Love is in the Air at Savoy Hotel Manila

A delightful and romantic stay awaits you at Savoy Hotel Manila.  As we meet again, allow us to set your hearts aflutter and leave you love-struck with our month-long room package and seasonal dining promotions.

Sweet Escape Room Package

Celebrate the love month with that hotel stay you have been longing for.

For a rate of Php5,200 nett, you and your loved one can book an overnight stay in our standard room with complimentary breakfast for 2, a Valentine welcome amenity, a bottle of wine, and a 15% discount on SPA and Dining.

Sweet Surrender

Make Valentine’s Day dinner special with our Sweet Surrender dinner offering at Savoy Cafe.  For only Php1,300 nett per person, enjoy a three-course meal with a complimentary glass of red wine.  Available from 6 pm to 10 pm on February 14, 2022.

Indulge in our healthy starters, Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad or Carrot and Red Bell Pepper Cappuccino.  Followed by our main course, a choice of either Fettucine ala Vongole or Roasted Baby Back Ribs, and finally cap it with a sweet ending featuring our Blushing Strawberry Cake dessert.

Love in the Moonlight

 For those who love al fresco dining, experience our 3-course pre-Valentine dinner from February 12 to 13, 2022 by our poolside for only Php1,300 nett.

  • Savoy Hotel Manila is an accredited Multiple Use Hotel with a Certificate of Authority to Operate for Staycation (CAOS) by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ).
  • Vaccination card is required for fully vaccinated guests.
  • For non-vaccinated guests, a negative RT-PCR test valid 48 hours before check-in is required.
  • Children below 11 years old are allowed to check-in if their companion will have either one of the abovementioned requirements.

For more details, please call (02) 5317-2869 or email dine@savoymanila.com (for our dining offers) and stay@savoymanila.com (for our room offerings).  Visit our website, www.savoyhotelmanila.com.ph for details on other packages and promotions.

#savoyhotelmanila #lovemonth #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

This Wellness Resort in Bangkok helps loved ones to relax and reconnect with Secret Garden Afternoon Tea

Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok, the holistic health-focused retreat in the heart of the Thai capital, is inviting guests and local residents to enter its idyllic urban sanctuary and unwind with a wholesome new high tea experience, expertly crafted by Executive Chef Christoph Trocker using the finest and freshest ingredients.

The “Secret Garden Afternoon Tea” is hosted by Rim Klong Café, the elegant eatery that overlooks Bangkok’s Saen Saeb Canal. Inspired by the bounty of nature, this spectacular set of sweet and savory treats embraces local and seasonal produce, including proven superfoods, gluten- and dairy-free options, and vegetarian or vegan items. Every dish is clearly labeled with icons to let the diner know exactly what they are eating.

This salubrious set menu includes “The Savories”, six sumptuous bite-sized snacks such as smoked salmon tartare with avocado and beetroot caviar, wild forest mushroom pâté with truffle oil, green pea & buckwheat blinis with organic chicken, spiced purple sweet potato and organic cress, sundried tomato hummus with pumpernickel bread, beetroot quinoa salad with quail’s egg, pickled crunchy vegetables and microgreens, and gluten-free ‘Flowerpot’ bread.

These are accompanied by “The Sweets”, a sublime selection of treats served on a bed of edible chocolate soil. These delicacies include butterfly pea with lemon jelly, dark chocolate & blueberry tart, pumpkin pie, Swiss carrot cake, tomato ‘energy ball’ (muesli, almond, pumpkin & chia seeds), truffle walnut choux cream, flower chocolate pralines of the day, mini sago exotic delight, matcha scones, classic scones, and maple syrup Chantilly cream.

Naturally, these delights are accompanied by a pot of freshly-brewed coffee, premium tea, or a herbal infusion. The aim is to add a splash of color and fun to the concept of healthy eating while providing friends, family members, and couples with the perfect opportunity to reconnect with each other after a challenging few months.

New Executive Chef

Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok’s recently-appointed Executive Chef, Christoph Trocker hails from Austria and has enjoyed an impressive 16-year career at some of Asia’s leading hotels and resorts. His philosophy is to harmonize local ingredients and international flavors to create highly original yet authentic cuisine. Having wowed diners in Dubai, China, and Thailand, he is now bringing a lifetime of experience and expertise to the guests and diners in Bangkok.

Executive Chef Christoph Trocker oversees the resort’s health-focused culinary concept.

