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Michelin Bib Gourmand chef Miguel Cabel Moreno champions Southern Mindanao cuisine at Crimson Boracay
Palm Grill and Cabel chef-restaurateur Miguel Cabel Moreno personally handles the plating of his Amor del Mar seafood course Filipino chef-restaurateur Miguel Cabel Moreno continued to advocate for the gastronomic culture of Mindanao at two four-hands culinary events staged at Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay. Held on the evenings of 14th and 15th November, From Shore to South featured collaborations between Cabel Moreno and Crimson Boracay executive chef Nickolai Stoyanov and Philip Arroza, chef de cuisine at the resort’s Azure Beach Club. Wines for the initial event at the resort’s Mosaic Latin American Grill on the 14th were provided by AWC Philippines. The chef’s two restaurants in the Greater Manila Area, Cabel in Manila Proper and his flagship Palm Grill in Quezon City, were named among the establishments meriting the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand appellation in its initial foray into the Philippines in late October. Cabel Moreno said of the event: “I'm so grateful for this opportunity to be able to showcase the cuisines from where I come from, and I hope it translated in the plates that we put out. I also hope that, when diners step out of these beautiful restaurants, they will have a more positive and better view of Mindanao as a whole. Hopefully, they’ll want to try and visit Mindanao themselves.” Cabel Moreno's pianggang na manuk [chicken in a blackened coconut sauce] calls to mind the flavours beloved by the Philippines' Pan-Malayan neighbours Celebrating the unsung side of Philippine heritage Proudly of the Tausug people of Southern Mindanao, born and raised in the province of Sulu, Cabel Moreno has long championed the cause for promoting Mindanaoan cuisine in the northern and central parts of the country, seeing how culinary culture in these areas skews more towards western influence as opposed to delving into the Philippines’ roots as part of the Pan-Malayan Peninsula. Indeed, he has pointed out that his food reflects the cornerstone flavour profiles of the country’s peninsular neighbours Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei: richness and depth, piquant heat, a subtle sweetness, and acidity built more with natural ingredients like citrus as opposed to the chemical tang of vinegar. As a result, Cabel Moreno integrates ingredients endemic to his home region into his cookery, as seen in the addition of a fiery Tausug sambal to a canape of baby squid served prior to the Mosaic dinner. His seafood course Amor del Mar, which paired crisp-skinned grouper with grilled giant prawns, called to mind the Indonesian kari udang and the sweeter Balinese kari ikan, only with a more refined sweetness built with coconut milk peppered with Cabel Moreno’s own proprietary spice mix. But it is the pianggang from the Azure dinner, Cabel Moreno’s signature dish from Palm Grill which is blackened chicken served with an unctuous burnt coconut sauce, that captures the region on a plate: Minadanaoan soul food for body and soul, served with a smoky mashed eggplant salad and golden rice cooked the Tausug way and reminiscent of nasi lemak - essentially Filipino pride unbowed by the conqueror’s blade, a missing link between a storied past and a present heavily influenced by foreign concepts. The Amor del Mar is an homage to the wealth of seafood available in Mindanaoan waters Quo vadis? With the Philippines hosting the UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism next year, Cabel Moreno is one of the chefs who is working with the country’s Department of Tourism (DOT) to move the Filipino culinary heritage agenda towards the global stage. In a separate interview with us, he said: “The DOT has long said that we have beautiful islands and beaches, but it's the gastronomy that we need to promote and highlight this time. I agree with them on that because Thailand has been really successful [with regard to tourism promotion], not only because of their beautiful islands and beaches but because of their food.” For this reason, he sees the arrival of the Michelin Guide in the country as a game-changer for the country, as well as a boost for culinary advocates like himself. Indeed, as he looks towards the UN Tourism forum and other events wherein he can further push for his advocacy, Cabel Moreno says: “This is actually wonderful for me because it will again give foreigners more opportunities to discover us.” Photos and Interview: Marga Manlapig
Top tips for a smashing summer vacation to Manila, Boracay, and Cebu for ‘Gen Z’
