turista trails

Tour Operator and Tourism Advocate Rome Candaza

A B S O L U T E

A L B A Y

My third visit of Albay set me for more than just a view of the majestic Mayon Volcano. As I discovered with the help of tourism advocate and tour operator Rome Candaza, the province also has a set of rolling hills that accentuate the landscape. Called the Quitinday Green Hills, the verdant terrain resembles the famous Chocolate Hills attraction of Boholin shape but, in contrast, it appears as a lush green of paradise because of ankle-to-waist-high grass and scattered coconut trees. Some tourists can view the splendid formation from a high point at their flight-in to LegazpiCityAirport. In my experience, it’s best visited on site as it’s accessible through the district of Camalig.

Triple "A" Travel

The Bicol peninsula has the beautiful Quitinday Green Hills and it’s just an hour of travel from LegazpiCity. Thanks to Roaming Rome Knows Travel (Facebook), I was able to reach the rolling hill formation while booked at the Old District of Albay’s The Apple Peach House for my Triple "A" Travel (Absolute Albay In April Tour). Aboard a habal-habal (motorcycle), I treaded the endless cemented highways and non-developed roads to reach the emerging tourist attraction in April of this year. Some visitors though can ride a private vehicle to easily reach the destination.

The short trek uphill

Heading To Quitinday

On our way to the hill formation reserve, we passed by the Camalig’s pastoral environment where locals seem to be graciously residing. The journey also allowed me to personally see a centennial bridge (constructed in 1915) that was still passable. We left the hotel after lunch just in time to catch the sunset at the tourist attraction that’s famous for being tagged as pili nut hills because of their pointed hilltops. From the base of the trek to the hill reserve, it was a few more minutes of uphill climb which challenged my legs a bit. Thankfully, there were erected wooden guide posts where I was able to hold on to for body support. The trek was something that any beginner or non-mountain climber can tackle which makes the attraction tourist-friendly.

Coral stones found on the hilltops

At The Hilltop and More

On site, pathways were cleared for tourists to walk on and even sit onto. I did both – lingering on the middle-side of a hill and resting on a few stops along the way – because the magical experience of being at the Quitinday Green Hills is being literally being in the middle of the formation and surrounded by lush greenery. From afar, I was able to vividly spot the spectacular silhouette of the Mayon Volcano at its finest. The weather was pleasant with God seemingly telling me that the place was something that He prepared for me to see in my lifetime.

It’s advisable to linger at the attraction for more than 30 minutes or even an hour because it’s breezy on the hilltops anyway. The moment of waiting for the strong sunlight to flash against a portion of some of the hills created a visual spectacle that certainly entertained me because the contrast of the shade on the other side of the hills made the terrain rolling to the eyes.

Plying the newly-constructed Bongabong Road

Coral Stones

Interestingly, coral stones could be seen in varying shapes on the hilltops of the reserve which left me to imagine the area as submerged under water millions of years ago.

Leaving The Attraction

To reach the hotel just in time for dinner, we had to leave the hill reserve while sunset was ensuing. Before leaving the area, we made sure to patronize the attendant’s supply of mineral water for drinks at the base as it was necessary to be hydrated after such an experience. We plied the newly-built Bongabong Roadthis time to reach the district of Daraga as we still intended to drop by Gio’s Majestic View, another tourist attraction and resort in Albay.

At the entrance of the hill formation reserve

I can just imagine how splendid it would be to camp out overnight with a tent at the site, however, such was not allowed yet by tourism authorities during the time of our visit.

Book a day tour of the Quitinday Green Hills and experience a side of Albay that’s more than just the Mayon Volcano.

Quitinday Green Hills Tour

Book with Rome Candaza of Roaming Rome Knows Travel on Facebook

Phone: 0927-242-5115/ 0909-116-3310

Email: roamingromeknowstravel@gmail.com

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B E D

A N D

B R E A K F A S T

TagaytayCity is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines for its cool climate and its close proximity to Metro Manila. With the scenic TaalLakeand the Taal Volcano view that are visible from various vantage spots in the city, the area has become a favorite getaway by city-dwelling families. As a matter of fact, new high-rise hotels recently opened along the General Emilio Aguinaldo Highwayto feed the need of tourists to relax from the hustle-and-bustle of urban life. My quick weekend escape in the city, however, led me to discover a private space of luxury along Ligaya Drive, a short distance from the cluster of other establishments. Via the 6-room Casa Alegria, I appreciated the view of the lake the volcano from a luxurious bed with a private veranda to boot.

Casa Alegria is just one of a few a bed and breakfast hotels that can be experienced along the long and winding Ligaya Drive. It encouraged the traveller in me to linger in my booked Veranda Room’s bed where I simply watched the early rays of the morning’s sunrise get cast on the famous Taal Volcano. Unlike accommodations that offer a distant view from the busy highway, the newly-opened hotel gave me a closer rendezvous with the destination. It also allowed me more intimate moments from my booked veranda and bedroom to appreciate the vastness of the terrain at night as the hotel is nestled on a cliff.

My booked Veranda Room looked modern in a lot of ways. From its floor-to-ceiling glass wall, flat screen cable television to its seductively designed bathroom, the hotel gave me a luxurious chance to behold the city from comforts of well-maintained facilities. I loved how the shower area is separate from the toilet space and how the latter even has a view of the highly vegetated outdoors. A closet even has a spare or extra pillow which I used. Interestingly, the rooms without a provision for veranda costs a thousand pesos less which makes the entire establishment attractive for special events such as weddings and reunions.

The hotel just opened in 2014 and is anticipating returning guests past the middle of this year once its infinity pool is fully constructed. At the helm of operations is the same family behind the Antipolo-based restaurant Café Lupe. It has a parking space for guests with private vehicles which is bounded a two-level dining area and a charming garden that’s accentuated by a massive tree.

For privacy, I had my complimentary breakfast at the veranda of my booked room while the other guests opted to have theirs at the communal area. I adored spending my breakfast minutes dining alone sans the worries of the past and the future. I remember to have been so engaged with my tocino-oriented meal and the beautiful view that seemed to make my present last for more than hour. It was also at the veranda where I caught a glimpse of the city’s fiery sunset.

Casa Alegria is two hours away from Metro Manila and did not disappoint as a quick escapade from the city where I reside.

Casa Alegria

Address: Sungay North Tagaytay, Tagaytay City, Philippines4107

Mobile: 0905-234-0948 or 0928-843-2907 or 0917-531-4403

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Plate of OMAHA USDA Prime Striploin

S T E A K

A N D

M O R E

The star of every dining experience is the food. Sometimes it’s the ambiance. There are times when the stellar spotlight is shed on the restaurant interiors. One dining destination in PasigCity’s Barangay Kapitolyo – Sky Garden Steak House – recently got food lovers buzzing about everything that it has to offer. From mouth-watering steaks to its 6-course set meal special, the gustatory escape in this side of Metro Manila became irresistible for me one late afternoon that I ended up having dinner there.

SkyGarden Steak House is located at the 8^th level of the Ace Hotel & Suites and is the latter’s official F&B facility. Arriving at the dining destination, I felt a sense of calmness as its pastel-oriented interiors exuded an atmosphere that was far from the virility of the urban landscape outside. I knew I was in for a stress-free date with myself and my yearning for a plate of delicious steak!

The charming outdoor dining area eight floors up next to the air conditioned restaurant

Shrimp and Curry Appetizer

The main dining area of the restaurant

Garlic Bread With Mushroom Antipasto

Delicious Inspiration

The inspiration for the hotel’s affiliate restaurant can be attributed to one’s passion for good food as I determined with my order of Shrimp and Curry for appetizer. The romance for the panoply of flavors did not end there as I tackled the rich taste of Mushroom Antipasto on garlic bread for my bread and dip moment. The soup also came easy on the tummy via an order of warm Cream of Pumpkin & Carrot. As for a sampling of salad, I vividly remember loving the sesame dressing on my order of Mixed Greens.

Engaging performers of the night

Steak Love

After an hour of playing hard-to-get, I finally gave in to my steak yearning via an order of the OMAHA USDA Prime Striploin (300g) which was served with tasty mashed potato, corn, garlic and vegetables. I had my steak served medium-rare as I remember an expert in the past advising me to do so whenever I order one to ascertain texture and taste. I was not disappointed at all. Tearing into the meat was easy and it visibly had enough juice to compliment the accompanying sauce. Middle-of-dinner was sublime.

Dessert and More

As for dessert, I had a plate of Crème Brulee that I discovered to taste mild because it did not give me any stinging sensation in the throat unlike with one order that I had in the past in another restaurant.

A lovely corner inside the restaurant

Mixed Greens With Sesame Dressing

Cream of Pumpkin & Carrot Soup

The friendly restaurant staff

For beverage, I had Red Iced Tea which I culminated with a cup of brewed coffee after dessert. I was eagerly entertained by a female performing artist who sang adult contemporary tunes with some wedding-favorite ditties tossed in the set. Finally, my dining experience at Sky Garden Steak House was a success. I was more than stuffed. I had a singular sensation of one tasty kind and the district of Kapitolyo proved to be a charming area where such restaurant can be found.

Steak Choices

I will certainly return to taste the other steak flavors such as St. Helen's USDA Choice Rib Eye (300g) and the Australian Pure Black Angus Tenderloin. A friend of mine who's into anything BBQ will probably love the BBQ-Glazed Baby Back Ribs.

Kiddie Meals

More than a venue for a romantic date, the restaurant also serves kiddie meals. Dining guests can find it interesting to bring children to the restaurant as meals of Fried Chicken and Spaghetti Bolognese are also offered in the menu.

