Belize Honeymoons - Los Angeles, USA - Honeymoon Trip - August 2008

David and Emma Loyless Honeymoon Trip to Belize



"I am sad to say this is our last night here at the Belize Jungle Dome. These past few days have been paradise for us. The culture and rich history of Belize just seem to entrap you making you never want to leave. The staff here have been beyond excellent. I feel that we have definitely received the royal treatment for our honeymoon."

More pictures at Davids Facebook page : http://www.facebook.com/album.php?page=1&aid=2045142&l=32ab6&id=80505062

Resort: Club Manila East

Ideal for family trips and barkada outings, Club Manila East (CME) located in Taytay, Rizal is a must visit resort. Just a few hours drive from the city, this 7-hectare resort is one of the best places to unwind, relax, have fun under the sun, and sometimes even do business at the same time.

The resort's facilities are made to suit people of all ages: where the kids can enjoy the mini-slides and the playground on the pool, where the adventurous can get their adrenaline rush from the 3-storey slides and the kayak pool, where the older folks can immerse themselves in the shaded Pools, and where everybody can simply bask under the sun. The best attraction of the resort is its BeachWave pool - a giant wave pool that gradually deepens and produces beach-like waves for everyone to feel as if they were on a real beach. But don't fret, trained lifeguards are stationed near the pool to ensure everyone's safety.

The resort is somewhat strict with the swimming attire. Here are some tips to remember:

Also here are some details about the resort:

Location: Km. 24 Manila East Road Taytay, Rizal PHILIPPINES 1920
Telephone Numbers: (02) 660-2801, (02) 284-4740, (02) 284-4736

For details about their rates, please visit their site at: http://www.clubmanilaeast.com

My Trip Review - Chatham New Jersey, USA - Clark Family - August 2008

Dear Jungle Dome Family:

Our stay here has been amazing. All of the trips were fantastic.

We did the cave tubing/zip line, Tikal, horse back riding, mountain biking, Black Hole Drop, Kayaking, Zoo and ATV’s. Everyone had a blast! We love Max and Phoebe. Max got into a fight and recovered great. He is a great guard dog. Lucas and Aidan are so funny and are great entertainment. David did a great job learning everyone’s names. He was really fun to talk with. We hope he becomes a guide. Andy & Simone were just amazing. They make this stay even more fun. The food was so good. There wasn’t one person that didn’t like it. The service was spectacular.

We will be leaving this place with good times and lots of memories that will last forever. We will definitely recommend this to anyone that loves adventure and fun. We had a fantastic time. Thank you

The Clark Family
Chatham NJ

August 2, 2008

Iloilo: Angelicum Chapel @ Christmas

Each year, Angelicum chapel has one of the highest electricity bills come December. This is mainly because of the Christmas lights that they set up all over the Lezares Mansion inside the Angelicum campus in Iloilo City. For the residents, this has become an annual tradition, and most visitors who spend Christmas with them are given the chance to visit and marvel at this amazing showcase of lights.

Angelicum started this trend. Now, a lot of towns in Iloilo also adorn their parks and plaza's with lights. Pototan, for example, has their town plaza filled with different lights that wrap the trees and bushes. The Central Philippine University also followed Angelicum's trend and had their campus wrapped in lights.

If you're in Iloilo during the Christmas season, don't miss these spectacular lights.

Cebu Resort: Tambuli

Cebu is known for its beaches and diving spots. While I had my vacation in Cebu for the summer, we went to Tambuli Resort, in Mactan Island. It has one of the nicest beaches I know. Its waters are flourishing with all the wonders of nature: schools of fish and sea weeds. It is also great for kids as it's very shallow. And there is little risk of stepping on those sharp shells because the waters are carpeted with the sea weeds. The crystal blue waters combined with the fresh sea breeze will definitely make your summer escapade worth it all.

Entrance is Php200 plus Php 150 for an eat-all-you-can buffet.
Visit their site at: http://www.tambuli.com/Cebu.htm

My Trip Review - California, USA - Stefan Amshey - August 2008

We had a wonderful time here at the Jungle Dome.

Being our first trip to Belize, we weren’t sure what to expect. We were astounded by the beauty of the country, how nice the people are and by the variety of things to do.

All the staff, especially Karen and Luis, were exceptionally informed and helpful. The food was good and there was plenty of it!

Our favourite trip was to the ATM Cave. Everyone should experience the magnificence of this cave. Caracol was beautiful as well, although beware the plethora of fire ants! Swimming in the natural pools after Caracol was great too.

Thanks to the Jungle Dome for an amazing time! We are off to the beach for some diving before returning home.

