Peacock Garden | Around and About

We went to Peacock Garden just a couple of months after our trip to Bellarocca so we just couldn't help but compare the two. Of course, Bellarocca is a lot better in many aspects but Peacock Garden surely had its own characteristics that makes it special. 

First off is the bedroom. Its a studio unit with a fine choice of heavy wooden furniture. Each room has a 32-inch LED TV with cable and DVD player. The balcony opens to an amazing view of the sea. It has a small sitting area that's perfect for coffee in the morning, tea in the afternoon and beer in the evening. The marble bathroom looks clean and classy and also contains the basic amenities with not-so-special toiletries. 

The limited number of rooms in the resort makes it feel very private. Most of the guests only stay here after a tour around Bohol so there are barely any guests during the day. Day trippers aren't allowed by the pool area for additional privacy to in-house guests. Food and beverages could also be served anywhere in the resort for the guests to enjoy. 

The huge infinity pool stretches out to the view of the sea. The view in the pool at sunset is just stunning. There's also a game room and spa though we didn't get to try both. The well kept gardens and surroundings adds to the peaceful environment. And of course, what's a peacock garden without a peacock! There's a cage within the property that houses a beautiful but shy peacock. 

The best and most memorable part about our vacation in Peacock Garden is the food. Its probably the most expensive hotel restaurant we've ever been to but its worth every cent. The restaurant itself looks expensive with its heavy doors, large chandeliers and wooden furnitures. This fine dining restaurant is heaven for foodies and the like. Everything we ordered was superb, its like you can never go wrong with anything.This is actually where my boyfriend's obsession over salmon began. We kept going to different restaurants in Manila trying to find one that matches what we had there but nothing really came close. We'd come back to Peacock Garden even just for the food. Its definitely a must try.

Fine dining, tranquility and the best view of Bohol are just some of the things you'll find most wonderful and unique in Peacock Garden. It may not rest on its own island nor have a dozen infinity pools, but this enchanting resort will surely win you over like it did us. 

Till my next trip ;)

The Peacock Garden Luxury Resort and Spa 

Upper Laya, Baclayon, Bohol, Philippines
http://www.thepeacockgarden.com/

Tuggy's Travel

Contact Tuggy at +63 928 554 6564 / +63 2 892 4120
http://www.tuggystravel.com/
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Peacock Garden | Bohol Tour

Another deal with Tuggy Travels brought us to one of our best trips of the year 2012, The Peacock Garden Luxury Resort and Spa in Bohol. Its a luxury boutique resort located in Tagbilaran City with a European-inspired theme. 

Our package includes a 3 days 2 nights accommodation in a Deluxe Sea View Room with breakfast and roundtrip airport transfers. We paid an additional fee for a side trip to see the Philippine Tarsier and Chocolate Hills. 

I've also been in a backpacking trip to Bohol back in 2010 with a group of friends. As young as we were back then, all we wanted was to try everything the province had to offer. More details about this trip will be featured in a separate blog. :) 

Bohol Trip 2010

Our trip together in Bohol is different and more special because its his first time in Bohol and its my birthday! 

Upon landing in Tagbilaran Airport, we were welcomed by our tourist guide and driver. We scheduled the private tour first so we could spend the rest of our vacation relaxing in the resort. We headed straight to the Tarsier Sanctuary. We couldn't get near the little creatures because they are now resting in their natural habitat. The staff in the sanctuary just pointed them out so we could take pictures of them. The area is very well kept and although we saw only a few of the tarsiers, they staff said dozens of them are still around and kept unseen. 

Our next stop is the Chocolate Hills. It was already noon by the time we arrived so we ate our lunch there too. Everything was the same as I remember it except for the roof built on top of the stairs to the viewing deck. Its 214 steps to the top but it was all worth it once we saw the view of the Chocolates Hills that were colored green at the time. 

On our way to the resort, we passed by the man-made forest which is always incredible to see. 

