Planning your next travel adventure? Japan and South Korea remain popular destinations, celebrated for their rich cultural heritage, culinary delights, and scenic beauty. Agoda noted that they are some of the countries most visited by Filipinos.  Interestingly, 2025 marks a year of exploration, with an Agoda survey revealing that 84% of travelers are eager to discover new destinations. This trend adds to the allure of exploring lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path locations within Japan and South Korea, offering fresh experiences in these beloved destinations, especially if you’ve been here a couple of times.

For those seeking unique experiences away from the usual crowds, these spots in Japan and South Korea offer the perfect opportunity to explore something fresh and extraordinary. Both countries offer a blend of traditional and modern experiences that resonate deeply with Filipino travelers, who appreciate the accessibility, vibrant cities, and family-friendly attractions. For 2025, consider adding these hidden gems to your travel list for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Hidden Gems in Japan and South Korea: Must-Visit Spots for Filipinos in 2025

Japan

1. Tottori Sand Dunes, Tottori Prefecture

 

Tottori Sand Dunes Japan

Source: Japan Guide

Nestled along the Sea of Japan and just outside the Tottori city center, the Tottori Sand Dunes offer a slice of desert-like beauty. Spanning 16 kilometers, these dunes are perfect for sandboarding, camel rides, or simply admiring the striking landscape. Formed over thousands of years by sand from the Sendaigawa River carried to the coast by ocean currents, they are a geological wonder. Nearby, visit the Sand Museum to marvel at intricate sand sculptures crafted by international artists.

2. Shirakami Sanchi, Aomori and Akita Prefectures

 

Shirakami Sanchi, Aomori and Akita Prefectures

Source: Experience Shirakami

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakami Sanchi is a pristine forest with ancient beech trees, waterfalls, and serene hiking trails. The estimated 8,000-year-old forest is also said to be the inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke (1997). For a peaceful retreat, explore the Anmon Falls or trek to the peak of Mount Shirakami for breathtaking views.

South Korea

3. Hahoe Folk Village, Andong

Hahoe Folk Village, Andong

 

Source: Asia Society

Step back in time at Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO-listed site preserving Korea’s traditional hanok houses. Located in Andong, this living museum offers a glimpse into the Joseon Dynasty’s culture. Don't miss the mask dance performances and savor authentic Andong jjimdak, a flavorful braised chicken dish.

4. Oedo Botania, Geoje Island

 

Oedo Botania, Geoje Island

Source: Visit Korea

This hidden paradise is a marine botanical garden on Geoje Island. Featuring European-style terraces, lush gardens, and panoramic sea views, Oedo Botania feels like a dream. Accessible by ferry, it’s a serene escape perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

5. Damyang Bamboo Forest, Damyang

Damyang Bamboo Forest, Damyang

 

Source: Visit Korea

Escape to the lush greenery of Damyang Bamboo Forest, also known as Juknokwon. This tranquil retreat offers winding paths surrounded by towering bamboo, providing a peaceful atmosphere for leisurely walks. The area is also famous for its bamboo-inspired dishes, such as bamboo rice and bamboo ice cream, which are must-tries for any foodie.

How to travel safely and in style

The allure of hidden destinations lies in their ability to offer something different—a break from the usual tourist crowds and a chance to immerse yourself in untouched beauty and local culture. Exploring such places often feels like uncovering a secret, making every moment more personal and memorable. Imagine the thrill of standing atop the Tottori Sand Dunes, feeling the expanse of a desert-like wonder, or wandering through the tranquil paths of Namiseom Island, surrounded by the fiery colors of autumn.

Timing is everything when visiting these hidden gems. Traveling during off-peak seasons allows you to experience the destinations at their most serene, whether it’s walking along Shirakami Sanchi’s pristine trails or exploring Oedo Botania’s lush gardens without the rush of crowds. This also ensures that you have ample time to soak in the atmosphere and truly connect with your surroundings.

Reaching these spots is often an adventure in itself. From scenic ferry rides to winding bus routes, the journey becomes part of the experience. Researching transportation options ahead of time ensures a smoother trip, while regional travel passes can help you save both time and money.

To make the most of these destinations, dive into the local way of life. Engage with locals, learn their stories, and savor regional delicacies like Andong jjimdak or unique dishes from Tottori Prefecture. Even a simple exchange of pleasantries in Japanese or Korean can open doors to warm conversations and lasting memories.

As you plan your trip, remember that hidden destinations often come with their own set of challenges, such as remote locations or limited facilities. This is where comprehensive travel insurance becomes essential. Developed in collaboration with GCash and Malayan Insurance, Travel Master ensures you’re covered for personal accidents, flight delays, lost luggage, medical emergencies, and even COVID-19 protection. Securing this coverage is effortless—simply head to the GInsure page in your GCash app, choose Travel Master, and fill in your travel details. Within moments, you’ll have a policy that keeps you protected no matter where your journey takes you.

Exploring hidden destinations isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about forging unique memories and experiencing the world in a way that feels personal and extraordinary. Whether you’re chasing nature’s marvels, immersing yourself in cultural heritage, or seeking peaceful retreats, the hidden gems of Japan and South Korea await. Start planning now and let the road less traveled lead you to unforgettable memories.

For more information, please visit https://iglooinsure.com/. 

Thanks for reading my blog and feel free to leave comments.

To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.

• January 17, 2025

Hidden Gems in Japan and South Korea: Must-Visit Spots for Filipinos in 2025

 Planning your next travel adventure? Japan and South Korea remain popular destinations, celebrated for their rich cultural heritage, culinary delights, and scenic beauty. Agoda noted that they are some of the countries most visited by Filipinos.  Interestingly, 2025 marks a year of exploration, with an Agoda survey revealing that 84% of travelers are eager to discover new destinations. This trend adds to the allure of exploring lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path locations within Japan and South Korea, offering fresh experiences in these beloved destinations, especially if you’ve been here a couple of times.

For those seeking unique experiences away from the usual crowds, these spots in Japan and South Korea offer the perfect opportunity to explore something fresh and extraordinary. Both countries offer a blend of traditional and modern experiences that resonate deeply with Filipino travelers, who appreciate the accessibility, vibrant cities, and family-friendly attractions. For 2025, consider adding these hidden gems to your travel list for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Hidden Gems in Japan and South Korea: Must-Visit Spots for Filipinos in 2025

Japan

1. Tottori Sand Dunes, Tottori Prefecture

 

Tottori Sand Dunes Japan

Source: Japan Guide

Nestled along the Sea of Japan and just outside the Tottori city center, the Tottori Sand Dunes offer a slice of desert-like beauty. Spanning 16 kilometers, these dunes are perfect for sandboarding, camel rides, or simply admiring the striking landscape. Formed over thousands of years by sand from the Sendaigawa River carried to the coast by ocean currents, they are a geological wonder. Nearby, visit the Sand Museum to marvel at intricate sand sculptures crafted by international artists.

2. Shirakami Sanchi, Aomori and Akita Prefectures

 

Shirakami Sanchi, Aomori and Akita Prefectures

Source: Experience Shirakami

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakami Sanchi is a pristine forest with ancient beech trees, waterfalls, and serene hiking trails. The estimated 8,000-year-old forest is also said to be the inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke (1997). For a peaceful retreat, explore the Anmon Falls or trek to the peak of Mount Shirakami for breathtaking views.

South Korea

3. Hahoe Folk Village, Andong

Hahoe Folk Village, Andong

 

Source: Asia Society

Step back in time at Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO-listed site preserving Korea’s traditional hanok houses. Located in Andong, this living museum offers a glimpse into the Joseon Dynasty’s culture. Don't miss the mask dance performances and savor authentic Andong jjimdak, a flavorful braised chicken dish.

4. Oedo Botania, Geoje Island

 

Oedo Botania, Geoje Island

Source: Visit Korea

This hidden paradise is a marine botanical garden on Geoje Island. Featuring European-style terraces, lush gardens, and panoramic sea views, Oedo Botania feels like a dream. Accessible by ferry, it’s a serene escape perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

5. Damyang Bamboo Forest, Damyang

Damyang Bamboo Forest, Damyang

 

Source: Visit Korea

Escape to the lush greenery of Damyang Bamboo Forest, also known as Juknokwon. This tranquil retreat offers winding paths surrounded by towering bamboo, providing a peaceful atmosphere for leisurely walks. The area is also famous for its bamboo-inspired dishes, such as bamboo rice and bamboo ice cream, which are must-tries for any foodie.

How to travel safely and in style

The allure of hidden destinations lies in their ability to offer something different—a break from the usual tourist crowds and a chance to immerse yourself in untouched beauty and local culture. Exploring such places often feels like uncovering a secret, making every moment more personal and memorable. Imagine the thrill of standing atop the Tottori Sand Dunes, feeling the expanse of a desert-like wonder, or wandering through the tranquil paths of Namiseom Island, surrounded by the fiery colors of autumn.

Timing is everything when visiting these hidden gems. Traveling during off-peak seasons allows you to experience the destinations at their most serene, whether it’s walking along Shirakami Sanchi’s pristine trails or exploring Oedo Botania’s lush gardens without the rush of crowds. This also ensures that you have ample time to soak in the atmosphere and truly connect with your surroundings.

Reaching these spots is often an adventure in itself. From scenic ferry rides to winding bus routes, the journey becomes part of the experience. Researching transportation options ahead of time ensures a smoother trip, while regional travel passes can help you save both time and money.

To make the most of these destinations, dive into the local way of life. Engage with locals, learn their stories, and savor regional delicacies like Andong jjimdak or unique dishes from Tottori Prefecture. Even a simple exchange of pleasantries in Japanese or Korean can open doors to warm conversations and lasting memories.

As you plan your trip, remember that hidden destinations often come with their own set of challenges, such as remote locations or limited facilities. This is where comprehensive travel insurance becomes essential. Developed in collaboration with GCash and Malayan Insurance, Travel Master ensures you’re covered for personal accidents, flight delays, lost luggage, medical emergencies, and even COVID-19 protection. Securing this coverage is effortless—simply head to the GInsure page in your GCash app, choose Travel Master, and fill in your travel details. Within moments, you’ll have a policy that keeps you protected no matter where your journey takes you.

Exploring hidden destinations isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about forging unique memories and experiencing the world in a way that feels personal and extraordinary. Whether you’re chasing nature’s marvels, immersing yourself in cultural heritage, or seeking peaceful retreats, the hidden gems of Japan and South Korea await. Start planning now and let the road less traveled lead you to unforgettable memories.

For more information, please visit https://iglooinsure.com/. 

Thanks for reading my blog and feel free to leave comments.

To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.

Read more »

 

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco

DOT Chief proposes 24/7 tourist courts in the Philippines

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco has proposed the establishment of a new flagship project, the 24/7 tourist courts, to aid in the swift resolution of cases where tourists are involved.

According to the secretary, she proposed the matter during the recent sectoral meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. in Malacañang, where the President agreed that the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Department of Justice (DOJ), will work alongside the DOT to investigate and prosecute crimes related to tourists. 

We are now working with the DOJ, and we will be collaborating with the judiciary department for the establishment of a 24-hour tourist court for the resolution of crimes related to our tourists,” the Secretary said during a briefing for the proposed budget of the DOT for the 2025 fiscal year held at the House of Representatives in Quezon City, Tuesday (Aug. 20).

Secretary Frasco acknowledged that the Philippines still has room for improvement in tourism, assuring the body that the Department is doing its best to welcome more visitors, including lobbying for efforts to increase connectivity by expanding the country’s routes development system, notwithstanding all varied tourism offerings that are being offered and those that are yet to be developed for promotion.

The DOT is also beefing up police forces across strategic locations of the country, primarily in areas with a high concentration of tourists.

Over 8,000 police personnel under the Department’s Tourist Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP) Program have already been trained, done in collaboration with the DILG and PNP. But with the need to intensify police visibility and security, the DOT has also trained 270 barangay tanod and barangay intelligence network as police multipliers at present.

“Being a [former] mayor nga po, alam natin na hindi naman enough yung number of police to the actual population, kaya naman po inexpand natin yung program na ito na isasali na natin sa training yung barangay tanod and barangay intelligence network multipliers in various areas in the country. And we are expanding this to various LGUs,” she added.

The tourism chief emphasized that the DOT is also working with the Department of National Defense (DND) to strengthen the strategic development of tourism, especially in key areas of the country.

“Overall, the effort is to build confidence in tourism for the Philippines,” the tourism chief said.

As for the tourist security concerns in Mindanao, the DOT signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the DND and DILG in May last year to open and promote the region as a peaceful and viable destination for all. The department secretaries have agreed to promote responsible tourism, preserve the diverse natural and cultural heritage, and create an inclusive environment that would further foster growth in Mindanao and the entire country under the current administration.

According to the tourism chief, this move from the DOT is crucial to create an environment that fosters equal tourism opportunities for all regions, especially in areas that may not have received equal opportunities in the past brought about by untoward incidents.

Several embassies have responded positively to the appeal of the DOT to downgrade their security advisories to their residents in the Philippines who have plans to visit the region.

As of August 19, 2024, the Philippines has registered a total of 3,860,730 international visitors who came into the country, of which 92.05 percent or 3,553,720 are foreigners, while the remaining 7.95 percent or 307,010 are overseas Filipinos.

The top 10 source markets are South Korea, the United States of America, Japan, China, Australia, Taiwan, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Malaysia.

• August 21, 2024

DOT Chief proposes 24/7 tourist courts in the Philippines

 

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco

DOT Chief proposes 24/7 tourist courts in the Philippines

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco has proposed the establishment of a new flagship project, the 24/7 tourist courts, to aid in the swift resolution of cases where tourists are involved.

According to the secretary, she proposed the matter during the recent sectoral meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. in Malacañang, where the President agreed that the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Department of Justice (DOJ), will work alongside the DOT to investigate and prosecute crimes related to tourists. 

We are now working with the DOJ, and we will be collaborating with the judiciary department for the establishment of a 24-hour tourist court for the resolution of crimes related to our tourists,” the Secretary said during a briefing for the proposed budget of the DOT for the 2025 fiscal year held at the House of Representatives in Quezon City, Tuesday (Aug. 20).

Secretary Frasco acknowledged that the Philippines still has room for improvement in tourism, assuring the body that the Department is doing its best to welcome more visitors, including lobbying for efforts to increase connectivity by expanding the country’s routes development system, notwithstanding all varied tourism offerings that are being offered and those that are yet to be developed for promotion.

The DOT is also beefing up police forces across strategic locations of the country, primarily in areas with a high concentration of tourists.

Over 8,000 police personnel under the Department’s Tourist Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP) Program have already been trained, done in collaboration with the DILG and PNP. But with the need to intensify police visibility and security, the DOT has also trained 270 barangay tanod and barangay intelligence network as police multipliers at present.

“Being a [former] mayor nga po, alam natin na hindi naman enough yung number of police to the actual population, kaya naman po inexpand natin yung program na ito na isasali na natin sa training yung barangay tanod and barangay intelligence network multipliers in various areas in the country. And we are expanding this to various LGUs,” she added.

The tourism chief emphasized that the DOT is also working with the Department of National Defense (DND) to strengthen the strategic development of tourism, especially in key areas of the country.

“Overall, the effort is to build confidence in tourism for the Philippines,” the tourism chief said.

As for the tourist security concerns in Mindanao, the DOT signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the DND and DILG in May last year to open and promote the region as a peaceful and viable destination for all. The department secretaries have agreed to promote responsible tourism, preserve the diverse natural and cultural heritage, and create an inclusive environment that would further foster growth in Mindanao and the entire country under the current administration.

According to the tourism chief, this move from the DOT is crucial to create an environment that fosters equal tourism opportunities for all regions, especially in areas that may not have received equal opportunities in the past brought about by untoward incidents.

Several embassies have responded positively to the appeal of the DOT to downgrade their security advisories to their residents in the Philippines who have plans to visit the region.

As of August 19, 2024, the Philippines has registered a total of 3,860,730 international visitors who came into the country, of which 92.05 percent or 3,553,720 are foreigners, while the remaining 7.95 percent or 307,010 are overseas Filipinos.

The top 10 source markets are South Korea, the United States of America, Japan, China, Australia, Taiwan, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Read more »

Can't get enough of Cavinti? Di na kasya ang day-tour lang sa dami ng lugar na pwedeng pasyalan dito.  Kaya naman I highly recommend na make it a weekend or better yet weeklong getaway na! Here are just some of the places where you can stay for a day or two or even moooore in Cavinti Laguna.

1. Caliraya Lakefront Resort a.k.a Casa Amore

Facebook  | Book your stay via airbnb

2. Chandava Lake Resort

Facebook | Contact No. 0918 944 7295

3. The Cliff at Naculo Falls

Book your stay via airbnb

4. Eagles Camp 

Facebook | Instagram | Contact No. 0917 142 3182

5. Farmshare Agri-Park | Farm T House

Facebook | Instagram | Contact No. 0917 155 6693

6. The Greenlake View

Facebook | Instagram | Book your stay via airbnb

7. Isla del Antoño

Facebook Page | Instagram | Contact No. 0918 247 4523 | Book your stay via airbnb

Click here and I'll tell you more about Isla del Antoño!

8. Isla Serenidad Leisure Hub

Facebook | Instagram | Contact No. 0927 395 8382 | Book your stay via airbnb

9. Kalahi Lakeshore Camp 

facebook | instagram | tiktok

Direct book your stay thru their official website or via airbnb

Click here and I'll tell you more about Kalahi LakeShore Camp experience!

10. Kamp Tralala 

Facebook |  Contact No. 0956 882 5441

Click here and I'll tell you more Kamp Tralala!

11. La Rualzol Resort

For more info or how to book your stay please message thru their Facebook Page

Click here and I'll tell you more about it!

12. Lolo Itok's Lakeview Resort 

Facebook | Contact No. 0929 763 5684

13. Mahatao Island

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Contact No: 0999 438 5605

14. Nest T-House

Facebook | Website

Photo from Paraiso de Alba Facebook Page

15. Paraiso de Alba

Facebook

16. 5558 Camp Site

Facebook | Instagram | Contact No. 0925 767 5558

For more info, please message via contact no.'s provided 

or thru their respective Facebook page & Instagram  via direct message

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Aci Girl | AciGirl.com (@aci_girl)

Let's connect, follow me on my socials!

Facebook Page | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

• March 23, 2023
• Camping

16 Different Types of Accommodations in Cavinti, Laguna this 2023

Can't get enough of Cavinti? Di na kasya ang day-tour lang sa dami ng lugar na pwedeng pasyalan dito.  Kaya naman I highly recommend na make it a weekend or better yet weeklong getaway na! Here are just some of the places where you can stay for a day or two or even moooore in Cavinti Laguna.

1. Caliraya Lakefront Resort a.k.a Casa Amore

Facebook  | Book your stay via airbnb

2. Chandava Lake Resort

Facebook | Contact No. 0918 944 7295

3. The Cliff at Naculo Falls

Book your stay via airbnb

4. Eagles Camp 

Facebook | Instagram | Contact No. 0917 142 3182

5. Farmshare Agri-Park | Farm T House

Facebook | Instagram | Contact No. 0917 155 6693

6. The Greenlake View

Facebook | Instagram | Book your stay via airbnb

7. Isla del Antoño

Facebook Page | Instagram | Contact No. 0918 247 4523 | Book your stay via airbnb

Click here and I'll tell you more about Isla del Antoño!

8. Isla Serenidad Leisure Hub

Facebook | Instagram | Contact No. 0927 395 8382 | Book your stay via airbnb

9. Kalahi Lakeshore Camp 

facebook | instagram | tiktok

Direct book your stay thru their official website or via airbnb

Click here and I'll tell you more about Kalahi LakeShore Camp experience!

10. Kamp Tralala 

Facebook |  Contact No. 0956 882 5441

Click here and I'll tell you more Kamp Tralala!

11. La Rualzol Resort

For more info or how to book your stay please message thru their Facebook Page

Click here and I'll tell you more about it!

12. Lolo Itok's Lakeview Resort 

Facebook | Contact No. 0929 763 5684

13. Mahatao Island

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Contact No: 0999 438 5605

14. Nest T-House

Facebook | Website

Photo from Paraiso de Alba Facebook Page

15. Paraiso de Alba

Facebook

16. 5558 Camp Site

Facebook | Instagram | Contact No. 0925 767 5558

For more info, please message via contact no.'s provided 

or thru their respective Facebook page & Instagram  via direct message

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Aci Girl | AciGirl.com (@aci_girl)

Let's connect, follow me on my socials!

Facebook Page | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

Read more »

Hello everyone! Yes, antaas ng energy? Today's good mood is brought to you by *ehem, Coffee! I hope nakapag-kape ka na or should I ask pang-ilang cup mo na ba yang hawak mo? Kidding asside, did you know that coffee has become more than just a waker-upper hot cup of drink that we take early in the morning. yes para magising. It has now become part of our lifestyle, our culture, and to others , an extraordinary ad-bean-ture and one's passion.

As coffee lover, I can safely say that not all coffee's are created equal. Dati nga ok na ako sa 3 in 1, then later on discovered that there's more pa pala to this coffee fix. From the old fashioned brewing, to that posh coffee machines, down to that drip coffee kit and classic french-press, ibang usapan pa ang taste and aroma. There are still lots of flavors & varieties to try. That's why Hello Cafe, a local coffee shop in Tagaytay, is proud to announce its lineup of coffee appreciation events and classes this March and April.

"We are excited to share our knowledge and passion for coffee with everyone," says Lesley Ann Padilla, one of the owners of Hello Cafe. "We believe that coffee is not just a drink, but a way of life. By attending our events and classes, you will enjoy delicious coffee and learn more about the history, culture, and science behind it," she added.

Attyna, Meryl, Nix, Aci Girl, & Azrael | Photo Credit: Athena Tria

The upcoming events include coffee appreciation or cupping 101 classes, latte and brewing competitions, and weekend movie nights. The cupping 101 courses will cover different coffee origins, roasting techniques, and brewing methods. To sign up for the class, message Hello Cafe's Instagram or Facebook accounts for more information.

Hello Cafe in Tagaytay Launches Events and Courses Perfect for Aspiring Baristas and Coffee Enthusiasts

Hello Cafe will host a latte and brewing competition for those who love friendly competition on May 20. 

"We want to see the creativity and skills of our customers, especially coffee enthusiasts," says Jerome Ortiz, one of the owners of Hello Cafe. "The competition will be fun to showcase your brewing and latte art skills and maybe even learn from others."

The brewing and latte art competitions will be graced by known coffee masters in the industry and supported by media partners, as well. The said event will be headed by the master barista himself, Arvy Uy. He is an experienced and talented Master Barista who has been in the coffee industry for over a decade. He has worked with various known coffee shops and roasteries, honing his skills and knowledge in the craft of coffee-making. He is known for his expertise in latte art, pour-over brewing, and espresso-based drinks. He has also competed in several local and international barista competitions, showcasing his skills and passion for coffee. As the Master Barista of Hello Cafe, Arvy shares his knowledge and expertise with customers and aspiring baristas, helping them understand the intricacies of coffee-making and how to create the perfect cup of coffee.

Dexter Soguilon, another owner of Hello Cafe, adds, "As an educator, I believe that educating or spreading awareness is the key to understanding and appreciating coffee. Most of us love coffee, but only a few know its origin. That's why we decided to curate courses for aspiring baristas or those who love coffee. We want to share our knowledge of coffee, help people appreciate it even more, and ultimately, bridge the gap between those who don’t have access to these things."

Last March 15, Hello Cafe just launched its coffee appreciation event. Glad to be part of Hello Cafe's first ever coffee cupping class. Coffee appreciation day made extra awesome with @macoydubs. Alam ko madaldal akong tao, p ero natameme talaga ako that day. Idk if its the coffee making my heart skip a beat or fangirling na itey!!! Super naenjoy ko din ang coffee trip na ito and all the learnings, plus ang panoodin sya. The coffee appreciation class was headed by Arvy Uy and Matthew Carpio. Both are known in the coffee industry and organizations like Coffee Pro and Philippine Coffee Guild. That's why coffee lovers and aspiring baristas out there, this is an adventure you should try!!!

The event was a truly a success; customers were delighted to learn more about coffee while having fun with Macoy Dubs.

"We want to make learning about coffee fun and accessible for everyone," says Aaron Paul Charvet. "At Hello Cafe, we take pride in serving only the best quality coffee and want to share our passion with our customers."

Movie Night & A Cup of Coffee? Game! Hello Cafe will host weekend movie nights, screening some of the best upcoming movies moving forward. 

"We want to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where our customers enjoy good coffee and company. We live by our tagline, “distinctively different.” We want our customers to have the best coffee experience every time they go to Tagaytay, says Irish Kleine Ortiz, one of the owners of Hello Cafe. 

Hello Cafe is home to experienced baristas led and owned by Aaron Paul Charvet, Lesley Ann Padilla, Krichelle Marie Soguilon, Dexter Soguilon, Jerome Ortiz, and Irish Kleine Ortiz. They are committed to providing the best coffee experience to their customers and fostering a community of coffee enthusiasts.

Hello Cafe

Instagram | Facebook

Let's connect, follow @aci_girl on social media!

Facebook Page | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

• March 20, 2023
• Cafe

Coffee Appreciation Class at Hello Cafe in Tagaytay

Hello everyone! Yes, antaas ng energy? Today's good mood is brought to you by *ehem, Coffee! I hope nakapag-kape ka na or should I ask pang-ilang cup mo na ba yang hawak mo? Kidding asside, did you know that coffee has become more than just a waker-upper hot cup of drink that we take early in the morning. yes para magising. It has now become part of our lifestyle, our culture, and to others , an extraordinary ad-bean-ture and one's passion.

As coffee lover, I can safely say that not all coffee's are created equal. Dati nga ok na ako sa 3 in 1, then later on discovered that there's more pa pala to this coffee fix. From the old fashioned brewing, to that posh coffee machines, down to that drip coffee kit and classic french-press, ibang usapan pa ang taste and aroma. There are still lots of flavors & varieties to try. That's why Hello Cafe, a local coffee shop in Tagaytay, is proud to announce its lineup of coffee appreciation events and classes this March and April.

"We are excited to share our knowledge and passion for coffee with everyone," says Lesley Ann Padilla, one of the owners of Hello Cafe. "We believe that coffee is not just a drink, but a way of life. By attending our events and classes, you will enjoy delicious coffee and learn more about the history, culture, and science behind it," she added.

Attyna, Meryl, Nix, Aci Girl, & Azrael | Photo Credit: Athena Tria

The upcoming events include coffee appreciation or cupping 101 classes, latte and brewing competitions, and weekend movie nights. The cupping 101 courses will cover different coffee origins, roasting techniques, and brewing methods. To sign up for the class, message Hello Cafe's Instagram or Facebook accounts for more information.

Hello Cafe in Tagaytay Launches Events and Courses Perfect for Aspiring Baristas and Coffee Enthusiasts

Hello Cafe will host a latte and brewing competition for those who love friendly competition on May 20. 

"We want to see the creativity and skills of our customers, especially coffee enthusiasts," says Jerome Ortiz, one of the owners of Hello Cafe. "The competition will be fun to showcase your brewing and latte art skills and maybe even learn from others."

The brewing and latte art competitions will be graced by known coffee masters in the industry and supported by media partners, as well. The said event will be headed by the master barista himself, Arvy Uy. He is an experienced and talented Master Barista who has been in the coffee industry for over a decade. He has worked with various known coffee shops and roasteries, honing his skills and knowledge in the craft of coffee-making. He is known for his expertise in latte art, pour-over brewing, and espresso-based drinks. He has also competed in several local and international barista competitions, showcasing his skills and passion for coffee. As the Master Barista of Hello Cafe, Arvy shares his knowledge and expertise with customers and aspiring baristas, helping them understand the intricacies of coffee-making and how to create the perfect cup of coffee.

Dexter Soguilon, another owner of Hello Cafe, adds, "As an educator, I believe that educating or spreading awareness is the key to understanding and appreciating coffee. Most of us love coffee, but only a few know its origin. That's why we decided to curate courses for aspiring baristas or those who love coffee. We want to share our knowledge of coffee, help people appreciate it even more, and ultimately, bridge the gap between those who don’t have access to these things."

Last March 15, Hello Cafe just launched its coffee appreciation event. Glad to be part of Hello Cafe's first ever coffee cupping class. Coffee appreciation day made extra awesome with @macoydubs. Alam ko madaldal akong tao, p ero natameme talaga ako that day. Idk if its the coffee making my heart skip a beat or fangirling na itey!!! Super naenjoy ko din ang coffee trip na ito and all the learnings, plus ang panoodin sya. The coffee appreciation class was headed by Arvy Uy and Matthew Carpio. Both are known in the coffee industry and organizations like Coffee Pro and Philippine Coffee Guild. That's why coffee lovers and aspiring baristas out there, this is an adventure you should try!!!

The event was a truly a success; customers were delighted to learn more about coffee while having fun with Macoy Dubs.

"We want to make learning about coffee fun and accessible for everyone," says Aaron Paul Charvet. "At Hello Cafe, we take pride in serving only the best quality coffee and want to share our passion with our customers."

Movie Night & A Cup of Coffee? Game! Hello Cafe will host weekend movie nights, screening some of the best upcoming movies moving forward. 

"We want to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where our customers enjoy good coffee and company. We live by our tagline, “distinctively different.” We want our customers to have the best coffee experience every time they go to Tagaytay, says Irish Kleine Ortiz, one of the owners of Hello Cafe. 

Hello Cafe is home to experienced baristas led and owned by Aaron Paul Charvet, Lesley Ann Padilla, Krichelle Marie Soguilon, Dexter Soguilon, Jerome Ortiz, and Irish Kleine Ortiz. They are committed to providing the best coffee experience to their customers and fostering a community of coffee enthusiasts.

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