Two of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation’s (SMHCC) premier properties, Taal Vista Hotel and Pico Sands Hotel, have earned multiple distinctions at the prestigious Haute Grandeur Global Awards 2026, reaffirming their excellence in hospitality both locally and across Asia.

Taal Vista Hotel, a cherished heritage landmark in Tagaytay, received four distinguished awards: Best Historical Hotel in Asia, Best Classic Hotel in the Philippines, Best Destination Hotel in the Philippines, and Best Destination Wedding Hotel in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Pico Sands Hotel, nestled within the coastal sanctuary of Pico de Loro Cove, was honored with the following accolades: Best Scenic Environment Hotel in Asia, Best All-Inclusive Family Resort in the Philippines, Best All-Inclusive Family Hotel in the Philippines, and Best Coastal Hotel in the Philippines. 

The Haute Grandeur Global Awards is a globally trusted initiative that recognizes outstanding hotel experiences based on guest feedback, rewarding properties that consistently deliver excellence across service, facilities, and overall guest satisfaction.

“These recognitions are a testament to the passion and dedication of our teams who continue to elevate the guest experience while staying true to the identity of each property,” said Ramon Makilan, General Manager of Taal Vista Hotel. “For Taal Vista, it is especially meaningful as we continue to honor our heritage while evolving to meet the expectations of today’s travelers.”

At Pico Sands Hotel, the awards reflect its growing reputation as a premier leisure destination for families and nature-seekers alike. “We are truly honored to be recognized on both the national and regional stage,” said Maxi Gavino, General Manager of Pico Sands Hotel. “These awards inspire us to further enhance our offerings and create even more meaningful and memorable stays for our guests.”

SMHCC Executive Vice President Peggy Angeles shares that these achievements underscore the group’s unwavering commitment to delivering diverse yet equally exceptional hospitality experiences. “Whether through the timeless elegance of Taal Vista Hotel or the vibrant, nature-focused escape of Pico Sands Hotel, these accolades serve as vital milestones in a shared journey defined by innovation and heartfelt Filipino hospitality,” she added.

The post SM Hotels properties Taal Vista Hotel and Pico Sands Hotel recognized at the Haute Grandeur Global Awards 2026 appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

In a time when travel choices are becoming more intentional, Taal Vista Hotel invites guests to rediscover Filipino heritage through a meaningful and immersive culinary journey—right in the heart of Tagaytay.

This April, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, Veranda Restaurant, unveils “Mga Bayan ng mga Bayani,” a thoughtfully curated dining series that brings history to life through food, storytelling, and place.

Inspired by the eight rays of the Philippine flag, the campaign honors the provinces that played a pivotal role in the country’s fight for freedom. More than a tribute to individual heroes, the initiative places towns and regions at the center of the narrative recognizing them as living witnesses to revolution, resilience, and reform.

At its core, “Mga Bayan ng mga Bayani” is built on a simple yet powerful belief: to understand our heroes, we must first understand the places—and the tables—that nurtured them.

Manila in April: A culinary tribute in Tagaytay

Kicking off the series is a special feature on Manila, happening every Saturday and Sunday of April starting April 11, exclusively during the lunch buffet at Veranda Restaurant in Tagaytay.

While the spotlight is on Manila’s rich heritage, the experience itself unfolds in the cool and scenic setting of Tagaytay, offering guests a unique opportunity to explore the capital’s history through cuisine without leaving the city.

This opening chapter highlights dishes inspired by the lives and legacies of Andres Bonifacio, Emilio Jacinto, and Melchora Aquino—figures whose stories are deeply intertwined with Manila’s cultural and culinary evolution.

“Through ‘Mga Bayan ng mga Bayani,’ we want to tell the story of our nation through flavors—how each dish carries the memory of a place, a struggle, and a shared identity,” shares Godfrey ‘Kim’ Dalisay, Executive Sous Chef. “This April, we begin with Manila—not just as a capital, but as a melting pot of influences that shaped Filipino cuisine as we know it today.”

Guests can expect a thoughtfully curated spread that reflects Manila’s layered history—from colonial influences to its role as the heart of revolutionary movements—expressed through flavors that are both nostalgic and rediscovered.

A journey across the eight rays

Following Manila, the culinary series continues each month, tracing the historical and gastronomic landscapes of key provinces:

• May: Pampanga and Tarlac
• June: Laguna and Batangas
• July: Bulacan and Nueva Ecija
• August: Cavite

Each chapter offers a fresh perspective—inviting diners to experience the Philippines not just as a destination, but as a collection of stories told through flavor.

A timely invitation to rediscover local

As evolving global conditions influence how and where people travel, “Mga Bayan ng mga Bayani” offers a timely reminder of the richness found close to home. Nestled in Tagaytay’s cool climate and overlooking the iconic Taal landscape, Taal Vista Hotel provides a convenient and meaningful escape—where culture, comfort, and cuisine come together seamlessly.

With this initiative, the hotel continues its legacy of celebrating Filipino identity—inviting guests to slow down, gather at the table, and reconnect with the stories that define the nation.

For inquiries, guests may call (+63) 956-3576792 or (+632) 7917-8225, or email reservations@taalvistahotel.com for room reservations and veranda@taalvistahotel.com for dining reservations. Guests may also visit the hotel’s official social media pages at @taalvistahotel or explore more through the website at www.taalvistahotel.com.

The post A taste of history: Taal Vista Hotel launches ‘Mga Bayan ng mga Bayani’ in Veranda appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

After the rush of Valentine’s Day, slow down and savor a well-deserved break with a refreshing long weekend in Tagaytay. This offers the perfect opportunity to file that extra leave in between and enjoy the city’s cool climate, scenic landscapes, and quality time with loved ones.

Celebrate Chinese New Year at Taal Vista Hotel with a special Chinese New Year Buffet at Veranda on February 17 (Tuesday), from 12 NN to 3 PM. Families are invited to gather over a sumptuous lunch buffet, thoughtfully prepared to usher in a lucky and prosperous start to the Year of the Fire Horse. The buffet is priced at Php1,980 per adult, with 50-percent off for children aged 6–12, and complimentary dining for children 5 years old and below with a full-paying adult.

For inquiries, you may call (+63) 956-3576792, (+63) 960-6615416, (+63) 956-3576793, or (+63) 977-8044964, email veranda@taalvistahotel or visit the hotel’s social media pages @taalvistahotel or its website at www.taalvistahotel.com.

The post Take a lucky long weekend in Tagaytay this Lunar New Year appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

Surrounded by cool breezes and scenic views, Taal Vista Hotel presents a Valentine’s dining collection that celebrates love in its most beautiful form. From intimate dinners to elegant feasts, each experience is crafted to inspire romance and create memories that linger long after the evening ends.

Culinary experiences for two

Couples are invited to celebrate the season of love with a curated selection of Valentine’s dining experiences at Taal Vista Hotel, thoughtfully designed to suit different styles of romance—from intimate candlelit dinners to grand, starlit celebrations.

For a truly exclusive evening, Strings & Stars Dinner offers a private dining experience inside the Himalayan Dome from February 1-28, 2026, available from 6 PM to 10 PM. Priced at Php19,900 per couple, the experience includes a special five-course Tāza Fresh Table set menu, a bottle of sparkling wine, a bouquet of red roses, a box of pralines, a Tudor the Bear stuffed toy with lace cookies, and a live violin performance. A non-violinist option is available at Php13,900 per couple. Advance reservations of at least one week are required.

Set in the Mid Garden, Under the Gazebo lights is available from February 13-15, 2026, offering couples a romantic gazebo dinner from 6 PM to 10 PM. This package, priced at Php10,900 per couple, includes a five-course Tāza Fresh Table set menu, a bottle of sparkling wine, three long-stemmed red roses, and a box of pralines.

For those who prefer an elegant indoor setting, Tāza Intimate Dinner is available on February 13-15, 2026, from 6 PM to 10 PM. Priced at Php7,900 per couple, the experience features a candlelit table setup, a special five-course set menu, two glasses of house wine, one long-stemmed red rose, and a box of pralines.

Couples seeking a livelier ambiance may opt for Golden Hour at Alta Ridge, also available on February 14, 2026, from 6 PM to 10 PM. Priced at Php7,900 per couple, this experience includes a five-course Tāza Fresh Table set menu, two glasses of house wine, a long-stemmed red rose, a box of pralines, and live acoustic entertainment.

For a shared celebration over an abundant spread, Veranda presents a Special Valentine’s Buffet on February 14, available for lunch (12 NN to 3 PM) and dinner (6 PM to 10 PM), and on February 15, available for lunch only, priced at Php1,980 per person.

For inquiries, you may call (+63) 956-3576792, (+63) 960-6615416, (+63) 956-3576793, or (+63) 977-8044964, email us at veranda@taalvistahotel or visit our social media pages @taalvistahotel or our website at www.taalvistahotel.com.

The post An evening of romance, crafted at Taal Vista Hotel appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

Anya Resort Tagaytay recently formalized a sustainability partnership with WWF-Philippines through the “Just One to Save the Planet” campaign, following a ceremonial contract signing held on December 6, 2025. The collaboration reinforces the resort’s longstanding commitment to responsible, purpose-driven, and eco-conscious hospitality.

Rooted in Anya Resort Tagaytay’s three sustainability pillars—Kalikasan (Nature), Yamanlikha (Cultural Heritage), and Bayanihan (Community Spirit)—the partnership reflects the resort’s holistic approach to sustainability, practiced consistently since its opening.

During the contract signing, General Manager Mikel Arriet underscored this philosophy, stating, “Sustainability at Anya has never been a trend—it is a commitment we’ve upheld since day one.” He emphasized that the resort’s initiatives are designed to create lasting value not only for guests, but also for the communities and environments it serves.

Cloda Urquico, Head of Resource Generation of WWF-Philippines, shared how Anya’s participation enables leadership in sustainable hospitality, deeper guest engagement in environmental action, and tangible efforts to reduce plastic waste, while strengthening food waste reduction initiatives supporting climate goals and community resilience. “Together, we can show that even the smallest actions, from every single guest, can create a lasting impact on people and the planet,” she said.

Supporting Informal Waste Workers Through Guest Participation

Central to the campaign is support for over 200 Informal Waste Workers (IWWs)—including scavengers, itinerant buyers, and community recyclers—who form the backbone of the Philippines’ circular economy. Campaign proceeds will help provide social protection that strengthens livelihoods while improving waste recovery systems and supporting a more inclusive circular economy.

Through a voluntary donation option, guests are given the opportunity to be part of the campaign, turning every stay into a meaningful contribution to people and the planet.

Bayanihan in Action, Kalikasan in Practice

In her closing remarks during the event, Resort Manager Melody Amacio described the collaboration as a meaningful step forward for Anya Resort Tagaytay. “This partnership reflects our Bayanihan pillar—anchoring our strength in unity through collective action with WWF and our local community to achieve lasting harmony,” she said.

WWF-Philippines Executive Director Katherine Custodio echoed WWF’s collaborative ethos, sharing, “At WWF, we believe in ‘Together Possible,’ and this partnership with Anya reflects exactly that.”

Moving Forward

Following the signing, Anya Resort Tagaytay and WWF-Philippines have begun working closely on the campaign’s rollout, including assessing and strengthening of food waste reduction initiatives within the property, further advancing Anya’s Kalikasan pillar and strengthening sustainable resort operations.

The partnership was symbolically marked with the planting of a Narra tree at Tala Garden, signifying resilience, shared responsibility, and a long-term commitment to protecting nature, culture, and communities for future generations.

The post Anya Resort Tagaytay partners with WWF-Philippines for ‘Just One to Save the Planet’ campaign appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

The year 2026 marks an exciting new chapter for SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation’s (SMHCC) flagship property in Tagaytay, Taal Vista Hotel, as it unveils the refreshed look of its 133-room Lake Wing. Featuring Deluxe, Premier, Deluxe Suite, and Batangas Suite categories, the renovation is designed to elevate every guest’s experience while staying true to the warmth and hospitality that the hotel has long been known for.

The Lake Wing has long been one of the most sought-after areas of the hotel, offering proximity to the main facilities and versatile room options suited for families, leisure travelers, and corporate groups. The new design takes inspiration from the hotel’s rich heritage and scenic surroundings while embracing modern sensibilities. Each room is thoughtfully curated with soft hues, refined textures, and contemporary furnishings, creating a serene and welcoming environment that invites rest and relaxation.

“The rooms at the Lake Wing have long been a favorite among our guests—especially families, corporate travelers, and social events,” said Ramon Makilan, General Manager of Taal Vista Hotel. “With its new and refreshed look, guests can expect an even more memorable stay. We were intentional in keeping its inviting warmth while infusing a modern touch into the design.”

A favorite destination for both intimate family escapes and large group gatherings, Taal Vista Hotel continues to bridge tradition and modernity. The Lake Wing renovation not only enriches guest satisfaction but also reinforces the hotel’s relevance as a heritage landmark with contemporary appeal—a timeless retreat for leisure, business, and celebrations alike.

“The renovation of the Lake Wing rooms represents our continued commitment to elevating Taal Vista Hotel’s legacy,” said Peggy Angeles, SMHCC Executive Vice President. “By blending timeless heritage with modern sophistication, we aim to offer guests an experience that feels both refreshingly new and warmly familiar—one that reflects the enduring spirit of Taal Vista Hotel.”

As Taal Vista Hotel looks ahead to 2026 and beyond, its reimagined Lake Wing stands as a testament to the brand’s promise—preserving a heritage while embracing the future of hospitality.

The post Taal Vista Hotel to unveil renovated Lake Wing Rooms in 2026 appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

In a landmark celebration of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations (UN) this year, Taal Vista Hotel, one of the Philippines’ most iconic heritage icons, was conferred as a UN Peace Center and Global Citizens Hub, solidifying its role as a beacon for culture, sustainability, and community-based peace initiatives.

The conferment on October 21, led by the United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP), a civic partner of the UN, which was founded to promote peace, education, and diplomacy, and the United Network of Global Citizens (UNGC), in partnership with SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC), carries the theme “Building the Future Together.”

In her welcome message, Cathy Nepomuceno, SMHCC Senior Vice President said, “As a company rooted in the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and nation-building, SMHCC stands in solidarity with the vision and values championed by the United Nations. We take great pride in Taal Vista Hotel’s legacy, which now serves as a hub for meaningful dialogue, education, collaboration, and purposeful action.”

“By anchoring a Peace Center in a Filipino heritage landmark like Taal Vista, we declare that peace is not built in conference halls alone—it begins where history, culture, and community meet. UN’s sustainable goals are not just policies; they are a living promise to humanity,” UNGC Founder and President Jenny Pearl Ninalga stressed during the event.

Roderick “Ric” Cruz, Global President, United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNA Phils), spearheaded the formal turn over and raising of the UN flag during the conferment rites.

He reminded the audience that “a UN Flag hoisted on our soil reminds us of our collective commitment to peace — because no matter which country we come from, we are united under one flag, the flag of the United Nations.”

“The hoisting of the United Nations Flag today is more than ceremony — it is a declaration of shared purpose — the Philippines, being one of the original signatories of the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” he said.

Cruz further noted that “a UN Flag gives weight to the place where it is hoisted — and when we name a ballroom or a hall as a Peace Center, we do not just assign a title, we give meaning and mission to that space.”  

In her acceptance speech, Brenda Cabuyao, Taal Vista Hotel Director of Operations, said: “We envision Taal Vista Hotel as a place where meaningful conversations are sparked, where culture and community find harmony, and where every guest is reminded that peace is not just an aspiration — it is an action, lived and shared.”

“As we accept this conferment, we are inspired to continue creating spaces that uplift, connect, and empower. May this milestone remind us all that each of us holds a part in shaping a world that is more compassionate, collaborative, and at peace,” she added.

Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism, through Regional Director Marites Castro (Region IV-A Calabarzon), commended the efforts of UNGC to foster global citizenship through education, dialogue, and community empowerment.

“These ideals resonate deeply with our mission in the tourism sector — to build bridges among peoples, celebrate diversity, and nurture a culture of respect and inclusivity,” she said.

The event also featured the UN Flag Raising Ceremony, the Peace Pledge, and a symbolic unity gathering with UNAP, UNGC, SMHCC and distinguished delegates, all joining hands in the spirit of peace and global collaboration.

Notably, during the event, SMHCC President Elizabeth T. Sy was honored with the UNA Presidential Medal and World Changers Award for her leadership in heritage preservation, sustainable tourism, and community empowerment through SMHCC.

Gracing the momentous event were the top executives of Taal Vista Hotel and SMHCC, namely Cathy Nepomuceno, Senior Vice President-Operations, SMHCC; Agnes Pacis, Vice President-Commercial, SMHCC; Leah Magallanes, Vice President-Quality and Sustainability, SMHCC; Nian Rigor, Asst. Vice President-Public Relations; Brenda Cabuyao, Director of Operations, Taal Vista Hotel; and Mary Rose Lomibao, Director of Sales and Marketing, Taal Vista Hotel.

Diplomats, business leaders, educators, and partners in peace were also represented to this gathering of purpose. In attendance were Shah Md. Ashraful Alam Mohon, First Secretary of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, UNESCO representative Dr. Ethel Agnes Valenzuela, Carlos P. Romulo Awardee Dr. Margarita Bellesteros, peace-advocates from Marawi City, and many more. 

The day ended with a fellowship cocktails with live music and warm conversation. Guests also shared their thank you messages and reflections on peace in between.

The post United Nations confers SM Hotels’ iconic property in Tagaytay as a Community Peace Center and Global Citizens Hub appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

Summit Ridge Tagaytay, a leading destination for relaxation and memorable experiences in Tagaytay, is thrilled to announce the new Café Summit, showcasing a stunning new design and an excitingly refreshed menu.

Café Summit has undergone a complete transformation, embracing a refreshing aesthetic that balances seamlessly with Tagaytay’s serene environment. The new interior design features natural wood accents, contemporary furnishing, and locally inspired artistic touches, with each element adding to the overall welcoming ambiance of a space for corporate luncheons, intimate conversations, or family meals.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome our guests to the new Café Summit,” says Jose Marie Ouano, General Manager of Summit Ridge Tagaytay. “Our goal was to create a space that feels both sophisticated and inherently Tagaytay – a place where comfort meets captivating beauty. We believe the new design truly achieves this, offering a fresh and inspiring backdrop for memorable meals.”

Complementing the stylish new ambiance is an updated menu curated to delight every palate. While still retaining local and international favorites, Café Summit’s menu now introduces an array of innovative dishes and elevated classics designed to tantalize taste buds. Highlights include:

• Feast-worthy platters (serves 3-4 persons): Ideal for sharing, these eye-catching platters are served in unique bamboo-shoot inspired wooden receptacles. Choose from Sugba (grilled specialties), Barkada (Filipino comfort food), or Brunch (classic breakfast favorites).
• Hearty classics: Beyond the beloved bulalo, savor comforting dishes such as the baked salmon, chicken pesto caesar, and roasted maple pumpkin soup.
• Signature handcrafted beverages: Indulge in a tempting array of drinks featuring unique local ingredients like lambanog, kalamansi, and ube halaya. R Coffee, the hotel group’s own artisanal coffee creations, are also proudly served.

“Our culinary team has worked tirelessly to craft a menu that is as exciting as our new design,” adds Ernie Baculio, Head Chef of Summit Ridge Tagaytay. “We’ve focused on elevating flavors while still incorporating fresh ingredients, and offering something truly special for every guest, whether they’re here for a quick bite or a leisurely dining experience.”

Café Summit remains an all-day dining destination, offering delicious options from breakfast to dinner. Indulge in an elevated dining experience where the stunning views of Taal are as much a treat as the food.

For more information about Robinsons Hotels & Resorts and its upcoming projects, visit https://www.robinsonshotels.com/.

The post Summit Ridge Tagaytay unveils revitalized Café Summit: A fresh blend of design and culinary delights appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

By Ma. Carmela S. Glorioso

Whether you wish to exchange “I Do’s” in a place that combines the beauty of nature with the enduring power of faith or pledge your eternal love in a resplendent venue that perfectly integrates tradition and modernity, there’s no need to look any further. Wishes do come true at Alta D’Tagaytay Hotel, and you can be assured that your special day is perfect with its unique and memorable wedding settings, creating a truly extraordinary moment.

Alta D’Tagaytay is an ideal wedding venue, particularly because of its spiritual significance, which enhances such a celebration. In fact, 300 weddings have already taken place since 2022 in this premier hotel, which sits on a five-hectare land, nestled in the cool, scenic landscape of Tagaytay – proof that Alta D’Tagaytay offers a perfect backdrop for this important milestone. As of this writing, 157 clients have confirmed their reservations for wedding ceremonies, and the number of bookings keeps multiplying.

Within the vicinity of the hotel lies the Capilla De San Antonio de Padua, a chapel inspired by the profound devotion of Dr./Brig. Gen. Antonio Laperal Tamayo, the hotel CEO and Chairman of the Board, to San Antonio de Padua.

The chapel is a testament to faith, honoring the “Doctor of the Church,” the patron saint of the poor, and the revered finder of lost things. San Antonio de Padua exemplifies remarkable sanctity, encompassing humility, compassion, and unwavering faith, thus providing a worthy model for emulation.

Architecturally, the chapel exhibits a harmonious blend of styles, showcasing the enduring power of faith throughout history. Its Baroque design features intricate details and dramatic flourishes that evoke the solemnity of the early 1200s, a time when faith significantly influenced societal values. The Capilla De San Antonio de Padua’s “brick expressions” further contribute to this atmosphere of reverence. The textured surfaces, akin to those of ancient structures, symbolize the lasting nature of faith, while the warm tones of the brick foster an environment of intimacy and serenity.

Moreover, the chapel transcends mere historical significance. The integration of traditional Baroque elements with modern influences reflects the dynamic nature of faith in the 21st century. The seamless coexistence of old and new creates a timeless sanctuary where tradition and modernity harmoniously interact with its stunning surroundings, exceptional hospitality, and the spiritual sanctuary of the Capilla De San Antonio de Padua. Alta D’ Tagaytay Hotel offers a unique and memorable setting where love and faith converge to create a truly extraordinary celebration.

Elegant and stunning venues

Alta D’Tagaytay offers the Vestibulo De Alta Ballroom to couples seeking a more rustic ambience. It is built with a refined wooden interior that harmonizes beautifully with the chandelier theme of its overall design. Additionally, the ballroom features a veranda that enhances its elegance. This sophisticated venue is fitting for cocktail receptions, providing guests with stunning views. It has enough space for 400 guests.

Equally stunning function rooms that can cater a grand or intimate wedding are the Laperal Room which has a maximum capacity of 12 persons for U-shaped and theater set-up; the Amadora Room accommodates a maximum of 25 people for banquets and cocktails; the Braga Room and the Coimbra Room can both have a maximum capacity of 80 individuals for theater and cocktails set-up; and the Vestibulo de Alta can make room for a maximum of 1,000 people for theater and cocktails set-up.

Mouth-watering wedding banquet

Enjoy a wedding banquet from Alta D’Tagaytay’s team of culinary experts, whipping up a selection of Filipino-Western menus that can be customized based on the client’s preferences. The menu options are included in the all-inclusive wedding packages categorized as Silver, Gold, and Platinum. The primary difference among the packages is the number of dishes provided in each option.

More dining outlets

Alta D’Tagaytay also has dining outlets where couples, with their friends and families, can celebrate before or after the wedding. Lounge or have an after-party at La Cresta, located at Ridge 3, where every guest will certainly enjoy an exceptional dining experience featuring a carefully crafted menu that showcases a distinguished selection of cuisines, all set against the breathtaking views of Taal Lake and the iconic volcano.

For those craving Filipino dishes, La Terraza serves a delightful Barrio Fiesta Menu alongside a wide variety of authentic Filipino foods tailored to satisfy your culinary desires.

Excellent service

The excellence of the service provided by the hotel’s staff will undoubtedly meet all your expectations, given their unwavering commitment to service that ensures a successful and seamless experience for couples and their guests.

For inquiries and reservations regarding your ideal wedding venue, call the expert team of Alta D’Tagaytay at (+63) 956-5616469 or email at reservations@altadtagaytay.com.ph.

The post Alta D’Tagaytay: A perfect backdrop for that memorable, special day of saying ‘I Do’ appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

Dr. Rolando Hortaleza, president and CEO of Luxnest Corp. that owns and operates Hortz Hotels and Resorts describes the property as the modern Filipino way of relaxation. The co-founder and former chairman and CEO of proudly Pinoy company Splash Corp. acquired the former Bali Village Hotel three years ago and envisioned it to be a laid-back venue for vacationers who want a truly relaxing Tagaytay experience.

“I wanted to have a place where I can slow down and relax my mind from the corporate pressures of competing against the giant multinational companies. When I first saw the property, I fell in love with it because it is different from the other hotels nearby that have that same high-rise building experience that you can find in the city. Here, there is more grounds and greenery, so you can really enjoy the weather.”

Homey feel

Hortz Hotels and Resorts Tagaytay has several room categories that offer a homey feel that suits the location very well. There are Standard Rooms (two pax), Bali Superior Room (four pax), and the De Luxe Room (six pax). For larger groups, there are De Luxe Family Room (10 pax), Bali Family Room (12 pax), Villa Family Room (14 pax), and the Nipa Hut Family Room (19 pax). Room amenities cover the basic modern requirements including a strong Wi-Fi connection, along with the free use of the swimming pool.

The newly constructed South Wing boasts of designs inspired by a combination of Japanese and Scandinavian – modern yet simple, uncluttered yet chic. Hortz Hotels is slowly being transformed under this general concept and theme which Dr. Hortaleza loves to call as “Japandi.”

Aside from being perfect staycation venues for families, the larger accommodations have also become popular with companies holding their out-of-town events, as the property also has three meeting rooms with another one currently under construction. Those who want to hold destination weddings can also book the hotel’s outdoor space adjacent to its al fresco cocktails and coffee shop Facio.

Casual and approachable

The property is very pet-friendly. Fur babies can check into the rooms with their families and they are welcome to hang out at the Tipanan Restaurant and the Facio Coffee Shop.

Tipanan offers traditional Filipino cuisine, served family-style, to add to the relaxed and unhurried feeling of at-home dining. Aside from the comforting traditional Tagaytay dish Bulalo, diners need to try their signature specialty, the Hortz Bulares which is bulalo that is cooked “pares” style. There are other Filipino favorites such as Crispy Tawilis, Boneless Chicken Inasal, Adobong Pusit sa Gata, Crispy Pata, Lechon Kawali, and Binukang Tilapia Burong Hipon at Mustasa. For dessert or merienda, there are choices of Pinoy faves such as Halo-Halo, Buko Pie, and Sans Rival. Traditionally seasonal fare Bibingka and Puto Bumbong are available all-year long.

Tipanan’s restaurant ambience matches the comfort food experience with minimalist modern Filipino elements set amid picture windows that gaze out into relaxing views of greenery.

Coffee lovers will enjoy sipping their Sagada-bean brews at Facio, which is located in an open area of the property. There are quiet nooks for hanging out and simply enjoying the solitude that is far removed from life in the urban jungle. To complete the chill-out experience, a live musical act offers enjoyable entertainment on Saturday nights.

Pinoy at heart

Luxnest Corp. managing director Ovah Rumohr says that Hortz Hotels and Resorts brings in some influences from their travels overseas, where luxury accommodations offer first-class service.

“Here, we put emphasis on quality, especially in our food. Our original idea was to put up a fine dining restaurant concept that would cater to around 10 guests at the time, but then we found this property in Tagaytay. We translated the fine dining concept into a homey restaurant with five-star service to complete the guest experience with the hotel.”

As an entrepreneur who offered proudly homegrown products, Dr. Hortaleza is promoting world- class Filipino hospitality at the Hortz Hotel and Resorts.

“We started a proudly 100-percent Filipino-owned company in the personal care business that was among the top six choices of the Filipino consumer. In this case, we want to offer a laid-back hospitality concept that has a progressive and modern Filipino approach. We want to offer an enjoyable perspective that highlights the enjoyable Tagaytay experience.

Hortz Hotels and Resorts is located at Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, Kaybagal South, Tagaytay City, Philippines. For inquiries and reservations, Viber 0919-0782946, WhatsApp 0945-2758401, contact fax no. (02) 85194757, or email customerservice@hortzhotel.com.

The post Hortz Hotels and Resorts in Tagaytay offers modern Filipino way of relaxation appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.