Hong Kong – Following a successful introduction to Hong Kong in 2020, Lyre’s takes another step in expanding its local presence and providing more access to highly-demanded non-alcoholic spirits, with the appointment of Northeast Wines & Spirits Ltd.
Missioned to make mindful drinking accessible and easy for everyone, Lyre’s strategic partnership with Northeast unlocks a health-conscious lifestyle for Hongkongers where the trend towards non-alcoholic variants is growing.
Lyre’s is now partnering with Northeast, a specialist in niche wines and spirits established in Hong Kong in 1993, who recently joined forces in a merger with one of Hong Kong’s best independent spirits distributors, High Spirits HK. Committed to bringing the best selections of beverages to the market, Northeast currently represents a repertoire of 75 brands across the wine, champagne and sparkling, beer, and spirit categories from 12 countries.
Lyre’s continues to provide more health-conscious options to the local market, as demand for non-alcoholic alternatives increases. Out of those who reduced their alcohol consumption in the past year, 72% of Hongkongers did so due to the desire for a more health-conscious lifestyle.
Industry research conducted by Lyre’s also found that 69% of Hong Kong is open to choosing non-alcoholic variants when available, further highlighting the changing local preferences. Having made its debut only two years ago, Lyre’s has become the most widely distributed non-alcoholic spirits brand and is now available in 43 countries. The UK brand showcases a range of 13 award-winning, alcohol-free classic spirits, created using a unique understanding of food science and flavor architecture.
Mark Livings, CEO of Lyre’s, said “We are delighted to be working with Hong Kong’s successful wine and spirits distributor, Northeast. Through this partnership, we will continue building on our early success with some of the key industry players in Hong Kong, including bars and retailers, hence elevating availability and awareness across the city. This is particularly exciting as the no and low beverage category is approaching broad acceptance throughout Asia, where the market is estimated to grow more than 7% by 2025.”
“Seeing the recent rapid rise in low or no alcohol category, with projected growth by 31% over the next three years globally, we are excited to tap into this market spearheaded by Lyre’s. With Lyre’s as the first non-alcoholic spirits brand in our portfolio, we are looking forward to making mindful drinking available to everyone in Hong Kong.” shares Northeast’s Spirits Division Manager, Tom Wood.
On a mission to change the way the world drinks, Lyre’s is a UK brand that made its debut in 2019 and has expanded to 43 countries and counting.
Priscilla and Sammanta Anechka Estrada have become the best travel buddies.
Traveling has become celebrity mom Priscilla Meirelles de Almeida-Estrada’s favorite way of bonding with daughter Sammanta Anechka. The Brazilian beauty queen believes she is forming a strong friendship that will become milestones in their lives.
“I like bringing her around as much as possible,” Meirelles shares during a shoot at Lio Tourism Estate in El Nido, Palawan. “She’s got great energy, is fun to be with, and likes to explore things. I also love to take pictures of her. She’s like my baby best friend.”
Anechka, now 6 years old, her daughter with husband actor John Estrada, is bubbly, adorable and the life in any group. During the pictorial, she liked to crack jokes every now and then to the delight of the crew.
“Family is like the closest,” says the young girl. “I like playing with Mommy. Meirelles prefers seeing her daughter possess a vivacious persona, because, “I’m afraid if she’s quiet, there might be something wrong with her.” Nowadays, she counts her own mother and Anechka as her top travel companions.
The Estradas started going on trips when Anechka was just a year old. Back then, the little girl would often get airsick—but not anymore: “That never stopped us from going places,” she explains.
The family has gone to the United States, Australia, Japan, and China. Now, they are exploring the Philippines, having visited provinces such as Cebu, Bataan, and Palawan. They like going on road trips whenever time permits, and they stay frequently at their property in Anvaya Cove in Morong, Bataan. Their dream vacation is a European tour.
Priscilla’s bucket list
Now that she often travels with her daughter, she has become mindful of her child’s needs: “I always bring medicines. I make sure to have travel insurance as well. It covers everything; you’ll never know what will happen. I make her drink safe water always.”
When she used to travel alone, she was more spontaneous and had a totally different rhythm. “I didn’t observe proper meals, because I didn’t want to waste time,” says the articulate mother, who can speak four languages, namely English, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish. She’s now even learning French.
Enjoying the scenery at El Nido Cove
“I love traveling. I believe it’s the best way to learn about, to adapt to people, their culture, and their situation. It allows you to grow as a person. It’s also the best way to spend your hard-earned money. It brings the learnings with you,” she explains.
Top destinations
For Priscilla, her top five destinations in terms of nature and beauty are Palawan, Boracay, Batanes, the Ilocos region, and La Union. In terms of cityscapes, her top choices are Brazil, Australia, Austria, Florida, and Japan.
Priscilla at Lio Beach
Her travel bucket list includes Greece, Rome, Egypt, the Caribbean, countries where you can experience the Northern Lights—such as Alaska, parts of Canada, the southern half of Greenland, Iceland, northern Norway, Sweden, and Finland— and the Holy Land.
Motherhood becomes her
Priscilla admits that motherhood was the best thing that ever happened to her: “As a woman, it made me kinder and more aware of people’s feelings. It also made me more patient, more tolerant, and more compassionate toward others. And the best part of all, it made me a mom.”
What could be the best part of being a mother? “The best part of being a mom is to be able to love with all my heart, unconditionally, without being scared of getting hurt, because for the first time, it’s not about me—it’s all about her and for her.”
After seven years of marriage, she believes that “putting God in the center of the marriage and respecting each other is the secret of a happy married life.” And their favorite way of bonding together is playing golf.
What is her dream for Anechka? “I dream that in spite of whatever path in life she chooses to take, she is certain of always putting God first, never forget to smile, and have fun along the way because the best part of a journey is not the destination, but the journey itself.”
Indeed, since her first embrace, Anechka has experienced love, joy, nurturing, and protection that are beyond explanation. In fact, she named her daughter Anechka because it means “God’s grace,” while the Sammanta is a Brazilian name.
Travel offers people a chance to shed off their normal, everyday selves. When this mother and daughter head out together, they deepen their relationship with an adventure they can share together. Definitely, Priscilla Meirelles de Almeida-Estrada and her beloved Sammanta Anechka always have a blast.
(The writer went on a trip to Lio Beach with the Experience Travel and Living magazine team. Photos By Phillip Caesar Salting And Winstone Arradaza)
International travelers can now return to the “Land of Smiles” and satisfy their cravings for authentic Thai cuisine with epicurean adventures at world-class, SHA+ certified resorts
PHUKET, THAILAND — Have you missed the fresh flavors and fragrances of Thai cuisine? Do you crave the hot, spicy, sweet, and sour sensations that dance on your tongue when you taste your favorite dishes? Phuket and Koh Samui, Thailand’s two most popular paradise islands are now open again, enabling international travelers to satisfy their appetite for authentic Thai food!
Under the “Phuket Sandbox” and “Samui Plus” programs, both of which commenced in July 2021, fully vaccinated overseas visitors can now plan their long-awaited return to southern Thailand’s pure shores. A wealth of exotic attractions and activities await in these two idyllic islands, including some of the Kingdom’s finest restaurants.
To celebrate the launch of these innovative international travel programs, highly desirable hotels and resorts in Phuket and Koh Samui have created value-added packages so every guest can stay in style and rediscover their love for Thai cuisine. Check out this mouth-watering trio of dining options…
Embark on an unforgettable culinary journey at Black Ginger, The Slate’s Michelin Guide-listed restaurant which is designed in the style of a traditional Thai village and appears to float above a tranquil lagoon. Only accessible by raft, this dramatic dining destination revives Phuket’s ancient recipes and presents them with a contemporary twist.
Recommended by the Michelin Guide, Black Ginger is one of Thailand’s finest places to dine.
Signature Dish:Poh Pia Sod (roll-your-own fresh spring rolls). This interactive experience allows diners to create their own light, vibrant spring rolls, according to a traditional Hokkien recipe passed down from the grandmother of The Slate’s owner, Krystal Prakaikaew Na-Ranong (or Khun Moo, as she is known to her friends).
Try rolling your own fresh spring rolls at Black Ginger, The Slate’s Michelin-recommended Thai restaurant.
Under its “Summer Sandbox” package, The Slate – the Bill Bensley-designed, art-inspired beachfront resort – is offering a free seventh night to guests who book a six-night stay, including 15% off F&B and spa treatments, welcome cocktails, airport transfers, and daily breakfast. Pool Suite and Villa bookings will also receive complimentary spa therapies. This offer is valid until 30th September 2021 and rates start from only THB 5,000 per room per night. Please book direct via the resort’s website: www.theslatephuket.com.
The playful Private Pool Suites at The Slate let you step straight into the refreshing water of your own pool.
What could be more enticing than chilling out next to a soft, sandy beach and enjoying exceptional cuisine, kissed by the gentle sea breeze? At COAST, the casual beach bar and bistro at Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, guests can sit back, sip cool drinks, feast on fresh seafood, and share stories and laughter with family and friends.
Phuket’s famous crab curry, Gaeng Pooh is a must-try dish for visitors to southern Thailand.
