Opening of Travel Madness Expo 2026 (SMX Convention Center, Pasay City)

 

L-R: Atty. Carmelo L. Arcilla (Executive Director - Civil Aeronautics Board); Ms. Frances Gail E. Male (SVP and Head of Consumer Business Sector - Metrobank); Mr. Roberto Zozobrado (General Manager and CEO- Philippine Retirement Authority); Mr. Januario Garcia (Mayor - Pagsanjan Laguna); Ms. Maria Andrelita S. Austria (Undersecretary for Migrant Workers and International Economic Relations - Department of Foreign Affairs); Mr. Stanley Ng (Undersecretary - Department of Tourism); Ms. Maria Paz Alberto (TME 2026 Chairperson); Mr. Jaime J. Bautista (former Secretary of Department of Transportation); Ms. Lesley Anne Calixto Rubiano (daughter of Pasay City Mayor); Mr. Bayani Liwanag Jr, (OIC - Pasay City Tourism); and Ms. Diana Cher Lacsamana Batica (Sales Manager- Malaysia Airlines).

Last July 10, 2026, the Travel Madness Expo (TME) 2026, one of the Philippines’ largest and most anticipated mid-year travel and trade fairs, was officially opened at Halls 1 -4 of the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Ms. Maria Paz Alberto, TME 2026 Chairperson, led the opening ceremonies. She was joined by Mr. Stanley Ng (Department of Tourism Undersecretary), Bryan L. Ang (Philippine Airlines Regional Head-Philippines), Atty. Carmelo L. Arcilla (Executive Director - Civil Aeronautics Board); Ms. Frances Gail E. Male (SVP and Head of Consumer Business Sector - Metrobank); Mr. Roberto Zozobrado (General Manager and CEO- Philippine Retirement Authority); Mr. Januario Garcia (Mayor - Pagsanjan Laguna); Ms. Maria Andrelita S. Austria (Undersecretary for Migrant Workers and International Economic Relations - Department of Foreign Affairs); Mr. Jaime J. Bautista (former Secretary of Department of Transportation); Ms. Lesley Anne Calixto Rubiano (daughter of Pasay City Mayor); Mr. Bayani Liwanag Jr., (OIC - Pasay City Tourism); and Ms. Diana Cher Lacsamana Batica (Sales Manager- Malaysia Airlines).  Their presence signaled strong ties between the government and the private sector. 

The opening day was exclusive to Metrobank cardholders who enjoyed early access to the event’s travel preview sale. By showing their valid card and a government ID, Metrobank cardholders also received free admission. That first day, many visitors flocked to the booths to secure flight deals and holiday packages. 

Since its launch in 2012, this premier annual mid-year event, designed as a one-stop shop for all travel-related needs, has connected travelers with the most influential players in the travel industry (airlines, hotels, travel agencies, cruise lines, theme parks, insurance providers, national and local tourism offices, educational institutions, real estate developers, as well as key stakeholders from the retail and food sectors) under one roof. 

For this year’s event, Malaysia Airlines also joins as the Official Airline Partner, while Philippine Airlines serves as the National Airline Partner. On the international front, TME 2026 welcomed new participating destinations including the Republic of Georgia (Georgia Tourism), the Czech Republic (Czech Tourism), and Papua New Guinea (Niugini Tourism Office), alongside returning exhibitors from Japan (Japan National Tourism Office or JNTO), South Korea (Korea Tourism Organization or KTO), Taiwan (Taiwan Tourism Administration), Hong Kong (Hong Kong Tourism Board or HKTB), Malaysia (Tourism Malaysia) and Guam (Guam Visitors Bureau).  

Enjoying strong support from tourism authorities, the expo, held over three days (July 10-12), has created a trusted and credible marketplace for both consumers and industry professionals and allows consumers to plan, book, and customize their trips in one convenient venue. To plan their next journey, visitors can find everything they need - from airfare and accommodations to pocket WiFi, destination sights and attractions, tours, and travel essentials. The expo also promotes domestic tourism and authentic travel experiences by connecting travelers with local tourist spots and activities. Aiming to deliver the best travel deals of the year, TME 2026, renowned for its energetic atmosphere and immersive showcases, featured destinations, cultures, and experiences from around the world as well as exclusive, limited-time offers and on-the-spot bookings available only during the event, making it a must-attend mid-year event for travel enthusiasts and industry stakeholders alike. 

TME 2026, with its strong mid-year positioning and commitment to delivering exceptional value, meaningful connections, and unforgettable travel inspiration, continues to set the standard for travel expos in the Philippines—year after year.

Media Launch of Travel Madness Expo 2026 (City of Dreams, Paranaque City)

 

TME 2026 Media Launch at City of Dreams Manila

From July 10 to 12, the exciting and dynamic Travel Madness Expo (TME), one of the most anticipated travel and trade fairs in the Philippines, returns to Halls 1 to 4 of the SMX Convention Center Manila.  Last June 25, the City of Dreams Manila hosted the exclusive media launch of TME 2026 with the presence of Ms. Maria Paz R. Alberto (President of Ark Travel Express, Inc. and TME Chairperson); Ms. Amabelle D. Nucom (Metrobank’s Head of Usage, Partnerships & Communications Management); and Mr. Bryan L. Ang (Philippine Airlines’ Regional Head – Philippines) who announced the event's return and major partnerships. 2GO Group, Inc. and Duty-Free Philippines also provided their generous support.

 

TME 2026 Media Launch

The Travel Madness Expo, a premier travel event launched in 2012, is one of the Philippines’ premier travel trade events, bringing together valued partners and industry leaders such as airlines, hotels, tourism boards, accredited travel agencies, and travel service providers, to offer competitive travel packages while supporting the growth of both domestic and international tourism. 

It will feature exclusive travel deals, expanded airline and tourism partnerships, and curated experiences that celebrate the culture of travel simply beyond booking the next trip. This year’s trade fair aims to encourage Filipinos to return to travel after a slowdown following the COVID 19 pandemic and the recent US-Iran War. Held during a traditionally slower period of travel, it also aims to encourage Filipinos to look beyond the usual holiday and summer travel seasons by discovering destinations that can be enjoyed year-round.

 

Ms. Maria Paz R. Alberto (TME 2026 Chairperson)

This year’s exhibitor lineup (179) mirrors the changing priorities of Filipino travelers. While millennials and families continue to account for a significant share of regional and international travel, younger travelers are increasingly drawn to experience-driven and cultural itineraries. Retirees also remain an important market for long-haul leisure travel and organized tours.​

​“When you walk onto the expo floor, you are engaging directly with airlines, tourism boards, and accredited travel partners offering one-of-a-kind and hard to resist exclusive packages and curated itineraries,” said Ms. Alberto.  She added, “many of the bundled travel deals, coordinated group packages, and promotional fares available during the expo are often unavailable through standard online booking platforms. She also emphasized the continued value of accredited travel agencies, particularly for travelers planning complex itineraries, multi-country vacations, or group tours, where professional guidance and post-booking assistance remain essential.”

​

Mr. Bryan L. Ang (PAL Regional Head - Philippines)

“The event brings together both outbound and inbound tourism stakeholders to strengthen industry collaboration while giving Filipino travelers more opportunities to discover destinations through trusted travel partners,” Alberto added. She further explained that “When Filipinos travel abroad, they become part of a broader cultural exchange. At the same time, we continue to welcome international partners who help strengthen tourism ties and economic activity between destinations.” 

​By bringing airlines, tourism boards, travel agencies, hospitality providers, and financial institutions under one roof, organizers hope this year’s Travel Madness Expo will make travel planning more accessible while strengthening connections between Filipino travelers and destinations across the Philippines and around the world.

