Meet the Chef: Allan Capa creates new ala carte dishes for Luxent Hotel

Meet the Chef: Allan Capa creates new ala carte dishes for Luxent Hotel

Sunday, July 21

Luxent Hotel offers more than just a memorable stay. It is also known for it's exquisite cuisine. I had the pleasure of spending my 40th birthday at Luxent Hotel with my family and we didn't bother to look for a place to dine out. I had our lunch, snacks and dinner delivered to our rooms and everything I ordered during our 3-day stay was gastronomically satisfying.

Meet the Chef

Luxent Hotel welcomed the arrival of a new Executive Chef, Mr. Allan Capa, who will be at the helm of the hotel's F & B family. Chef Allan has 14 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. He was a demi chef in Saudi Arabia and Dubai. He then became a Chef de Partie for the Al Fordan Group in Doha, Qatar. He returned to the Philippines for a brief stint as a Sous Chef. He returned to Abu Dhabi in UAE as a Head Chef. Luckily for us Filipinos, he is now the Executive Chef of Luxent Hotel.

Lush Bar & Lounge New A la Carte Dishes

Chef Allan takes pride in creating new dishes and re-creating the classics. At the media launch of the new a la carte dishes, I was very fortunate to be among the first to taste the food prepared by Chef Allan.

For the most important meal of the day, these three new dishes will definitely make your day good.

The Pavlova Pancakes is a home-style pancake topped with fruits, meringue, and served with maple cream.

The Tomato Feta Bruschetta is a toasted rye bread topped with cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and chiffonade basil tossed in pesto and drizzled with balsamic reduction.

Lastly, the Chicken and Mushroom Bruschetta is a combination of toasted rye bread, wild mushroom, pan-seared chicken and spinach topped with egg.

Available for all-day dining is the Fish Tacos. It's fish fingers and mildly spiced Asian slaw on crispy wanton wrap drizzled with Sriracha mayo and served with potato wedges. If you want the classic, the Fish and Chips is on the menu too.

The main course new additions give you more reason to indulge. The Confit Pork Belly has a generous serving of slowly cooked pork belly that has crispy skin and fork tender meat. It is served with mashed potato, glazed carrots, apple chutney, and garnished with broccoli couscous.

The Sesame Crusted Tuna is pan-seared with tropical mango salsa, sauteed vegetables and balsamic vinaigrette.

The new Surf & Turf is a platter of grilled beef tenderloin with buttered spinach and mushroom, classic tiger prawn gambas, and pan-seared salmon on top of mashed potato.

Other entree choices include Spicy Cheesy Grilled Squid and Korean Braised Beef Bowl. For the Filipino favorites, the Chicken Inasal and Pakbet at Bagnet are the two new dishes to try. 

For the desserts, the traditional Filipino turon was made more special. The Turon with Ice Cream of Luxent Hotel is banana roll infused with langka and served with vanilla ice cream and caramel syrup.

Rejoice cheesecake lovers! The Blueberry Cheesecake, the King of all Cheesecakes, is to die for. You can enjoy this as a post-meal treat or you can have it just because.

The Creme Brulee, Luxent Hotel's dessert made of custard cream with caramelized sugar on top is perfectly sweet.

Don't we all deserve a cheat day? The Triple Chocolate Cake is a sinfully guilty indulgence of layers of chocolate sponge cake, chocolate mousse, and chocolate ganache.

Check out @FoodieCheatDay on Instagram for more appetizing photos.

Luxent Hotel is located at 51 Timog Avenue, South Triangle, Quezon City.

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Okada Manila Unveils The Garden, Welcomes the Yuletide Season with Exciting Activities

Okada Manila Unveils The Garden, Welcomes the Yuletide Season with Exciting Activities

Tuesday, November 20

Okada Manila has unveiled its latest attraction and I was invited at the press launch. The Garden is a lush open space that offers guests with the best seat for a breathtaking view of the Manila Bay sunset.

The Garden is a perfect outdoor venue for guests who wants to be in the city but doesn't feel like they are in the concrete jungle. 

The sprawling spread of greenery within Okada Manila is ideal for family gatherings and the guests will definitely enjoy dining under the stars. 

"The Garden is more than an outdoor space. It's an integral part of Okada Manila where guests can enjoy life's best moments under the sky with the people they treasure the most," said Ivaylo Ivanov, Okada Manila's Vice President for Hospitality.

Grand Christmas Tree Lighting

Okada Manila's 28-foot tall Grand Christmas Tree made up of 38,008 pieces of capiz shells from Cebu located at The Fountain Foyer was lit up and guests were serenaded by Chorus Vocales Philippines, Hazel Faith, and Monique Lualhati.

This coming December, award-winning Himig Rizalia will sing your favorite Christmas songs on all weekends of December until the 23rd. 

Play at Okada

Santa Claus is coming to town at Okada Manila—and he’s ready to listen to Christmas wishes from kids and kids-at-heart! Okada Manila is hosting a meet-and-greet with jolly old Saint Nick himself at Santa’s Cabin by the Crystal Corridor junction on selected dates starting November 17 until December 25, from 3 to 5 PM. 

Holidays are bound to be more fun with the Yuletide Kiddie Jam at PLAY (weekends from November 17 to December 16, and daily from December 21 to 25). Kids will get to enjoy activities such as storytelling time with Santa, Christmas caroling, and fun games. Kids can come in their Santa outfits to get a complimentary pass for both child and guardian for their next visit, as well as 50% off on a six-month MOON Pass.

PLAY also has fun activities in store during its Best Friends Day on December 2 and Kasambahay Appreciation Day on December 9. Both events include exciting activities like arts and crafts, Pinoy Henyo, Zumba, and more.

The Retreat Spa

Already feeling stressed out?

If the season is becoming too hectic, head on over to The Retreat Spa and let their team of experts take care of all your grooming and wellness needs. Choose from a variety of Yuletide Spa Gift Sets to bring the relaxation home. These festive jute box hampers come with a complimentary treatment voucher that you can use on your next visit or gift to a loved one. 

Need to glam up for your holiday parties? The Retreat Spa salon offers exclusive packages that will ensure you’ll be party-ready in no time. Yuletide Glam Packages start at PHP 2,500 plus guests can enjoy 25% off add-on services like manicures, pedicures, root touch-ups, and hair treatments. There’s no such thing as too much merrymaking with the Hangover Recovery Package that will hydrate and re-energize you for the next celebration!

Exciting Holiday Activities for the entire family

Catch up with family and friends over a scrumptious meal as Okada Manila’s signature restaurants bring special treats to the table. Starting November 15, Okada Manila guests will get to enjoy delightful homemade treats created by Executive Pastry Chef Josef Teuschler, in a life-size Gingerbread House. 

Enjoy hassle and worry-free holiday feasts at Kiapo with special set menus that will bring mouthwatering flavors to your Christmas reunions, as well as the Ultimate 8 Samgyeopsal from Goryeo which will deliver the most delectable Korean experience for the whole month of December. You’ll never run out of festive dining options from a wide range of international cuisines as Enbu, La Piazza, Medley, Red Spice, Lobby Lounge, and Yu Lei serve up their holiday specials.

As the year draws to a close, the fun doesn’t stop as you can still enjoy nights of revelry, drinks, and world-class music acts at Southeast Asia’s largest indoor beach club and nightclub, Cove Manila. This beach party destination will celebrate its all-star anniversary with the three-part party series, Crescendome, which will bring in world-renowned DJs for three consecutive weeks: Tiesto on November 30, DJ Snake on December 7, and Afrojack on December 15.

Come New Year’s Eve, with last year’s grand fireworks setting the standard, Okada Manila is set to make it bigger than ever, with something very special planned along the entire venue and for its guests.

