InFlight June 2012 by Dornier Media

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, n r Bu girl! & t a e w S

Weird and Wonderful Spas Try a 24-carat gold facial or a volcanic mud soak

k ness br e a t i f y a -d A four

Me and My Travelsâ&#x20AC;¨ Bianca Araneta-Elizalde The Boutique Bed & Breakfast An indulgent getaway

Plus! SEAIR to fly to 7 more destinations see the list on page 6

BEAUTY AND WELLNESS AT SOFITEL

Experience a return to beauty and wellness at Manilaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only 5-star luxury resort hotel. Exquisite natural views and impeccable service await to provide blissful respites from harried city life. From French treatments at Le Spa, to state-of-the-art fitness regimens at So Fit, to medical spa retreats at The Zen Institute, to world-class beauty and styling at Philippe Tordjman Le Salon, Sofitel meets your every requirement for holistic well-being. Jogging trails, tennis and petanque courts, an aqua golf range, 18-hole putting green and a lagoon-shaped swimming pool are available for your pleasure. Life is beautiful at Sofitel! For bookings and inquiries, call extension 1588 or email at lespa@sofitelmanila.com.

Inside inflight | june | 2012

04 e ditor’s note 06 in the news Huma Island Resort to open by end of 2012; SEAIR to fly to seven cities in August 06 Cale ndar What not to miss in June 10 In Room Resort review: The Boutique Bed & Breakfast Hotel feature: Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center

13 InDULGE Kusina Selera 14 ME AND MY TRAVELS Bianca Araneta-Elizalde, mom and model 16 cove r s tory: Sweat & Burn, Girl! Monica De Leon puts herself in the expert hands of superfit coach Aries Fonacier to see if she can hack a four-day training

24 inside r’s guide : Weird and Wonderful Spas From a 24-carat gold facial to a volcanic mud soak, we’ve rounded up some interesting spa treats for you 29 INFLIGHT Guide s Destination guides to the Philippines and neighboring countries Airline Guides: All you need to know about leisure airlines South East Asian Airlines and Island Transvoyager

Cover credits: Photo by Jeffrey Sonora Art direction by Jocas See Styling by Charmaine Palermo for Monsters Production Hair and makeup by Aisa Costo Modeling by Karen Lima for Reco Modeling Agency Workout getup from Nike Park and Columbia Location: Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

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editor’s note

People. Places. Adventures.

e’re designed by the gods to move, but it’s a struggle to find time to exercise and stay fit. Even harder when you live in the city where there’s not much of a green lung. The idea behind our four-day fitness break on pages 16 to 23, is to combine a short break with some fun kickass physical training, debunking the myth that exercise only means indoor machines. Sweat & Burn, Girl! is our managing editor Monica De Leon’s four-day journey into fitness-dom, bravely putting herself in the expert hands of superfit coaches Aries, Jason, Mario and Rex. The incentive, aside from the chance to shape up, is exercising in scenic Taal, about two hours from Manila. After four days of aches and pains with three of the four days spent training outdoors, kayaking across the waters of Taal Lake, then back to terra firma for more stretching, boxing, and doing the whole gamut of pumping iron, full body workout, and on the last day, taking to the bike trail, Monica was buzzing with “raw energy”. Her verdict? “I’m loving being active again. I swear this kickstart will not be in vain.” For more on wellness, check out pages 24 to 27 on Weird and Wonderful spas, guilty pleasures from a 24-carat gold facial to a volcanic mud soak. Whether these treats work to de-age you, we don’t know, but hey, an hour of unique pampering, de-stressing is sometimes all we need. Enjoy! giselle javison Editor, InFlight editors@inflight.ph

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INTheNews t r av e l | l i f e s t y l e | h o t e l s & r e s o r t s | a r t s & fa s h i o n | a n d m o r e

Mt. Apo, Davao

Huma Island Resort to Open by End of 2012 Huma Island Resort, a private island in the heart of Palawan, is set to open by the end of this year, offering 85 luxury seafront villas on stilts, each with private jacuzzis. International hotel management company Movenpick Hotels & Resorts will manage the resort, which occupies the whole of Huma Island, located in Busuanga, Palawan. The luxury resort can be reached from Busuanga’s mainland by private seaplane and luxury speedboat. Huma will have a spa, six restaurants, including Lebanese, Italian, and Asian restaurants, a library, entertainment room, and a fitness center. Resort activities typically include diving and island hopping. Huma Island Resort is one of 15 Movenpick properties slated to open in Asia by 2015. The Swiss hotelier manages properties in India, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. In the Philippines, Huma is its second property, with the first one located in Cebu. ■ For more information, visit www.humaisland.com.

Manila Hotel Celebrates 100 years As part of its 100-year anniversary celebration, the Manila Hotel is offering its 100 Weekend of Bliss promo, featuring up to 65 per cent off weekend room package rates until October 7, 2012. The promo includes an overnight stay for two, buffet breakfast for two, one-hour Manila Hotel Signature Massage, free WiFi access, welcome drinks and free use of Health Club facilities. Promo rates start at P7,150 (about US $166) for two for an overnight stay at the superior deluxe room, a reduction of about 65 per cent off the regular package starting rate of P20,233. Manila Hotel will also hold an exhibit at its Lobby Lounge from July to December 2012, showcasing the hotel’s historic memorabilia. ■ For inquiries and room reservations, call +632/ 527 0011 local 1175. For inquiries on I Remember the Days, call Manila Hotel Banquet Sales (local 1275).

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SEAIR to Fly to Seven Cities in August South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR) is launching daily flights from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to seven Philippine destinations, including Cebu, Puerto Princesa in Palawan, Tacloban in Leyte, Iloilo, Bacolod, Davao, and Kalibo in Aklan. The flights will be operated using five new Airbuses, departing from NAIA’S terminal 4. Cebu flights start on July 31, with three flights daily. Daily flights to Tacloban will start on August 1; to Iloilo on August 2; to Puerto Princesa on August 3; to Kalibo on August 4; and to Bacolod on August 20. Twice a day flights to Davao will commence on August 18. To celebrate the launch, SEAIR will offer 28,000 seats at special rates. One-way tickets to Cebu will start from P690 (about US ($15); to Tacloban and Puerto Princesa from P645; to Iloilo and Bacolod from P699; to Davao from P949; and to Kalibo from P655. SEAIR’s partnership with Tiger Airways allows it to distribute its seats through Tiger Airways’ established internet booking system (www. tigerairways.com). Now on its 17th year, SEAIR has expanded its route network to include international flights from two destinations to 19 destinations. ■ To book seats, visit www.FlySeair.com or www. tigerairways.com. For updates on promos and new routes, like SEAIR Facebook Fan Page on www. facebook.com/flyseair.

mt. apo photo b y rhonson n g

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INTheNews

Malaysia Goes Duty Free Malaysia is now offering duty free shopping to promote the country as a luxury tourist destination. Apart from cars, glass and pyrex, cigarettes, alcohol and chocolates, products like clothing, shoes, fashion accessories, and gadgets are now tax exempt in Malaysia. The recent opening of the Johor Premium Outlet, an outlet store that carries over 80 designer labels, and the country’s three annual sales also further help Malaysia’s attraction as a shopper’s destination. Malaysia’s new tourism products now include the Legoland Malaysia, Asia’s first Legoland theme park slated to open in December 2012, the KL City Walk, Kuala Lumpur’s first-ever pedestrian strip mall, and the helicopter tours. ■ For more information and updates, visit www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my.

Makati Launches a Health and Wellness Tourism Travel Map Makati City launched its official health and wellness travel map in April, in an effort to promote the city as a medical tourism hub in the Philippines. Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay, Jr. said the travel map will showcase tourist spots, hospitals, clinics, spas and other beauty, health and wellness facilities that meet the international standards of the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH) International, accredited by the International Society for Quality in Healthcare. The map also features a directory listing. The travel map is available for free in Metro Manila airports, the Department of Tourism head office, the Department of Foreign Affairs in Pasay City, and downloadable from The Heart of Asia website. ■ Visit www.philippinesheartofasia.ph.

Two Philippine Dive Destinations Among the World’s Best Dive Sites Tubbataha Reef in southeast Palawan and Puerto Galera’s The Canyons in Oriental, Mindoro, two of the country’s top dive destinations, have been listed among the 50 best dive sites in the world, according to CNN’s travel news website www.cnngo.com last April. Tubbataha Reef ranked eighth while The Canyons in Puerto Galera ranked 45th. CNNgo described the waters of Tubbataha Reef as “exceptionally clean, so the marine life lives much longer, making it grow to silly proportions. Expect kaleidoscopic colors combined with guitar sharks, black tip reef sharks, nurse sharks, gliding blue-spotted lagoon rays, unicorns, boxfish, scorpion fish and more.” Puerto Galera’s The Canyons, a dive site at 30m deep, showcases “schools of spotted and ribbon sweetlips, shiny trevallies and weird-looking batfish,” according to the website. ■ For the full list of CNNgo’s 50 best dive sites in the world, visit www.cnngo.com.

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Calendar

What not to miss in June

Merrell Adventure Run

New Kids on the Block and Backstreet Boys in Manila

The Merrell Adventure Run, now on its third year, once again leads runners through dirt roads, flowing streams, river crossing, rock scrambling, and uphill and downhill trails. This year’s race course is at Timberland Heights, San Mateo, Rizal. The top three winners of each race category for both male and female get a cash prize and a gift bag from the sponsors. The top 50 to finish the 5km and 10km course before cut-off time will each receive a medal, while all runners of the 21km will receive a medal upon completion of the race. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/merrell. adventurerun

American boy bands New Kids on the Block and Backstreet Boys are performing in a concert at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on June 5. The success of their tour in North America prompted the groups to extend their tour to Australia and Asia. The New Kids on the Block are behind hits Summertime, Dirty Dancing, You Got It (The Right Stuff) and Step By Step while the Backstreet Boys popularized the hits Get Down, Larger Than Life, I’ll Never Break Your Heart, Incomplete, As Long As You Love Me and I Want It That Way. Call Ticketworld at +632/ 891 9999 for tickets or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph

Rock of Ages

Atlantis Productions presents “Rock of Ages”, a musical told through the hits of Journey, Bon Jovi, REO Speedwagon, Poison, Whitesnake and many more. The production’s lead performer is Rock Star: INXS third placer MiG Ayesa. Directed by Chari Arespacochaga. Call Atlantis Productions at +632/ 892 7078 for tickets or visit www. atlantisproductionsinc.com

INRoom Hotels and resorts

The Boutique Bed & Breakfast

Premier room

Hot chocolate and churros for a nightcap, and breakfast in bed make this hotel an indulgent getaway

IRST IMPRESSIONS. Soon as you set foot at The Boutique Bed & Breakfast, a modernbaroque inspired boutique hotel in Tagaytay, you know you’re in for an indulgent stay. Lots of curb appeal at the entrance with fresh white paint and boxed plants. After check in, you get to choose your set of toiletries and room scent, and decide between a complimentary 10-minute facial cold stone massage or foot massage. Location. Along Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City on the westbound road towards Nasugbu. It’s a little over an hour’s drive from Manila. ROOMS. Each of the seven rooms here are inspired by romance and feelings: lust, dare, desire, dream, surrender, love, escape. I was booked in the “i dream” room with a private terrace offering the best view of Taal Volcano. It had a king sized bed with luxe beddings, LCD TV with a DVD player, iPod-ready speakers and dock, a library of board games and DVDs, a welcome bowl of fresh fruits, and glasses of water. A staff served me Hawaiian iced tea and a plate of espasol (local rice cake) with melted chocolate.

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I Dream room

View from I Dream

FOOD. You will love the Original Hawaiian Baby Back on Grill at the hotel’s Original Hawaiian Bar-B-Q Grill. I had it with classic baked potato and cheese. For dessert, try the mango crumble. WE LIKE. The hard to beat pampering. You get a hot chocolate and freshly made churros for nightcap and a generous breakfast in bed at 9am sharp. VERDICT. You’ll fall in love with the place. ■ - - M ar g ie F rancisco

Essentials

Rates start at P5,592 (about US $ 130) per room night, inclusive of breakfast in bed and complimentary 10-minute facial cold stone massage or foot massage for two. Tel: +6346/ 413 1798 or 860 2716 Email: theboutique.bnb@gmail.com URL: www.theboutiquebnb.com

Hotel Feature

Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center With a nice patch of beach, fast service, and complete array of amenities, what’s not to like?

East Wing premier room

Beach front

IRST IMPRESSIONS. The side street access of Boracay Regency will immediately lead guests to the resort’s check-in area. The counter is wood panelled, the floor all cream marble. Boracay Regency is one of the biggest resorts in Boracay Island with 285 rooms. A huge staircase leading to the resort’s Kai Spa is the prominent feature of the beachfront resort’s façade. Upon entering the resort premises, the large pool, enveloped by the hotel’s structure, welcomes guests. Location. Beachfront, Station 2, Boracay Island, a three-minute walk from D’ Mall and a few minutes’ walk to other restaurants and bars. ROOMS. We were booked in the premier room and soon as we’ve settled in someone delivered our welcome drinks. Our room had a queen sized bed, a flatscreen cable TV, WiFi access — which you have to pay for — a refrigerator, minibar, private toilet and bath, and a private pool access. FOOD. The hotel’s Sea Breeze Café, one of the hotel’s seven restaurants, offers breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring Filipino and

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Presidential Suite

Swimming pool

international cuisine. Menus change regularly. I liked the vegetable ratatouille, mashed potato and the US beef short plate with red wine jus. WE LIKE. The nice patch of beach, the close proximity to bars, restaurants and shops, the fast service, and the complete array of amenities. NOT SO KEEN. Sea Breeze Café’s buffet is middle of the road. VERDICT. Perfect for families or big groups. ■ - - M ar g ie F rancisco

Essentials

Rates start at P6,496 (about US $151) per room per night, inclusive of breakfast for two at Sea Breeze Café. Station 2, Balabag, Boracay, Malay, Aklan Tel: +632/ 523 8707; +6336/ 288 6111-17 Email: rsvn@boracayregency.com URL: www.boracayregency.com

INdulge food and restaur ant

Adobo

Gising-gising

Kusina Selera

If you like everyday Filipino food cooked to perfection, look no further than Davao’s Kusina Selera, says Kristine Fonacier photos b y rhonson n g

HE SETTING. Kusina Selera, located inside Legaspi Suites compound in Davao City, is the first thing you see under the wrought-iron arch entrance to the hotel. The rustic Kusina Selera logo gleams from large glass windows, while solid chocolate-brown furniture lend contrast to the sleek white interiors. Tables are set not just inside the restaurant, but also outdoors, in the courtyard. Although located on P. Pelayo street, at the heart of the business district, it is nevertheless is in a relatively quiet part of the street.

THE FOOD. Kusina Selera’s Manila-based owners brought in chefs to develop the restaurant’s modern-Filipino menu, highlighting local ingredients and paying homage to the popular Filipino dishes. On the menu are pork barbecue, kare-kare (ox tail and tripe in peanut sauce), crispy pata (deep-fried pork hocks), gising-gising (water cabbage and green beans, simmered in spiced coconut milk), sinuglaw (a combination of tuna ceviche and grilled pork) — everyday Filipino food cooked well. You’ll also find subtle but surprising twists on old favorites like adobo pork and chicken, marinated and cooked twice, fried and simmered; and the bagaybay, a regional delicacy made from the sperm sacs of tuna fish, wrapped in bacon and served on a sizzling plate. House specialty Paella Selera, is more a fried rice dish than a true paella, topped with deepfried pork belly; and Len’s Suha Salad, a riff on Thai-inspired pomelo salad, with the tangy, citrus fruit tossed with onions and herbs, and tempered with fish sauce for balance. There is hardly a misstep in the

entire menu, even if you order without regard for pairings. THE SERVICE. Friendly without being overly familiar. Manager Anton Chiew likes to walk the floor during peak hours, and often serves tables himself. WHO DINES THERE. In the morning, mostly business travelers staying at the hotel. At lunch, family groups. Couples show up at dinner. PRICE. Expect to spend less than P500 per person. VERDICT. Quiet, classy, modern, and genteel, Kusina Selera is a good representative of the rest of Davao City. Make it a must-see stop during your next trip. ■ Kusina Selera Doors 9-11, Legaspi Suites, 115 P. Pelayo St. (formerly Legaspi St.), Davao City, Philippines Tel: +6382/ 221 2695

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Me and My Travels

Bianca Araneta-Elizalde, Mom and Model I ntervie w b y M onica D e L eon

P hoto courtes y of P hilippine T atler

hat keeps you busy these days? My schedule revolves around my family. I have three girls–a six-year-old, a twoyear-and-eight-month-old,

and a five-month-old.

What’s your typical day? I get up in the morning at about 6:30am, wake up my daughter, have breakfast, take my daughter to school, come home, put in about an hour of exercise. And then at certain days of the week, I take my other daughter to the play class and stay with her and then we come home for lunch, then I would pick up my eldest from school, come home, do something with them in the afternoon. And then we have early dinner usually about 6-6:30pm. Where do you like taking your kids? I like to take them outdoors and be in touch with nature. My second daughter likes to go barefoot, and to lie down in the grass. We planted some tomatoes in the backyard, planted a few herbs, took care of caterpillars till they turned into butterflies. My kids go running, ride the bike, swim, play in the playground. Where do you hang out? Aria at The Fort. There’s a good grassy area outside where the kids can play and run, and the food — pizza, pasta — is perfect for kids. Where do you go for short breaks? We like to go out of town. Just yesterday, we were at The Farm. We love the vegan restaurant there and there’s fishing. My kids swam while it’s raining, made a mandala, floral arrangements in the water,

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learned soap making, fed the ducks and peacocks. For long breaks? We usually go to the US every year. We go to San Francisco where I’ve got family and friends. It’s really domestic life there — I go to the groceries with my husband; I cook at home. We usually travel with just the nanny and the kids. And then we take the kids off to Disney Land. We also visit families in neighboring Ojai, a suburb with maybe a few cafes, and two or three boutiques. People go around in horses. Everyone knows everyone. And there are orchards, mountains, ranches and pink sunsets.

yoghurt with fruits. Discovery Shores has a yummy restaurant called Indigo. I also go to Shangri-La Boracay. And Dos Mestizos for Spanish and the bacalao. Your favorite resort in the Philippines? I like Shangri-La Boracay because there’s a good playroom my daughters love and good restaurants. They have a killer pool, and a beach. Where do you shop for clothes? For gowns, it’s always Rajo Laurel. For casual wear, Zara, Mango, GAP, Banana Republic.

What’s your most memorable holiday? The one I took with my husband, who was my then boyfriend, a European holiday two years before I had my eldest daughter. And there’s the first trip we took with our eldest daughter, who was then seven months old, at Lake Tahoe in San Francisco.

What about shopping for your kids? GapKids has good stuff, Mother Care, Rustan’s for clothes. For toys and educational stuff, Hobbes & Landes. Fundamentals, which is really nice and has a lot of educational stuff, just opened at Bonifacio Highstreet.

What do you pack for travel? My camera and chargers, iPhone, iPad for the kids, sneakers and comfortable pants, one coat and a few sweaters when I travel to the states, and my facial wash and moisturizer, a brand called Josie Maran (http:// josiemarancosmetics.com/). I use Argan Cleansing Oil at the end of the day. And then I’ve got Derma E (www.dermae.com), and another one by DeVita with SPF that I use everyday.

Where do you shop for your kitchen and household? I have a cook but I can cook. I plan the menu. We get everything from Healthy Options, and go to Market Market for fruits. We get our produce from EchoStore, the Organic Market in Salcedo, Rustans. For house cleaning stuff, Echo Store. ■

Where do you go to dine in Boracay? I go to Aria for arugula pizza, Hama for salmon sashimi and khani salad, True Food for Indian. Lemoni Café has very good eggs Benedict with smoked tanigue. I usually have Café Del Sol’s Mediterranean breakfast. On some mornings I go to Real Coffee for pancakes and homemade

Bianca Araneta-Elizalde, one of the Philippines’ commercial models, is now a full-time mom. She also helps with the promotions of family-owned restaurants in Boracay, including the promotions of Aria, Hama and Cafe del Sol.

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Sweat &

Burn, girl! InFlight managing editor, Monica De Leon, puts herself in the expert hands of superfit coach Aries Fonacier to see if she can hack a four-day training Photos by Jeffrey Sonor a

ife is pretty full on. I’m up at 6:30am, have time only for a quick breakfast, then it’s a 30-minute drive to work. I’m at my desk by 9.30am, cocooned in an airconditioned room, sitting at my desk in front of a computer, working nine hours straight daily. I’m usually home by 7:30pm in time for dinner, my biggest meal of the day. Weekends are no improvement. It’s usually the mall, the movie house, and more eating with the kids around. Days in usually mean playing DVDs. All enjoyable, let me tell you, but nothing to help trim my hips or take care of my heart. My sedentary lifestyle has taken a toll on my health. I’m in my early 30s, but recently been diagnosed with essential hypertension and sentenced to a lifetime of anti-hypertension drugs. Unless, of course,

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I embrace a healthier lifestyle and quite possibly get weaned off the meds. My last remembered physical regimen was “Thai Bo” (Thai boxing), taken up 12 years ago, right after giving birth to my second son. I lost 34 pounds in three months. I know I can somehow get back on the healthy track, so when my editor challenged me to undergo a four-day fitness training, I said yes, halfheartedly at first, but later on, thought it was now or never. My research led me to Fort Rock, a fitness center located inside the Manila Polo Club. It’s specialty is functional conditioning, helping clients to enjoy and become prepared to do other programs like sports or yoga or running. Functional conditioning allows all muscle group to get worked out, not just specific muscle groups. The client to coach ratio is 1:2, which says it all really. You have to spend P1,700 (about US $40) per session but you get an effective and highly

personalized training. I told Fort Rock chief executive officer and head coach Aries Fonacier, who founded Fort Rock in February 2011, that I wanted to shed off some five-seven pounds, from my current weight in four days. He looked at me and grimly said: “If I am to make you lose weight in four days, it’s going to be very irresponsible of me. For starters, you can do two to three times a week.” I insisted on a four-consecutive day training so Coach Aries compromised and created for me a program to fit the bill. He wanted me to experience working out all my individual muscle groups, and to provide a variety of exercises on my planned four days of training. His intention was not just to get me started on an exercise program, but to get me hooked into committing to a lifetime change. “I won’t tell you now; but at the end of the program, if we are successful, you’d reveal something to me,” Coach Aries added. As to what that is, I don’t have any clue.

Cover Story

Model: Karen Lima of Reco Modeling Agency at Sofitel Philippine Plaza; workout outfit: Nike Park and Columbia; styling: Charmaine Palermo for Monster Productions; hair and makeup: Aisa Costo

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Cover Story

day 1 a taste of the training

From top. InFlight managing editor on day one: Getting a briefing from Fort Rock coach Aries Fonacier; doing squat drills; and on a bungee cord drill

On my first day of training, I arrived at Fort Rock’s snug airconditioned premises at 2pm, handed over my doctor’s clearance to Coach Aries, who told me, “go change”. Uhmm, a taste of barking orders soon to come? Fort Rock covers martial fitness that includes boxing and net drills, closed chain exercises that include suspension training, open chain exercises, exercises done continuously with a one-minute break in between, and the outdoor fitness, runs or outdoor drills. I am to undergo all four. Coach Rex approached and gave me a basket with a pitcher of cucumber water, iced towel, ethyl alcohol with a small pouch for

my cellphone. My assigned coaches were Rex and Jason. First up was some active stretching for a few minutes. Then it was on to the suspension training system, with one end of the straps attached to the frame and the other to hand grips, a contraption I used to do lunges and squats. For the lunges, I stood with feet about one foot apart, knees slightly bent, then I put one foot forward, bent as low as I could, opened my arms for the flies and lifted them up for the y-raise and swung

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them sideways for the sidebend. I did one set at a time, alternating right and left. Then I was on to the squat. It’s tough and I felt my core and biceps woken up. I did the bungee cord exercise, which Coach Aries said required “plyometric movement...used by athletes in sports, which requires explosive movements.” Fort Rock infuses plyometric into its sports drills. The bungee cord is a 3m flexible cord anchored on a stable bar, with the other end attached to a belt I was asked to wear around my waist. I was to fetch medical balls from the floor several feet away from the farthest point the bungee cord could reach. The cord could extend but I needed momentum to get to the balls, and then manage a graceful jog back. I also did boxing. With gloved hands, I did jabs, straights, straight hooks, upper cuts, cross hooks, and different combinations of it all, with my sparring parter Coach Jason. Boxing worked out my whole upper body. And it’s utterly tiresome but I loved it because like dancing, it needed coordination. One of the drills unique to Fort Rock is the net drill, requiring you to crawl into a tunnel made of cargo net like those you see in play grounds, except this one is suspended mid air. It’s no easy feat managing your way from entry point to exit point. You’ll find your legs splayed at one point, your arms working hard to keep your balance, and sometimes struggling to spread the net to allow you to crawl through. Calories lost from the two-hour program? 800-1,200 calories. The sweet end to the training was a 30-minute cool down called “passive stretching”. Coach Rex waited for me at the farthest end of the Fort Rock gym, which he transformed into a private serene space with dim lights, aromatherapy oil wafting in the air, soft music playing in the backdrop. I took off my shoes and lay face down on the mat, while an icebag was placed on my nape and I got a much-needed sport massage treatment to soothe my aching muscles.

ofitel’s So Fit fitness center provides wellness programs using highend cardio machines from Life Fitness, free weights, and modern training machine Kinesis. For getting fit outside the gym, Sofitel has a 10-stall aqua golf range where guests can drive floating golf balls out into the sea, a service jogging trail within the two acre property, tennis and petanque courts, and a lagoon-shaped swimming pool with cascading waterfalls and slides.

Cover Story

day 2 Outdoor workout On day two, as expected I was sore from all that workout. The good news, however was that I was to exercise outdoors, a real luxury. Sofitel Philippine Plaza reserved the Seawall Garden located right in front of its Sunset Bar, for my day’s exercises. Sofitel Philippine Plaza is the only five-star luxury hotel in Manila with a resort setting. It has 609 rooms that include two Opera Suites, four Luxury Suites, eight Prestige Suites, 38 Sofitel Suites, and the 6,200sqm Imperial Residence that opened its doors just early this year. Coach Jason and Coach Rex, with some supervision by Coach Aries, were a little less harsh on me. We did the previous day’s drills like the suspension drills, the XT Jungle Gym drills, the TRX Rip Trainers, boxing, step ups, but with lots of varieties and new combinations. I still got my upper and lower body and core all worked out. I did the sandbag drill, pulling a weighted sandbag from several meters away using a rope attached to it, exercising the upper part of my body. I squat, bent forward and reached one arm out to hold on to the rope while the other one was holding on to a rope closer to my chest. Then I pulled my upper body back, pulling the rope and dragging the sandbag in the process. With alternating arms I repeated the cycle until the bag was right in front of me. It was like kayaking. Something new that day were the mini hurdles or short curved bars flanked in file designed to mimic a marathon. With the hurdles in file to my left, I ran forward and lifted my left leg up so my left foot won’t catch the hurdle. And I did the same facing

the opposite direction. This drill truly made me feel like a track and field pro! I did cone drills again this day but with some fun dynamic to it. It’s a simple circuit training that mixed lateral taps with sprints, jogs, and burpees or a squat thrust. This drill mimics tennis moves. Then I was asked to lie down face up a mat, lock my legs together, put my palm on the mat underneath my butt, and, mustering strength from my abdomen, raise my legs up in the air repeatedly for a couple or so sets. Coupled with some preexhaustion drills, I literally felt my cord

Clockwise from top left. Monica on day two: The sandbag drill; TRX Rip Trainer; hurdles; and the XT Jungle Gym drill

Phillippe Tordjman Le Salon for hair care and hair and makeup.

LeSpa has a dry and wet sauna, a foot spa area, manicure and pedicure stations, nine treatment suites including a duo suit with a large tub, and spa suite with Trautwein Crystal bath and sundeck. If beautification is your thing, Sofitel has opened the Zen Institute, a medical spa that offers noninvasive beauty and wellness treatments like facial contouring and body sculpting. There’s also the

contract! This was one exercise I thought I made my coaches proud too. I felt I let myself down today because my performance wasn’t as great as the last time. I thought my lunges were not perfect lunges, my sprints not fast enough, my bends not graceful enough. Coach Aries declared I only burned a minimum 500 maximum 1000 calories.

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, Manila Bay Tel: +632/ 551 5555 Fax: +632/ 551 5621 Email: room.reservations@sofitelmanila.com Url: www.sofitel.com/gb/home/index.shtml ■ LeSpa

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day 3 beating the time

Clockwise from left, this spread. Off to a kayak drill at Club Balai Isabel: Enjoying a 50m kayak; a lunge drill with Coach Mario watching closely; boxing with Coach Jason; and more lunges

Day three is when the fun began. We hit the road at 8am to head to Club Balai Isabel, a beautiful lakeside resort, where I was to start my series of outdoor exercises. We took the South Luzon Expressway, past the scenic Nuvali road to get to Tagaytay. Club Balai Isabel’s main attraction is its infinity pool overlooking the magnificent Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. The resort has 220 categorized hotels and villas set in a sprawling 7.8-hectare ground. Its theme is Filipino and mixed Asian. We were booked in a one-bedroom Orchard Lane villa (P6,325) that could accommodate eight people at a time. Our unit had a fully fitted kitchen and dining, a verandah, a small sala with day beds and pull out beds, a bedroom with two double beds, and one toilet and bath. The hotels and condotels on the other hand have standard

hotel amenities and don’t have cooking facilities. Once checked in, we immediately went to the lake. It was a rather windy afternoon but the sun was shining up high against the bright blue sky. I was to undergo Fort Rock’s kayak program done ciruit-style, meaning I would do the drills continuously and be timed from start to finish. It’s a bonus that I was to kayak across the waters of Taal Lake in sight of the majestic Taal Volcano.

Club Balai Isabel: Why it’s a wellness getaway P hoto b y D ann y V ictoriano

Attending my training this time were Coaches Mario, Rex and Jason, with Coach Aries still overseeing. At go signal, I leapt onto my kayak as I was to circumnavigate the lake’s waters. I kayaked out 50m and kayaked in for another 50m. Upon hitting the beach, I did lateral knee ups using the laidout cones, side to side drills using a laid out ladder, requiring me to tap my way from one end to the other, exercising my legs and thighs in the process, suspension training — so again, squats and

lub Balai Isabel resort is a fine wellness getaway made unique by its private access and commanding view of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. It recently launched its adol ya linawa Wellness Center, in partnership with Clinica Manila, an established diagnostic center with branches in Manila. The wellness center has eight rooms, each with three massage beds, a dipping pool and pocket

off to ka y ak and lun g e drills photos b y jocas see

Cover Story

lunges — and the TRX Rip Trainers (rip), which Coach Aries said was for “assymetrical loading using symetrical approach.” One end of the rip was tied to a flexible string that’s attached to a base. There are a gazillion rip drills and I did a couple, which required a power arm, my arm that swiveled one end of the rip to one direction, causing tension to build up in my power arm, and a base arm, or my other arm that I used to keep the rip in a stable position. It’s a unique drill requiring a great deal of, primarily, contraction from my

core. Subsequently it helped to strengthen my arm muscles. Coach Aries and another of his coaches were only two out of eight certified TRX rip trainers in the country. In between rip drills, I trained using wobble sticks, about a-meter-and-a-half-long bendable sticks that you wobble to your sides, affecting your whole body. I did my first circuit at 12:34, and my second round at 10:39. Coach Mario tried to do one round too and he finished in over eight minutes. I thought, considering how fit

he was, I didn’t do too bad against him. Just as the sun was coming down, Coach Jason did some boxing with me — a fine end to my day’s training. As Coach Aries declared pack up at sundown, I told him, “Coach, actually if you pushed me, I still could have done a third round of the kayak circuit. I felt stronger now and could recover faster.” Coach smiled and said, “remember that I told you on the first day of our training that you’d reveal to me something if we’re successful?”

garden. Must try is the Isabel Signature massage, which combines Chinese, Swedish and deep tissue techniques. Adol ya linawa has a Doctor Fish Spa in a nice garden setup. Next to Doctor Fish Spa is a butterfly garden where there are comfortable chairs for manicure and pedicure. Aside from the usual spa treatments, including facials and non-invasive beauty treatments, adolyalinawa also offers annual medical check

ups in the center, courtesy of its partner Clinica Manila. Within the year, the resort is opening a driving range so guests can enjoy driving floating golf balls towards the lake, a mini golf facility and zipline to run the length of the beach. And in the late quarter of this year, the resort will start its organic farm and its restaurants like Terraza Cafe will start serving organic meals.

To cap your wellness experience at Club Balai Isabel visit the souvenir shop at the main clubhouse and buy organic toiletries, and all natural scents and fragrances. Club Balai Isabel, Talisay, Batangas Manila tel: +632/ 897 0229, 899 2028 Batangas tel: +6343/ 728 0307, 773 3004 Url: www.balaiisabel.com ■

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day 4 fine fun biking session

From left, this spread. Monica on the biking drill: Biking along a hilly road close to Club Balai Isabel; in tandem with Coach Rex; another boxing drill with boxing partner Coach Jason

The next day marked the final day of my training. In no time we were warming up to the soft morning sunlight a short drive away from Club Balai Isabel where there’s a scenic mountainside view. Our agenda this day was to do some mountain roadside biking. I hesitantly told Coach Aries that the last time I rode the bike was when I was still in high school. And to make things worse, my parting time with my bike wasn’t a good one because I had an accident that landed me in the ER. Anyway, my coaches were patient. Coach Aries even persuaded me to use his own bike, “his mistress.” Today, he also allowed me to veer away just a little bit from the program he drew up for me. He said he was glad I

didn’t give up on my program although some alterations had to be done along the way. So I did a 45-minute biking at a leisurely pace in this part of Tagaytay and smiled for the camera, and two rounds of my ever-favorite boxing and suspension drills in between, while enjoying the fine mountain breeze and the breathtaking scenery. VERDICT: Pounds lost? Not much, but I’m on to a healthier exercise program. Total calories lost during the four-day

First timers, here’s what to try

f you are starting to embrace the world of fitness, Fort Rock CEO and head coach Aries Fonacier recommends that you try a functional conditioning program that engages your whole body, and follows a pace that suits you. At the end of the day, it’s still you — not your coach — who can tell how far you

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can go. A one- to twohour training per session is a decent start up.

Suspension training and jungle gym for core strengthening. Suspension training allows you to develop your whole body with special emphasis on your core or the muscle groups in your abdomen, and over time the exercise will develop your posture and back. TX Jungle Gym,

program? About 3,000-3,500. But more important is the lesson learned. Muscles have memory and if you do heavy exercises, make sure you don’t go inactive for more than 72 hours. Better yet stay active everyday even if it means just walking in the park or running around the block after work. Overall, I thought the program was effective because I thoroughly enjoyed being active and the varierty of the drills never bored me. Most of all, it made me look at my lifestyle seriously and commit to a healthier one. ■

a suspension training equipment, is like those monkey bars seen in playgrounds. Try the kettlebells, sandbags and mallets. You’ll need kettlebells weighing anywhere from two to over a 100 pounds to help your whole body conditioning. When you lift and control a kettleball, your whole body’s muscle groups work as one. Sandbags come in different shapes and weights but at Fort Rock, one of the

Cover Story

Fort Rock fitness packages

ort Rock is a specialized fitness training center that offers the luxury of outdoor fitness training. It’s dedicated to providing full body conditioning, exercising all of an individual’s muscle groups. On the menu are suspension training, resistance training, outdoor and indoor drills and plyometric drills. • Adventure excursions. Depending on preferred location, Fort Rock offers kayaking treks, biking and camping, and recently, stand up paddling in their camp treks (costs vary depending on the location). All equipment are provided by Fort Rock. The package includes tailored training program, four dedicated coaches, and a personal basket containing water with cucumber, ice towel, ethyl alcohol and a pouch for personal belongings.

check out • Paolo’s Bootcamp (tel: 632/ 895 9989) a fitness specialty gym that offer Strength Training Programs, Sports Specific Conditioning Sessions, Plyometric Drills to improve speed and agility, No nonsense Bootcamp Drills, Circuit Training through the Keiser Hydraulic Machines, TRX workout, Kettle Bell Classes, Power Plate, Cardio and

sandbag work outs that can be done for you is pulling a weighted sandbag from several meters away using a rope attached to it, exercising the upper part of your body. Mallets are designed for strength and power, mostly for the core. They’re like steel bottles that are lifted and rotated overhead. These are actually designed for individuals who would like to muscle up. Do mixed martial arts fitness conditioning.

• One-day gym session. This costs P1,500 (about US $35) a day for Manila Polo Club members and P1,750 for nonmembers and includes an individual training program, one coach per drill, unlimited use of any gym equipment, a personal basket, and complimentary access to the wine bar. Weight Training. • 360 Fitness Club (www.completethecircuit. com/), said to be the first express fitness facility in the country, offers circuit training, personal training and group exercise. • Eclipse Gym (www.eclipsegym.com) offers advanced exercises, foundation exercises, supplemental exercises and other training programs. ■

This can be done using tires, ropes and viper pipes. In mixed martial arts, you do various stances, strike, block, move up and down, and do sparring and self defense techniques. Boxing and grappling or wrestling are samples of practical mixed martial arts that you can include in your training. Have outdoor fitness drills. You can do and mix bunjee cords, the ladders and cone

• One-day home session. Fort Rock can come to you or your maximimum group of four to the tune of P4,500 a day. To hire the services of Fort Rock, call CEO/ head coach Aries Fonacier at +63917/ 510 4110. Visit www.fortrockfitness.com. ■

drills. Bunjee cord is a flexible cord with one end attached to a stable post, and the other attached to you. Bunjee cord requires sudden burst of movements for you to reach the end point and then jog back in place and then repeat the process. The ladder is just laid down on the floor for footwork, helping to strengthen the lower half of your body and of course the core. ■

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Insider’s Guide

Weird and Wonderful Spas From a 24-carat gold facial to a volcanic mud soak, we've rounded up some interesting spa treats for you R eport b y L ei C havez

Puka Sea Shells

Flowery Ritual

Toning Bamboo Revival & Wine Scrub

The eco-friendly Hot Puka Shell massage therapy for one hour and 45 minutes (P4,500) involves placing warm shells on your body to absorb the cold and imbalances in the body. Each shell contains a Lava Gel teabag with dried kelp, algae, seawater, calcium, and iron. The teabag is responsible for generating heat within the shell without the use of electricity. This self-heating technology is made by combining minerals and underwater flora inside the lava gel tea bag. The treatment begins with the Tirta traditional stretching and is followed by placing the shells on the body. Tirta Spa is in Sitio Malabunot, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan; tel: +6336/ 288 6841; email: info@tirtaspa.com; url: www.tirtaspa.com

Inspired by olden-time Japanese traditions, the Hanakasumi Nourishing Ritual promises to purify the skin by using a brushing ritual that is focused on the lymph nodes. The body is lathed in warm cherry blossom rice powder scrub, which is then removed by soft exfoliating towels. A relaxing massage using body butter and essences follows suit. Neo Spa is in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; tel: +632/ 815 8233 or 815 6948; email: bonifacioglobalcity@ neo.ph. Url: www.neo.ph

T h e S pa

T i r t a S p a B o r a c a y Is l a n d

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N eo S pa

This is a “reducing and remodeling treatment” that starts with a 30-minute anti-cellulite wrap, scrubbing the skin in a circular motion with anti-cellulite spice powder mixed with holistic gel, and a 60-minute massage that uses bamboo, believed by the Chinese to trap negative energy, transforming it into a positive one. The second step combines Chinese bamboo stalks with antioxidant floral balm, which helps to tighten and firm skin. The wine scrub or Red Wine Sparkler treatment is a fullbody scrub using red wine extracts, helping to reverse free radical damage to the skin, leaving it soft and renewed. Visit www.thespa.com.ph or email thespa@thespa. com.ph for more information. Greenbelt branch tel: +632/ 840 1325-26

CHI Spa Village

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Insider’s Guide

24-Carat Gold Facial

Select Be aut y Centers in Me tro Ma nil a

Pinatubo Day Spa

The famous 24-Carat Gold Facial treatment is available in the Philippines anywhere from P3,500 to P14,000 (about US $81). The use of gold in facials is said to curve aging as it revitalizes and rejuvenates the skin. The treatment removes toxins, stimulates blood circulation and improves the skin’s elasticity. The costly procedure begins with cleaning the face with cleansers that has marigold extract, followed by applying a cream with gold dust and honey. Then the face is massaged using a cream that is mixed with saffron, gold foil, and sandalwood. Gold foil, aloe vera gel, and turmeric are then placed on the face and a machine melts the gold. And finally lavender lotion is placed on the face to cool the gold sheets before the face is lashed with honey and gold foil. Calayan MD has branches in Makati City and Quezon City. Call +632/ 845 0015 or 332 0970; email: calayanphils@calayanmd.com; url: www.calayanmd. com

Bitter Exfoliating Ritual T h e CHI S p a a t t h e S h a n g r i - L a

The popular Barako Beans Coffee Scrub (P3,200) uses beans from the Philippine Liberica tree, known for detoxifying excess body fluids, reducing the appearance of cellulite and fluid retention. The scrub lasts for 45 minutes. If you want the whole exfoliating, soothing, and renewing treatment, get the full works with the Tropical Serenity Ritual, which includes the aroma bath or steam shower, the barako coffee bean scrub, the tropical linen and leaf wrap, the Philippine hilot massage, and the CHI element facial. The CHI Spa is at Shangri-La’s Mactan Island Resort & Spa, Punta Engano Road, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu; tel: +6332/ 231 0288; email: chi.mac@shangrila.com; and at 1 Garden Way, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City; tel: +632/ 633 8888. Url: www. shangri-la.com/spa

Northern Scrubs

Mandala Spa

includes the Cordillera Rice Scrub (P795) which uses red thick finely-crushed rice, to exfoliate the skin, cleanse the pores, and remove dead skin cells. Available too are distinctly Northern massages like the gisgisto (an indigenous head massage) and the dagdagis or kolkolis (traditional foot massage that uses runo sticks). North Haven Spa is at 21 Avelino Street, Ferguson Road, Baguio City; tel:+6374/ 300 5022; mobile: +63917/ 506 1349; email: northhaven_spa@yahoo. com

Volcanic Ash Spa

P i n at u b o D ay S pa

N o r t h H av e n S pa

Treat yourself to a Baguio Strawberry Scrub (P795), using fresh organic strawberries to improve the skin tone. There’s also the Benguet Coffee Scrub that uses ground coffee beans from the Mountain Province. The treatment cleanses the outer layer of the skin to improve circulation. The spa menu also

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Maribago Bluewater

combination massage (P500) to improve blood circulation and relax tired muscles, then try the 30-minute Volcanic Ash Spa (P500), where the whole body is covered by ash. The hot volcanic ash body treatment draws out toxins and impurities embedded within the pores, lifts, firms and exfoliates the body. The final leg involves soaking in a pool of volcanic mud to soften and make the skin firmer. Call Pinatubo Spa Town at +6345/ 490 6029; mobile: +63919/ 275 2588; visit the Pinatubo Spa Town Facebook account.

Hingut-an

M a r i b a g o B l u e wat e r B e a c h R e s o r t

Volcanic ash is an age-old remedy for bacterial infections and acne, and is said to slow down the aging process because of its ability to protect against the toxic effects of pollution and radiation. And, better news, it's good for the synthesis of collagen. You can get your dose of ash at Pinatubo Spa Town in Capas, Tarlac. Start off with a Thai Shiatsu

Bluewater Maribago’s Amuma Spa's Hingutan (Philippine Visayan dialect, which refers to the act of killing head lice by crushing them with your fingernails) is a 30-minute head and shoulder masssage treatment using strokes derived from the rural pasttime called kuto-kuto alis (nits nits go), the act of killing

Plantation Bay Resort and Spa

and plucking out lice and nits off another person’s head. The treatment includes a gentle hair-pulling technique that stimulates blood circulation, helping relieve headaches and inducing rest and sleep. Costs P800. Call Amuma Spa Bluewater Maribago Mactan Island, Cebu branch at +6332/ 492 0100 local 520 or email amumaspa.maribago@bluewater.com.ph.

Spinal Therapy

P l a nt a t i o n B a y R e s o r t a n d S p a

If you’re suffering from back aches, then you need the one-hour Dorn Method (P 2,500) to relieve the discomfort. The manual therapy is said to enhance overall health through a gentle massage on the joints and vertebrae. It helps relieve stiffness, back and neck aches, pelvic and other lower-body pains. For a complete fitness fix, also try the 45-minute Seaweed Salt Bath (P1,500) that involves wrapping the body in laminaria seaweed. Plantation Bay Resort and Spa is at Marigondon, Mactan Island, Cebu; tel: +6332/ 505 9800, +632/

844 5024 to 25; url: www.plantationbay.com

Hilot Trilogy

Mandala Spa & Villas is on Main Road, Brgy. ManocManoc, Boracay Island; tel: +6336/ 288 5857-58; email: reservations@mandalaspa.com ■

M a n da l a S pa

Hilot Trilogy (P3,850++) is part of the Filipino Heritage Package (P6,800++), a two-and-ahalf-hour treatment that starts with a floral foot bath, “suob”, a “ritualistic smudging of indigenous herbal ingredients, and coconut rice scrub." This treatment uses three Filipino healing treatments: hilot, an ancient massage characterized by use of long deep tissue strokes on meridian pathways and acupressure, and pummeling and stretching; bentosa, which uses a drinking glass, turned upside down over a lit candle, and gently moved over affected areas of the body to restore balance and energy flow; and dagaday, a therapeutic foot massage that uses sticks, designed to boost the body’s immune system. Before the treatment, the client is given a luxurious warm bath using Mandala’s special concoctions.

The CHI Spa

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INdex For cover

Nike Park Greenbelt 3, Paseo de Roxas corner Legaspi Street, Ayala Center, Makati City +632/ 757 4491 Columbia Sportswear Second Level, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City +632/ 729 9308

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City Guides

B ata n e s // b or acay // C ebu // C l a r k // davao // el n i d o // B a ngkok // Hong kong // ko ta k i n aba lu // Si ng ap or e // Ho t el di r ec t ory // promo t ions

Updated Every Issue

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Batanes

The cliffs of Viang, just 20 minutes from the airport

Owners and Drivers Association (BATODA) at +63906/ 697 0679 or +63929/ 703 8404. Rate within Basco proper is at P30. itbayat island

Where to eat

• Therese Coffee Shop serves Ivatan dishes. Try

batan island

sabtang island

Country code: +63 Area code: 78 Currency: Philippine Peso (P1 = about US $43)

From the airport • Car Hire: For car and van rentals, contact Ivatanya c/o Batanes Cultural Travel Agency (BCTA). The hire costs P2,200 per day. For more information, call BCTA at +632 635 4810 or email ccivatanya@yahoo.com. • Tricycle: Tricycles can be found along Lizardo Street, Barangay Kayhuvukan in Basco. You can also call the 24-hour service of Basco Tricycle

their perfectly grilled cow ribs. Mobile: +63916/ 114 2632 and +6921/ 404 0567. • Brandon’s Restaurant serves sandwiches and fruit shakes and some Ivatan specialties. Located along National Road and Abad Street. • Casa Napoli’s Pizza or Pasta serves good homemade pizzas and pasta dishes. Mobile: +63999/ 990 7553.

Where to stay • Batanes Resort is nestled atop a hill, facing the South China Sea. A typical cottage here has two rooms with ensuite bathroom, airconditioning, and hot water. Rates are about P1,800 a night. Mobile: +63999/ 990 7554 • Batanes Seaside Lodge and Restaurant. This 12-room lodge is popular for celebrities. There is TV, free WiFi, aircon, and hot shower. Rates start from P1,600. Mobile: +63921/ 229 0120 or +63915/ 940 4823 • Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge is a boutique hotel perched on top of a hill and has had

good reviews. Rates start at P4,000, inclusive of set breakfast and roundtrip airport transfers. (www. fundacionpacita.ph). Mobile: +63920/ 272 7836 • For more on places to stay in Batanes, visit www. inflight.ph

Boracay leading to White Beach. Tricycle fare starts from P10. Chartered rates for tricycles range between P75 (from Cagban to Station 3) to P200 (from Cagban to Yapak). Tricycles also offer island tours for up to a group of four for P300 per hour. For more information, call the Boracay Land Transport Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BLTMPC) at +6336/ 288 3090 or 288 3271.

Country code: +63 Area code: 36 Currency: Philippine Peso (P1 = about US $43)

From the airport • You can fly to Boracay via Caticlan Airport and Kalibo Airport. From Caticlan, a shuttle bus takes you to the jetty port where you ride a boat to take you to Boracay Island in five to 10 minutes. From Kalibo, it’s another two-hour land travel to Caticlan jetty port on air-conditioned shuttle bus or coasters. • Tricycles: Though not allowed on the beach, tricycles can drop you off on Main Road with alleys

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Where to eat • For a complete list of the best Boracay restaurants, read our InFlight Guide to Boracay at www.inflight.ph • Real Coffee is a good place for breakfast and a nice cup of coffee. Try their freshly baked brownies, banana walnut and calamansi muffins, and oatmeal cookies. Tel: +6336/ 288 5340 • If you’re into Moroccan cuisine, try Kasbah’s lamb tajine, a stew slow cooked in the traditional tajine, a glazed terra cotta casserole with a funneled lid. Tel: +6336/ 288 4790 • Aria is best known for authentic Italian cuisine. It’s a good place for pasta, salad and pizzas cooked from wood-fired oven. Tel: +6336/ 288 5573 • Zuzuni serves delectable Greek cuisine. Try their moussaka or baked layers of eggplant with ground beef and béchamel sauce, souvlaki or skewered

meat, garides saganaki pasta and the Mati chocolate sin for dessert. Tel: +6336/ 288 4477 Where to stay

• Boracay Regency Beach Resort is a

Mediterranean-style, 285-room property with excellent facilities and amenities ideal for couples, group of friends and families alike. Tel: +6336/ 288 6111 to 17 • Punta Rosa Resort is a resort in a secluded area in Station 1, with seven types of accommodation, each with its own verandah that overlooks White Beach, en suite bathroom with rain shower, and fixtures made of native materials, ideal for couples. Tel: +6336/ 288 6740 • Discovery Shores Boracay has 88 spacious guestrooms all exuding luxury, combining traditional fabrics and furniture with modern amenities. Its two-level clubhouse has the resort's restaurant, bar, function room and spa. Tel: +6336/ 288 4500 Nightlife • Epic for celebrity spotting and some of the best parties on the island. Visit www.epicboracay.com • The Sand Bar for watching fire dancers and enjoying a drink by the beach. Visit www. thesandbarboracay.com or call +6336/ 288 3161

photo b y o g g ie ramos

InFlight City Guides

BATAAN

Cebu

photo p h o t o b y jocas j o c a s a . see see

BULACAN

Golden Cowrie

bantayan island

cebu island

mactan island

Where to eat • anzani Anzani is highly-rated restaurant that served affordables european European food. Tel: +6332/ 232 7375 • Cnt lechon serves the best lechon or roast pig CNT Lechon in cebu Cebu city. City. Tel: +6332/ 254 4249 • golden cebuano Golden Cowrie for Filipino food and Cebuano dishes. Tel: +6332/ 238 1206

CHINA

HONG KONG

Where to stay

• Cebu City marriott Marriott hotel Hotel features 301 rooms

and 23 suites equipped with aircon, cable TV, tV, mini bar, high-speed internet access, and with luxurious country beddings. Country code: +63 area Tel: +6332/ 411 5800 Area code: 32 URL: www.marriottcebu.com currency: peso (P1 (p1 = about US us $43) Currency: philippine Philippine Peso • marco Marco polo Polo plaza Plaza Cebu mixes western Western comforts and Asian asian hospitality, comprised of 329 guest rooms (some with a view of the mountain or From the airport sea) and suites. • Car hire: trip Rent-a-Car's rent-a-car's Hire: call Call any of cebu Cebu Trip Tel: +6332/ 253 1111 24-hour numbers +6332/ 262 4697 or +63917/ URL: www.marcopoloplazacebu.com 320 5688. • taxi: • Waterfront Cebu City hotel Taxi: metered Metered taxis are lined up outside the Hotel & Casino has 561 MALAYSIA arrivals' terminal. Fares down town to the city rooms with two casino floors open 24 hours.   proper are about p150. Tel: +6332/ 232 6888 P150.

URL: www.waterfronthotels.com.ph nightliFe Nightlife • Formo is a resto-lounge frequented by cebu’s Cebu’s young professionals. Tel: +6332/ 420 7070 or 236 7700 • Vudu is the place for after-dinner drinks and dancing. URL: www.vudu.com.ph

SINGAPORE

MACAU

Batanes Seaside Lodge and Restaurant Email: batanesseasidelodge@yahoo.com Mobile: (+63921) 229 0120 or (+63999) 994 2313 Contact: Ms Karen Ordas

InFlight City Guides

photo b y erick lion g oren

Clark Where to eat • Pampanga's capital, San Fernando, just 20 minutes from Clark, is home to Everybody's Cafe serving local dishes. • Angeles City is the birthplace of sisig (chopped grilled pork cheeks) and make sure you taste the original at Aling Lucing's. Call +6345/ 888 2317 or +63918/ 212 6461.

clark

Where to stay

• Mimosa Resort. Situated in a 175-hectare

pampanga

Country code: +63 Area code: 45 Currency: Philippine Peso (P1 = about US $43)

From the airport • Car Hire: MLS VIP Rent A Car has daily rates from P800. Call +6345/ 892 6216 or +63918/ 906 7265. • Taxi: Taxi stands are located in the arrival halls of the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA) and the fare is metered. • Jeep: Public jeepneys areCHINA available outside the airport. Rates start at P8.50.

Davao

landscaped property, Mimosa offers both standard hotel rooms and villas. Rates start at P6,600 per night. Tel.: +6345/ 599 7000 • Wild Orchid Resort A property nestled along A. Santiago in Balibago, Angeles with 55 clean, fully-equipped airconditioned rooms, and in-house dining that serves good Filipino dishes. Rates start at P3,900 per night. Tel: +6345/ 892 0134 • Holiday Inn Clark. A local favorite, the Holiday Inn has air-conditioned rooms and WiFi. Private garden villas are also available for families and groups. Tel: +6345/ 599 8000 Things to do • One of the activities in Clark is horseback riding at El Kabayo Riding Stables. • For P3,000, tourists can enjoy a dip at the

0445 or 234 1360 or 235 1784

cotabato davao city

south cotabato davao del sur

Where to eat • Jack's Ridge, located just across the Santo Nino Shrine, serves delicious Filipino cuisine in a venue that overlooks the city. Tel: 6382/ 297 8830 to 31 • Harana offers great food at reasonable prices. Try their tuna panga or tuna belly. Tel: +6382/ 227 3937 or 227 5615 • Riverwalk Grill. Located right next to the famous Crocodile Park, Riverwalk Grill is for the adventurous eater, serving crocodile meat, ostrich meat and egg, and pangasius fish. Where to stay

Country code: +63 Area code: 82 Currency: Philippine Peso (P1 = about US $43)

• Mictrotel Inns & Suites Davao has fully fitted

double rooms and suites, all designed to for a comfortable stay. It's right in the Damosa Gateway Complex and IT Park, Davao’s major business and commercial hub, and about a 10 minute ride From the airport away from the airport. Mamay Road, Lanang, • Car Hire: Ecotrans Car Rentals provides point to Davao City. Tel: +632/ 899 7171. Visit www. point and charter service. Car hire are on per hour, per day, per week or pick-up and drop-off basis. MACAU•microtelphilippines.com Rates start from P500. Pearl Farm Beach Resort lies in a secluded cove on Samal Island off the coast of Davao City. • Taxi: The simplest way to get around is by taxi. It's perfect for a romantic getaway, for diving Fares start from P40. A typical trip can cost about and snorkeling. This 11-hectare resort was once P70-P95. You can call Mabuhay Taxi directly to a pearl farm, thus the name. Kaputian, Island have a cab driver pick you up. Tel: +6382/ 233

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Puning Hot Spring. • Omni Aviation offers Mount Pinatubo Sky Tours overflying Mt. Pinatubo for P5,500 per

person in a four-seater Cessna 172 aircraft. Tel: +6345/ 892 6664 or 599 5524 • If you're a high-roller or just looking for some fun, the Clark area has several casinos including Casino Filipino Angeles, Casino Filipino Mimosa, Fontana Casino and Hotel Stotsenberg's Casablanca Casino. For more information, call the tourism office at +6345/ 599 2854 The cliffs of Viang, just 20 minutes from the airport

HONG KONG davao del norte

Aling Lucing's sisig

Garden City of Samal. Tel: +6382/ 221 9970 • Eden Nature Park & Resort is a mountain resort

surrounded by lush forests and overlooks the city and the gulf. Great for camping, nature hiking, bird watching, and horseback riding. Matina Town Square McArthur Highway, Matina, Davao City. Tel: +6382/ 299 1020 or 296 0791

Things to do • Visit the Davao Crocodile Park, a breeding center for saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. Visit www.psdgroupph.com for schedules of crocodile shows • People's Park along Legazpi Street showcases a mini forest, interactive fountains, ponds and waterfalls, a durian dome, a shady and open plaza, a statue of a gigantic Philippine eagle and a fantasy-themed park with large sculptures made by Mindanaon artist Kublai Millan. • Davao Wildwater Adventure across Davao River. The three-and-a-half-hour wild water rafting starts from Barrio Tamugan in Calinan, and ends at the lowlands. Tel: +6382/ 221 7823 • The Xcelerator is the third longest zipline in Asia at 720m long, with the zipline suspended 200ft above ground. Choose to slide along the zipline either sitting down, superman style or the extreme inverted position. Tel: +6382/ 221 7823

El Nido • Bus: Two bus companies operate regularly between Puerto Princessa and El Nido, stopping in Roxas and Taytay. Departures are daily at 5am, 6am, 7am, 8am both from El Nido and Puerto Princesa. Travel time is six to eight hours with a fare of P350 per person.

Country code: +63 Area code: 48 Currency: Philippine Peso (P1 = about US $43)

From the airport • El Nido Airport serves South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR) and Island Transvoyager, Inc. (ITI). • Van Rental: From Puerto Princesa Airport, van company Fortwally Shuttle Service has daily shuttles to El Nido. Fare is P600 per head. Private tours range from P2,800 to P3,600, inclusive of food. Travel time takes about five hours.

Where to eat • The Alternative Center has an extensive menu of delicious vegan cuisine from soups to entrees plus exotic teas. Meat dishes are also available. Tel: +63917/ 896 3408 • Artcafe for freshly-baked pastries, pizza and pasta. They are known for their pancakes, fresh muesli and homemade yoghurt. Tel: +63917/ 560 4020. Visit www.elnidoboutiqueandartcafe.com • Vista Beach Resort in Corong-corong is known for their lemon pepper tuna or Cajun maya-maya. www.elnidostunningvistas.com • An institution in itself, Balay Tubay on Real Street serves Filipino and European cuisine. Local musicians regularly perform. Where to stay

• For a private, luxurious experience, El Nido Resorts has premiere resorts on Lagen and

Miniloc Islands. Visit www.elnidoresorts.com • Marina Garden Beach Resort at the center

of El Nido town offers native-style cottages with basic facilities for budget travelers and concrete country villa rooms with air-con and hot showers. Visit www.marinagardenelnido.multiply.com or call +63917/ 624 7722 or +63908/ 884 3711 Things to do

• Rock climbing & walking. The western side of El Nido town lies in the shadow of an impressive sheer cliff face which is just the visible portion of an even more impressive headland. There are organized walking treks to the top of the headland. • Bacuit Bay has islands with limestone cliffs, ideal for climbing, diving, and swimming. • Explore the island on foot. After a 14 kilometer ride from El Nido Town proper, you can go on a one-hour trek to Nagkalit-kalit Falls in the town of Pasadena. Five kilometers from the waterfalls is the undeveloped Makinit Hotspring, open only for sightseeing. Bulalakaw Falls in Villa Paz, 15 kilometers from El Nido town, is about a two hour hike. Seven kilometers from El Nido town proper is Ille Cave with its archaeological artifacts dating back 10,000 years. The waterfalls are best visited during the rainy season by tricycle. Fares from P600-P800. For more info on El Nido contact El Nido Tourism Office at +63926/ 993 8803 or email info@elnidotourism.com or elnidotourism@yahoo.com

Bangkok Where to eat

• Bed Supperclub is Bangkok's trendiest address

thailand bangkok

laos

cambodia

Country code: +66 Currency: Thai Baht (US $.032 = THB 1)

From the airport • Bangkok Skytrain: Bangkok Skytrain (BTS) operates from 6am to 12mn everyday with two main lines – Sukhumwit and Silom lines. The fare ranges from 15 to 40 Thai Baht (THB 15-40). • Taxi: Finding a taxi is not a hassle, especially around hotels, shopping malls and other tourist attractions. The fare starts at THB 35 for the first two kilometers, and THB 2 per kilometer thereafter.

with its contemporary, all-white, tubular design, serving modern Asian cuisine. Try the roast duck and mushroom risotto with foie gras cream and dried shallots, and the BSC Burger, wagyu beef, gorgonzola, smoked bacon and hand cut fries. 26 Soi Sukhumvit 11, Sukhumvit Road, Klongtoeynua, Wattana. Tel: +66/ 2651 3537 • Hidden in Talaat Mai in "Trok Itsaranuphap" is Hong Kong Noodles, famous for its wheat-andegg noodle soups. Come for breakfast or lunch, but prepare to wait for a seat. 136 Trok Itsaranuphap, Th Charoen Krung • You'll find Thai and Chinese street food at Soi 38 Night Market. Try the famous flame-fried phat thai and divine mango sticky rice. Soi 38, Th Sukhumvit Where to stay

• Wendy House is a good-value budget choice.

A brightly colored coffee shop and reception greet visitors. There's internet, laundry and business services. 36/2 Soi Kasemson 1, Rama1 Road, Patumwan. Tel: +66/ 2214 1149 or +66/ 2214 1150 • The Sukhothai is surrounded by lush, tropical gardens and decorative pools, close to shopping, entertainment and historical sites, and the Suvarnabhumi Airport. The hotel features 210

contemporary Thai guestrooms, three restaurants, a swimming pool, health club and spa. 13/3 South Sathorn Road Tel: +66/ 2344 8888 • The Peninsula Hotel has 370 guestrooms and 60 one-bedroom suites, each with state-of-the-art electronic system for access to features at the touch of a button, modcons, luxurious furniture, bespoke accessories, and a large balcony that overlooks the city and Chao Pharya River. 333 Charoennakorn Road, Klongsan. Tel: +66/ 2861 2888 Shopping

• Chatuchak Weekend Market is where to go

for antique pieces, beautiful plants, hand-woven textiles and ceramics. Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak • Flower Market is one of the most interesting places in Bangkok. You can fill up an entire car with orchids and spend only $6 maximum. Chak Phet Street, Bangkok • Gem shops are ubiquitous in Bangkok – and many of them will rip you off. David Glickman at Lambert Holding Co. offers a cash-back guarantee with no time limit; if you change your mind about a purchase, you can return it, no questions asked. 807 Silom Road. Tel: +66/ 2236 4349

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InFlight City Guides

Hong Kong china

hong kong

tickets that include unlimited use of the MTR for three days, which are very good value for money. • Taxi: Upon arrival, make your way to the Taxi Station via the left-hand ramp outside the Arrivals Hall. Taxis are color-coded but red taxis will travel to most areas, including Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Peninsula. An approximate taxi fare to Central is HKD 290 and to Tsim Sha Tsui is HKD 230. Where to eat

• Yung Kee is a local favorite and has been

Country code: +852 Currency: HK Dollar (US $1 = HKD 8)

From the airport • Train: The MTR (Mass Transit Railway)-operated Airport Expresscan get you to Kowloon in just 21 minutes and Hong Kong Island in 24 minutes. It also operates a complimentary shuttle bus service from the stations to most major hotels. The platform is located within the terminal building, connected to the Arrivals Hall, and is clearly signed. Return fare is HKD 160 (Kowloon) or HKD 180 (Hong Kong). It is also possible to purchase

awarded a Michelin star in 2010. Famous are its roast meats, especially the goose, seafood and dim sum. Address: 32-40 Wellington St., Central Tel: +852/ 2522 1624 • Ajisen Ramen serves affordable and satisfying noodle soup and curries and bento boxes served in a traditional Japanese setting, with over 30 outlets across Hong Kong. Address: Shop 5, 4/F, Langham Place, 8 Argyle St., Mong Kok, Kowloon Tel: +852/ 3514 4396 Where to stay

• Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong. Located in Central near the major business landmarks that’s an ideal place to stay if visiting for shopping. With 501 guestrooms, 67 of which are suites, all

overlooking Victoria Harbour and the surrounding cityscape. Operates 10 restaurants and bars, including the Michelin-starred Pierre and the threestorey Mandarin Spa. Rates start from HKD 7,600. Address: 5 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong Tel: +852/ 2522 0111 URL: www.mandarinoriental.com/hongkong • The Peninsula Hong Kong. Hong Kong's grand old dame that features rooms with high ceilings and classical proportions, all spelling luxury. Rates start from HKD 4,160. Tel: +852/ 2920 2888 Visit www.peninsula.com/Hong_Kong • Park Lane Hong Kong offers 805 fully equipped guestrooms and suites with the view of the famed Victoria Harbour and Park ideal for business and leisure travellers alike. Rates start from HKD 2,470. Tel: +852/ 2293 8888 URL: www.parklane.com.hk • W Hong Kong has 393 rooms and specialty suites featuring interesting infusions of wood, fire, earth, metal and water and modcons in each room. Rates start from HKD 3,300. Address: 1 Austin Road West Kowloon Station Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Tel: +852 3717 2222 URL: www.whotels.com/HongKong

MACAU

Kota Kinabalu • Car rental: A car for hire, excluding driver, costs

RM 220 for a whole day’s use if traveling within Kota Kinabalu. Call Kinabalu Heritage Tours & Car Rental at +6088/ 318 311.

kota kinabalu

Where to eat • @mosphere Restaurant (Tel: +6088/ 425 100)

mt. kinabalu

for its oven-roasted Australian beef tenderloin and a selection of sorbets and ice-creams for dessert. • First Beach Café (Tel: +6088/ 268 546) serves Borneo favorites like curries, noodles and a Sabah sushi called hinava. macau

Country code: +6088 Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (US $1 = RM 3)

balconies with views of the Pantai Dalit Beach. Room rates start at RM 640 per night. Call +6088/ 792 888 • Novotel Borneo is a four-star hotel with 263 rooms and suites, each with LCD satellite TV, internet access, in-room safe, coffee and tea making facilities and a flexible workplace. Rates start at RM 195 per night. Call +6088/ 529 888 Kinabalu Heritage Tours For a wide range of travel and tour packages, call +6088/ 318 311

• Kampong Nelayan Seafood Restaurant

(Tel: +6088/ 23 003) for its prawn dish, Sabah vegetable with garlic, ostrich meat with spring onions and ginger and steamed saltwater grouper in sauce. Where to stay

• The Jesselton Hotel is a 32-room hotel with

From the airport • Taxi: A taxi costs around RM 25, and takes only 10 minutes to the city center, situated eight kilometers away. • Bus: There is a minibus terminal outside the airport that can take you to the city center. The bus costs RM 1.50.

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a colonial house feel. It has a cozy lounge, and a restaurant that serves international and Asian cuisine. Room rates start at RM 160 per night. Call +6088/ 223 333 • Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort is a five-star hotel with 420 guestrooms in soft earth tones and intricate panel carvings. All ground floor rooms have private lanais while upper rooms have private

Novotel Borneo

Singapore • Bus: A trip will cost you between 60 cents

and SG$ 1.20. Buy a copy of TransitLink Guide available at most bookstores for a comprehensive guide on bus time-tables, routes and fares, sold at SG$ 1.50. • Taxi: A taxi stand is located outside the departure hall of the airport. A taxi from the airport to the city has a SG$ 3 surcharge but there is no surcharge when you travel from city to the airport. A trip from Changi airport to the city costs about SG$ 13, excluding surcharge. Where to eat

• 49 Katong Laksa. For authentic Peranakan

Country code: +65 Currency: SG Dollar (US $1 = about 1.30 SGD)

From the airport Getting around Singapore on foot is a pleasant and hassle-free way of seeing the center of the city, but when you want to venture slightly farther or dart between different districts, then a bus or train is the fastest and most economical option. • Car Hire: San’s Tours and Car Rentals charges daily rates between SG$ 100 and SG$ 150. Call +65/ 6734 9922.

specialty Laksa. Tel: +65/ 6344 5101 • Jumbo Seafood. Known for its black pepper beef short ribs, sweet and sour prawns, and Yangshou fried rice. Tel: +65/ 6442 3435 Where to stay • The Scarlet Hotel Singapore is an 80-room “lavish” hotel set in a four hectare property at the center of Singapore, close to the Thian Hock Keng Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, and Raffles Place. It’s designed in modern Moulin Rouge style. Room rates start from SG$ 220. Tel: +65/ 6511 3333

New Majestic Hotel

URL: www.scarlethotelsingapore.com • New Majestic Hotel offers 30 exclusive and unique rooms that incorporate the 1920's style with being state of the art, with modern luxurious amenities. Rates start at SG$ 260. Address: 31-37 Bukit Pasoh Road, Chinatown Tel: +65/ 6511 4700 URL: www.newmajestichotel.com • Wanderlust is a left-field and totally experimental boutique hotel set to draw madcap voyagers and curious travellers to its doorstep. Located in Little India, the hotel has four thematic levels with 29 rooms created by award winning Singapore designers. Rates start at SG$ 235. Address: 2 Dickson Road  Tel: +65/ 6396 3322 URL: www.wanderlusthotel.com

AirlineGuide Airbus 319

Dornier 228

South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR)

Island Transvoyager (ITI)

Southeast Asian Airlines (SEAIR), a premier leisure airline, is the second oldest airline in the Philippines. SEAIR was founded in 1995 by Capt. Iren Dornier, Capt. Nikos Gitsis, and Tomas Lopez, starting operations from Manila to Rodriguez and Busuanga, Palawan. In 1996, it started the Caticlan route, servicing Boracay bound passengers. To date, SEAIR has the longest history of flights to Caticlan for 16 years. The airline also helped develop Batanes into a major tourist destination. SEAIR now flies to prime tourist destinations such as Caticlan (Boracay), Kalibo, Batanes and Tablas (Romblon), as well as to regional routes Singapore, Hong Kong, Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia and Bangkok in Thailand. In August, SEAIR will start direct flights from Manila to Cebu, Davao, Kalibo, Tacloban (Leyte), Puerto Princesa (Palawan), Iloilo and Bacolod.

Island Transvoyager, Inc. (ITI) is the airline that operates to prime tourist destinations El Nido and Taytay, both in Palawan, offering as much as daily flights from Manila. ITI is the official carrier of the upmarket El Nido Resorts that operates three resorts in El Nido and one in Taytay. Both El Nido and Taytay are known for having stunning limestone cliffs, white sandy beaches, and highly diverse eco systems. ITI is also engaged in air taxi services and air charter operations using the 19-seater Dornier 228-212 aircraft. It is committed to protecting the environment and conserving the natural resources and beauty of El Nido, and is the first airline to establish a program to offset carbon emissions in 2008.

Destinations • Bacolod • Basco (Batanes) • Caticlan (Boracay) • Cebu • Clark • Davao • Iloilo • Kalibo (Aklan)

• Manila • Puerto Princesa • Tablas (Romblon) • Tacloban • Bangkok (Thailand) • Hong Kong • Kota Kinabalu (Sabah, Malaysia) • Singapore

Fleet • 4 Dornier 328 • 1 LET 410 UVP-E • 2 Airbus A-319 • 3 Airbus A-320

Booking and Ticketing • Book online at www.flyseair.com (Turboprop); www.flyseair.com or www.tigerairways.com (Airbus) • Makati: Unit 202 La O' Center Building, 1000 Arnaiz Avenue (formerly Pasay Road) corner Makati Avenue, Makati City Tel: +632/ 849 0100 • Cebu: SEAIR Cebu Office, YMCA Building, Jones Avenue, Cebu City Tel: +6332/ 341 4879 • Clark: Unit 166, SM City CSEZ, Clarkfield, Pampanga Tel: +6343/ 499 0258-59

| InFlight | june 2012

Destinations • El Nido (Palawan) • Taytay (Palawan)

Fleet • 3 Dornier 228

Booking and Ticketing • ITI Hangar No. 5-03-127, Andrews Avenue (near PAL Medical Center), Domestic Airport, Pasay City Tel: +632/ 851 5664, 851 5674, 851 5667 Email: info@itiair.com URL: www.itiair.com

CHINA

REPUBLIC OF KOREA

BHUTAN

PAL

SEAIR International Route Map

REPUBLIC OF KOREA TAIWAN

HONG KONG

BANGLADESH MACAU MYANMAR LAOS

PHILIPPINE SEA

LUZON

PHILIPPINES CLARK, ANGELES

SOUTH CHINA SEA

THAILAND

MANILA

VIETNAM BANGKOK

KALIBO

CAMBODIA SULU SEA

ANKA

KOTA KINABALU

CELEBES SEA

MALAYSIATAIWAN

HONG KONG SINGAPORE MACAU SEAIR Domestic and ITI Route Map

Basco BATANES

SEAIR low cost flights from Manila, launching in August SEAIR domestic flights ITI flights

INDONESIA PHILIPPINE SEA

SOUTH CHINA SEA

PHILIPPINES EAST TIMOR

LUZON

MANILA

LAND Tablas Island

VIETNAM

ROMBLON Caticlan

VISAYAS

Kalibo

AKLAN El Nido Taytay

CAMBODIA

Iloilo

Tacloban Bacolod

CEBU

PALAWAN Puerto Princesa

SULU SEA

AUSTRA

MINDANAO Davao Del Norte Davao City Davao Del Sur

CELEBES SEA

BRUNEI

june 2012

| InFlight | 37

i n f l ig h t p r o m o t i o n s

Henann Resorts to Unveil Newly Refurbished Property by 2013

Henann Resorts Group, one of the biggest resort players in Boracay Island, is opening 62 brand new rooms in its Boracay Garden Resort, the resort groups’ latest property acquisition. The launch is slated in the second quarter of 2013. Boracay Garden Resort, formerly Seraph Hotel located on Boat Station 2, Boracay Island, will add 62 new rooms to bring its total number of rooms to 263. The construction of its new four-storey wing, where the rooms will be situated,

Artist's perspective of Boracay Garden Resort

is ongoing. Henann Resorts group chairman Henry Chusuey says the new wing will feature modern, tropical rooms (some with direct pool access), and have its own swimming pool and a convention facility that can accommodate 300 people at a time. On top of the construction of new rooms, Boracay Garden Resort will also have a newly repainted façade, and have its two existing swimming pools and the lobby, redesigned. There will be improvements in the landscaping of certain areas of the resort, including the

Discovery Country Suites Launches Latest Weekend Package Discover Country Suites in Tagaytay City is offering the Verbana Interlude Package for the weekend until the end of the year. The package costs P8,500 (or about US $198) tax inclusive, and includes an overnight stay for two at the French-Mediterraneaninspired Saint Tropez suite or the Spanish-themed Andalucia suite, breakfast, complimentary wine and cheese during the social hour (5pm-6pm), and a choice from three gourmet set menus at Restaurant Verbena, which can be availed for lunch or dinner, all for two. For more information about Discovery Country Suites’ Verbena Interlude package, call +632/ 529 8172 or +6346/ 413 4567, or email dcsrsvn@ discovery.com.ph or mella@discovery.com.ph

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Discovery Suites' desserts

setting up of new fitness and business centers, and a new restaurant called Garden Café. The face lifting of existing rooms is also ongoing. With Boracay Garden Resort’s additional rooms, Henann Resorts Group will be offering a total of 668 number of rooms in 2013 in Boracay, together with Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa and Regency Lagoon Resort. For bookings and inquiries, call +632/ 353 1111 or email manila@boracaygarden.com.ph

Microtel Baguio Wins International Hotel of the Year Award Microtel Baguio won the “International Hotel of the Year” award at the Wyndham Hotel Group Global Conference held last April 1-4, 2012 at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, Nevada. According to Wyndham Hotel Group, Microtel Baguio’s overall business performance has been consistently exceptional. The hotel’s product and service quality are high, and the hotel evidently adheres to its brand standards and effectively handles customer concerns. Recognized too during the Global Conference were Microtel Baguio (Most Improved Hotel in Asia Pacific), Microtel Mall of Asia (Silver Award for Green Hotel and Bronze Award for Most Engaged Team-Housekeeping). Wyndham Hotel Group is the world’s largest hotel company with 7,205 hotels in 66 countries. Attendees in the conference were hotel owners, managers, key officers and business partners of Wyndham Hotel Group’s brands. There are nine Microtels in the Philippines, located in Baguio, Batangas, Boracay, Cabanatuan, Cavite, Davao, Palawan, Tarlac and Manila. For more information, visit www.microtelphilippines.com

Plantation Bay Visits Japan Plantation Bay Resort and Spa conducted an independent road show in Japan from March 6 to 9, visiting its three key cities Osaka, Nagoya and Tokyo. The show was Plantation Bay’s way of showing appreciation to Japanese travel agents who brought in Japanese tourists to the resort. All three events were attended by travel agents, tour operators, media, and representatives from Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Philippine Department of Tourism in Japan. All the events started with a dinner hosting and product updates. The highlights included dance performances featuring a glimpse of Plantation Bay's very own open-themed dinner shows: Rockin’ USA, Hawaiian Luau, Filipino Fiesta, Sahara Nights and Brazilian Fever. Plantation Bay also raffled off three-night stays at the hotel with a roundtrip ticket to Cebu, sponsored by PAL. The Japanese community is one of the biggest groups of foreign tourists who have booked at Plantation Bay over the years. For bookings and inquiries, call +6332/ 505 9800 or email inquiry@ plantationbay.com

june 2012

| InFlight | 39

A Guide for visiting Pinoys

june 2012

IT Lady Boss From HK domestic helper to IT honcho

Shop Smart

Top 3 investment buys

Borrowing Secrets Former OFW Myrna Padilla is now one proud Information TechnologyBusiness Process Outsourcing company owner

Photo by Rhonson Ng

Doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ts of taking out a loan

Healthy Pinoy Meals

5 guilt-free places to dine in

Contents

june 2012

48 58

58 60

50 44 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note NEWS

46 New telecom company launches low cost call cards; Cebuana Lhuillier, Ria Financial Services to launch cash pick up message by SMS food special

48 Healthy Pinoy Meals

From malunggay pesto to vegetarian sisig, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve found the best food stops for you

TRAVEL & LEISURE

49 Wise Buys

OFW financial literacy adviser Randell Tiongson lists three things worth spending your money on personal finance

58 The Secrets of Borrowing

Age old rules and and personal tips to ponder before you take out a loan Real Estate

60 Houses from P550,000 and up

Real estate company Pro Friends offers budget busting properties in Cavite and Iloilo

B akas y on | j u n e 2 0 1 2

COVER STORY

50 IT Lady Boss

Myrna Padilla left life as a domestic helper in Hong Kong 12 years ago and now heads a successful information technology company in Davao

Editor’s Note Summer is over and it’s back-to-school time, and chances are you’ve pillaged the bank and need to live a bit more modestly. Our stories on investment, wise buys, and cheap and healthy food stops should help with ideas. Food blogger Anton Diaz reveals his favorite places for good, healthy, and moderately priced Filipino meals. Page 49 reveals tips from financial adviser Randell Tiongson on wise spending. On pages 50 to 57, our inspirational success story focuses on Myrna Padilla, an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) who used to work in Hong Kong as a domestic helper and now owns a successful internet technology company in her mom’s old hometown of Davao. Enjoy our June issue! Monica De Leon Managing editor

A G u id e for v isiting P ino y s

editorial Editor Managing editor Art director

Giselle Javison Monica De Leon Jocas See

Contributing photographers Ferdz Decena, Joel Garcia, Rhonson Ng, Oggie Ramos, Lee Santiago, Jeffrey Sonora, Daniel Soriano Contributing writers Lei Chavez, Freida Dario, Tet Defensor, Marifi Jara, Oggie Ramos, Ces Rodriguez

Advertising Sales and Marketing Sales and marketing director

Margie Defensor

Media representative

Joyce Ann Moros

Publishing Publisher Administrative officer

Dornier Media André Palma

Board of Advisers Iren Dornier Nikos Gitsis Giselle Javison Delza Apostol Atty. Celina Cua

Inquiries Editorial: +632/ 553 7976 Email: editors@inflight.ph Advertising: +632/ 553 7978 Email: ads@inflight.ph

Dornier Media International 4F, Lerose Building, 832 Edades Street corner Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City, Philippines Telefax: +632/ 840 2802 • Email: editors@inflight.ph

B akas y on | j u n e 2 0 1 2

News

New Telecom Company Launches Low Cost Calls

Head Strong Limited, a Hong Kong based company, now offers Tawagtipid SuperUnli and WOW! SuperLoad, new internet telephone products offering low call rates from abroad to the Philippines, from as low as 13 US cents per minute. Both WOW! Superload and Tawagtipid SuperUnli are Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) products. “We can now maximize our fixed broadband service or USB dangle broadband or 3G/4G mobile internet by using it to make voice calls worldwide...at a fraction of the cost,” said Strong president and CEO David David. WOW! Superload saves you up to 95 per cent in calls per minute tariff. This also features online reloading, real time call history that ensures correct charging and crediting, load sharing, and free member to member calls and chats. Tawagtipid SuperUnli is subscription-based and requires internet connection. It offers unlimited two-way IDD calls with low fixed monthly reload rate, and free subscriber to subscriber calls worldwide. iP phones are provided free of charge. “Our company invested heavily on state of the art equipment and topnotch technical staff to ensure quality of service. Aside from IBM servers, we have commissioned VSC telecom equipment, intelligent VoIP system bridging users and telecom carriers together via internet using VoIP technology to give the least cost IDD and high quality service,” David adds. Head Strong’s markets are migrant workers worldwide, in particular, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), expatriates, business travelers and foreign students. Head Strong’s services are available via top-up centers and special distributors based in Hong Kong, Singapore, Macau, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei, Japan, Taiwan, Guam, Korea, and online at www.mybayan.net. On the second half of this year, Head Strong is expanding its services to reach the Middle East, Europe and North America. ■ Head Strong Limited launched in Hong Kong in 2007. Visit www.mybayan.net for more info.

Cash Pickup Made Easy by SMS Cebuana Lhullier Services and Ria Financial Services are setting up a facility for online transactions to allow cash remittance recipients to be notified by SMS when cash is ready for pick up. The new system is targeted to be completed by the third quarter of 2012. Cebuana Lhullier’s new partner, remittance provider Ria Financial Services, has 146,000 money transfer locations in 136 countries. Cebuana Lhuillier is also celebrating its 25th founding year this year and is expanding its “Pera Padala” remittance outlets, aiming to reach up to 200 outlets nationwide in two years. ■ For inquiries on Cebuana Lhullier’s services, call +632/ 899 6208 or 728 3626

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POEA lifts ban for deployment to Nigeria, Libya, and Sudan

Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has lifted the ban to deploy Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to Nigeria, Libya and South Sudan. The lift of the ban took effect on April 23, 2012. In a news release by the POEA, labor and employment secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis announced that officials have issued three separate resolutions on the lifting of the ban in lieu of the improved security situation in the said countries. In January 2007, in light of repeated incidents of kidnappings due to unrest in Nigeria at that time, the POEA imposed a ban to deploy OFWs to the said country. The POEA governing board suspended the processing and deployment of OFWs bound for Libya in February 2011 because of the heightened political unrest in that country. And in January this year, the governing board once again issued a resolution imposing a total ban to deploy OFWs to South Sudan due to the country’s unstable political and security conditions. As of date, POEA records show that there are 2,152 OFWs in Libya, 1,691 in Nigeria and 1,941 in South Sudan. ■ For more updates and advisories, visit www.poea.gov.ph

Greens

Oh My Gulay!

Corner Tree Café

EchoCafé

Green Pinoy Meals

From malunggay pesto to vegetarian sisig, we’ve found the best hearty Filipino food stops for you

Corner Tree Café

Recommended: Kare-kareng gulay or stewed vegetables with peanut sauce The dining venue: Corner Tree Café, owned by Francesca Mabanta, is “probably the best vegetarian restaurant in Makati, serving dishes that remind me of meals I’ve had at The Farm in Batangas,” food blogger Anton Diaz described. Kare-kareng gulay is not to be missed. Expect dishes like the tofu walnut burger (P240), spinach and pechay chowder (P95 for the cup and P150 for the bowl), and a starter plate (P180) of Egyptian dukka and white bean hummus served with whole wheat bread and vegetable sticks. 150 Jupiter Street, Bel-Air Village, Makati City Tel: +632/ 897 0295

Greens

Recommended: Vegetarian sisig (sisig is originally marinated, boiled, grilled and fried pig face — ears, cheeks, snout) The dining venue: Greens restaurant is in a quaint Quezon City home-turnedrestaurant. Try the vegetarian sisig (marinated, boiled, grilled and fried tofu with onions and chili peppers). On the menu are vegan dishes such as the Greens vegetarian barbecue (P75), barbecue wrap (P80), and cheesy soy sticks (P80). For those who can’t go without a sugar rush, eggless desserts like the walnut caramel apple pie and carrot cake are on the list. 92 Scout Castor Street, Quezon City Tel: +632/ 415 4796 or 276 2781

Bliss Café

Recommended: Energetic embutido (embutido

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is mashed meat with herbs and spices and wrapped in edible skin) The dining venue: Bliss Café in Baguio City has something for everyone, from traditional Pinoy fare and snacks to international cuisine with dishes originating from Seoul, Tokyo, Zurich to Mexico City. One of the best dishes is the energetic embutido (mashed veggie meat made of soya, seasoned with visante spices, potatoes, pickles and raisins, wrapped in lumpia wrapper), which can be served to suit vegans by cutting out the cheese. An all-day brunch menu is available. Hotel Elizabeth, Gibraltar Street corner J. Felipe, Baguio City Tel: +6374/ 619 0367 or +63917/ 846 4729

Oh My Gulay!

Recommended: Talong parmigiana (deep-fried eggplant on crisp baguettes with fresh tangy pomodoro sauce and basil oil) The dining venue: Oh My Gulay! or O.M.G. is an artsy place in Baguio, with a layout that attempts to give a bird’s eye view of the Philippines. The restaurant is run by the creative family of indie film director Kidlat Tahimik, and offers affordable vegetarian

and solid healthy eats. Dishes are usually on a P100-P150 price range. Don’t miss too their pasta mestizo, pasta that mixes tomatobased pomodoro sauce and cheese sauce, and the addictive dayap (citrus) iced tea. O.M.G is on the fifth floor of La Azotea Building, Upper Session Road, Baguio City

EchoCafé

Recommended: Adobo breakfast served with brown rice and organic eggs The dining venue: The people behind EchoStore recently relaunched EchoCafé located inside EchoStore, an eco and sustainable shop at the chic Serendra in The Fort. Hot on the menu too are other green meals such as mushroom burger and tofu burger; malunggay sampler, whole wheat pasta tossed in malunggay pesto and served with malunggay pan de sal sandwhich and a side salad; and soy chorizo platter, their version of tofu chorizo — with the same flavors of chorizo but with lesser fat content. EchoStore is at G/F of the Serendra Piazza Driveway, McKinley Parkway, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Tel: +632/ 901 3485. EchoMarket is right next to EchoStore ■

From interview with food blogger Anton Diaz with additional reporting from Bakasyon editorial

Oh My Gulay! photo by Ferdz Decena

Food special

Shopping

Wise and Unwise Buys

OFW financial literacy adviser Randell Tiongson on where to spend your money illustrations by marlon see

buy: Mutual funds buy: House and lot in Cavite The best alternative to leasing or buying a property in Manila, which is rather costly, is buying a house that’s outside the city capital but close enough, where you can enjoy nature, lesser cost of living, and a safe and healthy community to live in. Where to buy: Pro Friends (tel: +632/ 491 7700, www.profriends.com). House and lot starts at P1,800,000 (about US $42,000) for 100sqm lot area.

buy: Life insurance This enables your money to earn a moderate capital growth and at the same time provide you financial protection against life’s risks. Also, life insurance products are longterm in nature. Where to buy: Manulife Philippines (tel: +632/ 884 7000, www.manulife. com.ph). Life insurances cost from P250,000-P1,000,000, which you can pay on a 10-year payment scheme.

Mutual funds are collective investments, managed by professional managers who use the collected money to buy securities. Mutual funds seem like an investment because what can be a relatively small amount of money ends up being greatly diversified. The core idea of this kind of investment goes back to the basic rule of not putting all your eggs in one basket. Where to buy: Sun Life Financial Philippines (tel: +632/ 555 8888, www. sunlife.com.ph). Mutual funds cost P250,000-P1,000,000, which you can pay on a 10-year payment scheme. But many mutual fund companies now entertain investors with funds as low as P10,000.

don’t buy: Collectibles Collectibles like coins, stamps, books, and artworks can be good investments but it’s only good if you’re a knowledgeable buyer who has the time and effort to become proficient at it. But if you’re the average non-professional collectible investor, you will realize that the market is extremely limited and slow moving, and that it offers limited financial rewards.

don’t buy: Cars One of the worst investments you can make is to borrow money to purchase a depreciating asset. A new car loses a good percentage of its value the second it’s driven off the dealer’s lot.

don’t buy: Jewelry You will never get back the same value you spent on a jewelry except for the stone’s value. You generally pay 50% more for workmanship, which never comes back to you. ■

-- Margarita Francisco

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IT Lady Boss

Myrna Padilla left life as a domestic helper in Hong Kong 12 years ago and now heads a successful information technology company says Marifi Jara Photos by Rhonson Ng

yrna Padilla, the eldest of six siblings and single mother of two, worked in Hong Kong as a domestic helper for 12 years before setting up her own technology company in Davao, Mynd Consulting (www.myndconsulting. com), which caters to clients from all over the globe. Life for Myrna, now 52, has never been better, with her at the helm of a growing company, a staff of 13, and her own sister working with her to grow Mynd, an Information Technology-Business Process Outsourcing (IT-BPO) company, which offers such services as website design, backoffice production, social media management system, and social media engagement platform to worldwide clients. Whoever thought that Myrna, a third year high school graduate of Holy Rosary

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Academy in Lila Bohol, with almost zero computer skills, could turn her dream of setting up her own IT business and becoming financially independent into a reality? Back in the 80s when Myrna first started work as a domestic helper, she earned P15,000 a month. “My first salary was a big deal for me because it meant that I could send for my kids and pay debts at home. It took me a year-and-a-half before I was able to start saving. I worked six days a week and had one day off, which I used just to go to church and eat because I didn’t want to spend. In fact I only experienced sightseeing when my bosses would go out and they’d take me with them,” shared Myrna. Myrna’s family lived a hand-to-mouth existence in Bohol with her father’s meager earnings as a fisherman. Myrna, the eldest in a brood of six, started diving for seaweeds and shells at the age of 10 to help feed her brothers and sisters. Later

on, she sold pandesal (local buns) around the neighborhood to augment the family income. “The catch was not always good, there would be days when we would wake up in the morning with nothing to eat or go to sleep at night with our stomachs rumbling from hunger,” she recalled. Their marginalized living cost her to eventually totally give up schooling because she had to watch over her siblings at times and do part time work as a helper to some neighbors so she could at least buy rice. To improve her lot, she decided to take a leap of faith and work as a domestic helper, first in Singapore in 1988, age 28, and then in Hong Kong. Myrna first worked in Singapore for four years and work was quite tough. She had to watch over a newborn baby, two kids, plus three dogs. Her stint in Singapore was of her hopes to be able to migrate to Canada, which didn’t happen because she wasn’t qualified. She could hardly speak and

Mynd Consultingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Myrna Padilla at her Davao office

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A simple work space at Mynd for the lady boss

“When Myrna first started talking about setting up a business related to technology, her family thought she had gone mad“

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understand English at that time and her educational attainment was poor. The first time Myrna worked in Hong Kong was the worst because her first employers were a horrible lot. “The amount of work was overwhelming and I could only eat dinner after they had theirs, which would’ve been okay if only they were leaving enough food for me. On my days off, I couldn’t leave the house to go to church early because I had to wait for all of them to wake up and be fed breakfast, and then I had to be back in the afternoon in time to cook dinner. My employers were not well off and they lived in a small place so if they had a guest, since there was no guestroom, I had to sleep on the kitchen floor. “I don’t know how I held on. It was lonely in Hong Kong and work was hard, but I thought I was luckier than most because I also had two sisters working as DH (domestic helper) and somehow had the emotional support system that other Filipinas didn’t have.”

Myrna’s dream when she left her kids was to provide for them the education that she didn’t have, save money, plan a business and invest in a house. While In Hong Kong, Myrna often thought of going back home to her two kids and setting up a business. “That was one of my goals. I wanted to be able to provide jobs to people so they don’t have to leave the Philippines and their families,” she said. When Myrna first started talking about setting up a business related to technology, her family thought she had gone mad. She once called her mother in Manila for help on asking the Department of Trade and Industry information on setting up an IT business. Her mother gently reminded her that she did not even have a high school diploma and asked what on earth she was blabbering about. During her Sundays off in Hong Kong, Myrna would drag two of her sisters, who were also working as domestic helpers, outside Starbucks where they would squat on the floor so they could use the free

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Mynd Consulting’s daily grind, with owner Myrna Padilla on top. Myrna now employs 13 staff, most of which are programmers and social media managers

“Myrna started with a P50,000 capital, enough for two computers and to hire two staff, including her sister”

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WiFi service and she could show them the internet’s wonders. “My sisters were not interested. They told me I was using the computer too much and that had made me crazy,” she said. Mynd Consulting happened because of Myrna’s naturally curious passionate mind, and thirst for knowledge. “I first learned Microsoft from my alaga (ward), Jonathan. He taught me how to use the mouse and cursor, copy and paste, the excel formula, how to log on to the internet and search, how to create an email and use it. I later on enrolled at IT Mc’Lain’s Computer School, a training center ran by a Filipino resident where I learned computer basics, most of which I already knew, and hardware troubleshooting, including replacing a hard disk.” In early 2000, she became interested in learning more about Web 2.0, a usergenerated content that runs using RSS feed. In other words, the technology that allows blogging. She tried to learn more from the Web 2.0 website, but repeatedly registered

errors each time she visited the site. Disappointed, she kept on emailing the website developer to complain. The USbased company finally got back to her with a proposition — a job offer to do bug testing. She took the job, earning an extra US $7 per hour allowing her to save in due time about P200,000 that she partly spent for family, her health, and to eventually start her dream IT company, Mynd Consulting. Myrna’s employers, the mother of her ward Jonathan, helped her hold on to her dream. They gave her a laptop, a printer, and allowed her internet access. “A friend would say, ‘this is it, Myrna, this is how we are’. But I wanted to add value to myself. I wanted to learn and I wanted to dream... We have to break the cycle of dependency because we are not a helpless nation; we are strong,” Myrna said. “I believe in building a road map. We have to look ahead and have a direction.” In 2006, Myrna left Hong Kong to go back home to Bohol for an operation on her goiter. For medical reasons, she decided

to stay in the Philippines and to finally start the company she’s been dreaming of. Myrna said, “in 2006, the infrastructure in Bohol — not just buildings, but also internet connection — was not great. I thought, Davao was where my mom was from and was a good place as any to start. And Davao had plenty of young talents fresh from university.”

Success and challenges Mynd opened its doors to business in 2006. Myrna started with a P50,000 capital, enough to invest in two computers and hire a staff of two that included her sister, who also used to be a domestic helper, and started offering bug testing, the only service they could afford to offer at that time. Now, Mynd has a long list of IT products and services and employs 13 regular staff including programmers, and social media staff and managers. “Our clients grew through word-ofmouth. When we reached our first month, I

considered that a success. Now after five years, yes, that is definitely a success. But all businesses have ups and downs, and we’ve had to deal with challenges such as the economic crisis in Europe and the US, and managing our cash flow. The important thing is you must overcome your fear, don’t be afraid to fail and never stop learning,” she said. Mynd specializes in development of social media and mobile applications, and social media management that enables users to manage several Facebook and Twitter accounts all at once.

OFW watch To help OFWs, Mynd has launched www. ofwwatch.com to connect OFWs worldwide and reach out to those in need of help. “OFW Watch is really a high-tech version of a support network; we want to create a community of OFWs all over the world who are empowered and interconnected,” she said. “We want to use platforms like Facebook,

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Myrna’s awards and plaques of appreciation take pride of place in her office

“A friend would say, ‘this is it, Myrna, this is how we are’. But I wanted to add value to myself. I wanted to learn and I wanted to dream... We have to break the cycle of dependency because we are not a helpless nation, we are strong” combined with check-in and mobile technology, to help fight the evils of modern day human slavery. OFW Watch is not just another social network, although it does take advantage of Facebook and Twitter platforms.” Myrna said. Myrna also founded the Mindanao Hong Kong Workers Federation in 1999 to serve as a support network. Myrna has also worked with the government through the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and its Microsoft Tulay project, which aims to

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empower OFWs by acquainting them with technology. She is the first Ambassador of the international group Telecentre. org Foundation that supports setting up, sustaining, and promoting public centers where people at the grassroots level can have access to the internet and other digital technologies. “We are a nation of innovators and we can provide an example for other migrant communities to follow,” she said. “We need to survive and we also need to make life meaningful,” said Myrna. ■

Innards on the grills. They go well with Mang Larry’s special sauce. Left, Mang Larry’s isawan doesn’t only attract UP students but also students from neighboring schools like Ateneo de Manila and Miriam College

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Personal Finance

To Loan or Not To Loan

OFW financial literacy adviser Randell Tiongson on the do’s and don’ts of borrowing money illustration by mark david see

What makes borrowing money reasonable? When trying to build a good credit rating. After closing a loan off, it will help boost your credit score that will help you borrow later for bigger purchases like a car or house. Borrow money only for good long-term purposes — for education, if buying a car or a house, if financing a business.

When should one borrow? If you’ve been working consistently for at least the last two years, then you are in a favorable position to borrow. Borrow money while the interest rates are low. Banks’ websites show their respective interest rates, which you can compare. It’s not advisable for “people to borrow money when they’re already in debt.”

Where should one borrow? “I always say it’s best to loan from banks or government agencies. If you have an insurance, you can also borrow from it as well. Groups like Filipino Loan Assistance Group or Beneficial Savings and Loan Association can assist you in coming up with a payment scheme that works for you.”

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What are the standard parameters to consider before borrowing? Set up your plan on how you’re going to repay. Set up the list of due dates and amounts that make up your payment schedule. Find the best interest rate from the loan company or from the bank. The Registered Financial Planners of the Philippines can assist in financial planning and can give you a list of companies you can borrow money from. Of course, you need to always, always, pay on time, every time.

What are your personal tips to those who intend to borrow money? Only borrow what you need and as little as you possibly can. Get the best interest rate. Part of getting the best interest rate is shopping around for the best loan rate, and the other part is making sure that you are eligible for a good interest rate by making your payments on time, keeping your debt level low, and displaying responsible financial behavior. Have a plan to pay off your debt as quickly as you possibly can. Get the shortest loan term you can manage, but if you have to get a longer loan term, try to

pay part of the principal whenever possible.

What are the risks of borrowing? Your inability to pay the money back; the pressure to return back favors to those who you personally owed money; the risk of destroying your credit rating if it comes to a point when negligence of payment of loan to institutions are not made on time, which can prevent you from obtaining future loans.

What are the reputable institutions to go to for a loan? I always say the safest and most guaranteed is to borrow from banks. Bank of the Philippine Islands is one that provides a good loan, whether it’s a housing loan or a business loan or a personal loan. They have flexible loan terms; they give you great deals with their tie-ups in housing or in business. Depending on the selling price, you can loan up to 80% of the appraised value. You can pay your loan up to 15 years, depending of course on your collateral. ■ -- Margarita Francisco

Pro Friends is a fast-growing property developer in the Philippines established in 1999. Its projects are mostly pocket developments, and medium rise condominiums and townhouses. Pro Friends has completed a total of 52 projects in 12 years’ time, and this year, has 36 ongoing horizontal projects

Real Estate

Houses for P550,000, Anyone?

Real estate company Pro Friends offers budget busting properties in Cavite and Iloilo, says Tet Defensor

ro Friends Property Development is attracting first-time home buyers with its budget busting houses, priced from about P550,000. The new properties are located in Cavite and Iloilo, set in villages, maintained by an estate management firm. “The company affords the Filipino market a three-bedroom home for less than a million. At this price point clients can come home to a gated community with amenities that range from linear parks to a swimming pool housed in a spacious clubhouse,” says Pro Friends corporate communications manager Monica Morales.

Cedar, a 28 sqm townhouse on a 40sqm lot in Cedar Residences, Carmona, Cavite Cost: P550,000

Budget:

P1 Million and below

Sophie, a 52sqm single-attached house on 80sqm lot in Lancaster Estates Cost: P1.6 million

From top: Bellefort Estates in Bacoor, Cavite; Alexandra model unit in Lancaster Estates, also in Cavite

Catherine, a 50sqm townhouse in Lancaster Estates Cost: P960,000 Isabella, a two-storey 40sqm townhouse on 45sqm lot area in Montecillo Villas, Pavia Iloilo Cost: P800,000

Diana, a 60sqm townhouse on a 50sqm lot area in Lancaster Estates Cost: 1.2 million

Budget:

P1.5 Million and below

Cypress, a two-storey 40sqm townhouse, also part of Cedar Residences Cost: P770,000

Florence, a two-storey, 46.56sqm single-attached house on 66sqm lot in Montecillio Villas Cost: P 1.1 million

Ruby, a 40sqm two-storey townhouse on a 50sqm lot in Greensborough Subdivision, Carmona, Cavite Cost: P800,000

Lotus, a 40sqm single-attached house on 100sqm lot area in Parc Regency, Pavia, Iloilo Cost: P1.26 million

Alice, a 40sqm townhouse in Lancaster Estates in Kawit, Cavite Cost: P850,000 60

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Daphne, a two-storey single-attached 52sqm house on 100sqm lot in Parc Regency Residences Cost: P1.45 million

Budget:

P2 Million and below

Lily, a 60sqm single-attached house on 150sqm in Garden Grove Village, Dasmarinas, Cavite Cost: P1.7 million Alexis house model is a two-storey 60sqm single-attached house on 100sqm lot, Montefaro Village, Imus Cavite Cost: P1.8 million Palms, a two-storey 60sqm single-attached house on 100sqm lot, Parc Regency Residences Cost: P1.8 million Maple, a 72sqm single-attached house on 100sqm lot, Carmona Estates, Cavite Cost: P1.9 million Margaret, a 72sqm single-attached house on 100sqm lot in Lancaster Estates Cost: P1.95 million Oakwood, a two-storey 104sqm single-attached townhouse on 88sqm lot, Carmona Estates Cost: P2 million Redwood, a 78sqm single-attached house on 80sqm lot in Las Verandas Villas II in Imus, Cavite Cost: P2 million ■ For inquiries call +632/ 491 7700 in Manila and +633/ 338 3656 in Iloilo or email marketing@ profriends.com.

CityEscape

A tagaytay supplement

featuring:

Crosswinds Resort Suites

Discovery Country Suites

Taal Vista Hotel

Taal Volcano

Tagaytay City is a favorite weekend getaway in the Philippines, especially by families, because of its proximity to Manila. In a less-than-two-hour scenic drive, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get to Tagaytay and enjoy its cool temperature and unique attractions. Found here is the world-famous Taal Volcano, a complex volcano enclosed by Taal Lake, that can be viewed from Tagaytay Ridge.

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On the spot

Crosswinds Resort Suites

here it lies. Crosswinds Resort Suites in Brgy. Iruhin, Tagaytay, is about two kilometers away from the scenic Tagaytay Picnic Grove, and a few kilometers away from People’s Park, another prominent Tagaytay landmark. It’s also a leisurely one-and-a-half hour’s drive from Makati. The resort experience. Come to this place if you want to be rejuvenated. The resort has a “homey” atmosphere, with its interiors in neutral colors and subdued lighting. But what’s to really fall in love about this place is its setting, which is heaven. Crosswinds Resort Suites has breathtaking views of the mountainside and of rolling hills,

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complimented by the crisp scent of some 20,000 pine trees wafting in the air. Indulgence. While the in-house restuarant is yet to open, dining can be had in reputable restaurants close by like Antonio’s Restaurant and Grill and Sonya’s Garden. Breakfasts are however served in the hotel’s banquet hall. And while checked-in, guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pools, the playground for those with kids in tow, or a visit to the five-hectare Flower Farm in Barangay Guinhawa or the Nurture Spa for some pampering. Spending the night. There’s hardly anything the rooms and suites lack. On top of having a complete array of room amenities, there’s daily turndown service and free use of car service within the

property. Room amenities include kitchen essentials so those who have a strict diet or prefer their own cooking can cook their own meals within the confines of their suite. Choose to book a studio room that can accommodate three, a one-bedroom suite for four, a two-bedroom suite for six with separate kitchen, dining and living areas, or the three-bedroom suite for eight with a loft-type design. Keep tab. Url: www.crosswindsresortsuites.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/HII. CrosswindsResortSuites Email: reservations@crosswindsresortsuites. com Telefax: +63 (02) 856 9601; Duo: +63 (02) 623 7084; Mobile: +63 (0917) 569 6280 ■

On the spot

Discovery Country Suites

here it lies. Discovery Country Suites is right along the famous Tagaytay Ridge in Tagaytay City. It’s on Calamba Road in Brgy. San Jose, on the left hand side of the road, right beside the Sister of Holy Angels convent. Depending on traffic, it’s about two hour’s drive from Manila. The resort experience. Discovery Country Suites used to be a private vacation home so the hominess it exudes is not surprising. The boutique hotel looks just right along the line of elegant houses that fringe the ridge. Inside, Discovery Country Suites is cozy and intimate however reflects an eclectic international feel. The furniture are lovely

European-meets-the Orient pieces. The “world traveler” motif resonates in all of the seven suites. Indulgence. Discovery Country Suites' Restaurant Verbena serves contemporary country cuisine, fusing continental cooking methods and ingredients with Tagaytay’s own. Among its stellar selections are organic mozzarella cheese pot served fondue-style with spiced tomato sugo, fresh Tagaytay herbs and warm fascia bread; creamy oysters fricassee served on a bed of homemade spaghettini with lemon grass and caviar sauce, and pan-roasted foie gras. Spending the night. Each of the seven suites of Discovery Country Suites reflects a particular character inspired by a particular destination: The Nara suite

showcases Japanese aesthetic; the Siam and Ceylon suites, Thai and Sri-Lankan colors; the Saint Tropez suite evokes the warm hues of the French seaside, the Andalucia suite reflects Spain; while the more spacious suites, the Nantucket and Oxford, evoke continental elegance. Topping up the standard room amenities are the boutique hotel’s free cocktails during the cocktail hour, daily make-up and turn down service, access to the library and entertainment amenities, and use of Jacuzzi. Keep tab. Url: www.discoverysuites.com; www. discoverycountrysuites.com Tagaytay tel: +63 (046) 413 4567 Manila tel: +63 (02) 529 8172 Fax: +63 (046) 413 1076 ■

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On the spot

Taal Vista Hotel

here it lies. Taal Vista Hotel is located along Aguinaldo Highway in Tagaytay City, approximately a one-a-half to two-hour drive from Manila. The resort experience. The resort, built in 1937, has alway been known for its perfect vantage point for a view the majestic Taal Volcano. This self-made landmark is of English Tudor mansion-style that features a blend of classic architecture and modern amenities. Its style, service and location remain exceptional. Indulgence. Taal Vista Hotel house Cafe on the Ridge,

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InFlight

| june 2012

which is open daily, indulges guests with its variety of continental and Filipino dishes served al fresco style in an area with a view of Taal Volcano. Weekends here serve buffet spreads boasting of Filipino dishes alongside a performance of the Bughaw Folkloric Dance Troupe of folk and national dances accompanied by rondalla music. The Lobby Lounge on the other hand, also open daily and located at the hotel’s lobby with the iconic fireplace as centerpiece, is the perfect place to stop by for cocktails and a fine selection of wines. For further indulgences, adults can enjoy the Asmara Spa and the gym, while the kids, the swimming pool and the kids’ corner. Spending the night. Taal Vista Hotel has 261 rooms in all, with the West wing dedicated to heritage

guestrooms and the East wing to modern guestrooms. All rooms are fully-equipped with modern conveniences including individually-controlled air conditioning units, cable TV, a fully stocked mini-bar and free WiFi internet access. Premier rooms have a balcony offering a view of Taal Volcano. Keep tab. Url: www.taalvistahotel.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/taalvistahotel Twitter: www.twitter.com/taalvistahotel Tagaytay tel: +63 (046) 413 1000 Fax: +63 (046) 886 4325, 413 1225 ■