Cool off in style at Savoy Hotel Manila’s indoor pool Whether you like vibe of the city, crave an island getaway, or discover hidden cultural gems, this guide has all the inspiration you need. MANILA: For the city-loving foodie & lowkey staycay queen Eat your way on a Binondo Food Crawl If you have a soft spot for food and culture, Binondo is the ultimate playground. As the world’s oldest Chinatown, it is bursting with stories, centuries-old churches, and a culinary scene that hits all the right notes. Insider Tip: Just 15 minutes from Hotel Lucky Chinatown lies the historic Calle Escolta. Don't miss the chance to visit the Calvo Museum, where you can explore a wide collection of vintage memorabilia and antiques and admission is absolutely free. Staycation Goals in the Newport Area Sometimes, the best kind of vacation is the one where you do not need to pack your passport. Head over to Newport City for a stress-free staycation filled with everything you love—airport proximity, shopping, event spaces, and cafés just around the corner. Insider Tip: Craving street food? Take the back entrance of Savoy Hotel Manila and head straight to 10th Street, where you’ll find a variety of unique and mouthwatering local street eats—perfect for a quick bite or a late-night foodie adventure in the heart of Manila. BORACAY: For the sun chasers & tropical dreamers Take a Snap of the Different Beaches in Boracay While White Beach is iconic, there is a whole other side to Boracay waiting to be explored. From the serene shores of Puka Beach to the postcard-perfect landscapes of Boracay Newcoast, this island is not just about parties and sunsets, it is also your gateway to hidden gems and tranquil spots where you can slow down and bask in tropical bliss. Insider Tip: For a panoramic view of Boracay, make your way to Mount Luho, the island’s highest peak. The view is especially magical during sunrise and sunset, when the sky lights up in breathtaking colors. Mactan Newtown Beach from above = coastal perfection Try Exhilarating Water Activities If your idea of fun includes a little thrill, then Boracay’s lineup of water activities is your summer dream come true. Hop on a banana boat, go parasailing for sky-high views, or take an ATV ride along scenic trails. It is the kind of high-energy adventure that will have you grinning through your goggles and filling your phone with GoPro-worthy content. Insider Tip: Just a short boat ride from the main island, Ariel’s Point is the ultimate adventure hotspot. Spend the day cliff diving from various heights, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or playing beach volleyball. It is the perfect escape for thrill-seekers. CEBU: For the adventurers & island hoppers Explore Cebu’s Historical Gems Beyond the beaches and bites, Cebu is home to some of the country’s most iconic heritage sites and Mactan is your gateway to the landmarks that echo the stories of the Spanish colonial era. Step into the past with a visit to Magellan’s Cross, wander the walls of Fort San Pedro, and take in the spiritual beauty of Basilica del Santo Niño. Insider Tip: Jump on a boat and head to Olango Island, which is a must-visit for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Recognized as one of the world’s seven most important flyways for migratory birds, the island serves as a seasonal haven for species traveling from Siberia, Northern China, and Japan. With 97 bird species recorded, Olango offers a truly unique wildlife experience. Beyond birdwatching, the island is also home to three incredible dive sites, where you can explore a rich and diverse marine ecosystem beneath the waves. Spend the summer with your barkada in Boracay Newcoast Taste Authentic Cebuano Food One word: lechon. But it does not stop there. Cebu’s food scene is all about bold flavors, from juicy grilled seafood to sutukil—a mix of sugba (grill), tula (soup), and kinilaw (ceviche). Every meal is a feast, and every bite tells a story. Go ahead, live your foodie fantasy and eat like a true local. Insider Tip: Long before The Mactan Newtown became the vibrant township, several towering trees had already taken root in the area. Some of them still stand tall by the beach, bearing silent witness to years of change and growth. These trees offer a cooling shade along beachfronts. Get Wet & Wild with Water Adventures Cebu is a certified playground for water babies. From snorkeling and diving with vibrant marine life to jet skiing across the waves, every moment in the water is a chance to make a memory. Mactan Island is where it all begins. Insider Tip: Beyond the vibrant Sinulog Festival in January, Cebu also celebrates the sweet and sunny Mango Festival every May. A tribute to one of the province’s most iconic and delicious fruits. This lively event showcases Cebu’s rich agricultural heritage while honoring one of Cebu’s greatest products.
Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay brings wedding fashion to Station Zero
Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay held its first-ever beachfront fashion show for Weddings by Crimson featuring a collection by New York-based Filipino designer Bessie Besana. The event helped reinforce Crimson Boracay’s reputation as one of the most sought-after venues for destination weddings in the Philippines as it offers breathtaking sunsets, an exclusive beachfront characterised by pristine white sands, as well as its seamless blend of romance, luxury, and world-class hospitality. Welcoming guests to the event, resort general manager Didier Belmonte declared: "With its breathtaking shores, curated experiences, and unparalleled hospitality, Crimson Boracay provides an unforgettable setting for couples to begin their journey together. This event is a celebration of love, artistry, and the seamless fusion of fashion and romance." Stylish sophistication coming down the aisle Besana regaled attendees with an exceptional collection named Ray of Twilight. As its name suggests, the 20-piece bridal couture collection was inspired by the fleeting beauty of dusk. Known for impeccable craftsmanship stemming from a background in engineering, Besana has dressed many of the Philippines’ most celebrated figures, including ’s journey from engineering to fashion has seen him dress some of the country’s most celebrated figures, including Ms Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach. Enhancing the bridal show were beauty and styling experts Makeup by Ella, Michael Oczon Hair and Makeup, May Jasmine Labao Makeup Studio Salon and Spa, and Erielyn Gaston Professional Makeup Artist. Adding a musical touch to the celebration was event violinist Joshua Espino. A nuptial showcase Prior to the runway show, couples getting ready to tie the knot and wedding enthusiasts explored the Weddings by Crimson Bridal Showcase, a two-day exhibition held at Crimson Boracay’s Coral Ballroom and Events Pavilion. Featuring a beautifully staged wedding ceremony setup indoors and an outdoor ceremony inspiration space, the showcase provided couples with a firsthand look at elegant wedding concepts, expert styling, and curated details designed for a dream celebration by the sea. Since it was initially staged in 2023, Weddings by Crimson has been all about crafting extraordinary moments for couples ready to say “I do.” More than just an event, it is a carefully curated experience designed to inspire soon-to-wed couples with stunning venues, expert collaborations, and seamless service that make dream weddings a reality. Today, Weddings by Crimson is a premier bridal showcase that brings together top designers, stylists, and industry professionals to create a wedding journey as magical as the big day itself.
Boracay MICE Alliance presents the Great Boracay Getaway
The Boracay MICE Alliance (BMA) is currently running its Great Boracay Getaway campaign which offers up to 75 percent discounts in tour packages, hotels, and dining outlets. The BMA is composed of leading private-sector tourism stakeholders on the island, who aim to position Boracay as a premier hub for MICE. The campaign is meant to entice more tourists to explore what the Alliance describes as a refreshed and reinvigorated Boracay. The Great Boracay Getaway kicked off on 15th January and runs until 15th February, featuring more than a hundred exclusive packages from nearly 30 top-tier properties on the island. The packages come with non-expiring vouchers, giving travelers the freedom to book at their convenience. A brighter, better Boracay The island destination underwent a comprehensive overhaul for six months, along with extensive renovations throughout the pandemic years. According to BMA chair Cleofe Albiso: “Travelers can look forward to a destination that offers endless water activities, vibrant culinary offerings, and the most pristine beaches. There’s much to choose from—and we want the world to know just how excited we are to welcome them back.” The BMA hopes that this initiative will encourage longer stays as more than a thousand vouchers will be made available to allow tourists to curate their own Boracay trip. Some participating establishments also offer exclusive door-to-door travel packages, beachfront room deals, island-hopping activities, and spa and massage vouchers. Participating brands for the campaign include Almon Ink Tattoo, Altabriza Resort Boracay, Alta Vista, Aria Cucina Italiana, Azalea Hotels, B and C, Belmont Hotel Boracay, Boracay Adventures, Boracay Amor Apartments, Boracay Beach Truck, Boracay Grace, Boracay Haven Resort, Boracay Haven Suites, Boracay Newcoast properties, Cafe del Sol, Crimson Boracay, Grand Blue, Hama Japanese Cuisine, Mega Paraw, My Boracay Guide, New Lounge, Ondus, Purple Diaries, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Shore Time Condotel, Shore Time Hotel, and Viaje.
Boracay welcomes its first cruise passengers for 2025
The Philippine resort island of Boracay welcomed its first cruise tourists for 2025 on Monday, 13th January. Guests arrived aboard AIDA Cruises’ Italian-flagged AIDAstella. At least 2,019 guests out of the 3,120 passengers and crew aboard disembarked from the ship to experience the beauty of Boracay's white-sand beaches. A representative of the Department of Tourism remarked: “For nine unforgettable hours they embraced the island’s charm, exploring its pristine white-sand beaches, swimming in its turquoise waters, and immersing themselves in its vibrant culture – all despite the gentle blessing of rain that added a touch of magic to their adventure.” A special highlight of the visit was the formal plaque exchange ceremony between DOT officials and the ship’s captain, showcasing the Philippines' warm hospitality. Afterwards, the AIDAstella sailed to Coron, Palawan. The post-pandemic return of cruise ships, carrying loads of visiting tourists to the Philippines, started during the first half of 2023. In order to attract this booming market, the Philippine government launched last year the cruise visa waiver program, which simplifies entry for international cruise passengers.
