

.jpg)
Alliana & Jesslin
when:
January 3, 2027
3:30-11:00 pm
where:
Tagaytay, Philippines
life together
-
Ever a lesbian cliché, Alliana and Jesslin were quickly inseparable. Jesslin appreciated that apart from her mom, Lin, Alliana was the most capable person she had ever met. Alliana appreciated Jesslin’s sense of humor, big heart, and grounding presence. Alliana moved in in February of 2024. Doug drove the U-Haul🙂
Over the next year and a half, Alliana and Jesslin skied, traveled, and played lots of cribbage, guitar-hero, and pool. Alliana became quite familiar with Minnesota, which was “just not where she thought it was,” and Jesslin started watching beginner Tagalog videos before bed. Jesslin realized she had never felt more at home and Alliana realized she didn’t need an emotional support color coded Excel spreadsheet, she just needed Jesslin.
Our Story
meet cute
-
Thankfully, the lesbian dating pool in Alaska isn’t huge and they matched a few days later 💘 Jesslin, not knowing that Alliana hates beer, suggested King Street Brewery. Trying to seem “chill”, Alliana agreed.
Despite being violently ill the days before and nearly cancelling, Alliana made it to King Street and quickly admitted that she in fact hated beer. Nonetheless, they had quite a bit to talk about: Alliana knew another Wooliver, but he was an older guy who worked for the court system and had great style and hair….it couldn’t be. But yes! Jesslin is in fact Doug Wooliver’s daughter. Alliana knew this was a good sign—everyone loves Doug.
It was June of 2023. Jesslin was having a summer of increasingly boring hinge dates but was excited to find Alliana’s profile—she immediately swiped right.
Alliana had just finished up what would be her last session in Juneau, was in a frenzy, and set on having a hot girl summer. She was driving up the AlCan with her bff Marissa, when a photo of a cute, red-headed public defender drinking a giant margarita with another woman captioned, “this could be us” popped up on Hinge. Alliana wondered if the other woman in the photo was a friend or an ex-girlfriend. She decided she didn’t care and would swipe right. She then lost signal.
Alliana and Jesslin also quickly noticed that they had both attended Robert Service High School, allowing them to reflect on common teachers, classmates, and scandals. They agreed on the fundamentals— Tarbath left much to be desired; Ilgen was the best.
When J finished her beer she did not want the date to end but she did want Alliana to have a drink she’d enjoy, so she suggested they go to Bear Tooth. They went and ordered the same exact thing: a California dream bowl and hot pink habañero margarita. Alliana, still recovering from illness as you’ll recall, puked the minute she got home. But she did get Jesslin’s number and presumably a second date. She considered it a win:)
In May 2025, after months of texting proposal ideas to Marissa and telling Jesslin to propose first, Alliana surprised Jesslin by asking her to marry her at their home with a gorgeous ring that Jesslin saw once and loved. Later that evening, after a long drive to Homer and months of also texting Marissa her (apparently very similar) proposal ideas, Jesslin asked Alliana to marry her with a gorgeous ring that Jesslin designed without reference material of any kind.
And here we are today. Wedding planning has brought out the best in both Alliana and Jesslin, and though they will forever cherish this special time, they cannot wait to share more stories with you LIVE in Tagaytay, Philippines, 2027!!
the big q
-
It was June of 2023. Jesslin was having a summer of increasingly boring hinge dates but was excited to find Alliana’s profile—she immediately swiped right.
Alliana had just finished up what would be her last session in Juneau, was in a frenzy, and set on having a hot girl summer. She was driving up the AlCan with her bff Marissa, when a photo of a cute, red-headed public defender drinking a giant margarita with another woman captioned, “this could be us” popped up on Hinge. Alliana wondered if the other woman in the photo was a friend or an ex-girlfriend. She decided she didn’t care and would swipe right. She then lost signal.
Thankfully, the lesbian dating pool in Alaska isn’t huge and they matched a few days later 💘 Jesslin, not knowing that Alliana hates beer, suggested King Street Brewery. Trying to seem “chill”, Alliana agreed.
Despite being violently ill the days before and nearly cancelling, Alliana made it to King Street and quickly admitted that she in fact hated beer.
meet cute
-
Nonetheless, they had quite a bit to talk about: Alliana knew another Wooliver, an older guy who worked for the court system and had great style and hair….it couldn’t be. But yes! Jesslin is in fact Doug Wooliver’s daughter. Alliana knew this was a good sign—everyone loves Doug.
Alliana and Jesslin also quickly noticed that they had both attended Robert Service High School, allowing them to reflect on common teachers, classmates, and scandals. They agreed on the fundamentals— Tarbath left much to be desired; Ilgen was the best.
When J finished her beer she did not want the date to end but she did want Alliana to have a drink she’d enjoy, so she suggested they go to Bear Tooth. They went and ordered the same exact thing: a California dream bowl and hot pink habañero margarita. Alliana, still recovering from illness as you’ll recall, puked the minute she got home. But she did get Jesslin’s number and presumably a second date. She considered it a win:)
life together
-
Ever a lesbian cliché, Alliana and Jesslin were quickly inseparable. Jesslin appreciated that apart from her mom, Lin, Alliana was the most capable person she had ever met. Alliana appreciated Jesslin’s sense of humor, big heart, and grounding presence. Alliana moved in in February of 2024. Doug drove the U-Haul🙂
Over the next year and a half, Alliana and Jesslin skied, traveled, and played lots of cribbage, guitar-hero, and pool. Alliana became quite familiar with Minnesota, which was “just not where she thought it was,” and Jesslin started watching beginner Tagalog videos before bed. Jesslin realized she had never felt more at home and Alliana realized she didn’t need an emotional support color coded Excel spreadsheet, she just needed Jesslin.
the big q
-
In May 2025, after months of texting proposal ideas to Marissa and telling Jesslin to propose first, Alliana surprised Jesslin by asking her to marry her at their home with a gorgeous ring that Jesslin saw once and loved. Later that evening, after a long drive to Homer and months of also texting Marissa her (apparently very similar) proposal ideas, Jesslin asked Alliana to marry her with a gorgeous ring that Jesslin designed without reference material of any kind.
And here we are today. Wedding planning has brought out the best in both Alliana and Jesslin, and though they will forever cherish this special time, they cannot wait to share more stories with you LIVE in Tagaytay, Philippines, 2027!!
meet cute
-
life together
-
Ever a lesbian cliché, Alliana and Jesslin were quickly inseparable. Jesslin appreciated that apart from her mom, Lin, Alliana was the most capable person she had ever met. Alliana appreciated Jesslin’s sense of humor, big heart, and grounding presence. Alliana moved in in February of 2024. Doug drove the U-Haul🙂
Over the next year and a half, Alliana and Jesslin skied, traveled, and played lots of cribbage, guitar-hero, and pool. Alliana became quite familiar with Minnesota, which was “just not where she thought it was,” and Jesslin started watching beginner Tagalog videos before bed. Jesslin realized she had never felt more at home and Alliana realized she didn’t need an emotional support color coded Excel spreadsheet, she just needed Jesslin.

In May 2025, after months of texting proposal ideas to Marissa and telling Jesslin to propose first, Alliana surprised Jesslin by asking her to marry her at their home with a gorgeous ring that Jesslin saw once and loved. Later that evening, after a long drive to Homer and months of also texting Marissa her (apparently very similar) proposal ideas, Jesslin asked Alliana to marry her with a gorgeous ring that Jesslin designed without reference material of any kind.
And here we are today. Wedding planning has brought out the best in both Alliana and Jesslin, and though they will forever cherish this special time, they cannot wait to share more stories with you LIVE in Tagaytay, Philippines, 2027!!
the big q
-
Despite being violently ill the days before and nearly cancelling, Alliana made it to King Street and quickly admitted that she in fact hated beer. Nonetheless, they had quite a bit to talk about: Alliana knew another Wooliver, but he was an older guy who worked for the court system and had great style and hair….it couldn’t be. But yes! Jesslin is in fact Doug Wooliver’s daughter. Alliana knew this was a good sign—everyone loves Doug.
Alliana and Jesslin also quickly noticed that they had both attended Robert Service High School, allowing them to reflect on common teachers, classmates, and scandals. They agreed on the fundamentals— Tarbath left much to be desired; Ilgen was the best.
When J finished her beer she did not want the date to end but she did want Alliana to have a drink she’d enjoy, so she suggested they go to Bear Tooth. They went and ordered the same exact thing: a California dream bowl and hot pink habañero margarita. Alliana, still recovering from illness as you’ll recall, puked the minute she got home. But she did get Jesslin’s number and presumably a second date. She considered it a win:)
It was June of 2023. Jesslin was having a summer of increasingly boring hinge dates but was excited to find Alliana’s profile—she immediately swiped right.
Alliana had just finished up what would be her last session in Juneau, was in a frenzy, and set on having a hot girl summer. She was driving up the AlCan with her bff Marissa, when a photo of a cute, red-headed public defender drinking a giant margarita with another woman captioned, “this could be us” popped up on Hinge. Alliana wondered if the other woman in the photo was a friend or an ex-girlfriend. She decided she didn’t care and would swipe right. She then lost signal.
Thankfully, the lesbian dating pool in Alaska isn’t huge and they matched a few days later 💘 Jesslin, not knowing that Alliana hates beer, suggested King Street Brewery. Trying to seem “chill”, Alliana agreed.
Wedding Details


schedule
-
Venue doors open
Cocktail hour
3:30 pm
Ceremony
5:30 pm
Reception!
4:15 pm
3:00 pm
Reception!!
5:30 pm
Cocktail hour
4:15 pm
Ceremony
3:30 pm
3:00 pm
Venue doors open
schedule
-
wedding attire
-
We are going for colorful, semi-formal attire. Think summer garden party but a little fancier! We suggest maxi- or midi- length dresses, dressy separates, or a linen suit and tie. If you have a barong or filipiniana you've been wanting to wear, please do!
Remember, the ceremony and cocktail hour are outside on the grassy lawn. It will be around 70 degrees and humid so dress accordingly and wear the appropriate footwear.
Please avoid wearing black, white, cream, ivory, etc. Florals, fun patterns, and colors are highly encouraged! Here are some outfits for inspiration!
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wedding party
-

Marissa Exelby
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Maid of Honor

Molly Wooliver
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Maid of Honor

Marla Salanguit
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Bridesmaid
Primary
Maria Tarrayo Apilado & Jayson Apilado
Mateo Banggiacan & Michael Wilson
Sandy Espanola
Jodi Heiser & Doug Michels
Lucena & Amando Lagman
Elvira & Benjie Lapuz
Efleda Lastimoso & Noel Lastimoso
Jane & Dave McVeigh
Amor & Carol Mostert
Racel & Ricky Pascual
Lisa & Dennis Poirier
Liz Wallace & Craig Rice
Vanessa Viola-Daly
Malou & Robert Yamat
godparents
-
Secondary
Unity Candle
Heidi Drygas & Kevin Sund
Veil
Molly Wooliver & Joey Cassady
Cord
Anna Knight & Ami Salanguit
Arras (Coins)
Anna Knight & Ami Salanguit
Travel
exploring the Philippines/SE Asia
The Philippines consists of 7,500+ islands, 300+ volcanoes, and has 180+ official languages. It's famous for its beaches, rice fields, and love for karaoke and Jollibee. We recommend minimizing your time in Manila and exploring the country. There's a lot to see!
Want to see other places? Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Bali, Taiwan, China, even Japan, and more are just a short flight away.
where we've been
Coron
Known for its island hopping and clear waters. It does take two flights and maybe a ferry ride to get there now :(
Boracay
One of the most famous beaches in the world. Pretty crowded and touristy but always worth the visit. Mango Mama is a must there.
Japan
Ok obvs not in Philippines but it's just 4 hours away.
where to stay
If you want some down time, quiet, and to lower Alliana’s mom’s blood pressure leading up to the wedding, we recommend staying in the Alabang area. It’s more walkable, there is less traffic, has most things you need, and is only about 30 minutes away from Manila proper. This is also where we usually are since we stay with our family here.
There are many nice hotels in Alabang, but Air BnBs are also available if you are feeling bold! Most lodging options are pretty affordable. Just make sure to check if they have air conditioning.
If you want a more luxurious mini get away, we’ve stayed in the following hotels in Pasay City in Manila proper and can confirm they are VERY nice:

Nobu

The Admiral Hotel

Okada

Solaire
These hotels are 4 or 5 star resorts that cost $150-$300/night depending on room type and time of the year. They’ll have prime viewing spots for Manila’s famous NYE fireworks and are near the airport and the Mall of Asia which has a great view and truly every store you can think of– including the largest Ikea in the world!
what to do and eat
Admittedly, we spend most of our time in the Philippines at home with the family or outside of Manila. But here are some things we’ve done and can recommend:
Intramuros:
“Intramuros” refers to a historic, walled area in Manila defined by its cobblestone streets and old-Spanish influence. It served as the home of the Spanish government during most of their rule of the Philippines (1575-1898) but also served as the educational, religious, and economic center of the country and city more broadly. While most of its original buildings and structures were destroyed in WWII at the Battle of Manila, Intramuros is still home to several Philippine government agencies, large churches, and schools, and is considered a National Historical Landmark. Guided tours are available, but if that is not your thing, Intramuros is walkable and contains plenty of tourist-friendly shops, cafes, and restaurants.
For a formal, guided tour, check out: https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/ultimate-guides/intramuros-manila-travel-guide
Mall of Asia:
Biggest IKEA in the world! Gorgeous sunset. Every store you can think of. Really good hotpot.
National Museums:
They’re free!
https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/history-culture/best-museums-manila
Other ideas:
https://www.tatlerasia.com/before-you-go
https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/what-to-experience/manila-tourist-spots
The Food Basics:
-
Jollibee - Philippines is the only country in the world where McDonald’s is not the most popular fast food chain. Instead, it’s jollibee! Come for quick and delicious chicken, rice, and gravy.
-
Max’s - another popular chain serving classic filipino food.
-
Shakey’s Pizza - this is the go to if you are craving some classic American food, though it still won’t compare to your local pizza joint.
Other recommendations:
https://www.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-manila-philippines
https://www.forbes.com/sites/karlaalindahao/2019/03/14/manila-travel-guide-2019
metro-Manila
Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is actually just one of 17 cities housed in the “Metro-Manila” area. Each of the 17 cities have their own distinct feel but are still very intertwined. We recommend staying in Muntinlupa/Alabang, Makati, BGC, or Manila proper for ease of transport and access.
Learn more about the cities here: https://manilafyi.com/manila-vs-metro-manila-cities/
tagaytay
Tagaytay (tuh·guy·tai) is 1.5 hours south of Luzon and the region the wedding venue is in. It’s known for its views of Taal (ta·ahl) Volcano and Taal Lake.
getting there
You can book a one-way transfer from Manila to Tagaytay for ~$129 total for up to 6 people on Klook or Viator. You can also book a driver for the entire weekend here. Be aware that there are sometimes additional costs, such as fuel, tolls, or meals for the driver. It just depends on what's included in the package.
getting around
JoyRide App
Instead of the Grab app, Tagaytay uses Joyride to get around. You can download it here: https://joyride.com.ph/
Wedding Jeepney (Shuttle)
We have rented 2 jeepneys that will go from Twin Lakes Hotel to the venue on the day of the wedding. It will run from 2pm to 11:30 pm. Look for a big silver jeepney at Twin Lakes!
where to stay
We have a discounted room block at Twin Lakes. Reach out to Alliana or email sales@twinlakes.com.ph with our names and wedding date to reserve a room. We will also be running a shuttle to and from Twin Lakes and the venue on the day of the wedding.
There are also hotels in downtown Tagaytay that are a 15-25 min drive from the venue, depending on traffic. Please be mindful of traffic when considering transport to the venue. While we haven't stayed at these places, we've heard good things about Escala Hotel, The Lake Hotel, and Taal Vista Hotel.
To find other options near the venue, search "Ville Sommet, #5 JP Rizal, St Sikat Rd, Alfonso, 4123 Cavite, Philippines"
Tagaytay is usually just a stop on the way to the province for us so we don't have too many recommendations outside of Alliana's favorite crepes and view at La Creperie. Otherwise, here are some good guides for experiencing Tagaytay:
https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/ultimate-guides/tagaytay-travel-guide
https://www.kingtolentino.com/blog/tagaytay-staycation
Thank you so much for considering the trip! We know this would be the first trip to the Philippines for many of you. As a type A girly (do we even need to specify which one?), we want to make it as easy for you guys as possible.
Of note, our venue is in Tagaytay- 1.5 hours (depending on traffic) south of Manila where your flight will land. Below will be info on getting to Manila, getting to the venue, recommendations, and any other things Alliana's neuroticism could think of. We will add more details as things get more finalized. Feel free to text with any questions you have though!
some numbers about the Philippines
17
hours ahead of Anchorage, AK
66°/79°
fahrenheit on average in January
60₱
average dollar to pesos exchange rate in 2026
flights
Note: Flights won't be available for purchase until late late January 2026/February 2026
Getting to the Philippines from the West Coast takes 24-33 hours of travel. With the time difference, you'll arrive 2 days after your original departure date. We recommend flying out between Dec. 27-29th for the best prices and to have enough time to recover from jet lag and adjust to the time difference.
Philippine Airlines is the easiest, fastest way to get there with a 14 hour direct flight from LAX/HNL/SEA to Manila. You can buy tickets with them a year in advance at the earliest. They are also earn and redeem partners with Alaska Air - a big win for us Alaska Air girlies!
Asiana, Eva, and Japan Airlines also fly to Manila but they add a layover in Asia. Asiana and Eva's pricing is similar to Philippine Airlines. Japan's is more costly but they are part of the oneworld Alliance.
Tip: Change into breathable clothes or shorts before you hop in the customs line. It takes a while and the Air Conditioning is a little lacking.
transportation
Whatever you do, do not drive yourself around!!! Driving in Manila makes NYC and LA traffic look like a breeze. Here's what to do instead:
Grab App
Grab is the Uber/Lyft of Philippines. It is available in Metro-Manila but not in Tagaytay.

Private Driver
You can hire a private driver with a car for around $100-150/day. Rates vary based on car size. They can drive you around Manila and even outside of it. You can book using Klook.com

Public Transport
While we aren't super familiar with it or would recommend it where Grab is available, public transport is available. Learn more here: philippinestravelguides.com/travel-tips/transport-options-philippines/
Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is actually just one of 17 cities housed in the “Metro-Manila” area. Each of the 17 cities have their own distinct feel but are still very intertwined. We recommend staying in Muntinlupa/Alabang, Makati, BGC, or Manila proper for ease of transport and access.
Learn more about the cities here: https://manilafyi.com/manila-vs-metro-manila-cities/
metro-Manila
what to do and eat
Admittedly, we spend most of our time in the Philippines at home with the family or outside of Manila. But here are some things we’ve done and can recommend:
Intramuros:
“Intramuros” refers to a historic, walled area in Manila defined by its cobblestone streets and old-Spanish influence. It served as the home of the Spanish government during most of their rule of the Philippines (1575-1898) but also served as the educational, religious, and economic center of the country and city more broadly. While most of its original buildings and structures were destroyed in WWII at the Battle of Manila, Intramuros is still home to several Philippine government agencies, large churches, and schools, and is considered a National Historical Landmark. Guided tours are available, but if that is not your thing, Intramuros is walkable and contains plenty of tourist-friendly shops, cafes, and restaurants.
For a formal, guided tour, check out: https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/ultimate-guides/intramuros-manila-travel-guide
Mall of Asia:
Biggest IKEA in the world! Gorgeous sunset. Every store you can think of. Really good hotpot.
National Museums:
They’re free!
https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/history-culture/best-museums-manila
Other ideas:
https://www.tatlerasia.com/before-you-go
https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/what-to-experience/manila-tourist-spots
The Food Basics:
-
Jollibee - Philippines is the only country in the world where McDonald’s is not the most popular fast food chain. Instead, it’s jollibee! Come for quick and delicious chicken, rice, and gravy.
-
Max’s - another popular chain serving classic filipino food.
-
Shakey’s Pizza - this is the go to if you are craving some classic American food, though it still won’t compare to your local pizza joint.
Other recommendations:
https://www.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-manila-philippines
https://www.forbes.com/sites/karlaalindahao/2019/03/14/manila-travel-guide-2019
These hotels are 4 or 5 star resorts that cost $150-$300 depending on room type and time of the year. They’ll have prime viewing spots for Manila’s famous NYE fireworks and are near the airport and the Mall of Asia which has a great view and truly every store you can think of– including the largest Ikea in the world!

Nobu

The Admiral Hotel

Okada

Solaire
If you want some down time, quiet, and to lower Alliana’s mom’s blood pressure leading up to the wedding, we recommend staying in the Alabang area. It’s more walkable, there is less traffic, has most things you need, and is only about 30 minutes away from Manila proper. This is also where we usually are since we stay with our family here.
There are many nice hotels in Alabang, but Air BnBs are also available if you are feeling bold! Most lodging options are pretty affordable. Just make sure to check if they have air conditioning.
If you want a more luxurious mini get away, we’ve stayed in the following hotels in Pasay City in Manila proper and can confirm they are VERY nice:
where to stay
general
more info coming soon!
metro-Manila
tagaytay
tagaytay
general
Thank you so much for considering the trip! We know this would be the first trip to the Philippines for many of you. As a type A girly (do we even need to specify which one?), we want to make it as easy for you guys as possible.
Of note, our venue is in Tagaytay- 1.5 hours (depending on traffic) south of Manila where your flight will land. Below will be info on getting to Manila, getting to the venue, recommendations, and any other things Alliana's neuroticism could think of. We will add more details as things get more finalized. Feel free to text with any questions you have though!
some numbers about the Philippines
17
hours ahead of Anchorage, AK
66°/79°
fahrenheit on average in January
56₱
average dollar to pesos exchange rate
general
Thank you so much for considering the trip! We know this would be the first trip to the Philippines for many of you. As a type A girly (do we even need to specify which one?), we want to make it as easy for you guys as possible.
Of note, our venue is in Tagaytay- 1.5 hours (depending on traffic) south of Manila where your flight will land. Below will be info on getting to Manila, getting to the venue, recommendations, and any other things Alliana's neuroticism could think of. We will add more details as things get more finalized. Feel free to text with any questions you have though!
some numbers about the Philippines
-
17
hours ahead of Anchorage, AK
66°/79°
fahrenheit on average in January
56₱
average dollar to pesos exchange rate
flights
-
Note: Flights won't be available for purchase until late late January 2026/February 2026
Asiana, Eva, and Japan Airlines also fly to Manila but they add a layover in Asia. Asiana and Eva's pricing is similar to Philippine Airlines. Japan's is more costly but they are part of the oneworld Alliance.
Tip: Change into breathable clothes or shorts before you hop in the customs line. It takes a while and the Air Conditioning is a little lacking.
Getting to the Philippines from the West Coast takes 24-33 hours of travel. With the time difference, you'll arrive 2 days after your original departure date. We recommend flying out between Dec. 27-29th for the best prices and to have enough time to recover from jet lag and adjust to the time difference.
Philippine Airlines is the easiest, fastest way to get there with a 14 hour direct flight from LAX/HNL/SEA to Manila. You can buy tickets with them a year in advance at the earliest. They are also earn and redeem partners with Alaska Air - a big win for us Alaska Air girlies!
transportation
Whatever you do, do not drive yourself around!!! Driving in Manila makes NYC and LA traffic look like a breeze. Here's what to do instead:

Grab App
Grab is the Uber/Lyft of Philippines. It is available in Metro-Manila but not in Tagaytay.

Private Driver
You can hire a private driver with a car for around $100-150/day. Rates vary based on car size. They can drive you around Manila and even outside of it. You can book using Klook.com

Public Transport
While we don't recommend it for long distances or where Grab is available, public transport is available. Learn more here: philippinestravelguides.com/travel-tips/transport-options-philippines/
These hotels are 4 or 5 star resorts that cost $150-$300 depending on room type and time of the year. They’ll have prime viewing spots for Manila’s famous NYE fireworks and are near the airport and the Mall of Asia which has a great view and truly every store you can think of– including the largest Ikea in the world!
If you want some down time, quiet, and to lower Alliana’s mom’s blood pressure leading up to the wedding, we recommend staying in the Alabang area. It’s more walkable, there is less traffic, has most things you need, and is only about 30 minutes away from Manila proper. This is also where we usually are since we stay with our family here.
There are many nice hotels in Alabang, but Air BnBs are also available if you are feeling bold! Most lodging options are pretty affordable. Just make sure to check if they have air conditioning.
If you want a more luxurious mini get away, we’ve stayed in the following hotels in Pasay City in Manila proper and can confirm they are VERY nice:
where to stay
Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is actually just one of 17 cities housed in the “Metro-Manila” area. Each of the 17 cities have their own distinct feel but are still very intertwined. We recommend staying in Muntinlupa/Alabang, Makati, BGC, or Manila proper for ease of transport and access.
Learn more about the cities here: https://manilafyi.com/manila-vs-metro-manila-cities/
Admittedly, we spend most of our time in the Philippines at home with the family or outside of Manila. But here are some things we’ve done and can recommend:
Intramuros:
“Intramuros” refers to a historic, walled area in Manila defined by its cobblestone streets and old-Spanish influence. It served as the home of the Spanish government during most of their rule of the Philippines (1575-1898) but also served as the educational, religious, and economic center of the country and city more broadly. While most of its original buildings and structures were destroyed in WWII at the Battle of Manila, Intramuros is still home to several Philippine government agencies, large churches, and schools, and is considered a National Historical Landmark. Guided tours are available, but if that is not your thing, Intramuros is walkable and contains plenty of tourist-friendly shops, cafes, and restaurants.
For a formal, guided tour, check out: https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/ultimate-guides/intramuros-manila-travel-guide
Mall of Asia:
Biggest IKEA in the world! Gorgeous sunset. Every store you can think of. Really good hotpot.
National Museums:
They’re free!
https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/history-culture/best-museums-manila
Other ideas:
https://www.tatlerasia.com/before-you-go
https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/what-to-experience/manila-tourist-spots
The Food Basics:
-
Jollibee - Philippines is the only country in the world where McDonald’s is not the most popular fast food chain. Instead, it’s jollibee! Come for quick and delicious chicken, rice, and gravy.
-
Max’s - another popular chain serving classic filipino food.
-
Shakey’s Pizza - this is the go to if you are craving some classic American food, though it still won’t compare to your local pizza joint.
Other recommendations:
https://www.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-manila-philippines
https://www.forbes.com/sites/karlaalindahao/2019/03/14/manila-travel-guide-2019
what to do and eat
metro-Manila
Thank you so much for considering the trip! We know this would be the first trip to the Philippines for many of you. As a type A girly (do we even need to specify which one?), we want to make it as easy for you guys as possible.
Of note, our venue is in Tagaytay- 1.5 hours (depending on traffic) south of Manila where your flight will land. Below will be info on getting to Manila, getting to the venue, recommendations, and any other things Alliana's neuroticism could think of. We will add more details as things get more finalized. Feel free to text with any questions you have though!
some numbers about the Philippines
-
17
hours ahead of Anchorage, AK
66°/79°
fahrenheit on average in January
56₱
average dollar to pesos exchange rate
flights
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Note: Flights won't be available for purchase until late late January 2026/February 2026
Asiana, Eva, and Japan Airlines also fly to Manila but they add a layover in Asia. Asiana and Eva's pricing is similar to Philippine Airlines. Japan's is more costly but they are part of the oneworld Alliance.
Tip: Change into breathable clothes or shorts before you hop in the customs line. It takes a while and the Air Conditioning is a little lacking.
Getting to the Philippines from the West Coast takes 24-33 hours of travel. With the time difference, you'll arrive 2 days after your original departure date. We recommend flying out between Dec. 27-29th for the best prices and to have enough time to recover from jet lag and adjust to the time difference.
Philippine Airlines is the easiest, fastest way to get there with a 14 hour direct flight from LAX/HNL/SEA to Manila. You can buy tickets with them a year in advance at the earliest. They are also earn and redeem partners with Alaska Air - a big win for us Alaska Air girlies!
transportation
Whatever you do, do not drive yourself around!!! Driving in Manila makes NYC and LA traffic look like a breeze. Here's what to do instead:

Grab App
Grab is the Uber/Lyft of Philippines. It is available in Metro-Manila but not in Tagaytay.

Private Driver
You can hire a private driver with a car for around $100-150/day. Rates vary based on car size. They can drive you around Manila and even outside of it. You can book using Klook.com

Public Transport
While we aren't super familiar with it or would recommend it where Grab is available, public transport is available. Learn more here: philippinestravelguides.com/travel-tips/transport-options-philippines/
There are also hotels in downtown Tagaytay that are a 15-25 min drive from the venue, depending on traffic. Please be mindful of traffic when considering transport to the venue. While we haven't stayed at these places, we've heard good things about Escala Hotel, The Lake Hotel, and Taal Vista Hotel.
To find other options near the venue, search "Ville Sommet, #5 JP Rizal, St Sikat Rd, Alfonso, 4123 Cavite, Philippines"
Tagaytay is usually just a stop on the way to the province for us so we don't have too many recommendations outside of Alliana's favorite crepes and view at La Creperie. Otherwise, here are some good guides for experiencing Tagaytay:
https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/ultimate-guides/tagaytay-travel-guide
where to stay

JoyRide App
Instead of the Grab app, Tagaytay uses Joyride to get around. You can download it here: https://joyride.com.ph/
getting around
Tagaytay (tuh·guy·tai) is 1.5 hours south of Luzon and the region the wedding venue is in. It’s known for its views of Taal (ta·ahl) Volcano and Taal Lake.
tagaytay
Registry
Questions

We can't wait to celebrate with you!
A & J











































































































































