11th Regional Travel Fair surpasses pre-pandemic performance, hits over PHP 110M in sales

 The 11th Regional Travel Fair, organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, made a triumphant return to full onsite event since the COVID-19 pandemic, generating over PHP 110 million in actual and negotiated sales during its three-day event at the SM Seaside City Cebu from 21-23 July 2023. This surpassed the previous RTF sales figure by 32.97%.

Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines’ 11th Regional Travel Fair hits over P110 million actual and negotiated sales. Photo by Marky Ramone Go.

TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles expressed her elation over the resounding success of this year’s RTF, “We are thrilled to witness the overwhelming response and enthusiasm from exhibitors and visitors during the Regional Travel Fair. The outstanding sales leads signal a bright future for the tourism industry in the post-pandemic era and reaffirm travelers’ confidence in the safety of their travels.”

Present during the event were TPB COO Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Tourism Undersecretary for Tourism Regulation, Coordination, and Resource Generation (TRCRG) Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Intramuros Administrator Atty. Joan Padilla, Assistant Secretary Rica Bueno, DOT Calabarzon Regional Director Marites Castro, Director Judilyn Quiachon of the Tourism Coordination and Regional Operations, Cebu City Mayor Michael Lopez Rama, TPB Deputy Chief Operations Officer for Marketing and Promotions Atty. Charles Aames Bautista, and TPB Domestic Promotions Department Manager Teresita Landan.

The event was also attended by social media personalities Chuck Aquino and Joe Abad, popularly known as Chuck and Joe, and Marie Field Faith.

Lumad Basakanon's vibrant cultural performance wowed the crowd at the 11th Regional Travel Fair at SM Seaside City Cebu. Photo by Marky Ramone Go.

Aerial view of St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church, popularly known as Argao Church in Cebu. Photo by Marky Ramone Go.

TPB's Regional Travel Fair in Cebu offers participants an immersive experience of Southern Cebu's culture and culinary offerings. Photo by Marky Ramone Go.

With the theme #VisitCentralVisayas, the annual trade fair provided a platform for over 70 exhibitors nationwide to participate in the event. Industry professionals took the opportunity to share emerging trends and best practices, innovate travel-related business operations, and expand networks through its engaging Business-to-Business (B2B) sessions. Tourism offices from Central Visayas, including the Province of Cebu, Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Siquijor, Boho, and Negros Oriental presented their tourism product updates during the B2B session.

The fair also opened its doors to enthusiastic travelers during its two-day Business-to-Consumer (B2C) session held on July 22-23. Among the offerings were discounted tour packages to famous and emerging local destinations, airline tickets, accommodation, delicacies, and pasalubong items.

“We desire and aim to play a major role in shaping the future of tourism by creating a one-stop shop venue for industry collaboration and partnerships,” said Tourism Undersecretary for Tourism Regulation, Coordination, and Resource Generation (TRCRG) Shahlimar Hofer Tamano who delivered a keynote speech at the event on behalf of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.

Meanwhile, TPB members, industry stakeholders, influencers, and media partners were also treated to a post-tour trip to the heritage towns of Argao and Carcar for an immersive experience of southern Cebu’s culture and culinary offerings.

The RTF was made possible with the support of the Department of Tourism Region VII, Provincial Government of Cebu, and City Government of Cebu. The event was also sponsored by partners from the private sector – SM Seaside City, 2GO, Jpark Island, Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, Philippine Airlines, NUSTAR, Fili Hotel, CAVA, Bluewater Maribago Mactan, and Marco Polo Cebu.

TPB anticipates an even bigger and better Regional Travel Fair slated in October this year in Ilocos Region.

PAL Makes Flights Fun for Kids with Mickey & Friends themed Junior Jetsetter Kit

 

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is delighted to introduce its latest limited-edition, Disney-themed Junior Jetsetter Kits (JJ Kits) starting July 24, 2023. This special amenity kit features designs inspired by beloved Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy, adding a touch of joy to every journey.

The JJ Kit will be exclusively provided to children traveling on PAL's long-haul flights between Manila and a selection of premier destinations including Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Honolulu, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Dubai, Riyadh, Dammam, and Doha.

Designed to captivate young imaginations, the JJ Kit offers a variety of engaging activities to keep kids entertained during long-haul flights. For flights out of Manila, young travelers will find a stackable crayon, an activity book, and a tic-tac-toe game set. Meanwhile, for flights inbound to Manila, kids will receive kits that include a sliding puzzle in addition to the stackable crayon and activity book. Both versions will be conveniently packed in a stylish 'fanny pack' type of bag.

PAL aims to make air travel with kids an unforgettable and exciting experience. PAL Head of Product and Service Management Yosh Yoshida expressed his excitement about the Mickey and Friends edition of the JJ Kit. "We believe our young travelers will enjoy this special treat, as air travel presents an extraordinary adventure for them. Philippine Airlines would like to help spark the joyful spirit of travel in our valued junior jetsetters as they embark on a journey of wonder and excitement.”

Book your flight now by visiting www.philippineairlines.com.

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About Philippine Airlines:

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is the Philippines’ flag carrier and only full-service network airline, as well as the first commercial airline in Asia. PAL's fleet of Boeing, Airbus, and De Havilland aircraft operate out of hubs in Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Davao to 32 destinations in the Philippines and 39 destinations in Asia, North America, Australia, and the Middle East. Known for its hallmark heartwarming and gracious Filipino service, PAL also carries air cargo shipments and undertakes charter flights to boost Philippine tourism, support the economy and serve the travel needs of overseas Filipinos. PAL is dedicated to promoting the Philippines’ cultural heritage and supporting initiatives that celebrate Filipino talent and creativity.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo celebrates eight years

 It was 2015 when Richmonde Hotel Iloilo opened its doors and pioneered the transformation of the hospitality industry in the Western Visayas region by introducing first-rate facilities and services world-class travelers deserve. Now, as it turns eight years old this month, the hotel is spreading cheer and good fortune with exciting room offers and an epic dinner experience.

Designed for those looking for a luxurious escape to revel in fun relaxation, Richmonde’s Celebrate Eight Room Packages will make any guest feel lucky indeed. For a day of soothing comfort and invigorating activities, book the Rejuvenate Package which is good for two persons and comes with an overnight stay in a Deluxe room with breakfast buffet at The Granary, choice of ventosa, aromatherapy, Moroccan full body, head+back, or head+foot massage service, PhP 1,500 worth of dining credits that may be used for food & beverage orders at any of the hotel’s restaurant outlets, namely The Granary, BizBar, or Zabana Bar, or from Room Service. This package is priced at only PhP 8,888nett.

Celebrate Eight Room Packages

 

Rejuvenate Package is valid for double occupancy and includes Deluxe room accommodations, breakfast buffet, in-room massage service, and PhP 1,500 worth of dining credits, for PhP 8,888 nett. Extra bed with breakfast is at PhP 1,500 nett.

The Rest & Recreation Rates are for two-night stays at double occupancy and start at PhP 8,888 nett (room only) and PhP 9,888 nett (with breakfast buffet).

Level up quality time with family and friends and create meaningful moments with the special Rest & Recreation Rates valid for two-night stays. Room accommodations for two persons go for as low as PhP 8,888 nett or PhP 4,444 nett per night (room only) and PhP 9,888 nett or PhP 4,944 nett per night (room with breakfast buffet).    

All above-mentioned rates include Wi-Fi access and complimentary use of the gym and pool. This special anniversary room offer is available until July 31, 2023, except July 21 & 22.

Panumdúman: 8 Course LaMeza Ilonggo Degustation Dinner

Some of the dishes included in the 8 course tasting menu: (L-R) Inasal Tacos (chicken inasal, Ilonggo inasal BBQ sauce, sinanglag taco shell, pickled vegetables, soy pearls, blistered leeks, calamansi aioli); Uhong (smoked medley of mushrooms, roasted onion puree, adobo XO, powdered kasuy, local cheese, fine parmesan); and Meringue de Sal (monggo paste, batuan jam).  

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo has always been known for its tasty and innovative menus that pay homage to Iloilo’s rich culinary heritage. For its 8^th anniversary, Richmonde presents Panumdúman, a unique one-night only gastronomic adventure that aims to capture the nostalgic flavors of our fondest childhood memories in an elevated degustation dinner. This 8 course LaMeza Ilonggo dinner will be served on July 20, 2023 from 6pm to 10pm at The Granary for PhP 4,800 nett per person. Prior reservations required as seats are limited.

As Richmonde Hotel Iloilo celebrates another year in the business, it is also primed and ready to serve its guests even better. According to General Manager Natalie Lim, “We owe our success to all the guests and clients who have supported us throughout the years. In return, I can assure you that we will continue to work hard to provide you with only superb products, excellent services, and most of all, happy, enriching experiences.” 

For inquiries and reservations, call (6333) 328 7888. To book a room, you may also call (63) 917 580 9058 or email stay@richmondeiloilo.com. To reserve a table for Panumdúman, you may also call (63) 917 563 3558.

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Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is the first hotel outside Metro Manila of local real estate giant, Megaworld Corporation. With its strategic location within the modern 72-hectare development of Iloilo Business Park, coupled with its world-class facilities, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo elevated the standards of the hotel industry in Western Visayas when it opened in 2015. Richmonde is among the growing number of homegrown brands under the Megaworld Hotels and Resorts group. For more information on Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, log on to www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph and for the latest news on the hotel, follow @RichmondeHotelIloilo on Facebook and Instagram.

4 easy tips to remember to have an unstoppable year - These health tips can help Filipinos live their best life this 2023

 

One in five Filipinos has already booked international trips this 2023. Not only that, but 44% of Filipinos are planning to travel two to four times this year.[1] At the same time, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is targeting to have 4.8 million tourist arrivals in the country this year, twice the number of visitors in 2022.[2]

This means a lot of people will be going in and out of the country. We can expect more crowds and busier streets, especially during summer, which is one of the best times to travel because of the holidays and school vacations. If you are one of those looking to have an unstoppable year full of adventures, consider these four easy health tips:

Drink vitamins

Taking vitamins regularly can supplement a healthy diet and lifestyle.[3] This is especially true for people going on vacation, who need to boost their immunity before and during their trip. Immune-boosting supplements like vitamins C and D, zinc, and probiotics can be taken three to five days before a trip and during[4] to help travelers stay in tip-top shape.

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is important all year round. Getting enough water prevents infections, brings nutrients to cells, and ensures that organs are working optimally. Aside from these benefits, drinking the recommended amount of water each day is good for cognition, sleep quality, and mood.[5] The amount of water needed per day varies per individual, but for the healthy ones, the recommended amount of water that men should drink daily is 15.5 cups, and 11.5 cups for women.[6]

Drinking enough water before travel is recommended because flying can be dehydrating.[7] Airplanes are kept at 10 to 20% humidity, a lower rate compared to normal environments that range from 35 to 65%. Lower humidity leads to dehydration.[8]

Sleep well

Good sleep leads to improved health, mood, immune system, and brain performance.[9] Seven to nine hours of continuous sleep is needed to feel refreshed.[10] Maintain good sleep habits days before a flight to have enough energy for the trip.

Flying to countries with the same time zone or with just an hour or two difference is easy. When traveling across the world, it’s important to adjust to the day-night cycle at the destination.[11] Stay up with the locals when the arrival time is during the day and sleep at night.

Get vaccinated

Vacations expose travelers to diseases, so timely immunizations through vaccinations are crucial. The flu is one of the most common infectious diseases and it is contagious. Each infected person can spread the disease to one or two more people.[12]

Preventive healthcare is still the best protection since people can catch the flu at any time of the year. It’s also important to get a shot annually since flu vaccines change each year to match the current viruses.

Most of all, you wouldn’t want to miss all the fun you have planned for your trip if you get sick. Take it from GlaxoSmithKline Philippines' (GSK) latest flu disease awareness jingle, “But I Got the Flu[1] .” It’s a call to everyone to get your flu shots as soon as possible so you can be unstoppable - whether in having your best summer vacation yet, spending quality time with loved ones, or pursuing other passions in life - don’t let the flu stop you. All you need to do is consult your doctor to ensure that you’re in the right condition to do so.

“People are excited to make up for all the things that they missed at the height of the pandemic. Now that travel restrictions are looser and we can enjoy the best holiday destinations, it’s important to not let our guard down. We recommend that travelers take preventive measures so they can be unstoppable and enjoy their trips worry-free,” says Dr. Kevin Bautista, GSK Medical Affairs Manager.

A health service message brought to you by GSK

For further information, please consult your doctor.

For Philippine audience only

Kindly forward all adverse events to GSK Philippines via ph.safety@gsk.com

©2023 GSK group of companies or its licensor

GlaxoSmithKline Philippines, Inc.

23rd Floor, The Finance Center, 26th Street corner 9th avenue

Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, 1634

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^[1] Revenge travel is real: 1 in 5 Filipinos have already booked an international holiday in 2023. (2022, Dec 20). Philstar Life, https://philstarlife.com/living/288666-2022-travel-trends-philippines. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

[2] DOT raises 2023 target to 4.8 million visitors from abroad. Philippine Daily Inquirer. (2022, Dec 20). https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1707629/dot-targets-4-8-million-international-visitors-for-2023. Accessed 23 Jun 2023.

^[3] The Truth About Supplements: 5 Things You Should Know. (2022, Mar 31). Penn Medicine, https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2020/february/the-truth-about-supplements. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[4] 5 Things You Should Do for Your Health Before Every Trip, According to a Doctor. (2022, Oct 13). Travel + Leisure, https://www.travelandleisure.com/health-tips-before-travel-according-to-a-doctor-6750420. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[5] The importance of hydration. (2017, Sep 28). Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (HSPH), https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/the-importance-of-hydration/. Accessed 07 Mar 2023.

^[6] How Much Water Should You Drink? (2023, May 22). Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-much-water-should-you-drink. Accessed 23 Jun 2023.

^[7] 5 Things You Should Do for Your Health Before Every Trip, According to a Doctor. (2022, Oct 13). Travel + Leisure, https://www.travelandleisure.com/health-tips-before-travel-according-to-a-doctor-6750420. Accessed 07 Mar 2023.

^[8] Why Flying Makes You So Dehydrated. (2018, Dec 14). Center for Family Medicine, https://centerforfamilymedicine.com/general-health/why-flying-makes-you-so-dehydrated. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[9] Good Sleep for Good Health. (2021, Apr). National Institutes of Health, https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2021/04/good-sleep-good-health. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[10] What Is Healthy Sleep? (2022, Apr 29). Sleep Foundation, https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene/what-is-healthy-sleep. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[11] Jet Lag and Sleep. (2022, Nov 3). Sleep Foundation, https://www.sleepfoundation.org/travel-and-sleep/jet-lag. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[12] Flu (Influenza). (2022, Oct 11). Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4335-influenza-flu. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

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#VisitCentralVisayas: TPB and DOT bring 11th Regional Travel Fair to Cebu

 

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, the marketing and promotions arm of the Department of Tourism, is set to stage one of its flagship programs, the 11th Regional Travel Fair (RTF), from 21 to 23 July 2023 at SM Seaside City, Cebu.

The RTF is a government-initiated trade fair that strategically conducts its events across different regions of the country. This initiative provides an excellent platform for host regions to showcase their unique tourism offerings in partnership with the local government units and local industry players.

In its 11th installment, the RTF will shine the spotlight on Central Visayas, a region renowned for its white sandy beaches, breathtaking sceneries, and unspoiled natural wonders. A travelers’ mecca, this region offers a multitude of activities for both islands and highlands explorations – from idyllic white sand beaches to captivating underwater scenery and exhilarating adventures to vibrant historical sites. It is sure to attract tourists to #VisitCentralVisayas and explore its breathtaking wonders.

“After a series of hybrid regional travel fairs, we are thrilled to stage a full in-person event and gather key industry stakeholders to the 11th RTF in Cebu. I invite everyone to join us as we embark on a meaningful journey to #VisitCentralVisayas and discover its treasures,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

The 11th RTF will commence with Business-to-Business sessions between local sellers and buyers to establish valuable relationships, promote collaboration on marketing campaigns and product development while also sharing emerging trends and best practices in the industry.

A two-day Business-to-Consumer session is also slated on July 22-23 wherein over 70 exhibitors will showcase and offer discounted domestic tour packages, airline tickets, accommodations, and other tourism-related products and services.

The fair will also feature the handloom weaving industry of Hablon Weavers of Argao and Banig Weavers of Badian, Cebu. These centuries-old traditions hold immense cultural and traditional significance, representing the vibrant history and heritage of the Cebuano people.

Be part of the 11th RTF and get a chance to score great travel deals for your next adventure! Register now at https://rtf.tpb.gov.ph/

Explore the world this summer with Emirates

Emirates is inviting you to go on a well-deserved retreat to some of the most popular destinations among Filipinos. To make your getaway even more memorable, Emirates has cooked up a number of special offers that you can avail throughout the summer, so you can make the most of your travels.

You can experience these on top of Emirates’ award-winning inflight features and impeccable, world-class service, allowing you to start enjoying your vacation even before you reach your destination.

Explore the most popular destinations among Filipino flyers of Emirates

With Emirates’ expansive network of international destinations accessible through its global hub in Dubai, the world is all yours to explore this summer. If you’re still looking for the perfect destination for your getaway, then you’ll never go wrong with the top 10 most popular destinations among Filipino flyers of Emirates year-round: Dubai, Istanbul, Rome, Paris, London, Madrid, Amsterdam, Athens, New York, and Cape Town!

First is Dubai, where there is something for everyone—from luxury retail establishments for shopaholics to theme parks for the whole family. Istanbul, with its majestic attractions such as the Hagia Sophia, Dolmabahce Palace, and Topkapi Palace, is also a great city to explore. There’s also Rome, with its ancient wonders like the Colosseum and the Pantheon among other must-visit attractions.

Paris, home to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Palace of Versailles, is for those looking for something romantic. London is another sightseeing hotspot where world-famous landmarks and museums can be found. The same can be said for Madrid, where several of these equally iconic attractions await.

In Amsterdam, you can go on a scenic canal tour, and then cap the day off at one of the city’s numerous jazz cafes. In Athens, you can go on an island-hopping tour or explore the numerous temples within the city. Meanwhile, New York has museums and dining spots that are must-visits, but not before taking a selfie at Times Square. Last but not least is Cape Town, with its natural marvels that can leave any and all nature-lovers awestruck.

Fly Emirates for a summer getaway like no other

Summer getaways are all about making memories that can last a lifetime, and Emirates is here to make that happen with several offers available exclusively to Emirates flyers all season long.

Sit back and relax as you immerse yourself in ice, Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment offering up to 6,500 channels of on-demand, multi-language entertainment featuring more than 45 Academy Award® winning films, over 2,000 movies, 650 TV shows, and 4,000 hours of music, podcasts, and audiobooks across 40 languages. New titles include Avatar: The Way of the Water, Shazam! Fury of the Gods, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and The Super Mario Bros. Movie, just to name a few.

Of course, it won’t be an Emirates summer getaway without the seasonal culinary specialties. All summer long, Emirates flyers will be treated to a range of delicious dishes like fresh, seasonal strawberries and burrata. For a refreshing respite from the summer heat, Emirates summer mocktails Tropical Twist, Rose Iced Tea, Citrus Twist, Raspberry Spice and Mint Lemonade will feature on all flights in July and August.

In addition, customers flying to or through Dubai can simply show their boarding pass and a valid form of identification to hundreds of retail, leisure, and dining outlets, as well as famous attractions and luxury spas, to enjoy fantastic discounts throughout Dubai and the UAE with My Emirates Pass valid until September 30. To see all My Emirates Pass offers, please visit https://www.emirates.com/ph/english/experience/my-emirates-pass/.

Members of Emirates’ award-winning loyalty program, Skywards, can also earn Miles with our worldwide partners like hotels, airlines, car rentals, retail and banking. Members can spend these Miles on reward tickets, upgrades, or even tickets for concerts and sports events. Learn more about Emirates Skywards here: https://www.emirates.com/ph/english/skywards/.

