I have a new comfort food. It is Marugame Udon’s curry udon and beer. It is perfect after a tiring day. Do give it a try soon!
Taal Relief Goods
I recently spent two days packing relief goods for Taal Volcano eruption victims. We filled dry bags with supplies to help victims get back on their feet.
To continue helping Filipinos in time of disasters, I highly recommend ABS-CBN Foundation. You may like their Facebook page to be updated on upcoming relief operations and donation drives.
Godbless you!
Borealis Diamond
Ever since I started collecting rings from homegrown brand Borealis Crystals, I appreciated fine craftsmanship more. This PWD-owned and managed social enterprise works with local artisans to produce handmade jewelry made out of the finest precious metals and gems. The most important part here is that they choose to offer budget-friendly bling to customers who with a taste for handcrafted and bespoke quality.
The author wears her tiny teal diamond ring on her ring finger
Here is now my current Borealis stack: my Borealis heart, my green sapphire fruit drop, and my latest from this shop, the Tillie. It is a teal tiny diamond in 10k white gold which I wear on my ring finger. All three rings are sparklier in real life and are worth every single peso.
I hope that you will also support Borealis Crystals! This is not an ad, rather, I am just a happy customer who recognizes fine workmanship when I see it. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed and the wait for your jewelry is definitely worth it.
For My Grandpa
Please include in your prayers my late grandfather, Cedric Bernardez. He passed away last January 15th due to cardiac arrest.
It was from him that I learned to appreciate fine wine, beer, eyewear, and Manila. I will forever be grateful to this OG influencer who used to hold office at Escolta.
Cheers!
Katsu for Taal
I recently supported Yabu’s katsu for a cause. All proceeds from their sales last January 28 would go to Taal victims. Since I love Yabu and charity, this was a no-brainer for me.
I had the menchi katsu set and a cold pale pilsen. It was an amazing lunch, and it felt great to help out.
Please join me in doing more for others this year. It’s easier than you think!
The Last Manilaners
I can write a long entry about last night, but I am still not over how excellent the new iWant docuseries The Last Manilaners is. It is now streaming on iWant, and I highly recommend it. It is the perfect content for us WWII enthusiasts, and you won’t be disappointed with how well-researched and rendered it is.
I was invited by my friends from the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines, and I am thankful for the chance to see the series on the big screen. The Dolphy Theater was the perfect venue for the esteemed event, and it was a fitting tribute to the resilience of the Manila Jewish refugees.
Here’s to more historical events this 2020!
The author poses at the red carpet
The author with Danica Marollano, press officer
The author with Jamela Macalino of the Israeli Embassy
The Last Manilaners is now streaming on iWant
Happy Chinese New Year
I recently celebrated Chinese New Year at Binondo. I joined the street festivities and ate dumplings. Looking forward to the best of luck in my life this 2020!
Cny with Human Nature
Yesterday, I celebrated Chinese New Year with my Human Nature Flagship Store family. I’m incredibly thankful for the blessings that I have received while being part of this family.
I hope that you will all continue supporting my online Human Nature store this Year of the Metal Rat. We just launched our eye cream and still continue to offer our bestsellers, such as our sunflower oil. Do check my store out!
Blessings!
Vitalis Villas
I recently spent a night at Vitalis Villas, dubbed as the Santorini of the North. I got to swim, eat delicious food such as Vigan longganisa and salted fish, and relax by our private pool.
I also got to spend much-needed time with my family. I am now back in the city, and I miss the beach already! I hope to be back soon.
The author at Vitalis Villas
Breakfast with the breathtaking view of Santiago, Ilocos Sur
Vigan By Night
I recently got to explore the Hispanic city of Vigan, Ilocos Sur. It was a dream come true to tour this place, as it has always been on top of my must-see spots before I die.
I started my evening tour with a kalesa ride to Calle Crisologo.
The author enters Vigan’s town center by carriage
Calle Crisologo is filled with shops and restaurants.
The author at Calle Crisologo
The author checks out the shops along Calle Crisologo
I had the best vigan empanada i’Ve ever had at Irene’s Vigan Empanada.
Irene’s Vigan Empanada is a popular eatery along the famous street
Irene’s famous empanada does not disappoint
i had sorbetes along Calle Crisologo for dessert.
The author tries the sorbetes at Vigan
Cheese, pineapple, and ube sorbetes at Vigan
A cold beer at the ROOFTOP of Hotel Luna is a good idea.
