10 December 2011

It's a Christmas Wonderland at Movenpick Cebu!

Last Wednesday, December 7, 2011, Movenpick Cebu celebrated their first Christmas Tree Lighting with a fairies, magic and a glimpse of fairyland.

While waiting for the program to begin, goblets of Gluhwein and Eggnog were offered by Santarinas to the guests and a holiday spread of turkeys, glazed ham and the famous Movenpick ice cream were also served.

Christmas icons for ice sculptures
The Christmas Tree Lighting began when Movenpick Resort & Spa Cebu General Manager Klaus Graesslin handed a gold box to former DOT Regional Director Dawnie Roa. When she opened the box, a whimsical tune filled the atmosphere and a gold fairy descends gracefully from the air (a la Tinkerbell), waves the gold and silver-tipped wand to the tree..and ta-dah! Lights on.

Gold Fairy waves her big wand to light the tree
Gold Fairy pours Manny O's Celebrus to Movenpick Resort & Spa's General Manager Klaus Graesslin
Most people lit their Christmas trees by pushing a button. Movenpick Resort & Spa Cebu, on the other hand, have different ideas. True to their slogan "Passionately Swiss", they're passionate in captivating the audience with their unique idea of a Christmas tree lighting. No celebrities were involved, only dedicated people working behind the scenes and doing the stunts.
Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko kids
This year, Movenpick Resort & Spa Cebu picked the Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko Foundation as their beneficiary for the Charity Tree. Guests are encouraged to purchase Christmas tree ornaments and hang it on the tree. The Charity Tree will be on display for the whole month of December. All proceeds will benefit the Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko kids. 'Tis the season of giving, make a child smile this Christmas.

Movenpick Resort & Spa Cebu
Punta Engano, Mactan Island, Cebu
(032) 492 7777


30 November 2011

Blogspot vs Wordpress


After attending the Visayas Blogging Summit 2011 yesterday, November 26, 2011, I decided to create a WordPress account. Virtual CEO of Live2Sell Group, Chris Ducker, advised us that Blogspot is slowly dying and we (Blogspot users) need to migrate from Blogspot to WordPress.

So here I am, trying to get to know WordPress, making my first attempt of my exploration of the site. And since I was convinced of my new-found co-blogger friend, Red (yes, we met during the summit) of Cook My Garden, to join the Cebu Bloggers Society, I decided to give it a shot and try to update my blog as much as possible.

And oh, aside from that I also need to find my niche. I haven’t decided yet what I really like since I’m interested in a lot of things like travel, food, books and new stuff that I want to share with people. Lucky Red, he already decided that he loves food and cooking. Now, he’s set on writing not only about food and recipes but also about people who create delicious mouth-watering edible things.

That makes me wonder what I really want. And what I have to do to make it unique.

Visit my Wordpress account here.

08 November 2011

Jonas Borces’s Big Move in Moevenpick Resort & Spa Cebu

Making Room for Beauty

Passion and determination are important points to motivate people. But for Cebu’s celebrated hair and make-up artist, Jonas Borces, his greatest motivator is fear of running low on cash on rainy days. Driven with this motivation, he started his beauty business by hoping from pageants to pageants, offering his make-up services to the beauty contestants to earn income and support his family.

Because of his meticulous way in handling his clientele, Jonas Borces is now a household name in Cebu, making him popular by local Cebuano celebrities and models. To date, he owns his own studio and is widely known for his hair straightening treatments, fashion editorial make-up, print and TV make-up, bridal make-up, special events and glamour make-up.

SUPER STRAIGHT HAIR. Jonas Borces is known for his Volume Straight.
With 15 years of cosmetology experience under his belt, Jonas Borces makes a big move to Mactan Island and opens the Jonas Borces Beauty Room in Moevenpick Resort & Spa Cebu. “I want to venture to a different market,” he shares. He is offering the same services as he has in his own salon, highlighting on make-up using airbrush technology.

RIBBONS AND SCISSORS. Jonas Borces opens his new salon at Moevenpick Resort & Spa Cebu in Mactan Island
The Jonas Borces Beauty Room in Moevenpick Resort & Spa Cebu is now open. Operating hours are from 9 am to 10 pm. For more inquiries, please call (+63 32) 4927777.

