SANTORINI VIBES IN THE CITY : Our Stay at the Thera Suites, Hotel Ava - Cuneta

 

When you think of Santorini, you imagine whitewashed walls, calming blues, and sweeping ocean views. But who says you need to hop on a plane to Greece to enjoy that vibe? Our recent stay at Hotel Ava – Cuneta gave us just that: a Santorini-inspired escape in the heart of Pasay City.

Located along Cuneta Avenue, just minutes away from SM Mall of Asia, Baclaran, and EDSA Extension, Hotel Ava is more than just a convenient stopover. It’s a place where you can indulge in themed suites, modern comforts, and a touch of playful luxury. For our overnight stay, we chose the Thera Suite, and it gave us the perfect balance of fun and relaxation.

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First Impressions

The check-in process was seamless and discreet. Once our booking was confirmed, a staff member guided us directly to our suite. I loved how private everything felt—no need to pass through long hallways or busy lobbies. The moment we opened the door, I was greeted by interiors that instantly transported me to the dreamy island of Santorini. Whitewashed walls paired with calming shades of blue created that authentic seaside vibe, making me forget I was still in the middle of Manila’s hustle.

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My Favorite Features

Hotel Ava’s Thera Suite is filled with thoughtful details, but here are the highlights that made our stay unforgettable:

1. The Stairs 🪜
   

   Yes, there are stairs inside the room! It may sound simple, but it added such a unique character to the space. For me, it became a little runway where every step felt like a moment worth capturing for Instagram.

2. The Videoke System 🎤
   

   As someone who proudly calls herself a “videoke queen,” this was the ultimate highlight. The Platinum Karaoke System is ready with hundreds of hits, but we opted for YouTube since it has countless versions of our favorite songs. The microphone and sound system were surprisingly good—clear, crisp, and perfect for belting out tunes late into the night.

3. The Lavatory 🚿
   

   Even the lavatory impressed me. Stylish, modern, and surprisingly IG-worthy, the bathroom made freshening up feel a little more luxurious. It’s clear that the design was well thought out, balancing comfort and aesthetics.
   
   

   

   
   
   
   

4. Interior Design 💙🤍
   

   The entire suite had a carefully curated look, making it feel like Santorini without the long flight. The blue-and-white palette, chic furnishings, and Instagram-worthy corners made every angle photo-friendly.

   

   
   

5. Unlimited YouTube and Netflix 📺🍿
   

   Hotel Ava provides its own Netflix account—such a thoughtful perk since it saves you from the hassle of logging into your personal account. Pair that with unlimited YouTube access, and you’ve got endless entertainment at your fingertips. Perfect for lazy afternoons or winding down after a videoke session.

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Food Selections & In-Room Service

One of the things I appreciated was the in-room dining service. Ordering food was easy, and everything was served discreetly—another example of the hotel’s commitment to privacy and convenience.

The menu had a good variety of options, from comfort food classics to shareable dishes perfect for a night in. We ordered a mix of Filipino favorites and light bites, and everything arrived warm, neatly plated, and tasty. Whether you’re craving rice meals, noodles, or something quick to snack on between videoke sessions, the selection was satisfying. Drinks and desserts were also available, which made it easy to just stay in the suite and enjoy without having to step out.

There’s something so indulgent about lounging in your Santorini-inspired suite, snacking on good food, then slipping into the jacuzzi afterwards. That’s the kind of experience Hotel Ava delivers—everything you need is just a call away.

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More to Discover

While the Thera Suite was our chosen escape, Hotel Ava – Cuneta also offers other themed party rooms. Each room has its own personality, making it fun to return and try a different experience next time. Whether you’re looking for a cozy setup, a space for celebration, or another themed destination vibe, there’s a room waiting to match your mood.

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Final Thoughts

Our stay at the Thera Suite in Hotel Ava – Cuneta was exactly what I needed: a quick getaway that blended relaxation, fun, and style. From singing our hearts out in the videoke corner to binging Netflix, enjoying in-room dining, and soaking in the jacuzzi, it was a staycation that ticked all the boxes.

Hotel Ava proves that you don’t have to travel far to experience something unique. Santorini may be miles away, but in Pasay, you can enjoy a slice of that dream—no passport required.

