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Discover Tanay’s distinct and fascinating attractions with your loved ones

This quaint municipality is brimming with scenic spots worth discovering this year.

There is something particularly fascinating about seeing places you have heard of, or have seen through photos, places you haven’t been yet. I have been very impressed lately with Tanay and fortunate to have been able to capture the beauty and hidden gems of this first-class municipality in the province of Rizal.

A typical commute between Manila and Tanay will take between one and three hours depending upon the traffic situation. What makes this place interesting is that it contains portions of the Siera Madre Mountains and is bordered by Antipolo City in the north-west; Baras, Morong, and Teresa in the west; General Nakar (Quezon Province) in the east; and Pilillia, Santa Maria (Laguna province) as well as lake Laguna de Bay in the south. With its strategic locations, there are many vantage points where you can enjoy nature, mountain views, cool climate, and lots of verdant surroundings.

Remarkably, it is becoming an extension of Manila’s urbanization along with the city of Antipolo, towns of Cainta, Angono, Taytay, and Binangonan. More and more tourists, both local and international, are visiting this quaint municipality brimming with scenic spots worth discovering.

We have traveled around Tanay courtesy of the Tanay Tourism Office and Municipality of Tanay. It wasn’t difficult to see why we were so truly enamored with Tanay. Here are some places of interest:

  • Daranak Falls and Resort – A natural resort and popular local tourist attraction in and out of the country. It is one of the flagship destinations of Tanay. You can swim, picnic and have a great time with your family. It has enchanting waterfalls, ponds, and rivers cascading through elaborate tropical trees and plants. This 14-meter high falls is truly a refreshing location.
The writer at Daranak Falls: Chasing waterfalls
  • Ten Cents to Heaven Leisure Camp– This sprawling destination is perfect for a family getaway, team building, and camping activities. For the adventurous individuals, they can try and enjoy the zipline ride, hanging bridge, rock wall climbing, rappelling, and free-fall. The resort offers corporate events and meetings to intimate weddings and family occasions. It is nestled atop the rolling mountains of Tanay, Rizal, and provides a magnificent 360-degree view of the magnificent Sierra Madre mountains and Laguna de Bay.

  • Qalmara Lifestyle Resort– It is located at the heart of the forest of Tanay, Rizal which showcases the majestic view of the province with its serene, calming, and relaxing ambiance. It is situated amidst verdant mountains, fresh air, spacious facilities, and a family-friendly environment.
Sitting pretty at Qalmara private resort.
  • Regina Rica– A religious complex nestled in the foothills of Sitio Aguho in Barangay Sampaloc. Regina Rosarii Institute for Contemplation in Asia (RICA) is a 14-hectare sanctuary for Dominican Sisters. It’s where you can commune not only with the Almighty but also with nature, and has three waterfalls, a creek, and over 10,000 trees. But, the primary reason why devotees flock to this area is to visit the 71-foot tall statue of the Queen of the Holy Rosary.
Regina Rica Chapel.
  • Parola– The historic lighthouse of Tanay provides a picturesque view of the lake and mountains and several nearby restaurants. Most of the Tanay folks visit the area in the early mornings for the cool breeze and warm morning sun. At night Parola is the guardian angel of the fisher-folks.

 

  • Tanay Church– Located in the heart of the town proper, San Ildefonso Church, also known as Tanay Church, is the second oldest church in the province. Commonly known for its “Station of the Cross” which is hailed as one of the most artistic in Asia with its controversial “Bolo Knife” used by a Roman soldier. It was declared as one of the five Jubilee Churches in the Diocese of Antipolo and National Cultural Heritage by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) on July 31, 2001, along with 25 other churches all over the Philippines due to its age and the centuries-old religious artifacts that it houses.

 

  • Kainan Sa Tabing Lawa – It has been one of Tanay’s famous restaurants since the ’60s. It offers fresh, delicious, and affordable Filipino food. But their specialty is freshwater fish. It is located at #6 Lakeshore Drive corner Cong. Ding Tanjuatco Streets, Tanay, Rizal.Our team had enjoyed the sumptuous breakfast composed of a variety of grilled fish, bulalo, ensalada, and the best-tasting bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) which was in itself a dish on its own.
Breakfast at Kainan sa Tabing Lawa with Experience Travel and Living magazine Team.
Sumptuous breakfast fare.
  • Gathering Café – Located in Tanay Hills Coffee Beanery, the resto’s main charm lies in its kubo huts and food specialties. It is one of the go-to-restaurants in Tanay. This cozy place’s bestsellers include sinampalukang manok, crispy fried chicken, duck caldereta, ensalada, rare dishes such as tapang baboy ramoand tapang usa.  Food choices are reasonably priced, uniquely delicious, and have generous servings. The tapang usa was very flavorful and tender. The tapang baboy damo had a stronger taste but both are great with chili vinegar. The strong coffee was perfect to end our sumptuous meal. This restaurant is also a hub for motorbike riders during the weekend and some staying guests.

 

  • Momarco Forest Cove and Resort – This place invites you to take a breather away from the hustle and bustle of the city, while still offering you the basic amenities you need. Whether you’re looking for a new adventure, in a new town or a quiet respite from your busy schedule, this relaxing getaway has you covered. It is surrounded by a lush environment, good accommodation options, and not to be missed their sumptuous group meals.

 

  • Pico de Pino Cafe & Restaurant – Located in Cuyambay, Marikina-Infanta Hwy, Tanay, Rizal, and this popular restaurant is frequently visited (even by celebrities and groups of riders) because of its delectable meals, with big servings and affordably priced! You can have a satisfying gastronomic experience while enjoying the fresh air and the astonishing views of the surrounding mountains and Laguna de Bay. Bestsellers include bulalo, adobong kambing, chopsuey, litson kawali, caldereta, kare-kare, fresh lumpia, and crispy whole chicken, and the yummy-licious pure hot chocolate drink! Special thanks to the hospitable lady owner, Ms. Gloria Valdez, whom we had the chance to meet personally during our recent visit.
Courtesy: Pico de Pino Cafe & Restaurant FB page
  • Pranjetto Hills – This wide-ranging, 10-hectare property offers almost all kinds of activities – weekend family getaway, team building, seminars, nature trekking, wedding, anniversary, and birthday celebrations. It offers accommodation according to your needs and the number of people.  It is surrounded by abundant trees and a tranquil environment.

