24.04.2013 Views

december-2011

december-2011

december-2011

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

MAGAZINE FOR CEBU PACIFIC<br />

DECEMBER <strong>2011</strong><br />

MANILA SKY<br />

The city sparkles with<br />

festive lights<br />

(page 106)<br />

Countdown<br />

to Christmas<br />

7 Chefs reinvent the meal<br />

6 Routes to your roots<br />

5 Places to chill<br />

All-new sensational Cebu<br />

The rise of the southern city<br />

Discover<br />

Dumaguete’s<br />

art & soul<br />

(page 158)<br />

Singapore<br />

on a<br />

shoestring


62 Mix and<br />

match<br />

Still looking for the perfect presents<br />

for your loved ones? Show family and<br />

friends how well you know them with<br />

customized packs of great travel stuff.<br />

68 The new<br />

Noche Buena<br />

The perfect recipe for livening up this<br />

year’s Noche Buena feast: mix portions<br />

of tradition with a dash of inventiveness<br />

and a whole lot of love and imagination.<br />

Seven Pinoy chefs reveal how.<br />

Love your<br />

own<br />

From massage to martial<br />

87<br />

arts, musical instruments to Mangyan script,<br />

homegrown has never been so hip. Learn<br />

more of the local ways that make Pinoy<br />

heritage rock.<br />

contents<br />

Know where everything’s at in December<br />

94 Cool getaways<br />

We’ve mapped out fi ve hilltop chillout<br />

spots — in Mindanao, Malaysia,<br />

Taiwan, Japan and Indonesia — where<br />

you can make the most of December’s<br />

cool weather.<br />

106<br />

Manila when<br />

it sparkles<br />

Watch Metro Manila come alive<br />

during the festive season at any<br />

of these holiday highlights.<br />

114<br />

Bright lights,<br />

big city<br />

Often called The Queen City of the South,<br />

Cebu City puts on its game face to greet<br />

the world as one of the Philippines’ premier<br />

cosmopolitan destinations.<br />

{ 1 }<br />

Kudos to the chefs!<br />

Dine with the whole<br />

family at Abaseria in Cebu<br />

Super-saver deals in<br />

Singapore!<br />

126<br />

Slow &<br />

steady<br />

in the city<br />

Now that the fl oods are being managed, it’s<br />

time to plan for a soulful, sightseeing city tour<br />

of Bangkok along its famed river.<br />

136 Pomp &<br />

circumstance<br />

Behind Seoul’s grand Gyeongbokgung palace<br />

is a riveting story that spans six centuries<br />

of pomp and pageantry, destruction and<br />

restoration, tragedy and ultimate triumph.<br />

148 Savor<br />

Singapore<br />

See the sights, indulge in the wide<br />

variety of eats, take home some cheap<br />

treats, and feel the city vibe on a<br />

shoestring budget. Let an in-the-know<br />

local be your guide.<br />

158 The creative<br />

zone<br />

More and more artists and intellectuals<br />

are setting up house in Dumaguete, the<br />

quintessential tropical university town.<br />

168 Trees of life<br />

Now this is foresight — a team of environmental<br />

advocates are on a mission to rebuild forests one<br />

tree at a time.<br />

177 Trip journal<br />

Your city guides to Cebu Pacifi c’s<br />

destinations, with great advice from locals<br />

218 Route map<br />

Check out Cebu Pacifi c’s growing network!<br />

220 Airline news<br />

The latest buzz from your favorite airline<br />

222-224 Onboard<br />

delights<br />

Sweet and savory bites, plus loads of infl ight<br />

merchandise and duty-free items to buy


LICENSE TO SELL ENCRFO-11-08-022


Adventure. Romance. Indulgence. Delight. Inspiration.<br />

Whatever you want in life, Eastwood City has it all.<br />

And whatever the season, there’s always something to celebrate.<br />

In your City, amp up your adrenaline with a vibrant leisure culture.<br />

Get even closer to the one you love. Feel pampered any time of the day.<br />

Dine around the world without leaving the metro. Or enjoy the high<br />

of being at the top of your game. And just when life can’t seem to get any better,<br />

go home to the newest and most exciting residence at Eastwood City,<br />

One Eastwood Avenue—and discover a whole new world of pleasure.<br />

Have everything you love to live for in a place that keeps on sparkling.<br />

And keeps on surprising. Eastwood City.<br />

Be fi rst in every way, everyday, in the City for all seasons. Learn more about what’s<br />

in store for you at One Eastwood Avenue, Eastwood City’s newest residential off ering.<br />

Visit the Grand Showroom across from the Eastwood Mall. Eastwood City is located<br />

along E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave. (C-5), Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines.<br />

Tels: (632) 421-4243 • 421-4247<br />

www.eastwood-properties.com<br />

UNITS FOR AS LOW AS P10,000 A MONTH.<br />

Developer:<br />

www.megaworldcorp.com<br />

ISO 9001:2000 CERTIFIED


PHOTO CAROLINE SCHMIDT AND NICOLAI SVANE/DANISHCONNECTION.COM GROOMING & STYLING MARIE CALICA<br />

INK EDITORIAL<br />

Editor Tara FT Sering<br />

Art Director Adi Effendy<br />

Sub-Editor Charmaine Baylon<br />

Contributing Editors Maya O Calica (Chikka<br />

section) and Nikka Sarthou (Domestic Trip Journal)<br />

Editorial Director (Singapore) Liz Weselby<br />

Design Director (Asia) Peter Stephens<br />

Associate Design Director (Singapore)<br />

Terence Goh<br />

Photo Editor Lester V Ledesma<br />

Production Manager Helen Uy Punzalan<br />

Design Intern Sri Nur Shazreen<br />

Executive Creative Director Michael Keating<br />

CEO Jeffrey O’Rourke<br />

Managing Director Gerry Ricketts<br />

Chief Operating Offi cer Hugh Godsal<br />

Group Publisher Simon Leslie<br />

ADVERTISING<br />

Group Publisher Mohan Gopal<br />

Brand Managers Bong Dy-Liacco, Andrew Lugtu,<br />

Jil Sembrano-North and Kriztel Lorbes<br />

Tel +65 6324 2386<br />

Email smile@ink-global.com<br />

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS<br />

Tel +65 6324 2386<br />

Email smile@ink-global.com<br />

Smile Online Copy<br />

www.ink-live.com/emagazines/smile<br />

Smile Facebook<br />

Find us at: Smile Cebu Pacifi c Airlines<br />

Email us at: Smilefb@ink-global.com<br />

SMILE magazine is published on behalf of Cebu<br />

Pacifi c Air by Ink Publishing Pte Ltd • 89 Neil<br />

Road, #03-01, Singapore 088849 • tel +65<br />

6324 2386 • fax +65 6491 5261 •<br />

www.ink-global.com • www.cebusmile.com<br />

MICA (P) 170/06/<strong>2011</strong><br />

All articles and<br />

photographs published<br />

herein are created by<br />

the authors and photographers at their own<br />

discretion and do not necessarily represent<br />

the views of the airline. All material is strictly<br />

copyrighted and all rights are reserved. No part<br />

of this publication may be reproduced in whole<br />

or in part without the prior written permission<br />

of the copyright holder. All prices and data are<br />

correct at the time of publication.<br />

MAGAZINE FOR CEBU PACIFIC<br />

DECEMBER <strong>2011</strong><br />

MANILA SKY<br />

The city sparkles with<br />

festive lights<br />

(page 106)<br />

Countdown<br />

to Christmas<br />

7 Chefs reinvent the meal<br />

6 Routes to your roots<br />

5 Places to chill<br />

All-new sensational Cebu<br />

The rise of the southern city<br />

Discover<br />

Dumaguete’s<br />

art & soul<br />

(page 158)<br />

Singapore<br />

on a<br />

shoestring<br />

THIS MONTH ‚ S COVER<br />

Photographer Caroline Schmidt and Nicolai Svane/<br />

danishconnection.com. Art director Adi Effendy. Photo<br />

editor Lester V Ledesma. Hair and makeup Marie Calica.<br />

Stylist Donna Cuna-Pita. Models Darleen Hopkirk<br />

and Adam Santiago. On her: dress from The Ramp at<br />

Crossings Department Store, Shangri-La Plaza Mall,<br />

Mandaluyong City. On him: model's own.<br />

welcome onboard<br />

Priceless presents<br />

More often than not, the best gifts are those you can’t pack in a<br />

box and tie up neatly with a ribbon. They’re the ones you carry around with<br />

you at all times and enrich you as a person — like a grandmother’s recipe,<br />

perhaps, which brings back heart-warming childhood memories, or a new<br />

experience you’re sure to remember fondly and share as stories in the years<br />

to come, wherever you may be.<br />

This Christmas season, we humbly present you with our thickest Smile<br />

issue ever, packed with stories that bring back old memories and inspire us to<br />

make new and exciting ones. In The new Noche Buena (page 68),<br />

Manila’s fi nest young chefs put a new spin on the old classics of the Filipino<br />

Christmas table. For something new to try over the holidays, we urge you to<br />

Love your own (page 87) and reconnect with our Pinoy roots. In Trees<br />

of life (page 168), a reforestation effort shows us how to give the gift of life<br />

and plant the seeds for a better future. We're also giving you great travel<br />

ideas across our network (Dumaguete, Bangkok, Seoul and<br />

Singapore) and putting the spotlight on Cebu (page 114) — discover the<br />

city’s bright new sheen as a cosmopolitan destination that keeps in step with<br />

the rest of the world.<br />

May you and your kin have a blessed Christmas and a bright New Year<br />

ahead!<br />

{ 7 }<br />

Lance Gokongwei<br />

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER


chikka<br />

The latest buzz on lifestyle, travel and celebrity news<br />

page 14<br />

An animated scene from A Moving<br />

Masterpiece in Singapore<br />

The best of times<br />

It , s official: the year is closing and we , re doing it with a bang. All<br />

across the Cebu Pacific network are places to visit, things to try,<br />

shows to see, and people to meet. But no matter how busy you get<br />

this Christmas, don , t forget to give yourself the best reward: time to<br />

pause, take stock, and prepare for another new year.<br />

Would love to<br />

hear from you!<br />

Write me at<br />

cebusmile@<br />

ink-global.com!<br />

Wishing you a soulful Christmas and a new year<br />

of travel, adventure<br />

and excitement. The<br />

best of times are truly<br />

yet to come.<br />

For the latest updates, check out our Facebook fan page (Smile Cebu Pacific Airlines).<br />

{ 13 }<br />

Our Chikka Click<br />

page just got more<br />

exciting! If your<br />

snapshot gets chosen for<br />

publication, you get both<br />

pride and prize — as next<br />

month , s My Snapshot<br />

winner gets to keep this<br />

snazzy pair of Rudy Project<br />

Jazz eyewear. Send your<br />

entries to mysnapshot@<br />

cebusmile.com now!<br />

The Smile team at the Radisson Blu’s Santa Maria<br />

ballroom. Standing from left to right: Treena<br />

(Director of Marketing & Communications, Radisson<br />

Blu Cebu); Donna (stylist); Nicolai and Caroline<br />

(photographers); Darleen and Adam (models); Lester<br />

(photo editor); and Adi (art director). Kneeling: Marie<br />

(makeup artist) and me.


KUALA LUMPUR<br />

Sungha Jung Live in<br />

Kuala Lumpur<br />

December 4<br />

Catch the 15-year-old South Korean ukelele<br />

and acoustic guitarist as he performs<br />

a mix of pop, rock and new age tracks<br />

from his fi rst album, Perfect Blue. Not<br />

familiar with Sungha? The self-taught<br />

musician — whose cover of the Pirates of<br />

the Caribbean theme song garnered more<br />

than 22 million views on Youtube — honed<br />

his talent by watching video clips on the<br />

Internet. He played so well that his father<br />

posted his fi rst video on the site. The rest,<br />

as they say, is history. Sungha Jung Live<br />

in Kuala Lumpur is supported by Lakewood<br />

Guitar, Anuenue Ukulele, AER Amp and<br />

UCSI University. Tickets from MYR83<br />

(PHP1,155); visit www.ticketpro.com.my<br />

and www.theguitarstore.com.my<br />

OSAKA<br />

Orange picking season<br />

Until December 15<br />

At 30 acres, the Nanrakuen agricultural<br />

park has many seasonal fl owers and fruits<br />

— like the juicy mandarin orange, which<br />

has become popular with fruit lovers and<br />

visitors since the park won the Agriculture,<br />

Forestry and Fisheries Minister’s Prize. So<br />

take advantage of the last few remaining<br />

days of their orange-picking program, on top<br />

of other attractions like fi shing, fi eld athletics<br />

and barbecuing. www.osaka-info.jp/en/<br />

SINGAPORE<br />

Standard Chartered Marathon <strong>2011</strong><br />

December 4<br />

Raring to do the 5K, 10K or 21K, or just feel like<br />

cheering for the runners? Head down to the Padang for the<br />

Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore (SCMS) <strong>2011</strong>. There will be<br />

entertainment and live performances, games at the Kids’ Zone for the<br />

little ones, and various contests where you can stand to win attractive<br />

prizes. Meanwhile, loved ones can root for their friends and family at<br />

cheering stations along the race routes! www.marathonsingapore.com<br />

Ho-hoholiday…<br />

celebrate!<br />

Comedy acts, classic performances and rock concerts<br />

give you lots of good reasons to smile<br />

{ 14 }<br />

JAKARTA<br />

Pitbull Live in Concert C<br />

December 6<br />

With the release release of<br />

Planet Pit, his sixth<br />

full-length album, alb American rapper<br />

Pitbull’s return re to Southeast Asia<br />

is quite quit timely. After kicking<br />

things thing off with concerts<br />

in the t Philippines and<br />

Malaysia Ma in November,<br />

he is set to rock Jakarta’s<br />

Tennis T Indoor Senayan<br />

this month. Join the<br />

party — you can be<br />

sure Pitbull will give<br />

his everything to<br />

please you that night!<br />

For tickets, contact the<br />

Trilogy T Live Hotline at<br />

+62 + (21) 720 8642.


GETTY IMAGES<br />

chikka calendar<br />

Aerosmith<br />

wouldn’t want you<br />

to miss a thing<br />

OSAKA<br />

Aerosmith in Concert<br />

December 6<br />

They’ve sold over 150 million albums in<br />

over 30 years. But Aerosmith — one of<br />

America’s greatest rock bands — shows<br />

no signs of slowing down. So what<br />

makes this tour of Japan extra special?<br />

Well, it’s the group’s fi rst visit to the<br />

country in seven years. So be sure to<br />

catch 63-year-old rocker Steven Tyler<br />

(whose career got a boost on American<br />

Idol) and the rest of the members at the<br />

Osaka Dome. www.aeroforceone.com<br />

SINGAPORE<br />

SINGAPO<br />

The Nutcr Nutcracker<br />

December Dece 8–11<br />

The Singapore S Dance<br />

Theatre Thea presents a classic<br />

Christmas Chris tale with a<br />

twist: The The Nutcracker, Nutcracker, which they’ve set<br />

in turn-of-the-century, colonial Shanghai<br />

against Tchaikovsky’s brilliant music.<br />

The story revolves around Clara, who<br />

receives a beautiful nutcracker doll from<br />

her toymaker uncle, Dr Drosselmeyer. At<br />

the stroke of midnight, the nutcracker doll<br />

comes alive to her rescue when her room<br />

is invaded by the Rat King. The valiant doll<br />

defeats the Rat King, and transforms into<br />

a handsome Prince. Clara then goes on a<br />

magical journey through the Land of Snow<br />

and the Kingdom of Sweets, where she is<br />

enchanted by sights of Spain, France and<br />

China, and is later met by the Snow Queen<br />

and Sugar Plum Fairy. www.sistic.com.sg<br />

{ 15 }<br />

don’t<br />

miss!<br />

MANILA<br />

The Sleeping<br />

Beauty<br />

December 2–11<br />

To mark its 42nd season,<br />

Ballet Philippines is staging<br />

this popular classical ballet —<br />

known for its lovely waltzes,<br />

lilting music by Tchaikovsky, and<br />

choreography by Marius Petipa —<br />

at the CCP. It stars principal dancers<br />

Katherine Trofeo and Candice Adea.<br />

www.ticketworld.com.ph<br />

SINGAPORE<br />

A Moving Masterpiece:<br />

The Song Dynasty As<br />

Living Art<br />

December 7<br />

The exhibit includes the animated<br />

reproduction of the Qing Ming<br />

Shang He Tu, a hit at the Shanghai<br />

World Expo last year, and a 128 x<br />

6.5m digital painting with talking<br />

characters. At 10,000m², it is<br />

Singapore’s largest art show ever.<br />

www.amovingmasterpiece.com<br />

SHANGHAI<br />

Yundi Plays Beethoven<br />

December 18<br />

Famous Chinese pianist Yundi<br />

Li and the Shanghai Symphony<br />

Orchestra will regale you with works<br />

by classical composers Beethoven,<br />

Wagner and Strauss. The 29-yearold<br />

instrumentalist has been dubbed<br />

the “Prince of the Piano” by his fans<br />

in China; the orchestra is the oldest<br />

of its kind in Asia. Shanghai Oriental<br />

Art Center, www.classictic.com/en<br />

MANILA<br />

Jon to the World<br />

December 5–6<br />

He’s known for his impersonations<br />

of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo<br />

(“Tita Gloring”), Joseph Estrada<br />

(“Sherrap Estrada”) and Ate Vi<br />

(“Vilma Santos”). This month,<br />

comic Jon Santos does his hilarious<br />

impressions of “Shamcee,” “Charice<br />

Penpendesarapen-pengco,” Paris<br />

Hilton and Oprah at the Newport<br />

Performing Arts Theater, Resorts<br />

World Manila. www.viva.com.ph


chikka click<br />

my<br />

snapshot<br />

Smile reader Charlotte Jennifer Calonge captures<br />

one of nature’s wonders in Surigao<br />

I was strolling down Surigao City’s Boulevard<br />

one afternoon to see how a typical day at the<br />

seafront goes. There was a brief shower and<br />

then a rainbow slowly appeared through the<br />

mist. Seeing a rainbow after the rain<br />

is quite a reward in itself.<br />

{ 16 }<br />

Snap and win!<br />

Send us your snapshot<br />

with your story at<br />

mysnapshot@cebusmile.<br />

com and get a chance to<br />

win a prize. See our<br />

Chikka Opener<br />

for details.


Urban by Nature<br />

Sofi tel So Bangkok, a newly-opened design hotel, has collaborated<br />

with sister property Sofi tel So Mauritius to produce a double music<br />

CD that launches the two addresses via music styling and the theme<br />

“When Mauritius meets Bangkok”. DJ Ravin of Paris’s Buddha Bar<br />

combines chill lounge tracks for a resort feel, with upbeat sounds that<br />

typify an urban lifestyle. Available on iTunes and Amazon.com<br />

DECK THE HALLS…<br />

Decorating with Flowers<br />

by Roberto Caballero and<br />

Elizabeth V Reyes<br />

With the festive season in full swing, this hardbound book<br />

of stunning fl ower arrangements will inspire you to create<br />

dazzling table settings and installations for your holiday<br />

parties — or any occasion, for that matter. Ten designers<br />

and artists showcase their ideas and insights behind their<br />

fl oral creations, all depicted in detailed photos by Luca<br />

Invernizzi Tettoni. It’s an excellent reference for interior<br />

decorators, fl orists, event planners and homeowners<br />

looking to spruce up living spaces. US$44.95 (PHP1,914)<br />

at all leading bookstores.<br />

chikka reviews<br />

Mood groove<br />

A hotel and a restaurant churn out their own OSTs<br />

SEVVA Sounds Volume I<br />

Lifestyle diva Bonnie Gokson produced this collection of sophisticated tracks for her fashionable<br />

penthouse restaurant SEVVA in Central, Hong Kong. On the debut album’s hit list are artists<br />

Toco, Pamela Joy, Tony Desare, Vince Jones, Chris Botti and Aaron Neville, to name a few,<br />

and songs that range from classic jazz, pop jazz and funk to West Coast jazz and bossa nova.<br />

HK$168 (PHP922), available at SEVVA and the restaurant’s website, www.sevva.hk<br />

{ 18 }<br />

Book reviews<br />

A Daughter<br />

Remembers<br />

by Li Lien-fung<br />

In this powerful memoir, Shanghaiborn<br />

author Li Lien-fung comes to<br />

terms with her parents’ separation.<br />

Originally written in Chinese and<br />

translated into English by the author,<br />

it is a masterful attempt to piece<br />

together the fragments of their lives.<br />

S$18.50/PHP634 (excl GST), www.<br />

marshallcavendish.com<br />

Between Loss and<br />

Forever: Filipino<br />

Mothers on the<br />

Grief Journey<br />

by Cathy Babao-<br />

Guballa<br />

Journalist, grief educator and coach<br />

Cathy Babao-Guballa’s fi rst book is<br />

a transcendent and transformative<br />

volume that explores a mother’s pain<br />

from the death of a child, through 18<br />

narratives by women who lost their<br />

offspring to disease, accidental and<br />

violent deaths, and suicide. PHP395,<br />

National Bookstore and Powerbooks,<br />

www.anvilpublishing.com<br />

TEXT MAYA O CALICA


Design in<br />

the details<br />

Here’s why Hotel ICON —<br />

Tsim Sha Tsui’s hottest new<br />

hotel — is a sight for sore eyes<br />

THE BRAND NEW Hotel ICON in Hong<br />

Kong may have just opened its doors in late<br />

September, but it’s already caused quite a stir<br />

in international design circles. The renowned<br />

design and lifestyle magazine, wallpaper*,<br />

included Hotel ICON in its <strong>2011</strong> list of the<br />

world’s Best Business Hotels. “Hotel ICON<br />

is a collaborative project featuring work from<br />

award-winning artists, creative visionaries<br />

and respected designers,” explains General<br />

Manager Richard Hatter. The experts at<br />

“Boutique & Lifestyle Hotels: Creating a Brand<br />

Icon through Design” — a design conference<br />

held during the hotel’s opening — include<br />

French botanist and landscape artist Patrick<br />

Blanc, who produced the striking vertical<br />

garden at the hotel lobby; Hong Kong fashion<br />

designer Barney Cheng, who created the<br />

staff uniforms; Conran & Partners’ Managing<br />

Director Richard Doone, whose fi rm oversaw<br />

the hotel’s F&B outlets, The Market and Above<br />

& Beyond Chinese Restaurant; graphic artist<br />

chikka buzz<br />

Clockwise from top: The glass<br />

façade on level 9, with a view of<br />

the pool; Patrick Blanc’s vertical<br />

garden; breathtaking top view of<br />

Hotel ICON’s winding staircase.<br />

Tommy Li, who designed the hotel’s logo;<br />

interior designer William Lim of CL3 Architects,<br />

who styled the impressive interiors; and<br />

architect Rocco Lim of Rocco Design Architects<br />

Ltd., who shaped Hotel ICON’s all-glass<br />

exterior. Find out more at www.hotel-icon.com<br />

Creative Hearts<br />

TO CELEBRATE their annual theme of “Contemporary artisan since 1837”, Hermès presents<br />

Hearts and Crafts — a <strong>2011</strong> fi lm directed by Frédéric Laffont and Isabelle Dupuy-Chavanat,<br />

which shines a light on the men and women who bring Hermès’ objects of beauty to life. The<br />

directors take its viewers to the four corners of France — from Paris to the Ardennes, from<br />

the Lyonnais to Lorraine — and open the doors of the house’s workshops to lift the veil on<br />

the people who create these designer pieces, such as the leather craftsperson, crystal and<br />

glassmaker, jeweller and more. The documentary was recently shown internationally; in Asia,<br />

screenings were held in Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. Hearts and Crafts<br />

will be available for viewing online at www.lesmainsdhermes.com/en<br />

{ 22 }<br />

TEXT MAYA O CALICA


Marco Polo Residences<br />

your most desirable address in Cebu<br />

The entry of a new luxury<br />

condominium development in<br />

the prestigious district of Nivel<br />

Hills and just beside Marco Polo Hotel,<br />

one of Asia’s leading hotel brands, is<br />

poised to add glitter to the gem of the<br />

South that is Cebu. Named Marco<br />

Polo Residences, the new project shall<br />

offer a fusion of Asian hospitality and<br />

Western innovations comparable to<br />

its contemporaries in other<br />

Asian countries.<br />

With the Marco Polo<br />

Residences, there is no need<br />

to ‘check out’ of the hotel’s<br />

legendary brand of service<br />

as buyers can look forward<br />

to a lavish hotel-style living all year<br />

round. Once completed, the Marco Polo<br />

Residences is also guaranteed to leave<br />

a sublime experience to all its guests,<br />

thanks to first-rate accommodations<br />

backed by lavish amenities.<br />

Just like its hotel counterpart, the<br />

Marco Polo Residences will rise in<br />

one of the most enviable spots in Cebu<br />

which has a breathtaking view of the<br />

city and the channel. Situated at 800<br />

feet above ground, the panoramic vista<br />

of the twinkling Cebu lights at night<br />

is clearly visible from its unit windows<br />

as well as from the view garden deck<br />

of the condominium’s podium area.<br />

For the other units, there is also a<br />

thrilling mountain view and the sunset<br />

to look forward to everyday.<br />

Marco Polo Residences will rise<br />

in one of the most enviable spots<br />

in Cebu which has a breathtaking<br />

view of the city and the channel<br />

The Marco Polo Residences offers<br />

a strategic location, being right in the<br />

centre of Metro Cebu. It is in close<br />

proximity to places of interest in the<br />

area like shopping malls, restaurants,<br />

schools and universities, country<br />

clubs and golf courses. It is just minutes<br />

away from the Asiatown IT Park,<br />

the Cebu Business Park, the Mactan<br />

International Airport and some<br />

kilometres away from Cebu City.<br />

Apart from the gorgeous view, the<br />

opulent charm of the Marco Polo<br />

Residences lies on its five-star hotellike<br />

amenities, well-appointed units<br />

and first-class services. The hotel-like<br />

ambience cascades to the common<br />

areas with its grand ground floor<br />

lobby and drop-off. The amenities<br />

are no less grandiose. The<br />

magnificent adult pool, wellequipped<br />

fitness centre, game<br />

room and a multi-purpose<br />

room to hold glitzy affairs<br />

are designed and maintained<br />

according to hotel standards.<br />

Indeed, the Marco Polo Residences<br />

is the first of its kind in the Queen<br />

City of the South. It is the first highrise<br />

luxury enclave in the area that<br />

promises of international quality<br />

services of the Marco Polo hotels.<br />

There is no limit to the pampering and<br />

lavishing that await its future residents.<br />

All they have to do is go home.<br />

FOR INQUIRIES visit its Cebu Showroom at the ground floor level of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, Nivel Hills, Apas, Cebu City.<br />

Please call the Cebu Sales Office at (032) 234 8191, or thru its Manila line at (02) 888 8168 loc. 8191. Or visit the Manila<br />

showroom at the ground floor level of GT Tower International, 6813 Ayala Ave. cor. H.V. dela Costa St, Makati City.


A gift fit<br />

for a king<br />

To celebrate King Rama IX’s 84th birthday,<br />

a Thai hotel chain donates profi ts to charity<br />

CALL IT A BIRTHDAY gift that keeps on giving<br />

— for the 84th birthday of His Majesty King<br />

Bhumibol Adulyadej, all 10 Anantara hotels in<br />

Thailand donated THB99 (PHP138) for every<br />

guest that stayed in all of their resorts from<br />

October to December 5th. The amount goes<br />

to the Raks Thai Foundation’s 84 Schools<br />

Project, which was established to help<br />

Thai children who were not achieving their<br />

educational potential.<br />

Every year, nearly 600 schools do not<br />

pass Thailand’s quality assessment, and<br />

more than 100,000 students drop out<br />

of school due to poverty. More than just<br />

convincing students to stay in school, the<br />

foundation implements a brand new learning<br />

process based on the practical principles<br />

of education, livelihood and sustainability,<br />

alongside school improvements like clean<br />

water, sports equipment, education materials,<br />

computers, libraries and even agricultural<br />

equipment. The project is also designed to<br />

facilitate 6,720 disadvantaged children aged<br />

seven to 14 in 84 poor rural schools, so that<br />

they become independent lifelong learners<br />

who possess important life and occupational<br />

A business<br />

oasis in Taipei<br />

THE AMBASSADOR HOTEL in<br />

Taipei recently unveiled its new<br />

Executive Floor, which was styled<br />

by famous Taiwanese interior<br />

designer Celia Chu. Think of it as a<br />

calm retreat from the hustle and<br />

bustle of the city, with its 116 newly<br />

designed guest rooms decorated<br />

with earthy colors. Open from<br />

6.30am–10pm, the Lounge is also<br />

perfect for dining and meeting<br />

guests. www.worldhotels.com<br />

chikka buzz<br />

skills. Supported by 168 teachers trained in<br />

the new learning concept, children will study<br />

their community and environment, and in<br />

small groups will propose and implement<br />

small projects on leadership, alternative<br />

occupations, culture and environmental<br />

conservation. Says Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of<br />

Minor Hotel Group including Anantara, “By<br />

empowering the country’s youth through<br />

education and life skills, as well as teaching<br />

them how to preserve nature and culture, the<br />

long term benefi ts will be felt by each student<br />

and their community.”<br />

WATCH ENTHUSIASTS will want to head over to the ArtScience<br />

Museum at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore for Cartier artier Time Time<br />

Art — an exhibition that will take visitors on a journey ney to<br />

the heart of Cartier watchmaking through 158 iconic nic<br />

timepieces. These icons have been selected from<br />

the Cartier Collection, a unique array of vintage<br />

Cartier objects that are often displayed in the<br />

world’s most important museums. Some creations s<br />

worth looking into include the Santos wristwatch<br />

(designed in 1904 and released in 1911), the large<br />

Portique mystery clock (1923) with the mysterious s<br />

Billiken fi gure on it, and a rare jumping-hour pocket et<br />

watch with a transparent case. From December 14; 4;<br />

www.marinabaysands.com/ArtScienceMuseum<br />

{ 26 }<br />

The benefi ciary: The Raks<br />

Thai Foundation’s 84<br />

Schools Project, which aims<br />

to improve Thailand’s state<br />

of education and livelihood.<br />

WATCH AND LEARN<br />

TEXT MAYA MAYA O CALICA


®<br />

When in the<br />

Philippines,<br />

roam with<br />

Globe and save<br />

with a smile.<br />

The Philippines is not called the country of<br />

smiles for nothing. That’s why at Globe, we<br />

make sure visitors like you are always smiling.<br />

You’ll be delighted with our roaming services<br />

that lets you know exactly what you’ll pay for.<br />

So no more worries. No more “bill-shocks”.<br />

Just pick a plan that makes you the happiest<br />

and enjoy bigger savings and better perks.<br />

Now isn’t that something to smile about?<br />

BRIDGE DATAROAM<br />

Unlimited mobile data service<br />

Plan 1 Day 3 Days 5 Days<br />

Bridge DataRoam<br />

Unlimited<br />

US$10 US$27 US$40<br />

<br />

<br />

India Thailand Hong Kong


Here’s how to activate your selected product when in the Philippines.<br />

SingTel<br />

Singapore<br />

Call Customer Service :<br />

+65 6235 1688<br />

Bridge DataRoam Direct Activation:<br />

<br />

Airtel<br />

India<br />

Visit http://www.airtel.in<br />

Only data capped plans<br />

are available<br />

CTM<br />

<br />

Dial #130# for 1 day unlimited<br />

SK Telecom<br />

South Korea<br />

Call Customer Service :<br />

+82 26343 9000<br />

AIS<br />

Thailand<br />

Call Customer Service :<br />

+662 271 9000<br />

Bridge DataRoam Unlimited Direct Activation:<br />

Dial *111*1057# for 1 day<br />

Dial *111*1058# for 3 days<br />

Dial *111*1059# for 5 days<br />

Maxis<br />

<br />

Call Customer Service : +60 37492 2123<br />

Bridge DataRoamUnlimited Direct Activation:<br />

Dial *100#, then select International<br />

Roaming > Roaming Package > Data ><br />

Bridge DataRoamUnlimited Type BUY BUD1 for 1 day<br />

Type BUY BUD3 for 3 days<br />

Type BUY BUD5 for 5 days<br />

Send to 20008<br />

Taiwan Mobile<br />

Taiwan<br />

Call Customer Service :<br />

+886 93512 0080<br />

CSL<br />

Hong Kong<br />

Call Customer Service :<br />

+852 2888 1010<br />

Dial *100*1010# or [00] 800 2888 1010<br />

for 1010 customers (toll-free)<br />

Dial *100*123# or [00] 800 25 123 123<br />

for one2free customers (toll-free)<br />

Optus<br />

Australia<br />

Call Customer Service :<br />

+61 2 8082 5678<br />

Only data capped plans<br />

are available<br />

Telkomsel<br />

Indonesia<br />

Call Customer Service :<br />

+62 215291 9811<br />

To activate the Bridge DataRoam<br />

package, simply dial *266# and<br />

follow the menu browser.<br />

<br />

from the Globe Travelers Information Booth found in the International Arrival area.<br />

Australia Singapore South Korea Taiwan Indonesia<br />

ENJOY YOUR GLOBE


TEXT MAYA O CALICA<br />

Look who , s<br />

playing<br />

Here are four reasons to<br />

head down to Siloso Beach,<br />

Singapore for ZoukOut <strong>2011</strong><br />

EVERY YEAR, Siloso Beach on Sentosa Island<br />

is transformed into the ultimate dance and<br />

music playground with ZoukOut. This year’s<br />

party kicks off on December 10 at 6pm, and<br />

goes on until 8am the next day — with worldclass<br />

live acts providing the entertainment.<br />

Meet the coolest artists lined up to wow crowds<br />

right here.<br />

2 AVICII<br />

Who he is Swedish DJ Avicii<br />

balances his career with gigs at the best<br />

festivals and clubs around the world, and<br />

experiments on new sounds in his studio.<br />

With hit singles like Ryù — and remixes for<br />

Bob Sinclar, Roger Sanchez, Erick Morillo,<br />

David Guetta and Tiësto gaining hit status<br />

on charts around the world — he has<br />

conquered the music scene globally in so<br />

little time with his killer melodies and highenergy<br />

production style. www.avicii.com<br />

He says “I’ve heard more about ZoukOut<br />

than any other festival in Asia, so I am really<br />

looking forward to checking it out from the<br />

booth!”<br />

3<br />

chikka buzz<br />

BOB SINCLAR<br />

Who he is Bob Sinclar is considered<br />

a legend in DJ circles. The French record<br />

producer, House music DJ and remixer also<br />

founded his own label, Yellow Productions.<br />

Feel the discotastic 12” delights of World<br />

Hold On and Love Generation, the soulful<br />

beats of his Africanism movement, or his<br />

near-obsession with reggae and dance hall<br />

in his recent works. www.bobsinclar.com,<br />

www.mona-rennalls.de<br />

He says “The resonance of the ZoukOut<br />

festival is all around the world... DJs are<br />

hitting me back with amazing comments. I<br />

can’t wait to experience that Singapore vibe<br />

once again.”<br />

You have to be at least 18 years old to go to ZoukOut <strong>2011</strong>. To enter, you’ll need a photo ID or, for overseas guests, a valid passport. Tickets are<br />

available on December 10 at the Zouk ticketing booth (all day, tel: +65 6738 2988) and at the venue (from 5pm onwards) for S$98/PHP3,360.<br />

All Citibank credit cardholders enjoy a 10% discount off tickets. Also visit www.sistic.com.sg and www.zoukout.com<br />

{ 31 }<br />

1<br />

ARMIN VAN<br />

BUUREN<br />

Who he is This lord of the trance genre and<br />

king of the dance fl oor made it to the<br />

No. 1 spot in the DJ Mag Top 100 for the<br />

fourth year running in 2010. Also regarded<br />

as the “World’s Most Popular DJ”, he has an<br />

impressive CV that includes a Beatport Music<br />

Award for “Best Trance Artist”, a Burma Cultuur<br />

Pop Award, “Best Global DJ” in the 2010 IDMA<br />

in Miami, and more. Last year, he received<br />

the “Gouden Harp”, The Netherlands’ most<br />

prestigious music award. www.arminvanbuuren.<br />

com, www.davidlewis.nl<br />

He says “ZoukOut is like playing a match in the<br />

Champions League or Superbowl. It doesn’t get<br />

much bigger than this!”<br />

4 LADYTRON<br />

Who they are The Liverpool-born<br />

quartet — made up of Daniel Hunt, Reuben<br />

Wu, Helen Marnie and Mira Aroyo — make<br />

their Singapore debut in ZoukOut <strong>2011</strong>.<br />

Ladytron’s sound references everything from<br />

glam and disco to New Wave and European<br />

dance music. They also have a decade’s<br />

worth of artistry behind them and are<br />

considered the pioneers of the synth-based<br />

electro revival. www.ladytron.com, www.<br />

facebook.com/ladytron<br />

They say “Zouk is the energy inside our<br />

collective radiance synthesizer lamb brain.<br />

Since we love our Zouk, we will get our<br />

ZoukOut in Singapore, yes sir!”


1<br />

chikka buzz<br />

Om for the<br />

holidays<br />

De-stress amid the fl urry of the season<br />

with these relaxing ideas<br />

GET ON THE MAT<br />

Say “namaste” to reclaim your cool at<br />

Urban Ashram Manila. The Philippines’<br />

largest yoga studio boasts the best in-class<br />

facilities (award-winning Filipino designer<br />

Kenneth Cobonpue collaborated with the team<br />

to develop the design philosophy) and highly<br />

qualifi ed Yoga Alliance-registered teachers.<br />

What’s more, it’s the fi rst and only yoga studio<br />

in the country that is a member of the Green<br />

Yoga Association, a global community of yoga<br />

studios and teachers who are committed to<br />

earth-friendly and responsible practices.<br />

New to the discipline? Don’t let that stop<br />

you. Sign up for their signature FNR series<br />

— Flexibility Not Required — for a fun way<br />

to get started in yoga while learning its basic<br />

foundations for a properly aligned and<br />

fl exible body.<br />

More advanced students can also opt<br />

for their Vinyasa Flow Yoga, Ashtanga and<br />

Hatha classes, before winding down at the<br />

community lounge and browsing through their<br />

All Things Yoga boutique afterwards. Drop in for<br />

a session for PHP500, or sign up for a package<br />

that suits your needs. Urban Ashram Manila<br />

– Center for Yoga, Suite 302, 3 Brixton St,<br />

Kapitolyo, Pasig City (across Pioneer Center),<br />

tel: +63 (2) 661 YOGA/377 YOGA/+63 (917)<br />

881 YOGA, www.urbanashrammanila.com<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Manila from<br />

16 international destinations. www.<br />

cebupacifi cair.com<br />

Check out this<br />

eco-friendly<br />

yoga studio<br />

{ 32 }<br />

2<br />

LIVE BY A<br />

BEAUTIFUL<br />

LAKE<br />

Chill out at Fleur de Chine, which is located<br />

on the north peninsula of the dreamy Sun<br />

Moon Lake in Taiwan. While there, you can<br />

can immerse yourself in the local culture<br />

through experiential programs: a Yuchih<br />

Township tour for Assam Black Tea; pottery<br />

making; a visit to a museum fi lled with Sun<br />

Moon Lake’s legendary artifacts; and rock<br />

climbing with a view of Sun Moon Lake. A<br />

vacation package for two includes breakfast<br />

and dinner. www.fl eurdechinehotel.com<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Taipei from Manila.<br />

www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

3 RE-BALANCE<br />

WITH<br />

A RUBDOWN<br />

If the whirl of activity is driving you cuckoo,<br />

head to the Melo Spa at Hyatt Regency<br />

Hong Kong, Shatin — their winter spa<br />

packages will restore your sanity and make<br />

you feel amazing. Choose from the 1.5-hour<br />

Melo Cocoon Retreat, an invigorating body<br />

polish; the Enzyme Silky Body Wrap &<br />

Scalp Massage; and the Anti-Chill Massage,<br />

an anti-stress back massage. At HK$1,200/<br />

PHP8,336; to book, call +852 3723 7684<br />

or visit www.melospa.com<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Hong Kong from Cebu,<br />

Clark and Manila. www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

TEXT MAYA O CALICA PHOTOS JUAN RAMON MITRA AND JOSEPH SAWIT (URBAN ASHRAM)


TEXT MAYA O CALICA<br />

LAST MONTH, the “Elephant Parade” — the<br />

world’s largest open-air art exhibition —<br />

arrived in Singapore, with a herd of over 150<br />

life-sized fi berglass baby elephants displayed<br />

in Orchard Road, Marina Bay, Singapore<br />

Zoological Gardens, Botanic Gardens and<br />

VivoCity. The objective of “Elephant Parade”<br />

is to involve the public in its bid to save the<br />

Asian elephants by making conservation<br />

inclusive and exciting for everyone.<br />

chikka buzz<br />

Have you herd?<br />

These fi berglass baby elephants make for great<br />

Christmas gifts and help worthy causes<br />

Cabana Pool at<br />

Banyan Tree Macau<br />

As the offi cial retail partner for “Elephant<br />

Parade,” TANGS hosts the Elephant Parade<br />

Gallery Store, where fans can bring home<br />

replicas of their favorite elephants from<br />

parades around the world (it’s been exhibited<br />

in Rotterdam and London), including those<br />

designed just for Singapore. These replicas<br />

— which are hand-painted by professional<br />

artists in Chiang Mai, Thailand — are available<br />

in limited editions and range from 10 to<br />

Water weddings<br />

{ 37 }<br />

Left to right: White<br />

Tiger by Sakchai<br />

Pengprakorn; Candy<br />

by Isaac Mizrahi;<br />

Happiness Maximus by<br />

William Sim.<br />

75-cm high. Some of the highly anticipated<br />

designs come from Lulu Guinness, Diane von<br />

Furstenburg, Isaac Mizrahi and Karim Rashid.<br />

In addition to the elephant replicas,<br />

exclusive merchandise such as tea towels,<br />

reversible cloth bags, mugs and coasters will<br />

also be available. So purchase “Elephant<br />

Parade” products from TANGS Orchard and<br />

VivoCity now to help support Asian elephant<br />

conservation. www.tangs.com.sg<br />

IF IT’S TRUE that rain can bring luck to a wedding, why not go all the way and get<br />

married on water? You can do this at the exclusive fi ve-star urban resort Banyan Tree<br />

Macau. The posh hotel property, located in the US$1.9 billion integrated resort Galaxy<br />

Macau, debuted a unique fl oating stage among its numerous venues available for stylish<br />

weddings. The dramatic platform literally fl oats atop the Cabana Pool, providing a unique<br />

wedding-on-the-water experience that can witnessed by up to 200 guests poolside.<br />

Interested? Western or Chinese style romantic wedding packages can fi t up to 480<br />

guests at Banyan Tree Macau, with prices ranging from MOP6,688 to MOP11,688<br />

per table of 12. Tel: +853 8883 8833, reservations-macau@banyantree.com, www.<br />

banyantree.com


BUZZ LIGHTYEAR. WOODY. REX. We’ve seen<br />

and loved them in the movies. So imagine how<br />

thrilling it would be to witness these beloved<br />

animated friends in person. At Hong Kong<br />

Disneyland’s Toy Story Land, Walt Disney’s<br />

Imagineers have brought to life the magic of<br />

the stories and characters from the global<br />

blockbuster Toy Story movies.<br />

Toy Story Land isn’t just for the little ones<br />

— grownups who are kids at heart will likewise<br />

be awed by the scale of Disneyland’s latest<br />

attraction. Walk into the Toy Story themed area<br />

and into the oversized world of Andy Davis’<br />

backyard and meet the cast of characters — all<br />

larger than life.<br />

The three main attractions in Toy Story Land<br />

— RC Racer, Slinky Dog Spin and Toy Soldier<br />

Parachute Drop — are rides guaranteed to give<br />

you adrenaline-pumping fun. Andy’s speediest<br />

toy car, RC Racer, is the most thrilling new ride<br />

in Toy Story Land. Guests can race along a<br />

27-meter high U-shaped coaster as RC zooms<br />

promotional feature<br />

Holiday magic<br />

Plan the perfect Christmas gift — treat the family to the exciting<br />

Toy Story Land, Hong Kong Disneyland’s latest attraction<br />

around at full speed. Sarge also calls for all Toy<br />

Soldiers to join Andy’s troops for a 25-meter<br />

high fl ying adventure — Soldier Parachute<br />

Drop has guests lifted and then plunged into a<br />

simulated parachute drop. You may also opt for<br />

the rollicking Slinky Dog Spin and howl with<br />

laughter as you join Slinky in his attempt to<br />

catch his own tail.<br />

Kelly Willis, Creative Director for Walt<br />

Disney Imagineering Hong Kong, sums up the<br />

park’s vision for its latest attraction, saying,<br />

“We’re bringing these cherished stories from<br />

the big screen to reality. It will be a place<br />

where our guests will be transformed into toys<br />

themselves and get the chance to meet and<br />

play with their favorite Toy Story characters,<br />

including Woody, Jessie, the Toy Soldiers,<br />

Rex and more. Toy Story Land will be a highspirited<br />

and colorful place where guests can<br />

feel free to let their imagination run wild and<br />

have fun.” For more information, visit www.<br />

park.hongkongdisneyland.com<br />

{ 38 }<br />

Walking through Hong<br />

Kong Disneyland’s<br />

Toy Story Land feels<br />

like walking through a<br />

fantastic toy store.<br />

MORE TO COME<br />

Grizzly Gulch<br />

Based on an entirely new and original<br />

story of the “gold rush” days of the<br />

American Frontier and developed<br />

exclusively for Hong Kong, Grizzly Gulch<br />

will bring a high-speed terrain coaster<br />

style attraction to Hong Kong.<br />

Mystic Point<br />

This brand new themed land will<br />

feature an eccentric world traveler and<br />

adventurer with a collection of exotic<br />

and mysterious international artifacts.<br />

Many surprises will be in store for guests<br />

in Mystic Manor, as strange things get<br />

activated by an enchanted music box<br />

that possesses magical powers.


Pag tinodo mo ang katawan mo, baka sakit ang balik sa’yo.<br />

Mag-Enervon ® ! Multivitamins na may Energive Energuard!<br />

Energive - gives todo energy. Energuard - guards against sakit.<br />

MULTIVITAMINS<br />

ENERVON ®


TEXT MAYA O CALICA<br />

chikka eat and drink<br />

Moveable<br />

feasts<br />

Treat yourself to sumptuous holiday banquets<br />

in Singapore and Hong Kong<br />

Bedrock Bar & Grill<br />

96 Somerset Road, #01-05 Pan Pacifi c<br />

Serviced Suites, Singapore, Tel: +65<br />

6238 0054 (open Mon–Sat, 12pm–<br />

2.30pm; 6pm–10.30pm)<br />

WHAT IT IS A modern grill and whiskey bar<br />

with a warm and very intimate ambience.<br />

FEAST ON THIS From December 24–30, be<br />

dazzled by Chef Isaac Tan’s delectable fourcourse<br />

Christmas set dinner, which includes<br />

butternut pumpkin soup, smoked duck salad,<br />

grilled New York steak with duck fat potatoes<br />

and bone-marrow hollandaise, and the<br />

Christmas pavlova with passionfruit curd and<br />

coulis. S$120/PHP4,200 per person<br />

DID YOU KNOW? The restaurant will donate<br />

S$10 for every Tomahawk ribeye steak<br />

ordered to the MILK (Mainly I Love Kids)<br />

fund for disadvantaged children and youth<br />

in Singapore.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Singapore from Cebu,<br />

Clark and Manila. www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

{ 41 }<br />

Smoked duck salad<br />

Honey-glazed<br />

Chinese ham<br />

Double-boiled<br />

mushrooms, fi sh<br />

maw, sea whelk and<br />

chicken soup<br />

Xiao Nan Guo<br />

10/F One Peking, 1 Peking Road,<br />

Tsimshatsui, Hong Kong, Tel: +852 2527<br />

8899 (open 11am–2.30pm; 6pm–11pm),<br />

www.xiaonanguo.com<br />

WHAT IT IS A Shanghainese restaurant<br />

that offers “exquisite and inspired” cuisine,<br />

as well as amazing panoramic views across<br />

Victoria Harbour.<br />

FEAST ON THIS On December 24 and 25,<br />

take your pick from two exclusive dinner<br />

menus. Main course choices include strawbundled<br />

belly pork and stewed spicy jumbo<br />

prawn, or traditional honey-glazed Chinese<br />

ham and casserole of wild mushrooms with<br />

abalone sauce. HK$468/PHP2,585 per<br />

person and HK$1,780/PHP9,833 for four<br />

DID YOU KNOW? Xiao Nan Guo began<br />

with four tables 20 years ago — now it’s a<br />

local Hong Kong success story!<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Hong Kong from Cebu,<br />

Clark and Manila. www.cebupacifi cair.com


chikka buzz<br />

Q&A:<br />

Carlos Celdran<br />

Artist, advocate, raconteur and part-time provocateur<br />

Carlos Celdran reveals how he keeps part of history alive<br />

with humor, a dash of irreverence and loads of info<br />

CARLOS CELDRAN’S irreverent, clever and<br />

highly popular walking tours defy convention<br />

and delve more into performance art than<br />

touristy diversions. During these tours, the<br />

costumed Celdran — usually in a barong<br />

tagalog and top hat — leads a group of people<br />

through sections of the old walled city of<br />

Intramuros and passes on impressive amounts<br />

of knowledge on Filipino culture and pysche<br />

to a rapt audience.<br />

Why walking?<br />

Therapy. It started as a job but now it’s<br />

become a vocation. Working with the Heritage<br />

Conservation Society, I did walking tours as<br />

part of their outreach program. Now I walk for<br />

a living and I haven’t worked a single day in<br />

my life.<br />

And how does this help<br />

preserve the Pinoy heritage?<br />

I don’t like the word “preserve,” it sounds<br />

like you’re pickling something in a jar. I think<br />

Philippine culture is very much alive and is in<br />

a constant state of fl ux, which is a good thing.<br />

The only problem now is that we have a hard<br />

time making our past relevant to the present,<br />

which is the only way to teach the new<br />

generation about our history and culture. Doing<br />

the walking tours is like reciting an oral history<br />

of Manila that I do on a weekly basis.<br />

Do you think Filipinos who<br />

go on the tour have a better<br />

appreciation for the city?<br />

The tour is really kind of a conversation I<br />

have with myself, so I’m not trying to change<br />

anyone’s point of view; but I am more than<br />

happy to have people come along with me<br />

on the journey as well. I don’t actually go out<br />

{ 42 }<br />

The walking historybook-with-a-twist,<br />

Carlos Celdran.<br />

Carlos’ quips<br />

On his favorite spot in Manila<br />

Oh, obviously Intramuros, specifi cally<br />

Baluarte San Diego, the southwestern<br />

part. It overlooks the park and has a<br />

view of the sunset. It’s a little green,<br />

grassy, quiet moment of solace in<br />

Manila.<br />

On downtime in the city<br />

For a drink I go to The Other Offi ce, a<br />

small piano bar in Ermita. Nothing’s<br />

more cathartic than having a Scotch<br />

and belting out a song where nobody<br />

can judge you.<br />

On being a “guardian of culture”<br />

Thank you for calling me that, but<br />

I’m glad it’s something you called me<br />

instead of something I’m calling myself.<br />

Strong claim, strong claim.<br />

there and say, “Oh my God, I want to change<br />

the way people think.” I just do the tour as a<br />

continuing conversation with myself.<br />

What role does preserving<br />

culture play in keeping a<br />

country strong?<br />

It’s like brand management — the more<br />

confi dent you are with the product, the better<br />

it will sell. So, basically, history helps a person<br />

have a fuller understanding of the self; of one’s<br />

idiosyncrasies, strengths, weaknesses and<br />

potentials.<br />

Name something interesting<br />

about Filipinos that few<br />

people actually realize.<br />

How connected we are to world history. Before<br />

Manny Pacquiao, before Imelda Marcos,<br />

Filipinos gave to the world things like the yoyo<br />

(laughs). We have been amalgamating cultures<br />

and infl uences from all around the world to<br />

create a unique culture. The Philippines was<br />

post-modern before post-modern was cool.<br />

We’ve been taking infl uences from all around<br />

the world: religion, genes, architecture and<br />

cuisine. We’ve been mixing and matching<br />

things since the day we started. Our lack of<br />

“purity” is our strength. We should embrace<br />

our diversity.<br />

Catch Carlos Celdran’s walking tours of<br />

historical Manila. For schedules, check www.<br />

carlosceldran.com<br />

TEXT RIA LIMJAP PHOTO WALTER VILLA


What , s new,<br />

Pussycat?<br />

NICOLE SCHERZINGER has found success<br />

even after the Pussycat Dolls. The Hawaiianborn<br />

beauty won Dancing With the Stars<br />

Season 10, and this month will release her<br />

debut album, Killer Love. The 33-year-old<br />

star’s solo effort refl ects her love for rock, soul<br />

and funk, and features collaborations with<br />

Enrique Iglesias and the hit singles Don’t Hold<br />

Your Breath and Poison. What’s more, she<br />

rules as a judge on the hot new reality talent<br />

show, The X Factor, with Simon Cowell.<br />

Your Poison video shows<br />

both Good Nicole and Bad<br />

Nicole, right?<br />

Yeah — it’s inspired by a 1930s Watchman<br />

kind of vibe. It’s basically Good and Bad<br />

Nicole kicking ass around town.<br />

So who do you prefer —<br />

Good or Bad Nicole?<br />

I think at heart I’m Good Nicole, but<br />

sometimes at night Bad Nicole comes<br />

out to play.<br />

Just like in your sexy music<br />

video, Heartbeat, with<br />

Enrique Iglesias? Is your<br />

new video with him just<br />

as sexy?<br />

It’s a different kind of sexy. Enrique’s is very<br />

moody and more intimate, and mine is more<br />

in your face.<br />

Speaking of sexy, how do<br />

you get that perfect body?<br />

(Laughs) I don’t know if I have a perfect body.<br />

I just know the right things to wear to make<br />

Ex-Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger gets candid about<br />

her new album — and hosting The X Factor with Simon<br />

Cowell. Interview by Stephen Unwin/Celebritext<br />

you think that. It’s about fi nding stuff that you<br />

can rock and is unique to you. I don’t like<br />

diets too much. I’m a jogger.<br />

You , ve never been on a<br />

diet?<br />

I’ve tried every diet! I tried Master Cleanse,<br />

but that’s not really a diet, that’s just not<br />

eating. I did that for two days. I get really<br />

grumpy when I don’t eat.<br />

And you turn into Bad<br />

Nicole.<br />

Yeah!<br />

Now that you , re doing stuff<br />

outside of the Pussycat<br />

Dolls, do you feel more in<br />

control of your life?<br />

I just actually get to sleep more! With the<br />

Pussycat Dolls it was a crazy whirlwind — it<br />

was like being in Disneyland for, like, fi ve<br />

years. But the Pussycat Dolls was still me,<br />

but just more like a persona of me. I feel like<br />

I’m jumping out of the Pussycat Dolls. It’s like<br />

I’m on Teenage Ninja Turtles green ooze. The<br />

next album is Teenage Ninja Turtles taking<br />

over the town.<br />

And now you , re doing The<br />

X Factor in the States. What<br />

did you think when Simon<br />

Cowell first asked you to do<br />

his show in the UK?<br />

I was a little nervous because I understand<br />

what an impact the show has, and I know<br />

people in the UK have very strong minds. I<br />

was hoping I wouldn’t get booed.<br />

{ 44 }<br />

You seemed to be able to<br />

criticize without hurting<br />

their feelings.<br />

If I give criticism, there’s a reason for it. I really<br />

don’t know what I’m talking about at the end<br />

of the day, that’s what I think. I’m talking like<br />

I know everything and I really don’t. I’m just<br />

talking from experience.<br />

Well, you fooled us.<br />

Oh, good!<br />

How would you rate Simon’s<br />

hair?<br />

Simon blows my mind because he works on<br />

his hair 24/7 and it still looks the same. I think<br />

when he wakes up his hair naturally looks<br />

like that. I don’t think he has bad hair days.<br />

If you weren , t famous now,<br />

would you go on The X<br />

Factor or American Idol?<br />

Oh defi nitely, without a doubt.<br />

How far do you think<br />

you , d go?<br />

Oh, I’d hope to win the whole thing,<br />

obviously! I’m just a naturally competitive<br />

person, but it comes from a good place.<br />

You won Dancing with the<br />

Stars, you , re a pop star, TV<br />

judge and actress. Is there<br />

anything you can , t do?<br />

Erm, yeah, I’m sure there’s a lot I can’t do.<br />

I tried to grill a steak once for my sister and<br />

it was horrible. It was burnt on one side and<br />

frozen on the inside.


On O being b g sexy: “It’s about<br />

finding fin stuff<br />

th that you y can rock and<br />

is<br />

unique to you.”<br />

chikka interview<br />

{ 45 }


chikka buzz<br />

Perk up<br />

your party!<br />

Want to be the perfect party host? Give guests<br />

something they won’t easily forget<br />

Raise the bar Let them eat<br />

cupcakes<br />

Every good party host knows that a sumptuous spread calls for an<br />

equally delightful bar. So add in the fl avored variants of popular<br />

party drinks like The BaR Strawberry Vodka, The BaR Apple Vodka,<br />

The BaR Orange Vodka, and The BaR Lemon and Lime Gin — nifty<br />

bottles that give you just what you need for superb cocktails.<br />

Try The BaR’s latest, The BaR Citrus Tequila, and serve delicious<br />

frozen margaritas for cocktail hour. Available in all supermarkets<br />

and leading convenience stores.<br />

CALL THE WORLD<br />

Pre-planning the party with guests from<br />

across the seas? No problem. With Sun<br />

Cellular , s international direct dial cards,<br />

keeping friends and family posted on the<br />

festivities is easy and painless on the<br />

pocket. www.suncellular.com.ph<br />

{ 46 }<br />

Who can remember what life was like before<br />

Cupcakes by Sonja, those wonderfully<br />

sweet concoctions topped with light and<br />

fl uffy, melt-in-your-mouth cream? This<br />

Christmas, make all those holiday gettogethers<br />

even sweeter with treats that can<br />

liven up any party. Just for the holidays,<br />

Cupcakes by Sonja, the cake factory known<br />

for its impressive towering cupcakes, offers<br />

an irresistible special — racks and racks<br />

of pretty cupcakes designed as Chirstmas<br />

decorations, baked fresh every day using<br />

only the fi nest ingredients. For only<br />

PHP430, the Christmas Package comes<br />

with 12 mouthwatering mini cupcakes with<br />

pretty holiday toppers. Your guests will<br />

be talking about it long after they’ve left!<br />

1 C03 Serendra Piazza, Bonifacio Global<br />

City, Taguig, tel: + 63 (2) 915 2936, www.<br />

cupcakesbysonja.com


TEXT MAYA O CALICA<br />

chikka buzz<br />

Wet, wet, wet<br />

These game-ready gadgets sure can take a beating<br />

from the elements<br />

FREEDOM EARBUDS<br />

The offi cial training headphones of the<br />

USA Triathlon team sure live up to their<br />

name and rep: with them, you get to enjoy<br />

freedom on the open road while you run or<br />

cycle. These wireless, shake-proof earbuds<br />

have a tangle-free cord that doesn’t get in<br />

the way of intense training, and silicon ear<br />

cushions that ensure they stay put while<br />

you go about your activity. An integrated<br />

mic lets you talk on the phone via<br />

Bluetooth technology, and lets you switch<br />

from your playlist to an incoming call<br />

with a fl ick of integrated remote buttons.<br />

US$99/PHP4,283; www.jaybirdgear.com<br />

SWIMSENSE<br />

Using motion-sensing technology,<br />

Swimsense is the world’s only swim<br />

performance watch monitor that tracks and<br />

records your swim stroke type. Its analysis<br />

software refl ects distance,<br />

calories torched,<br />

different stroke<br />

types, pace,<br />

stroke count,<br />

effi ciency and<br />

workout timeline<br />

as well. US$199.99/<br />

PHP8,642; www.<br />

fi nisinc.com<br />

ECO EXTREME<br />

Gear up your mp3 or cell phone for your<br />

next rugged adventure with the Eco<br />

Extreme Rugged All Terrain Speaker Case.<br />

It works with the iPhone, iPod Touch,<br />

Motorola Droid and Blackberry. The<br />

rubberized protective body shields your<br />

device from water and rain while providing<br />

crisp sound performance — it’s virtually<br />

compatible with any audio device with a<br />

headset jack! Take your pick from jet black,<br />

lime green, lemon zest, orange peel, cobalt<br />

blue and petal pink colors. US$69.99/<br />

PHP3,028; www.gracedigitalaudio.com/<br />

eco-extreme<br />

{ 47 }<br />

TEA FOR<br />

THE ROAD<br />

DROP BY any Langham Hotel across<br />

the network to celebrate their esteemed<br />

afternoon tea heritage. They have three<br />

specially created blends that’ll transport<br />

you to exotic lands with one cuppa —<br />

actual traveling optional.<br />

The Langham Blend An elegant mix of fi rst<br />

and second fl ush Assam, Darjeeling and<br />

Tippy Golden Orange Pekoe black teas<br />

evokes a trip to India.<br />

The Silk Road Blend is created with the<br />

fi nest Chinese Silver Needle white teas<br />

blended with aromatic jasmine and Iranian<br />

rosebuds. This is one drink that’ll bring you<br />

on an aromatic journey of the silk route —<br />

across Asia, the Mediterranean and Europe,<br />

and even parts of North and East Africa.<br />

The Palm Court Exotic Blend pays homage<br />

to Palm Court at The Langham London —<br />

the original home of afternoon tea. With its<br />

perfect blend of Chinese Fujian white tea<br />

— hibiscus fl owers, rosehip peel and rose<br />

petals — you’ll take one sip and go back<br />

to 1865, when the fi rst afternoon tea was<br />

served. www.langhamhospitalitygroup.com<br />

Book a table with<br />

one click<br />

IN SINGAPORE, booking a table is<br />

now easy with trailblazing website<br />

www.reserveit.sg. With its electronic<br />

table management system that<br />

updates seating availability in an<br />

instant, users can conveniently fi nd a<br />

restaurant with a search box to match<br />

their taste, budget, location and mood,<br />

and then just click to book. You’ll get<br />

on-the-spot confi rmation.


THANKS TO THE ASUS K Series Notebook,<br />

keeping in touch has never been easier.<br />

The innovative gadget helps you connect<br />

with your loved ones — whatever the<br />

season and wherever you may be — with its<br />

latest features and technology. The multitasker<br />

also allows you to chat, e-mail, make<br />

video calls, and send pictures quickly and<br />

effi ciently.<br />

Each ASUS K Series Notebook offers:<br />

Aluminum texture. Because of its strong<br />

cover, the Notebook is protected and can<br />

withstand damage while maintaining its<br />

shine and luster. It gives the notebook a<br />

classic, personal and stylish look too.<br />

promotional feature<br />

Enjoy warm family<br />

ties across the miles<br />

with the ASUS K<br />

Series Notebook<br />

Keep<br />

in touch<br />

The new ASUS K Series Notebook comes<br />

out tops in features, providing a better online<br />

experience for you and your family<br />

Brilliant colors. Whether it’s for<br />

school, home or business, the ASUS K<br />

Series Notebook complements your family’s<br />

habits and lifestyle. Mom, dad and your<br />

siblings can choose from red, pink, green,<br />

gold, blue and brown.<br />

IceCool technology. Heat-generating<br />

components like the CPU and GPU are<br />

placed on the underside of the Notebook,<br />

while IceCool heat pipes and vents make<br />

it cool to the touch. The technology also<br />

prevents the keyboard from becoming<br />

sticky, so you can type those emails and<br />

messages with ease.<br />

{ 48 }<br />

Second-generation mobile Intel Core<br />

processors and discrete NVIDIA GeForce<br />

graphics. These greatly improve the<br />

K Series notebook’s performance and<br />

enhance your multimedia experience.<br />

Its 32nm fabrication and low-power<br />

requirements also extend battery life, so you<br />

can chat, work and be productive for longer.<br />

With its advanced features, the ASUS K<br />

Series Notebook is certainly one handy and<br />

useful gadget to have. Now that Christmas is<br />

just around the corner, why not present your<br />

family with one as well?<br />

ASUS K Series Notebooks are available at all authorized ASUS dealers all over the Philippines.<br />

For more information, visit ph.asus.com and facebook.com/asusph


slick traveler:<br />

Anupa Horvil<br />

The founder of luxe and eco-friendly<br />

accessories brand Anupa in Ho Chi Minh<br />

City hopes to encourage consumers to<br />

shop and travel responsibly<br />

Most inspiring cities<br />

Bali is just an amazing island with lovely food,<br />

smiling faces, and some of the best spas and<br />

yoga retreats I have ever been too. Saigon is<br />

also special, and this is why I’ve lived here<br />

for 13 years. It is dynamic and booming, and<br />

there is always some new place opening all<br />

the time. When I travel, I just like to wind<br />

down and enjoy the place for what it is. When<br />

inspiration hits me, I write down my ideas and<br />

sometimes take photos.<br />

Travel light… not!<br />

I love traveling and so I travel very often. But<br />

I have never been one to travel light. I prefer<br />

to travel in comfort and always pack with this<br />

in mind. But I always make sure to pack my<br />

travel kit, notebook, perfume, yoga clothes<br />

and a book.<br />

Her travel wish list<br />

I would love to visit Osaka and Hong Kong. I<br />

hope to visit the fi sh market which is supposed<br />

chikka buzz<br />

Check out Anupa’s work<br />

at www.anupa.net<br />

to be amazing, and Hong Kong to visit the<br />

islands and eat at the local food haunts.<br />

New souvenirs<br />

PINING FOR SWEET DREAMS?<br />

YOU CAN BET you’ll sleep well at Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts. That’s because guests<br />

get to choose a pillow from an à la carte pillow menu to ensure restful slumber. One you<br />

ought to try: The Swiss Pine pillow, which gives off a soothing scent of resin and reduces<br />

night-time perspiration around the<br />

head and neck. Another option is the<br />

heat-regulating cotton-covered spelt<br />

pillow, which is fi lled with 1,400g of<br />

organic spelt to ease tension in the<br />

back and neck. Upon ordering, your<br />

choice of pillow is delivered to your<br />

room by the housekeeping staff.<br />

Want to take them home? Purchase<br />

them at www.swissotelathome.com<br />

{ 50 }<br />

I love food so I’m always interested in the<br />

spices and food from the places I visit. I am<br />

always looking for nice high-end boutiques<br />

where local designers might be based. I also<br />

love natural products such as candles, oils,<br />

clothes and shoes made in a sustainable<br />

fashion. I love having things that are beautifully<br />

made and original.<br />

A local , s POV<br />

I love to know a city from a regular person’s<br />

point of view and often want to explore what’s<br />

authentic. I always start by fi nding the best<br />

restaurants locally, and trying their food and<br />

wine. I also love experiencing local spas and<br />

natural treatments. There is so much of this in<br />

Asia, making it a great continent to explore.<br />

Her best travel advice<br />

Do your homework and learn more about the<br />

city you visit. It is worth booking hotels and a<br />

few things in advance to ensure that you have<br />

a lovely holiday.<br />

TEXT MAYA O CALICA


ILLUSTRATION KIT KAT MAINGAT You<br />

Camera-shy?<br />

Not a Pinoy<br />

family!<br />

chikka laugh g tripp<br />

know<br />

you , re Pinoy if...<br />

This Christmas, Tim Tayag reminds us of the telling signs that<br />

let us know we’re unmistakably part of a Pinoy family<br />

THE LAST SUPPER painting, the giant spoon<br />

and fork, the rosary hanging on the rearview<br />

mirror, pointing with your lips — you’ve heard<br />

all these before as some part of a “You Know<br />

You’re Filipino” list. But what about holiday<br />

season-specifi c Filipino behavior, which starts<br />

in the “ber” months? And so here it is, the<br />

incomplete “You know you’re from a Pinoy<br />

family if…” Christmas edition.<br />

You , re at the airport every<br />

week to pick up family<br />

Your relatives from abroad start coming in<br />

with their balikbayan boxes and faux foreign<br />

accents. Those jeepneys for hire start getting<br />

busy around the holiday season as your<br />

uncles, aunties and cousins with the bleached<br />

blonde hair and Manny Pacquiao shirts come<br />

home because they know we have the best<br />

Christmas in the world. All of them have one<br />

wish: “I want to be on Willie’s game show.”<br />

You’ll have to flex your smile<br />

muscles as often as Renato<br />

Donaire flexes his biceps<br />

To say that we Filipinos love our photos<br />

would be the understatement of the year —<br />

every family portrait around Christmas-time<br />

translates to at least an hour of sitting and<br />

holding your pose. The day’s designated<br />

photographer will look like a Christmas tree<br />

as cameras of all shapes and sizes, belonging<br />

to each member of the assembled clan, hang<br />

from his arms.<br />

Your mom puts up the<br />

Christmas decorations<br />

Actually, the festive lights have always been<br />

hanging around the house, but now it’s time<br />

to plug them back in. Your mother is in<br />

constant competition with your neighbors’<br />

Christmas displays; and so this year, she<br />

creates the most elaborate reindeer, sleigh,<br />

and birth of Jesus Christ life-sized diorama on<br />

the roof of your house, which is also visible<br />

from the airplanes in the sky. All your vehicles<br />

are also required to have mini lanterns hanging<br />

on the rearview mirror, unless you don’t want<br />

to receive any gifts this year because you’re<br />

not a team player.<br />

{ 53 }<br />

You eat ham and queso de<br />

bola every day<br />

These are the leftovers from Christmas eve<br />

that you’ll be dining on for the rest of the year.<br />

You’ll realize how many different ways you can<br />

serve ham – ham and cheese sandwich, ham<br />

and cheese salad, ham and cheese omelet,<br />

ham and cheese spaghetti, ham and cheese<br />

paksiw, ham and cheese ice cream, etc.<br />

Your whole family hides from<br />

the carolers and godchildren<br />

Your parents instruct your maids, “Tell them<br />

nobody’s home. We’re all out of town and<br />

won’t be back until the summer.” Your family<br />

panics at the sight of Christmas carolers,<br />

godchildren, janitors, security guards,<br />

newspaper delivery boys, and anybody with<br />

an envelope asking for their pamasko, a.k.a.<br />

cash money.<br />

The list goes on, demonstrating the<br />

elaborate holiday season celebration in a<br />

country where Yuletide is a month long. And<br />

you’re defi nitely from a Filipino family if you<br />

always look forward to Christmas time.


chikka checklist<br />

Merry treats<br />

From dream getaways, affordable shopping to<br />

a view to a brighter future, here’s our list of top<br />

presents for the special people in your life<br />

A mini break for<br />

balikbayan relatives<br />

Bring your visiting relatives from abroad to St Giles<br />

Hotel Makati (SGHM). Managed by Cititel Hotel<br />

Management (a subsidiary of IGB Corporation<br />

Berhad in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia), the hotel<br />

offers an attractive package for balikbayans. A<br />

two-night stay in a Superior Room for two costs<br />

only PHP3,570 net per person, and already<br />

includes a buffet breakfast, welcome drinks,<br />

Internet access, 10 percent discount on food,<br />

beverage and laundry, as well as scheduled<br />

shuttle services to and from Ayala Malls. Kids<br />

below fi ve years old can even stay for free. Guests<br />

must present their passport and resident ID to avail<br />

of the promotion; offer valid until December 17,<br />

<strong>2011</strong>. Makati Ave cor Kalayaan Ave, Makati, tel:<br />

+63 (2) 988 9883/88, www.StGilesManila.com<br />

From left: Get VIP treatment<br />

this season at St Giles Hotel Makati,<br />

and Langham Xintiandi in Shanghai.<br />

{ 55 }<br />

Shanghai getaway<br />

for you and your<br />

better half<br />

Whether it’s a holiday honeymoon<br />

or an advanced Valentine’s Day gift,<br />

the Langham Xintiandi in the heart of<br />

Shanghai’s vibrant Xintiandi entertainment<br />

and shopping district will suit your needs.<br />

They’ve extended their “Linger Longer For<br />

Less” package until February 29, 2012,<br />

entitling guests to the following discounts<br />

off their Best Available Rate: a two-night<br />

stay at 10 percent off; a three-night stay at<br />

15 percent off; and a four-night stay at 20<br />

percent off.<br />

The package includes free Internet<br />

throughout your stay, daily laundry<br />

credit valued at RMB300 (PHP4,141) per<br />

day, daily mini bar credit at RMB200<br />

(PHP2,761) per day, complimentary<br />

water and fruit on arrival, as well as their<br />

Legendary Langham chocolates.<br />

What’s more, lovebirds can relax at the<br />

just-opened Chuan Spa, which features<br />

treatments that focus on Traditional<br />

Chinese Medicine. Order the signature<br />

martinis and fi ne caviar at the elegant new<br />

Cachet Martini Bar right after. Tel: +86 (21)<br />

2330 2288, xintiandi.langhamhotels.com


Spending Christmas or New Year<br />

outdoors? Shield your eyes with<br />

proper eye care from Transitions.<br />

chikka checklist<br />

Clear vision for the whole family<br />

Here’s a thoughtful gift that ensures everyone can welcome the New Year with better<br />

eyesight: Transitions Lenses — the photochromic (variable tint) lens most recommended by<br />

eye care professionals worldwide. The difference between your ordinary lenses and Transitions<br />

lenses is this: photochromic lenses automatically adjust to changing light conditions, going from<br />

clear when indoors to comfortably dark when exposed to glaring sunlight outdoors. This means<br />

you enjoy visual acuity and convenient protection from the harmful effects of UV radiation<br />

and glare.<br />

Transitions Lenses can also be worn anywhere and in all weather conditions, providing a<br />

convenient way to protect one’s eyes from glare (visible light) and ultra-violet (invisible light)<br />

rays, which are harmful to the eye. Transitions Lenses also help improve the quality of your<br />

vision and maintain the long-term health of your eyes. www.transitions.com<br />

Convenient and<br />

affordable shopping<br />

for everyone<br />

Looking for a treasure trove of presents for<br />

everyone on your list, at prices that won’t<br />

break the bank? Head to Tutuban Center.<br />

The three-building shopping destination<br />

along CM Recto Ave in Manila was recently<br />

proclaimed by the Department of Tourism<br />

(DOT) as a DOT-accredited department<br />

store. According to the inspection team led<br />

by Jose Tolentino, Chief of the Inspection<br />

Division of the DOT, the goods at Tutuban<br />

are sold at “economical” prices, and<br />

are “displayed and properly manned by<br />

uniformed and courteous sales attendants.”<br />

So go shop crazy for their wide selection of<br />

quality goods! www.tutuban.com.ph<br />

Toast your friends<br />

If you’re hitting Hong Kong for the<br />

holidays and New Year’s Eve, make sure<br />

to buy your friends a drink (or two) at the<br />

Waterfall Bar in the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong.<br />

Until December 31, you can enjoy the new<br />

additions to their drinks menu: the Pineapple<br />

Ginger Martini (a vodka-based cocktail<br />

blended with ginger juice and pineapple juice),<br />

Peppermint Twist (a mix of Kahlua and Cherry<br />

Brandy topped with fresh peppermint leaf),<br />

Lemongrass Martini (a refreshing drink with a<br />

{ 56 }<br />

Dresses<br />

specially sp<br />

made<br />

for you<br />

Clothes for<br />

young women<br />

Treat your Singapore-based female<br />

friends to fashions they won’t<br />

fi nd in stores. Moody Mary is an<br />

independent clothing label that<br />

makes one-of-a-kind dresses that<br />

make its wearers stand out. Think<br />

animal prints and vintage-style<br />

designs on light cardigans and<br />

blazers, skirts, asymmetrical tops,<br />

and sassy party dresses. Check out<br />

Moody Mary’s collection online at<br />

www.shopmoodymary.com<br />

Grand Hyatt Hong Kong’s<br />

new martinis, iced teas<br />

and margaritas<br />

mix of lemongrass fl avored vodka, syrup and lemon juice), Dark Cherry (a combination with a mix<br />

of vanilla vodka, Grand Marnier and cranberry juice), Patron Margarita (a perfect blend of Patron<br />

Silver, Triple Sec and lime juice), and Traditional Long Island Ice Tea (a classic cocktail with a mix<br />

of different liqueurs and a splash of coke). You can also order deluxe snacks and premium Cuban<br />

cigars while relaxing amid artfully landscaped rocks, waterfalls and green surroundings on the 11th<br />

fl oor podium. 1 Harbour Road, Hong Kong, tel: +852 2584 7722<br />

TEXT MAYA O CALICA


1<br />

promotional feature<br />

5 reasons for<br />

resort living<br />

Not that you’ll need any more convincing, but living in Hanaya<br />

– AboitizLand, Inc.’s latest project and second vertical residential<br />

development – evokes memories of a pampering<br />

weekend getaway, every day<br />

Hanaya equals<br />

relaxed bliss<br />

The word “Hanaya” comes from<br />

“hayahay”, which means “comfortable” or<br />

“convenient” in Visayan, and “hanayo” or<br />

“world of fl owers” in Japanese. It describes<br />

the pleasant and breezy ambience of the<br />

resort-style village perfectly.<br />

2<br />

Refreshing green<br />

environs<br />

Located in Canduman, Mandaue City<br />

in Cebu, Hanaya sits on fi ve hectares of<br />

green and open space (Cebu’s biggest at<br />

70%). Its amenities complement its natural<br />

surroundings, with beautifully landscaped<br />

gardens, fi tness trails, a pavilion and gazebo<br />

that allow homeowners to fully admire and<br />

appreciate the views.<br />

3<br />

Well-planned spaces<br />

Each level of the six-storey<br />

condominium has only 16 residences, with<br />

a balcony or patio for enjoying the view<br />

and fresh air. Choose from two- and threebedroom<br />

units in standard, deluxe and suite<br />

layouts at affordable prices.<br />

What’s more, Hanaya’s design is earthfriendly:<br />

It has a garden atrium at the center<br />

of each building. It utilizes less artifi cial<br />

lighting and ventilation, thanks to its cool<br />

green walls and compact fl ourescent lights.<br />

Low-fl ow water fi xtures, dual-fl ush water<br />

closets and a rainway recovery system also<br />

ensure that water is used wisely.<br />

4<br />

An active lifestyle<br />

All these features make you want<br />

to take advantage of the outdoors — and<br />

{ 59 }<br />

Hanaya helps you do that with free-form<br />

and lap pools for adults, a separate pool for<br />

children, playgrounds, an open basketball<br />

court and barbecue stations. The clubhouse<br />

is also the perfect venue for large gatherings<br />

or intimate celebrations.<br />

5<br />

The company of<br />

friendly vecinos<br />

Vecino – “neighbors” in Spanish – is what<br />

AboitizLand, Inc. calls its valued clients and<br />

homeowners; an apt word for those who live<br />

in such a nurturing community. Visit www.<br />

aboitizland.com for more information and<br />

you can be a part of it too.<br />

ABOITIZLAND, INC.<br />

Signal Trading Building, No. 1 Paseo<br />

Saturnino, Maria Luisa Road, Banilad,<br />

Cebu City 6000, Philippines<br />

Tel: +63 (32) 411-1600; +63 (32) 411-1623;<br />

US Toll Free: 1-800-930-3304<br />

Email: contactus@aboitizland.com<br />

www.aboitizland.com


Live smart<br />

in Davao<br />

Poised to become Davao’s<br />

future landmark, Aeon Towers<br />

is designed to be a model of<br />

sustainable and energy-effi cient<br />

everyday living<br />

WITH AEON TOWERS, the new development<br />

of FTC Properties, Davao is now making its<br />

way to becoming another mega city. Set to be<br />

a green model property that uses sustainable<br />

technology, Aeon Towers is a luxurious<br />

condominium property located near Abreeza<br />

Mall in Bajada. It will rise approximately 35<br />

storeys, including fi ve basement levels for<br />

parking. The building’s lower fl oors will be<br />

designated as commercial areas.<br />

“The exterior of the building will be made<br />

of special cut glass, which provides natural<br />

lighting during the days and cuts down energy<br />

consumption,” says Ian Y Cruz, president<br />

and chief executive offi cer of FTC Group<br />

of Companies. ”We shall offer what would<br />

embody the future’s high standard quality in<br />

condominium living in Davao City, comparable<br />

to the world’s best.”<br />

According to Cruz, Aeon Towers will be one<br />

of the fi rst buildings in the country to offer the<br />

Smart Home Technology — the building will<br />

follow a network and cable design that can<br />

convert a regular home to a fully automated<br />

home, following the tastes of the condominium<br />

unit owner. Among those that will be installed:<br />

wireless automated lighting, air-conditioning,<br />

and whole home audio control. “All the above<br />

features are possible with the use of this<br />

system,“ Cruz explains.<br />

Smart Home Technology requires<br />

absolutely zero power, which saves energy.<br />

“Besides being environment-friendly, the<br />

technology also serves as a realization of<br />

the need for automated products that make<br />

promotional feature<br />

life easier, safer and more enjoyable,“ Cruz<br />

adds. “Amidst the advanced technology or<br />

state-of-the-art features of the condominium,<br />

the essence of home is never forgotten in<br />

every aspect of the design. It must still remain<br />

a home that is ‘close to heart’ — so there<br />

is also the promise of fond memories and<br />

unforgettable experiences if people choose to<br />

stay in Aeon Towers.”<br />

Aeon Towers is being developed as a high-<br />

{ 60 }<br />

A vision of the future:<br />

How Aeon Towers<br />

will look like in 2016.<br />

end project complete with prime amenities and<br />

a panoramic view of Davao Gulf and Mt. Apo,<br />

the country’s highest peak.<br />

The construction will begin on the third<br />

quarter of 2012, and the projected time of<br />

turnover will be on the fi rst quarter of 2016.<br />

For more information, call tel: +63 (82) 305<br />

0588 or +63 (82) 300 1288.<br />

www.aeontowers.com.ph


The North Face<br />

Longhaul 21<br />

For the adventure<br />

seeker<br />

When their idea of a holiday includes<br />

camping and roughing it out in the<br />

mountains or forest trails, pair a roomy<br />

bag with sturdy boots that are perfect<br />

for hiking and the outdoors.<br />

The reliable Longhaul 21 carry-on<br />

luggage by The North Face organizes<br />

and stores your items with pockets,<br />

compression straps, a wet/dry roll top<br />

compartment, and bottom, top, front<br />

and side carry handles. PHP11,690;<br />

www.thenorthface.com<br />

The Large Backpack Arc Series by<br />

Timberland is water-resistant, and<br />

has daisy chains for your add-ons,<br />

Timberland Arc Series<br />

Timberland Radler<br />

Trail Camper<br />

adjustable shoulder straps, and<br />

moulded rubber grab handles to better<br />

carry the extra load.<br />

Timberland’s footwear is just as<br />

durable: the Radler Trail Camper<br />

is designed to be compact and<br />

comfortable, with DWR treated rip-stop<br />

water-resistant fabric, a removable<br />

fl eece-lined footbed, and Durable<br />

Green Rubber outsole for traction. The<br />

Timberland Icon 6” Premium Boot<br />

is made with water-proof leather, a<br />

padded collar for the ankle, durable<br />

laces, rust-proof hardware and a rubber<br />

lug outsole. www.timberland.com<br />

{ 62 }<br />

Mix and<br />

match<br />

Why just give one gift when you<br />

can give more? This Christmas,<br />

put together special packages<br />

of travel , Why just give one gift f when you<br />

s best brands for every<br />

kind of travel personality.<br />

By Charmaine Baylon


PHOTO GETTY IMAGES (MAIN)<br />

H OLIDAY GIFT GUIDE<br />

{ 63 }


For the frequent<br />

traveler<br />

Do they often forget to pack the little<br />

things? Assemble a handy travel kit<br />

that’ll help them look and feel their best.<br />

With Nivea Oil Control For Men, his<br />

skin can weather various conditions<br />

— the oil-free formulation helps clear<br />

oily skin problems and clogged pores.<br />

Available at drugstores<br />

For healthy skin on the go,<br />

supplement your diet with Life Oil<br />

capsules. Extracted from Malunggay<br />

leaves and seeds, it also contains<br />

vitamin C, Chlorophyll and Omega 3.<br />

Available at Mercury Drug stores<br />

Then help shield their eyes from<br />

the sun with chic frames from the<br />

Rudy Project Jazz eyewear line. www.<br />

rudyproject.com<br />

a-Jays earphones<br />

Sony Cyber-shot TX55<br />

A spritz of a cool scent like Hugo Just<br />

Different will freshen him up and boost<br />

his confi dence. PHP3,550–4,500;<br />

available at leading department stores<br />

Whether they’re waiting at the airport<br />

or just hanging out, they’ll relax more<br />

knowing they can listen to their favorite<br />

music — the a-JAYS earphones offer<br />

quality sounds with its 8.6mm speakers.<br />

www.JAYSphilippines.com<br />

Then again, they’ll also love the sleek<br />

Nokia N9. A swipe instead of a returnto-home<br />

key makes it a breeze to use.<br />

www.nokia.com.ph<br />

Encourage her to share snippets of<br />

her travels with the Sony Cyber-shot<br />

TX55 — a slim camera at only 12.2mm.<br />

www.sony.com.ph<br />

Life Oil supplements<br />

{ 64 }<br />

Hugo Just Different<br />

scent by Hugo Boss<br />

Nivea Oil Control<br />

For Men<br />

Rudy Project<br />

Jazz eyewear<br />

Nokia N9


L’Oreal Color Riche<br />

Naturals lipstick<br />

The Body Shop<br />

Rainforest Moisture<br />

Hair Butter<br />

Beach Hut Sunblock<br />

with SPF 65<br />

The ultimate kikay kit<br />

Who wouldn’t want to get her hands on<br />

these? Get similar or complementary<br />

products from different brands, and<br />

she’ll be experimenting and admiring<br />

herself in the mirror in no time.<br />

Achieve a pretty and natural look by<br />

enhancing your best features. And it’ll<br />

only take a few minutes: Use L’Oréal<br />

Paris Open Eyes Pro eyeshadow in<br />

Beige Harmony (PHP875), a fl attering<br />

neutral palette; the water-proof Double<br />

Extension Curl Mascara (PHP845); the<br />

Base Magique primer (PHP945) for a<br />

smooth and even complexion; and a<br />

Color Riche Naturals lipstick (PHP625)<br />

for a pretty pout.<br />

Maybelline also offers a fussfree<br />

beauty routine. The BB Cream<br />

(PHP249) is a moisturizer, sunblock<br />

and foundation all in one, while the<br />

Eye Studio Lumineyes (PHP599) is an<br />

eyeshadow palette with an illuminating<br />

control primer for brighter eyes. Baby<br />

Lips (PHP79) work to moisturize and<br />

care for your lips with SPF 20.<br />

H OLIDAY GIFT GUIDE<br />

Maybelline Eye<br />

Studio Lumineyes<br />

If she loves the sun, add on Beach<br />

Hut’s Ultra-Sensitive Hypoallergenic<br />

Sunblock with SPF 65 for the face, and<br />

Max 100++ SPF Unbelievably Light<br />

Lotion Sunblock to shield her from<br />

harmful rays.<br />

The Body Shop has four extensive<br />

ranges great for women on the go. The<br />

Tea Tree range includes a facial wash,<br />

skin toner, clearing lotion and blemish<br />

night lotion to help clear up your skin<br />

and remove impurities. The Vitamin E<br />

range includes a facial wash, hydrating<br />

toner, moisture cream and nourishing<br />

night cream to soften and protect your<br />

skin. The Rainforest Balance Hair Care<br />

Kit includes a shampoo, conditioner,<br />

detangling comb, and Moisture Hair<br />

Butter to make your tresses healthy<br />

and shiny. www.thebodyshop.com.ph<br />

A feminine fragrance like Escada Taj<br />

Sunset — with its notes of Alphonso<br />

mango, nectarine, blood orange,<br />

watery blossom and raspberry —<br />

makes a nice fi nishing touch before<br />

{ 65 }<br />

Hygienix Hand Spray<br />

Maybelline BB Cream<br />

Escada Taj Sunset<br />

Maybelline Baby Lips<br />

a night out. PHP2,400 (30ml),<br />

PHP3,250 (50ml) and PHP4,300<br />

(100ml); available at leading<br />

department stores<br />

Stay clean and germ-free with<br />

the Hygienix Hand Care Line, which<br />

includes the Anti-bacterial Hand<br />

Spray (PHP25–39.50) and Hand Gel<br />

(PHP29–45) Fresh Defense.<br />

Then pamper tired feet with The<br />

Body Shop’s Peppermint Cooling Foot<br />

Spray. www.thebodyshop.com.ph


For the souvenir<br />

co lector<br />

Present them with knick-knacks and<br />

pieces to remember their travels by.<br />

Let them have their fi ll of<br />

personalized shirts and bags, mugs,<br />

caps, keychains and magnets from<br />

Islands Souvenirs. Designs feature<br />

popular destinations like Manila, Cebu,<br />

Palawan, Davao and Boracay, among<br />

others. www.islandssouvenirs.com<br />

Friends and family overseas can<br />

show their Pinoy pride with the My<br />

Philippines fl ag-inspired Sun & Star<br />

jacket (which is also a hit with tourists),<br />

T-shirts, bags and caps too. Available<br />

at SM department stores; tel: +63<br />

(922) 883 5020, www.mynational<br />

shirt.com<br />

Hello Lulu laptop case<br />

H OLIDAY GIFT GUIDE<br />

Reva fl ats<br />

{ 67 }<br />

My Philippines apparel<br />

For the stylish teen<br />

Bright colors and cute designs make<br />

these pieces sure winners.<br />

Let her have a pair (or two) of Reva<br />

fl ats in pastel shades, pretty stripes<br />

and fl oral patterns. She’ll fi nd it hard to<br />

choose! Available at department stores<br />

Hello Lulu’s 13-inch Jaime nylon<br />

laptop case doesn’t just have a padded<br />

compartment for your laptop — it<br />

also has zippered pockets, a soft-grip<br />

handle, and a matching shoulder strap<br />

and luggage handle. It’s available in<br />

four different colors too. Available at<br />

Rustans, The Travel Club, Bratpack,<br />

Tripologie, Powermac, Istudio, Ashop,<br />

Duty Free and Fashion Rack stores


Smile Magazine’s<br />

X’mas Food Special<br />

The new<br />

Noche Buena<br />

Call it a cooking coup — we gathered seven<br />

of Metro Manila , s finest chefs and asked them<br />

for a fresh take on the traditional Noche Buena<br />

spread. Suddenly, everything old is new again!<br />

Story by JJ Yulo. Photography by Kathy Chua<br />

{ 68 }


C HRISTMAS FOOD SPECIAL<br />

{ 69 }<br />

Spice up your Christmas<br />

table with reinvented<br />

Pinoy staples.


C HRISTMAS FOOD SPECIAL<br />

Chef Niño Laus’<br />

Rellenong Manok<br />

The head chef and owner of Ninyo honed his craft playing elf cook in various<br />

Japanese restaurants, and eventually to Chef Humphrey Navarro — thus<br />

developing his style of using Japanese, French and, yes, even Filipino infl uences<br />

in his cooking. His Rellenong Manok jumps off from his grandma’s original recipe.<br />

Try this twist Marinate the fowl in ponzu (a widely used Japanese sauce usually<br />

made from mirin, rice vinegar, seaweed, katsuboshi, citrus like yuzu or lemon,<br />

and some soy sauce), then stuff it with edamame, foie gras, quail eggs, Japanese<br />

ginger, Japanese corn, and pork marinated in dalandan miso. Top the dish with a<br />

sauce of white miso, leeks, sesame seeds and tapioca cooked in ponzu.<br />

Chef Niño Laus is the head chef at Ninyo Fusion Cuisine & Wine Lounge, 66 E.<br />

Abada St, Loyola Heights, Quezon City. Tel: +63 (2) 426 0301<br />

{ 70 }


C HRISTMAS FOOD SPECIAL<br />

Chef Rob Pengson’s<br />

Fish Con Mayonesa<br />

The ones who take a roundabout route before fi nally ending up in the kitchen often<br />

make the most interesting chefs — Chef Rob Pengson studied architecture, then<br />

dabbled in interior design, before deciding to cook. At The Goose Station, a restaurant<br />

he runs with wife Sunshine Puey-Pengson, he turns out some of the most innovative<br />

dishes in the city.<br />

Try this twist Steam a whole lapu-lapu; but instead of slathering it with mayonnaise<br />

(and covering it in stripes of festive garnish), jazz up the fi sh dish with a modern and<br />

clever twist. Sweep a layer of horse radish mayonnaise over the fi sh, then cover it up<br />

with thinly sliced pickled radish so that it looks like fi sh scales. Dot each “scale” with<br />

a pinch of caviar and serve with a side salad of seasonal greens.<br />

Chef Rob Pengson runs The Goose Station, Ground Floor, W Tower, 39th St, Fort<br />

Bonifacio, Taguig. Tel: +63 (2) 556 9068, www.thegoosestation.ph<br />

{ 72 }


CHRISTMAS FOOD SPECIAL<br />

Marivic Diaz-Lim’s<br />

Glazed Smoked Jamon<br />

When Marivic Diaz-Lim’s restaurant, Apartment 1B, opened its doors, its menu of<br />

gourmet comfort food — think honey-glazed pork ribs, spaghetti and meatballs,<br />

big breakfast platters of egg, cheese and crisp bacon — became an instant hit with<br />

foodies. The Culinary Institute of America-trained chef is no stranger to jazzing up<br />

beloved dishes, so for Smile’s food special, she takes on the Christmas leg ham.<br />

Try this twist Buy a piece of frozen leg ham at your supermarket. To make the<br />

glaze, combine mango and pineapple purée, honey, brown coconut sugar, star<br />

anise, cinnamon stick and ginger juice in a sauce pan over medium heat. Stir the<br />

glaze occasionally for 15 minutes or until it thickens, and brush it over the ham.<br />

Bake the ham for 10 minutes and add more glaze until it’s as golden as you want it.<br />

Chef Marivic Diaz-Lim runs Apartment 1B, One Lafayette Square, 132 LP Leviste<br />

St, Salcedo Village, Makati City. Tel: +63 (2) 843 4075<br />

{ 74 }


C HRISTMAS FOOD SPECIAL<br />

Chef Sau del Rosario’s<br />

Pancit Luglug<br />

Chef Sau started cooking at age fi ve, when most of us were busy puttering about<br />

exploring our environs. And with a mom who happens to be an excellent cook, and<br />

a grandfather and father who are both chefs, this third-generation chef indeed has a<br />

strong foundation. Christmas was always a bit melancholic, though, with dad having<br />

to spend Noche Buena cooking in his restaurant — but his reward was always a<br />

whole lechon, which they all munched on even if it was late into the night.<br />

Try this twist For the humble but always delicious pancit luglug, he chose to<br />

deconstruct the elements and lighten it up to appeal to today’s more healthconscious<br />

eaters, believing that the old recipes must be introduced to a whole new<br />

age group who he hopes will also pass it on even further.<br />

Chef Sau owns and cooks at Villa Café, 7427 Glory Bldg, Yakal St, San Antonio<br />

Village, Makati City. Tel: +63 (2) 478 2659<br />

{ 76 }


C HRISTMAS FOOD SPECIAL<br />

Chef Namee Jorolan’s<br />

Lechon Salad<br />

A native of Pampanga, Namee practically grew up in a restaurant (on the second<br />

fl oor, in fact) as the granddaughter of the founder of Everybody’s Café. No stranger<br />

to food (although she worked for many years in IT), she has eventually embraced<br />

her calling and now cooks with food culture entrepreneurs Pinoy Eats World.<br />

Try this twist Her task: to make the yummy, fatty and satisfying staple of the<br />

Christmas season a lighter treat. Once an intern at the legendary Chez Panisse,<br />

Namee learned to embrace all things fresh — and so her French and Californiainspired<br />

spin on lechon is to chop it into bits and toss it with bright spinach greens,<br />

tomatoes and onions, and toss it all with a sherry shallot vinaigrette — the perfect<br />

foil to all that rich roasted pig.<br />

Chef Namee Jorolan cooks at Everybody’s Café, del Pilar, MacArthur Highway,<br />

Pampanga. Tel: +63 (45) 860 1121<br />

{ 78 }


C HRISTMAS FOOD SPECIAL<br />

Chef JJ Yulo’s<br />

Fruit Salad<br />

After a long stint in graphic design, I too decided to do something different and<br />

enter culinary school at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City. It was<br />

the best year of my life, one that expanded my mind.<br />

Try this twist I’m all for reinventing, but fruit salad is just something that’s hard to<br />

touch. It’s a Pinoy classic: canned fruit cocktail, cream, condensed milk — the holy<br />

triumvirate of this Noche Buena staple. Just to keep the essence of it, I still used<br />

canned fruit cocktail (fresh fruits? Never!) and folded it in cream; but I too wanted to<br />

lighten things up a bit, so instead of condensed milk I folded in some plain yogurt<br />

and honey, and topped it with blueberries and candied sunfl ower seeds for that<br />

something extra.<br />

Chef JJ Yulo is a food blogger and entrepreneur behind Pinoy Eats World, a project<br />

that aims to bring Filipino cuisine to the global stage. www.pinoyeatsworld.com<br />

{ 80 }


C HRISTMAS FOOD SPECIAL<br />

Chef Sunshine Puey-Pengson’s<br />

Napoleones<br />

Perhaps now known to many, this Ilonggo lass (who is one half of The Goose<br />

Station together with husband Rob) actually started her career as a pre-school<br />

teacher — a perfect choice, really, considering her (pardon me) sunny disposition.<br />

But such was not the path for her to stay on, so off she went to a succession of<br />

top culinary schools: from the Bay Area’s Tante Marie, to the Institute of Culinary<br />

Education, and fi nally to L’Ecole Ritz Escoffi er in Paris.<br />

Try this twist A localized version of a classic French mille feuille — puff pastry fi lled<br />

with custard — Napoleones is sinful, rich and delicious, and hers is no exception.<br />

Instead of custard cream, use native kasuy (cashew) and lace it with chocolate<br />

sauce made from tablea for that bittersweet edge.<br />

Chef Sunshine Puey-Pengson runs The Goose Station, Ground Floor, W Tower,<br />

39th St, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig. Tel: +63 (2) 556 9068, www.thegoosestation.ph<br />

{ 82 }


Behind the scenes<br />

X’mas Food Special<br />

“I can’t forget one of my<br />

family’s grand reunions in<br />

Bacolod. There were adobo<br />

fl akes, lengua, adobo<br />

fl akes, chicken inasal,<br />

adobo fl akes, lechon,<br />

and lots of adobo fl akes.<br />

And lest I forget – we had<br />

plenty of adobo fl akes!”<br />

Lester Ledesma<br />

Photo Editor<br />

THE MORE COOKS, THE MERRIER!<br />

It took a village to put together Smile’s Christmas Food Special, proving<br />

that for Noche Buena, you can’t have too many cooks! Each one<br />

brought a fond holiday food memory to share at the table<br />

“After a feast of a<br />

Christmas dinner,<br />

some of us in the<br />

family would still have<br />

a post Noche Buena<br />

meal of all leftovers.<br />

And I would always<br />

eat the most!”<br />

Rob Pengson<br />

Chef<br />

Niño Laus<br />

Chef<br />

“My mom’s ‘Broken<br />

Glass’ Dessert<br />

made of gelatin and<br />

graham crackers.”<br />

{ 84 }<br />

“My lola’s dining table would groan under<br />

the weight of everything, from molo soup<br />

to Christmas ham and fresh corned beef to<br />

ensaymada and tsokolate. And my cousins<br />

and I would present our Christmas program<br />

extravaganza as everyone feasted away.”<br />

Tata Mapa<br />

Stylist<br />

Sunshine Pengson<br />

Chef<br />

“Going home after<br />

misa de gallo,<br />

opening gifts,<br />

and enjoying<br />

ensaymada<br />

and tablea hot<br />

chocolate.”


“As a kid, Christmas<br />

meant my lola’s<br />

lovingly made<br />

chicken galantina<br />

that I only got to eat<br />

once a year.”<br />

JJ Yulo<br />

Writer/<br />

Chef<br />

“I was never a fan of the<br />

traditional way of serving the<br />

Noche Buena lechon, but I<br />

loved how my mom would<br />

turn the suckling pig into<br />

paksiw na lechon (lechon<br />

recooked in vinegar and<br />

bay leaves) the day after<br />

Christmas. My mouth still<br />

waters at the thought of it.”<br />

Marie Calica<br />

Makeup Artist<br />

“Our morcon made<br />

with chorizo, duck<br />

eggs and queso! It’s<br />

so rich and tasty that<br />

I would eat it like<br />

cheese in between<br />

slices of bread. It’s<br />

the best sandwich in<br />

the world!”<br />

Namee Jorolan<br />

Chef<br />

C HRISTMAS FOOD SPECIAL<br />

“I always look forward<br />

to receiving My Auntie<br />

Baby’s Queso de Italia<br />

every Christmas.<br />

It is a baked cheese<br />

pudding made of<br />

homemade smoked ham,<br />

green olives, queso de<br />

bola and special bread.<br />

It’s special because she<br />

only makes it during the<br />

Christmas season.”<br />

Marivic Diaz Lim<br />

Chef<br />

{ 85 }<br />

“When my lolo was still<br />

alive, he would pile up food<br />

on my plate and would tell<br />

me I couldn’t open my gifts if<br />

I didn’t fi nish my food.”<br />

Jerome Orpiano<br />

Assistant Chef<br />

“I remember growing up in<br />

Pampanga surrounded by<br />

great cooks like my mom<br />

and aunts and uncles. The<br />

women paddled kalamays<br />

or rice cakes while the men<br />

butchered pigs for lechon.<br />

Those days were beautiful<br />

and signifi cant for me.”<br />

Sau del Rosario<br />

Chef<br />

“Defi nitely Quiampong<br />

(Chinese stuffed chicken).<br />

Maybe it was because<br />

chestnuts are widely available<br />

during this season that my<br />

aunt would treat us all to this<br />

dish. I’ve learned how to make<br />

it eventually.”<br />

Kathy Chua<br />

Photographer


R ECONNECT WITH YOUR ROOTS<br />

Love<br />

your own<br />

How Filipino are you? Maya O. Calica suggests six<br />

enjoyable ways to get smitten with your heritage.<br />

Illustrations by Rommel Joson<br />

{ 87 }


We can revive early<br />

Pinoy melodies with<br />

instruments like the<br />

katyapi, dayuday<br />

and pulala.<br />

IN OLDEN TIMES, women would weave<br />

fabrics by hand, in a circle, while making<br />

conversation. This is how most traditions<br />

are made and passed on — by sharing<br />

stories. Times have changed and more<br />

effort has to be made to stay in touch<br />

with our own culture, but there’s no time<br />

like the present to learn something of the<br />

past — here’s what you might want to<br />

pick up, and where to do it.<br />

1<br />

Make music<br />

with ancient<br />

instruments<br />

Filipinos may be familiar with the<br />

kundiman and the harana, love songs<br />

strummed on a guitar for a fair maiden.<br />

But what about the ancient katyapi<br />

(lute), dayuday (fi ddle) and pulala (lip<br />

valley fl ute)? These are what musician<br />

Waway Linsahay Saway uses to create<br />

his music. “Playing these musical<br />

instruments is the key for us Filipinos<br />

to understand our heritage,” explains<br />

the artist based in Tulugan-Songco<br />

Lantapan, Bukidnon. Waway has<br />

recorded six albums to date, and has<br />

incorporated the use of the katyapi,<br />

dayuday and pulala, as well as the<br />

organic sounds of nature, in his work.<br />

His album, Kulahi hu Bugta (Musicry of<br />

the Land), also features the sounds of<br />

chickens and insects.<br />

“Playing these early instruments<br />

mean heroism and nationalism, because<br />

it is the root of Philippine sound,” says<br />

Waway. Being true to his roots has<br />

made him stand out both locally and<br />

internationally: his songs have been<br />

used in several fi lms, such as the<br />

{ 88 }<br />

Cinemalaya 2010 entry Limbunan by<br />

Moro fi lmmaker Teng Mangansakan.<br />

Next March, the musician will<br />

collaborate with fellow artists Grace<br />

Nono and Bob Aves at the Penang<br />

World Music Festival.<br />

How to do it Waway doesn’t offer<br />

formal classes, but gives lessons on<br />

how to make and play these ancient<br />

instruments in his village in Bukidnon,<br />

an hour’s drive from Cagayan de Oro<br />

(CDO). You can also check out his<br />

instructional videos on how to play<br />

the katyapi on YouTube, or order his<br />

music videos. Tel: +63 (927) 440 6748,<br />

wawayska@yahoo.com<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to CDO from Manila,<br />

Cebu and Davao. www.cebupacifi cair.com


2<br />

Fight, Pinoy-style<br />

“Arnis is now our national sport<br />

and martial art as per Republic<br />

Act number 9850,” says Senior Master<br />

Samuel Bambit Dulay, Chief Instructor<br />

of the International Modern Arnis<br />

Federation Philippines (IMAFP). Also<br />

referred to as “kali” or “escrima,” the<br />

term “arnis” comes from the Tagalog<br />

corruption of the Spanish “arnes” or<br />

harness, which refers to decorations<br />

worn by Filipinos in early times. The<br />

sport involves the use of sticks, a dagger<br />

and even a bolo (long blade). There are<br />

also forms of arnis that don’t require<br />

weaponry, but involve lots of kicking,<br />

striking, throwing, locking and chocking<br />

techniques to subdue the opponent.<br />

“The criss-cross movement or<br />

sinawali technique using double sticks<br />

R ECONNECT WITH YOUR ROOTS<br />

isn’t found in any other form of martial<br />

art,” says Master Dulay, adding that the<br />

values behind the practice — “godliness,<br />

family bonding and respect for elders”<br />

— resonate with the Philippine spirit.<br />

The mental alertness from avoiding<br />

sticks coming at you and the super-fi t<br />

body are just bonuses.<br />

{ 89 }<br />

How to do it Learn the basics of arnis at<br />

Planet Infi nity, where they offer courses<br />

in arnis. Tel: +63 (2) 376 6919, 4/F<br />

Crossroad 77, Mother Ignacia Ave cor<br />

Scout Reyes St, Quezon City<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Manila from across<br />

the network. www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

Learn the truly Pinoy<br />

martial art of arnis.


Having hot tsokolate<br />

is like celebrating<br />

Christmas in a cup.<br />

3<br />

Create the perfect<br />

hot tsokolate<br />

Thick and sweet hot tsokolate<br />

always tastes best after hearing simbang<br />

gabi (dawn mass) on a cool December<br />

morning. “My earliest memory of<br />

sipping native hot tsokolate was at my<br />

lola’s house in Pampanga, where our<br />

family is from,” says Mariel Chua, a<br />

New York-based Filipina copywriter/<br />

proofreader who also blogs about her<br />

chocolate passion on Allmysugar.com.<br />

R ECONNECT WITH YOUR ROOTS<br />

For a truly authentic native<br />

tsokolate, swirl the simmering liquid<br />

using the batirol — a wooden stirrer<br />

that looks just like a honey dipper<br />

“The recipe was<br />

unique because it<br />

had peanut butter,<br />

the local kind with<br />

oil on top. Imagine<br />

liquefi ed Choc-nut<br />

candy, but richer<br />

and creamier.”<br />

The secret ingredient? The tablea or the<br />

native cacao tablets used to make it.<br />

How to do it Try Mariel’s family recipe: in<br />

a saucepan, heat milk over a slow fi re.<br />

For every piece of tablea tsokolate used,<br />

mix in an additional cup of milk. Next,<br />

add peanut butter by the teaspoonful.<br />

“For a truly authentic native tsokolate,<br />

swirl the simmering liquid using the<br />

batirol — a wooden stirrer that looks<br />

just like a honey dipper.” You can try<br />

{ 90 }<br />

other “versions” at Tita Lynn’s Flavored<br />

Suman (www.titalynnsfl avoredsuman.<br />

com) in Tiendesitas, Pasig City, and<br />

Dulcinea in Power Plant Mall, Robinsons<br />

Galleria and SM Mall of Asia.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Manila from across<br />

the network. www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

4<br />

Heal like a<br />

babaylan<br />

Before the Philippines was<br />

colonized, early Filipinos didn’t rely<br />

on doctors but on the babaylan — a<br />

religious leader who functioned as a<br />

shaman, healer and all-around miracle<br />

worker to the sick. A few years ago,<br />

healer/writer Pi Villaraza discovered<br />

Inner Dance, a movement rooted in the<br />

ancient wisdom of the babaylan, which<br />

helped clear his system of physical and<br />

emotional blockages.<br />

“Inner Dance is an intuitive healing<br />

practice known to ancient cultures<br />

around the world, including that of the<br />

ancient shamans of the Philippines<br />

who could access expanded states of<br />

consciousness to heal, awaken and<br />

commune with nature,” says Pi. He<br />

has been sharing this powerful healing<br />

method since 2007. “There have<br />

been many healings around the world<br />

from physical disorders like tumors,<br />

back problems, digestive disorders,<br />

migraines and many other things.” Pi<br />

has since written about Inner Dance in<br />

his <strong>2011</strong> book, Conscious Trance: The<br />

Journey to the Dancer Within.<br />

This gentle method is done in a<br />

group setting, with a facilitator (such<br />

as Pi) coaching the participants while<br />

soft music plays. The intention is to fi x<br />

imbalances in the body and spirit for<br />

better health and state of mind.<br />

How to do it Sign up for a fi ve-day Inner<br />

Dance and Raw Food Detox Retreat at<br />

Bahay Kalipay in Puerto Princesa City,<br />

Palawan (www.bahaykalipay.com).<br />

There are also Inner Dance teaching<br />

practitioners in the US and some cities<br />

in Asia.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Puerto Princesa from<br />

Cebu and Manila. www.cebupacifi cair.com


5<br />

Learn about the<br />

Mangyan culture<br />

Indigenous Filipino cultures,<br />

such as the Mangyan tribe in Mindoro,<br />

are in danger of vanishing. Thankfully,<br />

we have the Mangyan Heritage Center<br />

(MHC) — a library archive, research<br />

and education center in Calapan City,<br />

Mindoro that was made possible<br />

through the efforts of Antoon Postma, a<br />

missionary priest; Father Ewald Dinter,<br />

SVD, head of the Mangyan Mission;<br />

and Quint Fansler, a former Jesuit<br />

volunteer assigned to Oriental Mindoro.<br />

Although visits to the Mangyan<br />

communities require their consent and<br />

walk-in visits are not encouraged, MHC<br />

still offers a wealth of information to<br />

satisfy your desire for knowledge.<br />

How to do it You can learn the<br />

ambahan, or traditional poetry that is<br />

usually written on bamboo in ancient<br />

Surat Mangyan. They can teach you<br />

how to write your name in Mangyan<br />

as well.<br />

MHC also has a photo and artifact<br />

exhibit, The Mangyans of Mindoro:<br />

Myth and Meaning, that travels around<br />

the country. It features traditional cotton<br />

spinning and weaving demos, as well<br />

as beaded bracelet-making workshops<br />

and writing exercises in the Hanunuo-<br />

Mangyan script. Bishop Finnemann<br />

Compound Calero, Calapan City,<br />

Oriental Mindoro, www.mangyan.org<br />

From Manila, drive or take a two-hour bus<br />

ride to the Batangas port. Take a ferry to<br />

Calapan (an hour by Fastcraft, two hours<br />

by Roro vessel), and then a 10-minute<br />

tricycle ride to the MHC offi ce.<br />

6<br />

Relax your body<br />

with hilot<br />

Hilot, an age-old healing<br />

tradition that involves deep-tissue<br />

R ECONNECT WITH YOUR ROOTS<br />

massage and a heavy dose of intuition,<br />

is believed to be as old as the island’s<br />

earliest inhabitants. “It varies depending<br />

on the region and clan, but it is usually<br />

a part of traditional folk medicine<br />

practiced in rural areas where economic<br />

constraints are palpable,” says Richell<br />

Grace Sañez, lead trainer and spa<br />

operations manager of Mandala Spa<br />

and Villas in Boracay.<br />

In hilot, the diagnosis of a disease<br />

and the healing process are highly<br />

spiritual. “Common to healers is the<br />

fervent religiosity that guides them<br />

in their practice, which is profusely<br />

{ 92 }<br />

infused with prayers that are whispered<br />

(bulong) or written (orasyon),” explains<br />

Richell. “In spas, hilot is commonly<br />

used to relax tired muscles and release<br />

blockages from the energy pathways.”<br />

How to do it You may need to seek out<br />

a manghihilot in a rural town — or you<br />

can fl y to Boracay for Mandala Spa’s<br />

award-winning Hilot Trilogy (www.<br />

mandalaspa.com).<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Caticlan from Cebu<br />

and Manila, and to Kalibo from Manila.<br />

www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

Traditional Mangyan<br />

poetry is usually<br />

written on bamboo<br />

in ancient Surat<br />

Mangyan script.


Cool getaways<br />

As temperatures drop to cool lows throughout the<br />

region, Lester Ledesma tracks the perfect spots to<br />

bundle up, chill out and get cozy this Christmas<br />

DECEMBER is when the weather cools<br />

down in this part of the globe, the nippy<br />

winds putting an end to long stretches<br />

of warm tropical nights. We say this is<br />

the perfect time to pack our bags and<br />

{ 94 }<br />

head up to the mountains and feel<br />

the chill. We’ve rounded up highland<br />

destinations across the Cebu Pacifi c<br />

network for quick and cool getaways<br />

perfect for the Christmas holidays.


PHOTO GETTY IMAGES<br />

C OZY CHRISTMAS<br />

{ 95 }<br />

Cameron Highlands in Malaysia is famous<br />

for its rolling hills and tea plantations.<br />

Take your time<br />

exploring the many<br />

attractions of these<br />

leisurely destinations


Clockwise: Farmers pick tea leaves<br />

every morning at plantations in Cameron<br />

Highlands; sit down to English high tea with<br />

scones at the Smokehouse Restaurant; stay<br />

in one of the mock Tudor-style bungalows.<br />

Cameron Highlands,<br />

Malaysia<br />

Ye Olde English Town<br />

There’s no better place to have a steaming cuppa than here.<br />

The Cameron Highlands is Malaysia’s quintessential teagrowing<br />

region, thanks to its long history of cultivation here<br />

by the British. In fact, this is the most Brit-fl avored of all the<br />

country’s colonial towns, its mock Tudor-style bungalows<br />

looking strangely at home against the backdrop of rolling<br />

fi elds and tropical jungles.<br />

If the sweet weather and the misty slopes haven’t<br />

convinced you yet, this hill station is all about taking it slow.<br />

Savor an old-school English high tea with a serving of scones<br />

at the Smokehouse Restaurant, before setting off on a scenic<br />

drive along the main road. It won’t be long before you come<br />

across one of the region’s many sprawling farms. Do stop by<br />

for a visit — we recommend the Boh Tea Plantation and the<br />

Big Red Strawberry Farm in the Brinchang district — and<br />

soon enough you’ll be happily picking leaves and berries.<br />

Another steaming cuppa beckons (you can fi nd it<br />

everywhere in these parts), and then it’s onward to the<br />

nearby produce market, or fl ower nursery, or the local<br />

butterfl y gardens. Whatever else you decide to check out,<br />

rest assured you’ll be doing it at a leisurely pace. Kuala<br />

Lumpur may be fi ve hours by road from here, but this<br />

mountaintop hideout is truly a world away.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Kuala Lumpur from Manila.<br />

www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

{ 96 }


PHOTOS INMAGINE (CAMERON HIGHLANDS), GETTY IMAGES (MOUNT KOYA)<br />

The Oku-no-in cemetery with<br />

its ancient tombstones.<br />

Below: The Garan temple<br />

complex is one of the most<br />

important worship sites in<br />

Shingon Buddhism.<br />

C OZY CHRISTMAS<br />

{ 97 }<br />

Mount Koya, Japan<br />

Scenic and spiritual<br />

Located in the mountain ranges of Honshu, Koyasan isn’t<br />

quite within Christmas country but its charms are well worth<br />

its unlikely location. In fact, this is more of a Buddhist retreat,<br />

its slopes regarded as sacred by Japan’s Shingon Buddhists.<br />

A 1.5-hour train ride from Osaka takes you to the foot of the<br />

mountain, where a cable car whisks visitors 800m up to the<br />

top. Yes, the hillside views along the way are truly stunning.<br />

Thanks to a constant stream of pilgrims, Mount Koya<br />

possesses a distinctively spiritual vibe. Devotees usually head<br />

for the Garan and Kongobuji temples, which are the sect’s<br />

most important worship houses. Then there’s the atmospheric<br />

Oku-no-in cemetery, where ancient tombstones sit amongst<br />

a forest of centuries-old trees. When dusk arrives, this turns<br />

into a magical locale, the thick evening fog casting a moody<br />

blanket over the entire area. Nature enthusiasts, on the other<br />

hand, can choose to trek the countless forest trails.<br />

With surroundings like these, one can spend days simply<br />

admiring this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This cultural gem<br />

is best savored with an overnight stay at the local shukubo —<br />

temple lodges that offer glimpses into the lifestyle of Shingon<br />

Buddhist monks.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Osaka from Manila. www.cebupacifi cair.com


Alishan, Taiwan<br />

C OZY CHRISTMAS<br />

The railway to heaven<br />

Tucked within central Taiwan is a highland region so scenic<br />

they had to give it an offi cial title. The Alishan National<br />

Scenic Area was once a logging enclave before the<br />

Taiwanese decided to keep it for posterity. Today its forest of<br />

massive cypress trees provide a dramatic setting for one of<br />

Taiwan’s best mountain hideaways.<br />

It also has a ride that few other montane destinations can<br />

boast of. Alishan’s alpine railway is one of three remaining<br />

in the world, its tracks spanning 86km of largely vertical<br />

terrain. Although parts of it have been closed due to typhoon<br />

damage in 2009, its most scenic stretch has remained<br />

thankfully open. Spend the night at the Alishan village proper<br />

(it’s a winding uphill drive from Chiayi City, on Taiwan’s west<br />

coast), then board the train before dawn to take the winding,<br />

6km journey to an observation platform, some 3,000ft up.<br />

(TOP)<br />

Here, amidst the deep blue sky and chilly morning weather,<br />

one can watch the sun rise gloriously over a sea of clouds.<br />

Your spirits still singing from the gorgeous light show, head<br />

INMAGINE<br />

back to the village for a quick breakfast and a stroll through<br />

the surrounding forest. Alishan’s trails are paved and well<br />

DEDESMA,<br />

marked, making them ideal for easy, quiet walks. If you’re<br />

looking for a different way to greet New Year’s Day, this is the<br />

LESTER<br />

place to do it.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Taipei from Manila. www.cebupacifi cair.com PHOTOS<br />

{ 98 }<br />

The alpine railway passes by<br />

Alishan’s most scenic routes.<br />

Below: The Alishan village<br />

proper, where you can also<br />

shop for fresh food.


Malaybalay, Philippines<br />

The hidden highlands<br />

Cool winds, pine trees and native tribes — and not a tourist in<br />

sight. The southern city of Malaybalay isn’t the fi rst destination<br />

that comes to mind when one thinks of a highland holiday in<br />

the Philippines. Yet this is precisely the reason why we should<br />

head here. Located right at the heart of Mindanao, the sleepy<br />

capital of Bukidnon Province offers that rare opportunity to<br />

escape the maddening Christmas crowds.<br />

Getting here isn’t so straightforward, but the traveling is<br />

scenic. From the airport at neighboring Cagayan de Oro, one<br />

needs to drive about 100km south on a countryside highway<br />

that rolls past farms and endless pineapple fi elds.<br />

Malaybalay’s attractions range from the spiritual to the<br />

sporty. Start off with a visit to the picturesque Monastery of<br />

the Transfi guration, then move on to the village of Lantapan<br />

to meet a local community of tribal artists. If you’re up for<br />

something more robust, there’s also an 840m zipline at the<br />

Dahilayan Adventure Park. Sightseeing aside, perhaps the<br />

most appropriate activity here would be a slow saunter down<br />

the Kaamulan Park (it’s right behind City Hall), with its pine<br />

forest and early morning fog.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Cagayan de Oro from Manila, Cebu and<br />

Davao. www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

C OZY CHRISTMAS<br />

{ 100 }<br />

From top: The road to Malaybalay from<br />

Cagayan de Oro is surrounded by farms<br />

and fi elds; Lantapan is also known for<br />

its artistry; the pyramid-like Monastery<br />

of the Transfi guration.<br />

PHOTOS BOBBY TIMONERA


Bandung, Indonesia<br />

Colonial charm<br />

Nestled in the mountains near Jakarta is a city with<br />

attractions worthy of a diehard culture vulture’s attention.<br />

Bandung began life as classy hill station, thanks to the Dutch<br />

who established mountain resorts and coffee plantations<br />

on these slopes. Today it is a bustling center for education<br />

in West Java, its tree-lined boulevards and fl ower gardens<br />

catering to over 27 major universities.<br />

Bandung’s tourist draw is in the remnants of its colonial<br />

past — get a good taste of this by sauntering down Jalan<br />

Braga, right at the heart of downtown. This Dutch-era shopping<br />

district boasts an old-world feel, thanks to its many art-deco<br />

buildings dating back to pre-independensi days. Check out the<br />

nicely restored Savoy-Homann Hotel at the street’s southern<br />

end, then have a cup of hot java at the nearby Kopi Paberik<br />

Aroma. So old-school is this café that its signs are still written<br />

in Dutch, and its interiors have remained largely unchanged<br />

for decades. A glimpse of classic Javanese culture awaits<br />

next at the Rumentang Siang Theatre, which hosts traditional<br />

jaipongan dance and wayang golek puppetry performances.<br />

Those wishing to get away from urban environs, on the other<br />

hand, would do well to visit the Tangkuban Perahu volcano,<br />

just off the city’s north side.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Jakarta from Manila. www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

C OZY CHRISTMAS<br />

Clockwise from top left: The old and<br />

the new come together at Jalan<br />

Braga shopping district; Jalan Braga<br />

features restored and art-deco<br />

architecture; trek to the Tangkuban<br />

Perahu volcano.<br />

{ 102 }<br />

PHOTOS EDGAR ALAN ZETA YAP


{ 106 }<br />

PHOTO WALTER VILLA


Manila<br />

C HRISTMAS LIGHTS<br />

When it<br />

sparkles<br />

Catch these spectacular once-a-year-only<br />

light and sound shows that add glitz and<br />

glitter to Manila , s holiday season<br />

{ 107 }


The parol row<br />

Gilmore Avenue, San Juan<br />

The Philippines is known for the high craftsmanship of<br />

its Christmas lanterns, and all the best of these holiday<br />

decorations can be found in the stalls that spring up — just<br />

for the holidays — along Quezon City’s Gilmore Road and<br />

Granada Street. Find these bursts of luminescent lanterns<br />

elsewhere in the metropolis, such as Makati City.<br />

{ 108 }


PHOTOS LESTER LEDESMA, ESTAN CABIGAS, WALTER VILLA<br />

C HRISTMAS LIGHTS<br />

Spectacular Spectrum<br />

Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City<br />

Every year, the spruced up Ayala Triangle Gardens, right smack in the<br />

middle of the Makati Central District, is decked in thousands of Christmas<br />

lights that glow, twinkle, dim and sparkle to the rhythm of a piped-in<br />

symphony. The event, an early evening after-offi ce hours treat, runs until<br />

December 30. The light show starts at 6pm, running at one-hour intervals<br />

all the way to 9pm. Tel: +63 (2) 908 3507<br />

{ 109 }


Music and fireworks<br />

C HRISTMAS LIGHTS<br />

SM Mall of Asia, Manila<br />

Start a new family tradition — mark the end of <strong>2011</strong> (and the beginning of 2012)<br />

with a stunning Pyromusical show at SM By The Bay, behind SM Mall of Asia.<br />

Accompanied by music, the fi reworks display is held every Friday and Saturday<br />

at 7pm, and lasts for about fi ve minutes. Visit the mall’s website for updates and<br />

schedules on the annual World Pyro Olympics, an international fi reworks display<br />

competition among different countries. smmallofasia.com<br />

{ 110 }<br />

PHOTO FERDZ DECENA


C HRISTMAS LIGHTS<br />

The Lantern Parade<br />

University of the Philippines,<br />

Diliman, Quezon City<br />

The annual Lantern Parade is a long-running university<br />

tradition that has lately become a local tourist event —<br />

each college of the University of the Philippines designs<br />

and creates a larger-than-life lantern that all go on parade.<br />

Lanterns are judged according to creativity and make, and<br />

the winning college walks away with pride and prestige. Held<br />

on the last day of classes before the school takes a break for<br />

the holidays (this year it’s December 16), this annual event is<br />

a showcase of artistic imagination come to life.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Manila from across the network.<br />

www.cebupacfi cair.com<br />

{ 112 }<br />

PHOTOS PAUL XYMON GARCIA


C EBU IN THE SPOTLIGHT<br />

ART DIRECTOR ADI EFFENDY. PHOTO EDITOR LESTER LEDESMA. STYLIST DONNA CUNA PITA. HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST MARIE CALICA.<br />

MODELS DARLEEN HOPKIRK/IM AGENCY AND ADAM SANTIAGO. ON HER PRINTED HALTER DRESS BY FAITH, HOPE & LOVE AT CROSSINGS DEPARTMENT STORE.<br />

SPECIAL THANKS TO RADISSON BLU HOTEL IN CEBU, TREENA CUEVA TECSON AND MINA GERVACIO, AND JUDE BACALSO.<br />

{ 114 }


Bright<br />

lights,<br />

big city<br />

Smile visits Cebu City to bask in its<br />

new cosmopolitan glow. Story by Tara<br />

FT Sering with Jude Bacalso. Photos by<br />

Caroline Schmidt and Nicolai Svane/<br />

danishconnection.com<br />

THE VIEW from a corner suite at the<br />

Radisson Blu Hotel in Cebu offers a<br />

panoramic sweep of the southern city:<br />

the international port, at one point<br />

the lifeblood of the local economy;<br />

the channel that divides the mainland<br />

from Mactan Island, home of the city’s<br />

international airport; and the two<br />

bridges — one old, another new — that<br />

connect both land masses.<br />

Cebu City has always kept in step<br />

with most urban capitals, but perhaps<br />

more than any other in the Philippines,<br />

it’s a city whose biggest draw is in the<br />

graceful manner it keeps to the old and<br />

reaches for what’s modern. These are<br />

the two ways you can experience the<br />

city — as the cultural destination it has<br />

always presented itself in the past (it is,<br />

after all, the country’s early Spanishtime<br />

capital) with trips to historical<br />

landmarks, centuries-old churches and<br />

other heritage sites; or as a vibrant and<br />

dynamic city, blessed with a range of<br />

nearby beaches, with an interesting<br />

and changing way of life.<br />

{ 115 }


For starters, the changing professional<br />

landscape has turned the once<br />

sleepy urban center to an all-day,<br />

all-night, “open 24 hours” city ready<br />

to accommodate more diversifi ed<br />

lifestyles — including those of a growing<br />

population of call center employees,<br />

multinational expats, and foreign buyers<br />

who breeze in and out of town for Cebu’s<br />

design and manufacturing industries.<br />

Where once shops and malls would bar<br />

its glass doors shut shortly after twilight,<br />

and later at seven in the evening, the<br />

city is now constantly abuzz with all<br />

kinds of activities.<br />

It has become the kind of city that’s<br />

the end point in itself rather than a<br />

launching pad to better pastures. One of<br />

the local entrepreneurs, Joel Binamira,<br />

offers further insight: Cebu has always<br />

been the educational hub of the<br />

Visayas and Mindanao, with students<br />

fl ocking to its large universities who<br />

then seek employment in either Metro<br />

Manila or abroad. “Now, however, they<br />

can stay here,” Joel explains. “They<br />

can be employed in Cebu.”<br />

A stronger workforce often translates<br />

C EBU IN THE SPOTLIGHT<br />

to a robust local economy, and in recent<br />

years the most obvious telltale sign<br />

of growth has been the Asiatown IT<br />

Park, a mixed-use business complex<br />

that houses, among others, several<br />

multinational call centers.<br />

{ 116 }<br />

But the more subtle aspects of<br />

Cebu’s new cosmopolitan fl avor are<br />

the most interesting; underneath the<br />

deliberate shiny new packaging are all<br />

the things Cebu has come to be known<br />

and loved for.<br />

From top:<br />

The New<br />

Bridge spans<br />

the Mactan<br />

Channel,<br />

connecting<br />

Mactan Island<br />

to the mainland;<br />

Joel Binamira<br />

works the<br />

roasting pit<br />

of Zubuchon<br />

lechon, one of<br />

the city’s best.


In the case of Joel Binamira’s<br />

Zubuchon, this is quite literal. As<br />

proprietor of the brand, the former<br />

Boston-based strategy consultant has<br />

repackaged Cebu’s iconic lechon, hailed<br />

by Anthony Bourdain as the world’s<br />

best roast pork, into a neater, more<br />

presentable version of itself. It was<br />

Joel’s experiments with roasting that<br />

have compelled the likes of Bourdain<br />

to come knocking, and inspired the<br />

real estate developer to venture into<br />

C EBU IN THE SPOTLIGHT<br />

the food business. Zubuchon serves<br />

lechon cooked as closely as possible<br />

to the traditional Cebuano way of<br />

making lechon — whole pig with the<br />

skin punctured (to make it crackle)<br />

and drained of blood, skewered on a<br />

bamboo pole, stuffed with lemongrass<br />

and natural sea salt, and slowly turned<br />

to roast over hot coal for hours.<br />

“We’re adding an international fl air to<br />

a traditional icon,” adds Joel. “Like the<br />

rest of Cebu, we’re putting on our game<br />

{ 118 }<br />

From top: Zubuchon’s lechon comes highly<br />

recommended by TV chef Anthony Bourdain;<br />

island hopping becomes a special experience<br />

with Islands Banca Cruises.<br />

faces to meet the world that’s coming<br />

to us by using high quality ingredients,<br />

no short cuts, and implementing high<br />

standards in terms of sanitation.” We<br />

gorged on a variety of lechon dishes<br />

that included the must-try Lechon with<br />

Truffl e Oil, and capped our lunch with<br />

sweetened sticky rice called biko.<br />

It’s the same principle behind The<br />

Islands Group’s Banca Cruises. The<br />

company best known for its souvenir<br />

T-shirts, Islands Souvenirs, has taken<br />

on a favorite tourist pastime in Cebu,<br />

island hopping, and given it a luxe<br />

appeal. Andrea Lugue of The Islands<br />

Group tells us, “Island hopping has<br />

always been one of Cebu’s selling<br />

points, so the company decided to raise<br />

the bar in terms of boats and services.”<br />

Founded by travel buff and Cebu<br />

local Jay Aldeguer, the company’s<br />

cruise boats include customized<br />

traditional outriggers with extended<br />

decks, and come fully fi tted with<br />

speakers, cushioned seats, beanbags,<br />

and coolers for wines and spirits. This is<br />

perhaps the best way to fall in love with<br />

Cebu again, on a sunset chillout cruise<br />

along the Mactan channel, making<br />

wishes as you glide gently under<br />

two bridges.


Movers, shakers,<br />

tastemakers<br />

It’s easy to see that, apart from<br />

the infrastructure that charms<br />

conglomerates into setting up shop<br />

in Cebu City, it’s the locals who are<br />

driving the palpable shift in lifestyle<br />

— little pockets of upgrade fueled by<br />

big passions.<br />

It helps that the shared worldview<br />

is outward-looking and expansive;<br />

Cebuanos are eager to share aspects of<br />

their homegrown culture to the world,<br />

and are just as enthusiastic about<br />

bringing back bits and pieces of outside<br />

infl uence for their own enjoyment.<br />

C EBU IN THE SPOTLIGHT<br />

At The Tinder Box, for instance, a<br />

local wine and cigar bar chain that<br />

found root and great success in Cebu,<br />

a wide and sophisticated selection<br />

of wines and spirits, plus imported<br />

cigars, are displayed in interiors that<br />

show touches of Cebuano design, most<br />

notably by Kenneth Cobonpue, one<br />

of the city’s favorite sons and perhaps<br />

its most famous lifestyle and design<br />

proponent. The upstairs nightspot, Z<br />

Bar, sports an even bigger display of<br />

Kenneth’s work, a massive and fl uidform<br />

installation of intricate metalwork.<br />

Taking the dress code a notch or<br />

two down is Formo, a casual bar and<br />

{ 120 }<br />

Clockwise: Abaseria Deli and Café is popular<br />

for selling accessories on display as well<br />

as various regional cuisines; watering hole<br />

Formo’s busy night scene; The Tinder Box<br />

wine and cigar bar is decorated with Kenneth<br />

Cobonpue pieces.<br />

restaurant that, six years after opening,<br />

is still the watering hole of choice of<br />

the working-age crowd. Weekends fi nd<br />

the DJ-music-fueled lounge especially<br />

packed.<br />

Elsewhere in the city, Lala Jurado<br />

Lava, an accessories exporter, runs<br />

a second venture, Abaseria Deli and<br />

Café, as a stress outlet from her main<br />

line of business. Abaseria’s menu — a<br />

combination of Visayan classics as well<br />

as iconic dishes from different regional<br />

cuisines in the country — boasts a<br />

following that included the late former<br />

president Cory Aquino.<br />

To a large extent, Abaseria, Spanish<br />

for “sari-sari store,” lives up to its name.<br />

There are shelves of goodies on sale —<br />

from accessories to bottled food — as<br />

well as artwork on the walls that all<br />

come with price tags.


In similar fashion does Steve Aznar<br />

draw from his travels around South-<br />

East Asia, as well as from an ongoing<br />

20-year stint as a sommelier in New<br />

York City. Personal circumstances have<br />

kept Steve in Cebu for the past two<br />

years, time he spent touring South-<br />

East Asia and setting up Café Elysa,<br />

a restaurant and informal art gallery<br />

named after his mother, Ely Sanson.<br />

Café Elysa is tucked into one of those<br />

urban residential streets in the city’s<br />

oldest quarter called Pari-an, literally a<br />

stone’s throw away from Ed Castrillo’s<br />

massive bronze monument that depicts<br />

centuries of Cebuano history. Any given<br />

night might fi nd Steve at the café, dry<br />

martini (with three olives) in hand,<br />

whiling away the evening and talking<br />

shop with his diminutive and spritely<br />

business partner, Joy Uy.<br />

He has just completed work on the<br />

second fl oor extension of the café,<br />

largely to accommodate an upcoming<br />

international Rotary convention, and<br />

what promises to be an onslaught of<br />

hungry guests in January during the<br />

annual Sinulog Festival.<br />

This international palate is also<br />

evident in The Abaca Group’s A Café,<br />

which serves continental comfort<br />

food. The bright and airy café that<br />

opened in March this year smacks of<br />

an Australian bistro, thanks perhaps to<br />

Wade Watson, the café’s fast-talking<br />

Australian chef who also developed<br />

the menu for a sister restaurant, Maya,<br />

which in turn serves international<br />

Mexican cuisine.<br />

“Cebu didn’t use to have a big brunch<br />

culture,” observes one local. “But<br />

A Café is one of those places that’s<br />

tweaking our morning habits, giving us<br />

a place to take it slow and easy in the<br />

morning over great meals.”<br />

C EBU IN THE SPOTLIGHT<br />

{ 122 }<br />

From top: A Café executive chef Wade<br />

Watson with a serving of A Café’s specialty<br />

all-day brunch dishes; The Turkey Cobb<br />

Salad; the 8-Ounce Café Angus Burger; Café<br />

Elysa’s travel-inspired savory dishes.<br />

DO YOU<br />

NEED A RIDE?<br />

Cebu City is fairly easy to<br />

navigate, but to get the most<br />

mileage out of your trip, tour<br />

Cebu with Cebu Trip Rent-a-<br />

Car, a hassle-free and reliable<br />

car and van rental service.<br />

The rental outfit is endorsed<br />

by both the Department of<br />

Tourism and the Mactan<br />

International Airport. With<br />

knowledgeable and friendly<br />

local drivers who happily<br />

play guides, you can be sure<br />

to have an unforgettable<br />

vacation. 362 Ben Zubiri St,<br />

Labangon, Cebu City, tel: +63<br />

(32) 262 1697, www.cebutrip.<br />

com


THE CEBU SMILE MENU<br />

Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu<br />

Sergio Osmeña Blvd cor<br />

Juan Luna Ave<br />

Tel: +63 (32) 402 9900<br />

www.radissonblu.com/<br />

hotel-cebu<br />

Abaseria Deli and Café<br />

32 Pres Quirino St, Villa<br />

Aurora, Kasambagan<br />

Tel: +63 (32) 236 5264<br />

C EBU IN THE SPOTLIGHT<br />

Clockwise: Radisson Blu’s impressive lobby and bar welcomes<br />

guests; one of the hotel’s 400 elegant bedrooms; executive<br />

chef Marco Amarone at Feria, which whips up delectable<br />

breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets.<br />

Zubuchon Escario Branch<br />

Escario Building<br />

731 Escario St cor Clavao St<br />

Tel: +63 (32) 583 5699<br />

Café Elysa<br />

30-A Zamora St, Pari-an<br />

Tel: +63 (32) 414 9265<br />

Islands Banca Cruises<br />

www.islandsbanca.com<br />

A Café<br />

Crossroads, Banilad Road<br />

Tel: +63 (32) 505 5692<br />

Formo Resto-Lounge<br />

Banilad Town Centre<br />

Tel: +63 (32) 420 7070<br />

The Tinder Box<br />

Tel: +63 (32) 234 1681<br />

www.tinderbox.com.ph<br />

{ 124 }<br />

Betting on Cebu<br />

It’s the morning of Manny Pacquiao’s<br />

third match with Mexico’s Juan Manuel<br />

Marquez, and the Radisson Blu’s Santa<br />

Maria Grand Ballroom has been fi tted<br />

with fi ve massive viewing screens.<br />

There is an almost electric thrum in the<br />

air as people pack into the venue at<br />

10am, watching the undercard matches<br />

while discussing the odds and possible<br />

outcomes of the main event.<br />

As what always happens when<br />

Manny steps into the ring, the streets of<br />

Cebu empty out and people swarm in<br />

droves to the nearest screen, whether<br />

it’s in a roadside eatery or in swanky<br />

digs such as the Radisson Blu, where<br />

the sterling morning guest list includes<br />

local celebrity DJs and upcoming<br />

boxing champs like Boom-Boom<br />

Bautista.<br />

It also does signal something when a<br />

leading international hotel outfi t such as<br />

the Carlson Group decides to plant the<br />

fl agship hotel of its Asia-Pacifi c venture<br />

in Cebu. The Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu<br />

is a fi ve-star luxury hotel with 400<br />

guestrooms, dining outlets, 10 function<br />

rooms, two grand ballrooms, and the<br />

city’s largest free-form swimming pool.<br />

The hotel’s strategic location —<br />

about 20 minutes at most from the<br />

airport and almost adjacent to SM<br />

Cebu City Mall (the 11th largest in the<br />

world), which has everything from<br />

a supermarket to an Apple store —<br />

makes it a no-brainer choice. It’s<br />

also beginning to become a kind of<br />

nexus for local life, drawing locals to<br />

its various outlets at different times<br />

of the day: Feria for breakfast, lunch<br />

and dinner buffets, and the Blu lobby<br />

lounge for after-dinner drinks to live<br />

jazz music. The hotel’s executive chef,<br />

Italian Marco Amarone, describes<br />

Feria’s selection as one that likewise<br />

best defi nes Cebu: “Distinctly local, but<br />

updated with the rest of the world.”<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Cebu from across the<br />

network. www.cebupacifi cair.com


{ 126 }


B ANGKOK SIGHTSEEING<br />

Slow & steady<br />

in the city<br />

Slip away from Bangkok , s crowded<br />

city streets for a leisurely day cruise<br />

and see what the famed Thai capital is<br />

all about — an intriguing mix of luxury<br />

hotels, temples and trading boats.<br />

Text and photos by John Lander<br />

{ 127 }


THE BEST WAY TO SEE BANGKOK is<br />

slowly, leisurely and thoughtfully; and<br />

what better way to do this than on a<br />

boat down the Chao Phraya river and<br />

its network of canals? Board an express<br />

boat and you will see why Bangkok<br />

was once called the “Venice of the<br />

East.” Luckily, most of the city’s major<br />

attractions lie along the river, making<br />

the hotspots a pleasure to visit by boat.<br />

Know that the Chao Phraya water<br />

level rises signifi cantly every October,<br />

no thanks to the monsoon rains during<br />

August and September. In fact, it<br />

inundated the city’s waterways most<br />

dramatically in 1990 and just this year.<br />

This is a perennial event and the city<br />

has had powerful pumps and other<br />

methods to control the fl ow of water<br />

into the Gulf of Thailand.<br />

In other months, however, the river<br />

is a serene waterway and has remained<br />

the city’s lifeblood — and still is one of<br />

the best ways to get around Bangkok.<br />

Wat Po and the<br />

Grand Palace<br />

Wat Po is the oldest temple in<br />

Bangkok, dating back to the 16th<br />

century. The temple’s claim to fame is<br />

the giant reclining Buddha sparkling<br />

with gold leaf, showing the passing of<br />

Buddha into fi nal nirvana. Mother-ofpearl<br />

ornaments the eyes and feet.<br />

But Wat Po is not merely a Buddhist<br />

temple; the place buzzes with activity<br />

and is home to a massage school.<br />

Originally set up to train blind,<br />

traditional practitioners, the school is<br />

also the national headquarters for the<br />

preservation and teaching of traditional<br />

Thai medicine, massage and herbal<br />

therapy. Take a break from sightseeing<br />

and have a massage or body wrap.<br />

Right next door is the Grand Palace<br />

and Wat Phra Kaew, an important<br />

temple gleaming with the Emerald<br />

Buddha, gilt stupas, polished red roof<br />

tiles and mosaic-encrusted pillars.<br />

B ANGKOK SIGHTSEEING<br />

{ 129 }<br />

Clockwise: The impressive<br />

Grand Palace; Wat<br />

Phra Kaew is a must<br />

for architecture buffs;<br />

Wat Po’s giant reclining<br />

Buddha made with<br />

gold leaf.


The Temple of Dawn<br />

The icon of Bangkok, the Temple of<br />

Dawn — or Wat Arun as it is known<br />

in Thai — was named after the Indian<br />

god of dawn Aruna. The temple looms<br />

on the Thonburi side of the river and is<br />

covered in thousands of porcelain tiles<br />

over its giant spires. These tiles were<br />

originally used by Chinese merchant<br />

ships as ballast, but found a second<br />

life as adornments on the towers of<br />

Wat Arun. The four smaller pillars<br />

surrounding the huge central one<br />

represent the four continents of Earth.<br />

Sit for a spell under one of the<br />

pavilions and admire the river, the<br />

temple and its surroundings. Friendly<br />

monks will often stop by for a chat —<br />

the young ones are eager to practice<br />

their English. It’s a good way to connect<br />

with the locals and learn about Thai<br />

culture and the people.<br />

B ANGKOK SIGHTSEEING<br />

{ 130 }<br />

Discover Yak Wat<br />

Chaeng, a giant statue<br />

at Wat Arun


Remittance with Ease<br />

and Convenience<br />

www.landbank.com Ang Bangkong May Damdaming Bayan


Down by the riverside<br />

Cruising the river isn’t all about visiting<br />

temples or sightseeing. Hungry?<br />

Every evening at 7pm, the Wan Fah,<br />

a converted Thai rice barge, begins<br />

its slow cruise along the Chao Phraya<br />

river. Thai music and classical dances<br />

from the Ramayana are performed as<br />

you pass by the Temple of Dawn, Wat<br />

Phra Kaew and the Rama VIII Bridge<br />

— all lit up, golden and sparkling on<br />

the water. For many, viewing these<br />

sights from the perspective of the river,<br />

together with cool breezes and a cold<br />

drink, is the only way to sightsee.<br />

For those who prefer to dine on dry<br />

land, think Oriental Hotel. An attraction<br />

in its own right, the Oriental is ideally<br />

situated in lush gardens and has<br />

become such a Bangkok institution that<br />

it has its own ferryboat pier. Toast the<br />

famous authors who have stayed here<br />

— Somerset Maugham, Joseph Conrad<br />

and Noel Coward — during afternoon<br />

tea at the Author’s Wing Lounge; or<br />

start the day right with a sumptuous<br />

breakfast at the Veranda overlooking<br />

the river.<br />

B ANGKOK SIGHTSEEING<br />

{ 132 }<br />

From top: Hop on a cruise<br />

at any of the piers along<br />

the Chao Phraya river; the<br />

monks take a break too.


B ANGKOK SIGHTSEEING<br />

Tiny boats toot their horns to attract<br />

shoppers , attention as they sell bananas,<br />

dried squid or flowers<br />

Nowhere is Bangkok river life<br />

better represented than in one of the<br />

fl oating markets. The largest is located<br />

at Damnoen Saduak southwest of<br />

Bangkok and is open every morning —<br />

the earlier you get there, the better. A<br />

smaller one is held on weekends only<br />

at Taling Chan.<br />

Tiny boats toot their horns to<br />

attract shoppers’ attention as they sell<br />

bananas, dried squid or fl owers. Others<br />

are equipped with braziers to grill fresh<br />

fi sh and steam noodles. Bargaining is<br />

still the rule for produce or fl owers.<br />

Bangkok has always depended<br />

on the Chao Phraya River for its<br />

transportation, food, fi sh and fresh<br />

air. And the city’s legendary traffi c has<br />

only enhanced the appeal of travel<br />

on the River of Kings. Consider the<br />

proverb “nothing is softer than water,<br />

yet nothing can resist it” as you embark<br />

on your Bangkok river adventure and<br />

leave the crowded streets for good.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Bangkok from Manila<br />

and Clark. www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

{ 134 }<br />

The fl oating markets at<br />

Damnoen Saduak and<br />

Taling Chan are always<br />

busy, so get there early.<br />

A QUICK GUIDE<br />

TO CRUISE<br />

MODE<br />

Chao Phraya Express Boats run<br />

regular boat services up and down<br />

the river, leaving every 15 minutes or<br />

so. Fares range from THB5 for short<br />

rides to up to THB35, from 6am–<br />

6pm. Tel: +66 (2) 623 6143; www.<br />

chaophrayaexpressboat.com<br />

General information and maps of<br />

Bangkok are available at the offi ce in<br />

Pinklao Bridge on Phra Arthit Road.<br />

Also visit www.bangkoktourist.com<br />

Mitchaophrya Rungraung Co. Ltd. runs<br />

river and canal sightseeing boats daily<br />

at 9am, and includes Royal Barges,<br />

the Temple of Dawn and the Taling<br />

Chan fl oating market on Saturday and<br />

Sunday. One-hour cruise, THB700;<br />

chartered longtail boats, from THB700<br />

per hour. Tel: +66 (2) 225 6179<br />

Piers for major attractions The Grand<br />

Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are near<br />

Tha Chang Pier; Wat Po is closer to Tha<br />

Tien Pier.<br />

Wan Fah dinner cruises leave from<br />

River City Pier at 7pm and return at<br />

9pm. Tel: +66 (2) 222 8679; www.<br />

wanfah.in.th. Stay at the Oriental<br />

Hotel, 48 Oriental Avenue; www.<br />

mandarinoriental.com/bangkok<br />

Wat Po Traditional Massage Have<br />

massages and visit the school, which<br />

is open 8am–6pm daily. One-hour<br />

herbal massage, THB500. www.<br />

watpomassage.com


Want a Home Loan that’s easy on the pocket?<br />

With Bank of Commerce Home Loan,<br />

you can choose the interest rate and payment terms<br />

that will make owning a home easier for you:<br />

*5.98% fixed for 1 year<br />

7.50% fixed for 3 years<br />

8.88% fixed for 5 years<br />

Apply now!<br />

Visit any of our 122 branches nationwide,<br />

or call (+63 2) 982-6000 local 6544 / 6543 / 6443 / 6447<br />

or email RACabling@bankcom.com.ph for more details.


Pomp &<br />

Circumstance<br />

Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung Palace has endured six<br />

centuries of pomp and pageantry, tragedy and turmoil,<br />

destruction and rehabilitation. Mark Parren Taylor traces<br />

the palace’s long, storied journey to its present glory<br />

{ 136 }


PHOTO GETTY IMAGES<br />

S EOUL’S GRAND PALACE<br />

{ 137 }


Also known as The Palace<br />

of Shining Happiness,<br />

Gyeongbokgung once rivaled<br />

the Forbidden City in Beijing.<br />

IT’S HARD TO believe that such<br />

a place — so delicately decorated<br />

and set around elegant courtyards<br />

and gardens, fi lled with light and<br />

vibrancy — could be the scene of<br />

so much turmoil and sorrow. And<br />

yet it’s true of all the world’s great<br />

palaces and parliaments: they<br />

are home to immense power and<br />

wealth, and as such can trigger<br />

dark urges in the people that<br />

inhabit them. Gyeongbokgung or<br />

S EOUL’S GRAND PALACE<br />

The Palace of Shining Happiness is no<br />

exception: its opulent halls have seen<br />

troubled times, and it has been a stage<br />

for extravagance, vengeance, intrigue,<br />

and even murder.<br />

Gyeongbokgung — also called the<br />

Northern Palace because of its location<br />

in Seoul — has seen six centuries of<br />

turmoil, although for half of that time it<br />

was little more than scrubland around<br />

some burnt-out foundations. When it<br />

housed the royal family, it was ravaged<br />

{ 138 }<br />

by four major fi res, the restoration of<br />

which had emptied the treasury on<br />

at least two occasions (to become a<br />

palace equal in grandeur to Beijing’s<br />

Forbidden City or the Imperial Castle in<br />

Tokyo). It had been a powerful symbol<br />

used by both kings and invaders, and in<br />

between rebuilds, had been at the heart<br />

of much heated debate. It’s a wonder<br />

what this Palace Greatly Blessed by<br />

Heaven would have been like if it hadn’t<br />

received such divine approval!<br />

PHOTO MARK PARREN TAYLOR


From top: A pagoda at Gyeongbokgung<br />

provides a nice backdrop for a photo op;<br />

actors dressed as the king and queen<br />

during a re-enactment.<br />

S EOUL’S GRAND PALACE<br />

There were other things that<br />

suggested this building would be<br />

charmed. For example, the pungsu<br />

(the Korean form of feng shui) couldn’t<br />

have been better: the setting has Mount<br />

Bugaksan guarding the north, and the<br />

Han River auspiciously to the south.<br />

King Taejo may have only been on the<br />

throne for a year or two in 1394, but<br />

he had already established the Joseon<br />

Dynasty (which he never in his wildest<br />

dreams would have expected to last<br />

fi ve centuries) and was looking to settle<br />

down in a suitable residence. Despite<br />

having laid the groundwork for his<br />

new palace in modern-day Daejeon,<br />

some members of his court convinced<br />

him to heed the prophecies of a 10th<br />

century priest named Doseon and make<br />

Hanyang, now Seoul, the capital. So he<br />

sent his builders 150km north — and<br />

moved in to his new pad the following<br />

year. A dozen kings came and went,<br />

and work continued on expanding and<br />

{ 140 }<br />

A dozen kings came and<br />

went, but work continued<br />

and enhanced the palace<br />

until it reached its glory in<br />

the 16th century<br />

enhancing the palace until it reached its<br />

glory in the 16th century.<br />

And then in 1553 it succumbed (as<br />

wooden structures are prone) to an<br />

unguarded fi replace or a carelessly hung<br />

lantern, and most of its 7,700 elegantly<br />

crafted rooms promptly burned down.<br />

Almost immediately, and at great<br />

expense, pavilions were rebuilt for<br />

King Myeongjong. But invading armies<br />

from Japan — who had infl icted<br />

IMAGES<br />

heavy damage across the peninsula —<br />

GETTY<br />

ransacked the place in 1592 and torched<br />

it. The royal court turned its back on the<br />

smoldering rubble. PHOTOS


PHOTOS MARK PARREN TAYLOR<br />

Both decorative<br />

and useful, these<br />

everyday pieces<br />

around the palace<br />

complex show<br />

what life during the<br />

Joseon Dynasty<br />

must have been like.<br />

S EOUL’S GRAND PALACE<br />

{ 143 }<br />

The best and the worst<br />

The best times, and then the worst,<br />

were yet to come for this palace.<br />

Around 273 years later, the child King<br />

Gojong’s decisions were being made by<br />

the Daewongun (his princely father who<br />

wielded the underage ruler’s power). It<br />

was decided that the Joseon Dynasty<br />

needed a return to its former glory; and<br />

what better way than to return it to its<br />

original seat of power? In rebuilding<br />

Gyeongbokgung, the government was<br />

almost bankrupted (again), but the<br />

15-year-old regent ended up with a<br />

grand new nest to go with his brand<br />

new wife. The vast complex had<br />

almost 5,800 rooms, ample perhaps<br />

to accommodate 3,000 staff, scores<br />

of eunuchs, scholars, soldiers, and<br />

a growing royal family that would<br />

eventually tally over a hundred with<br />

consorts, children and sundry “in-laws”<br />

accounted for.<br />

Gojong’s fi rst consort, generally<br />

known as Queen Min, turned into<br />

his greatest love. But when the two<br />

teenagers married in 1866, she showed<br />

more interest in affairs of state and he<br />

was happier drinking and banqueting.<br />

By all accounts, they were ill-matched<br />

and spent little time together. She was<br />

an intelligent woman and was quick<br />

to grasp the reins of power. She also<br />

built alliances with China, the US and<br />

Europe and — much to Japan’s ire as<br />

well as the irritation of conservative<br />

Korean hierarchy — brought Englishlanguage<br />

schools, military know-how,<br />

economic growth and Christianity to a<br />

fast modernizing Korea.


You can almost imagine King Gojong and<br />

Queen Min strolling along the palace’s<br />

colorful columned walkways and halls.<br />

S EOUL’S GRAND PALACE<br />

{ 144 }<br />

In October 1895, two dozen<br />

Japanese agents stole into the Queen’s<br />

private residence (the fi rst buildings in<br />

Korea to have electric lighting), which<br />

was tucked away in a wooded area at<br />

the rear of Gyeongbokgung. Though<br />

they fought with palace guards, it<br />

is believed that their passage was<br />

assisted by a team of treacherous<br />

offi cials. These sword-wielding<br />

assassins entered Okhoru Pavilion<br />

and, unsure of who their target was,<br />

murdered the women they found. One<br />

was the Queen.<br />

Gojong, who had come to love<br />

Min, locked himself in his chambers<br />

for the remainder of the year and,<br />

unable to focus, signed several<br />

Japanese-sponsored treaties that<br />

gave the aggressive neighbor extra<br />

powers in Korea. He eventually fl ed<br />

Gyeongbokgung for the Russian<br />

diplomatic mission with his son,<br />

Sunjong, in early 1896, never to return.<br />

PHOTO GETTY IMAGES


US$150 million has<br />

been spent to restore<br />

125 buildings to their<br />

former glory<br />

A return to glory<br />

Sunjong became the last emperor,<br />

and 101 years after he bowed out,<br />

the renovation of Gyeongbokgung<br />

has fi nally entered the second half<br />

of its 40-year plan. In 1990, when<br />

work commenced, just 36 of the 500<br />

buildings of King Gojong’s palace stood.<br />

The majority had been destroyed or<br />

defaced during the 35-year Japanese<br />

colonial rule that ended in 1945, and<br />

others were lost during the Korean<br />

War in the early 1950s. So far,<br />

US$150 million has been spent, with<br />

125 buildings restored. A legion of<br />

craftsmen — carpenters, brass workers,<br />

tilers, painters and stonemasons — has<br />

been assembled to work on another<br />

253 buildings over the next 20 years.<br />

Many of these artisans possess such<br />

expertise in their fi eld (for example,<br />

daemokjang traditional carpentry or<br />

dancheongjang ornamental painting)<br />

that they are considered “Intangible<br />

Cultural Properties” by the South<br />

Korean government!<br />

Like a phoenix, Gyeongbokgung<br />

has once again risen from the ashes of<br />

destruction — sometimes accidental,<br />

often planned. Despite a history<br />

darkened by storm clouds and bonfi re<br />

smoke, it seems that fi nally The Palace<br />

of Shining Happiness is able to live up<br />

to its name.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Incheon (Seoul) from<br />

Manila and Cebu. www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

S EOUL’S GRAND PALACE<br />

{ 146 }<br />

HOW TO<br />

GET THERE<br />

Craftsmen will also<br />

work on the palace’s<br />

other 253 structures<br />

for the next 20 years.<br />

GYEONGBOKGUNG<br />

22 Sajingna, Jongno-gu, Seoul 110-050<br />

Tel: +822 3700 3900<br />

Visit www.royalpalace.go.kr<br />

Open<br />

March–October: 9am–6pm<br />

November–February: 9am–5pm<br />

The palace is closed on Tuesdays.<br />

Tickets<br />

Adult: KRW3,000 (PHP114)<br />

Children: KRW1,500 (PHP57)<br />

Nearest subway<br />

Gyeongbokgung station: line 3, exit 5<br />

Gwanghwamun station: line 5, exit 2<br />

PHOTOS MARK PARREN TAYLOR


{ 148 }


THE SHOESTRING DIARIES<br />

Savor Singapore<br />

Think Singapore is all-city, no country and expensive<br />

to boot? Let Ruby Tan show you the other side of this<br />

island: local life on the cheap. Photos by Lester Ledesma<br />

{ 149 }


PHOTO COURTESY OF RUBY TAN (TOP)<br />

The Shoestring<br />

Traveler:<br />

Ruby Tan<br />

Her motto “Always talk to the locals<br />

and don’t just see a place, live it.”<br />

Her mission To explore Singapore’s<br />

wide-ranging and varied attractions in<br />

72 hours with less than S$300.<br />

THE SHOESTRING DIARIES<br />

{ 151 }<br />

The Kampong Glam<br />

area is home to the Sultan<br />

Mosque and other<br />

stunning architecture.<br />

WELCOME TO SINGAPORE,<br />

world-famous for its fast pace and<br />

smorgasbord of cultures living together<br />

in a small space. Growing quickly as<br />

a First-World city, you can expect<br />

prices to rise steadily as well. But fret<br />

not: if you follow some rules — like<br />

staying away from taxis and eating<br />

at hawker centers — spending less<br />

in Singapore doesn’t mean you take<br />

in less. Here is my guide to all things<br />

quintessentially Singaporean, without<br />

the quintessential damage a First-<br />

World city can do to your wallet.<br />

Day 1<br />

I’m armed with the one card that grants<br />

access to all of Singapore on the cheap:<br />

the EZ-Link Card (S$12/US$9.70 with<br />

a stored value of S$7/US$5.60). I took<br />

a short Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) train<br />

ride from Changi Airport Station down<br />

to Kallang Station (S$1.47/US$1.18) to<br />

check in at The Hive@Kallang, which is<br />

just two minutes away. The Kallang area<br />

is outside of the usual commotion you’ll<br />

fi nd in the city, but still within 10 to 15<br />

minutes on public transport. I checked<br />

in for two nights on a dorm bed (S$48/<br />

US$38.65) and hopped on a public bus<br />

(S$0.73/US$0.60) to the Kampong<br />

Glam area.<br />

Quickly you’ll see the<br />

high-rise housing fl ats<br />

give way to shophouses<br />

that have retained their<br />

characteristic décor. I had<br />

lunch at the Kampong<br />

Glam Café: a plate of Roti<br />

John Cheese Beef (S$4/<br />

US$3.20) and teh tarik<br />

(“pulled tea” in Malay; S$0.80/<br />

US$0.65).<br />

Combing through the lanes of<br />

Kampong Glam will show you Malay<br />

and Middle-eastern cultures in<br />

Singapore. I take in the myriad colors<br />

and patterns in the textile shops on Arab<br />

Street, the scents wafting from stores<br />

with traditional Malay and Middleeastern<br />

trinkets near the majestic Sultan


From top: Bugis Street<br />

Market; Upper Boon Keng<br />

Market and Hawker Center.<br />

Mosque, and even some inspiration<br />

from fashion stores along Haji Lane. I<br />

grabbed two lovely Chinese hairpins for<br />

S$8 (US$6.40) each; such is Singapore,<br />

where you’ll fi nd Chinese-themed items<br />

in the Malay quarters. I ventured into the<br />

must-visit retro Children’s Little Museum<br />

(S$2/US$1.60) to see what it was like<br />

before today’s technology. You can even<br />

buy these “old school” items!<br />

Dinner was a short walk from the<br />

hostel. Geylang, Singapore’s famed<br />

little naughty spot, is also a refuge for<br />

the hungry. Have some beef kway teow<br />

(S$5/US$4) at the popular Lorong<br />

9 Beef Kway Teow Stall and take a<br />

long walk down the lorongs (“alley” in<br />

Malay), before coming back up the other<br />

side and sampling some durian in one of<br />

the numerous fruit stalls — if you dare.<br />

Shoestring budget<br />

for Day 1: S$89/<br />

US$69.52<br />

THE SHOESTRING DIARIES<br />

Unlike typical street markets, the<br />

items are not all the same and are<br />

actually on trend, and the staff don , t<br />

force you into stores<br />

Day 2<br />

Crossing the road and heading towards<br />

the Upper Boon Keng Market and<br />

Hawker Center, I grab a breakfast set<br />

from Old Coffee Joint, which consists<br />

of a cup of coffee, two slices of kaya<br />

and butter toast, and two soft-boiled<br />

eggs (S$2.40/US$1.90). Eat slowly and<br />

revel in the moment; watch families<br />

have breakfast in their pajamas and<br />

old aunties going about buying fresh<br />

produce from the wet market. You will be<br />

witnessing everyday Singapore life here;<br />

a scene not found in Chinatown, Little<br />

India and defi nitely not Orchard Road.<br />

Then I do some stretches and take<br />

the train to Bugis MRT station (S$0.73/<br />

{ 152 }<br />

US$0.60), where some heavy duty<br />

shopping was about to begin.<br />

Bugis Street Market is a cheapoholic’s<br />

(my own word for cheapo and<br />

shopaholic) heaven. This is probably<br />

the place to get all of your shopping<br />

done, typical souvenirs included. From<br />

watches to shoes to bags and even<br />

naughty toys, this place gets choked<br />

with bargain hunters especially on the<br />

weekends. You will see why when you<br />

get here. Unlike typical street markets,<br />

the clothes are not all the same and are<br />

actually on trend, and the staff don’t<br />

force you into the stores. Oh, and don’t<br />

be afraid to ask for a discount! Two


THE SHOESTRING DIARIES<br />

{ 154 }<br />

From top: Wade through<br />

the racks of clothes at<br />

Bugis Street Market; take a<br />

minute (or more) to enjoy the<br />

Singapore skyline<br />

from The Esplanade.<br />

dresses, three tops, a pair of fl ats and<br />

some trinkets later, I’m set back by<br />

S$95 (US$76.50). I also grabbed a cup<br />

of watermelon juice (S$1/US$0.80)<br />

and a crispy pancake with peanut and<br />

ice cream (S$2.50/US$2), because<br />

shopping at Bugis Street Market can<br />

really burn some calories.<br />

After a dinner of all-you-can-eat<br />

steamboat (S$18–20/US$14.50–16)<br />

at Liang Seah Street, I plop<br />

my bottom at the Marina<br />

Bay Sands Event Plaza<br />

well before 8pm for an<br />

enthralling light and water<br />

show called Wonder<br />

Full. And guess what? It’s<br />

totally free!<br />

After the colorful swishing<br />

of lights, laser beams and water<br />

jets ends, I saunter down the iconic<br />

Helix Bridge and grab a photo with<br />

Singapore’s famous night skyline.<br />

The Esplanade is one of the best<br />

places to chill out. It doesn’t have a<br />

whole line of bars a la Clarke Quay (you<br />

can visit it if that’s your thing), but the<br />

idea is to grab some drinks and snacks<br />

and people-watch while you sit by the<br />

Singapore River, city lights dazzling just<br />

beside you.<br />

I then splurged on a cup of Italian<br />

Thick Hot Chocolate (S$7.90/US$6.40)<br />

from Max Brenner and managed to<br />

catch a random free performance at the<br />

Outdoor Stage!<br />

Shoestring budget<br />

for Day 2: S$129.53/<br />

US$101.17


Day 3<br />

You can’t be situated next to a famous<br />

food stall and not visit it. For breakfast,<br />

I had a bowl of Jalan Sultan prawn<br />

mee (S$5/US$4); with its rich prawn<br />

stock and large prawns, it’s a hit with<br />

many Singaporeans. Then, just so<br />

I can say I’ve seen it all, I grab The<br />

Original Tour (S$18/US$16.10) pass for<br />

a roofdeck bus ride around the typical<br />

sights of Singapore such as Clarke<br />

Quay, Orchard Road, Little India and<br />

Chinatown.<br />

Before making my way back to the<br />

airport, I took the MRT to Bedok Station<br />

(S$1.11/US$0.90) for a fi nal feast of<br />

Singaporean food. Just across the street<br />

is the Bedok Interchange Food Center,<br />

where I had a fresh sugar cane drink<br />

(S$1.50/US$1.20), some soon kueh<br />

(S$2/US$1.60 for four) and a plate of<br />

wanton mee (S$2.50/US$2).<br />

Unlike Kallang, Bedok is a much<br />

bigger suburb. Larger neighborhoods<br />

in Singapore have an area that locals<br />

often refer to as the Central. In Bedok<br />

Central, you’ll see shops that cater to the<br />

neighborhood around it. It does make<br />

for some great last-minute shopping,<br />

and perhaps a better imprint of normal<br />

THE SHOESTRING DIARIES<br />

A filling bowl of<br />

wanton mee will only<br />

cost you S$2.50<br />

Singaporean life that’s sidestepped in<br />

the more touristy areas.<br />

It’s easy to stick to the well-trodden<br />

path especially when visiting very<br />

metropolitan cities, but if you dare<br />

to venture into less centrally located<br />

neighborhoods, that is where you’ll fi nd<br />

a city’s true essence.<br />

Shoestring budget<br />

for Day 3: S$30.11/<br />

US$23.52<br />

Cebu Pacifi c Flies to Singapore<br />

from Manila, Cebu and Clark.<br />

www.cebupacifi cair.com<br />

TOTAL FOR<br />

THREE DAYS:<br />

S$248.64/<br />

US$194.21<br />

{ 156 }<br />

SINGAPORE<br />

ON THE CHEAP<br />

CHECKLIST<br />

The Hive @ Kallang<br />

6 Jalan Ayer<br />

www.thehivebackpackers.com/kallang<br />

Kampong Glam Café<br />

17 Bussorah St<br />

Little Shophouse<br />

43 Bussorah St<br />

Children’s Little Museum<br />

42 Bussorah St<br />

Lorong 9 Beef Kway Teow<br />

237 Geylang Lorong 9<br />

Upper Boon Keng Market<br />

and Hawker Center<br />

Blk 17 Upper Boon Keng Road<br />

Old Coffee Joint<br />

#01-41 Blk 17 Upper Boon Keng Road<br />

Bugis Street Market<br />

4 New Bugis Street<br />

Marina Bay Sands<br />

10 Bayfront Avenue<br />

www.marinabaysands.com<br />

The Esplanade<br />

1 Esplanade Drive<br />

Max Brenner<br />

#01-06/08 Esplanade Mall<br />

Jalan Sultan Prawn Mee<br />

No. 2 Jalan Ayer<br />

Duck & Hippo Tours<br />

Suntec Convention Centre, #05-520<br />

www.ducktours.com.sg<br />

Bedok Interchange Food Centre<br />

207 New Upper Changi Road<br />

Fatt Soon Kuey<br />

#01-51, 207 New Upper Changi Road<br />

Tian Seng Drink Stall<br />

#01-35, 207 New Upper Changi Road<br />

Quan Ji Cooked Food Stall<br />

#01-20, 207 New Upper Changi Road


{ 158 }


DISCOVER DUMAGUETE<br />

The<br />

creative<br />

zone<br />

Dumaguete , s ever-growing population of<br />

resident artists and intellectuals is defining<br />

the city , s soul: creative, vibrant and smart.<br />

Story by Kristine Fonacier.<br />

Photos by Hersley Ven Casero<br />

{ 159 }


IT’S WEDNESDAY night in Dumaguete,<br />

and there is an involved conversation<br />

going on around the table. There are<br />

drinks, of course, and they are fast<br />

dwindling as the night wears on. “Were<br />

they summoned?” someone says,<br />

and quickly a small debate starts to<br />

fl urry up around the question. There<br />

are books as well: the group is doing a<br />

close reading of Hamlet, poring over it<br />

line by line and fi guring things out as<br />

they go.<br />

Here, tonight, is a microcosm of<br />

Dumaguete. Just as the city is centered<br />

around Silliman University, the group<br />

meets in the sala of the president’s<br />

house on the fringes of the spacious<br />

grounds, not far from the boulevard.<br />

The people in attendance are an<br />

DISCOVER DUMAGUETE<br />

eclectic mix of<br />

locals, foreigners<br />

and balikbayans,<br />

professors and students,<br />

business owners and retirees.<br />

The reading group was organized<br />

as a way to fi ll up time on a weekday,<br />

to socialize and fi nd intellectually<br />

stimulating conversation with likeminded<br />

people. In a way, it’s the kind<br />

of thing that’s really only possible in a<br />

place like Dumaguete — a cultural hub<br />

that takes its learning very seriously,<br />

sophisticated enough for a reading<br />

group, quiet enough so that people<br />

have time for it.<br />

Outside, at 10pm, the city is still<br />

awake, though to call it “bustling”<br />

would be a stretch. Although<br />

{ 160 }<br />

There’s a constant<br />

undercurrent of<br />

intellectual activity<br />

in the city<br />

Dumaguete is the capital, the largest<br />

city, and the main entry point by<br />

sea and by air to the rest of Negros<br />

Oriental, “laid-back” is still about the<br />

most common adjective you’ll hear<br />

about it. There is a fantastic vibrancy<br />

and youthfulness to the place, as any<br />

university town would have, but it’s all<br />

tempered with small-town reticence<br />

that allows it to hum along rather<br />

quietly, letting it retain a great deal of<br />

hometown charm even as the world<br />

comes to its doorstep.


Clockwise from left: Virginia Maja-Stack’s<br />

weekly column chronicles the vibrant local<br />

life; Takeshi Maruyama at work on a sculpure;<br />

resident poet and university professor Cesar<br />

Ruiz Aquino; one of the many murals in<br />

Silliman University.<br />

Artists’ choice<br />

“Dumaguete has become a hub of<br />

artists from all over the country,<br />

perhaps because of the infl uence of<br />

Silliman and other universities that<br />

promote creative and arts opportunities<br />

for students and visitors,” agrees<br />

Virginia Maja-Stack, a balikbayan<br />

retiree who now writes a column for the<br />

Dumaguete Metro Post. “And I certainly<br />

think that it also has something to<br />

do with the people’s attitude here,<br />

[because they are] are open to new<br />

initiatives and creative forms.”<br />

Spend any amount of time in<br />

Dumaguete, and it will be impossible<br />

not to stumble upon the wellsprings<br />

of creativity that run deep in the city.<br />

Dumaguete is still synonymous with<br />

the annual National Writers’ Workshop<br />

that’s been run by Silliman for decades<br />

Spend any amount of time<br />

in Dumaguete, and it will be<br />

impossible not to stumble upon<br />

the wellsprings of creativity that<br />

run deep in the city<br />

now, and which count among its<br />

generations of fellows a great number of<br />

the country’s literary elite. But creativity<br />

in many forms runs rampant. In a<br />

short visit there, I was able to meet a<br />

world-class Japanese ceramic artist,<br />

Takeshi Maruyama — a teacher at<br />

the Foundation University who, with<br />

the help of photographer Hersley Ven<br />

Casero, is putting together a proposal<br />

to install 100 of<br />

{ 162 }<br />

his pieces around<br />

town. I also spoke<br />

to Diane Pool, an<br />

American who<br />

has settled in<br />

the community<br />

of Tambobo<br />

Bay, just outside<br />

Dumaguete, where she has helped<br />

put up a couple of schoolhouses for<br />

the children of Siaton. With some likeminded<br />

friends, she is hoping to turn<br />

part of the foundation’s offi ces into an<br />

artists’ retreat, which will help fund their<br />

work in the schoolhouses.<br />

And there does seem to be a strong<br />

impetus towards connections, both<br />

towards the community in Dumaguete<br />

and outward, drawing people towards<br />

the place. Maja-Stack herself is involved<br />

in a pilot project with New York-based<br />

restaurateur and food writer Amy Besa,<br />

Manila’s Enderun Colleges, and Silliman<br />

University to create community kitchens<br />

to teach nutrition and sustainable eating.<br />

Indeed, this kind of involvement in<br />

community-oriented projects speaks


DISCOVER DUMAGUETE<br />

{ 163 }


to residents’ genuine affection for<br />

Dumaguete. It is the kind of place that<br />

draws out this kind of enthusiastic,<br />

innovative involvement: small enough<br />

to remain personal and manageable,<br />

big enough that it is able to attract and<br />

absorb people from all over and the<br />

worldly infl uence they bring. The latest<br />

census fi gures put the population of<br />

Dumaguete at just over 116,000 — still<br />

relatively tiny by urban standards. The<br />

population grows, bit by little bit, with<br />

perhaps a disproportionate number of<br />

intelligent, interesting, committed people<br />

among them.<br />

Constant learning<br />

Partly it’s the way the city was built, with<br />

the city hall and the spacious public park<br />

at the heart of it, abutted by the open<br />

grounds of Silliman University. The east<br />

border of the town is a wide beachfront<br />

promenade that overlooks the calm<br />

expanse of Dumaguete Bay, with<br />

Siquijor looming in the distance. The<br />

beachfront strip is called Rizal Boulevard<br />

— it was Jose Rizal himself, they say,<br />

who fi rst called Dumaguete “the city of<br />

gentle people” — and the Dumaguete<br />

version should be the envy of its Manila<br />

counterpart. This is a seaside boulevard<br />

that works: accessible to the city’s<br />

residents, clean and well-maintained,<br />

pleasant and beloved.<br />

DISCOVER DUMAGUETE<br />

Quaint and coastal,<br />

Dumaguete is the<br />

quintessential Pinoy<br />

university town<br />

{ 165 }<br />

Rizal Boulevard at dusk.<br />

Inset: Silliman University.


The establishments over on the<br />

other side of the wide street also<br />

say something about the charms of<br />

Dumaguete. Silliman Hall is at one<br />

end, signaling the beginning of a row<br />

of boutique hotels, restaurants and<br />

bars, with the odd offi ce building or<br />

two thrown in. Only here, perhaps, can<br />

you fi nd something like the surprisingly<br />

sophisticated Casablanca delicatessen<br />

and restaurant — which is attached to<br />

the Dumaguete Academy of Culinary<br />

Arts and offers a globe-trotting array of<br />

dishes — a few doors down from Pirate<br />

DISCOVER DUMAGUETE<br />

Bay, which is as much of a dive as its<br />

name suggests.<br />

You don’t have to wander too far<br />

to be able to take your pick, from the<br />

Spanish-themed Café Antonio, built<br />

within a heritage house and furnished<br />

with antiques; Moon Café, fi lled with<br />

university students and backpackers<br />

of every color and stripe; and the<br />

understated KRI, with a modern menu<br />

that would be a standout in the most<br />

chic parts of Metro Manila.<br />

It’s a chicken-and-egg type of<br />

dilemma, trying to fi gure out whether<br />

{ 166 }<br />

From top: The Moon Café<br />

offers live entertainment to go<br />

with your meal; the historic<br />

Dumaguete Church is always a<br />

pretty sight at night. Inset: The<br />

Boulevard comes alive with a<br />

fi reworks display.<br />

the boundless creative energy here<br />

has attracted artists, intellectuals and<br />

travelers, or whether it’s the presence<br />

of those people that contribute so much<br />

to the city’s vibrancy. But now the city<br />

seems to have managed to fall into a<br />

virtuous cycle, nurturing an atmosphere<br />

that is greatly conducive to creativity,<br />

which in turn also continually attracts<br />

the people who keep the atmosphere<br />

alive.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Dumaguete from<br />

Manila. www.cebupacifi cair.com


A TOWNHOUSE COMMUNITY NESTLED WITHIN 70% OPEN SPACES AND GREENS,<br />

GIVING YOU A GREATER EXPANSE FOR PLAYING, BONDING AND COMMUNING<br />

WITH NATURE. ALL PART OF THE CIRCULO VERDE MASTERPLAN.<br />

Picture a peaceful life of leafy streets, fresh mornings and breezy afternoons, where leisurely<br />

evening walks are a regular part of your family’s after-dinner fare. Where bike rides, picnics and<br />

outdoor games are literally minutes away – all you have to do is step outside. It’s the kind of life<br />

where relaxation is the rule, rather than the exception. All of this awaits you at Circulo Verde<br />

Garden Homes.<br />

Uncrowded with only 61 townhouse units, Circulo Verde Garden Homes is an intimate, private and<br />

relaxing community like no other. An innovative Through-Access design of homes allows even more<br />

space, keeping front yards free with vehicle parking tucked away neatly at the back.<br />

Now you can live a fuller life, fulfilled in the townhouse community you’ve always wanted – at<br />

Circulo Verde Garden Homes.<br />

WAKE UP EVERY MORNING AND SEE GREEN AT CIRCULO VERDE GARDEN HOMES.<br />

From the same developer of Greenhills, Valle Verde,<br />

Green Meadows and Frontera Verde.<br />

For announcement purposes only. <br />

Circulo Verde<br />

Calle Industria,<br />

Bagumbayan,<br />

Quezon City


Trees of life<br />

High in the remote northern mountains of Benguet,<br />

a team of forest builders are fighting the adverse<br />

effects of climate change by taking matters into<br />

their own hands. Story and photos by JP Alipio<br />

WHEN I WAS young, one of the<br />

fi rst songs I learned in school was<br />

the classic countryside ditty called<br />

Magtanim ay di Biro, which directly<br />

translates to “planting is not a joke.”<br />

At the time, the song painted for me a<br />

picture of the back-breaking hard work<br />

involved in rice farming; or any kind<br />

of work with the earth, for that matter.<br />

The song’s writers may have been<br />

describing the hardships of life as they<br />

knew it, but I always had the feeling<br />

that my teacher was giving the class a<br />

not-so-subtle hint: don’t farm or plant<br />

for a living when you grow up. Those<br />

back-breaking jobs, after all, are among<br />

the hardest there are.<br />

Many years later, somewhere in the<br />

mountainous region of the Cordillera,<br />

the north end of which is two hours’<br />

drive from Cauayan, Isabela, I sit at the<br />

top of a mountain slope. I’ve come to<br />

work and suddenly remembered the<br />

song from my childhood. Amazingly<br />

enough, I have become exactly what I’d<br />

seemed to be warned against becoming<br />

— a farmer and a tree-planter.<br />

As part of my job for The Forest<br />

Builders, a group that three of my<br />

friends and I formed three years ago, I<br />

lead the day’s tree-planting project to<br />

help reforest the area. It’s an important<br />

forest that provides water for a nearby<br />

village and protects it from storms and<br />

{ 168 }<br />

landslides. The group — 50 elementary<br />

students, just as many high school kids,<br />

the adults and elders of the community,<br />

and a pair of siblings age three and four<br />

— plant a total of 2,000 seedlings for<br />

the day, and build a solid foundation for<br />

the future.<br />

What began as an effort to preserve<br />

the places in which we played as kids<br />

— trekking mist-covered ridges, biking<br />

across mountain streams and verdant<br />

forests, and walking through villages<br />

where the people lived as close to<br />

nature as one possibly could — has<br />

evolved into something much bigger: to<br />

preserve entire communities by caring<br />

for the land that feeds them.


PHOTO LESTER LEDESMA (MAIN PHOTO)<br />

R EFORESTING THE CORDILLERA<br />

What began as an effort to preserve<br />

the places in which we played has<br />

evolved into something much bigger:<br />

to preserve entire communities by<br />

caring for the land that feeds them<br />

{ 169 }


Rediscover<br />

the secret and power<br />

of pure malunggay oil extract . . .<br />

The Natural Way to a Healthy Lifestyle.<br />

LIFE OIL is the world’s first and only product developed<br />

from pure Moringa Oliefera (Malunggay) Seeds and<br />

Leaves oil extract which provides the best dietary source.<br />

Life Oil is rich in Organic Chlorophyll, Essential Amino Acids,<br />

Vitamins, Minerals and Phytochemicals.<br />

Nature’s best source of CHLOROPHYLL<br />

There are several kinds of chlorophyll. The dominant<br />

one is Chlorophyll a. Life Oil is an excellent source of chlorophyll a,<br />

which offers the power to keep you healthy and full of energy.<br />

It cleanses our organs, delivers oxygen to all of our tissues,<br />

and encourages the growth of good aerobic intestinal bacteria.<br />

Extremely alkalizing - An alkaline body is more resistant to disease,<br />

while an acidic body encourages diseases, including cancer.<br />

Fact: One of the principal benefits of chlorophyll is its<br />

ability to balance the body’s pH level (Alkalize).<br />

Available at<br />

Malungai i Life Oil<br />

Made of 100% malunggay oil extract which helps:<br />

<br />

increase energy<br />

strengthen the immune system<br />

manage diabetes sugar levels<br />

lower cholesterol levels<br />

control blood pressure<br />

fight cancer<br />

www.malungailifeoil.com<br />

and other leading drugstores nationwide<br />

Special thanks to our partners:<br />

cafe<br />

de lipa<br />

HOME OF FILIPINO COFFEE<br />

malungai<br />

the pure power of mother nature<br />

Supports Fitness Activities<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

NO APPROVED THERAPEUTIC CLAIMS<br />

PHILIPPINE FOUNDATION<br />

FOR BREAST CARE INC.<br />

K sssssssssssssssssss<br />

suso


Over a hundred people help out in<br />

a forest-building activity; some are<br />

from the local community while<br />

others come in from the cities.<br />

There is an underlying vision that<br />

guides our efforts, and it’s the hope<br />

that one day people will see forests<br />

as something that’s as important as<br />

the tallest buildings that become the<br />

symbols of a nation, the engineering<br />

marvels that connote all the prosperity<br />

a country has achieved. We want<br />

people to think of forests in the same<br />

way, to build them to be as grand as<br />

skyscrapers and to make them the<br />

icons that would stand out above<br />

anything else in the landscape. That<br />

ought to put a sense of pride in every<br />

builder of every forest.<br />

Sowing the seeds<br />

The fi rst time we built a forest, there<br />

R EFORESTING THE CORDILLERA<br />

There is an underlying vision that guides<br />

our efforts, and it , s the hope that one day<br />

people will see forests as something that , s<br />

as important as the tallest buildings that<br />

become the symbols of a nation<br />

were 25 of us on a mountaintop with<br />

500 seedlings. Today, every forestbuilding<br />

activity counts at least a<br />

hundred people, with some of them<br />

arriving from the cities. Also on this<br />

day, we will have planted our 50,000th<br />

seedling and the foundations for eight<br />

forests in remote villages across the<br />

Cordillera mountains, covering some<br />

of the most diffi cult terrain and most<br />

remote locations.<br />

For the local community, joining<br />

{ 171 }<br />

in the tree-planting effort is perhaps<br />

the best investment they can make.<br />

The advent of human-induced climate<br />

change has made mountain villages<br />

like this one in Tublay, Benguet, among<br />

the country’s most vulnerable areas to<br />

both drought and landslides. As a small<br />

farming community, most of the village<br />

people’s livelihoods have long been<br />

rooted in the earth.<br />

But the industries of other areas in<br />

the world are changing the climate


Microtel’s<br />

HOLIDAY ADVENTURE<br />

I t<br />

is not true that you must have a fat wallet to be able to<br />

travel. With all your holiday bonuses and Christmas pay, you<br />

can now enjoy a truly nice vacation without spending much<br />

- no need to spend all your 13th month pay on one vacation.<br />

Truth is, with more travelers come more choices, and with these<br />

choices come possibilities that suit every budget.<br />

Nowhere is this point perfectly<br />

illustrated than what Microtel<br />

Hotels and Resorts offers.<br />

Their hotels and resorts are<br />

located in every main tourist<br />

destination in the Philippines:<br />

Baguio, Batangas, Boracay,<br />

Cabanatuan, Cavite, Davao,<br />

Palawan, Tarlac, and Manila.<br />

With its value-for-money topquality<br />

accommodations,<br />

your holiday at your choice<br />

destination can really happen.<br />

Go up to the country’s<br />

summer capital and<br />

enjoy Baguio City’s<br />

cool climate. Even on a tight<br />

budget you can still go and visit<br />

such places<br />

as Burnham<br />

Park,<br />

Wright<br />

Park, Mines<br />

View or<br />

Camp John<br />

Hay and<br />

stay in a<br />

safe, clean,<br />

and comfortable hotel as<br />

Microtel Baguio, which is<br />

right beside the Victory Liner<br />

Passenger Center.<br />

Wanting to scratch<br />

Tarlac off your bucket<br />

list of must-visits?<br />

Better not because Microtel<br />

Tarlac makes sure you have a<br />

place for rest and recreation.<br />

A must-visit to landmarks such<br />

as the Aquino Center and<br />

Museum, the Luisita Golf &<br />

Country Club, and the Luisita<br />

Commercial Complex.<br />

The north always<br />

springs a surprise—<br />

and Microtel<br />

Cabanatuan is no exception.<br />

This 50-room hotel is located in<br />

Sta. Arcadia, a residential and<br />

commercial development of<br />

Ayala Land. Since its opening,<br />

it has attracted trade and<br />

regional activities in its area,<br />

giving travelers more than a<br />

peek into the wonderful culture<br />

of the province.<br />

If you prefer<br />

someplace cool<br />

and near, a trip to<br />

Cavite should do the trick.<br />

Microtel Eagle Ridge is the<br />

perfect place to unwind which<br />

is right inside the Eagle Ridge<br />

Golf & Residential Estates. It<br />

is a short drive from Tagaytay<br />

City where many points of<br />

interest can be visited and<br />

enjoyed.<br />

Another<br />

travel<br />

destination<br />

down south is<br />

Batangas, where<br />

business, commercial,<br />

TARLAC<br />

MALL OF ASIA<br />

CAVITE<br />

PUERTO<br />

PRINCESA<br />

BAGUIO<br />

CABANATUAN<br />

UP TECHNOHUB, QC<br />

LIBIS, QC<br />

BATANGAS<br />

BORACAY<br />

LEGEND:<br />

Open<br />

Opening Soon<br />

DAVAO<br />

GENERAL SANTOS<br />

and recreational establishments<br />

are in abundance. You can<br />

check out the province’s beaches,<br />

heritage sites, or cuisine while<br />

calling Microtel Batangas in<br />

Sto. Tomas your home.<br />

Even that long-wished<br />

for Boracay holiday is<br />

already within reach,<br />

thanks to Microtel Boracay’s<br />

budget-friendly offerings, from<br />

accommodations to packages.<br />

Stretch your peso while having<br />

fun in Microtel Boracay’s<br />

beachfront, white sand, and<br />

sapphire blue water. It brings<br />

to you the comfort and<br />

convenience of a Boracay<br />

hotel without draining your<br />

resources. The possibilities are<br />

indeed endless.<br />

Travelers in beach<br />

mode will applaud<br />

the budget friendly<br />

offerings of Microtel Puerto<br />

Princesa, Palawan. It is the<br />

only property<br />

in the city<br />

with its own<br />

beachfront, the<br />

white sands<br />

of Emerald<br />

Beach. Take<br />

a tour of the<br />

Underground River or go island<br />

hopping in Honda Bay. Now,<br />

that’s a vacation!<br />

Fancy going to Davao<br />

but fearing you<br />

might not be able to<br />

afford it? Fear not. Microtel<br />

Davao brings together the<br />

great value you have been<br />

looking for. With the modern<br />

hotel amenities in a prized<br />

location at a price that will<br />

surely surprise you. Come and<br />

experience an ultimate holiday<br />

getaway with its Eden Nature<br />

Park tour, the Skyrider Zipline<br />

and the exhilarating river<br />

rafting at the Davao River. Truly<br />

an action packed vacation!<br />

If you decide to stay<br />

in the city without<br />

busting your budget,<br />

Microtel Mall of Asia<br />

Manila is the perfect choice.<br />

It is the newest in a chain of<br />

world-class economy hotels in<br />

the country, and is a stone’s<br />

throw away from one of the<br />

largest malls in the world.<br />

Microtel MOA’s offerings,<br />

fromlocation to services, make<br />

it the ultimate gateway to<br />

Manila’s dynamic and exciting<br />

landscape.<br />

Whichever Microtel hotel you<br />

stay in, you can be assured<br />

that your hard-earned money<br />

is well-spent. Wherever it is,<br />

Microtel is the same great<br />

hotel everywhere you go. You<br />

come home to Microtel and<br />

find clean comfortable hotels,<br />

chiropractic-approved beds,<br />

color TV with cable channels,<br />

wireless internet access, full-size<br />

bathrooms with hot and cold<br />

water, and many more.<br />

Indeed, with all these offerings,<br />

comfort and convenience while<br />

traveling this holiday season is<br />

undeniably possible. Just check in<br />

at your friendly Microtel hotel.<br />

Microtel is an international chain of hotels under Wyndham Hotel Group.<br />

All Microtels in the Philippines are managed by Microtel Development Corp.,<br />

the hospitality arm of Phinma Group. For more information, call (02) 899 7171<br />

or log on to w ww.microtelphilippines.com<br />

mrdo 111111


Investing in their future: forest builders<br />

include kids as young as three,<br />

elementary students and the elders.<br />

PLANT A<br />

TREE, LEAVE<br />

A LEGACY<br />

The Forest Builders, under the<br />

Cordillera Conservation Trust,<br />

organize several forest-building<br />

activities throughout the year.<br />

Score one (or two) for the planet<br />

and join in the tree-planting.<br />

Visit www.facebook.com/<br />

Cordillera.Conservation.Trust<br />

and sign up for a meaningful,<br />

and life-saving, vacation.<br />

R EFORESTING THE CORDILLERA<br />

{ 173 }<br />

patterns, and this change has deeply<br />

affected this remote mountain village.<br />

Here, the rice fi elds very often run<br />

dry from the lack of water, and are<br />

no longer kept to the soil by the bald<br />

mountains. Tublay’s roads are often<br />

blocked by giant slides whose earth,<br />

devoid of forests, could no longer stand<br />

the weight of the rain. Repopulating the<br />

mountains with trees was the cheapest<br />

and most effective way to protect a way<br />

of living that they have practiced for<br />

centuries.<br />

The green army<br />

The forest in Tublay is to be the last<br />

forest we would help build this season<br />

as the rainy months come to an end.<br />

I watch as three-year-old Arvi, the<br />

youngest member of our newest Forest<br />

Builders, gently holds the roots of a


R EFORESTING THE CORDILLERA<br />

Building a forest is a chance not only to plant,<br />

but to walk among the shadows of the forest,<br />

swim in the rivers, and exchange stories as<br />

you share a meal under the trees<br />

new seedling and puts it into the earth.<br />

Creating opportunities to experience<br />

nature is our goal each time we head<br />

out into the mountains. These are<br />

becoming few and far in between, and<br />

this disconnection is something we try to<br />

address — building a forest is a chance<br />

not only to plant but to walk among the<br />

shadows of the forest, swim in the rivers,<br />

and exchange stories as you share your<br />

meal under the shade of the trees.<br />

And fi nally, at the end of the day,<br />

the last hole is dug and the last tree is<br />

planted. The skies open up and rain<br />

starts to fall, and the thousands of new<br />

foundations in the ground turn to the<br />

heavens and grow to the earth. I take<br />

a quick survey of our Forest Builders<br />

as they walk down the mountain path,<br />

hands covered in earth dripping back<br />

down to the soil with the rain, an army<br />

of green engineers out to ensure that the<br />

{ 174 }<br />

Be a green engineer<br />

today: help repopulate<br />

our forests and<br />

prevent droughts<br />

and landslides<br />

future will be greener than it is today.<br />

So against my teacher’s advice in<br />

fi rst grade, I have made planting my<br />

job. Still, every single day I am out<br />

in the mountains digging holes in the<br />

earth I am always left amazed at what<br />

a tree can do with a little soil, water,<br />

and a lifetime of sunshine.<br />

Cebu Pacifi c fl ies to Cauayan from<br />

Manila. www.cebupacifi cair.com


Organique<br />

THE PREMIUM AÇAI BLEND<br />

THE ANTIOXIDANT SUPERFOOD<br />

<strong>2011</strong> CONSUMERS QUALITY AWARDEE<br />

BEST WELLNESS HEALTH JUICE<br />

2010 GLOBAL EXCELLENCE AWARDEE<br />

BEST WELLNESS HEALTH JUICE<br />

100% ORGANIC<br />

If you want to change your lifestyle into something healthy, change your mindset into positive, overcome adversity and be<br />

worry free..your chance is here, Organíque has now established not only its Premium Açaí Supplement but also its distribution<br />

system with a rewarding opportunity.<br />

Now accepting distributors and franchisee..interested? pls contact 0922 888 7883 or email info@organique.asia or visit<br />

www.organique.asia.


trip journal<br />

trip journal<br />

Your guide to enjoying every city on our network<br />

Enjoy an endless<br />

display of thousands<br />

of parol along Manila’s<br />

streets<br />

Be a Smile Where local to correspondent! find everything Email you us wanna at cebu.ed@ink-global.com<br />

read - enjoy!<br />

{ 177 }<br />

Want to visit<br />

Manila? Turn<br />

to page 190 for<br />

useful advice<br />

from a local!


JAPAN<br />

OSAKA<br />

COUNTRY CODE +81 (6)<br />

CURRENCY JPY100 = PHP54.98/US$1.28<br />

TOUCHDOWN Take the Nankai Express Rapit<br />

from Kansai International Airport to Osaka (38<br />

minutes to Namba station) and the JR Haruka<br />

limited express (33 minutes to Tenno-ji, 51 minutes<br />

to Shin-Osaka). www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/access<br />

BY DAY Shop for trendy brands at the Mitsukoshi<br />

Isetan department store in Umeda. The enormous<br />

Osaka Station City (osakastationcity.com/en/)<br />

has also just opened, with lots of new shops and<br />

restaurants to choose from.<br />

BY NIGHT Try takoyaki (octopus balls), one of<br />

Osaka’s most iconic dishes, at Takoyaki Doraku<br />

Wanaka in Namba, which is open till almost<br />

midnight. Another option is to have dinner in the<br />

basement of the Sky Building.<br />

SLEEP Swissotel Nankai Osaka is at the heart<br />

of the Namba district, which is the center of<br />

shopping, nightlife and entertainment in the city.<br />

www.swissotel.com/EN/<br />

Yoshiaki<br />

Tamamura<br />

translator<br />

BEST BUYS Anything related to<br />

the best baseball team in Japan –<br />

the Hanshin Tigers.<br />

INSIDER TIP When in Osaka,<br />

do as the locals do — always smile<br />

and drink a lot!<br />

LOCAL SPEAK Say “Maji-de?”<br />

when someone says something<br />

surprising. It means “Really?” Osaka<br />

people will love it.<br />

trip journal<br />

VIETNAM<br />

HO CHI MINH CITY<br />

COUNTRY CODE +84<br />

CURRENCY VND10,000 = PHP20.62/US$0.48<br />

TOUCHDOWN Tan Son Nhat International<br />

Airport is a 30-minute drive away from District 1.<br />

A taxi ride costs about VND80,000 (PHP165).<br />

You can also hire a motorbike and driver for<br />

VND20,000 (PHP41.25).<br />

BY DAY The city has a vibrant café culture, with<br />

coffe shops ranging from upside-down houses to<br />

art-deco colonial buildings. A good place to start is<br />

La Fenetre Soleil (44 Ly Tu Trong). Also check out<br />

the HCMC Fine Arts Museum for US$1 (PHP43).<br />

BY NIGHT Sign up for “Saigon After Dark,”<br />

a four-hour evening tour that takes you on a<br />

culinary excursion of the city’s street culture, food<br />

and nightlife on the back of a vintage Vespa. www.<br />

vietnamvespaadventures.com<br />

SLEEP For those on a budget, The Spring Hotel<br />

(44–46 Le Thanh Ton St, District 1) offers clean and<br />

comfortable rooms starting from US$33 (PHP1,417)<br />

per night in a good area downtown.<br />

INSIDER TIP For safe meter<br />

prices, only take Mai Linh, Vinasun<br />

or Saigon Tourist taxis.<br />

BEST DINNER Hai Lua or Wrap<br />

and Roll for Vietnamese food, and<br />

Elbow Room for Western cuisine.<br />

MUST-TRY The foot massage<br />

in Qing Spa above Qing Bar at 110<br />

Pasteur St. For US$13 (PHP558), you<br />

get hot tea and a one-hour massage.<br />

{ 179 }<br />

Esther de<br />

la Cruz<br />

PR specialist,<br />

Mandarin<br />

Media


trip journal<br />

CHINA<br />

HONG KONG<br />

COUNTRY CODE +852<br />

CURRENCY HK$1 = PHP5.53/US$0.13<br />

TOUCHDOWN The Airport Express takes 24<br />

minutes to Central and costs HK$100 (PHP553).<br />

If you take a taxi from the airport, it will cost you<br />

upwards of HK$300 (PHP1,658), depending on<br />

where you alight. www.hongkongairport.com<br />

BY DAY Take the Ngong Ping crystal cabin cable<br />

car from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping village and<br />

the Giant Buddha, and enjoy a scenic view of<br />

Hong Kong’s hills right under your feet through<br />

the glass fl oor.<br />

BY NIGHT Walk along the Avenue of Stars in<br />

Tsim Sha Tsui and look for Jackie Chan’s famous<br />

handprints. Watch Symphony of Lights at 8pm<br />

from the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade — it’s a<br />

stunning show free of charge.<br />

SLEEP For budget lodgings, BP International<br />

Kowloon (www.bpih.com.hk) in Jordan is very<br />

close to Miramar Shopping Centre, Kowloon Park<br />

and the Jade Market.<br />

{ 180 }<br />

LA Garcia<br />

associate producer<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Tsui Wah<br />

at the bottom of Lan Kwai Fong for a<br />

cha chaan teng style breakfast.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Shop at Li<br />

Yuen Street, also known as Alley-<br />

Alley, in Central.<br />

BEST DINNER Try the Thai,<br />

Malaysian or Indian food in<br />

restaurants along “Rat Alley” in Lan<br />

Kwai Fong.<br />

CHINA<br />

MACAU<br />

COUNTRY CODE +853<br />

CURRENCY MOP1 = PHP5.45/US$0.13<br />

TOUCHDOWN Upon arrival in Macau, just board<br />

the Bus AP1 from the airport to the Barrier Gate<br />

(China border). A taxi ride into the city only takes<br />

15 minutes and will cost you around MOP40–50<br />

(PHP218-273).<br />

BY DAY Visit the Ruins of St Paul’s, which is<br />

dedicated to Saint Paul the Apostle. It is offi cially<br />

listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site<br />

Historic Centre of Macau. Then enjoy a delicious<br />

lunch at Fernando’s and walk off the calories.<br />

BY NIGHT Don’t miss the HK$2 billion<br />

production, The House of Dancing Water,<br />

Franco Dragone’s spectacular magical journey<br />

(thehouseofdancingwater.com). Fit in a gondola ride<br />

inside The Venetian Macao Resort too.<br />

SLEEP The Westin Resort (www.macau.com)<br />

provides excellent service and food. Or opt for the<br />

over-the-top opulence of The Venetian Macao<br />

Resort (www.venetianmacao.com).<br />

Tina<br />

Ganguly<br />

Whitwell<br />

associate director,<br />

Turner Media<br />

Solutions<br />

BEST BUYS The Portuguese egg<br />

tarts from Lord Stow’s Bakery are<br />

always a treat.<br />

INSIDER TIP A short distance<br />

from the madness of the casinos is the<br />

beautiful quaint part of Macau.<br />

MUST-TRY Do something daring<br />

and exciting: go skywalking at the<br />

Macau Tower, which is 233m above<br />

the ground.


trip journal<br />

CHINA<br />

SHANGHAI<br />

COUNTRY CODE +86<br />

CURRENCY RMB1 = PHP6.78/US$0.16<br />

TOUCHDOWN If you’re taking a cab from the<br />

airport (or anywhere in Shanghai), do ask for<br />

the fapiao (receipt). This way, in case you forget<br />

something, you have a way of tracking it down.<br />

www.shanghaiairport.com<br />

BY DAY Join a one-day bike tour with Cycle China<br />

and explore the nooks and crannies of Shanghai.<br />

You can also pretend to go apartment-hunting to get<br />

a free tour around the old lane houses in Shanghai’s<br />

French Concession area.<br />

BY NIGHT Have dinner at Kota’s Kitchen, a<br />

Beatles-themed yakitori bar-restaurant that looks<br />

like it’s straight out of Shinjuku. Or slip into your<br />

sexiest qipao (Chinese dress) and heels to go<br />

ballroom dancing at The Paramount.<br />

SLEEP For Old Shanghai glamour, check into<br />

the Fairmont Peace Hotel (www.fairmont.com/<br />

PeaceHotel). Another option is Quintet (www.<br />

quintet-shanghai.com), a fi ve-room B&B.<br />

BJ<br />

Macatulad<br />

owner/manager,<br />

Strip + Browhaus<br />

Shanghai<br />

LOCAL SPEAK Say “Pai ma<br />

pi” to fl atter someone or, literally, “to<br />

spank the horse’s *ss.”<br />

INSIDER TIP Looking for love?<br />

Check out the match-making corner<br />

in People’s Square Park.<br />

BEST DINNER Come for<br />

Restaurant Week in September,<br />

where you can enjoy fi ve-star dinners<br />

for less than PHP1,676.<br />

DID D YOU<br />

KKNOW?<br />

{ 182 }<br />

CHINA<br />

BEIJING<br />

COUNTRY CODE +86<br />

CURRENCY RMB1 = PHP6.78/US$ 0.16<br />

TOUCHDOWN Arrive at the Beijing Capital<br />

International Airport (BCIA). After clearing customs<br />

and claiming baggage, catch the downtown<br />

airport shuttles or taxis from outside the arrival<br />

lobby. en.bcia.com.cn<br />

BY DAY Spend the day exploring historical<br />

highlights of the city on foot; make sure to wear<br />

comfortable walking shoes. Trek the Mutianyu Great<br />

Wall or Jinshanling Great Wall, and then visit the<br />

Summer Palace. Remember to pack water.<br />

BY NIGHT Visit the National Center for the Arts,<br />

otherwise known as The Egg. Stroll, to admire the<br />

architecture. Walk to Tiananmen Square and the<br />

Forbidden City. For a selection of interesting bars and<br />

curio shops, head to Nanlouguxiang or Houhai Lake.<br />

SLEEP The Hilton Beijing Wangfujing offers some<br />

of the most spacious rooms in the city, and is a<br />

10-minute walk from Tiananmen Square and retail<br />

shops. www.hilton.com/Beijing-Wangfujing<br />

Owen<br />

Tiam<br />

freelance<br />

photographer<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Try the local<br />

street breakfast, jianbing — a savory<br />

crepe with egg and coriander.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Go to<br />

Panjiayuan Antique Market for curios<br />

during weekends.<br />

MUST-TRY For hole-in-the-wall<br />

eats, Xinjiang Cuisine and their<br />

Xinjiang lamb kebabs (yang rou<br />

chuanr).<br />

Shanghai is full of historic tea houses<br />

where you can just sip and relax.


trip journal<br />

CHINA<br />

GUANGZHOU<br />

COUNTRY CODE +86<br />

CURRENCY RMB1 = PHP6.78/US$ 0.16<br />

TOUCHDOWN Board the Airport Express bus<br />

from the airport, about RMB10–30 (PHP68–203).<br />

Taxis from the airport cost about RMB120<br />

(PHP813) for the 28km-long ride to Haizhu<br />

Square in the city.<br />

BY DAY Guangzhou isn’t all about the commerce.<br />

A short land trip away from the city center will take<br />

you to Lianhua Mountain in the suburb of Panyu.<br />

Here you will fi nd a Buddhist sanctuary where local<br />

residents fl ock to say their prayers.<br />

BY NIGHT Cirque du Soleil meets Ringling Bros<br />

Circus at the Chime Long International Circus.<br />

This may not really be an immersion into Chinese<br />

culture per se, but its amazing stunts make it aweinspiring<br />

nonetheless.<br />

SLEEP Try the local Jianguo Hotel in Tianhe. It<br />

provides clean and comfortable rooms of modern<br />

design at lower prices relative to globally recognized<br />

fi ve-star chains. www.jianguohotelgz.com<br />

{ 184 }<br />

Michael<br />

Gohu Yu<br />

manager of a<br />

multinational<br />

company<br />

BEST BRUNCH Southern China<br />

for dim sum, and Deluxe Restaurant in<br />

Tianhe for late morning yum cha.<br />

BEST DINNER Try Bing Sheng<br />

Cantonese restaurant. Be ready for long<br />

queues, though, as it’s very popular!<br />

INSIDER TIP Avoid paying<br />

taxi fares with RMB50 or 100 bills.<br />

Dishonest drivers swap them with<br />

fake ones on unwary passengers.<br />

TAIWAN<br />

TAIPEI<br />

COUNTRY CODE +886<br />

CURRENCY TW$1 = PHP1.44/US$0.03<br />

TOUCHDOWN Taxis to the city will cost you<br />

TW$1,100 (PHP1,582). Private bus companies run<br />

trips from both terminals, and will cost you a more<br />

manageable TW$110–140 (PHP158–201). To get<br />

around, take the MRT.<br />

BY DAY Head to the top of Taipei 101 for an<br />

aerial view of the city. Admire the grounds of CKS<br />

Memorial Hall or NTU Campus. Outdoorsy types<br />

can check out the waterfalls near Wulai or soak in<br />

the hot springs after hiking Yangmingshan.<br />

BY NIGHT Night markets are plentiful; check out<br />

Shilin, Raohe, Shida or Tonghua. Stop for food<br />

and drinks at the Taiwan Beer Bar. The teahouses<br />

in mountainous Muzha offer scenic views of Taipei<br />

via the Maokong Gondola.<br />

SLEEP Treat yourself to a night or two at Taipei’s<br />

Grand Hotel. The classical Chinese architecture<br />

and the grounds that surround the hotel are<br />

spectacular. www.grand-hotel.org<br />

Jennifer<br />

Turek<br />

blogger,<br />

groovegrrrrrl.<br />

blogspot.com<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Dàn bing<br />

or tasty egg cakes are offered in many<br />

fl avors, and can be found everywhere.<br />

INSIDER TIP “Ni hao!” (“hello”),<br />

“hao chi” (“delicious”), and “xiè xiè”<br />

(“thank you”).<br />

BEST DINNER An assortment<br />

of steamed dumplings and<br />

mouthwatering beef noodle soup —<br />

this is Taiwan at its best.


trip journal<br />

THAILAND<br />

BANGKOK<br />

COUNTRY CODE +66 (2)<br />

CURRENCY THB1 = PHP1.40/US$0.03<br />

TOUCHDOWN There is a free airport shuttle to<br />

the Public Transportation Center in town. A taxi<br />

costs THB200 (PHP280). In the city, use the<br />

BTS Skytrains and avoid the jams. Tuk-tuks are<br />

available but only for short distances.<br />

BY DAY From Bangkok, board a long-distance<br />

bus from the Eastern Bus Terminal (adjacent to the<br />

Ekkamai BTS station on Sukhumvit Road at Soi 63)<br />

and head to Pattaya. Explore the beauty of Nong<br />

Nooch Garden and watch a cultural show.<br />

BY NIGHT Enjoy dinner in Bed — Bed Supper<br />

Nightclub, that is. It’s an all-white futuristic<br />

establishment that is a restaurant, bar, club,<br />

art gallery and theater rolled into one. www.<br />

bedsupperclub.com/bangkok/en/<br />

SLEEP Stay at the hip boutique hotel, Le Fenix<br />

Sukhumvit, which is a fi ve-minute stroll from<br />

Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok’s main hub of action.<br />

www.lefenix-sukhumvit.com<br />

Kariz Annie<br />

Galapia<br />

finance/accounting<br />

specialist<br />

BEST BUYS Scout the city for<br />

the best Thai silk and spicy but<br />

sweet tamarind candy.<br />

BEST DINNER Savor the<br />

famous Thai yellow or green curry<br />

(chicken or beef). It tastes so good!<br />

MUST-TRY Why not ride an<br />

elephant? It’s something special and<br />

exciting you can tell friends when<br />

you get back.<br />

{ 186 }<br />

SINGAPORE<br />

SINGAPORE<br />

COUNTRY CODE +65<br />

CURRENCY S$1 = PHP33.84/US$0.78<br />

TOUCHDOWN From the airport, take a taxi<br />

downtown for about S$15 (PHP507), depending on<br />

the time of day. Peak hours carry a S$3 (PHP102)<br />

surcharge. Or take the MRT and you’ll be there in<br />

about 25 minutes for about S$2 (PHP68).<br />

BY DAY First-timers to the Lion City should do<br />

a walking tour of the heritage trail. One option is<br />

to start from Merlion Park, then make your way<br />

through the civic district of Chijmes, and then to<br />

Chinatown. heritagetrails.sg<br />

BY NIGHT Chill out with friends at Coastes Bar<br />

on the sandy stretch of Siloso Beach Walk in<br />

Sentosa. Or head out to East Coast Park, where<br />

you can rent bicycles and rollerblades all day.<br />

Enjoy cocktails and dinner at the hawker center.<br />

SLEEP Book yourself in a hostel like Fernloft (www.<br />

fernloft.com), where you can hang out with fellow<br />

backpackers. Or opt for Matchbox The Concept<br />

Hostel (www.matchbox.sg), which is more upscale.<br />

Ron Cruz<br />

nurse/paramedic/<br />

blogger,<br />

www.fliptravels.<br />

com<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Kaya<br />

toast, soft-boiled eggs and white<br />

coffee from a local coffeehouse.<br />

BEST DINNER Enjoy local dishes<br />

like satay (grilled chicken or beef) at<br />

Lau Pa Sat Festival Market.<br />

INSIDER TIP Got a packed<br />

itinerary? Buy the Tourist Pass<br />

for unlimited rides on the public<br />

transport system (S$8/PHP240).


MALAYSIA<br />

KUALA LUMPUR<br />

COUNTRY CODE +60 (3)<br />

CURRENCY RM1 = PHP13.79/US$0.32<br />

TOUCHDOWN A bus will take you to downtown<br />

Kuala Lumpur from the airport for about RM10<br />

(PHP138). On the other hand, the train will get<br />

you there in half the time. Metered taxis are fast<br />

and affordable.<br />

BY DAY Ride the KL Hop-On, Hop-Off bus — it<br />

takes you to over 42 major city sights and<br />

attractions, including major shopping centers. The<br />

bus operates from 8.30am–8.30pm and the 24hour<br />

ticket costs just RM38 (PHP524).<br />

BY NIGHT Relax with friends at Sky Bar (at<br />

Traders Hotel) or Luna Bar (at Pacifi c Regency),<br />

which offer spectacular views of the Petronas Twin<br />

Towers and the magnifi cent evening skyline. Go<br />

bar-hopping along Changkat Bukit Bintang.<br />

SLEEP GTower Hotel is the fi rst fully-certifi ed<br />

green and smart property in Malaysia. It limits its<br />

carbon footprint and has stylish furnishings made<br />

of recycled material. www.GTowerhotel.com<br />

Bea<br />

Totanes<br />

marketing<br />

manager<br />

BEST BREAKFAST A hot glass<br />

of teh tarik and yummy roti canai at<br />

Pelita Nasi Kandar.<br />

BEST DINNER Try the stingray,<br />

fried oyster, grilled chicken wings and<br />

char koay teow at Jalan Alor.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Create<br />

something unique: paint your own<br />

batik at the KL Craft Complex, located<br />

along Jalan Conlay.<br />

trip journal<br />

MALAYSIA<br />

KOTA KINABALU<br />

COUNTRY CODE +60 (88)<br />

CURRENCY RM1 = PHP13.79/US$0.32<br />

TOUCHDOWN The Kota Kinabalu International<br />

Airport is only 10 minutes away by taxi, which<br />

usually costs about RM20 (PHP276). Be sure to<br />

negotiate and agree on the fare before you step<br />

into the cab.<br />

BY DAY The city is known for its tallest mountain,<br />

Mt Kinabalu, which draws climbers from all over<br />

the region. The Lok Kawi Wildlife Park showcases<br />

exotic animals like orangutans and the Sumatran<br />

rhinoceros.<br />

BY NIGHT Scuba dive at night. Explore<br />

underwater wonders such as WWII wrecks in<br />

the dark at over 20 diving sites. Or you can chill<br />

at the Waterfront; Pirates Bar prepares delicious<br />

barbecue dishes.<br />

SLEEP Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, in the heart of the<br />

city, faces the South China Sea. Dip in the outdoor<br />

pool or stay fi t at the Club Olympus health club.<br />

Kinabalu.regency@hyatt.com<br />

Jeremiah<br />

Thien<br />

communications<br />

assistant<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Great fi sh<br />

noodle soup and tom yam at Wan<br />

Wan Restaurant.<br />

BEST NIGHT OUT Head to<br />

the Waterfront in Kota Kinabalu for<br />

drinks and chilling out with friends.<br />

BEST DINNER Nelayan<br />

Seafood Restaurant gives you the<br />

opportunity to watch cultural dances<br />

while having your meal.<br />

{ 187 }


SOUTH KOREA<br />

INCHEON (SEOUL)<br />

COUNTRY CODE +82<br />

CURRENCY KRW100 = PHP3.86/US$0.09<br />

TOUCHDOWN Look for taxis with stickers that<br />

say “Foreign Language Service.” Cabs can be<br />

shared except for those with black and yellow<br />

tops. Thanks to a new bridge, the trip takes 15<br />

minutes. Eight subway lines serve the main areas.<br />

BY DAY Go sightseeing at some of the city’s<br />

historical palaces. The Gyeongbokgung, built in<br />

1395, is one of the fi ve royal palaces built during<br />

the Joseon Dynasty. Its beautiful and grand<br />

façade is most impressive.<br />

BY NIGHT Head over to the arty, trendy<br />

Hongdae area surrounding Hongik University.<br />

Hongdae Club draws students and the younger set<br />

for all-night dancing. Also catch the hit production,<br />

Legend of Flower 2. www.sheratonwalkerhill.co.kr<br />

SLEEP Indulge yourself with a stay at W Hotel-<br />

Walkerhill, which rests on the slope of Mount<br />

Acha overlooking the Han River but is just 15<br />

minutes from Gangnam. www.wseoul.com<br />

An Su-<br />

Kyung<br />

dental hygienist<br />

BEST BREAKFAST For<br />

aromatic baked goodies, check out<br />

the Bakery at Chosun Hotel.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Take home<br />

lots of Korean ginseng for family and<br />

friends back home.<br />

BEST DINNER Be adventurous.<br />

Bring friends along to the Noryangjin<br />

Fish Market — and try the excellent<br />

raw fi sh.<br />

DID D YOU<br />

KKNOW?<br />

SEONG JOON CHO<br />

trip journal<br />

SOUTH KOREA<br />

BUSAN<br />

COUNTRY CODE +82<br />

CURRENCY KRW100 = PHP3.86/US$0.09<br />

TOUCHDOWN From the Busan Gimhae<br />

International Airport, take the bus, the Busan<br />

Subway Line or railroad line. Make sure to plan<br />

your transfers carefully, so you don’t miss your<br />

fl ights. gimhae.airport.co.kr/eng<br />

BY DAY Visit the HaeDong YongGungSa (The Water<br />

Temple), located just past Seong Jeong Beach.<br />

Ride the gondola from Oncheongjang to the top of<br />

Busan’s outer mountain range, where you can take<br />

in a panoramic view of the city.<br />

BY NIGHT Stroll along the neon-lit boardwalk<br />

of Gwangali Beach. The Diamond Bridge is lit up<br />

beautifully, and the cafés and restaurants along the<br />

beach provide great views of the water. Seomyeon<br />

is another fun area full of bars and restaurants.<br />

SLEEP The Westin Chosun Hotel is a fabulous<br />

hotel with a great location on Haeundae beach.<br />

The rooms are beautiful and the staff incredibly<br />

helpful. busan@chosunhotel.co.kr<br />

Amy<br />

Zimmerman<br />

English teacher<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Bucella’s,<br />

on Haeundae Beach, offers a<br />

wonderful brunch!<br />

BEST FESTIVAL The Fireworks<br />

Festival on Gwangali Beach in<br />

October is unbelievable.<br />

MUST-TRY Take a kimchi-making<br />

class — the process and the history<br />

are fascinating! Try other food or<br />

cooking classes too.<br />

{ 188 }<br />

INDONESIA<br />

JAKARTA<br />

COUNTRY CODE +62<br />

CURRENCY IDR100,000 = PHP480/US$11.19<br />

TOUCHDOWN Hire a Bluebird or Silverbird<br />

taxi from the airport to the city, which costs<br />

IDR180,000 (PHP865), plus toll. Alternatively,<br />

the DAMRI bus goes to any city bus station for a<br />

very manageable IDR15,000 (PHP72).<br />

BY DAY Shop for vintage clothing at Pasar Senen.<br />

Hold on to your wallet, and don’t bring expensive<br />

items when shopping here. If you’re into fancier<br />

boutiques, head south to Kemang Raya. You’ll fi nd<br />

amazing furniture and clothing.<br />

BY NIGHT Dine on the best nasi uduk (steamed<br />

rice cooked in coconut milk) in town at Kebon<br />

Kacang, Central Jakarta. Then chill out at Ocha<br />

Bella (www.ochaandbella.com) in Wahid Hasyim<br />

for the great ambience and excellent lychee tea.<br />

SLEEP Harris Hotel in Kelapa Gading is a<br />

relatively new, budget-friendly establishment<br />

that’s right next to a shopping mall. kelapagadingjakarta.harrishotels.com<br />

Admira<br />

Pustika<br />

graphic designer<br />

and artist<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Bubur<br />

ayam (chicken porridge) with cakwe<br />

(dough fritter) at Gelora Bung Karno.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS At Plaza<br />

Indonesia, fi nd “The Goods Dept” for<br />

curated items by local designers.<br />

BEST DINNER Hawkers are the<br />

best! Try the noodle dish mie blo’on<br />

at Menteng, a pushcart next to St<br />

Theresia Church.<br />

Samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) was recently voted as the best<br />

Korean dish in Seoul by foreign nationals.


trip journal<br />

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM<br />

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN<br />

COUNTRY CODE +673<br />

CURRENCY BND1 = PHP34.21/US$0.80<br />

TOUCHDOWN The international airport is<br />

approximately 10 minutes (about 10km) from the<br />

center of Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB). There are<br />

taxis, car rentals and regular public bus services<br />

that can take you to and from the airport.<br />

BY DAY Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, one<br />

of Southeast Asia’s most impressive mosques, is<br />

named after Brunei’s 28th sultan. It boasts granite<br />

from Shanghai, chandeliers and stained glass from<br />

England, and Italian marble, to name a few.<br />

BY NIGHT Head over to Gadong Pasar Alam<br />

(night market). You’ll fi nd fresh vegetables and<br />

cooked food at countless stalls: nasi katok (fried<br />

chicken), nasi lemak (chicken with coconutfl<br />

avored rice) and, if you dare, chicken butt.<br />

SLEEP For budget travelers, Grand City Hotel<br />

provides good value and decent lodgings. About<br />

fi ve to 10 minutes from the airport, it’s also close<br />

to small shops, restaurants and streetside cafés.<br />

BEST BREAKFAST The Empire<br />

Hotel buffet or nasi katok at a local<br />

cafeteria.<br />

BEST DINNER Bob Ume<br />

Restaurant in Tamu Selera serves great<br />

seafood at affordable prices.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Nothing is<br />

better than your own photographs<br />

and your experience in Brunei —<br />

these are priceless.<br />

{ 190 }<br />

Ben Lo<br />

inbound tour<br />

coordinator<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

MANILA<br />

AREA CODE (02)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN From the airport, the ride to<br />

commercial centers takes 30 minutes to an hour,<br />

depending on traffi c and where you’re headed.<br />

Pay around PHP450 to hire registered airport<br />

taxis, but metered cabs are also available.<br />

BY DAY Take a tour of Intramuros, formerly the<br />

nerve center of the Spanish occupation in the<br />

Philippines, and home to several thousand Spanish<br />

colonists. It is now a prominent tourist spot where<br />

visitors can experience Spanish-era Manila.<br />

BY NIGHT Hang out at the Resorts World<br />

Casino, where you will fi nd numerous high-end<br />

shops, bars, coffee shops, restaurants and a<br />

3D cinema as well. It is located just across the<br />

Terminal 3 airport.<br />

SLEEP For budget-conscious travelers who just<br />

need a comfortable and clean place to crash,<br />

Salem Domestic Guesthouse is the most affordable.<br />

Tel: +63 (916) 429 1111<br />

Mike Nocom<br />

entrepreneur<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Geni’s<br />

Fusion cuisine along Domestic Road<br />

has some of the best coffee.<br />

MUST-TRY Try gas-powered offroad<br />

RC racing at Xtreme Toys, SM<br />

Mall of Asia.<br />

INSIDER TIP Be safe and aware<br />

of your surroundings. Have a hotel<br />

in mind before you take a cab at<br />

the airport.


PHILIPPINES<br />

LAOAG<br />

AREA CODE (77)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN You can hire a van, jeepney<br />

or tricycle from the Laoag airport to get to your<br />

destination in town. However, an eco-friendly<br />

means of getting around the city is the kalesa or<br />

horse-drawn carriage.<br />

BY DAY Wait up for the sunrise at the La Paz<br />

sand dunes. An alternative way to enjoy the<br />

dunes is to ride through them on a 4x4 or go sand<br />

boarding. After which, enjoy a kalesa ride around<br />

the city and try the street foods along the way.<br />

BY NIGHT For dinner, visit La Preciosa for their<br />

amazing menu of Ilocano and international<br />

cuisines. Visit the Provincial Capitol, which is best<br />

viewed in the evening with its picturesque fountain<br />

and lights.<br />

SLEEP Renzo Hotel is located within the vicinity<br />

of Laoag Centro. For your convenience, it has a<br />

supermarket, souvenir and coffee shop inside.<br />

www.laoagrenzohotel.com<br />

Marie Stella<br />

U. Gaspar<br />

student<br />

BEST DINNER The Bagbet (a<br />

mix of bagnet and pinakbet) and<br />

Puqui-Puqui at La Preciosa.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Basi and<br />

Bugnay wines, sukang (vinegar)<br />

Iluko, longganisa and bawang.<br />

INSIDER TIP The weather in<br />

the city is unpredictable, so it is best<br />

to bring an umbrella at all times, to<br />

be prepared.<br />

trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

TUGUEGARAO<br />

AREA CODE (78)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN To get to town, you take two<br />

tricycles: one from the airport to the main road,<br />

and then another to the town proper. It should cost<br />

you no more than just PHP10 per ride. And the<br />

rides are fairly short.<br />

BY DAY For the spiritual, there are a number of<br />

churches to visit: Sts Peter and Paul Cathedral; the<br />

San Jacinto Church; St Paul University Church;<br />

and the Basilica of Piat. For the adventurous, try<br />

spelunking at the Callao Caves.<br />

BY NIGHT Enjoy a delicious dinner at Kainang<br />

Pilipino, where you can taste local fare. Don’t miss<br />

out on their specialty, crispy pata. After dinner,<br />

head to nearby Hotel Carmelita for a fun night of<br />

karaoke.<br />

SLEEP Las Palmas de San Jose is a<br />

Mediterranean-inspired hotel and resort in San<br />

Jose Village. It offers clean rooms and a homey<br />

atmosphere. www.laspalmas.com.ph<br />

LOCAL SPEAK Use “silya”<br />

(left) and “manu” (right) when giving<br />

directions to a local driver.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Machetes<br />

and knives can be bought along the<br />

highway in Brgy Larion.<br />

INSIDER TIP Know that<br />

you have three choices when riding<br />

a tricycle: capacity, special or<br />

double pay.<br />

{ 191 }<br />

Jeremy<br />

Villasis<br />

travel<br />

photographer<br />

LESTER LEDESMA


EDGAR ALAN ZETA YAP<br />

trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

CAUAYAN<br />

AREA CODE (78)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN The airport in Cauayan opened<br />

in 2008. Upon landing, ask the Cebu Pacifi c<br />

staff for advice regarding transport to get to your<br />

lodgings. Buses and jeepneys travel from the<br />

airport to town.<br />

BY DAY Go shopping around the city and be sure<br />

to haggle for the best price, as the majority of the<br />

local stores there are generous in giving discounts.<br />

Don’t forget to visit the Isabela souvenir shop,<br />

which is located beside the City Hall.<br />

BY NIGHT Night-time in Cauayan is not as busy<br />

as the other cities in the metro, but you can still<br />

fi nd good places to relax and hang out with good<br />

friends. To rejuvenate, go to Moki Thai Massage or<br />

check the newly opened Zen Bamboo Spa.<br />

SLEEP Stay at The Hotel Andrea — it’s along<br />

Canciller St at the heart of the city. Put up your<br />

feet and enjoy a hot shower after a long day.<br />

www.thehotelandrea.com<br />

{ 192 }<br />

Ferdie Tan<br />

businessman<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Aling<br />

Luring’s sirkele, which is similar to<br />

dinuguan but not quite.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Isabela<br />

items like the miniature botaka or<br />

lazy chair.<br />

LOCAL SPEAK “Mano” (How<br />

much?), “Awan ti tawar” (No<br />

discount?), and “Dyak ma awatan”<br />

(I can’t understand).<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

CLARK<br />

AREA CODE (45)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN From Diosdado Macapagal<br />

International Airport (DMIA), you can take a taxi,<br />

bus or jeep to the city. Any of these will take you<br />

to the terminal or SM Clark. Within town, there are<br />

cabs and jeeps. You can also hire a car or van.<br />

BY DAY Got an adventurous spirit? Visit the<br />

Miamit Falls and drop by the Aeta Village of<br />

Sapang Uwak in Porac, Pampanga. Or go on a<br />

4x4 ride at Sapang Bato and be fascinated by the<br />

sand cliffs as you cruise along the riverbed.<br />

BY NIGHT There are four casinos inside Clark<br />

where one could — quite literally — spend the<br />

night away. Enjoy the nightlife and the lights by<br />

walking through Fields Ave, the bar and restaurant<br />

strip along Balibago, Angeles City.<br />

SLEEP Try Oasis Hotel along Clarkview in<br />

Balibago. It’s one of the newest hotels, and its<br />

amenities include a pool and a pub with live<br />

artists. www.oasishotel.com.ph<br />

Emmanuel<br />

T. So<br />

businessman<br />

BEST DINNER C’ Italian Dining<br />

or Sylvia’s San Fernando for the<br />

best local food.<br />

BEST BUYS Halo-halo at<br />

Kabigting’s, and carabao milk-based<br />

candies of Carreon in Magalang.<br />

MUST-TRY Take one day to<br />

explore and trek Mt Pinatubo<br />

during the summer. You’ll enjoy the<br />

experience and the views.


JERRY LIM LEE<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

NAGA<br />

AREA CODE (54)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Naga City Airport is about 12km<br />

from the city center, accessible by many forms<br />

of transportation including bus, van, jeepney and<br />

tricycle. You may also hire an eight-seat kalesa to<br />

tour the city.<br />

BY DAY The city has its own eco-trail and nature<br />

park on Mt Isarog. One could take a hike, bike or<br />

run on the trail, which starts in Panicuason village<br />

to the peaks of Mt. Isarog. Or just stroll through the<br />

city to shop or dine.<br />

BY NIGHT Night-time is alive in the city of<br />

Naga. The Magsaysay commercial district hosts<br />

a long line of bars, clubs and restaurants. You<br />

can also choose from high-end restaurants and<br />

international cafés.<br />

SLEEP There are many places to stay in Naga<br />

City, but the most famous of all is the Avenue<br />

Plaza Hotel, the only four-star hotel. www.<br />

theavenueplazahotel.com/aph/hotel.html<br />

Shiena Marino<br />

Barrameda<br />

freelance newspaper<br />

journalist and<br />

broadcaster<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Kinalas<br />

(beef noodle soup) and toasted<br />

siopao at Dayangdang.<br />

BEST DINNER Get your fi ll of<br />

native Filipino dishes at Bigg’s and<br />

Geewan restaurants.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS The<br />

prettiest souvenirs are handwoven<br />

bags and items made out of water<br />

hyacinth.<br />

KARA SANTOS<br />

trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

VIRAC<br />

AREA CODE (86)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Jeepneys and buses ply the<br />

main thoroughfares of Catanduanes. Tricycles are<br />

also a popular means of transport. On the other<br />

hand, most hotels in the area can arrange for your<br />

pick-up from the airport.<br />

BY DAY Set out to Baras where Puraran Beach<br />

Resort is and surf on its great waves. You can also<br />

visit Twin Rock Beach Resort for other activities<br />

like zip lining, wall climbing and kayaking. There<br />

are a lot of activities to keep you on the go.<br />

BY NIGHT Unwind and have a light beer at<br />

Seabreeze Resto with your friends. The place<br />

is known for its great, relaxing and romantic<br />

ambience. It’s actually even perfect for a night out<br />

with your loved one.<br />

SLEEP Kemji Resort in San Isidro village has<br />

a swimming pool and Wi-Fi access for those<br />

who want to keep in touch. Even better, it is just<br />

walking distance from the airport.<br />

BEST DINNER Try kaldereta —<br />

one of the all-time favorite dishes of<br />

Pinoys — from Sandy’s Blossoms.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Pili nuts<br />

and abaca-made products like bags<br />

and slippers.<br />

LOCAL SPEAK Always<br />

fi nish your phrases with “tabi.” It<br />

shows that you’re a respectful and<br />

considerate person.<br />

{ 195 }<br />

Priscilla<br />

Milagrosa<br />

former customer<br />

service agent


trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

LEGAZPI<br />

AREA CODE (52)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Tricycles and vans are available<br />

to take you in and around Legazpi. From the<br />

airport, you can also easily hire a taxi to take you<br />

and your luggage into the city proper or directly to<br />

your hotel or inn.<br />

BY DAY Head to Mayon Volcano’s slope for a day<br />

hike. If you want to enjoy its perfect cone from<br />

afar, go to the Cagsawa Ruins, where the belfry of<br />

the church stands as a reminder of Mayon’s fury.<br />

You can also go to the Legazpi City Museum.<br />

BY NIGHT The best way to cap your day is to<br />

go to Lignon Hill, have warm coffee, and catch<br />

the wonderful play of colors as the sun sets. This<br />

lookout offers a view of the twinkling city lights on<br />

one side and Mayon Volcano on the other.<br />

SLEEP Legazpi City is proud to offer quality inns<br />

and hotels suitable for all budgets. The famous<br />

fi ve-star Mayon International Hotel will open<br />

before the year ends.<br />

{ 196 }<br />

Rochene R.<br />

Vergara<br />

tour guide<br />

MUST-TRY Brave the authentic<br />

Bicol Express in Sambalas Grille at<br />

the LKY Grand Terminal.<br />

INSIDER TIP Never leave town<br />

without trying Colonial Grill’s sili<br />

ice cream.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Trendy<br />

abaca bags, cool wall decor and<br />

fridge magnets at the Ibalong<br />

Pasalubong Center.<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

CATARMAN<br />

AREA CODE (55)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Tricycles are just a few steps<br />

away from the arrival hall of the airport. A<br />

15-minute ride takes you to Catarman proper for<br />

PHP10 per passenger. To rent a private tricycle, all<br />

you need to pay is PHP60.<br />

BY DAY Spend a relaxing day at the Pink Beach<br />

Resort and simply enjoy the sun, sand and sea.<br />

As its name implies, the beach is known for its fi ne<br />

pinkish sand. Pink Beach Resort is conveniently<br />

located at Brgy Sila.<br />

BY NIGHT Unwind and check out the various<br />

night spots such as Tsiban. Or head to Barrio<br />

Otso and enjoy listening to some mellow<br />

music. Both places have live bands you can<br />

listen to or sing along with.<br />

SLEEP For a homey atmosphere and accessibility<br />

to the airport, try Bahay Pinoy. Bahay Pinoy is<br />

located along Capitol Road in Brgy Dalakit. Tel:<br />

+63 (920) 576 3651<br />

Virgilio<br />

“Jong” T.<br />

Lademora, Jr.<br />

air traff ic<br />

management<br />

off icer<br />

BEST DINNER Genie’s<br />

Restaurant serves Filipino favorites<br />

like bulalo, sinigang and dinuguan.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Buy<br />

native products from the airport<br />

pasalubong center or town proper.<br />

LOCAL SPEAK Impress<br />

the locals with “marasa,” which<br />

means yummy or delicious, and<br />

“mahusay” or beautiful.


trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

CALBAYOG<br />

AREA CODE (55)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN You will fi nd tricycles at the<br />

designated parking area after coming out of the<br />

airport terminal building. These vehicles are<br />

also typically the sole means of transport in and<br />

around the city.<br />

BY DAY Calbayog is an ideal place to get a sense<br />

of history, art and architectural appreciation.<br />

Visit Sts Peter and Paul Cathedral, considered<br />

the biggest church in Samar, then head off to<br />

Handuman Museo de Calbayog for art.<br />

BY NIGHT Go to S.O. Café to enjoy great coffee,<br />

great food and a great atmosphere. Local bands<br />

will serenade you every Friday. Take time to visit<br />

Matobato and savor a slice of bibingka and other<br />

rice cakes at the Daguman Store.<br />

SLEEP For high-end accommodations, stay at<br />

Ciriaco Hotel and Resort at Km. 745 Maharlika<br />

Highway, Bagacay or Sophia Diane Hotel and<br />

Restaurant in Carmen, Calbayog City.<br />

MUST-TRY Dance on the beach<br />

during the famous Soleda in honor of<br />

Nuestra Señora de la Soledad.<br />

INSIDER TIP This month, food<br />

buffs should try the banchettos<br />

(midnight markets).<br />

BEST BUYS Tinapa (smoked<br />

fi sh), sinakugan (red sticky rice<br />

cooked in coconut milk) and tablea<br />

(unprocessed chocolate).<br />

{ 198 }<br />

NELSON PETILLA<br />

Ryan<br />

Babon<br />

project manager,<br />

NEDA Central<br />

Off ice<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

DUMAGUETE<br />

AREA CODE (35)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN There are taxis to help you get<br />

around the city, as well as jeepneys and pedicabs<br />

(which are powered by a bicycle). Once in town,<br />

you can also rent a motorbike, which is a really<br />

fun way to get to where you need to go.<br />

BY DAY Go to Silliman University and take a<br />

requisite photograph of century-old Silliman Hall,<br />

which was built in 1909 in the Eastern Stick style<br />

of American architecture. Visit the Anthropological<br />

Museum (housed in Silliman Hall) too.<br />

BY NIGHT Stroll down Dumaguete Boulevard<br />

for a whiff of sea air and to watch locals relaxing<br />

under the cooling canopies of giant acacia trees.<br />

Take a seat at one of many makeshift stalls selling<br />

tempura and balut (boiled fertilized egg).<br />

SLEEP The better hotels are found outside the<br />

city. There are many resorts close to the beach,<br />

such as in Dauin, about 20 minutes from the city.<br />

Atmosphere gets high marks.<br />

Ruby<br />

Escosa<br />

market research<br />

consultant<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Gabby’s<br />

Bistro in Florentina Homes is<br />

popular among the locals.<br />

BEST BUYS Take home a box of<br />

sans rival or silvana from Sans Rival<br />

Cakes and Pastries.<br />

MUST-TRY Go to Apo Island and<br />

swim with the pawikan (sea turtles),<br />

and ogle at the variety of clown<br />

fi shes and giant corals.<br />

JOHN LANDER


LESTER LEDESMA<br />

trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

BACOLOD<br />

AREA CODE (34)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN One arrives in Negros through<br />

the Bacolod-Silay airport in Silay City. That’s<br />

about 15km northeast of Bacolod City, or about<br />

a 30-minute drive if there are no traffi c jams. In<br />

Bacolod, there are plenty of tricycles.<br />

BY DAY Take a city tour that includes the Negros<br />

Museum, the Pope John Paul II Tower which<br />

houses his relic, and the Barangay sang Birhen<br />

chapel’s altar made of fi ne, natural shells. Visit the<br />

certifi ed organic farms in Silay and Bago.<br />

BY NIGHT After the ribs dinner at Ribhouse, walk<br />

the grounds of the Bacolod Government Center to<br />

check out the music and water fountain. Then end<br />

your evening with a treatment at the O’Fisher Spa<br />

& Wellness Center.<br />

SLEEP East View Hotel, which is barely two years<br />

old, has spacious rooms and soft beds. It is within<br />

walking distance of banks, malls, restaurants and<br />

call centers. www.eastviewhotel.com<br />

{ 200 }<br />

Maricar J.<br />

Dabao<br />

tour operator<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Masskara<br />

T-shirts by Azatri, which are available<br />

at Merci Pasalubong Centers.<br />

BEST BUYS Dried fi sh at Central<br />

Market and fashion accessories at the<br />

Negros Showroom.<br />

MUST-TRY Never leave Bacolod<br />

without passing by Merci Pasalubong<br />

Center (www.merci.com.ph) and eating<br />

chicken inasal at Manokan Country.<br />

DID D YOU<br />

KKNOW?<br />

WALTER VILLA<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

ILOILO<br />

AREA CODE (33)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN There are taxi services available<br />

from PHP300 upwards. You can also hire<br />

metered cabs right outside the airport. It’s a 30- to<br />

45-minute ride to the city. Within the city, there<br />

are tricycles and jeepneys.<br />

BY DAY Visit the beautiful heritage churches of<br />

Iloilo: Jaro, Molo, Miagao, Lapaz and Villa. Iloilo<br />

is a food haven, so savoring Ilonggo cuisine like<br />

batchoy is a must. Tour the city by simply talking<br />

a leisurely walk around.<br />

BY NIGHT Everyone will tell you not to miss<br />

Smallville, which is considered Iloilo’s central<br />

nightlife spot. Have some booze and baby back<br />

ribs at Bourbon Street and Freska, if you still<br />

haven’t had enough of Ilonggo cuisine.<br />

SLEEP Sarabia Manor Hotel along General Luna<br />

St is spacious and has an excellent location.<br />

Rooms start at PHP800++ per night for simple<br />

accommodations. www.sarabiamanorhotel.com<br />

Jill J.<br />

Villanueva<br />

marketing<br />

practitioner<br />

BEST BUYS Iloilo delicacies<br />

like biscocho, barquillos and<br />

butterscotch at Biscocho Haus.<br />

LOCAL SPEAK “Namit!”<br />

means “Delicious!” and “Kaon ta!”<br />

means “Let’s eat!”<br />

BEST FESTIVAL Don’t miss<br />

the Dinagyang Festival, which<br />

happens every fourth Sunday of<br />

January.<br />

For a glimpse of Iloilo’s intriguing past,<br />

head to Calle Real.


GEORGE CABIG<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

SAN JOSE<br />

AREA CODE (43)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN You can take a tricycle from right<br />

outside the airport to the town center for about<br />

PHP50, inclusive of tip. To get around town, you<br />

either walk or take tricycles, which are cheap and<br />

easy to fi nd.<br />

BY DAY Take an island trip to Islang Puti for its<br />

white sand. There’s also the Inasakan Beach in<br />

Iling Island, a small cove with powdery sand and<br />

serene waters — excellent for swimming, partying<br />

or even meditation.<br />

BY NIGHT The town plaza is the most popular<br />

place for promenading because the ambience is<br />

casual and relaxing. It is perhaps one of the best<br />

town parks in the country today, with its acacia<br />

trees, manicured gardens and playground.<br />

SLEEP Aroma Center Family Resort and Hotel<br />

offers comfortable lodging at affordable prices. It<br />

has one of the best locations, being closest to the<br />

town proper. Tel: +63 (947) 476 1821<br />

Mariboy<br />

Asenjo<br />

Ysibido<br />

PR/information off icer,<br />

LGU-San Jose<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Necklaces<br />

and bracelets from the Mangyan<br />

tribes of San Jose.<br />

MUST-TRY Mountain climbing<br />

at Devil’s Mountain, located at Brgy<br />

Batasan.<br />

BEST FESTIVAL The Indak<br />

Pandurukan Street Dance, a few<br />

days before the fi esta every fi rst of<br />

May in honor of St Joseph.<br />

trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

CATICLAN (BORACAY)<br />

AREA CODE (36)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Take a short tricycle ride to the<br />

Caticlan Jetty Port. From there, board a banca<br />

that will transport you to Boracay Island. Here, the<br />

main mode of transport is the tricycle, and they<br />

are cheap and plentiful.<br />

BY DAY Bask under the sun of Puka Beach, a<br />

quiet stretch of white sand along the northern<br />

tip of the island. It is a good spot for a picnic,<br />

and there are fewer tourists so you will not be<br />

competing for space.<br />

BY NIGHT Boracay nightlife would not be<br />

complete without taking in the party scene at<br />

Stations 1 and 2. Epic Bar, Guilly’s Island and<br />

Summer Place are the hottest places to dance,<br />

drink and be merry.<br />

SLEEP Alta Vista de Boracay provides guests a<br />

sense of privacy. They also have free shuttles to<br />

and from Station 2 at certain hours. Tel: +63 (36)<br />

288 9888<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Real<br />

Coffee and Tea Café’s calamansi<br />

muffi n and funky monkey drink.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Boracay<br />

straw hats in different colors,<br />

sandos, shirts and henna tattoos!<br />

INSIDER TIP Happy hour<br />

cocktails are from 3pm–6pm at<br />

Friday’s Station 1. Go to Jonah’s for<br />

the fruit shake variety.<br />

{ 203 }<br />

Odette<br />

Paulino<br />

sponsorships<br />

off icer, PBA


trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

KALIBO<br />

AREA CODE (36)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN From the airport, the best way<br />

to get to the city center is by tricycle — it’s cheap<br />

and the Kalibo version is larger than the ones in<br />

Manila. It can accommodate six adults, including<br />

the driver.<br />

BY DAY Stroll along Bakhawan Eco Park at New<br />

Buswang, Kalibo. A visit to the Aklan Museum<br />

and freedom marker of the 19 Martyrs of Aklan<br />

will complete your journey to the history and<br />

culture of Akeanons.<br />

BY NIGHT Unwind at fi ne dining restaurants and<br />

cafés like Saylo, Café Latte and Kitty’s. For music<br />

and band lovers, you could try hanging out in La<br />

Senoritas and Mezzanine Café. Go to Q-Zone for<br />

bowling after.<br />

SLEEP A good night’s sleep in Marzon Hotel<br />

comes easy for weary travellers. Its rooms are<br />

clean and cozy, and come with wide-screen fl at<br />

TVs. info@marzonboracay.com<br />

BEST FESTIVAL The worldfamous<br />

Sto Nino Ati-Atihan Festival<br />

every third week of January.<br />

BEST DINNER Taste the native<br />

lechon in Kalibo at RML Restaurant<br />

along Toting Reyes St.<br />

INSIDER TIP A tricycle ride is<br />

only PHP8 at any destination within<br />

1km. You can also hire one for the<br />

day as your private tour guide.<br />

{ 204 }<br />

WALTER VILLA<br />

Lowell N.<br />

Rublico<br />

high school principal,<br />

Paref-Westbridge<br />

School<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

CEBU<br />

AREA CODE (32)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN At the Mactan Airport, it’s pretty<br />

easy to hire a taxi service or even a private car<br />

to take you to the city center. If you’re staying for<br />

more than a few days, you can hire a car for that<br />

time. There are metered cabs by the terminal too.<br />

BY DAY Head north of Cebu to Liloan and enjoy<br />

a fresh catch of seafood at Co Jordan’s Bangus<br />

and Talaba Farm. While waiting for your food to<br />

be served, hook the bait and discover the art of<br />

fi shing. Drop by Lita’s Halo Halo for dessert.<br />

BY NIGHT If you want to veer away from the<br />

club scene, chill and unwind with some imported<br />

wine and beer at the Urban Cellar. Its English pub<br />

interiors give you that medieval feel while you<br />

enjoy their deli and gourmet sausages.<br />

SLEEP Have a comfortable stay at the Islands<br />

Stay Hotel for as low as PHP850 a night. Their<br />

branches in Mactan and uptown Cebu are near<br />

tourist spots. www.islandsstay.com<br />

Anya Lim<br />

social<br />

entrepreneur<br />

BEST DINNER Visit Alejandro’s<br />

Filipino Resto — home of the best<br />

crispy pata in town.<br />

BEST BUYS Shop at ANTHILL<br />

Fabric Gallery to fi nd local crafts and<br />

fabric by-products.<br />

INSIDER TIP Let www.<br />

zerothreetwo.com be your offi cial<br />

city guide when you plan your<br />

itinerary.


LESTER LEDESMA<br />

trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

PUERTO PRINCESA<br />

AREA CODE (48)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Most hotels in Palawan can<br />

arrange to have you picked up at the airport.<br />

Tricycles to the city center cost about PHP35.<br />

Vans are also available for hire and are not<br />

too costly.<br />

BY DAY Swim and snorkel in Honda Bay,<br />

and stay overnight in Sabang after visiting the<br />

Underground River. Sabang Beach is stunning and<br />

such a nice place to hang out. There are a lot of<br />

affordable resorts if you want electricity all night.<br />

BY NIGHT Check out Palawan’s nightlife. There’s<br />

live music at Katabom Bar on Rizal Ave every<br />

night. It’s especially fun on Wednesday and<br />

Saturday nights when Palawan’s best band, Mitu’s<br />

Tribe, plays.<br />

SLEEP Hibiscus Garden Inn is a refreshing<br />

change from the usual boxy hotel room. It’s<br />

cozy, affordable and quaint, like Palawan itself.<br />

hibiscusgardeninn@gmail.com<br />

{ 206 }<br />

Amina<br />

Evangelista-<br />

Swanepoel<br />

executive director,<br />

Roots of Health<br />

BEST LUNCH Heavenly Desserts<br />

by Dorothy on Lacao St, in front of<br />

NCC department store.<br />

BEST BUYS Quality yet affordable<br />

placemats, bags, blinds, baskets and<br />

other woven goods at Binuatan.<br />

MUST-TRY If you have a car, head<br />

to the beautiful Nagtabon Beach for its<br />

white sand and crystal-clear waters.<br />

You can go island-hopping too.<br />

DID D YOU<br />

KKNOW?<br />

AL LINSANGAN<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

BUSUANGA (CORON)<br />

AREA CODE (48)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN From the airport, take a shuttle<br />

to the town proper of Coron, which will cost about<br />

PHP150 per person. The ride takes 45 minutes<br />

to one hour. Call for more information. Tel: +63<br />

(928) 408 3105, (921) 265 2210<br />

BY DAY The best attractions include Kayangan<br />

Lake and the Twin Lagoons. There are many<br />

islands and beaches to visit, but try not to miss<br />

Malcapuya. It may be farther to travel to by boat<br />

compared to the other islands, but it is worth it.<br />

BY NIGHT For a sumptuous dinner, Bistro Coron<br />

is a must. It is a quaint restaurant located in the<br />

city proper, popular for its food and drinks; try<br />

the Bistro Pizza. They also have a very extensive<br />

menu and reasonable prices.<br />

SLEEP Try Sunz En Coron for a unique resort<br />

experience. They have an amazing swimming<br />

pool that changes colors from blue, green to<br />

purple and pink. www.sunzencoron.com<br />

Anton V.<br />

Gregory<br />

advertising<br />

professional<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS The great<br />

photographs you’ll compile from all<br />

the breathtaking sights.<br />

MUST-TRY Go diving and see<br />

the remains of the shipwrecked<br />

WWII Japanese warships.<br />

INSIDER TIP Bring enough<br />

cash. Not many restaurants accept<br />

credit cards and there aren’t many<br />

ATMs around.<br />

The sunken Japanese warships off<br />

Coron make a good diving site.


LESTER LEDESMA<br />

trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

TACLOBAN<br />

AREA CODE (53)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN From the airport to the downtown<br />

area, a van (PHP300) is most convenient as it will<br />

drop you off at your hotel. There are multi-cabs,<br />

jeepneys and tricycles too. You can also hire a car<br />

for longer stays.<br />

BY DAY Wear your explorer’s hat and take a<br />

road trip! Tacloban is near numerous historical<br />

landmarks such as the MacArthur Memorial Park<br />

in Palo, and natural wonders like the magnifi cent<br />

Sohoton Caves in Basey.<br />

BY NIGHT Enjoy a good dinner at San Pedro Bay<br />

Marina. The delicious food, as well as the great<br />

view, will defi nitely leave a lasting impression.<br />

Don’t forget to visit the San Juanico Bridge at<br />

night. The view is simply spectacular.<br />

SLEEP The Leyte Park Hotel along Magsaysay<br />

Boulevard is highly accessible and close to almost<br />

all business establishments, making it a practical<br />

place to stay in. www.leyteparkhotel.com.ph<br />

{ 208 }<br />

Christopher<br />

D. Geli<br />

architect<br />

BEST BREAKFAST Hotel<br />

Alejandro’s Café Teresa serves a<br />

variety of Filipino favorites.<br />

INSIDER TIP Check out the<br />

Tacloban Facebook page for the<br />

latest events and things to do.<br />

LOCAL SPEAK “Marisyo an<br />

ak pag-ukoy dinhi! Mabalik ako!”<br />

translates to “I had fun staying here!<br />

I’ll be back!”<br />

WALTER VILLA<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

TAGBILARAN<br />

AREA CODE (38)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.20)<br />

TOUCHDOWN The airport is within the city, and<br />

there are plenty of tricycles at PHP6 for a ride.<br />

For trips to nearby towns, there are vans and taxis<br />

for hire. It only takes about 20 minutes to get to<br />

Panglao Island as traffi c jams are rare.<br />

BY DAY Visit the Baclayon Church, one of the<br />

oldest coral churches in Asia. Have lunch onboard<br />

the Loboc River Cruise and enjoy live music. Or<br />

relax to a full body massage at the Bohol Bee<br />

Farm for only PHP500.<br />

BY NIGHT Have dinner and drinks at the Aplaya<br />

Bar and Restaurant in Bluewater Panglao Beach<br />

Resort. Ask Chef Jet to surprise your palate with a<br />

concoction not listed on the menu. But whatever’s<br />

there is really good too.<br />

SLEEP Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort has a<br />

spa, two swimming pools, deluxe rooms and villas<br />

which are spacious and beautifully designed.<br />

www.bluewater.com.ph<br />

Inna<br />

Angeles<br />

business owner<br />

BEST DINNER Amorita Resort<br />

comes highly recommended as a<br />

go-to dinner place when in Panglao.<br />

MUST-TRY Snorkeling and<br />

diving at the Marine Sanctuary, and<br />

the new Loboc Zipline Adventure.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Various<br />

spreads from the Bohol Bee Farm:<br />

pesto, malunggay, honey and<br />

coriander


PHILIPPINES<br />

ZAMBOANGA<br />

AREA CODE (62)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN From the airport, take a jeepney<br />

(PHP7) or tricycle (PHP20–25) to the pueblo (city)<br />

as there are only a few taxis. Plissap Rent-A-Car<br />

charges a minimum of PHP150, and may be the<br />

best way to go.<br />

BY DAY Go shopping for cheap souvenirs at<br />

Pasalubong in Canelar, Barter. Try Zamboanga’s<br />

best seafood delicacies at Alavar Seafood<br />

Restaurant. Visit Fort Pilar shrine and the National<br />

Museum to discover the city’s Spanish heritage.<br />

BY NIGHT Dine at Lantaka Hotel and enjoy a<br />

sumptuous dinner overlooking the sea. Go to<br />

Knickerbocker Glory at the Paseo del Mar for<br />

dessert. Finally, have your night cap at the Lobby<br />

Bar of the Garden Orchid Hotel.<br />

SLEEP Get a good night’s sleep at Garden Orchid<br />

Hotel along Governor Camins Ave. It is just<br />

minutes away from the city’s international airport.<br />

info@gardenorchidhotel.com<br />

Kristine<br />

Lafuente<br />

Collado<br />

fund accountant<br />

BEST DINNER If you love<br />

seafood, you shouldn’t miss the crabs<br />

at Alavar Seafood Restaurant.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Watch out<br />

for pretty cultured pearl sets, malong<br />

and batik.<br />

LOCAL SPEAK Practice saying<br />

“gracias,” which means “thank you”<br />

and “buenas dias,” which means<br />

“good morning.”<br />

LESTER LEDESMA<br />

trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

GENERAL SANTOS<br />

AREA CODE (83)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Hire a taxi at the airport for a<br />

fl at rate (PHP300–350). If you don’t have much<br />

luggage, a habal-habal (passenger motorbike) for<br />

PHP100 will do. In the city, tricycles will be your<br />

main means of getting around.<br />

BY DAY Spend the whole day at the new Paraiso<br />

Verde Resort & Water Park in nearby Koronadal.<br />

Enjoy its four different world-class pools, especially<br />

the Moby Wave Experience, and go to their Aqua<br />

Food Court for a meal.<br />

BY NIGHT Check out one of the favorite local<br />

haunts, PiYESta KTV Bar & Resto. Sample its<br />

delicious home-style food and cap your night with<br />

a drink or two. Bring everyone along — the service<br />

is superb.<br />

SLEEP Stay at GenSan’s newest hotel, the Ice<br />

Castle Experience (I.C.E.) Hotel in Provido Village<br />

City Heights. This boutique hotel has its own<br />

restaurant, bar and spa. frontdesk@gensanice.com<br />

BEST DINNER Steamed crabs<br />

at Gusteau’s or the king crabs in<br />

coconut milk at Red Trellis.<br />

BEST BUYS Jinkee’s Fashion<br />

World Boutique regularly displays<br />

items used by Jinkee Pacquiao.<br />

INSIDER TIP Play pool at<br />

Pacman’s Sports Bar. Who knows,<br />

you might be lucky and even see<br />

Manny Pacquiao here.<br />

{ 209 }<br />

Orman<br />

Ortega<br />

Manansala<br />

banker


JOJIE ALCANTARA<br />

trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

DAVAO<br />

AREA CODE (82)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Francisco Bangoy International<br />

Airport or the Davao International Airport is about<br />

15 minutes away from the city center. Davaoeño<br />

cabbies are known for their honesty, so a taxi from<br />

the airport to the hotel is a good option.<br />

BY DAY Visit Paradise Beach Resort at Samal<br />

Island, which is only a 10-minute drive from the<br />

city center plus a fi ve-minute boat ride from the<br />

shore. Stop by the Davao Wakeboard Park at<br />

Mintal, 45 minutes away from the city center.<br />

BY NIGHT Jack’s Ridge is generally a quiet place<br />

to hang out and enjoy the cityscape at night. It<br />

also has bars with good music and restaurants<br />

with great food. You can even lie down on the<br />

grass in the park.<br />

SLEEP Book a room at the Metropolis Suites,<br />

a three-star hotel with fi ve-star service and<br />

amenities. It’s strategically located near the malls<br />

and the airport.<br />

{ 210 }<br />

Aileen<br />

Yutankin<br />

entrepreneur<br />

BEST DINNER Alor’s Home<br />

kitchen along Torres St serves the best<br />

home-cooked style meals and pastries.<br />

MUST-TRY Discover a unique<br />

escape with a Davao wildwater<br />

adventure.<br />

INSIDER TIP Davao is very strict<br />

with smoking in public, so always<br />

ask around before lighting up your<br />

cigarette.<br />

BOBBY TIMONERA<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

BUTUAN<br />

AREA CODE (85)<br />

CURRENCY PHP1 = US$0.02<br />

TOUCHDOWN From the airport, you can hire a<br />

taxi or van to take you to the city proper. Once in<br />

the city, do as the Butuan residents do — hop on<br />

the ubiquitous tricycle, still the main way to get<br />

from place to place.<br />

BY DAY Butuan City is rich in culture and history.<br />

You can go to the Balangay Shrine Museum<br />

to see the some-thousand-year-old boats our<br />

ancestors used to reach the Philippines. You can<br />

also visit the Banza Church Ruins.<br />

BY NIGHT Caraga Square is ideal for good food,<br />

drinks and outdoor entertainment. It is an open-air<br />

venue so you can enjoy the gentle night breeze.<br />

Butuan is a sleepy town that turns in early, so join<br />

the town in getting a good night’s sleep.<br />

SLEEP The VCDU Prince Hotel and Convention<br />

Center along South Montilla Boulevard offers<br />

reasonable rates and nice, clean rooms. www.<br />

vcduprincehotel.com<br />

AJ<br />

Garchitorena<br />

teacher<br />

MUST-TRY Margie’s<br />

Bakeshoppe has the best cakes.<br />

Plus, leave a mark on their wall!<br />

INSIDER TIP Avoid the rainy<br />

season; the city is below sea level<br />

so it fl oods.<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS T’boli<br />

earrings and bracelets, malongs,<br />

dried mangoes and Golden Tara<br />

statues.


WALTER VILLA<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

ROXAS<br />

AREA CODE (36)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN You can fi nd Capiz Cab taxis<br />

waiting in the designated areas outside the arrival<br />

area of the Roxas airport. Once you’re within the<br />

city, the tricycle remains the main means of getting<br />

around. Tel: +63 (919) 707 9224<br />

BY DAY The Baybay beach, which stretches as<br />

far as the eye can see, is a must-visit. Downtown<br />

Roxas offers a myriad things to do, from shopping<br />

at Gaisano Mall and surrounding local stores to<br />

eating at Pizza Junction or Nesta’s.<br />

BY NIGHT Try the restaurants along the beach.<br />

Nothing compares to a romantic and awesome<br />

view of the sunset while enjoying fresh seafood<br />

with beer and wine. You can also visit the San<br />

Antonio Resort, which overlooks the lagoon.<br />

SLEEP San Antonio Resort is clean and<br />

orderly, and has friendly staff. Kids will enjoy<br />

the infi nity pool and bowling alleys. www.<br />

thesanantonioresort.com<br />

Rolando de<br />

Guzman<br />

retiree<br />

BEST BUYS Foodies should<br />

make room in their bags for kakanin<br />

like baye-baye, puto and suman.<br />

LOCAL SPEAK Greet people<br />

with “Maayong aga,” which means<br />

“Good morning.”<br />

MUST-TRY Shopping at the local<br />

markets, and seeing and sampling<br />

the variety of seafood that would be<br />

hard to get anywhere else.<br />

LESTER LEDESMA<br />

trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

CAGAYAN DE ORO<br />

AREA CODE (88)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Cebu Pacifi c runs a shuttle van<br />

to town. Or you can take a taxi for PHP300 or<br />

a cheaper jeepney service for PHP20. Taxis,<br />

jeepneys, motorcycles and multi-cabs ply the<br />

town proper.<br />

BY DAY Whitewater rafting with the Bugsay River<br />

Rafting Company comes highly recommended. Go<br />

waterfall rappelling and river trekking at Mapawa<br />

Nature Park as well. If you are fond of animal<br />

farms, visit the Ostrich and Crocodile Farm in Opol.<br />

BY NIGHT On weekends, go food tripping at the<br />

famous night café along DVsoria. Better yet, go<br />

resto-hopping at the Rosario Foodstrip in Limketkai<br />

Center. Then end your day with a relaxing massage<br />

at Aqua Spa along Capistrano corner T. Chavez St.<br />

SLEEP For budget travelers, try New Dawn<br />

Pensionne along Makahambus-Velez St. Prices<br />

range from PHP800–1,200 per night. Tel: +63<br />

(8822) 721 776 or 77<br />

BEST DINNER Thai Me Up<br />

Restaurant — Cagayan de Oro’s<br />

ultimate food destination.<br />

BEST BUYS 3MK Pasalubong<br />

Center (inside Monster! Kitchen)<br />

near St Agustin Cathedral Church.<br />

INSIDER TIP Make small talk<br />

with the Cagay-anons and see for<br />

yourself why we’re tagged as “The<br />

City of Golden Friendship.”<br />

{ 211 }<br />

Jan Uy<br />

businessman


trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

SURIGAO<br />

AREA CODE (86)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Upon your arrival, you can<br />

hire a jeepney or tricycle to get around the city.<br />

Although there are no taxis, most hotels offer a<br />

complimentary van pick-up from the airport as well<br />

as for departure.<br />

BY DAY Head to the “Waikiki Beach of the<br />

Philippines” when you visit Cagwait White Beach.<br />

Be captivated by the magical waters of the<br />

“Enchanted River” in Hinatuan, and the Tinuy-An<br />

Falls or the “Little Niagara of the Philippines.”<br />

BY NIGHT Grab dinner at Gold Bar Restaurant,<br />

which offers the best carbonara, kilawin, seafood<br />

and fresh lumpia in Tandag. Enjoy a live band or<br />

catch a movie while eating tasty street food at the<br />

Tandag City Boulevard.<br />

SLEEP The Villa Maria Luisa Hotel is the one of<br />

the fi nest hotels in the province. You can choose to<br />

swim at the beach or in the pool. Tel: +63 (86) 211<br />

5488/211 5499; vmlhotel.tandag@gmail.com<br />

{ 212 }<br />

Samantha<br />

Grace E.<br />

Moscoso<br />

manager,<br />

CA/CHS-MSD<br />

LOCAL SPEAK “Pila” means<br />

“How much?” and “Dinhi ra/diri<br />

lang” means “Stop here.”<br />

MUST-TRY Ride a habal-habal<br />

(motorcycle) and eat tajum/tayum<br />

(sea urchin).<br />

BEST FESTIVALS The<br />

Kaliguan Festival in June and<br />

the Lanuza Surfi ng Festival in<br />

November.<br />

DID D YOU<br />

KKNOW?<br />

EDGAR ALAN ZETA YAP<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

SIARGAO<br />

AREA CODE (86)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Taxis are available both at the<br />

airport and at Dapa Pier. You can also ride a habalhabal<br />

or an extended-seat motorbike to get to your<br />

lodgings. On the island itself, there are mini and<br />

jeepney buses.<br />

BY DAY Talk to the locals and get good deals<br />

on island hopping at Naked Island, Daku Island<br />

and Guyam Island. There’s also a really popular<br />

spot called Magpupunko, a tide pool; go there on<br />

weekdays when it isn’t packed with people.<br />

BY NIGHT Party with both the tourists and the<br />

locals at Nine Bar. After partying `til dawn, you<br />

can buy the Siargao local bread, which is simply<br />

delicious. They usually start making the bread<br />

at 4am.<br />

SLEEP Backpackers and budget travelers can go<br />

to Kabuntog Resort. They have a nice beachfront<br />

where you can swim the clear blue waters or rent<br />

a kayak.<br />

Chris<br />

Magnus O.<br />

Catelo<br />

travel<br />

photographer<br />

BEST DINNER Buy the<br />

cheapest yellow fi n tuna you can<br />

fi nd and cook it yourself.<br />

BEST BUYS Need extra shorts?<br />

You can rely on J Spot for cheap<br />

board shorts.<br />

LOCAL SPEAK It would<br />

be really nice if you could say<br />

“Maayong gabi,” which means<br />

“Good evening.”<br />

Surigao’s Mabua-Looc Stairway<br />

has 167 steps.


www.idec-aircon.com<br />

245 6870<br />

www.indigohouse.yolasite.com


trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

COTABATO<br />

AREA CODE (64)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN You can hire a taxi at the airport<br />

for PHP100–200. When in the city, you can get<br />

around by tricycle or jeepney. Try hailing a cab —<br />

although there are only a few taxis that make the<br />

rounds about town.<br />

BY DAY Visit the majestic Sultan Hasanal Bolkiah<br />

Masjid, the largest mosque in the Philippines.<br />

Go to the top of the PC Hill, the highest point in<br />

Cotabato City, for an expansive view of the city<br />

and its surrounding areas.<br />

BY NIGHT Eat a sumptuous barbecue dinner for a<br />

very reasonable price in the heart of the city. Grab<br />

a cup of native coffee afterwards at Datu’s Brew.<br />

They serve delicious coffee made from the fi nest<br />

100% Arabica beans.<br />

SLEEP Stay at the newly built Alnor Hotel and<br />

Convention Center — it’s clean and located in<br />

Sinsuat Ave, at the heart of the Al-nor Commercial<br />

Complex. alnorhotel@yahoo.com<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Shop at<br />

the Barter Trade Center for colorful<br />

native souvenirs.<br />

LOCAL SPEAK Say “sukran”<br />

when thanking the Cotabato City<br />

locals.<br />

BEST FESTIVAL Witness the<br />

culturally grand Shariff Kabunsuan<br />

Festival in December. There will be a<br />

lot of events and good food.<br />

{ 214 }<br />

Bai<br />

Ashrafia<br />

Biruar<br />

lawyer<br />

DID D YOU<br />

KKNOW?<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

OZAMIZ<br />

AREA CODE (88)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN The Ozamiz City Airport is in<br />

Gango. You will need to take a taxi; the ride will<br />

set you back PHP60. Within the city, you can get<br />

around town by sikad (bicycle with a sidecar) for<br />

PHP4–6 only.<br />

BY DAY Quality Beach Resort in Lupagan Clarin<br />

has private villas with two huge rooms — perfect<br />

for big groups. It has a swimming pool, a jacuzzi<br />

and a lagoon for kayaking. Shop at Centrum<br />

Ozamiz, and have a foot spa at Quality Spa.<br />

BY NIGHT Botoy’s serves sizzling seafood and<br />

tasty lechon manok (grilled chicken). Don’t miss<br />

their balbacua (stewed beef skin) too. The Moon<br />

Café is a popular hangout and home to hearty<br />

Mexican cuisine.<br />

SLEEP The newly renovated Royal Garden Hotel<br />

is located right in the heart of the city, where you<br />

can get fi rst-class comfort at reasonable rates.<br />

www.royalgardenozamiz.com<br />

Cheryl O.<br />

Lim<br />

interior<br />

designer<br />

MUST-TRY Craving for Mexican<br />

food? Make a food stop at Moon<br />

Café!<br />

BEST DINNER La Veranda<br />

Restaurant’s sizzling lechon sisig is<br />

absolutely worth every calorie.<br />

BEST BREAKFAST The Royal<br />

King’s Breakfast at the La Veranda<br />

Restaurant, paired with hot choco<br />

and salted egg with tomatoes.<br />

Plan ahead for Cotabato’s Shariff<br />

Kabunsuan Festival in December!<br />

LESTER LEDESMA


PHILIPPINES<br />

DIPOLOG<br />

AREA CODE (65)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN There are tricycles as well as<br />

single motorcycle services from the airport to<br />

the city. The fare is negotiable, ranging from<br />

PHP10–30. Once in the city, tricycles will be your<br />

main means of transport.<br />

BY DAY First stop should be the Holy Rosary<br />

Cathedral. From there, take a leisurely walk along<br />

Rizal Ave right straight to Dipolog Boulevard.<br />

Facing the Sulu Sea, the boulevard is estimated to<br />

stretch 3.5km upon completion.<br />

BY NIGHT Visit Good Times Café at Brgy Biasong<br />

and try the famous buttered chicken. This<br />

private mini park-cum-art gallery and restaurant<br />

measures about 1,000sqm. It’s also a two-storey<br />

ancestral house fi lled with art collections.<br />

SLEEP Stay at the newly opened C&L Sea View<br />

Hotel along Quezon Ave. Have dinner at the city’s<br />

fi rst top fl oor restaurant. Room rates start from<br />

PHP900 per night. Tel: +63 (65) 212 1083<br />

Chen Ben<br />

C. Lim<br />

CCOS off icer<br />

BEST DINNER Beef tapa and<br />

bottled Spanish sardines at Café<br />

Isabelle.<br />

INSIDER TIP Be careful if you<br />

are a smoker; smoking in public<br />

places is not allowed.<br />

BEST BUYS Dipolog’s best kept<br />

secret is a crunchy dried “Asu-us”<br />

fi sh, available at Dipolog Fish Port<br />

every Saturday (Market Day).<br />

trip journal<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

PAGADIAN<br />

AREA CODE (02)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN Tricycles are the main means of<br />

transport around the city. What’s more, Pagadian’s<br />

tricycles are unique: they’re inclined at a 25˚ to<br />

40˚ angle, which allows them to negotiate the<br />

exceptionally hilly terrain.<br />

BY DAY Come and visit the newly opened City<br />

Commercial Center, where you can fi nd the<br />

latest fashion trends at affordable prices. For the<br />

adventurous types, try horseback riding at<br />

the Rotunda.<br />

BY NIGHT Watch and dance with the dancing<br />

fountain, the newest attraction in Pagadian City.<br />

Visit the plaza near the City Hall and try your luck<br />

at e-games in Pagcor afterwards. Enjoy a quiet<br />

nightcap at any of the coffee shops in the city.<br />

SLEEP Pagadian Bay Plaza Hotel is located<br />

near shopping malls and business centers, and<br />

is just 15 minutes away from the airport. www.<br />

pagadianbayplazahotel.com<br />

BEST SOUVENIRS Foodie or<br />

not, you must have our local lechon<br />

or tuyo (bulad).<br />

BEST BUYS Souvenir items like<br />

native bags; many are found in the<br />

Agora market.<br />

BEST SNACKS Take a break<br />

from all the sightseeing and tourist<br />

activities for coffee. Boss Café<br />

serves coffee Pagadian style.<br />

{ 216 }<br />

Allen<br />

Patrick Tan<br />

photographer<br />

EDGAR ALAN ZETA YAP<br />

PHILIPPINES<br />

TAWI-TAWI<br />

AREA CODE (68)<br />

CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)<br />

TOUCHDOWN There are no cabs in Tawi-Tawi.<br />

Tricycles are everywhere though, especially in<br />

Bongao, the capital. Drivers charge PHP15–20<br />

per 5km. To visit nearby islands, rent a lantsa<br />

(small motorboat) for about PHP100.<br />

BY DAY Adventurers should try to conquer<br />

Bongao Peak, the tallest point in the province.<br />

You can also go island hopping by renting a boat<br />

(PHP300 for three hours) and visiting the islands<br />

near Bongao.<br />

BY NIGHT The establishments in the area<br />

generally close by 6pm, but there are some<br />

cafeterias which may still be open. Sample their<br />

seafood dishes. Ask the locals for good places to<br />

hang out.<br />

SLEEP Beachside Inn Hotel and Restaurant is<br />

an open-air restaurant with a spacious garden.<br />

Double rooms go for PHP700 a night with air-con<br />

and TV. Tel: +63 (68) 268 1446<br />

Excel V.<br />

Dyquiangco<br />

freelance writer<br />

BEST BUYS Carpets or<br />

rugs made out of copra, the top<br />

agricultural produce in the region.<br />

MUST-TRY Try the seaweed ice<br />

cream — still sweet and comes with<br />

a tangy taste.<br />

INSIDER TIP Although you<br />

might see people in military uniform<br />

from time to time, don’t fret. Tawi-<br />

Tawi is truly a safe place.<br />

EDGAR ALAN ZETA YAP


Where to next?<br />

Asia<br />

map legend<br />

Cebu Pacifi c Hub<br />

City with airport<br />

Cebu Pacifi c International fl ight<br />

Cebu Pacifi c Domestic fl ight<br />

Cebu Pacifi c new route<br />

route map<br />

Bangkok<br />

Kuala Lumpur<br />

CHINA<br />

VIETNAM<br />

Hanoi<br />

THAILAND<br />

Ho Chi Minh City<br />

MALAYSIA<br />

Singapore<br />

Jakarta<br />

Beijing<br />

Guangzhou<br />

Macau<br />

VIETNAM<br />

SINGAPORE<br />

INDONESIA<br />

Shanghai<br />

Xiamen<br />

Kota Kinabalu<br />

Bandar Seri Begawan<br />

{ 218 }<br />

Incheon<br />

Hong Kong<br />

BRUNEI<br />

KOREA<br />

CLARK<br />

Taipei<br />

TAIWAN<br />

Busan<br />

MANILA<br />

CEBU<br />

JAPAN<br />

Osaka<br />

THE PHILIPPINES


Puerto Princesa<br />

Busuanga<br />

Tawi-Tawi<br />

CLARK<br />

MANILA<br />

route map<br />

Laoag<br />

San Jose<br />

Tuguegarao<br />

Cauayan<br />

Caticlan<br />

Zamboanga<br />

{ 219 }<br />

Kalibo<br />

Roxas<br />

Iloilo<br />

The Philippines<br />

Naga<br />

Bacolod<br />

Legazpi<br />

Dumaguete<br />

Dipolog<br />

Pagadian<br />

Catarman<br />

Calbayog<br />

CEBU<br />

Tagbilaran<br />

Ozamiz<br />

Cotabato<br />

Virac<br />

Tacloban<br />

Surigao<br />

Siargao<br />

Cagayan de Oro<br />

Butuan<br />

DAVAO<br />

General Santos


More treats<br />

in flight<br />

DECEMBER TRAVEL means getting<br />

a Pinoy-style Christmas, thanks to<br />

onboard treats that simply soar in<br />

taste. Get a load of these and other<br />

yummy bites when you fl y Cebu<br />

Pacifi ac c (CEB): (C )<br />

Bibingka<br />

Ferino’s Bibingka<br />

The legendary Ferino’s started<br />

offering bibingka (rice cake topped<br />

with butter, sugar and salted egg)<br />

in 1938. Take advantage of their<br />

two mini classic Pinoy Christmas<br />

bibingkas in a box.<br />

White Christmas mocha<br />

Savor each sip of this delightful<br />

white latte, which combines the<br />

best of espresso coffee and white<br />

chocolate. Creamier than the regular<br />

coffee mocha, the drink is offered as<br />

a seasonal Christmas hot beverage<br />

— and it's excellent to have on<br />

chilly holiday fl ights.<br />

New cold sandwiches<br />

Made of freshly baked bread<br />

and fi ne ingredients, these new<br />

sandwiches will keep you satisfi ed<br />

in stomach and palate. Choose from<br />

Herb Chicken on Ciabatta Bread,<br />

Cheese Steak on Focaccia Bread,<br />

Ham & Mozzarella on Multigrain<br />

Bread, and Sausage, Pesto and<br />

Pomodoro on Multigrain Bread.<br />

SPAMusubi, baby!<br />

From Hawaii comes one of its best<br />

exports, SPAM® marinated and<br />

cooked in a special Asian/Hawaiian<br />

blend of sauces. Enjoy every morsel<br />

of this marinated slice served on<br />

a soft, fl uffy bed of Japanese rice<br />

and wrapped with nori or Japanese<br />

roasted seaweed.<br />

airline news<br />

Cruise down<br />

Hanoi's enchanting<br />

Ha Long Bay!<br />

Hello, Hanoi!<br />

CEB to start Manila-Hanoi flights in March 2012<br />

THE PHILIPPINES’ largest national fl ag<br />

carrier, Cebu Pacifi c (CEB), will become the<br />

only airline fl ying from Manila to Hanoi, the<br />

capital city of Vietnam, when it launches<br />

its fl ights on March 17, 2012. It will be a<br />

twice weekly service, utilizing one of Asia’s<br />

youngest aircraft fl eets.<br />

Flights for this route are scheduled to<br />

depart Manila at 10.30pm every Tuesday<br />

and Saturday, arriving in Hanoi at 12.30am.<br />

Return fl ights will leave Hanoi at 1am every<br />

Wednesday and Sunday, and arrive in Manila<br />

{ 220 }<br />

at 5am. CEB also operates daily fl ights<br />

between Manila and Ho Chi Minh City.<br />

“This announcement is very timely given<br />

the visit of Vietnam President Truong Tan<br />

Sang to the Philippines [in late October]. He<br />

wished then for more direct fl ights between<br />

Manila and Hanoi. Cebu Pacifi c is more than<br />

happy to oblige, to further promote trade<br />

and tourism between our two countries,”<br />

says CEB VP for Marketing and Distribution<br />

Candice Iyog. For more information, call +63<br />

(2) 702 0888 or visit www.cebupacifi cair.com


airline news<br />

Bigger in China<br />

Cebu Pacific plans to grow China market,<br />

introduces new route from Manila to Xiamen<br />

CEBU PACIFIC (CEB) is looking at expanding<br />

its operations in China, after a 30% growth<br />

in mainland China passengers in the third<br />

quarter (Q3) of <strong>2011</strong>, compared to the same<br />

period in 2010.<br />

CEB already announced plans to increase<br />

fl ights to Beijing, after its fi rst year of<br />

operations last September 5. Manila-Beijing-<br />

Manila fl ights will be a four times weekly<br />

service starting January 7, 2012 to cope<br />

with demand.<br />

The airline currently fl ies three times<br />

weekly to Beijing and Guangzhou, and daily<br />

to Shanghai. Its Greater China operations<br />

extend to daily fl ights from Manila to Taipei,<br />

up to six daily fl ights to Hong Kong from<br />

Manila, Clark and Cebu, and 11 weekly fl ights<br />

to Macau from Manila and Clark.<br />

“China is the next growth area for CEB.<br />

With Cebu Pacifi c expanding to<br />

China, trekking the Great Wall<br />

should be on everyone's travel list!<br />

We already serve Northern and Southern<br />

China with our current routes, but additional<br />

connectivity between our two countries will<br />

only benefi t tourism and trade,” says CEB VP<br />

for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.<br />

“The Philippines is the nearest tropical<br />

destination to China, and this is evident in the<br />

infl ux of tourists to our top beach getaways.<br />

There are also a lot of enterprises in the<br />

Philippines that source out their materials in<br />

China. There is a lot of potential for growth as<br />

we take delivery of more planes,” she adds.<br />

CEB currently operates 17 Airbus A319, 19<br />

Airbus A320 and 8 ATR-72 500 aircraft. By<br />

the end of <strong>2011</strong>, CEB will be operating a fl eet<br />

of 37 aircraft with an average age of less than<br />

three-and-a-half years — one of the most<br />

modern aircraft fl eets in the world. www.<br />

cebupacifi cair.com<br />

{ 221 }<br />

Enjoy web checkin<br />

for free!<br />

SAVE TIME and sidestep the<br />

airport queues with CEB’s free web<br />

check-in facility. Simply log on to<br />

www.cebupacifi cair.com with your<br />

booking reference ready, click the<br />

Manage Booking button, and follow<br />

the step-by-step procedure. You’ll be<br />

assigned a seat at no extra charge,<br />

but for minimal fees — PHP100<br />

for standard seats and PHP200<br />

for premium ones — you may<br />

change your seat according to<br />

your preference.<br />

CEB draws 30%<br />

more passengers<br />

in ASEAN region<br />

IT’S LOOKING like a more mobile ASEAN<br />

population, thanks in part to Cebu Pacifi c's<br />

(CEB) trademark low fares. From July<br />

to September <strong>2011</strong>, CEB fl ew close to<br />

286,000 passengers to and from ASEAN<br />

destinations, a 30% growth compared to the<br />

same period last year. With plans for more<br />

aircraft and therefore more fl ights, expect the<br />

region to be even busier.<br />

“There are 10 member states in the<br />

Association of South-East Asian Nations,<br />

and we look forward to expanding Cebu<br />

Pacifi c’s network further in this region. We<br />

believe our neighboring South-East Asian<br />

countries can benefi t greatly from direct<br />

access and additional connectivity to the<br />

Philippines, especially with our trademark<br />

low fares,” says CEB VP for Marketing and<br />

Distribution Candice Iyog.<br />

The airline took delivery of one brandnew<br />

Airbus A320 last October 26, <strong>2011</strong>, and<br />

is taking delivery of another in December<br />

<strong>2011</strong>. This provides additional capacity for<br />

network, fl ight and route expansion.


CENTURY PROPERTIES<br />

CERTIFIED STAR-WORTHY.<br />

AWARD WINNING PROJECTS. VISIONARY DEVELOPMENTS. EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION. REAL ESTATE WITH PASSION.<br />

PHOEMELA BARRANDA PIOLO PASCUAL<br />

RUFFA GUTIERREZ VINA MORALES<br />

For over 25 years, Century Properties has be been en Phi Phili<br />

lippine real l est stat ate’ e s brightest star. No wonder the biggest and<br />

brightest stars in the world of Philip ippi pine show business — from Phoemela Bar Barranda,<br />

the most respected fashion<br />

personality in the industry; to o Ru Ruffa Gutierrez, the most sought after superstar TV hos ho<br />

t; to Vina Morales, the most<br />

electrifying performing g artist; to Piolo Pascual, the undisputed number one leading g ma m n — all love Century.<br />

For the country’s best performers, it’s nothing less than the country’s best real estate company:<br />

CENTURY PROPERTIES.<br />

ACQUA<br />

PRIVATE RESIDENCES<br />

MANDALUYONG CITY<br />

The country’s first nature-infused residential Eden in<br />

the center of the metropolis.<br />

THE AZURE<br />

URBAN RESORT RESIDENCES<br />

PAR AÑAQUE CITY<br />

Urban resort style living in the city<br />

with your very own man-made beach.<br />

CURRENT PROJECTS<br />

THE MILANO RESIDENCES<br />

INTERIOR DESIGN BY VERSACE HOME<br />

CENTURY CITY, MAK ATI<br />

The first luxury private residences in Asia interior<br />

designed by Versace Home.<br />

For more information, please call (or text) 818-9041 0917-555-5274 or visit www.century-properties.com<br />

Photos are artist’s renditions only. This advertisement is approved and authorized by the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB).<br />

MILANO<br />

CENTURIA<br />

MEDICAL MAKATI<br />

CENTURY CITY, MAK ATI<br />

A world-class outpatient medical and wellness centre<br />

in partnership with GE Healthcare.

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!