April 2022 – Page 2 – Jellybeans in the City

A sweet and whimsical tour of The Dessert Museum

Are you a sweet tooth? I know I am!

Since I was young, I’ve had this deep affinity for sweets and I’m also a firm believer in the adage “There’s always room for dessert!”

Imagine my delight when I discovered that there’s a special place in the metro for dessert lovers like me: The Dessert Museum!

This destination is 12,000 square feet of space dedicated to desserts. It features eight themed rooms focused on a particular sweet treat, each with eye-catching visual elements such as giant-sized simulations of well-known products, background info on desserts’ history printed on the walls, games that visitors can play and other bric-a-bracs that complement the theme.

In these rooms, visitors can take fun and whimsical pictures of themselves in dessert-themed fantasy environments.

To a dessert lover like me who likes to geek out about her favorite food, this place surely comes close to my version of heaven.

Is it any surprise then that I would go here? Check out my trip through this wonderland of sweets!

Raining Donuts Room

Ten Thousand Marshmallows Room

Candy Cane Groves

Banana Beach

Room of Never-ending Bubbles

The Bewitched Bakery

Pinata Party

Kake-Pop Kourt

The appeal of The Dessert Museum mostly lies on the sheer number of great photo opportunities it provides. Knowing this, I had my daughter, #ExhibitA, accompany me so I have someone to take those snaps “for the ‘gram.”

During our two-hour tour throughout the museum, we were given fifteen minutes per room. The flow of people were managed by tour guides in each room to ensure that it won’t get too crowded and to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines. The museum also employs official photographers who can take group pictures fort he souvenir photos which you can buy for Php250 each at the gift shop at the end of your tour.

Thanks to the loosening of COVID-19 restrictions, guests of all ages are now allowed. Adults (at least 18 years old) are required to be fully vaccinated while kids (below 18 years old) should be accompanied by fully vaccinated adults.

Tickets are priced at Php799 for walk-ins, tickets bought online through thedessertmuseum.com are priced at Php699. As our visit fell during my birthday month, my daughter and I were able to take advantage of the Birthday Babies Are Free Promo, wherein we just needed to pay for #ExhibitA’s entrance while I got in for free.

You may also book your tickets via Klook.

Our tickets entitled us to enter the themed rooms, as well as get four dessert samples each, which were mostly made up of small pastries and bite-sized candies. I suggest you have a meal or a snack prior to your visit as well as bring a tumbler of water so you won’t get hungry or thirsty during your tour.

The Dessert Museum is located at Units 124, 126, 127a, S Maison, Coral Way, Conrad Hotel Manila, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.

A great reason to dine out: House of Lasagna’s Pizza and Wings Happy Hour

After almost two years of lockdown and community quarantine restrictions, it sometimes seems as if we are just now emerging from our cocoons, relatively free to go out into the world once more.

That’s surely something worth celebrating, right?

Lucky us, House of Lasagna’s got just the thing that will make our celebrations complete: a Pizza and Wings Happy Hour!

From April 18 to May 7, 2022, from 2pm to 5pm, we can give our appetites for tasty and hearty food free rein for 90 minutes with unlimited refills of these irresistible selections:

Pergola Pizzeria

Composed of three best-selling variants of House of Lasagna’s line of stone-baked Neapolitan-style pizzas, these feature that irresistible combination of crunchy-chewy crust and flavorful toppings.

Pergola Special. Topped with bacon, ham, tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, onions and mozzarella.

Pepperoni. Topped with pepperoni, mozzarella and aged cheddar.

All Meat. Topped with premium ground beef, bacon, ham and mozzarella.

Southern Fried Chicken Wings

These consist of three variants of chicken wings coated in batter, deep-fried to achieve that golden-brown skin and juicy meat, then shaken with flavorings to add new dimensions in taste to the dish.

Original.

Classic Buffalo.

Garlic Parmesan.

House Iced Tea

House of Lasagna’s Pergola Pizzas and Southern Fried Chicken Wings are best paired with the restaurant’s refreshing house iced tea, served bottomless and available only through this Happy Hour offer.

Treat yourself and your #TeamDineIn buddies to House of Lasagna’s Happy Hour Unli Pizza and Wings offer for just Php499/head.

So go ahead and celebrate our collective re-emergence from being cooped up for the past two years by dining in at these House of Lasagna branches and taking advantage of its Happy Hour treats:

240 Aguirre Ave. BF Homes Paranaque, Paranaque City
218 Katipunan Ave, Project 4, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Quezon City
3/F Dela Rosa Carpark 2 Bldg., Dela Rosa St. , Brgy. San Lorenzo Legaspi Village Makati, Makati
Unit 2 l, Ground Floor, Quad 2, Plaridel, Sto. Rosario, Angeles City, Pampanga (starting Wednesday, April 20, 2022)

To keep updated of its latest promos and offers, follow House of Lasagna on Facebook and Instagram.

You may also order House of Lasagna’s ala carte offers online through its website, which covers delivery in Metro Manila, Batangas (Lipa, Tanauan, Padre Garcia, Rosario,Cuenca, San Jose, Mataas na Kahoy, Malvar, Sto. Tomas), Cavite (Kawit, Imus, Bacoor), Laguna ( Biñan and San Pedro) and Rizal (Cainta, Taytay, Antipolo, Angono and Binangonan). It accepts payments via GCash, Visa and Mastercard.

Disclosure: I attended a food-tasting held by this restaurant wherein food items were served at no cost to the attendees.

Check out my previous posts on House of Lasagna:

House of Lasagna Megamall — Carbo-loading at House of Lasagna, SM Megamall

Quick relief from cold symptoms with Nafarin-A

Hewwow, ebwybowwy! How are you feewing today?

Yes, an attack of the common cold can burden you with a lot of inconvenient symptoms, one of which is that irritating hyponasal voice. With everything you try to accomplish with your busy life, that voice can really get in your way.

For example, can you imagine how hard it would be to do any of these when we‘ve got that hyponasal voice:

Making a business presentation
Haggling over prices
Taking a kid to task for misbehavior

This nasal voice is normally caused by some blockage in your nose brought about by your colds.

Add this to the other annoying cold manifestations such as headaches, itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose and sore throat from post-nasal drip, and you’ve got a maelstrom of symptoms that can derail you for the day.

A clogged nose also hampers your sleep, robbing you of much-needed rest.

The best recourse is to avoid getting colds altogether by making sure that viruses that bring about cold symptoms are kept well away from you. Fortunately, this involves actions that have become part of your daily routine such as properly and regularly washing your hands, avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands and keeping away from people who are sick with colds.

If, after all your precautions, you still got a case of colds, your next move should be alleviating its symptoms.

Nafarin-A is an over-the-counter drug that contains the following:

Phenylpropanolamine HCl. A nasal decongestant that helps you breathe easier by clearing obstructed and congested air passages, decongesting your stuffy nose and clogged sinuses.
Chlorphenamine maleate. An anti-allergy substance that relieves allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes.
Paracetamol. An effective fever reducer and pain reliever.

A tablet every six hours should help you manage your cold symptoms so you could get back to what you need to accomplish for the day!

Nafarin-A can be taken be taken by adults and kids twelve years old and older.

Ask your doctor about Nafarin-A,

You can stock up on Nafarin-A by ordering online at Lazada or Shopee, or by shopping at leading drugstores nationwide.

Gourmet Food Trippin’ at Manila Ocean Park

How’s your summer going so far, foodies?

If you’ve got a hankering for some #VitaminSea but are not keen on leaving the city, then Manila Ocean Park is definitely the place to be!

Having just reopened after nearly two years of being closed to the public, Manila Ocean Park is reinforcing its positioning as the all-season holiday destination with eight exciting attractions now ready for the hordes of urbanites like you who are raring for fun and adventure.

All that walking around and sight-seeing is sure to work up an appetite, though. Well, don’t worry, dear foodies, because Manila Ocean Park also serves up gastronomic delights that will satisfy even the most discerning gastronome.

These culinary creations are all curated by Manila Ocean Park’s Executive Chef Ranuka Hettiarachchi, who brings his extraordinary skill sets to bear in bringing distinctly gourmet dining experiences for the park’s visitors through its in-house restaurants.

MOP Food Trip — Chef Ranuka Hettiarachchi, Manila Ocean Park and Hotel H20’s Executive Chef

Garden Dining by White Moon Bar

Garden Dining by White Moon Bar came about in May 2021 when the lockdowns were beginning to ease up but indoor dining was not yet allowed. By making use of Manila Ocean Park’s Barnyard area to offer al fresco dining, and serving up a refreshed menu of Asian fusion dishes, this newly opened eatery became a bright spot for foodies looking for restaurant-quality fare during quarantine.

Looking at these mouth-watering dishes, you would be hard-pressed to imagine Chef Ranuka whipping these up using just a griddle and stove, which was all he had available when this restaurant first opened.

While feasting on these dishes, you can quench your thirst with refreshing shakes and cocktails.

Garden Dining by White Moon Bar is located at the side entrance of Manila Ocean Park near The Barnyard and Sea Lion pool.

Read about my previous experience here.

Makan Makan Asian Food Village

Makan Makan Asian Food Village got its name from the Singaporean expression that invites people to eat.

Located at the second floor of Hotel H2O off to the side of Manila Ocean Park, this restaurant presents an extensive array of tasty Singaporean hawker fare, staple Chinese dishes, and Pinoy classic faves, giving hotel guests and park visitors a viable option for their midday or evening meal.

With both familiar and exotic dishes on offer, Makan Makan Asian Food Village is a worthy food stop during your Manila Ocean Park adventure.

For more details and updates on its food offerings, follow Makan Makan Asian Food Village on Facebook and Instagram.

Garden Cafe by Hotel H2O

If you feel like you want to take a coffee break in the middle of your wanderings around the park, drop by Garden Cafe by Hotel H2Oo. Here, you can relax amidst a refreshing backdrop of foliage and open air, while you sip your handcrafted coffee or smoothie.

You may as well indulge yourself with some pastries while you’re at it. These confections are usually sea-themed and lovingly crafted by Chef Ranuka’s pastry chefs.

Mirror Glazed Sea-Themed Cake.

Aqua Bavarian Donut.

Other Pastries.

Want something to help you combat a hot day? Go for some iced coffee, then.

Don’t hesitate to sit down and take a break with your pals while having some coffee and pastries in this comfy (and very Instagrammable) nook.

Garden Cafe by Hotel H2O is located at the ground floor of Hotel H2OO, easily accessible from Manila Ocean Park.

Follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

White Moon Bar

Want to end your Manila Ocean Park adventure on a high note?

Then, proceed to the second floor deck of Hotel H2O to catch the gorgeous sunset while you hang out at White Moon Bar.

Nibble on some appetizing bar chow while listening to chill music.

Of course, your sunset chillout sesh wouldn’t be complete without some of White Moon Bar’s Classic and Signature cocktails.

So take the time to enjoy good food and great company at White Moon Bar as you wind down from your activity-packed day at Manila Ocean Park.

Follow White Moon Bar by Hotel H2O on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on its offers.

Watch out for more foodie destinations that Manila Ocean Park will be launching soon!

Manila Ocean Park is located behind the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta along Roxas Boulevard, Ermita Manila. Book your tickets via Klook or visit its website.

To stay updated on its promos and offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: I attended food tastings held at these restaurants during my recent tours in Manila Ocean Park. Food items here were served at no cost to the attendees.

Check out my previous posts about Manila Ocean Park:

Manila Ocean Park's Francis Low — Profile: Manila Ocean Park’s Francis Low

Manila Ocean Park Reopening — 6 reasons to bring the fam to Manila Ocean Park

Summer fun with the barkada at Manila Ocean Park

Hey, hey, summer’s here!

And while the barkada might be raring to go out of town for some summer fun, the good news is that you won’t even need to leave the city.

Right here in Metro Manila is a place where friends can come together for a full day of fun: Manila Ocean Park!

As the country’s first world-class marine theme park and premiere educational entertainment destination, Manila Ocean Park boasts of attractions that will surely appeal to everyone in the barkada.

According to MOP’s EVP & COO Francis Low, the park’s attractions are designed to be educational, interactive and experiential. These design pillars sets Manila Ocean Park apart from similar establishments. With exhibits that visitors can not only look at but also interact with, the park helps create memorable moments for the guests as well as add to their knowledge.

Want to know what you and your pals can expect at Manila Ocean Park? Well, read on, then.

Oceanarium

This is home to 14,000 marine creatures across 277 species indigenous to the Philippines and Southeast Asia. With a 220-deg curved walkway tunnel with an amazing view of sea creatures swimming overhead, Oceanarium will give your barkada the feeling of being at the center of the ocean’s wonders, as well as lots of spectacular photos for your Instagram feed!

Trails to Antarctica

If the summer heat is getting to you, make a beeline for Trails to Antarctica where you can learn more about this mysterious frozen continent as well as its inhabitants. An example of these would be the Humboldt penguins, curious and highly sociable animals that you can interact with for some feeding, and of course, a photo opp for just Php650!

By the way, some of these cuties were hatched and raised right here in Manila Ocean Park, thanks to its very successful breeding program.

All-Star Bird Show back to back with a Sea Lion Show

Manila Ocean Park is also home to our feathered friends such as macaws, cuckatoos and birds of prey which display their intelligence and skills through stunts and tricks during the All-Star Bird Show.

Back-to-back with the bird show is the Sea Lion Show which showcases Manila Ocean Park’s South American sea lions which include Sandra, the sexiest female with all the suave moves; Icis, the prettiest among the females; Ira, the youngest and cutest; while Yeni, the smartest. The only thorn among the roses is Vincent, a big and beefy male sea lion who is also diligent with his training. These marine mammals display their skills through funny antics and entertaining skits during the show.

The All-Star Bird Show and Sea Lion Show are performed back-to-back at 12.30pm and 4.30pm on weekdays and at 12.30pm, 3pm and 4.30pm on weekends.

While the park’s aviary, The Birdhouse, is still closed, you can book your very own Bird Encounter and give your inner Disney Princess (or Prince!) free rein.

You can also get up close and personal with a sea lion through the Sea Lion Encounter. For Php3,500 per person, a group of at least five people can get an exclusive demonstration of a sea lion’s talents and intelligence through learned behavior such as giving you a kiss, jumping through hoops and performing a water ballet with you. Sea Lion Encounters are available only via reservations and is subject to availability.

Jellies Dancing Sea Fairies

Did you know that jellyfish are sometimes called the “dancing sea fairies?”

This moniker is no doubt due to their grace and transparent beauty as they glide below and on the ocean’s surface.

They are showcased in their element against a fascinating display of multi-media effects and soothing music in the Jellies Dancing Sea Fairies Exhibit.

World of Creepy Crawlies

Sure, they may be scary (and sort of icky) but they’re definitely interesting. These snakes, frogs, lizards, worms and insects all have their own beauty and seemingly amazing superpowers that drive their survival despite the harsh environments they inhabit. You and your pals can see them in a new light at the World of Creepy Crawlies.

Super Toy Collection

Got comic book fans in the barkada? Or those who idolize the Man of Steel?

Well, they can geek out at the largest collection of Superman toys and memorabilia at the Super Toy Collection. Your entire group can even immerse yourselves in memorable scenes from the Superman movies.

Christmas Village

Despite the feeling that we’re almost melting in the city because of the sweltering summer heat, we can still experience the chilly holiday season at the Christmas Village. You can all hang out with Santa Claus or check out the snowy gingerbread house; your sneak peek into a winter wonderland is right here.

All these exciting experiences and more are waiting for you and your buddies at Manila Ocean Park.

So get set to enjoy the summer fun right here by booking your tickets through its website now with these fantastic deals available until May 29, 2022:

Jolly Splash 6 (Php560, previously Php2,300): includes access to six attractions – Oceanarium, Trails to Antarctica, Christmas Village, World of Creepy Crawlies, Jellies Dancing Sea Fairies, and Super Toy Collection
Festive Wave 8 (Php680, previously Php3,300): includes access to six attractions – Oceanarium, Trails to Antarctica, Christmas Village, World of Creepy Crawlies, Jellies Dancing Sea Fairies, Super Toy Collection, Sea Lion Show and Bird Show

Manila Ocean Park is located behind the Quirino Grandstand, Luneta, Roxas Boulevard, Manila. You may also book your tickets via Klook.

For more news and updates on its attractions and offers, follow Manila Ocean Park on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about Manila Ocean Park:

Garden Dining at Home (White Moon Bar) — Garden Dining at Home

Lumina Homes extends Shopee Pay Piso Deals

The heat is spelling summertime, but it keeps on raining P100 discount vouchers at Lumina Homes’ ShopeePay Piso Deals!

Extended to April 30, 2022, Lumina’s favorite vouchers are still up for grabs for only P1 at no minimum spend. Use them for various Lumina Homes transactions nationwide, such as reservation fees, monthly down payment, in-house monthly amortizations, and whatnot.

The vouchers are valid up to 30 days after purchase, and can be availed of through ShopeePay Discount, Cashback Vouchers, or offline payment vouchers purchased in advance.

How to get your own discount vouchers?

Using your Shopee app, follow these easy steps to get your own discount voucher:

Tap the “ShopeePay Near Me” section;
Click the “See All” and look for Lumina Homes “Discount Voucher”;
Read the voucher product details and click “Buy Now”;
Using ShopeePay, click ”Pay Now” to get your Php1 voucher;
You can now use or view your Discount Vouchers in the “My Vouchers” wallet.

How to redeem your discount vouchers?

Follow these simple steps to get your discount vouchers for your Lumina Homes transactions:

Look for the general scanner from the homepage of Shopee’s App;
Scan the QR in the Lumina Office;
Enter the total amount to be paid in the transaction;
In the voucher section, choose the “Lumina Homes: Discount Voucher” or “Cashback Vouchers and click “Use” to apply the discount;
The payment details will show the voucher’s instructions and rewards earned;
Click “Pay Now”.

Lumina Homes has 50 developments in several key locations nationwide, and it won’t be hard to choose among sites: Rizal, Bulacan, Bataan, Zambales, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Pangasinan, La Union, Cagayan, Isabela, Cavite, Batangas, Laguna, Quezon, Albay, Sorsogon, Iloilo, Cebu, Negros Occidental, Agusan del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Bukidnon, Misamis Occidental, South Cotabato and Davao del Norte.

It’s so hot to go house tripping, though, so feel free to get a first feel via virtual tour. Because who says you can’t go “dream home-hopping” around the country in a single day? Visits to Lumina projects have never been this amazing!

For more information and announcements, follow Lumina Homes on Facebook or visit its official website.

THE BATMAN premieres April 18 first on HBO Go

The Warner Bros. Pictures global blockbuster, Matt Reeves’ The Batman, starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne premieres Monday, April 18 first on HBO GO.

Two years of stalking the streets as the Batman (Robert Pattinson), striking fear into the hearts of criminals, has led Bruce Wayne deep into the shadows of Gotham City. With only a few trusted allies – Alfred Pennyworth (Andy Serkis), Lt. James Gordon (Jeffrey Wright) – amongst the city’s corrupt network of officials and high-profile figures, the lone vigilante has established himself as the sole embodiment of vengeance amongst his fellow citizens.

When a killer targets Gotham’s elite with a series of sadistic machinations, a trail of cryptic clues sends the World’s Greatest Detective on an investigation into the underworld, where he encounters such characters as Selina Kyle/aka Catwoman (Zoë Kravitz), Oswald Cobblepot/aka the Penguin (Colin Farrell), Carmine Falcone (John Turturro), and Edward Nashton/aka the Riddler (Paul Dano). As the evidence begins to lead closer to home and the scale of the perpetrator’s plans becomes clear, Batman must forge new relationships, unmask the culprit, and bring justice to the abuse of power and corruption that has long plagued Gotham City.

Starring alongside Pattinson (Tenet, The Lighthouse) as Gotham’s famous and infamous cast of characters are Zoë Kravitz (Big Little Lies, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald) as Selina Kyle; Paul Dano (Love & Mercy, 12 Years a Slave) as Edward Nashton; Jeffrey Wright (No Time to Die, Westworld) as the GCPD’s James Gordon; John Turturro (the Transformers films, The Plot Against America) as Carmine Falcone; Peter Sarsgaard (The Magnificent Seven, Interrogation) as Gotham D.A. Gil Colson; Jayme Lawson (Farewell Amor) as mayoral candidate Bella Reál; with Andy Serkis (the Planet of the Apes films, Black Panther) as Alfred; and Colin Farrell (The Gentlemen, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them) as Oz, aka The Penguin.

Reeves (The Planet of the Apes franchise) directed from a screenplay by himself and Peter Craig, based on characters from DC. Batman was created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger. Dylan Clark (the Planet of the Apes films) and Reeves produced the film, with Michael E. Uslan, Walter Hamada, Chantal Nong Vo and Simon Emanuel serving as executive producers.

The director’s behind-the-scenes creative team included Academy Award®-winning director of photography Greig Fraser (Dune, Lion); Reeves’ Planet of the Apes production designer, James Chinlund, and editor, William Hoy; editor Tyler Nelson (Rememory); and Oscar®-winning costume designer Jacqueline Durran (1917, Little Women, Anna Karenina). The music is by Academy Award -winning composer Michael Giacchino (the current Spider-Man, Jurassic World, Star Wars films, Up).

HBO Original Series as well as live channels are also available for streaming to SKYcable subscribers on HBO GO for as low as Php99/month.

SKYcable subscribers can activate HBO GO via Lazada

CLICK HERE

Not yet on SKYcable? Subscribe now. Get your priority pass.

CLICK HERE

Details, video and images provided by HBO in a recent press release.

Visita Iglesia and Easter Activity at The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel revives pre-pandemic traditions in observance of Lent and to celebrate Easter. With an array of activities for its staycation, dining, and walk-in guests, and even those staying at home, the iconic hotel gives city folk and those who prefer to stay in Metro Manila options for the coming week.

Visita Iglesia 2022

Lenten tradition of Visita Iglesia is a time to commemorate and solemnly celebrate Christ’s passion in prayer and sacrifice. With a stay at the hotel on April 13 and 14, 2022 for a minimum deluxe room rate of only P7,000 nett and suite room rate of only P10,000 nett, guests can register 2 adults and 2 children 12 years old and below to join the Visita Iglesia tour. Walk-in rate for adults is P1,500 nett and 50% off on walk-in rate for children 5 to 12 years old.

Stopping at seven churches, namely Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Pope Pius XII Church, St. Pancratius Church, Malate Catholic Church and the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Guidance, the tour includes round-trip shuttle service, in-vehicle guides, bottled water, and a scheduled snack stop at Marcelino Street Café at The Manila Prince Hotel.

Registration for the Visita Iglesia guided tour is coursed through the hotel’s Front Desk/Reception upon room booking or for walk-in guests. For inquiries and reservation please call 85270011 or email resvn@themanilahotel.com.

A Bear-y Happy Easter

The popular Easter Egg Hunt is back this year. The Manila Hotel’s in-house guests and those having Easter lunch at Café Ilang-Ilang can register their kids 12 years old and below for the hotel’s Easter activity at the Fiesta Pavilion on April 17, 2022.

Let your kids complete the activities listed in our “A Bear-y Happy Easter” Kiddie Passport on this super fun Easter quest. Let them experience the thrill of finding Easter Eggs at our play area, and even win exciting prizes from the eggs find! Let them join activities like Arts & Crafts, Groovebeats Kiddie Dance workshop, and kiddie ballet; and watch a magic show. The whole family can also get one photo for free at our Family Easter Photo Booth.

To join our Easter Kid Activities, every P5,000 worth of single receipt food bill in Café Ilang-Ilang on Easter Sunday lunch entitles a guest to one (1) complimentary pass (good for one kid with one adult). Additional kid walk-in rate is at P1,500 nett (for one kid with one adult). Discounts are not applicable to the walk-in rate.

For a room bundled with 2 complimentary passes (1 child and 1 adult each pass) to the Easter event, rates start at only P6,000 nett for a deluxe room, which accommodates 2 adults and 2 children ages 12 and below. Overnight package is inclusive of buffet breakfast (for two adults), use of swimming pool and gym facilities.

The Manila Hotel’s A Bear-y Happy Easter event is co-presented by Little Georgia Academy with Kinder City. Participating major sponsors are Make Believe Productions, Wonder Lab, Royal Artisans, Baby Fourth’s Couture, Star Baby Toy Store, Rhyme Lab Learning Center, S’mores Kit PH and Museo Pambata. Minor sponsors are Absolute Sales, DBE Fruits Trading (distributor of DOLE Fruits), ESV International Corporation, Globalinens Worldwide, Inc., RGL33 Fruits & Vegetable Dealer, SLC Agri Farm Ventures, Inc., Trisha’s Cakes and Pastries, and Werdenberg International.

For more information and reservation, please call 85270011 or email resvn@themanilahotel.com for room bookings, and restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com for dining reservations.

Healthy Lent and Iftar Meals

Stick to your fast with our special Lent and Iftar (feast after Ramadan) from The Manila Hotel’s M Takeout.

New to our rice and pasta bowl menu: the Vegan-friendly Halal Buddha Rice Bowl [Roasted Cauliflower, Potato with Indian Spices, Vegetable Pakora, Yellow Dhal]; the Svaadist Rice Bowl [Chicken Tikka Masala, and Vegetable Pakora]; the Fish Katsu Curry Rice Bowl [Breaded tilapia fillet, curry sauce, and sesame sauteed beans]; and Vincolo Pasta Bowl [Spaghetti Tuna Bolognese, Zucchini Parmesan Garlic Bread], all at P190 nett. There’s also the Healthy Tofu Rice Bowl [Tofu-mushroom-carrot salpicao, and ginataang kalabasa at sitaw] at only P175 nett.

The Lenten Specials also include new Solo Meals: Nabati (Vegan)[Okra Masala, Vegetable Pakora, Roasted Cauliflower and Potato with Indian Spices, Vegetable Biryani and Dhal at P330 nett]; Jamila [Aloo Tikki/Potato Cutlet, Chicken Tikka Masala, Garlic Mustard Fish Fillet at P430 nett]; Primavera [Tuna-Cannellini Bean Potato Salad, Parmesan-Garlic Baked Tilapia Fillet, Roasted Cherry Tomato-Basil Fusilli Pasta, Mini Calzone, Italian Orange Cake at P430 nett]; Tagsibol [Ensaladang Talong, Baked Pampano Steak, Adlai, Mushroom Salpicao, Pancit Bihon with Tofu and Vegetables, and Empanada with Heart of Palm and Shrimp at P430]; and Haru [Maki Sushi, Tamagoyaki, Green Bean Gomaae, Saba-O Teppanyaki and Furikake Rice at P340 nett].

Our Lenten and Iftar Specials are available until May 31, 2022. Check out our Lenten Specials and place your order by visiting our website at https://www.themanila-hotel.com.ph/takeout/. You may also call our hotline at 85270011 or 0998-9501912.

Photo credit: Header image by Mara Rivera on Unsplash

Pasalubong from the “Home of the Original Cheesebread” – LA Bakeshop in Pampanga

One of the highlights of the Pampanga Food Crawl that I joined with my fellow foodies is our stop at LA Bakeshop for my first taste of its cheesebread.

This bakery-slash-cafe has been baking this singular artisanal pastry since 1985, further solidifying the Kapampangan’s reputation for culinary ingenuity.

After several lambings, my boss took advantage of one of her trips home to Pampanga to bring me a welcome pasalubong: a box of cheesebread and Spanish bread from LA Bakeshop.

One bite of LA Bakeshop’s famous cheesebread will surely have you craving for more. When served while still warm from the oven, its sweet milky scent will get you salivating. Its cheesy crust gives way to soft and milky bread underneath. It’s best enjoyed when paired with hot coffee or chocolate for breakfast or merienda.

LA Bakeshop’s Spanish bread, on the other hand, is soft with a buttery sugar filling. It has been a merienda favorite since childhood.

The fam and I enjoyed this box of goodies for our afternoon snack or post-dinner dessert!

LA Bakeshop’s cheesebreads sell for Php7 apiece or Php210 for a box of thirty pieces, while its Spanish bread sells of Php9 apiece or Php270 for a box of thirty pieces. The best deal is to get a box of fifteen cheesebread pieces and fifteen Spanish bread pieces for Php240.

LA Bakeshop also sells classic breads such as pan de sal, pandesitos, pesto sticks, ensaymadas and ensaymadas.

Its branches are located at:

Main Branch/San Fernando: 318 Abad Santos Street, Sto. Rosario, City of San Fernando, Pampanga
Dolores Branch: McArthur Highway, Dolores, City of San Fernando, Pampanga
Saguin Branch: Unit 7 AP Building, McArthur Highway, Dolores, City of San Fernando, Pampanga
Sto. Rosario Angeles Branch: 792 Sto. Rosario Street, Angeles City, Pampanga
Balibago Branch: 1 Sandico Building, McArthur Highway, Angeles City, Pampanga

For more news and updates on LA Bakeshop, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Profile: Manila Ocean Park’s Francis Low

At 8.30 am on Saturday, April 9, while many top executives would be enjoying a leisurely start to their holiday weekend, Francis Low, Manila Ocean Park’s EVP and COO, was already with his team of animal trainers and park staff, getting ready for the day’s activities. After all, weekends are the busiest days for the country’s first world-class marine theme park and premiere educational entertainment destination.

Animal lover

It’s hardly surprising that Low would be hands-on when it comes to park operations, especially animal training and handling, being a certified professional animal trainer himself.

In fact, before eventually taking on the leadership role in Manila Ocean Park, he was first hired as a consultant by the holding company, China Oceanis Philippines, Inc., to conceptualize and set up its Birds of Prey Exhibit and All-Star Bird Show in a bid to expand the park’s attractions.

When he started to helm the MOP team, he set about designing the park experience in a way that encourages the same love for animals that he and his team have.

“We designed our attractions in line with three key pillars,” he reveals. “They have to be educational, interactive and experiential.”

With today’s more well-traveled and knowledgeable market for entertainment facilities such as theme parks, Low feels that these pillars help to differentiate Manila Ocean Park from similar establishments. “We try to give park visitors experiences that they can only have here, so they have something to bring home and tell others about.”

One such attraction is the Sea Lion Encounter. While there are similar sea lion shows in other countries, Manila Ocean Park enables guests to interact with its highly trained sea lions as they perform stunts or exhibit their skills. “When guests get up close and personal with the sea lions, they realize they aren’t scary and can be quite fun. These are moments… memories that they will remember for a long time.”

Advocates conservation awareness

Manila Ocean Park’s attractions are also geared to promote animal conservation.

“In the Philippines, conservation awareness is very high,” Low observes. “People’s efforts in saving certain species, protecting marine life and saving the trees, some with the help of LGUs and international organizations, are very noticeable.”

He also notes that since conservation is not a one-off thing but requires continuous effort and resources over many years before results can be seen, a lot of people may not choose to commit to it. “What is important is to make people understand that conservation has long-term benefits for many generations down the line.”

MOP Bamboo Sharks — Photo credit: manilaoceanpark.com

MOP Bamboo Sharks 2 — Photo credit: manilaoceanpark.com

One of the park’s conservation activities is its “Back to the Wild” program wherein juvenile white-spotted bamboo sharks are bred and raised safely in the park’s facilities, and then released back to the coasts in cooperation with government agencies such as the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, National Fisheries Research and Development Institute, and local government units.

“With the help of NGOs, we scope out areas and ensure that these are ideal for the bambo sharks to thrive, then we release them. We also tagged them to see how they are faring. We hope to hold another releasing this year.” shares Low.

Leads with heart

Low’s first few months after he took over the management of Manila Ocean Park in 2011 was all about getting a feel for the local culture. He shares, “I did not do a lot major changes. I blended in: I tried to understand Filipinos, Filipino culture and the way things are done here. By understanding these, it’s easier to put in certain ideas to my team and get them to support the strategies.”

He is proud of the park’s employees and the concern they demonstrated for the park and its animal charges during the height of the pandemic when the park was closed down and he was away in his home country of Singapore. “There was a time when two of the sea lions got sick but we couldn’t get medicine because all the pharmacies are closed. It was a very scary moment for us. I’m so glad that staff proved to be very caring: they went to the canals, sat beside the sea lions to coax them to eat. Because of their care, the two sea lions recovered.”

This care extended throughout the time when the park was closed down due to the community quarantine, but the trainers and staff simulated shows, despite the absence of audiences, so as not to stress the animals from the break from their routine.

He even boasts of how Manila Ocean Park’s security guards expanded their role beyond ensuring safety within the park by familiarizing themselves with the park’s various packages and pricing so that they can recommend attractions to the park visitors.

“I consider myself blessed that I have key leaders and key staff who go all out to make very good experiences for the guests, care for the park and the animals. These are things that money can not buy.”

By 6pm, activities within the park wind down but Mr. Low and his team are still seen up and about, assisting guests or overseeing operations. This routine plays out for six days every week as the park slowly but surely reopens attractions and dining establishments to cater to the public who are ready for new experiences after a long time spent indoors during quarantine.

Manila Ocean Park is located within Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila, open from 10am to 6pm, Tuesdays to Sundays (even during Public Holidays). For more details about the park or to book your tickets, visit its website. You may also book your tickets via Klook.

Check out my previous posts about Manila Ocean Park: