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. 1. Okonomimura Some say it’s a pizza. Some say it’s a pancake. But it’s called grilled whatever you want. Okonomiyaki, the pride of the Kansai region, is, in fact, more prevalent in Hiroshima than anywhere else. Go ahead and ask natives from Osaka and Hiroshima to tell which city has the best okonomiyaki. You’ll want to grab some popcorn and sit down for that. The difference between the two? In Kansai, okonomiyaki batter is mixed with all ingredients before grilling. Whereas in Hiroshima, the pancake is layered on the grill (with yakisoba noodles). So where’s the best okonomiyaki in Hiroshima? Three hundred fifty metres (across the street) from Red Planet Hiroshima is Okonomimura. Run that on Google translate. It literally means okonomi village, and the 25 restaurants in the four-story building do nothing else but serve different variations of the famous pancake. Type Okonomimura in your navigation app, find the chefs who yell the loudest, and sit down for a Japanese pizza pancake. How much is one okonomiyaki: between 800 and 1,300 yen. . 2. Hiroshima Castle Hiroshima Castle was protected during the Meiji Restoration but got destroyed by the atomic bomb in 1945. The castle now standing in its place is a faithful replica of the one built in the 16th century. And unlike other castles in Japan that were built on hills as defensive forts, Hiroshima castle sits on a flat surface surrounded by a moat. If you’re interested in the history and ways of the samurai, there’s a museum inside. Ticket price to Hiroshima Castle: adults 370 yen and children under high school age 180 yen. When is it open: 9am to 6pm (March to November) 9am to 5pm (December to February on weekdays only). . 3. Itsukushima (Miyajima island) Miyajima island ticks every holiday in Japan box, from adorable animals to charming nature. Located southwest of Hiroshima city, this island is home to the first UNESCO World Heritage site in Hiroshima. The Itsukushima shrine is best known for the floating, orange torii gate that is the first thing you’ll see while taking the boat from Hiroshima. Behind it, is the main shrine with pier-like design to create a floating illusion. But the most striking views await those who visit in the autumn in the show of changing leaves. So, buy a momiji manju, a red-bean filled autumn confectionery, and hold it against the fiery orange shrine framed by the golden-red leaves. Camera. Action. How to get to Miyajima Island: hop on the JR train to Miyajimaguchi and take the regular ferry from Miyajimaguchi pier (10-minute ride and 180 yen / one way) or the high-speed ferry at Hiroshima port (22-minute ride and 1,800 yen / one way). Entrance fee: adults 1,000 yen, high school students 500 yen, junior high school students and elementary school children 300 yen. . 4. Miyajima Cable Car Miyajima ropeway connects the highest peak of Hiroshima, Mount Misen, to Momijidani park. From the gondolas, you’ll have good views of the Seto Inland Sea and the sacred mountain. And if you squint, weather permitting, even Hiroshima city. If you hike, or camp, pack your survival kit and head to Tsutsumigaura campground. You can also go for a walking tour in the maple leaf park at Momijidani with over two hundred types of Japanese maples. Whatever you do, it’s going to be unforgettable. Opening hours: 9am to 4.30pm (December to February) 9am to 5pm (March to November) How much are the Miyajima Ropeway ticket prices: adults 1,840 yen (round-trip) or 1,010 yen (one way) and children 920 yen (round-trip) or 510 yen (one way) 5. Hiroshima Peace Memorial park You have summited the sacred mountain, posed with the deer, and tried the famous Hiroshima comfort food. Now, calm down and take your hat off to the victims of the atomic bombing tragedy. Sure, there are many war-related landmarks in Hiroshima — including Memorial Cathedral, Ground Zero, and Gates of Peace — but most of them are inside the Peace Memorial Park. And visiting Hiroshima without seeing the park would be a disservice to one of the most historically wealthiest cities in Japan. Its A-bomb dome is the most well-known monument and serves as a memorial to over 140,000 people who died in the wake of the atomic bombings. Even if you’re not into museums, put your phone away, and reflect on what happened here.

