Ireland’s capital city, Dublin is one of the most-visited places in the world. Highly favored not just by tourists, it also receives millions of business travelers each year. Dublin is one of the top cities ranked under the Global Financial Centres Index and the world’s top 25 cities. Whether you are traveling to Dublin for leisure, business or both; this city will ensure that you will be taken care of starting with its accommodations.

There are plenty of places to stay in the city of Dublin. Hotels in Dublin come in many choices from those budget-friendly hotels to luxurious accommodations like Westbury and Merrion. These hotels have amenities from those basic needs to luxurious ones like spas and fitness centres.

These hotels are also located in different parts of the city. Those who want easy access and convenience can look and book for their hotels situated in Downtown Dublin. These hotels are just walking distances from attractions, shopping and entertainment districts of the Irish capital. There are also many accommodation choices located close to the Clerys Department Store and along Grafton Street for those who want to splurge while in Dublin.

On the other hand, there are some hotels located outside the city. These are good choices for those who are on a tight budget or those who prefer a less expensive place to stay in Dublin. Various attractions like the Dublin Castle are still accessible if you opt to stay in these hotels.

With its rich history and famous landmarks topped with world-class facilities like hotels, Dublin is one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

]]> http://www.valcaulin.com/article/hotels-in-dublin/1596/feed/ 0 http://www.valcaulin.com/article/dingle-church/1580/ http://www.valcaulin.com/article/dingle-church/1580/#comments Thu, 19 Aug 2010 04:21:38 +0000 admin http://www.valcaulin.com/?p=1580

Iloilo is home to many old churches and one these is the church of Dingle, a peaceful town in eastern Iloilo. Like other churches in the province, Dingle Church is of Baroque architecture with its interiors showing features of the Neoclassical style. The parish church of San juan de Bautista is simple yet elegant. It is not lavishly adorned but it is a real beauty. Take a photo of it and you will see.

I have been longing to feature this church in this blog and finally we took a turn to Dingle to visit its wonderful sight like its church.And when we got there, we were not dismayed. It is indeed a nice church and should one of the old churches in Iloilo that a traveler should visit. I felt a little dismayed why it took me so long as a freelance writer to feature and share this church to my dear readers.

Going back to Dingle Church, its main component is limestone and I find it unique. In this part of Iloilo, baked bricks is the most common material as seen in the churches of Santa Barbara, Cabatuan and even of Janiuay. Limestone is more evident in southern Iloilo like that of Miag-ao Church. For this church, limestone was quarried in the mountains of Bulabog-Putian which is now a national park.

Another thing that I noticed with this church is that it only has one belltower. I’m not sure if it is really built like that or it was burned some time in its history. For its facade, it is well decorated given its smaller size compared to other old churches in Iloilo. Its facade aside from statues has a circular stained-glass of saints. In its center is a dome-shaped canopy that I presume to be part of its recent renovations. To be honest, it looks very off-tangent; it is pretty obvious to be a new addition.

on top is "ano 1886", the year that this church was finished

So, the next time you are here in Iloilo and have plenty of time to spare for visiting old churches, head to the town of Dingle. Aside from its church, this town is home to the Bulabog-Putian National Park.

Going to Dingle

Going to Dingle is not very accessible especially if you don’t have your own transportation. The town center is not accessible from the national highway going to northern Iloilo or to Capiz and Aklan. You can either take a jeepney to Dingle from Tagbak Terminal or hire a tricycle from the national highway going to Dingle center.

]]> http://www.valcaulin.com/article/dingle-church/1580/feed/ 0 http://www.valcaulin.com/article/hotels-in-london-city-centre/1526/ http://www.valcaulin.com/article/hotels-in-london-city-centre/1526/#comments Sat, 14 Aug 2010 14:15:48 +0000 admin http://www.valcaulin.com/?p=1526

Hotels in London City Centre is the perfect choice when looking for accommodations and places to stay while in the lovely city of London. Like other hotels located at the city centre, these hotels have the perfect and most strategic locations in any city. For those who want convenience and comfort, it is wise to book a hotel in the downtown area of the city where you are visiting.

For those visiting London for business, leisure or both , hotels in its centre range from 3 to 5-star hotels. Those who want luxurious accommodations in the city can go for 4 and 5-star hotels like 51 Buckingham Gate, Marriot, Crowne Plaza and City Inn Westminster. Those who want budget-friendly hotels yet still have ample amenities can book 3-star hotels located in the city like Citadines London Trafalgar Square and Days Hotel.

These hotels have the best and world-class amenities and facilities from their rooms to the rest of their property. Facilities differ from one hotel to another but on general, they have pools, restaurants, gift shops, spas, cafes, business centers,etc. Aside from these high-end facilities, the major advantage of these hotels is how close they are to major attractions and landmarks of the city.

As they are located in downtown London, these hotels lie close to major attractions for tourists and travelers to enjoy. Hotels in downtown London are located close to the Buckingham Palace, Victoria Station, The House of Parliament and the London Eye. Aside from these attractions, shops and restaurants are just a few minutes away or around these hotels. Hence, guests can just go out and dine or shop while in London. Other hotels even have their own restaurants and boutiques.

My favorite Marshmallow Ice Cream Cake

Before you read further, let me be frank with you. I’m having some sweet cravings right now (blame it to my job as a freelance writer who stays up late at night) and it might be the main reason why I chose to feature this amazing cakeshop in Bacolod City. Just take a look at my photo above and I bet you are salivating right now. 

Okay, let’s get down to business. If you are planning to take a trip and travel to Bacolod City, then include a visit to the city’s most popular cakeshop -Calea. I don’t know what is behind the name but I’m pretty sure it’s the most famous stop to satisfy one’ craving with a slice ( I hope so ) of their melt-in-the-mouth cakes and pastries.

It seems that have all kinds of cakes in this shop

Whenever my family is in Bacolod, we never failed to drop by to Calea, the one beside L’Fisher Hotel. in Lacson Street ( Bacolod’s main street) There are now three branches in Bacolod City, one located in Robinsons Mall. My personal favorite is their ice cream cake and I am proud that I can finish it in less than 10 minutes.

another favorite..Chocolate..who doesn't?

What I love about their cakes is that they are really home-made style for a cheaper price. I bake cakes and Calea’s cakes are worth worshipping. I admire how they use the finest ingredients and never use other substitutes or extenders just to mass produce their cakes. Their ice cream cake for example, you can taste walnuts in between and I can easily detect if the cake is just filled with sugar. But no Calea’s.

The chocolate cake is not even that sweet and even guys ( who are usually not fond of sweets like cakes) won’t hesitate to try one. And when it is homemade, they usually cost more. But not Calea again. Cake slices cost not more than 100 pesos. During our last visit, we had two slices of ice cream cake and one slice of chocolate cake for only P240. Beat that!

Calea's branch in Lacson Street

Calea is one of the answers to where to eat in Bacolod. Drop by for an afternoon snack or for a dessert  after a hearty meal in Bacolod’s restaurants. I will be visiting Calea in the near future and I would love to try their other cakes. As of now, I’m dreaming for trying their equally famous cheesecakes. I guess I have to stop now and end this post. I’m currently fighting sweet temptations.

The island of Panay is not just home to many colonial churches but it is also rich in biodiversity. The province has been promoted as one of the country’s destinations for Philippine eco-tourism and one of these places is the Bulabog Puti-an National Park in the humble town of Dingle. The town of Dingle is located almost 40 kilometers from Iloilo.

I came to this national park a decade ago when we had our field trip for my class in Local History. You see, Bulabog Puti-an National Park is not just a nature reserve and a rain forest but is also a historical site. I remember the blisters and the stick I used to help me in walking to our ultimate destination- its historical caves used by Filipino fighters during the Spanish times. It was such a struggle walking on a 920-meter rocky trail but being surrounded with those trees, fresh air and the company of my dear classmates was the best.

My son, Akira catching some butterflies

Now I’m back with my own family after 10 years. Hahaha! For our trip, we didn’t have the intention of reaching those historical caves since we were tagging along two little boys- a 3 year-old toddler and a month-old baby. As a mother, I want to expose my kids to nature given how technology has conquered our lives now. And also a great place for my husband to relax and find another place to take some pictures.

I hope assistance and support will be given to this national park

True, ten years is a long time and there were some differences from my last visit with then college classmates. First, there were more trees now as I have known that many institutions have conducted various activities like tree planting. But one of the things that made this visit different is how obvious that this park lacks support from the local government which is expected from any government program.

more trees!!

Ten years ago, it was organized and very systematic. Someone greeted us, let us log in, etc. And I remember those little cottages were reserved for those who wan to spend the night in Bulabog National Park. Now, it is used as a shelter by local residents, maybe the caretakers. I hope the local government and DENR can give more support to this park. I was also hoping to drink in its cool spring water, but I can’t seem to find it there anymore. However, I saw many residents fetching some water in a big tank and faucets a few meters from the entrance but I still miss that small faucet that can quench any trekker’s thirst.

I love this shot...

Anyway, back to the program .The Bulabog Puti-an National Park occupies 847 hectares that also covers some parts of the neighboring town of Enrique. Aside from its diversified plants, it has 30 caves with some having inscriptions in Spanish written by the Katipuneros. This place should be one of the things that you should include in your list of what to do in Iloilo. Or if you want to short time-off during a holiday or a weekend, drive to Dingle and commune with mother nature.

Extra Challenge!

How to get there

- From the city proper, head off to Tabak Terminal in Jaro. The same terminal where you take a ride for Roxas and Caticland.

- Take the jeepney bound for Dingle.

-Upon reaching the town center of Dingle, hire a tricycle going straight to Bulabog Nationa Park

Entrance Fee

- People in charge didn’t ask for any fee from us but I read in some blogs that it costs P8 for locals and P180 for foreigners.

Helpful Tips

- Wear comfortable clothes. That is closed rubber shoes and jogging pants. Bring extra clothes too.

-apply insect repellants

-bring bottled water, face towel and a stick ( believe me, those rocky trail can stretch up to almost 1 kilometer)

- visit it during dry season. If its rainy or it rained the previous night, stones will be slippery which might cause accidents.

The perfect place for trekking in Iloilo!

Holidays to Orlando is characterized with its famous theme parks and world-class resorts. But this city in Orange County in the state of Florida has more to offer. This destination is very popular among families with children in tow with its preferable warm weather. Peak seasons for Orlando’s tourism are June-August and March-April; in short, when school closes temporarily for breaks, families pack and leave for Orland to experience real magic.

Orlando has many attractions and most of them are catered towards families on vacation. Here, one can visit the Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and of course, Walt Disney World. A visit to these places will already occupy a whole day of sightseeing around Orlando.

Those who want to skip these theme parks can enjoy their time while in Orlando with other attractions and activities. Shopping and dining experiences in Orland are simply the best. Singles and adults can still enjoy Orlando with its very vibrant nightlife. Events in Orlando like the Central Florida Fair as well as the Rajuncajun Crawfish Festival are a must-see with its exhibits, food and other entertainment.

In terms of tourism facilities, this city has everything to make each traveler’s time comfortable. From its hotels to its restaurants, there are many choices that can suit any budget from cheaper options to luxurious ones. Lastly, travelers can take advantage of various holiday packages to Orlando for more affordable and well-organized vacation.

If you are wondering where to eat in Bacolod City, then visit Manokan Country. Bacolod City, dubbed as the “City of Smile” is not just famous for its Masskara Festival but for its chicken inasal. Believe me, it’s simply the best and no other fancy chicken houses can beat their unique taste brought by their secret marinade ingredients.

I have featured Bacolod’s chicken inasal a year ago ( click here for the article) but it was not based on Manokan Country but from one of the chicken houses of Bacolod. I first visited Bacolod’s Manokan Country last February as I was working on an article for a freezine. And as a passionate freelance writer, I have to visit the city’s hub for the tastiest chicken inasal.

Manokan Country is easy to located as it is known all-over the city and just a few meters away from their port. For easy reference, it is just beside SM Bacolod, so if you can’t decide  on which different restaurants in Bacolod found inside the mall, then you can surely walk to this place. For a start, Manokan Country is not a restaurant but a place where small eateries serving chicken inasal can be found. It is easy to locate for their is one big chicken figure on top of this place in case you feel like you are getting lost.

My husband has visited this place when he used to be assigned in Bacolod and he said, the current place is cleaner, safer and more organized. No wonder, he didn’t bring me to Manokan Country prior to my writing assignment.But of course, the chicken stations are simple and very attractive to those who want to taste the best chicken in town for a low price.

I totally agree on this!

We chose to eat in Aida’s, they are located in the middle part of the whole lane and it was the place that my college classmate who is now teaching in St. La Salle recommended. We feasted on chicken liver ( my favorite), chicken breast and garlic rice. They also served complimentary arroz caldo and I noticed it included instant noodles. No wonder, my helper added instant noodles in her arroz caldo ( she’s from Negros); it’s their unique style of cooking the famous comfort food.

A nice meal for less than 100 pesos

Aside from being tasty, the food was really cheap. Chicken inasal parts cost from 50 pesos to less than 100 . And mind you, don’t ask for liempo or other dishes..haha! Aside from chicken inasal, they have talaba ( oyster) and grilled boneless bangus( which my son’s nanny ate since she is allergic to chicken). I don’t have to describe how Bacolod’s chicken inasal tastes like for the mere thought of it leaves me salivating right now.

Anyway, all is said and I tell you, don’t leave Bacolod unless you have eaten their famous chicken inasal. Dining in Bacolod City means visiting their chicken houses and feast one of the city’s gastronomic pride.

]]> http://www.valcaulin.com/article/manokan-country/1531/feed/ 6 http://www.valcaulin.com/article/orlando-family-holidays/1519/ http://www.valcaulin.com/article/orlando-family-holidays/1519/#comments Sun, 01 Aug 2010 12:46:54 +0000 admin http://www.valcaulin.com/?p=1519

Orlando Family Holidays are one of the top choices for parents who want to take their children for someplace where it is truly memorable . The city of Orlando receives its highest volume of tourists during schoolbreaks when families have the perfect time to travel. And indeed, Orlando’s tourism on the average is catered towards families on a holiday with little and young children. With its theme parks and facilities, this place is one of the best choices for families who want to enjoy their vacation together.

A family holiday in Orlando is not complete without paying a visit to one of the world’s most famous theme park – Orlando Disneyland. Travelers come to Orlando to have fun and enjoy the world’s most happiest place for both kids and adults. From Mickey Mouse to its rides, Disneyland is such a wonderful place to visit. But this city has more to offer to families on a vacation aside from Disneyland.

The Universal Studios is another place in Orlando that families would like to visit. This place is more popular among older kids and adults too. Orlando also has many places where children can visit and learn about animals. Popular destinations include Jacksonville Zoo and Garden, Butterfly World and the Miami Seaquarium.

If you are going to Orland during summer, cool down in its famous water park- the Wet ‘n’ Wild Orlando. With its pools of all sizes and themes, children will definitely have a good time. Of course, you can take a dip and soak under the sun in Orlando’s beaches.

Vacation ideas for families in Orlando are endless. There are also many family holiday packages for Orlando that parents might check out for cheaper and hassle-free vacation. These packages already include flights, hotels and ticket. Safe and family-centered, parents will never go wrong in choosing Orlando as their next destination.

]]> http://www.valcaulin.com/article/orlando-family-holidays/1519/feed/ 2 http://www.valcaulin.com/article/new-york-holidays/1512/ http://www.valcaulin.com/article/new-york-holidays/1512/#comments Fri, 16 Jul 2010 07:15:59 +0000 admin http://www.valcaulin.com/?p=1512

The Big Apple is not just a top destination in the US but across the globe. One of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world with the best facilities and attractions, this city receives millions of tourists annually. Perfect for those on their honeymoon or for family trips, New York has everything.

New York holidays is perhaps one of the easiest to plan and do since there are plenty of options and agencies who can help you with your future trip to New York. You can visit your local tour operator or do it online for more convenience and cheaper rates. From hotels to travel packages, there are endless offers found in the internet.

From the Statue of Liberty to the Ground Zero memorial, there are plenty of sights to visit. You can take a walk around Madison Square or sign up for a guided tour around this wonderful city. Aside from attractions, there are many things to do while in New York aside from sightseeing.

Perhaps, shopping should be one of the things to do while in New York City. From upscale boutiques to those hard to find vintage shops, this city is truly haven for all shopaholics. Other activities include watching Broadways or dining in the best restaurants in the City.

Lastly, in terms of accommodations there are plenty of choices. From hotels found in the city center to those affordable yet comfortable places to stay, you can surely find one hotel in New York exclusively for you.

The Scottish capital city of Edinburgh is one of the most visited cities throughout the United Kingdom with its rich heritage and cultural sights.This city receives at least one million visitors annually with spring and summer as its peak season. People choose to visit to this Scottish city to experience a laid-back yet convenient lifestyle and one of the of the most famous attractions in this city is the Edinburgh castle, medieval buildings and various festivals.

In terms of accommodations, there are many places to stay while visiting Edinburgh. From cheap to luxurious hotels, this city has everything that can surely match every taste and budget. But if you want convenience, then choose hotels in Edinburgh city centre.

When choosing these hotels in the city centre, you can be assured that you are close to important establishments like restaurants and shops. These hotels will let you enjoy convenience as famous attractions are just walking distance from your accommodation while in Edinburgh. Hotels in the centre of Edinburgh are located in famous streets like George Street and Prince Street. These streets are home to shopping boutiques, department stores, pubs, restaurants and nightclubs.

Aside from convenience, these hotels are noted to be the best in the city. Hotels in this part of the city have superior standards with the best amenities and facilities for their guests to enjoy. Lastly, majority of those famous chains of hotels are located in the centre of Edinburgh.

]]> http://www.valcaulin.com/article/hotels-in-edinburgh-city-centre/1507/feed/ 0