Lisa Bond-Nelson & Stfan Amshey
California, USA

August 22, 2008

Travel Tips for Business Class Passengers

I've been traveling on Business Class for company-related trips since I started working for Emerson. The first time was last March, a week after I joined the company, when I was sent to the corporate office in the US to "immerse" myself with the team. Today will be my second time, and I'm traveling again to the US for a planning conference and a minor training on Oracle stuff.

During my college days, my family and I also went to the States to visit our relatives there, and we were on a tight budget so we traveled via Economy class. It wasn't grand, but the airline (Philippine Airlines) provided the basic necessities so we were satisfied. They served lunch/dinner/breakfast, and they provided us with personal hygiene kits and blankets for a comfortable 16-hour trip. For me, it was okay.

However, when I was sent to the US with a Business Class seat, I was overwhelmed. Cathay Pacific provides extra-pampering services to the priority passengers, just as if you were a king/queen. They serve excellent food, and extravagant to boot, and they provide wider, more comfy seats, and a lot of entertainment options. Not only that, the lounges during the stop-over/connecting flights are extremely generous with food, drinks, and entertainment. It's like staying at a hotel for a few hours while waiting for your flight.

And so during travel for the first time with a business class seat, I ended up with a bad stomach, a bigger tummy, and a lot of inconvenience on the airplane. Why? Simply because I ate too much. After all, I wanted to try everything they are serving at the lounges, and I ate up all the food that the airline crew had to offer (appetizers, main course, dessert, snacks - yep, i never leave my plate un-empty). I kept telling myself that I need to finish my food because I just have to experience EVERYTHING that a business class seat has to offer. Wrong choice haha.

So now that I'm traveling again, I've learned my lesson. Here are a few things to note when you have a business class seat:

1. If your flight is early in the morning, it is absolutely OKAY to skip breakfast. You will be served with a complete, healthy meal during your trip.

2. If your flight is near lunchtime or dinnertime, don't bother eating lunch or dinner anymore because, again, you will be served a complete meal. If you're thinking you might not like the food, the airlines always serves two dishes, so you can choose which one you like.

3. If you're too hungry to wait for your flight, there's always free food at the lounge. In HK Lounge, for example, they have this noodle bar where you can order noodles for free. But please note that if you stuff yourself too much, then it is absolutely okay to NOT finish your in-flight meal. Don't be a glutton, eat only what you can.

4. Be careful of what you eat/drink. Improper combination of what you take in can also upset your stomach.

5. Finally, do not be afraid to take a dump at the comfort rooms. I actually prefer airport restrooms over the aircraft toilets because of the space. Airport restrooms are well maintained, especially the ones located inside the lounge. Don't be afraid to dirty it a little. :)

So there, 5 things you need to remember when traveling. Oh and of course don't forget your Passport, Ticket and/or Boarding pass, and of course your credit card or cash.

My Trip Review - Peachtree City, Georgia, USA - Eric and Susan Snell - August 2008

We decided this year to make our anniversary trip an adventure. The Jungle Dome and its staff made our home away from home a great place. We have had a fantastic week. Coming at this time of year was great because in most cases our activities were simply us and our guide.

Black Hole Drop – start with a bang! A great hike, great rappel and beautiful scenery (a wonderful introduction to the jungle)



Cave Tubing – Luis showed us all the plants and unlike all the other groups, we floated at our own pace

Zip Line – A fun experience which unfortunately ended too soon

ATM – what an amazing trip! First swimming in among the cave was neat but then to be able to see and admire such a beautiful place. Francisco did a great job explaining what occurred and what they think happened in such a sacred place.



Horseback Riding – it was a pleasure to actually run the horses and learn from Cesar.

Massage – Susan enjoyed this brief respite from the jungle

Mountain Bike ride – Eric rode with David to Valley of Peace and back – ahhh forgot how tough riding off road on loose gravel is

Che Chem Ha cave – what an amazing cave and to be escorted by William , the guy who found it. Amazing that places like these are all around.



Kayaking – We enjoyed the botany education from Link but the ride was not quite the adventure we expected

Caracol – ahh the Mayan ruins you read about. Amazing to see the buildings the Mayans made so long ago

Keep the bug spray bottle full, know that 95% of the roads are bumpy, enjoy the adventures and absorb the Belizean culture, life and people.

Eric & Susan Snell
Peachtree City, GA
USA

August 31, 2008

Trip Reviews Belize

Aug 16, 2008

A fabulous experience, fun filled from start to finish. You all made us feel so welcome. Thank you!

