Showing posts with label hotel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hotel. Show all posts

July 09, 2026

Day 5: Daet to Cubao - Pasalubong Hunting and the Long Journey Home

Our final day in Bicol was intentionally slow. After several days of exploring, I wanted to save my energy for the long bus ride back to Manila. Instead of squeezing in one last tour, I had only one mission for the day: to buy pasalubong before heading home.
 
Breakfast at One Platinum Hotel
 
We're early birds, so I was happy that breakfast at One Platinum Hotel started at 6:00 AM. By the time the restaurant opened, we were already ready to order.
 
The three of us enjoyed Tapsilog, Bangusilog, and Longsilog. I ordered Longsilog once again because I really enjoy Lucban longganisa. It's one of my favorite breakfast dishes, but unlike Vigan longganisa, it's not something I can easily buy back home.



 
Pasalubong Hunting at Jannah's Pasalubong
 
The day before, we had planned to buy pasalubong, but our driver brought us to a small souvenir shop where there wasn't much to choose from. We decided to skip shopping and head straight to the bus terminal instead to buy our tickets.

Fortunately, while passing by, I spotted Jannah's Pasalubong. I made a mental note to check it later once I had internet access.
 
That evening, I searched for the most recommended pasalubong shops in Daet, and I was happy to see Jannah's on almost every list. Even better, they had a branch just a short walk from One Platinum Hotel. AI also mentioned that the store opened as early as 7:00 AM, so after breakfast, we headed there.

 
Unfortunately, the shop was still closed when we arrived. Instead of waiting, we walked to Graceland and bought brownies and banana bread, perfect snacks for our long journey later. We also explored the nearby public market because I wanted to buy fresh pili nuts with shells. I actually prefer these over the sweetened ones. They're harder to open, but I enjoy eating them that way.

 

We were debating whether to return to the hotel or continue waiting when we noticed a long line already forming outside Jannah's Pasalubong. We decided to join the queue.

The store finally opened a little past 7:30 AM, and I was relieved that our early walk wasn't wasted. We ended up buying quite a lot because, in my mind, who knows when I'll get the chance to visit Daet again? I'll share everything we bought in a separate blog post.
 
Lunch at Cafe Supremo
 
Originally, we wanted to try another restaurant near the hotel, but by lunchtime, we were already feeling too lazy to walk around. We decided to return to Cafe Supremo, where we had breakfast earlier that morning.



 
We ordered Fish and Fries (₱180), Creamy Tuna Carbonara (₱250), and Shoyu Ramen (₱250). It was a simple and satisfying meal before our long trip home.

Daet to Cubao
 
We checked out of the hotel at around 11:30 AM and stayed in the lobby until noon before heading to the DLTB bus terminal. We rode a tricycle, which cost ₱20 per person.
 
Although our bus was already parked at the terminal, passengers were only allowed to board a few minutes before the 1:00 PM departure. If you're taking this route, there's really no need to arrive too early since you'll just end up waiting outside. We spent the time browsing a small shop beside the terminal and picked up a few more pasalubong while waiting.
 
Thankfully, our Daet to Cubao bus was much better than the one we took going to Daet. It was newer, cleaner, and the air conditioning worked well.

 
The bus departed about 15 minutes behind schedule. Just like our trip to Daet, there were several stopovers along the way, including Labo, Tabugon, dinner at Pagbilao, Turbina, PITX, and Buendia.



Instead of going all the way to Cubao, we got off at Buendia because my husband had parked his car near his office. From the time we left the hotel until we finally arrived home, our journey lasted almost 14 hours. Whew! Another long land trip was successfully survived.
 
Final Thoughts
 
Travel rarely goes exactly as planned, and this trip was no exception. There were delays, unexpected changes, and moments that tested our patience. But looking back, those little imperfections became part of the story.
 
Our Daet and Calaguas Island adventure may not have been perfect, but it was meaningful, and that's what made it unforgettable.
 
In the end, the memories I treasure most aren't just the beautiful beaches or the crystal-clear waters. They're the laughter we shared, the patience we practiced, and the quality time we spent together as a family.
 
Sometimes, that's what makes a journey truly worth remembering.
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July 06, 2026

Day 4 in Calaguas: Delays, Rain, and an Unforgettable Boat Ride to Daet

Our third and final day in Calaguas Island started on a quiet note. We could have gone for one last swim or an early-morning trek, but with our 10:00 AM check-out and scheduled boat departure, we decided to skip any activities and focus on packing.

We woke up before 6:00 AM because the electricity would be turned off by then. Getting ready without lights didn't sound fun, so we made sure everything was packed before the power went out.


Breakfast was served at 7:00 AM, and while we were eating, the resort staff informed us that our boat departure would be delayed because of the low tide. Since we couldn't leave yet, they also told us that we would be having lunch at the resort before departing.

Honestly, that caught us by surprise. We've been on several island trips before, and this was our first time experiencing a boat delay because of low tide. Usually, delays occur due to bad weather or rough seas, not because the water is too shallow.





Thankfully, the resort served us a complimentary lunch while we waited, which was a nice gesture. Still, I couldn't help but worry. The sky was getting darker, and I silently hoped we would still be able to sail safely before the weather got worse.


Our boat finally arrived a little past 12:00 noon, and despite the gloomy weather, we were relieved that we were finally leaving the island.

Little did we know that the real adventure was only about to begin.

As we approached the port, we were told that the larger boat couldn't get close enough to shore because of the low tide. We had to transfer to a much smaller boat to reach the port.

Since we booked the Calaguas White Sand Resort package, I expected all boat transfers to be included. However, the small boat operator asked us to pay PHP50 per person for the transfer. I was honestly disappointed. We had already paid for our boat transfers as part of our package, so I believed it should have been the responsibility of the operator to bring us all the way to the port without charging extra. It also felt like the small boat operator took advantage of the situation.

Just when we thought everything would be fine, another unexpected incident happened.

While transferring passengers, another small boat accidentally bumped into ours. For a few terrifying moments, our boat was caught between the larger boat and another small boat. I watched the outrigger on our side bend after hitting the larger boat, and I genuinely thought our boat might tip over.
Thankfully, it didn't.

We made it safely to the port, but it was one of the most nerve-wracking moments I've ever experienced during our travels. I was thankful that my husband was with me during that frightening experience.


The boat ride from Calaguas Island took more than two hours, and by the time we arrived, we were completely soaked. We got splashed by the waves while boarding, got drenched again because of the rain during the trip, and ended up getting wet one last time when we had to walk through ankle-deep water because the boat couldn't dock properly.

Upon docking, the small boat operator asked for the payment, and while we were paying, another boat operator shouted, "PHP20 lang dapat ang bayad, sobrang singil yan!" Unfortunately, we had no choice, so we paid the amount they were asking.

What a day!

At that point, all I wanted was to check into our hotel and enjoy a long, hot shower. But our journey wasn't over yet because we still needed to go to the DLTB Bus Terminal to buy our tickets home. Thankfully, our rented van dropped us off there.

We decided not to purchase round-trip tickets before our trip because we weren't sure what time we'd be arriving from Calaguas. Unfortunately, by the time we arrived at the terminal, my husband could no longer get a ticket for that day's trip because they were already sold out. In the end, we all decided to travel home together the following day instead.

The bus fare was PHP943 per adult and PHP758 for students, which turned out to be cheaper than the one-way tickets we had booked online from Cubao to Daet.

From the bus terminal, we rode a tricycle to One Platinum Hotel. We checked in for the night and paid an additional PHP900 for one extra person. My family waited a few minutes while the staff prepared the extra bed.


For dinner, we ate at Alvino's Roast, Grill and Fry. We ordered Pork Sinigang (PHP320), Beef Pepper Steak (PHP199), rice, and a 1.5-liter Coke (PHP105). After three days on the island, that ice-cold soft drink tasted incredibly refreshing. Simple joys!






Our Calaguas adventure officially came to an end that evening.

Although our last day was filled with delays, unexpected expenses, rain, rough seas, and a few scary moments, it also reminded me that travel isn't always about perfect sunsets and crystal-clear waters. Sometimes, it's the unexpected challenges that turn into the stories you remember the most. Looking back, our trip to Calaguas wasn't perfect, but it was certainly unforgettable.
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June 30, 2026

Where to Stay in Daet, Camarines Norte: Our Stay at One Platinum Hotel

If you're planning a trip to Calaguas Island, chances are you'll spend at least one night in Daet, Camarines Norte, either before or after your island adventure. Since getting to Calaguas involves several transfers by land and sea, we decided to add two extra nights to our itinerary so we could rest before and after the trip.

While searching for accommodations in Daet, One Platinum Hotel quickly stood out because of its consistently positive reviews and convenient location. After our stay, I can see why it's a popular choice among travelers. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to restaurants, the bus terminal, and Vinzons Port, making it an excellent base for anyone visiting Calaguas Island.


Booking Our Stay

Before booking, I checked the hotel's website for the room rates and then called to reserve our rooms. They informed us that they would send a quotation by email, which I received the following day. To confirm our reservation, I paid PHP 6,000 via bank transfer and paid the remaining balance upon arrival.

For our stay, we booked:

First Night
1 Deluxe Room
2 Standard Rooms

Last Night
3 Standard Rooms

Room Rates 
 
During our stay, the room rates were as follows (rates may change without prior notice)
 
Standard Room – PHP 2,800
Deluxe Room – PHP 3,350
Extra Person – PHP 900

The Rooms

Both the Standard Room and Deluxe Room come with a queen-sized bed and include the following amenities:

· Internet TV
· Air-conditioning
· Hot and cold shower
· Complimentary bottled water
· Complimentary coffee and tea
· Toiletries
· Wi-Fi
· Plastic laundry bag
· Bedroom slippers

Our room on the first night was clean and comfortable. The air-conditioning worked well, and the hot shower had no issues, making it a relaxing place to recharge before our Calaguas trip.




When we returned after our island adventure, my family stayed in a different room with an extra bed. While the room was still clean, we noticed that the air-conditioning wasn't as cold, and unfortunately, the hot water wasn't working. Although these weren't deal-breakers for our stay, they're worth mentioning since room conditions may vary.



Convenient Location

Beyond the rooms, another reason we enjoyed staying at One Platinum Hotel was its convenient location. Situated in Daet's central business district, it's close to almost everything you might need before heading to Calaguas.


Within walking distance or just a short tricycle ride. You'll find:
  • Restaurants
  • Fast-food chains
  • Convenience stores
  • Banks
  • Souvenir shops
  • Bus terminal
Breakfast at Cafe Supremo of One Platinum Hotel
Since our call time at Vinzons Port was scheduled for 7:00 AM, we initially requested a packed breakfast so we could eat on the way. The hotel gladly accommodated our request.

However, the following morning, our boat operator suggested that we enjoy breakfast at the hotel first since there was still enough time before departure. So instead of bringing the packed meals with us, we enjoyed breakfast at the hotel's dining area before heading to the port.

For our first breakfast, my son ordered Longsilog, while I had Porksilog.



On our final morning, my family of three tried the Tapsilog, Bangsilog, and Longsilog. Each breakfast meal came with a drink and a banana. The breakfast wasn't elaborate, but it was filling and exactly what we needed before another day of traveling.




Final Thoughts

Overall, we had a pleasant stay at One Platinum Hotel. Despite the minor issues we encountered in one of the rooms, the positives far outweighed the negatives. The hotel offers clean accommodations, friendly service, complimentary breakfast, and a convenient location in the heart of Daet, all at a reasonable price.
 
If you're looking for a comfortable and budget-friendly hotel in Daet, Camarines Norte, before or after your Calaguas Island adventure, One Platinum Hotel is a solid choice. We'd happily stay here again on our next visit to Camarines Norte.

Read: 5-Day Daet and Calaguas Island Itinerary with Senior Citizens: Family Summer Adventure + Budget Guide

 
One Platinum Hotel
F. Pimentel Avenue corner Vicente Basit St.,
Daet Camarines Norte 4600, Philippines
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June 29, 2026

Day 1: Cubao to Daet – The Long Road to Calaguas

Welcome back to my Daet and Calaguas travel series!

I mentioned in my previous post that I'm not a fan of long land trips. Even though the Bicol Region has always been on my travel bucket list, it never became a priority because I dreaded spending hours on the road. 

While planning this trip, I even looked at flights from Manila to Naga to avoid the long bus ride. Unfortunately, airfare was ridiculously expensive because of the fuel surcharge. Even if I redeemed airline miles, I still had to pay a hefty amount, so I eventually accepted the reality that we were taking the bus. 

Cubao to Daet by Bus 

My mom preferred taking the Cubao to Daet route instead of my original Cubao–Naga plan. Since only a few bus operators were serving this route, we booked our tickets online with DLTB to save time and avoid lining up at the terminal. 

Bus Fare per person: PHP 1,046.57 (online rate)
PHP1,146 with CR

On the day of our trip, we left home a little past 5:00 AM to avoid Metro Manila traffic. We grabbed breakfast through a drive-thru before heading to the DLTB Aurora Cubao terminal for our 7:30 AM departure. 

We arrived early because we thought we needed to claim our physical tickets. However, the ticket counter was still closed, so we simply showed our online booking confirmation and boarded the bus without any issues. Surprisingly, the bus departed several minutes earlier than the scheduled 7:30 AM departure. 

Our first stop was at the DLTB Turbina terminal, where the conductor informed us that we could claim our printed tickets there instead. 

Lunch Stop in Quezon 

After a few more hours on the road, we stopped at the DLTB terminal in Quezon for lunch. 

Viands start at around PHP 120, while rice costs PHP 30, and soft drinks are around PHP 30. We spent roughly PHP 200 per person for lunch. The terminal also has a pasalubong shop where you can pick up local snacks before continuing your journey.


Need a restroom break? The comfort room costs PHP 10 per use. 

More Stopovers Than Expected 

I honestly thought we would only have two stopovers for the entire trip, but I was wrong. 


Aside from Turbina and Quezon, the bus also stopped at the Tabugon and Labo terminals, not to mention the numerous pick-up and drop-off stops along the way. By this point, I was counting every kilometer left before reaching Daet! 

We finally arrived at the DLTB Daet terminal at 6:40 PM. 

From the moment we left home, we had been traveling for over 13 hours. It was a very long day, and by the time we arrived, I was completely exhausted.


From the bus terminal, we boarded our rented van and reached the One Platinum Hotel in just a few minutes. The hotel is less than 2 kilometers from the DLTB terminal, so you can also take a tricycle if you don't have private transportation. 


After checking in, we paid the remaining balance for our one-night stay and pre-ordered our breakfast since we had an early departure the next morning for our 3-day Calaguas Island trip.

Dinner Before an Early Morning 

We only had enough energy to drop off our bags before heading straight to the hotel's restaurant. We were simply too tired to look for another place to eat. 

Here's what we ordered: 

Longsilog – PHP 240 
Shoyu Ramen – PHP 250 
Banana Walnut Cake – PHP 60 
Bottled Water – PHP 30 




We enjoyed our dinner, especially the Lucban longganisa that came with the Longsilog. We saved the banana walnut cake and bottled water as emergency snacks for our boat trip the next morning.

A Stressful Twist 

While we were already settled in Daet, my husband wasn't as lucky. 

His 7:30 PM bus trip was canceled, and passengers had to wait almost three hours for a replacement bus. It was incredibly stressful because, with all the scheduled stopovers, there was no way he would make our 7:00 AM call time at the port. 

Lesson learned: If you're planning a Calaguas trip, make sure you're already in Daet the night before your boat tour. Bus delays and unexpected cancellations can easily throw off your itinerary, and you definitely don't want to miss your scheduled boat trip. 

After a very long travel day, all we wanted was a good night's sleep because the next morning, we were finally heading to the beautiful islands of Calaguas. 

Trip Summary 

Route: Cubao to Daet 
Bus Operator: DLTB Bus Fare: PHP 1,046.57 (online rate) or PHP 1,146 bus with Comfort Room 
Departure: 7:30 AM (Aurora Cubao Terminal) 
Arrival: 6:40 PM (DLTB Daet Terminal) 
Travel Time: Around 11 hours and 10 minutes by bus (13+ hours from home) 
Major Stopovers: 
DLTB Turbina (ticket printing) 
DLTB Quezon (lunch stop) 
Tabugon Terminal 
Labo Terminal 
Accommodation: One Platinum Hotel
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June 22, 2026

JW Café Breakfast Buffet at JW Marriott Hanoi Review

Seven years ago, I wrote about my husband's stay at JW Marriott Hanoi, one of Vietnam's most iconic luxury hotels. This year, he had the opportunity to revisit the hotel while attending a company event. While I wasn't able to join him on this trip, he shared plenty of photos from his stay, and I was impressed to see that the hotel still looks as beautiful and well-maintained as ever.





Today, I'm sharing his breakfast experience at JW Café, the hotel's popular all-day dining restaurant.

For hotel guests, the room package includes a buffet breakfast at JW Café. Known as one of the top dining venues in Hanoi, the restaurant offers an extensive selection of international and local cuisine. From Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Mediterranean dishes to Vietnamese specialties, the buffet caters to a wide range of tastes.


One of the things my husband enjoyed most was the restaurant's relaxing atmosphere. The dining area overlooks the lake, providing a scenic view that makes breakfast even more enjoyable. The large windows also bring in plenty of natural light, creating a bright and welcoming space to start the day.

Breakfast is served from 5:45 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on weekdays and until 10:30 a.m. on weekends. Guests can explore a variety of dishes from live cooking stations, freshly prepared throughout the morning.

Here are some snapshots my husband took during breakfast at JW Café. The buffet spread was impressive, with plenty of local and international options to choose from.










As expected, my husband's favorite was the traditional Vietnamese pho. He opted for a bowl of beef pho, which featured a flavorful broth, tender slices of beef, and fresh herbs. According to him, it was the perfect way to begin the day and one of the highlights of the breakfast buffet. After all, a trip to Vietnam is not complete without enjoying a bowl of authentic pho.


Aside from the pho station, the buffet also offers a wide selection of pastries, breads, fresh fruits, eggs cooked to order, Asian dishes, cold cuts, cheeses, salads, and healthy breakfast options. The variety ensures that both local and international guests will find something they enjoy. My husband especially enjoyed the fresh fruit selection, which provided a refreshing start to the morning.


Based on my husband's experience, JW Café continues to offer one of the most impressive hotel breakfast buffets in Hanoi. From the comforting bowl of Vietnamese pho to the fresh fruit selection and beautiful lakeside setting, breakfast here is a wonderful way to start the day. If you're staying at JW Marriott Hanoi, be sure to arrive hungry and take your time exploring the buffet's many offerings.
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