Singapore – Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is pleased to announce the opening of Conrad Singapore Orchard, its second Conrad Hotel & Resorts property in Singapore, joining Conrad Centennial Singapore. Set to create seamless connections between bold design and impactful experiences, Conrad Singapore Orchard will provide guests with a new sense of hospitality that is inspiring, meaningful, and purposeful.
Inspiring Culinary Experiences
Among the highly-immersive experiences at the hotel is the selection of distinct dining concepts that will truly bring guests on a culinary journey. The array of cuisines at the hotel’s ten restaurants and bars, including Manhattan, Basilico, Summer Palace, Dolcetto, and the Tea Lounge, enable guests to explore different cultures through the sense of taste while sparking connections as they reconnect over food.
To welcome the new year, one-Michelin-starred Summer Palace, well-known for serving authentic Cantonese fare in a sophisticated environment, has curated an impressive range of Chinese New Year set menus and special menu offerings perfect for intimate family reunions and business events. Guests can also look forward to sumptuous Chinese New Year buffet brunches and dinners with an Italian touch at the award-winning Basilico, which emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and authentic Italian flavors.
Exceptional Events
The hotel’s 14 event spaces are also primed to host an array of memorable weddings and social events of any scale. Over 1,600 square meters of contemporary events and meeting spaces, including a 583 square-meter ballroom for up to 500 guests, are complemented by thoughtfully curated cuisine by the hotel’s culinary team.
Served by a passionate team that intuitively offers purposeful and personalized service, Conrad Singapore Orchard’s unique approach to hospitality includes pet-friendly solemnization ceremonies and 14 different floral themes to choose from for an unforgettable wedding.
Elevating Luxury Through Distinctive, Bold Design
From now till late 2023, the hotel’s 440 rooms will undergo extensive reinvention and refurbishment. Combining Conrad’s contemporary, bold design ethos that draws in local influences with best-in-class amenities, Conrad Singapore Orchard will bring new levels of sophisticated, modern luxury to Singapore when it opens fully in early 2024.
‘Like A Member’ Dining Offer
Conrad Singapore Orchard will be part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 distinct hotel brands. As part of the ‘Like A Member’ dining offer, Hilton Honors members will enjoy discounts and opportunities to earn Bonus Points when they dine at Summer Palace, Basilico, Manhattan, Dolcetto, and the Tea Lounge at Conrad Singapore Orchard.
Tea Lounge Afternoon Tea Sets.
For more information, guests may visit www.conradsingaporeorchard.com, call +65 6733 8888, or email conrad_singapore_orchard@conradhotels.com.
For Tia Belle’s, great food is a big part of how Filipino families brighten up the holidays and anticipate the unfolding of a new year.
The New Year’s celebration in the Philippines is always something to look forward to. Being a Filipino means that you get to partake in occasions that actively involve family spirit and fondness for one another. The New Year festivities, in particular, shine brighter than the others. Aside from our fun traditions and customs, Filipino food has a culture of its own. From our heirloom dishes to fusion food, the Philippines never runs out of recipes and twists that come with its diverse palate. In addition, each region has its holiday staples and specialty dishes – the New Year is absolutely a feast for everyone!
This is what Tia Belle’s offers for every Filipino family this New Year – a feast of sumptuous dishes that binds the family together. For Tia Belle’s, great food is a big part of how Filipino families brighten up the holidays and anticipate the unfolding of a new year. Their holiday menu consists of Filipino specialty dishes that evoke memories and hope for the coming year. Armed with their cozy ambiance and hospitality. They offer a variety of food that becomes the center of attention this holiday season. Whether for the whole clan or a family of three, Tia Belle’s got you back!
As a Filipino, one of the staples in each occasion is the famous Lumpiyang Bukid. Tia Belle’s version of this traditional dish is both satisfying and creamy and is sure to become the star of the table. They also offer regional favorites such as the delectable Laing enriched with coconut milk. Seafood fans can have a field day with their specialty Dinengdeng, an Ilokano favorite. Other seafood dishes include Steam Pompano and Relyenong Bangus, a healthy alternative to greasy dishes. Moreover, if the holidays prove to be taxing for your health, you can also try their Ampalaya Sotanghon Guisado, which combines healthy eating and tasty food. They also have Ginataang Sitaw Kalabasa for vegetarians or those who want a healthy detox for the New Year!
Tia Belle’s history of serving people Filipino food all goes back to the heart and soul of its owner, Evelyn Wise. “Every time I am in the kitchen, cooking and concocting sauces, I feel like dancing — dancing with my wok,” she shares. To this Nueva Ecija native, being in the kitchen gave her power to produce dishes that became a core memory for her customers, which is what made her leave Europe after staying there for 20 years, a sacrifice she made to finally follow her dream to build her own restaurant. Tia Belle’s seeks to give people the homey vibes and hospitality they crave, which makes them feel like they belong, just like how Evelyn has wholeheartedly embraced Filipino cuisine.
Being hospitable is Tia Belle’s way of paying homage to the illustrious Filipino culture. “We want to be of service to our fellow countrymen while keeping and incorporating the important values and traditions of what being Filipino is all about,” Evelyn says. Tia belle’s also gives you the Filipino dining experience with their regional dishes, and great service, partnered with authentic Filipino architecture. “We make sure we provide an optimal dining experience for our customers by making sure that their dining experience is our responsibility the minute they step into our restaurant.”
Whether you want to dine in or celebrate at home, Tia Belle’s will surely make you feel like a true-blooded Filipino with its dishes. Tia Belle’s is waiting for you to make this occasion memorable. Let’s enjoy ourselves this New Year with Tia Belle’s mouth-watering menu– the Filipino way!
As scriptwriter-director Bibeth Orteza said, “Ricky Lee is a remembrance of all that makes the idea of writing romantic: a lonely childhood, collegiate years without money to spend, a term in jail even. And then an enviable body of work.”
Ricky Lee has spent a good chunk of his career writing scripts for films. Like his screen films, he assumes multiple forms and shadows, complexity, and simplicity in one sleek package.
Filipino film buffs have bought this package, making Ricky, one of the best and most multi-awarded scriptwriters in the Philippines today. Some of his finest Filipino films include Himala, Moral, Brutal, Salome, Madrasta, Curacha, and Miguel/Michelle, among many others.
Aside from his many years of teaching at UP and the Ateneo, he has been conducting scriptwriting workshops, proof of his generosity in imparting career secrets to aspiring and upcoming writers.
Ricky is also a well-known fictionist, having won several literary awards. He has published an anthology of some of his works in 20 years in fiction, journalism, and film (Si Tatang at Mga Himala ng Ating Panahon.)
Revise, revise
Ricky recalls that his scripts of Brutal and Moral had five to seven drafts before he finally perfected them.
“Talagang madugo, hindi bawat revision may nabago lang, talagang overhaul ng skeleton,” he shared during a past interview. “Kasi ‘yong first sequence ng Brutal walang makaintindi kundi si Marilou (Diaz-Abaya). So you have to be patient and concentrate para mag ugat ang mga paa mo. Kailangan mayroong matatag na foundation.”
In writing a script, Ricky follows not just his own judgment. “Natanggap ko na na magkakaroon ng sariling buhay yong script. Whatever will be good for the script doon ako susunod,” he said. “I’m willing to adjust to the popular taste of the audience. Dahil gusto kong ma-reach ang audience ko kaya ako nagsusulat.”
He culled most of his ideas from real-life experiences; some from his imagination. “The ideas in terms of the situation, characters, and images are mostly from outside influences and the environment. Then the inside which is the emotion.”
Length of time
In his early years as a scriptwriter, Ricky could finish a script in a month (the longer script took three months at the most). Now he can finish a script in one or two days.
For instance, the script of the movie Mapusok (starred by Rosanna Roces) was written for two days. As well as Malikot na Mundo (1997) and Sinner or Saint (1984). “I wrote Sinner or Saint on the airplane while going home from Brazil. Pagbaba ko ng airport, may script na ako,” shared Ricky.
The film Andrea by Superstar Nora Aunor was written in less than seven days. The longest material he wrote was Moral. “Hanggang nag shooting na nag-revise pa ako. Nagdidikta ako ng lines kay Marilou over the phone,” said Ricky, “because we wanted to find the best way of telling the story.”
Yet, it was the most fulfilling movie for Ricky.
Working with the best directors
His first year in the industry was a big advantage for Ricky because it was during this period that he got the chance to work with the local cinema’s best directors.
“Nakatrabaho ko agad sina Ishmael Bernal, Mike De Leon, Marilou Diaz-Abaya, Mel Chionglo, Lino Brocka, para akong nag workshop ng todo,” he said.
When he was working with Marilou he learned a different technique. “Expand. Push. When you develop the characters huwag kang nakakahon. Let’s go unstructured. Most of my works with her are mostly on women, like the trilogy of Brutal, Moral, and Karnal. We clicked because she’s a woman. Hindi ko kailanman ma-approximate ‘yong mga alam niyang nuances, malinaw sa kanya ang pagkababae.”
With Ismael Bernal, he learned how to go “classical and structured.”
Meanwhile, Mike De Leon was very conscious of details.
Whereas, Lino Brocka was grounded in one kind of social and political philosophy. “Laging malinaw iyon kay Lino. That’s very reassuring kasi alam mo ang direction,” he said.
Working with dexterous directors (with different approaches) has stretched Ricky’s creative side to the most. From 1979 up to now, Ricky is full-time in the movies. There may be ups and downs in his career, but there will always be people around who will pull him back from leaving the industry.
Nowadays, half of his time is spent writing scripts; the other half he devotes to writing literature, journalism, and theatre. And of course, teaching.
“I will never stop teaching even if it’s difficult to teach because I’m always grounded with reality,” he explained. “Kung puro showbiz ako, lulutang ako, maaaburido ka, o mababaliw ka kasi ang daming humihila sa iyo sa iba’t ibang sides. Mawawalan ka ng perspective.”
Working with the stars
Among the stars he has worked with, he particularly cherished the times when he became close with Nora Aunor. He first worked with Nora in Himala. But they became good friends while they were doing Andrea.
“Kasi trabahong kaibigan talaga ‘yon. We’re still friends up to now, but not as close as before,” he disclosed. Ricky related that he’s not close with celebrities. He keeps a distance from them as much as possible.
Turbulent childhood
Ricky’s turbulent childhood has taught him to face life’s challenges and to excel in one’s talent. He endured many hardships in his struggle to become the country’s multi-awarded scriptwriter.
Courtesy: Mell T. Navarro FB
He typifies the rags-to-riches story. He was born into immigrant families originally from Fujian, China, and was raised in Daet, Bicol. He had a desolate childhood after his parents died when he was still young. He grew up under the care of a relative.
He excelled in school both in Daet and UP. His college days were something for the books. He experienced hunger and loneliness and was jailed for one year during Martial Law for his student activism.
He didn’t resent his past. Rather, he became selfless. He uses his life experiences, struggles, idealism, and intelligence to create over 70 screenplays that have stimulated many Filipino moviegoers. For those pieces of work, he earned more than 30 (and counting) trophies from all the award-giving bodies in the local movie industry.
Because of his upbringing, Ricky related that he became a very shy person. However, he got over his shyness when he entered show business. “I was extremely shy because my father was also extremely shy. We hardly talked. But he loved me. I was very sure of that,” he intimated.
Behind his reserved manner are his witty punchlines. “Defense ko ‘yon para hindi nila ako tingnan sa likod,” he said. “I’m very trusting, but deep inside I’m afraid to trust people. Kasi ilang beses na akong nauntog.”
As a child, he was wont to read almost everything. “Ang feeling ko noon parang inaarmasan ko ang sarili ko. So I accumulated a lot of knowledge. Basa ako nang basa ng libro since I was seven years old.” But he always wanted to become a writer.
When he was in his fourth year of high school at Daet Chung Hua High School, he wanted to run away from home but there was no chance. He had no money.
“Then I read an ad from Free Press (Filipino) that they would accept the short story. Pinadala ko ‘yong story ko (entitled ‘Mayon’) and it was accepted. Every week, binabantayan kong lumabas ang story ko. Finally, when I saw my byline, na reaffirm ‘yong pag-alis ko sa Bicol. I was paid Php50 for my story. That was the happiest time for me as a writer. Then I came to Manila.”
Ricky said that he experienced the most personal growth during his Bicol and UP years. “Those were the happiest years of my life. And also the starvation years for me,” he said.
As scriptwriter-director Bibeth Orteza said, “Ricky Lee is a remembrance of all that makes the idea of writing romantic: a lonely childhood, collegiate years without money to spend, a term in jail even. And then an enviable body of work.”
By Ruby Asoy-Lebajo
(Based on the feature article published in the old Mirror Weekly magazine by the same author)
Tia Belle’s special Christmas dishes revolve around pasta and noodles. Aside from the symbolism of long life, these dishes are also a staple in every Christmas celebration and even in the New Year.
Filipinos are known for their hospitality, strong family ties, and super long Christmas holidays. Most families tend to celebrate in their homes or gather in restaurants and other venues to catch up with relatives. What’s never missing in these gatherings is food – lots and lots of it. It’s the holiday season, everybody deserves to eat good food while enjoying the festivities.
They say love is best expressed through food – and for Tia Belle’s Tagaytay, these scrumptious Christmas dishes are just the perfect addition to your holiday feast. Armed with its Christmas specials, Tia Belle’s is ready to serve customers with a smile and a warm heart. Whether you want to prepare food for two or the whole clan, Tia Belle’s got you covered. Be sure to feast your eyes and stomachs with these delectable dishes and the overflowing hospitality that Tia Belle’s offers!
Tia Belle’s special Christmas dishes revolve around pasta and noodles. Aside from the symbolism of long life, these dishes are also a staple in every Christmas celebration and even in the New Year. A celebration is not complete without these Filipino dishes we love and adore so much. Each dish will surely bring back a lot of memories, and eventually, make way to create new ones this year!
They offer Pansit Malabon, Pansit Siomai, Miki Bihon, Pansit Bihon, Pansit Canton, and Pansit Tofu– all of which are fit for family and clan reunions. The more food, the merrier their stomachs will be!
Other than that, Tia Belle’s also offers Carbonara and Spaghetti for their pasta dishes, perfect for all ages and tastes.
Moreover, they also have Bulalo Lomi and Mucho Lomi, which most tourists crave and always come back to. There’s no stomach Tia Belle’s can’t satisfy!
Food can bind families together
Evelyn Wise, the hands-on owner of Tia Belle’s, truly believes that food can bind families together, just like how her restaurant is bound to her heart. “Every time I am in the kitchen, cooking and concocting sauces, I feel like dancing with my wok,” she says. Cooking has become both her solace and passion, a privilege she enjoys as people appreciate her food. She has a diverse palate, and her cooking styles reflect the years she lived in Europe before she put up a Filipino-style restaurant in our country. For her, cooking can change the world, one plate at a time.
Evelyn Wise, the owner of Tia Belle’s
True to her word, Tia Belle’s reflects Evelyn’s life values. Her restaurant prioritizes its customers before anything else and seeks to uphold hospitality in all ways. “We make sure we provide an optimal dining experience for our customers by making sure that their dining experience is our responsibility the minute they step into our restaurant,” she elaborates.
The restaurant itself also bears a testament to how wonderful Filipino culture can be – adorned with a homey ambiance, it is surely the place to be during the holidays. It gives you a sense of belongingness in a bigger community – just like how Evelyn intended it to be. “We want to give our customers an authentic and genuine glimpse of the Philippines by honoring and delving into the Filipino culture and traditions through our services, atmosphere, art, and food,” says Evelyn.
This Christmas season, Tia Belle’s doors are always welcome for people who want a genuine Filipino experience of the holidays, complete with stellar service, delectable dishes, and good company. The holidays will never be boring for your heart and stomach whenever you’re at Tia Belle’s. You can contact them at 0956 470 8145 or message them on their Facebook page, Tia Belle’s Pansit Malabon and Pichi-Pichi.
Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc
Featured photos: Pansit Tofu, Pansit Malabon, Carbonara, and Miki Bihon
Christmas is fast approaching and the festive season is making us crave for the cold, the perfect combination with the warmth the holidays bring. Baguio is the place to be – with its cool climate and family-friendly attractions. Your trip to this magical place will certainly be memorable with these beautiful hotel accommodations, just in time for your Christmas getaway!
The Kamiseta Hotel
This gorgeous place just screams Bridgerton vibes with its French contemporary design and its equally enchanting glass house! Located beside the famous Mansion house, it is also near the stable Baguio tourist spots: Wright Park, Baguio Country Club Golf Course, and Camp John Hay. Each suite has a distinct motif that makes you feel like royalty, and their staff and concierge will surely treat you like one! Moreover, it is surrounded by pine trees, which gives you the serenity you need. This majestic 3360-degree view can best be seen in their glass house, an area adorned with glass ceilings and a spacious patio. Their comfy ambiance will surely help you settle into the Christmas feels– book your reservation now!
The Orchard Hotel Baguio
Do you want a hotel that’s Instagram-worthy? Look no more as the Orchard Hotel Baguio combines comfort and style with its millennial-themed rooms and amenities. Promoting the #TheORCHARDlifestyle, the hotel ensures that its guests receive 24-hour service that’s worthy of praise. Conveniently located 168 km away from The Clark International Airport, the Orchard Hotel Baguio is also near SM City Baguio, Mines View Park, and the Lourdes grotto.
Photo credits to Plane of Hotels
Whether it’s a family vacation or a couple’s getaway, the hotel makes sure to give you the best room possible!
The Forest Lodge at Camp John Hay
Photo credits to Agoda
Christmas is incomplete without outdoor activities that bind your family even stronger than before–and The Forest Lodge provides you with an equal dose of thrill and relaxation. Surrounded by the lush pine forest of Camp John Hay, the hotel is also famous for its Twist Cafe, with sumptuous dishes from different regions cooked by the Chef Billy King of Le Soufflé Manila. It is also near Mile Hi, a shopping center that’s perfect for buying your pasalubong and souvenirs. This place is perfect for a quick getaway from the busy streets of the city, and for you to embrace your adventurous side this holiday season!
Le Monet Hotel
Showcasing scenic mountain views, the Le Monet Hotel is also within the heart of Camp John Hay. This hotel has several amenities best enjoyed with family and friends, such as the Viva Verde Spa, which includes a variety of massages. Furthermore, their heated indoor swimming pool is a wonderful treat after a long day. Don’t you worry about your appetite–The Lobby restaurant offers a variety of delectable dishes presented by famous Chef Robby Goco! Le Monet Hotel surely lives up to people’s expectations.
Photo credits to Tripadvisor
Grand Sierra Pines Hotel
Looking for a hotel that is both culturally inclined and has an outdoorsy vibe? The Grand Sierra Pines Hotel has got you covered! Located at North Outlook drive, the hotel is known for its rich forests, adorned galleries,and environmentally-friendly amenities. Tourists have raved about the Adkos Gallery, an in-house gallery that showcases true Filipino talent; the true marvel and pride of the hotel. It exhibits various painters, from those in the indie scene to award-winning ones. Grand Sierra Pines Hotel will certainly never bore you this Christmas season!
Photo credits to Agoda
These hotels will surely be your home away from home these upcoming holidays. Be sure to spend it with your family and loved ones in the lush greenery and beautiful spots of Baguio!
Currently running an influencer marketing company called Blogapalooza, this millennial CEO, entrepreneur, and marketing and public relations specialist has seen it all. From blogs to vlogs, this social media mogul has gone through all the latest trends in the interwebs, witnessed the rise of the influencer, and figured out all the tips and tricks to marketing yourself.
Yet beyond the face value of her job, her goal to build a community and see the genuine person behind the screen shines through tenfold. “I hope there will be more creators. I hope that more voices could be heard. I hope that we will have more acknowledgment [towards creators].”
Started with a Blog
Growing up, Ace Gapuz has always been the ‘madaldal’ one in the classroom. As told by her class advisors, she was always going off talking to her peers and saying whatever was on her mind, whichever seating arrangement she was placed in.
Moving from the IRL to the URL, her talking audience switched to behind the screen where she discovered blogging around the ages 11-12 years old back in the early 2000s. “It’s just innate in me to just talk. I have always been a storyteller. I guess that’s what brought me very naturally into blogging.”
“It was a novel concept back then. You write about your thoughts. Let people read them. It’s like a diary that you can have other people read. And the fact that people were hearing you, paying attention to what you have to say, and making you part of their lives, that was groundbreaking during that time,” Ace fondly reminisces.
Ace treated her blog like a personal diary, writing about her day-to-day life, interests, and opinions to a faceless audience. But, come 2009, she stopped because, in her words, “college happened.” “Blogging, for me back then, it was an honored pastime. It was something I did because I genuinely enjoyed. It wasn’t something I thought about as a career,” she muses.
So, at this time, she found herself taking up a bachelor’s degree in Management Engineering with a Minor in HR Management in the Ateneo at Manila University and, later on, an MBA. She felt that business was the more practical and pragmatic choice for the future. It was a versatile path that led to many outcomes.
That was until Ace took on a corporate job in a fashion and retail company and worked at it for two years. And very naturally, she found herself back into more creative and media pursuits as she was placed in PR and events. “I like the dynamic nature of PR and events. You get to meet people. And I got to meet the bloggers I used to just know over the internet.”
Maintaining contact and connecting her way through the industry, she didn’t see any other path than to start Blogapalooza.
Ended with a Blogapalooza
Being a young CEO, Ace Gapuz didn’t let her age get in the way of pursuing her goals. She was determined to see things through.
From being a storyteller herself to letting other people share their stories, it all ties back to Ace’s roots with personal blogging to now, Blogapalooza. Through the years, the premier influencer marketing company has built a community of thousands of bloggers, social media influencers, and content creators all over the Philippine archipelago and nearby Southeast Asian countries.
“When I started building the Blogapalooza community of creators, I went to different parts of the Philippines and the world, for that matter. I wanted to hear them, to feel them. I think when you talk about building a community, it’s important to get to know what drives these people, what’s at their core, and what would make them happy. And that’s where you come in to provide the value.”
The greatest lesson she’s learned in the process? Be genuine, always. “If you’re genuine about service if you’re genuine about providing value, and if you genuinely care for them, they’re also going to feel that, and they’re going to give you that same energy.”
Lloyd and Judith Barran seemed to have it all– a blossoming business, a great marriage, but one must simply know how they came to achieve all of this. There is one word for it: love.
A couple’s shared love and passion
Before they married and had three wonderful children, Lloyd and Judith were in different worlds– almost literally. Lloyd was born in Guyana, South America while Judith first saw the light of the world in Davao, Philippines. Even as a young man, Lloyd did everything with passion and grit. He was a stellar student– up till he entered college at the University of Saskatchewan, he continued his love for science by taking up Pharmacy.
However, science took a break for a while when he went back to Guyana to become a corporate secretary to six companies in the Booker, McConnell Group of Companies. It was a great undertaking, but his love for science still prevailed as he went back to Canada, eventually opening up a retail pharmacy that lasted for 25 years. That was the time when Lloyd met Judith– an encounter like no other.
Judith and Lloyd Barran: The couple’s love for aromatherapy and their strong bond has been crucial for the Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy, Presenting Cleopatra Luxury Skincare to rise to greater heights.
Judith was a Commerce graduate, but she was also keen on discovering and making new paths for herself. She studied interior decorating, and affluent people from Davao would acquire her to decorate their mansions. She followed her heart and married Lloyd in 1992, and moved to Canada a year later. In 2000, She attended Aromatherapy school, and Lloyd followed her the next year. Their love for each other and their interest in aromatherapy brought forth the existence of Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy, Presenting Cleopatra Luxury Skincare– a testament of dedication and passion to their craft.
Judith is currently focused on marketing its products in Western Canada, preparing for the launch of its product in the fall of 2022.
A product of their love and dedication
The Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy, Presenting Cleopatra Luxury Skincare features a wide range of products that seek to enlighten one’s well-being and promote a healthy and invigorated lifestyle as well. Like the name Cleopatra, which originated from Ancient Egypt, they also want their customers to experience beauty in its most refreshing form. They have several products that seek to help people feel naturally better. They have several aromatherapy blends for Muscle & Joint Pain, Cold Sores, Headaches, and Cold & Flu, among others. All of their products are made from 100% essential oils and are used and recommended by doctors and dermatologists alike.
During the pandemic, they have also created their skincare line, Cleopatra Luxury Skincare. It features a variety of luxury serums–the Scar and Stretch Mark serum, the Youth Serum Elixir, and the Acne Blend. Customers from all over the world have been raving about it, as it enhances their youthful beauty and nourishes the skin!
On to greater heights
Despite all the odds, the couple’s love for aromatherapy and their strong bond has been crucial for the Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy, Presenting Cleopatra Luxury Skincare to rise to greater heights. Their partnership, sense of duty, and love for each other have helped them grow together and as individuals. In turn, the Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy is now growing and thriving, never backing down.
Lloyd and Judith are now hand in hand in managing their business, which has also helped people from all around the world discover what it takes to take their health and beauty to a higher level. Judith is currently focused on marketing its products in Western Canada, preparing for the launch of its product in the fall of 2022. One thing is for sure– their love for aromatherapy and each other will never waver, much like the Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy’s success.
As the world mourns Queen Elizabeth II’s death, it cannot be ignored that people felt like they’ve lost a mother, a leader whom they can all look up to. Her reign was eventful as it was legendary– and one could only hope that the next leader would be as astounding and dedicated as she was.
One of the longest reigns in the history of the British Monarch has come to an end. Queen Elizabeth II, an icon and a ruler, died on September 8, 2022, at the Balmoral Castle in Scotland. Her leadership style and dedication to her role have become a constant reminder of the monarch’s stability and power, and in her death, her legacy still resonates.
Queen Elizabeth II had an eventful and record-breaking reign in a contemporary monarchy. She assumed the throne when she was 25, after her father’s death in 1952. Her reign, spanning 70 years, has witnessed quite a several historical and groundbreaking events, most of which changed the course of humanity. She has seen the downfall of the British Empire, the birth of the internet and the smartphone, and took part in welcoming new norms and trends throughout her life. With all these experiences combined, Queen Elizabeth II played the long game.
Her impeccable influence
Through the years, Queen Elizabeth II has become a beacon of stability– not only for her subjects but for the whole world. Despite the chaotic slew of events that coincided with her reign, she was one of the vital reasons as to why the monarchy survived and continues to hold power and influence to this day.
In leading the British empire, and later on the Commonwealth, Queen Elizabeth II has consistently been an enigma– in a way that her decisions are calculated and precise, yet almost nobody truly knows what is going on inside her mind. Her reign has also been full of scandals and exposes, most of which tarnished the image of the Royal Family. However, despite everything that happened, her influence as the Queen remained and the monarchy regained its reputation every time.
Her staunch beliefs, though reminiscent of the old colonial past of Britain, also evolved as the world’s perspective changed. Radical shifts and new norms were welcomed as the Royal Family embraced the modern era. Queen Elizabeth II has a favorability rating of 75 percent, which played a huge role in how the monarchy continues to be relevant in the current times.
Her unique leadership style
Queen Elizabeth II wasn’t born into immense pressure– she was far in the line of succession back when her uncle, Edward, was the heir to the throne. When he abdicated in favor of her father, King George VI, she immediately became the heir to the throne. Her discipline and utmost dedication to her work were highlighted, and they helped in accomplishing her steadfast vision for the monarchy.
Elizabeth II portrait. Photo credits to Getty Images
She worked incredibly hard at her job. Queen Elizabeth II wasn’t the type to stay stagnant as a leader, she would always have engagements, both local and foreign, to expand relations and oversee operations throughout the entire Commonwealth. In turn, all the countries under the Commonwealth look up to her as an unchanging leader, whom they follow and admire.
One may view Queen Elizabeth II’s leadership style as apolitical and neutral, which she is constantly known for (and sometimes praised for) at times. The people of the Commonwealth valued her neutrality and deemed it vital for their countries’ stability. Despite the current political climate, the Commonwealth remained powerful and significant.
As the world mourns Queen Elizabeth II’s death, it cannot be ignored that people felt like they’ve lost a mother, a leader whom they can all look up to. Her reign was eventful as it was legendary– and one could only hope that the next leader would be as astounding and dedicated as she was. As people look forward to the new reign, it cannot be denied that Queen Elizabeth II did an adequate job in shaping the present– and who knows, with her long-standing legacy, maybe even the future.
Apart from being completely luxurious in look and feel, the Queen of Hearts Silk Sleepwear Collection makes an ideal investment in beauty, health, and wellness.
Sleep is a vital, often neglected component of every person’s overall well-being. With this premise, a relevant business idea on wellness has been created.
“Lack of sleep is a major concern among people of all ages so we decided to put up a sleepwear business to help people get all the benefits of quality sleep,” shares Mitzie Go-Gil, CEO at Beauty Queens Collection Fashion House. Her company distributes Queen of Hearts Sleepwear Collection products.
The silk fabric material chosen for the sleepwear can provide utmost comfort, gentle on even sensitive skin, and breathable which will promote better sleep, according to Gil.
Silk sleepwear is recommended particularly for women. It provides many health benefits, looks elegant, classic, sexy, and beautiful.
For its initial stage, the products will be available online, and eventually will be distributed in Manila areas. “Volume orders for areas outside the initial distribution area including overseas will be considered carefully on its viability,” adds Gil, the beauty queen turned enterprising woman.
The health benefits of Silk
Did you know that silk is one of the most luxurious, coveted fabrics in the world? But more than this, it offers several health benefits.
First, silk is the strongest of natural fibers. It contains natural protein and 18 essential amino acids. It also contains natural cellular albumen which speeds up the metabolism in skin cells.
Second, silk is hypoallergenic. It does not attract dust mites and is a natural fungal repellent.
The silk fabric provides utmost comfort and breathable which promotes better sleep.
Third, silk does not draw moisture away from your skin and hair but encourages a proper moisture balance. While its extremely smooth and soft texture proves to be beneficial for those with a sensitive skin condition.
Sleeping on Silk for overall wellbeing
Sleeping on silk provides proper health hydration, natural, cool, prevents sleep creases, no sweat, slows down the aging process, and most importantly, it improves the quality of your sleep.
Queen of Hearts Sleepwear red collection. Silk sleepwear suits even the most sensitive skin and helps to keep your skin moisturized.
The fabric itself helps with eczema and asthma, prevents allergies because of its natural anti-fungal element. It suits even the most sensitive skin and helps to keep your skin moisturized.
As it does not conduct static electricity, sleeping on silk helps reduce hair breakage. Thus, works wonder for hair health.
Queen of Hearts Sleepwear gold collection. As it does not conduct static electricity, sleeping on silk helps reduce hair breakage. Thus, works wonder for hair health.
Interestingly, wearing silk can help fight the symptoms of menopause. Silk is temperature regulating, which makes it beneficial for menopausal women combating the battle against night sweats and hot flashes. Hot flashes are usually triggered by fluctuating estrogen levels and other hormonal changes in menopause.
Can you give one important piece of advice to women on choosing the right sleepwear?
“Silk sleepwear is recommended particularly for women,” Gil said. “Silk is the strongest of natural fibers. As it is a breathable fabric and a natural temperature regulator. Silk helps the body retain heat in cold weather while excess heat is expelled in warm weather, helping the body maintain a comfortable, natural temperature. Silk sleepwear is free from wrinkles, looks elegant, classic, sexy, and beautiful.”
Twinning: Queen of Hearts Sleepwear Collection has style for both mom and daughter.
No wonder, Gil is a testament to a satisfied silk sleepwear user. It is her secret to a youthful, glowing complexion, healthy and happy physical state.
Apart from being completely luxurious in look and feel, Queen of Hearts Silk Sleepwear makes an ideal investment in beauty, health, and wellness.
For more information, visit the Queen of Hearts Sleepwear Collection FB page https://www.facebook.com/QueensSleepwear.
“No act is too small to make your country better,” said Leviste during a valedictory speech to his fellow graduates, encouraging them to make a positive impact.
“Being Batangueño is the best thing ever,” began Ronin Leviste, the uber-passionate and ultra-proud yet humble recently elected 23-year-old Municipal Vice-Mayor of Lian, Batangas. “We have the most beautiful province in the entire country — beyond the instagrammable mountains and world-class beaches, it is our people [my fellow Batangueños] and their stories who can showcase all the best my province has to offer. We’re already so near [Manila], but we still have a lot more infrastructure coming in soon, surely putting us in a sweet spot for rapid development.”
Following in his father’s footsteps
Politics was never an alien concept to Ronin. His father is Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste, whose flourishing career began over two decades ago. As soon as he could walk, Ronin was already accompanying his father to constituent consultations, sessions, and the campaign trails. Seeing his father work closely with communities inspired the young man to follow in his footsteps.
As a student at Xavier, Ronin developed outreach programs growing up and played a role in the social action arm of the school. He recalls a great memory when he started a movement of the solar light building with his barkada in the school’s science lab and then installed them in underprivileged dim communities in Batangas and Mindanao.
While in college at De La Salle University, Leviste received two of the highest honors, the Br. Gabriel Connon Award and the Gawad Francisco Ortigas Jr. Most Outstanding Undergraduate Student Leader Award. In his final year at school, he served as Vice President for External Affairs of the University Student Government. To top it all off, he graduated Magna Cum Laude in Development Studies with the Best Undergraduate Thesis Award.
Creating a positive impact
During the university’s 192nd Commencement Exercise, Leviste gave a rousing valedictory speech to his fellow graduates, encouraging them to make a positive impact. “Everyone here has a different timeline, everyone here has a unique story, but the commonality that binds us is that we all have talents, opportunities, and skills worth sharing when put together, with almost no limit to what the world can expect from us. More importantly, we all have an equal role to play in the development of the Philippines that we call our home. So when our country needs us, we, as Lasallian leaders, must always respond with unconditional service to the nation because to build the nation is to love.” It was Leviste’s wake-up call to his peers: that no act is too small to make your country better.
Education as his advocacy
Ronin soon began building his political career, serving as Sangguniang Kabataan Kagawad in Makati and as the Youth Affairs Head of the office of the Vice Governor. He then ran as Municipal Vice-Mayor of Lian, Batangas, as an independent candidate.
“Education can uplift people from poverty and give them an extra sense of fulfillment,” says Leviste.
While he is one of the youngest vice mayors in the country, Ronin never takes it for granted. Apart from what he learned from his father and other mentors, he humbly credits his success to his education — learning loads from school and the people around him. The Batangueño says that education is one of his main advocacies as Vice-Mayor. “Education can uplift people from poverty and give them an extra sense of fulfillment. I learned so much from it, but it also taught me that there is still so much more to learn, so much more to do, so much more to serve,” he muses.
“Everything starts with a vision,” he says. “And mine begins by building a Tomorrow Together. For me, this means we leave absolutely no one behind. I want the Philippines where everyone can wake up in the morning knowing they have food on their tables, that they have jobs sufficient to provide for their family, and that their kids go to school and now have the means to do so. All of this will help uplift families to a better future — giving everyone equal opportunities in life. It is a daunting task ahead, but our generation has shown that if anyone can lead this change — it’s us.”
