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.
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.
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.
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.
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. :)
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.
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 cardsAlthough 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 interiorsI 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.
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."
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
---
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.
---
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.
"Hindi lahat ng batang naka-bag ay nag-aaral.
Ang ibang ay naglalakwatsa lang..."
- Dora, the Explorer
---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.
---
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.
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