“Afternoon tea is a charming tradition; it provides a unique opportunity for people – mothers, daughters, best friends, couples – to come together and share deeply personal moments. After the upheaval of the last two years, this sense of reconnecting with loved ones is more important than ever before, so I am thrilled to introduce our new Secret Garden Afton Tea at Rim Klong Café, which will provide a wonderful way for people to share the timeless pleasures of fine food and great company,” commented Chef Christoph.

Nestled among 1.2 acres of lush gardens, with sparkling ponds, rippling waterfalls, and century-old trees, Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok is a serene setting in which to unwind. While it is located in the heart of downtown Bangkok, it retains an enchanting ambiance that feels a million miles away from the busy city streets. Reflecting this tranquil vibe, the resort’s wholesome menus focus on fresh, high-quality produce, prepared in innovative ways to deliver delicious dishes that are great for the body. This innovative approach to F&B forms a key part of the resort’s holistic wellness concept, which also incorporates personal fitness, mindfulness, professional medical services, and more.

The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea is available daily from 2 pm to 5 pm at Rim Klong Café, priced at just THB 999++ (THB 1,176 net) per set for two people. Accor Plus members will enjoy a 20% discount! Advanced reservations are strongly recommended.

For more information about Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok and to book your Secret Garden Afternoon Tea, please visit www.movenpickbdmsbangkok.com or connect with the hotel on LINE, @movenpickbdms.

#MövenpickBDMSWellnessResortBangkok #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

5 Tips to make your Chinese New Year extra special

Chinese people have always had a home in the Philippines. Their values and culture have been embedded in our nation, and their presence has impacted our economy, tradition, and beliefs.

The Chinese New Year is one of the most anticipated events in the country, and just like any other occasion, Chinese people love celebrating this holiday in their special ways. Some go all out– some opt for the traditional way– but all in all, the Chinese New Year is always something to look forward to.

  • Red, the lucky color 

It’s not a secret that Chinese people loved wearing red on several occasions and events, for it symbolizes luck and prosperity. It is the color of Chinese lanterns, doors, and window panes in traditional Chinese households. In the Chinese New Year, wearing red will surely attract luck and blessings to you and your family in the coming year. People often wear traditional clothing such as Cheongsam, one of the most popular Chinese clothing for women, and is commonly worn in special events such as this. If you’re opting for a modern celebration, any red clothing will do as well—it still attracts the same good luck! 

  • The traditional Hong Bao 

Every time New Year comes rolling around, people always look forward to the Hong Bao, or the Red Packets– more popularly known as the Ang Pao. The married couples and elders give away Ang Paos to children and unmarried people within their families, each containing a specific amount of money. It is believed that this tradition brings good luck to the receiver as well as the giver, and it certainly gives out good vibes as well!

Courtesy: Kaodim Malaysia
  • Good food, great life 

The Chinese people surely know how to prepare a feast. The customary Chinese New Year banquet never misses these symbolic foods: a whole fish for additional money and good luck, pineapples for wealth and prosperity, and the famous neighborhood Tikoy and dumplings. Of course, Chinese people also adore eating pancit for long life, and they also display citrus fruits in the center table, among them pomelos, ponkan, and kiat-kiats. These marvelous foods spice up the New Year feast and it is twice the fun with every member of the family present on this grand occasion. 

Courtesy: Thatsmags.com
  • Make some noise!

To drive away bad luck and evil spirits, fireworks and firecrackers light up the sky. This tradition is deeply rooted in Chinese culture. According to a Chinese legend, the fireworks are used to scare off Nian, a mythical beast who comes down from the mountains every end of the year to destroy cities. They also try to make a lot of noise, using all sorts of things such as pots and pans, horns, and cans, among others. It may be a rambunctious night, but surely one of great fun and excitement. 

Courtesy: TripSavvy
  • Door-to-door greetings

In the spirit of friendship and forgiveness, Chinese people go door-to-door in their neighborhoods to greet their friends and colleagues. It also means that whatever disputes or misunderstandings they might have gotten into during the past year will be forgiven and forgotten. The New Year gives people a clean slate, and the Chinese people surely take this to heart. 

Courtesy: Top China Travel

The Chinese New Year may be a rambunctious event, but surely one of great fun and excitement. It honors Chinese heritage and welcomes another year of luck and prosperity for everyone. These traditions are only a few of the things that make the Chinese New Year special, but nothing beats celebrating the holiday with your family and welcoming another chapter of your lives together. Gong Hei Fat Choy! 

