It's been a little while since I last wrote a restaurant review on the blog, or even about my hometown Baguio for that matter. My recent travels have had me writing about destinations a little further afield, but I also love to blog about the magnificent city I live in. When the opportunity arose to visit the newly opened and oh-so opulent Rewind Restaurant, I was there with (gilded) bells on.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Walking into Rewind Restaurant, it has that homey Baguio vibe which makes me feel reminiscent of the old Baguio. On the right wing, further inside, just before the fireplace, there's a little art gallery room on the left and more room for tables on the right. I could just imagine myself, finding a perfect spot there, sitting on one of Rewind's oh-so-fluffy beanbags, reading a book, and immersing myself with good food and a relaxing environment.

We received a very warm welcome from the owners of the restaurant which only added an extra touch of hospitality. The lovely owner showed us to our table, which was located at the terrace over-looking the lush pine forest.

THE BIG FEAST

My food buddies and I don't do things by halves, and as soon as we had taken our seats by the terrace, we knew we were going to indulge. We kicked off by feasting on a hot pinapaitan which I have been craving for months. A little later came a perfectly sizzling pork salpicao, crackling pigar-pigar, scrumptious cheeseburger with fries and garlic dip, creamy pasta carbonara, and Rewind's garden salad  for a ridiculously indulgent main course combo.


Rewind's cheeseburger with fries and some garlic dip was crusty on the outside and perfectly meaty on the inside. I perused the menu whilst smothering a piece of the crispy fries with the delectable garlic dip, which was absolutely my favorite. The dish looked like a work of art and got my afternoon off to a great start.


The smoking hot pinapaitan just came right in time as I was craving for a hot soup. It is the perfect cold weather dish combo. For me, I prefer to add a dash of calamansi for that extra oomph on my palate.


If I ever see a Pigar-pigar on the menu, there's a 99% chance I am going to order it. As soon as I saw it was paired with rice, soy sauce, calamansi, and a red hot chili on the side, I was even more sold. The combination of fresh white onions, cabbages, and the tender beef was an absolutely delightful in the mouth. Rewind's Pigar-pigar: Tender beef strips, flavourful, juicy, and absolutely satisfying.


The Sizzling Pork Salpicao arrived perfectly cooked. The meat was flavoursome and succulent and I could really tell it was fresh. Small bites of the meat with the vegetables on the side were little bites of heaven.


Rewind's creamy Carbonara was one of the best Carbonara I have ever tasted and personally, it was one of my favourite part of the meal!I loved that it was made with chunky pasta spaghetti. The chunks of meat were small and subtle and added an extra dimension to the classic dish. If you go to Rewind Cafe you must order this!


Rewind's Garden Salad was the most juicy-licious and scrumptious salad to boot. A mix of fresh seasonal ingredients including grapes, tomatoes, lettuce, carrots, and cucumber with crunchy crumbs on top, and seasoned with real orange juice as its vinaigrette. If you find yourself hungry but want something healthy then Rewind's Garden Salad is for you.


We kicked off by having a taste of Rewind's soy bean coffee masterpieces and came highly recommended by the owner and expertly poured to perfection on the cups. We have a taste of the four non-caffeinated soy bean coffee they have on the menu: Brewed Soy Bean Coffee, Raspberry Soy Bean Coffee, Hazelnut Soy Bean Coffee, and the Salted Caramel Soy Bean Coffee. I love the brewed soy bean coffee more. It has that rich taste which I absolutely would order.

Here's a list of what we ate that afternoon,

• Rewind's Garden Salad
• Carbonara
• Rewind's Pinapaitan
• Rewind's Pigar-Pigar
• Sizzling Pork Salpicao
• Cheeseburger
• Brewed Soy Bean Coffee
• Raspberry Soy Bean Coffee
• Hazelnut Soy Bean Coffee
• Salted Caramel Soy Bean Coffee

HISTORY BEHIND REWIND CAFE

The Rewind Cafe actually got its name from the words "looking back at the past". The owners wanted to let everyone feel the old Baguio -- where locals and tourists alike reminisce the incredibly rich culture of venerable Baguio.