SkyGarden Steak House

Official website of Sky Garden Steak House

Address: United St. cor. Brixton St., near Pioneer, Pasig City, Philippines 1603

Phone: 628-1888

Hours of Operation:Tuesdays to Sundays, 6:00pm-10:00pm

Email:inquiries@acehotelsuites.com

More Photos Below:

Creme Brulee Dessert

Ace Hotel & Suites room features

A room at Ace Hotel & Suites

Asakusa Special Tendon

T E M P U R A

P L U S

D O N B U R I

Japanese food and culture have long intrigued me as a traveler. With the opening of Tenya at SM Megamall, tasting authentic tendon flavors has finally become a reality for me. A recent visit of the newly-opened restaurant at the 4^th level of the mall got me excited to dip into the cultural exchange that’s been happening in the Philippines.

Tenya is famous in Japan. As a matter of fact, it already has hundreds of stores scattered in the country enough to make a buzz here. The world-class brand of authentic Japanese food is known for serving delicious tendon flavors.

Tasty Karaage with mayo dip

Potato Salad, Tenya-style

Knowing Tendon

To begin with, a tendon is the result of the combination of Tempura and Donburi. Tempura is a Japanese deep-frying technique that adds flavor and texture to the food that leaves its natural flavor intact. Tenya actually has over 350 varieties in its recipe library of tempura flavors. Donburi completes the character of the meals at the restaurant as it represents a Japanese rice bowl – a staple that comes with different toppings.

Asakusa Special Tendon

My order of the three-pronged Asakusa Special Tendon seemed natural as most of the Filipino guests dining that day also ordered the same variety. It’s a big set of succulent black tiger beans that have been battered and deep-fried to perfection. It already has Tenya’s signature Dontare sauce when it was served on top of steamed rice but I still drizzled more of that sauce on my order as a bowl of the sauce was on the table. Eating one was healthy as the Black Tiger prawns are naturally grown (I learned from an insider) and the flour used was specially formulated and imported from Japan. I also noticed that the order used freshly-cut vegetables and canola oil as the texture showed both qualities.

Fast Order

My order came fast as I learned from a staff of the restaurant that Tenya has patented its own automatic fryer. Controlled by a unique computer program, the Auto Fryer constantly cooks Tenya delicious products and can serve them in just 2 minutes!

More Tendon Choices

Scanning the menu, more tendon flavors can be had at the restaurant from its All-Star Tendon(a bowl of mouth-watering black tiger prawns, squid, salmon, kani stick, green beans and mushroom tempuras over a steaming hot Japanese rice) to its Kakiage Tendon (a tempura mix of shrimp, white onions and celery served on top of authentic Japanese rice).

For additional orders, I had Karaage (fried chicken nuggets) and Potato Salad. And to culminate the meal, I ordered a cold fix of sweet popsicle stick called Fruity Juicy Pop in strawberry flavor – a sweet ending to a delicious experience.

Tenya

Official Facebook fan page of Tenya Philippines

Headquarters: GF SampleShopBuilding, AFP-RSBS Complex, Km 12 East Service Road corner C5, Taguig, Philippines1800

Phone: (02) 837-5036

The Round Table's best-selling Carrot Cake (P1,800/whole)

D I N E O U T

I N S T Y L E

My latest epicurean pursuit brought me to bond with a friend for brunch at a newly-opened all-you-can-eat tasting session restaurant in Kapitolyo, PasigCity. Such a foodie-thronged scene is a sweet spot. The district is famous for its inventive dining hubs and The Round Table is just one of the new ones that just opened in the area. For just P199 (for Facebook friends; at P295 regular rate), a guest can be entertained with a roster of inventive menu selections with signature dishes that include Beef Rolls, Q Salad, Adobo Sa Mangga, Roast Beef, Carrot Cake, and more.

From Bistro To Table

The Round Table (formerly known as Q Bistro) certainly was pleasurable for an early dining experience. The good news is that it can be equally memorable in other times of the day and different days of the week as it serves daily themed menus. Imagine being overwhelmed by such unpredictability in the metro where urban coma for dining out can happen regardless of the day!

Pork Hamonado

Rustic Fish Fillet

Pork Ragout

Arroz Caldo

Chef Mia Capay

I had the chance to personally chat with its Executive Chef Mia K. Capay who had her training at the Professional Culinary Institute (currently known as the French Culinary Institute). With her at the helm of the panoply of flavors, the restaurant is able to serve dining guests varied choices of Mongolian, Southern American, Italian, Filipino and Roast Carving.

Specialties Tasted

My appetite was definitely fulfilled with samplings of the restaurant’s specialties. I even had the chance to taste other dishes such as the Rustic Fish Fillet, Pork Hamonado, Chicken Tocino, and Pork Ragout. For starters, I loved the long plate of cheese-filled Potato Polpette that came with a complimenting dip. The sublime taste of the tasty balls gave me a boost to commence with my brunch and catch up with my friend about what we missed out on for the past year. The roast beef (deliciously slow roasted and available every Friday and Sunday) I had with my friend were of belly parts that the restaurant’s kitchen staff attentively assigns as such instead of already receiving them in portions. My friend even quipped that it tasted a lot better than the one he recently had in Singapore’s prestigious Marina Bay Sands.

A fancy wall display at the restaurant

PasigCity Destination

The East Capitol Drive dining hub can seat less than 30 people and can offer families and friends a pleasant ambiance for good conversations. Over comfort food and subdued (almost pearlescent) lighting, the experience is enhanced. The dining area is elegantly separated from the restaurant’s centrepiece – the “round table” – where the dishes can be obtained. Patrons can even book the whole place for special events at an affordable rate under its catering service called Q Provisions.

Catering Expertise

The personalized service of Q Provisions is also a good fit for homes and offices. Same-day catering can be had for a little more than P500 (minimum of 15 people). The variety is inclusive of soup, poultry, pork, veggie, rice, dessert and iced tea. Its Pearl Lunch/ Dinner Buffet (P400; minimum of 50 people) can be a pleasurable source of intercontinental dishes, fusion-oriented meals, oriental delights, and more. There are other alternatives to choose from when it comes to catering packages, so calling the restaurant will be wise to do for further inquiries. Food deliveries are also done within the Ortigas and Kapitolyo areas.

Appetizer Plate

Adobo Sa Mangga

Make your reservations now at The Round Table and be surprised by its modernized set of international flavors and favorite traditional Filipino dishes. I will surely return there with my family to celebrate my mom’s birthday soon.

The Round Table

Official website of The Round Table

Address:56 C&D East Capitol Drive, Kapitolyo, Pasig City, Philippines

Phone: (02) 706-1668 or +63 922-894-8509 or +63 977-345-2746

Email: info@qprovisions.com

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Chicken Tocino

Executive Chef Mia Capay

D I N I N G

L E G A C Y

Interested to satisfy your taste buds with Filipino comfort food by a dining institution in Kapitolyo? The PasigCityfood district can be a haven for the eclectic when it comes to alternatives. However, the same area has been home to Three Sisters, a time-tested favorite among local residents and neighboring diners. I remember getting my fill of its sought-after Pork BBQ as a child growing up in San Roque, a few streets away from East Capitol Drivewhere the restaurant was originally housed. This 2015, the establishment is no more where it used to be. As a temporary home, the cozy old house next to it – with a front yard and garage – has been transformed into a reliable dining destination that still serves the same menu best-sellers.

For my quick lunch with a former office colleague, I visited Three Sisters and ordered what I considered a homecoming meal of Pork BBQ. Tearing into its hefty chunks reminded me of my childhood. My formative years of playtime seemed like they happened only yesterday. I did not expect delicious food to affect me that way but it sure did.

We also shared plates of crunchy Crispy Pata, the filling Pancit, plus Pinakbet, Pork Liempo, and Chicken BBQ. For dessert, I got so engrossed over an order Leche Flan as it tasted remarkably different from Café Juanita’s version. The latter had a firmer texture while Three Sisters’ version was more of melt-in-your-mouth. The soft consistency of the sweet delight sort of encouraged me to have a power nap an hour later.

The whole dining area transported me back to the ‘40s when most houses in Metro Manila looked grand. Accentuated by a set of chandeliers, the ceiling showcased a design with remarkable details. Dining at the temporary home of one of Kapitolyo’s longest running restaurants truly felt like home.

Comfort food is definitely the strength of the restaurant’s menu. Interestingly, the family-run establishment is also ready to face the gustatory challenges that lie ahead. With the restaurant founder’s fourth generation grandson – Paul -- at the helm of direction at the kitchen, a few modern twists to selected dishes can be expected soon. I verified this to be true after chatting with the culinary course student (to graduate in 2016) after my delicious lunch. He brimmed with excitement over the prospect of finding a new long-term home for the restaurant in Kapitolyo. The update? He hoped it to still be at an accessible spot in the same area.

Drop by Three Sisters soon and feel at home where Pork and Chicken BBQ – among other Filipino favorites – taste the way they should. A visit is definitely an experience of the district’s heritage of flavors that has captivated PasigCity since 1941.

Three Sisters

Address:10 East Capitol Dr.Brgy. Kapitolyo, 1603 Pasig

Phone: (02) 631-9247

Email:threesisterspasig@gmail.com

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The resort's Vista Maria for special events

Poolside lunch of Sisig Carbonara and Mango Shake

Q U I C K

E S C A P E

Voracious readers of near-Metro Manila getaway updates can find it useful to know that just an hour or so away from the Philippine capital is a Calamba destination that has been in operation for more than two decades. Known by patrons as Dona Jovita Garden Resort, the place is the only natural garden-oriented resort in the city of Laguna as it’s highly vegetated with a variety of age-old trees (including a massive, hundred year-old Kapok Tree) and ornamental plants.

