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By Jason De Ocampo, 15/01/2012 16:58

If you’ve been reading my previous blogs, you know that I’m totally obsessed with going to the Dominican Republic this January. And who wouldn’t?  The place is a paradise. Especially this time of year. My words won’t be enough to express how I feel about the place so here’s a video instead:

But as all kinds of paradise, when touched by man, it gets all dirty as seen on this video:

This Video was taken in 2008, and sadly the trash problem didn’t stop there. Although this problem is rampant throughout the world, especially on the non-privately owned beaches. It is still our responsibility as tourists to properly dispose of our refuse and leave the place exactly as we came in.

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By Jason De Ocampo, 13/01/2012 15:08

Is it just me or am I loving tropical paradises recently. Yeah, winter is still here, and I can’t wait to get out of that mind numbing cold. I can’t wait for winter to get over and bask in the warm sunlight of the tropical sun.

I want to lie all day under a coconut tree, listening to the radio and enjoy the mild breeze that comes from the sea. Right now, I’m thinking of Samana, Dominican Republic.

I am so amazed at how beautiful and lovely Samana is. The waters are pristine and clear, the skies are bluer than what I’m used to in the cities. The air is fresh and good for your health.

I want to surf. Body surfing is popular with the locals. Surfing with nothing between the surfer and the waves creates a more intense surfing experience than standing on your board. It allows you to connect with the sea. Be one with nature.

If this is your ideal vacation this January let me recommend an awesome Dominican Republic Hotel in Samana. If you’re a couple in love, I strongly suggest you guys visit the Grand Paradise Samana. It has a very intimate atmosphere, more appropriate for adults. It’s perfect for couples madly in love with each other looking for a Honeymoon they’ll never forget.

 The Hotel itself is located right on the beach, and the views around it are impressive, especially the beautiful Carribean Sea and the impressive Samana Bay.

 This all-inclusive resort is located on the sandy beaches of Samana Bay and overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. It features an open-air aquarium, 2 pools, and free scuba diving lessons. Each of the boldly colored rooms at Grand Paradise Samana includes a balcony or patio with views of the garden or ocean. Guests can watch cable TV and relax with a soft drink from the minibar. Samana Grand Paradise boasts a variety of water sports equipment, including kayaks and snorkels. This family-friendly Samana resort offers a kids club and children’s pool. Tennis, volleyball, and badminton courts are also located on the property. Sea Scape, located on site, specializes in sea food while Michelangelo serves Italian dishes. The cabana-style beach bar is a short walk from the sand and midnight snacks are available for guests staying up late. Downtown Samana is a 25-minute drive from the Samana Grand Paradise All-Inclusive Resort. Playa Rincon is 8 km from the property.

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By Jason De Ocampo, 11/01/2012 12:05

If you’re like me, you’re itching to get away from all that cold and experience the warmth of that awesome sun. You want warm sands on your feet, you want to feel the splash of the waves, or go surfing while everyone else is wrapped up in thick winter clothes. Dominican Republic weather this January is warm, breezy and perfect for a beach outing.

You want to party under the moon, under Reggae, Jazz, RnB and Hip Hop, and Electronic Beats. Meet and mingle with the locals, have a few drinks. Maybe you want to go home after a long vacation having a great Tan, while your pale vampire like friends bask in your summer skin. You surely want that perfect Dominican Republic vacation.

Overview

The Dominican Republic (DR) is where the stunning Caribbean beaches meet colonial structures. This Caribbean Island is home to world class resorts showcasing white sand beaches. This is the ideal place to relax under the sun with the sound of the waves reverberating in the air. Santo Domingo, the capital, is known for its collection of stunning colonial structures. This is home to the oldest church and the oldest street in the New World. Head to the northern region and find some of the island’s tourist spot like the Amber Coast Region and the Samana Peninsula.

DR also boasts unspoilt rainforests. There is no doubt, Dominican Republic is tropical paradise.

Bavaro, Punta Cana

Punta Cana, in our native language means “Go now!”, a  name that is apt for the beautiful paradise of white sands and clear pristine beaches. Located in the easternmost province of the Dominican Republic. It offers a vacation of limitless wonders, from the great crowd that visits every year to the great food offered by the local restaurants. Hotels in Bavaro, Punta Cana offers luxurious accommodations from World Class Golf Courses, Rock Climbing areas to Diving Classes.

Try your luck and visit the Dominican Republic today. It just might change your life.