 

Ms. Maria Paz R. Alberto, Ms. Amabelle D. Nucom and Mr. Bryan L. Ang with 2GO Group mascot

TME 2026 carries the theme “Where Every Journey Tells a Story — From Madness to Memories,” with the sub-theme “The Great Revenge Travel Revival and a New Era of Globetrotting Confidence.” Together, they reflect the evolving mindset of today’s travelers, who are moving beyond post-pandemic “revenge travel” toward more intentional, experience-driven journeys centered on cultural discovery, meaningful connections, and thoughtful travel planning. 

For one, Philippine Airlines (PAL) will offer their best rates. Mr. Lang recommends PAL flyers visiting places like Davao during the rainy season, where various adventures await, or fly to see the aurora australis (southern lights) in Tasmania (Australia) or Queenstown (New Zealand). PAL is also opening new destination routes.  Diving enthusiasts will be able to fly to Palau or Saipan in the United States. 

Hotels and resorts in the country such as Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, Chancellor Hotel Boracay Newcoast, Kingsford Hotel Manila, and Hotel Lucky Chinatown among others, will also 50-70% off, including vouchers with no expiration. Various offers, for Metrobank credit card holders, include miles and cashback for gas. Considering the rising prices of accommodations, tickets, and other travel expenses, these offers are expected to encourage locals to get back on the road, not just to regional destinations but other countries as well. 

For this year’s event, Malaysia Airlines also joins as the Official Airline Partner, while Philippine Airlines serves as the National Airline Partner, underscoring the expo’s continued focus on strengthening both international connectivity and domestic travel opportunities. Throughout the event, the Department of Tourism’s “Discover More to Love” campaign will also be featured, reinforcing efforts to promote both established attractions and emerging destinations across the Philippines. 

TME 2026 also welcomes, on the international front, new participating destinations including the Republic of Georgia (Georgia Tourism), the Czech Republic (Czech Tourism), and Papua New Guinea (Niugini Tourism Office), alongside returning exhibitors from Japan (Japan National Tourism Office or JNTO), South Korea (Korea Tourism Organization or KTO), Taiwan (Taiwan Tourism Administration), Hong Kong (Hong Kong Tourism Board or HKTB), Malaysia (Tourism Malaysia) and Guam (Guam Visitors Bureau). 

The travel event opens on July 10, Friday, at 11 AM and continues through Sunday, July 12. Tickets prices are Php100 (general public) and Php70 (students, PWD and senor citizens). Upon presentation of a valid Metrobank card and ID, through a dedicated entry lane, Metrobank cardholders will receive free admission. On July 10, from 9 AM to 11 AM, they will also enjoy exclusive early access to the Travel Preview Sale, giving them first priority to selected domestic and international travel packages before the expo opens to the public. During the event, eligible Metrobank cardholders can also take advantage of the bank’s “Book Now, Pay Later” program, allowing them to secure their travel bookings while paying at a later date. 

​TME 2026 was made possible through the support of its industry partners, led by Metrobank, Malaysia Airlines, and Philippine Airlines, together with Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Sunlight Air, the Embassy of the Czech Republic, Tourism Malaysia, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, The Taiwan Tourism Information Center, Duty Free Philippines, City of Pasay, Arsenal Content Marketing, Amadeus, Sabre, Philippine Long Distance and Telephone Company (PLDT) and Nestle. Their participation reflects a shared commitment to expanding travel opportunities and inspiring Filipinos to explore destinations with greater confidence, purpose, and cultural appreciation. ​ TME 2026 media partners are Daily Tribune, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Times, Negosentro and Asian Journal/Balikbayan. 

For more information, event schedules, exhibitor updates and inquiries, contact mobile numbers (0917) 585-2213 and (0917) 307- 8613 or email secretariat@travelmadnessph.com.  You may also visit www.travelmadnessph.com or www.facebook.com/TravelMadnessPH.