 

By Princess Friel Lontoc

Featured photo courtesy of ChinaBrands

#ChineseNewYear2022 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Millennial Resorts Achieve the First and Prestigious EDGE Certification for Resort Hospitality in the Philippines

Millennial Resorts achieved the very first EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Certification for a resort hospitality project in the country, with its Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe in Calatagan, Batangas. The EDGE Certification was awarded by Philippine Green Building Initiative, Inc. (PGBI) which recognized Crusoe Cabins for its eco-efficient design that result in reduction of 34% in energy, 57% in water and 65% in embodied energy in materials compared to local base case.

“We are truly proud of this recognition of Millennial Resorts as the first recipient of the highly-coveted EDGE Certification for a resort project in the Philippines. We share this honor with our relentless team who make it possible for us to put into action Landco’s long-term commitment to social, economic and environmental sustainability in premium property developments for more than 30 years across the country,” said Erickson Y. Manzano, President and CEO of both Landco Pacific Corporation and Millennial Resorts Corporation (MRC).

“Being eco-conscious is ingrained in both Landco and MRC’s DNAs. We do it, first and foremost, because it is the right thing to do.  Millennial Resorts’ EDGE Certification complements our over-all sustainability program at our latest Leisure Tourism Estates in Batangas – 15-hectare CaSoBe and 24-hectare Club Laiya, both of which are LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Registered and incorporate water recycling, permeable pedestrian tree-lined walkways, and scenic bike lanes around the beachside properties to further reduce our carbon footprints,” he added.

“Millennial Resorts team is grateful for this certification which shows our responsibility to the environment as we preserve the resort lifestyle and the uniqueness of the beach destination of Batangas. This inspires us to continue to find new ways to minimize our impact on the environment and respect the local community,” stated Patrick C. Gregorio, Senior Consultant for Hospitality, Landco and MRC.

The EDGE Certification demonstrates the leadership and advocacy of Landco and its sister hospitality group, Millennial Resorts in green building design with the use of EDGE software.

“Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) has always championed the integration of sustainability into our business strategy and value creation. We are proud that under the MVP Group, Landco and Millennial Resorts attained the EDGE certification to create a lasting positive impact to the environment and community. This achievement is a concrete example of our holistic and all-inclusive approach to sustainability.,” remarked Chaye Cabal-Revilla, Chief Finance, Sustainability and Risk Officer, Metro Pacific Investment Corporation (MPIC).

EDGE, an innovation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), is an international green building standard, rating system and certification available in 160 countries. EDGE brings about solutions to reduce the use of energy, water and embodied energy in materials.

“Sustainable tourism plays a critical role in achieving a green recovery and I’m proud to see resort properties in the Philippines adopting globally-recognized sustainability standards, which will hopefully encourage other industry players to do the same”, said Jean-Marc Arbogast, IFC Country Manager for the Philippines.

Millennial Resorts undertake sustainability initiatives in line with MPIC’s commitment to help achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable; and strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

“Utility savings are not the only reward for a resort’s green credentials, as studies indicate that guests are more loyal to a property, with a commitment to protecting the environment and preserving natural resources,” shared Engr. Leandro A. Conti, PGBI Chairman and President.

“We hope that this EDGE Certification will encourage others to build green resort properties, in the Philippines and in other countries. Only by working together can we create an ecosystem where sustainable resorts are no longer the exception but the norm,” he noted.

Edge-certified Millennial Resorts’ Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe

Millennial Resorts feature unique resort accommodations: Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe and Costa Azalea and Cocoons at CaSoBe and Club Laiya; and leisure facilities:  Laiya Beach Club at Club Laiya and Aquaria Water Park with a three-story giant slide at CaSoBe and Costa Azalea. Its soon to be launched exciting new facilities are: Captain Barbozza restaurant and bar, Canopy and The Isle — venues for events, and Colony, a beachside co-working space. Costa Azalea is located in Samal Island, Davao.

Landco Pacific Corp. is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation. For more information about Landco and its Millennial Resorts and Leisure Tourism Estates Club Laiya and CaSoBe, visit https://www.landco.ph/ or FB page:  https://www.facebook.com/LandcoPacificCorporation.

#LandcoPacificCorp #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Quiapo, Quiapo!

On the ninth day of January, during the Feast of the Black Nazarene, the wooden statue is carried through the streets followed by thousands of devotees. Up to this day, Quiapo remains a monument to the fortitude of the Filipino spirit.

