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RED PLANET

TRAVEL BLOG

OUR GUIDE TO TRAVEL IN ASIA, FROM INSIDER TIPS TO ADVENTURE INSPIRATION

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RED PLANET MAKATI AMORSOLO: YOUR FAVORITE BUDGET HOTEL IN THE HEART OF MAKATI

 ARTICLE POSTED TUE, 30 SEP 2025

Red Planet Makati Amorsolo: Your Favorite Budget Hotel in the Heart of Makati When it comes to traveling, whether for business or leisure, location and convenience make all the difference. Makati City is well known for its bustling business district, vibrant shopping malls, and family-friendly parks. Right in the middle of it all, Red Planet Hotel Amorsolo in Makati stands out as a smart choice for travelers, backpackers, and staycationers who want comfort, accessibility, and affordability.

SINULOG GRAND PARADE 2025: WHAT TO EXPECT AND HOW TO PREPARE

 ARTICLE POSTED TUE, 17 DEC 2024

The Sinulog Grand Parade is the heart and soul of Cebu’s Sinulog Festival, attracting thousands of local and international visitors every year. This vibrant and colorful event celebrates Cebu’s rich culture, religious traditions, and artistic heritage. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned Sinulog fan, here’s what you need to know about the grand parade and how to make the most of your experience.

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WHERE TO GO IN MANILA

  ARTICLE POSTED TUE, 17 DEC 2024ARTICLE POSTED MON, 18 NOV 2024

Planning a quick getaway to Manila? This vibrant capital of the Philippines is a treasure trove of culture, history, and gastronomy. With just 48 hours, you can explore its bustling streets, dive into its rich history, and indulge in its irresistible flavors. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of two days in Manila!

PET-FRIENDLY STAYS AT RED PLANET HOTELS

ARTICLE POSTED THU, 17 OCT 2024

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure with your furry friends? Look no further than Red Planet Hotels! With locations like Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard and Red Planet Quezon City Timog and Red Planet Binond Manila, you and your beloved pets can enjoy a fabulous getaway together. Here’s why your next trip should be a paws-itively delightful experience!

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TIPS FOR AFFORDABLE AND FUN FAMILY GETAWAYS

ARTICLE POSTED TUE, 24 SEP 2024

Family vacations are a fantastic way to create lasting memories, but they don’t have to break the budget. With a little planning and the right choices, you can enjoy a budget-friendly getaway that’s both fun and enriching for every member of the family.  One of the key elements to a successful and affordable family trip is finding the right place to stay. Red Planet Hotels—a top choice for families seeking budget-friendly accommodations without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Here’s how you can make the most of your family vacation while keeping costs low and fun high.

SOLO TRAVEL SAFETY TIPS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

ARTICLE POSTED TUE, 10 SEP 2024

Traveling solo can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. It’s an opportunity for self-discovery, adventure, and freedom. However, as exhilarating as it can be, solo travel also requires a heightened focus on safety. Whether you’re venturing to a bustling city or a serene retreat, ensuring your safety is paramount. One way to enhance your security is by choosing accommodations that prioritize solo traveler safety. In this blog, we’ll explore essential solo travel safety tips:

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EXPLORING DAVAO'S CULINARY DELIGHTS: A FOOD LOVER'S GUIDE

ARTICLE POSTED MON, 15 JUL 2024

If you're planning a stay at Red Planet Hotels in Davao, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other. Davao, nestled in the southern part of the Philippines, is not only known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture but also for its rich and diverse food scene. Here are some must-try local dishes that you shouldn't miss during your visit:

THE GRAND OPENING OF YOUR NEW FAVORITE BUDGET HOTEL : RED PLANET BGC THE FORT

ARTICLE POSTED THU, 18 APR 2024

Red Planet Hotels is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its 14th hotel in the country with the highly anticipated launch of Red Planet BGC The Fort. Red Planet Hotels celebrates a major accomplishment – opening “The First Real Budget Hotel” in the upscale Bonifacio Global City district.

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Plane Fares Expected to Drop in July

Article posted Wed, 26 Jun 2024

July brings good news for budget-conscious travelers in the Philippines as airlines gear up to slash plane fares, making travel more affordable and enticing after a challenging period.

EXPERIENCE MANILA'S TOP 14 ROOFTOP BARS AND CAFES IN BGC 2024

ARTICLE POSTED THU, 18 APR 2024

Whether you’re a local or a traveler, these rooftop havens are where memories are made. I’ve spent my nights discovering these hidden gems, and now, it’s time I shared them with you. In this guide, I’m going to share the top 14 rooftop bars and cafes in BGC for 2024. These spots aren’t just good; they’re the best of the best, handpicked for their stunning views, incredible atmosphere, and unforgettable experiences.

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14 NEW RESTAURANTS TO TRY IN BGC

ARTICLE POSTED THU, 18 APR 2024

BGC may be known as a business district, but it is also a haven for foodies who want to try new dishes and cuisines. With new restaurants and cafes constantly opening their doors, there’s always something fresh to discover.  In this guide, we are going to share with you 14 new eats in Bonifacio Global City. We have listed new restaurants and cafes you should try in BGC. Whether you want to eat your comfort food after a stressful day at work or have a brunch meetup with your colleagues and friends this weekend, these new restaurants  got you. 

THINGS TO DO IN BGC: 14 PLACES AND ACTIVITIES FOR A FUN WEEKEND

ARTICLE POSTED FRI, 19 APR 2024

Plan your weekend in BGC with our curated list of 14 things to do and places to visit;  indulge in dining, shopping and nightlife! Bustling with life, Bonifacio Global City, or BGC for short, mixes the modern conveniences of city living with rich cultural experiences. This Taguig City neighborhood has become a must-see spot, with something for everyone. Whether you seek tranquility in parks, crave delicious food at trendy restaurants, appreciate art, or enjoy lively events, BGC offers an unforgettable urban experience. While BGC is great for spontaneous exploring, there’s also plenty to discover for those who prefer fixed itineraries. If you like to have a list of the best things to doand places to visit in BGC, here are some ideas to get you started!

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5 BEST EATS WHEN IN BINONDO, MANILA

ARTICLE POSTED WED, 26 JUL 2023

Known as “The Oldest Chinatown in the World”, Binondo is a one-stop destination to taste the best Chinese delicacies in Metro Manila. From dumplings to noodles, there are dozens of restaurants you can find in here.   We’ve rounded up a list of some of the best eats you can find in the “World’s Oldest Chinatown“.

 

THIS IS THE ONLY HIROSHIMA TRAVEL GUIDE YOU NEED

Article posted Thu, 28 May 2020

Hiroshima has been marketed as the de-facto dark tourism destination, but it’s considerably more than that. Take a boat ride to Miyajima Island, where wild deer roam free, and at low tide, stray to the floating torii gate. Go in hungry, and leave with oyster and okonomiyaki fatigue. What else? Here, Red Planet team recommends five exceptional places to see in Hiroshima — where you’ll get a bit of everything.

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THE CHEAPEST OMAKASE SUSHI LUNCH TO EAT IN THAILAND

ARTICLE POSTED FRI, 15 MAY 2020

It’s difficult to choose what to love the most, whether it was the hamaguri clam soup, pickled sardine, or the mountain of sea urchin on tuna.

THREE REASONS TO VISIT CEBU

ARTICLE POSTED THU, 18 JUN 2020

After a long pause in confinement to the four walls of your room, the rest of the year can only get better, right? While you plan for your first post-quarantine holiday, take a look at this list of some of the finest natural wonders in Cebu, whether you like worshipping the sun or something more extreme.

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MUST-TRY SPOTS IN CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

ARTICLE POSTED TUE, 04 OCT 2022

Welcome to the biggest city in Metro Manila, Quezon CityQC as locals fondly call it, has become one of the “it” places to go, with its growing number of Instagrammable spots and chill-out hubs over the years. Planning your next weekend shindig? We rounded up these 5 best things you can do in QC you can check out on weekends.

