Cinemalaya 2024 Calls for Short Film Entries

After two decades of celebrating Philippine independent filmmaking, the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. open the screens for submission to the Short Film Category of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival 2024.

The deadline for submissions is on or before 6 pm on March 8, 2024.

The country’s biggest independent film competition is open to all Filipino filmmakers. Interested participants may submit a maximum of three (3) entries but only one (1) entry per proponent may be considered as a finalist.

Submitted entries must have been produced from March 3, 2023 to March 8, 2024. Short film entries that participated in other local and international festivals and competitions are qualified to join Cinemalaya. However, if an entry is submitted and is selected as a finalist in both the Cinemalaya and Gawad Alternatibo, the said entry will automatically be removed from the Gawad Alternatibo lineup, in favor of Cinemalaya.

Entries may be submitted ONLINE or OFFLINE. For online application, submit all requirements through  https://forms.gle/gb4csK1rcDqFwnhs7 . Requirements include a duly completed entry form, synopsis in English, a brief resume with 2×2 photo/s of the filmmaker/s, and the final work in MP4 format, with violator/watermark (for screening purposes only) and properly labeled with title, production company, address and contact numbers, production date, director’s name, running time which should not exceed 20 minutes including credits.

For OFFLINE submission, send entries to the Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division office, located at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Annex Building, Vicente Sotto St., Pasay City.

For OFFLINE submission, film entry must be submitted on a thumb drive (USB), with the entry form, synopsis, and filmmaker’s profile. All must be submitted in a long brown envelope properly labeled with the proponent’s name, title of the film, and contact details.

The Cinemalaya Selection Committee will shortlist 10 film finalists which will be screened at the 2024 Cinemalaya Film Festival on August 2 to 11, and will have the chance to compete for the coveted Balanghai trophies.

Since 2005, Cinemalaya has been committed to the development and promotion of Philippine independent film. At its core, it provides an avenue for the production of cinematic works of Filipino independent filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. With its call for submissions for the 2024 short film competition, Cinemalaya continues to invigorate the Philippine film industry by developing a new breed of Filipino filmmakers.

For full mechanics, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates.

#Cinemalaya #CCP #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Okada Manila Reopens a More Expansive Medley Buffet 

Medley Buffet, Okada Manila’s renowned signature buffet restaurant, recently reopened its doors at its original location on the Upper Ground Floor of the Pearl Wing, offering an even more exciting dining experience.

The restaurant has undergone a magnificent transformation, now boasting a more expansive space and grander culinary offerings. Beyond the spacious dining area, Medley now features 4 private dining rooms that can accommodate groups of various sizes from 8 to 12 persons, as well as 2 rooms that are good for 18 diners each or a total of 36 if combined — a perfect venue for family celebrations or an intimate corporate gathering. The new set-up is adorned with warm lighting from large floral-shaped chandeliers and elegant accents, harmonizing with the restaurant’s green and brown color palette.

A centerpiece of the newly reopened Medley is the Cheese Room, which showcases a well-curated selection of artisanal cheeses sourced from around the world. Aside from cheeses, there is an array of cold cut choices, as well as various nuts, fruits, and jams.

Dining at Medley is a gastronomic journey, featuring a wide range of local and international cuisines, and offering a world of flavors including classic dishes from Korea, Japan, China, and India. Guests will be spoilt for choices with a variety of diverse offerings from each culinary landmark.  Additionally, there is also a seafood station where chefs can cook guests’ selections based on their preferences; a pho and laksa section; meat carving and roasting stations; and a dessert station with a spread of delectable cakes, local delicacies, fruits, and ice cream.  The buffet comes with free-flowing fruit juices, soda, beer, and wine, as well as post-meal coffee and tea. For an indulgent experience, unlimited lobsters are available on weekends as part of the  bubbly lunch and dinner buffet.

For  inquiries and reservations, please send an email to RestaurantReservation@okadamanila.com or call 0917 813 6523.

About Okada Manila

Established in December 2016, Okada Manila is the biggest  integrated resort in the Philippines to date and touted as “Manila’s Grand Icon.” The resort is renowned for its world-class facilities and stellar service, combining the best of Japanese hospitality with the warmth of Filipino culture. For four consecutive years, Okada Manila has been honored with the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award, underscoring its exceptional service.

Spanning an impressive expanse, Okada Manila has 993 luxurious rooms and the country’s largest gaming floor, featuring over 3,000 electronic gaming machines. Providing an integrated experience, guests can shop at the Retail Boulevard, dine at the various outlets under The Restaurants at Okada Manila, go for a relaxing treatment at Forbes 5-star rated The Retreat Spa, watch The Fountain show – one of the world’s most spectacular multicolor dancing water fountains, and see Cove Manila, Southeast Asia’s biggest indoor beach club.    All these facets converge to solidify Okada Manila’s status as one of the Philippines’ premier destinations.

#MedleyBuffet #OkadaManila #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Jeanette Kamphuis: In Her Element

Swedish artist Jeanette Kamphuis, a name synonymous with the seamless fusion of art, nature, and elemental forms, invites you to embark on an enchanting journey through her world at the Imahica Art Gallery. With a collection of over 20 artworks and the unveiling of her book “JEANETTE KAMPHUIS: Inspirations and Impressions,” this one-woman art show and book launch promises an immersive experience that delves deep into the artist’s passion for nature and the elements that shape our world.

“In Her Element” succinctly encapsulates Jeanette Kamphuis’s connection with her art and her lifelong fascination with the elemental pillars of human existence. Her works, spanning multiple artistic disciplines, are a testament to her unyielding devotion to this theme, mirroring the value of our planet’s parallel reality. The Earth beckons her, urging her to connect with and express her extraordinary perspective on our collective home.

Jeanette Kamphuis shares, “For as long as I can remember, I always felt that I was ‘ONE’ or connected with the earth.” Her innate creativity flows effortlessly through various channels – be drawing, painting, singing, or crafting. It is a connection so profound that when she paints, she feels a rush of pure, intense energy, and every word conjures a vivid image. Her world is a canvas filled with vibrant colors, harmonizing with her music, art, and the beauty of nature.

“JEANETTE KAMPHUIS: IN HER ELEMENT” is an exploration of this unique connection, a tribute to the earth and its fundamental forms. The heart of her aesthetic is balance, offering a respite from chaos and a harmonious balance that brings serenity, purpose, and contemporary cohesion to the forefront.

She reflects, “I always strive for balance and purpose because they impart stability and security… remember, the elements were here before us, they will remain after us. We must embrace them and use them wisely. Only human sensitivity can transform the immutable into the unforgettable.”

#JeanetteKamphuis #artshow #booklaunch #Imahica #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Hong Kong Disneyland teams up with Make-A-Wish, treats critically ill kids to ‘Summer Snow Day’ at new World of Frozen

For the first time in forever, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) teamed up with Make-A-Wish® to grant life-changing wishes at the all-new themed land World of Frozen.

Eleven  children living with critical illnesses and their families from around the world traveled to Hong Kong to visit World of Frozen and have their wishes granted. They are among approximately 130 guests traveling from local Make-A-Wish affiliates including the Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore and Taiwan to join the Summer Snow Day Wishes Celebration.

Making wishes come true is some of the most important work that we do at Disney,” said Jill Estorino, President and Managing Director of Disney Parks International. “In fact, Disney is the largest wish-granter in the world for Make-A-Wish. Hong Kong Disneyland joined that journey when it opened in 2005, and has been bringing Disney magic to the local community and beyond ever since.”

 Rhiannea wish child from the Philippines, had her wish captured by the end of 2019. She was ready to travel during early 2020 but then the pandemic hit. During the wait for travel to be safe, Make-A-Wish Philippines continued to engage with her over three years through Disney-themed care packages, a surprise birthday party, and a special invitation to the first Wish Ball to give a testimonial. Throughout the last three years, Rhianne has been bravely going through her medical treatment while patiently waiting for her wish to come true.

Rhianne (center), a wish child from the Philippines.

“This is my first visit to Hong Kong Disneyland and also my first trip abroad, which is so exciting. I can’t wait to visit World of Frozen and experience Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs,” Rhianne said.

The entire event was inspired by one child’s wish to meet the Imagineers involved with the all-new World of Frozen.

