Ayala Triangle Gardens: A Colorful Tradition at the Heart of the Metro

For someone who have no choice but to bear the stress that "Christmas in metro" is bringing in to my head and everything around me, I’m still glad that there’s a colorful break from all these stress – AND IT’S FREE!

On its sixth consecutive year, Ayala Triangle Gardens lighted up the bustling pocket of green at the heart of Makati City with unbelievable Christmas lights that dance so well to the Christmas tunes being played around the park. Yep, its that time of the year again for the Ayala Triangle Gardens' Festival of Lights!

Serving as a breather to the hard-working employees of the Central Business District, Ayala Triangle Gardens is now filled with thousands of multi-colored LED lights and blazing full-color laser lights to mark the start of Yuletide cheers in the district.

An Exquisite Weekend at the Highlands

When life in the metro is too busy and it feels like the remaining fresh air that you could breathe was immediately turned into black cause by the gigantic buses that are blocking all the metro’s avenues and streets, where do you find relief?

A sanctuary two hours away from Manila via South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Tagaytay City has been a hideaway to millions of metropolitan citizens who are in dire need of fresh air, beautiful scenery, a relaxation spot and comforting dishes. It is no wonder that this small town up in the mountainous region of Cavite Province is flocked by millions of visitors every year. And while millions are enjoying this cold place for a day or over a weekend, there are those who are living a pollution-free life and happily nestled in one of those comforting and secure subdivision like Tagaytay Highlands.

A few weeks ago, together with three of my favorite blogger-friends, we spent a relaxing yet enjoyable weekend in one of Tagaytay’s prime subdivision, the Tagaytay Highlands. Approximately 360 hectares of well-thought and well-developed property highlighting the lush and serene ambiance of this renowned tourist destination, Tagaytay Highlands served as our sanctuary then.

#QC75: The Stone that Built the City

Quezon City is known for many names – City of Stars, City with Most Handsome Guys, City that Never Sleeps, Selfie Capital of the Philippines, Entertainment City of the Philippines and many, many more. But despite of all the glitz and glam of this city, which is named after the late President Manuel Luis Quezon, at the heart of this progressive city lays the stone that built the city.

They say home is where the heart is, and here in Quezon City, lying right in the heart of the city – the Quezon Memorial Circle – is the Quezon Heritage House, a replica of the Quezon Family house, which served as the refuge after they come back to Manila after World War II.

Opened to the public in 2013, it was just recent that I discovered about it after a friend invited me to do a “staycation” around town. It was an eye-opening weekend, because aside from knowing that the said Heritage House is situated right here inside the Quezon Memorial Circle, I also discovered some interesting thing about this whole place. 

Affordable Christmas Finds at Dapitan Arcade

We’re now three months away from the most wonderful time of the year. Though, most of us are still waiting for our Christmas bonuses and special gifts from our bosses, to those who are looking for some affordable places where they can do an early Christmas shopping, look no more, because its 365 days of Christmas at Dapitan Arcade.

Technically, Dapitan Arcade is part of Quezon City, but since Dapitan is a famous landmark of Manila City, being one of the entrances of University of Sto Tomas is located here, people still refer to it as part of Manila City. But anyway, going here is so easy. If you know University of Sto. Tomas or Dangwa Flower Market in Manila, locating this colorful spot of Christmas decorations and gift ideas is definitely no fuss. Just make sure that you know how to bargain and spot the nicest piece, and you’re off to a great deal!

When I went there a few days ago, I was surprised that almost all stalls have their Christmas pieces up on display area. There were hundreds or even thousands of great and wonderful pieces that I really love to take home with me, but budget constraint, I was left with what I need the most and what I can carry back home.

The Linden Suites and Ortigas on a Weekend

Before the unimaginable and towering skyscrapers start occupying the once peaceful skyline of the business district of Pasig City – The Linden Suites has been a nestling place for the hardworking business class of Ortigas District and its neighboring cities. Sharing a much-needed space and comfort, The Linden Suite was the “escape” destination in this side of town back in the days.

But now, as towering architectural masterpieces fill on what’s left in this bustling district, and the demand and competition of relaxation and accommodation get tougher, The Linden Suites is proud to share its modernized service and facilities that will continuously delight its loyalists and new patrons.

Located at the very heart of Ortigas, #37 San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City to exact, The Linden Suites offers combined elegance and functionality fit to those who need a break from their strenuous work or just a place to gather all those ideas to come up with a great work piece that will impress the bosses. I’m glad to say that I went here for some total relaxation.

And even though my stay here at The Linden Suites is just some random “staycation” on a fine, sunny weekend, I did enjoy my cozy, bright room as well as exploring the less-crowded Ortigas District.

A Weekend Staycation at Alabang’s Primmest Hotel

Just when I thought that I’d be having a super-duper boring weekend, where I would be bummed out at home with nothing to do but to stare at our walls - two of my sweetest friends, Maan and Hati, invited me to join them on a weekend getaway at southern Manila's prime hotel, Crimson Hotel.

An invitation that is so hard to say no, in a jiffy, I packed my bags and readied myself to travel and explore one of cities in the metro that’s so close to my heart, Muntinlupa.

Standing grand and mighty at Entrata Urban Complex, Filinvest City, 2609 Civic Dr, Muntinlupa, Crimson Hotel is less than an hour away from Manila via South Luzon Expressway. This prime destination can welcome a great number of people who wish to escape that fast-paced and bustling northern part of Metro Manila, with its heartwarming accommodation, delicious dishes, friendly neighborhood and relaxing vibe.

Mall of Asia Complex Opens Esplanade Seaside Terminal

After almost 10 years since it was opened to the public, from having one of the biggest malls in the world (SM Mall of Asia), world class arena (SM Arena) and convention center (SMX), to unique and captivating office buildings (OneE-Com, TwoE-Com and FiveE-Com Centers), Mall of Asia Complex now takes pride in offering a fast and enjoyable sea voyage to its neighboring islands in Luzon through Esplanade Seaside Terminal.

Now, everyone can enjoy the comfort, style, and security as Esplanade Seaside Terminal host some of the private yacht operators in Manila Bay to share a fulfilling and memorable sea trip even just for a short period of time.

Marinduque: Surprises that Await on the Land of the Morions

Just when I thought that experiencing the world-renowned Moriones Festival would be enough to suffice my long-time dream of visiting Marinduque, I guess God has rewarded me for patiently waiting for this chance by showing more of this humble yet very beautiful province.

Since traveling by air was suspended for until who knows when, taking a 2-3 hour land trip via SLEX to Lucena Port and then another 2-3 hour ferry trip via RoRo (Roll-on, Roll-off ferry) from Lucena Port to Balanacan Port, Mogpog, Marinduque, reaching the humble shores of Marinduque won’t be a problem – well at least in our case.

We went there last Holy Week, and though I must indicate that we were just lucky to have a host who planned this trip really, really good, as well as our accommodations too, going to Marinduque on such a peak season would need a great planning - and by planning I mean really, really a head of time.

Via Crucis: 10 Churches of Bicolandia (Part 2)

The abundance of distinct and captivating church structures in the Province of Albay continues to sprawl up to the neighboring provinces of Camarines Sur. And as I continue my journey of discovering the wonderful creations of Bicolanos, I discovered more historical and architecturally pleasing churches that stole my heart and soul.

For this second part, I'm sharing to you 5 of the most stunning churches that I visited as I take my journey back home from my cousin's place in Tiwi, Albay. It is so easy to navigate by land from Manila to Albay and back. Local buses transport all-day traversing the long stretch of highways connecting Manila to the southern provinces of Luzon.

Via Crucis: 10 Churches of Bicolandia (Part 1)

As a solo traveler, one of the most memorable places that I've visited is the Bicolandia region. With its majestic volcanoes painting the sky with such a striking images, Bicolandia also poses some soul-lifting churches that are perfect to see if you are planning to do a Via Crucis or Visita Iglesia this Holy Week in this side of the country.

Though there may be more beautiful churches to see than the 10 that I’ve recently visited, these 10 are just some of the spots that draw not just pilgrims but also tourist of this humble but very breathtaking province.

Exploring the southern part of Luzon has been my dream for a very long time. A region boasts with amazing array of natural resources, Bicolandia or Bicol  possesses the most captivating scenery and culture that you can enjoy by going around its provinces; by tasting every unique and spicy dish they've have created out of their creative minds; and by just being with its sincere and loving people, the Bicolanos.

The 6th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition - Sweden and Portugal

On the last weekend of February, the 6th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition at the SM Mall of Asia illuminated the sky of the whole Mall of Asia Complex with bright, colorful light that gave the last day of the month a lovelier ending.

From the peaceful and cool Prism Plaza of the TwoE-ComCenter, I was able to catch last week's show of the 6th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition while enjoying the lovely music from Miss Arnee Hidalgo.

From Thursday to Friday, Prism Plaza holds a Prism Rhythm, a nightly concert where local performers - individuals and bands - perform live in front of Prism Plaza's guests. So basically, aside from just watching the wonderful pyromusical, they have additional music that really completes one's Saturday night.

Amélie Hotel Manila: Your New Boutique Hotel in Town

Manila has been in the shadow of the more advanced cities of Metro Manila for years now. And though it may take some more years, decades or even century to gain back the glory that this prime city once had, it is slowing moving as it continues an exemplary experience not only to its residents, but also to its guests.

A few days ago, I was invited to be a part of a hotel opening in the red-light district of Manila City, the Malate. Bustling with people from different walks of life, Malate was made popular by its rich history in the early 1900s and was followed by blinding truth inn the 80's and 90's. Though lately, Malate is loosing it limelight, it seems like it is taking anew direction, something that would entice more local and international tourists to see the place.

Highlighting the colorful past of Manila, Amélie Hotel Manila recently opened its doors to the public offering a well-rounded city experience painted with red, black and white.

The 6th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition - Italy and Brazil

On the third leg of the 6th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition, the amazing and breathtaking presentation from Mexico and The Netherlands filled the night sky of SM Mall of Asia last February 21.

With spectacle as extravagant as the the other countries, Mexico and the The Netherlands wowed thousands of their viewers with their amazing combination of fireworks and music that couldn't help everyone but to feel the love of Valentine's Day all over again.

Top Suzara performing at Prism Plaza, TwoE-ComCenter

Mexico's combination of current and US Pop music and their own Mexican vibe, the air was filled with festive colorful bright lights and music. From beginning til the end, everyone was caught amazed as they watch every firework fly up in the air and burst colorful bright lights.

Guam: Your Unique yet Familiar Vacation Destination

If you'd ask one Filipino where he would want to go if he'll be given a chance to go abroad, there's no doubt that he will likely say United States of America. Being still the top destination among Filipino travelers, an island not far away from the mainland US offers that unique experience with a touch of familiarity among Filipinos, GUAM.

Located West of the Pacific, in the Mariana Islands, Guam is the closest United States destination from the Philippines - three and a half hour away from Manila in fact. This paradise offers every Filipino traveler a unique yet familiar vacation destination with its exquisite showcase of culture coupled with exotic beaches, breath-taking sceneries and world-class duty-free shopping. 

The 6th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition - Italy and Brazil

The second leg of the 6th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition was just as breathtaking as the first one. With the contingents from Italy and Brazil painting the night sky of SM Mall of Asia, everyone who went there to spend their Valentine's Day got nothing but one lovely show.

I was very lucky that I was at the 4th Level of TwoE-ComCenter called Prism Plaza, a spot where it gave me this very awesome, ring-side view of last Saturday’s show. If you think that watching the 6th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition at the ledge of SM by the Bay was awesome, the experience that I had at the Prism Plaza was way better. The fireworks explode right in front of your eyes! That kind of whoa!

For the last five years, I had the privilege to catch this exciting of spectacle from the bay area, so now, I’m trying to change my experience by seeing it from a different perspective, and I’m glad that there’s the Prism Plaza. And double glad that it was Italy’s and Brazil’s turn, which showcased such a stunning show.

The 6th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition

On its 6th year, the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition once again painted the SM Mall of Asia skies with bright colorful fireworks forming nothing but the most amazing looks that goes well with the music being played with it.

Started last Saturday, where Philippines' Platinum Fireworks welcomes its guests and spectators with such a lovely exhibition entitled "Love in in the Air 2," the 6th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition will be showcasing the wonderful works of 10 more countries.

10 Funny Things About Philippine Airports

With Summer Season just around the corner, I’m pretty sure that a lot of you are getting ready to be fit, physically and financially. And with 7,107 islands to explore in this beautiful Philippines, I bet that you are targeting not just one but two or more beautiful sites around the nation.

But before you head out and enjoy the sun, sea and sand, make sure that you are also ready to face the challenges brought by our “world-renowned” airports. I listed down 10 of the funny things about our airports – about Philippine airports.

In Photos: Art Fair Philippines 2015

For four straight days, February 5 to 8, on its effort to continuously promote the thriving modern and contemporary art in the country, Art Fair Philippines showcases this year a higher level of Filipino ingenuity, intricacy and creativity that you would want to check out at The Link, Ayala Avenue, Makati City.

On this year's Art Fair Philippines, our imagination will be tickled by the amazing works of Roberto Feleo, Poklong Anading, Annie Cabigting, Buen Calubayan, Mariano Ching and Yasmin Sison, who made special exhibits for this fair only.

Welcoming Installation by Mike Adrao

Displayed on the 6th and 7th Floors of The Link, are also the works from Kawayan de Guia, Tad Ermitanio, Alfredo Esquillo, Jr., Geraldine Javier and Maria Taniguchi. Mr. Kenneth Cobonpue and his team led the design and layout of the exhibition, while Kai Restaurant, The Straits Wine Company and Coca-Cola took care of the cocktail.