 

  • Sierra Madre Mountain Resort –is a hotel and conference center located at Km 58 Marcos Hi-way Mayagay Tanay, Rizal. It is easy on the budget and with a fantastic view of the mountains and green surroundings. This tranquil and relaxing ambiance makes your rest and recreation truly worthwhile. Besides, it offers diverse outdoor activities for families, companies, and organizations such as team building, swimming, camping, and barbecue grilling session, a zipline ride, a firing range facility, and crossing the Sierra Madre hanging bridge. The place is also perfect for prenuptial shoots.

 

  • Bakasyunan Resort and Conference Center – As the name infers, Bakasyunan is a reliable “vacation place.” Situated in a 15-hectare forest property, the resort is a perfect sanctuary for everyone! Its back-to-nature ambiance and captivating panoramic vista have a calming effect on the soul. The resort has a cool and windy climate. You can do a lot of activities here such as swimming, camping, a zipline ride, rappelling, pool floating, mud sliding, ATV ride, wall climbing, teambuilding, horseback riding, carabao riding, golf, and a lot more.

 

  • Epic Parc Rainforest Camp – Located in Sampaloc Road, Tanay has 200 hectares of rainforest with pine trees, mountainous slopes, greeneries with breath-taking views, and diverse landscapes. It stands for ecological playground integrated commune for prayer, adventure, recreation, and culture. It provides for a suitable venue for programs and activities like retreat, recollection, wedding, team building, honing skills and talents while nurturing arts and culture. The venue offers varied accommodations from camping grounds, camping cabins to standard rooms (aircon and non-aircon), dormitories, and cottages for more than 500 campers at one

 

  • Kata Café– Located in KM. 54 Manila East Road, Tanay, is a chill-out place, which serves Filipino and Asian cuisine. The place is homey and cozy. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is a good stopover before exploring other Tanay tourist spots. Although, there is a limitation when it comes to parking space.

With all these places we have visited, and each has its own appeal, we are definitely sure that you will make Tanay, Rizal part of your next getaway with your families and loved ones this year.

Text and photos by Ruby Asoy-Lebajo

 (Note: This trip was done last quarter of 2019 with the Experience Travel and Living magazine team before the COVID-19 pandemic)

#TanayRizal #attractions #scenicspots #Philippines #throwbacktravel #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Hong Kong first handbrew tea bar Green Ginkgo Tea debuts third store in Pacific Place

Hong Kong’s first handbrew tea bar Green Ginkgo Tea (GGT) debuts its third store in Pacific Place this Summer. After its very first handbrew teabar opened in Tai Ping Shan Street Sheung Wan in 2017, the second store in the LOHAS in 2020, and the pop-up at Taikoo Place earlier this year, Green Ginkgo Tea is now officially launching at Pacific Place offering their signature unique handbrew tea drinks and tea products.

With the vision of “Make tea as accessible and modern as coffee culture worldwide,” the founder of GGT Shawn Mak particularly innovates fizzy craft tap tea exclusively only for Pacific Place, giving an artisanal experience in a cup.

Shop Outlook.

The new location is located on the ground floor near the high-traffic entrance of Pacific Place and its cinema. With its proximity to the many office buildings in Admiralty business district, customers can take a tea break from the hectic office work and enjoy a peaceful moment and some artisanal seasonal sweets in this new GGT tea oasis. Customers can also bring their favorite tea drinks and experience back to the office with the selected quality tea products from Japan, Taiwan, and China and enjoy corporate catering and gifting service at their own offices.

Making tea more accessible

Each tea is sourced with GGT company motto in mind “Bring you a cool moment”: offers customers a taste that they have not experienced before. To make tea more accessible, GGT brings to the menu bestselling items including handbrew reserve tea from Phoenix Oolong to Kyoto Uji Sencha, exclusive craft fizzy tap tea, cold brew tea, healthy Japan tea latte, and fruit tea, and customers can choose the drinks to be bottled for easier takeaway enjoyment.

Bottling Fizzy Tap Tea.

For tea beginners, the Craft Fizzy Tap Tea (HK$62)  is the very first tap tea in the market, a healthy alternative sugar-free fizzy drink, available in our all-time signature Phoenix Oolong (HK$68), sourced from the 1000m high altitude Mountain Phoenix. This oolong is said to have the most complex natural aromatic compounds among Chinese tea due to its hundred-year-old tea trees, unique soil terroir, and traditional fermentation processes, and is regarded as the “The Perfume of Tea”. The bubbles of the tap tea can further accentuate the iconic peachy and honey notes of this oolong with a hint of mountain meadow flowers. Having a sip of this tea can definitely beat the summer heat and bring a literally eye-opening sensory experience.

Those with a sweet tooth can go for another bestseller Japan Awarded Apple Juice White Peony Tea ($55): The natural sweetness of the apple juice complements perfectly with the apricot notes of the White Peony Tea, a premium white tea that has cooling and anti-inflammatory effects. Finished with the slight sourness from the apple taste, it is definitely the summer healthy drink to raise the appetite.

Iced Gyokuru.

Tea fans are also able to enjoy awarded and special varieties of tea in this new outlet. GGT sources directly from the single-origin Uji Kyoto tea farm awarded Japan National Matcha Championip using only traditional hand-picked single cultivar and harvested only once in early spring every year: the Light of Uji Matcha Ujihikari Polaris ($890), the symbolic, umami, and sweet matcha cultivar from the origin of matcha Uji of Kyoto. This matcha is classy and sweet with a creamy mouthfeel and fresh taste.

Those who prefer the traditional tastes can try the Alishan Roasted Iron Buddha ($288) which was grown at above 1200m in Mountain Alishan of Taiwan and was awarded the Superior Taste Award which was selected by chefs and sommeliers from different prestigious culinary associations. This exquisite tea is charcoal-roasted with longan timber for three days which gives the tea its symbolic sparkling amber color and a taste of longan, honey, and fully riped wild berries.

Health-conscious tea drinkers can try the unique cultivar Benefuki ($188) from Japan containing a special type of polyphenols that are said to help improve allergy and inflammation, in particular nasal allergies, and not to mention the abundant anti-oxidants that can bring anti-aging effects. This special benefuki green tea is served in powder sachet to be enjoyed at the office easily.

Echoing the ongoing quest from customers on the artisanal caneles (HK$38) made with French and Japanese ingredients, on top of the best selling houjicha flavour, GGT also brings a Pacific Place exclusive Divine Earl Grey and Iron Buddha Oolong flavours. The hot crispy crust of the caneles with the moist tea-flavored core is the perfect snack to go with the handbrew tea such as the house blend Divine Earl Grey (HK$188) using Taiwanese honey loose leaf black tea from Sun Moon Lake infused with the choice of bergamot and citrus fruit. It has a very mellow texture and delicate bergamot aroma that slowly releases and lingers on the palate.

Customers can take home their favorite tea experience including tea bags and loose leaf tea, premium tea set, and special edition tea and teawares. They may even pick their own handmade tea tin canister (HK$160), which is made in Japan by a century-old workshop specifically for GGT in its signature red and black.

As a homegrown brand, GGT also infuses local elements in which the centerpiece retail shelf is made in Hong Kong by local craftsmen using birchwood and dyed with layers of Japanese persimmon juice (kabisiku), a traditional Japanese method with a thousand years of history to protect the wood from bugs and weathering, and give it a glamouring reddish-amber color for the customer to enjoy their cool moments.

#GreenGinkgoTea #handbrewtea #HongKong #coffeecultureworldwide #artisanalexperience #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Essential travel to Iloilo made easy with these health and hotel quarantine packages

When traveling to Iloilo City for work or other important matters, current requirements of the local government for non-residents include a negative RT-PCR test taken at least 3 days before traveling, a hotel quarantine for 5 days upon arrival in Iloilo, and another RT-PCR test on the 5th day of quarantine. But Richmonde Hotel Iloilo has prepared packages and partnerships to make your trip to Iloilo much easier.

Those coming from Metro Manila can avail of discounted RT-PCR tests from Health Metrics in Makati City when booking a stay at Richmonde. Simply present your confirmed reservation to avail of the reduced test rates starting at PhP 2,300 for on-site testing, and PhP 2,800 for off-site or home service testing (minimum of 4 persons). To make an appointment online, simply log on to https://cms.healthmetrics.com.ph/public/registration/add.html. For off-site appointments, call 0917-905 3499.

Upon arrival in Iloilo, you can still enjoy your time in isolation when you book one of Richmonde’s spacious and well-appointed rooms. What’s more, the hotel’s ESSENTIAL 5-NIGHT STAY PACKAGE provides you with great value for your money with room-only rates starting at PhP 11,000 nett for 5 nights, and rates with breakfast at PhP 12,000 nett. Should you need to extend your stay, additional room nights go for as low as PhP 2,500 nett/night (room only) and PhP 2,700 nett/night (with breakfast).

For the required RT-PCR test prior to completing your quarantine, Richmonde has partnered with The Medical City for hassle-free testing. Just book the 5-night stay package with RT-PCR test, priced from PhP 16,300 nett, and the hotel will make arrangements for you to avail of the drive-thru testing at the hospital. In-room testing is also available for a minimum of 10 guests.

Those who prefer not to worry about their meals while in quarantine can choose to book the FULL BOARD PACKAGE, which includes safely prepared, packed breakfast, lunch and dinner meals, for as low as PhP 3,900 nett/night.

As travel requirements change from time to time, it is best to visit https://s-pass.ph/pages/requirements/063022 first to verify the current travel requirements imposed by the Iloilo government prior to booking your flight and room.

For room reservations, call +6333 328 7888 or +63 917 580 9058, email stay@richmondeiloilo.com or log on to www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph. Booking confirmations are subject to room availability and IATF guidelines at the time of reservation.

Featured photo: Have a safe, comfortable, and hassle-free travel to Iloilo when you stay at Richmonde Hotel

 #RHI #safetravel #essentialtravel #roompackages #Iloilo #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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The Slate prepares to welcome businesses back to Phuket with health-inspired meeting packages

Bill Bensley’s whimsical beachfront resort looks forward to the return of domestic and international events with two attractive MICE packages that combine world-class meetings with innovative elements and an all-new Art Journey.

 

Phuket, Thailand — The Slate, the whimsical, art-inspired beachfront resort on Phuket’s secluded northwest coast, is preparing for the return of business meetings with a series of attractive MICE packages that combine world-class facilities and out-of-the-box experiences to create truly exceptional events.

Following 18 months of travel restrictions, The Slate foresees plenty of pent-up demand for face-to-face corporate functions. While online meeting tools such as Zoom have played an important role in connecting people during the pandemic, there is no substitute for personal contact and many companies are already planning to host their long-awaited events in 2022. For businesses that want to encourage and incentivize their teams after a challenging time, there can be few better places than The Slate, where Bill Bensley’s breath-taking design blends seamlessly with the tropical landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Phuket.

To enable the safe restart of domestic and international events, The Slate has crafted a pair of packages that include plenty of added value, so every company can maximize their MICE budget. The Slate understands that for every organization, the health and safety of its associates is its top priority. With this in mind, these new packages will allow groups of guests to come together in an uplifting ambience, while also taking every precaution to take care of delegates.

Meet Again @ The Slate

Under the Meet Again @ The Slate package, businesses will benefit from reconfigured venues that strike the perfect balance between personal connections and physical space, including the use of larger areas for smaller groups and one-way systems to ensure social distancing. In line with the hotel’s advanced biosecurity measures, all attendees will be subject to temperature checks, advanced sanitation procedures, and personal protective equipment (PPE), and all facilities will undergo intensive deep cleaning.

Dirty Monstera is a mysterious spot nestled deep within The Slate – ideal for informal get-togethers and after-parties.