 Dominic, a wish child from Singapore, was diagnosed with hemophilia seven days after birth. Despite facing an incurable condition that requires a lifetime of treatment, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of knowledge, fueled by a passion for mathematics, science, engineering, and space.

 After watching the documentary “The Imagineering Story” on Disney+ during the pandemic, Dominic was deeply inspired by the Imagineers’ creativity and innovative use of technology to build Disney parks and attractions.

 “While many Disneyland guests may only see what is presented, I am drawn to explore the rationale behind the scenes,” he said. “The work of Imagineers combines robotic techniques, architecture, engineering and other disciplines, turning imagination into reality through numerous trials and experiments. I am thrilled to meet them to learn more about their work.”

 Jo Phoa, Director of Creative Development of Walt Disney Imagineering Hong Kong, and Angus Chan, Principal Ride Control System Engineer of Walt Disney Imagineering Hong Kong, were touched by Dominic’s thirst for knowledge and excitement about Imagineering. They designed a special exploratory tour for Dominic, guiding him through the new attraction Frozen Ever After, which utilizes state-of-the-art Audio-Animatronics technology.

Additionally, Dominic learned about the electric motion simulator system of Iron Man Experience – the first at any Disney park, and had the unique opportunity to witness the design process.

 Dominic, who visited a Disney park for the first time, expressed his thrill at exploring the new World of Frozen and learning about its technology and operations. His conversations with Phoa and Chan reaffirmed his passion for science, inspiring him to become an Imagineer.

“This is a remarkable day for Make-A-Wish. For the first time ever, we are granting wishes from the Southeast Asia region at Hong Kong Disneyland,” said Dr Kevin Lau, Board Director of Make-A-Wish International. “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Hong Kong Disneyland for inviting us to this special event celebrating the power of wishes at the kingdom of Arendelle and joining hands with Make-A-Wish in bringing hope to children from all around the world.”

To commemorate the opening of World of Frozen and the 25th anniversary of Make-A-Wish Hong Kong, the resort will donate HK$10 for every transaction made at Tick Tock Toys & Collectibles in the kingdom of Arendelle to Make-A-Wish Hong Kong from today until Jan 10, 2024. Combined with the proceeds from the recent “Wish Upon A Chocolate Cake” charity sales at the resort, HKDL plans to contribute a total of HK$600,000 to support the development of Make-A-Wish Hong Kong.

For over 40 years, Disney and Make-A-Wish have together fulfilled more than 150,000 Disney-inspired wishes around the world. The bravery, tenacity, and optimism displayed by the wish children are an inspiration for all cast members at HKDL, and the resort will continue to work with Make-A-Wish Hong Kong and other Make-A-Wish International affiliates to support the wishes of wish children living with critical illnesses and their families, creating magical memories that last a lifetime.

#HongKongDisneyland #MakeAWish #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Regal Hotels International launches Regala Hotels brand with official opening of Regala Skycity Hotel in Hong Kong

Regala Skycity Hotel celebrates the vitality of life by balancing world-class hospitality with harmonious experiences that allow guests to rejoice, relax and recharge.

 

Regal Hotels International has launched Regala Hotels – a new and vibrant hospitality brand that provides a place for celebration and harmonious living. The first opening is Regala Skycity Hotel located at Hong Kong’s new   SKYCITY hub.

Regala Skycity Hotel lobby

Boasting over 1,200 guest rooms, three diverse restaurants serving cuisines from around the globe, a beautifully designed grand ballroom and two banquet halls perfect for weddings and conventions, state-of- the-art wellness facilities, children’s entertainment spaces, games rooms and more, Regala Skycity Hotel is a unique hospitality destination where people can celebrate the vitality of life.

The hotel has recently received green awards including the Silver EarthCheck Certification and the Beam Plus Gold Certification.

Conveniently located around the transportation hub to Greater Bay Area and rest of the world

Situated in the dynamic and exciting SKYCITY – a captivating new retail, dining and entertainment destination opening this year next to Hong Kong International Airport – Regala Skycity Hotel is conveniently positioned for those looking to explore Hong Kong, Macau and Shenzhen, or attend world-class events in the region.

The hotel is directly connected to AsiaWorld-Expo – one of the world’s premier exhibition and entertainment venues and 11 SKIES – Hong Kong’s largest all-in- one retailtainment landmark with two minutes’ walk via the enclosed footbridge, and is just a short ride away from Hong Kong International Airport via the Airport Express or the hotel’s free shuttle bus.

Regala Skycity Hotel exterior at night.

Guests will be able to reach Hong Kong’s Central District in less than half an hour aboard the Airport Express, the much-loved Hong Kong Disneyland in 15 minutes via taxi, and easily travel throughout the Greater Bay Area as The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and Tuen Mun- Chek Lap Kok Link are only a few minutes away by car.

A dynamic place for an unforgettable stay

The carefully designed Regala Skycity Hotel incorporates the Chinese philosophy of Wu Xing, translated as “the five elements.” By integrating water, earth, wood, fire and metal throughout the hotel’s various spaces, Regala Skycity Hotel has a distinctly unique atmosphere that is elevated by its natural surroundings. This ensures a harmonious balance throughout the hotel, allowing guests to truly relax and rejuvenate their hearts, minds, bodies and souls.

Wu Xing, the five elements are carefully integrated throughout the hotel including a balance of “Water” and “Wood” in
the public areas.

With 1,208 guest rooms, 90 of which are suites, Regala Skycity Hotel has the largest number of guest rooms on Hong Kong’s Lantau Island. All rooms are designed with a modern simplicity that exudes a vibrant and contemporary aesthetic while prioritizing endorphin-boosting natural sunlight. Guests will be delighted with an exceptional view overlooking the bustling SKYCITY, tranquil gardens or picturesque South China Sea.

Regala Skycity Hotel – Seaview Room.

Families can treat little ones to a memorable experience in one of the themed rooms located on the third floor, with themes like Racing Car, Frozen Castle, Pirates, Under the Sea, Brick & Block, and Jungle & Safari.

There are cabana rooms with patios available for those looking to host a gathering or BBQ party. All rooms are equipped with double-glazed windows, Wi-Fi, a telephone, international TV channels, a hair dryer, tea and coffee-making facilities, a mini-fridge and an in-room safe.

The hotel presents a myriad of experiences for all types of travelers. One of the most picturesque highlights can be found on the beautifully landscaped rooftop Sky Deck with panoramic views of Lantau and wellness facilities such as a Sky Gym, Jogging Track and Organic Farm are just waiting to be explored.

The Sky Deck also features a cocktail bar, ideal for a drink whilst soaking in a spectacular sunset or watching planes taking off and landing. The rooftop space also lends itself perfectly to late-night stargazing – a must-do when staying at the hotel.

The Sky Deck encourages healthy and harmonious living with a jogging track and Sky Gym.

Sure to provide fun for the whole family, there are five different game rooms throughout the hotel, including an arcade with video game challenges, ball games and virtual experiences. To further encourage healthy and harmonious living, guests are encouraged to take advantage of the outdoor swimming pool, self-guided driving and hiking tours, and tailor-made yoga and meditation activities.

Regala Skycity Hotel – Arcade Challenge Game Room.

Being a destination for celebration, Regala Skycity Hotel is going to present an exciting Annual Festival Programme. A series of “Music & Dance” Themed Festive Events will be launched to immerse our guests in spectacular celebrations.

Three trendsetting restaurants offering diverse gastronomic     experiences

The hotel presents diverse dining options via its three trendsetting and stylish restaurants. Featuring designs based on coastal lines, sedimentary rocks and calming blues, the spacious all- day-dining restaurant Petra brings diners closer to nature. Adorned with interactive and mesmerizing live cooking stations, the restaurant serves international cuisine through a contactless ordering system, ranging from authentic Southeast Asian fare to exotic Indian curries, Japanese delicacies and more.

Petra is an all-day-dining restaurant that serves international cuisine.

Vivace is an energetic bar and grill that takes guests on an unforgettable Mediterranean culinary voyage set amongst a Spanish-inspired scene of colorful stained glass and Iberian ceramic tiles. Recognized for its impeccable interior designed by Alexander Wong, the vibrant restaurant picked up a silver award for outstanding interior design at the Build4Asia Awards 2022. Welcoming guests with a convivial and lively ambience, the restaurant serves up flavorsome and hearty dishes from Mediterranean hotspots including Spain, Italy, France and Greece. With a robust and tempting cocktail menu and outdoor patio, Vivace is the perfect spot for alfresco dining and drinks.

Vivace takes guests on an unforgettable Mediterranean culinary voyage.

Chinese restaurant, the Jade, presents exquisite delicacies in a plush environment enhanced by artistic features and breathtaking sea views. As a true representation of Chinese culinary fare, the Jade brings together China’s dynamic regional cuisine ranging from Canton, Beijing, Zhejiang, Sichuan and more. Private dining spaces are available to elevate any gathering or occasion.

Private dining room at the Jade.

Healthy food is available 24/7 to support guest wellbeing. With farm-to-table and vegan menus, harmonious living is made possible with easily accessible healthy dishes and meals.

Flexible and tech-savvy function spaces with impressive            interior design

Regala Skycity Hotel is the perfect venue to celebrate every occasion, from weddings and meetings to large-scale events. Designed by the Hong Kong based award-winning architect and interior designer Alexander Wong, the hotel offers two Banquet Halls and the Regala Grand Ballroom, which is one of the biggest ballrooms in Lantau.

Accommodating up to 76 tables, the Regala Grand Ballroom expresses a dynamic energy through the myriad of rectangular white frames ‘spinning’ over like the Spiral Sky. The unique ceiling design creates a special lighting experience, complemented with a shoal of auspicious crystal chandeliers and giant pillars that also function as an LED display.

The Regala Grand Ballroom expresses a dynamic energy through the myriad of rectangular white frames ‘spinning’ over like the Spiral Sky.

Designed to rekindle a sense of wonderment for the natural elements, streams of sunlight in the Banquet Halls create an enchanting vision of ocean waves or flying clouds during the day and an interstellar effect at night with a series of star-like chandeliers.

With over 2,800 square metres of space and an impressive 6.7-metre ceiling height, the function spaces are equipped with state-of-the-art technology featuring synchronised AV systems, six built-in LED walls and six vertical LED panels.

There are also several unique outdoor venues, such as the Sky Deck and Terrace on the 5th, with breathtaking views making for excellent photo opportunities, positioning the hotel as an ideal venue for celebrations, weddings or MICE events.

To find out more about Regala Skycity Hotel and promotions, please visit skycity.regala- hotels.com.

 

#RejoiceAtRegala #RegalaSkycityHotel #HongKong #VFCTravelandTours #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Rediscover the pop culture enthusiast within you at the Omniverse Museum

Seeking for the next place to heal your inner child? Look no further as the Omniverse museum opens its doors to pop culture and science fiction fans everywhere! From big installations of your favorite movie heroes to actual set props–you can all see them for only P1,499!

Located in Japan Town, Makati, the Omniverse Museum boasts film artifacts from historic franchises like Star Wars, Justice League, Marvel, and Harry Potter. Every movie fan with a passion for the lore, plot and the art of collecting will find their hearts filled and their eyes feasting on over 20 worlds–an experience like no other.

Ryan Sison, a journalist and pop culture collector, brought the Omniverse Museum to life. His passion for blockbuster films added fuel to the majestic collection of movie paraphernalia stored intricately in the 3,500 square foot space. Despite being stereotyped as a museum, there are also interactive displays, fun facts, and various forms of movie magic.

Aside from parading movie trinkets and sets, the Omniverse Museum also urges adults and kids alike to explore the wonders of science fiction. There are also activities and interactive exhibits that explain science, particularly how it transcends from actual scientific experiments to full-blown movie plots.

As you delve deeper into the museum, there are also pieces signed by the world-renowned actors who have played historic roles. Most of the pieces featured in the collection are one-of-a-kind, earning the respect of collectors and fans alike.

The tour wouldn’t be complete without a flurry of photos highlighting these rare artifacts, as well as sitting on the famed Iron Throne or pretend-dining in the Great Hall of the Harry Potter universe! There are also life-sized figures of Iron Man, Yoda, and Spiderman–some of the heroes that shaped fan’s lives in different ways.

It might be a bit disconcerting seeing characters from different timelines sit beside each other–just like Newt Scamander and Voldemort–but intriguing enough to interest someone’s fanfiction fantasy! The worlds, or the sections of the museum, are also built to encapsulate the feeling of being inside the movie’s lore–just like the Bat Cave that’s akin to a prison cell.