My booked Mediterranean Escape's bedroom with bathtub

The Mediterranean Escape rooms and lower lanai with exclusive pool

Dinner of Bagnet Kare-kare and Fried Chicken with Pinakbet

Resort Roots and Getting There

Named after the grandmother of one of the owners, the family-run business has its members tracing their roots to Jose Rizal, hence, the name of one of its highly sought-after special events venue called Patio Intramuros. The ambiance can disarm any guest with the toxicity of urban life as it's nestled near Mount Makiling. It also has ample parking space for guests that have private vehicles. Couples and solo travelers who opt to commute to the resort can take the HM Bus (with a terminal in Cubao) and bear the roughly 3-hour trip from Metro Manila.

Snacking on Bacon & Egg Sandwich (with fries) and Buko Shake during a quick dip

Pools and Advocacy

Located between Pansol and Cabuyao, Calamba’s Dona Jovita Garden Resort has a total of 9 swimming pools (1 hot spring, 7 pools at the Garden Getaway premises, and 1 pool for the exclusive use of its Mediter-
ranean Escape guests) and whirlpool rental next to its Cottage Rooms. Almost majority of the total 2.5 hectare has been developed for commercial use. It even has a football field where the resort owner’s selected indigents get to play in selected times as part of the former’s personal advocacy to keep poor kids off the streets.

Patio Intramuros for large special events

The modern Aurora Suites

A non-air-conditioned Cottage Room

The Elisa Hall for intimate special seminars and conferences

Amenities

The whole resort has a pleasant view of Mount Makiling and has numerous picnic huts. There is no shortage of relaxing spots and amenities to experience that range from a zip line ride (P50), rappelling, a kid-favorite pony ride to a soothing P500-worth massage service. It even has a grotto and Station of The Cross with the latter’s edge resting on a hilltop view of the Laguna De Bay.

Mediterranean Escape

I booked myself at its hotel-type accommodation called Mediterranean Escape which has a total of available 6 rooms for guests (some with bathtub and mini-refrigerator). My two-night stay was comfortable indoors as my booked room has a bathtub that’s just next to the bed. I also had an exclusive access to swim at its lukewarm pool and a poolside lanai that has internet connection. The poolside even has a grilling station and a traditional pugon for guests that choose to bring fresh food with them to cook on site.

The air-conditioned Elisa Rooms

Dormitory Choices

Big groups who are eyeing a specific budget can opt for the resort’s Dormitory Rooms. One dorm actually has 12 double-deck beds that can accommodate up to 24 guests. The spacious room is air-conditioned and has cable TV and a couple of bathrooms. Another dorm has a set of double-deck beds that can accommodate up to 12 guests with air-conditioning, cable TV, and a couple of bathrooms. Both dorms have access to a lanai and a pool table for recreational activities. For those who have rustic taste, the non-air-conditioned Cottage Room can work as it can accommodate large number of guests for a decent rate.

A football field at the resort

Breakfast meals of Tapsilog and 2-piece Pancake

The resort's Polo Room for large seminars and conferences

(top) The biggest Mediterranean Escape room; (bottom) Dormitory Room

Modern Alternatives

The more recently developed accom-
modation at the resort is called the Aurora Suites. It looks modern and the whole villa has a living room, bedroom, terrace and patio that can accommodate up to 24 guests. It can even be exclusively booked along with access to picnic huts and a swimming pool.

Another modern accommodation is the set of Aurora Rooms. Smaller number of guests can opt for this type of luxurious space as each is already air-conditioned and has cable TV.

Special Events Place

For the past few years, patrons of the resort have also known it to be a wonderful special events place that can whip up delicious food. Its Polo Room is one such function hall for big seminars and conferences that can be divided into cubicles. For smaller seminars and conferences, the Elisa Hall is a good fit. As for weddings, graduations, reunions and other special occasions, the old world charm of Patio Intramuros is favorable. The bride and groom can actually ride the resort’s horse-drawn carriage from the entrance all the way to the actual venue that can accommodate up to 500 guests. Vista Maria is an alternative for similar special events that can accommodate from 250 to 400 guests.

Topnotch Food

Patrons also know the food at the resort to be remarkable. For lunch, I had a plate of the inventive Sisig Carbonara and Bagnet Kare-Kare (with topnotch alamang). For dinner, I had Lechon Kawali and Pinakbet. Snacking for merienda over a Bacon and Egg Sandwich (with fries) was also excellent as I had mine at the poolside during a late afternoon dip. For those on a culinary quest, the presence of the young Chef John Vallejo at the kitchen can be a source of gustatory contentment, plus the fact that most basic herbs and spices are obtained from the resort's organic farm.

Calamba, as a swimming pool destination, is a must-visit in the Philippines. With Dona Jovita Garden Resort setting high standards for a relaxing escapade, the experience can be memorable and natural. Make your next essential surrender in this side of the country. You won’t regret it.

Dona Jovita Garden Resort

Official website of Dona Jovita Garden Resort

Address: Km. 57 National Highway, Bagong Kalsada, Calamba City, Laguna, Philippines 4027

Phone: 0999-995-3053 or 0917-584-8441 or 0932-864-1249
Email: reservations.
jovitaresort@yahoo.com

More Photos Below:

The resort's Patio Intramuros for large special events

With the resort's Chef John (left)

The resort's tree house

One of several pools inside the resort

The Station of The Cross at the resort

The hilltop view of Laguna De Bay at the resort's grotto

The resort's Front Desk and souvenir shop

U N W I N D

I N

P A S I G C I T Y

I had luxurious hours to meander up the Ortigas Center from my native Kapasigan one weekend in June. Being on copywriting mode for a job interview at The Exchange Regency, I succumbed to the idea that I could unwind after the grueling ritual of digging into my corporate past. I figured that such a rendition of spontaneity in the bustling grid of Pasig City would inspire me to have a relaxing staycation.

More To Do

After stumbling upon online the information that the residential-hotel has a jacuzzi and swimming pool, I felt determined to embrace a less defined and plotted itinerary to have enough wiggle room for a snack of Avocado Cheesecake and Chai Tea at Tully's (located next to the hotel). The location was also ideal to make my morning stroll to the nearby branch of Racks for a breakfast plate of Rib Flakes.

Two Faces

The Exchange Regency is part hotel and part condominium. Located at the fringe of Ortigas Center's corporate landscape, the room windows from two sides of the building can offer guests unobstructed views of the city's residential scene. The lower units of the establishment are assigned to condo tenants while the upper ones are reserved for hotel guests.

Amenities Floor

The amenities floor can be found at the 3rd level. It's the hotel space for the jacuzzi, sauna, playground and swimming pool. It was there where I spent endless hours of lounging to escape the stress of my freelance gigs. Submerged under lukewarm water, I became oblivious of life's extremes.

Deluxe Room

Booked at a spacious Deluxe Room that exuded a modern contemporary appeal, I felt right at home. The queen-sized bed was exquisitely plush and the room view was spectacular. Remarkable was the mood lighting that had a separate switch from the other source of light inside the room as I had the convenient choice of switching on the former or preferring the bedside lamp for power naps. I also found the presence of a mini-refrigerator a pleasant bonus to my indoor getaway.

Hotel Location

The hotel location gave me the chance to make a quick escape to nearby SM Megamall for dinner and revisit Emerald Avenue to reminisce about an old flame (who used to work at one of the buildings there) and a workplace where I spent a year of graveyard shift in 2011.

With pending freelance gig deadlines, I took the chance to cocoon myself away from the worries of online stuff. This is to mean that I was unplugged the whole time I was booked at the hotel. Never mind that I was not able to test the Wi-Fi access. I just did not care.

It was enough that I was done with an interesting job interview for a startup company and all I had to do to walk out from it was easily slide myself into the building's elevator and get off at the 25th floor 3 minutes after for a power nap and a hot cup of complimentary coffee.

The Exchange Regency Residence Hotel

Official website of The Exchange Regency Residence Hotel

Address: Meralco Avenue cor. Exchange Drive, Ortigas Center
Pasig City, Philippines
Phone: (02) 312-9999
Email: reservations
@theexchangeregency.com

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D I N I N G

A T E T O N

C E N T R I S

The commercial enclave of Eton Centris has Centris Walk, a nightlife sanctuary for Quezon Citydiners. Surrounded by BPO facilities, the dining hub is home to Filipino cuisine as far as patrons of Asya Filipino-Asian Restaurant are concerned. The imposing and almost futuristic-looking promenades just outside the restaurant are a bit of a show-off. A single glance at them is enough to titillate the senses. No wonder local flavors are celebrated in a similar fashion at the recently rebranded establishment.

Asya Filipino-Asian Restaurant has been a gustatory spot for some of the city’s discriminating dwellers and those in transit to Manila or MakatiCity since 2010. Its charming dining area flaunts everything in a startling way from prominent face-chairs (seats with painted-on faces for backrests) to elaborate lighting fixtures. However, what really makes it endearing to those who are familiar with its caliber is its best-seller of Grilled Squid that’s expertly served as a whole treat and not in morsels. The dish is beloved for being stuffed with tomato and onion a la minute and cooked to taste as tender as possible without losing its meat’s firm texture. What’s more, it's served with a potent-tasting Visayan sauce (vinegar, soy sauce, and onions).

Father's Day Special

For a recent Father’s Day visit of Eton Centris after some self-pampering at a nearby spa, I reckoned I’d score delicious treats in copious servings for my dad at Asya. I was determined to beat the drizzling night outside with a fast-and-furious cab driver, but I ended up inspired to dine alone over a dessert of a newly-launched Coffee Panacota. Of course, before I finally got in the mood for such a sweet treat, I had to contend with some of my main dish orders that included the restaurant’s other best-seller – the Crispy Pla-pla (served with plum sauce).