Half-day and full-day meeting packages are available, including private roundtrip airport transfers, fully-equipped function room rental, priority check-in, a dedicated hospitality desk, a 30-minute cocktail reception upon arrival, daily breakfast, coffee breaks, a conference lunch, late check-out, a one-hour outdoor team activity and a group photo, which will be framed and presented to each guest as a turndown gift.

To boost the group’s wellbeing, a choice of yoga and meditation breaks will be offered to cleanse the mind, body, and soul, guests will be able to plant herbs in the resort’s organic garden, and every attendee will enjoy 20% discounts at the award-winning Coqoon Spa and KRU Precision Wellness, the onsite healthcare facility.

Rivet, the modern Japanese restaurant, is a sophisticated and intriguing setting for one-of-a-kind dining experiences.

Priced at THB 1,600 per person for a half-day meeting package and THB 1,800 for a full-day package, this offer is valid for bookings made until 30th April 2022 and events staged by 31st October 2022, for groups of 30-50 guests. One VIP will also be treated to a complimentary upgrade to a Private Pool Suite.

Healthy Meeting @ The Slate

Alternatively, the Healthy Meeting @ The Slate package lets event planners create salubrious experiences that are inspired by the natural, transformative elements of Nai Yang Beach. Ideal for corporate away days, company conferences, and team-building sessions, this four-day, three-night package includes luxurious accommodation (starting from a Pearl Bed Suite), daily breakfast with fresh juice, smoothies, and nutrient-packed dishes, two full-day meeting packages with wholesome morning and afternoon breaks, specially prepared conference lunch with options for vegans and vegetarians, and a gala dinner. To enhance physical and mental wellbeing, The Slate will also provide 20-minute stretchercise and sunset rituals, along with mindfulness moments at KRU Precision Wellness, and the meeting room will even include fitness elements.

Priced at THB 16,888 (single) and THB 11,888 (double), this innovative health-giving package is valid until 31st October 2022 for groups of 20-50 people.

Art Journey

The Slate is a great MICE venue for art lovers. This stylish space outside the pillar-free Tongkah Hall is perfect for pre-function gatherings, creative coffee breaks, and original exhibitions.

The Slate is a heavenly destination for business events, with a collection of modern meeting spaces that blend international amenities with authentic Thai grace and charm, all surrounded by Bill Bensley’s whimsical dreamscapes and original artworks. To showcase The Slate’s artistic interiors, the new Art Journey is an intriguing, QR code-enabled tour that transports guests through this living gallery and introduces its original sculptures and installations.

Meeting planners can choose from a selection of state-of-the-art venues, including the pillar-free 500-pax Tongkah Hall, the bright and bold Jomon Pavilion with its vast windows, elevated ceilings and skylights, two more intimate suites, and the Coliseum Garden, enchanting space for alfresco receptions and cocktail evenings under the stars. Every occasion will be fully supported by expert planners who can think out of the box and craft truly unique concepts.

For more information and to start planning your next meeting at this blissful beachfront retreat, please visit www.theslatephuket.com/mice.html.

To learn more about The Slate, please visit www.theslatephuket.com.

About The Slate, A Phuket Pearl Resort

Inspired by Phuket’s tin mining past, The Slate blends Bill Bensley’s whimsical design with industrial elements to create highly unique guest experiences. A collection of stunning suites and villas, including pool villas and the spectacular Bensley Suite, surround glistening pools and gardens, and the serene Coqoon Spa blends seamlessly into the natural landscape.

Discover delectable dining in a selection of stylish restaurants and bars, enjoy authentic locally-inspired activities, from yoga to Muay Thai, or simply stroll along the pure shores of Nai Yang Beach. For more information, please visit www.theslatephuket.com.

To learn more about The Slate, please visit www.theslatephuket.com.

Featured photo: With 25 acres of inspiring space, including lush landscaped gardens, The Slate offers endless event options

#TheSlate #Phuket #Thailand #MICE #destination #restart #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Banwa Private Island in Palawan Announces Preferred Aviation Partnership with Ascent

A new partnership between Banwa Private Island and Ascent Flights Global (“Ascent”) will offer a truly curated experience of personal safety and privacy through sustainable chartered air travel starting 1st September 2021.

Banwa Private Island and Ascent are now offering an exclusive, seamless, and highly personalized travel bubble experience from on-demand private flights to the luxurious island sanctuary.

Beach-front Villa with private infinity pool.

Located in North-eastern Palawan and nestled in the Sulu Sea, Banwa Private Island is set amidst one of the most outstanding areas of natural beauty imaginable. The glistening island of lush, verdant landscaping and pristine white sands is the ultimate in luxury, tranquility, and infinite privacy.

With Ascent, the exclusive island is still remote, but not removed.

Privacy and tranquility in The Villas.

Conveniently and privately accessible by air from Manila by a preferred 8-seater seaplane directly from Manila on a 1-hour 45-minute scenic flight, landing on the doorstep of the exclusive island. Also available are helicopters for up to 10 passengers from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport or The Peninsula Manila’s helipad. Larger capacity fixed-wing aircraft from any destination in the Philippines is also part of the Ascent fleet.

Alternatively, guests can choose any commercial airline to any of Palawan’s three commercial airports, San Vicente, Puerto Princesa, or El Nido, followed by a short helicopter flight across the Sulu Sea and land on Banwa Private Island’s own heli-lawn.

Natural beauty surrounds you at every turn.

For a more cost-effective option, guests can opt for onward travel to the island by a premium Sports Utility Vehicle from either San Vicente or Puerto Princesa airports in Palawan, followed by a short boat transfer to the island.

Ascent also offers to service both domestic and international arrivals by private jets, be it in Manila or Clark for onward journey with any of their varying type of aircraft, or directly to either San Vicente or Puerto Princesa airports in Palawan.

Part of Ascent’s bespoke services is ground handling arrangements with meet and greet arrangements, inter-airport transfers, exclusive lounge service, and immigration fast track.

Peter Nilsson, CEO of Banwa Private Island, greeted this new dynamic partnership with a comment: “We found a great partner in Ascent with our shared goal to deliver exceptional, personalized, and intimate guest experiences to our affluent clientele.  Our utmost priority is the genuine care and well-being of our guests from their chartered flight to their holiday experience in our informal and intimate island sanctuary.  Personal safety and hand-crafted travel experiences have become even more important in the luxury travel landscape nowadays.  Ascent’s long-term approach and commitment to a decarbonized world is well aligned with Banwa Private Island’s continuous dedication to sustainability.”

Dining by design.

Lionel Sinai-Sinelnikoff, founder and CEO of Ascent added: “Banwa Private Island’s vision of an enhanced experience by air between Banwa Private Island’s guests’ home, and its remote delicate environment, is dear to us. With this partnership, guests’ experience now starts with a seamless and private bubble. Ascent’s dedicated solution for Banwa Private Island, brings a holistic journey by air, like no other, beyond motion. With best-in-class air operations on fuel-efficient aircraft, Banwa Private Island’s guests elevate their journey with peace of mind”.

For exclusive island or individual villa reservation inquiries, please contact 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 #luxury #sanctuary #Palawan #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Sustainability Initiatives of these Leisure Tourism Estates

Landco Pacific Corporation forges ahead to pursue its vision of attaining the highly-coveted Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification of its Leisure Tourism Estates (LTE) CaSoBē (Calatagan South Beach) and Club Laiya in Batangas, beginning with the LEED registration and sustainability initiatives of the two properties.

“The LEED registration of our LTE in Batangas is part of our long-term and holistic commitment to the economic, social, and environmental sustainability program. Landco initiates this program, not to simply achieve recognition but because it’s the right thing to do. Our focus is to leave a lasting and sustainable legacy for the next generation,” stated Landco President and CEO Erickson Y. Manzano.

LEED rating system is developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, the foremost program for buildings, homes, and communities that are designed, constructed, maintained, and operated for improved environmental and human health performance.

“Landco delivers the physical and institutional infrastructure of the BeachTowns of CaSoBē and Club Laiya to preserve the seaside communities and the localities’ unique facets as tourist and leisure destinations. Our team works closely with our property architects, designers, investors, lot owners, and Batangas community at large to foster green and sustainable undertakings,” Manzano expounded.

Club Laiya: Architect’s perspective.

Practical strategies and solutions focused on sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, waste segregation, marketing campaign on sustainability and ethical consumption, local communities’ livelihood programs on recycling materials, and opportunities for socio-economic growth are underscored in the sprawling 15-hectare CaSoBē and 24-hectare Club Laiya.

These LTE feature walkable beachside communities along the pristine white sands, with less dependence on the automobile. There are tree-lined walkways, pedestrian routes, bicycle lanes, and robust WI-FI for Work from the Beach (WFB) setup in both developments.

The eco-friendly properties are designed with aesthetics that remind residents and visitors of the importance of conserving marine life and working in harmony with the natural landscape of the beachside properties.

CaSoBē features modern art installations of lamp posts that resemble a whale’s skeleton or ships’ frame; roads that are essentially blue to the core as an ode to the sea; and manholes that are painted with images of sea creatures.

CaSoBe: Architect’s perspective.

Millennial Resorts, which is operated by Landco, offers unique and unconventional hospitality amenities of Cocoons in both CaSoBē and Club Laiya, and Crusoe Cabins in the former, by converting and utilizing repurposed large drainage pipes and trailers, respectively, into Instagram-worthy accommodations complete with modern conveniences.

“It’s our commitment to environmental and social responsibility that drives us to think out of the box, make use of repurposed and sustainable materials, and operate in ways that appeal to those who seek a unique resort experience at the same time appreciate our conservation and good corporate citizenship efforts, “explained Landco Senior Consultant for Hospitality Patrick C. Gregorio.

Landco also brings new socio-economic vitality through thriving local small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) such as restaurants, shops, and water sports operators in and adjacent to the properties and new sources of employment at Millennial Resorts and these SMEs.

Landco Pacific Corp. is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation. For more information about Landco and Leisure Tourism Estates Club Laiya and CaSoBē, visit landco.ph or FB page @LandcoPacificCorporation.

Featured photo: Cocoons are unconventional accommodations made of eco-friendly materials.

#Landco #LEED #LTEs #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Ocean Park Progresses with Pre-qualification Exercise to Solicit Potential Partners for Future Development

Hong Kong – As its rethink exercise progresses to a new stage, Ocean Park today issued a pre-qualification invitation to solicit potential partners to co-develop the Park through a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model. This formally starts the two-phase procurement process for the implementation of the future strategy of Ocean Park under the rethink exercise. This process begins with the current Pre-Qualification Stage and will be followed by the Tender Stage in late 2021 or early 2022.

The pre-qualification exercise will help pre-qualify respondents for the tender process, maintaining a manageable number of bidders while ensuring that they share the Park’s vision on future development, conservation, and education (C&E), as well as having the requisites to deliver the development proposals of the future strategy.

This pre-qualification will allow potential respondents eight weeks to respond with proposals and feedback.

Lau Ming-wai, Chairman of Ocean Park Corporation, said, “The journey of realizing our vision for a new Ocean Park has made a big leap with this pre-qualification invitation. We can only achieve the Park’s new vision with the right line-up of partners who share the long-term goal not only for the Park but also for Hong Kong in general. Together, we hope to turn Ocean Park into the pearl of the Government’s Invigorating Island South initiative, enhancing visitor experiences from every aspect, while achieving business sustainability.”

 The rethink exercise for Ocean Park and the new zones for development 

Together with the Government, Ocean Park completed the rethink exercise in January 2021 to chart the way forward and reimagine new opportunities, taking advantage of the Park’s proven track record in C&E and unique geographical location. The plan breaks through existing frameworks and the Park will implement a new operating model and fee-charging mode, and introduce brand-new visitor experiences.

To further support the Park’s efforts in C&E, bidders seeking pre-qualification are encouraged to integrate the following principles into the zones’ concept design, operations, or other offerings:

  • Be environmentally responsible and enhance animal welfare in line with the Park’s objectives.
  • Accomplish sustainable operational excellence through various initiatives, such as water conservation, waste management and recycling, sustainable procurement processes, and more.
  • Share the same C&E values as the Park, focusing on making a positive impact on consumer behavioral change through educational and experiential learning activities, concept themes, and content.
  • Be socially responsible and inclusive, catering to those with special needs.

The new plan offers development opportunities at three new zones within Ocean Park with site areas totaling approximately 376,000 square meters (sqm). These include the whole new, free-entry Retail, Dining and Entertainment (RDE) Zone in the lower park (approx. 89,000 sqm), the Adventure Zone (approx. 125,000 sqm), and Wellness Zone (approx. 162,000 sqm) in the upper park. Respondents can submit their interest in either a single zone, two zones, or all three zones.  For the Adventure and Wellness zones, they are also welcomed to express interest in developing and operating selected parts of each zone.

  • The Retail, Dining, and Entertainment Zone: The lower park area will be transformed into a low-rise retail area with differentiated and experiential retail, dining, and entertainment offerings, such as open spaces for activities, alfresco dining, indoor entertainment and events, and children’s play areas. It will be open to the public for free, complemented by the Park’s existing C&E attractions that will be available on a pay-as-you-go basis.
  • The Adventure Zone: Located in the upper area of the Park, this zone is to be built on the existing Adventure Land area which has a natural downhill slope that is suitable for many adventure-related attractions. Leveraging on the topography and landscape, this zone will include thrilling outdoor attractions and activities that provide adventure experiences inspired by nature.
  • The Wellness Zone: Two sites are available for the Wellness Zone. The first being the southern tip of the upper park which is currently occupied by thrill rides, and the second is the adjacent undeveloped area of the Park, on the west side of the new Water World. The Wellness Zone will provide authentic and immersive experiences that promote different dimensions of wellness and an avenue to escape from daily urban life.

#OceanPark #HongKong #development #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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A gastronomic feast at Singapore Food Festival 2021

Back for its 28th year, SFF has gone hybrid for the first time and doubled in scale – inviting international foodies to dive into Singapore’s rich culinary landscape and rediscover the love for food.

 The Singapore Food Festival (SFF), one of the most highly-anticipated events on every foodie’s calendar, returns for its 28th edition over three weekends from 27 August to 12 September 2021 with the theme ‘Savour Singapore In Every Bite’. The only festival in Singapore dedicated to local cuisine and F&B talent, it continues to innovate, bringing foodies more than 50 gastronomic and drinking experiences on a hybrid platform. This is double the number[1] compared to last year’s virtual edition.

An exciting breadth of live masterclasses, both free-to-view and paid, will bring international audiences up close and personal with some of the most well-known chefs in Singapore’s culinary scene. Foodies can also work up an appetite through curated walking tours to indulge in stories of culinary heritage and invention; peel back the layers to uncover new flavors through recipe videos and exclusive food bundles, and explore Singapore through virtual experiences and docu-features.

Chilli Crab Sichuan-ation – Mala Chilli Crab Noodles.

SFF 2021 is a highlight of SingapoReimagine[2], a campaign that invites travelers to experience new possibilities that redefine what Singapore has to offer. In line with SingapoReimagine, SFF spotlights the diverse culinary culture and the people who keep it alive, by offering global foodies the opportunity to reignite passions and experience travel anew through our hybrid offerings.

Ms. Serene Tan, Director of Retail and Dining, Singapore Tourism Board (STB), said: “True to its proud tradition, Singapore Food Festival 2021 showcases our vibrant culinary culture by spotlighting our people – from established and rising chefs to everyday culinary heroes, wine experts, and mixologists. This year, we are excited to bring SFF to global audiences, inviting them to indulge in Singaporean cuisine and learn more about our multi-cultural heritage through food. More than ever, SFF is a testament to the innovation in Singapore’s culinary scene and our reputation as a global culinary capital.”

Program highlights

This year’s festival lineup comprises four components: Live Masterclasses, Virtual Food Experiences, Partner Events and Workshops, and SFF food merchandise.

Tong Heng paired with Kim Guan Guan Coffee – Ana and Jason.

The Live Masterclasses offer viewers the rare opportunity to learn from some of the best chefs, bartenders, and food personalities in Singapore’s culinary scene. Festival-goers can join the nine free-to-view live masterclasses hosted on SFF 2021’s Facebook page or sign up for intimate and interactive sessions with renowned chefs by joining another nine pay-to-view live masterclasses. The thrilling line-up of features top names in the F&B scene in Singapore and around Asia, including:

  • MasterChef Singapore 2018 judge Bjorn Shen of Artichoke and Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef JP Anglo of Sarsa from the Philippines, who will be presenting a four-hand collaboration with their rendition of an oyster omelet;
  • Chef Lim Hoe Gern of Laut and celebrity chef Thitid Tassanakajohn, the creative mastermind behind Thailand’s one-Michelin star Le Du with their four-hands collaboration dish – the umami-laden Prawn Raja;
  • Hawkerpreneur Douglas Ng of the Fishball Story will reveal the secrets behind his handmade traditional Hakka yong tau fu (traditional Hakka dish consisting primarily of tofu filled with ground meat mixture or fish paste);
  • Chef Jeremy Gillon of one Michelin-starred restaurant JAG will demonstrate the process of making tender ravioli from scratch (pictured right);
  • Chef Maxine Ngooi of Tigerlily Patisserie will bring a twist to the babka loaf, with a stuffing of aromatic buah keluak rempah (spice blend of the seeds of the buah keluak fruit);
  • Pastry expert Mohammed

Al-Matin of Le Matin Patisserie will present a unique goreng pisang (banana fritter) dessert.

Selected masterclasses will also offer ingredient boxes and food bundles that participants can purchase and get delivered to their doorstep in Bangkok, Chengdu, Manila, and Singapore, allowing them to cook up a storm with their favorite food talent on screen for a truly engaging experience.

As part of SFF, there will also be Virtual Food Experiences in interactive formats for international festivalgoers. Take a deep dive into the ins-and-outs of innovative businesses such as Kok Fah Farm through a docu-feature, which takes foodies on a tour around the soil and hydroponics farm, and recipe videos like Kitchen Insider: Sustenir, which educate foodies on modern farming in Singapore, suggesting ways to incorporate local produce into everyday dishes, supercharging it with nutrition. Additionally, foodies can look forward to a journey of rediscovery as they feast their eyes on delectable dishes in the virtual food tours of Little India and Tiong Bahru presented by popular food host, Nikki Muller.

Some of these virtual tours will also be presented in physical formats as part of Partner Events held across the island. Foodies who love exploring can rediscover the rich culinary heritage ingrained in our land and immerse in idyllic foodie experiences through curated walking tours. Learn more about the colorful spices that go into Indian dishes at the Heritage Tour of Little India, or embark on the Kim Guan Guan Factory Tour, to uncover the history and heritage behind the brewing and roasting of one of Singapore’s oldest kopi (coffee) suppliers.

Check out the Singapore Vegan Festival too, for local vegan food tours, talks, and panel discussions featuring local and international expert speakers. Indulge in limited period plant-based menus across leading vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants in Singapore, curated for vegans, the intrigued, and just about everybody else. Secret Suppers await those who are game, with secret menus by restaurants around Singapore from Little India and Joo Chiat, to Chinatown and Kampong Gelam.

For a hands-on experience, SFF workshops are also available islandwide. Peel back the layers of kueh-making and try your hand at making the traditional red turtle cake Nyonya-style at the Make your own Ang Ku Kueh Workshop by Ji Xiang Ang Ku Kueh, held at CapitaLand Bugis Town (Part of Bugis Street). Repurpose food waste at the Summer Fruit Peel Popsicle and Jam Class and learn more about food upcycling when you join the WellSpent Workshop – both at Sunrice Academy. For cocktail lovers, Museum of Ice Cream’s MOIC Cocktail and Ice Cream Pairing Workshop: Sips and Scoops will take you on a sweet journey to mix your own Hendrick’s Gin and ice cream cocktails.

Foodies will also be treated to SFF Food Merchandise. Local small-batch granola brand, Nommish has partnered with Kim Guan Guan to present Kopi Granola and their own rendition of Milo Granola – the Malted Chocolate Granola. Home of Singaporean-inspired cookies, Old Seng Choong has developed Nyonya Sambal Nasi Lemak Cookies, which is a unique rendition of the well-loved classic local dish. Paying tribute to the iconic pandan flavor that Singaporeans love, the LiHO TEA’s Singa-Pandan Lime and Singa-Pandan Shake, will be available in LiHO stores in Singapore, Brunei, Malaysia, and Shanghai.

Supporting SFF 2021

Festivalgoers can check out www.singaporefoodfestival.sg for a full list of activities. More details of SFF activities including the full program, dates, images, and prices, can be found in the SFF 2021 Fact Sheet via this link.

Featured photo: For the Love of the S.E.A. – Prawn Raja with simmered-rice 

#SingaporeFoodFestival #gastronomicfeast #Singapore #28thyear #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

[1] SFF 2020 featured 20 experiences including live masterclasses and food tours.

[2] The SingapoReimagine international campaign was launched in November 2020 by STB, to rally local and global communities to reset and revive tourism, while building the anticipation for travel to Singapore.

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BeachTown Lifestyle in the New Normal

An inspired investment beckons to let you shift away from the city life to an invigorating beachside lifestyle that feels like a vacation all year-round and at the same time enables you to reap the rewards of asset growth and set up your own business. All these await you at Landco’s BeachTowns in Laiya and Calatagan, Batangas.

Landco Pacific Corp., known for pioneering premium landscapes for more than 30 years, makes waves with their BeachTowns development in Batangas complete with modern resort amenities. The investment growth in these properties is driven by its accessibility and infrastructure development to South Luzon.

With Landco’s track record of property appreciation which historically increased at an average of more than 400% across all its projects, commitment to long-term environmental sustainability with the LEED registration of its developments, and property value growth is driven by the tourism ecosystem in this master-planned LTE, owning a lot at these properties is a lasting legacy that ensures the well-being and financial security of the next generation.

The expansive stretch of white sand beach along with the residential and resort communities in Laiya and Calatagan, Batangas, empowers you to lead a healthy lifestyle as you wake up to fresh sea breeze; jog or exercise by the beach; partake of fresh seafood and vegetables from the nearby market; and cap your day with sand in between your toes while you marvel at the wonders of nature to soothe your mind, body, and soul.

Quality time with the family at the pristine white sands of CaSoBe Batangas

Say goodbye to traffic jams and cultivate a work-life balance at the seaside of these properties. Simply turn your Work from Home arrangement to Work from the Beach lifestyle. With strong WIFI-connectivity in the properties, kids can easily study online as well. Your family can enjoy quality time together by playing and having fun by the shore or having a barbecue night in your dream beach home.

With Landco’s BeachTowns, you can opt to invest in gated residential communities of Playa Calatagan and Playa Laiya with exclusive amenities and access to the beach or choose the LTE projects — CaSoBē and Club Laiya, mixed-use residential and commercial developments primed for the tourism market.

LEISURE TOURISM ESTATE (LTE)

If you’ve always dreamed of having your own business or if you’re in a multi-generational family and you’re not just thinking of a second home or retirement home but a place for your children and grandchildren to launch their dream business, the Landco BeachTowns under its LTE projects, offer a mix of seaside residential lots which can double as a business venture, and beachside retail and commercial lots.

For your entrepreneurial spirit, you can opt to set up a bed and breakfast, cozy little café or restaurant, conduct art workshops, or hold yoga retreats at the laidback, upscale, and intimate setting of CaSoBē.  This destination is a popular leisure destination for the affluent and renowned for its splendid sunset, rich heritage, and nearby tourist attractions.

Should you be the type who likes to be in the middle of the action and mingle with the energetic and youthful, the popular tourist spot of Club Laiya may just be your top choice. You can have your own glamping business, run a beach bar, plan parties and festivities, organize island hopping trips or lead watersports such as wakeboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, parasailing, fishing, and jet skiing.

The BeachTown lifestyle in these properties is an attractive alternative to the dreams of the big city but you’re not removed from the bustling Metro as it is only about two to three hours away for any last-minute business meetings or important errands.