Signature Dish:Gaeng Pooh is Phuket’s quintessential dish – a rich, fiery crab curry that blends the finest ingredients from land and sea. COAST’s Thai master chef, Janut Dejharn, uses locally-caught crab, Thai herbs, and creamy coconut to create this delectable yellow curry, which is traditionally served with fermented rice noodles.
Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket is inviting international travelers to “Stay Three, Pay Two” and get 100% of their room rate back in hotel credit! Available for bookings made from now until 31st August 2021, and stays taken by 23rd December 2021, this attractive offer maximizes every vacation with free nights and generous hotel credit, which can be redeemed for memorable meals, refreshing drinks, soothing spa treatments, room upgrades, and more! To book, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.
Savor sublime cuisine in a spectacular seafront setting at The Beach House & Bar, Santiburi Koh Samui’s elegant alfresco restaurant. Everything about this inviting eatery exudes natural charm and showcases stunning scenery. Diners can select sumptuous seafood and prime meats, or treat their bodies to organic vegetarian and vegan options. Pure bliss.
Delicious and nutritious, Santiburi Koh Samui’s Buddha Bowls are the perfect fuel for a healthy vacation.
Signature Dish:Buddha Bowls are a healthy, flavourful, and fulfilling treat at any time of day. At Santiburi Koh Samui, visitors can combine a wide range of sports and leisure activities with these wholesome bowls, which comprise a variety of organic vegetables, Thai herbs, pan-seared chicken or salmon, and much more. They are even more appetizing when accompanied by a fruit smoothie.
Experience luxurious island living with Santiburi Koh Samui’s Grand Reserve Pool Villa.
Under the “Samui Plus” promotion, guests can book a salubrious island escape at Santiburi Koh Samui, including daily breakfast, in-room fruit, daily afternoon tea, early check-in & late check-out, use of the resort’s gym, tennis court, and non-motorized water sports, shuttle services to Santiburi Samui Country Club and more! Rates start from just THB 5,413 per night – book now at santiburisamui.com/offers/samuiplus.
Saffron, Banyan Tree’s signature restaurant concept, celebrates the joy of Thai cuisine through indigenous ingredients, authentic dishes, and timeless cooking techniques, presented in a contemporary style. Gather your loved ones and experience your favorite Thai dishes, as you’ve never tasted them before!
Signature Dish: Phad Thai is perhaps Thailand’s most popular street food, but the expert chefs at Saffron have elevated this classic noodle dish to new levels of excellence. Banyan Tree Phuket’s Phad Thai Goong Sod features 20 ingredients, all carefully combined to create the perfect balance of tastes and textures. Wok-tossed rice noodles, fresh prawns, and ripe mango are accompanied by a vibrant banana blossom salad.
Guests can stay in a breath-taking DoublePool Villa at Banyan Tree Phuket.
Banyan Tree Phuket’s “Your Sandbox Stay” package gives international travelers the chance to enjoy an extended vacation with luxurious pool villa accommodation, daily breakfast, and generous resort credit. Valid between now and 30th November 2021, this enticing offer is available for bookings from seven to 28 nights, with between THB 3,000 and THB 15,000 of credit to be used for a wide range of resort services. Guests who stay for 14 or more nights will also be treated to Coral Lounge access and a VIP meet & greet service! To book, please email the resort at phuket@banyantree.com.
The Slate Phuket, Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, Santiburi Koh Samui, and Banyan Tree Phuket have all achieved their Amazing Thailand Safety & Health Administration Plus (SHA+) certificates, which shows that they adhere to the highest health and safety standards and that at least 70% of their staff members have been vaccinated against COVID-19.
Under the Phuket Sandbox initiative, fully-vaccinated overseas travelers from 67 countries and territories can fly direct to the “Pearl of the Andaman”, stay in world-class resorts, and soak up the blissful beachfront vibe, without the need to quarantine. The Samui Plus program lets international guests fly to Koh Samui (either direct or via Bangkok) and stay for seven nights in an approved quarantine hotel, before moving to a SHA+ certified resort. After the first week, visitors will be free to explore the three enchanting islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.
For more information about the international travel requirements for Phuket and Koh Samui, please check the latest updates from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) at www.tatnews.org/category/thailand-tourism-updates.
Featured photo: Saffron’s Phad Thai Goong Sod is a contemporary reinterpretation of Thailand’s most popular street food dish
Thinking of going on a safari this year? You don’t have to go far. The heritage city of Vigan in Ilocos Sur is now home to this themed luxury hotel and resort called Safari Hotel managed by AURA Hotels and Resorts.
This is the first of its kind with close encounters with safari animals alongside the hotel’s five-star accommodation in the North.
Safari Hotel is the brainchild of former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson, who also owns the famous Baluarte Mini Zoo and Safari Gallery.
“It was more or less five years ago that he envisioned to build this property. He started building it two years ago,” shared Victor Marc N. Montesa, the former resort manager.
The resort’s design came from the suggestion of its Korean architect-partner Shaun Kim and his group. It presently has 21 rooms, while another 49 villas and room clusters are being constructed at the back of the 10-hectare property.
The entire estate covers 300 hectares, which also serves as an animal sanctuary. It is now home to a number of animals, including giraffes, ponies, zebras, lions, kangaroos, and tigers. Definitely, hotel guests will have an enjoyable encounter with these lovely creatures.
“We just let the animals roam freely around the grasslands right beside the hotel. And yes they would make a great backdrop for your selfie photos,” said Montesa.
The writer at Baluarte having a close encounter with an animal.
A Unique Place
What makes the resort different from other properties in Vigan? Montesa cites three distinct offerings of Safari Hotel.
Morning coffee at the villa – a totally relaxing experience.
Foremost is the serenity of the place: “Once you’re here, you will feel relaxed communing with nature. It will be worth the long drive. Children will be happy here as well for they will have the opportunity to have a close encounter with animals.”
The second is the service, which comes from the heart. “Passion comes in when you do things from the heart. It’s like enjoying and loving what you do,” said Montesa.
Italian Home Cooking
The third is the delicious food. Safari Hotel has an in-house Italian restaurant called Dario Ristorante Italiano, named after Dario Gardini, the restaurant’s owner, and the hotel’s food and beverage.
“It’s traditional Italian home cooking,” said Montesa. “We also have an open kitchen to showcase the cleanliness and the quality standard of food preparation.”
Of the dishes we tried, our favorites were the carpaccio, assorted Italian cold cuts, toasted fresh bread with mushroom sauce, Calabrese pizza, homemade tagliolini with fresh salmon and caviar, homemade garganeli with shrimp in tomato sauce, homemade tagliatelle with truffle cream and parma ham, and lamb chop grill with herbs. They were truly appetizing and satisfying.
A variety of developments is now in the pipeline for Safari Hotel. These include room expansions, providing an entertainment area for guests, exclusive transportation options via Partas Transit, chartered flights to the resort, and the development in the next two to three years of religious tourism that will once again put Vigan on the world map for the second time, after being hailed as one of the world’s New 7 Wonders Cities.
(Note: The writer went on a trip with the Experience Travel and Living magazine team)
Aiming for the socio-economic recovery of the nation from the impact of COVID-19, Manuel V. Pangilinan (MVP), chairman of the MVP Group of Companies, assuaged uncertainties by strengthening Landco and jumpstarting the tourism industry in order to build a more resilient nation.
“MVP is not just about profits. As part of the MVP Group of companies, we feel how much he cares about his employees, the people under his stewardship. Taking his lead, Landco endeavored to take care of its own. At the start of the pandemic, there was a public commitment by Landco Top Management to its employees that no one will lose their job. And we are proud to say that we’ve lived up to that promise,” said Erickson Y. Manzano, President, and CEO, Landco.
Landco’s strong workforce reengineered its systems and processes for greater productivity at the onset of the community quarantine. The company at the same time rationalized and analyzed its budget for cost-efficiency.
“Our operations team channeled energies to our back office: Title Transfer, Customer Service, Finance, and IT. We focused on customers and updated them on their titles. We implemented a more efficient enterprise-wide system to replace SAP, and streamlined our operations,” added Manzano.
While these improvements in operations are essential to the stability of the organization, Landco, known for pioneering landscapes for more than 30 years, continued to offer innovative and exciting concepts for Filipinos to adapt to the new normal.
Landco introduced its revolutionary concept of Leisure Tourism Estates (LTE). These are master-planned developments with mixed-use residential and commercial lots, situated in the tourist destination of Batangas: 24-hectare Club Laiya and 15-hectare CaSoBē; and Samal Island, Davao.
Club Laiya Beach Club
Millennial Resorts, operated by Landco, features a wide range of resort amenities that serve as a beacon for tourists in these developments. True to its commitment to developing and keeping local talents, Landco employs and trains locals who are part of the team that ensures that guests will have a pleasant and unforgettable experience at its facilities.
“We support MVP’s thrust in tourism as one of the key drivers in the recovery efforts of the country, “stated Patrick C. Gregorio, Senior Consultant for Hospitality and Tourism, Landco.
“On the operations front, we got our Resort and Staycation Certifications from the Department of Tourism during the pandemic. We offered our Crusoe Cabins for those who wanted to work from the beach, and with that, we were able to keep our whole team employed throughout the pandemic, 90% of whom live in the Batangas community where Crusoe is located,” cited Manzano.
Millennial Resorts staff provides warm hospitality to CaSoBe and Club Laiya guests
Millennial Resorts also offers unconventional accommodations of the surreal capsule-like rooms of Cocoons and water amenities such as Aquaria, a water park with a three-story pool slide at CaSoBē, and the Beach Club at Club Laiya. Captain Barbozza restaurant and bar provides a chic and casual dining experience.
With the leadership of Pangilinan on a long-term sustainability program for a better nation, Lando’s LTEs Club Laiya and CaSoBe are both LEED registered. Millennial Resorts will soon acquire EDGE Certification, a Sustainability Certification from the International Finance Corp of the World Bank by the end of 2021.
Landco is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Corporation. For more information about Landco and LTEs: Club Laiya and CaSoBē, visit landco.ph or FB page @LandcoPacificCorporation.
Looking for a restful break from city living and for an affordable vegan stay? The Vegan Lodge is a good option for a nearby getaway break located in Tagaytay City. The cozy place provides a 100 percent vegan experience to guests and visitors. Tagaytay is famous for its splendid weather and laid-back vibe.
It offers homestay accommodation with its minimalist rooms and a Bali-inspired Vegan restaurant, which is open for intimate gatherings and can accommodate up to 100 persons. It only has three rooms that can accommodate up to 10 persons, a common space for yoga and meditation, and an edible garden. The Lodge accepts private events with a plant-powered theme as well as healing retreats.
Experience and enjoy the coziness and simplicity of The Vegan Lodge with these amenities:
– 100 percent Vegan (vegan care products, vegan room facilities, vegan food)
– Homestay experience
– Half board (dinner and breakfast)
– Yoga and meditation
– Cooking classes
– Vegan events
– Pets on request
– Internet connection
During its recent soft opening, guests were treated to the yoga sessions, one-on-one healing, and meditation by Coach Donna Francisco and the Southern Luzon Pranic Healing Training Center.
We also sampled some of its healthy dishes lovingly prepared by The Vegan Lodge Soul Kitchen. We tried The Lodge Burger (340), which is made of taro and cauliflower patty, homemade papaya ketchup, arugula, banana, and peel “bacon” and caramelized onions.
The Lodge Burger
Another must-try is the delicious Panang Curry (350), which consisted of Panang curry and coconut milk, mushrooms, cauliflower, and green leafy vegetables, served with red rice.
The Angel’s Banana Pancakes are delectable as well served with fresh bananas and whipped coconut cream. We had a yummy cup of hot local coffee and herbal tea. For dessert, we tried the Chocolate Mousse (190) made with local tablea, sea moss, coconut cream, and banana. Naturally sweet. Topped with seasonal fruits and mint.
Book your stay by sending them a private message or e-mail: reservation @theveganlodge.co. Follow and like its social media pages: IG @theveganlodgeph and FB the veganlodgeph.
As the global travel industry faces the adverse effects of these unprecedented times, Manuel V. Pangilinan (MVP), chairman of the MVP Group of Companies believes in the resilience of Filipinos and leads the rebuilding of the country’s tourism competitiveness through Landco.
MVP’s trust in the Filipino’s unwavering spirit in rising above the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic is underscored when he provided stability and care for 153 employees of Landco by ensuring that they are on board and their source of livelihood is secured to enable them to push forward with the planned developments that will positively impact Philippine tourism.
“It is an honor and privilege to be given the opportunity to help MVP turn his vision of rebuilding a stronger tourism industry into reality through Landco’s revolutionary concept of leisure tourism estates (LTE),” stated Erickson Y. Manzano, President, and CEO, Landco.
Landco CEO Erickson Y. Manzano.
“With the company’s legacy of pioneering premium landscapes for more than 30 years, Landco innovates with its LTE as tourism and lifestyle destinations, offering a wide array of resort amenities in idyllic beachside locales that have a thriving connection to the community,” Manzano said.
“Property owners have the immense opportunity of building their dream beach homes, availing of the LTE’s resort living amenities and opting to start a new business of their own that reflects their passion and caters to the tourism market. Through these projects, Landco helps promote Philippine tourism and jumpstart local businesses,” he added
Landco’s latest LTEs are master-planned developments with mixed-use residential and commercial lots, situated in the tourist destination of Batangas: 24-hectare Club Laiya and 15-hectare CaSoBē; and Samal Island, Davao.
These properties promote the quality of the leisure tourism experience in its locality and highlight the three main principles of sustainable tourism: economic, environmental, and socio-cultural sustainability.
Jobs for Locals
The newly-launched developments in Batangas drive the tourism market for unique resort experiences that in effect create jobs for the local community.
“By promoting domestic travel in Batangas, Millennial Resorts is helping the tourism industry recover from the challenges of the times,” asserted Patrick C. Gregorio, Senior Consultant for Hospitality and Tourism, Landco.
Landco Senior Consultant for Hospitality and Tourism.Patrick C. Gregorio.
Millennial Resorts, operated by Landco, trains and employs locals for its wide range of resort amenities at both properties. With the warm hospitality and world-class service of homegrown talents, the resort offers unconventional accommodations like the surreal capsule-like rooms of Cocoons to Crusoe Cabins’ beachfront view of Calatagan, Batangas’ picture-perfect sunsets.
To complement the Batangas beach experience, Millennial Resorts features water amenities such as Aquaria, a water park with a three-story pool slide at CaSoBē, and the Beach Club at Club Laiya. Captain Barbozza restaurant and bar provide a chic and casual dining experience.
The Canopy and Isle, venues for corporate events and weddings, and the Colony, a modern and hip beachside co-working space will open soon, providing more jobs for locals.
Environmental Sustainability
The two properties are aiming to be both Edge and LEED-certified. Ecological conservation projects particularly the conservation of marine life and sea turtles are also in place.
As part of its resort experience, these beachside properties have thoughtful design elements that offer an inviting and relaxing ambiance in harmony with nature.
Promotion of Local Tourism
A sense of place and solidarity with the community pervades in Club Laiya and CaSoBē. Locals, tourists, and property investors share a common ground in helping preserve the historical sites, tourist attractions, and the natural beauty of the expansive white beach and picturesque sunsets of Batangas.
The Seaside District at Club Laiya, San Juan is designed as a contemporary resort destination. it is a place to see and be seen, property owners and tourists alike enjoy an active lifestyle with water sports and activities such as windsurfing, kayaking, and yachting.
Harbour Estates are lots offered within CaSoBē, Calatagan which offers a more laidback resort lifestyle in an intimate setting and complements the rich heritage of its location by providing relaxation and entertainment attractions. These estates are classified as commercial or mixed-use where lots are for residential or commercial or both. Investors enjoy the stature and benefits of owning a beach property in a tourism destination.
Thriving in the New Normal
Promoting tourism as a platform for overcoming these challenging times as envisioned by MVP, the journey to a better future begins with Landco’s LTEs. These undoubtedly future-proof investments equip property owners to adapt to the new normal, redefine living the good life, and have work-life balance in beachside properties; at the same time enjoy the anticipated increase of their investment’s market value as proven by Landco’s recent project in Punta Fuego, Batangas and contribute to the growth of local tourism.
Landco is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Corporation. For more information about Landco and LTEs: Club Laiya and CaSoBē, visit landco.ph or FB page @LandcoPacificCorporation.
The Dessert Museum is a sugar overload Museum with rooms designed around different dessert themes!
Its 12,000 square-foot confectionary paradise includes sweet treats and larger-than-life tootsie installations and a brand new Instagram feed!
Slide into the Donut Room as you begin your sweetest tour ever!
It’s raining marshmallows! Enter the world of fluffiness and take a snap at the rainbow corner in the Room of Ten Thousand Marshmallow!
Are you Naughty or Nice? Pick your side and take a stroll on the giant Candy Cane Grove.
Get ready to enter the world of Alice in Wonderland and have a mad Macarons Tea Party and chill inside a giant teacup!
Let the Banana Beach take you on yellow paradise as you ride down the banana split slide and jump into a beach full of banana sprinkles!
Bibbidi bobbidi Bake in our Bewitched Bakery where you can have your fortunes told by a big fortune cookie!
Smash your own piñata and munch on goodies! Submerge in colorful confetti and see if you can find elusive “Llamacorn” in our Pinata Pit!
Ignite your youth in the Cake Pops Carnival and submerge yourself inside the giant bowl of cereal or ride into our giant cake pops!
And wait, there’s more! Aside from the mouthwatering rooms, they also have a wide set of fun activities inside the museum to complete your sugar-filled experience! Revisit your childhood as you try our hopscotch, see-saw, and colorful jenga among many others!
So what are you waiting for? Visit them at Level 1 S’maison, Coral Way, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City!
Prepare to satisfy your dessert cravings or even your childhood’s most influential sweets and treats in a very unique setting.
Featured photo courtesy of Dessert Museum: New Kake Pop Kourt
Here are our food discoveries on this popular dish here and abroad.
In terms of chicken dishes, one of the most widely known is Hainanese chicken rice. What makes this dish so special is its delectable taste – the poached chicken meat and seasoned rice. No wonder travelers from around the world have all the rage for this iconic dish.
Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
If you’re planning a trip to Singapore, post-pandemic world, make it part of your itinerary to experience Singaporean cuisine. This small, but progressive and important island nation located just south of Malaysia not only offers modern tourist attractions, and impressive skyscrapers, but is also famous for Hainanese chicken rice, one of the national dishes of Singapore. It is being widely available in most food courts and hawker centers around the country.
“Variants of the dish are also seen throughout Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia, where it remains a culinary staple,” according to an online source.
Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice stall. Personal photo during our previous trip to Singapore.
Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice is probably Singapore’s most famous chicken rice stall located at Maxwell Food Centre. As seen from our last visit in past years, it had more tourists than locals queuing up for a plate of this popular dish. You just need to be patient, and in no time, it will be your turn to order.
It was worth the visit because the dish was really delicious – both the chicken meat and the rice were cooked to perfection. Per order of the dish was like Php250.00 – Ph350.00 in our local currency.
Even the late Anthony Bourdain said that the chicken rice was so fragrant and delicious that it could be eaten on its own.
Homeboy Hainanese
The pandemic may have restricted our movement, and planning a trip to Singapore may not be ideal at the moment. But this won’t stop us from tasting this dish in Manila, and at the comforts of our home.
An interesting discovery is Homeboy Hainanese, which offers and delivers Hainanese chicken rice. Though, still new in the food business, it’s getting a significant following for its quality and healthier take on the famous dish.
The sauces are made from scratch and are very flavorful – soy sauce, ginger, and chili. Courtesy: Homeboy Hainanese
It was a delight to have discovered it through a lady client. The delivery came just in time for lunch and was freshly packed. The food pack consisted of chicken fillet which was very tender; rice (an Oh Crop Adlai rice best for dieters as well); and the sauces are made from scratch and are very flavorful – soy sauce, ginger, and chili.
To fully enjoy the dish, I dabbed all three sauces in one bite of chicken meat and rice. I was very satisfied with how the dish was cooked. Indeed, it was a tummy-filling Hainanese experience! You need not go to Singapore to try it. If you want your order to be consumed later, you can store it in the refrigerator, then, reheat it in the microwave at 600w for 30 seconds.
As the world welcomes a new normal, customers continue searching for ways to enjoy delicious meals from the comfort of their homes. The Bellevue Hotels and Resorts (BH&R) steps up to these cravings with top-notch dishes that put quality at the forefront without compromising on sanitary standards and convenience.
Conversely, with restaurant dining restrictions eased in the metropolis, three City of Dreams Manila restaurants step up to offer distinct and upscale al fresco experiences combining picturesque outdoor views with a delectable collection of finest cuisines and five-star service. Tucked in their respective idyllic spaces, the patios of Nobu Manila, Wave and Breezes also conveniently provide misting fans for the added comfort of diners.
Meanwhile, HotelPlanner dives all in for new local sports association partnerships by teaming up with Singapore Swimming Club. HotelPlanner is the world’s largest seller of online group hotel bookings and a leading provider of custom hotel booking solutions.
Bellevue Hotels and Resorts opens doors for exciting new food and beverage offers
The heart of service at Bellevue is an understanding of just how hard it can be to juggle working from home with house chores and meal preps. That is why from Alabang to Quezon City, a unique variety of platters, ala carte specials, and more are ready for guests to enjoy at the Phoenix Court (Bellevue Manila), Prime Cafe (B Hotel Alabang), and Johnny’s Steak and Grill (B Hotel Quezon City) or bring home to their families—minus the stress!
BH&R’s new and improved social media channels have active Shop tabs that take you to their own shopping platforms on Facebook and Instagram! Now, anyone can order their favorites and try out new cuisines with a simple click or swipe of their device. Customers are free to decide if they prefer to pick up their orders at the hotels’ designated drive-through areas or have them delivered via courier service.
For meetings and events, customers may also avail of meals made with love by talented in-house chefs through the innovative “B To Go” delivery service, which provides a generous selection of snacks, packed meals, and food platters for corporate meetings and intimate social gatherings. Every order comes with bottles of water and hypoallergenic Clean Code alcohol spray for the comfort of each guest.
BH&R restaurants all across the Metro are also answering the need for easier access to their offerings through their partnership with GrabFood! Guests are now a few taps away from having Bellevue bestsellers delivered to their doorsteps.
Don’t wait any longer! Rediscover the scrumptious dishes from Bellevue Manila, B Hotel Alabang, and B Hotel Quezon City by placing your orders today.
For more information, please www.visit thebellevue.com or contact (+632) 828 8181.