 

Visiting Quiapo is not everyone’s idea of relishing a sunshiny afternoon. The crowd, especially during religious festivals, can be intimidating because of its size. The mayhem of jeepneys, buses and bustling crowds is intractable. For the adventurous, however, Quiapo offers a fascinating microcosm of the Philippines – a place where Christians and Muslims, psychics and soothsayers co-exist, sometimes not too harmoniously.

 

Image: quiapochurch.com

History of Quiapo

The name Quiapo is derived from a water lily locally called “Kiapo” which grew abundantly in the canals and marshes. It is different from the water lily that we see nowadays floating in the Pasig River.

Founded in 1586 by Spanish Governor-General Santiago de Vera, Quiapo’s crowded streets throb with life. Commerce is the district’s lifeblood. Shoppers weave through the narrow streets, stopping to compare prices and search for the best bargains. Harried commuters race for the jeepneys that ply Quezon Boulevard, the district’s main artery. Through it all, voices chatter in a cacophony of languages – English, Filipino, Chinese and the regional languages such as Ilocano, Cebuano, Visaya, and Maguindanao.

The best place to begin a tour is at the Plaza Miranda Square in front of the Quiapo Church. The Hispanic style church looks centuries old, but the current structure dates only to 1939. It stands as a monument to the fortitude of the Filipino spirit. Spanish missionaries established the first church on the site in the 16th century. Fire, however, destroyed the bamboo and nipa building in 1639. A new church was built but it was heavily damaged by an earthquake in 1863. Reconstruction was completed in 1899 but the fire destroyed it again in October 1929. In 1930, the reconstruction of the church was made and entrusted the design of an entirely new church with two belfries and a magnificent dome to Architect Juan Nakpil.  This is the church we see today except for some improvements.

Devotion to the Black Nazarene

The church is the focal point of activity in Quiapo. Throughout the day, Filipino Catholics come and go, attending the frequent Masses, offering private prayers or paying homage to the Black Nazarene, one of the Philippines’ most venerated statues of Jesus.

The life-size image of Christ clad in a maroon-colored robe, with a crown of thorns and a diadem in the form of three silver rays, bearing a big wooden cross, is in a semi-kneeling position, indicating His struggle to stand up with a heavy load after a fall. His face, eyes, and mouth manifest the writhing pain He suffers and portrays a calling for someone to help Him carry the heavy cross. The dynamic appearance of the image inspires countless people to develop devotion to this image.

Image: remate online

There is no definite account as to the origin of the statue of Christ bearing the ignominious cross, popularly known as Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno, which in English means Our Father Jesus The Nazarene. The statue is attributed to the work of a Mexican artist (name unknown) who painted the image of Christ in dark brownish-molato color, similar to the color of his own skin. Later the image was called Black Nazarene because when it arrived in the country in the 16th century through the Spanish missionaries the color turned darker.

On the ninth day of January, during the Feast of the Black Nazarene, the wooden statue is carried through the streets followed by thousands of devotees.

Many people believe that simply touching the statue can cure illness or improve one’s life. Crowds are often so dense that they press against the walls of buildings, and occasionally there are people crushed to death in the stampede. Devotees usually go on foot with their towels slung across their shoulders.

Image: quiapochurch.com

The image is removed from the church only every New Year, January 9 (Fiesta Day); Domingo de Lazaro (one week before the Good Friday); and Good Friday.

For the rest of the year, the Black Nazarene lies in quiet repose in a glass enclosure near the front door of the cavernous church. Worshippers file by, making the sign of the Cross and touching the coffin’s glass as if paying their respect to the dead.

Based on the feature article published by the same author at the now-defunct Mirror Weekly Magazine

#Quiapo #nationallandmark #Manila #BlackNazarene #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

Light up the Xacobeo: St. James Way

Light up the Xacobeo is an initiative where more than a hundred monuments and unique buildings throughout Spain are illuminated to mark the beginning of the Xacobeo (Holy Year) 2021. As the Holy Year was extended to 2022 due to the Covid-19 and the restrictions to travel, we will be able to enjoy again this amazing spectacle to start the year 2022. More than 52 buildings along the Way in Spain will be part of this initiative.

 

Joining in those celebrations until January 7th will be two Saint James parishes in the Philippines, Alabang, and Ibaan, Batangas. The response from the parishes has been overwhelming so the project might be extended and light up other Saint James churches along 2022, together with planned exhibitions and conferences.

 

Traveling the Way of Saint James is taking a very special journey through Spain. For many people, it’s a unique adventure that they would repeat in a heartbeat. Embarking on this historical route represents an experience that is a combination of personal challenge, finding oneself, sport, nature, and an interest in history and art. And if your trip coincides with a Jacobean, or Holy Year, the experience will be all the more exceptional.

 

Torre de Hercules A Coruña.

 

Almost every step of the Jacobean route reveals a surprise in the form of a monument, work of art, or cultural manifestation. Cathedrals, bridges, monasteries, palaces, small churches, popular architectural constructions, and so on, some of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition to the wealth of heritage, the Way of Saint James also offers visitors the chance to experience the local culture through the festivals and typical traditions of each place.

When you do the Way of Saint James, sitting down to a good meal to recharge your batteries is usually one of the best moments of the day. Among other reasons, because it’s when you get the chance to sample some of the area’s typical dishes and products. The gastronomy of the different regions along the route is full of delicious recipes and traditional flavors, prepared using quality local, seasonal produce.

 

It is hard to feel left out on the Way of Saint James. Throughout the journey, you will meet friendly strangers willing to help the pilgrims. You’ll meet people of all ages and from all walks of life who have come from all over the world and you’ll make new friends. These are special and unique days where you will experience enriching moments at both a human and personal level.

Many people say that there is something spiritual about the Jacobean route, and not just because of its religious origin and tradition. Many people go on the Camino driven by the need or desire to know themselves better, devote time to thinking, and seek inner peace. So the journey to Santiago de Compostela can also become an inner journey that will stay with you for years to come.

Just walk. Buen Camino.

For the most updated travel safe information in visiting Spain, please visit: https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/

#Xacobeo #HolyYear #Spain #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Luxe travel bubble to a private island

Take off and breeze through the skies in a private jet, helicopter, or single-engine aircraft by Ascent Flights Global (“Ascent”) to the exclusive and all-villa Banwa Private Island.

Banwa Private Island’s preferred aviation partner, Ascent features more private air options for a truly luxurious and seamless experience, whether flying directly to the island or through any of Palawan domestic airports. Every charter flight is tailored to the guest’s needs, meticulously organized from inquiry until well after arrival.

The most favored and convenient charter flight from Manila to Banwa Private Island is through an 8-seater Cessna Grand Caravan EX seaplane, landing directly on the doorstep of the exclusive sanctuary.

Complementing the seaplane and multiple helicopter options, newly available Ascent aircraft include the Cessna Turbo 206H suitable for small groups of up to 5 passengers and perfect for adventure travels with its versatility and cargo space.  While the Cessna 172SP Skyhawk for 3 passengers is considered the most successful aircraft for its reliability and comfort.

For groups of up to 8 passengers, the Swiss crafted Pilatus PC-12NG offers the ultra-modern cabin experience, equipped with all you need to relax, work or share in-flight moments.  For guests wishing to share a private island experience with larger parties of up to 14, the Gulfstream jet is the aircraft of choice.

Ascent – Cessna Grand Caravan EX seaplane

Roundtrip private flight rates start from US$5,700 from Manila to San Vicente, the closest airport to the island, with an onward journey in a premium sports utility vehicle followed by a short and scenic speedboat transfer to the island.

For more information and reservation, please contact the Reservations team through mobile/WhatsApp: +639178882864, send an email to reservations@banwaprivateisland.com, or visit www.banwaprivateisland.com.

For air and land transfer inquiries or bookings, email banwa@ascent.flights or visit www.ascent.flights.

 

#banwaprivateisland #ascent #palawan #philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Philippine Christmas attractions worth visiting this Christmas

Christmas in the Philippines is a uniquely beautiful experience and a truly memorable one. Join in the holiday cheer as various places in the Philippines show the world what it’s like to celebrate Christmas, the Filipino way.

Christmas Arch of Lights in Lagayen, Abra

The province of Abra has been known for its splendid Christmas festivities, and Lagayen, Abra is just the place to be at Christmas. Their Christmas Arch of Lights was formally opened on December 6, 2021, which presents the theme, “Old Churches in Luzon.” It symbolizes the people’s strong foundation of friendship and unity as they strive to keep the Christmas spirit alive despite the pandemic.

Courtesy: Province of Abra

Every arch is decorated with colorful Christmas lights, each donning its specific design made from a variety of ornaments. The arches include the ancient Paoay Church and the historical Barasoain Church, among others.

The Arch of Lights is open from 7 PM to 10 PM, and visitors are allowed to enter, provided that they bring their vaccination cards. Kids ages 11 and below are also allowed, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

 

Christmas Village in San Fernando City, Pampanga

San Fernando City has been known as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines, but they have certainly outdone themselves this year. Their Nights of Lights Christmas Village matches the Kapampangan enthusiasm and holiday spirit perfectly.

Located at The Orchid Gardens Resort complex, the Christmas Village proudly showcases huge Christmas decorations and lanterns, all partnered with plenty of artificial snow. It also honors Filipino Christmas traditions as it also contains kiosks that sell holiday delicacies such as puto bumbong and bibingka.

Nights of Lights Christmas Village. Courtesy of Dyosa the Explorer

The Christmas Village has featured a mix of modern and Kapampangan Christmas. It’s specifically designed for the people to experience a change of scenery, especially since the lockdown has rendered people their homes.

Nights of Lights Christmas Village is open daily, from 5 PM to 10 PM. Children are allowed to visit the village, and there are no vaccination cards required, as long as safety protocols are followed.

 

Tunnel of lights in Taal, Batangas

Batanguenos have certainly proved that no tragedy can ever dampen their Christmas spirit. After the height of the pandemic and the Taal Volcano explosion last year, the municipality’s traditional “pailaw” is finally back on track.

The town plaza has been adorned with the festive tunnel of lights that has attracted people from the country, including the 60 feet Christmas tree shining brightly in the night. The Minor Basilica of St. Martin De Tours has also been lit with Christmas lights, highlighting the features of the oldest church in Asia.

The plaza is well lit and open from 5 PM to 10 PM, but will only allow vaccinated people inside the grounds. Due to safety protocols, they will only allow 4000 people inside the town plaza to see the marvelous Christmas lights display.

 

Rockwell Mall’s festive Christmas decorations

Aside from their signature Christmas car raffle, Rockwell Mall has been continuously surprising people with their high-end Christmas decorations. The arches and columns of the Power Plant Mall are adorned with bright ornaments, alongside huge Christmas trees that are placed in various areas of the mall.

Being one of the grandest malls in the country, Rockwell Mall has taken its Christmas festivities to a higher level as their Christmas car raffle is back while giving other instant rewards to loyal shoppers.

Amid the pandemic, the Filipinos will surely find ways to enjoy the holidays. These Christmas attractions are definitely worth the travel and the experience, so come and feel the holiday spirit with your loved ones!

Featured photo: Christmas Village in San Fernando, Pampanga courtesy of Era Nunag FB

 

#Abra #SanFernandoPampanga #TaalBatangas #RockwellMall #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

By Princess Friel Lontoc

 

 

Festive Flavors to Enjoy this Holiday Season 

The most wonderful season of all is just a few days to go, and we are excited to celebrate it this year! It is worth every second of the long wait!

Here are some festive flavors you can partake in and share with your loved ones as you celebrate the holidays. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

  • Merry Holidays at F1 Hotel Manila

F1 Hotel Manila’s holiday cheers will fill up your merry plans as they lift your spirits wherever you want to celebrate Christmas or New Year’s Eve! Be it here at F1 Hotel Manila or your home, this holiday season will be one to enjoy!

Delight your celebration with friends or family with the Festive Flavors dinner buffet at The Canary! Enjoy your appetite’s desire with a live grilling station as you have an option to ask our chefs to cook your cravings on the spot. Available on December 24, 25, and 31, 2021 from 8 pm to 11 pm for only PhP 1,300 net per person.

The Festive Flavors dinner buffet is special on December 31, 2021, as an acoustic band will be serenading you while you feast your dinner before the New Year Countdown to 2022.

For those who wish to celebrate at home, F1 Hotel Manila will be offering Holiday Platters exclusively available for purchase on the Hot Deals website (https://hotdeals.f1hotelmanila.com) for only PhP 6,999 net per set. The set comes in four platters where you can choose from Main Course of Tender Osso Buco, Cajun Seafood or Barbeque Pork Ribs; Carving of Smoked Beef Brisket, Crusted Rack of Lamb or Crispy Bagnet; Pasta of Spaghetti Bolognese, Seafood Marinara,  Aglio Olio; and available cakes are Carrot Cake, Chocolate Cake, and Red Velvet. Make your celebrations at home grand and flavorsome with these Party Platters available for pick up until January 5, 2022.

Make the holiday season memorable with F1 Hotel Manila. To know more about our promotions, please call 8928-9888 or 0919-9124802 or visit our website at www.f1hotelmanila.com.

 

  • Extra Festive Offerings at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo

If a magnificent spread of mouthwatering international dishes and traditional Noche Buena and Media Noche favorites is what you want for you and your family, then let The Granary’s Holiday Luxe Dinner Buffets happen on December 24 and 31 take care of your holiday feast. Specially prepared by Richmonde Hotel Iloilo’s talented kitchen team headed by Executive Chef Ariel Castaneda, the carefully curated array of gourmet fare with their delectable flavors will boost the festive mood.

December is also the season for parties and reunions. This year, have a safe get-together with family and friends you haven’t seen for some time and book Richmonde Iloilo’s Christmas Party Packages. It’s time to live it up and enjoy sumptuous meals and hotel perks as you reunite and revel in style while staying protected.

Party with people from across the country and all around the globe even while apart with an online celebration created by Richmonde Iloilo. Choose between a Hybrid Event Package that combines a face-to-face banquet function with online attendees, or a Gourmet Meal Delivery Package for purely virtual events. Hybrid Event packages include function room rental with Zoom set-up and set lunch or dinner meals for event attendees at the hotel, and packed set meals for delivery to remote participants. All meal deliveries are limited to Iloilo City addresses. Rates vary depending on the chosen meal and the number of in-hotel and virtual attendees.

If you’re still looking for the perfect present for those people on your Christmas list, why not give the gift of luscious Holiday Goodies? You can’t go wrong with The Granay’s collection of fresh-from-the-oven items. From the hotel’s signature ensaymadas and yummy buns to tasty loaves of bread and pastry treats, these baked bites will turn holiday rush to sugar rush in no time. All holiday goodies are available for takeout and delivery from 10 am to 7 pm every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of December.

For inquiries, reservations, bookings and orders, call +63 33 328 7888 or contact stay@richmondeiloilo.com for room accommodations; +63 917 563 3973 / sales@richmondeiloilo.com for banquet bookings; and +63 917 563 3558 to order holiday goodies. Bookings and orders of goodies may also be made online at Richmonde’s official website, www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph.

 

  • Sweeter Holidays with the Oreo Collection Series by Frotea

For all the milk tea lovers who prefer their drink sweet and straightforward, the Oreo Milk Tea is the perfect way to introduce the world-famous cookie into your lineup of go-to drinks. The drink features the classic flavors of Taiwanese milk tea blended with the sweet cream-filled sweetness of Oreo and topped with crushed cookies.

Meanwhile, milk tea lovers who can’t get enough of pastries are in for a treat, as they can experience the best of both worlds this season with Frotea’s Oreo Cheesecake and Oreo Creampuff milk tea.

Satisfy your cravings for the rich and luscious taste of cheesecake accompanied with the unmistakable flavor of Oreo with the Oreo Cheesecake milk tea. This decadent treat offers an irresistible melt-in-your-mouth experience.

But if there’s one drink that will get you into the holiday spirit, it’s the Oreo Creampuff milk tea. With its decadent and smooth flavor, combining the texture of cream puffs with cookies and cream, this irresistible treat is perfect when paired with your favorite Frotea sinkers.

Make the Frotea Oreo Collection a must-have at every event worth celebrating this holiday season and experience a sweet blend of flavors with each sip!

What are you waiting for?

Get with the holiday festivities and satisfy your milk tea fix this holiday season with Frotea’s Oreo series. Frotea has over 23 branches nationwide in Luzon and Visayas with deliveries available via FoodPanda or through the official Frotea website. Follow Frotea on Instagram anFacebook for more updates.

 

  • EXTRA Thankful This Holiday Season with Subway®‘s NEW Italian B.M.T.Plus!

Take inspiration from Aliza Goco, Carmel Villongco, Gin Panlilio, Kat Maderazo, and Leona Panutat, also known as the “Casa Mamas,” who recently celebrated their recent Friendsgiving with Subway!

The Casa Mamas are a group of hodophiles or people who love to travel. These moms all live in the same village and see each other at mass or other community events. They’ve decided to carpool to and from events by living in the same community.

Subway Casa Mamas

They got to know one another more and found out that they’ve had a lot in common. They then started taking turns hosting breakfast, and the rest is history.