You’re in luck as both properties feature resort-level services with Millennial Resorts. You and your loved ones can have special bonding moments and avail of resort amenities from unconventional accommodation of surreal capsule-like rooms of Cocoons at Club Laiya and CaSoBē to Crusoe Cabins with a beachfront view at the latter.

Other resort amenities include Aquaria, a water park with a three-story pool slide at CaSoBē, and Beach Club in Club Laiya. Upcoming facilities are Captain Barbozza restaurant and bar, Canopy and Isle — venues for events and Colony, a co-working space.

Landco Pacific Corp. is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation. For more information about Landco and Beachtowns: exclusive communities of Playa Calatagan and Playa Laiya; and Leisure Tourism Estates Club Laiya and CaSoBē, visit landco.ph or FB page @LandcoPacificCorporation.

Featured photo: Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe

#BeachTown #LTEs #Landco #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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ASEANTA and Fusionex Launch a Virtual Platform to Amplify Global Business Opportunities

PETALING JAYA – ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) signed an agreement with AI and Big Data technology market leader Fusionex to introduce ASEANTA Travel Exchange (ATEX), a comprehensive virtual exhibition and engagement platform, to help facilitate an inclusive business environment and provide greater access to new markets.

The COVID-19 pandemic has wrought unprecedented disruption upon the travel and tourism sector as borders have been closed and large gatherings discouraged. By leveraging ATEX to pivot from physical to virtual, ASEANTA is able to seamlessly improve accessibility, connection, and engagement while removing the restrictions of time and space through virtual exhibitions, webinars, digital marketing campaigns, and more.

H.E. Mr. Thong H.E. Mr. Thong Rathasak, Director General of Tourism Development and International Cooperation of the Ministry of Tourism, Royal Kingdom of Cambodia

“This collaboration between ASEANTA and Fusionex is a historical event – a true ASEAN partnership bringing together the combined resources of ASEAN member states, in both the public and private sector, to take tourism in the region to new levels and to firmly establish ASEAN as one of the most viable and attractive tourist destinations in the world,” said Mr. Eddy Krismeidi Soemawilaga, President of ASEANTA.

Pak Eddy Krismeidi, President of ASEANTA; Head of Indonesia Affairs & Policy Airasia

Powered by Fusionex technologies, ATEX offers a suite of innovative solutions to empower ASEANTA in organizing virtual events while driving meaningful and measurable online interactions. The platform offers an intelligent B2B matchmaking feature that connects local enterprises with global businesses, thereby expanding market reach. Travel and tourism players can also leverage the platform’s global distribution system to conduct secure and uninterrupted business transactions.

The robust platform enables businesses to showcase their offerings via virtual booths, facilitate pitching sessions through live streaming, provide real-time reporting capabilities as well as performance monitoring and measurement features. It also allows enterprises to capitalize on powerful AI-powered digital marketing tools to tailor personalized campaigns. ATEX enables ASEANTA to not only create engaging online events but generate vital business prospects and develop networking opportunities as well in a data-driven way.

Dato Seri Ivan Teh, CEO of Fusionex Group

“As Covid-19 has brought the travel and tourism sector to a halt, ASEANTA has demonstrated its dedication to the industry by embracing digitalization to bring new avenues of progress to pave the way for the future of travel, hospitality, and tourism. We are proud to be joining forces with ASEANTA to introduce ATEX to the region as it will play a crucial role in empowering all industry players to innovate, share, collaborate and do business — helping enterprises to cope with the pandemic and new norm for continued sustainability,” said Fusionex Group CEO Dato’ Seri Ivan Teh.

Nigel Wong, Secretary-General, ASEANTA

About ASEANTA

The ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) was formed on 27th March 1971 as a non-profit tourism association comprising 35 members from both public and private tourism sector organizations, such as national travel associations, national hotel associations, airlines, and National Tourism Organizations from ASEAN Countries.

ASEANTA plays an integral role in shaping travel and tourism development within the ASEAN region in line with the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan with the following objectives:

  • Unite our members in common purpose, working in a close bond of cooperation, fellowship, and assistance in furthering and protecting the interest of our members.
  • Strive towards the attainment of the highest standards of service and facilities for travelers and tourists.
  • Uphold the dignity and ethics of the tourism business and strive towards its professionalism.
  • Foster and maintain the best of relationships among the ASEAN countries and their people.
  • Encourage, support, and help develop tourism into and within the ASEAN region.
  • Act as a negotiating body for members of the Association and to make recommendations to government departments or agencies or other bodies in relation to any measure which may be taken involving members and/or the travel industry in ASEAN countries.
  • Serve on or offer assistance to any government, statutory or International body in connection with tourism matters.

To learn more about ASEANTA, visit www.aseanta.org.

 About Fusionex

Fusionex is an established multi-award-winning data technology leader specializing in Analytics, Big Data Management, IR 4.0, Internet of Things, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence. Its state-of-the-art offerings are focused on helping clients unlock value and derive insights from data.

Featured on Forbes, Bloomberg, Gartner, IDC, Forrester, Edison, and Huffington Post, Fusionex is the largest Big Data Analytics company and market leader in ASEAN, bringing state-of-the-art, innovative, and breakthrough data-driven platforms to its stable of clientele (including Fortune 500, FTSE companies, large conglomerates, as well as a wide array of small and medium enterprises [SMEs]) that spans across the United States, Europe, as well as the Asia Pacific. Fusionex is also an MDEC Global Acceleration and Innovation Network (GAIN) company as well as an MSC R&D MGS award recipient.

Gartner’s report on Modern Analytics and Business Intelligence shortlisted and commended Fusionex’s data technology platform. In addition, Fusionex has been identified as a Major Player in IDC’s MarketScape Report for Big Data & Analytics. Fusionex is the only ASEAN-based company to be featured in both reports, cementing its credentials in the data technology market for this region.

To learn more about Fusionex, visit www.fusionex–international.com.

#ASEANTA #FUSIONEX #virtualplatform #virtualexhibitions #ASEAN #ATEX #travelindustry #COVID19 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph