Mommy Ginger
Let's talk about Business, Beauty and Babies!

Enjoy the Best Luxury Hotels in Waikiki

Situated on the south shore of the Hawaiian island of Oahu is the neighborhood of Waikiki. Known locally as “spouting waters”, this world-renowned district in the city of Honolulu once served as the go-to destination for Hawaiian royalty. Waikiki was introduced to the rest of the world in 1901 when the iconic Moana Surfrider hotel was constructed on its shores. 

Today, this vibrant neighborhood serves as a gathering place for tourists from all over the world and is home to some of Hawaii’s most popular destinations, including the prominent Waikiki Beach.

As the main hotel and resort area of the island, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodations in Waikiki. The tourist hotspot is home to numerous extravagant hotels that cater to travelers who want to get pampered during their stay. If you’re looking for a memorable stay, check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Waikiki. (Pro tip: Find a luggage storage locker where you can temporarily store your belongings before you head out to explore.)

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa

If you’re looking for the ultimate Waikiki experience, why not stay at the place where it all started – the Moana Surfrider. Built in 1901, the hotel is affectionately nicknamed the “First Lady of Waikiki” and offers guests a lavish stay that will take you back to the time of Old Hawaii. The hotel boasts an iconic colonial porte-cochere and features a full range of services and amenities that truly screams luxury; the rooms here are equipped with ultra-comfortable beds and spacious bathrooms among other modern installations. 

Additionally, those staying at the Moana Surfrider can enjoy facilities such as a fully-equipped fitness center, an outdoor pool, six on-site bars and the only beachfront spa in the whole of Waikiki. The hotel is also within striking distance of Waikiki Beach as well as other entertainment and shopping establishments.

The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort

Photo by Jess Loiterton: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-and-blue-concrete-building-near-body-of-water-4610332/

Photo by Jess Loiterton: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-and-blue-concrete-building-near-body-of-water-4610332/

Staying true to its name, The Royal Hawaiian five-star hotel and resort has all you need for a trip filled with relaxation and luxury. Often referred to as the “Pink Palace” because of its easily-recognizable pink façade, the hotel is strategically located in Waikiki Beach and has long been a symbol of Honolulu opulence ever since it opened its doors in 1927. 

Apart from its sizeable guest rooms and suites, the Royal Hawaiian also boasts an extensive range of amenities, including outdoor pools, an award-winning cocktail bar, an exclusive beach area, on-site restaurants and a deluxe spa and wellness center. 

Halekulani Hotel

Named after the Hawaiian phrase meaning “house befitting heaven”, Halekulani Hotel is one of the best places in Waikiki to have a luxurious stay. The five-star beachfront hotel spreads more than five acres of shores and offers an unparalleled view of the iconic Diamond Head. The guest rooms and suites at Halekulani are outfitted with the latest amenities and all come with ocean views. 

Additionally, the hotel houses some incredible facilities and establishments available to guests, including a wellness center, cocktail bars and on-site restaurants, such as the award-winning French restaurant La Mer. As a bonus for guests, Halekulani also has an incredible For You, Everything program, wherein all guests are given free transportation and tickets to some of Honolulu’s most famous attractions.

The Kahala Hotel and Resort

If you’re looking for posh accommodation that offers a little bit more privacy, The Kahala Hotel and Resort is the perfect choice for you. Situated in the upscale neighborhood of Kahala, where it got its name from, this five-star hotel resort is known for its massive oceanfront rooms and suites, all equipped with iHome docking centers, flat-screen televisions, and more. 

Guests are also given free access to the different hotel facilities, including four on-site restaurants, on-site activities (like surfing lessons), a modern fitness center and a full-service spa that offers treatments and beauty services. The Kahala is also a top-notch choice for those looking to escape from the crowds of Waikiki Beach and have a more relaxing getaway without being too far from all the action.

Hilton Hawaiian Village

Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@nicosmit99?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Nico Smit</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/CNb9LjyczEQ?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a>

Photo by Nico Smit on Unsplash

For those who need a “home away from home”, the Hilton Hawaiian Village is a prime choice in Waikiki. This self-contained resort is the biggest one in the whole state of Hawaii; the gigantic property encompasses 22 acres with nearly 3,000 rooms, five guest towers, 20 bars and restaurants, around 100 shops, five pools, and its own lagoon, waterfall and beach area. Moreover, the Hilton Hawaiian Village is also home to a full-service salon and spa, a fitness gym, business center, a health clinic and even a wedding chapel. 

The hotel resort has everything you could possibly need and you don’t have to leave the property. If you do want to leave and check out what’s going on outside the property, the Hilton Hawaiian Village’s strategic location makes it easy for guests to check out popular attractions such as Waikiki Beach. 

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach

The Ritz-Carlton brand has long been synonymous with luxury and its Waikiki Beach outpost is no exception. Especially great for longer stays, the Ritz-Carlton Residences has all the conveniences of a home but with the top-notch services of a five-star hotel. The property has a variety of guest rooms – from well-appointed studios to residential rooms and penthouses – all of which have stunning views of the ocean. 

The rooms are fully equipped with amenities such as deep soaking bathtubs and smart televisions while the residential accommodations have their own kitchen, washing machine, and even dishwashers! Guests of The Ritz are also treated to some lovely hotel facilities, including an infinity pool on the eighth floor with private cabanas, a 24-hour fitness center, multiple on-site restaurants and a world-class spa and wellness center. The property is also a stone’s throw away from noteworthy spots around the city; The Ritz is just about 200 meters away from the popular Luxury Row, which is Honolulu’s premier shopping destination, and some 300 meters away from the Waikiki Beach.

Sources:

https://www.journeyera.com/5-star-hotels-waikiki-honolulu-oahu/

https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/hawaii/articles/the-best-hotels-in-waikiki-beach-for-every-traveler/

https://www.tripsavvy.com/best-waikiki-beach-hotels-4173151

https://www.forbestravelguide.com/destinations/oahu-hawaii

https://www.frommers.com/destinations/oahu/introduction/the-best-luxury-hotels

5 Recommended Hotels in Clementi, Singapore, for a Luxury Vacation

Clementi is one of the areas in Singapore. Queenstown borders this place to the east, Jurong East to the west, Bukit Timah to the northeast, and Bukit Batok to the North. Many tourist attractions, such as the West Bowl, Jack’s Place, and many more. Clementi is always the choice of a fun vacation spot.

Booking a hotel in Clementi will be more enjoyable, so your vacation can be longer. There are many hotel options iClementilace, including the Hilton Singapore Orchard. Let’s find hotels in Clementi, Singapore, for an enjoyable vacation trip!

5 Recommended Hotels in Clementi, Singapore, for a Luxury Vacation

The following is a list of hotel recommendations in Clementi that you can book while on vacation there.

  1. Hilton Singapore Orchard

Location: 333 Orchard Road, Orchard, Singapore, 238867.

Price starts from S$ 378.90/night.

Located in the Orchard Road area, this 5-star hotel is close to Singapore’s entertainment centers, such as Merlion Park, Marina Bay Sands Casino, and many more. In addition, not far from the Hilton Singapore Orchard, there is the Opp Mandarin Orchard, a transportation hub, so you can easily reach other places in Singapore when you stay here.

Hilton Singapore Orchard offers a wide selection of room types, such as Deluxe Twin, Twin Premium, King Premium, also any room with city view. Each room at this hotel is equipped with very complete in room facilities.

  1. PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, Singapore

Location: 6 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Bay, Singapore, 039594.

Price starts from S$ 509.58/night.

Staying at the Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay, Singapore, is the right choice. This hotel has many facilities that will make your holiday experience unforgettable. In addition, to complete in-room facilities, there is a fitness center, outdoor pool, spa, bar, restaurant, and cafe at the Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay.

  1. Orchard Hotel Singapore

Location: 442 Orchard Road, Orchard, Singapore, 238879.

Price starts from S$ 263.74/night.

Want to enjoy a holiday alone or with a partner, staying at Orchard Hotel Singapore is the right choice. This hotel has many types of rooms to choose from according to your needs, and the available in room facilities are also very complete.

Orchard Hotel Singapore is very strategic. Just 58 meters from the hotel, there is CRU Orchard. There are other interesting places around the hotel, including Muddy Murphy’s Irish Pub, Merlion Park, and Marina Bay Sand Casino. There are also many public facilities around the hotel.

  1. Royal Plaza on Scotts

Location: 25 Scotts Road, Orchard, Singapore, 228220.

Price starts from S$ 332.64/night.

There are many choices of room types at Royal Plaza on Scotts has many room types, like Deluxe King, Deluxe Plus Twin, Premier King, Premier Twin, and many more. You can also choose a room with a beautiful view of Singapore’s urban landscape. In addition, the hotel facilities are complete so visitors can have a comfortable and quiet vacation.

Royal Plaza on Scotts is located not far from Orchard MRT Station so you can easily reach other places in Singapore when you stay at this hotel. T Galleria By DFS Singapore and CRU Orchard are not far from the hotel. 

  1. Pullman Singapore Orchard

Location: 270 Orchard Road, Orchard, Singapore, 238857.

Price starts from S$ 391.86/night.

Last but not least, Pullman Singapore Orchard can be another alternative choice for staying in the Clementi area of Singapore. This hotel comes with lots of exciting activities, like golf and a swimming pool. The choice of rooms is also very diverse with interior designs that seem warm and homey.

Book a Room for Your Next Weekend Getaway in Traveloka

Have a vacation plan in the Clementi area, Singapore? You can easily book room hotels because there are so many choices, like the Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay. Use the Traveloka app to book your accommodation!

BFIT Active Kids: Fitness Program for Kids

Update: FREE TRIAL Class for BFit Active kids on June 1 & 5, 2021: Sign up here https://bit.ly/2SdF3pY

photo of woman and girl stretching their body
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.com

It’s been a challenge encouraging my daughter to exercise and be active. Gadgets like Ipads and switches make it extra difficult to drag them to get up and move. So I’ve been researching for indoor activities and i’ve been looking for a fitness program for kids, and I came across this BFIT Active Kids program by Bert Lozada Swim School, and it’s not about swimming.

Taking from BLSS’ over 20 years of experience managing Physical Education (PE) classes in different education institutions, BFit Active Kids offers online PE Programs aligned with the Dept. of Education’s curricula for students in grades K-12.  Structured, mapped out for the school year and easily-replicable for home-based students, the BFIT Active Kids Program is designed for homeschoolers and schools who would want to outsource their online PE program.

I invited Angelo and Pepper Lozada to talk more about the program. Feel free to watch it here.

With the Covid-19 Pandemic, most of the schools are going online. There is an immediate need for a more personalized approach to PE that promotes lifelong fitness.  Our quality curriculum coupled with an online environment creates an ideal setting to achieve that personalized approach.

The ultimate goal of BFit’s personalized online PE program is to empower students as they develop a lifelong commitment to health and physical fitness.

BFit Active Kids Session Includes:

  • One (1) Lead Teacher
  • One (1) Teacher Aide (depends on the number of students per class)
  • Monitoring Team to assure quality of the program
  • Syllabus, Lesson Plan and Rubrics for PE

The rates are affordable, as well. Just to give you an idea, a One-on-One Class is worth Php 600.00 / head. They offer package rates too.

  • 10 session package 5,750.00
  • 20 session package 11,000.00

If you are interested in enrolling, all you need to do is to go to:

For the classes, you will need to have the following:

  1. Stable Internet Connection
  2. Laptop or Tablet with Camera
  3. Zoom Account (Free Account)
  4. Min. 4ft x 4ft Open Space
  5. External Speakers or Bluetooth Head set ( Optional but highly recommended )
  6. Exercise / Yoga Mat
  7. Water Bottle for hydration
  8. Fitness Watch (Optional)

Feel free to visit their page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/bfitactivekids

The Essential Guide To Heading Off The Beaten Track

With coronavirus forcing us to adapt to a new normal, we have had to revolutionize many different aspects of our lives. Travel is no different. Less than six months ago you could have hot-footed it to wherever you wanted on the planet without a care in the world. Fast forward to today and you need to check out quarantine legislation, R rates, and temperature checks.

Travel has become more daunting for the ardent backpacker and the holiday-maker. This doesn’t mean that travel is off the cards forever. For the foreseeable future, we may be planning our trips rather than embarking on them, but in the near future, you will be able to take a jaunt overseas again. However, you may not want to be among the tourist crowds and the busy hotspots. Instead, you might want to venture somewhere off the beaten track to stay safe and reduce your risk of catching Covid-19. Take a look at this essential guide to help you head off the beaten track.