In this short gathering #CasaMamasxSubway, the Casa Mamas teaches us about friendships and how they can enrich our lives in so many different ways. Good friends can teach us about ourselves and challenge us to be EXTRA better.

They celebrate your successes and stay with you through encouragement and camaraderie even as times get tough. But to maintain such friendship, people must be willing to create a safe space for discussion and listen to different perspectives. #CasaMamasLoveSubway

There’s a lot to be thankful about this year, even if the pandemic has significantly disrupted our lives. So tune in and subscribe for more family, friendship, love, travel, and fashion advice by the Casa Mamas!

Friendsgiving is meant to be celebrated with the people closest to you. And nothing brings people together than great food that’s loaded with more meat and cheese in Subway®’s Italian B.M.T.™ Plus!

For a limited time only until January 18, 2022, Subway offers their Italian B.M.T.™ Plus with their ala carte prices starting from Php 165 for the 6-inch sub, Php 320 for a footlong, Php 175 for the 10-inch wrap, and Php 260 for the salad.

Order now and enjoy everyone’s favorite with more cheesy and meaty Italian B.M.T.™ Plus! This is valid for dine-in and takeout transactions. Subway® cares about your health and safety during this pandemic. This new item in the menu is available for delivery via Facebook Messenger BOTTY www.m.me/SubwayPhilippines or via GrabFood. You can also do takeout from any Subway® branch near you.

 

#F1HotelManila #RichmondeHotelIloilo #FroteaOreoSeries #SubwayBMTPlus #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA’s annual Christmas tree lighting event

Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA officially kicked off the holiday season last November 13, 2021 with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Christmas is all about the spirit of giving. Giving is an act of love to share our blessings. It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.

Christmas is for children and every child deserves a gift during this season. And as part of Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA’s advocacy in responsible business, a selection of parent team members from the hotel shared the Christmas cheer and spent a wonderful time with their children by showing them the true meaning of giving. The kids prepared presents and special holiday packs for our little nieces and nephews of SOS Children’s Village.

Even though the Tree Lighting activity was done virtually, the occasion was still filled with happiness and hope as the Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA team included not only the SOS Children’s Villages but also the hotel’s in-house guests during the online event.

Truly Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA’s Christmas is not just about the physical celebration. It is all about the spirit of giving, without expecting anything in return and by spreading joy in people.

For reservations and more information, call (02) 7944-1888 or email reservations.northEDSA@parkinn.com.

About Radisson Hotel Group

 Radisson Hotel Group is one of the world’s largest hotel groups with seven distinctive hotel brands, and more than 1,400 hotels in operation and under development in 120 countries. Its signature service philosophy is Every Moment Matters.

Radisson Hotel Group portfolio includes Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.

Radisson Rewards is our global rewards program that delivers unique and personalized ways to create memorable moments that matter to our guests. Radisson Rewards offers exceptional loyalty benefits for our guests, meeting planners, travel agents and business partners.

Radisson Meetings places its guests and their needs at the heart of its offer and treats every meeting or event as more than just a date on the calendar. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and our signature Yes I Can! service spirit and being uniquely 100% Carbon Neutral.

More than 100,000 team members work at Radisson Hotel Group and at the hotels licensed to operate in its systems. For more information, visit: www.radissonhotels.com/corporate

Or connect with them on:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/radisson-hotel-group

Instagram: www.instagram.com/radissonhotels

Twitter: https://twitter.com/radissonhotels

Facebook: www.facebook.com/radissonhotels

YouTube: www.youtube.com/radissonhotelgroup

 

About Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA

Part of the Radisson Hotel Group, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA features 238 contemporary and comfortable rooms and suites catering to various types of guests, from business travelers, leisure guests to extended stays.

Strategically located in the heart of Quezon City, an up-and-coming Information and Communication Technology (ICT) capital, the hotel offers a range of facilities including three dining options, two outdoor swimming pools, a 24-hour fitness center and flexible function spaces that can cater for events of up to 660 persons. The hotel also enjoys direct connectivity to the SM City North EDSA shopping complex.

Find out more information about Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/park-inn-edsa-quezon

Featured photo: Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA’s Executive Committee From Left to right: Mr. Nils Rothbarth – General Manager, Ms. Toni Sitchon – HR Manager, Ms. Meegee Yap – Director of Sales and Marketing and Mr. Jobert Abad – Chief Engineer

#ParkInnByRadissonNorthEdsa #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph