Beauty Stash

Congratulations MEGA YDC 2012 Grand Winner, Renan Jay Pacson!

2012-02-17T23:10:00.000-08:00

Sometime in April last year, I wrote about PAXON, a brand of clothing designed by my dear friend Renan. Back then, his designs were just starting to create buzz. From Abayas (a middle-eastern national costume) to wedding gowns, his designs are really one of a kind. He even made a friend's wedding gown in December and flew all the way to Catbalogan, Samar to assist my friend. That's how he works. Dedicated. Creative. Extraordinary. Breaking a leg is not new to him. No wonder, he won MEGA's Young Designer Competition 2012!

Last Thursday, the grand finale of MEGA YDC 2012 was held at the NBC Tent in The Fort, Bonifacio Global City. Our friends Virra, Chariz and Ricaday attended the event to support Renan, while the others, including me, showed support by monitoring Virra's post on FB.

The event coincided with MEGA's 20th Anniversary, and was hosted by supermodel Sarah Meier. She was stunning in her elegant black dress.

MEGA Young Designers Competition is composed of 18 young designers from all over the country. The reality show was aired every Saturday and Sunday on ETC.

The judges from the MEGA team.

And the finalists who made it to the grand finale.

Each of them had the chance to showcase their collections. Renan's collection is dubbed as the "Great Armor".

According to his FB page:

"Great armor"....the literal translation of ø-yoroi; used by ancient high-ranking samurai.

"...as the samurai prepares for a battle, his servants are ceremonially putting on his ø-yoroi; one servant is lacing his master's kote (armored sleeves) while another is adjusting his master's hai-date (thigh armor); the samurai deeply inhales, trying to fill his lungs with strength from the air, but all he could smell is blood. He then puts on his dø (chest armor), adjusts it; he feels a tinge of fear running up and down his spine. The servant hands him his mengu (facial armor) then he puts on his kabuto (helmet)..He is ready to fight...Ready to take on the battle of his life...He wipes his tachi (sword) before placing it around his waist...rides his horse and moves toward the battle field..."

MEGA WOMAN 2032:: she is indestructible; her strengths are beyond limits; a modern warrior; she is fierce; she is fearless...INVINCIBLE!

I totally agree with his description. The collection is fierce, fearless and invincible! The cuts are edgy, and the colors are dark, reminiscent of strength and power.

How I wish I was at the event to witness Renan's work sweep the runway!

The designer, Renan Jay Pacson, onstage. We knew it! He'll reach stardom in no time! And there he was, facing fashion aficionados with his own designs.

So Virra said Robin got the 3rd place. I became so nervous! I really feel he is going to make it. And there, she updated her status again saying Mara was 2nd. I had goosebumps! This is really is it! Dizzizit!

And when Virra confirmed that indeed, Renan won, we all rejoiced! We were soooooo happy for him. He deserves it! He have been working too hard to win this competition. I remember that in December, a few days before my friend's wedding, he was literally sleepless. I even joked that I might just as well drape the cloth he bought for my gown, so that it will not consume his time. But he did it! He did it fabulously well!

The MEGA Young Designers Competition Grand Winner Renan Jay Pacson with his models.

And the finalists, Mara, Renan and Robin.

And of course, our ever supportive friends, Ricaday, Virra and Chariz who were as stunning and gorgeous as Renan's works.

Once again, CONGRATULATIONS RENAN! WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!

______________________________

Photos By: Tet Roberts
Taken from Renan's FB album

Product Spotlight: Etude House Bubble Hair Coloring

2012-02-16T22:04:00.000-08:00

Just like how feng shui experts predict what's lucky and unlucky for the year 2012, the beauty industry proclaims RED as the hair color of the year. And since I haven't colored my hair in the past two years, I decided it is time to dye my tresses.

While doing my research, I came across different DIY hair color products, and this one stood out among the rest with more positive reviews: Etude House Bubble Hair Coloring. I got Wine Red.

Here are my pegs for my new look. My next target is to have digital perm. =)

The photo on its box is a bit bolder for my taste, but decided to get one anyway since I know that it is very rare for photos on DIY hair color boxes to match the actual results.

