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Showing posts with label Philippines. Show all posts

Here's a detailed commuting guide for Araneta City Bus Port.



Where is Araneta City Bus Port?

The Araneta City Bus Port, located on the ground floor of Manhattan Heights along General Romulo Avenue, serves as a vital transportation hub in the heart of Cubao, Quezon City.


Whether you're traveling from Manila, Pasay, Fairview, Bulacan, Ortigas, Makati, Marikina, Katipunan, Taguig, Paranaque, or Muntinlupa, here's a detailed guide on how to reach the Araneta City Bus Port via different modes of transportation:

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From Manila or Pasay

If you're coming from Manila or Pasay, you can take various modes of transportation to reach the Araneta City Bus Port. One option is to ride the LRT or MRT until the Araneta City Cubao station. From there, it's a short 10-minute walk to Manhattan Heights, where the bus port is located.


From Fairview or Bulacan

Travelers coming from Fairview or Bulacan can take buses bound for Cubao along EDSA. Once you arrive at Cubao, you can easily walk to Manhattan Heights from the terminal. Alternatively, you can take public transportation options such as jeepneys or FX rides to Cubao and then proceed to the bus port on foot.



From Ortigas or Makati

For those originating from Ortigas or Makati, buses along EDSA bound for Cubao are readily available. Alight at Farmers Market and take a short walk to Manhattan Heights, where the bus port is situated. The proximity of the terminal to major thoroughfares makes it easily accessible for commuters.


From Marikina or Katipunan

Travelers from Marikina or Katipunan can opt to take jeepneys or FX rides to Cubao. Alight at P. Tuazon Boulevard or Aurora Boulevard, and from there, it's a brief stroll to reach the Araneta City Bus Port. The accessibility of the bus port from key drop-off points ensures a convenient travel experience for commuters.


From Taguig, Paranaque, or Muntinlupa

Passengers originating from Taguig, Paranaque, or Muntinlupa can take buses or other forms of public transportation to Cubao. Once at Cubao, you can easily navigate your way to Manhattan Heights, where the bus port is located. Whether you're traveling from nearby areas or distant locations, the Araneta City Bus Port offers a central and accessible transportation hub for travelers heading to various destinations.



Additional Transport Options Near Araneta City Bus Port

In addition to the Araneta City Bus Port, passengers can access various other transport terminals and services within walking distance, providing additional convenience and connectivity for travelers. Here are some nearby transport options:


Traditional Jeepneys

Traditional jeepneys operate from the Araneta City Jeepney Terminal, located further north along General Romulo Avenue. These jeepneys serve routes to destinations such as Calumpang, Camp Crame, Lagro, and Project 4, as well as locations outside Metro Manila including Angono, Antipolo, Cainta, Silangan (San Mateo), and Taytay.

Some jeepneys also operate along Aurora Blvd below the LRT 2-Gateway Mall Station Concourse, serving areas like Divisoria, Sta. Mesa, Remedios in Manila, Parang, SSS Village in Marikina, and Cogeo and Padilla in Antipolo.


Modernized Jeepneys

Modernized jeepneys operate from the old Araneta City Bus Terminal at Times Square Avenue. These jeepneys serve routes to Fairview, Novaliches, Eastwood City, Roces Avenue in Quezon City, Rosario and Sta. Lucia in Pasig City, Parang, SSS Village in Marikina, Muzon in San Jose Del Monte, San Rafael in Montalban, and Deparo in Caloocan.


Metro Manila Minimum Fare

Here's the fare increase table starting October 8, 2023, for various modes of transportation:

TransportNew Min FareAfter 4kmAfter 5km
Traditional Jeep₱13₱1.80
Modern Jeep₱15₱2.20
Ordinary City Bus₱15₱2.25
Ordinary Provincial Bus₱15₱1.90
Aircon City Bus₱15₱2.64
Aircon Provincial Bus (Deluxe)₱15₱2.10


UV Express Vehicles

UV Express vehicles within Farmers Plaza, including those within General Roxas Avenue Terminal and Central Avenue Terminal, provide transportation to selected areas in Quezon City (Novaliches), Northern Caloocan (Deparo), Bulacan (Malolos), Laguna (San Pedro, Balibago, Santa Rosa), and the province of Rizal (Rodriguez, Cogeo/Padilla, Antipolo).


Main Avenue Bus Stop

Getting from the EDSA Carousel Main Avenue Bus Stop to the Araneta Bus Port inside Araneta City, Cubao is a short trip. Walk via P. Tuazon & Gen. Romulo Ave. Estimated Time: 10–12 minutes.


Buses under Route Number 3

Buses under route number 3 travel from Antipolo to Quiapo via LRT 2-Gateway Mall Station Concourse, providing additional transportation options for commuters.


Railway Stations

Nearby railway stations include the MRT Line 3 (Araneta Center–Cubao station) and the LRT Line 2 (Araneta Center–Cubao station), offering convenient access to commuters traveling within Metro Manila and beyond.


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

Klook.com

Getting to the Araneta City Bus Port is convenient and straightforward, thanks to its strategic location and accessibility via different modes of transportation. Plan your route in advance and enjoy a seamless travel experience at the Araneta City Bus Port.




IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

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WHERE TO STAY IN QUEZON CITY:
Quezon City Hotels & Resorts | Quezon City Transient for rent

How to get to Araneta City Bus Port


Hey fellow foodies! If you’ve ever walked into an S&R Membership Shopping club, you know that the distinct, mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked dough and bubbling cheese hits you long before you even see the food court.

Today, we are diving deep into the ultimate comfort food destination: S&R New York Style Pizza. Whether you are loading up a cart at the warehouse or dropping by one of their standalone mall outlets, S&R serves up some of the most massive, satisfying American-style comfort food in the Philippines. For me it's one of the best pizza chains in the metro! Here is my definitive review of what makes it a household favorite!



🍕 Background: Big Slices, Big Value

S&R New York Style Pizza started as the food court anchor inside S&R Membership Shopping clubs, heavily inspired by the classic warehouse club food courts in the US (like Costco). Because Filipinos couldn't get enough of those giant 18-inch pies, they launched standalone quick-service restaurants in major malls nationwide.


You don't even need a membership card to eat at the mall branches! The concept remains exactly the same: huge portions, high-quality imported ingredients, and incredibly affordable prices.


Menu & Prices

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary slightly depending on whether you dine in at a warehouse, visit a mall branch, or order via food delivery apps.


18" Big New York Style Pizzas


  • Combo Pizza: ₱121 (Slice) / ₱714 (Whole)

  • Pepperoni Pizza: ₱121 (Slice) / ₱714 (Whole)

  • Garlic Shrimp Pizza: ₱121 (Slice) / ₱714 (Whole)

  • Cheese Pizza: ₱109 (Slice) / ₱624 (Whole)

  • Specialty Pies (All Meat / Hawaiian / Cheesy Burger): ₱785 – ₱829 (Whole Only)


Burgers, Chicken & Sides


  • Cheeseburger: ₱102

  • Double Cheeseburger: ₱170

  • 2-pc Southern Style Fried Chicken with Rice: ₱191

  • 6-pc Fried Chicken Box: ₱515

  • 10-pc Fried Chicken Bucket: ₱799

  • Chicken Baked Roll with Bacon: ₱164

  • Clam Chowder: ₱163

  • French Fries: ₱88



What to Try (My Personal Favorites!)

If you are wondering what to order on your next visit, you absolutely cannot go wrong with my holy trinity of S&R comfort food:


1. The Combo Pizza (The Ultimate Flavor)

Hands down, the Combo Pizza is my absolute favorite flavor on the menu. It is the definitive New York-style slice: huge, foldable, and loaded to the absolute edge. You get a perfect blend of savory pork pepperoni, Italian sausage crumbles, earthy black olives, roasted white onions, and green bell peppers. The crust is beautifully golden and crisp on the bottom, yet soft and chewy on the inside, keeping all those heavy, cheesy toppings perfectly supported.


2. The Cheeseburger

For just ₱102, S&R’s classic Cheeseburger puts many fast-food chains to shame. It features a 100% all-beef patty that actually tastes like real, grilled beef, layered with sliced cheddar cheese and their signature tangy burger sauce inside a soft Kaiser bun. If you are feeling extra hungry, go for the Double Cheeseburger—it is pure, juicy perfection.


3. Southern Style Fried Chicken

Don't sleep on their Fried Chicken! S&R’s chicken pieces are notoriously massive. The skin is incredibly crunchy and heavily seasoned with a distinct Southern-style herb blend, while the meat stays intensely juicy and tender on the inside. Paired with their rich, savory gravy, it easily rivals the country's top chicken joints.


Branches

You can satisfy your cravings at two types of locations across the Philippines:

  • S&R Membership Warehouses: Found in major hubs like BGC, Congessional, Alabang, Aseana, Shaw Boulevard, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Pampanga, and more.

  • S&R New York Style Pizza (Mall Outlets): Located in leading malls including SM Supermalls (like SM North EDSA and SM Megamall), Ayala Malls (Trinoma, UP Town Center), and Robinsons Malls.



🛵 Delivery, Website, and Other Details


Official Website: You can view the full menu and order directly via snrpizza.com.

Online Delivery: Available widely on Foodpanda and GrabFood.

Pro-Tip: If you love customization, they offer excellent Two-in-One (Half & Half) 18" pizzas if you want to pair the classic Combo with Pepperoni or Garlic Shrimp.

S&R New York Style Pizza remains unmatched when it comes to serving massive, unapologetic American comfort food that doesn't break the bank. Whether you are treating the family to a giant 18-inch Combo pie, grabbing a quick, juicy cheeseburger, or sharing a bucket of incredibly crispy fried chicken, it always hits the spot.

What is your go-to order at S&R? Let me know in the comments below!



S&R New York Style Pizza Review: Menu Prices, Branches, and Must-Try Flavors


Planning a trip to the breathtaking "Home of the Winds"? If you are heading to Basco, Batanes, there is an important update you need to add to your travel checklist before heading to the airport.

The Provincial Government of Batanes has officially launched a new digital entry system designed to streamline tourist arrivals and manage sustainable ecotourism in the province. Under Executive Order No. 23, Series of 2026, all visitors bound for Basco are now required to register online prior to their arrival.

Here is everything you need to know about the new mandatory Batanes Online Registration system.



1. When does the policy take effect?

The mandatory pre-registration requirement goes into full effect starting June 15, 2026. If your flight lands on or after this date, you must have your digital registration settled before boarding.


2. Who needs to register?

The registration is mandatory for all incoming visitors traveling to Basco, Batanes. This includes:

  • Leisure tourists and DIY travelers

  • Individuals traveling for official business or work assignments

  • Any other non-resident visitors entering the province



3. Who is exempt from registration?

If you are a returning Batanes resident (Ivatan), you are entirely exempt from the online registration requirement, regardless of whether you are traveling back for work, vacation, medical treatment, or personal reasons.


Compare Air Fares

A quick and easy way to do this is to use flight search engines A.K.A airfare comparison sites. Get started by following the steps below:

Step 1: Visit the best flight search engines listed below (click the links to open a new tab).

Step 2: Enter your destinations and travel dates to compare airfares.

Step 3: Go back to this page and select another flight search engine.

Step 4: Repeat steps #2 & #3 until you visit all sites listed.

Step 5: Review the airfare results to find out which airline/site offers the cheapest prices. Take note of all the airlines listed. Use the “Filter” feature to see a list of airlines that fly to your destination.

TIP! You can also use any of the websites or apps to get flight schedules for your destination.

Cheapest Flights and Airline Tickets Online Booking

Airline Promo Fares

If you are looking for cheap flights in the Philippines, see airlines listed below or view all promo fares:


4. Breakdown of Fees and Discounts

To complete your registration, a standard fee of ₱405 per passenger is required. This total covers your digital pre-registration processing and your official Visitor ID fee.

Additionally, travelers should be aware of the standard ₱200 Ecotourism Fee, which comes with the following localized guidelines:

100% Exempt (Free): Children below 12 years old, authorized researchers, and select government or private sector personnel assigned to work in Batanes do not have to pay the ₱200 ecotourism fee.


20% Discount: Senior citizens and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are entitled to a 20% discount on the ecotourism fee component.



Quick Checklist for Travelers

To ensure a smooth arrival at the Basco Airport, make sure to complete these steps:

  • Access the Portal: Head to the official Batanes Visitor Pre-Registration Portal online before your flight.

  • Input Your Details: Fill out your travel dates, purpose of visit, and personal information accurately.

  • Settle the Payment: Pay the required ₱405 fee through the portal's secure payment channels.

  • Save Your Confirmation: Keep a digital copy (screenshot or PDF) or a printed copy of your registration confirmation and Visitor ID QR code/receipt to present to local authorities upon arrival.


By digitalizing the entry process, Batanes aims to protect its pristine landscapes, preserve its rich cultural heritage, and give travelers a more efficient, paperless welcome. Don't let your dream vacation get delayed at the gate—make sure to register online as soon as your flights are booked!

Batanes Online Registration Now Required


Spanning the historic Pasig River, the Binondo-Intramuros Bridge is a striking, state-of-the-art structure that serves as a physical and cultural link between two of Manila’s most iconic districts: the 400-year-old Spanish walled city of Intramuros and the world's oldest Chinatown in Binondo.

Binondo-Intramuros Bridge aerial

Opened in April 2022 as part of the Metro Manila Logistics Network program, this four-lane, 680-meter long bridge has quickly transformed from a standard infrastructure project into a major lifestyle landmark. With its signature white basket-handle steel loops and panoramic urban vistas, it is a favorite spot for photographers, fitness enthusiasts, and travelers looking to experience Manila on foot.



Location and Architecture

The bridge features a modern tied-arch structural design, with its massive steel arches crisscrossing gracefully over the river. Beyond its vehicle lanes, what sets it apart for travelers are its dedicated, elevated pedestrian walkways and protected bicycle lanes on both sides, ensuring a safe and relaxed crossing.

Intramuros side of the bridge

The Two Gateways


  • The Intramuros Side: The southern approach sits along Solana Street and Riverside Drive, right behind the historic Intramuros Administration building and near Plaza Mexico.

  • The Binondo Side: The northern approach lands at Muelle de la Industria in San Nicolas, placing you directly at the western edge of Chinatown, a short walk away from the historic Jones Bridge and Estero de Binondo.



How to Access the Pedestrian Walkways

If you are navigating on foot or by bicycle, entering the bridge requires knowing where the dedicated staircases are located.

Binondo-Intramuros Bridge

From Intramuros:
  • Head toward Riverside Drive (just past the Bureau of Immigration building or the Plaza Mexico ferry terminal). Look for the concrete pedestrian staircase ramp winding up alongside the main vehicular flyover.

From Binondo:
  • Walk down Muelle de la Industria along the river bank. The pedestrian access stairs are located near the corner of Rentistas Street and San Fernando Street.



Binondo side of the bridge


Nearby Landmarks to Pair with Your Visit

Because the bridge drops you right at the edge of both historical districts, you can easily pair a bridge crossing with these top-tier destinations:


Intramuros Side (South)

  • Fort Santiago: The legendary Spanish citadel and shrine to Jose Rizal, a 10-minute walk from the bridge base.

  • Manila Cathedral: The grand neo-Romanesque mother church of the Philippines located at Plaza de Roma.

  • Pasig River Esplanade: Manila's newest riverside pedestrian attraction. It is a beautifully lit promenade along the banks of the Pasig River.

Pasig River Esplanade and Binondo-Intramuros Bridge at the back

Binondo / San Nicolas Side (North)


  • Jones Bridge: Manila’s historic Parisian-style neo-classical bridge, located just downriver.

  • Escolta Street: The birthplace of Manila’s early 20th-century financial hub, packed with Art Deco heritage.

  • Ongpin Street Food Crawl: Dive into authentic dumplings, dim sum, and traditional pastries just blocks away.



Pro Tavel Tips


Time Your Visit: To beat the intense tropical heat, plan your walk either early in the morning (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) or late in the afternoon (5:00 PM onwards).

Stay Clear of Traffic Lanes: The pedestrian and bike lanes are separated from the main road by solid concrete barriers, but always stay inside the designated walkways and keep a close eye out for fast-moving cyclists.

Travel Light & Secure Your Gear: The bridge can get quite breezy over the river, so make sure your hats, phones, and camera straps are secure. As with all high-density parts of Manila, keep your personal belongings close.




WHERE TO STAY IN MANILA

Here's a list of hotel accommodation you can book in Manila:



ALSO IN MANILA



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

Binondo-Intramuros Bridge Travel Guide: Connecting Manila's Heritage


Every once in a while, the chaos of the city catches up with you, and the only logical cure is to lock yourself inside a beautifully air-conditioned hotel room, put on a fluffy bathrobe, and order room service. You don't always need to book a flight to Boracay or drive out to Batangas to hit the reset button.



If you are looking for that sweet spot where premium comfort meets sensible pricing, the mid-range hotel scene in Metro Manila has never been better. Here is a curated round-up of the 10 best mid-range staycation spots in the metro that offer fantastic amenities, great locations, and top-tier value in no particular order.



1. F1 Hotel Manila (BGC)

F1 Hotel holds a special place as one of the pioneering boutique hotels right in the center of Bonifacio Global City. It’s highly favored by families because of its spacious room layouts and its vibrant, multi-layered outdoor swimming pools that capture a surprisingly tropical aesthetic right in the middle of a concrete financial district.

F1 Hotel BGC

We booked a room here on New Year's Eve in 2018 with a view of Bonifacio High Street and the 5th Avenue where a countdown event was placed.

Location: 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City

Price Range: ₱5,000 – ₱7,500 per night [ SEE ROOM RATES ]


2. Belmont Hotel Manila (Pasay)

Located directly across from NAIA Terminal 3, Belmont is the master of "stay-and-play" convenience. It features an incredible rooftop panoramic pool deck where you can watch planes take off against the city skyline.


It connects seamlessly via an indoor air-conditioned bridge to the endless shopping, dining, and theaters over at Newport World Resorts. We had our Halloween Costume Party here in 2025.

Location: Newport Boulevard, Newport City, Pasay City (Across NAIA Terminal 3)

Price Range: ₱4,000 – ₱6,500 per night [ SEE ROOM RATES ]


3. Brittany Hotel BGC

Formerly known as the Myskina/Seda property in the area and completely refreshed with a sleek, contemporary identity, Brittany Hotel BGC caters beautifully to staycationers who love a boutique, design-forward environment.

It sits right next to SM Aura and High Street, making it a dream basecamp for a weekend filled with cafe-hopping and shopping. I surprised my wife on her birthday here in 2023.

Location: 26th Street corner 11th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City

Price Range: ₱5,500 – ₱7,500 per night [ SEE ROOM RATES ]




4. The Exchange Regency Residence Hotel (Ortigas)

If you are looking for maximum utility on a tight budget, this hidden gem in Ortigas is an absolute champion.

Me at The Exchange Regency pool

It operates as a condotel, meaning the rooms are incredibly functional, and the property features a massive lifestyle cluster complete with a large outdoor pool, a jacuzzi, a fitness center, and even a miniature putting green. We had our post-wedding stay here in 2016.

Location: Exchange Road corner Meralco Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

Price Range: ₱2,800 – ₱4,200 per night [ SEE ROOM RATES ]


5. Discovery Suites Manila (Ortigas)

For families who need massive square footage without paying exorbitant luxury rates, Discovery Suites is a classic favorite.

Me enjoying the free charcuterie from Discovery Suites

Their junior and one-bedroom suites are practically the size of city apartments, complete with fully equipped kitchenettes, making it the perfect spot for a cozy, home-cooked family weekend staycation. A perfect way to spend my birthday!

Location: 25 ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

Price Range: ₱4,500 – ₱7,000 per night [ SEE ROOM RATES ]



6. Holiday Inn & Suites Makati

You cannot beat this hotel when it comes to direct retail convenience. It sits directly on top of Glorietta 4, allowing you to walk straight from the hotel lobby into the mall for dining or a movie, while the rooftop pool and the breezy, open-air Citron Bar offer a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Makati down below. We celebrated New Years Eve here in 2022.


Location: Palm Drive, Ayala Center, Makati City

Price Range: ₱5,000 – ₱7,500 per night [ SEE ROOM RATES ]


7. The Alpha Suites (Makati)

The Alpha Suites elevates the concept of mid-range staying by offering ultra-modern, fully serviced luxury apartments at a remarkably accessible price point.


Guests get access to an unbelievable 50-meter concrete lagoon pool, a massive indoor sports center, and a dedicated roster of upscale private restaurants located inside the building complex.

Location: 7232 Ayala Avenue Extension, Bel-Air, Makati City

Price Range: ₱6,000 – ₱8,500 per night [ SEE ROOM RATES ]



8. Kingsford Hotel Manila (Entertainment City)

Situated right inside the bustling Entertainment City enclave, Kingsford is a sleek, hyper-modern hotel designed for the tech-savvy traveler.


It offers compact but brilliantly designed rooms, a massive outdoor pool deck that gets beautiful sunset lighting, and serves as a quiet, budget-friendly alternative to the massive integrated casino resorts nearby. My wife surprised me on my birthday here in 2024.

Location: J.W. Diokno Boulevard, Entertainment City, Parañaque City

Price Range: ₱3,500 – ₱5,000 per night [ SEE ROOM RATES ]


9. Citadines Benavidez Makati

Tucked into the charming, quiet, and highly walkable neighborhood of Legazpi Village, this property is perfect for staycationers who want a trendy, local city experience.

Citadines Benavidez pool at night

The rooms feature sleek, apartment-style kitchenettes, and the rooftop infinity pool offers one of the most stunning, unobstructed views of the Makati skyline.

Location: 110 Benavidez Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City

Price Range: ₱5,000 – ₱6,800 per night [ SEE ROOM RATES ]


10. Seda Vertis North (Quezon City)

For those based in the North, Seda Vertis North stands out as a premier mid-range staycation oasis. It sits directly beside Ayala Malls Vertis North, giving families instant access to dining and entertainment.

Seda Vertis North Pool

It also boasts a massive, beautiful outdoor garden pool alongside a popular rooftop bar that offers panoramic views of northern Metro Manila.

Location: Sola corner Lux Drives, Vertis North, Diliman, Quezon City

Price Range: ₱5,500 – ₱7,500 per night [ SEE ROOM RATES ]



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