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. 💯