THE VERDICT

Rewind Cafe is a must go-to foodie haven, a cozy world away, for just 10-15 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the city center. It is a stylish oasis for travellers and Baguio locals (like me) to escape to. If you're planning a trip to the Cordilleran region, embarking on a Northern Luzon mini-break or coming for a weekend to Baguio, it would be the perfect place to visit to satisfy your palates. The service is fantastic, the food is delicious, the price is budget-friendly, and the setting is truly unique.



What did you think of my experience at Rewind Baguio Cafe? Have you heard of it or are you planning to go? I’d love to hear your thoughts so please leave me a comment in the box below.

Want to read more of my Baguio reviews?

• Ultimate Staycation at Azalaea Hotels and Residences Baguio
• Best Restaurants in Baguio 2017
• Gastronomic Feast at Studio Coffee Baguio

This meal was provided complimentary in exchange for coverage. All views are my own.

Manila is packed with chaos, commuting around is a constant headache, a nightmare in fact, and it isn't exactly a place where it is as beautiful as the other thousands islands that dots the whole country. The diversity and vibrant action of Manila can be overwhelming, so it makes sense to stay in a base where ultimate relaxation is at its finest. Let me introduce to you, Ritz Astor Hotel.

I was lucky enough to a enjoy a night at Ritz Astor in the middle of my Philippines coverage that went trough, Davao, Manila, and Camarines Norte. Here's my experience of the Ritz Astor Hotel in Makati.

First Impressions

After checking out from Royal Bellagio, we transferred to Ritz Astor, which was just a few steps away from Royal Bellagio. The Royal Bellagio's hotel attendant helped us with our luggage to Ritz Astor, and as we are about to enter the building, the attentive doorman of Ritz Astor were ready to greet us and offered to take our luggage. They swung open the super-size doors, and that's when I knew we're ofg to a good start. Despite the dreary August weather, the whole lobby looked inviting and sumptuously posh.

Deluxe Dreams

My spacious deluxe room was located on the top floor of the hotel, which meant it came with incredible views overlooking the Makati skyline. The deluxe room had an extensive mini-bar, toilet and shower room, and a heavenly cloud-like bed. However, I was surprised to find there were no tea and coffee making facilities in the room. Only later did I found out that tea and coffee making facilities were only available upon request. The bathroom was immaculately clean and the fresh fluffy white towels were as if it was made up of cotton-candy.

The Ultimate Breakfast

On the final morning of our stay in Ritz Astor, I got to enjoy a late leisurely breakfast with my friend and fellow travel writer, Rona. We strolled down to Ritz Cafe lobby at about 10am and found our perfect spot. Ritz Cafe had an extensive breakfast set menu from Eggs Benedict, Mushroom and Cheese Fritatta, American Breakfast, Tartines, to Pancake and Waffles, but there was only one clear winner: the American Breafkast. The dish was perfectly cooked, the eggs were done to perfection, but the best part was the impeccable crispy bacon, and butter and jam. The added fruit slices made it a truly hearty meal.

The Jose Cuervo Tequileria

Islands allude to dreams of tropical Elysian paradise; an escape from the wild rat race far from the workaday clamor and away from the chaotic world, a quintessential patch of sand where you can relax under rustling green palms and gaze at a serene blue sea. But not all islands were created the same, I know. I've been to many majestic islands in the Philippines, many of which I couldn't count anymore.

The charm of some is defined more by the sea that surrounds them, which can beguile connoisseurs with its crystalline clarity and thriving coral kingdoms, luxuriant jungles and velvety peaks. Some islands enchant travelers with their cultural jewels. Whether it's sublime beaches, stunning topography, or exotic cultures, but one island, during my media trip to Camarines Norte, above all else, caught my heart — I think I just found my very own Shangri-la in Camarines Norte — the Parola Island - the secret paradise island of the Gods of Bicol.

@camarinesnortetourism

Parola, Tailon, Tunao, Pink Beach, Huuu-what?

