holiday season – Jellybeans in the City

Unwrap the Power of Pink this Christmas with the limited edition vivo V29 5G in Rose Pink

In the spirit of festive delight, vivo is thrilled to introduce a limited edition that promises to illuminate your holiday season – the Rose Pink variant of the vivo V29 5G. This enchanting addition is set to bring an extra layer of warmth and romance to your Christmas celebrations.

A Visual Symphony: Unwrapping the Magic

Commencing on December 1, the Rose Pink beauty takes center stage, boasting a visual allure that is nothing short of magical. This limited edition V29 5G captures the essence of the season with its delicate pink hue, reminiscent of a winter sunset. The gradient hues and textured ripples further enhance its elegance, creating an ambiance as gentle and romantic as being surrounded by a sea of pink roses.

Beyond Aesthetics: Powerful Features

The charm of the vivo V29 5G isn’t confined to its looks alone. Behind the enchanting facade lies a powerhouse of features. The 6.78-inch AMOLED screen with a dazzling 2800×1260 resolution ensures a vibrant visual experience. With a 120Hz refresh rate and 2160Hz PWM dimming support, navigating through festive wonders becomes a smooth and clear journey. Slim at 7.46mm and lightweight at 186g, it’s the perfect fusion of style and portability.

Festive Hustle, Sorted!

As the holiday hustle takes center stage, fear not! The V29 5G comes equipped with a 4600mAh all-day battery and 80W fast charge technology, ensuring swift and efficient charging that keeps up with your festive activities. Capture every moment with the advanced camera setup featuring a 50MP OIS main camera, 8MP ultra wide-angle lens, 2MP depth sensor, and a 50MP front camera – making every photo a cherished memory.

Make A Wish Campaign

The excitement doesn’t end with the phone – dive into the Make A Wish campaign by vivo and stand a chance to win exclusive gifts, including the Christmas limited edition vivo V29 5G in Rose Pink. Join the festivities at vivoglobal.ph/what-is-your-christmas-wish and embrace a Christmas filled with surprises and warmth.

Spread the Festive Cheer

Be among the privileged few to own the Christmas limited edition vivo V29 5G in Rose Pink, available starting December 1! If Rose Pink isn’t your hue, the V29 5G is also available in Starry Purple and Magic Maroon at 12GB + 256GB for only Php 24,999 and 12GB + 512GB for just Php 26,999. For a more budget-friendly option, the vivo V29e 5G in Crystal Blue and Forest Black at 12GB + 256GB is also now available for only Php 18,999.

Visit vivo’s official website, Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, and physical stores nationwide to unwrap the perfect holiday companion. Get ready to spread the festive cheer with the limited edition vivo V29 5G in Rose Pink!

Details and image provided in a recent press release.

Indulge in the Festive Season with The Manila Hotel’s Christmas Hampers

The Manila Hotel is set to elevate the holiday spirit with an exquisite selection of Christmas Hampers, embodying the essence of thoughtfulness and indulgence. Each hamper, filled with signature treats and delights, promises to be the perfect gesture for your loved ones.

Earlybird Offer: Secure Your Festive Treasures

For eager gift givers, an earlybird offer is available from October 25 to November 30, 2023. Three distinct hamper selections await, tailored to cater to different tastes and preferences.

Standard Hamper – Php 2,000 Nett (Earlybird Offer)

‘Harana’ Pralines in Sinamay Box (9 pieces)
‘Wangis’ (The Manila Hotel façade chocolate bar)
Santa Claus Chocolate (small)
Christmas Cookies
Fruit Cake (small)
Gingerbread Man (big)

Deluxe Hamper – Php 3,200 Nett (Earlybird Offer)

Santa Ana Cabernet Sauvignon or Santa Ana Chardonnay (375 ml)
‘Wangis’ (The Manila Hotel façade chocolate bar)
Christmas Cookies
Gingerbread Man (big)
Matte Gold Pralines (10 pieces)
Assorted Nut Cluster
Santa Claus Chocolate (big)
Fruit Cake (big)
Food for the Gods

Premium Hamper – Php 4,000 Nett (Earlybird Offer)

The Manila Hotel Regular Prestige Card
The Manila Hotel Willy the Bear
Pico Andino Cabernet (750ml)
Pralines (6 pieces)
Santa Claus Chocolate (medium)
The Manila Hotel Coffee Drip
The Manila Hotel Chocolate Bar with Almonds
Banana Thins

Act Now for Earlybird Savings

Be sure to place your orders now as after November 30, 2023, these Christmas Hampers will be available at their regular rates of Php2,500 Nett, Php4,000 Nett, and Php5,000 Nett, respectively, from December 1, 2023, to January 7, 2024.

How to Order

To secure these delightful offerings or for inquiries, reach out to The Manila Hotel via phone at (+632) 8527-0011 or (+632) 5301-5500, or through email at restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com. Terms and conditions apply.

About The Manila Hotel

Situated in the heart of the City of Manila, The Manila Hotel is renowned for its history, elegance, and world-class service. With over 500 well-appointed rooms and various function spaces, the hotel offers a five-star experience. From its Heritage Museum to dining outlets like Café Ilang-Ilang and the Old European-style Champagne Room, the hotel embodies luxury and cultural richness.

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-178795 Series of 2023

Details provided in a recent press release.

Simplify Your Holiday Shopping: 5 Expert Tips from Home Credit

The holiday season is a time for joy and togetherness, but let’s face it, it can also be pretty stressful, especially when it comes to holiday shopping. The pressure of finding the perfect gifts, dealing with crowded stores, and managing your budget can turn this wonderful time of year into a headache. But fear not, because Home Credit, the leading consumer finance company in the country, has your back with five smart tips to make your holiday shopping a breeze.

Make a List

Santa isn’t the only one who benefits from a well-organized list. Start by creating a detailed shopping list that includes the names of the people you want to buy gifts for, your gift ideas for each person, and the shops where you can find those items. Having a list will keep you organized, help you stay on track, and reduce the chances of forgetting anyone or anything on your gift-giving list.

Set a Budget

Before you hit the stores, set a clear and realistic budget for your holiday spending. Review your list and allocate a specific amount for each person. Sticking to your budget will help you avoid overspending and prevent financial stress during the holiday season.

Start Early

The early bird truly gets the stress-free shopping experience. Don’t wait until the last minute to start your holiday gift shopping. Purchase your gifts well in advance of the holidays. Starting early allows you to take advantage of sales and discounts, avoid the holiday rush, and ensures you have ample time to find the perfect gifts without feeling rushed or pressured.

Explore Installment Deals

One of the best-kept secrets for a hassle-free holiday shopping experience is taking advantage of installment deals. Home Credit is your go-to destination for this. It offers a wide range of 0% interest rate installment deals on a variety of products. Home Credit makes it easier for you to check out amazing holiday sales through its official website or My Home Credit App. You can also check out Shoppingmall.ph, an online shopping platform for authentic smartphones, laptops, gadgets, and home appliances. This platform helps you find the best deals in stores near you, making it much easier to apply for zero-percent interest rate installment plans and get pre-approved in minutes. Plus, you can chat with a live Sales Agent for more information. By choosing installment plans, you can spread the cost of your purchases over manageable periods, keeping your finances in check during the holiday season.

Stay Tuned for More Deals and Discounts

This holiday season, make a commitment to stress-free shopping by following these expert tips. Keep an eye out for Home Credit’s biggest and grandest holiday offerings yet. It has more 0% interest rate installment deals and flexible loan offerings for a wide range of products, including mobile phones, tablets, laptops, home appliances, furniture, and more. So, watch out for the exciting deals that will make your holiday shopping even easier on your budget.

And, if unexpected bills or the need for extra holiday funds arise, Home Credit has your back with Qwarta and Cash Loan options. These alternative payment options allow you to enjoy the holiday season while having the financial freedom to purchase what you need and experience what you want at your own pace.

So, there you have it, five expert tips from Home Credit to simplify your holiday shopping. With a well-planned list, a set budget, early shopping, installment deals, and access to extra funds when needed, you can make this holiday season truly joyful. For more information and to stay updated on Home Credit’s latest offerings, visit their official website, www.homecredit.ph. You can also follow their official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts, or download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn about the latest promos and see what’s new in the Marketplace.

Make your holiday shopping a breeze with Home Credit and enjoy the season to the fullest!

Image By freepik

Philippine Holidays Made Perfect: Airbnb Getaways for Every Traveler

As the Philippines welcomes the ‘ber-months,’ there’s a palpable shift in the atmosphere — a familiar scent of holiday cheer that warms the air. It’s a time when Christmas carols resonate through bustling malls and streets, and homes transform into glittering wonderlands adorned with festive lights and parols, marking the arrival of the most enchanting season of the year.

Creating Meaningful Holiday Moments with Airbnb

With domestic travel continuing to be popular among Filipinos, the holiday season offers an irresistible opportunity for creating more meaningful travel moments. Whether you are adventuring with a travel buddy, relishing the joy with family, or embarking on a solo escapade — this is an Airbnb Stay for everyone. Discover some of the perfect Airbnb Stays to make your holiday travel dreams come true.

Family-friendly getaways for September

Every family is unique, which can make planning a trip a delightful puzzle to solve. Whether your family is close-knit or a lively extended bunch, Airbnb offers homes crafted to cater to every member — from the youngest explorers to the seasoned adventurers.

Take, for instance, this stunning lake house in Cavinti. It not only offers breathtaking panoramic lake views but also an array of water activities for all ages. Kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding are just some of the options for kids and the young at heart. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a taste of rustic countryside charm, look no further than this idyllic farmstay in Batangas. With its modern-native design, it embodies a unique blend of comfort and authenticity. Immerse yourself in experiences like permaculture farm exploration, ziplining adventures, and invigorating mountain hikes. It’s a retreat where family bonds are forged amidst the beauty of nature.

KV 1_ Lake House in Cavinti — Lake House in Cavinti

KV 2_ Farmstay in Batangas — Farmstay in Batangas

October is the month to embark on a soul-searching solo journey

Why wait for a sign when you can make solo travel an integral part of your holiday plans? Solo exploration isn’t just a passing trend; it’s a lifestyle that continues to enrich lives. With Airbnb Rooms and our welcoming local hosts, your solo adventure promises to be a voyage of profound experiences, all while leaving solitude behind.

When life feels stagnant, they say the remedy is a dose of ‘vitamin sea.’ Set your sight on this Airbnb Room in Siargao, a budget-friendly gem conveniently located near the New Tourism Road. It’s not just a room; it’s a getaway to meet locals, savor the flavors of the island, immerse yourself in beach sunsets, and master the art of surfing. This stay offers a comprehensive package of island life experiences. But if you find solace in tranquility, then this A-frame Airbnb Room in Laguna beckons. Here, time seems to stand still as you lose yourself in the mesmerizing scenery right from your cabin’s balcony. It’s a haven where hours drift away, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated by nature’s embrace.

KV 4_ A-frame Room in Laguna — A Frame in Laguna

Gather the ‘kada for an adventure-packed November

It’s time to turn those long-awaited barkada plans from your group chats into a thrilling reality this November. With extended weekends gracing the calendar, why not venture off the beaten path and transform your reunions into memorable adventures?

Crafted to seamlessly blend the wonders of the great outdoors with the serenity of tropical landscapes, this villa in Liwa offers an ideal beach town escape for your barkada. Nestled in Zambales, renowned for its pristine beaches and surf-worthy waves, this stay boasts ample outdoor spaces for various activities and picturesque spots for Instagram-worthy moments. Or, if you’re seeking a more secluded retreat, consider this tranquil sanctuary stay in Mabini. With its horizon-expanding views and exclusive beach access within a marine sanctuary, it guarantees encounters with a fascinating array of wildlife, from Kingfishers and Orioles to Geckos and Sea Turtles. It’s an authentic adventure immersed in the heart of nature.

KV 6_ Marine Sanctuary in Mabini — Sanctuary in Mabini

Home away from home for Christmas

No matter where they are in the world, Filipinos cherish the heartwarming tradition of being at home for the holidays. Christmas is all about embracing the familiar comforts of home, no matter where you are. And if you’re looking to spend quality time with your loved ones in a different setting, Airbnb’s passionate Hosts are here to extend a warm ‘home away from home’ welcome this festive season.

Straight from the pages of a Christmas storybook, this country stone house in Cebu boasts a 180-degree panoramic view, a misty ambiance, and majestic pine trees. Its cathedral-esque interiors provide a splendid backdrop for family gatherings. On the other hand, for those seeking a snug Christmas sweater experience, check out this cozy Baguio stay offering mountain views from every floor. It’s perfect for cocoa sipping and family moments around the Christmas tree. If you plan to explore Baguio during the season, this stay is conveniently located near the city’s attractions.

KV 7_ Country Stone House in Cebu — Country Stone House in Cebu

KV 8_ Cozy Baguio Stay — Cozy Baguio Stay

‘Tis indeed is the season to explore more of the country and go on immersive travel experiences with the family, your friends, and even solo. Discover more holiday homes on Airbnb by visiting Airbnb.

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 over 1.5 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 provided in a recent press release.

Thoughtful Holiday Gifts for the Return-to-Office Worker

After nearly three years of working from the cozy corners of our homes, many of us have now made the leap back to our physical office spaces. While the return-to-office transition may be exciting for some (not me, though, TBH) and certainly encourage by the powers that be, it also comes with its fair share of challenges.

As we approach the holiday season, what better time to show support and appreciation for our fellow return-to-office coworkers than by gifting them with thoughtful presents? These nifty presents can make the journey back to the office more bearable and enjoyable.

The Return-To-Office Transition

Returning to the office after such a long period of remote work might evoke mixed emotions—excitement to reconnect with coworkers, but also anxiety about readjusting to the hustle and bustle of office life. This transition can be physically and mentally taxing, which is why some thoughtful gifts can play a significant role in supporting and easing the process.

Fortunately, we can easily shop for these gifts on Amazon.com, so even if you’re stuck in the office or spending hours on the commute to and from your workplace, you can easily select and check out the perfect presents for your office pals.

Holiday Gift Ideas for the Return-To-Office Worker

Ergonomic Comfort and Support

Sitting at a desk for extended hours can be demanding on the body. Consider gifting an ergonomic office chair cushion to enhance comfort and promote better posture. To keep someone’s workspace organized, a stylish desktop organizer set will be an appreciated addition to their desk.

Enhancing the Work Environment

Create a soothing and pleasant work atmosphere with a portable coffee mug warmer, ensuring their coffee stays warm throughout the day. To help them focus and eliminate distractions, noise-canceling headphones will be a game-changer. Add a touch of nature to their office setup with a desk plant or succulent to brighten up their space.

Boosting Productivity and Organization

Help them stay on top of their tasks with a personalized planner, customized to suit their needs and preferences. A wireless Bluetooth keyboard and mouse set will not only declutter their desk but also offer greater flexibility. For quick mental breaks during intense work sessions, stress-relief desk toys can work wonders.

Personal Touch and Comfort

Don’t forget the little comforts that can make a big difference. A compact desk fan will keep them cool during warm office days, boosting their overall comfort. Consider gifting a personalized nameplate to add a touch of identity and personality to their workspace.

Why These Gifts Matter

Each of these tokens serves a unique purpose in supporting the return-to-office workers. Ergonomic comforts and organization aids alleviate physical strain and improve productivity. Items to enhance the work environment create a pleasant space for better focus and well-being. Stress-relief toys offer quick mental escapes to help cope with stress, while personalized gifts add a sense of identity and belonging to their workspace.

As we embark on the journey back to our physical workspaces, let’s remember the significance of thoughtful gifts. These presents go beyond just material items; they represent our care and support for our fellow colleagues during this phase, as well as contribute in making their return to the office smoother and more enjoyable.

Wishing you all a joyful and successful return to the office! Happy holidays!

Shop for these and top gift ideas at my Amazon Storefront!

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#YouDoYou with Yellow Cab’s sloppy wedges and party trays

We’re down to the last quarter of the year and you know what that means: celebrations!

Yes, ‘tis the season for merrymaking and central to every shindig is the abundance of food to enjoy with friends.

You can have this merriest of times anyway you like but it’s always best to experience it with good food!

Starting this October, Yellow Cab brings good eats fit how you want to celebrate the holiday season.

Sloppy Wedges. We all love potatoes; it’s a very versatile vegetable. However, we’ve only just scratched the surface of its many possibilities.

Yellow Cab levels up its potato game with its Sloppy Wedges (Php129). These chunky potato wedges are crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, a delight to the bite! Each order comes in your choice of sauce – Spicy Cheese, Garlic Ranch or Smoky BBQ – but if you can’t choose among the three, you can always go for the Ultimate option, which has all of them!

Feel like entertaining some friends to some snacks while watching a movie at home? Yellow Cab’s Sloppy Wedges are the perfect foil to Yellow Cab’s bestselling pizzas, pastas or wings so your little house party will have a wonderful time nibbling in between breathtaking scenes.

Sloppy Wedges will be available in all Yellow Cab outlets nationwide for delivery, takeout, curbside pickup, drive-thru and dine-in starting October 4.

Party Trays. I personally can’t get enough of Yellow Cab’s Charlie Chan pasta. Actually its a pasta dish that comes across as an Asian noodle dish with al dente spaghetti stir-fried along with mushrooms, chicken, peanuts and spring onions in a sweet, tangy and spicy Oriental sauce. Its complex flavors will have people going for multiple servings.

Now, it’s available as a Party Tray which is a great way to share good food with family and friends!

Other Party Tray variants include Chicken Alfredo – an old favorite with chicken strips, olives and basil chiffonade tossed in a creamy sauce – and Spaghetti and Meatballs – wherein giant meatballs are baked and simmered in a chunky red wine tomato sauce.

Pasta dishes go so well with wings so you can always pair your pasta party tray with the Yellow Cab’s Wings Party Box. This limited-time offer gives you your choice of four different flavors of chicken wing flavors – Yellow Cab’s original Hot Chix, buttery Garlic Parmesan, lip-smacking sweet soy and sweet and tangy Sriracha – all in a 1.75-pound box that’s good for sharing.

