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Thursday, April 27, 2017

A Family Staycation Weekend at Taal Vista Hotel


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Aside from the cold weather, Tagaytay city is famous for the picturesque sight of the Taal Lake. This is the in demand view that everyone looks forward to. This is also why most establishments offering a great view of the Taal Lake are benefiting a lot from the influx of tourists who want to take a gander of the magnificent postcard-like view of this amazing wonder of nature.

Everyone could not say that they have been truly to Tagaytay without that epic view of Taal Lake among their photos included in their selfies, groupfies and other photo ops may it be with their DSLRs, point and shoot or smartphone cameras. It is just an enigma that Tagaytay, a part of Cavite, is the city raking in tourism interest even though the place is part of Batangas.

But as they say, this is a beauty that is best seen from afar, and where we can marvel at the wonderful creation of nature bringing joy and fascination to everyone who sees it. Just be also sure that you are pointing at the correct Taal volcano as many are making mistakes on this particular fact. It becomes a laughing matter when even Filipinos themselves do not know the real one.

As mentioned earlier, the cold climate in Tagaytay is also a reason why people are coming there for vacation either during summer breaks or weekends. It is the next best choice of reaching a colder temperature compared to Baguio city.

This is why we were thrilled with our family weekend staycation scheduled on April 8 and 9, because we get to temporarily leave the hot and humid weather in Metro Manila, and experience a more bearable one in Tagaytay city. The best part of all is we get to stay at the Taal Vista Hotel which flaunts the best view of the Taal Lake. Besides that, the Sky Ranch is just right beside the hotel offering the Sky Eye and other park attractions that would surely entertain us during the weekend staycation.





An added bonus is the transportation service provided by the hotel where they got the Avis transports service  for our pick-up and drop-off from our residence in Pasig to the hotel and vice versa. The driver picked us up on the early morning of Saturday for an almost three hour travel to Tagaytay.







We also got to dine at their Veranda buffet restaurant for lunch on our first day and breakfast the following morning, and our first night a la carte dinner at their Taza Fresh Table, but we'll tell you all the details of our dining experience at both Veranda and Taza Fresh Table on a different blog post. It deserves their own separate stories so we could give you the magnificent and yummy details about our meals.





The game room had a billiard table and an air hockey table. We were also informed we could use an Xbox that they could put out if we want to play with it; however, we were informed that the games are also old ones. So they may be referring to the old Xbox version.


Aside from the two restaurant and the lounge where you can also order, the hotel also has a swimming pool, gym, game room, spa, business center and plenty of rooms of different sizes at both their Lake View and Mountain View hotels. They have a small section beside the Taza Fresh Table restaurant where you can buy souvenirs from a few stalls there. Not too many choices but there's bound to be something interesting among those items being sold there.


The Lake View part is the newer hotel that is right beside the Sky Ranch area. There's practically a gate between the two properties so I could imagine just walking through there. But I guess that gate is only used for special occasions as we don't see anybody entering or exiting via that way.


We had two rooms at the 4th floor of the Lake View part of Taal Vista Hotel. One for me and my wife, and another one for our three kids. This overjoyed my kids since they could have one room all for their own privacy. My wife and I can say the same thing and with smiles from ear to ear.



Both rooms have two beds, but we got the room with the grand view of the Taal Lake, while they got the one with a view of the Sky Ranch. The rooms were moderately decorated. It is not similar to the newer or top hotels way back in Metro Manila, but they are comfy and spacious enough to accommodate conveniently more than two people.



Our room had something extra - sweet treats compliments of the hotel. Our kids quickly devoured them even before we got all settled in.

The only difference from the Mountain View part of the hotel is that there is no bathtub on our rooms. The swimming pool, gym, entertainment center and spa are also located at the Mountain View part. But its a short walk from both ends of the hotel so there's no problem at all. But maybe they could build another pool at the Lake View portion since it the pool was already a bit crowded when we visited it before lunch time.


The gym had nobody there when we dropped by so it gave us an opportunity to try the equipment out. However, most were only on manual control and a bit outdated already.

At the game room, we tried both billiard and air hockey table where I won in billiards while my youngest kid emerged triumphant in air hockey.




The second day was a bit more relaxed as we enjoyed the comfy beds of the hotel. We went out of our rooms early in the morning to have breakfast at Veranda. When we were roaming around the hotel,  we discovered a mass ongoing at a ground floor function room that the hotel turned into a mini chapel. It was Palm Sunday so we always make it a point to attend church during that particular event where "palaspas" could be distinctively seen carried by church-goers.



The hotel allowed us to extend our check-out time until 4 pm so we could start traveling back home in better weather late in the afternoon. A different driver drove us back home, but we managed to go have some snacks first at Balay Dako where we had some Bibingka, Pancit Antonio and Lumpiang Sariwa. Afterwards, we stopped by The Pink Sisters church nearby to say a short prayer and explore the place in a quick tour, before going back to the van and finally returning home.


It was undoubtedly one of the most memorable moments since it was our first time staying at Taal Vista Hotel. I have visited the hotel several times in the past but only to attend events there organized by the Department of Tourism so that kept me only seeing the lobby and grounds.


That weekend allowed us to explore every corner of the hotel and be amazed of how beautiful this property really is. If you are not aware yet, it is owned by the SM group of companies just as like the Sky Ranch. For me, this is very precious real estate property that many would want to own it just in case SM sells it, but I'm sure that would never happen since Taal Vista Hotel has become almost iconic in Tagaytay already.

Travel, Work and Play with Targus Seoul 2017 Collection


Wazzup Pilipinas!


Targus Inc., a leading brand in laptop cases and accessories, recently unveiled their Seoul 2017 Collection, the all-rounded solution to travel, work and play.

Embedded with new and advanced features, the Seoul 2017 Collection is multi-functional, making it suitable for all sorts of activities for both men and women. Reliable and highly compact, the Seoul 2017 Collection features two sizes: 15.6” and 14”. The newly launched Seoul 2017 Collection comes in four different colours that exude warmth and vibrancy.


Warm and Refreshing Colours
To showcase that unique personality

With an array of colours lined up in the Seoul 2017 Collection, both men and women can expect to find one that showcases their unique personality. Inspired by urban lights, the backpacks come in two varying tones – one reminiscent of the night, giving off a trusty and matured vibe while the other a reminder of warm city lights.

The 15.6" Seoul Backpack comes in three different colours – black, turquoise and rust. On the other hand, 14” Seoul Backpack comes in two varying colours – black and plum. For a modern and low-key look, opt for the backpack in black and rust. Those seeking a refreshing and delightful burst of colours will fall in love with the turquoise and plum backpacks. Furthermore, the backpacks come in printed inner lining. 

DOE Pitches Energy Opportunities to ASEAN Investors


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso Cusi said Thursday that there is a big business opportunity in the Philippines' energy sector that investors from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) can take advantage of.

"We're inviting energy investors from ASEAN. The ASEAN summit is an opportunity for us to drum up to our neighbors that there is this development happening in the Philippines and they can participate," Cusi said after attending the closed door quarterly roundtable of the Wallace Business Forum at Shangri-la Hotel, Makati City.

Cusi said the potential business opportunity in energy is the result of the government's ambitious infrastructure program dubbed "Build Build Build."

"We're going to build the energy supply for the infrastructure," said Cusi.

"From 2016 to 2030, 17,300 megawatts is needed to support the Ambisyon 2040 development plan of the government for the Philippines. An additional power of 26,000 MW from 2030 to 2040 or a total of 43,000 MW from 2016 to 2040 is needed to support the infrastructure projects," Cusi said at the second round of Dutertenomics Forum on Wednesday, April 26, 2017. Cusi is optimistic that investors will come in.

4th Tour De Cebu Launch at Trans Sport Show 2017


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Performance and Classic Enthusiasts Club (PACE), together with the Manila Sports Car Club (MSCC) and Tradeshow International Inc., (TSI), recently launched the 4th Tour De Cebu on April 21, 2017 amidst the many project show vehicles and car enthusiasts at the recent Trans Sport Show for 2017.

Tour De Cebu is a three-day "Mille Miglia-inspired" historic and touristic rally scheduled on October 20 to 22 with regularity race covering 1,000 km across the Visayas. It is open to sports cars manufactured from 1972 or older. All entrees are subject to technical scrutiny led by a committee headed by the Grand Marshall. A minimum pass rate is required in order of participation to be green-lighted. Major factors for passing include authenticity, period correctness, mechanical soundness and safety.

The official list for eligible sports cars shall be based on the official list as compiled by MSCC. Refer to PACE grants limited exception for the following:

Classic cars manufactured on or below the cut-off date of 1972 with high historic value or unique provenance in the Philippines. Classic period correct Race or Rally Cars manufactured on or below the cut-off ate of 1972, especially exhibiting high historical value or prestige. Run off sports car models beyond the manufacturing cut-off of 1972 are allowed pending technical consensus.

Culinary Samplers from Heaven at Madrid Fusion Manila 2017


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The 2017 Madrid Fusion Manila brings together once again the culinary expertise of many great chefs and restaurateurs from all over the world to the Philippines. It is such a great [pleasure to be among the officially accredited media to cover the event. I don't really know where to begin because there are so many stories to tell especially when the event happened for several days, and participated by so many of our best and brightest food experts. I am proud to say that we have constantly been outdoing our greatness from the previous years. The Philippines have enough talent to proudly showcase to the entire world.

As expected, the first day begins with many opening ceremonies from the formal launch to the ribbon cutting, and even before that was the press conference for media. The days I spent at the event was overwhelming for I got to taste so many awesome samplers from all over the country and the world. I am doubly excited to taste their full version someday. But it was better that they just gave away samplers because with so many giving them out, you won't have enough room in your tummy for everything.

Naturally, you will be tempted to try out everything, and take a second or third serving if the dish was really good. In my case, 90 percent of the dishes that I've tried were more than just satisfying. Was it me or I just love to eat? I am adventurous too in my preference so I welcome all kinds may they be spicy or uncommon. With so many chef being very creative with their masterpieces, there's no telling how many creations were served during those days, and I am proud to have been a part of this event.

So I met Chefs for the first time like Chef Tatung, and met again the likes of Chef Claude Tayag. Got to do a video selfie with the Department of Tourism -Tourism Promotions Board (DOT-TPB) Chief Operating Officer (COO) and celebrity Cesar Montano, also a photo ops selfie with the Secretary of Tourism, Wanda Tulfo-Teo, plus a lot more personalities involved with food and drinks. But the best of all is the opportunity to witness Filipinos emerging as top choices for food preference. Though the country is open to global cuisines, the Filipino dishes remain to be among our favorites.

When PRs Become Unfit for Their Job

Wazzup Pilipinas!

How about you guys? What are your comments or reactions regarding these posts about a PR who was said to be rude to a media during an interview at an event where a very popular singer was the brand ambassador. I guess the brand should be aware of this as they may be affected by this issue too. It's better that they do something about it soon before this controversy explodes uncontrollably.

Do you agree that PRs should be courteous and respectful to both media and bloggers regardless of the situation (relaxed or under pressure)? On and off promotional events or campaigns? Should they avoid talking bad or malicious about anyone (whether personally or via online and social media posts)? Bad-mouthing is such a serious offense that they should advocate for mouthwashes.

Kudos to the shout-out rant by an editor of one of the leading newspapers in the country. May there be more of her who are outspoken and gutsy enough to tell the world that she deserves proper treatment. There are ways to do things discreetly, and that should always be the case for PRs.

I have to commend her fellow media friends for the support they are giving her. I hope bloggers would also do the same and stand by with their colleagues when they encounter the same problems with PRs. It's time to stop being "sipsip" and tell our stories as it happens. No more sugar-coating and false or pretentious advertising. Tell the real story without any hesitation.

However, there are so many great PRs out there that should be praised for keeping their minds sane regardless of how badly behaved some personalities are. These are the PRs and their agencies that should be given awards and recognition. May they continue to flourish and remain successful.

Finally, the mentioned rude PR should reflect on this latest issue about her. She needs to realize that there's definitely something wrong about her. Apparently, this PR was moonlighting. The moonlighting issue is already beyond ethical. The rude behavior towards a media who was just trying to do her job is inexcusable. Who knows what else she is doing behind the back of her multi-national company who already asked the victim to remove the company's name from any post because the event was not officially under them. Raket pa more!

I can now rest my case.

A Memorable Family Bonding Moment at Buddha-Bar Manila's Magical Easter Sunday Celebration


Wazzup Pilipinas!
Easter Sunday was made extra special for the children at Buddha-Bar Manila's Magical Easter celebration.

Amidst the gigantic Buddha glaring from the second level, kids were treated to several games, artsy activities, and a magical show, plus a hearty lunch, on a Sunday where the Easter bunny came out form a magician's hat!

Parents bonded with their kids as they played through the different fun challenges and recreational activities specially organized by Buddha-Bar Manila.

I got hooked with the design your own cookie that's shaped like an egg (or was it a huge water droplet? Lol!). The kids got to use their a mix of their favorite frosting colors, together with tiny marshmallows, color-coated candies, rainbow sprinkles and many other edible decors to enhance their creativity. The best part of the challenge is someone gets to win for the best design, and they all get to eat their creations afterwards.

All the challenges would entails some lucky kids to win toy prizes from Buddha-Bar Manila. I love that portable basketball ring!

All children present were also given loot baskets and cupcakes the moment they entered the place so that meant smiling faces already at the very start of the day.

Filling up both parents and children was the sumptuous buffet spread from delightful salads, to yummy main entrees, all the way to sugary sensational desserts of many varieties. There is no doubt the kids enjoyed these treats as well.

Pilyo Cheesecake Soufllés in Iconic All-Time Favorite Bibingka Flavor


Wazzup Pilipinas!

I don't know any Filipino who can resist eating our iconic all-time favorite "bibingka"  or rice cake that is often seen when the holiday season is around. Though there are some street food stalls and restaurants that still cook them even after Christmas, they are still a rare find making them rare treats for those craving of these delicious rice cakes.

Now, there's an alternative to having the traditional "bibingka" because a couple originally based in Australia has conceptualized the Cheesecake Soufllés in Bibingka flavor! This means Christmas everyday and would also satisfy your craving for cheesecake as well!

We met with the people behind Pilyo Cheesecake Soufllés accidentally through an event held at their restaurant, and after several months we were actually aiming to reunite with them to feature their place. However, they were in the process of re-conceptualizing their business, but they offered instead another one they were currently doing home-based. They were referring to Pilyo which offers Cheesecake Soufllés of different varieties, and among them is the bibingka-flavored!
"We put the cheek in Grandma Filo's food using a playful approach reflective of Australian culture whilst paying tribute to traditional flavours. So come and shout “wala 'yan sa lola ko!" (that's nothing like my grandmother's!)."
My luck that bibingka happens to be an all-time favorite of mine. I don;t need to wait for Christmas for I can eat bibingka everyday. Still, it is very much appreciated that Pilyo has taken "bibingka" to the next level...and that level is delish all the way!

Go All-Natural with Electrolyte-Infused Roar Sports Drink


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Can you bear the heat this summer?

Now, imagine being under the sun ding your favorite sport like basketball, volleyball , or even just running or brisk walking? That would surely make you frown not only because of the heat but also of the dehydration you're sure to experience if you are under that scorching sun.

Those under the shades are already complaining, what more those who are perspiring outdoors. Be also wary that dehydration may cause damage to your health including giving you sunburn and skin diseases. Getting a dried throat and sore eyes also would lead to serious complications. This is why being hydrated is very important.

But you don't need to be an athlete or fitness buff to require proper hydration. As news and events bloggers, we keep on running from one news-worthy event to the next for our media coverage. And if you are without a car, this means hopping from one public transportation to the next whether it's the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) or Light Rail Transit (LRT), taxi, jeepney, bus, tricycle, or even the pedicabs. If we have the budget, we could take the Uber or Grab cars, but that would mean spending extra.

Now, it would have been easier if there's no more need to walk (or run) if all places are connected by public utility drop-offs or pick-ups, but it's not so there's still the need to perspire some more to reach our destination. This is why I always keep an extra shirt to prevent me from seemingly showering in sweat.

To keep myself hydrated, thank goodness I had the Roar Sports Drink with me at every occasion. It is my life-saver to keep myself composed, relaxed and definitely away from dehydration. The best thing is I got my hands on the rainbow samplers - different varieties or flavors so I could taste each one.

Now I'm craving for more as my stock is already at zero.

Two Fold Productions Proudly Presents Traverse: Reinventing Contemporary Tour Guiding


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Itching to travel the world? Turn your passion into a profession! In collaboration with the University of Santo Tomas College of Tourism and Hospitality Management – Travel Management Department & Marsman Drysdale Travel Inc., the Class of 3T2’s Two Fold Productions will be conducting an event that will tackle the multi-faceted and important role of the tour guiding profession in the tourism industry.

Let Two Fold Productions take you into the majestic world of “TRAVERSE: Reinventing Contemporary Tour Guiding.” The said event will be held on May 8, 2017 from 1:00 - 7:00 PM at the 2nd Floor Ballroom, Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building, University of Santo Tomas, España, Manila.


The event aims to:

1. Present an overview of issues and trends in line with the tour guiding profession in the Philippines;
2. Develop the students’ interpersonal skills for effective verbal and non-verbal communication;
3. Propose professional insights that would benefit the travel management students through various talks from professional tour guides;
4. Build an attitude of service excellence and permeate students with holistic values that are essential in the tourism industry; and
5. Advocate a culturally sensitive and ethical tour guiding where respect is present and shared.

Stay connected by liking their official Facebook page @twofoldproductions and following them on Twitter @2FTRAVERSE and on Instagram @twofoldproductions so you will not miss out on any updates.


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