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- Ilocos Road Trip - A Journey Through History, Culture, and Nature!
Ilocos Road Trip - A Journey Through History, Culture, and Nature!
Stories: Six Senses Con Dao - Philippines Gears Up to Attract UK Tourists at World Travel Market in London - Winners of the October 22 Draw!
KGM Resorts
November 01, 2024
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Hello Everyone,
Welcome to Finding Utopia, your go-to newsletter for discovering how to travel the Philippines and beyond.
Here is what we have for you today.
Ilocos Road Trip - A Journey Through History, Culture, and Nature!
Luxury Resort Pick of the Week: Six Senses Con Dao
The Pulse: Philippines Gears Up to Attract UK Tourists at World Travel Market in London
Winners of the October 22 Draw!
Ilocos Road Trip - A Journey Through History, Culture, and Nature!
Road Trip - Get ready to hit the road with our latest blog post, published on October 30! This week in Finding Utopia, we're taking you on a scenic journey through two of the Philippines' most captivating provinces, Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte. From historic sites and UNESCO heritage cities to stunning coastal views and unique cultural experiences, this road trip from Ilocos Sur to Ilocos Norte promises an adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes and immersive experiences.
Explore the Highlights of Ilocos on a Road Trip
Our carefully curated route between these two northern provinces is designed to give travelers a taste of Ilocano history, cuisine, and culture, all while basking in the beauty of this stunning region.
Starting Point: Ilocos Sur – Vigan’s Timeless Charm. Begin your journey in Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Stroll along Calle Crisologo, lined with cobblestone streets, ancestral homes, and artisanal shops. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience local delicacies such as empanada and bagnet at Vigan’s vibrant markets.
Mid-Stop: Paoay and Laoag – Historical Landmarks and Nature Spots. On your way north, make sure to stop at the historic Paoay Church, an architectural marvel and UNESCO heritage site. Continue to Laoag for a taste of the city’s lively energy and scenic landscapes, including the Sinking Bell Tower and the beautiful La Paz Sand Dunes, where you can try thrilling sandboarding adventures.
Final Destination: Ilocos Norte – The Majesty of Pagudpud’s Beaches. Your journey culminates in Pagudpud, known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and iconic spots like the Bangui Windmills and Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. Whether you’re there to relax on Saud Beach or explore the cliffs and waters of Blue Lagoon, Pagudpud is the ideal spot to soak in the natural beauty of Ilocos Norte.
Travel Tips
Ideal Time to Travel: The dry season from November to April provides the best weather for beach days, scenic views, and outdoor exploration.
Must-Have Essentials: Pack plenty of sun protection, a map of key destinations, and comfortable walking shoes to explore heritage sites and natural wonders.
Recommended Stops for Food Lovers: Try Ilocos Norte’s pinakbet pizza and Ilocos Sur’s longganisa—these regional flavors will add extra zest to your journey!
Make Memories Along the Ilocos Coastline
Our Ilocos road trip guide is the perfect way to explore the captivating charm and scenic wonders of the north. With cultural landmarks, stunning beaches, and memorable food stops, it’s a journey that brings you closer to the heart of the Philippines.
Read the full blog here for more details and start planning your next unforgettable road trip through Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte!
Thank you for being part of our Finding Utopia community. Stay tuned for more travel inspiration and insider tips in our upcoming newsletters.
Six Senses Con Dao: Luxury Resort Pick of the Week!
Welcome to our latest Luxury Resort Pick of the Week, published on October 31, featuring the stunning Six Senses Con Dao in Vietnam. This exceptional eco-luxury resort combines barefoot elegance, remarkable natural surroundings, and a commitment to sustainability—perfect for travelers seeking a serene and luxurious island retreat.
Nestled on the pristine shores of Con Dao Island, Six Senses Con Dao offers a unique escape for those who want to unwind amid nature’s beauty while indulging in world-class amenities. Surrounded by lush forests and sparkling seas, this resort is thoughtfully designed to harmonize with its natural environment, providing guests with a rejuvenating experience in paradise.
Highlights of Six Senses Con Dao
Eco-Friendly Villas and Residences: Six Senses Con Dao features 50 private villas and residences, each with spacious layouts, private pools, and expansive ocean views. Constructed with sustainable materials, these eco-conscious accommodations blend luxury with nature, offering both seclusion and a comfortable, home-like ambiance.
Gastronomic Delights with a Local Touch: Enjoy Vietnamese and international cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients at Six Senses’ renowned restaurants. Try authentic Vietnamese dishes at By the Beach or a fusion of global flavors at Vietnamese at the Market. The resort’s sustainable dining practices enhance each meal, with fresh produce harvested from their own organic garden.
Unmatched Wellness and Spa Experiences: The Six Senses Spa Con Dao invites you to unwind with a wide range of treatments, including traditional Vietnamese therapies, holistic wellness programs, and yoga sessions. Surrounded by calming natural landscapes, the spa offers the ultimate sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Explore the Wonders of Con Dao Island: Con Dao’s secluded beauty offers an abundance of outdoor adventures, from snorkeling in protected coral reefs to exploring jungle trails. The resort’s knowledgeable guides can arrange memorable excursions, allowing you to discover Con Dao’s stunning marine life, secluded beaches, and cultural heritage.
Travel Tips for a Perfect Stay
Best Time to Visit: December to March offers ideal weather, with calm seas perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Packing Essentials: Lightweight clothing, sunblock, and a good camera to capture Con Dao’s unspoiled beauty.
How to Get There: A short domestic flight from Ho Chi Minh City brings you to Con Dao, where a private transfer awaits to take you to the resort.
Escape to Six Senses Con Dao for an Unforgettable Retreat
Six Senses Con Dao is not just a place to stay—it’s a destination that embodies sustainability, luxury, and unparalleled natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to relax in privacy or explore the breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam, this resort offers the perfect blend of adventure, wellness, and eco-conscious luxury.
To learn more about Six Senses Con Dao and start planning your island escape, read our full blog post here.
Thank you for being a part of our Finding Utopia community. Stay tuned for more luxury destination insights in our next newsletter!
The Pulse: Philippines Gears Up to Attract UK Tourists at World Travel Market in London!
Department of Tourism (DOT) - Will make a strong push to attract more UK tourists to the Philippines at this year’s World Travel Market (WTM) in London. This premier event, running from November 5 to 7, brings together the travel industry’s finest to showcase the world’s top destinations—and the Philippines is ready to shine!
Philippines’ Growing Appeal to UK Travelers
The United Kingdom has emerged as the Philippines' top European source of visitors, with 128,660 arrivals from January to October 2024 alone. As of November 1, total international arrivals to the Philippines reached an impressive 4.8 million, bringing the DOT closer to its ambitious year-end target of 7.7 million tourists.
UK travelers, known for their love of unique and immersive experiences, are finding the Philippines’ diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture increasingly appealing. The DOT is confident that showcasing our islands, lush mountains, and cultural heritage at the WTM aligns perfectly with what these visitors seek: incredible value, memorable experiences, and picturesque getaways.
WTM London: A Strategic Platform for Philippine Tourism
WTM London is one of the world’s leading events for tourism industry professionals. It provides a platform for countries to connect with travel agencies, tour operators, and media to build partnerships and promote global tourism. The Philippine delegation this year will be led by Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco and features representatives from both the public and private sectors, including 22 key tourism stakeholders. With the largest Philippine delegation since the pandemic, the DOT is strategically positioned to strengthen its global partnerships and emphasize the Philippines as a premier travel destination.
What This Means for Philippine Tourism
This strong presence at WTM London reinforces the DOT’s commitment to making the Philippines a tourism powerhouse in Asia, a vision championed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. In addition to stunning destinations like Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao, the Philippines offers UK travelers an affordable yet luxury-infused experience, making it an ideal destination for both short trips and long-stay vacations.
We’re thrilled to see the Philippines shine on the world stage, inviting more travelers to explore our breathtaking islands, indulge in our diverse cuisine, and immerse themselves in our unique culture. Keep an eye on our upcoming newsletters as we cover new and exciting developments in Philippine tourism.
Thank you for being a part of our Finding Utopia community. Stay tuned for more luxury destination insights in our next newsletter!
🌟 Congratulations to the Winners of the October 22 Draw! 🎉
We are thrilled to announce the lucky subscribers who have emerged as winners in our October 22 raffle draw!
Thank you for your continuous support with our Blog and Newsletter!
A round of applause for everyone!
🏆 Winner Highlights:
1st Place PHP 10,000.00
Name: Chris C.
Location: La Union
Subscribe: January 25, 2024
2nd Place PHP 5,000.00
Name: Almira R.
Location: Davao City
Subscribe: June 12 ,2024
Five + Five Runner-Ups PHP 1,000.00
Name: Mariarosa A.
Location: Paranaque City
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Location: Pilar, Bataan
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Location: Valenzula City
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Location: Baguio City
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Location: Iloilo City
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Name: Jayann P.
Location: Metro Manila
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Name: Wena D.
Location: Agusan Del Norte
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Name: Harold L. 13
Location: Metro Manila
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Name: Wenzkie L.
Location: Tnaza, Cavite
Subscribe: October ,2024
All Winners are eligible to join the next Draw!
📅 Next Draw: Don’t forget, another chance to win is right around the corner! Mark your calendar for our next draw on December 23, 2024. Keep engaging with our Blog and Newsletter for more chances to win!
👀 Stay Updated: For more details on the winners and upcoming draws, visit our website and make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter. Let’s keep the spirit of adventure and discovery alive!
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