Discovery Boracay hailed Philippines’ leading beach resort for second year in a row
The judges of the 31st annual World Travel Awards (WTAs) hailed Discovery Boracay the Philippines’ Leading Beach Resort, marking the second consecutive time it has won the award. The resort is also the only property in the island destination to receive recognition at the WTAs. This honour is proof of Discovery Boracay’s longstanding commitment to delivering exquisite guest experiences in an increasingly competitive market. Hotel manager Erwin Lopez, expressed gratitude for the award, noting how it highlights the team's dedication to exceptional service and inspires continued excellence in luxury hospitality. DB is known for its luxurious accommodations, personalized service, and prime location on White Beach of Boracay. It offers diverse dining options, a tranquil spa, and activities that showcase Boracay’s natural beauty.
Boracay to open dedicated zone for Muslim travellers
The Philippine island of Boracay becomes more inclusive as it gears up to open a special beach dedicated to Muslim travellers on 10th September. According to the country’s Department of Tourism (DOT), the private beach set aside for the use of Muslim women is located within the Boracay Newcoast zone operated by real estate firm Megaworld. According to DOT undersecretary for Muslim affairs Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar: “Some Muslims can swim in public, but others would prefer to swim in a more private area.” This Islamic tourism initiative was previously suggested by foreign diplomats based in the Philippines, including the ambassadors of Malaysia and Brunei. Valderrosa-Abubakar explained that a meeting was held with the mayor of Boracay wherein tourism officials mentioned the need for a private area for Muslims visiting the island. She said: “[The mayor] said he would find an area and that we made the suggestion in time as Megaworld has a coastal area [at Boracay Newcoast] that could be transformed into a private beach for Muslim women.” Located on the northeastern section of the island, Boracay Newcoast is also home to the Savoy Hotel which is one of the few establishments in the country to secure a Halal kitchen certification.
Didier Belmonte takes on general manager post at Crimson Boracay
Chroma Hospitality announced the appointment of French hotelier Didier Belmonte to Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay as its new general manager. Belmonte officially took office at the beginning of this month, taking on the stint after his eight-year tenure as general manager at Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan in Cebu where he worked to boost its overall customer experience and service. Service excellence lies at the core of Belmonte’s work in the industry, and this will remain his chief focus at his new assignment. Under his leadership, guests coming to the island paradise are assured of a warm welcome and a comfortably enjoyable stay. Belmonte said: “Giving the best that we can in terms of effort, service quality, the overall quality of amenities and products offered on the property is, in my opinion, the key for any hotel’s or resort’s success. By doing so, we make a stay or vacation a memorable one for our guests by creating memories, which encourages them to tell everyone they know about the Heart of Station Zero.” A career rooted in excellent service Belmonte’s career in hospitality began in the food and beverage sector, where he managed several Michelin-star restaurants. This was a journey that took him from The Connaught in London, to various Michelin-starred establishments in France and Germany. He later expanded his expertise during his stints in Lebanon, Dubai, and Oman, excelling throughout his tenure in food and beverage management. Belmonte made the shift to hotel management when he got his first executive post at The Legian in Bali. Afterwards, he demonstrated remarkable leadership at The Strand Yangon in Myanmar, where he took into consideration what guests wanted and needed in their stays, delivering truly memorable experiences in numerous aspects.
Crimson Boracay brings island sustainability to MICE
Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay (CRSB) changes the game when it comes to MICE, fusing it with its signature island flair and a touch of sustainability with the MICE Matters programme. Part of Chroma Hospitality’s Today and Beyond sustainability initiative, MICE Matters offers corporate clients a range of well-considered options for everything from simple meetings to more elaborate conventions, and even full-scale exhibitions. Every venue used in the initiative not only delivers Crimson’s renowned elegant comfort, great service, and excellent cuisine, but also an emphasis on protecting the environment through specific actions. Three options for client consideration Crimson Boracay’s current MICE Matters program offers three meeting packages depending on the magnitude of a client’s event: Green Meetings, Destination Meetings, and Customized Meetings. Under the Green Meetings option, clients may choose from three outdoor venues: the Beach Pavilion, Coral Courtyard, and the Event Pavilion. These may be decorated according to their specific taste or theme. Along with mindful venue styling, Crimson also presents menus featuring exceptional dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients; refillable water pitchers in lieu of PET bottled water; and a paperless setup featuring event programmes and menus accessible via QR code. For those seeking a bit of local flair for their events, Crimson offers its Destination Meetings package. Sporting the Ati-Atihan theme native to Boracay and the neighbouring islands of Aklan and Iloilo, this festive meeting selection offers a meeting venue decorated with island traditions in mind. The theme is explored further with dishes inspired by local delicacies for the menu, as well as live local music to liven the atmosphere. Clients who may want to give participants the full Aklanon experience could also welcome them with an Ati-Atihan performance, or opt for drummers and fire-dancers for an evening affair. Finally, for those who want to put their own spin on a corporate island experience, there is the Customized Meetings package. As clients are given carte blanche, venues may be decorated according to their specific theme, and they may freely choose menu options and conference details.
Eat, work and play: 4 new travel experiences in Boracay to try
In light of the current COVID-19 situation, the recommendations and activities mentioned in this article are for fully vaccinated travellers coming from visa-free countries only. Please always refer to local government health advisories for travel. Inspired to show off the new face of the island to tourists, the Philippines Department of Tourism (PDOT) is launching new experiences in Boracay as it now opens for local and international tourists. While Boracay, Philippines is a popular travel destination for beach enthusiasts as the province is famous for its fine white sand and emerald waters, this vacation spot offers more than that. Here are some of the new experiences in the Philippines' crown jewel of an island: Bike tour It may seem like a thing of the past when Boracay was shut down for months for its much-needed rehabilitation in 2018. Since then, the province has embraced sustainability. Various researches have revealed that health and wellness top the priorities of travellers post-COVID. Seasoned travellers try to incorporate physical activities while they are on vacation. Full of scenic spots throughout the island, Boracay is a haven for cyclists. Riding a bike in Boracay takes you to the less explored parts of the island like hidden coves and dirt roads leading to forests. Bike rental establishments can be found at the D’Mall complex on White Beach. Some are also located at the other beaches. Average bike rental fee costs PHP100 (USD2) per hour. No need to wait in line and pay an exorbitant fare for electric vehicles to take you to your destination. Food crawl Food tour is one of the travel experiences in Boracay that you should not skip. The new Food Crawl Program highlights iconic dishes of each establishment, and Boracay promises a culinary adventure. Aside from authentic Filipino dishes and delicacies, international cuisine can also be enjoyed on the island. Dotted with a number of restaurants and food courts catered to satisfy every kind of craving, Boracay is home to some of the best eats you'll ever have. Start your food trip at Station X or at the D’Mall where a handful of food stalls of different cuisines converge. You can also visit D’Talipapa and experience its “paluto” service. Wellness Boracay successfully transformed itself as a prime destination for both active experiences and relaxation. Due to the ongoing health crisis, travellers put wellness as a top priority when choosing a destination. In case you didn't know, Boracay is a spa haven. Almost every hotel have their own wellness facilities and health spas dotted the island. With several beaches to choose from, the island is the perfect destination for a beach holiday. Lay lazily on the pearly, white sand that will melt your stress away. Moreover, thanks to the friendly island vibe, one can meet amazing locals and travellers that will improve your well-being. Workation Aimed to lure bleisure (business and leisure) travellers and digital nomads to spend weeks and even months on the island where they can strike a balance between work, fun and wellness. DOT has partnered with 20 hotels for the “workation” setup. Under this program, establishments will provide a stable internet connection and coworking space for guests. Capitalising on the demand for flexible workspace, hotels are often equipped with fitness centres and spas where guests can easily jump from working to pampering. “Working from paradise, such as Boracay, is touted as promoting mental health and wellness, as it balances work and relaxation, combined with the healing properties of being outdoors and experiencing nature,” DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said. Boracay has been given ample time to regenerate after two closures and is ready to show the world the new face of the paradise island. As of February 10, 2022, fully vaccinated tourists from visa-free countries are allowed to enter the Philippines. Visit visitor.tourism.gov.ph for the full list of countries allowed to enter, travel requirements, and health and safety protocols. DISCOVER MORE FUN
Movenpick Boracay
Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay, Aklan, Philippines Philippines
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