Etude House Bubble Hair Coloring comes with a pump that contains the color activator, the hair color on a tetra pack, gloves, cape and perfumed silky treatment.

It is so easy to use. Just pour the hair color to the pump bottle that contains the activator and tilt back and forth. Do not shake. Wear the gloves and cape, pump some "bubbles" and put on your hair, just like how you normally shampoo your tresses. Leave it on for 30-45 minutes, and voila! Rinse hair thoroughly. I did not shampoo my hair. I panicked because my hair felt dry and stiff! But after I put on the silky perfumed treatment, it softens significantly. I left the treatment for about 3 minutes and rinsed it out.

The results? Here are some of my photos. (l-r): Before dyeing my hair; After coloring my hair; After making faux curls using guess what? a chopstick.

Pros:

Easy to use

Cheap at Php 378

Does not stain on skin. Should you happen to have some stains on your skin, just rinse it off with water and it will be removed easily.

Does not smell odd

Cons:

My hair became a bit drier after a few days, especially when I don't put on conditioner

Tip:

The content of the pump and the tetra pack is more than enough to cover my long and thick hair. About 3/4 of it remained unused. I wish I did not mix it all at the same time, so that I still have something for retouch.

Overall, I like. I hope I can try Natural Brown and Sweet Orange soon.

Current Favorite: Colour Collection Triple Treat Lip-Cheek-Eye Color Stick

2012-02-15T04:15:00.000-08:00

I've been seeing this before in the brochures, but I just thought it was so ordinary, and that my impression is it is some mediocre product. But I was WRONG. this is one fantabulous product! Colour Collection Triple Treat Lip-Cheek-Eye Color Stick is so handy, long-wearing and has good color payoff.

I got the chance to try its Lots of Rose shade, and i got hooked into it. It is now a staple in my kikay kit because it is very handy and versatile. Sometimes when I just don't like to put on makeup, or if I am in a hurry, I'll just sweep a few coats of this pink tube on my cheeks and lips and I am all set.

Lots of Rose is a very nice shade of warm candy pink with subtle shimmer. Here's a closer look:

Here's a swatch on my NC30 skin:

And on my lips:

Seriously, I am getting addicted to this tiny little pink magic wand. I want to try all the colors. too bad, the one who sells Tupperware Brands here at our place is now inactive. I want! I want!

Bloggers' Lunch with Tupperware Brands' Chief Makeup Artist Bianca Valerio

2012-02-15T03:19:00.000-08:00

Last February 6, I was so privileged to be invited at the Tupperware Brands Bloggers' Lunch with no less than their stunning Chief Makeup Artist Bianca Valerio. I remember that way back in 2006, I got the chance to work with Bianca when I was still working in a wedding magazine. She was our model one day, and makeup artist the day next. Yes, that's how multi-talented she is. But I don;t think she still remembers me. I was too "nene" yet that time.

She was wearing a red lipstick (read: Rubi) from her own makeup line under Tupperware Brands. She also talked about the other products included in her line that include the basic makeup stash every lady needs (lipstick, makeup base or BB cream, brow pencil and mascara).

The highlight of the event is the launch of Colour Collection's University Tour, where they created a customized makeover bus that will roam around some universities in Metro Manila. Too bad I had to leave earlier because I just sneaked out of the office so I wasn't able to see the bus' intteriors.

I am so glad to meet fellow blogger during the event. Hope to be with you again soon girls!

Here's their photo wall that we weren't able to use (so sorry!). But it looks chic. =)

Colour Collection starts university tours

2012-02-12T05:12:00.000-08:00

Press Release

The chic Colour Collection bus that will roam around universities in Metro Manila
to get you primped and prettified!

Young women today enjoy being at their best all the time. From the clothes they rock, to the latest hairstyle, to the sweet scent they wear, girls don’t miss a thing when it comes to being beautiful. Moreover, young women take pleasure in playing with colours that not only make them pretty but more importantly, confident. What can be more exciting for young college girls than makeup?