Photos by Jonas Borces

26 October 2011

Visayas Blogging Summit 2011: Blogging and Beyond

Ten years ago, I said: I may not be the best writer in the world but I like to express my thoughts through writing. Like writing with pen and paper. 


Ten years after, I say: I may not be the best writer in the world but I like to express my thoughts through blogging. Like blogging with my trusty laptop.


As cliche as this sounds but the world is an evolving place. Change is constant and technology proved it. When I was in high school,  I used to make blank books as journals by sewing a bunch of brown newsprint papers and cutting illustration boards for book covers. Now, I'm constantly changing my blog site "theme" to fit my mood (since I don't have my own domain, I'm a blogspot and tumblr user).

Before, media can be identified as newspaper, radio and TV. Now joining the line-up is online blogging. Yes, blogging is the new social media. But just like some people, some bloggers doesn't think before they click and that's gonna change this November.


Cebu will be hosting the 2011 Visayas Blogging Summit (VBS). The organizers are stepping up by giving the participants world-class talks that will improve their craft as social media users. According to the VBS website: this year's theme: "Blogging and Beyond" will highlight the value of blogging as a potent tool in community development and in encouraging community participation.


So mark the calendars in your planners and set the reminders on your phones for this coming November 26, 2011, Saturday 7:30am to 5:00pm at SM City Cebu. All Cebu-based and/or Visayas-based bloggers are invited to join. Non-bloggers are also welcome. Admission is FREE!


For participating bloggers, one have to write an article about this event and link the sponsors to their sites. After doing so, you may proceed here.


For non-bloggers, you may click here. The organizers will email you for further instructions after confirming your registration.


To make an interactive learning experience for the participants, the organizers have divided the talk into different segments. Here's the gist:


OFFICIAL PROGRAM


(07:30 – 08:30 AM) REGISTRATION


(08:30 – 09:00 AM) WELCOME by Mayor Michael Rama, City of Cebu


(09:30 – 10:30 AM) PERSONAL BLOGGING


Know the advantages of blogging, how to improve a blog’s visibility and how to make it sustainable.
SPEAKER: Vernon Joseph “Iggy” Go
“Getting Steady with Blogging”
Blog: www.vernongo.com

(11:00 – 12:00 PM) PROFESSIONAL BLOGGING



There is more to blogging. This can be a career and even become a business. Find out how professionals make it to the top.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Chris C. Ducker
“From Blog to Business – Getting Serious Online!”
Blog: www.virtualbusinesslifestyle.com

(12:01 – 01:00 PM) LUNCH BREAK


(01:01 – 02:30 PM) SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING FOR BUSINESS



Learn how small businesses use social media to boost their sales and visiblity. Learn their experiences, secrets and tips first hand.
Speaker: Ms. Joanne Apat
“Basic Tips in Using Social Media for Business!”
Blog: www.joeanneapat.com


(03:00 – 04:00 PM) SOCIAL MEDIA RESPONSIBILITY

Blogging is not only for business but for social change. Find out how bloggers influence and use blogging as a medium to change their communities and improve lives.
SPEAKER: Janette Toral
Social Media Responsibility: A Perspective
Blog: www.digitalfilipino.com

(04:01 – 5:00 PM) AWARDING AND CLOSING CEREMONIES



The 2011 Visayas Blogging Summit is presented by Cebu Bloggers Society Inc in partnership with SM City Cebu and Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. The event is also supported by  Virtual Staff FinderGeiser MaclangWatsonsSolidhosting.PHCebu Directories and Bluewater ResortsMedia partners are Cebu Daily NewsSunStarThe Freeman, ABS-CBN and GMA 7.

29 August 2011

Archival Eco-House: Living the Greener Pastures

Yes, we are living in a fast-paced world. Technology made our lives easier. And lazier. We tend to forget to take care of Mother Earth, thus resulting to unpredictable weather conditions and increasing melting of the glaciers. We are the reason why global warming exists.

Not even the latest gadget can stop the wrath of nature. Someone has to step up and take side with the environment. Located in the Earth, Wind and Sun Compound in Barangay Talamban, one can find the man who lives up to these natural elements and his contribution to nature: a 400 sq Eco-house.