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By Jason De Ocampo, 09/01/2012 16:47

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines, where everything cool in the city is happening. St. Giles Makati is a worthy place to consider. The price is right on the money. Never more than 20 minutes away from Makati Greenbelt and Ayala Malls. You’ll never run out of places to shop and dine around.

The Superior Room can be a bit small than what you expect. But for USD10.00 more you can try the Deluxe room, which is much larger, and has a bath tub instead of a shower. The rooms are clean and well kept too. The only usual complaints are the separate pay for the WiFi.

Description

Located along Makati’s lively nightlight area, St Giles Hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen TV. Its 4-star facilities include free parking, an outdoor swimming pool and rooftop gym. Modern décor, warm lighting and large windows feature throughout guestrooms at St Giles Hotel, Makati, Metro Manila. Each well-appointed room has a minibar and private bathroom with a hot shower. Guests can exercise while enjoying sweeping views of the cityscape. With a 24-hour front desk, the hotel provides car rental services. Staff at the tour desk can assist with sightseeing arrangements. Available for all-day dining, BayLeaf Restaurant & Bar Lounge offers

Filipino, Asian and Western dishes. Refreshing beverages are also available at The Annex Bar

Lounge. St Giles Makati is a 15-minute drive from the central business district and a 30-minute drive from Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Reviews

+ Very friendly helpful staff from each department of the hotel, making the whole stay very enjoyable.

Thomas
Group of friends
Singapore, Singapore
29 August 2011

Room was small but smartly designed; in particular, the shower unit has been the best I have experienced in terms of water pressure, cleanliness, floor drain, and spaciousness considering the small bathroom footprint. I would not hesitate to return for another stay.

Anonymous
Mature couple
Guam
26 August 2011

+ All the staffs are exceptionally friendly, helpful and goes about their duty in professional manner. Left my spectacle pouch besides the pool and the duty staff took all. The trouble to call my room. I observed that the housekeeping staff who made up my room was very hardworking and friendly.

- Perhaps high time for the hotel to provide free wifi service.

Benjamin
Solo traveller
Kuching, Malaysia
14 June 2011

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By Jason De Ocampo, 06/01/2012 13:59

The Holidays have ended but it’s still winter wonderland on some parts of the world, while other places are bursting with the summer sun. Whatever place you prefer, we got the places just for you. January 2012 is another year to enjoy the beauty of our world, and HotelwithHeart.com is proud to present you with this list.

1) Dominican Republic – Want to get away from all that snow during the Winter Holidays? Then DR is the best place to go. The fine soft sands of Punta Cana will blow your mind away. Visit the Dominican Republic today and experience the Best Beach Vacation you’ll ever have.

2) New York City- Is skating with a loved one in the middle of the Rockefeller Center, your cup of tea? How about strolling downtown, going on broadways, or going to museums without waiting in line. New York is to die for this time of year, it’s like living your favorite Hollywood movie.

3)Buenos Aires- Want to get hot this winter? Want your skin to be burnt and tan, while others are going deathly pale? Want to get rid of all that winter clothing and switch to something light and comfy? Yes? Then Buenos Aires is the perfect place to go to this January.

January is the height of summer in Argentina, being in the southern hemisphere. Buenos Aires January temperatures can be a little on the hot side (30 deg celcius), but that sends many from the city to the coastal holiday areas, and leaves Buenos Aires uncrowded.

4)Austin, Texas- Central Texas gets some very pleasant weather in January, with cool nights, warm days and little rain. It’s perfect for exploring all the charms of the state capital, Austin. The city has a nice mix of history, architecture, museums, hiking trails, shopping and nightlife.

5) Bangkok, Thailand – Another warm destination in January is Thailand. Bangkok weather in January is good, with less rain and not quite the intense heat felt in other months.
The “Venice of the East” has many attractions and historical sites, including the Grand Palace, the amazing Floating markets, Chinatown and shopping galore.

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By Jason De Ocampo, 02/01/2012 15:00

“Life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity, and responsibility to give something back by becoming more” – Anthony Robbins.

In order to give more, as Anthony Robbins said, we have to be more than what we are now. Now being more constitutes more than just being a bigger company, with bigger costumers, and bigger market share. Being more, starts with the very fiber of our being. By being more passionate in what we do, by being more charitable, by having a more sensitive eye and heart towards those we serve, we empower ourselves, so that we have a more rich well of resources to take from.

HotelwithHeart.com is more than just an online reservation company. We are more than just a booking site. Also, we are not just a site that uses charity as a selling point. When this company was created, we had a view in our mind, that this company will be built for the primary purpose of giving back to the society who gave us so much. The year 2011 has been very good to us. Our business has grown more than we expected, and deep inside we know, people like to do business with companies that give. We are glad to welcome this new year as a chance to improve our site and expand our company, so that our reaching hearts and hands will be able to change the lives of many more.

Happy New Year to all and may this year bring us the blessings we all need.

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By Jason De Ocampo, 30/12/2011 12:05

The Palm, Atlantis is going to give you everything you’ve ever dreamed of in a hotel and more. For a five star hotel, The Atlantis exceeds your expectation in a thousand ways. The room designs are a mix of Arabic and Mediterranean design, the rooms are elegant, fully furnished and will be a Disney dream come true, as soon as you see it yourself. The rooms are usually large enough for the person or family staying there. You’ll never run out of things you can do, and a three days/ two nights stay is not enough to participate in all the activities and services offered by Atlantis. The Service never lets you down. Guest requests are responded to with utmost importance. You need not wait for more than 15 minutes for the average request.

Description

Situated on its own 800-metre, private beach on Dubai’s Palm Island, the 5-star Atlantis offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It provides an underwater aquarium, dolphin-swimming opportunities and an extensive water park. Arabian décor and large beds are fitted in all rooms. The balcony in each offers a panoramic view of the city or the Arabic Sea. Every room is equipped with a flat-screen satellite TV. Fine dining restaurants include Mediterranean, Italian and French. The award-winning Nobu restaurant serves contemporary Japanese food. Atlantis The Palm Dubai includes an underwater labyrinth and the largest water park in the Middle East with near-vertical slides and torrent rivers. The expansive pool is surrounded by lounge chairs and palm trees. A comprehensive spa provides facial and body treatments and the gym provides personal fitness coaches. The Emirates Golf Club is 3 km away and The Dubai Mall is a 20-minute drive away from the Atlantis.

Reviews

Upon arrival we were greeted by a lovely man on the reception desk. He upgraded our room and was very helpful. The suite as well as the entire hotel was just incredible. We ate in one of the restaurants which was a great experience. Tea and cakes in on of the cafes was just gorgeous too. There is so much for everyone at this hotel and it is actually better value than you would expect for such a wonderful experience. The aquarium was amazing and actually could be viewed from one of the restaurants. I would recommend it as a great stopover place for Australian and New Zealand travellers as it not only breaks up that awful flight but is an experience like nothing else! Fantastic!!! Spend a few days and enjoy the absolute luxury.

28 September 2011

Some of the staff were excellent and some were at least trying, which is a good sign of good management. The aquarium and the aquaventure park are amazing for the kids and adults alike.

Super expensive. Value for money is very low unless you want to try to enjoy all the facilities which will require more time/days which will make it even expensive.

18 November 2011

This is my second time, I love Aqua Venture “Aqua Park” , Family Oriented, Love the Lost Chamber “Aquarium”, the Large Pool, The beach and the restaurants. For 2 or 3 nights you don’t need to leave the Hotel just relax and enjoy the place. I recommend that people reserve the imperial club room package they treat you like VIP.

Unfortunately we went on a weekend and it was crowded. Not to mention the festival and part of that went on until thursday and fri last week, it was noisy, especially that we had a an infant and he wanted to sleep early. They stopped eventually at 3 am. Price is is getting higher from last year regrading taking photos in Aqua Venture or buying stuff from the gift shop by 100 %.

If you got the funds and you want the best experience money can buy in Dubai, then The Palm, Atlantis is right up your alley. Book Now!

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By Jason De Ocampo, 28/12/2011 13:34

Dubai is priming itself to be one of the best locations to shoot Hollywood Films in the world. Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol was shot in Burj Khalifa, Dubai, where Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team will intercept the launch codes from a Nuclear War Freak.

Emirates officials think it’s just the beginning for their film industry, they hope that Mission Impossible 4 will showcase the city as a great place were movies can come and be shot easily for film makers, making it the go to location of the Middle East. And many people believe that’s already happening.

“Abdulhamid Juma, chairman of Dubai International Film Festival told the BBC that “Studios in Hollywood are looking at this part of the world as the growth area of the future, so to open such a big film like this in a small city like Dubai, is something we are really very proud of”.” reports Andrew Scott from greekoverture.com.

