Are you planning on going on a beach holiday soon? If so, you’ll need to take the right luggage with you. In this post, we run through all the essentials that no beach-hungry tourist would be seen on a plane without. 

Let’s get stuck in, shall we? 

Windbreak

Have you ever noticed that it is a heck of a lot windier at the beach than it is anywhere else you usually go? That’s because there’s nothing to stop the wind from battering you as it comes off the ocean. 

Experienced beach holidaymakers always go to their favorite white sand locations prepared with a windbreak. These days, they’re no longer big, bulky things you have to hammer into the ground with a mallet. You can now get handy travel versions that pop up like makeshift tents and fold away neatly. 

Sunglasses

If you’re planning on spending a day on the beach, then good sunglasses are essential. You want shades that will not only make you look cool but also block out the sun. 

Eyeglasses.com says that round sunglasses are in fashion right now. Their orb-like shape creates a kind of mystique and gets you in the holiday spirit. But there are plenty of options available, even for the fussiest of travelers. Just make sure that the glasses you take have proper UV protection. Dark glass isn’t enough. 

Swim Suit

No beach vacay is complete without a swimsuit, says smartertravel.com. If you’re heading to a tropical destination, you’ll undoubtedly want to take a dip in the sea and test the waters for yourself. Be sure to pack one that makes you feel comfortable. 

Goggles

Speaking of swimming in the sea, you might also want to take a pair of goggles with you. Unlike lakes, the sea has high salt content, which can irritate your eyes if you’re sensitive. Goggles prevent any water from getting in, stopping them from becoming bloodshot. 

Sarong

Sometimes you want to cover up a bit, especially when you head inland to grab an ice cream. Don’t forget to pack a sarong - a lightweight piece of fabric you can pull over yourself when the need arises. 

Umbrella

Yes - it’s unlikely that it’s going to rain on your scorching hot beach holiday, but that doesn’t mean you should avoid taking your umbrella. 

This time around, your umbrella is for protecting you against the sun. Remember, even the thickest sunscreen can’t always protect your skin from damage during the middle of the day. Taking an umbrella keeps you safe and provides some shade when things get hot. 

Camera

Sunsets over the beach look fantastic. So do sunrises, for that matter. Don’t forget to take your camera with you so that you can capture these magical moments for posterity. Just be sure you bring a travel case if you use a DSLR to protect it. 

Water Bottle

If it is hot weather, you’ll need to keep yourself hydrated as much as possible. Taking a water bottle with you is helpful, particularly if you don’t want to walk all the way to the bar. 

Starting every day with coffee is more than a routine. Perhaps now more than ever, it opens a fresher day and is a link to the familiar.

As Starbucks Philippines navigates through the new normal, the company announced the nationwide availability of Mobile Order and Pay on iOS and Android devices, a new feature of their popular mobile app that allows customers to place and pay for their order in advance and pick it up at any Starbucks store. Following the successful launch of the new Starbucks Rewards program, mobile ordering is the company’s latest digital innovation providing Starbucks Rewards members a contactless alternative for getting their favorite beverage. 

“The app is the easiest place to find a store, order ahead and make a payment using your Starbucks Rewards account. Bringing Mobile Order & Pay to customers is about meeting their needs for convenience and safety, while still providing an exceptional store experience,” said Keith Cole, head of Marketing, Starbucks Philippines.

To make the experience even more enjoyable, Starbucks Rewards members can redeem rewards and collect Stars through Mobile Order & Pay. 

Earn E-Stickers

Starbucks Rewards members who login to their account and join the Starbucks Christmas Traditions promotion will earn e-stickers on eligible mobile orders. E-stickers will be credited to their Starbucks Rewards account, which they can use to redeem the 2021 Starbucks Planners & Organizers.

 

Order ahead

After opening the app and logging in to their Starbucks Rewards account, customers must simply tap on “Order”, choose and customize their beverage, select the stores nearest them and pay using their Starbucks Rewards account. The app estimates wait time. When their order is ready, the customer can breeze in at the pickup area and ask a barista for their freshly made beverage.  

Enjoy the fastest, most fun and rewarding way to order at Starbucks with the new Starbucks Rewards Mobile Order & Pay. Download the Starbucks PH app (via App Store™ or Google Play) and sign up for Rewards to order on-the-go. 

Starbucks finally unveiled the much awaited 2021 Planners and Organizers on Monday, November 2. I'm very excited to show you the awesome design of these paper products and how you can avail them. Featuring four (4) Philippine-exclusive designs, the new Starbucks Planners and Organizers serve as a fresh canvas for people to chronicle dreams, hopes, and whims, as they Carry The Merry into a brighter year ahead.

Carry The Merry is an invitation of Starbucks for people to celebrate life’s gratefulness through things that joyfully transpire. Through the pages of this year’s planners and organizers, people who have evolved with the brand are given an ode, that they may find a deeper connection with the Starbucks Experience.

Starbucks Siren (Green) Planner

Marking a friendly and familiar face, Starbucks shares its tradition of coffee-making mastery through its iconic Siren. It paints a picture of its wonderful journey in delivering the best-tasting coffee, from the sourcing of the beans, to the serving in one’s cup. The 2021 Starbucks Philippines Planner in the brand’s signature green color comes in a hardbound recycled PU (synthetic) leather cover, with meticulous details of the mythical Siren debossed on its front cover.

Starbucks Teavana™ Youthberry (Yellow) Planner

The Starbucks Teavana™ sets the trail for a fun, modern spin on tea-drinking. It’s fun and fruity flavors are inspired by traditions from many cultures, as well as a fun, modern, Western spin on tea-drinking, with the aim of giving zest to people’s vibrant and joyful passions. Bringing more colors to people’s lives, the 2021 Starbucks Teavana™ Youthberry Planner arrives in a fresh yellow hue. It features intrinsic details of the Siren Tail in gold, embossed on its recycled PU leather cover.

As the brand introduces this year’s much-awaited planners, Starbucks stays true to its commitment to supporting sustainable movements. The pages of the Starbucks Siren and Starbucks Teavana™ Youthberry Planners are produced with eco-friendly paper in a facility certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) — an independent, non-profit organization to promote the responsible management of the world’s forests.

Starbucks Frappuccino® Coral Pink Organizer (with multifunctional carrier)

If there’s any beverage that gets people creative in expressing their truest selves, it would have to be the Frappuccino. This delicious and creamy blend fuses multiple indulgent flavors that make the best sip of the season. The Starbucks Frappuccino® Organizer in coral pink pops in a posh and youthful color with a sleek multifunctional carrier laced by a premium rose gold Starbucks logo zipper pull.

It consists of several built-in pockets where people can conveniently place their IDs, credit cards, Starbucks Cards and even hand sanitizers, enabling them to house their essentials as they deliver on their state of play.

Starbucks Reserve® Black Organizer (with multifunctional carrier)

Exquisite coffees are the heart and soul of Starbucks Reserve®. Through rare coffees and a plethora of beverage platforms, Starbucks underscores its commitment to pursuing great craftsmanship and innovation when it comes to coffee-making.

The 2021 Starbucks Reserve® Black Organizer is grounded on the first-rate quality of its premium coffee lineup. It dawns on a classic black color that exudes a minimalistic yet elevated feel for Starbucks customers. Take it with you as your lifestyle companion that houses your essential items.

All of this year’s planners and organizers come with more blank pages to fill so people who love to journal, write, or draw, can satisfy the creative junkie in them. To complement all the unique features of the 2021 Starbucks Planners and Organizers, each choice provides a bookmark, a set of fun and colorful stickers, along with tear-off vouchers that people can use throughout the year as they spend it with Starbucks.

“To many, Starbucks is a reassurance that the holiday is here. It has always been part of festivities with its rich mix of familiar and new flavors. And while our celebrations sing a different tune this year, our goal is to ignite a spark of joy and hope in people. This time around, we bring an invitation to carry the merry, little by little, and inspire people to share moments of joy,” says Jo-Ann Ramos, Starbucks Philippines Marketing Manager.

Fill your year with heartwarming stories of hope and passion with the 2021 Starbucks Planner and Organizer. Get hold of the most-coveted items by collecting a total of 18 stickers using either the paper promo card or the e-promo card in Starbucks Philippines Mobile app, with one (1) sticker awarded for any purchase of a Tall, Grande, or Venti Starbucks® handcrafted beverage in-stores. The collection of stickers will start from November 3, 2020, to January 4, 2021 — in all Starbucks stores nationwide. Learn more about it here.

Starbucks Rewards members can also order their favorites via the Mobile Order & Pay feature of the app. Starting November 17, they can place their beverage orders using the Starbucks app or mobile device and claim them safely in-stores. To know more about how Starbucks ensures a safe ground for its customers, read their Safety Measures here.

We are still on the quarantine period and maybe some of you are wondering if Starbucks will continue to offer the Christmas Collection and Starbucks Planners. The answer is YES! The much-awaited 2021 Starbucks planners and organizers will be available  soon in your favorite Starbucks store. 

While you are waiting for the launching of the 2021 Starbucks planners and journals, let me show first some of the featured merchandise, food and beverages to savor the flavors of Christmas. 

Let's start with the Starbucks Holiday Bling Cups. These must-have Iridescent Cold Cups will surely suit your dazzling look. With their textured surface and debossed logo, these new trendy colored cold cups are the perfect accessory to match the holiday vibe. Available in iridescent color of pink and rainbow hues for Php1,695

Another cool items to collect are the Starbucks Pearl Hot Cup, 16oz. Each cup has a glossy pearl effect to make drinking more festive & sparkling. Sanitized and ready to use. Available in Blue, Pink, Green and Silver for Php125 (each cup sold separately).

Starbucks also unveiled the Starbucks Copper Gem Collection. It’s a collection of glam minimalist look with unique shape and artwork in Matte black and glossy copper finish.

They will also offer Starbucks Home for the Holidays Collection. It features  a warm and cheerful home setting, celebrating the enchantment of holiday season with adorable furry dog & cat friends in a mix of classic red and green hues with a highlight of camel brown and white to bring holiday spirit to life. 

Let’s talk  now with their holiday beverages. Let's me begin with the Jolly Baked Apple Latte.  It’s creamy blend of Starbucks® signature espresso, steamed milk and spiced apples, the new Jolly Baked Apple Latte is a multi-sensory holiday delight. The Jolly Baked Apple Latte is topped with a whipped cream dome, a delicate drizzle of baked apple sauce and candied apple sprinkles for the perfect holiday touch.

There’s a returning favorite called TOFFEE NUT CRUNCH LATTE. It has comforting layers of buttery toffee nut balanced by subtle sweet notes of toasted nuts, Starbucks® signature espresso and velvety steamed milk. The beverage is finished with a whipped cream peak and a sprinkle of crunchy toffee nut topping. 

Another fan favorite is called the Peppermint Mocha. Inspired by the flavors of traditional holiday candies, the Peppermint Mocha is made with Starbucks® signature espresso and steamed milk, chocolatey mocha sauce and peppermint. Topped with whipped cream, mocha drizzle and candy cane pieces, this special holiday beverage is returning for the 18th year to celebrate the joys and flavors of the holiday season all over again.

These three featured beverages are available hot, iced or blended for P180/tall, P195/Grande and P210/Venti.

Aside from the holiday beverages Starbucks also unveiled its mouth-watering cakes and cookies that you will surely enjoy this holiday season.

Chocolate Crepe Cake

This holiday season, Starbucks will also offer the returning favorite, Chocolate Crepe Cake. It has Seventeen (17) layers of crêpe with smooth and creamy chocolate cream filling. It’s available for P200 per slice and P1600 for the whole cake. 

Apple Berry Crumble Cheesecake

One of their newest cakes is called Apple Berry Crumble Cheesecake. It’s smooth and creamy cheesecake loaded with apples, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and topped with butter crumbles. You can get this for P200 per slice and P2000 for the whole cake. 

Triple Chocolate Cake

Another one is the Triple Chocolate Cake. It’s made with Belgian chocolate. Layers of gooey brownie, rich chocolate cake, light vanilla cake, velvety dark and milk chocolate mousse then finished with dark, milks and white chocolate cream frosting. It’s available for P200 per slice and P1600 for the whole cake.

Holiday Coffee Cake

The last cake I’m going to introduce to you is called the Holiday Coffee Cake. It has layers of moist coffee cake, soft to chew meringue, smooth creamy coffee mousse finished with white chocolate cream icing. You can also get this P200 per slice and P1600 for the whole cake.

You will also enjoy these pastries like Chocolate Chip Overload Cookie, Chocolate Chip Doughnut, PBJ Doughnut, Prosciutto Cotto and Mozzarela Panzerotti, Mushroom Bun, Holiday Ham, Eggwhite, Cheese on Croissant Bun and Chicken Fajita Roll. 

This holiday season, Starbucks will also offer New Ready-to- Drink which is perfect for road trips, work from home and for gatherings. You can choose from  Starbucks Doubleshot Milky Espresso, Starbucks Doubleshot Dark Mocha, Starbucks Bottled Caramel Frappuccino and Starbucks Bottled Vanilla Frappucino.

Pricing and availability of 2021 Starbucks planners, organizers and Christmas cards will be unveiled on the 2nd of November.  Stay tuned on the blog for more updates

Catch the flavors of Christmas this season at Starbucks. To be updated about the 2021 Starbucks planners, organizers and other merchandisers, you may follow Starbucks Philippines Facebook page or visiting www.starbucks.ph.

Cloud 9 is the most popular tourist spot in the beautiful island of Siargao. It is rated as the best surf break in the Philippines, offering all-year round good waves. This surfing spot is truly a haven for surfers and beach lovers. 

Cloud 9 Siargao can be reached via land transportation in the town of General Luna, approximately one hour drive from Siargao Airport. You can take a tricycle or habal-habal ( motorbike) going to this tourists' favorite destination.

The place features a long wooden boardwalk, a 3-story viewing platform, white sands, towering palm trees, nice cafe /  restaurants and instagrammable accommodation. 

If you're a beginner and just learning how to surf, this is an ideal spot. You can find here several surf shops that provide srufing lessons and boards for rent. 

Cloud 9 Rates 

Entrance Fee: P50.00

Surfing Instructor: P500.00 / per hour

Surfboard Rental: P200.00 / per hour | P500.00 / whole day

Best time to visit Siargao is from September to November.  These months offer waves that go as high as 8- 12 feet . 

Aside from Cloud 9, other must visit destinations in Siargao inclde, Daku Island, Naked Island, Magpupungko Pool, Maasin River, Sugba Lagoon, Sohatan and other amazing tourist spots. 

Siargao is now more accessible because of direct flights from Manila and Cebu via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific Air, and SkyJet.

Other option is via boat from Surigao City. You can board a boat or ferry bound for Siargao (Dapa Port). Travel time is 2 hours or more, depending on the type of ferry you choose. From Dapa Port, ypu may take tricycle or habal-habal going to you resort. 

Maasin River is one of the famous tourist destinations in the beautiful island of Siargao. It's located just a short drive from the famous Cloud 9 surfing spot. 

This epic place in Siargao can be reached via land transportation. Most of  the local and international visitors hired a motorcycle or tricycle to reach this instgrammable destination. Others avail Siargao tour package which include Maasin River as part of  the place to visit. 

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the leading Philippine carrier, recently announced the improvements in its policies through a virtual press event. Cebu Pacific’s new policies will give passengers even more flexible booking options and peace of mind amidst travel concerns over the near term.

The intimate event was joined by CEB Vice President for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog and Corporate Communications Director Charo Lagamon. Member of the press and bloggers also graced the event.

Cebu Pacific and Cebgo will resume passenger flights on June 2, 2020, with a limited number of domestic flights. The Philippine low-cost airline will continue to work with the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF), as well as other national and local government authorities, on the rules and requirements to resume commercial passenger flights between areas under General Community Quarantine (GCQ).  

Flight schedule - June 2-4, 2020:  

In Manila, all flights will depart and arrive from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.  

All International flights remain suspended from June 1 to 30, 2020.  

Cebu Pacific will provide updates on flight schedules from June 5-onwards.  The airline will gradually build-up its domestic flight network, depending on market demand, quarantine restrictions and government regulations.  

Leisure travel is not allowed, as per government guidelines. Guests must check guidelines from the IATF, and with the local governments of their origin and destination for the required documents.

Safe, Contactless Flights  

In the meantime, CEB had been rolling out its guidelines for safe Contactless Flights, so guests will know what to expect before their trips.   

Contactless Flight guidelines include the wearing of masks, online check-in, being at the airport 3 hours before flight, counter closure of 1 hour before flight, maximum one hand-carry per person, contactless boarding procedures, and physical distancing.   

Cebu Pacific have also increased safety measures, including extensive daily disinfection of aircraft, cleaning of airport passenger surfaces such as shuttle buses and bag drop counters, frontliners’ use of personal protective equipment, and rapid testing for cabin crew and pilots. Learn more here: http://bit.ly/CEBSafeTravel  

Flexible options for guests  

CEB continues to offer flexible options for passengers affected by the flight cancellations from June 1-30, 2020.   

They may rebook their flight for travel within 3 months year; place the full cost of the ticket in a Travel Fund valid for one (1) year; or avail of a full refund. They may use the “Manage Booking” portal in the Cebu Pacific website (http://bit.ly/CEBmanageflight) to avail any of these options. For more information, FAQs may be found here: http://bit.ly/CEBRestartFAQs   

 This is a developing situation and their restart operations may change as quarantine conditions evolve across their network. Cebu Pacific may reduce or add flights depending on passenger demand and travel restrictions. 

Please check Cebu Pacific website and official social media accounts for updates. 

Siquijor also known as the Mystical Island is one off-the-beaten-path islands in the Philippines. It features several white beaches, crystal majestic waterfalls, friendly locals, and affordable accommodations. 

Coco Grove Beach Resort

If you are planning to visit this beautiful province, here are some of the best resorts in Siquijor. 

Coco Grove Beach Resort

Coco Grove Beach Resort is one of the famous beach resorts in the province of Siquijor. It features  long white sand beach, tropical gardens, crystal blue seas, spectacular marine life and unbelievable sunsets. It services include services include: diving/snorkeling; diving, safari and island tours; local and international cuisine; comfortable, clean rooms for individuals, couples or families; massage, pedicure and manicure; waters sports activities and more.

Many Filipinos are yearning to travel again after the prolonged confinement, while some who are away from their homes cannot wait to be reunited with their families. The way people travel is changing and while we have to put off the thrill of new adventures for now, Cebu Pacific assures everyJuan with an essential or immediate need to travel that the airline is more ready than ever to accompany them on a safe journey to their desired destinations. 

As part of its preparation to fly again in the near future, Cebu Pacific rolls out measures for contactless flights. Having everyJuan’s health and safety in mind, the airline will continue to promote social distancing and minimize face-to-face contact between passengers and staff with the following guidelines: 

Bohol is one the most visited provinces in the Philippines. It's famous for its world-renowned Chocolate Hills. Aside from that, Bohol is also well known for its amazing white beaches, historical and cultural sites, mouth-watering local dishes and lovely hotels and resorts. 

Amorita Resort 

If you are planning to visit this beautiful province, here are some of the best hotels and resorts in Bohol.

Cebu Pacific is calling on travelers to be responsible and stay at home amid the current health crisis. Even though the pandemic has put a temporary hold on vacations and travel plans, everyJuan can still do their part and take precautions now and for sure, #EveryJuanWillFlyAgain in no time. 

The country’s leading carrier is aware that these changing times have been very challenging for everyJuan—that is why CEB is offering flexible options and alternatives to ease the worries of passengers, especially those whose flights had to be cancelled due to the nationwide community quarantine. Among the self-service options that can be done conveniently online are: free rebooking, full travel fund, and full refund.

Free Rebooking

By availing of this option, one can rebook their cancelled flight to any other travel date within three months from the original date, with no additional charges – both change (rebooking) fees and fare difference are waived.

This is perfect for those just waiting for the skies to clear, and still need to travel at the soonest time possible.