Heather

Everything was amazing! Had such a great time, thank you so much!

Georgie Walker

Houston TX
USA


June 25, 2008

Dear Jungle Dome

What a magical place! Our stay here far surpassed our expectations. From the comfortable and clean room to the amazing food to the friendly and helpful staff and guides. Everyone was so accommodating.

Belize is a special place. Our guided tours of the country, caves and ruins were fabulous. We will definitely be leaving with a lifetime of memories and good stories.

Andrea & John
Ridgewood, NJ


July 20, 2008

Andy & Simone:

Thank you for sharing your home in Belize with us. This truly is a special place. David is a wonderful host and the kitchen staff is unparalleled. Max is a true guardian of life and property. Phoebe is as sweet as ever. Our honeymoon was very special and will be remembered.

William & Sarah
North Carolina

Iloilo Resort: Isla Naburot

I've had the chance to visit this wonderful place a few years ago and there's no one word to describe it. It's magical, tranquil, home. My friends and I spent a few days on the island (thanks to Mike, grandson of the Alice Saldaña, the owner of the resort) and we were so lucky to see the island preserved of its beauty. Coral reefs kept the waters alive, the trees made the atmosphere so relaxing, and the food is simply to-die-for. I hope one day I can visit the place again.

This information is taken from their multiply site:

Isla Naburot is small islet just off the western coast of Guimaras island, just 50 minutes by pumpboat from Iloilo's Port San Pedro. The island's white beach is nestled between the mainland and the rest of the island, creating a natural cove. A coral reef is found just meters away from the shore, and when the tide is low, guests can walk around and wade in the surrounding waters, even cross over to the mainland.

The back side of the island, facing the open sea, is where the dock and the well-known "Balay ni Boy" is located. This house has been featured many times in magazines, tourism documentaries and even in commercials. The sunsets viewed from here are amazing.

When not swimming, snorkeling, boating, island-hopping or fishing, one can enjoy lazing on the beach, swinging from a hammock or feasting on the famous Guimaras mangoes. There are six cottages for couples or small families and a big house called the Balay Bato for the larger parties. The island's get-away-from-it-all ambiance is its main draw. No noise, no pollution, no stress, just nature in all her beauty, peace, rest and relaxation. The food here is also unforgettable. Just ask anyone who has visited us.

For inquiries or concerns, contact Isla Managerment at:
islanaburot@gmail.com
0918-9098500 (Dr. Theresa Saldaña Araneta)
Isla Naburot, Brgy. Sinapsapan, Guimaras

Restaurants: Krua Thai Cebu

One of the highlights of our trip to Cebu was the last dinner before leaving for Manila at Krua Thai. We got to experience Thailand food in the middle of Pinas, who'd have thought of that? I haven't seen the restaurant here in Manila yet, so I don't have any basis of comparison. But all in all, here are the things that amazed me about the Krua Thai:

1. Food = Yummy. You have got to try their Tom Yam soup for a spicy, tingly start
2. Restaurant ornaments: from the draperies, to the "big faces" hanging by the wall, to the jewel-studded classic images of Thailand.
3. Inverted umbrellas = one of a kind. The umbrellas hanging upside-down on the ceiling is a marvel to watch.
4. Eccentric Jars & glasses (goblets): The kind usually found in King Arthur movies or during the height of the Knights' reign. Very cool!

If you plan to go to Cebu, don't miss this. Krua Thai is at:
Unit K Crossroad Mall, Banilad, Cebu.
Tel No. : +63(32) 231-8338
Fax : +63(32) 231-8338

My Trip Review - Monroe, Los Angeles, USA - David and Emma Loyless - August 2008

I am sad to say this is our last night here at the Belize Jungle Dome. These past few days have been paradise for us. The culture and rich history of Belize just seem to entrap you making you never want to leave. The staff here have been beyond excellent. I feel that we have definitely received the royal treatment for our honeymoon.

Upon our arrival we were greeted by Luis, who gave us a history lesson as we drove in from the airport. He is such a wealth of knowledge. Karen made us feel right at home and our candle-light dinner on the balcony of our room was perfect. The food was beyond compare at every single meal.



Our first adventure was to Caracol with Luis and once again we learned so much. I think this adventure was one of my favourites. The Mayans were such an interesting people and Luis never missed a beat with trying to show us everything. Our next adventures consisted of cave tubing with Luis, ATM with Orlando, horseback riding with Cesar and a trip to the zoo with David. ATM was definitely an experience I will never forget. It’s extremely challenging trying to get to the cathedral but well worth the trip. If you have time for the zoo it is a must.

Everyone here – Karen, Luis, David, Wani, Tea and the rest of the staff – have made this a trip of a lifetime. Getting to know them and where they come from and the rich history here will definitely bring me back for another trip to Belize.

The ATM Cave was probably my favourite trip. It’s a challenge but the cathedral is amazing. Luis is awesome. He is basically a history book on legs and he is not bad with the botany and zoology either. I loved listening to Karen’s and David’s stories of how they ended up at the Jungle Dome. Karen makes me want to pack up and move to Belize and David is a complete inspiration. The food has been excellent and I am going home fat! I loved the zoo and horseback riding was a blast! Everyone here has been so nice and helpful. I can’t wait to come back.

David & Emma Loyless
Monroe, Los Angeles
USA

August 20, 2008

Cebu: Philippine Taoist Temple

If you're in Cebu, you have got to visit their Beverly Hills, home of the Philippine Taoist Temple. Upon reaching the temple, you will be mesmerized with the amazing view of Cebu City and be captivated by the windy, fresh atmosphere. The place is so peaceful and serene that you can't help but feel so holy every time you face the altar.

The Philippine Taoist temple has been one of the many tourist attractions in Cebu. They have a small version of what seems to be the Great Wall of China, and they also have this gigantic dragon structure where lots of visitors take their pictures.

Also don't miss the MA-CHO Temple... a temple for the macho-wannabes in the world, just like my boyfriend Marc hehe:

Restaurants: Kagura Cebu

If you're looking for a good Japanese restaurant in Cebu, then you can't miss Kagura at A.S.Fortuna St. Banilad, Mandaue City. The place itself is very nice, with bamboo floors and bamboo walls with kimonos hanging on the walls and traditional Japanese umbrellas adding a homey feel. You get to experience the Japanese way of eating while kneeling (seiza), but for people who aren't used to this, you can just sit in whatever manner you want to. So take off your shoes, slip on those sandals (provided by the restaurant) and find a comfy place to sit and enjoy your meal.

Expect to be served with great authentic Japanese food served in bento boxes with matching chop-sticks. Best of all, they serve a WIDE variety of Japanese meals, not just the usual maki/sushi/tempura/rice toppings that *some* Japanese restaurants offer. They also serve Sake (Japanese rice wine) for those who are curious as to how it tastes. All in all, you'll really feel as if you were in Japan.

Unfortunately, when we went there, there was a rodent patrolling the place hahaha. But we were already in bliss after having finished our meal when we found that out so we didn't really mind. Hopefully, the restaurant team does something about it or else their sales will greatly be affected.

So if you're looking for a taste of Japan in Cebu, don't ever miss Kagura.

Family Vacation Packages 2009

Are you looking for a unique Vacation Adventure for your family in 2009? Green Dragon Belize Adventure Travel offers families customized packages to Belize, Central America.



"Thank you from the rose family (Gerry, Tanya, Trinity & baby Quintin). It was a beautiful experience!" - Rose Family - April 2008 from Calgary, Alberta, Canada

We are not Disney and we are not suitable for everyone but our Indiana Jones Vacation experience has created a high customer satisfaction for our guests. Exploring Mayan temples, Caving, Kayaking, Jungle Horseback Riding, Night Walks, Cave Tubing, Scuba Diving and Snorkeling all feature in our Inclusive Adventure Packages.



"We are all sad to leave the Jungle Dome. We are off to the beach but all agree that we would rather stay here for a few more days. The entire staff was amazing! You made us feel special. We came with our in-laws and sister’s family. This will be a trip that we will never forget!" who visited in March 2008

Thank you!

The Wolfs, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
The Beehlers, Cols, Ohio, USA
The Artims, Cleveland, Ohio, USA



"Our trip was spectacular. Thanks so much for making us feel like family. Everything was awesome!! Especially the food, that was delicious! And the service was great! Thanks soooo much for everything! You guys rock!" who visited in July 2008

Maddie McGann (age 12)
Marriottsville, Maryland, USA



Visit us at www.greendragonbelize.com for more information and we look forward to seeing you in the Jungle...........

Flying with Cebu Pacific

If you're planning to go on a vacation anywhere within the Philippines or Asia with a tight budget, then the best airline for you is Cebu Pacific. They offer really low fares, especially if you make it in time for their P1.00 per ticket promo that's recurring every so often after a few months. Also, the quality isn't all that bad. For a really cheap fare, you get seamless take offs and landings. You'd also be confident with the flight because the planes are in good condition.

If you plan to fly CebuPac, here are some tips to remember:

1. Buy early, save a lot. When you buy early, there is a big possibility that the fares you will get are the lowest of the bunch. The later you buy, the more people have already bought, and the number of slots for the cheaper fares are already taken.
2. Bring snacks or something to munch during your flight. Since Cebu Pacific already offers very low prices, it's only logical that they don't serve any snacks on the plane. :) They do offer food and drinks, but you'd have to buy them at quadruple its normal price. Bring some sandwiches or junk food and buy some drinks at the airport and you'll spend less on the plane.
3. Don't mind the crew attendants. It's surprising how they repeat the safety reminders every flight, but they are also the ones disobeying the rules. During our flight from Cebu, we were seated at the last seat with a bunch of flight attendants listening to their iPods while taking off. They keep telling the passengers to turn off all electronic devices but they themselves don't do that. Oh well.
4. Be on time. But, expect your flight to be delayed. It doesn't happen always, but it happens 90% of the time.

That's all for now. Just remember, in every trip, treasure the good memories and not the terrible ordeal of getting those memories.

My Trip Review - Richmond, Virginia, USA - Andrea and Bill Reed - August 2008

Thank you all for such a wonderful experience! It made for a wonderful mini trip before we get married in two days. The food was amazing. We never left a meal hungry and everybody was very friendly. We came to Belize not knowing what to expect and have fallen in love with this country. As our trip continues, we hope that Southern Belize is just as beautiful as it is here.

Andrea & Bill Reed
Richmond, Virginia, USA

August 2008

Scuba Diving Packages for Christmas 2008 and 2009 Vacation Season

Green Dragon Adventure Travel offers exciting Scuba Diving Packages in Belize, Central America. If you want to book for Christmas 2008, do so soon as availability on the islands is becoming limited.



Belize has one of the biggest Reef systems in the world and is relatively untouched by mass tourism. We offer 5 Night, 7 Night or any amount of nights you require including :

Unlimited One or Two Tank Dives
Blue Hole Three Tank Scuba Diving Trip
Open Water PADI Certification
PADI Advance Diver Courses
Snorkeling Trips



7 Night Scuba Diving Package over Christmas 2008

• Including Beach Front Room at Xanadu Resort, Ambergris Caye
  
• Round Trip local airfare from Belize International Airport to Ambergris Caye Island
  
• Taxi to Resort
• 5 Two Tank Dives including Equipment Rental

Rate Per person based on 2 Adults Sharing is $1,641.00 USD. Or Upgrade to a Luxury Ocean Front Suite for $2,460.00 USD per person including taxes.

Or if you have never Dived before and want to train for your PADI Open Water certificate we can offer this package : 

7 Night Open Water Scuba Diving Package over Christmas 2008

• Including Beach Front Room at Xanadu Resort, Ambergris Caye
  
• Round Trip local airfare from Belize International Airport to Ambergris Caye Island
  
• Taxi to Resort
• 5 Days of Scuba Diving Instruction including Equipment Rental and course material

Rate Per person based on 2 Adults Sharing is $1,731.00 USD. Or Upgrade to a Luxury Ocean Front Suite for $2,550.00 USD per person including taxes.

After the Peak Season for Christmas 2008, rates for 2009 Scuba Diving Packages will be lower.

For more information contact us here : http://www.greendragonbelize.com/contactus.html

Belize Honeymoon Packages for Christmas 2008 and 2009 Vacations

Book your honeymoon vacation of a lifetime with Green Dragon Belize Adventure Travel. Stay inland at our exclusive and homely Jungle Lodge (Belize Jungle Dome) and enjoy any of the following exciting adventures :

• Exploring the Mayan Temples
  
• Caving and Archaeological Adventures
• Rappelling
• ATV Vehicles
• Jungle Horseback Riding
• Cave Tubing
• Zoo
• River Kayaking

After your mainland adventure hit the tropical island of Ambergris Caye where you can relax in a beautiful beach front Suite and unwind after the inland excursions. For the couples with boundless energy more fun waits on the islands, where you can scuba, snorkel, fish or watch the graceful manatees.



For more information visit our website at www.greendragonbelize.com or email us at info@greendragonbelize.com, where our friendly staff will help you organize your adventure honeymoon of a lifetime. We can customize your Belize Honeymoon Package for 2009 and we look forward to seeing you in Belize soon.

Manila Condo Units

Are you looking for Condo Units here in Metro Manila or in the Philippines?
Don't fret!

ETON Properties has a wide variety of Condo units up for grabs. ETON is part of the Lucio Tan Group of Companies.

If you are interested, please send a private message to my good friend, Schyler Gan for more details. You may contact him at: http://schyly.multiply.com