Stay at our affordable hotel in Makati City. Enjoy budget-friendly comfort conveniently located near the Makati Medical Center, Greenbelt, and the central business district. Red Planet Makati Amorsolo Stay steps from Ayala North Exchange at Red Planet Makati Amorsolo, a budget hotel in Makati's business core along Amorsolo Street. Glorietta, Ayala Center, and Ayala Triangle Gardens are all a short walk or drive away, making this a practical base for meetings, shopping, and dining along the Ayala Avenue corridor. Enjoy clean, comfortable rooms and smart value just 15 minutes from Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Address: 99 Export Drive (formerly Urban Ave,) Brgy. Pio Del Pilar 1230 City of Makati NCR, Fourth District Philippines Contact: +63 (2) 8838 0888 Room Types: Double | Twin | Deluxe | City Double | City Twin | City Deluxe Amenities : Excellent Location WiFi-6 Transport Services Business Center Parking Available In-Room Massage Non-smoking Property Restaurant Cafe Multiple Payment Methods Accepted Accessible rooms BOOK NOW Explore Makati Amorsolo and nearby destinations Walk Drive 8 min 4 min Ayala North Exchange 22 min 10 min Glorietta, Ayala Center 20 min 15 min Ayala Triangle Gardens 15 min Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 GIVE THE GIFT OF A STAY BUY E-VOUCHER Treat someone to a stay at Red Planet Makati Amorsolo Hear it from our guests Red Planet Davao Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Cebu Visayas, Philippines Red Planet Cagayan De Oro Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Clark Angeles City Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cavite Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Quezon City Timog Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Ortigas Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Bay Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Avenue Manila Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Malate Mabini Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Binondo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Aseana Manila City Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet BGC The Fort Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Davao Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Cebu Visayas, Philippines Red Planet Cagayan De Oro Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Clark Angeles City Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cavite Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Quezon City Timog Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Ortigas Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Bay Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Avenue Manila Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Malate Mabini Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Binondo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Aseana Manila City Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet BGC The Fort Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Davao Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Cebu Visayas, Philippines Red Planet Cagayan De Oro Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Clark Angeles City Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cavite Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Quezon City Timog Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Ortigas Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Bay Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Avenue Manila Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Malate Mabini Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Binondo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Aseana Manila City Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet BGC The Fort Metro Manila, Philippines Explore other Red Planet Hotels

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! PALEMBANG, INDONESIA Palembang is a hub of amazing natural sites, as well as unique cultural experiences. From the Musi River in the heart of the city, where you can go on a whitewater rafting adventure, to Kamoro Island, home of Indonesia’s ancient Chinese heritage. If you’re a foodie, try Pempek, a savoury fishcake from Palembang that combines fish and tapioca, served with rich sweet and sour sauce over noodles. And, don’t leave the city without an iconic photo at Ampera Bridge! It’s only a 15-minute drive from centrally located Red Planet Palembang . BANGKOK, THAILAND There is always something to be discovered in Bangkok . To start, visit the spectacular Grand Palace, the city’s most famous landmark and the former residence of the monarchy. Nearby is the iconic Emerald Buddha, as well as another amazing temple, Wat Po—all of which is just a short taxi ride from Red Planet Bangkok Surawong . After getting your history fix, go shopping at the largest flea market in Thailand, Chatuchak. Here, you’ll find more than 1,000 shops selling everything from clothes to plants to books to pets! It’s an easy ride on the BTS Skytrain from Red Planet Bangkok Asoke . For high street brands, visit the newly opened river-bordering Icon Siam mall, right off BTS Krung Thonburi. When it comes to food, challenge yourself to try a few less known Thai dishes. We’ve recommended a few on our last blog post ! SOLO, INDONESIA There’s a reason that “Spirit of Java” is the slogan of Solo . As the centre of Javanese culture, Solo is full of charm, history, food, shopping, and nature. Stop by the Keraton Surakarta, an icon of the former empire, to enjoy a day of history and culture just 10 minutes from Red Planet Solo . When it comes to culinary delights, there are endless options in Solo. Think satay, curry fries, meatballs, fried duck, and more! Use our hotel’s free high-speed Wi-Fi to download the Red Planet Hotels app. Tons of restaurant recommendations will ensure you never get hungry. CEBU, PHILIPPINES Mactan Island in Cebu is home to one of the most popular beaches in the Philippines. The white, powder-soft sand beach is a crowd favourite for a reason! The water here is crystal clear and ideal for snorkelling, diving, jet skiing, and sailing. Enough said, right? This beautiful island is only one hour from Red Planet Cebu ! TOKYO, JAPAN Tokyo can rightfully be on our travel lists every year, with amazing food (Sushi heaven!), unique culture, and unrivalled technology. When staying at Red Planet Tokyo Asakusa , you’ll be just a block away from the famous Sensoji temple, the oldest in the city. The area is famous for great bites (see our Asakusa late-night food guide here ) and souvenir shopping. Stock up on snacks like crispy rice crackers, agemanju (deep fried cakes with a red bean filling), and ningyo-yaki (cakes moulded into special shapes and filled with custard) to bring back home. The best part? This area is much cheaper compared to other shopping districts in Tokyo . Think of Red Planet when you plan your 2019 adventures! As Asia’s favourite budget hotel brand, we make it possible for you to do more for less. Plus, we are tech savvy. You can do everything from booking a room to chatting with the front desk to calling a GRAB all from the Red Planet Hotels app.