Captain Planet and the Planeteers would be very proud of Engr. Nestor Archival, the owner of House of Archival and Chair of the Cebu City Government Committee on Environment. As an advocate of nature, he implements and demonstrates how environmental green living could be made possible. His Eco-house is a living proof.

The House of Archival stretches in a 7,000 sqm compound. The Archivals dedicated themselves to going green through the three Rs: reduce, reuse and recycle.



The area opens up with an unobtrusive wrought-iron gate and tree house nestled cozily atop is the first thing that your eyes will set upon.
A few steps away, one can see a couple of green houses neatly tucked in white nets.


The place is a haven for vegans alike. The Archivals' lunch is just a few steps away from their doorstep--literally.

To prove that dessert is found in the backyard, our tour guide gave us a piece of dried banana to sample their homemade treat.


One of a few green houses they have around the place, it has an overlooking view of the surroundings.


Down to the useless piece of scrap, Engr. Archival knows how to make use of it. They use empty green bottles as homemade garden fence before entering another section of the property.


We went around the place to check out the different eco-sections in the area. They have the goatery (where you can feed and pet the goats), the vermi compost beds (vermi-the bisexual worms whose job is to help convert organic wastes into nutrient-rich vermicasts aka fertilizers), carpentry (where furniture and whatnots were made using scrap materials), the mickey-mouse-shaped lagoon and two more pools filled with rainwater using a water catchment. 

Water catchments were also installed in the Eco-house. The accumulated water will be used to flush the toilets, wash clothes, plates and water the plants.

Aside from their eco-focus initiatives, they also have a wall-climb and zip-line facility. Visiting groups can make a segue from the environmental lectures after the tour. One can make an appointment in advance so that a personal facilitator can assist you.


For the thrill-seekers, the House of Archival added a 40 ft wall for wall-climbing activities and a 45m zip-line. Perfect for beginners


The view on top of the wall.
After the tour around the estate, climbing the wall and zip-lining, we were ushered to Eco-house.


Using Engr. Archival's knowledge in engineering and design, he used a passive heating and cooling effect to lessen the need for electricity. Hence, the installation of big and small windows and the skylight. More sunlight comes in during the day, thus, saving a few pesos in their electricity bill.

Breeze come and go, thus giving the house a light and cool feel--thanks to the PVC pipes incorporated into the wall structure of the building.
Shades of blue gives off a relaxing feel.
Artistic murals dominate the Eco-house. Heavenly bodies and aquatic creatures can be seen on the first floor. The receiving area exudes the beauty of the underwater world with its cool blue hues--a contrast to the sunny second floor of the building with pastel shades for the sky with added wisps of clouds.

The hotel-style comfort room didn't escape from all the artsy murals either.


This is my favorite part of the house. The sunlight effect. Real flower vines hang above creates a nice touch.
The skylight. Up close and personal with the sun.
Aside from the colorful walls of the Eco-house, the Archivals made use of the scraps and recycled bits. Bland furniture were given style with recycled scraps such as PVC pipes, tetra packs, empty cans and plastic cups, crushed eggshells, cable spools, wine bottles and empty bullet shells.


PVC pipes has another function aside from...err...being pipes. They make a good support for couches.


Nope, these are not for sale..or for drinking. Empty soda and beer cans made lovely balustrades.
Or can be used as decors.
              Who knew that eggshells could be stylish. Or should I say Star Trek-ish?!


Bullet proof tiles, why not?!

Cable spools were varnished and fashioned into coffee tables--which were scattered all over the place. 
Wine for the fish--not! Empty green wine bottles decked the rainwater-filled pond at the back of the house.

I have a new-found respect for these empty plastic jars. A brilliant twist made them cast off good light effects. 
The House of Archival is open to the public. In this world of iPhones and iPads, a trip to the Eco-house is enough to appreciate the beauty of backyard (more like all-over-the-yard) gardening, composting (even stumbling blocks around the compost area were made of decayed trash!) and the flow of artistic ideas to turn trash into something useful (you will find yourself rummaging your trash bin later for empty bottles to start on a DIY project you have in mind). 

