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4 accommodations with the best views under $40/night in Manila, Philippines

So you want a getaway with breathtaking views in Manila, Philippines, but don’t want to spend so much?

Look no further!

We’ve rounded up four accommodations that offer the vistas you want without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a budget traveler or want to make the most of your hard-earned money, these options under $40/night will give you quite the experience.

Let’s dive in and discover the best views that won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Clean & bright compact studio with an unobstructed view

Price: $28/night (for 2 persons)

Secure your piece of paradise from this compact studio, located at the back of Ever Gotesco Mall for uninterrupted views of Sierra Madre.

Whether solo or sharing with a friend, this bright unit offers two single beds (one a pull-out) and a dedicated workspace. Free amenities like high-speed WiFi, hot water, pool, gym, playground, and jogging paths make this the ideal home base for urban explorers, while the kitchenette allows for quick meals to fuel your adventures. There’s also a washer in-unit so you can get fresh, clean laundry always.

High-floor residential one-bedroom condominium with a city skyline view

Price: $32/night (for 2 persons)

Perched on the 38th floor with city skyline views, this high-rise condominium offers city living connected to the conveniences of SM North EDSA (a large shopping mall in Quezon City).

Spacious enough for up to four guests, the fully furnished unit features everything you need for comfort during your stay. Enjoy easy access to the mall’s selection of shops, dining options, and entertainment venues, while the MRT station provides quick transit around Metro Manila. The balcony lets you take in the twinkling night lights of Quezon City from above, and day parking is available on a first-come basis with reservations possible.

Fully furnished studio deluxe unit where you can view the sunrise

Price: $36/night (for 2 persons)

Wake up to the sunrise from this cozy studio deluxe unit located in New Manila near Gilmore Station and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.

Situated on a high floor, this apartment features cable TV, speedy WiFi, and skyline views to energize your day. The compact yet well-organized layout includes a fully equipped kitchenette ideal for light meals, a double lock door for security, and complimentary tea, coffee, and distilled water. Great for a solo traveler seeking a home base for business or pleasure, or a couple looking for an affordable getaway. This furnished studio promises a comfortable and convenient stay close to the city’s bustle.

Minimalist studio unit with floor-to-ceiling windows

Price: $39/night (for 2 persons)

This minimalist studio unit is your ticket to day-to-night city views. Nestled close to Eastwood Ferry Station and in the heart of Eastwood City, this 24-square-meter condo offers all the comforts of home in a modern package.

Wake up to floor-to-ceiling windows framing the metropolis, then cook up your favorite meals in the equipped kitchenette. After a refreshing shower, slip into the plush queen-size bed that pulls out to sleep four (with extra fees). When you’re ready to venture out, stroll to nearby restaurants, shops, and cafes. Then after that, come home to your retreat with private, paid parking on-site.

If you’re planning a trip to Manila on a budget, there’s no need to fret with our abovementioned accommodations. From skyline views to beautiful sunsets, you can enjoy Manila without spending much on your stay. So pack your bags, grab a buko juice, and explore Manila with a view that you won’t believe you paid under $40/night for.

Asia’s Largest Nike Haven Opens in Singapore

As a Christmas present, I gifted my father a sleek black shirt with the iconic Nike logo, a choice that perfectly aligned with his unwavering brand loyalty. If, like my dad, you take comfort in the quality of Nike’s fitness wear, there’s exciting news awaiting you. The latest Nike store on Orchard Road isn’t merely Singapore’s largest as it proudly claims the title of the grandest in all of Asia, besides its counterparts in China.

Welcome to Nike Orchard Road, a retail haven nestled between Apple Orchard Road and The Heeren, officially opening its doors last January 19. This three-story store spans an impressive 28,000 square feet, seamlessly integrating shopping, immersive experiences, and a celebration of athleticism. Connecting the levels is a LED screen that illuminates with popular running routes across Singapore, encapsulating the spirit of movement and vitality.

The store goes beyond the conventional retail experience as it offers fitness and creativity workshops alongside customization services.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Catering to men, women, and children, Nike Orchard Road is a playground for enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of style and functionality. The first floor is a haven for women and kids, featuring the latest footwear, bras like the Nike Alate, leggings such as the Nike Zenvy, and collections like Nike Motiva and Nike Versair. Ascend to the second floor for a display of men’s apparel and shoe collections, while the third floor is dedicated to Jordan aficionados, showcasing an array of kicks and basketball apparel. Stay tuned for the Jordan Lunar New Year drops, which are coming soon.

A unique feature of this Nike flagship is the Swoosh Studio on the first floor—an interactive space hosting fitness classes led by Nike coaches, creativity workshops with local artists, and wellness sessions with experts.

Image Credits: www.nike.com/sg

What’s more? The first two levels house Nike Service Hubs, offering a seamless transition from online to offline services. From order pickups to expert sessions, these hubs provide a holistic Nike experience.

OPPORTUNITY TO CUSTOMIZE

For those seeking exclusivity, the third floor unveils the Nike By You customization station. Here, you can transform selected caps, apparel, and footwear into one-of-a-kind pieces, adorned with city-exclusive graphics and accessories.

To mark the store’s inauguration, Singaporean artists Ella Zheng, Zi Xi Tan, and Natasha Hassan lend their creativity to exclusive Nike designs, capturing the dynamic spirit of sporting culture and the inspiring narratives of Singaporean athletes.

From three stories of Nike apparel to fitness classes at the Swoosh Studio and customization opportunities, Asia’s largest Nike store captivates fans on Orchard Road, Singapore. What are you waiting for? Step into a world where passion meets performance at the latest Nike store.
Nike Orchard Road awaits you at 268 Orchard Road. It opens daily from 10 am to 10 pm.

Sources: 1 & 2

This new K-beauty box worth $190+ is yours to bag home at just $67+

Have you been looking for a beauty treasure trove to start the year?

Good news for you because there’s a brand new K-beauty box worth a whopping $190 or more, and it can be yours for just $67+!

This exclusive offer for January is too good to pass up, featuring a collection of top-notch K-beauty products from Olive Young that will leave you feeling like a million bucks.

Here’s what you’re in for.

AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum 50mL

This vegan serum promises to banish dark spots and uneven skin tone with a powerful blend of niacinamide and rice bran extract in an optimal ratio to target dark spots from hyperpigmentation, freckles, and melasma. The high concentration of whitening agents lightens dark spots and boosts an even, bright complexion while moisturizing and smoothing your skin. The translucent serum is lightweight and non-greasy, absorbing quickly into the skin without any sticky residue. Regularly using this boosting serum is all you need to reveal noticeably clearer, brighter, more radiant skin in 2024.

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil 200mL

This makeup melter delivers a deep cleanse without stripping or drying, thanks to plant-derived oils in its formula. The Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil effortlessly washes away even the most stubborn waterproof makeup while moisturizing and soothing acne-prone skin. The lightweight oil-based formula contains grapeseed, jojoba seed, sunflower seed, and olive oils in a ratio optimized to nourish as it cleanses, leaving skin feeling soft and refreshed. Plus, it passes the non-comedogenic test, proving it won’t clog pores. Simply massage a few drops onto dry skin, add water gradually, and whisk away dirt and oil to reveal glowing skin.

AMUSE Lip & Cheek Healthy Balm

This high-glow balm infuses lips and cheeks with the juicy glow of fresh fruits. The clear melting balm cream texture adheres well to your skin for a vivid color payoff with a barely-there feel. Made with a vegan formula packed with phyto collagen and ceramide, this balm provides elasticity and vitality to bare skin. Choose from 5 fruit-inspired shades to bring a natural-looking flush and shine to your face.

Snuggle Fabric Refresher 150mL

This compact refresher removes stubborn odors so your fabrics stay fresh and inviting. Simply spritz onto curtains, linens, and carpets (and literally anywhere you like) to banish smells from smoke, sweat, and spills. The citrus, cotton, or floral scents envelop your room in a light, lively aroma while working to fight bad smells. Free from harsh chemicals, this refresher is safe for fabrics throughout your home and gentle enough for the whole family. At just 150mL, the portable bottle slips easily into a handbag, gym bag, or suitcase to keep clothes, shoes, and car interiors smelling fresh all day, err day.

Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel 50mL

This sun gel hydrates your skin while shielding it from harmful UV rays. Made with hyaluronic acid and fig fruit extract, it moisturizes dry skin without leaving an oily or sticky residue so you can wear it every day. The watery texture absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it soft, smooth, and bright. Hyaluronic acid helps lock in moisture to calm and soothe while the SPF 50 formula blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Whether walking through the city streets or lounging by the pool, this sun gel protects your skin from damage and aging effects of the sun while keeping it hydrated and healthy-looking all year long.

JAYJUN Green Tea Eye Gel Patch 60ea

Revive your tired eyes with these concentrated green tea gel patches. The catechin and antioxidant content of the Boseong green tea and Camellia Sinensis leaf powder in this blend work to reduce signs of aging and brighten dark circles. Slip one of these gel patches under your eyes or onto wrinkle-prone areas like between the eyebrows and alongside your nose to hydrate and nourish skin with a boost of adenosine, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. The Trifolium quince extract helps refine pores while the green tea blend helps prevent further oxidation that leads to wrinkles.

JAYJUN Pollution-Proof Refreshing Mask

And since we’re at the JAYJUN magic, bring the spa to your face with this purifying mask sheet. Made with ectoine, this sheet protects your skin from external stressors like pollution and helps strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier. When you need a quick refresh, slip on this sheet after cleansing for 10 to 20 minutes of therapy. The sheet traps and removes impurities while moisturizing dry, sensitive skin to leave you with a soft, supple complexion. Even on busy days, this mask helps your skin recharge and rejuvenate so you can face the world feeling renewed. Slip one of these pollution-proof sheets in your bag for instant purification and pampering that will transform tired skin into the best version of itself in just minutes.

Olive Young Care Plus Spot Cover Spot Patch 102pc

These nearly invisible hydrocolloid patches protect wounds while allowing them to heal naturally. Formulated with a blend of materials that absorb exudate and shield against external irritants, the thin edges adhere smoothly to your skin. Whether you have a minor cut, scrape, or abrasion, the 102 patches in this set come in small sizes to cover spots precisely. The transparent design means you can wear them discreetly during the day. Best of all, tea tree leaf oil is infused to soothe and promote healing. So go on with your active life—these patches will shield your wounds while your skin repairs itself from the inside out.

Get Olive Young’s BEAUTY BOX JAN (New Year, New You.) at $67+ here.

Reasons why you should join a holiday tour group even though it may be more expensive than DIY-ing your trip

So you’re thinking of going on holiday soon but cannot decide whether to join a tour or DIY?

Yes, we know it can be a little bit of a tough choice. Tours can be more ex but there’s a guide to take you everywhere, take care of transport, bookings, and all that.

But DIY-ing your trip means you can choose anything you want, with no need to follow any fixed schedule. But still, going with a tour has its pros over DIY.

Easy peasy

First up, going with a tour group means there’s no need to plan your own itinerary or handle any logistics. The tour guide will plan everything for you—where to go, what to see, and where to eat. Good for times when you just want to be a follower without stressing your head over planning.

Having a tour guide also means having a built-in encyclopedia (all the juicy details about the sights). These experts can share history, facts, and tips about each place, things you won’t know if you decide to explore on your own.

You’re super safe

With a tour group, you have a guide who knows the place inside out. No need to panic if you get lost or cannot find your way.

Tour guides also know places that are potentially dangerous areas and will have you avoid them.

There’s also safety in numbers! More people means less chance of being targeted. Pickpockets won’t dare to try their stunts.

Image Credits: Webuy

For solo travelers, you’ve got yourself companions. It’s a good way to make new friends in your tour group.

So if you are anxious about traveling alone or going somewhere new, joining a tour group can be a good idea. You feel more relaxed and can focus on enjoying instead of worrying. Worth paying more for that peace of mind, isn’t it?

Get access to exclusive experiences

Tour companies have special access to places that are restricted to the public. For example, they can bring you into off-limit areas or get you behind-the-scenes tours of farms or factories.

They also can get you priority bookings for popular restaurants or shows that are super hard to get reservations if you were to book yourself. In short, don’t need to wait long long.

Some tour companies have special connections and can arrange local experiences not available to the average tourist.

You also get to skip queues at crowded attractions and enter via special tour group entrances.

Usually, for hotels or cruises also, tour companies can get better rates than what you will find online. It’s all included in that one package you sign.

So why DIY everything yourself and stress out over all the planning? Get a tour company to handle everything while you relax and enjoy the holiday without worrying if you booked the right hotel or if you will miss your flight. Of course, we can’t deny that joining a tour group means paying more upfront than going free and easy, but for convenience, it’s pretty worth it. At the end of the day, holidays are meant to be fun, not pulling your hair out 😉

5 nail wraps under $16.60 for gel-like manicures minus the price tag

If you’re a fan of beautiful, long-lasting manicures but finding a way to cut a little cost, we might just have the solution for you.

Allow us to introduce to you a selection of nail wraps that deliver gel-like perfection, all without the hefty price tag.

From trendy designs to durable finishes, these nail wraps priced under $16.60 will have your nails looking fabulous for CNY 2024 and beyond.

Let’s roll with our handpicked designs!

Kisses Of Kebaya

Promo price: $10 (was $14.90)

These nail stickers mimic the traditional Peranakan kebaya with their delicate floral patterns and ornate motifs. The 16 nail stickers in various sizes will have you channeling cultural charm with just a few minutes of application. Also included is a mini nail filer and cuticle pusher to prep your nails for the right fit. Go coat-free for a quicker manicure or layer on a topcoat for a longer-lasting design. Either way, these kebaya-inspired nail stickers will have you feeling regal and refined in an instant.

Lucky Red

Price: $12.90

This irresistibly lucky red shade with gold strips is the ideal nail polish pick for CNY 2024. The simple, minimalist design will suit any lady who appreciates understated elegance. Included are 16 self-adhesive nail wraps of varying sizes so you can create the perfect manicure in minutes. A mini nail file and cuticle pusher stick help you achieve a polished, professional finish. Paste this lucky red on your nails and strut confidently into the Year of the Dragon knowing your nails are on point.

The Dragon (In White)

Price: $13.90

Summon the spirit of the mythical dragon with these nail wraps designed to bring good fortune in the Year of the Dragon. Part of Emmezing Nails’ ‘Soar Through The Sky’ collection, this white dragon nail art features beautifully detailed dragon-inspired artwork to boost your style in an animated yet graceful way. The nail wraps apply easily and come with a file and instructions so you can channel your inner dragon in minutes. Whether you’re celebrating CNY or simply love all things dragon for the new year, these nail wraps will infuse some lucky dragon energy into your everyday look.

Lucky Cat Club

Price: $15

Want a lucky cat manicure that’s purr-fect for CNY? This festive fortune cat nail sticker kit has all the red envelope, pineapple tart, and tangerine charms you need to attract blessings and fortune in the Year of the Dragon. The easy peel-and-stick red and pink blush tone decals with light gold foil accents make for an auspicious manicure that takes just 15 minutes—no polish changes required. Use the included nail file to shape your stickers for a custom fit, and rest assured the non-toxic nail polish ingredients pose no threat to your good fortune.

Prosperity Color Chart

Price: $16.50

Last but not least, we have this bright and happy color chart that aims to bring you prosperity in the new year. Let your nails channel the energy for you when you choose these joyful color combos apt for CNY celebrations. The matching pedicure polishes make it easy to coordinate hues for a festive look. You can get it here: Prosperity Colour Chart Pedicure. The already-dry formula means no need to sit around waiting for them to dry—you will be ready to head out and celebrate in no time. Add a topcoat if you want an extra glossy and smooth finish that will last through your days of visiting.

With these nail wraps priced under $16.60, achieving a professional gel-like manicure has never been easier or more affordable. No more smudged or chipped polish so say hello to long-lasting, eye-catching nails that will turn heads wherever you go. Whether you’re looking for a touch of kebaya, a burst of luck, or a bold color combo, these nail wraps have got you covered. So treat yourself to a salon-quality manicure and get ready for your manicure to be the envy of all this CNY and beyond!