Jellybeans in the City

How to make the most of your visit to Manila Ocean Park

Are you already out and about?

With the lifting of many quarantine restrictions, we now have more opportunities to escape the four walls of our home into the great outdoors.

For many of the metro’s denizens, Manila Ocean Park remains one of the most desired destinations for a fun family or barkada outing. After all, as the country’s first world-class marine theme park and premiere educational entertainment destination, Manila Ocean Park houses exciting and educational attractions that will surely appeal to everyone in the group.

That said, there is definitely a need to organize your visit to Manila Ocean Park to ensure that you get to enjoy all it has to offer.

Here are some tips to help you do so:

Tip #1: Check online for great deals and discounts.

Until February 28, 2023, tickets at MOP’s ticketing counter are priced at just ₱750/person (from the original price of ₱3,300/person), giving the visitors access to the park’s seven exciting attractions:

Oceanarium: 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
Jellies Dancing Sea Fairies: a breath-taking showcase of jellyfish in their element against a fascinating display of multi-media effects and soothing music
Trails to Antarctica: provides a peek at the merry antics of Humboldt Penguins and a tour of the cheery Christmas Village
All Star Bird Show: MOP’s resident macaws, cucckatoos and raptors display their intelligence and skills through stunts and tricks
Sea Lion Show: MOP’s South American Sea Lions showcase their skills through funny antics and entertaining skits
World of Creepy Crawlies: a peek into the world of scary and icky snakes, frogs, lizards, worms and insects
Super Toy Collection: the largest collection of Superman toys and memorabilia

However, thanks to its Early Deal Online promo, you can get more savings with tickets priced at ₱680/person just by purchasing them online at manilaoceanpark.com/tickets. Thanks to Hotel H2o’s Love Month Exclusive Deals, you can also get two free tickets when you book your stay at the hotel this February.

By the way, kids below two feet in height are free of charge.

Now that’s a lot of savings!

At the Oceanarium

Tip #2: Get updated on the park’s safety guidelines and protocols

While many COVID safety regulations may have been relaxed by now, it doesn’t mean we should let up on our safety practices.

Currently, the safety protocols implemented in Manila Ocean Park are for Alert Level 1. This allows the park to operate at full capacity, provided that guests 18 years old or older are vaccinated (and should present vaccination card and valid ID prior to entry) and while guests below 18 years old may be unvaccinated, they should be accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent or guardian.

While inside the park’s premises, guests are advised to practice minimum public health safety standards such as proper wearing of facemasks, maintaining physical distance of at least 1 meter from each other, and regularly washing and/or sanitizing of hands.

Be sure to check the latest IATF-EID guidelines prior to your visit.

At the Jellies Exhibit

Tip #3: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

With so many things to see and do at Manila Ocean Park, you can expect to do a lot of walking so be sure to wear clothes and shoes that are cool and comfortable. Airy shirts and shorts or pants, as well as comfy closed shoes are the order of the day given that these free you up to do a wide variety of activities with ease.

You might also want to bring an extra shirt that you can change into later in the day.

At the Sea Lion Show

Tip#4: Protect yourself from the sun.

Two of Manila Ocean Park’s attractions – the All-Star Bird Show and the Sea Lion Show – are held outdoors.

Protect yourself from the sun by wearing caps or hats, and be sure to apply sunscreen before stepping out.

Note: Open umbrellas during these shows are discouraged as these may be distracting to the animals.

At the All-Star Bird Show

Tip#5: Bring your own water bottle or tumbler.

With all that walking, you can expect to get really thirsty so be sure to rehydrate often.

Personally, I found it best to bring my own water bottle or tumbler in my bag and just refill it with from the water that I bought from the restaurants and establishments in the park. This way, I have something I can readily drink from as I wander through the exhibits.

At Trails to Antarctica

Tip #6: Plan your day.

With the increasing number of visitors to the park, you would need to have a strategy for your visit to maximize your time there. You might want to schedule your visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowd.

If you’ve got kids with you who might get tired or irritable during the course of the day, it would be best to plan breaks in between attractions wherein the kiddos can sit down or have a snack and get energized for the next exhibit.

Preserving your memories of your MOP visit is always worthwhile so be sure to get great pictures among the highlights of each attraction. Search through the Manila Ocean Parks social media accounts for Instagrammable spots to get the best shots; just be sure to mind the other people there when you’re snapping your photos!

You can also ask the MOP crew about special encounters that make for cool memories and exciting photos such as the Penguin Feeding, Bird and Sea Lion Encounters, and others. These may entail some fees but the memories (and the conversations arising from the pictures that showcase your experiences) are surely worth it!

At the World of Creepy Crawlies

Tip #7: Mind the safety reminders, especially when interacting with animals.

Manila Ocean Park prides itself on its interactive attractions, exhibits wherein visitors can do far more than just admire the displays from a distance. These usually involves interactions with the park’s animals.

While these creatures are well-trained, it would still be best to carefully listen to and follow any instructions from animal trainers, particularly those that involve your safety and those of the animals’. These include reminders such as:

Avoid tapping the glass walls of the fish tanks and reptile enclosures. Particularly for fish, sound pressure is four times higher under water so incessant tapping can lead to higher stress levels for the poor creatures.
Do not feed the animals. Except for the penguin-feeding, receiving food and treats is part of the animals’ training and is calibrated into their diet plans. Feeding them outside of their routines messes up their training and may even endanger their health.

At the Super Toy Collection

Tip #8: Point out interesting and educational tidbits to the kiddos.

While MOP is for the whole family, it is especially a wondrous experience for the kiddos who have been largely limited to learning from home for the past couple of years.

Supplement their learning by guiding them through the exhibits, reading the descriptions with them or talking with them about their reactions to the park’s attractions.

At the Christmas Village

Tip #9: Check out the dining options within the park.

Your tour around the park will definitely work up an appetite but, don’t you worry because MOP has a lot of dining options available at the park.

One of its newest dining destinations is Hapag, which features an extensive menu of all-time favorite Pinoy dishes such as: Sinigang na Hipon, Sinigang na Baboy, Chicken Inasal, Sizzling Liempo Steak, Pinakbet, Beef Caldereta, Sizzling Prok Sisig, Crispy Pata and Bagoong Rice.

Other gourmet food outlets inside the Manila Ocean Park compound include:

Makan Makan Asian Food Village for Chinese staple food and Singaporean hawker fare.
Garden Cafe for coffee, snacks and desserts
Retro Grill Diner for American staples such as steaks, burgers, tacos and more
White Moon Bar for bar chow and cocktails

At MOP’s newest restaurant, Hapag

Your visit to Manila Ocean Park is sure to be a fun and memorable one. With these tips, I hope you can make the most out of the time you spend there.

Have fun and stay safe!

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

For more news and updates on Manila Ocean Park’s attractions and offers, visit its website or follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about Manila Ocean Park:

6 reasons to bring the fam to Manila Ocean Park

Profile: Manila Ocean Park’s Francis Low

Summer fun with the barkada at Manila Ocean Park

Gourmet Food Trippin’ at Manila Ocean Park

Lunch at Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant Nikkei Robata, BGC

Did you know that Japanese culinary traditions have a strong influence on Peruvian food?

As it has the second largest ethnic Japanese population in South America, brought about by Japanese immigration starting in the late 19th century, it is hardly surprising that Peruvian cuisine would feature more than just a few Japanese touches.

Hokkaido’s robotayaki (the method of charcoal-grilling meat, seafood and other ingredients to imbue them with a delicious flavor and smoky aroma) makes its influence felt in Peruvian cuisine in the recently opened Nikkei Robata branch in Uptown, Bonifacio Global City.

Whether enjoying the hustle-and-bustle of the street in its al fresco area or relaxing in its well-appointed interiors, foodies can look forward to expertly grilled top-quality meats and seafood that makes for a deliciously satisfying meal.

During our errand day in BGC, my daughter #ExhibitA and I decided to have lunch at Nikkei Robata, where we enjoyed:

Chips (Complimentary). Crispy potato chips served with a tangy cream dip.

Unagi Nigiri (₱250). Two pieces of grilled sliver of eel doused in teriyaki sauce served on top of sushi rice.

Panko (₱395/5pcs | ₱680/10pcs). Panko-covered slices of salmon, kampyo, truffled cream cheese, shiitake, cucumber and onion leeks all rolled together and served with salad sauce.

Salmon Risotto (₱680). Main dish composed of grilled salmon belly served on top of risotto with shimeji, shiitake and enoki mushrooms, as well as asparagus, then doused with spicy and cheesy huancaina sauce and sprinkled with parmesan.

Specialty Drinks (₱180 each). Sometimes, the adventure of our day comes in the form of an unusual drink that accompanies our meal. While these (thankfully!) do not contain alcohol, they added a refreshing aspect to our lunch.

Dining here might be a bit pricey but, from its upscale yet comfy surroundings to its unique menu of Japanese-Peruvian dishes, Nikkei Robata certainly promises a gastronomic adventure!

Check it out for yourself!

This Nikkei Robata branch is located at Ground Floor, Uptown Ritz, 36th corner 8th Avenue, Uptown Bonifacio, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, open Sundays to Thursdays from 11am to 10pm and Fridays to Saturdays from 11am to 11pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 975 0870428.

Another branch is located at Second Floor, Newport Mall Garden Wing, Newport World Resorts, Newport City, Pasay City. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 945 5511898.

For more details about Nikkei Robata, visit its website or follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Flavor Adventure Feast at Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar

I admit: I do have mixed feelings about this #ReturnToOffice thing.

While it does provide a welcome change of scenery from my home office desk and an opportunity to meet up with office friends, the hassle of the long commute to and from the office can get me stress levels soaring.

One of my coping mechanisms is to treat myself to something delicious. After all, good food does have a way of lifting my spirits.

So armed with my SuperCard, I took my office teammates on a Flavor Adventure at the nearby Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar branch along Tomas Morato Avenue.

The SuperCard is the loyalty program that combines dine-in and delivery benefits from Shakey’s and Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken and Sauce Bar, and R&B Milk Tea Philippines.

This Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar branch features comfortable and airy interiors with high ceilings, ample seating and bright colors that calls back to the vibrant flavors of its signature dish.

Here, my friends and I were able to enjoy a SuperCard Exclusive: the Flavor Adventure Feast!

This delectable group meal combines the various flavors and textures of the restaurant’s dishes to cater to four to five persons and provides at least ₱475 in savings, to boot!

Dine-in patrons just need to present their SuperCard enjoy the Flavor Adventure Feast for just ₱1,499. Foodies who want to enjoy this group meal at home via takeout or delivery for ₱1,574.

Here are what my teammates and I feasted on for lunch during our #RTO day:

1 Whole Chicken

Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken brings about its famed dish by marinating a whole chicken overnight in a special mixture of peri-peri chili, herbs and spices, then charcoal-grilling it to a gloriously golden hue.

This flavorful and juicy grilled chicken is best enjoyed with one or a combination of the restaurant’s eight signature sauces representing various gastronomic destinations, ranging from mildly sweet (Cajun Remoulade, Hoisin Sesame and Sweet Soy), medium spiciness (Garlic Brew, Spiced Vinegar and Mesquite BBQ) and hot (Chili Peppa and Harissa Exotica).

1 Carbonara to Share

A platter of this cream-based pasta made this meal all the more filling.

4 Hearty Soups

Bowls of hearty chicken soup warmed our tummies and got us raring for more.

4 cups Java Rice

This flavorful rice dish with its bright orange color and slight nutty flavor goes so well with grilled dishes, especially the peri-peri chicken!

4 Regular Sides

Side dishes dishes such as coleslaw, corn ‘n carrots and mashed potatoes complement the flavors and texture of the Peri-Peri chicken.

To complete the meal, the Flavor Adventure Feast also comes with 1 Liter drink.

Going back to the office after two years of working from home may be stressful, but I know I can always look forward to feasting on the wondrous flavors offered by Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar.

This Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar is located at 295 Tomas Morato Avenue, Barangay Laging Handa, Quezon City, open Sudaily from 10am to 9.30pm.

Other Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar outlets are located at:

Las Pinas: Evia Lifestyle Center
Makati: Ayala North Exchange, Greenbelt 3
Mandaluyong: SM Megamall
Manila: Robinsons Place Manila
Marikina: SM City Marikina, Gil Fernando Avenue
Muntinlupa: Alabang Town Center
Paranaque: Ayala Malls Manila Bay
Pasay: Resorts World Manila
Pasig: SM City East Ortigas, Ayala Malls Feliz, Capitol Commons, Robinsons Galleria
Quezon City: Gateway Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, UP Town Center, Trinoma Mall, Banawe, Brittany Square, Eastwood Mall
San Juan: Promenade Greenhills
Taguig: Market! Market BGC, Uptown Parade, Venice Grand Mall

To enjoy this feast at home, order from Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken’s delivery website or call +63 2 73747374 for Metro Manila orders and +63 917 7747374 for provincial orders.

To know more about Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, browse through its website , or follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts on Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken:

Peri Peri Chicken, SM East — Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, SM City East Ortigas

Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Tomas Morato

Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Capitol Commons

Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar, Gil Fernando Marikina

Delish family dine-in with Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken’s Hearty Flavor Feast

Holiday Epic Feast for the fam at Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar, Eastwood Mall

Revenge dining with friends at Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar, BGC

Guilt-free refreshment with Chi Forest sparkling water

If you find your diet goals countered by those sugary and calorie-rich beverages, well, there’s a viable alternative to plain old water: sparkling water!

Also known as carbonated water, soda water, seltzer water, club soda and fizzy water, this refreshing drink is made by infusing water with carbon dioxide gas. Imbibing sparkling water brings the same fizzy sensation as drinking your favorite softdrinks but without the calories and sugar.

Here are some ways sparkling water is good for you:

It can help you keep your winning smile. Softdrinks are sweetened with sugar which cause breaks in tooth enamel, and which – thankfully! – is absent in sparkling water.
It can help you lose weight. Aside from having zero calories, sparkling water also makes you feel more full than when you’re drinking regular water. Studies have shown that it also contributes to food staying in your stomach for a longer duration, helping you to retain the feeling of satiety which will reduce your desire to eat.
It helps keep you more hydrated. Many people find sparkling water easier to drink and having better taste than regular water, encouraging to you to drink regularly, thereby keeping you hydrated.

And if you need more convincing to switch to sparkling water, you’d be happy to know that thanks to Chi Forest, it is now available in delicious flavors such as:

Chi Forest Calamansi Lime

A zesty and citrusy drink flavored with a combination of lemon, lime and orange with a calamansi fragrance.

Chi Forest White Peach

The mild sweetness of fresh peaches combined with a silky and full texture.

Chi Forest Lychee Fizzy

Lychee’s sweetness and floral taste accompanied by the aroma of grapes and roses.

With such deliciously invigorating true-to-fruit flavors, getting your recommended daily water intake to keep yourself at optimum levels is not just easy, but even more appealing.

So if you’re on the lookout for something new and fresh to take you to a new flavor journey while helping you stay healthy, then grab your cans of Chi Forest sparkling water today!

Stock up on Chi Forest sparkling water at Robinsons Supermarket, The Marketplace, Shopwise, LCC, Shopee Mall and LazMall and more outlets in the metro.

To stay updated on Chi Forest products and offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature.

February is full of love, luck and groceries at MetroMart!

MetroMart, the no.1 on-demand online grocery delivery platform, will make it rain discounts and promos in the month-long celebration of their 7th Birthday Sale this February 1-28, 2023.

MetroMart’s 7th Birthday Sale will include Free Delivery promos, discounts for orders on weekdays, discount promos for new and existing users, and weekend ₱7 Sales with leading supermarket partners. Treats for Valentine’s Day will also be available this February.

Please see the MetroMart 7th Anniversary Celebration itineraries below:

DURATION	PROMO	PROMO CODE	TERMS & CONDITIONS
Feb 1-28	FREE Delivery campaign	HBD7	Free Delivery for Supermarkets. Up to 6x Use for ALL Users. Applicable for first 1000 transactions.
		HBD7SS	Free Delivery for Specialty Stores. Up to 6x Use for ALL Users. Applicable for first 1000 transactions.
Feb 1 – 2 Feb 6 – 9 Feb 13 – 16 Feb 20 – 23 Feb 27 – 28	3-tiered Discount Promo from Mon-Thurs	MM177	Get ₱177 discount on a minimum spend of ₱4,000 Applicable for first 1000 transactions.
		MM277	Get ₱277 discount on a minimum spend of ₱5,000 Applicable for first 1000 transactions.
		MM377	Get ₱377 discount on a minimum spend of ₱8,000 Applicable for first 1000 transactions.
Feb 1-28	New User Exclusive	MMNEW	Get ₱200 discount on a minimum spend of ₱2,500
Feb 14	Valentines Day Promo	VALENTINES	Get ₱200 discount on a minimum spend of ₱2,500 from select Specialty Stores
Feb 3-5 Feb 10-12 Feb 17-19 Feb 24-26	₱7.00 ONLY Sale on select items from Fri-Sun		Week 1 – S&R Week 2 – Valentine’s Special (Specialty Stores) Week 3 – Robinsons Supermarket, Shopwise, The Marketplace and No Brand Week 4 – Landmark
Feb 15-18 Feb 28- Mar 2	Payday Specials	FEBPAYDAY100	Get ₱100 discount on a minimum spend of ₱4,000
		FEBPAYDAY300	Get ₱300 discount on a minimum spend of ₱5,000
		FEBPAYDAY500	Get ₱500 discount on a minimum spend of ₱8,000

Please see the S&R 7th Birthday Sale itinerary below:

DATE	TIME	PRODUCT NAME	SRP	PROMO PRICE
Feb 3	9AM – 2PM	Planters Cheese Curls	₱169	₱7
	3PM – 8PM	Inessence Potato Truffle Chips	₱154	₱7
Feb 4	9AM – 2PM	Eurocow Whole Milk	₱90	₱7
	3PM – 8PM	Kitkat Minis Bag	₱131	₱7
Feb 5	9AM – 2PM	Delimondo Ranch Style Corned Beef	₱169	₱7
	3PM – 8PM	Prem Luncheon Meat	₱198	₱7

*Sale items are subject to availability across S&R branches.

The discounts, product sales and Free Delivery promos of the MetroMart 7th Anniversary Celebration are applicable to ALL USERS of MetroMart. Select terms and conditions apply, in order to avail the discounts and promos. An S&R membership is not required for online orders at S&R via MetroMart. A minimum spend of only ₱2,000 is required in order to avail the discounted items. Only completed checkout of orders within the scheduled day and time can avail the sale items

Customers may also get a free pack of Disney-themed Ziploc sandwich bags from select branches of S&R Landmark, Robinsons Supermarket, Shopwise, and The Marketplace. This gift with purchase deal may be availed for a minimum spend of ₱5,000 within February 9-28, 2023.

The MetroMart 7th Birthday Sale promos are available across all stores via the MetroMart app and website. MetroMart’s online delivery service is available all over Metro Manila and key locations throughout the Philippines, including Iloilo, Davao, Cebu, Tagaytay, Batangas, Pangasinan, and more.

“With the onset of this new year 2023, we commemorate the MetroMart family and the families and communities we serve by providing even more convenient and budget-friendly treats for everyone. We would not have come this far, seven years and still going strong, without our hardworking riders and shoppers, plus the loyal patronage and trust of our customers. Expect to enjoy even more of these discount promos, as we conquer 2023!” MetroMart CEO and co-founder Steffano Fazzini said.

The MetroMart 7th Birthday Sale is registered with DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-160001 Series of 2023.

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, No Brand, 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, Instagram and TikTok at @metromartph. Order groceries online or download the app via https://bit.ly/DownloadNowMM

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

S’more the merrier with Cinnabon’s S’mores MiniChocobon

The holidays may be well and truly over but that doesn’t mean we can’t re-experience some of the things that made the season all the merrier.

Take the S’mores MiniChocobon from Cinnabon, for example.

This limited edition variant is still – thankfully! – available at Cinnabon outlets.

This holiday treat is made up of Cinnabon’s very own MiniChocobon, which is now tucked and topped with gooey toasted marshmallows and drizzled with white chocolate truffle.

It brings to mind marshmallows roasting, hearth fire crackling and being surrounded by family and friends at Christmas time.

What’s not to love in this cheery and merry holiday treat?

Even if this lovely dessert leaves Cinnabon’s menu after the holidays, we can still enjoy our classic faves:

Cinnabon Classic Roll. The cinnamon roll that started it all, filled with Makara cinnamon and topped with decadent cream cheese frosting.
Chocobon. Classic cinnamon roll given that delicious chocolate filling and drizzle.
Caramel Pecanbon. Classic cinnamon roll topped with caramel frosting and chopped pecans.
Chocopecanbon. Classic cinnamon roll topped with chopped pecans and drizzled with chocolate sauce

Such sweet delights is best enjoyed with their perfect match – Cinnabon’s coffee creations:

Coffee beverages (available hot or cold): Brewed Coffee, Cafe Americano, Cafe Mocha, Cafe Latte, Cafe Latte, Cappuccino, Caramel Macchiatto, Cinnamon Roll Latte
Cold brew: Classic, Creamy, Vanilla & Cream, Cinnamon

Aren’t you craving for a Cinnabon treat right about now?

Well, the good news is that it’s quite easy to get yourself your Cinnabon indulgence.

Since the mid-80s, Seattle-based bakery Cinnabon has been serving up its most delectable cinnamon bun, a product of the collaboration between father-and-son duo Rich and Greg Komen, and master baker Jerilyn Brusseau.

In 1999, Cinnabon established its foothold in Asia when it opened its first Philippine bakery at Robinsons Place Manila.

Today, Cinnabon has twenty bakeries in the country, all committed to churning out its much celebrated Cinnamon buns and more, using the finest quality ingredients and serving them, hot, irresistibly fragrant and fresh from the oven.

So do’t miss your chance to experience #TheRecipeForWonderful at Cinnabon stores located at:

SM Aura Premiere, SM Baguio, SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA and SM North EDSA North Towers, SM City Clark, SM Cagayan de Oro, SM Seaside Cebu, SM Fairview, SM Mindpro
Trinoma Mall
Festival Mall
Ayala Malls Manila Bay
Robinsons Magnolia, Robinsons Galleria
Alabang Town Center
SLEX Shell Travel Plaza – Main, SLEX Shell Travel Plaza – Deli2Go, SLEX Shell Mamplasan
Petron Travel Plaza
Caltex San Pedro Travel Plaza
NLEX Shell Travel Plaza – Deli2Go, NLEX Drive & Dine
NAIA Terminal 3, NAIA Terminal 4

Can’t go to a Cinnabon bakery? Order your Cinnabons for delivery right to your doorstep via GrabFood, FoodPanda and G-Life.

For the latest news on its products and offers, follow Cinnabon on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts on Cinnabon:

Cinnabon Cranberry Biscoff — Enjoy some #IndulgingComfort with Cinnabon’s Cranberry Biscoff Minibon

Cinnabon Toffee Minichocobon — A new way to get some #IndulgingComfort: Cinnabon’s Toffee Minichocobon!