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: Try a new sport Studies have proven that exercise helps lift your mood. And not only that but working out builds vitality and keeps you healthy. So, why not try a new sport? Aside from having fun, you’ll also burn those extra calories and discover the joy of something that might become your new favourite thing. Where to do sports: Climb Central Primal Ape CrossFit Electric Studio Go on a food trip Of course, we wouldn’t leave out food from this list. Often this means you get to explore the locale, and at the same time, end up with a delicious meal. And as the adage goes, the best way to celebrate culture is through its food, so what better way to learn. Right? Food is served all day in Manila , so you’ll be glad to know where to eat. Bonus: you’ll know which eats to head to when you go out with your friends for a quick bite. Where to eat well: Ongpin St., Binondo Maginhawa, St. Quezon City Mercato Centrale, BGC Be artsy For those who wish to fuel their creative drive, the metro is packed with places to see and create art. From sculptures to paintings to interactive displays, you will find something to charge up your inner Picasso. Or maybe somewhere to take that Instagram-savvy shot? Where to see art: Sip n’ Gogh National Museum Dessert Museum Get an adrenaline rush Dare to try something a bit more adventurous? Check out some out-of-the-box activities, like escape rooms, archery, paintball, and trampoline parks. Not only are they fun, but they are also activities best enjoyed with friends. Where to do extreme sports: Gandiva Archery Range Mystery Manila Jump Yard

Enjoy affordable rooms right on Makati Avenue. Our budget hotel is situated just steps away from Century City Mall, Rockwell Center, and vibrant Poblacion nightlife. Red Planet Makati Avenue Manila Experience Makati from Red Planet Makati Avenue, located along Kalayaan Avenue near Rockwell Center, Ayala Triangle Gardens, and Ayala Museum. Ideal for business trips and weekend stays, this budget hotel in Makati puts the city's dining, shopping, and cultural spots within easy reach, with Ninoy Aquino International Airport about 20 minutes away. Enjoy comfortable rooms, fast Wi-Fi, and great value in one of Metro Manila's premier business districts. Address: Cor E. Mercado & F. Calderon Sts. Poblacion 1210 City of Makati NCR, Fourth District Philippines Contact: +63 (2) 8817 0888 Room Types: Double | Twin | City Double | City Twin Amenities : Excellent Location WiFi-6 Transport Services Business Center Parking Available In-Room Massage Non-smoking Property Restaurant Cafe Multiple Payment Methods Accepted Accessible rooms BOOK NOW Explore Makati Avenue Manila and nearby destinations Walk Drive 12 min 10 min Rockwell Center 15 min 8 min Ayala Triangle Gardens 15 min 10 min Ayala Museum 20 min Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 GIVE THE GIFT OF A STAY BUY E-VOUCHER Treat someone to a stay at Red Planet Avenue Manila Hear it from our guests Red Planet Davao Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Cebu Visayas, Philippines Red Planet Cagayan De Oro Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Clark Angeles City Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cavite Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Quezon City Timog Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Ortigas Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Bay Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Malate Mabini Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Binondo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Amorsolo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Aseana Manila City Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet BGC The Fort Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Davao Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Cebu Visayas, Philippines Red Planet Cagayan De Oro Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Clark Angeles City Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cavite Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Quezon City Timog Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Ortigas Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Bay Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Malate Mabini Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Binondo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Amorsolo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Aseana Manila City Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet BGC The Fort Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Davao Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Cebu Visayas, Philippines Red Planet Cagayan De Oro Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Clark Angeles City Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cavite Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Quezon City Timog Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Ortigas Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Bay Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Malate Mabini Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Binondo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Amorsolo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Aseana Manila City Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet BGC The Fort Metro Manila, Philippines Explore other Red Planet Hotels

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. Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Akenakiri Try pronouncing that to the taxi driver. Luckily for us, it also goes by the moniker Big Buddha temple which should get you to one of Phuket’s major attractions sitting atop the Nakkerd Hills. The whopping 45-metre image is made of concrete and covered in white Burmese marble. You can buy the same marble tiles, sign your name on them, and be forever placed inside the Big Buddha. And even better, you can experience the best 360-degree panoramic views of the southern cape of Phuket island, Phuket Town, Kata beach, Karon beach, and Chalong Bay. Address: 42/14 Moo 2, Thepkrasatree Road, Ratsada, Mueang Phuket, Phuket Entrance fee: it’s free Opening hours: every day from 8am to 7pm Phone number: 081-891-3827, 076-373-138-9 Old Phuket Town The architect-approved (and without question, Instagram-approved) part of Phuket town mixes old, colourful Sino-Portuguese buildings with newer Thai decor. For much of the artsy side of Phuket, the old town has been the hub for museums and street art, but also local restaurants and cute, little boutiques. Walk down the charming streets while photographing yourself in front of the beautiful murals. And if it’s a Sunday and all stars align, Phuket walking street (Lard Yai), a lively street with tons of food and entertainment, sets in motion along the Thalang Road in the heart of the old town. Address: Lat Yai, Phuket Old Town, Talang Road, Mueang Phuket, Phuket Entrance fee: it’s free Opening hours: Lard Yai (walking street) on Sundays from 4pm to 10pm Phone number: Tourism Authority of Thailand (Phuket office) 076-211-036 Thai Hua Museum If you want more history than Phuket’s Wikipedia page can offer, you should visit the Thai Hua museum. But this is not another story about the French East India Company and their mining efforts in southern Thailand. Thai Hua museum, formerly a Chinese language school, narrates the history of the Chinese population in Phuket through the eyes of tin miner migrants. So, if you’re interested in little-known historical stories with lots of posters and short films, admit one to Thai Hua museum in old Phuket Town. Address: 28, Krabi Road, Talat Nuea, Mueang Phuket, Phuket Entrance fee: 50 baht Opening hours: every day from 9am to 5pm Phone number: 076-211-224 Wat Chaiyathararam (Chalong Temple) Chalong Temple, or if you really like tongue twisters, Wat Chaiyathararam, is considered the largest temple complex in Phuket. At least it’s the most visited. Plus, it’s a favourite spot for both locals and tourists because of its long history and accomplishments in herbal medicine. The colours and decor of the temple buildings and the white pagoda are stunning and pay homage to traditional, ornate Buddhist architecture. Address: 70 Chalong House, Chaofa Road, Moo 6, Chalong, Mueang Phuket, Phuket Entrance fee: it’s free Opening hours: every day from 7am to 5pm Phuket FantaSea is Thailand’s (and obviously the world’s) first Thai cultural theme park. This is the destination for 60 acres of theatrical shows, a gigantic themed buffet restaurant, and an entire shopping arcade on Kamala Beach. Address: 99 Moo 3 Rim Haad Rd., Kamala, Kathu, Phuket Entrance fee: 1,800 baht for show only, 2,200 baht with buffet dinner (see show schedule) Opening hours: every day except Thursdays from 5.30pm 11:30pm (see show schedule) Phone number: 076-385-000 Flying Hanuman Have you ever wondered what it feels like to take Tarzan’s preferred mode of travel? Stop wondering, and book yourself for the Flying Hanuman experience. If you aren’t scared of heights and danger is your middle name, climb on a sling or a ride down the zip line from atop the waterfalls. They have 28 zip lines, starting from child safe short lines all the way up to big boy lines. The whole activity takes around two hours, and it’s worth every second. Address: 89/16 Moo 6 Soi Namtok Kathu, Wichitsongkram Road, Kathu, Kathu, Phuket Opening hours: every day from 8am to 5pm Entrance fee: varies by date and time Phone number: 081-979-2332, 076-323-264 Book your next stay in Thailand with us.

Survival Guide to Sapporo Snow Festival ARTICLE POSTED FRI, 15 MAY 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. The Sapporo Yuki Matsuri’s (literally Sapporo snow festival) powdery history dates back as far as the 1950s, and since then has become synonymous with Sapporo winter for tourists and locals. The entire city will be at its cosiest, but impossibly pretty things built from snow and ice will be spread across three main sites. Satisfying snacks, fun contests, and wintery activities — Sapporo Snow Festival is Disneyland for the whole town. And it’s free entry. Odori Park Grab your camera (or set your Instagram on boomerang) for a long walk in the park and admire the snow sculptures at Odori Park. Stretching as far as 1.5 kilometres, you’ll have endless food stalls, a skating rink, ski jumping, live entertainment, ice slides for the children, and even an ice bar for some sub-zero booze. Tsudome None is better than Tsudome for snow games. While great for children, they have something for older revellers, too. There are gigantic snow slides and a towering snow maze for you to get lost, but also indoor sites with food and drinks. Susukino The downtown area of Sapporo is a short walk from Odori Park, and it will definitely cut the ice. Here, most of Sapporo gets ready to watch the ice sculpture contest for who will win the coolest prize of the year. And you’ll get to have physical contact with the icy artworks at the interactive events for some standout photo art. Why should you go Susukino last? The sculptures are the prettiest at night with magical illuminations. When is it? 31 January – 11 February. How much are the tickets? Free. Where can I find more information? Official Sapporo Snow Festival website .

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. It all starts with collectors who find trash on beaches, rivers, sidewalks, and the ocean. The plastic waste, including bottles, styrofoam, and even tyres, is then cleaned and sorted by its type before it’s shredded in a special purpose machine. Everything is sustainable, right down to the moulds made from recycled aluminium cans which are used to transform the melted plastic shreds into one-of-a-kind turtle necklaces. This process is called upcycling, where waste is collected and turned into something more valuable and something that has its own story. Whereas downcycling, also a large and more frequent part of recycling, uses the material to create something of lesser quality, such as recycled plastic bags. The result is green sea turtle and leatherback turtle necklaces that are made from 100% recycled plastic. And staying true to the cottage industry principle, none of the turtles is mass-produced. This means that each turtle is made, cleaned, and drilled by the local villagers, and everyone is a bit different from each other. Why support the Sea Monkey project? It cleans up the environment and aims at creating zero waste. It educates local schools and communities through workshops, talks, and teaching material to avoid more waste taking place. It improves lives by providing employment opportunities and income in developing countries. Turtle necklaces are now available for USD 10 (or same in local currency) at the front desk in all our hotels . And you can sleep easy with a spotlessly clean conscience knowing that all of that money is going to a good cause.

Have a visa appointment at VFS Global Cebu? Stay at Red Planet Cebu, your affordable home base in the south, across from Ayala Center. ABOUT US How it All Started This is the space to introduce visitors to the business or brand. Briefly explain who's behind it, what it does and what makes it unique. Share its core values and what this site has to offer. Visa Appointment at VFS Global Cebu? Make Red Planet Cebu Your Home Base in the South ARTICLE POSTED TUE, 13 OCT 2026 A visa appointment is already a big day. If you're traveling to Cebu for it, from the Visayas, Mindanao, or farther, the last thing you need is a long commute or a stressful stay. Cebu City is a convenient submission point for applicants across the south, and a well-located hotel can make the whole trip smoother. What VFS Global Does (and Doesn't Do)? VFS Global is a private company that handles the administrative side of visa applications for governments, such as collecting your documents and biometrics, and passing them to the embassy. The embassy, not VFS, decides on your visa. At the Cebu Visa Application Centre, your job is to show up prepared, on time, and with the right paperwork. Where Is VFS Global Cebu? The centre is at Unit 01-04, 7th Floor, Faustina Centre, F. Cabahug St., Kasambagan, Cebu City. The centre has handled applications for several countries, including Japan, through the Japan Visa Application Centre, and various European destinations. Hours and services differ by country, so always check the official VFS Global page for your destination before you travel. Why Where You Stay Matters on Appointment Day? Visa appointments run on set slots, and showing up late or flustered doesn't help. Access to the centre is limited to applicants, with exceptions for minors with a guardian and for those who need assistance, and phones and tablets can't be used inside. That means you'll want to arrive with everything organized, and a calm morning makes a big difference. Staying close to the centre means less rushing, less traffic stress, and more time to double-check your documents. Red Planet Cebu: Your Home Base in the South Red Planet Cebu, at 36 