Jellybeans in the City

6 Refreshing Ways to Enjoy Hoegaarden Witbier this Summer

Summer’s almost here and one thing that will be in everyone’s mind is how to stay cool despite the hot weather.

How about a sipping on a cold glass of Hoegaarden Witbier?

Witbier, also known as “white beer,” is a style of beer that originated in Belgium wherein a large proportion of unmalted wheat, along with malted barley, are brewed, producing a beverage that has a cloudy appearance due to the presence of yeast and wheat proteins.

Known for its light, refreshing taste and its characteristic spiciness, which comes from the addition of coriander and other herbs and spices, witbier often has a low to moderate alcohol content and is typically served unfiltered, which gives it a hazy appearance.

In addition to its distinctive taste and appearance, witbier is also known for its long and interesting history. It dates back to the Middle Ages, when monks in Belgium brewed beer using wheat, which was more abundant than barley at the time. The style went through a decline in popularity in the 20th century but was revived in the 1960s and 1970s by Belgian brewer Pierre Celis, who created the now world-famous Hoegaarden Witbier.

This summer, you can enjoy your Hoegaarden Witbier in a variety of ways:

Serve it chilled. Of course, Hoegaarden Witbier is best enjoyed when it is chilled. Store the beer in the fridge or in your beverage cooler for at least a few hours before serving to ensure that it is cool and refreshing. To get that perfectly refreshing and foamy drink, pour two-thirds of the bottle into a chilled glass, swirl what’s left in the bottle, then top off and enjoy!
Add an orange slice. Enhance the citrus notes of the Hoegaarden by garnishing with a slice of orange. Simply slice a small piece of orange and place it on the rim of your glass before pouring the beer.
Pair it with your favorite dish. Hoegaarden Witbier goes well with a variety of foods, including salads, seafood, and spicy dishes. Try pairing it with a fresh summer salad or some grilled shrimp for a light and refreshing meal.
Enjoy it outdoors. Hoegaarden Witbier is the perfect beer for warm weather and outdoor activities. Grab a few bottles and head to the park, beach, or to your backyard for a picnic or barbecue.
Experiment with glassware. While Hoegaarden Witbier is traditionally served in a tall, slender glass, you can experiment with different glassware to enhance the beer’s flavor and aroma. Try serving it in a tulip glass to capture the beer’s aromas or in a wide-mouthed goblet to enhance its creamy texture.
Use it in breadmaking. Hoegaarden Witbier can be used to add flavor and texture to homemade bread. Its unique blend of wheat, barley, and spices can add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to your bread, while the carbonation can help the bread rise.

Thanks to its sheer versatility, Hoegaarden Witbier is the perfect summer companion. Its light, refreshing taste and distinctive spiciness make it perfect for hot summer days, whether you’re enjoying it on its own or using it in cocktails or beer-based recipes.

Shop for your Hoegaarden Witbier and more from S&R online through MetroMart. Sign up for a MetroMart account here and enjoy Php200 grocery credit.

Seafood feasts cooked at home, thanks to Mundo’s Seafood

Do you like seafood? Hubby and I do, and we’ve been trying to get the kiddos to develop a taste for them.

After all, seafood can be quite delicious: there are countless ways to prepare these bounties from the sea, from grilling to frying to baking, and they can be easily paired with a variety of different flavors and ingredients that make for exciting gustatory adventures for the fam.

However, eating seafood at restaurants can cost you a pretty penny. While a great way to get around this hurdle is to cook seafood at home, this presents another obstacle to overcome: how can we source seafood for delicious home meals that are fresh yet won’t burn a hole through our pockets.

Well, my ever-resourceful Hubby solved this problem the last two weekends when he had a strong hankering for some seafood.

He simply got in touch with one of his former schoolmates who now operates Mundo’s Seafood and ordered fresh items for our Saturday dinners:

3 kilos of Aklan oysters (“talaba”): ₱160/kilo (and another 2 kilos a week later because we liked it so much!)
2 pcs of tuna jaw (“panga”): ₱380/pc
2 kilos of wild prawns (“sugpo”): ₱750/kilo

Cheesy Baked Oysters

Mundo’s Seafood delivers fresh seafood to anywhere in Metro Manila and nearby areas, thereby bringing the pleasures of the sea to the plates of the metro’s seafood lovers.

All it took was for Hubby to place his orders and send his playments via GCash, then, voila! Fresh seafood was delivered right to our doorstep, allowing us to enjoy these benefits of cooking fresh seafood at home:

Freshness. Since the seafood were delivered the same day that we will cook them, these were not sitting around nor stored in the freezer for too long, ensuring that they seafood retain their flavor and texture. (Although we did get quite a workout when, together with Yaya, we shucked all those oysters and deveined those prawns!)

Health Benefits. Fresh seafood are loaded with nutrients, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals, that are essential for maintaining a healthy body. Cooking seafood at home allowed you to prepare them in healthy ways, like grilling or baking, which helped to preserve the nutrients and reduce the fat content. (Still, there’s nothing wrong with a little – or a lot of – deep-fried prawn tempura every once in a while, right?)

Cost savings. Since we were able to source our seafood ingredients from Mundo’s Seafood’s affordably-priced options, our delectable seafood feasts didn’t break the bank.

Grilled Tuna Panga

Variety. Cooking seafood at home allowed us to experiment with different recipes and cooking techniques. I was able to flex my culinary muscles by whipping up some Cheesy Baked Oysters and Wild Prawn Tempura (I learned the recipe from Chef Gene Gonzalez of the Center of Asian Culinary Studies) while Hubby showed off his grill-master prowess with his signature Grilled Tuna Panga.

Basically, we proved that cooking fresh seafood at home is a great way to enjoy healthy and delicious meals that give us a break from our usual weekend ulams. Plus, thanks to Mundo’s Seafood, we were able to enjoy our sumptuous seafood feasts without spending so much.

By the way, if you’re planning a party, you can wow your guests with freshly shucked oysters with the help of Mundo’s Seafood’s Oyster Bar. With packages ranging from ₱8,999 (good for 50 persons) to ₱15,999 (good for 100 persons), your guests can enjoy unlimited oysters for two hours along with free sauces and other inclusions depending on the package (such as baked oysters, wagyu cubes, shrimp cocktail and lobster rolls). Plus, the oyster cart can be decorated to match your party’s theme.

Wild Prawn Tempura

Now, what are the chances I can get Hubby to sponsor this for me for my birthday party? Hehehehe…

To know more about Mundo’s Seafood or to place your orders, send a message through its Facebook or Instagram pages, or call +63 918 3524786.

Weekend lunch at Mexicali SM Megamall: Why this Mexican restaurant is a must-try

Mexican cuisine has gained immense popularity in the Philippines. This is hardly surprising, given the many cultural links between Mexico and the Philippines (both being end ports of the Spanish Galleon Trade) and the appeal of the bold and spicy flavors of Mexican food to Pinoy taste buds.

For the past thirty years, Mexicali has been the go-to Mexican food place for Filipinos. I used to enjoy Happy Lunches with my officemates at its SM Megamall branch back when our office was located in Tektite. Later on, during the quarantine lockdowns, Hubby would order his favorite burrito from the same branch for delivery.

Now that quarantine restrictions have considerably eased and the family can move around more freely, the fam can now have our family lunch here during weekends.

Let me give you five reasons why lunch at Mexicali in SM Megamall is a great choice for the fam.

Casual and Relaxed Atmosphere

The atmosphere at Mexicali is casual and relaxed, making it the perfect place to unwind during our family lunch hour. The colorful decor and lively music add to the festive vibe.

Wide Variety of Mexican Food Options

Mexicali offers a wide variety of menu options to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds. They have burritos, tacos, fajitas, quesadillas, and more, all made with fresh and authentic ingredients and in portions great for sharing.

Carne Asada Burrito (₱369). A monster sized roll made with a large soft taco filled with grilled steak, beans, Mexican rice, fresh tomatoes, onions, cheese, sour cream and guacamole. Hubby’s favorite that my son #ExhibitB has been developing a liking for, too!

El Chupacabra Pollo Asado (₱173) and Carnitas (₱193) Street Tacos. Authentic Mexican street tacos filled with grilled chicken and roast pork popularized by the Poblacion establishment El Chupacabra.

Grilled Chicken (₱323) and Arroz Ala Cubana (₱293) Dinner Plates. Grilled chicken and salsa, and seasoned ground beef and grilled plantains, served with hefty servings of Mexican rice.

Chili con Carne (₱409). A tasty stew made with beef, beans, tomatoes and aromatics generously seasoned with chili. This goes so well as an appetizer with nacho chips or as a side dish to the dinner plate or burrito.

They also have vegetarian options, so diners can opt for healthier meal alternatives (but it just so happens that this family consists of omnivores!).

While fresh fruit shakes and beers were available, we instead opted for Sodas in Cans (₱105) for our drinks.

Generous Portions

Mexicali is known for its generous portions, so you can be sure the fam won’t leave feeling hungry. The burritos and dinner plates were particularly filling, while the tacos are perfect for a lighter lunch and the nacho chips and chili con carne are perfect for sharing.

Affordable Prices

Despite the generous portions and quality ingredients, Mexicali’s prices are affordable, making it a great option for our lunch on a budget. We were able to enjoy a delicious and filling meal without breaking the bank.

Convenient Location

Mexicali is conveniently located in SM Megamall, making it easily accessible for after Sunday Mass or during our weekend errands.

If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely weekend lunch for the fam, Mexicali is a great choice.

This Mexicali branch is located at Upper Ground Floor, SM Megamall Building A, 1550 Doña Julia Vargas Avenue, Mandaluyong City, open Mondays to Thursdays from 10am to 9pm and Fridays to Sundays from 10am to 10pm. For inquiries, call +63 977 0313054 or +63 2 82566074.

Other branches are located at:

Glorietta 2, Ayala Center, Ayala Avenue, Makati City (Tel: +63 905 3652309 or +63 2 88945354)
Recess Food Alley, 19-B General Vicente Lim, San Juan City (Tel: +63 995 8237493)

Mexicali also delivers via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

Stay updated on its promos and offers by following Mexicali Philippines on Facebook and Instagram.

Nostalgia and comfort over Filipino food at Lorenzo’s Way, BGC

We Pinoys have a special relationship with our homegrown food.

No matter the number of new cuisines we are exposed to, we almost always go back to Filipino food, whether these come in the form of heritage recipes that we grow up with or more exotic viands from various regions.

When I recently attended an event in Boni High Street, I was pleasantly surprised when we were served lunch at Lorenzo’s Way, an upscale Filipino food restaurant in the area.

Lorenzo’s Way is the namesake of Larry J. Cruz (“LJC”), the founder of the LJC Group of Restaurants, which also includes popular and beloved concepts such as Café Adriatico, Cafe Adriatico Express, Abe, Café Havana, Bistro Remedios, Fely J’s Kitchen, Larry’s Café and Bar, Polka Dot Bakeshop, Abe’s Farm and The LJC Catering Service.

This particular restaurant’s menu serves as the greatest hits list of winning dishes from other LJC restaurants. This includes delicious dishes that bring a mixture of comfort and nostalgia as only Pinoy food can, such as:

Beef Salpicao (Php590). Tender morsels of beef sauteed in garlic and olive oil.

Crispy Baby Squid (Php310). Baby squid coated in light batter and fried crisp as popularized by Bistro Remedios.

Spanish Garlic Chicken (Php445). Boned chicken baked with garlic cloves and olive oil.

Binukadkad na Pla-Pla (Php495). Butterflied giant tilapia fish served with balo-balo (Kapampangan fermented rice) and fresh mustard leaves, a Bistro Remedios original.

KKK (Php725). Bistro Burgos’ highly celebrated take on the classic Kare-Kare made with a chopped oxtail neatly surrounded by the dish’s vegetables and doused in the rich and nutty sauce. This dish spawned the Kare-Kare Klub of journalists, bankers and PR practitioners who used to meet every Thursday at Bistro Burgos to catch up as they savored this dish.

Sikreto ni Maria Clara (Php225). Sweet sticky rice and ripe mango slices and topped with coconut ice cream.

In keeping with the family-style way of serving Pinoy meals, my fellow attendees and I shared multiple generous orders of these dishes among ourselves, chatting with each other while eating our fill.

Fresh fruit shakes also round out our meal.

So if you feel like sinking your teeth into the delicious comfort and nostalgia of Filipino cuisine, be sure to head to Lorenzo’s Way.

This Lorenzo’s Way branch is located at 2nd Level, C2 Building, Bonifacio High Street Central, 7th Avenue, Taguig City, open for dine-in, takeout and delivery Sundays to Thursdays from 11am to 9pm and Fridays to Saturdays from 11am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 76213163, +63 2 76213164 or +63 917 5284206.

Another branch is located at Ground Floor, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 77290013 or +63 917 5522733.

Know more about its menu and offers by following Lorenzo’s Way on Facebook and Instagram.

Enhancing quality of life: Doc Pao Bellosillo’s approach to healthcare

Dr. Juan Paolo Bellosillo, known as “Doc Pao,” is a medical doctor with a passion for understanding and empowering his patients about their health condition. His expertise in preventive medicine, natural medicine, and energy medicine has enabled him to help many people achieve better health and wellness.

Doc Pao’s educational background is impressive. He obtained his undergraduate degree in economics from Ateneo de Manila University Loyola Schools, with concentrations in natural sciences, math, law, and foreign languages. Later, while working in wellness and healthcare, he pursued his Masters at the School of Urban and Regional Planning in the University of the Philippines as a University Scholar.

Doc Pao has also experienced two near-death experiences brought about by progressed arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis of the heart. These experiences sparked his desire to prevent mortalities due to heart attacks not only at an individual level but also on a larger scale. He pursued Natural Medicine and Energy Medicine at the IFP institute Official School of Naturopathy and Natural Sciences and graduated Magna Cum Laude. Doc Pao also went to Germany’s International Academy for Homotoxicology to augment his arsenal against acute, chronic, and degenerative diseases.

Aside from his impressive medical background, Doc Pao has also undergone training and education in sports and nutrition. He supports athletes and the general public to fuel their performance in competitive races or the race of life. He has been educated and trained under the Philippine Red Cross in the areas of life support and first aid, and he was even President of his class composed of 70 nurses and allopathic doctors.

Doc Pao’s compassion for others led him to lead a team of Coast Guard Auxiliary and First Responders in a Medical-Psychological Mission in the heart of Tacloban, Leyte, during Typhoon Yolanda-Haiyan. He has also become a resource speaker in various TV programs such as Doctor’s on TV, Rise and Shine, and Good Morning Kuya, using the television to educate and reach out to people to avoid diseases and increase their quality of life.

During the pandemic, Doc Pao was actively helping those in need. He provided medical care and nutrition to around 400 patients, including law enforcement, military personnel, and civilians. Doc Pao also took care of a family of eight with varying medical needs, helping them overcome COVID-19 without being intubated during the height of the pandemic. He utilized a multidisciplinary team of healthcare workers, implementing cellular nutrition protocols, and monitoring the patients through compact equipment, even in their homes when hospitals were full.

Doc Pao’s ultimate goal is to help the Philippines develop a more realistic COVID-19 management system with zero casualties, utilizing whole medical systems. He advocates for enhancing the quality of life and helping people avoid becoming sick in the first place. He believes in the importance of exercise, a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep, even during these challenging times. As he says, “my passion is to understand, share and empower patients about their health condition.”

To support Doc Pao’s advocacies, we can spread awareness of the importance of holistic healthcare and support efforts to enhance the quality of life, such as:

Share information about Doc Pao’s approach to healthcare and his advocacies with friends and family.
Promote the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare and wellness, which includes exercise, proper nutrition, and sufficient sleep.
Encourage others to adopt healthy lifestyle habits to prevent illness and improve overall quality of life.
Consider supporting organizations and initiatives that align with Doc Pao’s advocacies.
Stay informed about the latest developments and recommendations related to COVID-19 management and prevention.

As he encourages us, “lend your talent where it can benefit more people.”

We can also visit his website, https://docpaorepublic.ph/, to learn more about his approach to healthcare and how we can support his efforts.

Details and image provided in a recent press release.

Transform your sitting experience: the many advantages of a Curble Chair

Are you tired of experiencing discomfort while sitting at your desk for long periods? Are you struggling with back pain or poor posture as a result of your sedentary lifestyle? Look no further than the Curble Chair, an ergonomic solution that can help alleviate these issues and provide numerous benefits to your overall well-being.

From improved posture and reduced back pain to enhanced productivity and increased comfort, there are many reasons to consider investing in this posture-correcting support. Additionally, the Curble Chair is designed to be easy to use, stylish, and durable, making it a great choice for anyone seeking a versatile and eco-friendly seating option.

Whether you’re an office worker, gamer, or student, the Curble Chair is a versatile solution that can help you work or study more comfortably and efficiently. So sit back, relax, and read on to discover the many benefits of this innovative chair.

Improved Posture. One of the key benefits of using Curble chair is that it helps to improve your posture. The chair is designed to support your lower back and promote a healthy spinal alignment, reducing the strain on your back muscles.
Reduced Back Pain. If you suffer from back pain, a Curble Chair can provide relief. The chair’s ergonomic design ensures that your back is properly supported and aligned, reducing the pressure on your spine and reducing discomfort.
Increased Comfort. The Curble Chair is designed to be comfortable, with a breathable mesh seat and backrest that keeps you cool and comfortable even during extended periods of sitting.
Improved Blood Circulation. Sitting for long periods can cause poor blood circulation in your legs, leading to discomfort and even more serious health problems. The Curble Chair is designed with a curved seat that promotes healthy blood flow, reducing the risk of these problems.
Enhanced Productivity. When you are comfortable and properly supported, you are more likely to be productive. The Curble Chair’s design encourages good posture, which can help you focus and stay alert.
Easy to Use. The Curble Chair is easy to set up and adjust to your needs. The chair’s adjustable height and tilt function allow you to find the perfect position for your body, so you can work comfortably and efficiently.
Stylish Design. The Curble Chair is not only functional but also stylish, with a sleek and modern design that looks great in any office or home setting.
Durable and Long-lasting. The Curble Chair is built to last, with high-quality materials and construction that can withstand the rigors of daily use. This means you can enjoy the benefits of the chair for years to come.
Eco-friendly. The Curble Chair is made from environmentally friendly materials, including recycled plastic and aluminum. This makes it a great choice for those who want to reduce their environmental impact.
Versatile. The Curble Chair is suitable for a variety of uses, including office work, gaming, and studying. It is also lightweight and portable, so you can easily move it from one room to another.

The Curble Chair is an excellent investment for anyone seeking to improve their posture, reduce back pain, and increase comfort while sitting. Its ergonomic design promotes healthy blood circulation and encourages good posture. Additionally, the Curble Chair is stylish, eco-friendly, and built to last, making it a great choice for anyone seeking a long-term seating solution.

Whether you’re working from home or in an office, the curble chair can help you stay comfortable and productive throughout the day. By investing in this chair, you’re not only investing in your physical health but also your overall well-being. So why settle for uncomfortable and unsupportive seating options? Upgrade to the curble chair today and experience the benefits for yourself.

Check out various Curble Chair models and see which one suits you best.

Grab your Curble Chair by ordering online at The Laptop Lifestyle (use my code JELLYB to get 5% off upon checkout).

This post contains affiliate links.

Basking in Bali: Discover paradise at Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Gardens

Nusa Dua Gardens is a luxurious resort located in the heart of Bali’s Nusa Dua area. Owned and operated by Marriott International, the resort is known for its stunning gardens, luxurious amenities, and prime location near some of Bali’s best attractions.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous vacation, Nusa Dua Gardens has something for everyone.

Accommodation. Nusa Dua Gardens offers a variety of accommodation options, including deluxe rooms, suites, and villas. All of the rooms are beautifully appointed with modern amenities and feature comfortable beds, private balconies, and stunning views of the gardens or pool. The suites and villas are perfect for families or groups, offering spacious living areas and kitchenettes.

Swimming Pool. One of the highlights of Nusa Dua Gardens is the resort’s amazing swimming pools. The West Pool and Lazy River are surrounded by lush gardens, comfortable sun loungers, and a pool bar that serves refreshing cocktails and light snacks, making the area perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Plus, the pools are also great for swimming laps or playing with the kids.

Dining. Nusa Dua Gardens offers a variety of dining options, thanks to its proximity to the restaurants house in the adjoining Courtyard by Marriott Bali Nusa Dua Resort. The MoMo Cafe serves a wide variety of local and international dishes, including fresh seafood, traditional Balinese cuisine, and international favorites. MoMo Bar, on the other hand, is perfect for a quick bite or a light snack, offering a variety of sandwiches, pastries, and coffee drinks, while the pool bar serves refreshing cocktails and light snacks throughout the day.

During your stay, you can enjoy complimentary wireless internet in all of the resort’s apartments and public areas, as well as free on-site parking. Nusa Dua Gardens also does not charge resort fees.

With your comfy accommodations at Nusa Dua Gardens serving as your base of operations, you can fully explore what Nusa Dua has to offer:

Relaxing on the Beaches. Nusa Dua is home to some of Bali’s best beaches, including Nusa Dua Beach, Geger Beach, and Mengiat Beach. Relax on the sand, soak up the sun, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.

Water Sports. Take advantage of the ocean and try out some water sports like surfing, snorkeling, or stand-up paddleboarding. Many local enterprises offer rentals and lessons for a variety of water sports.

Shopping. Nusa Dua is home to the Nusa Dua Galleria and the Bali Collection, shopping complexes which offer an extensive variety of international brands, local boutiques, and restaurants where you can find souvenirs or enjoy a meal.

Cultural Tour. Bali is known for its rich culture, and Nusa Dua is a great place to learn more about it. Take a cultural tour that visits local temples, markets, and museums.

Golfing. Nusa Dua is home to some of Bali’s best golf courses, including Bali National Golf Club and Bukit Pandawa Golf & Country Club. Enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning scenery.

Indulge in Spa Treatments. Nusa Dua is home to a variety of luxurious spas that offer a range of treatments. Relax and rejuvenate with a massage, facial, or body treatment.

Take a Day Trip. Nusa Dua is a great base for exploring other parts of Bali. Take a day trip to Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, to the stunning rice terraces of Tegallalang or watch a traditional Barong Keris Dance in Batubulan.

Enjoy the Nightlife. Nusa Dua has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and clubs that cater to different tastes. Enjoy a drink and some music at one of the local hotspots.

Best time to Visit. Normally, it would be best to visit Nusa Dua during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with low humidity and very little rainfall. This makes it the perfect time for outdoor activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the local area. However, the dry season is also the peak tourist season, so if you prefer to avoid the crowds, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons from April to May and from September to October when the weather is still pleasant, but there are fewer visitors. It may be cheaper to visit during the rainy season from October to March, but note that heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and make outdoor activities more difficult.

Nusa Dua Gardens is a luxurious resort that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The resort’s stunning gardens, luxurious amenities, and prime location make it the perfect destination for a memorable vacation in Bali. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun by the pool, explore the local beaches, or go on a food trip, Nusa Dua Gardens has everything you need to create a truly unforgettable paradise experience in Bali.

Nusa Dua Gardens is located at Kawasan Pariwisata Lot SW1, Nusa Dua, Bali 80363 Indonesia. Check-in is at 4pm and check-out is at 10am.

Planning a trip to Bali? Why don’t you book your accommodation at Nusa Dua Gardens via Klook?

Klook is a leading travel booking platform that offers a range of activities, experiences, and accommodations across the globe. Take advantage of its competitive rates and special deals. Use my code JELLYBEANS to enjoy 5% off (new Klook users) or 3% (existing Klook users).

Book Now

Pictures taken during a 2019 trip to Bali.

This post contains affiliate links.

Check out my previous posts about Basking in Bali:

Basking in Bali: Our sojourn at Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort

Sizzling this summer on Airbnb: Barkada trips in under-the-radar local destinations

Calling all holiday goers! Summer is finally here – and so are the beach umbrellas, halo-halo and samalamig vendors popping up everywhere, and barkada group chats pinging every now and then for that highly anticipated beachside getaway.

As Filipinos throng the roads and airports with much enthusiasm this summer, data from Airbnb revealed that group travel has been on the rise with group travel spiking by almost 180 percent year-on-year last year.*

This summer, the global travel platform has seen almost 400 percent growth in guest searches for Philippines stays. The quiet town of Santa Maria in Bulacan ranks the #1 domestic destination with the highest number of guest searches on Airbnb this summer, with other popular destinations including Malay, Baguio City, and Cebu City.**

If you’ve yet to make plans for the upcoming long weekend or the rest of summer, Airbnb has rounded up a list of unique, group-friendly Airbnb Stays in the hottest destinations under Php10,000 – making the spend no more than Php2,500 per person if you’re a barkada of four!

Discover the charm of Bulacan’s idyllic town

Key Visual_Four-Bedroom Home in Santa Maria

Home to the world’s largest indoor arena where several international artists have performed recently, this quaint town just an hour away from the metro is rich in history and culture. Travelers can visit Santa Maria’s beautiful churches and try its famous full back fat chicharon. This town also offers many cozy villas ideal for groups, such as the Bali-inspired Asteria Villa and this four-bedroom home located near malls and restaurants.

Uncover the hidden gems of Aklan’s Malay

Malay comes next and is best known for its world-famous Boracay island, but there’s more to this town with amazing gems waiting to be discovered. Rich in natural wonders from majestic falls perfect for trekking, to cold springs for a quick dip, and botanical gardens with a rich variety of flora — guests can definitely find an experience that suits them. If you and your friends prefer to be in the more quiet part of the town, consider booking one of these tropical villas: Villa Onyx or the Puka Villas. Both are located within the Diniwid area, close enough to the bustling White Beach yet offering a slice of tranquility.

Escape to Baguio for some summer breeze

In third spot is no other than the Summer Capital of the Philippines — a popular getaway from the sweltering lowlands during summer. Baguio never falls short of things to do: travelers can visit the classic parks full of activities for all ages, or try out the latest cafes in town. If your barkada’s idea of summer is a mountain retreat, check out some of Baguio’s most colorful and ‘gram-worthy cottages. RME Home in Baguio is equipped with a fully-functional kitchen for special dinners, and this fun and cosy house themed after an extremely popular American sitcom is conveniently located just a few minutes away from the city’s hotspots.

Head to the South’s Queen City where modernity meets culture

Rounding up the list is Cebu – a hot summer favourite offering a dazzling array of activities including eco-adventures, heritage landmarks, thriving nightlife, and delicious gastronomic adventures. For a different travel experience, check out two tiny homes on Airbnb namely Bamboo House and Robin’s Nesto. Both may be cozy in size but promise amazing pools coupled with stunning views, and a summer you won’t forget anytime soon.

To further fuel your barkada’s wanderlust this summer, download the Airbnb app or head over to https://www.airbnb.com/.

*Based on internal Airbnb data for 2022
**Based on searches made in 2022 for check-ins between 1 Mar – 30 Apr 2023 compared to the same period in 2022

Note: All stays referenced are intended purely to inspire and illustrate. Airbnb does not recommend or endorse specific stay or experience listings on the Airbnb platform.

About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 4 million Hosts who have welcomed 1.4 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

A taste of old Chinatown at Comida China de Manila’s new location in Libis

In May of last year, my family and I were shaken up by an announcement that one of our go-to restaurants – Comida China de Manila – located along C5 in Pasig, was closing after twenty-six years of operations.

Comida China de Manila was established in 1996 along E. Rodriguez Avenue (C5 Road), serving Old Chinatown cuisine – dishes that harken back to the Cantonese panciterias that proliferated in Manila during the pre- and post-war years. It has gained renown and a loyal clientele for its homey atmosphere and its delicious classic Chinoy dishes.

We were quite saddened with the news as the restaurant had long been the setting of many memorable family meals and celebrations. It was a shame, we thought, that the pandemic precluded us from having a last meal at this landmark eatery prior to its closing.

Back in business

Well, let’s fast-forward to March 2023 when, during a grocery run at S&R along Libis, we caught sight of a familiar signage at the ground floor of the building. Oh yes, Comida China is back in a brand new location!

It took us a while to be able to eat here as we usually espy a line of diners waiting outside the restaurant whenever we passed by. However, one Sunday morning, just after attending Mass, the family was able to grab a table as the restaurant has just opened for the day.

Now under new management, the restaurant boasts of a more modern layout, though in a much smaller area, with a capacity of 50 dine-in seats (which, if memory serves me right, was about a fourth of the seating capacity of the previous location), with no areas allotted for special functions or private parties unlike the old location.

This new restaurant’s interiors also have a lighter and airier feel, thanks to the natural light streaming in from floor -to-ceiling glass windows that look out to the Libis road. Its decor still calls back to the days of Old Chinatown, thanks to tasteful wall art and shiny hardwood furniture.

Old faves are back, albeit in smaller portions

As we browsed through the menu, we were delighted to see that our old favorites are still there – the same dishes created and curated by Comida China’s celebrated cook who began his career in the original T. Pinpin Street branch in Manila.

However, due to the smaller kitchen size, the servings were also smaller, in sizes good for two people (so goodbye, bandehados!). Still, this suits my fam just fine as we could then order multiple viands to try out more flavors, such as:

Ho To Tay Soup (Php394). This savory soup is made with a rich broth that is simmered with pork, liver and shrimp. It is then garnished with vegetables and served hot, making it the perfect comfort food.

Yang Chow Fried Rice (Php330). This classic Chinese fried rice dish is a staple at any Chinese meal for the fam. The dish is made with day-old white rice that is stir-fried with eggs, vegetables, and meat, such as shrimp, pork, or chicken. The result is a flavorful and filling dish that goes well with other Chinese viands.

Spicy Salt & Pepper Spare Ribs (Php579). These crispy and flavorful spare ribs are coated in a spicy salt and pepper mixture, deep-fried until crispy then topped with chilis and served with a side of sweet and sour dipping sauce.

Comida China Chicken (Php379). This signature dish is made with marinated bone-in chicken deep-fried until crispy then tossed in a sweet and savory red glaze.

Camaron Rebosado (Php457). This classic Filipino dish is made with large shrimp that were battered and deep-fried until crispy then served with a side of sweet and sour sauce.

The first of many

While the fam didn’t get to have our last meal at the old Comida China de Manila restaurant before it closed its doors, we were able to have our first meal at its newest one, and, thanks to its convenient location, excellent service and, of course, delicious dishes, it would definitely be the first of many.

Plus, I’ve heard from some sources that if this branch does well, there are plans to open more branches. So how about we extend some love and support to this newly opened Comida China de Manila?

As this branch is currently on soft opening, only payments via cash and credit card are accepted.

Table reservations for early lunch and dinner for groups of maximum of ten to fifteen persons are accepted during weekdays. Seating during weekends are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Comida China de Manila is located at Unit 4&5 S&R Membership Shopping, E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue corner Calle Industria, Bagumbayan, Quezon City, open for dine-in and takeout Mondays to Saturdays from 11am to 9pm, and Sundays from 10am to 9pm. For inquiries, contact +63 2 82819867 or +63 917 1100951.

Stay updated on its menu and offers by following Comida China de Manila on Facebook.

Take stunning nighttime photos with the new vivo V27 Series 5G, The Aura Portrait Master

When the sun goes down, the majestic city lights start to shine. Coffee turns into spirited drinks and slow music into electronic beats. You go dancing with your friends and have the time of your life. But the next morning, you barely remember anything from the night before and your blurry photos are not any help.

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Set the vibe with the vivo V27’s Advanced Portrait Mode

The vivo V27 Series’ portrait mode is now supported by vivo’s Exclusive Portrait Algorithms. This new portrait mode helps understand, beautify and enhance portraits.

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The Aura Light, the Sony IMX766V and the advanced Portrait Mode all create the newest and first-of-its-kind Aura Portrait Algorithm. Don’t let your night out outfit go to waste. Capture every exciting moment of your night out and let your best aura shine with the vivo V27 Series, The Aura Portrait Master.

The vivo V27e retails for PHP16,999 while the vivo V27 5G lists at PHP24,999. Both variants are now available for purchase in all vivo official stores nationwide. They are also available for purchase on vivo’s official website and Shopee, Lazada and TikTok pages.

Details provided in a recent press release.