The Archivals have created a true Cebuano legacy and most importantly, teach us a valuable lesson on our own way to give back to nature: recycling. Ask yourself what you can give back to Mother Earth. You can start looking for answers in your own yard. It all starts at home. 

Engr. Nestor D. Archival
Archival Eco-House
Talamban, Cebu City
Phone: (032) 233 8760/ 253 2184
Email: nasi.cebu@gmail.com
Web: http://houseclosetonature.com

26 June 2011

Marketing Makes Sense

Let me quote from Merriam-Webster Dictionary:
1
a : the act or process of selling or purchasing in a market
b : the process or technique of promoting, selling, and distributing a product or service
2
: an aggregate of functions involved in moving goods from producer to consumer

---

There's a certain professor at the Indian Institute of Management in India who has an interesting way of explaining the marketing concepts to his students using a scenario that will make you go "That's so true!" 

Here is Marketing in a nutshell:

You see a gorgeous girl at a party. 
You go up to her and say: "I am very rich. Marry me!" 
- That's Direct Marketing.

You're at a party with a bunch of friends and see a gorgeous girl. 
One of your friends goes up to her and pointing at you says: "He's very rich. Marry him." 
- That's Advertising.

You see a gorgeous girl at a party. 
You go up to her and get her telephone number. 
The next day, you call and say: "Hi, I'm very rich. Marry me."
- That's Telemarketing.

You're at a party and see a gorgeous girl. 
You get up and straighten your tie, you walk up to her and pour her a drink. 
You open the door of the car for her, pick up her bag after she drops it, offer her ride and then say: "By the way, I'm rich. Will you marry me?" 
- That's Public Relations.

You're at a party and see a gorgeous girl. 
She walks up to you and says: "You are very rich! Can you marry me?" 
- That's Brand Recognition.

You see a gorgeous girl at a party. 
You go up to her and say: "I am very rich. Marry me!" 
She gives you a nice hard slap on your face. 
- That's Customer Feedback.

You see a gorgeous girl at a party. 
You go up to her and say: "I am very rich. Marry me!" 
And she introduces you to her husband. 
- That's demand and supply gap.

You see a gorgeous girl at a party. 
You go up to her and before you say anything,
another person come and tells her: "I'm rich. Will you marry me?" and she goes with him
- That's competition eating into your market share (-pak! competitive much?).

You see a gorgeous girl at a party. 
You go up to her and before you say: "I'm rich Marry me!" your wife arrives.
- That's restriction for entering new markets. (lol!)

---

See? We can apply Marketing in our daily lives. Haha!

20 June 2011

Around Cebu + Bohol and Back

Turismo Rural Foundation (TRF), a non-profit organization, together with PUM Netherlands Senior Expert and Bluewater Resorts Hospitality Management Services Corporation gives back to the community through Free Skills Training for manicure/ pedicure and hair cutting. Through this program, women can put up their own business and become independent--more like female empowerment. Men are also welcome to join but the training is mostly attended by the ladies.


With the help of Amuma Spa, they have arranged a road trip for PUM Netherlands Senior Expert Janny Berends (can be pronounced as "Jah-nee" but I got stuck calling her "Yah-nee"), Ate Amy (of Amuma Spa) and yours truly. So we're off to travel four different places every week for the whole month of June.

Our first week started off with a visit to ABS-CBN station for Leo Lastimosa's DYAB morning radio show Arangkada. Janny and I had a brief interview on air with Leo. We talked about the program and inviting more participants to join the training. According to my mom, I laughed a lot on air--which I usually do whenever I ran out of things to say. 

June 4, 2011
Oslob, Cebu

First stop is Oslob, Cebu. At the last minute, Ate Amy and I changed the venue of the training. I spoke with the Mayor and asked him if we can use the Social Hall instead of the Basketball Court because it's more conducive for learning. He was kind enough to grant my last minute wish. Kudos to Mayor Guaren!


I was excited for the Oslob training because last year, five friends put up their own business, using their knowledge and skills they learned from Janny's training. Their company is called Da Vinci Massage Therapy Center. I call them Da Vinci's Ladies. They specialize on massage and recently they've expanded to mani-pedi services.


Since this is not the first time Janny visited Oslob for training, she got a lot of fans club going up to her. She hugged, laughed and talked to every one of her old trainees. It doesn't take a genius to figure out that these women are thirsty for knowledge. They have the willingness to learn with the patience of a saint. 


Bluewater Sumilon's Resort Operations Supervisor Nikki Gutierrez gives his full support to PUM Senior Expert Janny Berends and Oslob Mayor Ronald Guaren for Turismo Rural Foundation's Free Skills Training.




Janny Berends-Beeuwkes giving an introduction to her training.




Oslob Mayor Ronald Guaren warmly welcomes the participants to the training




Orlene Lou Castigador with Evangeline Gregorio, two of the Da Vinci Massage owners talked about their challenges in putting up their own massage center


Janny Berends (Far left) awards (L to R) Meluna Dalumpines, Orlene Lou Castigador and Evangeline Gregorio of the Da Vinci Massage Therapy Center as PUM Netherlands Senior Experts Entrepreneur for the Year 2011. 


June 10, 2011
Mactan, Cebu

Second stop is Mactan. First off, we started the training under the sun. Like literally under the sun. The venue was not conducive for learning, so we spoke to the owner of the place and my--ahem--charming ways worked. We've got the covered court all to ourselves for four days for the training. My realization: if you're doing something good for the mankind (i.e. outreach program), favors are easily granted.



Janny demonstrates how to cut with style.


Participants paired off to style the hair of their partners

June 17, 2011
Sogod, Cebu

According to Ate Amy and Janny that this is the first time TRF heads to north. I'm more of a traveler of southern Cebu but when I saw the waves that skimmed the rocky shores of northern Cebu plus hillsides that rival from that of Bohol's famous tourist spot left me awestruck. Northern Cebu is also a beauty. When I go to a new place, I usually admire the environment setting and structures. In terms of architectural designs, Southern Cebu's are heavy on the Spanish side while Northern Cebu leans toward American period.

This time, there's no problem on the venue, we were glad that we're getting one of Sogod's classroom in the public school. The people in the government were very supportive. The Mayor offered one of her houses for us to stay and a Sangguniang Bayan representative checked on us on our first day of training to welcome Janny.

I also found out from Ate Amy that during their market shopping, there was once a kid in Sogod who pointed to Janny and exclaimed that s/he saw her on the newspaper. Gee, the power of press release. Thank you media friends!


Sogod's SB Member Hon. Gamaliel Lumampas beams at the camera with Janny Berends


While waiting for the training to start, Janny's portfolio were passed around to keep the participants entertained.

June 23, 2011
Panglao, Bohol

Last stop for our TRF trip is Panglao. It's kinda sad the outreach program is coming to an end. I'm gonna miss the long road trips and lugging around my huge weekender bag. I'm also gonna miss the excitement of reading the papers first thing in the morning in the office to check if my photo release went out. But one thing's for sure, I'm not missing the muscle pains I've been encountering from all the carrying-around-the-bag moments.

For the final leg of the trip, we stayed at our newly-opened Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort in Panglao. The zen-ish feel and serenity relaxes my mind and body. I get easily exhausted when I travel. I'm tempted to hit the pillows the moment I stepped into one of Bluewater Panglao's Premier Deluxe Room. I can truly say that Bluewater Panglao is "a luxurious escape that honors Bohol's natural beauty." 

Aside from its beautiful rooms, the food is superb. No words can describe it. Some parts of the resort is still under construction but that doesn't stop Bluewater Panglao's hospitality to the guests. The resort opened last May 1st and I'm looking forward for its Grand Opening by the end of July. Chances are I'll be singing "Balik Sa Bohol" in no time. 

As the novelty song goes: "Sa imong kasing-kasing/ Ang Bohol kanunay'ng gibitik/ Balik sa Bohol!"

Bohol's hospitality and beauty captures every traveler's heart. Just like Janny's trainees in Panglao. She captures every Boholana's attention when she shared the proper nail trimming and scientific background of the skin. 