Archbishop Reyes Avenue, sits in Cebu's commercial and business district. It's directly across from Ayala Center Cebu, steps from a 24-hour convenience store, and within 6 minutes of Cebu Business Park. The VFS Global Cebu centre is about 10 minutes away by car, depending on traffic. After your appointment, dining and shopping are right at your doorstep. Make Sure to Prepare Before the Big Day A little preparation makes the next day easier. At Red Planet Cebu, you can: Use reliable Wi-Fi 6 to review your appointment confirmation and requirements. Visit the business center to print forms, supporting documents, or itineraries. Rely on the 24-hour front desk for late arrivals or early departures. Store your luggage after checkout so you can head to your appointment without hauling bags. Easy to Reach from Across the South Many applicants arrive by air or sea. The hotel is about a 40-minute drive from Mactan-Cebu International Airport, and the Port of Cebu is roughly 2 km away — a plus if you're coming by ferry from other islands. Transport services and on-site parking are available for other arrivals. Rooms for Every Traveler Visiting Cebu City Choose from Double, Twin, City Double, City Twin, and Accessible rooms. Traveling with family or a companion who'll wait outside during your appointment? You'll have a comfortable place to regroup. Extras include: In-room massage to unwind after a long journey. An on-site restaurant and café for easy meals. Pet-friendly stays: PHP 1,000 per night (if you don't want to leave your furbaby at home!) Make the Most of Your Trip Once your documents are in, you're already in the Queen City of the South. Magellan's Cross, the Basilica del Santo Niño, and the beaches of Mactan are all within easy reach of the hotel. Turn a paperwork trip into a mini getaway. Frequently Asked Questions Does VFS Global decide whether my visa is approved? No. VFS Global handles the administrative tasks, such as collecting applications and biometrics. The embassy or consulate makes the decision. Which countries' visas can I apply for at VFS Global Cebu? It depends on the destination country, and the list can change. Check the official VFS Global website for your destination before booking your trip. Can my family or travel companion come inside with me? Generally no. The centre restricts access to applicants, with exceptions for minors with a guardian and for people who need assistance. Your companions can wait at the hotel or nearby. Do I need an appointment? Appointments are typically booked online through the official VFS Global website for your destination country. Check your country's page for the exact process. How do I get the best rate on my stay? Book directly through www.redplanethotels.com or the Red Planet App for the best available rates, and don't forget to sign up as a RED member through www.redplanethotels.com/loyalty for more perks and offerings.

Your ideal budget hotel in Cebu City! Enjoy affordable accommodations located just minutes away from Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu IT Park, and historic Magellan's Cross. Red Planet Cebu Situated in Cebu’s bustling commercial and business district, Red Planet Cebu offers modern accommodations just steps from a 24-hour convenience store and directly across from the vibrant Ayala Center Cebu—one of the city’s premier shopping and dining destinations. Cebu Business Park is reachable within 6 minutes from the hotel, while Sugbo. Mercado is a 15-minute drive. For business events and conventions, Cebu IT Park and IEC Convention Center are within a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Explore iconic Cebu attractions such as Magellan's Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, and the beautiful beaches of Mactan, all within easy reach. The hotel is also a 40-minute drive from Mactan-Cebu International Airport. Explore the Queen City of the South at ease with Red Planet Cebu. Address: #36 Arch Reyes Cor. Molave Square, Camputhaw 6000 City of Cebu, Cebu Philippines Contact: +63 (32) 232 0888 Room Types : Double | Twin | City Double | City Twin | Accessible Amenities : Excellent Location WiFi-6 Transport Services Business Center Parking Available In-Room Massage Non-smoking Property Restaurant Cafe Multiple Payment Methods Accepted Accessible rooms Pet-Friendly (1k fee/night) BOOK NOW Explore Cebu and nearby destinations Walk Drive 9 min 4 min Cebu Business Park 15 min 7 min IEC Convention Center 47 min 29 min Cebu Port 35 min Mactan-Cebu International Airport GIVE THE GIFT OF A STAY BUY E-VOUCHER Treat someone to a stay at Red Planet Cebu Hear it from our guests Red Planet Davao Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Cagayan De Oro Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Clark Angeles City Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cavite Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Quezon City Timog Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Ortigas Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Bay Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Avenue Manila Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Malate Mabini Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Binondo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Amorsolo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Aseana Manila City Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet BGC The Fort Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Davao Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Cagayan