Go all out with Emirates First Class

When you fly Emirates, everything feels like an upgrade, whether you’re flying Economy, Premium Economy, or Business Class. But if you want to experience true inflight luxury, you can always go all out with Emirates Boeing 777 First Class—the first and only airline cabin class of its kind offered on flights to and from Manila.

Travel in complete privacy with your own fully enclosed suite, where you can dine and watch your favorite titles on ice all by yourself. Each suite is also fitted with a luxury amenity kit featuring a skincare collection from European luxury brand Byredo, a set of Bowers & Wilkins Active Noise Cancelling E1 headphones, a premium leather notebook and pen set, and complimentary sleepwear from Emirates.

You'll also get exclusive perks such as complimentary chauffeur-drive to and from the airport and access to Emirates' premium airport lounges, among others.

Visit https://www.emirates.com/ph/english/experience/cabin-features/first-class/b777/ to learn more about Emirates’ Boeing 777 First Class offers.

Fly Emirates this summer for a getaway experience you will never forget!

Emirates currently operates 25 weekly flights from Manila, Cebu, and Clark to Dubai, connecting Filipino travelers to hundreds of destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. For more information about Emirates, please visit www.emirates.com.

The Barrettos’ iconic rest house is now on Airbnb: Gather the family for a festive getaway hosted by Marjorie and Julia!

 

(Philippines) - To celebrate the advent of this year’s Christmas festivities, the Barretto family has announced that they will become Airbnb Hosts and list their luxurious family villa in Calumpit, Bulacan on Airbnb.

Entertainment veteran Marjorie Barretto and famous actress-model Julia Barretto will be opening the doors of the River Garden Rest House on Airbnb for three consecutive weekends — with the first stay on 15 October hosted in-person by the renowned mother-daughter duo, who will share their favourite spots around the villa and attractions nearby.

The rest house will be available for a one-night stay on three exclusive dates: October 15, October 22, and October 29. Priced at Php25,000 per night excluding additional fees, the rest house can accommodate up to a maximum of 16 pax.

Starting today, interested guests can make a request to book at www.airbnb.com/h/rivergardenresthouse, along with a message introducing themselves and detailing their request including their travel companions and why they are interested to stay. Guests must have a verified Airbnb profile, a history of positive reviews, and be 18+ to request to book.

“The River Garden Rest House is extremely dear to our family and holds so many precious memories for us. I am incredibly happy to now share this special space with the world through Airbnb, and for more guests throughout the Philippines and overseas to enjoy our Filipino hospitality and rejuvenating probinsya life. I look forward to many more families and friends creating their own meaningful moments here and enjoying the rest house,” shares Marjorie.

Located an hour's drive out from Metro Manila, the Barrettos’ expansive River Garden Rest House offers Filipinos an idyllic opportunity to reconnect with loved ones amidst nature. The villa offers four spacious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, a large private pool, an outdoor dining area and lounge, a fully-equipped open kitchen with grill, and a gazebo boasting scenic views of the Angat River. Guests may also be able to purchase the fresh catch of the day for dinner from the fishermen nearby.

Purchased by Marjorie over 20 years ago, the villa has since been meticulously restored and furnished by the matriarch to reflect a blend of old-world charm and modern Filipino design. Local materials including pawid roofs, bamboo and capiz shell windows feature prominently. Each room also features a unique collection of precious antiques, furniture, accessories, and even heritage paintings passed down from Marjorie’s mother.

“One of my favourite things to do is spend a quiet afternoon in the shade of the gazebo, watching the river waters glisten under the sun. It’s always heartwarming seeing our family spend the day in different corners of the house, either cooped up with a book, engrossed in conversation, or dipping in the pool. I am thrilled to be supporting my mom in sharing this space with more families, and we hope our guests will enjoy and care for this space as much as we do,” adds Julia.

Recent Airbnb data revealed that destinations outside major metropolitan hubs are increasingly popular among travelers, and earnings from hosting are helping Filipinos grow their business and improve their homes.

Interested to learn more about becoming an Airbnb Host like the Barrettos? You can get free one-on-one help from an Airbnb Superhost at airbnb.com/askasuperhost, and find more useful tips and information at airbnb.com/host. For more unique stays this festive season, visit airbnb.com or the Airbnb app.