“Our guests will never run out of fun and exciting experiences here at Okada Manila. Bring the whole family, barkada, and even your colleagues for unforgettable holiday celebrations!” added Ivanov.

For more information on upcoming events and promotions, visit www.okadamanila.com, like Okada Manila on Facebook, and follow @okadamanila on Instagram and Twitter.

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Okada Manila Welcomes Christmas with a Grand Tree Lighting Ceremony

Okada Manila Welcomes Christmas with a Grand Tree Lighting Ceremony

Wednesday, November 7

When the ‘ber months roll in, Filipinos know that Christmas tunes and décors are sure to be heard and seen. We love the feeling of Yuletide cheer when we drop by our favorite entertainment spaces, more so when we participate in Christmas family activities around the metro.

This is why on November 17, Saturday, Okada Manila is hosting a Christmas tree lighting ceremony that is open to all. Families can enjoy a wonderful time of prancing and dancing inside a world-class destination in the heart of Entertainment City. Okada Manila will begin celebrating the beloved holiday season with a wide array of incredible shows—Christmas choir performances, a meet-and-greet session with Santa, live bands, DJs, and street performers. 

Visions of Grandeur to kick off the holiday season

Starting at 5 PM, families can enjoy the evening’s entertainment interplay of Manila’s top DJ acts, merry live music from the Zcentido band, and special shows from The Fountain. New viewing decks will be opened for breathtaking views of the world’s largest multicolored dancing water feature. See The Fountain like never before from new vantage points. At 8 PM, the Christmas tree comes to life at the Fountain Foyer in the Crystal Corridor.

To really bring in the Christmas spirit, Chorus Vocales will fill the air with songs of the season as they light the magnificent tree, while the full cast of the Okada Manila Entertainment Group will elevate festivities with a thrilling performance to match the high-flying water spectacle.

A festival of Yuletide cheer at an iconic resort

Apart from the show and the performances, Okada Manila will have new stores activating the entirety of the Crystal Corridor starting November 9 where families can enjoy, learn, and create picture-perfect memories. Make room for learning and exploration this Christmas with Mind Museum’s traveling exhibits featuring three mind-blowing themes. Take a peek into the astounding biodiversity of the Coral Triangle with A Glass of the Sea and explore the story of mankind’s quest for immortality with Forever Lab. Ever wondered what goes on in the mind of teenager? Discover their funhouse-like world at The Teenage Brain Exhibit. Unwrap the gift of knowledge in this interactive space that has something for everyone of every age.

Guests can enjoy festive dining experiences at Okada Manila’s signature restaurants and stuff their stockings with holiday goodies from the Gingerbread House. There will be no silent nights at Cove Manila because turntable legend Jazzy Jeff will fill the party paradise with his classic hip-hop tracks.

Okada Manila’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony is the perfect event to kick off your family’s holiday season. There is something delightful for every member of the family—from the youngest child, to the trendy teens, to mom and dad, and even to your beloved grandparents. Couples will also enjoy creating sweet Christmas memories together, with the comfort and luxury of magnificent shows and festive music. 

Make lasting memories with your family and loved ones at Okada Manila’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony on November 17. For more details on the grandest integrated resort and destination for world-class entertainment, visit okadamanila.com, like facebook.com/OkadaManilaPH, and follow @okadamanila on Instagram and Twitter.

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Affordable Karaksa Hotel in Sapporo

Affordable Karaksa Hotel in Sapporo

Thursday, April 26

Planning a Japan trip and still looking for an affordable accommodation?

Hokkaido may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of traveling to Japan, but this dynamic, wide-open island has a unique charm—with its long winters, lush forests and laid-back culture. For instance, its prefectural capital Sapporo, is home to the most delicious beer in the region, and it’s also the main setting of the blockbuster local film, Kita-Kita. That is why more travelers are becoming keen to unravel its beauty.

If you’re one of those travelers, good news: Karaksa Hotels, the official hotel partner of Go Hotels in Japan, has finally opened its doors in Sapporo! Opened last January, this newest branch aims to cater the growing numbers of Pinoy tourists in Japan.

“Japan is a timeless favorite among Pinoys when it comes to international travel,” said Go Hotels General Manager Elizabeth D. Gregorio. “We plan to open more branches in different cities in Japan with the emergence and increasing number of smart travellers—local and international.”

This newest Karaksa Hotel branch, like the four other branches in Kansai region, mostly has spacious twin rooms that can be connected to accommodate families or group of friends up to 6 people. There are double rooms and stylish modern Japanese designed rooms on the topmost floor, so guests can easily find a room based on their needs.

Since Hokkaido is a hot springs haven, this branch especially features a relaxing hot bath for all guests. Adjacent to it is the RoomⓇ, where you can further pamper yourself with a refreshing drink while on a massage chair after a long hot bath.

Have a beautiful morning with their buffet breakfast served with Hokkaido’s best ingredients ran by one of Sapporo’s restaurant chain. Their wide array of delectable local and Asian cuisines is a perfect way to start the day.

Their facilities and amenities cover the basic essentials of every traveler such as free high-speed internet service (Wi-Fi), safety deposit boxes, vending machines and fully air-conditioned rooms, complete with personal items. They also have a laundry area and.

The hotel is conveniently located at 5-24 Minami Sanjo-nishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo City. It is right smack in the central area of Sapporo, a 5-minute walk from Susukino station via Shiei Subway Namboku Line, and a 6-minute walk if you’re from Odori Station. It’s also a walking distance from—Susukino and the Odori Park, which are both famous for its Snow Festivals. 

The famous Tanukikoji shopping arcade is just outside Karaksa Hotel in Sapporo, making it the perfect accommodation for travelers of any interest. 

Karaksa Hotel Sapporo has 112 rooms in total. Aside from this, Karaksa Hotels has four other branches in Osaka and Kyoto which are also located near the famous spots of the cities. 

Book now through www.spotjapan.ph.

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Greenhills Elan Hotel Modern 3-Bedroom Luxury Penthouse Suite

Greenhills Elan Hotel Modern 3-Bedroom Luxury Penthouse Suite

Thursday, January 4

What kind of traveler are you? If you are like me who wants a memorable experience and who wouldn't mind spending for a well-deserved vacation, I suggest you book the 3-Bedroom Luxury Penthouse Suite at Greenhills Elan Hotel Modern. I stayed there with my family for the New Year's Eve and the 180-degree view of the fireworks was a superb experience.

Let me take you on a tour of the Penthouse Suite.

Located on the top floor of the 36-story hotel residence, the suite has a 280 square meters  living space perfect for family or group. 

The cozy living room opens up to a veranda that offers a view of Greenhills and Wack Wack Golf Course.

 It is equipped with a  Sony Bravia television with cable channels.

The dining area has an elegant 8-seater dining table. 

The kitchenette has a breakfast counter, stove and oven, a full-size refrigerator, and kitchen wares. 

I wouldn't mind washing the dishes with this kind of a view.

There is also a powder room at the first level of the two-story Penthouse Suite.

Are you ready to go upstairs? 

The three bedrooms located on the second level of the Penthouse also have a veranda with a view of the Wack Wack Golf Course. Each bedroom has their own bathroom.

The Master Bedroom

The master bedroom has a king size bed. a study, and a two-seater leather sofa. The bathroom is spacious but not impressive.

One thing I look for in a hotel room is that it should look better than what I have at home or it should be something that I would like to have at home. I must say I love the Master bedroom of this penthouse. 

I love closet space and it's great that the master bedroom has a walk in closet and a dresser table. Wish I was staying here longer.

Bedroom 2

The second bedroom has a king size bed, a flat screen tv, and a study desk.

The bathroom has a clean, minimalist feel.

Bedroom 3

The third bedroom has a single bed and a sitting area. It also has its own bathroom. The penthouse suite can typically accommodate 5 adults and two kids. But you can have an extra bed set up on this spacious room.

The published rate of the 3-bedroom luxury penthouse suite is P32,000 for an overnight stay with buffet breakfast for 5. Check out the website for special promo and get it for almost half the price.

Snapped and Scribbled says....

The overall experience was worth the price per night. I wanted a suite that's perfect for our family to celebrate the New Year's Eve and Greenhills Elan Hotel Modern lived up to my expectations. We had the best view of the fireworks and a comfortable and elegant space to stay the night. The location is perfect. Greenhills Shopping Center and restaurants are just a few steps away.

A prosperous 2018 from our family to yours

The staff were very accommodating. I got anxious when I found out that the hotel has limited parking space. The social media manager of their Facebook page was very prompt in answering my queries. The front desk officer was also very helpful when I called up. I had a parking slot when I arrived at the hotel. Checking in was a breeze. We arrived an hour early of the standard check in time but our suite was already available for us. 

We weren't able to swim because there is an ongoing repainting on the pool side area. The boys played billiards instead and they really had fun. I don't know what's wrong with the key card that day but almost everybody is having a problem. We had to keep opening the door for the guests who want to go to the pool since the door access is at the billiards room.

Nothing exceptional with the buffet breakfast but since it's complimentary (P430 for additional person) I couldn't complain. I hope there's an option for a set meal delivered to the Penthouse Suite instead of the buffet so we could enjoy the dining room and wake up a little late.

The bathroom at the master bath is a bit out of theme with the bedroom. I hope they make it have a zen feel. 

I love that they have shampoo, bath soap, conditioner and hand soap dispenser instead of the usual travel size toiletries in most hotels. This is more economical. 

The kitchen have cookwares and utensils and more than enough dining wares. There's an oven at the kitchen but please provide oven mitt. It would also be great if there is a microwave oven.

Will I be staying again at Greenhills Elan Hotel Modern?

YES.

BOOK HERE

Greenhills Elan Hotel Modern

49 Annapolis Street, Greenhills, San Juan City
Metro Manila, 1500, Philippines
http://www.greenhillselanhotelmodern.com/

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Harbour Ville Hotel Singapore Review

Harbour Ville Hotel Singapore Review

Tuesday, September 19

The entire family went to Singapore again for a 5-day vacation and this time we opted for a practical accommodation. The itinerary I prepared had us out all day. We just need a decent hotel to rest and sleep. I searched on google, read blog and TripAdvisor reviews before finally deciding on booking Harbour Ville Hotel.

Location

Harbour Ville Hotel is two bus stops away from Vivo City via Bus 61 or Bus 143

If you are travelling via MRT, you can reach the hotel via the Green Line (East-West Line) and alight at Outram Park or the Purple Line (North-East Line) Harbourfront Station. 

From Outram Park, you have to board Bus 61 or 166, opposite Hong Lim Complex. Alight at the 6th stop (St. Teresa Church) or 7th stop (Keppel Distripark). 

If you are coming from Harbourfront Station, Board Bus 61 or 143 and alight at the third stop in front of Harbour Suites.

Rooms

I booked three rooms: two standard queen and one standard single. The standard queen room is only 14 square meters while the standard single is 11 square meters. It's difficult to move around in the cramped room especially if you have big luggage. Closet space is very limited. The superior queen is a bit spacious with 18 square meters room size while the superior twin is 20 square meters.

Although the room and the bathroom are small, they are very clean and well-maintained. 

Breakfast

The room rates do not include breakfast. I paid an additional of S$5 for the buffet breakfast which I somehow regretted. The buffet choices are: fried rice, sunny side up egg, chicken sausage, potato wedges, beans, chicken nuggets, white bread, peanut butter spread, strawberry jam, cereals and milk, brewed coffee and Nescafe latte, cappuccino, and black coffee.

It's actually worth it for the the S$5 price since it's a buffet. The problem is that we stayed there for 5 days and we had the same breakfast every single day. I just wish they serve a different set every day. The latte is delicious though.

Freebies

The complimentary WiFi in the room is fast and reliable. But what I like most is the Handy Phone. It's a smart phone provided in every room that you can bring with you as you explore Singapore. You can stay connected with families and friends while overseas at no extra charge. Enjoy free local calls and free international calls to India, China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Philippines. You can also navigate the streets of Singapore with the help of interactive map installed.

Will I consider staying at Harbour Ville again?

Yes. Learning from experience, I will book the Superior Queen which I believe will only cost me an additional S$5 instead of paying for the S$5 breakfast. There's a nearby hawker center that is open for breakfast.

The staff at the hotel are very accommodating and helpful. I'm also glad there are Filipinos working at Harbour Ville Hotel. 

Book your stay at by clicking here Harbour Ville Hotel

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Manila Pavilion Hotel's Special Treats For July

Manila Pavilion Hotel's Special Treats For July

Thursday, June 29

The most-awaited second half of the year has finally come! Waterfront Manila Pavilion Hotel and Casino, one of the pioneering hotels in the country, had prepared so much for you to choose from this month of July.

With fully-renovated rooms ready to indulge you on its 22 floors, Waterfront Manila Pavilion Hotel and Casino has laid a number of affordable room promos with special premium offers for the optimum break that you deserve.

Staycation Promos

Take the delight of True Blue Experience room promo as it comes with tickets for two persons at the country's world-class marine theme park, the Manila Ocean Park. Guests also have a privilege to choose between two of the featured hotel treats, Manila Pavilion signature tumbler or in-room delivery of Patisserie’s best-selling ensaymada and brewed coffee, with the Pavilion Treats room promo. 

Take home another signature souvenir, the Waterfront Signature Quillow, a combination of soft pillow and quilt, when you avail the Keep Calm and Relax room promo. Delight yourself with Pamper All-out room promo and enjoy a de-stressing body massage right at your own room. Chill out with your mates while having mini bar treats of your choice with Room with Mini Bar Treats room promo. All room promos come with general room inclusions.

Specials of the Month

The hotel’s two premium restaurants are also ready to gratify your tummy with their palatable monthly specials. Seasons, an all-day dining restaurant, has a new favorite attraction within its wide array of different cuisines. Dig in and get messy into a plate of spicy Buffalo Wings with Vegetable Crudites, Blue Cheese Dressing, and a glass of beer. The hotel’s own sweet shop, Patisserie, has also something special for this month. Try their delicious Beef Sliders with Homemade Potato Chips and a glass of beer.

Celebrate United States' Independence Day with our Fourth of July inspired Cake of the Month, the American Flag Cake.

Sip the way to a healthier you with the guilt-free tropical drink of the month, the Pineapple and Apple Smoothie.

Late nights will feel good with the smooth finish lemon taste of Candidato Viura and the intense fruity aroma of Candidato Tempranillo Wines from Spain.

Patisserie has also prepared something to make you feel warm these rainy days. Get 20% discount with their Specialty Hot Beverages every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, from 2pm to 6pm. End the long day at work with a bottle of ice cold beer. Bring your workmates and friends to Seasons or Patisserie to enjoy the Last Man Standing Promo with Buy 1, Get 1 treat on Draft Beers served with a choice of nuts or popcorn for your pica-pica daily from 2:00 to 10:00 pm.

For inquiries and reservations, visit the Manila Pavilion Hotel at United Nations Avenue corner Maria Orosa Street in Manila. Log on to www.waterfronthotels.com.ph or call 5261212 for inquiries and reservations; Follow @WaterfrontMNL for regular updates.

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