The author’s favorite beer at the Hotel Luna roof deck
Leona Florentino’s monument at Vigan
I got to explore the famous monuments at Vigan’s city center.
Jose Rizal at Vigan
The Dancing FoUntain Show was a trippy experience after dark.
Vigan’s Dancing Fountain Show
The fountain show features popular songs along with its water features
The author enjoys Vigan at night
Ilocos Sur continues to attract both local and foreign tourists with its Old World charm
After walking around the plaza, i Looked around antique shops. Lucy Chan’s Antique House has the best selection of trinkets and home fUrnishings from another era.
Antique jewelry on display at Lucy Chan Antique House
Lucy Chan offers unique antique home furnishings and trinkets
I relaxed with a cup of hot rice coffee and some balikUtsa, a local sugarcane candy at coffee break Vigan.
The author enjoys rice coffee and balikutsa, a local candy made of sugarcane molasses
It was a comfortingly delicious treat.
Good night, Vigan!
I hope to be back soon, Vigan!
Hotel Luna
I recently stayed at the Hotel Luna with my US-based family. It was our first time at Vigan, the historical heritage town at Ilocos Sur. I was excited to visit this Hispanic city, and I was lucky to have stayed at the first and only museum hotel in the country.
Hotel Luna is located at the heart of Vigan, Ilocos Sur
I am sharing with you my favorite artworks at Hotel Luna. It was magical to stay at a hotel with paintings, sculptures, and history.
I hope that you will also visit Vigan soon!
Three Women by BenCab
Maria Makiling by Abdulmari Asia Imao
Untitled by Juvenal Sanso
Gregorio del Pilar by Abdulmari Asia Imao
Boxes and Jarlet by Arturo Luz
The author with various artworks at Hotel Luna
Martyr’s Struggle by BenCab
Laces and Roses by Louie Tolentino
Cradle of Hope in Pink by Ramon Orlina
La Mandolinera by Juan Luna y Novicio
The pool at Hotel Luna attracts city guests
The author is happy to begin her Vigan journey at Hotel Luna
Borealis Heart
Borealis Crystals is a homegrown jewelry brand that I love. Here are a few reasons why this shop keeps me coming back for more:
It is PWD-owned and managed
Most of their jewelry, especially the bespoke ones, are locally handmade using quality materials
Their online platform allows them to price their bling fairly
They offer bespoke orders which may take time to make, but will definitely be worth your money
Every purchase helps a PWD family and their artisans continue their craft and business
I am so into this garnet and sterling silver ring which I purchased from Borealis Crystals. It is not my first purchase, and once again, I am one happy customer. The ring looks and feels more expensive than it really is. They used materials to give it a premium vibe, which also works with my vintage aesthetic.
This is not a sponsored post, and I am simply a satisfied customer and fan. Please check out Borealis Crystals’ Instagram page and order a bauble or two soon! You won’t regret it.
Fresh Lumpia
I recently had the best fresh lumpia I’ve ever had at Binondo Lumpia House. It is located at the second floor of the Youniversity Suites, a hip mall and dormitory along Recto, Manila.
Youniversity Suites has a hipster ambience
Youniversity Suites is hard to miss along the busy avenue. It has a number of brightly-lit coffee shops and stores at the ground floor. Once you enter the building, you are welcomed by a multi-level food court with an airplane to decorate the place.
Binondo Lumpia House serves fresh lumpia and rice for only Php108
One flight up will take you to the Binondo Lumpia House, which serves killer lumpiang sariwa and rice for only Php108. They also offer food and drinks at student-friendly prices.
This is the best fresh lumpia I’ve ever had
The lumpia was packed with vegetables and delicious garlic sauce. It was definitely worth the train ride to Recto!
The casual vibe of Youniversity Suites’ food court is a refreshing change at Recto
Binondo Lumpia House offers food at friendly prices
Go ahead and give this fresh lumpia a try. It is my new favorite, and I will definitely be back!
One Barkin’
Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe has recently merged their two branches into one solid branch. Their north branch, which is located at SM North Towers, remains strong.
Their dogs from the east have all transferred there, much to the delight of their regular customers. Now, everyone can enjoy all of the Barkin’ Buddies under one roof.
The author gets kisses from Piolo
I am a longtime fan of the cafe, and I am really excited to see all the dogs in one place.
Forrest enjoys scratches from the author
The author is all smiles with Bubbles
The dogs have provided me with much-needed comfort during the darkest days of my life. They have also provided joy during my times of bliss.
Forrest likes kissing the author
The author snuggles with the sleeping dogs
One last kiss from Forrest
I do hope that you will also visit their north branch one of these days! Promise, you won’t regret it.
Instagram: @barkinblends
AJ Mitchell talks to the media at Cuesina
AJ Mitchell In Manila
Last January 19, I was able to attend a round table session with AJ Mitchell at Cuesina, a Filipino restaurant at the Venice Grand Canal Mall. The American singer and songwriter was in Manila for a mall tour at selected malls to promote his upcoming album, Skyview.
The American singer answers questions from the Filipino press
Aside from promoting his music, we also got a glimpse of the singer’s personal influences. AJ shared that he started writing songs at the age of six and that he counts The Beatles and Coldplay among his favorite bands of all time. His songwriting process is straightforward, as he says that the melody comes first then he sings it in his phone. He later adds the words then plays it in his piano.
AJ Mitchell thanks his Filipino fans for all their support
He also looks forward to meeting Filipino musicians such as Morissette during his visit.
The author with AJ Mitchell
Among the random trivia that he shares about himself is that he can’t have caffeine. He prefers hot tea to protect his voice.
He enjoys playing the piano, and it is central in his songwriting process. He also makes sure to enjoy his life so far. He shared that he likes to go to the beach, play basketball, and spend time with family.
His upcoming album, Skyview, has an interesting inspiration. He wants to let his fans know about his home town of Belleville, IL through his music. To be able to share about his personal experiences through his songs is a privilege for him, and he hopes that his Filipino fans will continue supporting him.
Read more on AJ here.
AJ performs at the Venice Grand Canal Mall
After the intimate press conference, we proceeded to his mall show near the grand canal. It was a performance to remember, as AJ made sure to connect with his fans. He really enjoys performing and makes sure that his audience is having a good time.
I definitely enjoyed the show, and I can’t wait to listen to more music from AJ!
AJ enjoys singing for his Filipino fans
AJ is set to release his album Skyview soon
The author enjoys AJ Mitchell’s show
Energy to Eat
I enjoy walking around the UP Academic Oval at night because of the cool breeze around the campus. I feel recharged whenever I am surrounded by the trees on campus, and it inspires me to go further with my workouts.
The UP Oblation looks majestic at night
I also appreciate the presence of the other joggers and brisk walkers around me. It makes me feel like I’m part of a cardio collective of sorts.
The tree-lined U.P. Academic Oval
Aside from the endorphins that I get from my cardio fix, I also find joy in eating various street foods found on campus.
My favorites are carioca, shredded sweet corn with cheese, and soy milk.
Carioca
Shredded corn with cheese
Soy milk
It is free to workout at UP and the street food makes the afterburn worth it. Do give it a try soon!
Comfort and Prayer
Last Wednesday, I was able to have late lunch at Gubat. It has become my favorite hideaway at UP Diliman. I like their kamayan concept, where people have to eat with their hands. However, I also wanted to try their food with cutlery so I brought my own.
I was not disappointed! Their longganisa meal looked and tased fancier with cutlery.
The author brings her own utensils to Gubat, a kamayan restaurant
The author is all smiles with her favorite longganisa meal at Gubat
After my comforting meal, I went to St. Clare Monastery to pray for my intentions and to give thanks for all my blessings.
The author poses with her patroness, St. Clare
The author offers eggs at St. Clare Monastery
Food and faith are two passions of mine. It has become my custom to frequently practice both. I hope that you will continue to follow my foodie and faith adventures this 2020!
Curry Udon Satisfaction
I went back to Marugame Udon after my first visit last week. This time, I ordered the curry udon with tamago ten.
It was delightful to watch my udon being prepared for me.
The author watches her udon being prepared for her
This is not a sponsored post. I am just really happy with the dining experience at Marugame Udon. I enjoy how they prepare the meals in front of their customers, and how orderly everything is.
The rich curry broth is poured into the udon
My curry udon with tamago ten was delicious! Of course, I had beer to go with it, and it made the meal more special.
The author enjoys her curry udon and tamago ten with beer
The tamago ten goes well with the curry udon
I will definitely be back for more curry udon!
