Crystal Beach and Beads

Hola!

I have been neglecting this blog for awhile. Blame it on barely having free time. Much of that time has been spent well though, including a surfing trip in San Narciso, Zambales and a day trip to Imus, Cavite.

I've got no interesting pictures to post from the surfing trip although I could say it is a very convenient place to go to. We took a Victory Liner bus (choose from their many stations in Manila) headed for Sta. Cruz, Zambales. As soon as we were on board, we told the conductor we were getting off in San Narciso. When we got there, we hired a tricycle, Php 15 per head to take us to Crystal Beach.


Crystal Beach is quite complete. It's got huts (optional with A/C), real meals and snacks, surf boards, instructors, bonfire, and of course the beach. The downside though is that they don't sell alcohol or encourage smoking. Not that I mind at all. But that could be such a bummer for most people on holiday.

I know Cavite is right next to Manila, and lots of people from Cavite work in Manila too. But it still seems like a world away despite all the shopping malls present at every town. I was stuck with E. on the coastal road for what seemed like 2 hours because of traffic. We eventually got to Imus to attend a friend's father's wake and met up with other friends.

We were quite surprised to see that the funeral home was quite grand, decent and classy given that it was along an internal service road in Imus. Each room had chandeliers and they were all made of Czech crystals! If only pictures could be taken during wakes but superstitious beliefs dictate otherwise.

Other than that, Christmas is underway with all the get-togethers with family and friends. With everything settled, it's nice to be finally home.

2010 and beyond!

"Bless the President so we will have forbearance, good health, the tolerance to lead this nation up to 2010 and perhaps who knows even beyond."

-Press Secretary Jesus Dureza, at the end of the opening prayer he led at the start of a Cabinet meeting in the Aguinaldo State Dining Room (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20081118-172871/Arroyo-to-2010-prayer-Oh-my-God).

Here's today's front page:
Watching the "off the record" reaction of the President on TV was unbelievable. It was so much like her "I'm Sorry" speech.

Likewise, I can't believe I took part in ousting ERAP in EDSA when I was still in college. With Romulo's children no less! During that time, it seemed like the right thing to do. And even years later in Prague, I voted her. For sure, I wasted my overseas absentee vote. :(

What is happening to our country???? With the recent events, we should have more than hope that things will take the right course.

EU Network Meeting

The ballroom was quite empty given the ratio of attendees and the ballroom size. Present, were mostly EU expats, a number of diplomats, chamber members, and of course, local businessmen. Such events are good in fostering economic cooperation in the private sector through clubs and organizations.

Overall, it was a good event. Lots of prizes were given, and food was great. What left me outraged though, was a comment someone made from the Spanish group that San Sebastian is a "probinsya" and where the "probinsyana" who prefer mountains, beaches, good food and a laid back lifestyle live.

Personally, I don't find anything wrong with that. I suppose, if one has lived the fast-paced urban life, one would seek "probinsyana" lifestyle, once in awhile. At least for me, I can talk about experiencing both small and big city life, both in Europe and the Philippines.

Perhaps, I am more outraged because San Sebastian, in the Basque region, is my favorite place in Spain. It looks like Switzerland, where you replace the lakes with the sea, the mountains looming over, Michelin-rate restaurants, a royal summer getaway (much like Karlovy Vary), and everything a proper city offers except an airport (you have to go to Bilbao, an hour away, to fly out).

To each his own I guess. To be fair, after three days in San Sebastian, I had too much. I wanted to go back to the city, and 13 hours later by train, I was back in Madrid. It remains though, to be my favorite Spanish city. Perhaps, because it is not a touristy place, and one could really mingle with the locals.

I would write about San Sebastian and post pictures, but that can wait. For now, here are some pictures from tonight's cocktails:

Beef Yakiniku, chicken in a pastry dough, parma-ham wrapped asparagus with melon

Satay skewers, risotto balls with pesto sauces, and some empanada

The South of Manila Awaits!

More photos of random places in Quezon and Laguna:

Interiors of the Lucban Church
Pako for sale at P5 per bundle

"Ube" Funeral Home in Tayabas

Lucban Church

"Exotik" Meal

Lumban Church Interiors

The South of Manila is Worth a Visit!

                                                                            Interiors of the Tayabas Basilica

Who would have thought so much could be done in one weekend? I am talking about nurturing friendships, hilarious laughter, 7-kilometer dark roads, countless churches, the Laguna and Caliraya lakes, quaint provincial towns, breakfast at the plaza, a deluxe room with a view, eclectic cafes and hotels, and, the palaisdaan among others.

It’s been a trip long overdue. After blocking our schedules for weeks, I finally took a weekend off with E. and M. Another friend was supposed to join us, but he was off to Pakistan yesterday. Suffice to say, three girls, with E. on the wheel, had so much fun!

Nilagang Baka at Langka

We took the “backdoor route” to southern Luzon through Rizal, and Laguna, before spending the night in Lucban, Quezon. We practically stopped at every interesting town that either had a beautiful church, sold some delicacy (Budin in Tayabas, Quezon or Queso in Lumban, Laguna) or when we were simply hungry (Nilagang baka at langka in Pagsanjan or steamy sinigang na tanigue sa miso in Kalayaan, both in Laguna).

