An easy weekend getaway

MANILA, Philippines - At least, we now have an answer to the age-old question “Where can we find a weekend getaway that’s exciting and near?” The answer is: Thunderbird Resort Rizal.

The resort is in Binangonan, Rizal, a good 45-drive from Ortigas Center. If you’re coming from Bicutan via C-6, a mere 30 minutes should do the trick. It has become a sought-after vacation spot for tired urban-dwellers. And why not? It is located 210 feet above sea level in a highland valley of the Sierra Made mountain range and overlooks Laguna de Bay. The view is splendid and refreshing, a true feast for the eyes. 

The first-class mountain resort destination has more feasts in store for other body parts. What better way to start than through the stomach? KOI Restaurant is the way to go for both continental and Asian cuisine, with a sumptuous menu that spells celebration for family and friends. For a more laidback feel, the Pool Bar boasts of a barbecue spot and live entertainment on weekend nights. The bar is the perfect place to kick off one’s shoes, sit back, and enjoy the bliss that follows. On offer is an impressive lineup of drinks and bar chow. The poolside is also the preferred banquet venue for parties, debuts, and weddings.

For bigger banquets, the Events Center Ballroom fits the bill with its elegant arrangement and top-of-the-line equipment. It can seat 350 to 500 people, depending on the preferred layout, and is great for socials, corporate functions, and conferences. Indeed a class of its own.

Men and women of leisure have quickly taken to the Cabana Bar at the Casino for music and performance, while the Fiesta Casino offers the best gaming experience with the latest slot machines and table games. Elsewhere in Thunderbird Rizal, there is an infinity pool and outdoor Jacuzzi, and volleyball and billiards. The staff will even provide assistance for golf course reservations at Eastridge Golf Club.

All this action deserves a good rest, and what a good rest without a proper room? At Thunderbird Resort Rizal, rooms are equipped with comfortable beds and pillows, in-room spa treatment, mini-bar, free Wi-Fi access, cable television, stereo system with DVD player, coffee and tea maker, and IDD/NDD telephone. Look outside and marvel at the Laguna de Bay in the daytime and the Manila skyline in the evening.

The icing on the Thunderbird cake is, naturally, its people. Guests have been raving about the smiling, willing-to-serve staff of Thunderbird, from the bellmen to the receptionists.

The good stuff does not stop there. Never to rest on its laurels, Thunderbird Resort Rizal is planning an additional 60 hotel rooms, more casino gaming space, more function rooms, improved dining outlets, and more outdoor adventure sports activity areas.

With all these world-class facilities in an easy-living setting, Thunderbird Resort Rizal should be the choice for prime travel, business and leisure destinations. It is about time to discover this charming resort.

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Thunderbird Resort Rizal is located at Eastridge Avenue, Binangonan, Rizal. For more information, call (+63 2) 651-6888, e-mail at rizalreservations@thunderbird-asia.com or log on to http://www.thunderbird-asia.com/resorts/rizal.