Gather all your friends for AJ Mitchell’s Manila mall shows!
American pop sensation AJ Mitchell is set to serenade and meet his Filipino fans for an upcoming series of mall tours.
The eighteen-year-old pop singer-songwriter will be performing in select Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, from January 17 to 18, 2020 with the following schedule:
• 01/17/20: Uptown Bonifacio (Friday, 7pm)
• 01/18/20: Venice Grand Canal Mall (Saturday, 3pm)
• 01/18/20: Eastwood City (Saturday, 7pm)
“This will be my first time in the Philippines,” the teen heartthrob reveals in an interview. “I’m so excited to experience the culture and see as much as I can while there. I can’t wait to eat the amazing food and hopefully see some of the beaches as well.”
With Nathan Huang of Nathan & Mercury and featuring Any Name’s Okay as opening act, the American recording artist will perform some fan favorites, including the mid-tempo jam “All My Friends” and the global smash “Slow Dance.”
Getting to know AJ Mitchell
With a slick and show-stopping voice, charismatic personality, and sharp songwriting chops, it’s no surprise that the fast-rising star has already charted three hits on the US top 40 radio chart in a span of less than two years: “Girls,” “All My Friends,” which peaked inside the top 25, and the Ava Max duet “Slow Dance,” now ranked #29 and still climbing.
In terms of streaming, AJ Mitchell has racked up more than 100 million streams and 4.15 million monthly listeners on Spotify, cementing himself as 2019’s most promising male artist.
Outside the US, the Philippines is considered to be one of the biggest music markets of AJ Mitchell, whose latest single “Slow Dance,” a collaboration with hit-maker Ava Max, is currently making waves in local streaming playlists and top 40 radio stations. “I was pleasantly surprised when I first learned this and I’m so excited to finally get to meet some of my Filipino fans,” the young musician/performer opens up about the warm reception on his previous and recent releases.
As for Ava Max, the pop phenom who has shown significant international attention with “Sweet and Psycho,” which topped the charts in 26 countries and landed a top 10 peak at the Billboard Hot 100 last year, the All My Friends singer has always been vocal about admiring her work ethic and talent. “Working with Ava Max was such an incredible experience. After sending her the track, she sent back her verse within hours. Even on the very first take she sounded so amazing that we immediately knew she was the one for the song.”
New album in the works
This year, AJ Mitchell will be releasing his debut full-length album under Sony Music. “This has been a wild ride so far and every day I think of how blessed I have been,” the budding pop personality reflects. “Over the next few years, I have so much more I hope to accomplish. Right now I can’t wait to finally release my first album called Skyview. Beyond that, I hope to have a #1 song, win a Grammy, go out on an international tour, and so much more.”
AJ Mitchell’s latest single “Slow Dance” is now available on all music streaming and download platforms worldwide.You can watch the official music video of “Slow Dance” on Youtube, and stream the track in its entirety on Spotify.
source: Sony Music Philippines
Ash Fall
Last Sunday night, the whole metro was stunned by the ash fall caused by the Taal Volcano Eruption. It was a humbling reminder that Mother Nature is indeed powerful.
Instead of dwelling on the negative effects of this natural calamity, I have chosen to use the holiday (work and classes have been suspended in most institutions in Manila and nearby provinces) to run some errands. Life must go on, and I have to ensure that my family is alright.
The author rides a tricycle in a face mask a day after the Taal Volcano eruption
As it was only a day after ash fell on Metro Manila, I wore a face mask and glasses as I ventured out for some urgent tasks. The air was dusty and ash was everywhere, but I managed to overcome my allergies.
I rewarded myself with a gyudon lunch at Hachiboru after a productive morning.
The author’s delicious gyudon lunch at Hachiboru
After running more errands, I bought some Chinese dinner for takeaway at El Presidente of Binondo. I got myself a lemon chicken bento, while I got my mom a sweet and sour pork bento.
The sumptuous choices at El Presidente of Binondo attracts hungry diners
After ticking all the items off my to-do list, I went home and relaxed. I took out my crochet project and watched Kim Enson’s vlogs.
The author crochets while watching her favorite vlogger, Kim Enson
A catastrophic day does not mean that my world should stop. I still push myself to be productive, and I do so by balancing my tasks with some of my favorite interests, which include food and crochet.
Life is too short. Make each moment, whether it is good or bad, count!