That's so Nice!

RELISH

2017-04-26T01:44:00.000+08:00

"Relish the good times"

It's been a while since I last posted here - and if I say "awhile", I mean it. In restrospect, my last decent post was in the year 2013 which is 5 years back. What happened in between is already written in history, for now, it's a fresh start for me. A lot has changed obviously as we mature, but if there are certain things in my life that are wired to me from the beginning, it would be my love for writing.

If you noticed, sixty percent of this blog's content has been deleted - I have been contemplating of changing the blog's name for awhile, but realized that it's better to evolve from its origin. The blog has now a different theme (a far cry from the very crude fashion subject), that is to "relish the good times", which perhaps can also be attributed to the blog's title - "That's so Nice!". Years back, I remember my colleagues use the blogs title as an expression of appreciation to people who 'dress to impress'. Now, I'd like to focus more on the "good" here, but of course that would be based on my perception. My perspective may differ from yours, but what the heck? This is a free country.

Relish (v) means, to "enjoy greatly", and in that sense, this blog will focus on the things I enjoy immensely. This blog will cover a lot of tangibles - food, places, activities, etc., and will tackle some of my thoughts about life.

Hopefully this year, i'd be more consistent in placing my canned thoughts through this blog. Aside from being an outlet for stress, this blog will serve as a window to who I am. To those who know me, im not a fan of spoken words. Not that i'm not eloquent, i just hate impromptu. I like my word-choices to be packaged just the way i like it. I'd probably ace a written interview than the oral type (if there's such a thing).

Anyway, over the weekend, our family stayed at the Conrad Manila Luxury Hotel and it was an awesome experience. More than that, i got to relish the moment with my family which i rarely do nowadays because of my extremely busy schedule. I learned however, Will share the highlights of our stay in my next post!

Relishing the time with my familyo - (L-R) My grandmother, me, my dad, and mom at Conrad Manila

A Glimpse of the Spanish Era (Part 2)

2014-01-23T17:25:00.001+08:00

Okay, so i'm sharing with you what's inside the rooms of Las Casas. Certainly it give's you that old-spanish era vibe, and it's really cozy, perfect for honey-mooners, or people who just want to relax.

Other amenities:

Well, aside from the natural beach, they also have a pool where you could do skinny-dipping if you're not comfortable basking under the sun and saltwater.

A Glimpse of the Spanish Era (Part 1)

2013-11-12T17:34:00.001+08:00

The Philippines is such a beautiful place that needs to be discovered.

Can anyone guess where this place is? It doesn't even look like it's taken from this era right? Truth is, this place is existent, and it's in the Philippines (Bagac, Bataan) and its called Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar. I'll be giving you more details about my experience during my visit in part 2 of this post :) Stay tune!

Photos taken by yours truly, using a Nikon DSLR camera :)

Eats: Pamana, A Legacy of Filipino Food

2013-10-19T17:27:00.000+08:00

“Everyone must leave something behind when he dies . . . Something your hand touched some way so your soul has somewhere to go when you die . . . It doesn't matter what you do, so long as you change something from the way it was before you touched it into something that's like you after you take your hands away.”
― Ray Bradbury, Fahrenheit 451

Have you ever visited Tagaytay during weekdays sans the buzzling tourists to enjoy the wonderful scenic views without getting annoyed? Recently i had, and it's such a great experience! One highlight of my visit is our dining trip to Pamana restaurant just along Tagaytay's main road.

From afar, you'd notice this white 3 storey building that exudes an elegant vibe that you'd immediately conclude that the prices of the food offered here are also sky-high. I also didn't know that this place is owned by the famous and controversial Ongpaucos' (think: Heart), whose clan is famous for their Barrio Fiesta chain of restaurants.

As i entered the establishment, i was immediately mesmerized by what i saw - cobblestone tiles, off-white interiors, old photographs and memorabilia from the 50's to the 90's, antique furniture, an outdoor view of vivid greens paired with a blue sky canvass which will automatically prompt your involuntary reflexes to put your camera out - point and shoot! We were greeted by courteous waiters who guided us to our seats while they gave us a history of the place.

Pamana in english, means inheritance, heritage, or legacy. This was the inspiration for the restaurant's name since most of the items here were relics from former Barrio Fiesta bistros restored and now put into good use. It's like a museum to preserve the memories of how the family started that's why for me, it's like a mini-museum.

So, to address my assumption about the price of the food, surprisingly, price ranges from 200 - 500 per dish in large servings. We only ordered a few entrees but we were satisfied by all the flavors! Plus, the staff were very courteous that i gave them a huge tip after!

Just a tip, the restaurant has a roofdeck were you'll get a picturesque view of Taal.

Pamana's Binagoongang Bagnet - not too salty and oily like the others, i'd say safer than the usual cardiac delights - LOL!

The creamy goodness of their baked Tahong makes you want to crave for more!

Their classic seafood paella made us want to wipe everything off the serving dish - look at that blue marlin slab!

You should try their rich shakes - like this chocnut chocolate shake!

Pamana Restaurant

Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City

Beside Boutique Hotel, near the Tagaytay Rotunda

For Reservations, contact Vangie Reyes +63920 856 1970

What I Wore:

Turtleneck - H&M

Skirt - Stradivarius

Bag - Bally

Necklace and watch - Parfois

Scarf - Mango

Shoes - Australian

Eats: The Rocketroom at BHS central

2013-10-19T16:27:00.002+08:00

So it's another Raintree hangout spot - that's so nice!

Whenever i pass by BHS central, i would always see this dimly-lit place jam-packed with young professionals clutching their cocktails or glass of wine. I never attempted to go here as a "walk-in" guest, since i knew that this is a frequent go to place for people who needs to unwind after a long stressful day. Just beside the slazzy Stella in Bonifacio Highstreet Central is it's sister restaurant called the "Rocketroom".

One rainy holiday though, i was thinking of grabbing a drink with a friend in BGC, and for some reason i attempted to make a reservation 30 minutes before our "call time". Lo and behold, when i arrived at the place, i was the only guest inside the airconditioned part of the place, while a few foreigners were consuming their last bottle of wine. So finally, i was able to have a stress free dining experience here at the Rocketroom maybe because it was a holiday, and the rain was pouring hard.

I like this place at night because it exudes a mixture of modern yet quaint flair which gives you a relax yet cool "feel" at the same time. It's different from Stella, since the latter is all about 'casual' dining experience.

I only ordered a few entree's on their menu, but one thing's for sure - you could also order from Stella's list(You may click the link below this review for their menu). As for the price, i would say that it's very affordable for ordinary wage-workers like me! :)

I love the "romantic" ambience Rocket room exudes especially during weekdays, when there's not much people hanging out.

Rocket Room offers a selection of different wines and liquor. Tried several glasses of wine at a very affordable price.

Chorizo Bruchettas - Looks very simple, but one serving explodes in mouth watering flavor!

Stella's Porchetta:or "porketta" in English, is a savory boneless pork roasted in Italian tradition. The pig is usua roasted, traditionally over wood. Porchetta is usually heavily salted in addition to being stuffed with different herbs from the wild.

Stella's Aglio e olio. Yes you can order food from Rocketroom's sister resto --- Stella!

Stella's just a door across this amazing hangout spot.

Their version of Gambas is also so delicioso!

With a dear friend and brithday boy Jerard.

Rocket Room

Garden Level, Bonifacio High Street Central
Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
Tel. No. 621-3222
Open from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Click this link for other reviews and their menu.

What I Wore:

Dress - Banana Republic

Bracelet -

Shoes - Ever New

Eats: Singapore Food Republic by Nasi Lemak

2013-10-14T10:36:00.002+08:00

“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.”

- Virgina Woolf

I'm a sucker for all things nice and delicious, that's why i am very happy to announce that finally, Singapore Food Republic by Nasi Lemak (owned by H.K. Tan) opened their second branch at the 4th Avenue of Fort Bonifacio Global City. It's very near St. Luke's Hospital, just at the backside of HSBC building.

Aside from the gastronomic delights offered here, what I also particularly like is the quality of their service. When i went to visit this resto, I met the owner himself, Mr. HK Tan. When i saw him, he was just clad in a yellow shirt and jeans, walking around clutching a dishcloth.

He went to every table and asked the customers how the food was like, and suggested the proper way (or the best way) of eating some of the dishes. He made sure that all the dishes were served properly and on time, (he actually served some of the orders himself!) setting a good example to his employees. Then i remember, a good leader should "get his hands dirty sometimes".

For me, this restaurant offers the best of what Singapore has to offer, only nearer. So, to those from the South who finds it difficult to go to Robinson's Galleria Ortigas just to get a taste of delicious Singaporean cuisine... we now all have a go to place! So far I'd rate all the dishes , the service, ambience, and the value for money a 5/5. I would love to go here over and over!

Of all the Hakaos i tasted in Asian restaurants here in Manila, by far this is the best i've tried.

Their Hainanese Chicken comes with 3 different sauces. The chicken looks and taste very fresh!

Their Shanghai Beef Strips are very tender.

This one is a favorite! Singapore Seafood Hofan. You can also order Beef instead of pork.

The owner, Mr. HK Tan (claims to be an amateur), is the one who took all the photos in his restaurant. I actually met him personally, and I would say that he is very hands-on and very warm at the same time! Best customer service!

Singapore Famous Claypot Chicken

Crispy Baby Squid: To die for!

Sinagpore Food Republic is located at:

Ground Level, Commercenter, 30th Street Corner, 4th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City

Contact No: (+632)9251988

Click this link for their Menu.

Fighting Our Inner Demons

2013-10-14T01:39:00.002+08:00

Fighting your way back on your feet when life knocks you down, while they all thought you can't rise again, is what makes you a true survivor.

It’s nice to be back. I’ve been trying to find time to post something here, unfortunately my work expends most of my time, what’s more appalling is that a succession of unfortunate events took place. I was lost – literally, and figuratively. I have completely gone awry.

There are times when we go astray as an aftermath of wrong turns and faulty decisions made fueled by worldly motives or desires. Sometimes we are prejudiced with our choices even if juxtaposed to what’s really good, just because some things are packaged in an ornate fashion. There are times that we discard all the values mugged up since childhood, including the frequent “reminders”, or basic life morals taught by our parents.

We tend to listen more to the “tiny voice” of our impulsive conscience since it gratifies those desires. That tiny voice, the demons inside us are calling out “come here I’ll give you something more”, not noticing that we are walking further from the right trail since our eyes are transfixed to the opposite direction, ignoring ciphers saying that we’re heading the wrong way, our demons continually deceiving us. We realize we’re just going around in circles—til we get anergic from exhaustion, prompting us to finally make the distress call.

You find yourself in the middle of nowhere, lost, emaciated from fatigue, frustration, what’s worse is that in the end, you’re still left empty handed.

Question is, how are you going to fight the demon inside?

What I Wore:
Top and Jeans from Replay
Cap from Chaps
Studded Bracelet from Promod
Necklace from Mango Touch
Peep toe heels from Australian

Eats: Happy Tummy, Baguio City

2013-10-08T18:34:00.002+08:00

Happy Tummy is a Thai restaurant among the group of restaurants or "food community" at the heart of Wright Park in Baguio City called Ketchup.

This place is a really nice respite from the hustles and bustles in the city. Happy Tummy particularly caught my attention among the restaurants there also because of my penchant for Thai food - think popular dishes such as Pad Thai, Curry, Thai Milk Tea oozing with the perfect concoction of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors at a very affordable cost!

Price ranges from Php 150-200 per dish in ample servings. Aside from the price, what's also good is that the ambience is really cozy especially at night, a good place to take your special someone on a date.In terms of palatability, i would say that their dishes are worth a try!

My favorites are their Pad Thai, Fried Tilapia in Tamarind Sauce (cost range depending on size of fish: small at Php 150 and large at Php 250), Catfish with green mango salad, Chicken Curry, and Tom Yum soup.

Group of Restaurants in Ketchup

HAPPY TUMMYIs located at Romulo Drive (beside Wright Park) right after Pacdal Circle (where St. Joseph Church is located)
Baguio City
Mobile: 0923 878-4968
Email: happytummybaguio@gmail.com
Facebook: Happy Tummy

The Best of Bacolod: Calea

2013-04-24T23:19:00.001+08:00

If we're going to talk about a list of good things about Bacolod, Calea would definitely be on the list. Aside from the homey ambience that this dessert shop has - of course, the icing on the cake is definitely their delectable cakes that are world class. Haha!

Once you visit their store, you'll be overwhelmed by a wide selection of cakes - the catch is they don't have labels or specific names for their cakes in order for their customers to remember every bit if detail their cakes have - from the flavor, the color, and of course the consistency. It's some sort of marketing strategy however, it works!

On my visit in Calea, i made sure that I've tasted almost all of their cakes. I actually tried 12 different cakes. Well, since they don't have signature names, i could help you in describing each and every mouth-watering treat.

And oh, before anything else - i would like to inform everyone that the cakes in Calea tastes good but is easy on the pocket. Cake prices range from 600-800 pesos, or 70-90 pesos a slice. Isn't this a great deal?Guys... Calea is definitely worth visiting in Bacolod! Don't miss this spot!

Their fruit filled cheesecake - It's actually like a fruit salad but only- it's a cheesecake! So yummy and light!

Chocolate dome - ice cream cake! You should try this because of the super thick and rich creamy layer of chocolate

Obviously it's a carrot cake if you wanna go for healthy eating!

Oh this is to drool over! Introducing you to the mudslide! or whatsoever ice cream cake. It's an ice cream cake sprinkled with some mixture of pulverized oreo cookie and chocolate powder, with bits of sliced almonds! THe crust is also very delectable as well! I could consume two perhaps if i'm not on diet.

The very famous International chocolate cake which all of us should be proud of. And FYI, this is the only cake you could transport safely without the danger of melting or disintegrating! You'll just have to pay additional Php 70 for the thick carton to protect the cake.

The pecan caramel cheesecake - I'd say one of the best cheese cakes i've tried ever!

When Ends Won't Meet

2013-04-01T23:25:00.001+08:00

“Sometimes life has a cruel sense of humor, giving you the thing you always wanted at the worst time possible.”
― Lisa Kleypas, Sugar Daddy

There are some things in life that aren't meant to be...that no matter how we try to make ends meet...all efforts will be futile. Maybe, the timing is not perfect... or maybe, just maybe things are just way out of your league.

One of the trends for spring/ summer 2013 is stripes - and black and white!

Got the chance to be chosen and be featured in Wantering's Spring Trends 2013. Check out http://springtrends2013.wantering.com/street-style/#striped

Dress - H&M

Shoes - Forever 21

Clutch - Hongkong

Drop earrings - Chicwish

Make a Statement

2013-03-31T13:43:00.003+08:00

You can make a good show, but you still need some magical alchemy to get people to watch.

- Shawn Ryan

Sometimes, when you're up for comfy casual dressing with the usual shorts, flats, and tee - do it with style and accessorize to glam up the whole look! Now i'm lovin' the effect hats/caps can do. I'm really not a hat lover (perhaps im just not used to wearin' one until now), but i somehow got the hang of it after seeing the effect it can do in an outfit mix - not only can it shield you from the scorching heat this summer - it can also cover up for a bad hair day!

Just make sure that when you purchase one - choose styles with extra embellishments like studs, rivets, ribbons, and laces, and so on to make a statement. Otherwise, don't buy one 'coz it'll defeat the purpose of accessorizing.

On the other hand, buy a statement shirt. (I got mine from Chanel). High street brands like Saint Laurent (former YSL), Givenchy, Boy London, have been producing statement brand shirts for casual chic dressing. It may seem like an ordinary shirt in pictures but i tell you - the material is super lightweight (perfect for summer), it's as if you arent wearin anything at all! You may purchase statement shirts like these in Designerati (they have a shop in Bonifacio Global City, they also have an IG store, and facebook account - Itdesigner Lab).

So when you're up for this mix on a lazy day - do it in style.

What I Wore:

Cap - Teejay's Clothing Online

Shades - Rayban (Super lovin' aviators now! this is my third pair)

Silk top - Chanel (The material is super lightweight as if you are not wearin' a top at all!)

Shorts - American Eagle Outfitters

Clutch - (Got it from Hongkong)

Flats - SM Parisian

Watch - Casio DB360

A Fraction of Our Time

2013-03-31T13:12:00.002+08:00

“Faith is not the belief that God will do what you want. It is the belief that God will do what is right.”

― Max Lucado, He Still Moves Stones

To some people, holy week means vacation - a week's escape from our daily grind. People look forward to it because of the much needed "rest", or perhaps give time to things we don't usually do.

Yes, weeks prior to holy week, we are pre-occupied by mental images of the beach, feel good music, flowing drinks, and parties... but have you given thought on how you will prepare yourself on what this "holy week" is for?

As a devout catholic, holy week is a time we get to reflect on the "passion of christ". Yes, we are given the time to rest, and to spend quality time with our families - but the primary reason for this holy season is to re-examine our conscience and rekindle our relationship with our creator.

While our trip itineraries are already set for this period, let's ensure that we give time to ponder on things beyond material and mortal relationships. That's what our father is asking for us... a fraction of our time.

What I Wore:

Dress - Forever 21

Shades - Rayban

Sandals - Primadonna

Bracelets - Girlshoppe

Necklace - Forever 21

Skater Girl

2013-03-29T12:14:00.003+08:00

Because of the scorching heat emitted by the mighty sun, most of us have the freedom to wear light pieces of clothing: shorts, tank tops, flip-flops... and of course skater skirts! I love how this piece of garment can be very versatile - just wear it with sandals and a tank, then voila, you have an outfit for an afternoon stroll at the beach, then just don a blazer and ultra sexy heels and it transforms into a date/ business casual attire.

Just make sure your hips are not too wide to be able to carry this look, as it tends to follow the shape of your sides (you wouldnt want to look as if you are wearin' a petticoat right?) Anyways, in purchasing skater skirts, make sure the material is thin enough so as not too appear bulky, but heavy enough for protection against the blowing wind.

What I Wore:

Spaghetti strapped top - Forever 21

Ankle strapped heels - Forever 21

Skater Skirt - Cotton on

Hat - Isis

Shades - Rayban

Necklace - Tiangge

Nifty Thrifty Boho

2013-03-23T13:19:00.002+08:00

Owing Money is more stressful than going without something and saving money.

Who says buying clothing from thrift stores (ukay-ukay) isn't a good idea? Well, think again. I got my top here from my trusted thrift store in pristine condition - pure white, no loose hems, with tags and all, and guess what - from a high street brand! What's even great about it is that i got it for only one hundred and fifty pesos!

Honestly i love thrift shops! I would spend hours going through piles of cheap pre-loved clothes, and perhaps spend a whole day in Bayanihan Building (The heart of Ukay-Ukay in Baguio). Here, you get to find lots of unique pieces of clothing - a combination of vintage and current trends, which is very helpful for bloggers like me. You's be surprised to find some pieces that were not even used at all!

Blogging is just a hobby for me, 'coz i really have a full time day job which makes me quite busy most of the time (That's why i only blog during weekends). And to be more honest with you, i am just an ordinary wage earner that means if i'd spend all my money in my fashion vice, then id be dead now because of overwhelming credit. But that's not me! Thrift shopping is another resort for me to stay fashionable. The tip there is to be very meticulous on the pieces you'll buy and to be very patient - who know you might get the most priceless find!

What I Wore:

1. Top - Thrifted (With Zara Tag on it)

2. Shorts (AB Clothing at the Archeology, Powerplant Mall)

3. Sandals - Aldo

4. Necklace and Bangle - Forever 21

5. Automatic Umbrella - Michaela

6. Nude tube top - People are People

The Sun Shines Brighter in March

2013-03-09T16:57:00.002+08:00

“You live but once; you might as well be amusing.”
― Coco Chanel

What I Wore:

Top - Trunkshow Manila

Jeans - Thrifted

Shoes - Hdy

Scarf - American Eagle Outfitters

Necklace - Accessorize

Hat - Isis

Happiness, Misconstrued

2013-02-18T22:53:00.003+08:00

“Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough”
― Oprah Winfrey

Our Alab or "Passion" Monday (sharing Session) in the office talked about finding one's missing piece. That missing piece may not be a person or an object, but may attribute the intangibles such as love and happiness. Now, if i'm going to throw you this question - have you found your missing piece?

I believe all of us, though not explicitly expressing it, is continuously in search of our missing piece. There's this certain grey area in our life, where we tell ourselves "I wan't this, and that... i need to be this...and that in order to be happy and content. The nature of humans is to fulfill his/her basic material needs, and as we progress in life and as these needs are met, we aim for more. We may not compete with others in this life, but to some... competition is within themselves - the innate longing to surpass individual thresholds. We are humans, and in this case, we aspire, we dream, and when we dream, most of us work hard to achieve in order to fulfill that dead space, thinking perhaps that it would make ourselves whole.

But then again, when that gap has been filled, once a standard or a goal has been met, when a dream and an aspiration has been accomplished considering the enormous amount of effort and time we put to it - why is that sometimes we find ourselves still incomplete? There are those who give up everything and realize that big accomplishments in life, acquisition of wealth, or simply finding the ideal lover based on our personal expectations may complete us - but sometimes the definition of real happiness can be misconstrued.

Sometimes we are already happy, but we just fail to see it. The modern era is very rich in visual stimuli and it can greatly influence our lives. Sometimes we just need to go back to the basics. Maybe we already got what we are searching for. Maybe we don't really need what we think we need. Maybe...

Syling tip:

Accessorize!

My outfit is very very simple - YES? Well, one tip for casual dressing is go more with the accessories. If you're wearin' basics match it with additional accessories, to add a playful vibe in it. Here i added a studded cap denim cap, complementary sneakers, and silver accessories. You may opt for a blazer or a simple scarf in lieu of the cap. :)

What I Wore:

Shirt - Jockey

Shorts - Nava Wear

Sneakers - Juice

Watch - Wenger

Bag - (Mom's)

Cap - WWW

Ring - Parfois

Bangle - People are People

Mövenpick: Cebu's Ibiza Hotspot

2013-02-17T10:49:00.001+08:00

Last week i flew out of Manila for a 3-day business trip to Cebu. One of the highlights of the trip was my visit to the newly renovated Mövenpick Resort and Spa (formerly Hilton Hotel) in the province of Lapu-Lapu.

Change is really essential if the primary endpoint is to improve. And in the case of Movenpick, the results were fantastic. I really liked the white interiors matched with the new color combination of aqua blue, yellow green, and brown which speaks - SUMMER!

The facade, once an area of limited space, has now big and inviting couches for guests who came from a tiring day tour. They could also lounge and enjoy a luxurious cup of coffee from the Victoria ArduinoVenus Bar, a chrome-plated scratchproof bodywork which is the center of attraction of Movenpick's reception area. As mentioned by the account manager who toured me during my visit, there are curruntly 2 units on hand - one is at the Vatican city, and one is owned by Movenpick.

The chefs at the Sails, the Mövenpick’s all-day dining restaurant (the restaurant flows into the main lobby and the al fresco area) is dedicated to serving the best food in town. Executive chef Johnny Rodriguez, prepares gastronomic delights with with robust flavors. He recently come from L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, a hotel frequented by Hollywood’s rich and famous.

The rooms were also renovated, following the theme color. But what i love most is the beach area where Movenpick is famous for - The Ibiza Beach Club, which is at par with Ibiza, Spain Night clubs, with DJ Toni M (from Ibiza) as the main attraction. He worked at top notch party hotspots such as Nikki Beach in Marbella, El Divino and Puro Beach Club in Ibiza and OHM in Spain. So, to people looking forward to a fun Cebu experience - head on to Moevenpick Cebu!

Photo's taken through my Nikon d5100 camera

Away from the Mad Crowd

2013-02-15T20:40:00.002+08:00

“The thing about Valentine's day is that people discover who are single and who to feel jealous of.”

― Faye Morgan

February 14: The day lovers from around the globe has been waiting for. A day where flourists, teddy-bear stores, artisan-chocolate shops, fine-dining restos and jewellers get surplus profits due to the high demand of services and commodities on this special day.

Valentine's day it is. I vividly remember during my college days, (since my campus is just near the famous "Dang-wa") that men, even boys, traverse this chaotic district just to get the perfect dozen of long stemmed red roses. On a regular day, a dozen will only cost about two hundred and fifty, but lo and behold - it's twice the price during v-day!

But what is so special about this day that we can't make every day valentine's day? Well, as for me and my boyfriend - valentine's day is just a regular day for us. Well, not that we are hypocrites that we don't do anything to make this day extra special. Just like everyday, we do the usual "I Love You's" and visited my favorite restaurant - Romulo Cafe in Jupiter St. Makati City.

I just love this place so much - from the black and white theme of the interiors, the cozy atmosphere, and of course the best of all is the filipino food served with a classy twist (in addition: very affordable!). Thank God i was able to get a lunch reservation (since they usually get full-house and they have very limited slots for walk-ins).

Romulo Cafe

Is daubed as one of the Philippines Best Restaurants in 2011. Named after the journalist, diplomat and the first Asian to serve as president of the UN General Assembly - Carlos P. Romulo. They have two branches, one in Tomas Morato (Cor. Lazcano St. and P. Tuazon St.,) and featured here is the swankier and newer branch in Jupiter St. cor. Comet St., Makati. To know more about their menu, and the restaurant's history click here.

Romulo Cafe
148 Jupiter Street, Bel-air
Makati City
Tel. Nos. 822-0286, 478-6406
Open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 to 11 p.m. daily

Unpredictable Weather

2013-02-10T09:32:00.001+08:00

How the weather changes from time to time makes me crazy - the temperature shifts from hot to cold once in a while. Notice that my outfit mix is a combination of shorts and sweater? How ironic. I'll just have to roll my sleeves up or completely remove my sweater (just make sure you have a nice tank top underneath) just in case the heat gets a little more nasty, and perhaps bring with me comfort leggings if the temperature gets colder.

What I Wore:

Cap - Bench

Sweater - Massimo Dutti

Shorts - American Eagle Outfitters

Shoes - HDY

Watch - Wenger

Necklace - Tiffany & Co. given by my dad (Family Heirloom)

Sparkle

2013-02-02T23:17:00.001+08:00

“Being busy is better than being bored. Bored left a long time ago. Busy is always around for me. ”
― Tabitha Robin

Super Busy! It's the time of the year when i couldn't even spend time with my boyfirned on our anniversary (What a bad girlfriend i am!). I promise to make it up though. Apparently, i managed to sneak a few outfit shots before i went to office.

Speaking of "busy" or "having no time", well, here's a tip for fashionable ladies out there who's always on a rush. One must really invest on a top or a bottom with lots of sequins or glitter that shouts out "hey im sparkling, look at me!" You can grab this instantly and all you have to do is pair it with something plain like black - in this case. What's good about this outfit is that you need not go overboard on the accessories.The garment speaks for itself.

Top - F21

Skirt - Pink Manila

Bangle - Pink Blossom

Shoes - Charles and Keith

Sweet Bella Cafe

2013-01-28T22:59:00.000+08:00

I prefer to regard a dessert as I would imagine the perfect woman: subtle, a little bittersweet, not blowsy and extrovert. Delicately made up, not highly rouged. Holding back, not exposing everything and, of course, with a flavor that lasts.

~Graham Kerr

I'm a sweet tooth, and i love pink. Therefore, I believe that this pretty nook - Sweet Bella Cafe deserves a place in my blog. Well aside from the pink, white. and black contrasting hues that go perfectly together for its interiors and the artsy pieces that decorate the walls (these paintings are for sale though) - i most especially love this cozy place for their breads and pastries.

Sweet Bella Cafe have signature cakes in big and mini versions depending on your preference, and of course if there's no Laduree' here for your french macarons' cravings, or if you just can't afford that TWC box of colored goodies then this is one place to go! Well, if you're not one of the "sweet-lovers", they also offer gourmet dishes and a variety of wines to choose from!

In terms of price - well, i may say you'll have to spare a couple of bucks for the single-serve cakes. Most cafe's charge Php100-150 for a slice, but here a mini cake version costs about Php200-250. I'd say it's worth it though because their cakes are not made for novelty, i guess you know what i mean :)

So if you're planning to have a dinner date, high-tea bonding time, or just simply need a good and serene place to dine and relax then this is one perfect place to go! Sweet Bella Cafe has branches in Bonifacio Global City, Burgos Circle and in Greenbelt 5.

Photos Taken by me :)

Waiting for Summer

2013-01-27T09:34:00.004+08:00

A life without love is like a year without summer.

~Swedish Proverb

As the cold breeze slowly ebbs away, heat hastily creeps in. Sigh, i can sense summer is taking her place on earth. Summer and her jovial spirit... she has this certain energy which radiates and heightens everyone's spirits up despite the amount of torture she can bring.

Summer... its playful atmosphere, i can imagine lightweight clothing, flipflops,lots of skin, wide-brimmed hats, artsy prints, the beach, the waves, ice cold lemonade, feel-good music, road trips, new friendships --- Summer, I'm looking forward for your arrival... soon!

What I Wore:

Jumpsuit - Forever21

Sandals - Steve by Steve Madden

Necklace - Aldo

Bag - Mom's :)

Incongruent Lines

2013-01-20T22:22:00.001+08:00

“Being nice to people whom you dislike or despise is not the act of one who is fake, but merely the act of one who has grown up.”
― Taylor E. Bennet

One thing I learned this week is to live by my name. Actually, Nice is more of my nickname, but I've grown to be called like this since i was a kid. I didn't know that this name will be strongly correlated with who i am as a person. Being an only child, i used to think that being independent is good - i usually tell myself that i could survive in life with only a few friends, and i do not have to be nice to everybody 'coz i can't please everyone - that i need not hide if i have strong repugnance towards somebody, what you see is what you get.

Life is not like that though - we need to learn the art of congeniality - seriously. And with my job, having a larger klout circumference is a necessity. Not that i must be nice only just because i need a wider circle of friends, but because at the end of the day - we will be measured according to how we were able to inspire others to be good despite of the circumstances. Starting today, i will try to be nice to everyone. That's why my name is Nice!

Shining, Shimmering, Splendid

2013-01-20T10:55:00.002+08:00

“My idea of super woman is someone who scrubs her own floors.”
― Bette Midler

Sunday is a very important for me - it's a day reserved for God, family, and of course - household chores. Perhaps some people may think that I'm a lady who lives the good life - in fact YES, but living the good life doesn't mean i'm free of my daily life obligations. And, living the good life is another state of mind as well.

Being able to experience life's daily bittersweet offerings is a reward for me because i get to learn and nurture things and people. The truth is, i'm just making a quick break, while the mop and the "walis-tambo" patiently waits beside me. Doing the dirty work is a task i no longer resent - because it's already part of my routine. I think of it as a way of giving value to everything i worked for, and of course easing up the burden of people i also live with.

I didn't accessorize much in this post because the top and leggings itself glistens from afar. The rule of thumb is either you just wear a statement necklace or earrings - and for me, i chose the latter.

What I wore:
Jacket - DGVI
Leggings - Topshop
Ankle Boots - Charles and Keith
Top - Trunkshow
Dangling earrings - F21

Gold for Opulence

2013-01-13T20:43:00.002+08:00

“Dare to love yourself as if you were a rainbow with gold at both ends.”
― Aberjhani, The River of Winged Dreams

One way to "glamify" your look instantly - Just wear gold! Gold belongs to the yellow-family/hue in the colorwheel, to mimic the element Aurum (Au). Gold is the color of success, triumph, and achievement. The psychology of this color gold implies affluence, material wealth and extravagance.

A color of optimism, gold adds richness and warmth to everything with which it is associated - it illuminates and enhances other things around it, creating an aura of opulence. So, if you want to be glam if you don't have the moolah, just go for gold and you won't go wrong!

What I Wore:

Top - Hot and Delicious

Sequined Shorts - Warehouse

Bangle and earrings - Forever 21