HOW TO TAKE THE PERFECT SELFIE IN TOKYO

ARTICLE POSTED FRI, 10 APR 2020

You would have thought that the selfie was an online fad waiting to die down by the time Chainsmokers released their earworm Let Me Take A #Selfie back in 2013 (yes, it’s been that long). Now, these vertical digital portraits are all over our social media accounts, but, technically, the self-portrait concept dates back to the first portable camera, Kodak Brownie, more than a century ago. And like the 13-year-old Russian Duchess sharing selfies with her friends in 1914, the Japanese have shared self-portraits with cat whiskers and neon hearts printed on the Purikura machines since the 1990s. If the arcade rooms blasting Japanese pop music with row after row of curtained passport photo booths seems a little scary, we selected the four best outdoor locations to capture yourself in the best (natural) light.

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Save the oceans with the Sea Monkey Project

Article posted Tue, 10 Mar 2020

When it comes to picking your next travel memento, there’s an organisation that produces necklaces made from reclaimed plastic, and the proceeds go to cleaning up our oceans. This organisation is the Sea Monkey Project, and they’re on a mission to build cottage industries (small factories run at someone’s home) rather than mass-producing. So the impact on the environment has been reduced to its bare bones. Using the plastics that would usually end up in the ocean, they create sustainably sourced and ethically produced souvenirs and gifts, which require the involvement of many individuals and local communities that share the same interest in saving the planet.

Five Pro Tips To Take Better Travel Photos

Article posted Fri, 17 Apr 2020

Don’t you love browsing through travel photos on Instagram? All those lush sceneries, breathtaking beaches, and awe-inspiring moments make you want to jump right in and take those photos yourself. And remember, you don’t need the best camera to take great pictures. But then you wonder, how did they take that shot? Do I even take good travel photos? Well, you’re in luck with these in-depth photography hacks. Here are some of our best Instagram tips in 2020 (that we use on our feed) to make those travel photos more worthy so you can start raking in the double taps.

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The Best Places to Visit Next in Nagoya

Article posted Tue, 24 Mar 2020

Home to three feudal heroes of Japan, striking blue-and-white ceramics, and noodles in miso broth, it stands to reason why Nagoya is the best base from which to explore the rest of Japan, beyond Tokyo. Tokyo and Sapporo might sit on the top of our itinerary when it comes to setting out to Japan. And as thrilling and charming as the cities are, there are over 420 inhabited islands in the land of the rising sun with white beaches, unparalleled culture, and remarkably high culinary stakes. We tasted the best eats in the city a few months ago, and here are the three must-visit places in Nagoya that will transport you to the fourth largest city in Japan, where you can touch its spirit, history, and souvenirs to bring back home.

Survival Guide to Sapporo Snow Festival

Article posted Fri, 31 Jan 2020

If you’re looking for pop colours and dying trees, this one might not be for you. Sapporo is known for lavender fields and autumn hues, but this event is on the cooler side. From 31 January to 11 February, the capital of Hokkaido embraces the cold at the Sapporo Snow Festival.

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Where You Need To Eat In Manila

Article posted Mon, 28 Oct 2019

Finding good restaurants in Manila has never been a chore. You find sublime world cuisine at local prices. Fresh ingredients and innovative preparation are essential, with flavours that linger longer than the posts on your social media feed. Here’s where to eat just like that in Manila.

Five Tips To Travel Better

Article posted Fri, 24 Jan 2020

We’ve all been there: that rush you feel when your trip is fast approaching. The excitement churning. That adrenaline surge that gives you half-slept nights. And yes, also that anxious feeling about what to expect. We’ll ease your troubles of searching for travel tips, and hacks with our five travel do’s and don’ts for 2020.

