Whenever someone says "Tara!", you instantly know an adventure is about to begin. It's one of the most recognizable Filipino expressions that means "Let's go!", "Come with me!", or "Join the adventure!" a simple invitation that reflects the warmth, excitement, and sense of togetherness that define Filipino travel.
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| From left: Claire Bernabe, Head of Sales of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR); Geraldine Gaw, General Manager of Hotel Lucky Chinatown; Eden Decano, Chief Finance Officer of MHR; Arturo Boncato Jr., Group General Manager of MHR; Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of MHR; Capt. Stanley Ng, Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism; Loleth So, Group Commercial Director of MHR; Divine delos Reyes, Head of People Management of MHR; Den Navarro, General Manager of Savoy Hotel Manila; Rowena Samonte, General Manager of Twin Lakes Hotel. |
This beloved expression became the inspiration behind TARA! (Travel Away and Reignite Adventure), the newest nationwide campaign of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR). I recently attended its official media launch at Hotel Lucky Chinatown in Binondo, Manila, where members of the media, travel bloggers, lifestyle influencers, and content creators gathered to witness how one of the country's leading hotel groups is encouraging Filipinos to rediscover the beauty of local destinations.
More than simply introducing a hotel promotion, the event celebrated domestic tourism and reminded everyone that memorable adventures don't always require international flights. Sometimes, the best experiences are found just a few hours away from home.
"This campaign reflects our shared belief with the Department of Tourism that domestic tourism remains one of the strongest drivers of a resilient and sustainable tourism industry. Every local trip supports livelihoods, celebrates our culture, and creates meaningful economic opportunities for communities across the country. Through TARA!, we hope to make discovering more to love about the Philippines easier, more accessible, and ultimately more rewarding for every Filipino." ~Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts
Supporting Philippine Tourism One Staycation at a Time
"TARA! is not just another hotel room promotion. It is an invitation for Filipinos to rediscover the incredible destinations we already have, from the heritage streets of Manila and Iloilo to the pristine beaches of Boracay and Cebu to the cool escapes of Batangas. With thousands of room keys across our portfolio, we are creating more opportunities for travelers to explore different parts of the country while enjoying the warmth of our Sampaguita brand of service wherever they go." ~Loleth So, Group Commercial Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts
The launch was graced by Stanley Ng, newly appointed Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism, who praised Megaworld Hotels & Resorts for supporting the DOT's "Discover More to Love" campaign.
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| Mr. Stanley Ng, Newly Appointed Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism |
His message resonated with everyone in the room: the Philippines still has countless destinations waiting to be explored, and campaigns like TARA! make it easier for Filipinos to travel more frequently without stretching their budget.
According to the Department of Tourism, domestic tourism generated ₱3.26 trillion in tourism expenditure last year—an increase from ₱3.16 trillion in 2024. These figures highlight the growing interest of Filipinos in exploring their own country while supporting local businesses and communities.
A Binondo Food Crawl That Showed Travel Can Begin in Your Own City
One of my favorite parts of the event happened after the launch when we joined a specially curated Binondo Food Crawl.
Walking through the colorful streets of Binondo reminded me why this district remains one of Manila's greatest treasures. Established in 1594, Binondo is recognized as the oldest Chinatown in the world, making it one of the city's most historically significant destinations.
From iconic Chinese-Filipino delicacies to generations-old restaurants and hidden food gems, every stop reflected centuries of cultural exchange that continue to influence Filipino cuisine today. It was the perfect reminder that meaningful travel doesn't always mean going far—you can rediscover history, culture, and amazing food right in the heart of Manila.
Megaworld Hotels & Resorts: The Largest Hotel Operator in the Philippines
One thing I learned during the launch is just how expansive Megaworld Hotels & Resorts has become.
Today, MHR manages 16 hotels with more than 9,000 room keys strategically located across Metro Manila, Boracay, Cebu, Batangas, and Iloilo. Each property is thoughtfully integrated within Megaworld's signature townships, allowing guests to enjoy hotels, shopping centers, restaurants, entertainment hubs, business districts, and tourist attractions all within one destination.
Whether you're planning a staycation, family vacation, romantic getaway, business trip, or workcation, there's a Megaworld hotel that perfectly suits your travel style.
TARA! Promo: Hotel Deals Starting at Only ₱3,800
The TARA! Travel Away and Reignite Adventure campaign runs until November 29, 2026, with stays valid until November 30, 2026. Guests can book directly through participating hotel websites using the promo code TARAMHR.
Here are the participating hotels and why each destination deserves a visit.
Belmont Hotel Manila
Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)
Located inside Newport City and just across NAIA Terminal 3 via the Runway Manila bridge, Belmont Hotel Manila is one of the most convenient hotels for travelers arriving or departing from Manila.
Trivia: Its rooftop swimming pool and rooftop bar offer relaxing views of the airport skyline, making it a favorite among transit travelers and staycation guests alike.
Savoy Hotel Manila
Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)
Just a few steps away from Newport World Resorts, Savoy Hotel Manila combines affordability with modern comfort.
Trivia: Its colorful contemporary interiors are inspired by travel and movement, making every corner Instagram-worthy while offering easy access to entertainment, shopping, and dining.
Grand Westside Hotel
Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)
Situated within Entertainment City, Grand Westside Hotel is Megaworld's newest landmark hospitality development.
Trivia: It is currently recognized as one of the largest hotels in the Philippines by room inventory, making it ideal for large conventions, business events, and leisure travelers visiting Manila Bay.
Kingsford Hotel Manila
Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)
Perfectly located near Okada Manila, Parqal, SM Mall of Asia, and other Entertainment City attractions.
Trivia: Families love staying here because of its proximity to Manila Ocean Park attractions, convention centers, and numerous dining destinations.
Hotel Lucky Chinatown
Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)
The launch venue itself perfectly showcased why Hotel Lucky Chinatown is the ideal base for exploring Binondo.
Trivia: Guests can easily walk to Binondo Church, Ongpin Street, Escolta, Jones Bridge, and some of Manila's oldest and most famous restaurants, making it one of the best hotels for food tourism and heritage walks.
Eastwood Richmonde Hotel
Promo: From ₱5,800 (with Breakfast)
Located inside Eastwood City, this hotel offers a perfect mix of business convenience and leisure.
Trivia: Eastwood City is recognized as the first-ever live-work-play township in the Philippines, pioneering the integrated township concept that Megaworld is known for today.
Richmonde Hotel Ortigas
Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)
Nestled in Ortigas Center, the hotel remains a favorite among business travelers.
Trivia: Its central location provides quick access to major shopping malls like SM Megamall, Shangri-La Plaza, and Estancia, making it an excellent base for both work and leisure.
Belmont Hotel Boracay
Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)
Located inside Boracay Newcoast, Belmont offers a peaceful alternative to the island's busier stations.
Trivia: Guests enjoy access to Newcoast Beach, a quieter stretch of white sand perfect for sunrise walks and relaxing away from the crowds.
Savoy Hotel Boracay
Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)
Known for its tropical-inspired architecture and family-friendly amenities.
Trivia: The hotel offers complimentary shuttle services to White Beach, giving guests the best of both worlds—peaceful accommodations and convenient access to Boracay's famous nightlife.
Chancellor Hotel Boracay
Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)
One of the newest additions to Megaworld Hotels & Resorts.
Trivia: Its modern design and strategic location make it an excellent option for travelers who want to experience Boracay's world-famous beaches while enjoying contemporary comforts.
Savoy Hotel Mactan
Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)
Located within The Mactan Newtown in Lapu-Lapu City.
Trivia: The hotel is just minutes away from the historic Mactan Shrine, where local hero Lapu-Lapu defeated Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, making it an ideal base for combining history and beach adventures.
Mercure Mactan Cebu
Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)
A newly opened internationally branded hotel under the Accor group.
Trivia: It blends French-inspired hospitality with Filipino warmth while offering convenient access to beaches, island hopping tours, and Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
Richmonde Hotel Iloilo
Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)
Located inside Iloilo Business Park.
Trivia: It is only minutes away from the Iloilo Convention Center and serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Iloilo's famous heritage churches, museums, and culinary scene, including the city's renowned La Paz Batchoy.
Belmont Hotel Iloilo
Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)
One of the newest hotels in Iloilo's thriving business district.
Trivia: Its location provides easy access to Festive Walk Mall, Iloilo River Esplanade, and many of the city's emerging lifestyle destinations.
Twin Lakes Hotel
Promo: From ₱5,800 (with Breakfast)
Perched above the Twin Lakes township in Batangas.
Trivia: It offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. Because of its cooler climate and vineyard-inspired surroundings, many visitors compare the experience to a countryside escape in Europe—without leaving the Philippines.
After attending the launch, I realized that TARA! is more than just another hotel sale. It's an invitation to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, support local tourism, and rediscover the incredible destinations our own country has to offer.
Whether you're planning a quick weekend staycation in Metro Manila, a food trip in Binondo, a relaxing beach escape in Boracay or Cebu, a cultural adventure in Iloilo, or a scenic retreat overlooking Taal Lake, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts makes it easier to travel without breaking the bank.
Sometimes, the best adventures aren't found abroad—they're waiting right here at home.
So the next time someone says, "Tara!", don't hesitate.
Pack your bags, book your stay, and experience why there's always more to discover, more to experience, and definitely more to love in the Philippines.
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