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Art Couture: Lamina 2025 Bridges Fashion, Heritage and Sustainability

This May, the Grand Ballroom of City of Dreams Manila will be transformed into a living gallery—where textile meets technique, sculpture walks the runway, and Filipino creativity takes center stage. Lamina 2025 is an immersive cultural experience. In a three-day celebration of artistry, innovation and collaboration, Lamina brings together over 30 of the country’s top visual artists and designers in a groundbreaking lifestyle and advocacy fair designed for the conscious generation.

A New Vision of Luxury

At its core, Lamina 2025 is a circular economy showcase—redefining luxury through collaboration, sustainability, and meaning. It’s where community-based production meets couture, and where fine art translates into functional, wearable, and immersive design. From gallery walls to catwalks, the event weaves together purpose and process into something entirely new.

 

From Glass to Garment: Heritage Design and Contemporary Vision Take the Runway at the Invitational Gala

A highlight of Lamina 2025, Luminous Threads, touted as an art couture show, will present new collections where traditional techniques meet futuristic vision in a celebration of co-creation and circular design.

Headlining the show is Patis Tesoro, the grand dame of Filipiniana fashion, whose collaboration with French textile artist Francis Dravigny reimagines heritage fabrics into striking contemporary couture. Their work—crafted with Philippine fibers and interpreted by Bayo Atelier—elegantly redefines the line between cultural preservation and modern luxury.

Another highly-anticipated collaboration with Bayo Atelier is the interpretation of artist Anna Orlina’s sculptures, where her glass art serves as the blueprint for sculptural fashion pieces.

Featured Artist Anna Orlina.

Think gradient silhouettes, luminous forms, and runway looks that capture the interplay of transparency, light, and structure. It’s a fusion of disciplines that embodies Lamina’s spirit: art that’s wearable, and fashion that speaks.

The runway also makes space for inclusive expression through a collaboration between contemporary visual artist Bea Policarpio and Best Buddies Philippines, a nonprofit supporting creatives with developmental disabilities. Guided by Bea’s mentorship, these emerging artists co-create vibrant wearable art pieces—each one telling a story of individuality, artistry, and belonging.

Together, these collaborations form the heart of Luminous Threads—a fashion show that doesn’t just spotlight beauty, but purpose, inclusivity, and the possibilities born from creative synergy.

Beyond the Runway: A World of Creative Crossovers

Throughout the weekend, Lamina’s pavilions come alive with immersive art and design co-presented with ManilART, the National Art Fair.

The Orlina Art Car Pavilion, in partnership with Museo Orlina, debuts a new glass-and-paint collaboration between Ramon Orlina and Dominic Rubio—including a one-of-a-kind art car and hand-painted Vespas.

The Sculpture & Functional Art Pavilion features standout works from Jik Villanueva, Richard Buxani, Jinggoy Salcedo, Agi Pagkatipunan and others, showcasing the intersection of design, utility, and storytelling.

The Wearable Art Jewelry Collection shines with handcrafted pieces by Ramon Orlina, Helena Alegre, Maria Magdamit, Marge Organo, Arnel Papa, and Hoseki Manila featuring the designs of Knoi Esmane and Faico.

The synergy continues in the Paintings Pavilion, where artists including Nikulas Lebajo, Bullet Dematera and Kara Pangilinan interpret the visual language of Patis Tesoro through original works—extending the feedback loop of creativity that defines Lamina’s ethos.

Patis Tesoro fabrics interpreted by Nikulas Lebajo.

Conversations, Causes & Community

Day 2, Art in Conversation, opens the floor to a broader public. In partnership with the European Chamber of Commerce and the United Nations-supported Race to Zero campaign, panels and talks will explore circular practices in art and fashion. A benefit auction will support Mangrove Restoration via UP Marine Sciences and the Weave for Peace initiative by HARVEST Creative Hubs.

Day 3, The Final Experience, brings the creative community together with live sketching and painting by master artists and Best Buddies participants. 100% of auction proceeds on this final day go toward supporting inclusivity programs by Best Buddies Philippines.

A Vision with Impact

More than just a showcase, Lamina 2025 positions the Philippines as a future-forward leader in sustainable luxury. It’s a declaration that art, fashion, and community can—and should—coexist meaningfully. With its fusion of culture, innovation, and purpose, Lamina invites us all to reconsider how we create, what we value, and how we celebrate.

  • Lamina 2025
  • May 2–4, 2025
  • City of Dreams Grand Ballroom, Manila
  • Pre-registration and ticket details available via official channels.

#Lamina2025 #ManilART #Patis Tesoro #AnnaOrlina #NikulasLebajo #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation Announces the Launch of SMXCITE (SMX Center for International Trade and Exhibitions)

Set to become the Philippines’ largest international exhibition venue under SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation’s (SMHCC) brand portfolio, SMXCITE officially breaks ground in Pasay City. SMX Convention Center, the flagship convention center brand under SMHCC, is redefining the landscape of Philippine events with the launch of SMXCITE, a world-class venue now under development by SM Prime Holdings, Inc. It is strategically located right across SM MOA Arena, within the SM Mall of Asia Complex, which is dubbed as one of the country’s most connected business and lifestyle districts.

The official groundbreaking ceremony marked a bold step forward for SMX Convention Center, strengthening its leadership in the country’s fast-growing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector. The event was led by SMHCC President Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy; SM Engineering Design and Development Corp. President Mr. Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr.; SMHCC Executive Vice President Ms. Peggy Angeles; and SMHCC Senior Vice President for Operations Mr. Walid Wafik, — underscoring the strategic vision behind this landmark development.

From left: Mr. Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr. – President, SM Engineering Design and Development Corp.; Ms. Peggy Angeles – Executive Vice President, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy – President, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; and Mr. Walid Wafik – Senior Vice President for Operations, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., during the groundbreaking ceremony of SMXCITE, held onsite earlier this month.

 

Upon its completion in early 2027, SMXCITE will introduce over 18,000 square meters of leasable trade hall space to the SMX portfolio, effectively doubling the capacity of SMX Convention Center Manila. Together, both venues will offer over 35,000 square meters of flexible exhibition and event space within a single destination, further positioning the SM Mall of Asia Complex as the country’s premier hub for international exhibitions, trade fairs, and large-scale business events.

Purpose-built to meet international standards, SMXCITE will feature five expansive exhibition halls, designed to accommodate up to 803 standard 3×3-meter booths. Complementing these are four fully equipped meeting rooms, ideal for breakout sessions, closed-door discussions, and strategic planning engagements. Two dedicated VIP lounges will provide an elevated experience for top-level executives, dignitaries, and private delegations that reflect SMX’s commitment to corporate hospitality and seamless service.

The venue can host a little over 18,000 guests and engineered to support large-format events for both local and global audiences. Sustainability is also central to the development, such that SMXCITE will incorporate natural lighting, energy-efficient infrastructure, and environmentally responsible design principles aligned with SMX Manila’s eco-conscious benchmarks.

With this expansion, SMX Convention Center’s total leasable footprint across its national network will grow to nearly 60,000 square meters, spanning key cities including Manila, Taguig, Mandaluyong, Clark, Olongapo, Bacolod, Cebu, and Davao.

“SMXCITE marks a pivotal step in our continued efforts to build future-ready venues that meet global standards,” said Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President for Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation. “With this new exhibition center, along with exciting projects on the horizon in Cebu and in Cabanatuan, we’re expanding our reach and reinforcing our commitment to elevate the Philippine MICE experience across the country.”

As the global events industry continues to evolve, SMXCITE is poised to position Metro Manila as a notable player in Southeast Asia’s MICE arena, making it ready to host future-forward gatherings that connect, inspire, and elevate industries.

For more information, please visit https://smhotels.com.ph/

Featured photo: With golden shovels in hand, this ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter for SMX Convention Center.

#SMXCITE #SMX #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Get a taste of Rhône Valley wines at Finestra’s exclusive pairing dinner

Finestra at Solaire Resort Entertainment City presents an evening filled with the finest French wines from Chapoutier Winery, thoughtfully paired with an exclusive 6-course menu by Finestra’s Executive Chef Andrea Spagoni. Discover a sophisticated culinary experience on April 24 at 6PM and explore the elegance and depth of Rhône Valley wines, known for its distinctive grape varieties, aromas and flavors. Lavish on a selection of rich and delicate dishes, perfectly paired with each wine, and savor a night filled with laughter and great company.

Located in the Rhône Valley of France, Chapoutier Winery dedicates itself to organic and biodynamic farming practices. Each wine was thoughtfully selected by Sommelier and Solaire Resort Entertainment City Director of Beverage Daniel Blais. Connect with other industry professionals and savor canapés like beef tartare with egg yolk, cod flakes with dill salad, and cauliflower croquettes.

Chef Spagoni’s menu is inspired by ingredients found within the Rhône Valley region, making it a perfect pairing to the wines for the night. The course starts with a delicate Lapu-lapu quenelles with roasted onion gelée and sour cream. This is complemented by the Hermitage White ‘Chante Alouette’ 2020, known for its complex but subtle nose of quince, walnut, honey, ginger, acacia, and a hint of linden-tree, making it an elevated introduction to the meal. Savor a hearty chicken leg terrine with rustic flavors, complemented by a grenache reduction and glazed baby carrots, paired with the Saint-Joseph ‘Les Granilites’ 2022. This wine offers a soft and well-balanced profile with dark fruit notes and a hint of spice. Next, enjoy a rich mushroom gratin featuring camembert, morels, and green olives, paired with the Cornas Les Arènes 2021, which delivers flavors of blackberry, spice, and morello cherry.

Lapu-lapu quenelles with roasted onion gelée and sour cream.

The decadent and creamy chestnut risotto with duck liver sauce and cherry jus comes next paired with the Hermitage ‘Monier de la Sizeranne’, 2018, a round and elegant wine with concentrated and gentle tannins. Revel on a classic roasted pork tenderloin with herb mashed potato and white asparagus, complemented by the Châteauneuf-du-Pape ‘Barbe Rac’, 2012, a wine that delivers pure fruit, with silky layers of raspberry, boysenberry, and blackberry coulis, bringing out the richness of the pork and complementing the creamy texture of the potatoes.

For dessert, devour the luscious red wine pear with dark chocolate baulois and vanilla ice cream. The Châteauneuf-du-Pape ‘La Bernardine’, 2021 and its deep, bold flavors is the perfect pair to the dark chocolate and enhances the taste of the pear. This makes it a sweet and memorable finish to a luxurious meal.

Discover France and the exceptional wines of Chapoutier and feel the elegance of Finestra in Solaire Resort Entertainment City. For inquires and reservations, please call 8888-8888 or email restaurantevents@solaireresort.com. Visit https://sec.solaireresort.com/offers/dining/finestra-vineyard-escape for more information.

#Finestra #SolaireResortEntertainmentCity #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Business Meets Bliss at Boracay Newcoast

Sun, sea, and powdery white sand may be the first things that grab a traveler’s attention, but Boracay also has the essentials to be the  prime location for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in the Philippines.

Hotels in the National Capital Region (NCR) are still the preferred choice for hosting events. However, recent surveys indicate a promising trend for Megaworld Hotels and Resorts (MHR), with their Boracay properties ranking as the third most popular option. Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director for MHR, says, “Our Savoy Hotel Boracay and Belmont Hotel Boracay have hosted several MICE groups starting 2023, which is a very encouraging sign for the recovery of the island.”

With the Boracay MICE business landscape gaining momentum, the tourism sector is now beyond the recovery phase and optimistic about continued growth in travel. Meetings such as pharmaceutical conventions, the ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting, and the Prosecutors League of the Philippines Convention have all been recently held in Boracay. “After the pandemic, we are glad the domestic market patronized our island, but we are also hoping that our MICE organizers will consider Boracay as their new option for a MICE destination,” she said.

Boracay Newcoast is a perfect example of why Boracay should be the first choice when planning MICE. Aside from having a beautiful private beach, Megaworld’s integrated tourism destination on the northeast side of the island has the modern Boracay Newcoast Convention Center (BNCC) nestled within it. It has versatile function spaces that can be customized to meet an event’s needs, and with a maximum capacity of 1,000 persons for theater-type seating and 750 persons for banquet set-up, it meets the average seating requirements of medium and large-scale conventions and conferences. Fully air-conditioned, with an all-important 100% backup power supply, BNCC has reliable internet connectivity and state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. Albiso said that in fitting out the convention center, MHR took into consideration the major requirements of events, including social banquets and large weddings— thus, BNCC’s 9-meter-high ceiling allows organizers to have more room to be creative with their designs and layouts.

The convention center is also walkable from Boracay Newcoast’s hotels— Savoy Hotel Boracay and Belmont Hotel Boracay. This also means that guests are just steps away from the township’s private white beach. Just imagine, drinks on the beach after the afternoon plenary or perhaps an early morning walk on its fine, white sand before the convention day begins.

Savoy Hotel Boracay Function Room Classroom Set up.

These BNC properties, once its soon-to-launch new hotel officially opens its doors, will collectively have more than 1,500 room keys, an array of dining options to please the palates of local and international guests, and plenty of recreational activities to enjoy with family and friends.  “The versatile event spaces – both indoor and outdoor – at Savoy Hotel Boracay, Belmont Hotel Boracay, and BNCC are designed to meet the needs of every occasion,” says Maia Israel, Area General Manager for Boracay Newcoast properties and president for Boracay MICE Alliance.

MHR hotels handle the banquet requirements for BNCC. Their culinary teams are fully equipped to ensure that clients’ dietary requirements, with BNC taking pride in having a Halal-certification, and food preferences are met by delivering tasty meals inspired by a variety of local and international cuisines. Both hotels also excel in creating themed banquet packages fit for any type of event. Aside from the classic Luau and Filipino fiesta, their teams have planned and executed themes that run the gamut from Bohemian to Karaoke, dinners under the stars, and street eats, with package inclusions such as an exhilarating fire dance, soothing acoustic performances, or a live DJ performance.

While Boracay is primarily known for leisure travels, corporate agenda also thrives because when bliss and business come together, only the best MICE events can come from that synergy.

For Meetings, Incentives, Corporate, and Events inquiries at Savoy Hotel Boracay and Belmont Hotel Boracay, interested parties may contact reserve@savoyboracay.com or stay@belmontboracay.com.ph, respectively.

#BoracayNewCoast #SavoyHotel #BelmontHotelBoracay #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Jessa Zaragoza: ‘Sentimental Song Queen’

Jessa Zaragoza’s hit song “Bakit Pa?” made her music’s unexpected “Queen of Broken Hearts.” The three-stanza sad song with a simple, memorable melody has indeed struck the right chord among the women of the ‘90s (and even up to this day).

 

Actress-singer Jessa Zaragoza remains the reigning sentimental song queen of the airwaves. She hit it on her very first album with the song “Bakit Pa?” The song is heard in the metropolis as well as provincial areas up to this day. She is music’s unexpected “Queen of Broken Hearts.”

In her hit song, “Bakit Pa?” a girl is weeping over lost love. Another girl has replaced her in her lover’s arms. But she is not destined to die of a broken heart. I’m sad and confused, she sings, but I will survive (Ito’y aking kakayanin).

Jessa related that when she read the lyrics, they felt so right for her and she deeply felt the heart of the song. “So I recorded the song with my whole heart in it. But I never thought it would be such a big hit,” she said.

“Filipinos are very simple and sentimental,” rationalized “Bakit Pa?” lyricist Vehnee Saturno, who was also surprised at his hit song. As they say: Aside from a new love, music is the best salve for a broken heart. “At first, no one believes that she had promise as a singer because she had a sexy image. But when I heard her voice, I knew that she had what it takes. Mukhang matagal-tagal pa ang pagsikat nya,” said Vehnee.

The three-stanza sad song with a simple, memorable melody has indeed struck the right chord among the women of the ‘90s (and even up to this day). For lyricists, composers and singers this means big revenues and more recording opportunities.

Jessa said that it has always been her dream to be a singer and to wax an album she could call her own. Her very first movie outfit did not fulfill the promise of giving her a debut album but instead built her up as a budding sex siren. “Before, it was just my dream to have an album,” quipped the lady with Bette Davis’s eyes. “Even if it wasn’t a big hit, I would be happy. I just wanted to sing.”

Sentimental Song Queen

Jessa has earned for herself the title, “Sentimental Song Queen,” joining the ranks of former hit singers, the late Claire Dela Fuente, Imelda Papin, Didith Reyes, and Eva Eugenio.

During the ‘80s, the celebrated Jukebox Queen title was a tossup between Claire Dela Fuente, famous for her songs “Sayang,” “Minsa-minsan,” and “Nakaw Na Pag-ibig,” and Imelda Papin (who eventually got the coveted title). Now, it is Jessa’s turn. She has put her embarrassing sexy starlet days behind her.

Jessa was a BS Psychology student in San Juan de Letran when she was lured into the showbiz whirl. If she has been given the chance, she said, she still wants to be a psychiatrist someday. Away from the klieg lights, Jessa is a homebody. The second in a brood of seven, she likes staying with her family at home.

These days, Jessa is blooming. She is happily married to singer Dingdong Avanzado, and a doting mom to her only daughter, Jayda, who is also making a name as a singer.

Featured photo courtesy of OfficialJessaZaragoza FB account

(Based on the published article in the now-defunct Mirror Weekly magazine written by the same author)

#jessazaragoza #singeractress #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Embark on Relaxation and Escape in Lio Beach El Nido, Palawan

When you venture out of town what do you usually look for? What kind of escape do you need? After a few busy months of life in the city, seeking the right amount of serenity and stimulation is almost next to impossible. Where do you go?

Fly from Manila and land directly at Lio Airport through local flights via AirSWIFT and get to enjoy the beach faster than if you drove out of the city. With El Nido just an hour’s flight away and Lio Beach barely a 5-minute drive from the Lio Airport there’s no better way to spend your long weekends and holidays.

 

Casa Kalaw – Swimming Pool

 

Here you can find three boutique hotels to choose from – Hotel Covo, Balai Adlao, and Casa Kalaw; each of these hotels with its own distinct design and culture catering to those traveling with friends, a partner, or family members. You’ll not only be greeted by excellent service and world-class amenities but you’ll get to explore the entire estate through carved pathways and beautiful bridges.

The writer at Hotel Covo
Indulge in a wide range of restaurants and bars, and experience a number of relaxing land and water activities like standup paddleboarding or beach volleyball. With the estate’s newly opened hotels, Casa Kalaw has already been recognized and awarded by the Travel and Hospitality Awards with the Sea View Guest House of the Year 2018 of Mimaropa.
Casa Kalaw – Veranda
AHRC and TKDC continue to work together to create not just resorts and hotels but thriving communities in the Philippines.

(Special thanks to Sir Joey Bernardino, the TKDC team, and the Lio Resort staff for making our stay unforgettable. The writer went on a trip to Lio Beach with the Experience Travel and Living magazine team.)

#LioBeach #ElNido #Palawan #TKDC #beach #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Honoring the life and legacy of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Aunor with a necrological service

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) join the nation in commemorating the life and remarkable contributions of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Cabaltera Villamayor, belovedly known as Nora Aunor, in a necrological service on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila.

Arrival honors will begin at 8:30 AM, followed by a tribute program at 9:00 AM. The state funeral rites will continue at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City.

The National Artist, who passed away on April 16, 2025 at 71, was a distinguished film, television, and theater actor, a renowned singer, and a film producer. Her career began in amateur singing competitions, eventually gaining attention when she won the television talent show Tawag ng Tanghalan in 1967. Her successful stint in the popular television show along with her appearance in Darigold Jamboree, led to her phenomenal rise earning the iconic title of the Philippine film industry’s “Superstar.”

Among her acclaimed films are Bona (1980), which was the closing film of Cinemalaya 2024, as well as Himala (1982), Bulaklak sa City Jail (1984), and The Flor Contemplacion Story (1995) – all were featured at the CCP Cine Icons program.

She was conferred the Order of National Artist (Orden ng Pambansang Alagad ng Sining) by the Office of the President in 2022. The Order of National Artist is the highest national recognition given to Filipino individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts.

The public is invited to attend the necrological service. Limited seats are available. The registration link will be released on Monday through the official social media pages of the CCP and NCCA.

For those unable to attend in person but who wish to pay their respects, the necrological service will be livestreamed on both the CCP and NCCA Facebook pages.

For inquiries, please call NCCA at 09209480385 or CCP at 09617466602.

#NoraAunor #necrologicalservice #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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The Adventure Continues: Our Family’s Exciting Trip to Switzerland

In part 2 of the feature, the writer and her family explore the captivating wonders of Switzerland. They journey through enchanting destinations like Lucerne and Zermatt, marvel at the breathtaking Glacier Paradise in the Swiss Alps, discover the vibrant spirit of Zurich, and savor the rich flavors of local cuisine.

Contributed by Dana Angela Belo

Ruby’s Precious Moments 6th Anniversary Special Feature (Part 2)

The first few days in Switzerland ignited a deep sense of adventure, leaving us yearning for more of its breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture. Although we battled lingering feelings of sickness from the chilly, unpredictable weather, we refused to let that dampen our spirits. With determination in our hearts, we enthusiastically set about planning our next day’s journey, eager to explore all that this enchanting country had to offer.

 Lost in Luzern

Our next destination was the city of Luzern or Lucerne in French. As usual, we left Zermatt early to maximize time exploring Luzern. Despite this, I was never groggy during our trip. The wind blew colder each day, it would surely wake you up each morning. Despite my enjoying the cold, I am not used to this kind of climate. I got sick and had a hard time recovering as I would at home since the air was dry and freezing. Nevertheless, I chose not to stay at the apartment for fear of missing out.

The train ride was always a time for me to start my day, as my eyes slowly started opening, the sun would slowly peek over the Alps and turn everything a glistening white. As we approach Luzern, things become more urban, there are more buildings, and houses are rarely made of wood now, like they were in Zermatt. But Luzern is not purely urbanized, instead, it offers you the best of both worlds. Just like in Bern, old buildings tower over you as you walk the streets of the beautiful city, and in some areas, you see modern structures like museums and offices.

Upon exiting the station, a beautiful welcome arc will welcome you to the city. To the right of the station, you would see a museum which was unfortunately closed when we visited. You can also ride a ferry to see the rest of the city, although we opted not to since it was hazy during winter.

Like other cities in Switzerland, Luzern is full of churches which are worth visiting. Luzern has a Franciscan church and a Jesuit church, which are just a few minutes from each other. The city is also famous for its Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrüke), which is considered the oldest wooden bridge in Europe, dating back to the 14th century. The bridge is filled with paintings and offers a great view of the River Reuss.

We also visited the famous lion monument, which commemorates the Swiss guardsmen who died in 1792 during the French Revolution. The monument is carved into the living rock of a cliff. Just beside the monument is the Glacier Garden, which you can visit after you take pictures of the lion monument.

Luzern is a pretty walkable city, which you can explore with the guide of a map, you can get to the tourist office at the train station near Migros. This map will help you explore the city more easily as it points out the location of each landmark, making it easier for you to navigate and plan your day accordingly. As pretty as Luzern may be, we had to leave and ride a train back to Zermatt.

Feeling on Top of the World at Zermatt

Our next agenda for this trip was the most awaited trip up to the Alps. We pre-booked our Glacier Paradise tickets online as it was the most in-demand activity in Zermatt. The experience comes with a cable car up the Swiss Alps, offering you a great view of the Matterhorn mountain. This is also a skier’s paradise, and you would most likely ride up the mountains with them. Despite being lightheaded from the sudden increase in altitude, I did not want to miss the spectacular view from the viewing deck, which gives you a glorious view of various mountains and countries like Italy. We were unable to visit the ice sculptures inside. It was too slippery and I was too lightheaded to walk straight. So we decided to go back down and spend the day resting back at the apartment.

Since the Glacier Paradise experience only takes about half the day, we decided to explore Zermatt more after resting a bit in the apartment. We also got to try the famous cheese fondue at the Zermatterstübli, which is a Swiss favorite during wintertime. The cheese fondue itself had a strong flavor and a strong aftertaste of wine, with pieces of bread dipped in the gooey cheese. You can also add some potatoes and even get cheese that has herbs in it for a nice hint of flavor. After a nice dinner, we headed back inside the warm apartment and called it a day.

Exploring Zurich

The last city we went to was the famous city of Zurich, the largest city in the country. The city is set by the lake, which adds to its magical flair. Just like in Luzern, there are tons of churches in Zurich, and its streets are a mix of modern and classic. We spent the day walking its stone streets and window shopping, which left us hungry and craving for rice since the majority of the food we ate on our trip was bread. Luckily, we found a shop near the local police station which served hot and delicious Mediterranean food. Since it was winter, most of the food we ate either turned cold quickly or was served cold, so it was a treat to be eating hot meals, especially those that included rice.

 

After eating lunch, we set off to find the colorful street of Augustinergasse, which is considered one of the most beautiful historical, narrow streets in the city. We took some pictures and headed for the Lindt museum. However, the Lindt Museum was too far and a lot of people were visiting as well, so we opted to explore more of the city instead. We found ourselves searching for the University of Zurich, which boasts brilliant alumni like Albert Einstein himself.

It was quite difficult to find without a map and every building looked like it could be the university. After quite a long walk around the city and a long walk up what felt like 500 steps of stairs, we finally made it to the University of Zurich. At first glance, the university felt a bit small, only having one large building for everything. But as we walked farther behind the large building, we noticed that the university area extended farther into a large compound. Imagine the University of the Philippines, but freezing cold. After a quick stop to rest at a bus stop, we went back to the train station and headed back to Zermatt.

Leaving Switzerland

Switzerland is too beautiful to miss. Its stunning views of the Swiss Alps, snow-covered streets, and the kindness of its people will surely make you want to stay.

However, all good things must come to an end. As we boarded our final train from Zermatt station, we took in the breathtaking sights of the surrounding mountains, hoping that this wouldn’t be our last glimpse of them.

Photos by Dana Angela Belo

#Switzerland #familytrip #6thanniversaryfeature #wanderlust #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Easter joy and family fun at Solaire Resort Entertainment City

Solaire Resort Entertainment City offers an adventurous and exciting Easter Sunday celebration for the entire family on April 20. The day starts with a Sunday mass at 10AM in the Grand Ballroom followed by a range of interactive activities with luxurious brunch buffets for everyone to enjoy. With fun-filled events like Easter egg hunts, bunny hopscotch races, face painting, and egg decorating, it promises to be an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.

Earn special discounts and Easter goodie bags when you accomplish all activities with the family. The Grand Ballroom holds easter egg hunting for all ages and bouncy inflatables to enjoy. At the Sky Tower area, kids can pick their own eggs to decorate at Waterside, complete a carrot toss at Oasis, and hop through Easter-patterned squares for a fun hopscotch activity at Fresh. At the Theatre Cafe, kids can enjoy cookies and cupcake decorating, face painting, balloon sculpting, and enhance their creativity through a coloring mural. You might just also catch Easter Bunny hopping around—so, snap a picture with him and your whole family!

Indulge in an exquisite Easter brunch buffet at Finestra, Red Lantern, and Yakumi. Finestra offers casatiello, a ham and cheese savory cake together with herbs risotto, poached salmon, and chocolate eggs. Enjoy unlimited flutes of champagne, a seafood tower served directly at your table, a cold cuts station, a roast beef station by the kitchen counter, and luxurious desserts from a rich mille-feuille, macarons, tartalettes, homemade gelato, and more!

Eat all you can at Red Lantern with a dim sum buffet featuring crystal skin lobster dumplings, crispy deep-fried cheese and prawn spring rolls, baked signature black pepper wagyu beef tart, steamed Teochew dumpling, and more. At Yakumi, prepare for a sumptuous feast with eight live stations to choose from. Seafood lovers can enjoy grilled Boston lobster, scallops, blue marlin, prawns, and mackerel in the teppanyaki live station. You can also choose from a fine selection of meats like Kinross lamb chops, US ribeye steak, and Japanese sausage.

For an Easter-inspired afternoon tea, delight in a wide array of tea sandwiches, delectable pastries and freshly baked scones at Oasis Garden Café. These include a savory chorizo and egg mousse tea sandwich, an orange cinnamon sable, Cheshire Pork Pie with glazed apple, and more. Enjoy it all with a pot of tea, an easter-inspired mocktail or sparkling wine, and freshly brewed coffee.

Complete your Easter celebration by booking a Deluxe Room with a city or garden view for only Php 10,500 nett until April 18. Book now by calling 8888-8888 or email reservations@solaireresort.com for a joyful Easter at Solaire Resort Entertainment City.

#SolaireResortEntertainmentCity #easter #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Conrad Manila Invites Families to Celebrate Easter with Inspiring Experiences and Festive Flavors

Conrad Manila celebrates Easter with an array of culinary delights, enchanting confections, and engaging activities designed to create memorable family moments filled with joy, sophistication, and the spirit of togetherness.

“At Conrad Manila, Easter is a cherished occasion to inspire connections and indulge in meaningful celebrations. Our thoughtfully curated offerings promise vibrant flavors, fun-filled festivities and experiences that our guests will treasure long after the holiday ends,” shares Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila.

Easter at Conrad Manila.

A Lavish Easter Feast at Brasserie on 3

Guests can experience the elegance of Easter at Brasserie on 3, where culinary mastery meets vibrant celebration. Savour exceptional dishes such as lechon, spring lamb, premium carved meats, and a selection of gourmet creations designed for every palate. Families can participate in fun-filled activities such as egg and face painting, balloon sculpting, and the traditional Easter egg hunt.

Easter Extravaganza | 20 April 2025
Lunch Buffet: PHP 3,988 nett per adult | PHP 1,994 nett per child
Additional PHP 1,000 nett per person for Easter activities
Guests who reserve and pay in full from April 1 to 10, 2025, will enjoy a special rate of PHP 3,190 nett per adult.

Enchanting Easter Sweets at Bru Coffee Bar

Conrad Manila’s Bru Coffee Bar is set to delight guests with an indulgent selection of Easter-themed treats crafted to bring joy in every bite. The variety ranges from whimsical Egg-shaped rainbow cakes, red velvet cakes with coconut frosting, to Easter-themed chocolates.

Sweet Easter Delights | 1 to 21 April 2025
Available daily | 8:00am to 7:00pm
Whole Cakes | Start at PHP 1,500 nett
Frosting Candies and Pastries | Start at PHP 200 nett

Easter Hampers l Start at PHP 999 nett

Highlights: Easter pralines, chocolate egg, chocolate bar, macarons, assorted mini chocolate egg, Easter sugar cookies, stuffed toys

For an Easter retreat that blends festive fun and relexation for the whole family, guests are invited to reserve their stay at Conrad Manila. Visit Rooms & Suites | Conrad Manila (hilton.com) for the best available rates and packages. To learn more about our Easter promotions, please contact Conrad Manila at +632 8833 9999 or email conradmanila@conradhotels.com.

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