Three Chefs, One Table (Savoy Hotel Manila, Pasay City)

 

Three Chefs, One Table

Available exclusively this entire month of October 2025, for the first time in Savoy Hotel Manila’s dining history, three culinary masters from Savoy hotels across the Philippines (Chef Christian "Kit" Carpio of Savoy Hotel Manila, Chef Marco "Coke" Semblante of Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, and Chef Vincent Yves Cabahug of Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast), will unite in the upcoming “Three Chefs, One Table” a first-of-its-kind culinary collaboration to create a dining experience like no other. It is not just food on the table—it is culture, passion, and artistry combined. 

Guests are invited to indulge in this rare gastronomic journey, meet the chefs, experience their passion on a plate and savor a specially curated collaborative menu that brings together signature creations from the rustic charm and sun-kissed shores of Boracay, the oceanic treasures and vibrant culinary scene of Cebu, and the inventive flair and bustling heart of Manila, each dish telling a story and infused with the chef’s heritage, philosophy, and personal journey.

 

Chef Vincent Cabahug, Chef Coke Semblante and Chef Kit Carpio

Three Chefs, One Table is more than just a menu—it is a culinary celebration of diversity, creativity, and collaboration across the Savoy brand. Every bite is a chance to savor not just flavors, but the stories behind them. Coming together to present a specially curated menu, each chef will showcase their best-selling and most popular dishes from their respective hotels, creating a one-of-a-kind dining experience here at Savoy Hotel Manila. 

Chef Christian “Kit” Carpio, with over 27 years of culinary experience, brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to his role as Executive Chef of Savoy Hotel Manila. His career journey spans prestigious hotels, resorts, medical institutions, and entrepreneurial ventures, giving him a wide lens on food innovation and service excellence. Since joining Savoy Hotel Manila in 2022, Chef Kit has been instrumental in shaping the hotel’s culinary identity, marrying Filipino heritage flavors with modern global techniques. His leadership has showcased regional culinary treasures through themed festivals such as Ilonggo Culinary Treasures, Cebu Food Festival, Boracay Island Flavors, and Pistang Pinoy, giving guests authentic experiences that celebrate the Philippines’ rich food culture.

 

Chef Christian "Kit" Carpio of Savoy Hotel Manila

Chef Kit is also widely recognized for his inventive use of sampaguita, the country’s national flower, integrating it into savory dishes, desserts, and beverages. His creations—like Sampaguita Mojito, Mango Sampaguita Cheesecake, and Sampaguita-rubbed Pork Barbecue—demonstrate both creativity and respect for tradition. 

Beyond creativity, Chef Kit is a champion of sustainability. As Vice President and F&B Chairman for Sustainability at Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, he drives eco-conscious practices such as zero-waste cooking, urban hybrid farming, and the use of locally sourced ingredients. His work ensures that Savoy Hotel Manila not only delivers memorable dining but also contributes to environmental responsibility and community engagement. A mentor, innovator, and advocate for sustainable hospitality, Chef Kit Carpio embodies the spirit of Filipino culinary leadership—proudly sharing flavors of the past while innovating for the future. 

For this culinary celebration, Chef Kit will prepare Crab Meat Dumplings (delicate dumplings brimming with fresh crab meat and crab roe, served with black vinegar and ginger dip) as an appetizer, a Cucumber and Seaweed Salad (crisp cucumber ribbons and marinated seaweed tossed in sesame dressing for a refreshing bite) and, for the main dishes, Steamed Pompano with Chawanmushi XO (whole pompano steamed to perfection, paired with silky Japanese egg custard and XO sauce) and Sizzling Pan-Roasted Stuffed Squid (tender squid filled with cheese, herbs, and vegetables, pan-roasted and served sizzling with a savory glaze). For dessert, he’ll prepare Thai Tea Crème Brûlée (a French classic with a Southeast Asian twist, infused with Thai tea and topped with a caramelized sugar crust).

 

Chef Marco "Coke" Semblante of Savoy Hotel Mactan

Chef Marco “Coke” Semblante, a graduate of Hotel Restaurant Management from the University of San Carlos, brings over 20 years of culinary experience to Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown. He began his career as a commissary chef and steadily rose through the ranks across luxury hotels and international cruise ships. His dedication and skill

have earned him a Gold Medal from the World Association of Master Chefs and a Bronze finish at the Philippine Culinary Cup in 2022. Today, he leads the hotel’s culinary team with a focus on innovation, authenticity, and strategic impact. 

His contributions have shaped both the guest experience and the brand’s identity. The award-winning Ensaymada, twice named Sunstar Best of Cebu, became a top-selling pasalubong through his elegant packaging concept. He introduced Camote Brulee, a refined take on a Filipino street snack, and launched Street Eats, a vibrant dining concept inspired by Cebu’s al fresco food culture. His Secret Menu campaign, which featured collaborations with local personalities and heritage brands, earned the Cebu Tourism Hospitality Award for Best Marketing Campaign. 

Chef Coke continues to expand his influence through national collaborations and strategic partnerships. His Cebuano promotion at Savoy Hotel Manila became a best-selling event, and his work with influencers and government officials has strengthened the hotel’s visibility and reputation. With a leadership style rooted in humility and creativity, Chef Coke Semblante remains a driving force behind Savoy Mactan’s culinary success. 

For the collaborative menu, he will contribute the Emperador Brandy-Infused Cebu Skipper Lobster Bisque with Grilled Pan Bisaya (a flavorful lobster bisque enriched with a splash of Emperador brandy, served alongside smoky grilled local bread), the Sugba – Grilled Tuna Belly with Spicy Papaya Salad (char-grilled tuna belly complemented by a zesty green papaya salad, balancing smoky, tangy, and spicy notes), the Mactan Chili Crab (juicy crab coated in bold Mactan-style chili sauce, a true seafood indulgence) and, for dessert, the Rosquillos &  Salvaro Ice Cream Sandwich with Salted Caramel Sauce (a playful Cebuano-inspired treat with crispy Salvaro biscuits, creamy ice cream, and rich salted caramel drizzle)

 

Chef Vincent Yves Cabahug of Savoy Hotel Boracay

Chef Vincent Yves Cabahug, a Cebuano chef, was classically trained under Michelin-starred chefs across Europe and Dubai. Returning home to the Philippines, as Executive Sous Chef of Savoy Hotel Boracay, he redefined resort dining with a focus on inclusion and cultural pride, serving up dishes that are both rooted in tradition and welcoming to all. Through the hotel’s latest culinary initiative, he aims to spotlight halal-certified cuisine, an often-overlooked aspect of the country’s diverse food heritage, with authenticity, respect and celebration. 

Learning directly from halal chefs in Morocco and Saudi Arabia, connections made through his shared passion for kite surfing on Boracay, at Savoy Hotel Boracay, he started from scratch, from sourcing ingredients from halal-certified suppliers to rethinking storage, prep, and delivery.  In the end, he created a fully halal kitchen and a thoughtfully a crafted halal menu, marking a deeply personal milestone. 

His menu masterfully fuses traditional Middle Eastern favorites with vibrant Filipino flavors. Cabahug, always curious and creative, loves putting his own unique twist on traditional Filipino recipes and one of his proudest creations is his signature samosa. However, his personal favorite is the chicken kabsa, infused with local spices, shakshuka that sings with Boracay’s freshness. 

Chef Vincent will prepare his Barbecue Chicken Croquette (golden-crisp croquettes filled with smoky barbecue chicken, paired with a tangy house-made sauce) and Fisherman’s Pie (a comforting coastal classic of fresh seafood in creamy béchamel, topped with golden mashed potatoes). 

Savoy Hotel Manila: 101 Andrews Ave., Newport City, 1309 Pasay City. Tel: +63 (02) 5317-2869.  E-mail: stay@savoymanila.com. Website: www.savoyhotelmanila.com.

Resort Review: The Zen Villas Resort (Lipa City, Batangas)

 Date of Stay: February 25 to 26, 2025

 

RATING (Scale of 1 to 10)

Location: ******

Rooms: *******

Condition and Cleanliness: ********

Staff Performance: ********

Room Comfort: *******

Food and Beverage: *******

Other Amenities: *******

Value for Money: *******

 

The Zen Villas Resort

This Bali-inspired, DOT-accredited and pet-friendly nature haven, formerly the Rose Villas Resort, is centered around an outdoor swimming pool and a garden surrounded by an assortment of leisure amenities. 

The resort entrance

It features A-frame cabins and luxurious private villas with spacious rooms, all with modern amenities such as Smart flat screen TVs, coffee and tea making facility, mini ref and safety deposit boxes. Free wifi (25 mbps) is available.

 

Premier Cabin Suite

Premier Cabin Suite interior

Premier Cabin Suite bathroom

We stayed in two of the three elegant, airconditioned A-frame Cabin Premier Villas facing the garden and swimming pools.  Each had a queen-sized bed (with trundle bed underneath and a private terrace.  The private bathroom has a rainshower head, bidet and free toiletries.

 

Family Suite

Cabin Deluxe

There are also other accommodation options.   The similarly A-frame Cabin Deluxe and Premier Room have shared bathrooms.  

Deluxe Room

Deluxe Room interior

Deluxe Room bathroom

The spacious 21 sq. m. Deluxe Room has one king sized bed and sleeps two.  The 23 sq. m. Family Suite (1 queen bed and 3 full beds) accommodates up to the 8 guests while the 25 sq. m. 2-Bedroom Suite (1 king bed, 1 queen bed and 2 full beds) can accommodate up to 10 guests.

 

Swimming pool

Sun loungers and seating area by the pool

Outdoor patio furniture

The well-maintained, rectangular swimming pools (adult and kiddie) have sun loungers and sitting areas.  Around it are a number of covered gazebos with additional seating.  

Roots Farm to Fork Restaurant

Pork sisig

Chicken burger

Its onsite Roots Farm to Fork Restaurant, offering a beautifully presented, a la carte menu of Filipino and international cuisine, serves fresh, locally sourced ingredients from Batangas. 

 

Gazebo

Gazebo

It also offers daily housekeeping, free parking and limited room service.  The resort is a little bit off the beaten path as it is located 3.8 kms. from Plaza Independencia, 3.9 kms. from San Sebastian Cathedral, 4 kms. from Claro M. Recto Park, 4.4 kms. from The Farm at San Benito, 5.6 kms. (a 20-min. drive) from SM City Lipa and 8.9 kms. (a 25-min. drive) from Club Malarayat Golf and Country Club.

 

The resort's Reception Area

Overall, we had a pleasant and very relaxing overnight staycation at the resort. The Cabin Premier Villas we stayed in was very nice.  However, with the trundle bed out (we were three in the room), it was very difficult getting around to the bathroom.  Will try the more spacious Deluxe Room next time.

 

Fountain

Bridge

The staff was very friendly and accommodating.  The restaurant offerings were very tasty, the servings were generous and the prices were reasonable.  The high-speed wifi was consistent and good.  The garden was very nice but, as with most places with lots of plants, mosquitos are ever present and there’s no helping that. 

 

L-R:Jandy, the author, Grace, Beth Espinosa and Reden Espinosa

The Zen Villas Resort: Purok 6B, Brgy. San Jose, Lipa City, Batangas. Tel: (04) 773-3149.  Mobile number: (0956) 736-0719.  E-mail: zenvillasresortph@gmail.com. Website: www.thezenvillasresort.com.

Anya Resort Tagaytay's Anila Poolside Restaurant Launches New Menu

 

Anila Poolside Restaurant

Last April, a new menu was launched for Anya Resort Tagaytay's Anila Poolside Restaurant which featured Filipino as well international dishes conceptualized by the very friendly Executive Chef Christopher “Chris” A. Leaning and his crew. A native of Grimsby, England, the 58-year old Chris has over 40 years experience in food management operations in hotels and restaurants and is one of a handful of World Master Chefs currently working in the Philippines. 

Check out "Resort Review: Anya Resort Tagaytay"

Anya Executive Chef Chris Leaning and GM Mikel Arriet

He has been in the country for a long time (now residing in Tagaytay with his family) and arrived in Anya Resort in April 2022.  Working with the young, hardworking, always smiling but soft-spoken resort GM (since August 2018) Mikel Arriett, they created a menu that was, in Mikel’s words, “simple but satisfying.” Mikel, himself, is a fellow chef from the Basque Region of Spain whom Chris met when he was working at Taal Vista Hotel).

 

Fried Spring Rolls and Anila Gambas & Chorizo al Ajillo

Prepared for us was a captivating and decadent 9-course meal, as presented by Sous Chef Robee Joy Javier, consisting of three appetizers, four main courses and two desserts.  Each dish, using a variety of local and imported ingredients, was uniquely different from the previous course.  This glimpse provided a perspective of local flavors as interpreted through the palate of a Spaniard and an Englishman who have resided long enough in the country to know the Filipino’s penchant for good food. 

Deep Fried Chopitos

To set the mood for the main courses coming up next, we were first served Anila Gambas & Chorizo Al Ajillo (sautéed shrimps, sliced chorizo, bay onions, garlic chili, virgin olive oil and parsley), Deep Fried Chopitos (tender baby squid coated in Anya’s own seasoning and served with remoulade) and Lumpiang Shanghai (a pork, prawn and vegetable spring roll cigarillos served with a sweet chili dip). All had a hint of spice which made the dishes all the more appetizing.

 

Classic Paella

Of course, the highlight were the four main dishes – Cochinillo Asado (Spanish-style whole roast suckling pig served with its own juices), Classic Paella (Classic Spanish rice cooked with rich stock, sofrito, seafood, chicken and served with lemon and aioli sauce), Grilled Shrimp (char-grilled butterfly shrimp with a touch of brandy and served with lemon wedges) and the Beef Shank Bulalo (a, hearty and filling tender beef shank and bone marrow stew slow braised in beef broth with local vegetables, potatoes and corn).  

Cochinillo Asado

The paella, prepared with much love and care, was deliciously robust.  The Cochinillo Asado, a Spanish-style lechon de leche, was mouthwatering, with a rich and savory flavor.   The crispy skin and tender meat would leave you craving for more.  The Grilled Shrimp was cooked to perfection while the Beef Shank Bulalo was a very tasty and ubiquitous take on Tagaytay’s well-loved and renowned soup.

  

Beef Shank Bulalo

Grilled Shrimp

Equally enticing was the dessert of 5-Layer Jack Daniels Chocolate Fudge Cake (multi-layered choco moist cake flavored with bourbon syrup, layers of chocolate ganache and served with warm, salted caramel sauce) and the Chef Chris Mango TresLeches (chiffon sponge dripping with Anya’s own sweet marinade and topped with fresh mango and caramelized cashew nuts).  What can I say about these two decadent desserts? They’re both to die for. 

5-Layer Jack Daniels Chocolate Fudge Cake

Chef Chris Mango Tres Leches

Anya Resort Tagaytay: Buenavista Hills Rd., Brgy. Mag-asawang Ilat, Tagaytay City, 4120 Cavite. Tel: (02) 8657 1640. Mobile numbers: (0917) 893-8946. E-mail:a sales@anyaresorts.com.  Website: www.anyaresorts.com.