Lake Caliraya

It was a beautiful drive with the Laguna de Bay on one side, and mountains looming on the other. At one point, the man-made Caliraya Lake sitting on top of the mountain was right there, overlooking Laguna de Bay. We did encounter lots of “overlooking” resorts in between Rizal and Laguna, as well as bukal and batis resorts. Those were not included in our stops though.

I am just amazed with what Philippine provinces can offer. This side of Laguna, and the parts of Rizal and Quezon we drove through were quite rural (without malls at least), yet were full of cosmopolitan flavor.

While waiting for the 7PM mass at the Lucban Church, we spent an hour or so having nachos, beer, banana and langka turon, iced amaretto coffee and tasty spicy sausages, with real Portuguese bossa nova in the background. Gravel flooring, dim lights, cheap printed plastic tablecloths, and open-air dining. Yet it was all hip, and kitschy. I am talking about Café San Luis, right off Lucban’s main square. Right behind our hotel, Patio Rizal.

E. notes that Patio Rizal is the perfect residence when one vistits Lucban for Pahiya. I certainly agree. Our room had two balconies: one facing the plaza, and the other facing Rizal street. With A/C, cable tv, and a bath with a tub, it is more than one would expect. Service is excellent. Staff are there when needed, and they’re not the overeager sort.

Another place one should either visit is Mi Casa en Tayabas. It would certainly be your home in Taybas! Walking around to buy Budin from the Quezon Museum, we stumbled upon this Mexican/Moroccon looking establishment. It was so colorful! Its walls were painted, floor tiles had different designs, it has glass doorknobs, bottle lamps and so much more. The food was tasty enough but should be presented better. And they serve Heineken beer!

When we were in Lumban to buy cheese, a street vendor even let us in his neighbor’s house so we could go home with P50 bag of salty delights. In Paete, a serving of tokwa was just P10. We were just strolling along and discovered this tiny garage full of wooden tables that served special halo-halo for P40 each. It was a nice way to wait for the rain to stop.

We ate at lots of places (including what should have been Kamayan Palaisdaan, instead of just Palaisdaan) and made several stops along the highway but we surprisingly visited lots of churches. My favorites though are the churches in Tayabas: the interiors of the Basilica and the exterior of the Purple church (which is actually just used for wakes, and is not real church). I like Tayabas. It’s artistic. But Lucban, is homey and relaxing.

It was one fun weekend. Yet, I still wonder why males (from youngsters to men) always carry a bolo with them. Our take is to cut through the thick foliage (especially in Luisiana, Laguna).

Paete Church

Lucban longganisa for breakfast at the Plaza

Lucban Church and Buddy's on the left

Eating in Cagayan de Oro City

Tonight, my co-volunteer M. asked me if I knew any Pizza Hut branches in Cagayan de Oro (CDO) city. Frankly, I could not remember any. My guess is that there should be one, either at SM or at Limketkai. Those two are the only commercial establishments I remember that house Manila-based brands.

When we were living there, we mostly sampled the local food and restaurants. Although we also frequented SM for Mang Inasal's, and because it was the closest decent place to eat from SEARSOLIN, Barangay Lumbia, and any post-water rafting trip. If we were somewhere in the city center, we'd go to Limketkai for familiar brands like Pancake House.

But in Ketkai, as we called it, there's an al fresco strip, that I think is even better than Greenbelt, and would rival the Fort. I only say so because one would expect a province to be backward, but CDO is definitely not. This strip, which has a name I forget, has seafood restaurants, sleek cosmopolitan bar-restos serving Thai food, a dessert place, an American resto, a Brazilian bar with live jazz acts and more.

How I wish I can remember the names as I lived there for awhile, and CDO is the only other place in the Philippines I'd consider living at if I had to move out of Manila.

Talking about the food establishments one can find in the Divisoria area alone would make you realize that CDO is a hip city. On weekends, the entire plaza is closed off and lined with open grills, blind masseuses, fruit vendors, and performers. And the shopping or ukay-ukay. On any given night, there's the Park Cafe in front of Xavier University.

In the smaller streets in the area, one would find an authentic Pakistani restaurant, an Italian restaurant that serves heavenly pizza and gelato, an Austrian cafe, and English restaurant with chips that bring you back to England, and even a Chinese restaurant that serves oyster cakes you'd want to have regularly. Those are just ones that I can remember, and now I am hungry!

So you see, even in Makati, I can't think of an area where restaurants serving such cuisines would be within a distance of a kilometer.

And yes, I eventually remembered that there is a Pizza Hut at the Gaisano Mall, along the highway. The last time my co-volunteers and I ate there, they customized a veggie pizza for D. to eat. They made it vegan. Now, that is service.

Diwali Festival at AIM

At AIM's main lobby

A few weeks back, the South Asian student population of the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) celebrated the Diwali Festival. It was a night of overflowing booze, dancing, fashion shows, songs, and other worthy performances around the Zen Garden.

Essentially, "one of the biggest festivals of Hindus, Deepawali or Diwali in India is celebrated with lots of enthusiasm and happiness. This festival is celebrated for five continuous days, with the third day being celebrated as the main Diwali or as 'Festival of Lights'. Fireworks are always associated with this festival. The day is celebrated with people lighting diyas, candles all around their house. Lakshmi Puja is performed in the evening to seek divine blessings of Goddess of Wealth. Diwali gifts are exchanged among all near and dear ones." (http://www.diwalifestival.org/)

At the Zen Garden

There were indeed lots of lights - on the trees, around the grounds. But my friends and I did not stay long enough to finish the show. We moved to a local wine bar in the nabe for a nightcap.

Another reason why I like my neighborhood!

Gelato and my neighborhood

It’s been so hot the past few days, I’ve been craving for ice cream more than I should. Despite the occasional binge, I almost always manage to control my cravings – wait for someone else to purchase a pint or gallon, then scoop out. Luckily, ice cream is so readily available and accessible, even from convenience stores that one can satisfy cravings, immediately.

Whether it’s pistachio-flavored ice cream or cappuccino lite from Arce Dairy, Mantecado from Selecta or the traditional vanilla ice cream from Nestle, it’s all available at your nearest grocery, in my case, Rustan’s. If I’m feeling a little bit picky, I can have mint and chips or durian ice cream from Fruits and Ice Cream, pretend to be healthy by having frozen yougurt either from Better Than Ice Cream or the stalls at the Legaspi Market on Sundays. What I’m happiest about is the convenience of having gelatos that will substitute going to Italy.

Growing up, ice cream to me was all the same but the difference came in the flavor. If it weren’t Haagan Dazs or Baskin Robbins, the local brands sufficed. But, when I lived in the Czech Republic, they had gelatos during most of the year – spring until early autumn. That’s where I learned of the real difference. The lightness, the tastiness and robustness of natural flavor divides the commercial from homemade. Even in such a small town like Podebrady, take-way counters (literally just a window of some groundfloor establishment) sold gelatos. My eventual favorite is stracciatella – the gelato version of cookies and cream.

I know, it’s so cliché, but it’s the one I like most because it’s not sweet like the cookies and cream we know here. It’s got chunks, light cream, a little nutty flavor there, but overall, not sweet. Just ice cream.

That’s why I was so happy to come home to Amici, the former Italian-style Cafeteria run by the Don Bosco priests (now owned by Red Ribbon), which serves a wide array of gelatos. After living in Mindanao, I binged on five flavors, forcing my companions to try as much as they could because I couldn not finish them all.

Interestingly, there’s another gelateria in Greenbelt 3. It’s in a conspicuous location yet, as if it is still hiding under the escalators going to the third level. Right beside Café Bola in front of Tropezz Restaurant and Bar is Gelantone. They’ve got a colorful chiller full of different flavors. Sadly, when I was there over the weekend, a hoard of Chinese girls were ordering, I could barely see the actual flavors. Well, the gelato looked good, and with lot of customers, I’m sure it’s worth a try.

Another reason why I love my neighborhood: at one end, there’s Amici, and at another, there’s Gelantone.

Spotlight on Philippine Heroes

In random corners of Makati, are sculptures of some of our national heroes. You'd find one at the intersection of Ayala Avenue and Makati Avenue, and two more at the intersection of Makati Avenue and Paseo de Roxas. The other night, I was at the second crossroad.

This specific statue is surrounded by other Makati landmarks too. On one side is the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, often voted as Manila's best business hotel, the Peninsula Court Building, with the massive HSBC branch at the groundfloor, one side of the Ayala Triangle Park, and the Atrium Building. At the at the Atrium, you'll find Makati branches of some government offices like the BIR and SSS (tax and security), Schwarzwälder(a German restaurant), and lots of bullet marks, a physical reminder of the 1989 coup d'etat.

Just like the other statue in Makati, this one's on a triangle, surrounded by shrubs (that look like Santan flowers) bound knee-high steel rails with white paint peeling off. The shrubs were of uneven heights, make me wonder when it was trimmed last. That brings me to the high shrubs blocking the spotlight's view.

Each triangle is like a little park. The statue in the middle, and each corner having the spotlight, surrounded by shrubs, lined by mini-steel gates. Except that, the shrubs were covering the light. So at night, you could barely figure out who's statue was meant to be lit upon. So sad. It's like an allegory for all the good intentions to glorify and highlight our heroes' achievements, but to no avail.

Maybe, I should just go look during the day.

Kutna Hora Surprise

                                                              Kutna Hora in Spring (St. Barbara and Jesuit College)

My recent post on backpacking in the Philippines generated a discussion thread between me and J., a friend of mine who also lived in Prague. The conversation ended with me concluding that I'd be better off tagging along with E. for a proper adventure. Seriously, some of the most fun and memorable trips I've had are those with E. , and the other characters we managed to include in the story: a Korean classmate, a hesitant Indian, Cesky Drahy, Amstel beer, and the list goes on.

But when it comes to adventures with E., our first ever visit to Kutna Hora comes to mind.

Any one who plans on seeing more sites outside of Prague has probably thought about visiting Kutna Hora, or at least the church made of bones in Sedlec - within walking distance to the other fine buildings to see in Kutna Hora.

Our Friday classes then, ended at 1:30PM. Most people would have lunch, but me and E. would always be usually running towards the nadrazi to catch a train to Prague (which leaves before 2pm and you need to run across Podebrady to purchase tickets and cross the tunnel under the platforms) or leisurely walk to the train station, to go elsewhere. We'd normally pass by a potraviny for some snacks or get some ice cream under the surgeon's building, just at the park.

Seafood Night

I love it that I can easily turn my cravings into reality by either eating out at a nearby restaurant or going to the nearest grocery for ingredients - nearest means a block away or across the street.

Ever since K. mentioned seafood risotto the other night, I've been dreaming about it. I wanted my seafood mix to have salmon, squid, clams and shrimp - perfect blend of colors to contrast the pale arborio rice. But, I only found shrimp (peeled and deveined) and sole fillet - blanched in seafood stock together with oyster mushrooms.

For anyone who thinks risotto is intimidating, forget about it. Risotto is easy to make.

I started my version by melting butter in low heat until it's almost brown, adding the onions. Once the onions are caramelised, add in a glass of wine, salt and pepper, minced garlic and let the whole thing reduce. Afterwards, add the arborio rice, making sure you ladle in some stock as the liquid is absorbed. Ladle in, and stir until you reach the right consistency, and the rice is cooked. To finish, blend in the seafood, oyster mushrooms and parmesan cheese. Dobrou chut!

Oh, how could I forget my appetizer? After trying deep-fried oyster mushrooms at Mr. Rockefeller, I've been making it at home. Here's another simple recipe:

Prepare the batter by seasoning all-purpose flour and whisking in ice-cold water, leaving lumps (I normally leave it in the freezer for awhile.) While the oil is heating in a deep-fryer, wash and season the oyster mushrooms and soak in the batter. On medium heat, deep fry the oysters until crisp and golden brown.

As for the dip, whisk the contents of a coddled egg with white vinegar, pepper, salt and olive oil. Whisking somehow makes the dip fluffy. If it's runny, toss it in the microwave for 30 seconds and it's ready to serve.

All this prepared, with a glass of white wine from South Eastern Australia.

Good eats. Simple pleasures. The joy of cooking (and of course, eating).

Travel Books

When I have time to kill in a mall, you'd normally find me cruising through food shops checking out what's on offer, or in front of a book shelf, figuring out a new book to read.

A few weeks back, I found myself waiting again, so I went to Fully Booked. This time, I was sold on getting Lonely Planet's Travel Writing book.

I've been wanting to write about my trips but always hesitated. I had so many issues. First, it was choosing what to write about. Second, how public do I want to go with personal experiences. Third, what can I offer that guidebooks have not? And, everybody's doing it so what would make my chronicles special? Add to the fact that I think I don't write prose well, at all. I can write policy papers, but travel articles, I struggle.

Somehow though, all those vivid memories selectively captured in pictures will be replaced by new memories and its impact would be different. (Read Milan Kundera's Laughter and Forgetting to understand what I am talking about.) So it is better to write as soon as possible. Not necessarily as it happens, but probably as soon as you hit the shake down - some relative peace. Start writing.

So finding LP's book was such a blessing in disguise! That's why I like waiting in book shops. I wander around like a child in a toy store looking at books without the intention to buy, yet I leave like a child with a candy cane on Christmas. Oh so happy!

To add on the joyous discovery of the book, Fully Booked had a promo of getting their discount card for free for a minimum purchase of PhP 2000.00 Since the LP book only costs PhP 950.00 I was on the search for add-ons. I intended to charge it on the office account so I was looking for another travel book.

Although published in 2003, 1,000 Places to See Before You Die will always be handy for anyone who aspires to travel. Hoping no natural or man-made disaster happens, god-willing, Machu Pichu or the Iguazu Falls will still be there - waiting for us to have a chance and visit them.

Still, I did not need the book. I skimmed the book to convince myself I needed it. All it took was a random page, the one on the Czech Republic no less! Call it divine intervention for me. Haha!

Adding to my amusement, I've been to all the places listed for the Czech Republic. Perhaps anyone reading this who knows me personally would say, of course it would be natural for me to have been there given my circumstances. But yeah, I have been. Knowing that convinced me that I shoud get that too. Since the bill was still under PhP 2,000.00, I added a tiny seafood cookbook and a pen. Et voila, total:Php 2,001.00

Seven places were listed under the Czech Republic in the book. Honestly, I was able to visit all those place in a span of almost nine years. According to the book, the places to visit in the Czech Republic are the following:

1. Karlovy Vary - a royal spa town in eastern Bohemia.
2. Cesky Krumlov - a living medieval town in southern Bohemia, and is very close to Ceske Budejovice and Hluboka.
3. Hradcany - the Prague Castle complex.
4. Karluv Most - More popularly known as the Charles Bridge.
5. Estates Theater - Right in the center of the Old Town, this is where Mozart premiered Don Giovanni.
6. Stareometska Namesti - In English, it's the Old Town Square. Here, you'll find the Astronomical Clock, Orloj in Czech.
7. U Fleku - It has had the license to make beer since 1499.

I think there are more, and better places to see in the Czech Republic than the ones listed above. But, I can only say this because I have been there. Oh well!

I'll definitely write about the seven places and more about the Czech Republic in separate detailed entries in the future. Each destination deserves its own post, especially the interesting circumstances of my visits.

Contentment (on a bed of salt)

After a long afternoon spent shopping at a mall, my dad and I were keen on eating something nice: oysters. On a previous visit a few months back, one restaurant's banner claimed they serve oysters and Stella Artois beer. When he told me about it, my first instinct was, "he must be kidding!" One has to go to Beers Paradise, at least, to have Stella Artois. Then, I saw it for myself and was amused. Too bad we did not have time then so during our recent visit, we were on a mission: to have oysters and beer.

Unfortunately, despite walking through the two-level al fresco restaurant row, no restaurant served Stella Artois and oysters (at least based on the menus we read). Perhaps it was just a promo. With that, we decided to call it quits and moved on to do more errands while talking about the dining places we knew served good oysters.

Then surprise, surprise! Cafe Via Mare just opened a branch in the mall in an obscure place - inside the department store. I was explicitly hoping they had oysters. As you may know, Via Mare has two types: Cafe Via Mare and the Oyster Bar. The last time I had oysters from Via Mare, it was on top of the Tektite Towers in Ortigas: oysters with a view. Their branch at Greenbelt 3 also serves oysters but I was not sure about Cafe Via Mare, inside Landmark no less! But, there on the table was a cardboard menu of "Via Mare's Oyster Bar."

We opted for the combination platter (PhP 370) and waited 20 minutes for it. When it arrived, it was laid out on a steel plate with a bed of rock salt the only thing in between the oyster shells and the plate. My dad and I just guessed which type it was depending on how it looks. Each looked yummy enough you want to try it right away. The sauces were thick and cheesy. And it smelled good!For a PhP 37 oyster, it tasted like it was worth PhP 60 each. Nothing wrong with that. I think it is still good value for money. So, that is contentment for you. Via Mare's convenient locations and price actually make oysters prepared in this way more accessible to most. :)

I just wish Una Mas was still a block away from where I stay. I miss their paella and oysters. When Una Mas was still around, I forgot about any other restaurant that served oysters. Mr. Rockefeller (in Greenbelt 3) serves oysters but despite my frequent visits, I never managed to try it. I was only always able to have either Hoegaarden or Stella Artois beers.

Breakfast at the Pancake House

Coffee, Bacon Waffles and Country Breakfast (3 pcs. Contry Sausage, Hash brown Potato, 2 eggs, 2 Pcs. Toast Butter)

I've been craving for breakfast food all week so that's what I did last Saturday morning. Since it was too early for Mom's and Tina's (it opens at 10:00AM), I opted to eat across the street at Pancake House. Simple good eats. Simple comfort food.
Pictured above is what I ate: the Country Breakfast, coffee and a quarter of my mom's bacon waffle. I was such a meanie I persuaded her to get the waffle so we can share. We did split the eggs and the sausages but she still ended up having more carbs than I did. It was an okay breakast after fasting since midnight.

La Cocina de Tita Moning's

I only found out about La Cocina de Tita Moning's when I joined John Silva's tour of the National Museum complex. During the tour's break, a restaurant staff came and gave us a copy of the menu. After skimming through it, I was so convinced Jen and I had to try it. So a few minutes later, the lady got our reservations, and gave us a map so we won't get lost going to San Rafael street in the San Miguel District of Manila. (We did manage to miss a few turns and had to go around twice, perhaps because we were talking about another authentic Thai restaurant.)

The San Miguel District is nothing like the concrete jungle of Makati I'm used to so it was like a mini-holiday for me. The old houses next to government buildings, a Burger Machine booth in front of the Philippine Cancer Society, barb wires everywhere, and Malacanang is a short walk away.

The restaurant is located at the Legarda Family's ancestral home - so it looked like how it was when the rest of the family lived there. Upon arrival, we were given complementary lemon grass tea and edam toasts as we chose what to eat. For starters, Jen and I decided to split a fresh arugula salad with mangoes and grapes, gorgonzola cheese, caramelized walnuts and their homemade walnut vinaigerette. Think of Cyma's Roka salad only ten times tastier. For our main course, I opted for their osso buco with white wine risotto while Jen opted for a pan-grilled sea bass with a soy-sake sauce and jasmine risotto. All this took place at the home's living room adorned with a Hidalgo painting and Czech crystal pieces.

Instead of waiting for our food at the dining table we were escorted by another staff for a tour of the house. It was during the tour that we learned of Don Alejandro's various interests (he was an ob/gyn, a photographer, and even a radio fanatic), their dressing rooms (I love his daughter's wedding dress full of heavy beads), their family library (they had an old map of Europe where Czechoslovakia was still a country), and of course, the small shop that sold some of Tita Moning's food. The tour actually ends at the dining hall adorned with red table cloths, Meisen plates on the walls, silverware and Murano center pieces.

The meal started with usual bread and butter (I love their Ivory butter knife with engravings) followed by the arugula salad. Just like all the other dishes, the salad was prepared just the way Tita Moning would have had it. That salad was heaven in a bowl. I could have skipped my ossco bucco but when it arrived, it was just as irresistable. I've never had meat that tender, tasty and LARGE - the serving was good for two in my opinion. Eating there reminded me of my lola's cooking and now I really have to learn all her recipes from my mom. For dessert, we decided to split a rich (yet light) bread and butter pudding with candied pili nut horns. :)

I did not have room for coffee or hot chocolate so I was content with silver tea: hot water in a cup. Their tablewere is so beautiful I could spend hours looking at the design. I was just amused a western plate had palm trees on it.

Although the meal was a bit pricey, it was all worth it. Where can you have a dining experience as if your were stepping back in time, you are treated like a family guest (with matching pictures too!) and food prepared just like they did 20-40 years ago? Nothing could go wrong. It was just a perfect and pleasurable dining experience.

For more details, check La Cocina de Tita Moning's Website.

Ghost Hunting in Corregidor on Halloween

I've never made a big deal of Halloween and was never one of those who prepared for a costume and a party to attend. Although this year, the 31st falls on a Friday, I'm not that inclined towards taking a trip either. But, after coming across a Halloween tour of Corregidor, now I am tempted.


I am curious about how it would feel like to be in a place that's supposed to have lots of ghosts. The sunset, the sunrise, the history, the ruins and a ferry ride. Enough incentive? Except that I've heard bad reviews of their food and what if I suddenly just wanted a normal Halloween in the city? Seriously, I just don't want to be bored and hungry.

Hmmm, PhP 3,444.00 per head. That's pretty cheap for a ghost-themed adventure.

For more information, check the site of Sun Cruises.

La Boheme in Manila

This time I am not going to talk about Bohemia or being Bohemian but La Boheme, the opera - here in Manila. Lots of review articles have been written about it already so I am not going to add another one.


All I really wanted to say is that I would have loved it more if I understood Italian. I do not know much about classical music but I just appreciate listening to it. It has been the second time I've heard the Philippine Philarmonic Orchestra in a week and now I want more!

CNN recently featured operas being performed at Zurich's main train station to bring it to mainstream viewers and attract interest, and the Philippine Opera Company is doing the same to entice the Filipino audience into opera. I think it's about time.

I'm happy there are more cultural events going on in Manila more than a person's schedule could afford. :)

Amazing (Race) Asia

I'm so happy that Amazing Race is on again because it is one of my favorite shows - one of the few I actually follow. I'm not too keen on supporting the Filipino pair  at all because I'm not fond of Tisha Silang. (I know it's arbitrary but I don't mind.)


So far though, the pair I look forward to winning is Ida and Tania from Malaysia. They just enjoy what they're doing. They laugh about shitty times and embrace the good times as if they deserve every bit of it anyway. Such good attitude.

Also, tonight, they're in Taiwan. For the past five years, I've been Eurocentric but not anymore. I've been following a show called Fun Taiwan on the Travel and Living Channel and it has greatly inspired me to love my own home - Manila, and discover its hidden gems. Or at least follow the rest of Manilenos who have already done so.

Revisiting Cubao X

Tess, reading tarot cards

When I was younger, Marikina Shoe Expo showcased Marikina's pride: shoes. The familiar shoe stores are still there but in the past few years, it has changed its name and its ambiance.

Although Bellini's (the Italian restaurant) still stands, other establishments have come and gone. I was there with KC to have a special dinner at Halo Organic Store and Cafe (co-owned by our schoolmates, Halmen and Jaja) for two reasons: the end of Ramadan and World Vegetarian Day. Neither of us are vegeterians nor Muslims but we both promised Halmen we'd visit, and a year later, there we were.

We got there an hour early and decided to wander around Cubao X. The last time I was at Cubao X was for a Lomo Manila event. I was also there to support a friend: Sarah. A band was setting up last night just like the last time in front of Blacksoup Projects Gallery; there's a new film/cafe venue and Datelines is gone - replaced by a store, which technically sells the same thing: old books and photos. There were also more dining areas like this modern two-level cafe in front of Bellini's with neon lights.

What caught our interest though was an organic shop almost across Halo called Geo Cafe. They sold ampalaya tea, malunggay noodles and a lot of other healthy things. Reminded me of that small store in Podebrady, which actually sold the same things - except their products were labelled in Czech.

Anyway, what made us stay in the store was not the products but the tarot reading. Yes, there was a lady named Tess (a very pleasant and accommodating woman) who read tarot cards for PhP 200.00 per session. Suffice to say, her readings were on our minds during and even after dinner.

Halo's interiors

As soon as we entered Halo's quaint premises, Halmen immediately welcomed us - who also pointed out that Jaja was in the kitchen cutting Malungay pastries. I am so proud of what they have accomplished! Their food is innovative, delicious and cheap!

I am not a fan of vegetable substitutes so my favorites would include the singkamas with garlic mayo dressing, and the vermicelli spring roll with peanut sauce. The veggie burger, made of banana hearts came out too strong for my taste. But the dessert, oh the dessert, I like! :)

Skip the Trip and Take a Staycation

Staying home to be a tourist in your hometown will save you money and sanity.
By Douglas Trattner
Anybody who has tried to cram some relaxation into the typical vacation knows it's tough to take it easy and travel. With gasoline topping $4 per gallon, airfares going sky-high and everything from hotels to meals costing more, many are opting to spend their vacations close to home. It's called a staycation, and it's becoming a popular alternative to pricey travel.
"With a little creativity and planning we can duplicate that feeling of relaxation without ever leaving our hometown," says Lisa Oppenheimer, a Boston-based travel writer. Here’s how to make your staycation a success:
1. Grab a guidebook.
Buy or borrow a guidebook for the city where you live, and follow a one-, two- or three-day itinerary. If you research your city the same way you would a place outside your hometown, Oppenheimer says, not only will you find things that you haven't done before, but you'll also discover things you didn't know existed. Another invaluable source, she says, is your local convention and visitors bureau. In addition to providing information on local attractions, current events and museum exhibits, the CVB typically offers money-saving coupons.
2. Get a room.
You don't have to get off an airplane to stay at a hotel. Head downtown for glamour or in the opposite direction for value, but either way, room service is little more than a phone call away. "My kids can bring me breakfast in bed," Oppenheimer says. "But it's just not the same as being able to pick up the phone and have someone deliver it." If kids are in the picture, select a hotel with a pool. "You'll be a hero," she says.
3. Splurge at a spa.
A full-service pampering at a day spa is certain to leave you breezy, buoyant and in bliss. Oppenheimer recommends springing for a full-day package of services, but even a pedicure and a champagne lunch can do wonders. Partners should consider signing up for a couple's massage and a healthful spa dinner.
4. Sample the local winery.
Napa Valley doesn't hold a monopoly on wineries. Seek out a couple of nearby wineries for tours and tastings. "It is so rare to go looking for this type of activity at home," Oppenheimer says. "That makes it an ideal stay-at-home vacation activity." Don't forget to buy a bottle or two. No grapes nearby? Plan a tour and a tasting at a local microbrewery.
5. Take a guided city tour.
Walking tours, trolley tours and river tours provide home vacationers with a novel point of view on their hometown. Tour guides offer their twist on the area's sights, history and trivia. "I took a trolley tour of Boston, my hometown," Oppenheimer says. "It was one of the kitschiest things I've ever done. But it was so much fun that I'd do it again." Remember to bring a camera.
6. Leave the cooking to the pros.
"Cooking while on vacation at home is such a bad idea," Oppenheimer says. "But you also don't want to eat every meal away from home." Instead, consider hiring a personal chef to prepare a staycation's worth of meals in advance. Better yet, hire that chef to prepare a candle-lit dinner for two at home.
7. Change your environment.
Travel immerses you in a land of unexplored and unexpected vistas. Mimic that feeling by dining in a restaurant you've never been to in a part of town you rarely frequent. While traveling abroad, eating exotic foods is all part of the experience. At home, consider trying that Ethiopian or Moroccan restaurant you've been wanting to try.
8. Take public transportation.
Away from home, we leave the driving to the conductors, cabbies and captains. Doing so not only makes traveling more relaxed, but it also frees you up to see the scenery. Ride the subway or bus to your destination, and let someone else watch the traffic.
9. Outsource the chores.
On vacation, you never have to vacuum the carpet, fold the laundry, mow the lawn or shovel the walk. Don't do them on your staycation. Book a maid, send the clothes out to the dry cleaner and pay a neighbor kid to tend to the lawn.
10. Unplug and unwind.
Stow the cell phone, laptop and Blackberry. Just because you're in the same area code as your cubicle doesn't mean you should try to work at home. Put a hold on the mail, and stop the newspaper, too. Nothing zaps a staycation like a utility bill or depressing headlines.
11. Do nothing.
It's harder than you think. Stare into space. Take a nap on the floor with your dog. "Keep it simple," Oppenheimer says. "If it's not fun, don't do it. This is your vacation, after all."

Uno, dos, tres

I woke up today with a text from cheeky Junver (yet he's the only one who calls me Ate Tin these days), which made me get out of bed and laugh:

"Hindi lahat ng batang naka-bag ay nag-aaral.
Ang ibang ay naglalakwatsa lang..."

- Dora, the Explorer

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Also, while watching Lifestyle Network this afternoon, I chanced upon a show called "The Genuine Article." It features high-end destinations for those who've seen it all and yet would like to experience something a notch higher.

Thanks to the show, I discovered their parent site fineliving.com. It has lots of interesting things to look forward to for a nesting soul like me. It even provides tips on how to make everyday life pleasurable - just like holiday living.

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I've picked up a new book to read from an old stack waiting to be noticed. Sometime last year, I chanced upon a book entitled Kafka's Soup at Powerbooks in Trinoma. I could not resist the title (obvious Czech connection) so after learning it was about food and literature plus a discounted price, I had to have it!

Fourteen literary recipes with drawings showing how it could have been if you were watching your favorite author prepare a meal -- or something like it. It's been a good afternoon read.

Mozart, Prague and related spots

I realized I discussed too much about Mozart in Prague in a recent post that it deserves its own. Here’s a brief background of some of the items I mentioned.
Municipal Library Theater of Prague
Located at the Mariánské náměstí in the Old Town, the theater opened in 1942 as an addition to the library services and premises, which opened in 1891. Right in the middle of the old town and within walking distance to the Starometska metro station, it does not only house a theater but also the Bedřich Smetana Library established in 1921 as well as a Braille library in 1932 – 1942.
Loboc choir, an ensemble of singing children from Bohol, Philippines performed at the Municpal Library Theater of Prague in 2003. Emma and I were part of the few Filipinos able to see the performance of a choir who gives continuous pride to the Philippines. And on that evening, I was the one who handed the flowers to the former Philippine Ambassador to the Czech Republic, which was given to the choirmaster.
Estates Theater
Commissioned by František Antonín Count Nostitz Rieneck and opened in 1783, it still holds its original inscription, which reads Patriae et Musis - To the Native Land and the Muses. The Czech Estates purchased the theater in 1798 consequently changing its name from Count Nostitz’s Theatre to Royal Theatre of the Estates. The Estates Theatre has more predominantly been identified with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart because two of his operas premiered here: Don Giovanni in October 29, 1787 (with Mozart himself conducting the opera) and La Clemenza di Tito.
2006 marked Mozart’s 250th birth year and there were celebrations all over the world. Of course, the Estates Theater won’t be without an event aside from their usual Mozart Opera offerings. During winter that year, I was able to watch a collection of Mozart’s operas – a sampling of sorts. I suppose live performances really illicit a different feeling, which arouses interest than mere boredom. I suddenly appreciated my dad’s gesture of waking me up with classical music playing all over the house on Sunday mornings during my childhood.
Villa Bertramka
When I got to Villa Bertramka, I was not impressed. It was just a big house (but a Villa in Czech standards) with lots of Mozart memorabilia. Maybe it’s because prior to visiting the Villa, I’ve been to countless castles so I was expecting something special.
Bertramaka’s routes rest from Josefina Dušek who was a superb singer of her time, married to František Xaver Dušek who was also her music teacher since 1770. The couple met Mozart in a trip to Salzburg and has since offered their home to Mozart whenever he was in Prague. Dušek and Mozart performed a number of times in Vienna and Saxony.
Villa Bertramka also has an interesting location as it is at the periphery of Prague’s city center – neither at the old or new towns. It’s within walking distance to the Novy Smichov commercial complex – another example where the old blends with the new in Praha.
Nelahozeves Castle
My mother became friends with the Lobkowitcz family and from then on, have always suggested to clients (if they have the preference and resources) to visit or hold their events at any of their properties. In the winter of 2006, I had a pleasure of bringing a group for lunch at this historic castle, located 15 miles north of Prague at a town of the same name, where coincidentally, Czech composer, Antonín Dvořák was born.
For me, the Nelahozeves Castle is worth visiting if you have time to spare. Since I have always had a soft spot for anything Spanish (Spain was always my ideal rescue destination when the dreary and grim mood of living in Bohemia was too much to bare), I immediately warmed up to the Nelahozeves Castle. Why? Because it has the largest collection of Spanish portraits from the 16th and 17th centuries outside of Spain. Just imagine the feeling when you think you’ve seen the best at the Prado only to find out there’s more, in dear old Czech Republic!
During that visit I was able to view a temporary exhibition (1997-2007) of Six Centuries of European Art Patronage. Now the exhibition is lodged at Lobkowitcz Palace at the Prague Castle. How I wish pictures were allowed to be taken and it was not a working visit. Instead of returning to Prague by coach, we took a terribly slow cruise along the Vltava River (Moldau in German) disembarking right off the Intercontinental Hotel at the Old Town.

Urban blessings

Me and my dad would often linger choosing cheeses

This afternoon, I went grocery shopping with my dad after not having done so in awhile. Going through aisles, concocting menus in our heads, having instant cravings for random things we see were all part of my childhood - and actually still is.

Today though, was different. Despite my dad's usual enthusiasm about food, he was already exhausted by half an hour. By then, we got our staples: meat, veg, some condiments and nibbles. I queued towards the cashier and he was off to get ciabatta as he waited for me to finish.

That moment, I realized how good it is to be near my loved ones. Times like this I don't want to be anywhere else but here.

Classic

Yesterday, I attended the 85th birth year celebration of Robert Coyuito at the Meralco Theater.

As I was watching and listening to the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra play the Philippine National Anthem, I was practically having goosebumps. I have not heard our national anthem played live in a very long time and it was good to be reminded how pleasant it is to the ears. How much pride it could elicit in a Filipino that our national anthem is actually a good one.

All of a sudden, I was pulled back into music class under Mrs Cristi where she would send her students to watch performances at CCP. In hindsight, it is good to have a well-rounded liberal arts education. Yesterday's event made me realize that. Then of course, how could I forget the Czech Republic?

Perhaps my primary live encounter (beyond books and CDs) with classical music would be while living in the Czech Republic. I suddenly remembered the evening Emma and I were laughing our asses off at the Municipal Library Theater when the Loboc Choir performed -- only to find out minutes later I was going to be the one to bring the flowers on stage.

Cristina Coyiuto playing the piano, together with her daughter Caitlin playing the flute was literally music to the ears. Such soothing hopping sounds. Obviously, I do not know how to describe music (which makes me think what I learned during music class) but it reminded me of Bolero. I've always loved Bolero.

All this time, my mind was wandering. Thinking about how much I enjoyed watching the Brno Philharmonic Orchestra play when they performed at the AFP theater - perhaps in 2004. Then I thought about my visit at the Nelahozeves Castle and viewing all those original manuscripts of Beethoven and Mozart. Such a memorable sight to see! I admire those young Czech volunteers who actually remember all the contents of the museum. My mind also brought me back to the Estates Theatre, where I watched my first Mozart Opera, and Villa Bertramka, Mozart's home in Prague -- that's where he wrote Don Giovanni, which premiered in Prague.

My wanderings finally ended when we decided to go out and eat. After sampling some asparagus spreads, I knew the food was good. Coupled with Spanish white wine from La Rioja, I had to have more. So we abandoned Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 4 and headed out for cocktails and small bites. Luckily, the performance was heard at the entire lobby that we practically did not miss a thing!

This has been a lengthy post already but let me end with the highlight of my Saturday: meeting Margarita Araneta-Fores. She was never my local foodie idol but I have always looked up to her - her accomplishments, her parth, her cooking. Maybe when I feel like abandoning everything, I'll just do what she did: fly off to Italy, volunteer and absorb the local cuisine and customs and come back home to share it with my countrymen.