Janny does what she does best: training


Participants grabbed the opportunity to get their photo taken with their charming Panglao Mayor Benedicto Alcala and the PUM Netherlands Senior Expert Janny Berends


Standing outside the Panglao Cultural Center facade are (L to R) Bluewater Panglao HR Associate John Lowie "J.Lo" Sumaylo, PUM Netherlands Senior Expert Janny Berends and Panglao Mayor Benedicto "Dodong" Alcala

Traveling on the road and boat with the same people in one month made me realize a lot of things--on professionalism and life's lessons in general. One of life's lessons include bringing of bottled water in every trip.

I learned a lot from Janny, aside from the actual measurement of the size of the human skin, there are a things you'll gain knowledge from her travel experiences and training adventures in Europe and Africa. Based on her stories, I realized that I should quit complaining about my life and learn to live with it. There are a lot of people suffering in some parts of the world and all I could think about is how to catch the earliest bus trip or boat schedule. I was like "I am lucky". We all are lucky. That's why we have Turismo Rural Foundation's Free Skills Training to give something back to the community, to share the knowledge that we have and help other people develop their skills. 

I heard there are some trainees determined to start their own cosmetology biz. Hopefully, there are more Da Vinci's Ladies this year. Janny's training doesn't end during her trips. It extends through emails and Facebook messages, thus, giving it a personal touch. She doesn't only share her knowledge in cosmetology but also gives advice on commerce. I can see that her heart is in the right place: helping people. I'm glad I was part of this project because we were able to change lives, one training at a time.

29 April 2011

America's Next Top Destination

I'm not a big fan of America's Top Model show but Miss J is the first international celebrity I met while working at the resort. Here's is our photo op with him.


AMERICA'S NEXT TOP DESTINATION: BLUEWATER. Runway Coach Miss J was warmly welcomed by the Maribago Bluewater staff. (Left to right) PR Manager Carlo Luna, yours truly, General Manager Rhyz Buac, Miss J, Front Office Manager Adie Gallares, Angeli Mercado, Dennis Morallo and person behind us is David V. (Miss J's companion)

22 April 2011

Glamping Premieres at Bluewater Resorts

Last April 14, 2011, Bluewater Resorts introduced its latest product called “Glamping”.  A media event was held at the Bluewater Maribago to showcase the unique camping experience. 


Glamorous Camping (Glamping) is Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort’s offering to rediscover and experience nature, comfortably. It is a unique escape for couples and a memorable bonding opportunity for high-energy families. Various camping activities provide an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the island and spend quality time with your loved ones, including island trekking, lagoon fishing, beach combing and stargazing. For the adventurous, one can indulge in snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddle boating and sailing.


“Glamping is a great alternative to traditional eco-friendly camping”, according to Margie Munsayac, Bluewater Resorts’ VP for Sales and Marketing. “ Here, one can still cuddle beside a warm campfire and fall asleep under the stars minus the reality of setting-up your own tent and resting on bumpy ground.” The glamping set-up offers offers pre-pitched tents and accessibility. 


This is a new way for fathers and sons to catch up, couples to find a quiet moment for each other and friends to share interests amidst the backdrop of Sumilon’s natural beauty.


Glamping will be available for booking at Sumilon Island beginning April 24, 2011.  


The Glamping Media Launch Event was hosted by the glamp-morous Jude Bacalso at the Bluewater Maribago’s private island. It was well-attended by media and press, including ABS-CBN, RCTV, The Freeman, Cebu Daily News, Cebu Korean News, Y101. The Honorable Lapu-lapu City Councilor Queenie Ammann also graced the occasion.


For more information on Glamping, please contact Kim Dano at 032 412 2436 or via email at kim.dano@bluewater.com.ph.
GO GLAMPING. Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort's General Manager Rhyz Buac with ABS-CBN's Phoebe Fernandez
CAMPING IN STYLE. "Glamp Master" and Vice President for Sales and Marketing Margie Munsayac talks about camping with luxury amenities to ABS-CBN's Phoebe Fernandez

GLAMP ENTOURAGE. PR Manager Carlo Luna, VP for Sales and Marketing Margie Munsayac, Front Office Manager Adie Gallares with Hon. Councilor Queenie Ammann at the Bluewater private island

GLAMP QUEEN. Jude Bacalso hosts the well-heeled event

21 April 2011

GLAMP IT UP!



GLAMPING FOR THE NIGHT. Enjoy the resort-style luxuries with a bonfire dinner

Are you looking for a unique way to spend your vacation?