The Chicken Dish That Refreshed Me

Just as I was in the mood to not linger at the dining table anymore, I took a sip of my takeout order of Binakol Na Manok and realised that I had to have some of it for dine-in. The soothing massage that almost put me to sleep minutes ago finally got crossed out with an awakening of the chicken kind. The soup dish tasted as refreshing (maybe even more) than my Four Seasons Shake. I almost finished the whole bowl and I remember it to be good for sharing with at least two more people!

One Big, Happy Family

Regulars at the restaurant always arrive in big groups like families and friends. The friendly and homey countenance of its staff may not just complement the place, but also the sensibilities of its owners who prefer to treat them as part of one big family. As a matter fact, the kitchen staff and servers are allowed to contribute minor changes to the dish line up from time to time.

Filipino Cuisine's Best

The Filipino cuisine that holds the majority of prestige in the restaurant’s selection is not the only stellar reason to visit the place. Wednesdays are acoustic-pop nights while Thursdays feature bossa nova artists for guests. For friends who are in the mood to drink the night away, a beer barkada package for 5 people can come with a free snack or pulutan.

Truly, my visit of the Filipino-Asian restaurant was quite worth bracing the weekend traffic jam due to the special day for dads. I happened to bring home the best of Filipino flavors that inspired a night of bonding with my family, thanks to Asya.

Asya Filipino-Asian Restaurant

Official website of Asya

Address: Ground Floor, Centris Walk, Eton Centris, EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines

Phone: (02) 994-8467 or (02) 738-4938 to 39

Mobile: 0917-554-7155

Email: info@asya.com.ph

Smoked Spring Chicken

The cozy restaurant interiors

C E L E B R A T E

L I F E

A N D M O R E

Where to satisfy your cravings for the most tender flame-grilled falls-off-the-bone ribs in Metro Manila? Where else but at taste-rich Racks! It’s simply the dining destination that deserves a draw of not just yourself, but of throngs of people that include your friends, family members, and workmates.

For my most recent visit of the fine dining restaurant, I decided to celebrate a career milestone with my family at one of its newly-opened space at the 4^th level of SM Megamall next to Tenya (a new Japanese restaurant). I happened to snag a job in MakatiCityand got excited about it enough to propose to my new boss an additional work duty to complicate my new career status. To formally show my gratitude to God for the challenging full-time job and drown any anxiety about the future, I entertained the temptation to dine my worries away. I figured that my meal had to have the classic taste of Racks’ smoky hickory flavoured ribs. Also, the mouth-watering treat had to be slathered with the restaurant’s signature barbeque sauce. I sincerely believed that I deserved the bliss.

Reservations For Three

I had reservations made at the restaurant an hour prior to strolling at the mall, so we conveniently secured a cozy spot by lunch time. As expected, the place was occupied by other diners with probably the same cravings as ours. Good food and service are not easy to have in one experience these days anyway. Fortunately, Racks can always deliver both.

Smoked Spring Chicken

Just when our orders were about to be repeated by the friendly staff, I spotted a new entry in the restaurant’s menu – the Smoked Spring Chicken. It was described by our assigned attendant that the new all-time barbeque classic option now comes in smoked chicken format, sprawled on a plate in all its delicious glory. She added that it was recently launched (May of this year) and has since become a hit among patrons. After effortlessly tearing into it, I can attest to its juicy quality as a savory departure from a popular rival’s own version.

It was served with our choice of potato salad and coleslaw from the options of fresh greens, corn on the cob, and more. I found the Alabama White Sauce a great complementing mayo-based sauce to the dish.

Grilled Over Hickory Wood

A few minutes into our meal, I had the chance to find out from the restaurant manager that the chicken dish was thoroughly grilled over hickory wood until it got ultimately tender that it simply became its authentic self -- a falls-off-the-bone masterpiece!

Still Impressive

It can be recalled that Racks opened more than two decades ago in MakatiCity. The tradition of its mouth-watering, all-American dishes still continue today and I can’t be more thankful because it’s where I can celebrate my own milestones in life.

Racks

Official website of Racks

Branches: El Pueblo, Paseo de Magallanes, FestivalSupermall, GreenhillsShopping Center, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM North Edsa, Robinsons PlaceManila, SM City Fairview, Paseo Santa Rosa, SM Pampanga, SM Southmall, Subic Bay, The Fort Strip, Trinoma

Postal Address:GroundFloorSampleShopBuilding, AFP-RSBSIndustrial Park, Km. 12 East Service Road, South Superhighway, Taguig City, Philippines

Phone: (02) 837-5036

Email: feedback@racks.ph

More Photos Below:

I N T I M A T E

D I N I N G

No element is similar at St. Nicholas Restaurant. And, it's for a fitting purpose. The eclectic charm of the semi-al fresco dining destination still appealed to me for my weekend revisit in Mandaluyong City after a couple of previous meals in the past. Its relaxing ambiance relies heavily on travel trinkets that its owner, Chef Nick Pelaez, brought home with him to Metro Manila from distant trips. Although the menu had been redefined a bit to cater to groups of people (salu-salo or for sharing), the reliable dishes that I was fortunate to sample months ago are still available to be ordered. This time, though, there are a panoply of flavors that are more easy-on-the-budget and inventive on the sweet side (desserts).

Deliciously Intimate

Located near the Maysilo Circle of the Mandaluyong City Hall, St. Nicholas is an ideal gustatory rendezvous with a partner. It's tucked away from the main road with a refreshing facade of bamboo trees that discreetly opens its gates to visitors. The residential scenery complements the secret hideaway for epic conversations over traditional Pinoy appetizers of Okoy and Poqui Poqui or dishes like Sizzling Pork Sisig, Buttered Garlic Prawns, and Adobo favorites, among others.

Watermelon Surprise

The real treat for my third visit of the restaurant was the chance to taste its new dish that Chef Nick calls Tinolang Chicken Sa Pakwan. The divine use of basil leaves over the traditional sili leaves definitely gave the soup dish a boost of flavor. The taste inclusion of the watermelon in the mix rendered the dish a surprising twist.

Desserts Galore

For desserts, I had the Turon De Tsokolate and the new Brownies A La Mode, plus other new frozen delights like the Honeyed Fruit In Ice Cream and Temptation By Tablea A La Mode. Ultimately, though, it was the Chocolate Lava A La Mode that fulfilled my sweet craving.

Catering and Restaurant

Neighbors are aware that the restaurant's humble beginnings are from Chef Nick's catering service business which he still operates these days for special occasions and corporate functions. Recently, he did a few TV appearances for the promotion of the business and numerous foodies are starting to notice the dining edge that St. Nicholas has over other similar restaurants in Mandaluyong City -- dreamlike dining over inventive but affordable Filipino dishes.

Location Tip: From the Maysilo Circle, turn right to Baliwag, then turn left at the second street to reach the corner of San Rafael where the restaurant is.

St. Nicholas Restaurant

Official Facebook Fan Page

Address: #1 Fatima St. corner San Rafael st., Bgy., Plainview, Mandaluyong City, Philippines 1550
Phone: (02)535-7637 or (02) 788-6426
Email: st.nicholascatering@yahoo.com

More Photos Below:

One Bedroom Loft

W E E K E N D

E S C A P E

KL Tower Serviced Residences can be a storied landmark in the high-end business district of MakatiCity’s LegazpiVillage. A 10-minute stroll away from the corporate expanse of Ayala Avenue and surrounded by an uneven skyline of attractive skyscrapers, the modern contemporary residence-hotel can tell tales to make you listen intently. With a park fronting the stretch of the establishment’s Gamboa Streetentrance, the area is fortunate to be a suite-filled serenity within a bustling grid of business, boardroom meetings, and banquets.

One Bedroom Loft

One drizzling weekend, I paid attention. Booked at its sought-after One Bedroom Loft, I did not settle for mere whispers. My room’s interiors were so eloquent aesthetic-wise that I anticipated a relaxing staycation of the gentrified kind. Upon check-in, every nook and cranny spoke to my creative side. Each accommodation detail effortlessly appealed to my sense of pleasure. Bliss easily became my weekend 30 floors up.

The indoor swimming pool

My booked One Bedroom Loft's living room and dining area

Breakfast and other meals at Kitchen 1B

Modern kitchen

Remarkable Space For A Distinguished Stay

The story-telling commenced as I experienced the living room with a dramatic view of the metropolis outside. With the loft having a couple of bathrooms – one dedicated for toilet use and the other with both toilet and bath, it seemed an easy decision to let friends come over for dinner. However, since it was a typhoon-spun weekend, everyone on my phonebook was either drenched in rain water or bedridden. The pleasantry of being at a 70sqm space of chakra-friendly design made me feel blessed… almost undeserving. As a matter of fact, I had the gorgeous indoor pool all to myself! I enjoyed power naps at one of the poolside loungers and lingered at the sauna for epic minutes sans the company of a stranger. My distinguished stay was just on schedule.

Another suite at the residence-hotel

Easily Wired

Since I was on work mode for freelance gigs, I relied heavily on the room’s Wi-Fi access which did not fail to impress. I even got to watch old episodes online of my favorite shows without a glitch unlike in another hotel (a budget-oriented one) where I stayed a month ago.

Room Inclusions

My room offered me access to complimentary coffee and tea, a couple of mineral water bottles, bath amenities and a stylish kitchenette with modern cookware and crockery. I appreciated that it has a full-size refrigerator for stocking up on food bulk if I decided to extend for a long stay. I ended up using it to store frozen delights for desserts, plus I used the sleek-looking bowls for a serving of tuna casserole that I bought at a nearby convenience store.

The hotel lobby

(left) My booked room's dining table; (right) the bathroom

Another suite at the hotel

Kiddie playing area

Long Stays and Weekend Escapes

In the middle of my late afternoon snack, I realised why the residence-hotel has become quite popular for long stays (Monthly Staying Package of 30 days) among foreign guests. Aside from access to the indoor swimming pool and sauna, there’s also a fitness center or gym, a play area for kids, and ample parking space. Most travellers on business or leisure (especially those renting a car) are attracted to such amenities. What’s more, I learned from the hotel’s front desk officers that local and balikbayanguests are finding KL Tower as a worthy weekend investment on personal time for bonding with friends and family members. After personally checking some of the other suites at the residence-hotel with the intent of booking again in the future, I got giddy at the prospect of experiencing more than one suite since not all room types look perfectly the same.

Gourmet-Style Meals

For delicious gourmet-style meals, the residence-hotel has the upscale Kitchen 1B next to its lobby for guests to dine in. It was also the venue for my booked room’s complimentary breakfast of appetizing fruit slices, a bowl of salad greens, and a hefty plate of two sunny-side ups and Adobo Flakes. And since a thunderstorm was raging outside during most of my stay, I ended up having an Organic Egg Salad Sandwich at the same restaurant.

The Makati City Business District is far from plunging into urban decay. There is not much neglect happening there when it comes to upscale dealing and living even with the presence of emerging enclaves in TaguigCityor Quezon City. Life is still good in this side of the Philippines. It is still a coveted spot in Metro Manila for corporate and social posturing. With its next-to-avant-garde sensibilities, KL Tower Serviced Residences is significant today more than ever. It is considered highly influential at the center of the served area.

(top) function rooms; (bottom) gym and sauna

KL Tower Serviced Residences

Official website of KL Tower Serviced Residences

Address:117 Gamboa St., LegaspiVillage, Makati City, Philippines 1229

Phone: + 632 845-0084 or + 63917-524-8539

Email:reservations@kltower.ph

More Photos Below:

At the hotel lobby

The metropolis view from the indoor swimming pool

Indoor swimming pool

M A K A T I

C I T Y

D I N I N G

The luxurious pulse is real in MakatiCity. It’s all the more authentic at its business district at the corner of Makati and Kalayaan Avenues where 300 well-appointed rooms of the City Garden Grand Hotel rise above the bustling skyline. And at the 7^th floor is where culinary flavors are celebrated by the hotel’s staff and guests. Called Spice Café, the space is an elaborate extension of the hotel’s approach to straightforward elegance that’s evocative of a new level of grandeur for any occasion.

Opulent Prelude

The dining adventure starts at the lobby where a guest can make a grand entrance past the opulent decors made of onyx, hardwood, and marble. With a prelude like that, the gustatory experience is expected to be similar to staying at any of the hotel’s suite – elegant, stylish, and functional. No more than 15 minutes from the high-rise grid of Ayala Avenue and RockwellCenter, this new delicious destination emerges to be seamless at the landscape.

Laurence Peña, General Manager of the City Garden Grand Hotel

Breakfast and Lunch Buffets

Serving sumptuous breakfast and lunch (11:30am-2:30pm) buffets, Spice Café is perfect for a refined rendezvous with business partners and clients. It can also be a relaxing venue for families and friends on a tasty pursuit of various cuisines. The wide selection of taste stations from Chinese (Siomai, Mini Siopao, Vegetable Dumpling, Chicken Feet, Hakaw, Gyoza, & Mushroom Dumpling) to Japanese (Vegetable, Fish and Crabmeat, Kani, Futomaki, Ebi, Tuna, Tamago, California, Salmon) is enough to keep the Asian vibe alive. There’s also no shortage of sauces from garlic chili, light soy, calamansi and siopao, chop red chili, garlic sweet chili, dark soy to sesame oil!

My Buffet Plate

I personally tested the restaurant’s Carving Station for a lunch buffet reunion with former work colleagues one July weekday. The thin slice of rib-eye roast beef tasted sublime. I paired its inclusion on my buffet plate with morsels of Stuffed Chicken Roulade, Grilled Pork Loin, and Braised Beef Caldereta, plus Yang Chow Fried Rice.

Worth A Revisit

Over sips of hot cappuccino, I eagerly reminisced with friends about how it was fun working for a publishing company in MakatiCityfor several years. We lingered in relaxed conversations to the point of forgetting to sample some of the buffet spread’s interesting display. For that matter, I will definitely return to the restaurant for the pizza flavors (supremo and vegetarian) of its Italian Station, the salad roster (Waldorf, sausage, Thai chicken, chili chicken, pesto pasta and stuffed pepper), and the Cheese Station’s parmesan, cheddar, mozzarella, brie, and camembert, among others. I think its Middle Eastern and Crepe Stations are also worth trying for a revisit of the place.

For those who are always conscious of their weight, the restaurant encourages dining guests to design their own salad plate from a panoply of greens (ice berg lettuce, romaine lettuce, and lolo russo), vegetables (carrots, red and green bell pepper, turnips, cucumber and tomato), and more (sweet corn, croutons, boiled egg, tuna chunks, bacon bits and sweet ham). The choices for dressings (honey balsamic, mango citrus, thousand island, ranch dressing, caesar dressing, sundried dressing, honey mustard, French dressing, Italian, olive oil, balsamic vinegar and pesto) can be hefty as well.

Guests can also look forward to an assortment of breads (baguette, danish, xroissant, bonette, white bread, wheat bread, brioche and muffins, among others), cold cuts, and a chocolate fountain.

Firefly Roof Deck

The view of the city during my visit was spectacular. It would have been great if I have the luxury of time to scale the building all the way to the 32^nd floor where the all-weather al fresco Firefly Roof Deck is. I was told by the hotel’s General Manager, Laurence Peña, that the view up there at night is as exquisite as its food.

Monthly Themes

Spice Café’s Executive Chef, Dennis Peralta and F&B Manager, Jordan Tan, have lined up an interesting calendar of themed dining experiences until December this year. At the Firefly Bar for August, guests can expect the Cocido De España, a month-long feast of tapas, antipasti, soupa, paella negra, chorizo and more. By September, the Moon Cake Festival will be celebrated at the Firefly Roofdeck. In between the holidays and the Chinese September festival, Tex Mex and Grand Thanksgiving + Trick Or Treating will be the October and November themes, respectively.

With a wide variety of international favorites, Spice Café can definitely serve any guest a power meal with a view. It can easily become a meeting place of choice at any time of the day.

Ongoing lunch buffet promo:

Enjoy 30% discount until July 31, 2015.

Special Function Rooms:

• Rosemary - 418 sq.m.

• Thistle - 60 sq.m.

• Cicely - 93 sq.m.

• Sage - 215 sq.m.

• Boardroom - 35 sq.m.

Spice Café

Official website of City Garden Grand Hotel

Address: 7^thFloor, Makati Avenuecorner Kalayaan Avenue, Makati City, Philippines

Phone: (02) 888-8181

More Photos Below:

M O R E

T H A N

S T O P O V E R S

Hotels are more than just stopovers for iconoclastic solo travelers. It's also more than just secret rendezvous hideaways for the romantic. In Metro Manila, they are becoming solid staycation venues for friends and family members that converge from different locations. The pulsating grid of the metropolis is filled with luxury-driven guests that are always on the lookout for hotels to book

This is a compilation of 12 essential hotels in Metro Manila that became temporary homes for me, where, shed of my daily routines, my sense of self was enriched until check-out. It was just a matter of stepping into another hotel lobby the next month for another swimming pool to dip myself in or another roof deck restaurant to sip a cuppa.

Vivere Hotel's 5-star lobby

Vivere Hotel (Muntinlupa City)

As the former farming district of Alabang pumps out a new urban elite with its business and commercial centers, Vivere Hotel has managed to find its pioneering spot in the landscape of Muntinlupa City. The sought-after 5-star deluxe hotel, with its towering posture of 31 storeys, seems to dwarf its neighbors. At its roof deck restaurant, The Nest, the view is a stellar confirmation. The movers and shakers of the area opine that you have not experienced the luxurious ascent in life if you haven't stepped into the elegant lobby of the 200-room establishment and scaled its height.

Read more here.

KL Tower Serviced Residences' indoor swimming pool

KL Tower Serviced Residences' One Bedroom Loft

KL Tower Serviced Residences (Makati City)

KL Tower Serviced Residences can be a storied landmark in the high-end business district of Makati City’s Legazpi Village. A 10-minute stroll away from the corporate expanse of Ayala Avenue and surrounded by an uneven skyline of attractive skyscrapers, the modern contemporary residence-hotel can tell tales to make you listen intently. With a park fronting the stretch of the establishment’s Gamboa Street entrance, the area is fortunate to be a suite-filled serenity within a bustling grid of business, boardroom meetings, and banquets.

Read more here.

Hotel Durban's indoor courtyard

Hotel Durban (Makati City)

To be in the middle of everything is one pursuit of travelers in the urban jungle that is Metro Manila. However, the fine line between good taste and convenience is as thin as one's dental floss. Fortunately, Makati City has one such location that exudes exceptional accommodation. Smack dab at the center of Makati Avenue's stretch of amusement establishments, Hotel Durban confidently stands as a foreigner-favorite crib. It is still where it first became a reliable home-away-from-home for foreign tourists in the eclectic night life of the city. After necessary renovations, it's now newly-dressed up to appeal to the refined sensibilities of modern living sans the decadence of opulent decors and pretentious amenities.

Read more here.

Microtel By Wyndham

Microtel By Wyndham is no stranger to the Philippine landscape. As of this writing, the global chain of hotel brand has a total of 13 consistently well-designed facilities in the country. Access to its reliable amenities can be had in all three regions, mostly in mainland Luzon where I reside.

Microtel By Wyndham-Mall of Asia roof deck

Microtel By Wyndham-Mall of Asia

Microtel By Wyndham-Mall of Asia (Pasay City)

Unlike in other branches, this SM Mall of Asia complex-based hotel has more modern facilities that include touch screen elevator panels and nifty flash light-ready rooms. The rest of the room features show proof of the Microtel standard which is about none of the unnecessary and useless frills. Everything inside the hotel has meaning and purpose for the benefit of the guest.

Read more here.

Microtel By Wyndham-UP Technohub (Quezon City)

Quezon City is officially a served spot, hospitality-wise. The mere presence of a few hotels in recent years at the entertainment district of the city was not enough to boost the interest of local and foreign tourists to even consider the largest city in the country as a stopover accommodation. The latest property to raise the cool quotient, Microtel By Wyndham, simply had to open last 2014 and the rest was history.

Microtel By Wyndham-UP Technohub

Microtel By Wynham-UP Technohub's roof deck pool

The urban oasis to be had at this new addition to the chain of hotels is its central courtyard. Having stayed there for a few days, I found that almost ethereal gem of a spot is what makes this branch unique, a breathable space of lush greenery where some of the 120 rooms have a good view of. Rather ironic but essential is its design because the hotel's smack dab in the middle of the booming IT and commercial development of UP-Ayala Land Technohub in the city. The dynamic PEZA-listed area is where one can find technology and business incubators, research firms, BPOs, restaurants, and numerous commercial establishments.

Read more here.

Microtel By Wyndham-Acropolis' hotel lobby

Microtel By Wyndham-Acropolis (Quezon City)

Nestled just across the perpendicular junction of E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue and the entrance to Eastwood City, Microtel By Wyndham-Acropolis is quite accessible for overnight stays by travelers in transit to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport from neighboring cities, professionals on business in the area or families on so-called staycation mode like mine.

Read more here.

The Henry Hotel

The Henry Hotel (Pasay City)

It was not hard feeling pleasant inside the compound of The Henry Hotel in old F.B. Harrison. Outside, though, the highly urbanized area was toxic Manila. Within the premises of the Henry Hotel, the experience was completely different. I was welcomed by age-old trees. The surrounding was surprisingly breezy, luxurious, and quite interesting. The vintage elegance was palpable everywhere from the two-storey houses that reminded me of my grandparents to the showroom of eclectic and artsy finds.

Read more here.

Remington Hotel

Remington Hotel (Pasay City)

I've stayed in countless number of standard class hotels in Metro Manila for various reasons as a city dweller. There was a time when I checked in for a month at a San Juan City-based hotel to lend my room to a visiting relative. I've celebrated two of my birthdays at a Mandaluyong-based hotel because it was near a favorite mall of mine where I met friends for extended celebrations.

If there was a value-for-stay hotel that can serve as an overnight respite from the hustle-and-bustle of the city and the demands of being at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), Remington Hotel would be on the top of the list.

Read more here.

The Exchange Regency

The Exchange Regency (Pasig City)

I had luxurious hours to meander up the Ortigas Center from my native Kapasigan one weekend this year. Being on business at The Exchange Regency, I succumbed to the idea that I could unwind after the grueling ritual of digging into my corporate past. I figured that such a rendition of spontaneity in the bustling district of Pasig City would inspire me to have a relaxing staycation. The Exchange Regency is part hotel and part condominium. The room windows from two sides of the building can offer guests unobstructed views of the city's residential scene.

Read more here.

Privato Hotel's swimming pool

Privato Hotel (Pasig City)

Privato Hotel is designed to appeal to guests who are doing business or any related activity in Pasig City. Its business-meets-leisure credo sure appealed to me as I was also in a schedule to check out nearby condominiums and bungalows in the residential area that span its rear.

Read more here.

City Garden Suites (Manila)

Ermita in Manila is no place for a beachgoer or a Francophile. It always seems to be humid in the streets even on a temperate weather what with the congestion of peddlers and people who are always on business. One look at the dizzying corners of junctions shrouded by decade-old buildings is enough to convince a visitor of the district to flee once a transaction is done.

City Garden Suites Manila

Visitors are willing to be locals for more than a few hours just to avoid the early morning rush hour. This gives credence to the presence of more than a dozen of affordable accommodations in the area. An overnight stay at a value hotel such as the City Garden Suites is the best decision to make for an early processing of any document either at the US Embassy or other work-related destinations.

Read more here.

Thrilled to schedule your next staycation in Metro Manila? Plan your next getaway to be a quick one and choose from this list of essential hotels that I highly recommend. Expect the next set of tested hotels to staycation in soon (part 2) on this blog.

Check out my Blog Series Tours.

The roof deck swimming pool

W E E K E N D

S T A Y C A T I O N

An Alabang hotel stay was my lavish idea of a recent long weekend. Parque España Residence Hotel fit my staycation parameters in every way from its rustic roof deck space that holds a swimming pool, mini-garden, and restaurant to its fully equipped Two-Bedroom Family Room. Its interior’s European charm beckoned me to appreciate a few details like the living room wall’s colourful Spanish tile design and a modern set of bold and conventional lighting fixtures. The cheery hues of yellow, blue, and green juxtaposed well with the opulent patterns of gray and black. The mood was set. I was ready to stay still and just linger in luxury.

Bliss of A Temporary Crib

The decorative hardwood floor of my booked room enhanced my idle moments, sealing them as sensible hours spent away from home. Fully furnished with a couple of television sets (one at the main bedroom and another at the living room), a functional kitchen with refrigerator and a few cooking essentials, a common bathroom and toilet and a helper’s quarters (having its own bathroom and duty stations such as an accordion clothes dryer and space for ironing), the 90-square meter space served as my bliss of a temporary crib in essential Muntinlupa City.

The main bedroom of the Two Bedroom Family

A Weekend Hermitage

The lay of land in FilinvestCorporateCity where the hotel stands may bore travellers who are draconian when it comes to cultural attractions. There isn’t a heritage vitrine of sorts anywhere except for office skyscrapers, upscale restaurants, and a few commercial hubs. If anything, most establishments in the area, including the hotel, won’t compel pedestrians to be running from one location to another anyway. With a hefty patch of green filling unoccupied lots in Alabang’s central business district, it was easy to accept the hotel as one’s weekend hermitage which I did.

Splendid Roof Deck

With so much time on my hands, I scaled the hotel’s 19 floors aboard its Spanish tile decorated elevator to revel in pleasantry with other guests at the roof deck. I had a mango drink at the hotel’s rustic restaurant that’s called Bistro Del Cielo and had a quick dip at the swimming pool where the unobstructed view of the urban center looked spectacular.

My Restful Sleep and The Morning After

At night, the dazzling district faded into a few garish high-rise buildings and the rest of the city was ready for a restful sleep. With plush pillows and beddings, I definitely got well rested enough to wake up in time for the 6:00am breakfast buffet at the restaurant where I got a good fill of crunchy dilis like it was bacon. The fascinating sunrise at the roof deck had me extend my cuppa session of brewed coffee and cupcake at the poolside area minutes after.

Breakfast buffet at Bistro Del Cielo

The roof deck swimming pool

The bar at Bistro Del Cielo

Nifty Essentials

I found my booked room’s Wi-Fi internet access to be as satisfying as finding charming room inclusions like the digital alarm clock’s iPod dock and other personal hygiene essentials for long stays (shaving and vanity kits). Next to the lobby, there’s even a fitness center.

I was glad to find out that the hotel offers free shuttle services to selected commercial establishments for guests. For that matter, I scheduled a ride to the nearby Festival Mall upon check-out.

My booked room can be yours for the weekend for a promotional rate (“escape de fin de sama”) of P6,300 per night (good for four persons; inclusive of buffet breakfast). Check out its website for its other weekend and weekday promo rates.

Parque España Residence Hotel

Official website of Parque España Residence Hotel

Address:5309 East Asia Drive, Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City

Philippines

1781

Phone: (632) 850-5847 or (632) 850-5880 to 81

Email:reservations
@parqueespana.net

More Photos Below:

The lounge area at the poolside

The living room

The second bedroom of the Two Bedroom Family

An opulent wall at the hotel lobby

The common bathroom

My hotel room view of Alabang

A rustic walkway at the roof deck

The hotel lobby

Dining area of the Two Bedroom Family

Bistro Del Cielo

A sweet spot at the dining area of Bistro Del Cielo

The view from the roof deck swimming pool

Salted Egg Wings

Classic Buffalo Wings

W I N G S

A N D

M O R E

There are many ways to eat a piece of Classic Buffalo Wings at Wishbone, a newly-opened restaurant in Pasig City. Like donning a plastic bib when feasting over lobster or crab, the newest Kapitolyo dining destination has its guests put on one hand a piece of plastic glove for the deliciously messy ritual. The type of wing was named after the industrial-centric and upstate city of Buffalo in New York, but the local version can be had along the stretch of East Capitol Drive, particularly between two other restaurants -- Tomahawk Chops & Grill and The Round Table. Standing out in the middle of this short dining venue strip, a red sliding door marks the spot for an American-oriented meal.

Deep-fried Wings

Wishbone is home to the American favorite deep-fried wing. Tossed in signature sauces, the roster of flavored options are starting to generate a buzz among foodies in the district for being crisp sans the flabby skin and staying juicy without being overly greasy. With half a dozen per order, dining guests can choose from flavors other than the Classic Buffalo such as Teriyaki, Hickory BBQ (the sweetness of which the ladies love), Thai Curry, Sriracha-mansi (chili hot pepper-based hot sauce) and Garlic Parmesan.

Kebab Burger

Explosion of Flavors

One humid weekend, I had the chance to sample some selections from Wishbone's menu for a late lunch. The God-awful heat outside distracted me from my appetite as I sat all haunched up waiting for my order of Classic Buffalo Wings. I tore into it and my weary mindset was instantly spruced up. As if it was aimed to declutter my preoccupied self, the spicy and slightly sour taste got me encouraged to tear more into it. I could have easily chugged a complementing beer to wash down everything but it's normally served past 10:00pm in most restaurants with a liquor license. Instead, an order of aioli did me in completely. The tangy dip definitely suited the burst of flavors from every aioli-smothered bite of the wing.