Part of the film was financed by Dubai, with the goal of establishing itself as a global destination for film making.

The Beauty and Elegance of Dubai can be seen in Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol. Dynamic Shots coupled with an exciting narrative makes you want to go and visit Dubai and experience its own exotic beauty.

Here’s a Video of The M.I.: Ghost Protocol Cast, Shooting the scene at Burj Khalifa:

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By Jason De Ocampo, 23/12/2011 15:59

Crown Regency Suites Mactan is a famous hotel name. It is sought out by a lot of people booking in the Philippines. But sometimes, a name is not enough when considering your options, especially when you’re going on vacation, and the last thing you want are problems. The question is, is Crown Regency Hotel the hotel it claims to be, or is it better to look for other places to stay?

Description

Offering a spa retreat, Crown Regency Suites Mactan also features 2 pools and indoor badminton courts. Guests enjoy free parking privileges. The hotel offers accommodation with kitchenettes and free Wi-Fi. Crown Regency Suites is a 10-minute drive from The Capitol. Mactan International Airport is a 15-minute drive away. Suites and villas at Crown Suites offer a home away from home with comfortable seating areas. Minibars and tea/coffee makers are provided. A microwave oven is included. For a work out session, guests may wish to head to the fitness centre and relax in the sauna thereafter. A business centre is available to take care of guests’ communication needs. Billiard facilities are available as another recreational option. International delights can be enjoyed at Lobby Lounge, which also offers all-day dining. Sun Court Poolside Bar and Best Brew Coffee and Deli serve light bites.

Review

For a four star Hotel, Crown Regency Suites Mactan is disappointing. The rooms are stale but huge, the decorations are lacking, the furniture looks all worn down. Some of the bathroom tiles are missing. The water knobs are loose. But the worst thing you’ll ever deal with is that the service takes too long. Sometimes you have to remind the staff of what you ordered or requested before they respond. and even if they do, they take 30 minutes to respond.

A common problem from other reviewers are the way the hotel often confuses their room reservation, i.e. getting a mediocre room instead of the reserved room they booked.

The breakfast meals are good though. We had the omelette, and I think the pricing is fair enough. The rooms are kept clean too, in my opinion though they just have to, since they don’t seem to replace their furnitures.

All in all, Crown Regency Cebu depends more on its name, than your actual quality stay, and it could prove frustrating at times when dealing with the hotel staff. So if you want a Zen filled Hotel Stay, avoid Crown Regency.

The Verdict: Not recommended.

Some User Reviews

+Nothing, there´s nothing interesting in this such a crowded hotel with impolite tourists. Location is just in the middle of nothing, the hall is always busy and crowded, there´s many staff doing nothing, and to take the lift takes so long time you cannot imagine.

-Staff is very slow if you request whatever you need from your room. No shampoo, no gel inside rooms, sheets absolutely dirty (unacceptable), lift very busy always. If you book by booking, they sign on behalf of you the receipt so estrangely you don´t have to give them your credit card…

Anonymous
Group of friends
Spain
3 December 2011

+Not much. The rooms are clean.

-We picked this hotel cause of its central location which was a mistake. When in Cebu, don’t stay in the city centre, its chaotic, polluted and difficult to access especially during peak hours. The hotel itself is sub-standard, old, dingy and possesses the most peculiar elevator system. Food is overpriced within (room service and the hotel restaurant) and staff are pleasant at best (which wasn’t very often). Facilities are not easily accessible and not fully up and running.

Shawn
Young couple
Singapore, Singapore
14 November 2011

There was a problem with my booking and the hotel staff did an excellent job and even gave me a bigger room. Allowed me to check in earlier. Rooms are excellent and the view from my room was superb. Fast room service and free use of internet services. Buffet breakfast was good enough. Facilities and amenities are way above average Location was near the downtown area and only a few minutes from the business district. Enjoyed my stay and will definitely go back!

Anonymous
Solo traveller
Philippines
22 August 2011

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By Jason De Ocampo, 21/12/2011 15:59

Cebu will always be part of my heart. Having stayed there for almost two years, I fell in love with the people, culture and the place. Cebu offers dozens of memorable places to visit, especially with your loved ones. If you’re going there for vacation, Tops, Mactan Island and the capitol are amazing places to visit. Here are the top 5 cheap Cebu hotels I could recommend to your heart’s content:

Continue reading 'Top 5 Cheap Cebu Hotels'»