📍 Hotel Ava – Cuneta, Pasay City
📲 Follow them on Instagram and Facebook: @hotelavaofficial
🌐 Book directly at www.hotelava.com.ph

WHEN THE MIND SAYS YES BUT THE BODY SAYS WAIT

Today, I laced up my sneakers again to start practicing for our upcoming Company Sportsfest. It’s my second time joining the walkathon relay, and I thought, “This should be easy—I walk all the time!” After all, I’ve always been the type to choose walking over waiting. Whether it’s from Buendia MRT station to Makati Avenue—roughly 1.2 to 1.4 kilometers each way—or simply deciding to stroll instead of calling a Grab driver, walking has always been my go-to.

But today felt different.

The determination was there, my mind was fully willing, but my body had other plans. My legs didn’t respond the way they used to, and my breathing seemed a little heavier than I remembered. Suddenly, I was face-to-face with the truth: getting older changes the way we move, recover, and endure.

It’s a humbling realization.

There was a time when I could brisk walk without thinking twice, when energy felt limitless, and recovery was just a matter of a good night’s sleep. Now, I find myself listening to my body more carefully—learning when to push and when to pause. It’s not about admitting defeat, but about embracing the reality that while age brings limitations, it also brings wisdom.

And here’s the irony: though the body slows down, the heart and mind remain young. I still have the same excitement, the same competitive spirit, and the same love for the little victories. What changes is the pace—and maybe, that’s not a bad thing.

Walking has always been a metaphor for life. Sometimes, you’re full of energy, taking long strides without hesitation. Other times, you slow down, not because you want to, but because your body demands it. Yet, no matter the pace, what matters most is that you keep moving forward.

So yes, I may not have the same stamina I had years ago. But I am still here, still willing, still showing up for the walk. And maybe that’s the real victory—not how fast or how strong, but how consistent and determined we remain despite the changes that come with time.

Because at the end of the day, getting old is not about losing—it’s about gaining a new perspective. It’s about realizing that strength isn’t only measured in speed or endurance, but also in resilience, in humility, and in the courage to continue walking—one step at a time.

A RELAXING STAY AT HOTEL AUREO RESORT, LA UNION

 

Whenever I think of a quick coastal escape, La Union always comes to mind—and one of the best places to stay here is Hotel Aureo Resort. Just about 4 to 5 hours from Manila, this resort has been a consistent choice for both leisure and business trips. In fact, this was already my third time staying here, and once again, it was for a corporate event. But beyond work, Hotel Aureo always gives me something new to love each visit.

Because I’ve been back multiple times, I’ve had the chance to explore all their room categories—from the standard rooms to the villas. If you’re curious about how they all look and what makes each unique, check out my YouTube vlog where I give a complete walkthrough. Spoiler alert: the swim-up room and the villa are my top favorites! The swim-up room is particularly a treat—you can literally step out of your balcony and dive straight into the pool. If you want something a bit more private, the villa is still the ultimate winner.

Breakfast with a View

One of the highlights of this trip was our breakfast at Coast, their beachfront restaurant. Imagine starting your day with a hearty meal while watching the waves roll in—what a perfect morning! They offer a wide selection, from Filipino classics like longganisa and danggit, to international staples like pancakes, bread, cereals, and fresh fruits. And of course, coffee tastes so much better when paired with a sunrise view by the beach. For me, it’s one of the best ways to start the day at Aureo.

Food Finds – Pusit Everywhere!

Now let’s talk about food beyond breakfast. For some reason, Aureo has a love affair with squid—laging may pusit sa meals namin! At first, I was hesitant because squid can sometimes be matigas (tough) or makunat (rubbery). But here, it was consistently tender and perfectly cooked. Every dish featuring pusit was delicious, which was such a pleasant surprise. If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll enjoy how they prepare it here.

Sweet Welcome – Banana Bread

Another highlight that deserves its own spotlight is Aureo’s banana bread welcome goodies. Seriously, this is not your average banana bread—it’s moist, soft, and packed with flavor. I found myself snacking on it while lounging in the room, and I wished they sold it in bigger loaves for pasalubong. It’s such a simple but thoughtful touch that makes you feel extra welcome.

The Not-So-Perfect Part

Of course, not everything is picture-perfect. For one, there’s still the issue of flies and fruit flies in certain areas. Medyo malangaw pa rin. Our CEO once explained that it might be because of fallen mango fruits around the property that weren’t cleaned up right away, which could attract fruit flies. It’s not a major dealbreaker, but definitely something I noticed on all my visits.

Then there’s the bathroom situation. The CR doors are made of glass—so yes, kita ang anino if you’re sharing with someone. Add the small gaps on the side, and let’s just say… kung mahiyain ka, lalo na pag pang-number 2, medyo awkward. My tip? Do the “courtesy flush” para hindi ka marinig. 😂 It’s funny but true, so be prepared if you’re not super close to your roommate!

Final Thoughts

Despite these minor quirks, my experience at Hotel Aureo Resort was once again memorable. The location is convenient, just a few hours away from Manila, and the property itself offers plenty of options whether you’re here for work or play. The swim-up rooms and villas make the stay extra special, the food is consistently satisfying (hello pusit dishes!), and their banana bread is truly unforgettable. Add to that the serene beachfront breakfast at Coast, and you’ll definitely leave refreshed.

👉 Want to see more of my stay—including the full room tours, beachfront views, and of course, the food? Watch my YouTube vlog for the complete experience!

BEST ALL DAY BREAKFAST IN MAGINHAWA | Saturdays at Sundays Cafe

You know what’s crazier than waking up at 5:00 AM on a weekend? Actually doing it. 😅 While the rest of the city is still curled up in bed, we’re already lacing up our running shoes for our UP jogging ritual. By 5:45 AM, we’re at the Oval, joining the other early risers. Two rounds of jogging/walking (around 5 kms total) plus one or two rounds of biking if we’re feeling extra sipag—yan ang version namin ng “weekend reset.”

But here’s the real tea: the best part of our routine isn’t just the workout. It’s the reward after. And for this particular Saturday, yes, it was a Saturday, guess where we ended up for breakfast?, at Sundays Café and Restaurant. 😂 The irony wasn’t lost on us, and honestly, it made the morning even more fun. Because whether it’s Saturday, Sunday, or any day in between—Sundays Café is the kind of spot that makes every morning feel like a lazy, happy Sunday.

The Food That Made Us Say “Yes, Worth It!”

Sundays Café is known for their homemade goodness and trust me, we tasted the love in every bite. Here’s what landed on our table:

✨ Homemade Bacon Slab and Egg Waffle – This one stole the show. The bacon slab was thick, smoky, and perfectly balanced between savory and sweet. And the moment I took my first bite, I literally blurted out: “Ang sarap… saan nanggaling ang sarap?” 😂 It was that good! Paired with the fluffy waffle and sunny egg, it was the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and nod with every bite.

✨ Homemade Tapa – Simple but winner. Tender beef, garlicky, and perfectly paired with rice and egg. Walang arte, just pure tapa greatness.

✨ Homemade Tocino – Sweet, juicy, and caramelized to perfection. Forget the store-bought version, this tocino is on another level—parang ginawa ni lola pero with café flair. Did I mentioned that the suka is manamis-namis?

Every plate felt hearty, homemade, and very “deserve ko ‘to after running” vibes.

The Drinks a la Team No Sleep

Of course, what’s breakfast without drinks? We ordered a trio para may kanya-kanyang character:

☕ Americano – Strong, bold, the no-nonsense kind of coffee that says: “Hoy, gising!”
🍵 Matcha – Smooth, earthy, and mellow. Perfect if you want something calm but still sosyal.
🍫 Premium Hot Chocolate – Creamy, rich, and comforting. This one felt like a warm hug in a cup—sarap for the inner bata in us.

Saturdays at Sundays = Weekend Ritual

What I love about Sundays Café is how it makes breakfast feel extra special without being intimidating. The vibe is cozy, the food is generous, and the flavors? Pang-reward talaga after sweating it out at UP.

So imagine this: gising at 5 AM, run + bike at UP Oval, then by 7:30 AM, you’re already feasting on homemade bacon, tapa, tocino, and sipping coffee or hot choco. That’s not just a routine—it’s a ritual. A happy one.

