VENUERIFIC PHILIPPINES: Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

VENUERIFIC PHILIPPINES: Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

I was watching Kris TV's feature a while ago and was inspired to write about my family's favorite staycation and events place- Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila. Check this space out. Best place to hold events hands down.

Sofitel is our favorite hang out. I love it whenever my family and friends held there parties there.

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila is an iconic 5-star luxury resort nestled in an expansive tropical setting close to the largest convention center, theaters, museums, government offices and the Mall of Asia.

It is not only people who appreciates the beauty of nature! This bird is also seashore watching!

My favorite pass time... seashore watching at Sofitel!

Sofitel Philippine Plaza is one of the favorite wedding destination in the Philippines. It is an ideal venue for holding weddings both big and small, with great flexibility in staging design. Whether it be a grand and formal occasion at the Grand Plaza Ballroom or the Tent, or a smaller, more intimate ceremony by the Seawall Garden, Sofitel’s team of experts are able to ensure a most unforgettable celebration that is flawlessly executed. Choose from elegant French celebrations and other themes that capture the imagination, as your big day is tailor-made to your unique tastes and preferences.

There was a garden wedding that particular day. I wanted to take pictures but I don't want to invade and destroy their moment.

Play time under the sun in the sand at Sofitel.

Family bonding.

Swimming to the max to beat the El Niño heat!

Cool off at Sofitel's swimming pool!

With Sofitel's track record you are assured that your event will be great. Its memory will be etched in your mind for a lifetime. Our friend L celebrated her birthday at Sofitel's Grand Plaza Ballroom. It was so much fun! Our other friend Hans on the other hand treat us at Sofitel's Sunset bar. Almost every year I get invited by PMAP (People Management Association of the Philippines) to cover its event in Sofitel. And even without anything in return I always make sure to come, simply because I love PMAP and Sofitel.

On top of that, my brother and I absolutely love our staycations at Sofitel. I also love our dinner at Spiral ( Sadly,the gc I bought lapsed when I was not yet in Manila, I hope the admin will consider my request)  and the wonderful selections at Le Bar.

So the next time you have an event just search for #VenuerificPhilippines to select the best venue for your event.

What is Venuerific and how does it work?

Venuerific is a platform that allows event owners to easily and quickly book venues for their planned events:

For event owners – browse, select and inquire from our list of partner venues
For venue owners – list and showcase your venues on our website

In addition, they provide a concierge service to guide you through the above.

How do you create an account and sign up with Venuerific?

Go to their homepage, click on Sign Up and enter your email address and password. You will then receive an activation email from our system. Click the link on the activation email to activate your account.

How do I login to Venuerific?

Enter your email address and password in the Log In page and then click “Sign In”.
Can I login using Facebook?

Yes. You can login using your Facebook account.

You can search for the perfect using the search botton or through its online concierge.

REGINA HOMETEL: Makati's Newest Affordable Accommodation

REGINA HOMETEL: Makati's Newest Affordable Accommodation

Travelling on a shoestring? When in Makati in the Philippines with budget constraints, you don't need to worry anymore, smile and be happy! Why? It is because Makati City is the home of the latest hometel in town! You can now avail of the "Swak sa Budget" offerings of Regina Hometel at 7272 J. Victor Street, Pio del Pilar, Makati, Luzon 1230, Philippines.

The #ReginaHometel, your #HOME in the City is one of the newest places to discover whether you are a backpacker like me, a tourist on vacation, a balikbayan, a foreigner on a business trip or a family who wants to have a staycation not far away from your HOME. This “Hometel” combines the comfort, affordability and the world renown Filipino hospitality and service oriented mindset of its all-Filipino staff.

Strategically located around offices, malls and other establishment for your personal or business needs. Best place for an overnight stay if you get caught and got really tired of the traffic in the city. Just a few steps away from Waltermart and Makati Cinema Square. It is just a jeepney ride away from Glorietta and Greenbelt Malls. 

Since Regina Hometel is also within the reach of gimmick/party places, you may also make a wise decision of staying over after getting tipsy/drunk rather than driving home. You better be safe than sorry. 

At Regina Hometel you have an option to choose from different room types, available 24 hours a day.

STANDARD ROOM

13 Square Meters

RATES:

DAILY: PHP 1,500.00 (2pax) 

Inclusive of electricity, water and beddings.

Security Deposit of Php 500.00.

Extra Bed: Php 700.00/day inclusive of linens and pillows.

WEEKLY: PHP 7,000.00 (2pax) 

Inclusive of electricity, water and beddings.

Security Deposit of Php 3,000.00

MONTHLY: PHP 15,000.00 (2pax) 

Exclusive of electricity, water, beddings and towels.

Minimum of 3 months stay with 2 months deposit and 1 month advance.

The advance rental shall be applicable on the last month of the contract.

for extra bed, there will be a monthly fee of Php 5,000.00

UTILITY deposit of Php 5,000.00

*Prices may change without prior notice.

DELUXE ROOM

17 Square Meters

RATES:

DAILY: PHP 1,800.00 (2pax) 

Inclusive of electricity, water and beddings.

Security Deposit of Php 500.00.

Extra Bed: Php 700.00/day inclusive of linens and pillows.

WEEKLY: PHP 9,000.00 (2pax) 

Inclusive of electricity, water and beddings.

Security Deposit of Php 3,000.00

MONTHLY: PHP 20,000.00 (2pax) 

Exclusive of electricity, water, beddings and towels.

Minimum of 3 months stay with 2 months deposit and 1 month advance.

The advance rental shall be applicable on the last month of the contract.

for extra bed, there will be a monthly fee of Php 5,000.00

UTILITY deposit of Php 5,000.00

*Prices may change without prior notice.

SUITE ROOM

27 Square Meters

RATES:

DAILY: PHP 2,200.00 (2pax up to 4pax) 

Inclusive of electricity, water and beddings.

Security Deposit of Php 500.00.

Extra Bed: Php 700.00/day inclusive of linens and pillows.

WEEKLY: PHP 10,000.00 (2pax) 

Inclusive of electricity, water and beddings.

Security Deposit of Php 3,000.00

MONTHLY: PHP 25,000.00 (2pax) 

Exclusive of electricity, water, beddings and towels.

Minimum of 3 months stay with 2 months deposit and 1 month advance.

The advance rental shall be applicable on the last month of the contract.

for extra bed, there will be a monthly fee of Php 5,000.00

UTILITY deposit of Php 5,000.00

*Prices may change without prior notice.

Imagine these giveaway rates! 

You're paying a low low price for a premium location! It is conveniently located in Makati and has a close proximity to schools, churches, hospitals, businesses, gimmick places and shopping centers.

Wait! There is more! 

@ the roof top

Regina hometel's rooftop is open for booking for small functions, seminars and gatherings for a very low rental rate of PHP 5,000.00 good for 6 hours ( Inclusive of tables and chairs). It has a covered rooftop so you and your friends will be comfortable. Rest assured that you'll be safe from the glaring sun or sudden rainfall during your event or celebration.

Just tell them you read it from my blog! Who knows, they might give you a one peso discount, ha ha ha! Joke! Smile! Happy New Year everyone!

PALABRA DE HONOR

PALABRA DE HONOR

Remember that when you utter words without giving it a value you become a person without a word of honor. 

Question: "At this age and time do you still practice "Palabra de Honor" or "Word of Honor" in simple English?"

SECRET TO SUCCESS

Wink, wink! Oh yes, you are so right, it is the oh so precious palabra de honor! That was my uncle Julian's answer when I asked him how he became a self-made man. It was the secret of his success!

I know, there's no sure formula to success but I know for a fact that in order to be super successful in life, one should never forget his or her word or words he or she had promised to another person or a group of people. 

During one of our many conversations, I still clearly remember my late uncle Julian's words: "Even if you are at a loss or at a disadvantage honor your word"  “

"ln our generation, nobody will respect you if you do not keep your word,"uncle Julian quips.

How I wish people in this time and era still has the same values as my uncle.

It is unfortunate to know that many people will go the extra mile just to break signed contracts and agreements just because of false pride and false success that had gone to their heads.

Some people easily break their word because of various factors such as the following:

• it is their parents’ upbringing
• they never encountered a successful person who have palabra de honor
• or maybe they totally missed values education in their respective schools
• and plausibly, technology.

So, the next time around you transact with people make sure they still practice "Palabra De Honor" so you'll be stress free!

Smile, God loves you!

PHILIPPINES: Official Public Holidays For 2016

PHILIPPINES: Official Public Holidays For 2016

It's been a long while since we had a chance to go on a vacation. That's partly because of our erratic work schedules. It is a good thing that President Noynoy (PNoy), through his staff in Malacañang, has released to the public last Wednesday (August 26) Proclamation No. 1105 dated August 20, 2015. The proclamation lists all the regular holidays and special non-working days for 2016.

Next year, Filipinos can look forward to long weekends on the following dates: January 1 - 3, February 6 - 8, March 24 - 27, August 27 - 29, October 29 - November 1, and December 30, 2016 - January 2, 2017.

January 2, October 31, December 24, and December 31 have been declared as additional special non-working days in order to "strengthen family ties by providing longer New Year, All Saints' Day, and Christmas weekends and promote domestic tourism as well."

Proclamations to declare national holidays for Eid'l Fitr and Eidul Adha will follow after approximate dates of the Islamic holidays have been determined.

Enjoy planning your vacation for next year!

CAFFE BENE: Partners with Lotus Biscoff

CAFFE BENE: Partners with Lotus Biscoff

Good news to all Caffe Bene lovers! South Korea's biggest coffee outlet Caffe Bene has partnered with the world's well-loved biscuit brand Lotus Biscoff. This is like a dream come true for all true-blue coffee and biscuit addicts like me and Kuya B! 

Caffe Bene is offering a special promotion where you get a free Lotus Biscoff with every purchase of a cup of Americano. 

Did you know that the sweet caramelized flavor of Lotus Biscoff goes very well with any cup of coffee because it enhances the coffee’s bitter taste and vice versa.

   

            

Caffe Bene bent backwards to bring to you a wonderful gelato creation that would put any gelato shop to shame. Tada! Presenting Caffe Bene Gelato with Lotus Biscoff! 

Lotus Biscoff Gelato is a mouthwatering frozen treat that has a sweet creamy taste enhanced by Lotus Biscoff bits. Oh, it also comes with a Biscoff cookie!

Geez, these pictures make me want to fly back to Manila at the soonest possible time!

The music "Perfect combination" is now playing inside my head, ha ha ha! 

Lotus Biscoff is more popularly known as Speculoos.  It is the perfect accompaniment to every cup of coffee. The unique taste of Lotus Biscoff stems from the sugar’s caramelization during the baking process. The unique recipe, which adds a hint of cinnamon and other spices, remains the same more than eight decades later since it was first baked in 1932 at a small town called Lembeke in Belgium. The founders of Lotus Bakeries, the Boone brothers, would drive around town in their trademark red truck to deliver their prized biscuits door to door. Then in the 1950's, Lotus introduced the pairing of Lotus Biscoff with a fresh cup of coffee. This soon became part of the everyday Belgian routine in hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops throughout the country. Cafés throughout Europe started serving fresh coffee with biscuits, and Lotus Biscoff becomes “Europe’s Favorite Cookie with Coffee.”

We're not in Manila right now but we would love to visit a Caffe Bene branch in Manila soon and try this wonderful promo!

In South Korea, you'll find a Caffe Bene shop in almost every street corner. That is why, Filipinos who love Koreanovelas are already familiar with the elegant Caffe Bene's interiors long before it opened its doors in the country. 

Bene is actually a Latin word that means good. 

Once you enter a Caffe Bene’s branch, you'll understand why I love this coffee shop. It does not only stand out from the rest with its charming and peaceful ambiance.  

It has actually been voted as one of the top places for book lovers in Metro Manila since the place is very conducive to reading books and working on your laptops, a far cry from the maddening market-like crowds that often loiter other coffee shops.

Caffe Bene is slowly expanding its network in the Philippines. As of this writing, it now has a total of five outlets located in the following areas:

1.  Eastwood City
2.  SM BF Paranaque
3.  SM Clark
4.  Valero Makati; and 
5.  SMX Mall of Asia. 

Two more branches are set to open next year and Caffe Bene has many more collaborations and projects lined up as well, including an eat-all-you-can waffle promotion!

Caffe Bene is having an unlimited waffle and unlimited cafe americano!

The Eat-All-You-Can Waffle promo is available from August 24 to September 24, 2015 for only P350!  So hurry fellow waffle lovers, let's troop to Caffe Bene real soon!

Kudos to Caffe Bene and Lotus Biscoff!

Enjoy your ‪#‎benelovesbiscoff‬ experience

Please like Caffe Bene Ph on Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/caffebeneph

DEREK RAMSAY: 100 Percent Epitome of Century Tuna

DEREK RAMSAY: 100 Percent Epitome of Century Tuna

Handsome Filipino-British model, actor, host and former VJ here in the Philippines Derek Arthur Baggao Ramsay is the perfect epitome of Century Tuna.

Authorities have individual considerations when it comes to defining the perfect physique. Most of them agree that more than visual aesthetics and physical proportions, what matters more is good health.  

"In the past, I thought that in order to attain the body of my dreams all I have to do is 100% exercise.  Well, I was wrong.  Because when I tried the 70/30 recommended ratio by experts I was amazed that I attain a firmer, leaner healthier body in no time.  Yes guys, you should  know the balance between diet and exercise , that is 30% exercise and 70% diet," Derek enthuses. 

I believe that every person I know would agree that Derek Ramsay is 100 percent lean and meaty just like Century Tuna!  Plus, it has no extenders, just 100 percent tuna.

My golly, did you know that Derek took my hand so I could feel his pandesal . . . errr . . . six-pack abs! Pandesal is the perfect partner for Century #100PercentTuna.

Derek started eating Century Tuna when he was still a college student in the United States. He confessed that his classmate Leo would bring boxes and boxes of Century Tuna all the way from the Philippines. Derek has been shaping his body for many years now to fit what he considers a lean and mean machine.

Just like Papa Derek, you could start living a fit and healthy lifestyle. Start eating Century Tuna and do 15-minute exercises that you prefer and be fit in no time.  

Some members of the media who won in the raffle. Congratulations guys!

Did you know that Derek often feast on hot and spicy Century Tuna because it is lean and meaty with no extenders?

I do appreciate the people behind Century Tuna because they listen to customer feedback. Century Tuna now comes in easy open can and 50% lite variants meaning 50% less fat and less salt with the same superb taste, oh so perfect for dieting. What are you waiting for? Buy your own stock of Century Tuna now. Malay mo maging kasing ganda ng katawan ni Derek Ramsay ang iyong body!

Happy Day!

Smile Always!

Ballet Manila Presents “From Page to Stage”

Ballet Manila Presents “From Page to Stage”

Hi, peeps! Prepare to be enchanted once again by Ballet Manila’s spectacular shows this coming August!  I am so thrilled and happy to share with you what BM has in store for you for its 20th performance season! BM will be presenting “From Page to Stage” a tale of love, fantasy and adventure. 

Celebrating literature with larger than life characters, story book and dance enthusiasts will be fascinated by Severino Reyes’ “Tatlong Kuwento ni Lola Basyang.” Paul Vastering’s Romeo & Juliet.” Osias Barroso’s “Pinocchio,” Martin Lawrance’s “Rebel” and Alan Hineline’s “Hansel and Gretel”.

Severino Reyes, “Tatlong Kuwento ni Lola Basyang”
Three magical stories about a princess love for a bird, a hero in search of his sisters and the mystery behind an enchanted violin.

Love conquers all in  “Ang Prinsipeng Mga Ibon.” A captivating story of a princess fighting for love amid her father’s disapproval. Choreographed by Osias Barroso with enchanting music by national artists for music as arranged by Mon Faustino.

The adventure continues with “Ang Kapatid ng Tatlong Marya” about a young hero’s search for his three bewitched sisters. The piece is choreographed by Ballet Manila Artistic Director Liza Macuja-Elizalde with original music by Joey Ayala.

And finally “ Ang Mahiwagang Biyulin” explores the mystery behind a magical violin transforming an unkind rich man. Choreographed by Tony Fabella, the story is set to music by Ryan Cayabyab.

Lola Basyang is the pen name used Severino Reyes, the founder and editor of Liwayway magazine. Over 400 stories have been produced since he started writing in 1925. The material used for the production is based on Anvil Publihing editions.

Severino Reyes’ "Tatlong Kuwento ni Lola Basyang” goes onstage at the Aliw Theater on August 21, 22, 28 and 29, at 8pm, and August 23 and 30, at 3pm.

Buy your tickets now before they run out. 

#‎balletmanila‬ ‪#‎20152016season‬ ‪#‎frompagetostage‬

Experience superior sleep with Uratex Premium Mattress

Experience superior sleep with Uratex Premium Mattress

Did you know that getting a full night’s sleep is actually good for your health? A number of studies have shown that sleep affects your well being in different ways. Researchers have found that there is a link between insufficient sleep and serious health problems, such as heart disease, heart attacks, diabetes and obesity. Likewise, lack of sleep lowers your pain threshold, places you at a greater risk for injuries, affects your mood, causes you to be hungrier and eat more, and affects clear thinking.

As a matter of fact according to Dr. Deborah A. Bernardo, Head of the Comprehensive Sleep Disorders Center and Chief of the Section of Neurology at St. Luke's Medical Center, "Insomnia is the most common sleep problem. Shift work disorders are getting more common because of the BPO, entertainment and media industry. Obstructive sleep apnea, which manifests as loud snoring and stopping of breathing during sleep, is also very frequently unrecognized."

Uratex, the leader in providing the best sleep solutions, has been supporting the advocacy on the importance of a good night’s sleep. Through tie ups with the Philippine Society of Sleep Medicine and with the studies of Dr. Deborah A. Bernardo.

"Sleep is as important as diet and exercise for good health. It is necessary for clear thinking and memory formation, protection of the body against diseases and repair of cells and tissues of the body." Dr. Bernardo elaborates more.

This is the reason why finding the right mattress is important.

Uratex constantly innovates the way people sleep by using the latest in technology, the best design, and luxurious materials. This is called Sleep Science, and it is this discipline that is behind the creation and design of Uratex Premium Mattress Collection.

Uratex Premium Mattress Collection features the best materials for soothing sleep. A variety of state-of-the-art foam are used in creating each mattress, including Senso Memory foam, latex foam, and Hydragel foam. Used in combination with premium pocket springs, Tencel fabric and 3D spacer fabric, you are assured of quiet sleep at the end of the day.

Uratex Premium Mattress has crafted four unique mattress collections that take into account each person’s needs. Each mattress was designed to specifically fit your body’s needs for a more personalized sleep solution.

The Perfect Serenity Collection is the very definition of perfection. The combination of innovative foam and fabric technologies provides tranquil sleep the moment your body touches this mattress. The advanced 3D spacer fabric supplies ample ventilation throughout its surface for constant airflow for a cool, fresh feeling as you sleep. It also ensures that your mattress is clean and fresh even with constant use.

The Senso Memory collection utilizes memory foam that conforms to your body shape to evenly distribute pressure for a more comfortable sleep. The Visco-elastic foam used in this mattress remembers the shape of your body for a personalized sleep experience. The use of Tencel fabric in the main panels also keeps the mattress cool and fresh as you sleep.

The Premium Touch collection combines high performance pocket springs and world-class materials. Each individually wrapped pocket spring follows the shape of your body, even as you turn on your bed. To add comfort, the mattress is topped with natural latex foam to relieve the body’s pressure points. It is covered with Tencel fabric making it soft and smooth to the touch.

For those requiring better support as they sleep, the Orthocare collection supports the body’s key pressure points and keeps them aligned to reduce aches when you wake up in the morning. The inter-connecting cell structure in high-quality foam distributes pressure equally and evenly, letting your body feel relaxed while you sleep. It also uses 3D spacer fabric to keep your mattress cool and fresh, while Tencel fabric adds a soft and smooth feel.

All mattresses under the Uratex Premium Collection are treated with Sanitized, a technology that keeps mattresses free from bacteria or microbes. It protects your body, so you sleep on a mattress that is clean and comfortable.

Uratex Premium Mattress, the leader in the premium bedding industry in the country, and Our Home, the leading home and furniture store, collaborate by providing the public a chic and modern venue for finding the right mattresses for their homes.

Dindo Medina, Uratex Corporate Sales Director, says the partnership between Uratex and Our Home will provide a venue where the public can find sleep solutions that will help improve the quality of their lives.

Medina also shared that Uratex have guests that will share their experiences in using Uratex Premium Mattress. Special guests would be actress-model Solenn Heusaff, 2013 Ms. Universe 3rd Runner-up Ariella Arida, Brazilian model Vanessa Matsunaga, celebrity chef Rolando Laudico, DJs Sam YG, Slick Rick and Tony Toni of Boys’ Night Out, and fashion blogger Camille Co. “These individuals possess unique qualities that have made them role models in their respective fields, the same way that the Uratex Premium Mattress Collection will become the benchmark for luxurious soothing sleep”, concludes Medina.

About Uratex

For superior sleep solutions, visit Uratex Philippines at www.uratex.com.ph, follow twitter @uratexfoam IG Uratex_ph or call 888-6800.For more about Uratex Premium Mattress, call the Uratex Consumer Care Hotline at 888-6800 or visit www.uratex.com.ph