Pasta Tray prices start at Php900 while Wings Part Box start at Php1,000, which give you more than enough as your potluck contribution to an family gathering or an office party.

Both Pasta Party Trays and Wings Party Boxes will be available for delivery, takeout, curbside pickup and drive-thru from October 4 to January 9, just in time for the holidays.

Make this holiday season your own. Celebrate it the way you want with your old and newfound faves from Yellow Cab.

Yellow Cab delivers through its website.

Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature.

5 ways Cafe Mary Grace’s ensaymada solves your holiday gifting dilemma

Ooh yes! We’re in the BER months now and, for many, the countdown to Christmas has begun.

And you know what we’re all excited for during the holidays, right?

Gifts, course!

Showering our loved ones with presents is one of the most rewarding feelings.

However, given the new situations we are faced with due to the still raging pandemic and different phases of community quarantine it necessitates, we may have to adjust our holiday gift-giving strategy.

So let me present the case for Cafe Mary Grace’s Ensaymadas as your go-to holiday present for your nears-and-dears.

1. Ensaymadas are rich in history.

Did you know that the origin ensaymadas can be traced all the way back to the 17th century in the Balearic Islands in Mallorca, Spain?

During celebrations and festivities, Mallorcan bakers would combine strong flour, water, sugar, eggs, mother dough and a kind of reduced pork lard called saim, from which the resulting pastry, the ensaimada de Mallorca, gets its name.

The ensaymada found its may to the Philippines during the Spanish colonization and is now among the most common delicacies in the country, found in most neighborhood bakeshops. Modifications made from the Mallorcan original include the use of butter instead of lard, as well as the addition of sugar and grated cheese.

It has even become part of our Christmas tradition to enjoy these pastries together with a cup of hot tsokolate made with local tableya.

2. They’re also steeped in good childhood memories.

Most of us can recall those afternoons we spent enjoying an ensaymada roll or two – still warm and fresh from the neighborhood bakery – for merienda after playtime with our childhood pals, right?

3. Cafe Mary Grace’s Ensaymadas is an upgrade of our childhood ensaymada.

Cafe Mary Grace made its name from the homemade goodness of its cakes and baked goods. Its ensaymadas are no different.

Made with 100% real butter and eggs as well as topped with grated Edam cheese, these soft and fluffy pastries have that combination of sweet and salty flavors we Pinoys so adore with a premium and delicate mouthfeel.

4. They already come beautifully packaged.

For just Php658, you can already get a pretty box of six ensaymadas, ready for gifting.

The ensaymada pieces are also individually wrapped so it’s no hassle to give them out to guests as desserts during small gatherings or save a few pieces for later munching.

Boxes of eight pieces and twelve pieces are also available at Php756 and Php1,098, respectively.

5. They’re easy to get.

Given all the restrictions on retail operations and protocols on social distancing, Cafe Mary Grace has made it easy for its customers to get their offerings by making them available online so there’s no need to line up to get a hold of them.

Orders may be coursed through Cafe Mary Grace’s website for pickup or via GrabFood for delivery.

These pastries will arrive chilled as they were taken fresh from the chiller. Before serving, only thaw out the number of pieces you want to eat. Do this by placing an ensaymada in a bowl, covered with a damp cloth, and microwave for ten seconds on the lowest heat settings to restore its original softness.

So go ahead and gift yourself and your loved ones with a box of Cafe Mary Grace Ensaymadas this Christmas!

This Cafe Mary Grace branch is located at Ground Floor, SM City East Ortigas, Ortigas Avenue Extension, Santa Lucia, Pasig City.

Pasig: Rockwell Business Center, Ayala Malls Feliz, Estancia Mall
Quezon City: Eastwood Mall, Robinsons Galleria, Gateway Mall, UP Town Center, Trinoma Mall, SM City North EDSA, SM City Fairview, Ayala Fairview Terraces
Marikina: SM City Marikina
Mandaluyong: Shangri-la Plaza
San Juan: Unimart Greenhills
Taguig: Uptown Place Mall, Serendra, St. Luke’s Medical Center, One Bonifacio High Street, Venice Grand Canal Mall
Makati: Powerplant Mall, Steps Dance Studio, Century City Mall, The Enterprise Center, Greenbelt 2
Manila: SM City Manila, SM City San Lazaro, Lucky Chinatown Mall
Pasay: Mall of Asia Arena Annex, SM Mall of Asia
Paranaque: SM City BF
Las Pinas: SM Southmall
Muntinlupa: Alabang Town Center, Festival Mall