Photo by Porapak Apichodilok from Pexels

Look At A Map

When you plan a travel adventure overseas, the chances are you have an idea of where you want to go in the world. You might want to trek the Inca Trail in Peru, do some temple hopping in Kyoto, Japan or take a drive along Route 66 in the United States. To head off the beaten track successfully, you need to be close enough to activities and sites without being smack bang in the middle of them.

Our trip to Japan last 2017

If you are heading to Japan, Hiroshima is a must-see city. Where the atomic bomb dropped at the end of the Second World War, this city is full of history and optimism. It’s also busy. Instead of staying here, why not hotfoot it to the neighboring island of Miyajima. Beautiful, picturesque and idyllic, you are just thirty minutes away from the city, but you can stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan far away from the crowds. The floating shrines are stunning and there are some wild deer and monkeys to get to grips with. You might even want to scale Mount Misen to see the temple on the peak.

If you fancy Thailand, don’t head to the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, and take a jaunt to Nonthaburi instead. The city is rarely visited by tourists, yet it’s not far from the stunning temple-laden Lat Phrao. You could even save money by finding a cheap house for rent in Nonthaburi rather than staying in an expensive hotel in the region. You can be somewhere less dense, stay for a longer period of time, and enjoy a quieter pace of life.

GPS

If you are planning on heading off the tourist trail, make sure that you have safety as your top priority. While you might love the idea of being free from the shackles of social media and off-grid, it is still prudent to have a smartphone and GPS device on you. If traveling solo is your thing, a GPS device is vital if your set of wheels breaks down or if you get lost. A quick lookup of your coordinates can help emergency services locate and rescue you.

Smartphones are also necessary for those just in case moments. You don’t have to be scrolling through Facebook every hour of your travels, but posting photos now and again and staying in touch with family is important to many travelers no matter where they are in the world.

Image by Jonathan Valencia from Pixabay

Follow The Locals

If you are keen to see the authentic side of a destination, it’s not a good idea to go on tours set up for foreigners. You’ll see the bland and expensive face of a nation. Instead, follow the locals. If you want a great bowl of pasta in Rome, go where the Italians go. If you want some incredible dumplings in Beijing, forget following the Americans and venture where the Chinese go. They may not look the most salubrious of restaurants, but the best and most authentic eateries rarely are. 

To help you stay off the beaten track, you need to converse with the locals. This means you need to commit to learning a little bit of language. Doing this will help you earn the respect of the locals. There’s nothing more embarrassing than shouting slowly in English, expecting a local to understand you. It’s arrogant. Don’t do it. Instead, be a responsible and caring traveler, learning some of the lingo, making friends with the locals, and finding some hidden gems.

Heading off the beaten track can be exciting. Follow this guide and you can stay safe while traveling in a post-pandemic age.

Any other tips? Share it with us!

VR+ NEXT GENERATION VIRTUAL REALITY at S Maison

Summer vacation is almost here! Being a mom, I am starting to look for different activities that Zeeka can do this coming summer vacation. Aside from the occasional trips to Kidzoona, Kidzania and the Mind Museum, and aside from the dance classes with Teacher Mia Cabalfin that she has joined (HipHop Hooray), I’ve been looking for other cool things that she can do.

One of the activities that we stumbled upon was the VR+ Next Generation Virtual Reality place at S. Maison. It’s located on level 2.

#TheATeam at VR+ Next Generation Virtual Reality

What happens is that you are led to a small room, given weapons and the headset (with really clear graphics and audio). Their games are powered by OMAS Entertainment and ONIK Entertainment. Aside from that, their are moving floors and rumbling sounds that make it seem more realistic.

The game that’s most popular from VR+ Next Generation Virtual Reality are their zombie games. Since we had Zeeka with us though, we had to choose Box Man, a game that is more fit for kids like Zeeka.

#TheATeam Inside the Box Man Game

Each game is around Php 400 to Php 450 pesos per person for the Zombie games. Here are the updated prices (2020 rates) from their FB page:

Being the OC parent that I am, I asked if they clean the equipment. They said that they disinfect equipment every time after a game is played.

Check out our experience in this video!

Verdict: We really liked it. If it were a bit closer to where we live, we would probably be there more often. What we like about it is it is definitely more immersive than that ride in Glorietta with the VR glasses. This has better graphics, sounds and weapons.

Like VR+ on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VARLivePH/