The Parola Island is also known as "Tailon Island", maybe because it is shaped like an eagle's talon from up above, hence the name Tailon. To the fisherfolks of Jose Panganiban, they call it "Tunao". It is also known to many as the "Parola Island" because of the old lighthouse standing on the head of the island. It is aptly dubbed to as the "Pink Beach", for its fine stretch of white coral rocks and golden sand embedded with a hue of magical salmon pink when the calm salt water roughly kisses its shores, mostly evident when the sun sets during its final hours.

@camarinesnortetourism

The Island

The Parola Island is only accessibly by boat and it is strung in the pristine sea waters of Jose Panganiban — town in the province of Camarines Norte — a forty-five minutes boat ride from the mainland is all worth it for this Bicol hidden gem.


It is a picturesque tropical island beach that boasts its enticing raw beauty: perfectly lined emerald palm-studded forest, calm sea water in technicolor turquoise, and guiltless golden sand. Parola Island prides itself the beauty of Bora-Bora without the price tag.


Indeed, Parola Island was my hallelujah moment, the first time I set foot on its sand. I always dream of being a castaway in the Pacific, and if it is, it has to be this island. I could just imagine myself basking in its unparalleled beauty under its crayola green palms as I fall asleep to the gentle slosh of the sea and living my Robinson Crusoe fantasies.

What Else To Do?

Aside from swimming on Parola's crystal clear salt water, there are other things to do in Parola Island, here are some things that we did:

Explore the undersea life - There is no doubt that the Parola Island has impressive beaches in its own right — but the snorkeling is equally pleasant. Go snorkelling and discover Parola's undersea life. There are no snorkelling or diving effects for rent in the area so I suggest you bring your own. Yup, I regretted all right.

Fish without a fishing rod - Before leaving the island, Dean and I happened to chance upon a local woman catching fishes without the help of any fishing rods. Curious, we approached the woman and we asked how she did it. Gladly, the woman showed how she's doing it and even let us do the fishing. First, the bait. In this instance, the hermit crabs were the baits; hermit crabs are abundant in the island. The woman then grab the hermit crab out of its shell, and very carefully, she attached the bait to the fishing hook which was knotted to a nylon cord. She then picked up a coral stone, placed the hook on it, grabbed the nylon cord, and threw the bait with the stone on the waters. After just a few moments, she began pulling the cord back and the fish was hanging on the end, wiggling for its life. I tried fishing too, but unluckily the fish got away.


Find the Parola (lighthouse) - Going to the Parola island is not complete without getting a chance to see the lighthouse for yourself. After all, it's the reason why the island got its name Parola, right? Located on the head of the island is the rustic lighthouse, going to rack and ruin. It is not much but it did serve  hundreds of boatmen for once it was.

Getting There

To get there, there are travel and tours organizers offering Parola Island excursions, but if you are planning to DIY it, I suggest you to coordinate and secure a clearance first with the Jose Panganiban Tourism Office c/o Ms. Ruth Marie Forteza, Tourism Officer at 0910-827-3547 and email ruthmarieforteza@outlook.com.

NOTE: The island is privately owned and only 200 tourists per day are allowed. No clearance from the Local Tourism Office. No entry.


By air: There are commercial flights available from Manila going to Naga Airport. The plane ride usually takes 40-minutes to Naga. From Naga, you could take a bus or public van going to Daet, Camarines Norte. There, you could take another bus or public van to Jose Panganiban.

By land: From Manila, take a bus bound to Jose Panganiban or Daet, Camarines Norte. Some buses offering routes to Bicol Region were DLTB, Superlines, Philtranco, and others. Bus fares costs around PhP540+ and travel time will usually take up to 8 hours. Tell the driver to drop you off near the Jose Panganiban Municipal Office.

From Jose Panganiban Municipal Office: you can walk to Larap Port at Roy Padilla Sr. Boulevard which is just a few meters from the Municipal Office. From there, you can ride a boat going to Parola Island.

Suggested Itinerary

Here's a suggested 2 days and 1 night itinerary to Jose Panganiban from Manila:

DAY 0
7:00 - 8:00PM - ETD Manila - Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte

DAY 1
07:00AM – ETA Jose Panganiban / Breakfast at Evias
08:00AM – ETD for Tailon Island (Parola)
10:00AM – ETA Tailon Island (Parola)/ set camp explore
12:00NN - Lunch
01:00PM – Siesta/ swimming/ explore/ picture happy campers wait for lowtide to explore the 3 islets
06:00PM – Dinner
07:00PM – Socials
10:00PM – Lights out

DAY 2
06:00AM – Wakeup call
07:00AM – Breakfast
09:00AM – Break Camp
10:00AM – ETD Jpang
12:00NN – Lunch / swimming at Turayog Resort
02:00PM – Surfing in Bulalacao Beach
05:00PM - Rest
05:30PM - ETD Jose Panganiban - Manila

Inclusions:
- Port Fee
- Environmental Fee
- Boat Transfer
- 3 campmeals (buffet)
- 1 plated meal at Turayog Resort
- Resort Entrance fees
- Life Jacket
- Unli Cocktail drinks (Mobile Bar)
- Land Transfers from port to Turayog and Bulalacao Beach

NOTE: What is not included deemed excluded.

@camarinesnortetourism

What did you think of the Parola Island? Will you also include it on your itinerary on your next trip to Bicol Region in the Philippines? Let me know your thoughts by dropping a comment below this post.

Want to know more about Camarines Norte? Check out my other blog posts:

• Camarines Norte's Best Kept Secrets: Killer Destinations Minus the Crowds
• Camarines Norte: A Land of Pineapples, Passion, and Plenty

My media trip to Camarines Norte was sponsored by the Provincial Tourism of Camarines Norte with its respective Local Tourism Offices and with Katooga.ph as a part of the #ComeToCamNorte Campaign. All views are my own.

The flashing neon lights and gritty streets in Poblacion, Makati, might give the wrong impression. It isn't exactly the first place you'd think to bring a foreign tourist in the Philippines, where sandy beaches and azure waters call to mind the flashes of Elysian fields.

Whilst Poblacion in Makati is decidedly grittier than glitzier, it is so easy to love. It is a home to an abundance of night clubs and bars, cool hostels and homey hotels, great food finds, and beautiful art, where character and eclectic charm perfectly mix that reflects our country's melting pot of cultures. But how many hotels in Makati can say they sit upon refuge, recreation, and rejuvenation at the same time, were the best establishments in the city is just a stone's throw away? The answer is only one. Welcome to the Royal Bellagio Hotel.

Getting There

After checking out from another hotel, my friend and I walked through the streets of Poblacion to find Royal Bellagio which was just a few meters away from where we came from. We could tell we were getting close to our destination as we could see the Royal Bellagio hotel sign from the distance. Upon entering Cafe Cubana we went straight to the lift to the second floor where Royal Bellagio's lobby is located.

First Impressions

Royal Bellagio is somewhat enigmatic when you drive through P. Burgos street, towards the unassuming entrance. The entrance to the hotel can be both through the Cafe Cubana or through the Filling Station which was a part of the whole hotel.


The first thing I noticed is the vast lobby which came really a surprise to me. Unexpectedly, it was huge! It was clean and neat, which is a sure-fire sign of things to come. Upon arrival we received a warm welcome from Ms. Celeste, the hotel's Sales and Marketing Manager which gave a personal touch that immediately made me feel at home.

Location, Location, Location

When looking for a hotel in a city like Makati, I believe that location is everything, so being centrally located in the metro's hippest hotspot is a one big check. I loved how the Royal Bellagio was located in the non-pretentious neighborhood of Makati. It's strategic location close to eclectic restaurants and bars is unraveled for foodies alike. The hotels hidden entrance gave a private and exclusive feel away from the masses.

Quirky Rooms and Luxurious Extras

We stayed in a Deluxe Room complete with a refrigerator, microwave, cable TV, built-in closet, and a mini bar. The added workstation near the door, and two-person lounge area next to the bed reminds me of my room at the Shangri-la Mactan Cebu. The homely extras such as the kitchenette made all the difference.


Our bed was a queen-size and the bedding was of the highest quality from the silky egyptian cotton bedsheets to the down-stuffed pillows and the embroidered blood red headboard. It was all very retro-esque which only added to the luxurious feel.


The toilet and bath is as clean as the whole room. It is equipped with a bath tub, luxurious toiletries, and fluffy white towels to boot.


Price: Deluxes Rooms starts at $50 (approximately PhP 2,500) per night, including breakfast based on two people sharing. Wifi is also free of charge. You may check the latest price in: Booking.com | Agoda or read reviews on TripAdvisor. For inquiries and other information, you may visit their official website. For other hotel reviews, click here.

Filling Station Bar and Restaurant

A huge benefit of staying at the Royal Bellagio hotel is also that you’re on the doorstep of one of Makati’s best restaurants; the Filling Station Bar and Restaurant - which was a part of the whole hotel. The hotel and restaurant share interconnecting doors so you don’t even have so step foot outside the hotel for a delicious meal. It's stunning interior design and furnishing looks like it's ready for a Vogue-interiors 50's photo shoot at every angle. It has a huge dose of wow!


Guests and outsiders alike can play, drain, and refill -- time travel back to the wonders and magic of the 50s and 60s era at the cozy retro atmosphere of Filling Station. Stacked in every corner, wall to wall are vinyl records, vending machines, rotary phones, and other past collectibles. Life-sized copies of Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, The Mask, Wonder Women -- all of the furnishing, fixtures, textures and the tiny details work in perfect harmony to create a fantastic and stimulating interiors which I absolutely loved. The lovely waitresses clad in classic 50s diner uniform makes the whole restaurant truly retro-tastic!


The owner had done an exceptional job of transforming everything into intricate pieces into a beautiful touch of the past. His eye for detail consistently transcends throughout the whole property and it's clear that it remains a project very close to his heart. There is no doubt that the design concept has been imagined by a talented perfectionist.

The Breakfast

I absolutely love taking my time over a leisurely breakfast so when it comes to hotels, a good breakfast is always high on the priority list. At Royal Bellagio breakfast options at the Filling Station are inclusive in the price of your stay,

As I perused through the menu, I opted for the American Breakfast which consisted of toasts, eggs, bacon, butter and jam, coffee and juice. I prefer my eggs sunny side up, and the cook made my eggs exactly how I like it. The whole breakfast was rich, flavoursome, and a melt-in-the-mouth. Royal Bellagio had it spot on.

The Pizza and The Pasta

During our stay at Ritz Astor, which was also a sister hotel of Royal Bellagio, we were treated to a wonderful lunch meeting with the hotel's Sales and Marketing Manager, at the Filling Station Bar & Restaurant. My expectations on food, service and setting were all totally exceeded.

We ordered the Filling Station Pizza and the Chorizo Pasta. Pizza is life for me and I could tell that The Filling Station Pizza didn't disappoint. I would know if a pizza is made with a fresh dough or not but the Fillin Station Pizza was baked to perfection - an indulgent crunch alongside. Topped and scattered with chorizo, salami, mushroom, tuna flakes, onions, olives, bell peppers, and tomatoes. I think I enjoyed the chorizo pasta too so much because it's a dish I wouldn't normally go for. Both the pizza and the pasta was surprisingly and incredibly rich, tasty, and fresh. It was truly a comfort food.

The Verdict

The Royal Bellagio Hotel is laced with unique rooms to stay and unwind, modernised with timeless decor, luxurious extras, and friendly service. So many elements of the stay gave it a real personal touch, from the personal welcome of the hotel's Sales and Marketing Manager herself, to the bespoke meals. If you're looking for a relaxing refuge in Makati with a brilliant location and a festive charm, the Royal Bellagio is for you.



What did you think of Royal Bellagio Hotel? Have you been to Makati's Poblacion before? If you enjoyed reading this post or need any more advice about this hotel, please comment on the box below and let me know!

Visiting Makati? Check out:

• The Ultimate City Guide to Makati
• Manila Food Guide: 7 Unique Restaurants To Try In Makati

Disclaimer: My stay at Royal Bellagio Hotel was provided complimentary in exchange for coverage on my blog. All views are my own.