Colour Collection, Tupperware Brands’ premier cosmetics line is taking one step at a time to spreading confidence among fun, young college girls as its makeover bus tours universities in Metro Manila to treat fashionistas with free makeovers and beauty chat with our guest beauty experts, plus the exciting opportunity to be featured in Meg, one of the leading fashion and beauty magazines in the country today.

The brand, popularly being endorsed by Bea Alonzo, has been known for its extensive, rich makeup colors with skin caring properties, and has successfully launched innovative products such as the Colour Intense Lipstick, Triple Effect Waterproof Mascara, Gluta Whitening BB Cream and its chief makeup artist Bianca Valerio’s Makeup Artist Edition line.

The makeover tour recently kicked-off at the University of the Philippines in Diliman.The plush, mobile beauty salon was parked at the College of Arts and Sciences/College of Arts and Letters grounds to allow female college students to avail of a free Colour Collection makeover.

More than 1,500 students hopped on the bus to experience the makeover treatment and got a free 15ml Gluta Whitening BB Cream for their purchase of any lip color.

What’s more, the lady Iskolars ng Bayan had a chance to chat with Bianca Valerio about beauty secrets during an intimate gathering held at the Café Via Mare at the Center for Asian Studies.

Embodying the credibility the of this beauty brand, Bianca trained and got professional license at the prestigious Make-Up Designory in L.A. After finishing her studies, Bianca hosted the fashion TV show FASH (Fashion and Style Hub), wherein she showcased her knowledge on makeup, hairstyling and fashion.

With Colour Collection’s high quality and innovative pieces, there’s no holding back in giving it a try, as how our guest beauty experts did. Joining top model and professional makeup artist Bianca Valerio on tour were two of the most trusted online and print beauty editors, who shared beauty and style know-how’s to students. Well-known beauty blogger Liz Lanuzo, the beauty and brains behind Projectvanity.com writes about the wide range of products and services in the beauty and fashion niche especially made for Filipinas. Completing the line-up was Meg magazine’s beauty editor Ning Hilario whose eyes are set on the hottest and hippest trends in style and beauty must-haves.

As Colour Collection visits three more universities, the brand will choose three (3) pretty faces as part of the brand’s Best 12 makeovers. The tour will wrap up via an online voting in the event’s exclusive microsite where one of our Best 12 will have a chance to win an exclusive makeover feature c/o Meg and a meet-and-greet with brand ambassador Bea Alonzo.

The Colour Collection University Tour Bus caps off over 18 successful years of Colour Collection in the Philippines. For almost two decades, the brand has captured women nationwide with its dazzling makeup lines that capture every woman's beauty.

To see exclusive details about the event, log on to www.colourcollectiontour.com or like Tupperware Brands Philippines in Facebook.

Tupperware Brands is the authorized distributor of some of the world’s prestigious brands including Tupperware, Colour Collection, Ivana, White Result, Wonderbra, Playtex, Hanes, Baby Care Plus, Circus and Zwitsal. For your questions and inquiries on how to be a dealer, log on to www.tupperwarebrands.ph, email us at questions@Tupperware.ph or call the hotline number 867-2222.

Product Spotlight: Colour Collection Colour Intense Lipstick in Salmon

2012-01-27T22:04:00.000-08:00

The latest addiction to my lipstick collex is Colour Collection Colour Intense Lipstick in Salmon. As many have predicted, orange, tangerine and coral are the colors of the year 2012. So, I am currently on the lookout for the best orange and coral lipstick that will ignite me like MAC Pink Nouveau. Yes, I somehow need (or rather want) an orange or coral POWER LIPSTICK. I read MAC Morange is nice, but am still saving up for this. =)

Without further ado, here is Colour Collection Colour Intense Lipstick in Salmon.

This is a nice neutral salmon shade that's orangey and brownish at the same time. It is near Maybelline's Cozy Tangerine, but a lot creamier and longlasting. For best results, use with a nude lipliner to hide lip pigmentation. I like the formula because it is not drying and not too glossy as well.

Product Spotlight: Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler

2012-01-27T21:35:00.000-08:00

The multi-awarded eyelash curler landed my traincase at last, thanks to my very dear friend Angela Lim, for giving this as a birthday gift to me. God knows how you made me happy! =)

It is every makeup artists' staple, and every magazines' number one, Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler is definitely one of a kind. Some may argue, how is this different from any other eyelash curlers out there? For me, it is just perfect. It curls my lashes to perfection. It fits wells and does not pinch my lids. It works well even without mascara.

Some says its local dupe is Fanny Serrano's. I beg to disagree. I have FS and it won't curl my stubborn lashes. I have to put on mascara first, so that my lashes would get a bit "manageable" and curl with FS. I know that's a no-no, as it can cause my lashes to get brittle and fall off. But it won't curl my lashes if I don't do that. So, the verdict: Shu Uemura is officially my HG eyelash curler!

I just wish Shu Uemura will sell refills, so that the eyelash curler would be for keeps.

Again, thanks Angela! Love Love Love!

Product Spotlight: MAC Pink Nouveau

2012-01-26T21:53:00.000-08:00

I need not describe MAC Pink Nouveau in details. Why? For me, there's only one description to this candy pink lippie: My Holy Grail Pink Lipstick.

I was hesitant to buy a tube at first because I still think that a thousand bucks for a lippie is impractical, especially if I will not wear it everyday. In my search for the perfect dupe, I have spent more than a thousand moolah, and yet failed to find the exact dupe (in shade and texture). So, I somehow regret not buying one afterall.

And so I thought I will not wear it everyday. But I was wrong. It became by ever reliable pink lippie. If I am stressed, I would always say, "I need my power lipstick!". And by that I mean "I need my MAC Pink Nouveau!".

I love MAC's lipsticks in satin finish because the color payoff is excellent sans the flat and drying effect of the matte ones.

Lesson learned: It is not that bad to follow your impulse at times. =)

Product Spotlight: Colour Collection Mineral Eyeshadow Quad

2012-01-26T20:41:00.000-08:00

Despite my love and lust for makeup artistry, I must admit i only mastered two eye makeup looks: Neutral and Smokey. So each time I see a palette that has shades perfect for such looks, I always see to it to grab one. (With the exception of Urban Decay's Naked Palette, as I still have to save big time for this holy grail neutral eye palette.)

One of the neutral palettes that I love most is Tupperware Brands' Colour Collection Mineral Eyeshadow Quad in Luminous Gems.

This palette has four beautiful neutral shades (please refer to the photo below):

1) It's a nice highlighter that's not glittery, just shimmery. I am so thankful I found this because my G-Lish Eyeshadow in Caffeine Rush (which includes my favorite highlighter) is already hitting the bottom of the pan. This shade is perfect for highlighting the brow bone and the corners of the eyes. Just a reminder, please groom your brows before putting on highlighter on your brow bone so as not to highlight the "unwanted".

2) It's a nice beige eyeshadow that can either work as your base or just be worn alone.

3) A darker reddish beige shadow that's perfect for contouring. If you have dark undereyes, conceal dark spots first, as this may amplify dark circles. I love using this at the outer corner (outer V).

4) This is the darkest shade in this palette and can be used for added drama. It can also be used to make an illusion of prominent eyelids, perfect for Asian eyes.

I love this palette because it is very handy and it is not chalky. The shimmers are so fine so the shades are perfectly wearable even on broad daylight.

Thumbs up for Colour Collection once again!

Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm and Lid Smoothie

2012-01-20T22:08:00.000-08:00

Clinique, a dermatologist-developed cosmetics brand, believes that Great Skin Can Be Created. Each beautifully crafted Clinique skin care and makeup product is Allergy Tested and 100% Fragrance Free. But sometimes, the misconception is when a product is mild, the quality is often compromised. This is not the case with Clinique. Though their products are mild on the skin, the quality is more than satisfactory. For me, every Clinique product is worth the investment.

Just recently, I got these babies from Clinique - Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm in Super Strawberry and Lid Smoothie (which I almost thought is a "lip" smoothie!) in Pinkgo Biloba.

Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm contains mango and shea butter that moisturizes the lips while giving a hint of colour. Super Strawberry is a great MLBB (my lips but better) shade that is perfect for everyday use. I love matching it with a nude lipliner for a more opaque and longlasting effect.

Clinique Lid Smoothie in Pinkgo Biloba on the other hand is a great highlighter, not only for the eyes, but for the brow bone, nose bridge and even cheeks! It is shimmery but not glittery. For instant glow, try putting some on the inner corners of your eyes.

Here are the swatches:

Left - Lid Smoothie in Pinkgo Biloba

Right - Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm in Super Strawberry.

Tupperware Brands' Holiday Gifts

2012-01-20T06:22:00.000-08:00

I know it's too late for a holiday post but it's better late than never, right? =)

Before 2011 ended, I received some stuff from Tupperware Brands in this chic zebra-print Tupperware canister. Tadaaah!

A Sophie Rose cologne, some Baby Care products (which Akisha loves), White Result Kojic Soap and Lotion, another pan of Colour Collection's Mineral Powder Foundation, and another Colour Collection Lipstick in Salmon.

Comments:

1) Sophie Rose - a mild floral scent that reminds me so much of Lacoste Pink. Perfect for evening night outs and formal events.

2) White Result Kojic Lotion - I love the scent! It smells fresh and citrusy. Plus, it is not sticky.

3) White Result Kojic Soap - Smells good like the lotion. Though I noticed that it does not lather that much.

4) Colour Collection Lipstick in Salmon - a nice nude/coral lippie that's wearable in the workplace.

5) Baby Care Powder & Baby Bath- Akisha loves these, but I hope there is a fragrance-free version.

Clinique Event at Whitespace, Makati City

2012-01-20T04:19:00.000-08:00

I was privileged to be part of Clinique's Makeup Relaunch Event last night at the Whitespace, Makati City. The event was graced with celebrities including Iza Calzado, Phoemela Baranda, Rhian Ramos, Laureen Uy, Tessa Prieto and a lot more, as well as bloggers and friends from the media.

While everyone was having cocktails, the lights dimmed and to our surprise, amazing acrobats opened the program.

Model Joey Mead hosted the program in her blue tube jumpsuit.

An official from Clinique's international office was also present last night.

The event showcased Clinique's makeup line through a fashion show.

Clinique makeup artists showed their talents by prepping these lovely models in white.

Whitespace is located in Pasong Tamo Ext., Makati City (beside Makati Hope Christian School) and just infront of Mead Johnson.

And we went home with these goodies! I am so excited to make a review soon! Thank you Clinique. 'Til next time!

Product Spotlight: Colour Collection Mineral Powder Foundation

2011-12-28T05:32:00.000-08:00

Sorry for being not writing about beauty stuff for long time (I was so busy travelling and focusing on my full time job, please bear with me.)

Continuing my review on Colour Collection Mineral Cosmetics Line, I think this is the best time to give my inputs on Colour Collection's Mineral Powder Foundation. I had already finished a pan and am ready to spill the beans. =)

Coverage and Staying Power

Since this is a mineral foundation, I was kinda expecting a lot from it in terms of coverage, though it turned out it has sheer to medium coverage. When used alone, it can last up to 2 hours on my oily T-zone, while it can last 4 hours when used to set my liquid foundation. To build coverage, use the sponge included in the pan instead of a powder brush.

Texture

Colour Collection's Mineral Powder Foundation is finely-milled. It blends smoothly when applied using a large powder brush or a sponge.

Shades

I got two shades of Colour Collection's Mineral Powder Foundation: Light and Natural.

Light: yellow-toned, light to medium

Natural: neutral-toned, medium

I have made a comparative shot of the two shades but the lighting might be a bit deceiving. In the photo below, Light appears darker than Natural, but it should be the opposite.

I am NC30 and I use Natural. I find Light too "light" on me as it is very obvious on my photos. My only problem with Natural is that it sometimes looks a bit pinkish on me, so what I do is to use a yellow-toned liquid foundation beneath it. Sometimes, I also use a little bronzer to warm up its color.

Though I did not have breakouts while using this powder, it is unlike other mineral makeups that are so pure you can sleep without removing it, so please take time to remove your makeup before going to bed. Love your skin!

Forest House Is All I Want For Christmas

2011-12-24T00:34:00.000-08:00

Baguio City is known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines because of its cold climate. When I was younger, we always go to Baguio City during the Holy Week, before or after going to the Shrine of Our Lady of Manaoag in Pangasinan. Just recently, I had the chance to revisit the city with my friends. It is only my second time to visit the place on a"ber" month. I will reserve the other stories on our first day in a separate blog entry as I want to highlight the most remarkable place I've been in Baguio City this time around.

My friend recommended Forest House as our venue for the get-together dinner. She made the necessary arrangements for our reservation. When we arrived at the place, I was overwhelmed by the Christmas decors. I felt I was on a Christmas movie, or in London, or dreaming on a wonderland. This is all I want for Christmas!

Continue reading and browsing photos here.

A Filipino-inspired holistic experience at the Amuma Spa

2011-12-16T23:26:00.000-08:00

Maribago Bluewater prides itself for offering Filipino-inspired holistic treatments in their very own Amuma Spa. Amuma is a Visayan term that means "to pamper". True to its name, Amuma Spa is a haven for rejuvenation. Our blissful Amuma Spa journey started from our very own Amuma Spa Suite (see related story here). The suite is just a few steps away from the Amuma Spa main hall and its very own swimming pool.

We were asked to choose from four variants of massages oils: VCO, Ilang-Ilang, Lemon Grass and Green Tea. If I can only choose all, believe me, I will. I chose Lemon Grass for my hubby and VCO for me.

We were then led to the Filipiniana-inspired shower room. The lockers were made of native materials. To complete the Filipiniana feel of the shower room, I was given a sarong instead of a robe which I shall wear after a refreshing bath.

The shower room is complete with bath amenities like lotion, cotton, Q-tips, shampoo, conditioner and soap.

The shower rooms are clean and well-maintained. Kudos to Amuma Spa!

After a refreshing shower, we were led to the couple's room. This hallway is our gateway to a well-deserved spa indulgence, after working hard for many months! Should I say, this is the gateway to heaven?

The couple's room is spacious. It has its own jacuzzi, steam bath, comfort room and a veranda.

We first indulged in Hingut-an, a head and shoulder massage that de-stressed us after our long journey from Sumilon Bluewater. The massage was followed by suob, a Filipino version of the steam bath. Suob has been used by various Filipino ethnic groups to drive away elements of illnesses. A concoction of warm water, herbs, salt and flowers were placed in a basin where we were asked to put our feet on, letting the therapeutic mixture vaporize inside a large thick cloth that envelops the body. The healthy steam increases blood circulation, fat metabolism and detoxification. It nourishes the skin and makes it supple. The muscle fibers soften which makes this a worthwhile treatment before a massage.

That was just the beginning.

After the suob, we proceeded with our much awaited Amuma Hilot massage. It is Amuma Spa's signature rendition of the traditional Filipino hilot massage, a fusion of hilot techniques from across the Philippines. Uniquely Filipino, this therapy induces relaxation and promotes healing. Warm fresh banana fronds are used to loosen tense muscles. This is the Filipiniana version of the famous hot stone and ventosa massage. I love the warmth of the banana leaves placed on my back. It softened my stiff muscles. A relaxing pillow was also placed on my eyes. It is like a cold compress. I wonder where I can get one? It helps diminish puffiness in the eye area.

The massage lasted for an hour. The therapist then enjoined us to use the steam bath.

Recharged, we then headed to the lounge area to indulge on a cup of ginger ale. It is definitely one of the most relaxing spa experience we had.

Amuma Spa also has a spa boutique at the ground floor of the spa pavilion. It offers a wide variety of homemade soaps, oils and a lot more.

I forgot to grab some coconut soap and massage oils before we checked out the next day. I am sure these coconut soaps are a good alternative to Akisha's oatmeal soap (the one she uses to alleviate her skin asthma).

When we went out of Amuma Spa, it was already dark outside. The spa pavilion looks so beautiful at night.

Amuma Spa also has an alfresco spa pavilion by the poolside. It is also near the outdoor sauna and jacuzzi.

The outdoor spa pavilion gives you a chance to enjoy a massage while indulging in fresh air.

You can also have Thai massage here on one of their floor mattresses.

Amuma Spa is truly a sanctuary of Filipino-inspired holistic indulgences. So the next time you will visit Cebu, try to allot a day to relax after having a beach-and-sun adventure.

Join Human Heart Nature's Latest Contest!

2011-12-16T07:22:00.000-08:00

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Spa-cial Affair at Maribago Bluewater

2011-12-11T02:26:00.000-08:00

After another 3-hour drive from Sumilon Bluewater, and after a day of adventure and island living, we headed to our next destination, Maribago Bluewater for a relaxing spa vacation. Yes, you read it right, a SPA vacation!

Maribago Bluewater is located in Buyong Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City in Cebu. From the airport, it is about 5-10 minutes ride.

Please click here to continue.

Visit my travel blog at http://matetreyes.blogspot.com

Glamping at Sumilon Bluewater: Getting out of my comfort zone

2011-12-10T04:38:00.000-08:00

I travel because I want to de-stress and be away from the noise of city life. I travel because I want to breathe fresh air. I travel because I want to reunite with nature. I've been to hotels and resorts around the country. They are almost the same. They just vary in price and theme. I want something special, something that can make my stay more memorable, something outside my comfort zone. Thus, I chose glamping.

Glamping or glamorous camping is an innovative way of "camping" in a more sophisticated setup. For some, the idea of camping is equivalent to bugs, uncomfortable beddings, questionable food and eerie nights. These are also the reason why for some, their first camping experience becomes the last.

But glamping is way different.

Find out more here.

Please follow my travel blog at http://matetreyes.blogspot.com

The Villas at Sumilon Bluewater

2011-12-10T04:33:00.000-08:00

Sumilon Bluewater has 12 spacious villas that have an individual veranda with a fantastic view of the sea and mainland Cebu. And when I say, spacious, I mean it! The villa is too big for the three of us, as it has two double beds, a lounge area, mini bar and a writing desk. What I love most are the giant sliding doors that give a well-deserved ventilation and a magnificent view. Please click here for full story.

Sumilon Island, Cebu: En Route to a Paradise Down South

2011-11-30T02:39:00.000-08:00

Sharing our Sumilon Island's getaway. Please click here.

Product Spotlight: Colour Collection CoQ10 Age Defying BB Cream

2011-11-06T23:50:00.000-08:00

On days when I don't feel like putting on too much makeup, I always rely on my tinted moisturizers for a not-so-made-up look. My only concern with my present tinted moisturizer is that it only has SPF15, a reason for me to not use it whenever I go on travel, especially when I am off to the beach.

I read about BB creams (blemish balm ala tinted moisturizer with added benefits like higher sun protection, whitening, etc.) about 3 years ago and was able to try some labels. However, I find it either too thick or too gray for my skintone. That's why I stopped buying BB creams. But when someone sent me a tube of Colour Collection CoQ10 Age Defying BB Cream, I must say, I fell in love with BB creams again.

I love this BB Cream for many reasons:

1) It has SPF45.

2) The color matches all skintones. Not grayish like some Korean brands.

3) It is not sticky.

4) It diminishes the appearance of large/open pores.

My only concern is the fragrance, so for those who are uber sensitive, the scent might turn you off. For me, that's just a minor concern, not a big deal.

My new travel blog

2011-11-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

Hi Followers,

I have decided to create a separate blog for my travel escapades. i hope you'll support it the way you supported BeautyStashandMore. Here is my new playground:

http://matetreyes.blogspot.com/

Please follow it as i will be posting more of our travel escapades there so that BeautyStashandMore can concentrate on beauty and wellness.

Thanks a bunch!

Power Breakfast at Restaurant 5

2011-10-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

Our stay at the Serendipity Suites comes with a free buffet breakfast for two at Restaurant 5. We woke up early to have some power breakfast to start our day.

It has a variety of breakfast items to choose from - fresh fruits, yogurt, breads, soup, cereals and a lot more.

There is a pancake and omelet station where you could ask them to make your pancakes and omelets while you choose the toppings.

I chose blueberries and cream pancakes while hubby chose to have strawberries and peaches.

There are also pizzas, bacon, corndogs and hash browns. For those who likes Filipino breakfast, they also have fried rice, tocino and eggs.

My favorite cold cuts and cheese.

They have unlimited coffee and hot chocolate as well, plus fruit juices, too!

Discovering Serendipity Suites

2011-10-30T21:43:00.000-07:00

The most family-friendly hotel for me is none other than Discovery Suites. Not only because of its spacious suites, but the staff gives you a warm welcome as if they are your staff at home. Now, another reason to love the Discovery Suites is their newly-renovated Serendipity Suites.

Located at the sixth to eighth floors of the hotel, the Serendipity Suites offer one, two and three bedroom suites that are spacious and homey.

The suites are equipped with a fully-furnished kitchen (with oven, microwave, fridge, glasswares, silverwares and stove). If you are planning to have a Christmas staycation, the Serendipity Suites is perfect because you can bring in food and cook it the way you want it.

It is also complete with coffee- and tea-making facilities. The kitchen itself is so spacious. It is created that way so that it will give you a homey feel even if you are not at home. Discovery Suites is just across The Podium and walking distance from SM Megamall, so you could buy food or groceries anytime.

The dining area is chic. Here, you can have a small pica-pica or fondue party.

They have welcome fruits, too!

If, and only if, you decided you want to work while on a staycation (com'on!), the Serendipity Suites are also equipped with a work desk that has internet access. Otherwise, just checkout your FB and upload your holiday photos ASAP.

There are 2 flatscreen TV's in a One-Bedroom Suite - in the lounge and inside the bedroom.

The bed is so cozy that you would wish you could just sleep all day!

The bathroom is again, my favorite part. It has a tub, so I and Akisha enjoyed having a long warm bath.

The bathroom amenities are superb, too! I love their body scrub!

The Serendipity Suite package also comes with a free use of their swimming pool and jacuzzi at the 5th floor. You have nothing to worry because they provide towels, coffee and juice at the pool area. No need to bring sunblock because the pool is covered.

The hotel also has a playroom for kids, also lcated at the 5th floor. You can bond together with your little angels and have some coloring or drawing activities.

Akisha enjoyed playing the toy donuts and croissant.

I hope we can celebrate Christmas at Discovery Suites this year!

Revisiting Terra Wellness Spa at Discovery Suites

2011-10-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

Terra Wellness Spa is one of my favorite spas in the metro. It has been a year ago since I last visited Terra Wellness Spa in Discovery Suites, Ortigas Center. We had a spa party here during the launch of a skin care product I was handling back then.

It feels good to revisit this spa and see that they still give the same superb customer service, having a league of courteous staff assisting you in the cozy waiting lounge. We were served jasmine tea and given our spa footwear in preparation for our one-hour body massage. The concierge said they are still filling up the jacuzzi. WOW, I can't wait to have a dip in that warm jacuzzi!

While waiting, we were asked to choose our massage oil. Terra Wellness Spa uses the Amu'in Wellness line of Ms. Cathy and Mr. Mike Turvill (also the owners of Nurture Spa in Tagaytay). Choices are Alaga (care) and Sigla (energy).

Alaga relaxes tense and tired muscles with a blend of rosemary, ginger and peppermint while Sigla melts stress away with lemongrass, peppermint, lemon and May Chang essential oils.

We chose Sigla.

Afterwards, we were led to the couple's room and the warm and bubbly jacuzzi is waiting for us!

We indulged here for 20 minutes. I swear, when the time comes that I am already able to have my own house, I will have a jacuzzi, by hook or by crook. It is so relaxing! If only I could stay here for the entire day.

After the jacuzzi indulgence, our therapist started our one-hour Signature Terra Wellness Massage. This massage never fails to make me fall asleep. The strokes are just right, not hard, not effortless. Seriously, I fell asleep and woke up rejuvenated. I wish to try Terra Wellness Spa in Discovery Shores soon!