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The Only Cafe You Need To Visit In Tokyo

Article posted Fri, 17 Jan 2020

What makes Café Kitsuné probably the most Instagram ready coffee shop in Tokyo (and brews a great cup of espresso). Café Kitsuné is in no sense a new place in the upscale Minamiaoyama neighbourhood which sits next to the high-end fashion boutiques of Omotesando. It opened already in February 2013 and has shot up in popularity ever since. You might be one of the 84,000 followers on their Instagram page @cafekitsune.

Three Must-Visit Cafés In Pattaya, With A View

Article posted Fri, 18 Oct 2019

Imagine a restaurant by the beach in Thailand and everything that comes with one. The striped loungers set in honey-coloured sand, the cool ocean breeze in the scorching heat, and of course, great cocktails, coffee, or whatever your poison is. To ensure you have some of each, here’s our guide to the best ocean views with a smell of coffee.

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What to do on Weekends in Manila (and Where to do it)

Article posted Fri, 27 Sep 2019

Ah, the weekend. Nothing sounds better than that after a long week behind the desk. The time when you can unwind, chill, or relax (whatever you decide to call it) for a day or two. But you and I both have been there on a Friday night thinking: “What will I do this weekend?” Time to let those worries fly away, folks. We’ve got your back. Here are four weekend ideas in Manila you can sink into:

How to Find Autumn in Sapporo

Article posted Thu, 10 Oct 2019

You’ll get to feel the autumn mist in Hokkaido first, and the trees have already started to put on their colourful shroud at the end of September. But you still have time to get a glimpse of the gold-red foliage of Japanese maple trees. Jozankei Onsen is a mountainous hot spring village an hour drive away from Sapporo. Sure, you can bathe all day, but try not to miss the Jozankei walking path along the Toyohiragawa river.

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Four Fitness Hacks For Your Next Trip

Article posted Fri, 11 Oct 2019

Raise your hand if you love to travel. Raise your hand if you love to eat. Now, raise your hand if you like to do all that and gain a few kilos while at it. No one? The good news is that there’s a proper equilibrium where you can enjoy both without any of it spreading to your waistline. Travelling is one of the most enriching experiences in life, and like folks say, food is high on the list of things to take in a foreign culture. But the guilt of not fitting in your clothes after a trip can make cultural exploration impractical. And when it comes to fat-burning on vacation, especially if your hotel doesn’t have five-star facilities, you have to introduce a novel perspective to your daily dozen. Here are a few hacks that can help you avoid going over your belt next time you travel.

Is Studio Ghibli Museum in Japan Worth it?

Article posted Tue, 13 Aug 2019V

The only museum you have to visit in Japan could be a 30-minute train ride away in the suburbs of Tokyo.

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Five Bang-for-the-Buck Dining Spots in Makati

Article posted Fri, 13 Sep 2019

Who says you have to spend a lot for good food? Not us. Are you thinking of how and where to eat lunch or dinner in Makati? We do that too. The city in Metro Manila is known for its tall buildings and busy offices, and of course, dining in the business district can be expensive. But not all good eats are the nose-in-the-air types. Here’s a roundup of the five best restaurants in Makati for affordable bites.

Why You Need to Visit the Kaminoko Pond

Article posted Tue, 17 Sep 2019

Some would argue that the first and only lake that got its own article on our travel blog is mind-blowing. But you can’t argue the magic of shimmering pools of clear mountain water. The lack of Google search results for the Child of the God pond (or kamuito, the same in the rare Ainu language spoken in Hokkaido) is as good a reason as any to visit the beautiful, sparkling blue lake in Hokkaido. And Kaminokoike preaches transformation of nature during the sightseeing season from June until November with walks on forest trails that offer some of the most striking autumn foliages in the world.

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Make Your Own Coffee Blend in Japan

Article posted Tue, 24 Sep 2019

You’ll find some of the world’s best coffee in Japan, and indie roasters are sneaking into the wall-to-wall Starbucks-like café scenery of Tokyo.

What You Should Be Doing In Malate

Article posted Mon, 06 May 2019

Mabini Street came to fame for its vibrant nightlife past the midnight hours. Expect the bites to be anything from Korean barbecue to halal, while the drinks are more on the buzzed side. Of course, you could just eat and drink. But before accusing it of being another after-hours street, give it the daylight treatment. You might like it. Not only are new galleries and performance art slowly taking over the two-kilometre-long road, outside on the street there’s a whole lot to explore before you hit the restaurants. Here are some of them.

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We Cleaned Up Another Beach

Article posted Fri, 24 May 2019

Next time you see someone leaving their yoghurt lids and instant noodle cups on the beach, you know there’s a secret society walking around picking up their rubbish after them. That sounds more enigmatic than it needs to. On a serious note, clean-ups are not some sporadic internet challenges (although the recent #trashtag showed the real power of social media in something as unexciting as tidying). And the people whipping beaches into shape are like the 160 volunteers that attended the Bibi Beach clean-up in Okinawa last Saturday.

The Year 2019 Has Never Been Pigger

Article posted Mon, 17 Jun 2019

We’ve come a long way from the cute cat cafés where the felines are, not unsurprisingly, lounging and minding their own business. Today, exotic animal establishments are opening in Japan at an all-time high rate.

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Six Of The Best Phuket Destinations

Article posted Thu, 18 Apr 2019

Phuket, aptly named the pearl of the Andaman for being a rare, beautiful jewel held inside the protective shell of the Malay Peninsula, is the largest (and probably the best known) island in Thailand. Your first idea might be to fix a sun lounger in the sand with a case of cold ones by your side. But you should know Phuket doesn’t end at the golden-sand beaches. We have curated a list of destinations and activities to help you plan your next trip to the well-known island.

Three Museums To Inspire You In Manila

Article posted Fri, 22 Mar 2019

A moment in Manila can take away your breath. A day in a museum could give you a breath of inspiration for the rest of the year. To help you find creative stimulation, we have listed the top three museums in Manila. Switch off your smartphone, and let these museums take you on time travel to local history, culture, and national identity of the Filipinos. Museums, too, have responded to the demand of the modern traveller, and in Manila, you can learn about the Philippine heritage through interactive museum apps and discounted all-day passes. And many of the museums are less than 15 minutes away from Red Planet Manila Bay.

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Coral Reef Restoration At Samae San Island

Article posted Thu, 28 Mar 2019

Earth Hour strikes this Saturday, and we’ll turn off the non-essential lights at Red Planet Hotels. But our planet needs a lot more love than an hour a year.

The Bubble Tea Shops To Know In Hat Yai

Article posted Tue, 02 Apr 2019

The story goes, back in the golden 1980s Taiwan, a gentleman poured tapioca pearls apathetically into his cup of tea because a meeting was too dull. Now though, bubble tea or boba, a Taiwanese street corner classic, is an iced drink you can find in every corner of the world. Typically but not inclusively, the drink combines milk, different tea varieties, and chewy tapioca balls into a creamy (and sugary) deliciousness — a ridiculously addictive one at that. And if you don’t have a chance to go to Taiwan, you will find a high concentration of bubble tea shops in southern Thailand (for some weird reason). Here are the best boba in Hat Yai.

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Seven Places You Need To See On Bangkok Riverside

Article posted Thu, 21 Mar 2019

The history of Bangkok is told along the Chao Phraya riverside. Ancient temples, royal landmarks, and unique architecture are easily accessible with public river ferries and private long-tail boats. Or by just a regular taxi if you’re not a sea dog.

The Dotted World Of Yayoi Kusama

Article posted Wed, 06 Mar 2019

You’ve probably seen her repeating, brightly coloured polka dot patterns in high-end fashion and contemporary art biennales. She is all about pumpkins. A concurrent rival to Andy Warhol’s pop art, she has filled galleries and outdoor venues with vivid, hallucinating, mirrored pumpkin infinity rooms, pumpkin statues, and pumpkin paintings. And if you don’t know her name by now, she is one of today’s most influential modern artists.

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Laughing All The Way To Quezon City

Article posted Wed, 13 Mar 2019

Had a bad day? Pressured by deadlines? Need to loosen up? Metro Manila doesn’t feel like a stress-free environment at first glance, but you don’t need a beach getaway for some stress relief. You don’t need to travel at all. Quezon City is home to many popular comedy clubs where celebrities and emerging stand-up comedians provide people with a good laugh. And these bars are open all week long. Your family doctor might have said that laughter is the best medicine, and your dentist maybe pumped some into you. And there is some truth to that. It decreases stress levels and triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones. We found the best comedy clubs in Quezon City to get jacked up on endorphin.

A Seafood Lover’s Guide To Pattaya

Article posted Fri, 15 Mar 2019

What if we told you, you could have perfectly cooked, fresh seafood that is enough to feed a small family for under 1,000 baht? Yes, in Pattaya. Well, you can. Sitting on the beautiful Pattaya oceanfront, the Lanpho Naklua fish market is marked as a red pin on the maps app of most local Thais. But foreign visitors rarely know about its existence. We urge you to favourite it or circle it in your paper map that is tearing along the creases from all the unfolding it has gone through. And if you have a better half to share a meal with or you want to upgrade your dinner options, have a look at the most romantic restaurants in Pattaya.

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Four Restaurants For The Hopeless Romantic In Pattaya

Article posted Fri, 22 Feb 2019

Valentine’s day might be behind, but it doesn’t mean you should squeeze the love out only once a year. If you’re coupled up and in Pattaya, rather than getting that fried chicken with a Diet Coke, book a table from one of the many beachside restaurants. And like the age-old aphorism in real estate, the success of a romantic, candlelit dinner is directly proportional to the location. The sunset will be there anyway, so get yourself seated at a proper seafood table (like the ones we have curated for you). This is a guide to four beachside dining experiences worthy of popping the question.

From Islands To Highlands in Davao

Article posted Thu, 14 Feb 2019

Davao City, Dakbayan sa Dabaw in Cebuano, Lungsod ng Dabaw in Tagalog, is an urbanised, industrial city in Mindanao. With a total land area of 2,443 square kilometres, Davao City is the largest city in the Philippines in terms of land area. Davao City is an energetic city, and it’s getting a lot more attention now than ever before. Visitors from all over the world come to experience the city, from its tropical islands to its magnificent highlands. There is so much to do, even during a shorter stay. We collected some insider tips straight from the locals for the top destinations in the city. How else would you know how to spend a weekend in Davao? You can start your day as early as five in the morning. Have some breakfast (you would be surprised how easy that is even before the crack of dawn) and catch the sunrise. Get some sand between your toes at the beaches of Samal, and enjoy island hopping in this tropical wonder. Make sure you have your swimwear and sunscreen packed, and a camera ready to capture #instagrammable stories on the pristine white sands of the Vanishing island. And on your way to Talicud island, join the fish in the cool, clear waters for snorkelling and scuba diving at the beautiful Coral Garden.

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Why Makati City Looks A Lot Like Korea

Article posted Fri, 22 Feb 2019

Here’s our guide to the best Korean eats on the streets. On a dimly lighted alley in Poblacion, a man in half-buttoned chef’s jacket accepting a fresh shipment of seafood greets the delivery man “Annyeonghaseyo,” and steps through the back door into the kitchen. You’ll hear the famous greeting and a lot more Korean language in the old downtown of Makati City — the Philippine business district. Poblacion has embraced some of the modernity and economic development, yet stays true to its old-world charm. And this once peaceful suburban community has transformed into an energetic hub for both locals and foreigners.

Where To Get Your Art In Quezon City

Article posted Tue, 19 Feb 2019

From velour jumpsuits in thrift shops to spicy lechon at habanero kitchen — here’s what Cubao Expo is, and what it isn’t. The first time we stepped into Quezon City’s Cubao Expo, we felt the time stopping, and then the nostalgia punched us in the face. The antique shops, speakeasies, and trendy restaurants provide a look into what Quezon City’s young subcultures are like, giving you the perfect background for artsy photos to fill your Instagram feed. And if the many identical malls have left a vacuum in your search for popular culture and amazing food, step into this u-shaped utopia of memorabilia of the old: vinyl records, retro stuff and antiques, paintings, art, toys, and comic books. Or go for eats with family and friends — whether you prefer organic food, Italian cuisine, mouthwatering pastries, or like us, all-time favourite Filipino dishes. Below, we share six of the many spots for vintage appeal and fresh vibes at Cubao Expo. 

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Five Restaurants For The Ultimate Pampanga Food Trip

Article posted Wed, 13 Feb 2019

If there is something that Pampanga is known for, aside from Mount Pinatubo, it’s the Kapampangan cuisine. The region takes its food seriously, and it was pronounced the culinary capital of the Philippines — no small feat in a country with a far-reaching gastronomic history. It takes about two hours from Metro Manila to Pampanga by car — just enough time to get hungry. And while you get hungry, we prepared a list so that you don’t have to. These five restaurants will show you what to eat in Pampanga, and give you a bit of everything from the kitchens of the region. 

Five Eats In Hat Yai That Are Not Massaman Curry

Article posted Tue, 12 Feb 2019

We don’t have anything against massaman curry. On the contrary, we agree that it could be the best food in the world. Hat Yai is a city in southern Thailand close to the Malaysian border. With round-trip flights from Bangkok costing as little as $40, the city is easily reachable for a gluttonous weekend away. Like the food in the following list, Hat Yai is a mixed bag of Malaysian businessmen, Chinese locals, and foreign backpackers. Asean Trade Bazaar, the largest night market in Hat Yai, gives you an idea what tastes good in the city. And where to sleep in the city? Red Planet Hat Yai is centrally located near all the bread and circuses.

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How To Eat In Nagoya

Article posted Fri, 08 Feb 2019

When it comes to travel, tasting local cuisine is always something on our to-do lists. That’s why Nagoya, famous for their local delicacies, is one of Japan’s most exciting cities to visit. Here are some of the best of the city’s local dishes that can’t be missed when visiting Nagoya.

Foodstagrammers Guide To Yaowarat Road (Chinatown)

Article posted Tue, 05 Feb 2019

At Bangkok’s Yaowarat Road, or simply Chinatown, you’re not judged if you spend the whole evening just eating. Chinatown may not compete in the same league with Tokyo’s neon-lit streets, but the controlled chaos of signage and taxis leaves you with some impressive Instagram material. We’re here to help you decide what street food to eat, but you choose — it’s all so damn good.

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Five Beaches To Know In Phuket

Article posted Mon, 11 Feb 2019

Whenever we stay in Phuket, we switch off the email, fix a beach chair in the sand, and order a cocktail by the ocean. We asked for the five best beaches worth knowing this year. And while Patong Beach sure is there, it seems rather fitting that we would give you the rest of the list. All beaches have received our seal of approval for sunbathing, snorkelling, and playing in the sand — so bring your beach bucket and shovel!

Run The Rapids At Cagayan De Oro

Article posted Wed, 06 Feb 2019

Cagayan de Oro is known as the City of Golden Friendship because of the warm hospitality that the people of CDO display. But there is more to Cagayan de Oro than just friendly locals. You haven’t truly experienced the city unless you have tried its favourite extreme sport: White water river rafting.

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#Freddy Dance Challenge

Article posted Mon, 17 Dec 2018

Want to win a year of free nights at any Red Planet Hotel? Join the #FreddyDanceChallenge!

Quick Tips for Enjoying Cebu's Sinulog Festival

Article posted Wed, 16 Jan 2019

On the third Sunday of every January, thousands of people make their way to Cebu to celebrate one of the Philippines’ grandest festivals, Sinulog. The massive event combines music and wildly colourful costumes in a dance that honours Santo Niño and tells the story of the Filipino people’s pagan past.  People clad in headdresses and outfits covered in vibrant beads and feathers parade down the streets of Cebu dancing to the rhythm of drums and gongs. Both locals and visitors flock to the city to celebrate and witness the exciting event. 

Here are our tips for making the most of Sinulog festival.

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Five Stops To Make On The Bangkok BTS Skytrain

Article posted Mon, 04 Feb 2019

Add these five spots to the itinerary of your next trip to Thailand.

Top 5 Must-Try Dishes in the Philippines (As Told by a Local)

Article posted Mon, 19 Nov 2018

Ahh, the Philippines. Home to pristine beaches, bustling cities, kind people, and darn-good comfort food. The archipelago’s rich heritage reflects decades of influence from regional traders and Western settlers. With over 7,000 islands—each with their own distinct style and flavour—the country is a cultural and culinary melting pot. As the country with the most Red Planet Hotels so far, we have a trusty crew of insiders who know all about the best eats. Here are 5 delicious reasons to book a trip to the Philippines (as if those beaches and super malls aren’t enough) as told by a local.

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Where to Travel in Asia in 2019

Article posted Mon, 19 Nov 2018

A new year means more vacation days and a new list of places where to spend them! Lucky for us,  Asia is teeming with interesting destinations full of amazing food, beautiful nature, world-class shopping, and much, much more. Here are our recommendations on where to travel in the new year!

Buy a Bracelet, Clean the Ocean

Article posted Wed, 31 Oct 2018

Did you know that every minute, one garbage truck worth of plastic is dumped into the world’s oceans? That’s over 680 million kilogrammes of trash a year ending up in our oceans. This staggering number directly affects the health of both humans and wildlife alike, compromising the livelihoods of all organisms that depend on a healthy ocean to thrive. Plastic bags can be mistaken as food, straws can get stuck in sea creatures’ throats and blowholes, and discarded fishing gear can trap helpless sea turtles or cut through the flesh of whales.

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5 Awesome Day Trips from Sapporo

Article posted Fri, 28 Sep 2018

Sapporo is a destination that truly offers it all– whether you’re a city lover, a nature enthusiast, or history buff. Apart from the bustling city’s teeming shopping streets, many parks, and vibrant nightlife, a whole heap of awesome spots just outside the metropolis are waiting to get explored. Grab your camera and head towards the station because some of Hokkaido’s most interesting destinations are only a train ride away!

5 Amazing Thai Dishes You May Have Never Tried

Article posted Wed, 01 Aug 2018

We don’t blame you for wanting to order tom yum soup or perfectly fried rice every meal during your trip to Thailand, but don’t miss out on some of the lesser known foods in the meantime! Allow us to introduce you to some slightly off the radar dishes that will have you immediately booking your next trip to Thailand. Warning: drooling may ensue.

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Asakusa’s Best Late Night Eats

Article posted Wed, 01 Aug 2018

Visit Asakusa for its rich history and excellent souvenir shopping, stay for the endless amounts of delicious food on offer. Whether you are craving a bowl of chewy noodles or crispy fried dumplings, it’s impossible to go hungry in this neighbourhood—even in the wee hours of the morning. Getting in on a late flight? Finishing off a night on the town? Got hit with the midnight munchies? You’re in the right neighbourhood.

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We Cleaned Up Another Beach

Article posted Fri, 24 May 2019

Next time you see someone leaving their yoghurt lids and instant noodle cups on the beach, you know there’s a secret society walking around picking up their rubbish after them. That sounds more enigmatic than it needs to. On a serious note, clean-ups are not some sporadic internet challenges (although the recent #trashtag showed the real power of social media in something as unexciting as tidying). And the people whipping beaches into shape are like the 160 volunteers that attended the Bibi Beach clean-up in Okinawa last Saturday.

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