Category: Blog

They say never go out drinking with an empty stomach. But in the hustle and bustle that is Manila, filling up before or in between those tequila shots and beer buckets seem like a daunting task. But if you find yourself in a drinking session in the quirky Poblacion, Makati, a new addition to the gastronomic block is what you’ve been looking for all this time. Enter Yalla Yalla Express, a charming food joint just a few steps away from Z Hostel, serving delicious, grab-and-go Lebanese comfort food.

A shawarma to go before some Jose Cuervo? We say yes! Although Yalla Yalla means “fast” or “hurry up” in Arabic, the food here is not without careful thought and preparation. It is tiny but very quaint and no-nonsense: just a few chairs and wooden counters, a chalkboard menu, and an almost-open kitchen where you can see the huge slabs of meat on the way to your tummy.

Their moutabal (roasted eggplant) is a star appetizer. The smokiness is on-point and layers of flavor gets you in the mood for a feast.

They also have an interesting take on falafel, it is rather crunchy and light than the usual ones around.

The beef shawarma is a clear winner, the flavorful meat almost melts in your mouth and the turmeric rice complements the rich flavors and spices. The side dish of pickled cucumber, tomato, and beetroot provides a fresh relief while the onions.

The chicken shawarma is also a good choice. The first bites feel flat, but after a few more, you’ll definitely get the zing. Splash some of their homemade garlic and chili sauce onto your meat or rice and you get a rounded, fuller taste!

If chicken is really your thing, try the shish taouk (chicken skewers) which packs an interesting mix of salty, sour, and sweet flavors.

Don’t miss trying the sujuk (spicy sausage) as well! If you have it served in wraps, it pretty much reminds you of tasty quesadillas but this definitely has another twist of savor and and explosion of spiciness that is very Mediterranean.

It’s refreshing to see more and more concepts and cuisines popping out of Poblacion. It’s definitely becoming a multi-cultural center where locals and foreigners come together to have a great time. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to to fill up at Yalla Yalla first — definitely a good, comforting start to what will be long night of revelry in Makati. (And who knows you’ll end up there again for some good, recovery food!

Yalla Yalla is located at 5652 Don Pedro Street, Poblacion, Makati. 

There’s a song that goes “smoke gets in your eyes.” But in this side of the now multi-cultural and dynamic Poblacion neighborhood in Makati, smoke gets into the meat, that melts in your mouth, and then lasts in your heart. Holy Smokes down Matilde Street just gets American barbecue right. Let us tell you why.

Situated in an abandoned house in a sleepy neighborhood that was given a clean, beautiful makeover, Holy Smokes is well-put and well-thought out but never intimidating. That’s the idea in the first place: a sense of community while feasting over good food. Which brings us to the main point: the food — the overly sumptuous grub straight out of meat paradise and smoke heaven.

While the perfect American barbecue, especially in the Southern parts, are smoked to perfection using apple, oak, and hickory, it is difficult to find all that here in the country and could get very pricey. So Holy Smokes now uses local wood such as santol and kaimito (star apple) which give off a close semblance to the imported ones yet have a local flavor.

The smoking process goes on for 12-14 hours and the result is tender and juicy beef brisket. It is charred very lovely outside and then a pinkish streak greets you as you slice the meat.

The beef ribs is an absolute winner, too. Tender and goes off the bones with just a slight force of the fork.The roast chicken is a gastronomic feat, prepared the same way as the ribs but definitely packs its own medley of flavor and texture. And what’s the meat without the side dishes? Even these meat accompaniments are done right.

Cajun rice, cilantro rice, creamed corn, and coleslaw, although considered sides, steal the spotlight. Food for share like nachos and poutine should not be missed as well.

If you thought we’ve said everything to make you jump out of your seat and head to Holy Smokes right away, we’re not done yet. There is a local craft beer available in-store: Joe’s Brew gets it right as well — but we’ll save that for another story. But for now, make your way to Holy Smokes. Because mouthwatering, juicy, fall-off-the-bone meat and ice cold beer is never a bad idea.

Holy Smokes is located at 5834 Matilde corner Jacobo St., Poblacion, Makati City. Open everyday from 5 PM to 12 MN.

You have probably been told to skip this country’s capital by all means. Hate to admit it but the traffic is seriously bad. But a 3-hour-hellish-trip-along-the-national-highway situation aside, Manila is still worth the chance. It is chaotic but charming, a cool kid with an old soul. The city is a beautiful mess and one just has to give it a deeper look and go beyond the shiny malls to realize that Manila is still a capital of fun. We list down the top activities you should not miss:

1. Ride a bamboo bike in Intramuros

Cycle your way through history in eco-friendly bamboo bikes along and through the century-old walled city of Intramuros with Bambike Eco-Tours. There’s no better way to explore UNESCO-listed churches, historical forts, and antique shops than using a sustainable means of transportation handmade by a community of bike builders and a fun company throughout the day.

2. Play detective at Mystery Manila

Unleash the inner Sherlock Holmes in you and solve a mystery in one of Manila’s relatively recent must-do activities. More and more live escape game rooms have been coming up and it’s definitely something travelers must do while in the city. So gather your hostel roommates and be in for an hour of fun. Friendships are bound to be tested, though!

3. Food trip in the world’s oldest Chinatown

A great influence on Filipino culture, Chinese traditions and cuisine is still very well and alive this part of the world. Hop from dimsum places to noodle nooks and savor a lot of oriental flavors in between, a visit to Chinatown while in Manila is a must on the list.

4. Ride a colorful jeepney through the city

They’re flashy, they’re noisy but they definitely add a color to this bustling city. Jeepneys are probably the most famous means of transportation in the Philippines and can pack up to 20 people inside. With some blinking lights and pumping radio music, it’s definitely going to be a wild ride.

5. Get creative at Art in Island

Visiting museums is definitely a great activity when visiting a new country or city. But what if we’ve told you that an art museum here in Manila lets you be part of the art work? So forget about the No Touch policy because in Art in Island, be creative and strike your best pose in the 3D tricks and art illusions!

6. Chill in charming Cubao X

For travelers who want to get to know more of the city’s soul than just shiny malls and sparkling disco balls, Cubao Expo is the place to be. It’s a compound of everything alternative and underground: art galleries, concept barbershops, quaint cafes, and quirky novelty shops. You can spend the whole afternoon and evening here, and there’s no right time or feeling to leave.

7. Jump for joy at the Trampoline Park

Unleash those somersaults and dive into a giant foam pit. Or bounce off the ground to get that slam dunk. Or just simply jump your heart out. This place is definitely for all the kids at heart.

8. Sing your heart out in a Karaoke bar

There is no doubt about Filipino’s penchant for singing, whether in the shower room, inside the car while stuck in traffic, or even while working in an office cubicle, we just love to sing. So every corner there should be a karaoke bar and if some local friends invite you to a singing party, you will absolutely regret saying no.

9. Reggae it up on Irie Sundays at B-side

It does look like an old warehouse but it’s definitely why this old courtyard is a favorite spot for the crowd who is into anything unassuming. The Collective is a space that holds art stores, concept cafes, and every Sunday night, a revelry of reggae music, live bands, and dancing like no one’s watching. No dress codes, no lines — just pure irie vibes.

10. Party ‘til sunrise underground style in Time Club

You started knocking back some cocktails at Z Hostel roofdeck, jumped next door to chill at Pura Vida, headed to Valkyrie for the ultimate clubbing experience. Where do you go after? Definitely Time Club in Makati. It plays mostly underground house, techno, and dance music. The clock stops inside Time and before you know it, you’re eating Filipino breakfast right across at 7 in the morning.

Traveling as a vegetarian can be difficult at times, whether it’s because of cultural practices, very few accessible and affordable options, or you’re just clueless of what is really in your food. And in the Philippines, where almost everyone likes their sisig (sizzling chopped pork cheeks) and adobo (pork and chicken marinated in soy sauce and vinegar), it can prove more challenging. But no need to worry, we’ve rounded up vegetarian-friendly restaurants around the metro that serve mouth-watering non-meat dishes.

Corner Tree Café

This charming and homey space along Jupiter Street is almost like a little refuge in the middle of the busy business district and from all the meat-serving restaurants around it. It’s also usually regarded as the best vegetarian restaurant in Makati, serving modern gluten-free dishes and a variety of refreshing beverages to go with it — we’re talking about Fruit Lassis here. Start off with a heart Spinach and Pechay Chowder (with a zing of fresh lemon) and don’t miss out on their bestseller Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna.

Corner Tree Cafe: 150 Jupiter Corner Saturn Street, Bel-Air, Makati City

Hummus Elijah 

It’s hard to argue why this Middle Eastern restaurant is hailed to have “the best hummus and falafel” in Manila. It really does deliver on Mediterranean cuisine’s favorites including shakshuka and baba ghanoush. But the main star is really its creamy, velvety hummus. It’s packed with flavor and is served in a very generous portion — you’d order another pita bread for sure.

Hummus Elijah: Second Floor, Commercial Building, 7850 Makati Avenue, Poblacion, Makati City

Satinka Naturals 

Handmade soaps and organic oils greet you as you enter this charming corner café in Kamagong and Chino Roces, Makati. With low tables and soft cushion pillows as seats, the place is relaxing and heartwarming. Before you know it, you are already feasting on their all-organic and MSG-free dishes. The Chicken Honey Mustard (comes with mountain red rice!) is an absolute favorite and the interesting Vegan Adobo is a clear winner, too! Finish off with Sagada-style Yogurt and your tummy will never be as happy.

Satinka Naturals: 1137 Kamagong Street, San Antonio, Makati City

Kismet Café

This café in Poblacion area might look small and too cute for your life but they’re packed with amazing healthy options that are good on the tastebuds. Kismet means “fate or destiny’ and the colorful murals and images of peace around gives the place more soul. Try the Vegan Pesto Cream Sandwich and a hot coffee (they serve vegan options!) on a lazy Saturday afternoon.

Kismet Cafe: Ground Floor, MBA Building, 5022 P. Burgos Street Corner Kalayaan Avenue, Poblacion, Makati City

Greenery Kitchen

Home cooked vegetarian versions of all-time Filipino favorites straight out of a lovely house kitchen — ready for a meal with a lot of heart? Their bestseller is vegetarian Sisig (as mentioned above, it’s a Filipino favorite especially as a beer match) and other offerings include Pesto Pasta and Tofu Seaweed Rolls

Greenery Kitchen: 4067 Kalayaan Avenue, Tejeros, Makati City

There’s nothing pizza can’t cure: be it a bad day at work, a lost basketball game, or a heartbreak. But it’s also the first thing we look for when we want to celebrate. Thank heavens there’s a new pizza place in town ready to cater to our much-needed pie fix: Crosta Pizzeria in The Social on Ebro, Poblacion, Makati.

Crosta literally means “crust” in Italian because doughhh, it’s all about the crust. And Crosta takes pride in its dough, fermented for 48 hours, giving it a light, airy, yet tasty end product you won’t stop munching on. Crosta does not identify itself with a certain style, not exactly Neapolitan, not exactly fast-food style — just really a league of its own. And we definitely agree.

Now let’s get to the stars of the show! Perfectly cooked in brick ovens, their pizzas come in mouth-watering, well-thought-out flavors.

Shroomed Out is a winner: Shiitake, Portobello, and white button mushrooms on a bed of Taleggio, Fontina, and Parmesan cheese.

It goes without saying that The Basic Bitch is a must-try: homemade pizza sauce, Mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.

For all cheese lovers, it’s definitely Cheesy AF for you: pizza dough smothered with Mozzarella, Fontina, Taleggio, Parmesan, and Goat cheese.

The carnivore in you will be happy with Pork You: bite after bite of bacon, homemade fennel sausage, pancetta, and salami with their homemade sauce and Mozzarella.

Everyone’s favorite comfort food has finally found its new home in Makati. And how fitting it is to be inside The Social, Poblacion’s first open food park. A cold beer in between pizza bites is never a bad idea after all. So if you want to feel better, just remember: in pizza, we crust. Or shall we say it again: in pizza, we Crosta.

Crosta Pizzeria: The Social on Ebro, 5770 Ebro St., Poblacion, Makati

It maybe the second smallest province in the Philippines (and the smallest in the entire Mindanao) but Camiguin Island is definitely big in natural charm, enchanting attractions, historic sites, and warm people.

The island is home to a number of dormant and active volcanoes, earning it a title of being an “Island Born of Fire.” Mt. Vulcan and Mt. Hibok-Hibok, among others, and their natural activities have shaped and reshaped this island into what it is now — a piece of paradise blessed with hot springs, cold springs, waterfalls, sand bars, and century-old ruins.

The adventure begins by either taking a direct flight to Camiguin or a flight to Cagayan de Oro (via Laguindingan Airport), then a bus or van to Balingoan port, and a ferry to cross to Benoni Port in Camiguin.

The island is filled with humble resorts and affordable inns so accommodation is not really a problem. Unlike many Philippine destinations, Camiguin is still relatively sleepy, quiet, and simple. There are several tourists around but it has still remained serene — perfect for a weekend getaway or a respite from busier destinations in your itinerary.

The biggest attraction here is the White Island, a beautiful horseshoe-shaped sandbar just 15 mins ride away from the northern shore of Mambajao town. Boat rental only costs P450 for a group of 6. The sand is fine and the waters are cold and calm. Mt. Hibok Hibok provides a breathtaking backdrop to this stunning white sand bar in the middle of turquoise waters.

Other major attractions can be visited in one day. Rent a motorbike to go at your own pace or an entire van if you are traveling with a group (one multicab only costs P1,700 for a whole day tour, including gas and driver). The next big draw is the Sunken Cemetery, a graveyard submerged into the sea after years of eruption of Mt. Vulcan. From afar, a huge cross can be seen as a marker for the submerged gravesite and can be reached via a small boat for a very minimal fee. The waters surrounding it are clear and the graves have become home to colorful corals and fish making it a beautiful and unique snorkeling site.

The tour then takes you to the Old Catarman Church Ruins where a 100-year balete tree can be seen. Proceed to the Sto. Niño Cold Springs at noon to cool off in its crystal-clear cold waters.

Marvel at the towering 250-meter Katibawasan Falls (and take a dip in its emerald green water which is arguably colder than Sto. Niño’s!). And cap off the tour with a visit to Ardent Hot Springs which is perfect as the sun goes down and the cold breeze starts to kick in.

Camiguin maybe small in size but it surely makes up with its amazing sights and wonderful natural attractions. The locals are also very notably hospitable, warm, and friendly. They exude an easiness and calmness that makes your stay much more pleasant.

Fell in love with the Philippines? Or fell in love with someone in the Philippines? Or you just really think it’s more fun in the Philippines? Whatever reason you have for wanting to stay longer in paradise, here are tips on how extension of your visitor visa in the Philippines can be obtained.

Most passport holders from other countries can arrive in the Philippines and obtain a visa on arrival good for 30-day stay in the country. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for a visa extension at an office of the Bureau of Immigration, preferably a week before your visa expires. A day before is fine but better to be sure.

EXTENSION OF STAY FOR 29 MORE DAYS OR LESS

Tourists who want to extend their stay in the Philippines for 29 more days after their initial 30-day stay can apply for a VISA WAIVER.

Where? You can head to the main BI office in Intramuros, Manila or any of these offices.

What to bring? Make sure to bring your original passport, an application form (which you can get at the office or download here), and a Sworn Statement for overstaying /updating of stay of more than six (6) months.

How much is the payment? Please click here for applicable fees.

EXTENSION OF STAY BEYOND 59 DAYS

Any foreign tourist who plans to stay longer than 59 days must secure extensions of stay with the Bureau of Immigration.

Where? You can head to the main BI office in Intramuros, Manila or any of these offices.

What to bring? Make sure to bring your original passport, an application form (which you can get at the office or download here), and a Sworn Statement for overstaying /updating of stay of more than six (6) months.

How much is the payment? Please click here for applicable fees.

Important Reminders

• Dress code is enforced in the immigration offices. Dress appropriately and avoid wearing shorts and thongs or flip-flops. Security will deny entry for those who will show up in these apparel. (Provincial offices like in Boracay and Dumaguete may not require the mentioned dress code. But better be sure than sorry, right?)
• Bring a recent 2×2 photograph of yourself on white background which you need to attach in the application form.
• Review the list of fees above and make sure to bring cash in Philippine pesos enough for the fees applicable to your extension.

It’s high time we give those poor old horses driving carriages a break. While kalesas are a piece of history, there is another way of seeing and enjoying Manila (and other destinations in general) with fresh eyes and a sustainable mode of transportation. Enter Bambike, bamboo bicycles that are handcrafted by a socio-ecological enterprise in the Philippines.

Nothing could be “greener” than this (aside from walking of course) — bikes made out of a very sustainable material and no fuel needed at all. Bambike offers experience tours in Intramuros, a historical site in Old Manila featuring Spanish fortress, cobbled streets, century-old cathedrals, and museums. Pedal your way, the green way, across Fort Santiago, Plaza San Luis, Rizal Shrine and other historic sights in the area.

The Bambikes are made by Bambuilders from Gawad Kalina, a community-based organization developing projects aimed at putting an end to poverty in the Philippines. So imagine learning history in sustainable material handcrafted by a community as you burn calories (not fuel!), the Bambike tour is indeed a win-win-win-win situation!

And the best part? Book your tour with us here in Z Hostel from July 1-Sept 30 and we give you a 20% discount! Book through +63 927 965 2692 or (02) 856 0851. And soon to come are Bambike Poblacion Tours — an enjoyable and ecological way to hop around this energetic Makati district filled with gastronomic and architectural hotspots! See you around!

The Philippines is home to some of the most beautiful islands and the clearest waters in the world. In fact, the country’s last frontier Palawan was hailed once again “the world’s best island” by Travel + Leisure magazine, the same spot it filled last year and in 2013. But with this incredible recognition of the country’s marine and coastal resources comes a disturbing fact: the Philippines is also the 3^rd biggest source of plastic waste in the oceans.

It is a major problem that needs to be tacked at large. But that doesn’t mean there are no easy, simple steps to help solve this. Enter The Plastic Solution. It is a movement of reducing plastic waste by creating “eco-bricks,” recycled plastic bottles stuffed with non-biodegradable waste to become an alternative building material.

Here are the steps to creating an eco-brick:

These eco-bricks can now then be piled up or used as fillers for building structures such as walls, fences, and benches. And these smaller structures can then be further built into actual homes, classrooms, and even a forest nursery!

The Plastic Solution was founded by Ziggie Gonzalez, who is also a co-founder of the Circle Hostel group. Part of the walls surrounding the Circle Hostel in Zambales have already used eco-bricks and have sparked a growing community of concerned citizens, beach lovers, and environmental warriors who want to create big changes through little yet impactful actions.

Z Hostel is a proud supporter of The Plastic Solution. Come by the hostel anytime to drop-off your eco-bricks and we’ll be more than glad to take them to the building sites. Happy stuffing!

Photo credits: The Plastic Solution Facebook Page

Think the Philippines is all gorgeous islands and amazing beaches? Nothing bad about it at all but if you are more of a mountain person, then this country also offers a lot of spots for the adventure junkie and active trekker in you. And while you are in Manila, spend a day in these mountains and trekking trails not very far from the metro:

Mt. Maculot

MASL: 706

Mt. Maculot is fast becoming one of the most popular day hike destinations in the country as it is just at the heart of Batangas, which is relatively near Manila. On weekends though, Mt. Maculot becomes heavy with people so it is advised to avoid such time. There are three main destinations in the site: the grotto, the peak, and the Rockies. It is considered to be a tiring and challenging trail for beginners as it involves a cliff and steep climb. But once you reach the Rockies, you will be rewarded with a glorious view of the entire Taal Lake with, of course, the world-renowned Taal Volcano. The path is covered in lush greens providing a scenic walk and the mountain is interestingly shaped like an igloo making the trip worth all the sweat and effort.

Guide: Php 400 for a group of 5

Registration Fee: Php 20

Bus: Php 150 one way

Getting There:  Take a bus bound for Lemery (bus stations: Kamias in MRT Kamuning or Buendia in LRT Gil Puyat) and get off at Cuenca Town.

Pico De Loro

MASL: 664

Perhaps the most iconic peak near Manila, pictures of which are flooding Facebook timelines in recent years. The Pico de Loro trail starts at Magnetic Hill in Ternate but the ultimate goal is to reach the summit popularly known as the Parrot’s Beak, the highest point in Cavite. From up there, stunning 360-degree views welcome you and take your breath away: Caraballo Mountains in the North, Batangas to the south, Maragondon at the east, and the West Philippine Sea to the west. The trek up to the summit takes around 3-4 hours but as the mountains are a DENR Protected Area, interesting flora and fauna accompany you along the way.

Registration Fee: Php 25

Bus: Php 82 (one way)

Tricycle: Php 250/ride (one way)

Getting There: Take a bus to Maragondon, Cavite from the Coastal Mall Integrated Bus Terminal. From the Ternate Terminal, ride a tricycle to the DENR Station in Magnetic Hill.

Mt. Batulao

MASL: 811

Rolling slopes and grassy open trails has earned Mt. Batulao its spot as one of the hiking crowd’s most favorites. Its terrains have become a popular spot not just for trekkers but also for trail runners. The fantastic sights really make up for the exhausting way especially at the steep ascent up to the summit via the old trail. But you can choose to take the new trail, which they say is a much easier climb. The trail starts at Evercrest Golf Course in Nasugbu, Batangas.

Guide : Php 300-500/day

Registration Fee: P30/trail (Php 60 if using both trails)

Bus: Php 104 (one way)

Tricycle (optional): Php 25/person (one way)

Getting there:   Take any bus bound for Nasugbu or Calatagan at the Coastal Mall Integrated Bus Terminal. Drop off at the Evercrest Golf Course and walk or ride a tricycle to the trailhead.