tune Hotel Ortigas is also within a close distance from SM Megamall  and the newly opened Capitol Commons which boasts a number of restaurants and pubs. When I was at Tune Hotel, a friend invited me for lunch at Nomama Restaurant which is located in Capitol Commons. I just walked from the hotel and it was just a little over 10 minutes, it's that accessible.

The Experience

After a quick check-in at the reception, I went immediately to my room at the 5th floor. I was kinda surprised to see a very spacious room. It was something I was really happy with. The room has double bed which can comfortably accommodate two people. It features a 5-star quality mattress, two sets of pillows and a clean and good quality comforter. As I lay on the bed, I knew right there that I will have a good night sleep.

The Amenities

The room is equipped with a T&B which has a hot/cold shower. It is spacious and clean. The room also 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's basic room rates start at P888 exclusive of tax and service charge. The rate changes so make sure you book ahead of time.

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. 

Also 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 the 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. 

Tune Hotel Ortigas 

Lot 5, Block 4, Shaw Boulevard, Pasig City, Philippines 

Telephone: (02) 656-0888 

Website: www.tunehotels.com 

Like them on Facebook: Tune Hotels Philippines 

Follow them on Twitter: @tunehotelsPH 

Share a photo on Instagram: @tunehotels

Explore the Philippines, Travel with Locals

I got really excited when I heard the news that WithLocals is coming to the Philippines. I already read about their presence in other neighboring Asian countries and I certainly like their concept of encouraging travelers to travel with Locals.  Traveling with the locals will give you a glimpse of not just the place but as well as the people's way of life and maybe a little bit of their culture and traditions. Certainly, this is going to be very interesting considering how hospitable Filipinos are. WithLocals also helps people earn a sustainable income by doing something they are passionate about. 

Learn to play traditional instruments WithLocals of Maguindanao

So What is WithLocals and How It Works?

The Withlocals website is a marketplace connecting travelers (backpackers, flashpackers or even glam packers) from every corner of the world with locals in Asia offering unique travel experiences and home dining opportunities. It is a peer-to-peer marketplace where local people offer experiences and their skills to travelers. Their goal basically is to connect people and cultures through food and unique experiences.

Learn to cook Empanada de Kalisikis WithLocals of Bulacan

How to Become a Host?

Becoming a host with WithLocals is very straightforward. There are three categories that you may offer depending on your skills and passion. These are Eat WithLocals, Tours WithLocals and Activities WithLocals. Ready to become a host? Just follow these three easy steps and you may start hosting.

Step 1: Fill in the Host Details

You start by giving the details of the tours, activities or dining experience you are offering. Provide an appealing and detailed information as it will appear on the website. Set your own price and make sure it is competitive enough to attract travelers to avail your offering. Also, include the date when you want to offer your activity, tour or home dining.

Step 2: Get Visited By The Ambassador

Upon submission of your application, a WithLocals Ambassador will contact you to arrange a visit. The ambassador will take photographs which will then be used on the website and he/she will also explain further about WithLocals.

Step 3: Receive Bookings 

A profile will be created for you on the Withlocals website and voila you're ready to accept bookings. Make sure you confirm the bookings within 24 hours. 

Enjoy a trek WithLocals of the Philippines and discover great places

For more information about WithLocals, visit: 

Website: www.withlocals.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/WithLocals 

Twitter: @WithLocals 

Instagram: @WithLocals 

Become a part of a growing industry. Do what you are passionate about and share it with people around the globe! Join WithLocals now!

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Off-The-Beaten-Path Destination : Bongao, Tawi-Tawi

Tawi-Tawi is the southernmost province of the Philippines. Aside from Sulu, it is probably the least visited province in the Philippines due to the unstable peace situation in the area. I was kinda hesitant to pursue my travel to Tawi-Tawi months after the Zamboanga siege but at the same time a part of me wants to explore the road less traveled.

The flight to Tawi-Tawi from Zamboanga City is in the early morning. We had to check out from the hostel we stayed inn and chartered a tricycle going to the airport. I felt excited when we boarded the plane and at the same time a little nervous. I did not know what awaits us in Tawi-Tawi. It was an hour flight and I was amazed of the islands and white sand beaches I saw up in the air. I was too busy taking pictures I did not realized we were about to land. Truly, the province has a lot of islands to explore.

Welcome to Sanga-Sanga Airport!

We landed in Tawi-Tawi and my excitement was doubled. We're finally in the southernmost province in the Philippines. We immediately went out and chartered a tricycle to Bongao where we planned to stay for the night. We stayed at HOTEL and the staff were very accommodating. We took a room for P1200 good for 3 people. It was fair enough. There's nothing fancy about the hotel but it's location is in the town proper so it's easy to get around. It is a walking distance to the market and municipal hall.

Climbing Bud Bongao

The hotel staff asked the security guard of the hotel to accompany us to climb Bud Bongao. I was hesitant to go at first for some reasons but my travel buds have convinced me to join them. I am not used to trekking so I had difficulty reaching the top of Bud Bongao. The trail was difficult because it rained the night before we climbed. It was slippery which made the trek very challenging. After about two hours, we reached the top.

An Amazing View

We finally reached the top of Bud Bongao and we were greeted with an awesome view of the town of Bongao. It was fascinating and the feeling was phenomenal. One of the best views I've had. It was surreal and it was all worth the trek. I'd definitely want to back there and stay longer. 

Trekking Down
I thought it would be easier to go down but I was wrong. It was equally hard as climbing up. The trail was slippery so you have to trek slowly and carefully. It was one of the hardest trek I've had so far.

Exploring Bongao
After climbing Bud Bongao, we had lunch in a carinderia in the town proper. After lunch we stsrted exploring the town. We visited the municipal hall which actually looked good and new. We also visited the provincial capitol and had a great overlooking view from there.

Sunrise at Sanga-Sanga - Bongao Channel
On our way back to the airport we were greeted with an amazing sunrise. We could not help ourselves but to tell our trike driver to stop so we can shoot. 

*Some of the photos were only taken by my phone so pardon me for the quality of the photos. :)

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Yummy for the Tummy : Sage Restaurant Baguio

Sage (Saj) is one of Baguio's newest restaurant which offers delectable savory dishes and sweet desserts that will surely satisfy your gastronomic cravings. You'll enjoy every bite of both their side and main dishes and desserts. Sage is located at 95 Military Cut-off road, away from the busy streets of downtown Baguio. It's location made our dining experience better, away from the crowd but still accessible.
 

During our visit at Sage Restaurant, we were able to sample some of their offerings from appetizers, side dishes, main dishes and desserts. It was indeed a complete meal and it was definitely enjoyable. Aside from their delightful food, I also like its ambiance. The restaurant has a homey feel. Its walls is painted in vibrant colors and it is well decorated. The interior of the restaurant has a good vibe. I loved it, it feels relaxing inside.
 

The Food

The food tastes heavenly. I enjoyed every dish they served to us especially the dessert. It was mouth-watering you want to eat more once you tasted it. 
 

Onion Rings (P160.00)

For our starter, we were served with a tower of crispy and freshly deep- fried onion rings. It's one of my favorite starters so I was really delighted to have this to start our lunch.
 

Nachos Supreme Platter (P220.00)

Another starter that was served to us, Sage's Nachos Supreme Platter is a mixture of nachos, chili con carne, tomatoes, lettuce, corn kernel and slices of black olives topped with grated cheese and a generous amount of sour cream.

Shrimp Pomelo with Sesame Dressing (P180.00)

It is a Thai classic dish with a mixture of prawns and pomelo along with mixed greens in honey and sesame dressing.

Lemonade and Iced Tea

Stuffed French Toast (P110.00)
A classic French toast with banana and nutella filling.

Shrimp in Pesto (P180.00)

One of Sage's must-try dishes, it's a pesto-based linguine with fresh shrimp sauteed in garlic and olive oil and topped with parmesan cheese.

Chicken Chimichangas (P130.00)

It's one of Sage's Mexi-Delights, it is a combination of shredded chicken and potatoes wrapped in flour tortillas, fried to a crisp and served with fresh salsa and ranch dressing.

Barbecued Spareribs (P240.00)

Fall-of-the-bone slab of marinated pork spareribs coated in sweet barbecue sauce pan-grilled to perfection served with java rice and vegetable salad.

Creamy Bulalo Steak (P280)

Sage's bestseller Creamy Bulalo Steak is truly mouth-watering. It is slow-cooked beef shanks with mushroom gravy served with mashed potato and buttered vegetables.

Roti Supreme (P160.00)
Caramelized fried roti topped with vanilla ice cream, peaches and sesame seeds. 

 Iced Craze (P60.00)

Mango Tapioca (P80.00)
A combination of fresh mangoes, tapioca pearls and cream. This became my instant favorite dessert.

Assorted Cheesecakes (P75.00/slice)

Strawberry Cheesecake

Mango Cheesecake

Blueberry Cheesecake

Malteser Cheesecake

Sage /saj/ Restaurant 
Address: Military Cutoff Rd., Baguio City Philippines 
Operating Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM - 09:00 PM 
Contact number: +63 (074) 422-2954 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sagebaguio

Disclosure: Sage is a partner-restaurant of #BaguioFoodTour2014. 

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