Imagine yourself on the beautiful coast of Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort, taking in the sea breeze and listening to the chirping of the birds. Picture yourself sleeping outdoors under the stars with a bonfire to keep you warm. Sleeping on hard ground may not sound appealing to you but if we have all the luxury accommodations while camping out, you might want to go glamping.

GLAMPING or “glamorous camping” is a new camping option that is a growing trend in the travel and hospitality industry. Glamping offers the beauty of luxury camping giving them a sense of adventure but enjoying the amenities never experienced before in traditional camping.

You don’t have to worry about setting up the tent or making dinner. Sumilon glamping comes in a resort-style luxury that offers more than just the comforts of home. Sleeping bags were replaced with soft mattresses, gourmet food over canned goods and the tents are also linked to electrical sources so glampers can enjoy a good light.

BEDAZZLED. Sleeping bags out, beds in.

Sumilon is the perfect place for a glamping spot. Its sandbar is known for its changing shapes and shifting locations around the island, depending on the season. The tiny island has a lagoon teeming with tall mangroves. An adventure trek will offer breathtaking views of the island terrain embraced by the ocean with its varying aquamarine hues. A relaxing walk along the protected forest will reward one with verdant foliage and the harmonic symphony of the birds will be your personal backdrop music. Nearby is a “parola” (lighthouse). For the brave, a quick climb can give a 360° aerial view of the neighboring islands. Beside it is a “baluarte”, a 19th century watchtower used to guard against invading pirates. 


Everything is already laid out; all you have to do is show up.

Glamping is ideal for all ages. It’s ideal for thrill-seeking couples looking for a romantic getaway, for families or group of friends who chose to bond over water-sport activities and for kids growing up on gadgets, it’s the best way to give them a nature vacation with the comforts of the hotel room.

For a taste of hidden paradise, look no further than Sumilon island.



GLAMPING PACKAGES


GLAMP DISCOVERY PACKAGE
Ideal for small families and couples.
Price: P 9500 Nett
Inclusions:
o Overnight Glamping Tent Accommodations for Two Adults and One Child (12 years old and below)
o Fullboard Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Barbecue Dinner)
o Afternoon Tea for 2 Persons
o In-tent Mini bar
o Island Camp Activities
o Camp Assistant
o Roundtrip Boat Transfers (Bancogon-Sumilon Island) 


Note: Additional child without extra bed free of charge and exclusive of meals; Maximum of 4 persons in one tent)


GLAMP EXCURSION PACKAGE 
Minimum of 4 adults or 4 adults and 2 children


Ideal for larger groups of friends and families, as well as wildlife interest groups such as scuba divers and outdoor enthusiasts.


Price: P 4500 Nett per person
Inclusions:
o Overnight Glamping Tent Accommodations 
o Fullboard Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea and Barbecue Dinner)
o In-tent Mini Bar
o Island Camp Activities
o Camp Assistant
o Roundtrip Boat Transfers (Bancogon-Sumilon Island) 


GLAMP NATURE COMBO PACKAGE
Ideal for guests who want to combine resort-style accommodation and glamping. This package is for families whose parents want to stay in a resort room and provide their kids with outdoor camping experience. It is also an option for groups with mature members who require a resort room for convenience and accessibility while the rest can enjoy glamping.


Price: P 14,500 Nett 
Inclusions:
o Overnight Resort Room Accommodations for 2 Adults
o Overnight Glamping Tent Accommodations for Children 12 years and below (Maximum 4 children per tent)
o Fullboard Meals for 2 Adults staying at the Resort Room(Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea and Barbecue Dinner)
o Meals for Guests staying at the Glamping Tent will be on an a la carte basis only.
o In-tent Minibar (snacks and non-alcoholic drinks only)
o Island Camp Activities 
o Roundtrip Boat transfers (Bancogon-Sumilon Island)


Terms:
- Subject to weather conditions
- Valid April 24, 2011 – March 31, 2012
- Price subject to change without prior notice
- Children 8 years old and below must be accompanied by an adult


For reservations and inquiries: For more information on Glamping, please contact Kimm Dano at (032) 412 2436 or via email at kimm.dano@bluewater.com.ph.