Cinnabon Estancia — Quick and sweet escape at Cinnabon, Estancia Mall

Cinnabon Coffee — Enjoy perfect coffee breaks with this #PerfectMatch: Cinnabon rolls + Coffee

Create Your Own Meal at Cafe France, Greenhills

Hospital visits are seldom fun.

Even for consultations for minor medical complaints like my daughter #ExhibitA had, having to carve out time from her day (and mine, as I had to accompany her) can be quite a bit of a hassle.

With all the hospital protocols and procedures, one might get the feeling of being always at the mercy of outside forces.

So you can just imagine our relief when we espied a Cafe France branch hiding behind Cardinal Santos Medical Center’s steel parking lot.

Cafe France is a chain of cafes that offer coffee, food products, and breads, including bread crumbs, baguette breads, chocolate croissants, sultana rolls, butter croissants, pastries, savories, rice meals, sandwiches and beverages.

Its airy and well-appointed interiors provides a warm and welcoming haven that contrasts with the hospital’s sterile environment.

Not only did its presence assure us of something good to eat after our business with the hospital, it also offers us to take some control of our experience, thanks to its delightful offer.

Create Your Own Meal (Php349)

Our meal includes a fresh and healthy bowl of Salad which we can choose from among these choices: Fruit & Nuts, Grilled Chicken, Oriental Shrimp and Mixed Greens.

Then comes a filling half-serving of Pasta which we can select from these options: Seafood Marinara, Creamy Truffle Carbonara, Aglio Olio Shrimp, Italian Meatball and Lasagna Roll.

Another hunger buster is a half-portion Sandwich to be chosen among delectable options such as Egg Salad, Tuna Onion, Chunky Chicken, CF Premiere Clubhouse and Seafood Deluxe Clubhouse.

These items are served with the Soup of the Day and our Drink of choice between Iced Black Currant Tea and Freshly Brewed Coffee.

Since I’m quite a sweet-tooth, I opted to add a Dessert in the form of a cake slice or a piece of cream puff to my meal for Php95.

Well, we’ve enjoyed a very satisfying meal with these winning combinations!

Plus, those who are not into pastas and sandwiches may choose to partner their salad, soup and drink with a rice meal instead for the same price. They can select their meal among Roast Chicken, Beefy Mushroom, Hickory Chops, Chicken Mediterranean and Chicken Chimichurri.

Pastries

My daughter and I are both great lovers of French pastries so we simply couldn’t resist ordering some to-go.

Chocolate Croissant (Php85). Also known as pain au chocolate, this is a traditional French pastry made from layers of buttery and flaky croissant dough filled with premium chocolate.

Almond Croissant (Php115). A delightfully textured French pastry made with layers of croissant dough filled with creamy almond filling and topped with almond slices.

We seldom look forward to hospital visits but we’re sure that we’ll have a bright spot in our day the next time we go to Cardinal Santos Medical Center and dine again at Cafe France!

This Cafe France branch is located in the Steel Parking Area of Cardinal Santos Medical Center, 10 Wilson St. Brgy. Greenhills San Juan City, open Mondays to Thursdays from 7am to 8pm and Sundays from 7am to 3pm.

Other Metro Manila branches are located in the following areas:

Manila: UN Square Mall, Manila Doctors Hospital, Ongpin, Times Plaza Building
Makati: RCBC Building, Zeta II Building, Makati Medical Center
Quezon City: UERM Memorial Hospital, St. Luke’s Hospital, Philippine Heart Center, Fisher Mall Supermarket
Pasig: The Medical City
Mandaluyong: VRP Medical Center, SM Megamall
Muntinlupa: Asian Hospital
Paranaque: Park & Shop

Time for some pampering at Nailaholics, SM City East Ortigas

The past two years have not given me a lot of opportunities for some pampering.

With the lockdowns and the pausing of operations of non-essential businesses such as nail salons, I’ve had to make do with my good ole’ nail clipper to keep my nails passingly presentable.

Well, with the easing of quarantine restrictions and the prospect of returning to the office in the coming days (which require getting my “porma” on while in a corporate setting), I just knew I needed to level up my nail-care game.

With these considerations in mind, I opted to treat, not just myself, but also my husband and daughter #ExhibitA, to some pampering via manicure/pedicure and foot spa services at the nearby Nailaholics Nail Salon and Spa.

This decision might come across as self-indulgent but this kind of self-care does have some significant health benefits:

They help prevent infections. Regular cleaning and clipping prevent ingrown toenails which normally cause infection. Plus, part of the services involve moisturizing your feet and hands which, in turn, minimize dryness that results to skin cracks which may also house infection.
They promote healthy blood circulation. Nail technicians also massage your your arms, hands, lower legs and feet during your mani/pedi service, which help to reduce muscle tension, improve joint mobility and optimal blood circulation.
They help improve the appearance of your hands and feet. Aside from the improved blood circulation that improves your skin condition, the resulting clean and well-groomed look of your extremities contribute to an overall improved appearance.

Nailaholics prides itself as the country’s pioneer in specialized nail salon and spa boutique. It promises to bring that “getaway experience” to its patrons, that paradise of pampering that comes from professional yet personalized service from highly trained nail technicians and a truly relaxing setting inspired by the chic and luxurious beach life along the Hamptons coast.

Foot Care

Our pampering started off with a Foot Spa (Php500) that involves foot detoxification, exfoliation and moisturization.

First, our feet were soaked in a warm and scented foot bath which helped to soothe our feet (oftentimes the most neglected part of our body!). These were then massaged and scrubbed to remove dead skin cells and promote a softer feel.

After the Foot Spa, comes the Pedicure (Php475) which involves toenail shaping, cuticle treatment and (for me and #ExhibitA) application of nail polish.

I’ve been nursing a case of subungal hematoma (also known as “patay na kuko”) on my toes for the past few months which I’ve been feeling very self-conscious about. It wouldn’t be an issue during a work-from-home setting (after all, I don’t display my feet during Zoom meetings, hehehe!) but going back to the office with these unsightly injuries would preclude me from wearing open-toed heels which I usually wear with my office clothes.

Ah, the problems that beset working women!

Well, this problem was solved by covering them up with nail polish. As I would still like my toenail color to be simple and low-maintenance, I opted for a nail polish shade that’s close to my skin tone.

Hand Care

Simultaneous with our Pedicure, another set of nail technicians are busy with our Manicure (Php450), cleaning and shaping our fingernails as well as carefully providing cuticle treatment.

Since my work involves a lot of typing on computer keyboards, long fingernails is a no-no. I opted for French tipped-nails: closely clipped and square-shaped nails with a clear polish applied at the base and white nail polish applied at the tips. This style has a clean and simple appearance that is so easy to maintain.

It’s wonderful how this short pampering session got me feeling all refreshed and revved up, ready to return to the office!

Plus, Hubby and #ExhbitA are quite happy with their Nailaholics experience as well!

Want to treat yourself to some pampering too? Book your appointment now!

This Nailaholics branch is located at the Second Floor, SM City East Ortigas, Ortigas Avenue Extension, Barangay Sta. Lucia, Pasig City, open daily from 10am to 9pm.

Other Nailaholics branches in Metro Manila are located in the following cities:

Las Pinas: SM Las Pinas
Makati: Ayala Circuit, Gloriata 3, Cash & Carry, San Antonio Plaza Arcade
Manila: Lucky Chinatown Mall, SM Manila
Marikina: Ayala Malls Feliz, SM Marikina
Muntinlupa: Festival Mall, SM Muntinlupa
Novaliches: SM Novaliches
Quezon City: Ayala Malls Cloverleaf, Ayala Fishermall, Eastwood Mall, Gateway Mall, Robinsons Galleria
Paranaque: SM BF Paranaque, SM Bicutan, SM Sucat, Ayala Malls Mania=la Bay
Pasay: SM Mall of Asia
Pasig: Ayala Malls the 30th, Robinsons Metro East, SM Pasig
San Juan: Unimart
Taguig: Market! Market!, Uptown Mall
Taytay: SM Taytay

Know more about Nailaholics by visiting its website. To stay updated on Nailaholics’ promos and offers, follow it on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Check out my previous post about Nailaholics:

Gave my nails a treat at Nailaholics, SM Pasig https://flic.kr/p/2oenwsF

vivo Launches X90 Series Flagship Smartphones Internationally

vivo announced the global launch of X90 and X90 Pro, the company’s latest X90 series flagship smartphones. The series delivers a whole new set of advanced camera features and all-around performance upgrades powered by a state-of-the-art dual flagship chip technology featuring vivo’s exclusive V2 chip, in addition to the company’s continuous collaboration with ZEISS in terms of imaging and camera system innovation, including optics, anti reflective coating, software and system integrations.

“The new X90 series combines our in-house innovation with some of the industry’s leading imaging technologies to bring consumers a smartphone lineup equipped to tackle some of the most challenging scenarios, such as night photography and videography,” said Spark Ni, Senior Vice President and CMO of vivo. “I’m proud of our progress towards making the flagship X series the industry’s go-to flagship line for all-around superb performance.”

Powerful Imaging Specs, a Big Leap Forward

Honed over the course of more than two years, this generation of the vivo ZEISS co-engineered imaging system brings forward a blend of hardware upgrades and software breakthroughs to offer an unparalleled experience. It boasts improved light sensitivity, aperture, natural color processing, and stabilization for an easy and intuitive point-and-shoot camera experience. X90 and X90 Pro feature triple rear camera systems, each with certified compliance with ZEISS T* Coating.

X90 Pro pushes the limits of smartphone imaging with a 50MP ZEISS 1-inch Main Camera, 50MP Portrait Camera with a Large Sensor, and a 12MP Wide-Angle Camera. The main camera on X90 Pro uses a 1-inch IMX989 sensor, the industry’s largest to date. Compared with other models with a 1-inch sensor, the f/1.75 large aperture and 3.2 μm large pixel (4-in-1) size of X90 Pro increase the light intake per pixel, allowing for brighter, purer night images. Compared to the GNV sensor used in the previous X generation, the new IMX989 sensor’s photosensitive area has increased by 77%, with its light intake capacity going up by 43%.

The 50MP Portrait Camera features an ultra-sensing portrait lens, with an IMX758 sensor that helps to achieve an aperture of f/1.6. With the support of the stabilization system, an exclusive large-aperture lens, and 4-in-1 sensor technology, it delivers subtly detailed portraits, even in low light.

X90 Pro introduces independent optical image stabilization (OIS) technology, developed by vivo, allowing for more intelligent and precise stabilization correction compared to standard OIS. It also supports Active Centering OIS System, significantly reducing smears between frames and motion blur.

X90 boasts a 50MP VCS True Color Main Camera, a 12MP Professional Portrait Camera, and a 12MP Wide-Angle Camera. The VCS True Color Main Camera optimizes the sensor spectrum to achieve the target RGB colors better, improving native image colors, ensuring color consistency, and lowering the noise level.

Pro-level Camera Features to Capture Life’s Moments, Day or Night

The upgraded sensors, vivo’s exclusive V2 imaging chip, the in-house developed AI algorithms, and ZEISS Optics with T* Coating work together to further enhance the capability of night photography and astrophotography, making the new X90 series the perfect stargazing companion. New tools for unique and professional-grade content creation are also introduced.

4K Ultra-Sensing Night Video is now made effortless with vivo’s Super Night Video 3.0 algorithm, supporting exceptional photosensitivity in extremely dark environments. What’s more, the V2 chip ensures clarity even at high ISO settings with its noise reduction algorithm.

X90 Pro comes with an overhauled Handheld Astro mode to capture the starry sky with greater clarity without the need of a tripod in a matter of seconds. This feature is supported by the device’s enhanced light sensitivity, upgraded stabilization technology and a new AI PD Extreme Night focus technology, that improves focus accuracy. Furthermore, taking landscape moon photos is made possible with the Super Moon mode, available on both X90 and X90 Pro, which combines the hardware upgrades and the new Super Night 3.0 algorithm. At blue hour, the period right after the sun sets, vivo’s sky-segmentation technology optimizes blue-tone colors while its Double Exposure algorithm integrates the landscape and the moon into one stunning image.

AI Night View tackles the challenge of getting the tone just right in night photos. Powered by AI network learning, AI Night View can shoot up to 10 frames in RAW while maintaining a high dynamic range. It recognizes elements such as the sky and human faces in night scenes and carries out segmentation to fine-tune the tone and color of each segment. It processes HDR tones with a color depth of up to 22 bits for more subtle color transitions.

ZEISS Natural Color 2.0 in the new X90 series has been further calibrated to present colors with more authenticity and accuracy, bringing captured images closer to what is seen with the naked eye.

For the first time, a new ZEISS Natural Color Display is now added to screen color style settings, to ensure the captured colors are not affected by the display. Now every individual display of vivo X90 and X90 Pro gets calibrated to guarantee that the color rendition of the display is close to perfect.

Another powerful creation feature is the Zero-Shutter-Lag Motion Snapshot, which makes capturing motion easier than ever before. The zero-second delay means what you see is what you get in key moments, even in low light. In Sports mode and Night Sports mode, the combination of the high-speed shutter and motion detection algorithm can instantly freeze frames, keeping any fast-moving subject clear.

The series also brings new creative effects jointly developed by vivo and ZEISS. The new ZEISS Cine-flare Portrait style simulates the flare effect seen in many classic films. Users can also capture unique miniature landscapes using the ZEISS Miniature Effect. This effect only keeps a small part of a landscape image sharp to generate the illusion of a miniature scene with no post-editing needed.

Powerful Device for All-Around Performance and Gaming

X90 and X90 Pro are equipped for high performance, featuring powerful processing capabilities, a large battery, fast charging technology, and a stunning display, ideal for work or gaming. The dual-chip setup of the new X90 series includes MediaTek Dimensity 9200 and vivo V2 Chip. With Dimensity 9200, X90 Pro and X90 have ultrahigh AnTuTu Benchmark scores of 1.26 million and 1.22 million, respectively, representing a massive leap in performance. X90 and X90 Pro come with LPDDR5X (X90 Pro)/ Enhanced LPDDR5 (X90), Extended RAM 3.0, which adds up to 8 GB of extended memory, as well as UFS 4.0 + MCQ and UFS Deep Defragmentation, offering smooth processing and supporting more active apps.

The new X90 series supports 120W Dual-Cell FlashCharge which, combined with an equivalent 4870 mAh (X90 Pro)/ 4810 mAh (X90) large battery, improves both the charging speed and the battery life. X90 Pro also supports 50W Wireless FlashCharge.

The new X90 series offers two charging modes: fast charging mode and balanced mode. In fast charging mode, X90 Pro can be charged to 50% in 8 minutes and 10 seconds while X90 can be charged to 50% in only 8 minutes. The balanced mode is ideal for everyday charging, taking only 29 minutes for both X90 and X90 Pro to get the battery charged to 100%.^[1] Moreover, the devices have 24-Dimension Security Protection and TÜV Rheinland Safe Fast-Charge System Certification for guaranteed charging safety.

X90 Pro has an Ultra Large Vapor Chamber Liquid Cooling System made with a 24-layer cooling structure and the largest vapor chamber among X Pro models covering an area of 4,002 mm², for more efficient heat dissipation and insulation. Additionally, an innovative frame design reduces the heat transfer from the CPU to the frame, thus allowing for the key areas where the users’ hands touch the phone when held horizontally to remain up to 2℃ cooler in heavy-load scenarios.

X90 and X90 Pro have a 6.78-inch Ultra Vision Eye Protection Screen, bringing cinema-like display effects and professional-grade eye protection. The 3D curved screen features a larger viewing area, 1.07 billion colors and a 100% DCI-P3 wide color gamut, delivering rich and natural colors. To top it all off, the display boasts HDR10+ and SGS low blue light, low motion blur, low flicker, AI low blue light certifications, as well as a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz, ideal for gaming. The X90 series smartphones offer chip-level Smart Eye Protection Mode, developed by vivo and MediaTek to intelligently monitor and control the proportion of blue light in real time while balancing the colors for added eye care. The display is made of a new Q9 luminescent material, which also effectively reduces blue light. High-frequency Pulse-width modulation (PWM) at a high frequency of up to 2,160Hz is used to reduce screen flickering, while 16,000-level smooth dimming helps adjust the screen brightness based on the light conditions, ensuring eye comfort.

The X90 series smartphones also boast a Dual Stereo Speaker and an X-Axis Linear Motor for a more immersive audiovisual experience and rich tactile feedback for top-notch mobile gaming. In X90 Pro, a SpeakerBoost 4.0 algorithm expands the sound field and extends low-frequency range for a more immersive experience, while the X-Axis Linear Motor provides vibration feedback for over 200 different scenarios. 4D Game Vibration is also supported.

Authentic New Design, Premium Experience

The new X90 series comes with a bold new design inspired by the Fibonacci spiral to deliver a balanced and unique look. A horizontal band, or a Skyline, is introduced on the back cover to divide the functional zones clearly. The sectional design balances the visual focus, making the camera module look less protruding.

Drawing on the design of professional cameras, the new X90 series integrates the three rear cameras into one “Big Eye” to create an integrated overall look, representing the powerful camera system inside. Coated with Corning’s Gorilla Glass and ultra-hard, anti-reflective coating on the surface, the overall hardness of the glass lens reaches 6 on the Mohs scale. It is tougher and resistant to drops and scratches and has higher light transmission. In addition, the Big Eye is enclosed within a decorative surgical-grade, stainless steel Halo Ring for lens protection.

X90 Pro comes in a timeless Legend Black color. The back is covered with luxurious pebbled vegan leather, which is environmentally friendly, stain-resistant, and durable. X90 Pro has a rating of IP68^[2] for water and dust resistance. X90 comes in Breeze Blue and Asteroid Black, both featuring an exquisite fluorite AG glass back, which is smooth to the touch, and keeps fingerprints and dirt away.

About vivo

vivo is a technology company that creates great products based on a design-driven value, with smart devices and intelligent services as its core. The company aims to build a bridge between humans and the digital world. Through unique creativity, vivo provides users with an increasingly convenient mobile and digital life. Following the company’s core values, which include Benfen*, user-orientation, design-driven value, continuous learning and team spirit, vivo has implemented a sustainable development strategy with the vision of developing into a healthier, more sustainable world-class corporation.

While bringing together and developing the best local talents to deliver excellence, vivo is supported by a network of R&D centers in Shenzhen, Dongguan, Nanjing, Beijing, Hangzhou, Shanghai and Xi’an, focusing on the development of state-of-the-art consumer technologies, including 5G, artificial intelligence, industrial design, imaging system and other up-and-coming technologies. vivo has also set up an intelligent manufacturing network (including those authorized by vivo), with an annual production capacity of nearly 200 million smartphones. As of now, vivo has branched out its sales network across more than 60 countries and regions, and is loved by more than 400 million users worldwide.

*“Benfen” is a term describing the attitude on doing the right things and doing things right – which is the ideal description of vivo’s mission to create value for society.

Stay informed of latest vivo news at https://www.vivo.com/en/about-vivo/news

Details provided in a recent press release

Newbie content creator? Here’s an 8-step guide on how to find your audience

Whether you’ve taken on content creation as a job or you’re doing it as a hobby, you definitely need to figure out which group of people you will be creating content for: your audience.

Identifying an audience is one of the most important steps for a newbie content creator. Without a clear understanding of who your audience is, it can be difficult to create content that resonates with them. You want to be able to tap into their goals, wants and pain points to be able to craft the kind of content that can effectively impart information they need to inspire them to take action.

Here is a comprehensive guide on how to identify your audience as a newbie content creator:

Step 1: Define Your Niche

The first step is to define your niche. What is the topic or area you want to create content about? This could be anything from fitness to cooking to personal finance. Defining your niche will help you create content that is focused and relevant to your audience.

Being a multi-passionate person myself – with a lot of opinions or factual tidbits to share on a myriad of topics – I chose to streamline my content to those relating to food, travel and the urban lifestyle.

Which particular niches would you like to focus on?

Step 2: Research Your Competitors

Researching your competitors can provide valuable insights into your target audience. Look at other content creators in your niche and see who their audience is. Analyze their content and engagement metrics to understand what kind of content resonates with their audience.

In due course, you might want to evolve your view of your fellow content creators from being your competitors into being your partners and co-creators.

Some of my best work have been the product of collaborations, shared experiences or shared knowledge among fellow content creators.

Step 3: Define Your Target Demographic

Once you have a clear understanding of your niche and competitors, you can define your target demographic. This includes factors such as age, gender, location, interests, and behaviors. Understanding these demographic factors will help you create content that appeals to your audience.

Given my topics and interests, I have determined my audience demographic to be mostly urban and suburban GenX and Elder Millennial working women who are interested in food and travel and who already have their own home. I believe that I have some insights on what their concerns and interests are and can produce content that can appeal and resonate with them.

Step 4: Conduct Market Research

Conducting market research can help you gain a deeper understanding of your audience’s needs and preferences. Use online surveys or focus groups to collect data on what your audience is looking for, what challenges they face, and how you can provide value to them.

You can also join Facebook Groups related to your chosen niche (eg. foodies, travelers, homebodies, etc) and take note of the discussions and comments posted there.

Step 5: Analyze Your Social Media Analytics

If you already have a social media presence, analyzing your analytics can provide insights into your audience. Look at metrics such as engagement, reach, and demographics to understand who is interacting with your content.

Step 6: Engage with Your Audience

Engaging with your audience can provide valuable feedback on your content and help you build relationships with your followers. Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and encourage discussion to better understand your audience’s needs.

Step 7: Use Keyword Research

Keyword research can help you understand what your audience is searching for and what topics are most relevant to them. Use tools such as Google Keyword Planner or Ahrefs to find relevant keywords and phrases that you can use in your content.

Step 8: Stay Flexible and Adapt

Finally, stay flexible and adapt as your audience evolves. As you create more content and engage with your audience, you may discover new trends or interests that you can incorporate into your content. Be open to feedback and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Additional Resources

Want more in-depth resources on building your audience as a content creator? Check out this books available on Amazon.com:

Content Inc.: Start a Content-First Business, Build a Massive Audience and Become Radically Successful (with Little to No Money) by Joe Pulizzi

This book teaches how to create a content marketing strategy that builds a loyal audience and generates revenue, covering topics such as identifying your niche, creating valuable content, and promoting your brand.

How To Build An Online Audience: The step-by-step guide to getting more social media followers, bigger email lists and more traffic to your website by Patric Morgan

The book covers various strategies and tools that content creators can use to increase their visibility, attract more followers, and ultimately monetize their online presence.

Known: The Handbook for Building and Unleashing Your Personal Brand in the Digital Age by Mark Schaefer

This book focuses on building a personal brand and developing a loyal audience, with tips on creating valuable content, leveraging social media, and standing out in a crowded online world.

Identifying your audience is a crucial step for any newbie content creator. By defining your niche, researching your competitors, conducting market research, analyzing your analytics, engaging with your audience, using keyword research, and staying flexible, you can create content that resonates with your target audience and build a loyal following.

Make money off your content today!

Want to monetize your content? Sign up for an Intellifluence account now!

Intellifluence is an influencer marketing service that helps brands and influencers collaborate to achieve their respective goals. Simply create your free account, fill out your profile, apply for projects and complete your deliverables, then receive your payments.

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