Tuesday, November 12, 2013

The Tourmaline in Kandy, Sri Lanka Launches New Booking Engine on Hotel Website

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kandy, Sri Lanka – The Tourmaline in Kandy, Sri Lanka has added a new direct booking engine on its website, making it easier for travellers to secure comfortable accommodation in the city. This upgrade is powered by DirectWithHotels and can be found in http://www.mclarenshotels.lk/hotels/tourmaline.html.

The installation of the latest online reservation system offers the following benefits:

Easy booking process: Making a hotel reservation in the Kandy becomes simpler and faster than ever. Individuals who wish to experience the culture and beauty of the country's last standing royal citadel need only to visit the website of the hotel and select the dates of stay plus the desired rooms via the booking engine. No necessary phone calls or emails to make. It is quick, organized and systematic.

Instant confirmation: Once all the necessary information are provided, an instant confirmation message is generated and sent via email. Only a 10% prepayment is required to get the accommodation under your name, with the rest of the cost is payable upon check-in.

Secure transactions: To provide protection and ensure privacy, all transactions on the new reservation system are madesecure by Trustwave and VeriSign.

Easy cancellation or modification: In case of necessary changes, just click the 'modify or cancel' link below the booking tab to the right of the hotel website. Provide the required details and proceed with adjusting the reservation. There is no stress involved as it is a very painless process.

This upgrade definitely gives guests more reason to stay at The Tourmaline. Because of the simple process of obtaining accommodation, more focus can be put on enjoying the vacation — all the better as there is so much to experience. This includes the splendid and romantic ambience of the royal era that lingers in the place, spectacular views of the Knuckles Mountain Range and the famous Bible Rock, and the serenity of Hunas Falls in Kandy.

Visit the website of The Tourmaline in Kandy, Sri Lanka and enjoy the convenient direct booking system to prepare for a holiday of lifetime.

The Tourmaline
Aniwatta, Kandy
Sri Lanka

Phone Number: +94 81 7389000-6

Website: http://www.mclarenshotels.lk/hotels/tourmaline.html

About DirectWithHotels 
DirectWithHotels is in the business of making selling online simple and more profitable for hotels. Since 2005, we’ve helped over 1000 Hotel Partners (and counting) in 50 countries worldwide increase their direct bookings online. We attract visitors and drive traffic direct to their hotel websites with tactical online marketing, convert these visitors into bookers with a top-performing booking engine, and manage increasing reservations with an easy-to-use web interface. All this at a fixed, performance-based fee of just 10% for every direct booking.

Monday, November 11, 2013

10 Reasons Why You'll Love Staying at Batam's Harbour Bay Amir Hotel (Part 1)

If you ever find yourself in Riau Islands, Indonesia either for business or pleasure, stay at Harbour Bay Amir Hotel in Batam. This accommodation presents its guests with many desirable features that will make your time here nothing less than satisfying and rewarding.

1. Cosy rooms
Upon entering the confines of the hotel's suites, you will be immediately greeted with a vibrant yet calming atmosphere suited for undisturbed slumbers. These guestrooms are elegantly designed and furnished with comfortable bedding and come with a spacious bathroom. Rooms have air-conditioning, cable TV, desk, mini-bar, Internet service, and daily supply of newspaper. These guest spaces can accommodate up to 3 adults and 2 kids depending on which room type you book.

2. Fantastic facilities
While sleeping all day is a perfectly acceptable activity during vacation, you will not regret going out to check the facilities. There is a lounge area, a karaoke room, as well as a nature spa with a sauna if you are in need of a relaxing break. Also available are meeting rooms, elevator, safety deposit boxes, and a business centre if you need to check-in on work during your holiday.

3. Delightful dining options
When it comes to delivering a dining experience that count, this hotel in Batam, Indonesia is also well equipped. There is a restaurant and a coffee shop that will satisfy your cravings for delectable meals and beverages. If you are feeling a little lazy, which is perfectly fine during your time off, you can take advantage of the 24-hour room service feature.

4. Reasonable rates
Another great thing about this place are the very reasonable accommodation rates that already include breakfasts. For example, the cheapest room rates start at around IDR409,090.91 or about USD36 for a night. Meanwhile, the most expensive room, the Amir Suite Room, starts at IDR669,421.49 a night or around USD59. All rooms only require a 10% prepayment to be successfully reserved under your name, while the balance can be paid at the hotel.

5. Promising promos
To further make the rates enticing, the hotel also offers various promotions and packages from time to time on their website at http://harbourbayamirhotelbatam.com/. These special deals can be discounts on room rates, additional freebies, and sometimes, even free use of facilities. Right now, guests who will make a reservation can take advantage of the Harbour Bay Amir Hotel Batam's Room Only Rates at lowered rates (no breakfast).

Sunday, November 10, 2013

Panglao Beaches for the Uninitiated

It's quite easy to look for a resort in Panglao, Bohol — all you need to do is follow the shoreline and pick the accommodation that best fits your plans and resources. It's a good idea to break down your hotel and resort options by choosing which beach you would most likely want to enjoy during your holiday. You can start your search in the following places.

1. Alona Beach
Alona Beach is the most famous and well-developed beach in Bohol. Alona made its mark as one of the top attractions in the province with its 1.5-km coral white sand beach flanked by rocky cliffs. This beach is the best option if you wish to go on a diving or snorkeling trip since most of the rental boats that lead to various dive sites are based in this area. Alona Beach can be found in Brgy. Tawala.

2. Bagobo Beach
Bagobo Beach in Brgy. Libaong is starting to gain popularity because of its fine sand and crystal clear water. Bagobo Beach's beauty extends underwater with its healthy coral reefs and colorful fish populations.

3. Bolod Beach
Bolod Beach is located east of Alona Beach. Covering a stretch of 2.5 km, the white sand beach is easily the largest in the island. The crowd in Bolod consists mainly of Panglao residents. The public beach area here has budget-friendly amenities and rental areas provided by the local government.

4. Danao Beach
Danao Beach shares the white sand beach and crystalline water of its nearest neighbor, Alona.

5. Doljo Beach
Located in the northwest tip of the island, Doljo Beach is characterized by a wide stretch of white sand, seashells, and sea grass.

6. Momo Beach
Aside from the white-sand beach and blue water typical of the beaches in Panglao Island, Momo Beach is also located close to diving spots.


Relaxing by the beach, of course is only a supplementary activity when in Panglao. What really attracts the tourists is observing underwater creatures, and seeing the sights and scenes in the numerous diving and snorkeling spots that surround the island. Be reminded that it can get crowded in the beach, especially during summer vacation. If you really want to enjoy a soothing holiday in Bohol while having the opportunity to go diving or snorkeling anytime, it would be best if you consider a beachfront resort in Panglao, Bohol that has its own pool like Panglao Regents Park Resort.

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Hotel Topaz Launches One-Stop Online Booking System Powered by DirectWithHotels

Kandy, Sri Lanka – Travellers seeking a lovely mountain getaway have more reason to stay at Hotel Topaz in Kandy, Sri Lanka, as the McLarens flagship hotel launches an online booking system that is powered by DirectWithHotels. The latest upgrade is installed in the official website, making online reservations easier and more convenient.

With this addition, the hotel in Aniwatte, Kandy provides the following benefits to guests:

1. One-stop online reservation process – To book accommodation for a relaxing retreat on top of the hill capital, individuals need only to visit http://www.mclarenshotels.lk/hotels/topaz.html and follow the fast and easy reservation procedure. There are no phone calls to make, not even an email to send to get a room surrounded by lush tropical greenery that overlooks the spectacular Knuckles Mountain range and the Bible Rock.

2. Instant confirmation – Securing accommodation in Kandy directly from Hotel Topaz's website results in instant confirmation via email the moment the booking process is finished. Clients only have to select preferred dates of stay and type of room with a few clicks of a mouse. Similarly, confirming the booking is as easy as paying a standard 10% deposit using a credit card. The rest of the accommodation cost is settled upon arrival at the hotel in Kandy City.

3. Secure bookings – All online transactions made through the new online reservation system are certified by Trustwave and secured by VeriSign, so privacy of guests are assured.

4. Hassle-free reservation modification or cancellation – Guests simply visit the hotel website to facilitate hassle-free modification or cancellation of stay. All they need to do is click modify or cancel reservation below the orange booking button and enter the email address used to reserve the accommodation plus the transaction ID.

The introduction of this system definitely gives travellers more convenience in securing reservations. It affords more time and opportunity to plan the best vacation instead of fussing over rooms. The location of the hotel further makes this possible as it is conveniently positioned a short distance from the city centre itself.

Explore the secrets and natural beauty of the last royal stronghold in the country and book at the Hotel Topaz in Kandy, Sri Lanka now.

Hotel Topaz
Aniwatte, Kandy, Sri Lanka
Phone Number: +94-817-389000-6

Website: http://www.mclarenshotels.lk/hotels/topaz.html

About DirectWithHotels
DirectWithHotels is in the business of making selling online simple and more profitable for hotels. Since 2005, we’ve helped over 1000 Hotel Partners (and counting) in 50 countries worldwide increase their direct bookings online. We attract visitors and drive traffic direct to their hotel websites with tactical online marketing, convert these visitors into bookers with a top-performing booking engine, and manage increasing reservations with an easy-to-use web interface. All this at a fixed, performance-based fee of just 10% for every direct booking.

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Manila in a Jiffy: Travel Tips, Shopping Guides, and Top Attractions

Taking a trip to Pasay City, Philippines? Make sure to look for a hotel near Mall of Asia and NAIA airport to enjoy utmost comfort and convenience. It will not hurt also if you'll check out these travel guides and tourist information for Manila-bound travelers that highlight several travel tips, shopping guides, and must-see attractions.

A. Travel Tips

1. Secure your accommodation ahead.
Most hotels in Pasay offer easy and quick room reservations with value-for-money packages. Take advantage of these treats and book a lodging at least 2 days in advance.

2. Pre-book airport transfer.
Upon reserving an accommodation, ask your hotel if they offer airport transfer services. The Mabuhay Manor, for instance, entitles guests a 1-way airport transfer for a confirmed booking.

3. Pack a water bottle.
Remember that the Philippines is a tropical country. You'll need to hydrate and cool down as you walk in the streets of Manila especially if you're taking a trip during the summer months.

4. Bring loose change.
Commuting via local transportation or haggling for cheaper buys when shopping will be a lot easier if you have loose change, so don't forget to break your bills into smaller denominations.

B. Top Attractions
Make the most of your vacation in Pasay City by exploring the following places of interests:

1. Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) – a prime venue for local and international concerts, stage plays, and events
2. Luneta Park – a family-friendly attraction that features the Rizal Monument, Light and
Sound Complex, Artists’ Haven art gallery, and National Library
3. Intramuros – Manila's historic center and oldest district where you can find the Manila Cathedral, Casa Manila, and Palacio del Gobernador
4. Museo Pambata – a children’s museum that presents interactive activities; it operates from 9am to 5pm (Tuesdays to Saturdays) and 1pm to 5pm (Sundays)
5. Manila Ocean Park – an educational facility that features marine life attractions

C. Shopping Guide
Here's a list of the shopping centers around Pasay City for those who wish to indulge in a shopping spree.

1. Robinson’s Place Ermita – a popular mall that houses specialty stores, which are perfect for last-minute shopping
2. Baclaran Shopping Malls – a wholesale and retail goods collective area; the go-to place of frugal travelers
3. Duty Free Shop, Paranaque – a duty- and tax- free shopping center that sells imported goods and provides a number of services
4. SM Mall of Asia – a shopping complex that has 4 buildings linked by walkways; it offers dining, entertainment, and recreational facilities

Note: Choose to stay in a hotel near Mall of Asia (MOA) to relish a central location that warrants the most fulfilling holiday in town.

Monday, November 4, 2013

Top 5 Surfing Spots in Bali, Indonesia

Aside from all that it's famously known for, Indonesia is also one of the world's best surfing destinations. There's even an accommodation in Legian, Bali that primarily caters to surfers called Bliss Surfer Hotel. And if you stay at this hotel, you will have no trouble reaching the best surf spots in the province.

Legian Beach
Just 2 km from the hotel, this beach is one of the popular attractions in Bali. It features a 3-km stretch of fine white sand and panoramic views of the ocean. The best time of the year to come visit is from April to August. Here, you can expect waves that can go as high as 6 ft. This place is perfect for both beginners and expert surfers. Another good thing about this spot are the various concession stands and other establishments found nearby where visitors can buy anything from snacks to accessories.

Kuta Beach
Also just a couple minutes from Bliss Surfer Hotel, Kuta Beach is another favorite tourist attraction. Aside from the stunning natural scenery, there are also many accommodations, restaurants, bars, and shops here. But if your main agenda coming here is to ride the waves, you will not be disappointed. Similar to the Legian, Kuta offers fairly consistent waves all day long from April to late August. Professional and newbie surfers can expect 2 to 6 ft of long swells.

Balangan Beach
Located in Ungasan Village, this beach is situated under a rocky hill bounded by white steep cliffs making it also a great place for sightseeing and hiking. As for the surfing conditions, this spot is only for advanced and professional riders. Expect to see barrel waves and long swells that can go as high as 8 ft. Also, if you do come here, make sure to bring all surfing and beach essentials because there aren't many establishments in the area.

Echo Beach
Experienced and pro guys can also expect the same gnarly currents at Echo Beach during mid to high tide. The only difference is that compared to the other beaches, this place has a rocky shoreline that can injure novice surfers. If coming from Denpasar City, Echo is just 25 minutes from the airport. Meanwhile, if you are coming from your Legian, Bali accommodation at Bliss Surfer Hotel, you have to drive 13 km to reach the beach.

Padang Padang Beach
You must really love surfing if you plan on ripping it up in Padang Padang. Although it is famous for its gorgeous natural scenery and offers powerful and consistent breaks that can reach up to 10 ft, you need to endure a 23 km ride from Bliss Surfer Hotel. If you really want to go, this accommodation in Legian, Bali, Indonesia can help you make it easier through its car rental services.

Guide to Exploring Quezon City: 5 Prime Spots to Visit

Make your stay in a hotel in Quezon City more memorable by exploring the prime attractions the city affords in the same way the locals do it. There is a lot of good things going on for this busy urban center and if you want to get under its skin, here are the top 5 spots to visit to savor its local flavor and character:

University of the Philippines, Diliman Campus

This is the premier university of the Philippines. The most popular symbol of UP is the Oblation Statue, which is also the inspiration for the controversial Oblation Run. Neophytes of the fraternity Alpha Phi Omega run around the campus with nothing on but masks. Another big event happening in the university around December is the Lantern Parade. The vibrant and festive lantern competition is usually held on the same day as the Oblation Run but in the afternoon.

Shopping Strip

Is shopping your thing? You have made the right choice by staying at a hotel in QC. Some of the malls you can storm if you are game for some serious shopping include TriNoma, Gateway, Ali Mall, Plaza Fair, Fairmart, Eastwood CyberOne Mall, Eastwood Citywalk 2, Ever Gotesco, Isetann, and Robinsons Galleria.

Street food Stalls

Mention street food and the first couple of places that come to mind may be Thailand or Malaysia, but don't discount Quezon City just yet. Get your fill of balut (boiled duck embryo), tukneneng (battered quail eggs), fish balls, and kikiam (ground fish and squid) in the many stalls you'll find along the way and experience authentic Filipino street food just as the locals do it.

Local TV Network Spots

Whether you stay in a luxury or an inexpensive Quezon City accommodation, it definitely puts you closer to the stars. The area is home to various local TV networks, such as ABS-CBN, GMA 7, TV5, GEM TV, UNTV, Net25, and PTV. Because of this, a stroll around the establishments within the area is sure to guarantee you an opportunity to chance upon a celebrity.

Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center 

Nature tripping is big these days and it is refreshing to know that Quezon City has this option for people who are tired of the city landscape and pollution. It is a great option if you want a change of environment but is not too keen on traveling outside of Manila. The 80-hectare natural forest setting is enough to soothe your overloaded senses. The densely wooded area makes the park a choice spot for nature lovers, as well as families seeking wholesome fun. There is a playground, rock garden, and mini-zoo that the kids can enjoy, too.

Whichever hotel in Quezon City you stay in, there is never a shortage of fun activities to do here.