After an exhausting city tour, we were finally brought to the resort and then immediately checked in to our room. More details about this part of my birthday trip on my next post!

The Peacock Garden Luxury Resort and Spa 

Upper Laya, Baclayon, Bohol, Philippines
http://www.thepeacockgarden.com/

Tuggy's Travel

Contact Tuggy at +63 928 554 6564 / +63 2 892 4120
http://www.tuggystravel.com/
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Bellarocca Island Resort: A Beautiful Rock

Inside our villa, my dream home, everything was perfect. It was like everything else didn't matter. But of course it did. We had to go out at some point. For one, we had to eat. We brought in enough snacks, but not real food. Besides, I really wanted to try out their restaurant The only negative comment of this resort is about the food in the restaurant so I wanted to check them out myself.

On our 3-day stay in the island, we were able to try 4 complete meals from the restaurant. The menu was very limited but acceptable. Its not like anyone will be staying there for a month. They also had a buffet but we didn't try them. We weren't big on eating so it wouldn't be worth it. Two meals plus drinks for the both of us costs around 1000 Php. Only on our last night, we indulged on their expensive meals and desserts, and our check got a little overboard. 

complimentary bread, butter and jam

Contrary to the negative reviews, the food was actually good. Its expensive but really worth it. I guess they've made a few adjustments to the menu after receiving those comments. Too bad I wasn't able to take a picture of anything we ordered. We were always hungry every time we went to the restaurant and they all looked so yummy that I couldn't take the time to stop and snap at least one photo before we ate them. Aside from the gorgeous and classy restaurant, guests may opt to have their meals in the garden or in other exclusive areas in the island - subject to certain charges, of course.

Hotel Facilities and Marina Cafe and Bar

Terazzas and Hotel Lap Swimming Pool

After our lunch on the second day, we were scheduled for a free tour around the island. First stop was the hotel rooms. These are the cheapest accommodations you can get in the island. If you just want to experience staying in the island and trying out its amenities, then this is the way to go. Plus, its in the same building as the restaurant and its steps away from the infinity pool. Well, they're not really cheap, I think it costs around 30,000 Php per night. If you're lucky, you can get promo rates for a lesser price. Next to the infinity pool are the more expensive terrazas. They are like the villas without the backyard. The casas are like the terrazas but they're located on the far end of the island. 

Bellarocca Spa

Inside the spa room

We were also able to visit the other facilities in the island during our short tour. There's a bar/cafe where they organize movie nights and other parties for the guests. It can fit around 20 people. There are also venues for weddings (for rich people) and the like. There is also a spa at the top of the island. Its very exclusive and very relaxing. But of course, their rates are crazy expensive. We didn't even consider trying them. On the lower part of the island is a mini, man-made beach where people can try out water sports activities. Another infinity pool can be found here where most of the guests hang out. We didn't get the chance to try any of the pools and the beach because it was always crowded. 

the beach, seaside swimming pool and outdoor venue

Needless to say, we didn't spend much time outside the villa. But all in all, the entire Bellarocca experience was wonderful and perfect. The staff were nice and friendly. The food was superb. The facilities were great. And the villa, oh my villa. I don't think we'd be able to afford another trip back there any time soon. But I have enough great memories with me to last a very long time. This remains as the most expensive trip we've had so far, but I say, indulge yourself every once in a while because you know you deserve it. 

Till next time. :)

Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa 
Province of Marinduque, Philippines
http://www.bellaroccaresorts.com/

Tuggy's Travel

Contact Tuggy at +63 928 554 6564 / +63 2 892 4120

http://www.tuggystravel.com/

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Bellarocca Island Experience - The Villa

From the reception area, one of the staff assisted us to our villa. We could actually walk from there but he insisted we take the golf cart instead. All the villas were named after Gods and Goddesses, still aligned with the Greek Theme of the resort. Ours is named Aphrodite and oh how appropriate of a name it was.

Upon entering the huge double doors, we were welcomed to a small foyer that has a great view of the backyard and a small fountain in the pocket garden against a glass window. The staff walked us around the villa first, giving us a few instructions on how to use the facilities and equipment. I couldn't hide my excitement. I was almost jumping at my feet while he showed us each room.Our bags came in shortly after. Did I mention that the last time I saw them was at the airport in Manila? The staff took care of them all since we landed. We had the full-on luxury experience of a lifetime.

view from the foyer

Before he left, he taught us how to use the espresso machine. Yeah. We had our own freakin' espresso machine. It became my favorite item in this kitchen. Not that I didn't like the top of the class stove and refrigerator. We didn't get to use them though. I would've brought my favorite instant mac & cheese if I knew we could cook them there. Right next to the kitchen is a maid's room. Its a pretty decent one. It had its own air-conditioning, complete with beddings and pillows and all. Even has its own bathroom. Pati si yaya naka-bakasyon kung sakali.

the kitchen 

The dining room is exquisite. (Gosh, I'm running out of words to describe this place!) It has an elegant long table with cushioned chairs stowed underneath. Its very simple yet elegant. We had our plates set up for us but all that was served were a few local fruits. The best part of the table was the collection of mini liquor bottles carefully placed on the far end. I would've loved to try them all but, of course, it came with a price which I'm not willing to pay. Not in this island, that is.

the dining room

Just like how it was described in the voucher, the living room has a Sony Bravia LCD TV (42") with complete DVD Player and state-of-the-art home theatre stereo system, satellite cable TV, iPod dock and Hi-Fi compact sound system. Just, wow. All of that situated along with this comfy sofa set. We spent our first night here after renting a couple of DVDs from the library.

the living room 

booze and dvds

When we thought things couldn't get any better, we found the bedroom. It had the same electronic equipment as the living room plus the king size bed with the comfiest pillows and sheets ever. Every corner of the villa had its own air-conditioning equipment. (Is this really what its like in rich people's houses?) Further into the bedroom is THE masters bathroom. Its the single most amazing bathroom I've ever seen. Later on, I found out that this bathroom is actually on the list of top luxury bathrooms in the country. Who would've thought there's such a list? It has a rain shower, double sink vanities, a jacuzzi whirlpool bathtub (that creates bubbles) and a complete range of luxurious bath amenities (we got L'Occitane) replenished daily. And it was huge, I tells ya.

THE bathroom

And then finally, the backyard. The dining room, living room, bedroom and bathroom had individual glass doors leading to the backyard. This part was as convenient as it was difficult. We could practically get in and out of the house from anywhere in the backyard, but we had to close them too at some point. Its not that security is an issue. I'm just not comfortable leaving them open all the time. But most importantly, we had a backyard! Here we have an infinity pool, an outdoor jacuzzi, a pocket garden and a sun deck. This is where we spent most of our time. I mean, how couldn't we? How many time could you actually have all these amenities to yourself? Plus, we had the most amazing view of the ocean (or sea?), the mountains and the sunset. I just couldn't ask for more.

the infinity pool 

the outdoor jacuzzi

To be continued…

Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa 
Province of Marinduque, Philippines
http://www.bellaroccaresorts.com/


Tuggy's Travel
Contact Tuggy at +63 928 554 6564 / +63 2 892 4120
http://www.tuggystravel.com/
http://www.facebook.com/tuggystravel

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The Journey to Bellarocca Island

The day has finally arrived. All our bags are packed and we are so ready to go. Our bags, by the way, contain loads of goodies. We brought as much food as we can to save some money because we expected that the meals in the restaurant would be expensive. We weren't charged for corkage or anything so I guess its not prohibited. 

to Marinduque via Zest Air

And maybe just to prolong the waiting, our flight was delayed by an hour. It was raining by the time we left Manila but it didn't stop us from leaving. Thank God. The plane was really small. I think less than 30 people can fit in it. Its cute actually. Knowing that most people on board the plane were also guests in Bellarocca made it kinda exclusive. It was a short flight from Manila to Marinduque, probably the shortest I've had since Naga. I didn't even had the chance to warm my seat when the pilot announced our landing.

at the Marinduque Airport

Once we've stepped on the Marinduque Airport, everything else was a bliss. We were greeted by the resort staff with a bottle of cold water and towels to freshen up. They asked for our names to verify our reservations and then led us to a van while they take our baggages from the counter. There were 6 of us in our van, the other van was much more loaded. We had a very comfy 40-minute ride through the province of Marinduque. Its very peaceful out there, but most important of all, the weather was perfect. The staff in our van told us a few facts about the province and the resort which only heightened our anticipation.

After the land transfer, we had to take another 10-minute boat ride to reach the island. There were two boats waiting for us at the dock. We took a few photos from there while the staff loaded our bags to the boats. The first sight of the island is unforgettable. Its surreal. From afar, you'll see the greens forest and white structures shaped like an elephant stuck in the sea. I couldn't stop taking photos even during the boat ride. 

the Bellarocca Island

On the island, we were welcomed with flowers and serenades from more resort staff. Then they brought us up to the reception area using golf carts. (Too bad we couldn't drive them by ourselves. I've always wanted to try that.) All guests gathered at this fab reception area for some introduction from the Resort Manager. They gave us welcome refreshments while we sign a few more papers for the reservations and wait for our rooms to get ready. 

welcome drinks and welcome letter

And at last, we reached our final destination, our home for 3 days, the villa. I couldn't even begin to describe how wonderful this piece of structure is. Seeing it made my dream house into a reality. I didn't even know what I wanted my house to be until I saw it with my own eyes. And it was there. In the freakin' gorgeous island of Marinduque. 

the Villa

To be continued...

The villa, the restaurant and more about the resort on my next blog. :)

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Bellarocca | A Dream in the Making

Photo courtesy of Bellarocca Island Website

I couldn't take my mind of Bellarocca ever since I found it on the internet while searching my next destination. It became on the top of my list of places I wanted to see before I die. Their rates are crazy high and it would take me forever to save up for it. But then, forever came too soon. 

When the era of group buying sites began, I took advantage of my unlimited internet access to check on their latest offers. Naturally, I was keen on getting the best travel discounts I could get. All the time, I hoped I'd run into a deal for Bellarocca. It came soon enough on Deal Grocer but I wasn't totally convinced so I waited for other options. I found another one on a travel agency's website, anywherephilippines.com. Their rates are quite acceptable and we were seriously considering it. Until I met Ruthy from Tuggy's Travels. If this was a fairy tale, she would be my fairy godmother. I saw her deal on Facebook:

Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa
► Marinduque
► http://bellaroccaresorts.com/► 2D/1N in a One-Bedroom Villa
► includes:
- roundtrip land & sea transfers (Marinduque Airport-Resort-Marinduque Airport),
- Welcome refreshments at the Resort.
- Intimate and luxurious accommodation with individual climate control; Sony Bravia LCD TV (42") with complete DVD Player and state-of-the-art home theatre stereo system, satellite cable TV, Ipod dock (upon request and subject to availability) and Hi-Fi compact sound systems, in-suite safe, mini bar, pillow selections, modern bath and shower facilities with complete range of luxurious bath amenitites, a private balcony/verandah, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, entertainment/game room, and library.
- All villas have its own eternity pool, Jacuzzi, pocket garden.
- Complimentary internet connectivity in the accommodation (cable) and public areas (Wi-Fi).
- Complimentary drinking bottles of water in the room, replenished daily.
- Complimentary coffee & tea selections in room.
- Golf cart service
- Complimentary access to the resort's range of exclusive facilities and recreational activities, i.e. 9-hole golf course, 2 main swimming pools, tea house, meditation sanctuary, fitness gym, entertainment room, among others.
► inclusive of taxes and service charge
► Not valid during Peak periods
► Valid until 8/31 and 11/30 

I just died. A 1 bedroom villa? I wondered how much an overnight stay would cost. Other deals could only offer a deluxe room and I couldn't even afford that. But this one is a 1 bedroom villa. You get to have your own infinity pool, an indoor and outdoor jacuzzi, and all the good stuff that comes with a 1 bedroom villa. I wanted it so bad. I felt like I owed it to myself to at least inquire for their rates. So I sent Ruthy a message and she immediately responded.

I practically begged her to give us a huge discount. She was very accommodating and even arranged for me to do the bargaining with his boss, Tuggy. I always thought I had good negotiating skills and this was exactly what I needed when I bargained with Tuggy over his Bellarocca vouchers. Eventually, we made a deal that was acceptable for both of us. I immediately called my boyfriend to inform him of the deal I made with Tuggy and I could hear his happiness equalling mine. We closed the deal and arranged a meet up for the payment and the vouchers. We couldn't trust them enough back then to just simply make a deposit for the payment, I mean, I've never heard of Tuggy's Travels until I met Ruthy. Its quite a large sum of money. We had to make sure it wasn't some sort of a scam. Well obviously, it wasn't, and I couldn't be happier. We made more deals with Tuggy after this one, but that's a different story. 

We dropped by Tuggy's office in Makati where I met him and Ruthy. Apparently, Tuggy works for a travel magazine and is currently based in the Philippines. He's originally from London which made it somehow difficult to communicate (major nosebleed). He explained a great deal about his work and his business. We made conversations about his personal life, his travels and our travels. Quite a funny guy. He even gave us copies of his magazine which featured a lot of tourist spots here in the country, including Bellarocca. Which leads us back to the vouchers. He showed us a couple more of his vouchers for other resorts. He's got plenty and I was eyeing each one of them. Right then I just knew I haven't seen the last of Tuggy's Travels. 

When we've finally concluded our little chat, we handed him the check and he gave us our vouchers. Getting our hands on the vouchers made it official. This is really it. My dream come true. 

I was so happy that I had to share the deal I made to my friends. And I owed it to Tuggy to promote his business after giving us a good price. I also promised to keep the price he gave us a secret. I think he'd be out of business if people started bargaining with him like we did. Anyway, I was able to refer a good friend of mine and she got a good deal with him too. So I guess I wasn't totally out of line. 

We arranged the reservation with Bellarocca right after we got the vouchers. My boyfriend and I decided to schedule it on his birthday in October. We made the deal in May. That was a very long wait. 

The booking was made thru Ms. Venus, a Reservations Manager of Bellarocca, and was finalized within a week. We immediately booked a flight to Marinduque following the dates we have reserved for the villa. For vacations in such resorts with limited capacity, ALWAYS reserve your accommodation first before your flight. Its easier to modify reservations on resorts than on flights. Had to learn this the hard way.

The only commercial airline that flies to Marinduque is ZestAir. Here are the flight schedules provided by Bellarocca management (valid as of October 2011).

We chose a Saturday to Monday trip, which was our BIGGEST regret up to this day. Its the shortest trip of them all! But we did have our reasons:

1) Longer stay means more meals and more meals means more expenses. Food in the island is crazy expensive. 

2) For some reason, those days have the cheapest flights when compared with others 

So we just thought a few hours wouldn't make much difference. But we were so wrong. The additional expenses of staying a bit longer could've been all worth it. 

The flight and accommodations are booked. Now the waiting game begins. 

Spent the following months reading articles and blogs about the island, looking at pictures, dreaming of the day when it'll be our turn. 

Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa 
Province of Marinduque, Philippines
http://www.bellaroccaresorts.com/

Tuggy's Travel
Contact Tuggy at +63 928 554 6564 / +63 2 892 4120
http://www.tuggystravel.com/
http://www.facebook.com/tuggstravel

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