In this season of al fresco dining, City of Dreams Manila hits the spot – at Nobu Manila, Wave, and Breezes
Few places can match the posh feel of City of Dreams’ al fresco spots:
1) Nobu Manila
Bringing the renowned and hip vibe of Nobu restaurants around the globe that draw celebrities to its doors, Nobu Manila now also opens for lunch, serving to fill, and easy-to-serve donburi (Japanese rice bowl meal) specials and Bento lunch meals daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Al fresco diners at Nobu Manila’s floating cabanas and patio area surrounded by a lush garden, while indulging in the restaurant’s donburi menu which consists of six choices, from premium meats to the freshest seafood, served over steamed rice. These include: the signature Nobu Manila-style Pork Sisig, a mouthwatering dish of sous vide pork belly with aji amarillo aioli, poached egg and bacon furikake; and Nobu-style “Bistek”, a flavorful combination of beef cubes, shitake mushrooms, caramelized onions with yuzu soy; among others.
Nobu Manila-style Pork Sisig
Luxurious Bento meals are also available: the Assorted Sushi Bento, composed of house special cut rolls, salmon nigiri, tuna nigiri, and tamago; and the Nobu Premium Bento, a good choice for diners who opt to upgrade their donburi with field green salad in the signature Matsuhisa dressing, chicken gyoza, miso soup, and assorted fruit slices.
Other delectable items to delight sushi lovers include the spicy big eye tuna, salmon with avocado, eel with avocado, salmon skin, California roll, shrimp tempura roll, and vegetable sushi rolls. For dessert, Green Tea Leche Flan with azuki beans, goma tuile, and mochi bites; and the classic Leche Flan with caramel sauce cap the meal.
Nobu Manila is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for dine-in and take-away. For dinner, a la carte and Nobu’s signature Omakase menus are offered.
2) Wave and Breezes
Two chic and contemporary restaurant-cum-bar venues situated at the urban enclave’s scenic pool deck — Wave, which is adjacent to Nobu Manila, and Breezes at Nuwa Manila – also make for pleasant open-air all-day dining.
Guests can choose from an array of all-time favorite fare and quick meals in an eclectic menu that includes splendid breakfast favorites, salads, savory sandwiches, and signature burgers, sumptuous pizzas, and excellent pasta varieties to complement homemade sauces.
Grilled Ribeye Tagliata at Breezes and Wave
Fish and chips, deep-fried calamari, and nachos are among the traditional light snacks that go well with the extensive array of refreshing smoothies, juices, cocktails, and spirits that complete the tropical vibe of both al fresco restaurants. By night, the two outlets transform into trendy tropical bars, replete with mood lighting.
Lilting music wafting in the background lures diners to leisurely enjoy tempting entrées that include: Grilled Beef Rib Eye Tagliata with roasted onions, confit garlic, and arugula greens; Crispy Pork Belly with snow pea tendrils, mustard and soy sauce with calamansi dip; and Baked Atlantic Salmon Steak with caramelized lemon and Pommery beurre blanc sauce, among others., Well-loved summer desserts are also offered, such as Halo-halo, banana split, ice creams, and sorbets.
Passion Fruit Lemonade and Strawberry Banana Smoothie at Breezes and Wave
Open daily, Wave and Breezes accept dine-in guests and take-away orders from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The al fresco restaurants seat guests at 50% capacity, in observance of physical distancing. Reservations are encouraged due to limited seating.
For inquiries and reservations, call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com or visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com. Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android.
The partnership gives each Singapore Swimming Club member a S$100 hotel voucher and exclusive group travel rates with HotelPlanner
HotelPlanner and the Singapore Swimming Club today announced a partnership that will give Club members exclusive group hotel booking rates around the world, once international travel restarts. Singapore Swimming Club is the country’s largest non-golfing, the members-only recreational club with world-class facilities.
Mr. Christopher Lee, Executive Vice President, Asia Pacific at HotelPlanner, said: “This partnership with Singapore Swimming Club is our first collaboration with a recreational club in Singapore, and we are delighted to support this premier organization. With pent-up demand for travel growing, we are also keen to explore more partnerships with other recreational and sporting associations in Singapore and the region.”
Brenden Gurusamy, General Manager of the Singapore Swimming Club, said: “HotelPlanner has had a long and successful track record partnering with renowned companies and organizations that support sporting activities and events, and we are honored to team up with them.”
HotelPlanner has been a proud supporter and partner of professional sporting events and leagues, including the National Basketball Association’s Philadelphia 76ers, the National Hockey League’s New Jersey Devils, and the Ladies Professional Golfing Association. Most recently, it pledged $30,000 in free hotel rooms in a campaign supporting the WBO cruiserweight world champion, British boxing star Lawrence Okolie.
Featured photos: Nobu cabanas and BH&R’s food platters
