ibis is one of the hospitality brands of the Accor Group, the same company behind Novotel in Araneta City, Fairmont in Makati (under Ayala group), Mövenpick in Cebu and in Boracay, and MGallery in Manila. 

Accor categorizes its Novotel brand as “midscale” and its ibis brand as “economy” or three-star. Worldwide, there are ibis hotels with a red logo, ibis Styles with a green logo, and ibis Budget with a blue logo.

The one in Araneta City is ibis Styles, the top ibis brand. Construction of the P2-billion, 15-story hotel started in January 2020. It will have 286 rooms or 22 rooms per floor when fully completed by the second half of 2024, employing around 200 people. It is expected to be half-completed by May.

Only its first five floors and its French restaurant, Le Bistro, are open for now. ibis Style’s front desk and Le Bistro are accessible via Gateway Mall 2’s fourth and fifth floors respectively, on the mall’s north side. When the mall is closed, guests can enter via the hotel’s ground floor entrance on the north side of Gateway 2. 

Although it’s considered “economy,” Rowell Recinto, senior management consultant of Araneta City, told Rappler on Tuesday, March 12 the hotel is “more a businessman’s hotel, more three-and-a-half [star].” 

ibis Styles’ room rate is around P3,000-plus a night if you book in March and April. Most of the other 3-star hotels in Quezon City have lower rates. 

In France and other parts of Europe, ibis is pronounced as eebees, but in the Philippines, it’s pronounced as ay-bis to avoid sounding like ipis, the Filipino word for cockroach. Many other countries outside Europe also pronounce it as ay-bis.

There are 675 ibis Styles hotels worldwide as of December 2023 with a total of 72,567 rooms. 

Each ibis Styles has a “unique and inspired theme” with a “photo spot” where guests can take photos and share them on social media. 

And since it’s in Araneta City, known worldwide for its Big Dome, now branded as Smart Araneta Coliseum, its photo spots are three big boxing-glove lounge chairs where people can sit or lie down for selfies.  

Araneta Coliseum is where the historic boxing bout between American boxers Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, dubbed “Thrilla in Manila,” was held on October 1, 1975. It’s considered one of the greatest boxing matches in the sport’s history with both boxers fighting a brutal match which Ali won. (READ: Pulling no punches: Carlos Padilla on refereeing the Thrilla in Manila)

The ground floor of the hotel has a red-and-white boxing-glove lounge chair with a black-and-white wallpaper of the boxing match in the background. At the fourth floor of ibis Styles, which is also its main lobby, are two brown-and-mocha boxing-glove lounge chairs with an artwork of the words “The Show Must Go On” placed on the wall in between the gloves, plus a gold-plated studio light beside the right glove. 

ibis Style’s restaurant, Le Bistro, with a patisserie, is now open daily for all-day dining. It serves French and European dishes such as French Onion Soup and crepes. 

ibis has six function rooms that can already be booked. Its roof deck will have an overhanging swimming pool as well as a bar where Metro Manila’s skyline will be visible. It is expected to open in the next couple of weeks, Recinto said.

The Accor Group says ibis is the world’s “leading economy brand” with a footprint of over 1,400 hotels globally, mostly in Europe. It has high brand awareness in France, Denmark, United Kingdom, Australia, and Britain. One of its flagships hotels is ibis Barcelona Center, which was inspired by the renowned Spanish architect and designer Antoni Gaudi. – Rappler.com

ALSO ON RAPPLER

• Long time coming: Palenque offers Philippine regional cuisine from north to south
• ‘Mini-Disneyland’: Araneta Group reopens Fiesta Carnival in time for Christmas 2023
• Tab Baldwin says historic Araneta Coliseum makes for ‘special’ FIBA World Cup
• LOOK BACK: Araneta Coliseum’s most iconic events
• The Thrilla in Manila: Behind the scenes and beyond the fight

The Philippines – which was named the World’s Leading Dive Destination for the fifth consecutive year by the 2023 World Travel Awards – is home to the most beautiful reefs and diverse marine life, cared for by tourism professionals who are passionate about offering amazing diving experiences for all.

Whether you’re just a dive beginner or a more seasoned one, it’s a must to visit the top four diving destinations in the Philippines, declared by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), in partnership with travel platform Klook.

Cebu

Some of the best aquatic and beach activities can be found in Cebu, and PADI recommends the Discover Scuba Diving in Moalboal with PADI 5 Star CDC program for those diving for the first time.

The “Discovery Dive” is all about the basics – tourists are provided with equipment and an easy introduction before exploring the ocean. A full immersive experience is guaranteed under expert supervision, complete with sightseeing of different habitats and the learning of different fish.

Dumaguete

Located in Central Visayas, Dumaguete is known for many things – silvanas, fresh seafood, scenic sights, the colorful Buglasan Festival, ancestral houses, churches, coffee shops, and its water activities and flourishing marine life.

For those not too keen on diving, PADI and Klook recommend snorkeling, a water activity that’s just as fun. The Full Day Snorkeling Wonders with PADI 5 Star Center Tour explores the crystal-clear waters that surround the island of Danjugan, and the chance to discover first-hand Julien’s Wreck, which is situated in front of Dumaguete’s famous Turtle Island.

Palawan

The popular tourist beach destination is also home to the best diving sites, specifically in El Nido and Coron. The Explore El Nido’s Best Dive sites with PADI 5 Star Center Tour offers a leveled up Fun Dive experience, where beginner and professional divers can receive personalized attention from experienced divers, high-end Scubapro gear, and a spacious local dive boat equipped with a shade, a toilet, and even a kitchen.

Some of the best diving spots in El Nido include Nat Nat, Twin Rocks, Paradise Beach, South Miniloc, Dilumacad Island, West Entalula Wall, and Popolcan West.

Puerto Galera

The Mindoro town’s diving experiences cater to both beginner divers or casual tourists looking to snorkel or enjoy a refresher dive, and also to more experienced divers who want to take Advanced Courses.

The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver in Puerto Galera is tailored for open-water divers who want to improve their diving skills – professional divers will offer lessons on underwater navigation, buoyancy
control, and deep diving. Through these programs, you can earn more credits towards your own PADI specialty certifications!

Where in the Philippines do you dream of diving next? – Rappler.com

Here’s a Japan travel bucket list you might want to follow (or add to).

• Mt. Fuji – This mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Japan. You can go hiking during the summer or simply view it from Lake Kawaguchiko. On clear days, you can see it from various viewpoints in Tokyo.

• Shibuya Scramble Crossing – Who would’ve thought that watching people or partaking in crossing the street would be quite an experience? This crosswalk in Tokyo is one of the wildest and most famous. Go during peak hours and either watch from above or partake in the chaos.

• Hachiko Statue – This extremely loyal dog is commemorated with a statue near Shibuya Station. Have a few snaps to have a nice memory of your trip to Tokyo.

• Meiji Shrine – This shrine is dedicated to the former Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Construction concluded in the 1920s but was later rebuilt because of the damage World War II caused. This shrine is surrounded by trees and has a calming ambiance which contrasts with the everyday hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

• Shinjuku Gyoen – Tokyo is a sprawling concrete jungle with towers and skyscrapers dotting its cityscape. Amid all of this are green spaces like Shinjuku Gyoen. Take a break from the metropolis and soak in a piece of nature in the city. This park is also a great place to see the cherry blossoms.

• Sensō-ji Temple – Asakusa, Tokyo is a throwback to the city’s ancient times. One of its main landmarks is the Senso-ji Temple. The shrine dates to 645AD and has retained its original look over the centuries. It’s also lined with multiple shops that sell food and all sorts of items and souvenirs.

• Check out Harajuku – If you’re into fashion and the latest trends, walk around Harajuku. Here you’ll find various shops and maybe get inspiration for your next OOTD.

• Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine – This renowned shrine is several centuries old and is characterized by its many torii gates. Toyotomi Hideyoshi donated the striking Romon Gate you’ll see at the entrance in 1589. You can follow the hiking trail up to the viewpoint.

• Himeji Castle – Also known as White Heron Castle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must when you visit Japan. It’s a well-preserved and maintained castle that’s both striking and historically significant. It is one of Japan’s 12 original castles that was not destroyed by natural disasters and wars. 

• Lake Kawaguchiko – This destination is an easy day trip from Tokyo because of its accessibility by train and bus. It’s a resort town with plenty of scenic views of Mt. Fuji. You can go biking or simply walk around the trails to get picture perfect views of Mt. Fuji. One of the best viewing spots is in Chureito Pagoda. 

• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – This centuries old temple is one of Kyoto’s most popular destinations. It used to be a shogun’s retirement villa before it became a Zen Buddhist temple. It serves as a beautiful foreground to its surroundings.

• Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) – This Zen temple is patterned after Kinkaku-ji. It was a center of contemporary culture during its time. Like many temples in Kyoto, this complex is surrounded by nature which creates a tranquil ambiance. 

• Higashiyama District – Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s history by exploring Higashiyama. The district has well-preserved traditional shops and that makes you feel like you’re stepping into a time warp. You’ll most likely see locals and tourists alike wearing kimonos as they walk around.

• Explore Gion – History lovers will enjoy exploring Gion district in Kyoto. The area is lined with traditional architecture, restaurants, and teahouses. Drop by Chion-in Temple while exploring.

• Arashiyama – This destination might seem touristy, but it’s a noteworthy addition to your Kyoto itinerary. The Bamboo Grove is one of the most photographed spots while the Tenryu-ji Temple is a notable historic and cultural attraction.

• Matsumoto Castle – This is another complete and fetching original Japanese castle. One of its unique features is that it has both a turret and secondary donjon connected to its main keep. The castle area is a popular cherry blossoms viewing spot. Make sure to check out the castle at night as well. 

• Kiyomizudera – This temple is one of the most renowned in the country (it’s also in Kyoto). It dates to the 8th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best time to visit the temple is during spring and autumn. You’ll see cherry blossoms in spring while autumn showcases a variety of colors.

• Dotonbori – Osaka is a foodie’s destination with plenty of authentic and scrumptious Japanese food to choose from. You’ll have plenty of options from sit-down restaurants to food stalls while exploring the area. One of the reasons people visit this area is because of the neon-lit Glico Man. Make sure to take photos!

• Osaka Castle – This castle dates to 1583 and was the largest castle at the time of its completion. Toyotomi Hideyoshi had this castle built. The castle has undergone many renovations and reconstruction over the centuries. Like many other Japanese castles, this one is also a popular cherry blossoms viewing spot.

• Kamikochi – This park provides nature lovers with hiking trails and scenic views. The Japanese Alps loom over Kamikochi and makes for a spectacular background for photos. Climb one of the peaks or simply go on a leisurely walk leading to ponds and a marsh.

• Shirakawa-go – If you’re looking to see the countryside, don’t forget to include Shirakawa-go in your itinerary. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases Gifu’s quaint and beautiful farmhouses. The latter was designed and built to withstand the freezing and snowy winter months.

• Nara Park – This park is home to numerous deer and historic buildings. You can feed the deer but once you do, a few will start following you.

• Todaiji Temple – This temple complex dates to the 8th century. The temple’s main hall is home to one of the largest Buddha bronze statues in the country. 

• Kamakura – This city is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo. Its most visited attraction is the huge bronze statue of Buddha. It dates to the 13^th century and has survived multiple natural disasters. Kamakura draws visitors because of its beaches, Enoshima, and ancient buildings and structures.

• Universal Studios Japan – If you like theme parks, this one in Osaka is the place to be. Universal Studios Japan provides you with several rides to enjoy and revive your inner child. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of USJ’s most famous attractions. 

• Tokyo Disneyland – Disneyland is a dream destination for both kids and the kids at heart. This huge theme park has plenty of rides (and long lines) to fill your day. Don’t forget to watch the fireworks at night.

• Nagasaki – This city is one of the places where the Americans dropped the atom bomb. The devastation the bombing caused lasted for years. However, fast forward to today, Nagasaki is a bustling industrial city. You’ll find monuments and museums about the city’s most harrowing event. Nagasaki also has a long history that goes beyond the atom bomb. It’s one of the places that was open to foreign trade centuries ago. Check out the Peace Park, Oura Church, Glover Garden, and Mount Inasa (for the night views).

• Hiroshima – This is another city that experienced the devastation of the atom bomb. Like Nagasaki, Hiroshima has overcome its harrowing experience and is now a popular tourist destination. Some of the museums and monuments in the city display the long-lasting effects of radiation and the initial chaos the bomb inflicted. They also showcase the hope and aspiration to eliminate weapons of mass destruction. Some of the highlights of your trip include the Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden, and Peace Park just to name a few.

• Miyajima – This island is a popular day trip from Hiroshima. You can follow the scenic walking trails to different parts of the island. Two of the island’s most famous attractions are the historic Itsukushima Shrine and the torii gate that looks like its floating on the sea.

• Sapporo – This city is famous for its winter Snow Festival. You’ll find a variety of snow statues and sculptures during your visit. 

• Yokohama – This city is a possible day trip from Tokyo. One of the reasons visitors and locals make their way here is to see a giant Gundam move.

Japan has several other places you can add to your itinerary. These are just some of the bucket list-worthy destinations you might want to consider for your upcoming trip. Regardless of the season you visit, Japan is a country you’ll love. – Rappler.com

Joshua Berida is a writer that loves to travel. He blogs at www.thewanderingjuan.net.

#ShareAsia highlights the best and most sought-after experiences in the Asia-Pacific region. It’s a content and resource hub for tourists and locals alike seeking new, exciting experiences in the region.

KAMAKURA, Japan – Our day trips (from Tokyo) or week-long stays in the city of Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, always include a visit to the Hasedera (Hase Temple).

It is a five-minute walk from the Hase Station of the Enoden Line and, three to five minutes further, a neighbor of the Kotou-in, the Buddhist temple that’s home to the 43.8-foot Great Buddha (Daibutsu). If this were the Philippines, the temples were in the same barangay (village) as my most recent guesthouse.

Kamakura’s Hasedera (not to be confused with the Hasedera in Nara Prefecture) is almost 1,300 years old. If you’re not into religion or history, then you still go to Hasedera to experience the spirituality of communing with nature.

Sitting on the slope of a hill overlooking the Sagami Bay, Hasedera is pure beauty. It has several gardens, which you discover as you climb up stairs made of stone here and there until you reach the top. In our latest visit, we lingered only in the gardens at the base of the hill. (You’ll need stamina going up – and I had that in past summers when I came here.)

Some people call Hasedera the “Temple of Flowers” because various species bloom on its grounds throughout the year. There’s not a single month when its gardens aren’t full of colors.

Flower viewing is, in fact, a main attraction at Hasedera, aside from seeing one of Japan’s tallest wooden Kannon statues, a museum, a library, a prayer and offering cave, Jizo statues, and two National Treasures: the Temple Bell and the Hanging Buddha Image.

In winter – like when we visited recently – “ume” (plum) blossoms are at their peak. White, pink, deep pink, red, “weeping” — all the varieties you can think of.

And here and there are sprinkles of suisen (daffodils), soshin-robai (wintersweets), ohbai (firefly flowers), kobai (Japanese apricot), and fukujudo (amur peasant’s eye).

In mid-February, you catch some kawazuzakura (a type of cherry blossoms), signaling that winter will soon be giving way to spring.

And the flower cycle at Hasedera continues.

– Rappler.com

Hasedera charges entrance fees of ¥400 JPY for adults and ¥200 for children 6-11 years old. The complete guide to the flowers that bloom each month is here.

Jennylind Cordero, Department of Tourism-Western Visayas chief tourism operations officer, said on Saturday, March 2, lauded the newly-opened art hub dubbed as “House of Paintings” in Cadiz City , 55.7 kilometers north from Bacolod.

“Definitely, this is a boost to DOT’s newest thrust: ‘creative tourism,'” Cordero said.

She described creative tourism as the “spur plug” for a new era in travel, and that the concept dwells on the artistic creations of Filipino artists and their societal impact.

Cordero said Cadiz’s “House of Paintings” is expected to create a multiplier effect that will help transform the community from being famours for dried fish into the next flourishing “tourism haven” in Western Visayas.

The new art hub, which is home to 70 city-owned paintings, was officially opened to the public on February 19, in line with the observance of Arts Month.

Write Ver Pacete, one of the tourism gurus in Negros, commended Cadiz Mayor Salvador “Bading” Escalante, Jr. for coming up with the noble idea of establishing a permanent home for noteworthy art pieces courtesy of artists not only in Cadiz but in Negros Island.

Escalante said that the “House of Paintings” was set up just “by chance.”

The art hub is located in the compound of the Philippine Normal University-Visayas (PNU-V) in Barangay Zone 1, Cadiz, in what used to be the old and dilapidated former headquarters of the Boy Scout of the Philippines (BSP).

When the city government was looking for an alternative event venue, the former BSP headquarters was accidentally spotted, Escalante recalled. He said a study was conducted on repurposing the structure and later on the project proposal was submitted.

The city government spent P5 million for a three-phase renovation completed in  five years.

During a walk-through inspection of the building prior to its opening on February 19, the mayor said he found the space “too bare” and he brought some of the paintings from the new city hall.

Not contented, the mayor ordered the immediate migration of more paintings from the city’s stock room until they there were 70 art works housed in the newly-renovated BSP headquarters.

During the opening in February visitors were amazed to see so many beautiful paintings adorning the hall, leading instant baptism of the building as the “House Paintings.”

Pacete said Escalante, through the new art hub, “reawakened” Negros’ passion for the arts. – Rappler.com

BFFFI Chairman Mauricio Domogan reflected on the event’s success, stating, “The quality and beauty of the floats that came out last Sunday were inspiring. With 33 floats, it was one of the biggest, if not the biggest number of floats in the Flower Festival’s history.”

The Grand Float Parade winners were celebrated for their creativity, environmental consciousness, and cultural representation, spanning three categories: Large, Medium, and Small.

Large leaders

Pangasinan Solid North Transit took the top spot with its float that represented the fusion of modernity and tradition, echoing the celebratory spirit of the Panagbenga. 

Jollibee followed, with its “Blossoming Joy” float that combined Baguio’s heritage with the brand’s commitment to unity and joy. 

TIEZA secured third place, showcasing the natural beauty of Balicasag Island Dive Resort, emphasizing sustainable tourism.

Medium marvels

In the Medium category, Chowking emerged victorious, returning with a bang with its float adorned in intricate Chinese decorations and floral elements symbolizing good fortune. 

P&G/Youthopia impressed with the Safeguard Shower Saya float, blending tradition with innovation through its design and messaging. 

KFC Philippines captured third place, celebrating its iconic food symbol and tradition through the KFC Bucket float.

Small spectacles

Zaparita’s Garden dominated the Small category with a float that featured castles, dragons, and other fantastical elements.

The winners highlighted the festival’s commitment to showcasing the best of Baguio’s art, culture, and environmental initiatives. Anthony de Leon, President of BFFFI, commended the efforts, saying, “The parades exceeded our expectations. It’s a community event and everyone’s help is very much welcome.”

Security and safety were also a priority, with BCPO Lt. Col. Domingo Gambican noting, “The discipline shown by the residents and tourists helped keep the roads free of traffic and the crime situation under control.” – Rappler.com

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MANILA, Philippines – Is part of your 2024 goals to live more sustainably and travel more consciously? The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has named three local destinations championing conscious tourism: Palawan, Bohol, and Surigao del Norte!

According to digital travel platform Agoda, the three tourist spots are part of the Philippine government’s Green Economy Model (GEM), which is a collective of local destinations recognized for their conservation efforts, their sustainable goods, practices, and services, as well as their effective coral reef ecosystem management.

Coron, Palawan

Coron, Palawan leads the list, traveled to for its pristine turquoise waters, lush islands, and stunning, quiet beaches. Eco-conscious tourists are encouraged to learn more about natural farming on a day tour at Coron Natural Farms, a generations-old eco-tourism and indigenous farming institute.

Guests can enjoy a farm-to-table and reef-to-table dining experience here, with meals made from local produce like arugula, chicken, eggs, and various seafood. The seafood is harvested from the reef which is protected by the farm’s ridge-to-reef structure.

To explore underater, Agoda also recommends the Coron Palawan Reef & Wrecks Tour, which introduces travelers to marine life and an abandoned gunboat wreck.

Panglao, Bohol

Panglao in Bohol – also known for its picturesque beaches and diving spots – is an eco-friendly destination starting from the Bohol-Panglao International Airport. Tagged as “the green gateway,” the Philippines’ first eco-airport features natural air ventilation and harnesses solar energy to meet one-third of its electrical needs. Its beaches even have regular clean-ups, which tourists can join in on!

It is a short boat ride away to Balicasag Island, which is a must-visit marine sanctuary with sea turtles and beautiful corals. Agoda recommends a boat tour around the island, where tourists can learn more about the preservation efforts of Boholanos.

Siargao, Surigao del Norte

The tropical surfing haven boasts a diverse ecosystem that is protected by its locals, through regular beach clean-ups, marine sanctuaries, and reforestation projects. The island’s many mom-and-pop businesses also engage in eco-friendly, sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy, organic toiletries, and serving locally-sourced food.

Agoda suggests boat tours of Siargao’s hidden Sugba Lagoon, exploration tours of mangrove forests, and a hiking day in Corregidor Island.

Aside from Coron, Panglao, and Siargao, Puerto Galera and El Nido in Palawan are also part of the GEM collective, respectively.

In January, Agoda cited Bohol, Siargao Island, Davao City, Iloilo City, and Cagayan De Oro as the most-searched travel destinations of Pinoys for 2024. In December, Agoda named Iloilo City as the top “Tastiest Travel Destination” of 2023, followed by Roxas City in Capiz, Davao City, and Angeles City in Pampanga. – Rappler.com

Every year here, cherry trees start blooming more than a month before they peak in most parts of the country. Across Mitsuike Park’s 300,000 square meters are 1,600 cherry trees of 78 species. The kanzakura variety is the first to bloom, in February. 

In spring, Mitsuike is considered one of Japan’s top 100 hanami or sakura-viewing spots. Watch the video and catch a sneak peek of the flowering pink and white blossoms. – Miriam Grace A. Go/Rappler.com

Shanghai is also a transportation hub for those who want to explore more of the country by train or by airplane. It’s easy to get away from the hustle and bustle of the megacity by bullet train. You can go to the mountains in Huangshan or the lovely water towns of Suzhou in just a few hours. Rekindle your inner child in Disneyland – or take your own kids with you. Shanghai has plenty to offer all sorts of visitors looking to spend a few days or so in China.

Getting a visa

Filipinos need to apply for a visa to enter China. These are the basic requirements:

• Original passport with at least one blank visa page and valid for at least six more months.
• You’ll also need to bring a photocopy of the emergency contact and information page.
• Old passport
• A recent 48mm x 33mm photo taken within the last six months.
• Photocopy of previous Chinese visas, if it isn’t your first time visiting. 

Other than the above-mentioned documents, first-time applicants need to submit the following:

• Bank certificate
• Certificate of employment (for employees)
• Business registration certificate (for owners)
• Stamped BIR income tax return

For more information, visit the following websites:

• http://ph.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/lsfw/visas/201208/t20120814_1336195.htm
• http://ph.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/lsfw/visas/ 

Get into Shanghai

Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific have direct flights from Manila to Shanghai. Check their websites for promos that can give you a substantial discount whenever you book a flight. You can also check www.skyscanner.com for other airlines that can take you to Shanghai. Book as early as possible to get the lowest fares.

Get out of the airport

The airport is quite far from the city center. Taking a taxi or hiring a private transfer are options but are expensive choices. The metro is an affordable way to get out of the airport. Take metro line 2 which can get you to Nanjing Road or People’s Square. You can also take the Maglev Train, one of the fastest in the world. You can board this train to Longyang Road Station then change to metro line 2 or 7.

Get around Shanghai

Shanghai is a modern city that provides you with plenty of transportation options. You can take the metro, bus, or taxi, or use a ride hailing app to take you from point A to point B. You can use a transportation card or pass whenever you take the metro. DiDi is the most famous ride hailing app in China. If you plan on using this app, look for its English version.  

Itinerary

Shanghai has plenty to offer visitors.

*This itinerary assumes you start with one full day.

Day 1

On your first full day in Shanghai, make your way to the city’s most famous area, The Bund. The promenade provides visitors with beautiful views of the cityscape. You can take leisurely strolls from north to south or vice-versa. The Bund is lined with several beautiful buildings that harken back to its days as an international settlement. Here you’ll find western-inspired architecture from Renaissance to Art Deco to Neoclassical. Two of the eye-catching buildings include the Bank of China and the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation. 

After walking around The Bund, make your way to one of the old parts of the city. The area provides you with a glimpse of what this megacity used to be like decades ago. You’ll see reconstructed traditional buildings, some shops, tea houses, and restaurants. Amid the traditional buildings and shops, you’ll find the Yu Garden. The latter is a fine example of a Chinese garden (albeit small) with its pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and halls. Tidbit: the garden is more than four centuries old. 

Finish off the day walking around Nanjing Road. The latter is the city’s prime shopping street with several local and international brands vying for your attention (and money!). You’ll find all sorts of items you can take home with you. The pedestrian-friendly street is also lined with restaurants and food stalls. Consider returning to The Bund at night to see the dazzling lights of the cityscape.

Fee:

• Yu Garden – Entrance fee: CNY30-40 depending on the season.

Day 2

On your second day, check out more of the city. Check out Tianzifang, the city’s French Concession, where you’ll find different kinds of crafts and arts. The area has also been preserved to create a European vibe and ambiance with its distinct architecture and layout. If you like museums you can visit places such as the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, China Art Museum, and the Shanghai Natural History Museum. You can also go to Disneyland if it’s on your bucket list.

Fees:

• Shanghai Disneyland – CNY400+++ depending on the package. You can buy tickets from Klook via https://www.klook.com/en-PH/activity/2128-disney-resort-shang-hai/ 

Day 3

Check out and have breakfast before heading out to the train station. You’ll take the train to Huangshan City. The trip takes a few hours. Once you arrive at the station, make your way to your accommodation. This area is a contrast to Shanghai. There are accommodations, souvenir shops, and restaurants but unlike the options you’ll find in the big city. You can use this city as a base to explore Huangshan Scenic Area. Depending on where you’re staying, I would recommend departing from Shanghai station and not from Shanghai Hongqiao. 

You can book train tickets from Shanghai to Huangshan and vice-versa here: https://www.trip.com/trains/china/ 

Day 4

On day four, it’s time to go for an adventure and hike up Huangshan. Buy all the water you need and some food for the trip. The cost of food and drinks in the mountain exponentially increases. I would recommend doing your shopping the day before the hike so that you can leave as early as possible. Once you’re ready, take the bus bound for the mountain.

Upon arriving at the entrance to the park, you have the option to hike up the mountain or take the cable car. My friend and I took on the challenge of going on foot. The ascent takes an average of seven to eight hours depending on your fitness level. You have to account for the weight of the food, water, and clothes you’re bringing with you. Chances are there’s going to be few people going on foot. The hike is mostly man-made platforms and stairs, which makes the trip slightly easier. The views going up are stunning with the peaks of the towering rock formations and mountains almost touching the sky. Once at the top, you have accommodation options. You can also pitch a tent at a designated spot. After check-in, rest for a while before heading out again to watch the spectacular sunset.

Fees:

• Admission Fee – CNY190 (Jan. 21 – Dec. 19), CNY150 (Dec. 20 – Jan. 20) 
• Single Trip Cable Car – CNY80-100 (Jan. 21 – Dec. 19), CNY65-80 (Dec. 20 – Jan. 20)

Day 5

Get up early to catch the sunrise. After breakfast, rest a bit more before descending. Make sure to replenish your stock of water and food before leaving. You have the option to go on foot or take the cable car down. It takes another seven to eight hours to get down. After your descent, take the bus back to the city.

Day 6

Take the morning train back to Shanghai train station. Look for Shanghai station and not the one going to Shanghai Hongqiao. After arriving in Shanghai, check in at your accommodation and hang out at your favorite place in the city.

You can book train tickets from Shanghai to Huangshan and vice-versa here: https://www.trip.com/trains/china/ 

Day 7

Check out of your accommodation. Depending on the time of your flight, you’ll still have enough time to revisit some of your favorite spots in the city or go to new ones before leaving. You can also do some last-minute souvenir shopping, if you have the budget.

How much will you spend?

A budget of P30,000 for 7 days is enough to cover a budget private room shared with at least one other person or a dorm bed, budget meals, use of public transportation, and a few paid attractions. You can spend more or less depending on your travel style. This budget doesn’t include shopping and flights. 

It’s now possible to link foreign credit cards with WeChat. You’ll have to download the international version and create an account. You’ll have to provide a valid ID such as your passport. Once you have the app, follow these steps:

1. Go to the “Me” section of the app.
2. Click on “Wallet”. 
3. Click on “Bank Card” and then select “Add a New Card.”
4. Input your card details, choose a card type, and enter the issuing company. Fill out the requested information. 
5. After filling out the required information, click “Submit.”
6. You’ll get a confirmation message and an SMS verification code. 

– Rappler.com

Joshua Berida is a writer that loves to travel. He blogs at www.thewanderingjuan.net.

Over 20 floats adorned with flowers from the region parade along Session Road, then Harrison Road, and culminate at the Melvin Jones Grandstand.

Watch the grand parade live on Rappler. – Rappler.com