If you’re searching for the best all-day breakfast in Maginhawa, Saturdays at Sundays Café should definitely be on your list. Because honestly, breakfast tastes so much better when you know you’ve earned it. 💯

FINALLY DINING AT FARMER'S DAUGHTER : A Taste of Authentic Cordilleran Flavors

Every time I visit Baguio, I always include Farmer’s Daughter in my food trip bucket list. But for some reason—whether it’s the long waiting line, our packed schedule, or simply giving up too soon—I’ve never actually managed to dine here. After four attempts on previous trips, I finally pushed through this time. And yes, even with a 1.5-hour wait!

We arrived at 11:30 AM sharp, thinking we were early enough to avoid the lunch rush. To my surprise, we were already number 21 in the queue. That’s how in-demand this place is! At first, I hesitated. Should I really wait that long? But since this was already my fifth attempt, I told myself, This is it. Walang atrasan.

Making the Most of the Wait

While waiting, some of us decided to explore Tam-awan Village, which is just a short walk away. The rustic huts, native crafts, and cultural displays gave them a glimpse of Cordilleran heritage—a perfect way to spend the time productively while our names slowly moved up the list. It also made the wait feel less stressful, as if we were already immersing ourselves in the culture even before tasting the food.

Finally, after what felt like forever (but was really just 1.5 hours), our table was ready. Excitement filled the air as we scanned the menu, already knowing that we were about to have our first taste of true Cordilleran cuisine.

Our Orders: First Bites, First Impressions

Since it was our first time, we went all out and ordered:

• Kinuday jen Baboy (Smoked Pork)

• Kinuday jen Manok (Smoked Chicken)

• Dinakdakan

• Pako Salad

• Lumpiang Shanghai

Unfortunately, one of the dishes I was really curious about—the Pinikpikan—was already out of stock. A bit of a downer, but it only gave us a reason to come back again.

Kinuday jen Baboy – Smoked Pork

This was the dish I was most curious about. Honestly, I thought the meat would be tough and chewy. But to my surprise, it was tender and flavorful, with that rich smoky taste that instantly reminded me of traditional cooking. It was my first time ever tasting smoked pork, and it didn’t disappoint. Each bite had that rustic, earthy flavor that made me understand why this is a Cordilleran staple.

Kinuday jen Manok – Smoked Chicken

I don't eat chicken, but according to my daughter, it tastes like tocino but the smokiness of the kunday jen baboy is still there.    

Dinakdakan

This was another first for me. Creamy, tangy, and with just the right kick, the Dinakdakan was something I couldn’t stop eating. It’s a dish that may be unfamiliar to some, but trust me, it’s worth trying.

Pako Salad

Now this one was truly refreshing. I’ve eaten many kinds of salads before, but this was my first time to try pako (fern) salad with such delight! The ferns were crisp, light, and so fresh, paired with tomatoes, onions, and a simple vinaigrette. It was a perfect balance to the heavier, smoky flavors of the meat dishes.

Kinuday Lumpiang Shanghai

Of course, we couldn’t resist ordering something familiar. The Lumpiang Shanghai was crispy and well-seasoned, but admittedly, the star of the show remained the local Cordilleran specialties.

Was the 1.5-Hour Wait Worth It?

Absolutely, yes. Farmer’s Daughter is not just about eating; it’s about experiencing the flavors and culture of the Cordillera region. The long wait, the rustic ambiance, and the unique dishes all contribute to that authenticity.

For me, this meal was not just lunch—it was an adventure. From the first bite of smoked pork to the surprising freshness of the pako salad, everything felt new, exciting, and truly local.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a trip to Baguio, don’t miss the chance to dine at Farmer’s Daughter. Just be ready to wait—because clearly, so many people want to experience it too. My advice: come early, explore Tam-awan Village while waiting, and keep an open mind for new flavors.

After four failed attempts, I finally made it here—and it was worth every second. Farmer’s Daughter gave me a taste of Cordilleran heritage in every dish, and now I understand why it’s a must-visit in Baguio.

BOKNAY'S HOUSE BAGUIO : Spacious & Peaceful Stay Perfect for Large Groups

Baguio has always been one of my favorite destinations whenever I want to escape the hustle and bustle of Manila. Its cool climate, pine-filled surroundings, and timeless charm make it the perfect getaway. On our recent trip, we discovered a hidden gem that gave us the best of both worlds—peace and accessibility. I’m talking about Boknay’s House in Baguio City.

Located just 15 minutes away from Baguio City proper, Boknay’s House is far enough from the heavy traffic and pollution of the busy center, yet close enough to easily reach popular attractions, restaurants, and shops. For us, this was a huge advantage. We got to enjoy the real Baguio breeze—crisp, cool, and refreshing—without the distraction of car horns and exhaust fumes.

A Spacious Haven for Big Groups

One of the first things that impressed me about Boknay’s House is its spacious layout. The moment you enter, you’ll notice the high ceiling that makes the entire place feel airy and inviting.

Our group was quite big—we were 21 people in total (plus a cute shih tzu :-) )—yet the house never once felt crowded. With its large open areas and thoughtful design, everyone had enough space to move around comfortably. We could gather in the living room for late-night conversations, enjoy meals together at the dining area, or sneak off to a quiet corner whenever someone wanted alone time.

And if you’re traveling with an even larger group, don’t worry—this house can definitely handle it. The open-space attic alone can accommodate more guests, making it ideal for family reunions, barkada trips, or even small team-building events. I personally think the house could comfortably fit up to 50 people without losing its cozy, homey vibe.

Verandas and Glass Walls: Bringing Nature Closer

What I personally loved most about Boknay’s House are the verandas in most of its rooms. Imagine waking up, stepping outside, and being greeted by fresh pine-scented air and a panoramic view of Baguio’s greenery. Each veranda offers the perfect spot to sip your morning coffee, reflect in silence, or simply soak in the natural beauty around you.

The house also features glass walls, which means you don’t even have to leave your bedroom to enjoy the outdoors. From the comfort of your bed, you can already see the towering pine trees and feel the calm atmosphere. Staying here makes you feel completely immersed in Baguio’s charm.

Fully Equipped Kitchen for Home-Cooked Meals

Another highlight of Boknay’s House is its complete kitchen. For someone who enjoys cooking or simply appreciates the convenience of preparing meals at home while traveling, this was a big plus (pero hindi ako ito :)). The kitchen had everything we needed—pots, pans, plates, utensils, and more.

This made our stay even more memorable because we were able to prepare hearty breakfasts, cook local delicacies we bought from the market, and enjoy late-night snacks together (plus "session drinking" and card games). Cooking and sharing meals in such a beautiful house felt like a home away from home.

The Perfect Baguio Getaway

Staying at Boknay’s House gave us a different kind of Baguio experience. Instead of just being tourists rushing through attractions, we actually got to slow down and savor the city’s natural charm. We woke up to the sound of birds, felt the cold breeze through the windows, and shared laughter over coffee without feeling rushed.

At the same time, being only a short drive from the city proper meant that whenever we wanted to explore Burnham Park, Session Road, or the many cafés and restaurants, it was easy and convenient.

Although traffic was a bit heavy when we arrived—Kennon Road was closed due to the previous typhoons, and Marcos Highway had ongoing road constructions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a Baguio trip with family, friends, or colleagues, I highly recommend checking out Boknay’s House. It’s spacious, peaceful, and perfectly located to give you the best of both worlds—serene nature and accessible city life. Whether you’re 20 pax like us, or a much larger group, this house can accommodate you with ease. And with its verandas and glass walls, you’ll always feel connected to nature.

For inquiries and bookings, you can visit their official Facebook page Boknay’s House  and send them a message. Trust me, this is one Baguio stay you’ll want to bookmark for your next mountain getaway.

Watch my Full YT vlog here -

A LUXURIOUS ESCAPE IN LUCBAN: Our Stay at Monte Carlos Guesthouse

When you think of Lucban, Quezon, the first images that usually come to mind are the colorful Pahiyas Festival, the scent of pancit habhab being cooked in local eateries, and the cool breeze rolling down from Mount Banahaw. But beyond the festivities and food, Lucban has been slowly revealing another charm—its quiet luxury hideaways. And on our recent trip, we discovered one of its best-kept secrets: Monte Carlos Guesthouse.

First Impressions: A Serene Welcome

As we entered Monte Carlos, the first thing that struck us was the calmness of the place. Unlike the usual hustle of hotels in bigger cities, this guesthouse greets you with an ambiance that instantly makes you breathe easier. The surroundings are adorned with lush greenery, perfectly complementing the natural backdrop of Lucban’s rolling hills. It wasn’t just a stay—it felt like a healing retreat from the very beginning.

The guesthouse itself is designed with elegance in mind. Large windows welcome sunlight, blending the indoors with the outdoors. The interiors are thoughtfully put together, balancing comfort and sophistication. From the plush furniture to the warm lighting, everything seemed to invite you to slow down and savor the moment.

The Rooms: Comfort Meets Elegance

Our room at Monte Carlos was a sanctuary in itself. Spacious, tastefully decorated, and equipped with amenities that you’d expect from a luxury stay, it gave us the perfect blend of homey warmth and hotel-like convenience. The soft linens, ambient lighting, and carefully chosen décor created a restful environment where relaxation was effortless.

But what made it extra special was the view. Waking up to the serene scenery of Lucban was a treat in itself. It wasn’t just a window view; it was an invitation to appreciate the stillness and beauty of nature. For city dwellers like us, it was exactly what we needed.

Amenities and Spaces to Enjoy

Monte Carlos isn’t just about beautiful rooms—it offers spaces where guests can connect, recharge, and unwind. Whether it was lounging in the common areas, sipping coffee while surrounded by nature, or enjoying quiet moments by the garden, each spot was crafted to enhance the experience.

There’s a healing energy in the guesthouse. The careful landscaping, the flow of natural light, and the serene ambiance all work together to create a space where stress seems to melt away. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a place to realign your senses.

The Healing Positioning of Monte Carlos

What sets Monte Carlos apart is how it positions itself as more than just accommodation. It’s a guesthouse for healing, reflection, and renewal. The serene environment, combined with its luxurious yet home-like feel, makes it perfect for anyone seeking to escape the fast-paced grind. Whether you’re a traveler exploring Lucban, a family needing a restful weekend, or simply someone searching for peace of mind, Monte Carlos provides that sanctuary.

We felt that the guesthouse wasn’t only catering to our need for comfort but also our deeper need for balance. In a way, Monte Carlos reflects what modern travelers are searching for—an experience that rejuvenates both body and soul.

A Destination Within a Destination

Lucban has always been a cultural gem, but Monte Carlos shows that it’s also becoming a wellness and luxury destination. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an entire weekend without feeling the need to rush into an itinerary. Just being there, with the cool air and quiet surroundings, is an experience on its own.

Of course, the guesthouse also serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions—whether it’s the Kamay ni Hesus shrine, Lucban Church, or simply hopping around the town plaza for some pancit habhab and longganisang Lucban. But after every little adventure, coming back to Monte Carlos felt like coming home.

Exciting News for Future Guests

While our stay gave us an exclusive glimpse of what Monte Carlos has to offer, here’s something exciting—the guesthouse will very soon open its doors to the public. Travelers who crave a serene escape, whether for a weekend or a longer retreat, will finally get the chance to experience the same charm and healing energy we enjoyed.

If you’re planning a trip to Quezon or looking for a new staycation spot that balances tranquility with comfort, keep Monte Carlos Guesthouse on your radar. It’s more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience waiting to be discovered.

 

WEEKEND GETAWAY : From Tanay to Cavinti to Lucban

Another weekend, another adventure! ✨ This time, we decided to hit the road and explore three charming towns—Tanay, Cavinti, and Lucban. Each stop had its own flavor, and together, they made one perfect weekend escape.

Breakfast with a View – Tanay Highlands

Our day kicked off in Tanay Highlands, a favorite stop for early risers looking for that winning combo of good food and great views. With the Sierra Madre mountain range as our breakfast backdrop, it was the perfect way to fuel up for the long ride ahead.

Wellness and Good Food – Las Caidas Resort, Cavinti

For lunch, we headed to Las Caidas Wellness Resort in Cavinti. The place is serene, surrounded by lush greenery and calming waters—exactly the kind of vibe you’d want in the middle of a road trip. Their dishes felt like comfort food with a touch of freshness, the kind that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

Dinner by the Water – Kamayan sa Palaisdaan, Lucban

By dinner time, our appetites were ready for a feast, and Kamayan sa Palaisdaan did not disappoint. Dining in their floating huts while feasting on classic Filipino dishes was both fun and filling. The whole place is alive with the sound of water and chatter, giving it that festive, probinsya feel.

Cozy Stay – Monte Carlos Guesthouse

We capped off the day at Monte Carlos Guesthouse, a homey retreat nestled at the foot of the mystical Mt. Banahaw. More than just a place to sleep, Monte Carlos itself as a healing sanctuary—perfect for weary travelers looking to recharge both body and spirit.

Surrounded by fresh mountain air and peaceful scenery, the guesthouse offers a kind of calm that you won’t easily find in city hotels. Whether you’re here for a quick escape or a soulful retreat, Monte Carlos makes you feel cared for, reminding you that travel isn’t only about where you go, but also about how you heal and reconnect with yourself.

Sweet Treats & Pasalubong

No road trip is ever complete without food for the road! Before heading home, we made sure to try the famous bibingkang buko—soft, sweet, and rich with coconut goodness. The best part? It comes with unlimited buko juice (while supplies last), making the experience even more refreshing and sulit.

Of course, pasalubong shopping was a must so we could share a piece of the trip with our loved ones back home. After all, nothing says “I thought of you” like bringing back local treats from a weekend escape.

🌄 Final Thoughts

From the cool breeze of Tanay Highlands to the floating huts of Kamayan sa Palaisdaan, this trip was a mix of nature, good food, and local charm. Sometimes the best weekends are the ones spent hopping from town to town, discovering flavors and places that remind us why traveling—no matter how near or far—is always worth it.

GCASH CARD NOW ACCEPTED AT MRT : A Complete Guide for Commuters

Commuting in Metro Manila has always been a mix of patience, timing, and finding ways to make the trip easier. Recently, I discovered something that truly changed my daily MRT experience — the GCash Card. Yes, you can now use it to tap in and out of MRT stations just like a regular stored-value card.

How It Works

The process is surprisingly simple:

1. Link your GCash Card to your GCash Wallet. This allows you to use your GCash balance as your spending limit.

2. Head to the MRT station. Instead of lining up for single-journey tickets or reloading a Beep card, you just tap your GCash Card directly on the turnstile.

3. Beep! You’re in. The fare is deducted instantly from your GCash wallet balance.

But here’s something important to know:

• Once you tap in, you will immediately receive an SMS from DOTr MRT showing that you were charged the maximum fare.

• Don’t worry — this is just a placeholder.

• When you exit at your actual station, the system automatically calculates your correct fare, deducts it, and credits back the difference to your GCash wallet right away.

So, in short, you’re only charged the exact amount of your trip once you finish your ride.

Why It’s a Gamechanger

• No More Long Lines: We all know how stressful it can be to queue during rush hours. With the GCash Card, you just breeze through.

• Cashless & Contactless: Perfect for commuters who want faster, more hygienic transactions.

• One Card, Many Uses: Aside from the MRT, your GCash Card also works as a regular debit card for shopping, dining, and online payments.

My Experience

On my first try, I was half-expecting a hassle, but the moment I tapped my card at the turnstile and heard that reassuring beep, I was in! A few seconds later, I got a text message from DOTr MRT saying I was charged the maximum fare. At first, I panicked a bit—“Hala, ganito na ba talaga?”—but as soon as I exited at my destination, the correct fare was charged and the balance was instantly adjusted in my GCash wallet. Smooth and worry-free!

Exiting was just as easy. It felt great knowing I didn’t need to carry a separate card or worry about reload counters.

Things to Remember

• Make sure you have enough balance in your GCash wallet before riding.

• Expect that you’ll first be charged the maximum fare, but don’t worry—the system will automatically refund you and adjust to the correct amount after your trip.

• The GCash Card works not just in MRT but also in other establishments that accept Mastercard.

Final Thoughts

For me, the GCash Card isn’t just another payment option—it’s a small but meaningful upgrade in the daily commuter life. It’s one less thing to worry about and one more step toward a cashless, convenient future in Metro Manila.

So, if you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend giving it a go on your next MRT ride. Trust me, you’ll never want to go back to the old way.

WHEN TASTES CHANGE - On Salpicado, CDrama, and Letting Go

Last night, there was no blog post.

I was simply too tired, and instead of writing, I curled up and let myself sink into the world of CDrama. Sometimes, you just need to give yourself permission to pause.

Earlier that day, one of our bosses treated us to lunch and ordered food at Alba’s. I had the Salpicao alongside their famous Paella. I relished every mouthful, but noticed that some of my officemates weren’t quite as impressed. They found the flavors too bold, too strong, perhaps too far from their comfort zone. I, on the other hand, found them exactly right — the salty-sweet harmony, the punch of garlic, the whisper of wine in the sauce.

My dinner was actually my takeout “Sharon” — Alba’s Salpicado de Solomillo. Tender cubes of beef, perfectly seared, bathed in that rich, garlicky brown sauce that clings to each bite like a love letter. It’s the kind of dish that demands slow appreciation, not hurried chewing. My stomach flu, which had been bothering me for days, seemed to ease as I savored each piece. And since no one else wanted it, I had it all to myself.

It reminded me of how individual preference works. The same plate of food can be divine to one and unremarkable to another. Sometimes, it’s not about what’s “objectively” good — it’s about what resonates with your own taste.

This morning, I accompanied my youngest to school and, for the first time, taught her how to commute on her own to her new school. We walked to the jeepney stop together, me pointing out landmarks she should remember, reminding her where to get off, and showing her how to signal for a ride. She was excited, a little nervous, but ready to learn. I realized, as I watched her hop off at her stop, that she wouldn’t need me beside her every morning from now on. That small moment — letting her take the ride alone to Makati — felt a lot like my own shifting preferences in life. You slowly learn to release old habits and embrace new ways of doing things, even if they feel unfamiliar at first.

It’s funny how preferences shift over time. Just like with food, my viewing habits have evolved. I used to be firmly in the KDrama camp, but for the past two or three months, I’ve been hooked on CDrama shorts — those quick, horizontal-format series you can finish in a few minutes per episode. They follow familiar plots: powerful CEOs, revenge arcs, reincarnations… and yet, I keep coming back for more. Predictable? Yes. Comforting? Absolutely.

Maybe that’s the thing — whether it’s food, entertainment, or even parenting, our preferences and routines are not fixed. They bend, stretch, and sometimes completely transform, depending on where we are in life and what we need at the moment.

Today, I realize: tastes change, and that’s not just about the tongue. It’s about the heart, too — learning when to savor, when to let go, and when to trust that the next ride will take you exactly where you’re meant to be.

BACK TO THE FLOW OF LIFE

Finally, I was able to eat again. It’s still just small meals — soup, soft foods — but each bite feels like progress. After days of discomfort, my body is starting to feel lighter, stronger, and ready to move again.

And just as my health is slowly bouncing back, life outside my little bubble seems to be picking up its pace, too. Travel plans have started pouring in, and everything feels like it’s sliding back into place. My calendar for August, especially on weekends, is already full — out-of-town trips, exciting events, and collaborations with brands, particularly hotels and Airbnb stays. The momentum is here, and I can feel it calling me to keep going, to keep creating, to keep telling stories.

Work today was nothing extraordinary — the usual corporate grind, endless deadlines that seem to breed overnight, and tasks that never quite run out. It’s the rhythm I’ve grown used to, the one that hums in the background while I chase dreams outside office walls.

But as I closed my laptop, I realized something — life is like this. There will be days when we’re too weak to eat, when plans slow down, when things feel stuck. And then there are days when the rhythm picks up again, when energy returns, and doors open one by one.

It’s in those moments of stillness and in those seasons of movement that we learn the beauty of balance. We can’t always run at full speed; sometimes, we need to pause, heal, and wait for God’s timing.

Today reminded me: setbacks are temporary, momentum can return, and life — like our strength — has a way of finding its flow again.