De Oro Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Clark Angeles City Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cavite Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Quezon City Timog Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Ortigas Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Bay Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Avenue Manila Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Malate Mabini Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Binondo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Amorsolo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Aseana Manila City Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet BGC The Fort Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Davao Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Cagayan De Oro Mindanao, Philippines Red Planet Clark Angeles City Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cavite Luzon, Philippines Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Quezon City Timog Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Ortigas Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Bay Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Avenue Manila Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Malate Mabini Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Manila Binondo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Makati Amorsolo Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet Aseana Manila City Metro Manila, Philippines Red Planet BGC The Fort Metro Manila, Philippines Explore other Red Planet Hotels

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 . Whether you’re into squid, clams, lobster, shrimp, or the alien of the culinary world, horseshoe crab, the fresh market (with heavy stress on the word fresh) is a truly memorable experience — the smell of the ocean, live seafood, no bells and whistles. All vendors will cook your food for a small fee. But if the line is too long, you can find more stalls further down the market that take care of steaming, grilling, and even frying your sea animals. Join the ฿1,000 challenge with us (feel free to hashtag that) where we get as much seafood as humanly possible, have it cooked, and ready to eat with condiments. That’s around $30 if the currency is foreign to you. Starting from Red Planet Pattaya , we take a 12-minute ride on the baht bus (songthaew) for ฿30. The market is divided into two zones: one for fresh seafood, the other for, well, not fresh seafood. We have nothing against the distinctive smell of dried seafood, but not today. It becomes challenging to decide what to buy when the output of the ocean is laid down on ice in front of us. Giant mud crabs with claws bigger than its body, river prawns the size of a small lobster, and more than 20 different types of squid (we counted them). And all of this would equal to nothing without the spicy gift from the heavens (or the oceans). The seafood dipping sauce. We eat this hot, fragrant green deliciousness with everything — crispy pork, fried chicken, plain rice — because it just makes everything taste better. And where do you eat it? From your lap on the legendary, colourful four-legged plastic stools found in any noodle stalls across the country. By the beach with the seagulls. Or in the car on your way to the next destination. That’s the best part about Naklua fish market — you decide. The bill 1 kilogram grilled river prawn ฿250 1 kilogram steamed crab ฿320 1 deep-fried snapper ฿160 1 plate fried rice with chunks of crab ฿100 Lots of seafood dipping sauce ฿50 Cooking fee ฿90 Total ฿970 That’s ฿30 baht under, just enough to rent a beach mat to have a proper feast by the sea.

Terms & Conditions of Bookings TERMS AND CONDITIONS “2+1 Free Night” ELIGIBILITY Guests who book three (3) consecutive nights during the promo period shall be entitled to one (1) complimentary night within the same stay. The one (1) complimentary night stay cannot be availed as separate booking. Valid exclusively to bookings made directly through Red Planet Website and Red Planet App. This offer shall not be combined with any other ongoing promotions, including but not limited to RED membership discount (10%), in app discount(15%). This promotion shall be applicable to bookings of Standard Rooms (Double or Twin). If the guest elects to upgrade to All-New City Rooms, at properties where such rooms are available, an additional upgrade fee of Three Hundred Pesos (PHP 300) shall be payable by the guest upon check-in at the front desk. Under no circumstances shall this promotion apply to Family Rooms. BOOKING AND STAY PERIOD Booking Period: December 10-16, 2025 Stay Period: December 16 to 31, 2025 Blackout dates may apply, including peak seasons, holidays, and special events. Offer is subject to room availability at the time of booking. PAYMENT Promo is applicable exclusively to pre-paid reservations. CHANGES AND CANCELLATIONS Standard cancellation and rebooking rules apply. Rebooking or cancellation outside the promotional dates will void the offer. ADDITIONAL CHARGES Rates include all applicable taxes and service charges. Charges for extra persons, meals, transportation, and other optional services are not included and will be billed separately. GENERAL CONDITIONS Promotion is non-transferable, non-refundable and no cash value. Red Planet reserves the right to alter, suspend or terminate the promotion without prior notice. All bookings are subject to the hotel’s standard terms and policies.