Exploring grocery and self-care shopping possibilities at Mitsukoshi BGC

‘Tis definitely the season for shopping as Mitsukoshi, the country’s first Japanese mall, finally opened its doors last November 18.

Located in one of the metro’s busiest commercial districts, the four-storey mall offers a much-welcome change of scenery for the people who frequent Bonifacio Global City for work and leisure.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

Aside from its distinct Japanese design that melds together traditional and modern sensibilities, this new retail destination also features distinct areas dedicated to worthwhile pursuits for its shoppers and visitors:

  • Fresh produce and imported delicacies in Mitsukoshi’s own-brand supermarket at the basement
  • A self-care and beauty section highlighting natural and organic products at the ground floor
  • Appetizing Japanese and international dining options at the second floor
  • And soon, exciting Japanese entertainment and leisure outlets geared towards wellness and enjoyment at the third floor
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

The mall truly offers a myriad of possibilities to delight any shopper. However, I’d like to fill you in on the first two floors of Mitsukoshi, where its in-house outlets are located.

Check these out!

Mitsukoshi Beauty

Mitsukoshi Beauty, located in the ground floor, seeks to provide the essentials that will help you beauty mavens unleash your inner radiance in time for that holiday glow-up.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

With a wide selection of cosmetics, self-care and wellness products, this new shopping destination is not about changing one’s looks but letting one’s inner glow shine through.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

Here, you can indulge yourself with natural and organic products and learn from beauty experts on how to enhance and show off your best features.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

For a well-curated selection of Japanese beauty and self-care products, be sure to drop by the The Apothecary.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

Here, you can discover and take your picks from among celebrated Japanese brands, some of which can only be found at Mitsukoshi Beauty.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Sunao. A Kyoto-born skincare brand that uses fine-quality natural materials for products that are easy to integrate into one’s daily life.
Mitsukoshi, BGC
E-Standard. Based on the concept of treating haircare like skincare, E-Standard boasts of hair care products that are not just good for hair, but also for skin and natural environments.
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Product. A professional-grade haircare and styling line made with naturally derived ingredients, easy to use and with a gentle feel.
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Waphyto. Created by Japan’s leading expert in physiotherapy and natural cosmetics – Atsuko Morita – this brand was developed from the ground-breaking research on plants to support a healthy a beautiful lifestyle.
Mitsukoshi, BGC
La Casta. A salon-quality haircare range created with natural aroma and botanical ingredients as well as natural water from Japan’s alps.
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Vintorte. This Kyoto-based mineral-based make-up selection is an answered prayer for many people with sensitive skin.
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Pubicare. This brand specializes in feminine care products made with natural and organic ingredients.
Mitsukoshi, BGC
BDA Organic. The first brand in Japan to be certified by ACO – the world’s strictest organic certification – it is committed to manufacturing organic and gentle skincare products.
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Made of Organics. Focusing on products that are easily absorbed by the skin, this brand prides itself on being truly safe to use for everyone in the family.
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Sholayered. This brand is founded on the art of discovering simplicity through scents. Its fragrances may be worn on their own or layered with others to create one’s own signature scent.
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Sphere. A skin care brand inspired by the sea with products made from natural sea salt which is rich in minerals and has the similar composition to human skin.

So go ahead and discover your natural beauty and inner shine at Mitsukoshi Beauty.

For the latest updates on Mitsukoshi Beauty’s products and offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Mitsukoshi Fresh

The mall’s basement is reminiscent of a depachika – a Japanese food hall dedicated to representing the best of Japan’s food culture. It is connected to the mall’s supermarket brand, Mitsukoshi Fresh, which brings a multi-sensory shopping experience to its shoppers, thanks to its carefully curated food products sourced from all over the world, as well as its attractive and interactive displays.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

Here, you can take your pick from the fresh produce, meat and seafood available to bring about your own culinary creations.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

Want to bring a Japanese dining experience to your home? Be sure to check out its sushi, sashimi and dumpling selections.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

Holiday celebrations are sure to be lively and fun, especially with the wide selection of wines, liquors and beverages available here. You can even sample wines by the glass at the wine counter.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

Got a sweet tooth? Don’t miss out on the freshly made as well as imported Japanese dessert delicacies on offer, especially the much-awaited Tokyo Banana custard.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

Of course, Japan is well-known for packaged food that are anything but generic: these include anything from delectable ramen to flavorful rice bowls and ready-to-cook soups and pastas.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

By the way, Mitsukoshi Fresh also spotlights notable local artisanal brands such as Gourmet Farms and Auro Chocolate.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

If you want to level up on your home cooking with a few Japanese touches and international flair, Mitsukoshi Fresh is the place to be.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

You can even give in to your food cravings while inside the supermarket, thanks to its in-store dining and takeout outlets.

Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC
Mitsukoshi, BGC

Know more about Mitsukoshi Fresh’ offers on Facebook and Instagram.

Want to earn points, get rewards and cool coupons with your purchases at Mitsukoshi? Sign up for Arigato Rewards!

Mitsukoshi BGC is located at The Seasons Residences, 8th Avenue corner 36th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Mall hours are from 10am to 11pm daily.

Grab exclusive and awesome deals from vivo E-store this during the week-long Black Friday Sale!

Traditionally, Black Friday marks the start of the Christmas season. Many stores offer highly promoted products at discounted prices and vivo Philippines is one of them!

Now is the perfect time to get the best deals from vivo as the brand is offering up to 40% discount to select products. Consumers also get a chance to win exciting freebies such as sim cards, premium tumblers, wireless earbuds, BT neckband and two-in-one (2-n-1) clock speakers if you purchase vivo V25 series, Y35, Y16, and Y22s. The promotion will officially kick off on November 23 until November 30, 2022 via vivo E-comm store.

vivo Black Friday Sale

vivo Philippines also offers more payment terms for Filipinos to enjoy – consumers can also enjoy affordable installment payment through Billease with 0% interest for up to six (6) months and with up to 34% of down payment only from November 21 until November 30.

For the list of participating smartphones on vivo’s Black Friday Sale deals, refer to the details below:

ModelDiscountFreebies
Y01PHP 100 OFF SIM CARD + Premium Tumbler
Y02sPHP200 OFFSIM CARD + FOOMEE QA05
Y15sPHP300 OFFSIM CARD + Premium Tumbler
Y15APHP200 OFFSIM CARD + Premium Tumbler
Y16 4+64GBPHP40 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
Y16 4+128GBPHP40 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
Y22s 4+128GBPHP200 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
Y22s 8+128GBPHP200 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
Y21TPHP200 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
Y33sPHP1000 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
Y35PHP200 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
Y73PHP200 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
Y76 5GPHP200 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
T1xPHP100 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
T1PHP300 OFFSIM CARD + 2in1 Clock Speaker
V23ePHP1000 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
V23 5GPHP300 OFFSIM CARD + 2in1 Clock Speaker + vivo backpack
V25ePHP200 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones
V25PHP300 OFFSIM CARD + Earphones + BT Neckband
V25 ProPHP200 OFFPHP200 OFF

A vivo Smartphone for every person in the family

Begin this black friday festivities, with a gift for yourself or if you know someone who’s into fashion and photography, the Night Portrait Masters, the vivo V25 series, should be your top choice in this big sale! The flagship vivo V25 series is equipped with leading camera technology that can shoot your chic OOTDs and can capture breath-taking views. No worries for day and night memories since you’re accompanied by its Night Camera Mode feature. This includes 64MP OIS Ultra-Sensing Camera, 50MP Eye AF Selfie Camera on the vivo V25, 32MP Eye AF Selfie Camera on the vivo V25 Pro. Don’t limit yourself in maximizing all these camera features since its also packed with +256 storage! Other than the cameras, its notable Photochromic 2.0, color-changing design, in Surfing Blue for vivo V25 Pro and Sunrise Gold for vivo V25 and vivo V25e are eye-catching enough to make you stand out from the crowd.

vivo Black Friday Sale

If there is someone in the family who likes taking selfies and photos during Christmas, it is probably everyone’s sister. With vivo Y35’s 50MP rear camera and 16MP HD Front Camera, no doubt that she’ll be able to capture moments in clear detail. The vivo Y35 also has several camera features that everyone can try – from activating bokeh effect so you get the subject in focus, macro mode to capture tiny details and multi-style portrait to show how pretty your makeup is during Christmas, you name it!

The vivo Y35 boasts massive 16GB Dynamic RAM and is equipped with 5000mAh battery and 44W Fast Charging technology so you won’t have to worry about your storage and battery needs.

vivo Black Friday Sale

In any case, you’re looking for a perfect gift for your dad who’s always out-and-about to capture moments and to create meaningful connections, check vivo Y22s to max out the night! Its 50 MP Super Night Camera will make him not miss any single memory to reminisce. But more than its powerful camera, your dad will mostly enjoy its 16GB Dynamic RAM that makes him feel unstoppable to download as many apps, may it be his favorite crossword puzzle apps up to his Youtube video downloads!

And don’t let your little brother or sister miss out in this round of vivo gift giving fun! vivo Y16 is just the best smartphone to let them enjoy learning and entertainment all at the same time. Memory is literally priceless with its massive 128GB ROM and of course, a trendy design!

Finish your Christmas shopping for every person in your list by checking out these vivo devices from November 23 until November 30 via vivo E-store!

For more information and the latest news on vivo Philippines’ promotions, events, and other announcements, visit vivo Philippines’ official Facebook page or website. You may also subscribe to vivo Philippines’ newest online store on Viber to stay updated on monthly promos and watch out for surprise voucher giveaways!

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

Fresh Thai beverage possibilities at Jelly G, Market! Market!

Now that the strict quarantines and strictures on going out are behind us, it’s time to treat ourselves to a little bit of adventure, isn’t it?

While our budgets may prohibit us from traveling overseas to experience different cultures and taste exotic flavors, we can always go on an exciting flavor adventure that’s a little closer to home.

One such adventure is delving into the wondrous varieties to enjoy Thai beverages at the Jelly G store in BGC’s Market! Market!

Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!

For instance, while Thai milk tea is not as ubiquities as its Taiwanese counterpart, it’s been a favorite among foodies for quite some time. Normally, this exotic drink can only be enjoyed in Thai restaurants, but Jelly G has been serving it up in various flavorful guises, along with other Thai beverages, since 2010.

The store takes pains to make its Thai milk tea as authentic as possible while still appealing to the Pinoy taste buds. Made with assam black tea – the variant with the boldest and more complex flavor – and enhanced with crushed anise and tamarind seeds, then sweetened with condensed milk – all imported from Thailand – Jelly G’s Thai signature drink is a welcome break from our usual thirst quenchers.

Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!

Enjoying your Thai milk tea also has the added bonus of being good for you:

  • It helps to reduce cancer risk as it’s made from black tea leaves which are rich in anti-oxidants
  • It helps in your blood circulation as consuming it expands your arteries
  • It helps in weight loss through its stimulating caffeine content

Specials

Cheesy Thai Milk Tea (Php165/Php195). The classic Thai milk tea is given a deliciously cheesy twist with the addition of cream cheese plus generous toppings of grass jelly and grated cheese.

Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!

Pink Sala Milk (Php135/Php155). Here’s another reason to drink milk: how about flavoring it with sala syrup and topping it with luscious coconut jelly for a refreshing boost of energy?

Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!

Chocolate

Chunky Oreo (Php120/Php160). Want a sweet dessert in a drink? Check out this concoction of chocolate milk topped with cream cheese and chunks of chocolate cookies.

Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!

Fruit Tea

Lychee Fruit Tea (Php95/Php115). Enjoy a healthy lychee flavored fruit tea topped with yummy strawberry poppers.

Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!

Thai Coffee

Prince Coffee (Php115/Php135). Freshly brewed Thai coffee made from imported arabica beans is mixed with condensed milk makes for quite a pick-me-up experience. Plus, you can enjoy this hot or cold!

Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!

Milo Cream Christmas

Milo Thai Milk Tea (Php145). Welcome the holidays with a blend of the exotic Thai milk tea given fresh twists that takes you back to your childhood: toppings of decadent cream cheese and gooey Milo!

Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!

By the Bottle

Want to get more of your favorite Jelly G drinks to enjoy at home or share with family and friends? You can get them freshly steeped by the bottle for Php300, in flavors that include Thai Milk Tea, Tamarind, Sala Milk and Hazelnut Coffee, among others.

Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!

Try your hand at whipping up new ways to enjoy your Thai drinks at home using these bottled drinks and your favorite ingredients!

As you can see, with the myriad possibilities in Thai beverages available at Jelly G, you can go on an exciting adventure without leaving the metro!

Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!
Jelly G, Market! Market!

Did you know you can party with friends on delicious drinks from Jelly G for just Php499? Take its Chakrii’s 5 offer and enjoy the following:

  • Cheesy Thai Milk Tea
  • Caramel Thai Coffee (Sugarfree)
  • Pink Sala Milk
  • Wintermelon Red Assam
  • Lychee Fruit Tea

This Jelly G branch is located at the Third Floor of Market! Market!, 26th Street corner C5, Bonifacio Global City Taguig. Other branches are located at:

  • Cinema Level, Fifth Floor, Ayala Malls Feliz, Dela Paz, Pasig City
  • Ground Floor, UP Town Center, Katipunan Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City

Jelly G also delivers via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

To know more about Jelly G’s products and promos, follow it on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.

Check out my other posts about Jelly G:

Designing a living room for socializing: Creating the perfect conversation space for the holidays

The holiday season is a time for gathering with family and friends, sharing stories, and creating memories. However, the challenge for many hosts is how to make their living room a space that promotes conversation and connection.

Creating a conversation hub is an art that can take some thoughtful planning and preparation. Fortunately, with a few simple tips, you can turn your living room into the perfect gathering spot that fosters meaningful conversations and creates lasting memories.

Crate & Barrel Living Room
Crate & Barrel Living Room
Crate & Barrel Living Room
Crate & Barrel Living Room
  • Arrange your furniture in a way that encourages conversation. Consider grouping seating together in a circular or semi-circular arrangement to promote face-to-face interaction. Place chairs and sofas close enough together so that people can comfortably talk to each other without shouting or straining to hear.
  • Add cozy elements to create a welcoming atmosphere. Adding warm, soft textiles like throw blankets and pillows can make your living room feel cozy and inviting. You can also incorporate warm lighting by using candles or dimming your overhead lights.
  • Create a focal point. Adding a focal point like a statement piece of art, a fireplace or a large Christmas tree can draw people’s attention to the center of the room, creating a natural gathering point.
  • Provide snacks and drinks. Having snacks and drinks on hand can help break the ice and give people something to do with their hands while they chat. Arrange a variety of easy-to-grab finger foods, like a cheese platter, veggie tray or festive holiday cookies, along with a selection of drinks that can include hot cocoa, mulled wine or a festive punch.
Crate & Barrel Living Room
Crate & Barrel Living Room
Crate & Barrel Living Room
Crate & Barrel Living Room
  • Incorporate interactive activities. Games or activities can help break the ice and get people talking. You can set up a board game, a puzzle or even a DIY craft station for guests to work on together.
  • Encourage conversation starters. If you’re worried that your guests might be shy or hesitant to start conversations, consider having conversation starters placed around the room, like a jar filled with prompts or question cards. This can help get people talking and can also make for a fun icebreaker activity.
  • Set the mood with music. Playing music in the background can help create a festive and welcoming atmosphere. Consider creating a holiday playlist or choosing a radio station that plays holiday tunes to keep the mood upbeat and festive.
  • Make your guests feel comfortable. Lastly, making your guests feel comfortable and at ease is key to creating a great conversation hub. Consider providing extra seating options like floor cushions or ottomans and make sure there are plenty of blankets and pillows for guests to use. Also, don’t forget to greet your guests with a warm smile and introduce them to others in the room to help break the ice.

Transforming your living room into a conversation hub for the holidays can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these simple tips, you can create an inviting atmosphere that encourages meaningful conversations and fosters lasting memories. Remember to be thoughtful in your planning and to pay attention to the small details that can make all the difference in creating a warm and welcoming environment.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a space where guests feel comfortable and at ease, where they can connect with each other and share stories and laughter. With a little bit of effort and creativity, you can turn your living room into the perfect gathering spot that brings people together and creates a sense of community. So, start planning and get ready to create a conversation hub that will leave your guests feeling welcomed, happy, and fulfilled this holiday season.

Crate & Barrel Living Room
Crate & Barrel Living Room
Crate & Barrel Living Room
Crate & Barrel Living Room

If you’re fixing up your living room for the holidays, check out and get inspired by the awesome selections at Crate & Barrel.

This US-based retail chain specializing in upmarket and artisanal housewares, indoor and outdoor furniture and home accessories has presence in forty-two countries across the globe.

In the Philippines, its stores are located at:

  • Level 3, SM Aura Premier, 26th Street corner McKinley Parkway, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Landline: +63 2 88934255| Mobile: +63 917 8895667
  • Ground Level, Annex Building, SM Makati, Courtyard Drive, San Lorenzo Village, Makati City. Landline: +63 2 88342780 | Mobile: +63 917 5833573
  • 4th Level, SM Megamall Fashion Hall Building D, Wack-Wack Greenhills, Mandaluyong City. Landline: +63 2 89420761 | Mobile: +63 917 8704796

Shop online for Crate & Barrel products through its website and stay updated on its products and offers by following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Photos taken during a 2022 store visit at Crate & Barrel’s SM Megamall branch.

Start your early Noche Buena shopping with The Marketplace PISO SALE


The Marketplace PISO SALE, exclusively via MetroMart will run this weekend on November 18-21, 2022. Select items can be purchased for only ₱1.00 when you order and get it delivered via MetroMart across select branches of The Marketplace.

The Marketplace PISO SALE promo will have various items available for a limited time per day. These items include Del Monte Spaghetti Pack, UFC Spaghetti Party Pack, Ruffles Chips, and so much more.

MetroMart The Marketplace Piso Sale

Check out the products available for just ₱1.00:

Date and TimeProductSRP
Nov 18, 9am-2pmDel Monte Filipino Style Spaghetti Sauce + Del Monte Spaghetti 1 Pack₱138.75
Del Monte Gourmet Carbonara₱36.25
Nov 18, 3pm-8pmUFC Party Pack Spaghetti Supreme 1kg₱129.75
Fiesta Macaroni Salad Pasta 400g₱43.00
Nov 19, 9am-2pmRoyal 4 Cheese Spaghetti 1kg₱119.75
Devondale Full Cream Milk 1L₱104.25
Nov 19, 3pm-8pmArla Nat Emmenthal Slices 150g₱205.00
Nov 20, 9am-2pmFiesta Macaroni Salad Pasta 400g₱43.00
Arla Kid Cheese Sticks 18g x 6s₱135.00
Nov 20, 3pm-8pmSanicare KT Jumbo 2P 70 PLS 2s₱123.50
Zonrox Bleach ColorSafe 900mL₱70.75
Nov 21, 9am-2pmRuffles Cheddar Sour Cream 6.5oz₱174.75
Nov 21, 3pm-8pmCDO Premium Torikatsu 420g₱154.00
*Sale items are subject to availability across The Marketplace branches.

“Just as it can be exciting to seize great bargains, the MetroMart family are equally pleased to provide these to the customers in our successive PISO SALE events. Christmas is right around the corner, and we are gearing up to share even more discounts and promos for everyone. Stay tuned!” Stefano Fazzini, CEO and co-founder of MetroMart, said.

MetroMart The Marketplace Piso Sale

Promos from The Marketplace PISO SALE are applicable to both New and Existing Users of MetroMart. A minimum spend of ₱1,500 is required in order to avail the 1-peso sale items. Only completed checkout of orders within the sale period can avail the discounted items.

This PISO SALE is available in participating branches of The Marketplace via the MetroMart app and website, all over Metro Manila and key locations throughout the Philippines, including Baguio, Pangasinan, Batangas, Davao, Cavite, Cebu, Iloilo, and more. 

MetroMart The Marketplace Piso Sale

Are you new to MetroMart? Sign up for a MetroMart account here and enjoy Php200 grocery credit.

MetroMart is the #1 online grocery delivery service in the Philippines. Our grocery partners include  S&R (with or no membership card required), Robinsons Supermarket, Landmark, The Marketplace, Shopwise, All Day Supermarket, Merrymart, Super8 Grocery Warehouse, Ever Supermarket, UltraMega Supermarket, and over 500+ specialty store retailers like Pet Express, Baby Company, Toy Kingdom, Toys”R”Us, National Book Store, Office Warehouse, Southstar Drug and AllDay Rx. Customers can order from their favorite stores on the MetroMart app and have it delivered to their door in 2 hours! For more updates on MetroMart, like and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @metromartph.

MetroMart The Marketplace Piso Sale
MetroMart The Marketplace Piso Sale

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

The 2022 Winter Release: Introducing Airbnb Setup, the all-new easy way to Airbnb your home

 In May, Airbnb introduced Airbnb Categories so that millions of people could discover homes they never knew existed. Today, Airbnb is introducing Airbnb Setup to make it easy for millions of people to Airbnb their home. Airbnb is also providing even more AirCover for Hosts and adding six new Airbnb Categories. 

  • Introducing Airbnb Setup – The all-new, super easy way to Airbnb one’s home, with free one-to-one guidance from a Superhost.
  • Even more AirCover for Hosts – Now featuring even more top-to-bottom protection, with guest identity verification, reservation screening, and $3M damage protection, including coverage for cars, boats, art and valuables.
  • New Airbnb Categories –  Adding six new categories of homes, as well as improving the way Airbnb Categories are displayed.

“Airbnb was born during a recession. Joe and I couldn’t afford to pay our rent, so we inflated three air mattresses and created an AirBed & Breakfast. Soon, people all around the world joined us,” said Brian Chesky, CEO and Co-Founder of Airbnb. “Today, just like during the Great Recession in 2008, people are especially interested in earning extra income through hosting. That’s why we’re introducing an easy way for millions of people to Airbnb their homes. With Airbnb Setup, every new Host can get free, one-to-one guidance from a Superhost from their first question through their first reservation. And with even more AirCover for Hosts, now is the perfect time to put your place on Airbnb.”

Airbnb 2022 Winter Release
Brian Chesky for Airbnb

New homes on Airbnb are getting booked almost immediately. Half of listings that were activated and booked in Q3 2022 received their first reservation within three days. Airbnb also saw  strong growth rates of new Hosts, especially in certain countries with high inflation rates. 

Introducing Airbnb Setup

Over the past year, more than 30 million people have visited Airbnb to learn about hosting. Today, Airbnb is making it easier for millions of people to get started. Introducing Airbnb Setup, the all-new, super easy way to Airbnb one’s home. Airbnb Setup includes:

  • One-to-one guidance from a Superhost – When a host begins Airbnb Setup, Airbnb will match them with a Superhost for free one-to-one guidance from their  first question through their  first guest. New Hosts can chat with their  Superhost over audio, video, or messaging. Airbnb is launching with 1,500 Superhosts in over 80 countries who are dedicated to helping new Hosts get started. 
  • An experienced guest for your first booking – For a new Host’s first booking, they  can choose to welcome an experienced guest who has at least three stays and a good track record on Airbnb.
  • Specialized support from Airbnb – As a new Host, they  get one-tap access to a specially-trained team of Community Support agents. They can help with everything from account issues to getting paid and are available via phone, messaging, or email in over 42 languages.

Even more AirCover for Hosts

Last November, Airbnb  introduced AirCover to provide unmatched, top-to-bottom protection for every Host on Airbnb. Today, Airbnb is making major upgrades to AirCover for Hosts:

AirCover for Hosts - 2022 Winter Release
Airbnb Setup Match with a Superhost - 2022 Winter Release
  • Guest identity verification – Airbnb is expanding identity verification to all booking guests traveling to the top 35 countries and regions on Airbnb—representing 90% of all reservations. Airbnb will expand guest identity verification worldwide in Spring 2023.
  • Reservation screening technology – Airbnb is launching its  proprietary reservation screening technology in the US and Canada, which helps reduce the chance of disruptive parties. Airbnb will expand its reservation screening technology worldwide in Spring 2023.
  • $3M damage protection Airbnb is tripling damage protection from $1 million to $3 million – covering both Hosts’ homes and its contents. 
  • Auto & boat protection Airbnb  now provides damage protection for cars, boats, and other watercraft that Hosts park or store at their properties. 
  • Art & valuables protection A wider range of fine art, jewelry, and collectibles will now be repaired or replaced at appraised value.
  • Easier to file a claim Hosts can now file a claim for damage protection in a few simple steps and easily track its progress from submission through payout.

New Airbnb Categories

In May, Airbnb introduced a new way to search designed around Airbnb Categories. Today, Airbnb is introducing six new categories:

Listing Highlights - Adapted Top of the World and Play Category - 2022 Winter Release
New Categories - Adapted - Canada - 2022 Winter Release
  • New – Homes added to Airbnb within the past 10 weeks.
  • Top of the world – Homes around 10,000 feet above sea level, often with stunning views.
  • Trending – Highly-rated homes that received more listing views compared to the previous week.
  • Adapted – Homes adapted for wheelchair access, with verified step-free paths into the home, bedroom and bathroom.
  • Play Homes with basketball courts, game rooms, miniature golf, water slides and more.
  • Hanoks – Traditional Korean homes constructed of natural materials.

Airbnb is  also improving what categories it shows guests. For example, when you launch the app, you’ll find the Vineyards category if you recently searched for homes in Napa. In addition, more details will be presented in search results when viewing categories. For example, homes with amazing views will list the type of view, and homes near national parks will show the distance to the park entrance.

New Categories - Top of the World and Hanoks - 2022 Winter Release
New Categories - Top of the World listing - 2022 Winter Release

Worldwide rollout starting today

Airbnb Setup, upgrades to AirCover for Hosts, and new Airbnb Categories will begin rolling out worldwide this week.

About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to 4 million Hosts who have welcomed more than 1 billion guest arrivals across over 220 countries and regions. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and one-of-a-kind activities that make it possible for guests to experience the world in a more authentic, connected way. As the only platform offering hosted travel and the ability to live anywhere on a global scale, Airbnb has become a noun and a verb and most traffic to our platform remains organic. We will continue to invest in innovations that expand the travel market and lead the way in turning travel into a way of life.

MetroMart offers multiple ₱1 deals in 11.11 MEGA PISO SALE

MetroMart, the no.1 on-demand online grocery delivery platform, provides multiple PISO SALES with leading supermarket partners, discount sales, and FREE Delivery in the 11.11 Mega PISO SALE this November 11-15, 2022 

The 11.11 Mega PISO SALE, will feature items that can be purchased for only ₱1.00 when you order and get it delivered via MetroMart across select branches of S&R, Robinsons Supermarket, The Marketplace, Landmark, Robinsons Easymart, Shopwise, Ever Supermarket, UltraMega and No Brand. All products are available for ₱1.00 only through the entire promo duration of November 11-15.

MetroMart

Check out the products available for just ₱1.00:

SupermarketProductSRP
S&RSPAM Luncheon Meat 25% Less Sodium₱228.00
Robinsons SupermarketSelecta Fortified Milk 1LX2pcs₱150.50
The MarketplaceCDO Hamon de Bola 850G₱313.00
LandmarkDelimondo Ranch Style Corned Beef 380g₱174.00
Robinsons EasymartGardenia Classic White Bread Regular Slice 600g₱79.00
ShopwiseRuffles Original Potato Chips 6.5oz₱168.50
Ever SupermarketPurefoods Corned Beef₱174.25
No BrandNo Brand JJAJANG RAMEN 135GX5₱193.50
UltraMegaWhite King Fiesta Filipino Spaghettipid Pack₱124.80
*Sale items are subject to availability across participating supermarket branches. 

The 11.11 Mega PISO SALE promo is applicable to New and Existing Users of MetroMart. A minimum spend per transaction is required in order to avail the 1-peso sale items, varying per supermarket or specialty store. Only completed checkout of orders within the sale period can avail the discounted items.

Here are even more discount deals for the double digit weekend sale! Customers can avail various discounts and promos for their orders during MetroMart’s 11.11 Mega PISO SALE on November 11-15, 2022.

  • Get discounts up to 70% off on premium items like home and kitchen appliances, storage solutions, pet care and more from partner specialty stores like Handyman and Pet Lovers Centre
  • Get lots of Buy 1, Get 1 deals on beauty products, pantry food items, and even ice cream from supermarket partners Robinsons Supermarket, Shopwise, No Brand, Shopwise, The Marketplace and more
  • Use code: 1111SALE to get ₱111 off on orders with a minimum spend of ₱3,500. Valid across all stores, and applicable up to 2x Use for ALL USERS
  • Use code: HOLIDAYSALE and get FREE Delivery on grocery orders with a minimum spend of ₱1,011. Valid across all stores, and applicable up to 4x use for NEW USERS. 
MetroMart

“MetroMart’s mission to provide fellow Pinoys with great deals continues through this 11.11 Mega PISO SALE weekend. As we provide affordable and convenient solutions to everyone through our online grocery shopping platform, we can enjoy the Christmas season and celebrate the spirit of generosity and kindness, especially for the upcoming holidays. Watch out for so many more big treats and promos from MetroMart this holiday season.” Stefano Fazzini, CEO and co-founder of MetroMart, said.

MetroMart’s successive PISO SALES will continue towards the holidays, and next up is The Marketplace PISO SALE, exclusively via MetroMart this November 18-21.

All of these promos are available throughout the Philippines, wherever MetroMart has expanded its serviceable locations. The 11.11 Mega PISO SALE is available in participating branches of S&R, Robinsons Supermarket, The Marketplace, Landmark, Robinsons Easymart, Shopwise, Ever Supermarket, UltraMega and No Brand via the MetroMart app and website, all over Metro Manila and key locations throughout the Philippines, including Baguio, Pangasinan, Batangas, Davao, Cavite, Cebu, Iloilo, and more.

Are you new to MetroMart? Sign up for a MetroMart account here and enjoy Php200 grocery credit.

MetroMart is the #1 online grocery delivery service in the Philippines. Our grocery partners include  S&R (with or no membership card required), Robinsons Supermarket, Landmark, The Marketplace, Shopwise, All Day Supermarket, Merrymart, Super8 Grocery Warehouse, Ever Supermarket, UltraMega Supermarket, and over 500+ specialty store retailers like Pet Express, Baby Company, Toy Kingdom, Toys”R”Us, National Book Store, Office Warehouse, Southstar Drug and AllDay Rx. Customers can order from their favorite stores on the MetroMart app and have it delivered to their door in 2 hours! For more updates on MetroMart, like and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @metromartph.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

Scan on the Go With Portable Scanners

Scanners are one of the most important devices when it comes to transferring physical information to digital information. The value of a scanner depends upon the job that it is trying to accomplish and whether or not it was designed to handle that particular task. For instance, you wouldn’t use a scanner designed to process and replicate beautiful art and photography in an industrial setting that needs to process tens of thousands of scans in a given day. While the high-volume scanner will perform the task, it is not designed to replicate the nuance and color depth of a professional photo scanner.

What Is a Portable Scanner?

Portable scanners are small, electronic devices that allow documents or images to be captured and converted quickly and efficiently to digital format. They are designed to be light and small so that they can more easily be transported from place to place. 

The small size and light weight of the portable scanner are as valuable as its ability to process the physical into the digital. They’re small enough to bring on the road. Indeed, some are small enough to put in your pocket. 

A Minimalist’s Guide To Scanning

Portable pen scanners are slightly larger than your average fountain pen and can scan the text of a document line by line. Users simply pass the scanner over the text of letters, memos, brochures, magazines or newspapers, at which point it is uploaded immediately and turned into digital data. 

Other portable scanners are as wide as a page and roll quickly down the page, capturing the data. Some models will read the text back, which is convenient for users with vision or reading challenges.

While portable scanners are ideal for many purposes, they aren’t meant to capture data in high resolution. This means that they aren’t suitable for scanning photographs or other applications in which a high-quality result is desired.

True Mobility

There are many scenarios in which a portable scanner is an important tool to have on the scene. Consider a drive-through flu and COVID booster shot station, in which the medical staff still needs signed permission to administer the shots. With a page-sized portable scanner, each of those critical signatures is digitized, probably to a cloud-based database, and secured immediately. 

If a library was having an event that brought its borrowables to remote locations, a portable barcode scanner and a laptop can effectively create a circulation desk on the spot. As each book is assigned a particular bar code, inventory can be tracked precisely and efficiently, whether books are being checked out or returned. 

Portable scanners can be the difference between clean, efficient and timely data entry and a process that entails other steps that could compromise that data. They are as easy to travel with as popping one into your backpack, briefcase or pocket. They also effectively help create a functioning office space wherever you have the internet as you can immediately begin to process your uploads. Visit an office supply website today and check out the newest portable printers so that you can expand your printing options from anywhere.

Image by Lifestylememory on Freepik

AIA Philippines empowers PH businesses with comprehensive health benefits

Employees are the backbone of any organization and as such, companies must take good care of them. Happy employees mean a motivated workforce with higher productivity, and lower turnover, which can be very expensive in the long run. 

Businesses who don’t prioritize employee welfare may end up losing over $1 trillion because of high employee turnover rates. And with the benefits package one of the most critical elements considered by employees when deciding to stay in their current jobs, it’s an important aspect of human resource management. 

AIA Philippines Comprehensive Health Benefits

For those who are not aware of the ideal basic benefits they should receive, these should include group life insurance, total and permanent disability compensation, accidental hospital reimbursement, hospital income benefit, and critical illness benefits. These benefits are provided to employees and some even extend it to their families as well. 

Investing in these protection and health-related benefits for employees is a must, and companies must find an insurance provider with the strength and stability to deliver on its promises. Fortunately, AIA Philippines, the country’s premier life insurance company, has all these protection and health benefits covered—and more!—to empower more businesses in providing the most important benefits to their people. 

AIA Philippines recognizes that the growing small to medium enterprise business owners are eager to keep their employees satisfied and cared for, which is why it developed packaged yet flexible solutions to cater to organizations’ specific needs, with comprehensive solutions against death and sickness.

Moreover, AIA Philippines is equipped with ready rates for ease of premium computation, as well as mental and social wellness programs as added value offerings on top of the packaged solutions offered. The life insurer is even extending these healthcare benefits to employees who travel across southeast Asia. 

AIA Philippines Comprehensive Health Benefits

The Regional Passport is a program that connects beneficiaries to select quality providers in key healthcare hubs within the ASEAN region for easy cashless access to treatment. This program’s benefits include elective in-patient hospitalization, preferential rates on medical services, and seamless coordination with healthcare providers. 

AIA Philippines’ benefits go beyond the physical wellness of its customers. It supports organizations’ efforts to care for their people holistically through the Think Well program. This initiative grants employees access to benefits for behavioral health, emotional support, and legal guidance. By availing of this premium service, employers can safeguard the entire workforce’s well-being. 

To help employees make better financial decisions, AIA Philippines has partnered with the Praxis Company through a comprehensive program called Financial Literacy Gameplay. This premium benefit educates employees on responsible finances through fun games. By signing up to this benefit, more employees can make better financial decisions to attain their goals and help them live better. 

“An organization is only as strong as its employees, and that’s why we at AIA Philippines are empowering more companies to provide its people with the most holistic benefits,” Andy Rubio AIA Philippines Associate Director for Corporate Solutions Sales said. “By developing flexible protection and wellness solutions to our corporate partners, we are able to make protection and quality healthcare more accessible to more Filipinos, allowing us to bring to life our purpose of helping them live healthier, longer, better lives.”
Click here for more information about AIA Philippines, or here to visit the AIA Philippines Facebook page, email customerservice.ph@aia.com or call (02) 8528-2000 to know more.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

Lolea pop-up shops at Robinsons Magnolia and Robinsons Place Manila open until December 31

Known for its modern and iconic bottle designs, Lolea Sangria’s polka dot packaging is a sure head turner and an instant mood booster on its own; yet the best part is – its 100% natural sangria has all the tasty goodness you just can’t get enough of.

Lolea
Lolea

Lolea is a premium craft sangria made from different wines with high-quality grape varieties, all made from natural ingredients without preservatives, colorants, and additives. Lolea’s fine frizzante bubbles make the sangria lighter, more refreshing, and easy to drink. It’s best served cold and best shared with family and friends in moments that range from slowdown sessions to big feasts and parties. It also has a low alcohol content of 7% vol alc, which makes Lolea the perfect sangria drink for the upcoming holidays.

Lolea
Lolea

You can choose from the three Lolea bottles: The Lolea No1 Red Wine Sangria is the signature Lolea product, wrapped in an iconic red polka dot packaging. It’s a delicious frizzante sangria made from good red wine with Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, Mediterranean citrus fruits, and a touch of cinnamon. The Lolea No2 White Wine Sangria has its stylish distinction. A frizzante sangria made from young white wine with Macabeo and Chardonnay grapes, Mediterranean citrus fruits, and a touch of vanilla. The Lolea No5 Rosé Sangria combines rosé wine with the elegant aroma of the hibiscus flower. This comes with a spicy background taste of ginger and a frizzante touch of fine bubbles and a low alcohol content of 8% vol alc.

Lolea
Lolea

The Lolea Pop-up Booth is located at the Upper Ground level of Robinsons Magnolia and Level 1 Midtown Wing of Robinsons Place Manila from November 4 until December 31, 2022. Shop ahead for your holiday gifting for your family and friends. Lolea Sangria sells at a starting price of Php 645.

Lolea
Lolea

Details and images provided in a recent press release.