Dirty Rice

Salted Egg was the other half a dozen flavor of wings that I ordered after being cajoled by the restaurant's co-owners, Rameses and Mandy, to try it as well. Coated in hefty salted egg yolk sauce, the wings did not appear to be appetizing at the onset especially with its off-putting color against the brown and white palette of the restaurant's interiors. However, its tasty reputation got my nod after I paired it with a bowl of Dirty Rice (a less greasy version compared to one that I tasted a year ago).

I made sure that I did not miss out in tasting the crispy potato chips that came with both orders. Unlike how other restaurants prepare their side of chips, the brains behind Wishbone prefers to serve theirs freshly cut and cooked from the kitchen upon order. As I determined, the remarkable difference was noticeable in its taste and texture.

Cubano Sandwich

Salted Egg Wings

Co-owners Rameses and Mandy

Taking On A Kebab Burger

Next, I feasted on Wishbone's version of Kebab Burger which packed a flavorful punch with every bite of its no-extender patty. The top bun was a bit charred but I easily dismissed it with amazing reality of having the Middle Eastern dish in burger format.

Ending Late Lunch With A Cubano

I finally ended my late lunch with an off-the-menu order of the movie-inspired sandwich called Cubano. Layered with spiced ham, roast beef, pickles, mustard and cheese, the sandwich was first made popular by writer-director-actor Jon Favreau via the movie, Chef. It's served cut in half with the colors of fun and sunny Miami seemingly tucked in the middle.

Now open to serve you

The People Behind Wishbone

The young couple's idiosyncratic vision of dominating the district with more than a couple of restaurants was palpable in Wishbone's fired-up selections. Serving size per order is decent and not unnecessarily copious. Without sacrificing authenticity of taste, pricing is affordable. It seems they have carried out this new gustatory venture as a result of a successful prelude via the semi-al fresco pizzeria, Pomodoro Pizza, another restaurant of theirs in Kapitolyo. The inventive and highly-motivated business acumen of the couple is extended in the restaurant's interiors where nifty wooden pallets adorn half of the dining area's ceiling. The rest of the place is simplicity in industrial design.

It's impossible not to fall in love with this newly-opened restaurant in Kapitolyo. If anything, cravings of deliciousness can be more than just wishes at Wishbone. The place made it real to my gut's delight.

Wishbone

Official Facebook fan page of Wishbone

Address: 56-B East Capitol Drive, Brgy. Kapitolyo, Pasig City
Mobile: 0916-697-4992

Cubano Sandwich

The Communal Lounge

Private Twin Room

C I T Y

S T O P O V E R

In the rapidly gentrifying village of Poblacion, a swath of Makati City that's popular for thrift shops, cozy coffee shops and bars, a refurbished three-storey building cleverly punctuates the landscape with its muted violet facade. Operating as Junction Hostels, the property beguiles to be noticed from blocks away. Having opened its doors to backpackers, iconoclastic travelers, and intrepid tourists early this year, the designer hostel has managed to enjoy returning and referred guests on long stays and necessary stopovers from the US, various European and South American countries, Australia, Canada and neighboring Asian countries.

Private Twin of The Industrial Kind

For an overnight immersion of this side of Metro Manila, I booked myself with a fellow travel blogger at Junction Hostels' most expensive accommodation -- the Private Twin. At a little more than P1,500, we had a restful night at our respective bunk beds (of steel and wood combo) that surprisingly featured hotel-quality foam and plush pillows. The space was reasonably small for the affordable rate but the other room features such as the air conditioning, bedside lamp, desk and stool, a couple of personal lockers, utility racks equipped with universal outlets, a full-length mirror and free Wi-Fi more than compensated for it.

Roma Latte at the hostel cafe

Hostel hallway

Living spaces

The Private Twin is conveniently located next to a bathroom that's also accessible to dorm guests who may also be booked in the next room. It's got an amazing view of the residential neighborhood and the nearby skyscrapers jutting from the Makati City skyline.

Other Room Types

Guests can choose from a set of other accommodation options such as the En Suite Bedrooms for Ladies (starts at P850 per person), the Coed Triple Room (P850 per person), the Coed Four-Bedroom Dorm (P850 per person) and the Coed Six-Bedroom En Suite Dorm (P650 per person).

Living Spaces

At the ground floor, living spaces like the TV Room and the communal lounge were specifically designed for recreation and interaction with other guests. There's a Filipino-oriented pool table, computer stations with internet access, a cafe and bar, plus a tour desk for travel assistance.

Interior Design

The hostel's hallways and staircase proved to be an amusing few minutes of random stroll for me. I paced myself enough to delight in the wall graphics that dangle vibrant colors and fancy messages. The multicolored vinyl-decorated floor also juxtaposed well with the industrial splendor of the interiors.

A dormitory room with bathroom

The Communal Lounge

The TV Room

Hostel hallway

Coffee and More

We had a relaxing coffee break in the afternoon after our 2:00pm check-in. Over a hot glass of Roma Latte, I conditioned myself for an upbeat night of online work and a well-recommended dinner at Tambai, a Yakitori hangout a few blocks away from the hostel. It was also fascinating to learn from the hostel's crew that, on special occasions, the hostel hosts events like quiz nights, gigs, and art exhibits.

Reasonable Choice

With today's raw immediacy and pith, the essential hostel is the next best thing between a luxurious hotel stay that you may not have the budget for and a creepy motel stay that anticipates regret. The 5-month old (as of this writing) Junction Hostels Makati fits right in the mindset of discriminating travelers who function at a Pavlovian stroke of an index finger across a tablet or mobile phone's screen in pursuit of the most functional stay to have in the metropolis.

Appealing Location

The narrow, shade-dappled streets that link the village in a tangled web make for memorable reset moments. The relative calm in the tourist-thronged surroundings belies a bustling location. A hop to one side of the area opens visitors to the electric draw of Makati and Kalayaan Avenues. A skip to one side of the Senator Gil Puyat Avenue (formerly known as Buendia) and Bel-Air takes them to upscale dining destinations. It's also just a 15-minute stroll to the genial chaos of J.P. Rizal Avenue.

It is fast becoming a hub for madcap city adventures among savvy travelers who want to escape the uptight hotel and corporate scene which is remarkably just a few minutes of stroll away anyway from the hostel. If anything, it's a brick-and-mortar experience of this fast-paced digital age. Nowhere does industrial whimsy -- a flashy aesthetic of today's generation -- come more compellingly appealing than at Junction Hostels.

Promo: 20% off if you book your bed now here.
Valid for stays until August 30, 2015.

Junction Hostels

Official website of Junction Hostels

Address: Annex Matheus Building, Gen. Luna corner Don Pedro Streets, Barangay Poblacion, Makati City Philippines 1210
Phone: +632 501-6575 or +632 501-6578
Email: manager@junctionhostels.com

More Photos Below:

The pool table at the Communal Lounge

The view from the Private Twin Room

Chef Baker Johnlu Koa

T R A V E L

S T O P S

A great number of food lovers, including yours truly, trooped to the Event Center of SM Megamall (Mega A) last July 24, 2015 to witness a live cooking demo by Chef Baker Johnlu Koa for French appliance brand Moulinex and The French Baker. Dubbed as Easy Food Treats with Chef Baker Johnlu Koa, the demo cum tasting showcase featured easy-to-prepare but delectable food treats by the founder and president of The French Baker, Johnlu Koa.

Inspired by the celebration of the French Month (July) and in jovial participation of food-loving Filipinos with the French community in observing French Bastille Day, the event used readily available breads and baked products from The French Baker store. He also showcased the use of Moulinex small kitchen appliances to make the demo possible.

I happened to catch Chef Baker Johnlu Koa at the mall escalator on his way down to the event site where I wished him well just before the latter commenced. A few minutes later, the host greeted the audience to welcome the star of the cooking demo, Koa himself. Being more of a foodie than a cook, I was inspired to listen to him talk about how he started his illustrious career to get where he is now – the stellar position to reach out to fellow Filipinos when it comes to easy-to-prepare food.

With eager participants joining in on the fun demo and using the same cooking tools and ingredients as Chef Baker Johnlu Koa, the audience-engaging event proved to be more than eye candy. It was also good for the tummy as the audience were treated to tasting the dishes prepared as soon as they were done. Raffle prizes were also given away. All in all, there were six recipes featured in the cooking demonstration and most spectators got the chance to sample the resulting food treats.

I had the chance to sample most of the dishes featured including the Chicken Liver Pate (a gourmet spread served on crostinis or toasted French bread), Cheese Quesadilla (a crunchy Mexican-inspired three-cheese appetizer that’s also gooey on the inside) and Chorizo Pizza (assembled using a French Baker Pizza Crust for a regular pizza and Tortilla Wraps for thin crust pizza), among others.

Using the Moulinex Food Processor, he processed the chicken liver into a smooth and delightful pate to start preparing the Chicken Liver Pate. He then transformed a loaf of day-old French Baguette into crusty toasted bread slices using the Moulinex Bread Toaster to which he cheerfully emphasized that bread crumbs deserve to be gathered that way instead of having them scattered in unlikely places.

When it came to preparing the Cheese Quesadilla, he made several variations using The French Baker’s Tortilla Wraps in Flour, Whole Wheat, Tomato Basil and Spinach flavour variants. He relied on the Moulinex Food Shredder for an even grating of the cheese. To crunch the tortilla wraps, he lightly grilled them on an energy-efficient Krups Griddle.

As for the Chorizo Pizza, the Moulinex Food Shredder came in handy for even grating of the mozzarella cheese. If anything, this specific snack proved that a single guy like me doesn’t need a full-sized oven to create a delicious pizza! I surely enjoyed watching how the first three recipes were prepared thanks to a hot cup of coffee from The French Baker!

The live cooking demo proceeded with three more recipes including the Fresh Mushroom Cream Pasta, plus the two flavor-packed but light and healthy sandwiches, Grilled Panini Spanish Sardines Sandwich and Vegetarian Sandwich.

In partnership with SM Megamall, Easy Food Treats with Chef Baker Johnlu Koa was successfully held thanks to Moulinex and The French Baker. For more information, visit the official website of The French Baker and Moulinex.

More Photos Below:

5th Taste Cheesteak Sandwich

Mussels Tempura

M O R E

T H A N T H E

U S U A L

One weekend drizzle of July dampened my mood for food. A Saturday night that I was looking forward to for a hearty meal jolted me back to my usual discriminating self. I suddenly had no appetite for anything. I did, however, have a scheduled meet-up with fellow foodies in a modern Japanese cuisine restaurant. That was enough to get me moving out of the house all the way to the venue: 5^th Taste. Located in a commercial district of San JuanCity, it’s next to other dining venues that are popular in the area. It was initially clear to me that I had to brave it through the rain and force myself to eat dinner.

What changed my countenance that night was a single sip of 5^thTaste’s Deconstructed Miso Soup – a set of miso broth, silken tofu, pork floss, and leeks. Surprisingly, mine was a cup of someone’s warm and friendly hug. What a way to start the dinner that I was adamant to have in the first place!

Kani Salad Pizza

Deconstructed Miso Soup

Umami At The Onset

While having more of that soup, it dawned on me that the restaurant’s name is actually the Japanese term known as umami --- a recently recognized basic taste by culinary experts. Along with salty, sweet, sour and bitter, the fifth taste called umami is anything on a dish that has a pleasant, savoury taste. Flavor-wise, it tastes meaty and brothy. If anything, that was what I had as a delicious introduction to my dinner. This savoriness that coated the tongue immersed my palate to salivate for more deliciousness.

At 5^th Taste, I realised that nourishing Japanese dishes are each given a tasty twist on top of the basic tastes that people are familiar with. The restaurant is driven to experiment with typical Japanese dishes and flavors enough for dining guests to experience them in a new way. With the Deconstructed Miso Soup, the ingredients enhanced each other resulting in more flavourful points than the sum of its parts. What’s more, the distinct flavour of fermented beans is a good source of antioxidants, dietary fibre, and protein.

Crispy Chicken Curry

An Inventive Kani Salad Pizza

Motivated to seek more of that umami in the other dishes available at the restaurant, I had the crispy Kani Salad Pizza next. It’s a thin crust pizza that’s peppered with shredded kani, cucumber, carrot ribbons, mozarella and Japanese mayo. It was definitely a departure from the usual pizza slices that I’ve been gorging on for the past few months. I distinctively did not like a kani salad I had at a resort in Luzon, but to have had it on a crispy crust was quite inventive. The combination of soft, chewy, and crispy textures was a delight to have after sips of the nourishing Miso Soup.

Mussels Tempura and Smoked Mackerel Maki

I proceeded to tear into a piece of Mussels Tempura (lightly battered mussels) and a Smoked Mackerel Maki (smoked mackerel flakes and mango). The wasabi mayo and sweet eel dressing duo on the tempura complemented each other well given the crunchy texture of the batter. As for the maki, the mango filling was a delicious center to the rest of the dish.

Smoked Mackerel Maki

Jalapeño Cream Cheese Onion Tonkatsu

5th Taste Cheesesteak Sandwich

Next to touch my plate was a slice off of a dough-licious 5th Taste Cheesteak Sandwich since I had to share it with a few more foodies at the table. I’m not sure if it was my first time to sample a ciabatta bread, but the distinctively flat bread made a great impression on me that lasted with each bite of the stir-fried beef sukiyaki and mozzarella cheese combo. I would later learn that it’s a great tandem with pasta or soup. However, having it in a sandwich format still made sense. The soft, spongy crumb and its chewy texture went down well with the rest of the hefty treat that I forgot all about the fries which were served on the side.

Ending With Chicken Curry and Tonkatsu

More than an hour into dinner, I got the chance to sample two more dishes – the Crispy Chicken Curry and Jalapeño Cream Cheese Onion Tonkatsu. The two dishes were a fitting dinner-ender as they were both truly savory and came in generous servings (good for sharing). The curry was a creative set of lightly crisped chicken and Omurice (steamed rice wrapped in omelette with Japanese curry and mozzarella cheese) while the tonkatsu came with Japanese slaw. As a twist to the usual crispy soft pork cutlet, the latter was served with jalapeño cream cheese and onion filling.

My mood for food might have been dampened by a dramatic drizzle, but it was the discovery of inventive ways in dining over Japanese cuisine at 5^th Taste that made me recover. Pleasant, savory flavors prevailed in making me appreciate the sad weather.

5^th Taste

Official Facebook fan page of 5^th Taste

Address:453 P. Guevarra St., San Juan City, Philippines

Hours of Operation:

Monday-Thursday

11:00am - 11:00pm

Friday-Saturday

11:00am - 12:00am

Sunday

11:00am - 11:00pm

Phone: (02) 705-1856

Email: 5thtasteph@gmail.com

B L O G

G I V E A W A Y

For more than forty years, Shakey’s has shared Good Times and Great Memories with their beloved Guests. With numerous innovations in technology, Shakey's remains significant in keeping up with the times when it comes to giving guests new things to love.

Most recent innovations include adding the Shakey's mobile site, mobile app (free to download from the Play Store and the App Store), and website to the options through which you can have Shakey's delivered to you aside from calling the hotline 77777. With these, more Shakey's Guests can have Shakey's Anytime, Anywhere!

Create Great Memories

Everyone’s always looking to have Good Times and create Great Memories with their loved ones. During those moments, there is one dish that everyone absolutely loves and is proven to give even the simplest occasions a cause for celebration – Shakey’s pizza. Enjoying this delicious experience is made even better by adding their flavorsome pasta with a basket of their famous Chicken ‘N’ Mojos to go with their mouthwatering pizza. Shakey’s entire menu is composed of all-time favorites that everyone can suddenly crave for anytime, anywhere.

Deliciously Timeless

The best legacies come from the most passionate endeavors. Shakey’s Philippines has been a strong brand in the pizza segment of the local food service since its inception in 1975 when they opened their first store in Makati. Developed by four of the food industry’s giants, Shakey’s emerged as an avenue for marketing San Miguel’s newest draft beer.

Almost four decades later, Shakey’s is now a successful nationwide franchise with over 150 restaurants. Their latest innovation exhibits a change in image and ambiance to feature the present family-oriented, wholesome, and fun atmosphere. Constantly in tune with their roots, the brand maintains the warmth and familiarity that have made their stores a sensation.

Tasty Innovations

Shakey’s has timelessly won the hearts and tastes of each passing generation. Their delectable innovations gave new reasons for their Guests to feel excited every time they open a Shakey’s menu with products like the Philly Cheesesteak Pizza that recently have flown off the oven. Whether it be a bonding moment with friends, romantic quality time with your special someone, or a cause for celebration with the whole family, almost everybody has their own Shakey’s story to tell. As a brand with their Guests at their core, they have been consistently enhancing their services to boost experiences. Their “What’s The BIG Deal?” delivery promo for example, treats their Guests to a free much-coveted Shakey’s SuperCard (access to perks).

Monster Meal Deal

Shakey’s continues to provide the most mouth-watering meal packages like the Monster Meal Deal. It contains 2 large thin crust Manager’s Choice and Pepperoni pizzas, 2 generous platters of Classic Spaghetti and Carbonara Supreme, 12 pcs. Party Pack of the flavorful Chicken ‘n’ Mojos plus 3 pitchers of ice cold Coca Cola – a monster package of Shakey’s favorites for your group’s enjoyment served at a great value. This is totally how to eat, eat, eat without paying a lot.

Craving To Win Gift Certificates?

In partnership with Shakey's, TuristaTrails.com is giving a lucky reader the chance to win Shakey's Monster Meal Deal gift certificates. Craving to be one? Simply join the raffle contest using the Rafflecopter app (see further below).

Raffle Contest Mechanics

1. Like and Follow Shakey’s on Twitter (PHShakeys), Instagram (ShakeysPH), and Facebook (ShakeysPH).
2. Like and Follow Turista Trails on Twitter (KarlAceTurista), Instagram (Turistatrails), and Facebook (Turista Project)
3. Download the Shakey’s Mobile App on your mobile phone, so you can have your Shakey’s pizza anytime, anywhere!
4. On Instagram, post a creative photo of yourself where you dream of eating your Shakey’s pizza. Be as original as possible! Fill in the blanks and create a caption with this statement: “I dream of eating my Shakey’s at ___________ with ___________.” Upload the photo on Instagram with the hashtags #ShakeysTime and #ShakeysTimeTT.

Terms and Conditions:

• Raffle contest period is from August 6, 2015 to August 27, 2015.
• The photo contest winner will win Shakey's Monster Meal Deal gift certificates courtesy of Shakey's.
• One (1) winner will be drawn using the Rafflecopter app.
• The contest is open to Philippine residents only. Only valid entries will be considered. Simply follow the raffle contest mechanics to qualify.
• The announcement of the winner will be on August 28, 2015 via Twitter (KarlAceTurista) and Facebook (Turista Project)
• The winner will be notified through email and will be contacted by a Shakey's Philippines representative.

Join now! See further below to use theRafflecopter app.

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Shakey's Time: WIN Monster Meal Deal GCs From Shakey's and TuristaTrails.com