 

Before going home, visitors can also buy film merchandise, from shirts to figurines. If they also need time to rest their feet, there is also a spacious lounge for everyone.

At the end of the museum tour, visitors will have to make a decision that will dictate how they exit. You can either take an Alvin and the Chipmunks themed exit or the thrilling and spine-chilling route, filled with iconic horror film characters such as Annabelle and Ghostface. Who knows what lies on both ends? It’s up to you to see for yourself!

The Omniverse Museum also features function rooms for parties and programs, especially pop culture gatherings. Be sure to reach them through their social media accounts or contact them directly at their email, omniversemuseum@amusements.global for bookings and inquiries!

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

 

#OmniverseMuseum #Makati #Philippines #rubyaspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Pro Age Solutions as a Pioneering Filipino Advocacy Brand for Menopausal Women

Why are we so anti-aging when it is a constant part of everyone’s life?

The silent yet growing stigma in maintaining one’s beauty and youthfulness, especially among women, inspired Claudine Viquiera to establish Pro Age Solutions. “What makes the menopausal journey even harder is the fact that there is no community locally that addresses the problem that women encounter,” Claudine Viquiera said. Her goal is to create a community of women in midlife to have a safe space to talk about their experiences while eradicating the taboos and stigma about perimenopause and menopause.

Going Pro Age: Roundtable Discussion

In the recent roundtable discussion held at the Marquis Events Place last August 22, 2023, industry leaders: restorative dermatologist Dra. Jean Marquez, regenerative medicine expert Dr. Joel Lopez, Veil Cosmetics’ research and development manager Mr. Jacob Park,  and the one and only Cory Quirino joined Pro Age Solutions’ Chief Advocate and Founder Claudine Viquiera in a conversation about perimenopause and menopause. The roundtable discussion also started the #OwnYourAge movement which is a call to women to embrace and be proud of their age as it is a natural part of who they are.

 Pro Age Solutions

Pro Age Solutions is a pioneering advocacy brand for perimenopausal and menopausal relief and overall wellness. The brand released its first product line that features skincare products formulated in Korea but are made and tested specifically for Filipino women who are experiencing skin issues due to menopause. Claudine explained that the brand started with skincare products as the skin is the most visible manifestation of the symptoms of menopause.

Pro Age Solutions Community.

Menopause and the Skin

Menopause is a period in which a woman’s periods stop due to the gradual loss of ovarian follicular function and the decline of estrogen levels. Most of the women in this stage experience different symptoms, one of the most prevalent is skin issues. Some of these are dryness and itching, wrinkles, acne, hot flashes, and melasma.

Menopause and Mental Health

Along with the skin issues, the changing hormonal levels also impact women’s mental health. On top of that, changes to their skin and their appearance can be a source of distress and may contribute to a loss of self-esteem and confidence.

The products will be available on Pro Age Solutions’ official website soon! Tune in to their social media at @proagesolutions on both Facebook and Instagram!

Join the conversation today and let’s create an age-inclusive and pro-aging community.

#ProAgeSolutions #menopause #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Inside an Art Collector’s home

The open floor plan is a practical home design for this art collector. “It’s a plan looking into the future preparing for old age when one cannot go up and climb stairs,” she shared.

When designing a home, choosing an open floor plan is a personal decision. “Some just love the home and it happens to come with this kind of combination – kitchen, living, and dining rooms.”

“Others love the idea of having the rooms open to one another as they are great for entertaining,” according to an online source. Moreover, they want to see what’s happening in one glance.

“On the practical side, it’s a plan looking into the future preparing for old age when one cannot go up and climb stairs,” shared the owner of this exquisite residence, who is an art lover and certified art collector.

The kitchen in this open design is just adjacent to the dining and living areas. They share the same hue with the kitchen fixtures, dining table, and living room furniture.

Spacious and looking spruce kitchen area.

The kitchen area looks fresh, upscale, and neat. It has wide spaces to move around when prepping up meals for the household. It has seating areas around the marble island kitchen.

Their well-maintained living room looks great with a contemporary painting by visual artist Nikulas Lebajo. The atmosphere is welcoming, relaxing, and full of warmth. The painting is well harmonized with the interior of the living room. Moreover, a painting is like a mirror to the soul of the owner. One’s taste, character, and story are illustrated by the painting one chooses for the home.

The living room is adorned with a contemporary painting by visual artist Nikulas Lebajo.
The dining area is adjacent to the living room.
The billiard room with perfect lighting.
The bar area inside the billiard room.
A high window with a view.
The collectors’ painting collection of Nikulas Lebajo presently displayed at their residence in White Rock in the Greater Vancouver Area, Canada.

Interesting lighting and coordinated look to the kitchen, living room, billiard room, and master’s bedrooms are interesting touches that create a great ambiance and connected spaces.

#homeandesign #interiordesigninspiration #insideanartcollectorhome #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Bring Back the Fun at Hong Kong Disneyland

In these challenging times when everyone is observing social distancing and health protocols, the best we can do is reminisce about the captured moments of our most memorable travels in the past.

 

Bringing back these memorable moments at the happiest place on earth – Hong Kong Disneyland several years back!

Our stay at the park had given us so much joy – with my daughter Beatrice, my BFF Mitch with daughter Jas, and Nanay Remy. It was like we were transported to fantasy land, and had awakened the child in us.

With so many attractions to see and to try, our whole day trip was truly hectic but we had so much fun! We didn’t get tired of taking mementos of our wonderful time at the resort.

At the Toy Storyland 🙂

One shouldn’t miss the Jungle River Cruise, Rafts to Tarzan’s Treehouse, Hong Kong Disneyland Railroad, Toy Storyland, Sleeping Beauty Castle, Mickey’s PhilharMagic, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Tomorrowland, Cinderella Carousel, Fantasyland Train Station, Fantasy Gardens, Mad Hatter Tea Cups, It’s Small World, and the Golden Mickey’s for fabulous Disney character performances.

Make sure to wear comfortable attire to explore the Disney resort fully. You have to do a lot of walking, transferring from one attraction, and rides to another. Reserve your energy to still enjoy the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Snow White Grotto, Space Mountain, Stitch Encounter, Orbitron, UFO Zone, Autopia, Buzz Lightyear, Astro Blasters, and more.

After the tiring and thrilling rides, you can satisfy your craving for good food at various restaurants located in the resort. The entire experience was completed with the amazing “Disney in the Stars” fireworks at night.

Indeed, the fantasy comes alive at Hong Kong Disneyland! Plan your visit here with your loved ones during safer times in the post-COVID-19 world.

 

#HongKongDisneyland #memorablemoments #throwbacktravel #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Way Up by International Artist of the Year Xander Pratt highlights Basilan tourism

WAY UP by Xander Pratt is Tier One’s cover song for the first-ever Web 3.0 podcast Two2Three.  Filmed in the city of Isabela, Basilan, the self-produced music video is the first of a triad from the Deep South of the Philippines, along with a total of 17 videos under the album FIREFLIES: Follow the Magic. The other original songs entitled Don’t Hold Back and Oxyfire are also available on Spotify and Youtube, as a tribute to the rising tourism and creative industries in what was an oft-forgotten, post-conflict island.

International artist, performer, designer, and creative director Xander Pratt, who was named Artist of the Year by the International Youth Center, has chosen the Philippines as the central hub of his Asia Tour. A series of Afro-Asia exhibits, shows, and pop-ups have been organized by AsiaTV studios, with Earthsavers UNESCO artist for peace. Aside from the Philippines, his tour will also visit Singapore, Malaysia, Korea, and Hong Kong, among others.

Having traveled the world to deliver a message of art as a vessel of personal and collective freedom, Pratt, who is based in the Kingdom of Morocco, is also a life coach for young people and the young at heart.  A recent member of the International Theatre Institute, he spent the first part of this year writing about the only Black-produced Hollywood superhero, compliments of Mayor Djalia Hataman of Isabela, Basilan. Africa, like Asia and the rest of the Global South, is the oldest inhabited continent on Earth and home to the youngest populations, making a noteworthy case for Asia-Africa connectivity. Truly, the heart of diplomacy and business lies in art as a universal language.

#XanderPratt #Basilan #Fireflies #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph