Smile november 2014

M AG A Z I N E F O R C E B U PAC I F I C

•

NOVEMBER 2014

Saigon to market

One more night in Bangkok

RETAIL MANIA IN VIETNAM'S BIGGEST CITY

WHAT'S NEW AND WHAT'S COOL IN THE THAI CAPITAL

It’s full speed ahead in Cebu City, navigating you to new horizons of opportunity

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From the chief

OUR REWARDS

We are happy to deliver the good news that a leading industry think tank, the Center for Aviation, has named Cebu Pacific the Asia Pacific Low-Cost Carrier of the Year. It is a prestigious distinction, one that we as a company feel honored to receive. The recognition validates our efforts and recent bold, strategic moves toward sustainability and better service — the launch of long-haul routes to open and service new markets, the alliance with Tigerair, and the acquisition of new aircraft that has allowed us to increase the frequency of flights.

At the heart of all these developments is our relentless desire to serve you better, and the biggest honor we can ever hope for is the continued patronage of our passengers. Few things feel more rewarding than being a big part of a longoverdue homecoming or the trip of a lifetime to a dream destination (and even the occasional marriage proposal in mid-flight!). As the busiest season of the year approaches, a time when large numbers of our family and friends from abroad make the journey home for the holidays, we are very happy to know that we can contribute in bringing everyone together.

Thank you very much for your support, and we look forward to serving you even Lance Gokongwei better in the months to come.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Editorial

Advertising

Editor Tara F.T. Sering Art Director Marlon Espino Deputy Editor Kat Z. Mateo Senior Sub-Editor Ross Wallace Photo Editor Jenny Peñas Production Manager Helen Uy Punzalan Contributing Editors Maya O Calica, Tata Mapa, Nikka Sarthou-Lainez (Trip Journal) Chief Sub-Editor Jonathan Evans Design Director Peter Stephens Editorial Director Liz Weselby Group Editorial Director Andrew Humphreys

Group Publisher Mohan Gopal Associate Publisher Bong Dy-Liacco Senior Brand Manager Andrew Lugtu Brand Managers Nastassja Lacsamana, Sheena Ong, Blessing Dizon Commercial Director David Bloomfield Tel: +65 6324 2386 • Email: smile@ink-global.com

M AG A Z I N E F O R C E B U PAC I F I C

•

NOVEMBER 2014

Ink Managing Director Gerry Ricketts CEO Jeffrey O’Rourke EVP Product & Business Development Michael Keating Chief Operating Officer Hugh Godsal Publishing Director Simon Leslie

SMILE is published on behalf of Cebu Pacific Air by Ink Publishing Pte Ltd • 51 Changi Business Park Central 2, The Signature #04-11A/12, Singapore 486066 • tel: +65 6324 2386 • fax: +65 6491 5261 • www.ink-global.com • www.cebusmile.com MCI (P) 176/06/2014 All articles and photographs published herein are created by the authors and photographers at their own discretion and do not necessarily represent the views of the airline. All material is strictly copyrighted and all rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior written permission of the copyright holder. All prices and data are correct at the time of publication.

Saigon to market

One more night in Bangkok

RETAIL MANIA IN VIETNAM'S BIGGEST CITY

WHAT'S NEW AND WHAT'S COOL IN THE THAI CAPITAL

This month’s cover Photographer Shaira Luna Art Director Marlon Espino Photo Editor Jenny Peñas Calligraphy John Ed De Vera Hair and Make-up Artist Renen Bautista Stylist Jof Sering Model Erin Lane

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Editor’s note

November’s big feast If you’ve got an appetite for food and travel, this month’s features will leave you properly sated. Over in Shanghai, Dave Tacon reports on the much-awaited season of a local delicacy, the hairy crab (page 70), when the city goes gaga over the succulent crustacean that they’ve even reportedly sold in vending machines.

And in the Thai capital of Bangkok, where many tourists flock for the food, Kristine Fonacier finds the trendy tables currently causing the most buzz (page 100).

Then there’s our cover story on Albay, where, while working on the feature, we scoured the province for highlights of a proud and distinctive culinary tradition (page 68). We learned to cook a few of Bicolano cuisine’s most popular dishes, ate more than we should have, and brought some goodies to share with the folks back home (did you know that pinangat, when packed properly and stored in the freezer, can keep for months?).

We left the capital city of Legazpi full and completely charmed by the friendly locals, all of whom were very generous in sharing the secrets of their family kitchens. Recipes and cooking techniques are among the best souvenirs you can bring home from a new place, and even before our plane could take off, we decided we were definitely coming back for more.

Happy reading!

NEXT IN SMILE This December, we take you on a fabulous tour of the Land of the Rising Sun. Watch for it!

Tokyo

Kyoto Osaka

ARE WE FRIENDS YET? We can promise you a lot of benefits — follow us on Smile Cebu Pacific, smilemag and SmileCebuPac to get first dibs on promos and updates on contests.

www.cebusmile.com /

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Shooting the cover story Fresh from Lake Sumlang Erin’s face made for an interesting spice-meter

These kids are growin up growing with a view of Mayo Mayon

Learning some pinangatmaking moves

That’s right, chili as ice cream

Happy with their halohalo!

The cov e at the e r crew still smil nd of D ing ay 2!

Mayon in full view

Shaira checks out some cover options

Danny Abuela did the nearimpossible and produced this raft for us

MeAn’s umbrella flips out over strong wind

That’s me with poet and novelist Abdon Balde Jr

MVPS OF THE MONTH We got really lucky with our local hosts in Albay, who made sure we had a good time and that we ate to our hearts’ content.

We couldn’t have done that epic eating tour

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without their dedication to promoting local tourism, so we’d like to make a special shout-out to Abdon Balde Jr for the stories; Bryan Jao, aka Bicolano Man, for drawing up our itinerary;

MeAn Colle for coordinating with local contacts on our behalf; Chophany Furaque for, among other things, flagging down the best disco jeepney in town when our ride went AWOL; Mang

Elias, who despite missing the call time, was lots of fun; and JM Magdasoc for documenting the entire trip. Hats off to you guys for doing your jobs so well, and for a fabulous tour!

Our crew this issue

Shaira Luna Photographer For this issue shot our cover and cover feature (in between meals!)

Manila-based Shaira has shot magazine covers, numerous fashion editorials and lifestyle photography for most publications in Metro Manila and various brand campaigns. She is self-taught and is booked mostly for fashion editorials, magazine covers and food photography. Her spare time is devoted to dreaming up, producing and shooting her own little cinematic stories with her brother Von.

Now that's a loving gaze from a cat to her human

THE USUAL SUSPECTS

Navin Kala and Luisa Dorr Photographers For this issue took photos of people taking photos (of themselves) Luisa is based in São Paulo, Brazil; Navin stays in Varanasi in northern India. Luisa branched into photography from the design world three years ago while Navin, from the art world, began shooting professionally five years ago.

Dave Tacon Writer and photographer For this issue walks us through a hairy (crab) situation Based in Shanghai, Dave has worked with some of the most prestigious publications in the world, including Rolling Stone, Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, Stern, GEO, Der Spiegel and ELLE. Some of his photos appear in the permanent collections of the National Portrait Gallery of Australia.

Simon Ostheimer Writer For this issue makes a quick getaway to Sabah Simon is a former editor at The Phuket News, Bangkok 101, Vision KL and Time Out Hong Kong. He regularly contributes travel stories to a number of publications including Condé Nast Traveler China, Condé Nast Traveller India, DestinAsian and Dwell Asia.

David Terrazas Photographer For this issue captures the essence of trendy Bangkok David, who is based in Bangkok, regularly shoots fashion portraits and travel coverage for magazines including Fah Thai, Jetstar and Dusit Thani’s Eight.

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KRISTINE FONACIER Writer The editor of travel mag GRID and Entrepreneur knows an urban movement when she sees it — and for this issue it’s all about boomtown Bangkok

LESTER LEDESMA Writer and photographer Follow Lester on a shopping adventure across five of Saigon’s markets

RUBEN V. NEPALES Writer For this issue our Hollywood correspondent talks to multi-talented Neil Patrick Harris

Enjoy a drink at The Alchemist

This month in Smile

Siem Reap delights Discover why the city has become a favorite foodie spot

Street regal Find out what makes Bangkok a top destination for travelers from around the world

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p100

hong kong p90

Life’s a breeze NEIL PATRICK HARRIS TALKS ABOUT GONE GIRL, THE MEDIA AND HIS MARRIAGE

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Learn about the history and legends of Sabah, the Land Below the Wind

Wait, there's more...

Autumn harvest

All things big and stall Scour five of Ho Chi Minh City’s best markets for bargain hunters

Shanghai’s hairy crab season has begun.

Find out why some are willing to shell out big money for this delicacy

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p70

Trip journal, p131 Heading for any of the 28 international or 33 Philippine destinations on the Cebu Pacific network? Get some recommendations from the locals.

Airline news, p183 p113

p58

Selfie syndrome

Pride of plate

People of all ages head to Hong Kong’s Avenue of the Stars to take photos — of themselves

We make our way to the heart of Bicolandia and into the province of Albay for a culinary tour

Read the latest news from the airline and get updates on destinations and routes. Plus: find out the latest seat promotions and score great deals.

Hungry?, p188

If you can't beat them, join them!

Check out the onboard menu for the latest foodand-beverage offerings.

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the buzz

Where to see Manny Pacquiao next, p. 17

THE LATEST NEWS, SOME COOL REVIEWS AND A FEW USEFUL TIPS FOR NAVIGATING THE NETWORK

FLOATING WISHES On November 7, Loy Krathong — one of Thailand’s most important festivals and possibly its most magical — will be celebrated nationwide.

After the sun sets, locals will gather near bodies of water (canals, rivers, ponds, lakes, even fountains) and set afloat krathong — crowns or baskets decorated with candles, incense

sticks, flowers and coins.

Beyond honoring the Buddha, these floating sculptures are said to carry off negativity from the past year and bring wishes and prayers for the new one.

The biggest Loy Krathong celebration takes place in Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. Here, the holiday is celebrated simultaneously with

Yi Peng, where paper lanterns are launched into the sky. You’ll find festivities in Phuket and at Bangkok’s Lumpini Park and Chao Phraya River, too. Just follow the lights.

Turn the page for more exciting happenings >

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WOOHOO

A pampered pooch

join the fun

Monks blessing a tree

November days

RUN FOR A REASON

SOME DATES TO PENCIL INTO YOUR CALENDAR THIS MONTH

Top your personal best and help Cambodia’s needy

Can you do this?

Angkor Photo Festival

PHOTO BY CORBIS (SHICHI-GO-SAN); LUKE DUGGELBY; FLORIANE DE LASSEE; SOPHIE GAMAND

SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA NOVEMBER 29 TO DECEMBER 6 Over 150 photographers from around the world will showcase their work at indoor and outdoor exhibitions across the city. Look out for free photography workshops, too. http://angkor-photo.com

Shichi-Go-San

Corroboree

Bonifacio Day

JAPAN NOVEMBER 15 Three- to five-year-old boys and three- to seven-year-old girls will be dressed in their best as they join their parents in visiting shrines and giving thanks. They’ll also be carrying chitose-ame or thousand-year candy, which is believed to bring health and longevity.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA NOVEMBER 20 TO 30 Get better acquainted with the cultural heritage of Australia’s Indigenous people through the works and stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, writers, dancers and musicians. www. corroboreesydney.com.au

PHILIPPINES NOVEMBER 30 On this day, Filipinos commemorate the life of celebrated nationalist Andrés Bonifacio, the founder of the Katipunan revolutionary movement, a staunch opponent of colonialism and one of the nation’s foremost heroes.

Race for the benefit of landmine survivors in Cambodia at the 18th Angkor Wat International Half Marathon. If you’re not yet ready to run 21k, you can register for the 10k road race or take your family with you and sign up for the 3k run.

The race takes runners through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor, an unforgettable experience by any measure. The event is in December but registration is ongoing until November 15; www.angkormarathon.org

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WHOA!

must-see events

For lovers and fighters CONCERTS, MUSICALS PLUS A BOXING MATCH TO CATCH THIS MONTH

PHOTOS: CHRIS FARINA-TOP RANK (PACQUIAO-ALGIERI: CLASH IN COTAI II); LESLIE ARTAMONOW (PETER PAN)

Across the network MAMMA MIA NOVEMBER 2 TO DECEMBER 21 Sing along to ABBA’s hits in this feel-good musical. Until November 2 in Hong Kong; November 10 to December 14 in Singapore, and December 18 to 21 in Kuala Lumpur. www.mamma-mia. com/internationaltour

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THESE FLICKS

Macau

Singapore

PACQUIAO-ALGIERI: CLASH IN COTAI II NOVEMBER 23 Watch Fighter of the Decade Manny Pacquiao defend his World Boxing Organization welterweight title against undefeated WBO junior welterweight champion Chris Algieri at the Cotai Arena. www.venetianmacao.com

PETER PAN FROM NOVEMBER 27 See Peter Pan, Tinkerbell and the Darlings fly high and fight Captain Hook and company in this magical stage presentation based on the classic plays and illustrated children’s books by JM Barrie. www.rwsentosa.com; www. sistic.com.sg

INTERSTELLAR NOVEMBER 6 Matthew McConaughey leads a group of space explorers as they try to find out if there is, in fact, life beyond Earth.

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY, PART I NOVEMBER 21 The wait is over. The third installment to The Hunger Games series is finally here.

Across the network JASON MRAZ NOVEMBER 17 TO DECEMBER 6 Catch Jason Mraz as he kicks off the Asia and Australia legs of his YES! Tour with Raining Jane. The tour starts in Singapore on November 17 and ends in Sydney on December 6. www.jasonmraz.com

HORRIBLE BOSSES 2 NOVEMBER 26 Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis and Charlie Day are back in this follow-up to the 2011 hit.

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Weee!

things to do in Manila

Swing it!

WANT A FUN, FULL-BODY WORKOUT? SIGN UP FOR A FLYING TRAPEZE CLASS

CAN YOU ESCAPE?

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KIDS SIX YEARS AND BELOW CAN ONLY TRY THE CLASSES WITH CLEARANCE FROM INSTRUCTORS.

LEARN SOME NINJA MOVES If you’re looking for an exciting and challenging way of getting fit, check out Ninja Academy and try out parkour or free running.

The indoor parkour facility’s various obstacle courses will

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get your body moving in the most efficient way possible and help you see how your immediate environment can help you achieve that goal.

Visit www.ninjaacademy.ph for more details.

When you and your friends decide to unleash your inner Sherlock Holmes, check out the live escape rooms that Mystery Manila has meticulously crafted to deliver a unique and thrilling game experience.

You’re given 60 minutes to solve a variety of room-escape scenarios.

There’s also a 90-minute adventure if you prefer roaming the outdoors to crack a mystery. Visit www.mysterymanila. com to schedule your adventure.

TEXT BY MAE YOUNG

Whether you’ve got your sights set on a career with Cirque du Soleil or just want to feel the rush of flying, head on down to Flying Trapeze Philippines.

It’s the first and only flying trapeze school open to the general public. You can sign up for a two-hour class to master the basics or just join the daily Open Swing Session if you want to take a shot at getting airborne right away. Flying Trapeze Philippines is located at the corner of Bonifacio Global City’s 34th Street and 9th Avenue, just behind the soccer turf. Check the schedule of classes at www.trapeze.ph

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AAAHH

stress-free trips

Weekend in Negros Oriental COCO TRAVEL SAFARIS WILL TAKE YOU TO THE BEST SPOTS WITHOUT THE STRESS

Dumaguete-based Coco Travel Safaris knows their home turf inside out, so we’d take them on their word for how to make the most of a long weekend in and around the capital city of Negros Oriental.

Day 1 LAND IN DUMAGUETE Check in at Coco Grande Hotel on Hibbard Avenue.

This strategically located home base in the city puts you within walking distance from many of the top sights: Silliman University, Rizal Avenue and Perdices Street, the city’s main thoroughfare. Staying central also puts you near all the best restaurants in the city.

Day 2 TAKE A FERRY TO SIQUIJOR Head over to Siquijor, an island better known for the stories of mystery and mysticism that

surround it than for its breathtaking beaches, and park your bags at Coco Grove Beach Resort. What began as a family vacation home of one cottage in the 1980s slowly expanded to a sprawl that now includes 91 rooms of various types of accommodations — for solo travelers, couples, families, and even larger groups.

The resort offers a full suite of activities, on land and in the water, guaranteed to tire out even the most energetic kids — from caving and birdwatching, to diving, snorkeling and windsurfing. Step out of the resort and explore the rest of the island, making sure you have these on your sightseeing checklist: a trek to Cambugahay Falls, a stop at Salagdoong Beach (the tree-lined road leading to it is beautiful), and a tour of the well preserved Lazi Convent and other centuriesold churches.

Spacious enough for the whole family

Day 3 SLIP INTO A PAIR OF FINS AT APO ISLAND Take a day trip to Apo Island and stay the night at Apo Island Resort in between diving sessions is entirely up to you.

Either way, the short boat ride is well worth it. Dive fanatics will tell you that the waters

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around tiny Apo Island (all of 3km around) offer some of the world’s best diving. Apo Reef National Park is a marine sanctuary is home to some 1000 species of fish and coral.

Among its most photogenic and friendly residents? Green sea turtles that like to frolic just below the water’s surface.

COCO TRAVEL SAFARI RIZAL BOULEVARD, DUMAGUETE CITY, NEGROS ORIENTAL, PHILIPPINES; TEL: +63 35 225 5490; TEL: +63 35 522 1962; WWW.COCOTRAVELSAFARIS.COM

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oohlala be a stylish shopaholic

Shopping pretty

SHORT AND SWEET Put on this dress and head out the door.

No thinking required.

Dress by American Eagle Outfitters

HIT THE BAZAAR OR THE MALL IN A COMFY AND CUTE ENSEMBLE

PURSE TIME Put your cash in a small and light purse like this one from Gilded Nest

LOOSEN UP Airy tops are a good choice for stuffy markets. Orange top

by American Eagle Outfitters; printed top

by Topshop

SHOE COOL Ditch the flip flops.

Wedged espadrille sandals, like this pair from American EagleO utfitters, are comfy and fashionable.

LACE UP Liven up your look with one or both of these necklaces from iamlove Manila

STORE LISTING

STYLING BY JOF SERING; PHOTOS BY VIC GUERRERO

American Eagle Outfitters Ground level of Greenbelt 2, Ayala Center, Makati City IN THE BAG This bucket bag is roomy enough for your wallet, phone and makeup kit. Wear it on your shoulder to keep your hands free. Bag by Gilded Nest

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SASSY PANTS A pair of denim jeans are tough yet comfy enough for navigating crowded bazaars. Jeans by Topshop

OWN THE BAG OF YOUR DREAMS IF YOUR PERFECT BAG ISN'T ON THE MARKET YET, THEN HAVE IT MADE. VISIT GILDED NEST'S FACEBOOK PAGE FOR DETAILS.

Topshop 2nd floor Alabang Town Center, Muntinlupa City Gilded Nest www.facebook.com/ MyGildedNest iamlove Manila www.iamlovemanila.com

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Where life radiates.

Where life radiates.

Artistȇs Perspective

Artistȇs Perspective

8th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City Avida adds to its roster of developments in the Active North side of Bonifacio Global City with The Montane on 8th Avenue. Situated at the center of North BGC The Montane is a hiJh rise residential development with unit speciČ´cations upJraded from Avidaȇs usual oÎ?erinJs. At physical levels its desiJn is inspired by simplicity and sophistication.

5esidents of The Montane can looN forward to briJhter days in BGC from the moment they awaNe to free ȾowinJ air and sunliJht. The development is ideal for individuals and families who prefer active establishments and green spaces integrated into the urban landscape. Landscaped gardens, a lap pool, and viewing decks for lounging are just some amenities within The Montane. Step out and enjoy more of the active life of North BGC, where parks, a Turf football ȴeld, trape]e school and soon to open sports comple[ are a short walk away. :hatever you choose to do within and outside of your unit Ȃ itȇs all part of a lifestyle that lights you up. +L85B TLTS No. (NC5)2

8 8 Č? avidaland.com

,W·V WKH SHUIHFW ÀW for your business.

A Prominent Location.

A space that suits your needs.

Artistȇs Perspective

Value for your investment.

Introducing Capital House: a boutiTue oɝce building in the heart of BGC. :ith its prestigious and highly accessible location at the corner of th Street and th Avenue, this latest o΍ering from Avida Land opens up to a variety of activities, both business-related and personal. (njoy functional features and top Tuality modern conveniences in a complete package thatȇs within your means. :ith a range of oɝce units, business owners and investors can now have an oɝce si]e ȴt for their business needs. :ith Capital +ouse, you get more than just an oɝce you get a dynamic and well-balanced work-play lifestyle that will allow your enterprise to reach greater heights.

Temporary License to Sell No. (NC5)2 and Certiȴcate of 5egistration No.

avidalandph

rawr

stuff we love

It’s about time NEED YOUR HANDS FREE BUT DON’T WANT TO MISS CALLS OR MESSAGES? PUT ON A SMART WATCH AND KEEP YOUR PHONE IN YOUR POCKET

MOTO 360 If you don’t want a boxy gadget on your wrist, then check out the Moto 360 — the first Android Wear watch with a round face. It has a sleek, stainless steel case and a classy leather strap, too.

moto360.motorola.com We rely on our smartphones for a lot of things, but there are situations — like when we’re out shopping at the mall or the night market — when holding it is just inconvenient. That’s when a smart watch comes in handy. Aside from keeping time, a smart watch displays important notifications from your smartphone — from calls to email, SMS and Facebook messages — so you can keep your hands free. Most smart watches will also let you control your music player, track your fitness and remind you of scheduled appointments or meetings in your calendar. Here are three options to check out now: SAMSUNG GEAR LIVE Unlike Samsung’s other smart watches, the Gear Live is powered by Android Wear. So if your phone runs on Android 4.3 or higher, you can use it.

PEBBLE If you want flexibility, then Pebble is a smart choice. It works with both iOS and Android devices. It also offers access to an app store where you can download watch faces and apps to personalize your watch. Comes in the original plastic and steel versions. getpebble.com

www.samsung.com

THE BACKUP PLAN A huge chunk of our lives is made up of gigabytes. Our photos, our music, our favorite movies, as well as important work files such as slideshow presentations and documents are all digital. This is why having a safe and secure place to store and back them up is important. Enter the WD My Passport Ultra portable hard drive. You can easily attach it to your computer via USB and copy

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all your files there, or you can use the accompanying software to schedule backups. It also has Dropbox integration, so you can back up content from the drive to the cloud and retrieve content from your Dropbox account and place it on your My Passport drive. Keep all your data private by setting up password protection and hardware encryption. Function is more important than form when it comes

Like and follow facebook.com/smilemag for a chance to win one of these! to storage, but the WD My Passport Ultra – Anniversary Edition with its radial spin-design aluminum enclosure looks good enough to show off. It’s available at Silicon Valley outlets in the Philippines. www.wd.com

YEAH!

fabulous reads

#truestory LET’S HEAR IT FROM THESE GIRLS — SMART, FUNNY, GUTSY AND LADEN WITH INSIGHT, THESE REAL LIFE ACCOUNTS MAKE FOR ENRICHING READS

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TRAVELS WITH MYSELF AND ANOTHER, A MEMOIR

BY MARTHA GELLHORN She’s one of the 20th century’s most daring and brilliant war correspondents, covering deadly conflicts around the world — from the Spanish Civil War to the Vietnam War — in her 60-year career. Her memoir gives insight into both the psyche of a great woman as well as the geopolitical landscape of her time.

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CHANGING MY MIND

BY ZADIE SMITH Since her acclaimed debut novel White Teeth in 2002, for which one critic described the 28-year-old British writer as having arrived into the literary scene “fully formed”, fans have been wanting to get into Zadie Smith’s mind and perhaps figure out how a genius works. Her essays on reading, writing and the occasional trip to less traveled destinations give readers that long-awaited peek.

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BOSSYPANTS

BY TINA FEY Tina Fey’s keenly observed account of her life thus far — the awkwardness of childhood and adolescence, starting out as an actor, dreaming about being on Saturday Night Live and then climbing to the top rung as the show’s first ever female lead writer — is a laugh-aminute read. She’s had many star-marking turns since (no one can forget her squeak, “I can see Russia from my house!” as Sarah Palin), and she’s far from done.

I FEEL BAD ABOUT MY NECK, AND OTHER THOUGHTS ON BEING A WOMAN

BY NORA EPHRON The brilliant writer of When Harry Met Sally and Heartburn (the book then the movie) has a lot to say about growing older and aging. And she gets really funny about all of it. Published in 2006 (Ephron passed away in six years later), this slim volume is a goldmine of life truths and continues to enlighten, entertain and inspire women (and men), young and old.

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Available at leading bookstores

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SINGAPORE WRITERS’ FESTIVAL Don’t miss the annual gathering of writers from around the world in Singapore. Writers Naomi Wolf (The Beauty Myth), Paul

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Theroux (Dark Star Safari), and Barry Lopez (Arctic Dreams) are among the headliners of the 10-day festival of lectures, workshops, book signings and performances in different

spots around the city. This year’s theme is “The Prospect of Beauty”, and there’s plenty to indulge in, including literary meals where you get a chance to dine with some of the featured

authors. Imagine how engaging the dinner table conversation will be. www. singaporewritersfestival. com

MAIN PHOTO BY JOSHUA LEE

OCTOBER 30 TO NOVEMBER 9

YUM!

delicious dishes

Siem Reap delights DEVOTE A DAY TO FINDING OUT WHY THE CITY IS ON ITS WAY TO BECOMING A TOP SPOT FOR FOOD LOVERS

PHOTO BY SOTHEA SENG

7AM Kick off the day with a heart-starting, sweet iced coffee, served up at roadside stalls throughout the city.

Even better, grab it at the Old Market, or Phsar Chas, in the middle of the city. It’s where you’ll also find excellent local breakfasts. Find a vendor, perch yourself on a stool and tuck into a bowl of kuy teav (a tasty pork and rice noodle soup) or num banh chok (noodles topped with a cool fish gravy and laden with fresh vegetables and herbs). Swish hotel Amansara (amanresorts. com) serves a high-end version of these dishes at its traditional wooden house in the Angkor temple complex.

9.30AM Navigating the Old Market’s jumble of hawker stalls and labyrinthine passages will work up an appetite.

Luckily, across the road is Blue Pumpkin (tbpumpkin.com), a French-style bakery and pâtisserie serving up buttery pastries and indulgent cakes.

It’s never too early for ice cream in the steamy tropics and these guys churn some of Cambodia’s best. Our pick is their creamy ginger and black sesame or durian and coconut flavors.

NOON Chef Sothea Seng is well known in Siem Reap for his affordable

Start your day with a bowl of num banh chok at Amansara eateries and grills dishing up traditional Cambodian food with a modern twist.

Mahob (mahobkhmer.com), his latest offering, is located away from the bustle of Pub Street heading towards the temples. Be sure to try his amok, a snakehead fish and coconut-based curry wrapped in a banana leaf. Good too is Sugar Palm (www. thesugarpalm.com). It dishes up great pork-and-prawn rice-paper spring rolls. If you’re in the mood for Western fare, head back towards Pub Street in the town’s center to Naples-style pizzeria Il Forno (ilfornorestaurantsiemreap. com). Sample its thin, crispy

STOP BY 1961 Swing by Iloilo native Loven Ramos’ hip 1961 Co-working and Art Space (the1961.com) on the banks of the Siem Reap River to upload and touch up your temple photos. Peruse the contemporary paintings and jewelry on show or indulge in a cinnamon roll and a delicious cup of coffee.

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YUM...

The fish amok at Marum is a must-try

salad with crispy cured shreds of beef. Cuisine Wat Damnak (cuisinewatdamnak. com) is a little pricier (a five course degustation is US$24 and changes weekly) but it’s arguably the country’s best restaurant. French chef Joannès Rivière creates sophisticated interpretations of local dishes (keep your fingers crossed that he’s snared Mekong langoustines at the market that day).

pizzas topped with imported Italian cheeses (try the Pizza Ricca topped with tomatoes, fior di latte, roquette, prosciutto di parma and parmesan), charcuturie plates and handmade pasta.

3PM Cambodians love snacking, especially in the early evenings. At dusk, you’ll see oodles of motorbikes parked outside roadside grills

and salas on Wat Damnak Street. Grab a bowl of piping hot, crispy nom kruok (steamed rice cakes with coconut, shallots and a fish sauce dip) and Khmer beef skewers marinated in kreung, a paste made of lemongrass, turmeric and galangal. For those with a sweet tooth, try Cambodian melon, which has a texture similar to that of avocado, drenched in

coconut milk, palm sugar and ice.

7PM For dinner, head to Marum (tree-alliance.org), a training restaurant for street kids. It’s a lovely spot to unwind. There’s fun artwork on the walls and the meals are delicious — try the red ant fritters, the roasted duck and pumpkin croquettes, and the crunchy, spicy green papaya

9PM Stop by Mie Café (miecafe-siemreap.com) for fusion desserts. A favorite is the cookie crumble with fried, glazed banana, a mango compote and fresh coconut ice cream.

MIDNIGHT Miss Wong (misswong.net) is a beautiful, Shanghai-style den in The Lane (behind Pub Street) with excellent cocktails such as the lemongrass Collins.

Come for a nightcap after an evening of dancing at Pub Street’s cheesy nightclubs and a late-night feast of dim sum.

TEXT BY CLAIRE KNOX

QUENCH YOUR THIRST LAUNDRY BAR A cool expat haunt away from the cacophony of Pub Street, it has pool tables, great live music (The Cambodian Space Project sometimes plays here) and cheap beer. facebook.com/ laundrybarsiemreap

LINGA This fun and stylishly decked out gay bar, tucked away in an alley behind Pub Street, boasts a muchacclaimed cocktail list.

Don’t miss the cheeky dragqueen cabaret shows at 11pm several nights a week. lingabar.com

FCC This elegant white building overlooking the river was once the French governor’s mansion. A clutch of local fashion designer’s boutiques (Eric Raisina, Ambre) are lined up outside. fcccambodia.com

ASANA This laid-back bar feels a world away from modern civilization, with its palm trees, hippie flags and Khmer-inspired cocktails (we love the Tamarind Sauce). The drinks sell for less than US$5. asana-cambodia.com

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THESE AWESOME PEOPLE REALLY KNOW THEIR STUFF — HEAR IT STRAIGHT FROM THEM

WAY TO GO, BRO!

PHOTO BY BLEACHER + EVERARD/CORBIS OUTLINE/CLICK PHOTOS

Neil Patrick Harris is one busy celebrity — babies, movies, books, shows... and lots of hosting gigs. US entertainment magazine Variety announced in mid-October that Harris has been tapped to host next year’s Oscar Awards, slated on February 22. If everything goes according to plan, the How I Met Your Mother alumnus will have hosted American entertainment’s biggest annual events except for the Grammy Awards. With all that talent and energy, that’s likely to happen, and Harris will then earn the prestigious distinction of being the first EGOT host, a remarkable feat by any measure.

Drop in on a our chat with NPH and turn the page >

He could even probably perform surgery if he wanted to

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HOT TOPIC

chatfest with Hollywood stars

Man about town NEIL PATRICK HARRIS TALKS TO US ABOUT MARRIAGE, THE MEDIA AND HIS LATEST MOVIE.

BY RUBEN V. NEPALES

There are a lot of things the talented Neil Patrick Harris can do: play the title role of a medical prodigy in TV’s Doogie Howser, MD, be annoying and charming all at once as the skirt-chasing Barney Stinson on the hit sitcom How I Met Your Mother, star in a hit Broadway show (Hedwig and the Angry Inch), win a Tony Award, host the Tony Awards (and the Emmy Awards), and be remembered well for all these.

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His latest role is also likely to leave a lasting impression.

In director David Fincher’s highly anticipated thriller Gone Girl, based on Gillian Flynn’s bestselling novel about a marriage gone toxic, he plays Desi Collings, the creepy, obsessive ex-boyfriend of Amy Dunne, played by Rosamund Pike. It’s a role Harris inhabits so convincingly that he achieves what very few actors can: make us forget he’s played any other

“I believe that in one’s life journey, it’s not about the information you’re getting, but how you process the information” role before this one.

Harris has had a jam-packed year that included closing the book on How I Met Your Mother when the series ended, and in September, marrying his longtime-partner, David Burtka.

They have twins, Gideon Scott and Harper Grace, via a surrogate mother. Despite his busy schedule, the 41-yearold chameleon made time for a quick chat about his latest acting gig.

MAIN PHOTO BY SNAPPER MEDIA

Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka

Gone Girl is, among other things, a satire on the media in this era of reinventing ourselves.

What’s your personal experience, as a celebrity, with the media?

I must admit to being aware that we’re living in a socialmedia world.

I’m interested in where the pendulum is swinging. You can find out very quickly about a role that you performed, a

statement that you made or a picture that you tweeted — what the reception was for something like that. Then you make chess moves to offset. I’m not interested in big giant swings. I’m interested in staying the course.

I’m also not an actor who doesn’t read reviews and things. I would rather get all the information myself, good or bad, and be able to process it myself, as opposed to living myopically, being afraid of knowing what other people are thinking about you. That’s my thing.

But I don’t read comments on stories (about me) at the end of Internet stories because those tend to be a little hardcore. You have to take the good with the bad.

The media appreciates relative transparency in how you’re living your life.

If you’re too closed off and if you’re private and not revealing anything, it either makes you an enigma and they want to learn more about you and break through the privacy level or you become uninteresting.

What do you find most attractive in a person?

Someone who can make me laugh. A long-term relationship has its positive and negative sides. There are amazing adventures, disappointments and losses. But if you can find humor through it all, you can stay the course together.

David makes me smile and laugh all the time, by making facial expressions and telling jokes. I’m easily and often amused by him. If you can find someone who makes and keeps you smiling, you’re going to be in a better place.

Congratulations on your wedding. How do you feel?

Nothing’s really changed.

We’ve been in a committed relationship for over a decade. But the times have changed, which allowed us the opportunity to make it official.

I hope it doesn’t seem that we got married exclusively for our kids. I was just embellishing

i

on the idea that the timing seemed right, given that our kids are four years old. I think it impressed upon them something special that we were able to share our vows with them present, at an age when they can see the sincerity with which we were expressing our feelings toward each other.

It was just a lovely time. I’m happy that it happened.

Did making Gone Girl, with its bleak portrait of a marriage, trigger any second thoughts about marriage?

No second thoughts. I’m a big believer in the idea that, on one’s life journey, it’s not the information that you’re getting, it’s how you’re processing that information. You obviously can’t assume that you know everything about the person that you’re spending your life with. But if you’re spending too much time being paranoid about theoretical things that you can’t control, that would make the relationship suffer as well. I’m open to any conclusion or surprise that comes my way. I assume that I don’t know every single thing about David. The onus is on me as to how I would react to surprises. That’s where the honesty in the relationship comes into play. Good or bad, we’re together forever.

If there were a sequel to Gone Girl — it has such a cliffhanger ending — how would the story go on?

Since I probably won’t be in the sequel (if there is one), I’m hoping for a prequel (laughs).

I think a prequel would be the proper way to go, for sure.

LIVE NEIL PATRICK HARRIS’ LIFE IN HIS BOOK, CHOOSE YOUR OWN AUTOBIOGRAPHY. AVAILABLE AT AMAZON.COM

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WANDER LUST

travel like a pro

Clockwise: In Seefeld, Austria; three sides of Boracay, one of Joey's favorite places; striking a pose; Cologne Cathedral in Germany

Make it happen If you loved seeing Joey Mead King as a judge and mentor on Asia’s Next Top Model, you’ll be glad to know she’s working on a self-titled YouTube show.

“Expect a lot of me online, introducing you to wonderful people, some beauty know-how and places to see,” says the model, TV presenter and host.

And she may be the perfect person to do it. “My modeling

TRAVELING MEANS OPENING YOURSELF TO POSSIBILITIES AND TAKING THINGS IN STRIDE, SAYS JOEY MEAD KING career allowed me to see some gorgeous and exotic places for shoots, and thanks to these opportunities I saw more and had deeper experiences than a tourist would have.”

Her favorite spots in the Philippines are Boracay (“Our

white-sand beach is like no other”), Palawan and Cebu.

Overseas it’s Seefeld, Austria, where she recently went downhill and cross-country skiing. “If I close my eyes, I can vividly remember every day there: warm sun yet cold air,

and powdery snow to enjoy. Every morning was picturesque,” she recalls. “I’m the type who likes to discover things. I like the thrill of the hunt and the newness of traveling to different destinations.”

Turn the page for Joey's top tips >

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WANDER LUST

Clockwise from left: Joey considers Singapore her second home; at Cologne Cathedral in Germany; Joey loves Din Tai Fung's xiao long bao; Seefeld, Austria; enjoying a peaceful moment at the Singapore Botanic Garden

How to travel like a King

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LOVE THE FAMILIAR I choose a destination by comfort and by knowing the places; for example, by favorite restaurants or favorite spots, or proximity to the Philippines (Thailand, Singapore, Japan and Hong Kong). I also choose countries that are near each other, like Germany and Austria, so I will be able to drive through them and see more by land.

DON’T BE LATE In the Philippines, traffic jams can be time-consuming so book early-morning flights out. If you plan to try a new restaurant, go early to get a parking spot and a table.

PLAN AHEAD If it’s a destination like Phuket, Taiwan or Hong Kong, my style is go with the flow. For vast countries such as the US, I plan more. I organize essentials such as a rental car and maps. I

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also look at the places I need to see and check the best times to enjoy them. I also consider what the weather will be like.

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INDULGE YOUR PASSION I love animals. In Taiwan I went to see the Cat Café and was able to enjoy tea and biscuits.

I’m not into zoos, but the best one I've been to is Singapore’s.

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TWO IS BETTER THAN ONE During my modeling days, I traveled alone. Now I enjoy seeing the world with my husband. We make time for each other’s interests. I love rummaging through bazaars and flea markets or small boutique stores and antique shops, while he loves daring activities.

SECOND HOME There’s always something fun in Singapore for me; I’ll never tire of it. Every few months I’ll find a newly opened building or hear about a new breakfast hub to try. You’ll find me on Arab Street talking to the same shop guy I’ve visited for years, buying new pieces for my home. Or I’ll be lining up at Din Tai Fung to eat red bean paste pao or at Ah Hoi’s for chilli crab.

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ANIMAL LOVER JOEY IS A STAUNCH SUPPORTER OF THE PHILIPPINE ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (PAWS). LEARN ABOUT THEIR PROJECTS AT WWW.PAWS.ORG.PH

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BUILD AN ITINERARY AROUND YOUR FAVORITE ACTIVITIES Whenever I visit a place, I need to sample the local cuisine and see a famous attraction.

Everything else is planned around these two activities.

LADIES, LOOK YOUR BEST Always have a good moisturizer in your toiletry kit and bring quality shades, some cheek tint and lip gloss. You never know who you’ll bump into.

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PACK CAREFULLY I have a habit of packing light and just purchasing a new wardrobe while I’m away. I’m still learning to be practical when traveling.

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MOVE ON Sometimes you encounter glitches when traveling. Just breathe in and let it go.

Ideas

trip inspirations

Go with the flow THE RAPID-FIRE PACE OF LIFE IN THE CITY CAN WEAR ANYONE DOWN. LOUIE-AN PILAPIL FOUND THE PERFECT ANTIDOTE

I’m sure many will agree when I say that city living has become an exercise in survival. The simple act of getting from one place to another is a recurring nightmare, happening twice a day, every working day. Add in a typhoon and office dramas and you have the formula for stress and burnout. Is it any wonder that we all long for respite from the madness?

I was definitely in need of a break from life in the urban jungle. The stuff of my daydreams — I’m sure I’m not alone in this — was a trip to the beach. Imagine my delight when I received word that I’d be part of the Flow Surf Yoga Samba retreat at Windward House in Nasugbu, Batangas! It was the balm my tired soul needed. My being a yoga teacher and long-time practitioner made this trip all that much more exciting.

All of us were treated to

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a weekend of yoga, heavenly vegetarian eats from Edgy Veggy and that much-awaited dip in the sea. A stand-up paddleboarding session with instructor Tono Legarda saw us experience the beauty of the water and landscape in a different way – by marveling at the magnificence from the center, balancing on a board.

We were taught how to eat healthy, make detoxifying smoothies and juices and basically live fuller, more productive lives.

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The Flow Surf Yoga Samba retreats are the brainchild of yogini Monica EleazarManzano, surfer Noelle Hilario and sambista Denise GonzalesBernardo. They never imagined the retreats would become jumping-off points for people to pursue their passions.

“We’ve had participants continue practicing yoga; some are even yoga teachers themselves now! Some also got into surfing and have joined the gigs and performances of our samba school partner,

Imperatriz Filipinense,” Noelle says. “We even had participants who put up their own juicing company after joining a Flow retreat.”

Adds Monica, “Before Flow, no one was doing the combination tours. Now, there are other players in the market doing the same thing.

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. We love that likeminded people are spreading their love for travel, yoga, surf, samba and, of course, the beach!”

There’s another lifechanging gift: friendship. Who knew that a weekend could forge bonds that may last a lifetime? Flowing through life’s daily grind has become a matter of spirit, knowing there’s always the sea and dance to see you through.

THE NEXT RETREAT IS ON NOVEMBER 28-30 IN LA UNION. FOR THE 2015 RETREAT SCHEDULE, VISIT WWW.FLOWRETREATS.COM AND FOLLOW @FLOWSURFYOGASAMBA ON INSTAGRAM, @SURFYOGASAMBA ON TWITTER AND FLOW SURFYOGASAMBA ON FACEBOOK.

MAIN PHOTO BY GETTY IMAGES

The retreat participants at Windward House, where healthy eats are a major perk

ON THE ROAD...

with Kara David

The storyteller TV HOST AND REPORTER KARA DAVID THRIVES IN HER JOB AND IT SHOWS The life of an award-winning TV host, documentary writer and researcher, field reporter, president and founder of the cause Project Malasakit is fulfilling… but perpetually busy, so we’re lucky to have caught up with Kara David.

You have a lot on your plate. Have you always been hands-on?

I started out as a researcher and scriptwriter so even now that I host my own programs, I still insist on writing the script and helping in the research. I host I-Witness, the longest-running documentary program in the Philippines, and Powerhouse, where we visit the homes of celebrities and personalities. I’m also the anchor of News To Go and a field reporter for 24 Oras,

a daily eight-hour shift. I’m roving most of the time, covering all sorts of things from politics to calamities to protest rallies.

And you still have time to fit in more.

There’s Project Malasakit Inc., which gives educational

scholarships to poor but deserving children. We also embark on community projects like providing remote communities with solar power systems, health centers and schools. We focus on child laborers and tribal minorities. I’m also currently taking my

Master’s degree in Philippine Studies at the University of the Philippines in Diliman. I’m doing a thesis on the Mangyan tribe of Mindoro.

The hardest job Kara's ever done?

Find out on the next page >

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On THE ROAD...

Hamming it up for the camera with some Aeta kids

their sick in hammocks.

Liwanag sa Dilim (Light in the Dark) from 2010 was the third of my Mindoro/ Mangyan series. That was when we installed a solar power system and set up a health center for the tribe. All three were shot in the same area.

Tell us what’s new with Project Malasakit.

Currently we have 21 scholars. We also have adopted communities.

We’re currently constructing a birthing clinic for a community of Mangyans in Mindoro.

What’s been the hardest part so far?

Perhaps my most difficult yet most fulfilling job is being a single mother to my beautiful and talented 13-year-old Julia Kristiana.

You’ve won countless international awards for

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these stories. Which are you proudest of?

Gamugamo sa Dilim (Fireflies in the Night) from 2001 was my first I-Witness documentary about a poor community in Mindoro Oriental that was devoid of electricity. Ambulansyang de Paa (Ambulance on Foot)

from 2007 was about the lack of access to medical facilities in far-flung communities and the bayanihan of the Mangyan tribe in carrying

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Is there even anything left on your to-do list?

Finish my Master’s degree.

Teach. Travel. Climb more mountains. Reach out to more tribes and communities. I’ll go wherever God takes me.

DONATE TO PROJECT MALASAKIT LEARN MORE ABOUT ITS CAUSES AT KARAPATRIA. COM

HOW TO...

Leader of the pack

pack like a pro

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE. DEPUTY EDITOR KAT MATEO SHARES HER THREE-STEP APPROACH I travel with my husband and son quite often and each time we go on a trip, I pack all our bags. We’ve never had to pay for excess baggage so I’d like to think I’ve got packing down to a science. Here’s how I do it:

STEP 1: PLAN I think about what we’ll be doing at our destination and for how long we’ll be staying there. These factors help me determine what kind of clothes to bring and how many of each item. I don’t normally check the weather forecast, but it’s a wise move if you’re travelling beyond South-East Asia.

The next thing I do is plan our outfits. If it’s a week-long trip or longer, I make sure all the tops and bottoms I pack will go with at least two other items in our travel wardrobe.

We take along no more than two pairs of footwear each plus a few accessories. If I have time, I make a list so I’m sure to remember to bring along all that we need.

STEP 2: PREP I gather all our options on the bed or on the floor and check if everything coordinates. I replace or remove items as needed.

Once I’m happy with what I’ve got, I prep them for packing.

I roll up all our casual clothes as well as sleepwear, lounge wear and undies, and fold the bulky items (like blue jeans) and dressy tops and bottoms. I put shoes in plastic or laundry bags from hotels (yes, I steal them).

!

STEP 3: PACK I prefer starting my layers on a flat surface so the first thing I do is fill those spaces between the bag’s trolley handles. Once that’s done, I put the shoes against the walls of the bag then put the bulky items in the middle.

The rest of the rolled-up clothes go on top of that, followed by the folded dress clothes. Toiletry kits and pasalubong go in last. If I need extra space, I just zip up the bag and shake it down.

AIRLINE RULES VISIT WWW.CEBUPACIFICAIR.COM AND CLICK ON TRAVEL SERVICES FOR DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT PREPAID BAGGAGE.

PLEASE MARTHA STEWART

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When planning your outfits, come up with a color scheme to make mixing and matching easier. You can stick with one color family or combine your neutrals with one accent color.

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2

Keep wrinkling and creasing to a minimum by wrapping your dressy clothes in dry-cleaner’s plastic. You can also place tissue between each item when you’re placing them in your suitcase.

3

Organize your clothes into separate cubes. Try these from Dot&Dot. Set of six, 999; available at www.lazada. com.ph

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Try the bundling technique when folding your clothes. I haven’t tried it but experts say it prevents wrinkling and creasing more effectively than rolling. Check out www.onebag.com/pack.html

HOW TO... dine smart

KNOW YOUR KOPI (AND TEH) Order your kopi or teh like a local

Eats possible the queue. Long lines usually YOU’VE NEVER BEEN TO SINGAPORE IF mean the food from that stall YOU’VE NOT EATEN AT A HAWKER CENTER. is good.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP YOU NAVIGATE AND ENJOY THE FOODIE PARADISE HERE OR THERE?

PHOTOS BY JD BATINO (MAIN); MUHAMMAD HIDAYATULLAH (KOPI)

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GET A SEAT Before you order food, find a seat first. Hawker centers are usually crowded especially between noon and 2pm, so be prepared to share a table with strangers. If you’re at a hawker center frequented by office workers, such as Maxwell or Lau Pa Sat, it’s common practice to chope or reserve seats by putting tissue packets on the tabletop. Once you find your spot, take note of your table number, just in case your food

@

needs to be delivered to you.

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CHECK THE GRADE Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) grades food stalls based on their cleanliness and overall hygiene. The highest grade is A and the lowest is D. Stalls usually display a certificate showing their grade.

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JOIN THE QUEUE If you don’t have any idea what to eat, take a cue from

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Say “eat here” for dine in and dabao (pronounced da-baw) for take away. There is usually an additional charge for take-away packs.

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TIME FOR DRINKS You can buy drinks directly from the stall or from one of the roaming uncles and aunties. You’ll know them by the tray they’re holding.

Aside from canned soda and juices, try local drinks such as kopi, teh, barley water and lime juice.

Coffee/tea + condensed milk + sugar = kopi / teh Coffee/tea + evaporated milk + sugar = kopi si /teh si Coffee/tea + sugar = kopi o / teh o Coffee/tea – sugar – milk = kopi o kosong / teh o kosong If you want any of your drinks cold, just add peng (iced), as in kopi peng or teh si peng. If you want it with less sugar, add siu dai.

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS VISIT IEATISHOOTIPOST.SG/LOCAL-FOOD FOR A LISTING OF DISHES YOU MUST TRY AND WHERE TO EAT THEM. OR CHECK OUT RECOMMENDATIONS AT WWW.HUNGRYGOWHERE.COM

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features PHOTO BY SHAIRA LUNA; ON MODEL: TOP BY AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS; SHORTS BY TOPSHOP. SEE WWW.CEBUSMILE.COM FOR STORES.

WE’VE GATHERED STORIES FROM ACROSS THE NETWORK TO INSPIRE YOUR NEXT TRIP

GONE FISHIN’ We loved how everyone in Albay was so friendly and ready to pose for photos when we visited in October. Among the welcoming locals was Jasper James Naz, here with cover model Erin, on the banks of Sumlang Lake, a terrific vantage point for viewing the majestic Mayon volcano.

Jasper was on his way home, holding two bamboo fishing rods and the family’s lunch — five freshly caught fish.

This boy is a natural!

Ready for non-stop cooking and eating? Read on >

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Foodie to urs

Pride of plate Spicy, fiery and often creamy, Bicolano cuisine is among the most distinctive in the Philippines. Smile heads to the heart of the Bicol region and into the province of Albay, home to the Mayon volcano, on an epic eating-and-cooking expedition

BY TARA FT SERING PHOTOGRAPHS BY SHAIRA LUNA

T

he fine peak of Mount Mayon, which had been threatening to erupt for weeks, stays hidden beneath fat dark clouds as our plane descends into Legazpi City, the capital of Albay province. Among the hundreds of myths that surround the volcano, globally renowned for its perfect, inverted-cone shape, is one that has to do with the privilege of seeing all of it, including the peak, on a first visit and the purity of one’s soul.

“Don’t worry, you have a few days to wait for the clouds to clear and know that your soul is clean,” the province’s

poet laureate, Abdon Balde Jr, assures us with a chuckle. We laugh heartily but nevertheless keep an eye out for Mayon, looming large over the small city everywhere we go, hoping for a glimpse of its peak.

It’s early October and we’ve come to Albay to learn how to make some of the cornerstone dishes of the Bicolano menu — Bicol Express, pinangat (taro leaves cooked in coconut milk) and Guinobatan longganisa (the local sausage) — from some of the province’s best cooks.

Good food is everywhere in Albay, in every bubbling pot and steaming pan, in nearly every household, 58

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each with time-tested recipes passed down through the generations. Ask anyone, “Where did you learn how to cook?” and you’re likely to get a story about hours spent hanging out in the kitchen during childhood, watching a grandmother deftly wrap taro leaves into a tight square or helping a mother shred the meat of young coconut.

Local dishes tend to require few ingredients, which might make it seem as if they’re easy to prepare. But don’t be deceived; there are secrets to every delicious bite, secrets we’re eager to learn on a culinary tour of Albay, even if it means eating our way up by two dress sizes.

ON ERIN: LEATHER BRACELETS BY AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS; WILLOW BRACELET BY I AM LOVE MANILA. WWW.IAMLOVEMANILA.COM

Foodie to urs

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Clockwise from top left: Albay’s big chili; chef Dino and Mrs Med Villanueva show us how it’s done; Balay Cena Una’s vintage touches; a variety of chili at Legazpi Public Market

THE GOOD EARTH Bicolano cuisine is very much a product of its terrain. Taro grown on the foothills of the volcano, for example, is claimed to be softer and makes for more flavorful dishes.

The fertile plains, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the east, also ensure an abundance of coconut trees, and locals have made very good use of the coconuts. The first press of coconut milk is the thickest, creamiest and tastiest, and therefore with most dishes it’s added in last. Coconut milk, along with chili, is one of the staple ingredients in Bicolano dishes, and Bicol’s iconic dishes contain both.

Bicol Express, pork simmered in coconut milk and chili, is arguably the region’s most famous culinary export.

Known locally as tinu’tu, it earned its nickname from the train that began traveling between Manila’s Tutuban Station and Legazpi City just after the Second World War. It’s the first thing we want to learn about, so we drive down Legazpi’s main street toward Mayon (the peak still being coy behind the clouds), into the neighboring town of Daraga. We make

a turn into a quiet, largely residential neighborhood and pull up beside Balay Cena Una restaurant. It’s one of the province’s fancier spots — the entire dining hall is air-conditioned and the furniture, in dark hardwood, bears the mark of high-standard craftsmanship.

The kitchen is run by Diosdado Condeno, better known as Chef Dino, who learned how to cook as a young boy. He worked in kitchens around the world for 50 years before returning home to Albay five years ago, at about the time Mercedes Villanueva and her family opened Balay Cena Una. Chef Dino explains that Bicol Express is the kind of dish you can modify as you please, which means that there may be as many versions of the dish as there are Bicolanos. But the secret, he tells us, is in the meat. “Make sure you soften it just right,” he says as he stirs the pork, which is simmering in coconut milk.

“You can adjust the chili to your liking.”

He throws in enough chili to clear the sinuses and maybe smoke out the ears.

Any Albayanon worth his or her chili likes it burning in the mouth, the heat slicing down the throat.

Foodie to urs

Balay Cena Una’s Bicol Express

Pork strips Coconut milk Chili Shrimp paste Salt Onion Pepper Garlic, crushed or thinly sliced Cooking oil (Chef Dino uses olive oil) Simmer pork in coconut milk until cooked and tender. Add a pinch of salt and shrimp paste. In a separate pan, sauté sliced garlic and chili. Add the pork mixture to the sauté.

Balay Cena Una, F. Lovito St, Daraga; Tel: +63 52 435 4338; www.balaycenauna.com

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Foodie to urs

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Clockwise from left: Jovie Nocedo shows Erin how to make a pinangat wrap; Jomar Nocedo checks on the pot; blanched pili nuts; Jing, Tess and Lani of Albay Pilinut

ALL IN THE FAMILY Cooking seems to be in every Albayanon’s DNA, and in the town of Camalig, less than half an hour outside Legazpi (and yet, still no peak), we find the Nocedos, an entire family involved in making what’s been heralded as the best pinangat in all of Albay, and possibly in the whole country.

Pinangat, sometimes called laing, is made of strips of taro leaves drenched in coconut milk, shrimp paste and, of course, chili, along with bits of pork and dried fish. It’s all wrapped in whole taro leaves and the square bundle is secured with knots of string from coconut fronds. These green packets are then piled into a deep pot, doused with the coconut milk mixture and cooked for two hours, first over high heat until the coconut milk comes to a boil, then over low heat to keep it simmering.

It’s soft, creamy, fragrant food with complex flavors. It can be eaten with rice, though locals have found new and inventive ways of serving it: as a

sandwich filling, with spaghetti and crushed pili nuts or as a stuffing for ravioli.

In Camalig, there’s an entire stretch of the highway lined with food stalls specializing in pinangat. Zenaida (“Zeny”) Nocedo first learned how to make the dish from her mother-in-law and later on taught her own children how to make it. The whole family

started out selling it at Legazpi Airport, mostly to departing travelers eager to take a taste of Bicol back with them.

Zeny’s pinangat was an instant hit, but it wasn’t until seven years ago that the family set up their own shop on Pinangat Row. “We didn’t want to have to compete with everyone else,” says second son Jomar, who now oversees the entire operation. “Nearly everyone

Locals have found new and inventive ways of serving pinangat — as a sandwich filling, with spaghetti and crushed pili nuts or as a stuffing for ravioli 63

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Foodie to urs

Zeny’s pinangat

Taro strips Coconut milk Shrimp paste Garlic Ginger Chili Salt Pepper Whole taro leaves Mix the second and third press of coconut milk, shrimp paste, crushed garlic, ginger, chili, salt and pepper until it forms into a creamy mixture. Pour over a handful of taro strips, and add cubed pork and a pinch of salted dried fish as you wish. Using four taro leaves, wrap the mix into square packet and fasten it with strings from coconut fronds. Put the packets in a pot, pour in the first press of coconut milk and put the lid on. Cook for two hours. For a step-by-step pinangat-wrapping guide, visit www.cebusmile.com Zeny’s Pinangat, Camalig; tel: +63 916 288 5491

else there is a relative.” Cooking skills undoubtedly run in the family, all the way up, down and across the extended family tree.

Zeny’s pinangat, like most others in Camalig, is still made in the family home, with every member contributing.

They make over 300 squares of pinangat a day. As Jomar wraps up the packets quickly and effortlessly, he tells us that the secret to the popularity 64

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of Zeny’s pinangat is that the family doesn’t take short cuts.

“The most important part is the coconut,” Jomar says. “You must always keep the shredder clean.

Otherwise, if the sour bits of old coconut mix in with the new coconut, the taste changes. Always make sure none of the old bits have stuck to the shredder whenever you shred new coconut to make the milk.”

Foodie to urs Clockwise from below: Rollie Nate is the Speedy Gonzales of longganisa-making; the special Guinobatan longganisa; with Bicol Express

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS In the town of Guinobatan, where we’ve come to learn how to make its famous longganisa, a breakfast favorite, locals point to Rollie Nate as the expert we need to meet. While waiting for the man who’s been described as a longganisa whiz, I visualize a wizardlike old man with long-white hair in a ponytail, who will share 70 years’ worth of cooking experience in cryptic lines that could also serve as life advice.

But when he greets us at Yangmatt Restaurant, a popular roadside eatery, we’re surprised to see a young man in a white shirt, blue shorts and slippers; his sheepish smile gives no hint that he reigned supreme at last year’s longganisa-making contest. “While the others were still lining up their ingredients, he was already stringing the longganisa,” our guide says. Soon we’re given the benefit of his skills, sharply honed from hanging around his grandmother’s market stall as a boy.

These days, Rollie works for his aunt, Victoria, at Tia Be Nate’s Guinobatan

Longganisa, her market stall.

Guinobatan longganisa, fried and dipped in vinegar and chili, bursts with flavor and is perfect with rice and lots of it. We all eat one too many, with maybe too much rice, so we decide to walk it off at nearby Kawa Kawa Eco-Park, a small hill shaped like a cauldron, which seems only fitting in a province known for its delicious dishes.

It starts to pour on our way over but by the time we arrive the rain has stopped. However, the concrete pathway to the top remains slick. We head up for a look and by the time we’re back and packed in the van, we’re ready to press on with our chomping tour. As we’re driving off in the van, someone in the back shrieks, “There she is!”

Sure enough, there’s Mayon in its full, unobstructed glory. The clouds have moved, leaving a clear view of the volcano, which now seems even bigger and more majestic. Our bellies may be full and our bodies happily weighed down by so much good food, but our spirits are high and, according to local lore, our souls are pure.

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Cubed pork Minced garlic Pepper Anisado or white coconut wine Brown sugar Soy sauce Dried pork intestine casing Mix everything but the casings in a bowl. Fill the casings with the meat mixture and tie both ends with thin strips of frond.

Just how fast can Rollie do it? Watch the clip at www. cebusmile.com Yangmatt’s Restaurant, National Highway, Guinobatan; Tia Be Nate’s, Guinobatan Public Market

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Tia Be Nate’s Guinobatan Longganisa

Foodie to urs

Culinaria Albay’s eat list

Majestic Mayon volcano

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n 2010, the local government of Albay launched Culinaria Albay, a program designed to promote local cuisine and map out the province’s best dining experiences. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss.

Sorting through a batch of blanched pili nuts. On Erin: dress by American Eagle Outfitters

ALBAY PILINUT Along the busy Rizal Street in Legazpi City is an old house with a rather nondescript storefront. Step inside and you’ll discover the roots and enduring goodness of a pioneering business whose star ingredient is the pili nut. In the 1930s, Don Antonio Regidor moved from Spain to Legazpi and, along with a friend from Morocco, where nuts are an important part of the cuisine, started a pili nut industry as well as with a candied nuts factory. He used his late mother’s recipes for mazapan and yema, replacing almonds with pili nut, and a new sweet treat was born. Now the business is run by the third and fourth generations of his family, who impose stringent standards of quality for all their products. Candied pili nuts make the best presents for the folks back home. 873 Rizal St, Old Albay District, Legazpi City; Tel: +63 52 820 3529 BALAY CENA UNA You’d be spoiled for choice at Balay Cena Una’s buffet spread that features fresh salads of local greens and celebrated dishes like Bicol Express (with Chef Dino’s surprise twist) and pinangat alongside

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world favorites like Tom Yum Goong. The à la carte menu offers even more variety that speaks volumes about the head chef’s experience in kitchens around the world.

Here you dine in a large, lovely space with the look and feel of a grand, sprawling old home. If you’re lucky, Mercedes Villanueva, the family matriarch, might be around for the day — don’t miss the opportunity to strike up a conversation with one of the town’s most engaging personalities.

F. Lotivio St, Brgy Bagumbayan, Daraga, Albay; Tel: +63 52 435 4338; www. balaycenauna.com FIRST COLONIAL GRILL Husband and wife Bong and Rowena Aspe opened First Colonial Grill, one of Albay’s most beloved family-style restaurants, in 2004, after they realized they both loved to entertain over big meals but couldn’t find a local restaurant quite suited for it. It was an instant success, with queues of diners reaching out the door, a sign that there had been a gap in the market left unaddressed for too long. “There are lots of great cooks in Albay,” says Bong, “but not all of them are eager to run restaurants.” First Colonial

Clockwise from far left: the fine spread at Ysabelle’s; Bong and Rowena Aspe of First Colonial Grill; DJC’s mais con hielo and halo-halo; Bicol Express pasta with siling labuyo; Small Talk’s Mayon pasta

Grill’s menu features all of Albay’s greatest hits alongside fusion dishes. In their ongoing advocacy to bring Albayanon cuisine to the world, they’ve created unique, now-famous concoctions such as the Sili Ice Cream.

“The recipe was given to me in a dream,” says Rowena. “I prayed to Mother Mary, and when I woke up, I knew exactly how to make it.” No wonder it’s divine! More flavors have since been added — like cucumber, moringa and tinutungan, or charred rice — all perfect for ending a hearty meal.

Old Albay District, Rizal St, Legazpi City; Tel: +63 52 4831212 YSABELLE’S Rollie and Norma Chua’s restaurant is date-night-pretty, as are their plated dishes.

Opened just last year, it has become the go-to place for special occasions where the stars are the dishes: Ysabelle’s house salad, Bicol Express with crispy bagnet (air-dried and fried pork) toppings, Hickory baby back ribs, fried tilapia, and kangkong with fried tofu. Don’t forget to order a pitcher of their refreshing juice made with local orange called dalandan. Rizal St corner Doña Aurora St, Legazpi City

DJC HALO-HALO AND SNACK INN It started out as a small food stall in the town of Tiwi, about an hour’s drive from Legazpi, run by Domingo and Juliana Clutario. During summer breaks, their young son, Djoun, helped out by waiting tables and washing dishes. “We noticed that some people didn’t eat all the ingredients that went into the classic halo-halo,” says Djoun, who now runs the business that has since grown into a chain of seven branches, including two in Naga City. “So we started removing some of them, adding other things and making sure all ingredients are of top quality.” The ube, leche flan, and cheese that go into every large and mouthwatering serving of DJC’s halo-halo are homemade and contain no preservatives. Landco Business Park, Legazpi City; Tel: +63 52 480 6868 YANGMATT LECHON AND EATERY Along the Guinobatan highway, a roadside eatery specializing in the local delicacies like longganisa and kinunot (using chicken) has become a tourist favorite. Make sure

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to dip the longganisa in vinegar spiked with crushed chili peppers — it opens up the flavors. Guinobatan SMALL TALK CAFÉ After a day of exploring and sightseeing, few experiences are as pleasurable as ducking into this cozy restaurant, just a small turn from Rizal Street, and chowing down on hefty servings of flavorful Bicolano dishes with an Italian twist.

Owner Didette Peralta Factora, whose grandmother was well known for her cooking, opened the restaurant in the early 2000s with Albayanons in mind. “We eat good local food all the time,” she explains.

“So I wanted to offer variety, but still stay true to the essence of our cuisine.” The result is fusion that works: Mayon Pizza, the crust stuffed with pinangat and Bicol Express; Pili Basil Pasta; Pasta Pinangat; and Laing and Cheese Bread. Doña Aurora St, Legazpi City; Tel: +63 52 480 1393

Cebu Pacific flies to Legazpi from Manila and Cebu. www. cebupacificair.com

Shanghai surp rise

Autumn harvest

Fall is the season of hairy crabs, a delicacy found just outside Shanghai and worth every penny for its succulent meat STORY AND PHOTOS BY DAVE TACON

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Shanghai surp rise

I

n Shanghai, there are two sure signs that the long, humid summer is starting its gradual slide into winter.

Just as autumnal hues appear in Shanghai’s parks and on its tree-lined boulevards, the first Shanghai hairy crabs appear at street markets and on restaurant tables.

Though considered an invasive species in North America and Europe, this freshwater crab (also known as the mitten crab) was said to grace

the emperor’s dining table. The joy of eating it is celebrated in the work of famed Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai. The most coveted of these crustaceans is found just outside Shanghai at Yangcheng Lake in

neighboring Jiangsu Province. The lake’s hairy crabs were a seasonal favorite of the imperial court and thus boast the most illustrious pedigree of any crab in China. When it comes to crabs, Yangcheng Lake is a prestige

To keep costs down and to ensure authenticity and freshness, many Shanghai residents embark on scenic day trips to enjoy hairy crabs plucked straight from the lake 73

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Shanghai surp rise

brand and its crabs are a favorite gift for VIPs. Yet just like those ubiquitous fake Louis Vuitton handbags, China is awash with counterfeit crabs.

The Yangcheng Lake Hairy Crab Association has gone to great lengths to safeguard its trademark: from laser-etching the brand on shells to employing individual plastic leg tags and providing a 12-digit security code for each shipment.

In Shanghai’s most prestigious restaurants, a pair of male and female crabs costs around US$50, but at lakeside restaurants operated by crab farmers, cooked crabs sell for about half that. To keep costs down and to ensure authenticity and freshness, many Shanghai residents embark on scenic day trips to enjoy hairy crabs plucked straight from the lake.

Though hairy crabs come out of the water with drab, olive-green shells, once steamed or boiled, their top shell turns bright orange. The best crabs are said to have golden hair on their claws and a creamy white underside. The hairiest crabs boast a thick mane of dark green fur on their legs.

At Pang Xie, a lakeside restaurant, Wang is dining with her Shanghainese mother and two family friends from Beijing. “It’s tricky,” Wang says. “If you don’t know how to eat them, then you probably won’t get any meat. You have to be skillful.”

Hairy crabs are always accompanied by “warming” condiments in light of the fact that Traditional Chinese Medicine identifies crabs as having a “cooling” effect on the human body.

Just as the words for crab and harmony sound nearly identical in Mandarin (though the Chinese characters are different), ingredients such as ginger, sugar and a Shaoxing-style huangjiu

Go get some!

Pang Xie, Chengguang Crab Village, Yangcheng Lake, Jiangsu Province tel: +86 1350 173 4660, http://pangxie. com.cn

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Shanghai surp rise

yellow wine balance the crab’s yin (cold energy) and yang (hot energy). At Pang Xie, the crabs are steamed and served with sweetened dark vinegar infused with fresh ginger, hot ginger tea and warm yellow wine.

At mealtime, the first step in completing a hairy-crab feast is to remove the white belly armor. With a little leverage from a thumbnail, it comes away easily. Female crabs have a concentration of roe the color of egg

yolk under the top shell, which should be mixed with vinegar and slurped up immediately. While enjoying hairy crab is considered a refined pursuit, it’s not a dainty one.

The next move is to pick the gills away from each side of the naked crab and then tear the beast in two, right down its middle. Then all but one of its legs on either half are ripped off. The remaining limbs are used as handles for dunking the torso meat in vinegar.

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For people in countries like the Philippines who count crab as a dinner-table regular, breaking through the shell and extracting the meat is a simple operation. No big deal. But for those unaccustomed to eating crab, leg meat extraction poses the biggest challenge. A handy tip is to slide a smaller leg segment into a larger one after biting off each end, thus widening the opening. If all goes to plan, out comes a perfect tube of delicious,

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Shanghai surp rise

slightly sweet crabmeat.

While Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs are beyond the financial means of most Chinese, partaking of hairy-crab harvest season still manages to cross every social strata. In Shanghai, crab vendors can be found in the narrow lanes of the historic Old Town, on street corners, at open-air markets and on famed food streets such as Wulumuqi Road in the Old French Concession. Some subway stations

and convenience stores even have vending machines that dispense near-frozen but live hairy crabs.

Xiao Jian, 40, has been selling hairy crabs at a shop on Wulumuqi Road for almost half her life. The crabs, which crawl about in the tanks that line the walls of her small store, are sourced from Kunshan, west of Yangcheng Lake. Her smallest crabs sell for just a few dollars.

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“People like crabs because they’re good for the body, but the main reason is because they taste good and aren’t always in season,” Xiao says.

“You shouldn’t eat them when you’ve got a cold though,” she advises. “They’ll just make you worse.”

Cebu Pacific flies to Shanghai f rom M anila. www.cebupacificair.com

Sho pping in Saigo n

All things

big and stall

Whatever else you do in Ho Chi Minh City, be sure to hit at least one of the city’s markets. Lester Ledesma presents a guide to five of these gold mines for bargain hunters

1 2 3 4 5 V

ietnam is a country of markets. From Can Tho in the south to Haiphong up north, all roads lead to the neighborhood cho, which is in many ways the center of community life. This holds true even in bustling Ho Chi Minh City, with its glitzy neon signs

and ever-growing skyline. Saigon’s markets are destinations in their own right. They offer memorable peeks into the real Vietnam, while brimming with finds that are unique, unusual or just delightfully cheap. Yes, you came here to shop — here are five of our favorite cho in Saigon: 80

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Sho pping in Saigo n

1

Ben Thanh Market: The Tourist’s Pit Stop

You can’t miss this yellow, fortress-like building in the heart of District 1. It sits right at the edge of Ho Chi Minh City’s busiest intersection, within eyeshot of the bus terminal and the popular Pham Ngu Lao tourist strip.

Known during colonial times as Les halles centrales, 300-year-old Ben Thanh Market is easily one of Saigon’s signature landmarks.

It’s also shopping central for foreign tourists and it’s easy to see why. Within its cavernous confines is a mass of stalls packed floor to ceiling with goods from all corners of Vietnam. Here, native handicrafts like silk from the central highlands, lacquerware from the far north and delicate eggshell mosaics from the Mekong Delta share space with designer knockoffs and the usual kitschy souvenirs. Add to that the shops selling everyday stuff (read: fruits, coffee and fresh-cut flowers) and you’ve got a market that manages to be both local and touristy at the same time. Not surprisingly, prices here have risen to match the market’s popularity, with many a seller charging “foreigner rates”. Nevertheless, bargains abound in this maze of stores. You just have to haggle a bit harder and dig a little deeper to find them.

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2

Dan Sinh Market: Souvenirs from The ’Nam

Vietnam may have moved beyond its battle-torn past but the fateful years of the “American War” remain a source of curiosity for visitors.

At the corner of Nguyen Cong Tru and Yersin Streets is a shopping spot that supplies a few answers.

Deep within a warren of dusky alleyways, past rows of hardware and machinery shops, is a cluster of hole-in-the-wall stalls specializing in Vietnam War-era surplus goods.

Dan Sinh Market is hands-down the quirkiest shopping spot in Saigon. To the history buff, this place is a paradise; to the rank-andfile tourist, it offers a fascinating glimpse of the recent past. Lining its alleyways are piles of military helmets, pistol belts, ammunition pouches and patches in both American and North Vietnamese colors. There are also bullet casings, canteens bearing propaganda-style artwork and Zippo lighters with engraved army insignias. One store even sells keychains made from hand grenade pins!

A word of advice: mixed in with the truly vintage finds are cleverly made reproductions, so do give that Viet Cong medal a close inspection before buying. Whatever you end up getting, it’s sure to be a memorable souvenir of your — as the GIs used to say — “time in country”.

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Sho pping in Saigo n

or “big market”. The name refers to Cho Binh Tay, a sprawling, 2.5ha collection of over a thousand sellers, all under one roof. This market is so massive that it takes up an entire city block. What’s more, it boasts its own clock tower, a central garden courtyard and over a dozen entrances on four major streets.

Wholesale is the name of the game at this old-school commercial complex. In fact, its endless maze of stalls supplies the city’s other markets with much of their Binh Tay merchandise. Color-coded maps greet Market: visitors at the gateways, detailing the Wholesale Palace types of goods to be found in each Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown is known simply as Cholon section.

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The sheer variety of offerings is nothing short of eye-popping, from household goods and toys to dried food and women’s beauty products. The leather goods and luggage sections are especially inviting as they stock rebranded (or unbranded) designer-label overruns from Vietnam’s countless manufacturing plants.

Visit this place early in the morning to see buying and selling at its most frenzied. The experience may be more valuable than that lookalike Kipling purse you find yourself coveting but at prices like these, you can easily get both.

Sho Shopping pping in in Saigo Saigonn

4

Co Giang Street Market: The Saigon of Old

The city around it may have changed dramatically, but this is one little market that has managed to stay pretty much the same for the past 50 years.

Located on the south side of District 1, just a few blocks from the touristy Pham Ngu Lao strip, Co Giang Street Market serves up a refreshing taste of village life amid urban surrounds.

Here at the junction of De Tham and Co Giang Streets, smiling old ladies stand behind wooden carts overflowing with samples from the season’s harvest. Vendors in non la (conical hats) walk by with baskets of merchandise suspended from their shoulders. Though Co Giang Street Market is right downtown, it has an atmosphere not unlike that found in more old-school cities like Hanoi.

There’s no doubt the peoplewatching here is excellent, but unless snakehead fish or dragonfruit are on your shopping list, the finds in this market are limited to everyday supplies (the baguettes at the corner bakery are delicious, as is the Vietnamese coffee at the adjacent café). Still, it’s refreshing to know that the Saigon of old is still very much alive in this modern city.

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Shopping pping in in Saigo Saigonn Sho

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Saigon Square: Brand Name Haven

It looks like a mall but it feels like a market. Saigon Square could well be another traditional

Vietnamese cho if not for the smaller crowds, the air-conditioning and the squeaky-clean environs. Located on Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, this two-storey shopping haven boasts an impressive array of designer clothes and accessories. Vietnam manufactures products for some of the world’s most renowned apparel brands, which helps account for the fact that the merchandise here is cheaper than the offerings at any “proper” mall.

Not surprisingly, this is where young Saigonites go to indulge their taste for trendy but cheap goods. On weekends, this place comes alive with the sounds of haggling, spending patrons. Top buys include Crumpler bags, North Face jackets, Ralph Lauren shirts and Diesel

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jeans. Look out, too, for Burberry scarves, Ray Ban shades and Tag Heuer watches. Again, you’ll need to closely inspect the merchandise to ascertain its quality (as a rule, export overruns are cheap, while outright fakes are too cheap). Any way you slice it, all these name-brand items hanging from stall ceilings (or piled up on wooden carts) make for a truly tempting sight. Saigon Square has another branch on Ton Duc Thang Street; it’s farther from downtown but the shopping is just as good.

Cebu Pacific flies to Ho Chi Minh City from Manila. www.cebupacificair.com

Amazing escapes

LIFE’S A BREEZE

On a quick tour of Kota Kinabalu by train, in a speedboat and on foot, Simon N. Ostheimer discovers the life and legends of Sabah, the “Land Below the Wind”

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Amazing escapes

W

hoever came up with the phrase “the Land Below the Wind” must have been a genius — the wording conjures up a magical, tropical idyll, a serene place where palm trees sway in the barely-there breeze, and exotic smells and spices tease you from the beach.

The evocative description is most commonly attributed to ancient seafarers, who were referring to the territory that lay beneath the typhoon belt, and so was safe from the terrible storms that assault much of the rest of South-East Asia. For a long time this place was called North Borneo; today it’s better known as Sabah, the easternmost state in Malaysia.

On our first morning in the capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, we joined a cultural tour with local Grace Leong, a third-generation Chinese who is the founder of KK Heritage Walk (www. kkheritagewalk.com). Grace is on a mission is to educate tourists about the colonial history of the city and that morning we were happy to trail her around here.

“You’re probably wondering why we were meeting here,” she asks rhetorically as we stand under the shade of a large tree, while people in sports clothes stand close by

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Clockwise: Speeding past a floating village; seafood at the market; steamboat dinner; inter-island transport

Amazing escapes

Clockwise from top left: Urban graffiti; the famous pau with pork and egg filling; a local coffee shop

stretching on a small field. “Well, this is where Sabah declared the end of colonial rule!” In one of the quirks of history that dot the region, the British North Borneo company ran this corner of Borneo as a corporate possession from the late 19th century up until the Japanese arrived in 1942 to occupy the island. Reclaimed by Britain, it became a colony in 1946 before joining up with a newly independent Malaysia in 1963.

As Grace explains, due to waves of Chinese immigration encouraged by the British, there is a preponderance of Sino-style cuisine in KK, as locals call it. Amazing steamed dumplings are to be found at Keng Wan Hing (80 Gaya St; tel: +60 16 849 4708), including the Hainanese Polo Bun made with pineapple marmalade, and the sang nyuk pau, a filling, rich blend of pork and egg. We order takeaway 93

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and eat them on the go. After a stroll down the street — pausing to pop our heads in the colonial-era Jesselton Hotel (69 Jln Gaya; tel: +60 88 223 333; jesseltonhotel.com), where the door is manned by a slight, helmeted bellboy, and the bartender Aji has been pouring Bloody Marys since 1959 — we head back to Yee Fung (127 Jln Gaya; tel: +60 88 312 042) for a bowl of their famous Sarawak laksa.

Almost every part of Malaysia has its own take on laksa, from the creamy coconut Nyonya variety found in historical Malacca to the sour Assam style most popular on the island of Penang. Malaysian Borneo — which includes Sabah, Sarawak to the west and the tiny island territory of Labuan — shares one style, the Sarawak laksa, which consists of a laksa soup base covered in bee hoon egg noodles, hard-

Amazing escapes

From top: Diners pack the local laksa restaurant; Sarawak laksa; cooking big batches of noodles. At right: Downtown KK

boiled egg, shredded chicken, a handful of bean sprouts, a sprinkling of cilantro and locally caught prawns. Once your steaming bowl is served, squeeze half a lime over it, and add a spoonful of sambal belacan (shrimp paste) for taste. It tastes excellent, especially when washed down with a hot glass of their signature drink, teh madras â&#x20AC;&#x201D; layers of evaporated milk, black tea and foam.

The next day, we make our way down sleepily to the lobby of The PaciďŹ c Sutera Hotel (1 Sutera Harbour Blvd; tel: +60 88 318 888; suteraharbour.com), a sprawling 384acre property, with two onsite hotels (the other is The Magellan Sutera Resort), a 27-hole golf course, and a marina from where you can explore the surrounding islands. The sound of a bell ringing across the marble interior snaps us awake. The source of the commotion is a shy young man wearing khaki shorts, a starched white shirt and a pith helmet adorned with the logo of the North Borneo Railway (www.northborneorailway.com). It is 95

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Sarawak laksa tastes excellent, especially when washed down with a hot glass of their signature localtea, teh madras

Amazing escapes

time to take the tropical express.

With five carriages, each named after one of the stops, the train is hauled by a British Vulcan steam locomotive fuelled not by coal, but by wood. While the carriages were actually built in the 1970s, they have been renovated to re-create a train journey in the early 1900s, when the line provided a vital link between the interior and Jesselton — now Kota Kinabalu — transporting goods such as rice, tobacco, sugar, silk, and pineapples for export. Now almost 120 years old, the North Borneo Railway, a collaboration between the state government and the Sutera Harbour Resort, provides a nostalgic experience for tourists.

After an amazing train trip through stunning scenery, we are on the move again, this time aboard a speedboat heading north-west to Gaya Island.

This small isle 15 minutes off the coast

of KK had housed the first settlement of the British North Borneo company, before it was razed to the ground in 1897 by a local folk hero by the name of Mat Salleh and the British set up shop on the mainland instead. As Kota Kinabalu thrived and expanded, the villagers on Gaya Island maintained a simple life, until it was declared a national park in 1974. These days, Gaya is a central part of the state’s eco-tourism push, and is home to the Gaya Island Resort (tel: +60 18 939 1100; www.gayaislandresort.com), where luxury villas peek out between lush jungle, and tropical fish swim in abundance right off the hotel jetty.

Looking around, it’s easy to understand the importance of preserving the area’s natural beauty. It’s a green message that’s further driven home the next day by the resort’s resident naturalist Justin Juhun.

“I was raised in the jungle,” says 96

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From top: Experiencing the romance of 1900s train travel; onboard food in tin cups

Amazing escapes

Clockwise from top: Sunset views from Gaya Island; one of the restaurant attendants; the island jetty; and one of the more colorful residents

Justin, when I ask where his passion for the wilderness comes from. “My dad worked on a plantation some 60km outside of Tawau, a small town on the south coast of Sabah,” he tells me. “As a young boy I remember seeing injured animals and wanting to help them. Soon, people were bringing me all sorts of creatures — hornbills, monkeys, squirrels, wild pigs — and our home became like my own personal zoo!” We’re walking along a narrow track through deep bush in the hills above the Gaya Island Resort, part of a series of tracks that Justin himself created. “I spent two weeks up here by myself looking for the best routes. I’d hack through the jungle during the day, and camp at night.” What’s meant to be a 45-minute walk becomes a two-hour odyssey as Justin pauses to point out wildlife we would have otherwise have missed. “Thankfully no cobra or python today,” he says.

Our guide’s knowledge and passion are infectious, and soon we’re all 98

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pointing out wildlife, swapping photography tips, and sweating in the jungle’s sweltering heat. A few hours later, after a refreshing swim, we make our way along the beach, where a young Australian couple strike up a conversation with Justin . “I was having a drink at the pool, when I saw something in the water — a python!” the tourist tells us.

They whip out photos of snake five feet long, swimming in the water we’d only just left. Just then, a wild pig emerges from the bushes. Justin seemes unfazed, and the rest of us can only laugh at just how much normal life in Kota Kinabalu seems intertwined with the wilderness that surrounds it. This Land Below the Wind truly is a magical place.

Cebu Pacific flies to Kota Kinabalu from Manila. www.cebupacificair.com

K Kidzania

Street regal Nigh markets, street food stalls Night palaces are still very much a and p part of o the Bangkok landscape, but Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital is also becoming Thaila super stylish and sophisticated supe

BY KRISTINE FONACIER PHOTOS BY DAVID TERRAZAS

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lame The King and I and The Beach.

Before my first visit to Thailand, my entire concept of the country was shaped by those two movies.

Either Thailand was an impossibly romantic kingdom full of intrigue (and dragons, if you watched the animated version) or a haven for scruffy farang backpackers with questionable morals.

To be honest, during my first visit around 15 years ago, I inadvertently played into the stereotype by sticking to the backpacker-district/night markets/temples circuit. And you know what? That’s fine. It’s a legitimate way to experience Thailand. However, it puts you at risk of missing out on well over a decade’s worth of exciting cultural developments. Since at least the ’90s, the kingdom’s economy has seen rapid-fire growth. First came commerce in the form of multinational corporations, followed by diplomats and the NGOs that have set up shop in the capital as a means of accessing the rest of the region. All this has helped bring the world to Bangkok and Bangkok to the world.

It shouldn’t surprise anyone that Bangkok frequently tops lists of the world’s best destinations: Travel + Leisure has named The Big Mango as the best city in Asia for seven years in a row and best in the world for four straight years.

The city also topped this year’s Forbes Global Destination Cities Index, making it the first Asian city to do so. Bangkok’s 15.98 million international visitors in 2013 qualified it for the title of world’s most visited city.

(+632) 794-9999 US Direct No. +1-2134020502 brittany.com.ph

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Paragon Mall

Kidzania

Kidzania

orld Siam Ocean W

In with the old and the new The reality of modern Bangkok is a far cry from the clichéd perception of it as an exotic gateway to all that Asia represents. Modern Bangkok is cosmopolitan, sophisticated and still lots of fun, for it’s a city that has managed the transition to world-class cultural hotspot with remarkable ease. It’s a kingdom ruled by an elected parliament and constitution, but one whose people revere their monarch. It’s a capital where skyscrapers co-exist with temples and palaces, where the Skytrain whizzes along on elevated platforms decorated with statues

of royal elephants. Beyond that, the kingdom’s old name, Siam, now refers unofficially to an area in central Bangkok that’s home to Sra Pathum Palace on the Royal Family estate, along with thoroughly modern, upscale shopping complexes.

Pass up the nearby MBK Center and instead head for Siam Paragon, one of the world’s largest malls. Physically connected to its neighbors, the Siam Discovery and the Siam Center, the Paragon lives up to its name by offering the best of Thai commerce along with a long list of extras. Besides the 50,000m2 department store and the mall’s nearendless list of designer brand stores, 103

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thee Paragon is home to the Royal Paragon Hall, which hosts concerts and other big events; Siam Ocean World, South-East Asia’s largest aquarium; an entire Kidzania complex; and the Thai Art Gallery. It’s also the only mall I’ve visited where I could conceivably leave with both a new wardrobe made up of H&M sale items and a new Aston Martin — the carmaker shares a floor with Maserati, Lotus, Bentley, Jaguar, Ferrari, BMW and Porsche. Bangkok somehow manages to showcase such opulence with grace and elegance.

After exploring Siam Paragon, go for a stroll through Ratchaprasong in the direction of Lumpini Park and you’ll

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tural Center

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come across other shopping havens that show off the Bangkok aesthetic — the Amarin, the Erawan and the newest of them, the Central Embassy on Phloen Chit Road. Open for just a year or so, the latter is located in the middle of Bangkok’s diplomatic district and is thus fringed by NGO headquarters, embassies and ambassadors’ residences. For now it’s only half-open; the retail podium is just starting to come alive and soon the 37-story Park Hyatt at one end will become yet another new landmark on the Bangkok skyline. Even now it’s a stunning sight: a rippling, shimmering vision of a structure that’s said to be inspired by traditional Thai temples.

Inside, overshadowing the shops of Hermès, Chanel, Christian Louboutin and other international fashion houses are some of Bangkok’s most talked-about homegrown brands and restaurants. There is, for example, the Siwilai concept store, a retail gallery and restaurant hybrid that brings together prestigious brands and artists from across the globe. An ambitious place that must be seen to be believed, it’s the brainchild of young and welltraveled Bangkok resident Barom Bicharnchitr, scion of the family that owns the Central Group of malls. His love for traditional Thai imagery — and clout in the international retail realm — is such that he managed to persuade Maison Kitsuné to specially produce shirts featuring both Kitsuné’s fox mascot and the Thai elephant, and UK luggage brand Globe-Trotter to produce a bag whose design was inspired by the Chao Phraya River.

Local Thai designs

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aurant

Gaggan restaurant

Gaggan rest

Chef Gagan Anand

Molecular gastronomy in Gaggan

The Alchemist

A Negroni at The Alchemist

Global tastes There’s more to modern Bangkok than its commercial districts though.

It speaks volumes that Nana, once infamous for its go-go bars, is also home to upscale watering holes like The Alchemist, and that previously underdeveloped Ekkamai now plays host to hip drinking dens like Sugar Ray and Moose Ekkamai. These places tend to draw the young and stylish set — we’re avoiding the word “hipster”

here — who now have scores of options in these areas.

It might come as a surprise to many visitors as their taxis crawl along Bangkok’s notoriously narrow, traffic-clogged side streets to see so many restaurants and bars occupying renovated old homes. Such zoning decisions might seem to defy logic but that just means you can expect to find some of the city’s best restaurants — which also means some of Asia’s best — 106

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on what might appear to be nondescript side streets.

Bangkok has a well-earned reputation for serving up some of the world’s best street food but lately the city has also joined the ranks of the best fine-dining destinations on the planet.

Two coveted spots in the top three in the most recent edition of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants went to Bangkok restaurants. Gaggan, which was ranked third on the list, serves up Indian food

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Expat expertise

David Dav avid d Tho h mps mpson mp o on Thompson

We asked members of Bangkok’s growing expat community for tips on their favorite hangouts: HOTEL MUSE Located right in the middle of busy Langsuan Road, this boutique hotel stands out from all the other, bigger, hotels and apartments on the strip thanks to its distinctive art-deco design. Occupying the top two floors of the hotel is The Speakeasy, a stylish rooftop bar that offers stunning views of central Bangkok. 55/555 Langsuan Rd, Lumpini, Pathumwan, tel: +66 (0)2 630 4000; accor.com HOTEL SOFITEL SO BANGKOK Sofitel hotels around the world are known for their luxury, but this one strives to be known for its looks.

Designed by Christian Lacroix, the hotel itself is a statement — stark, stylish, cutting-edge. It’s not for everyone, but neither is high fashion.

2 North Sathorn Rd, Bangrak, tel: +66 (0)2 624 0000 ISSAYA SIAMESE CLUB Celebrity chef Ian Kittichai celebrates the dishes of his childhood at this gem of a restaurant in Sathorn. It occupies a beautiful house that’s nearly a century old. 4 Soi Sri Aksorn, Chua Ploeng Rd, Sathorn, tel: +66 (0)2 672 9040, www.issaya.com MADE BY LEGACY FLEA MARKET The MBL collective brings together craftsmen, designers and collectors

from across Thailand in a series of occasional flea markets and pop-up events. madebylegacy.com ROCKET COFFEEBAR If you don’t mind a side of hipster with brunch, head to one of Rocket’s two branches, both of which serve fresh baked goods, an invigorating selection of continental breakfast items and some very, very good coffee. 149 Sathorn Soi 12, Silom, Bangrak and 5/F, Central Embassy, Ploenchit Rd, tel: +66 (0)2 635 0404 SUGAR RAY Not to be confused with the boxer(s) or the ’90s pop band, Sugar Ray shares a location with Thai syrup makers Socrates, which allows its offices to be turned into this charming cocktail bar after hours. Baan Ekkamai, Ekkamai Soi 21, tel: +66 (0)81 750 8385 WATER LIBRARY There are several Water Library branches in Bangkok, the newest of which opened just a few months ago at Central Embassy. The brasserie boasts an impressive selection of bottled waters from across the globe (true story), but it also has a long list of cocktails and a stellar food menu. 5/F, Central Embassy, tel: +66 (0)2 160 5893; waterlibrary.com

Nahm restaurant

prepared using molecular gastronomy and other progressive techniques.

(Since it began making international best-of lists, the restaurant has begun offering a choice of tasting menus, which makes for a dinner that lasts at least 2.5 hours.) Nahm, which holds the number one spot, serves Thai cuisine

as interpreted by Australian chef David Thompson.

Savvy city residents consistently crowd the waiting list at all six of the Bangkok restaurants on the 50 Best list, which means you might need to give at least two weeks’ notice if you’re keen to give any of them a try.

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But even setting aside the chosen few, Bangkok is home to a mindboggling range of restaurants, whose appeal typically owes nearly as much to their ambience as it does to their culinary offerings. A visitor to city stalwart Eat Me, for example, is likely to be as taken with the East-

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Eat Me restaurant

meets-West vibe and the attached art gallery as they are with the inventive “modern international regional” dishes on offer.

Issaya Siamese Club, another of Bangkok’s top tables, draws as much attention for its location in a 1920s-era villa in Sathorn, on the outskirts of Bangkok’s CBD, as it does for Thai chef Ian Kittichai’s kitchen creations, which pay homage to the food of his childhood. Arguably the first of Thailand’s celebrity chefs, Kittichai runs a number of other restaurants in Bangkok, as well as eateries in India and the United States. At Issaya, Kittichai brings glamor and ceremony to traditional Thai cuisine, which looks to me the final step in efforts to elevate it to the status of world-beater.

Kittichai recently opened Namsaah Bottling Trust, a gastro bar, in an old house in Silom.

Painted bright pink, the structure previously served as a bank, the headquarters for a soda company and the home of an aide-de-camp to the royal family.

Not like before

Sugar Ray

Namsaah Bottling Trust

“Bangkok is… not like I remember it,” I overheard a fellow Skytrain passenger say as the sight of the migraine-inducing neon of Nana gave way to the opulence of Chidlom. The news that day remained focused on the ongoing political stability, though the mood among Bangkokians and visitors alike was surprisingly serene.

Maybe becoming comfortable with change is a lesson that this city teaches. Change happens a lot, sometimes in surprising surges, sometimes in unnoticeable little steps, until everything is suddenly very different.

Cebu Pacific flies to Bangkok from M anila a nd Cebu. www.cebupacificair.com 110

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SERENITY SPANISH RESTAURANT 391 Orchard Road, #05-32 Ngee Ann City Takashimaya S.C., Singapore 238872

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Picture time!

Is a groufie a group shot by one person or by the entire group?

If you reshuffled the cast, it would be a coupfie

Twofie Selfie

Selfie syndrome Along the Avenue of Stars in Hong Kong, photographers Navin Kala and Luisa Dorr document a modern “phone-nomenon” — self-portraits in the age of the smartphone 113

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Picture time!

"We need self-esteem and recognition.The selfie gives us that and also a place in the world, a digital place.

The smartphone puts a camera in everybody's pocket. In the past, taking pictures was something for a minority with time and money. Now we all document and share."

- Navin Kala

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Picture time!

Not a person with a selfie stick, but we see a cool phone perch Selfie with a building between the fingers

Not strictly speaking a twinfie, but just as fun

"We were surprised at the number of people doing selfies.

We thought it was a paradox that on the Avenue of Stars, the real star was... everybody."

- Navin Kala

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LICENSE NO. 28380 C.D.: 060615

CORAL RESORT ESTATES Be one of the very few to own a resort home.

VICINITY MAP LAGUINDINGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

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TO ILIGAN CITY

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ARCHITECT’S PERSPECTIVE OF THE CLUBHOUSE

Office Address: Xavier Estates, Masterson Avenue, Upper Balulang, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines

+63 88 851-5873

OUTDOOR AMENITIES: • Gazebo • Parks and playground • Meditation garden • Putting green • Infinity pool

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• Viewdeck • Aquasports area • Floating jetty • Diving area • Sea pool

CLUBHOUSE FACILITIES: • Open Lounge • Function Hall • Restaurant

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DISCLAIMER: The data shown herein are intended to give a general idea of the project development and as such are not to be relied upon as statement of fact. This document is for information purposes only.

Picture time!

In the smartphone age, everyone can be a photo documentarian

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Picture time!

Perfect spot for a dronie - a selfie made with a drone

A little bit of local and traditional flavor

In a world of clicking and instant sharing, everyone can be a star

Documenting someone documenting himself

Lights, camera, action! ... Okay, let's try it again

Family groufie

Cebu Pacific flies to Hong Kong from Clark (via Tiger Philippines), Manila, Iloilo, Kalibo and Cebu. www.cebupacificair.com 120

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ESCAPE TO THE GREAT INDOORS. …and get guaranteed earnings on your condotel investment.

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Santorini is the second of the five Mediterranean-inspired residential towers within the cosmopolitan complex of Sta. Lucia Residenze.

THE PERFECT CONDOTEL INVESTMENT

Santorini´s condotel units are elegant, modern hotel suites that welcome you home. Most of all, they are profitable investments when you are away. With low property management fees, tie-ups with well-known international booking sites and the professional expertise of the Sta. Lucia Hotel Management Group, your Santorini property investment is in good hands.

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Directory

WEAR YOUR NATIONALISM ON YOUR SLEEVE When Brian Dy founded MY PHILIPPINES 10 years ago, imported brands were perceived to be superior to locally manufactured items. That pushed him to put a fresh spin on the usual souvenir shirt. He and his team created designs depicting images of everyday Filipino life. MY PHILIPPINES eventually rolled out flag-inspired shirts and jackets and became the first brand to emblazon the front of a T-shirt with the Philippine map. Today, MY PHILIPPINES is the top T-shirt and apparel brand in the souvenir-shirt industry based on units of shirts sold. Get your own at SM Department Stores and Kultura branches nationwide, as well as overseas dealers. Visit www.mynationalshirt. com, www.facebook.com/myphilippineslifestyle and @myphilippineslifestyle on Instagram to see MY PHILIPPINES’ latest designs.

Southern comfort

The best base

Feel right at home at Vivere Hotel in Alabang. You’ll experience topnotch service and hospitality, and have access to facilities - including luxurious rooms, a spa and wellness center and a Kid’s Club for the little ones - designed to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Dine on comfort food while enjoying a 360-degree view of the metro at The Nest, and hang out at Café Arts. Vivere Hotel, tel: +63 2 771 7777; info@viverehotel.com.ph

The Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria is an ideal option whether it’s work or leisure that takes you to the metro. It’s right at the heart of the Ortigas Commercial District, and is connected to the Robinsons Galleria Mall, where plenty of shopping and dining options await. The Ortigas MRT station, which will connect you to Makati City, is just a short walk away. And at the end of the day, you can look forward to a restful sleep, thanks to the Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage. www.ihg.com

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From Baguio Highlands

Capturing the old Baguio charm, Azalea Hotels & Residences rose to become Baguio’s holiday haven for every family fun, group getaway or romantic retreat…..

Special Pre-Holiday Sale Offer is 2015++/Person/Night (minimum number of persons per room is required) Booking Period: September 1 to December 31, 2014 Stay Period: September 1, 2014 to June 30, 2015 Terms and Conditions Apply.

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BOOK NOW! (02) 450 1151 / 0917 861 1641 / 0919 994 4140 reservations@azalea.com.ph Leonard Wood Loop, Baguio City (across Teachers’ Camp) www.azaleabaguio.com.ph

to Boracay Island

...and as it opens its doors in the beautiful island of Boracay, Azalea Hotels & Residences promises to deliver the same brand of service, commitment and value.

Opening first quarter of 2015, we welcome Boracay’s first serviced apartment suites.

Special Pre-Opening Sale Offer is 2015++/Person/Night (minimum number of persons per room is required) Booking Period: September 1 to December 31, 2014 Stay Period: January to June 30, 2015 Terms and Conditions apply.

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BOOK NOW! (02) 450 1151 / 0917 861 1641 / 0919 994 4140 reservations@azalea.com.ph Station 2, Boracay Island www.azaleaboracay.com.ph

Checklist

This is paradise

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Extracted from Chlorella, CGF is a fresh water algae rich in proteins, vitamins, 129

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Checklist

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trip journal GUIDES TO CEBU PACIFIC DESTINATIONS

INTERNATIONAL

DOMESTIC

Check out what to do, what to see, what to eat and where to go in Cebu Pacific’s 28 international destinations

Our local guides offer some handy ideas on how to enjoy each of Cebu Pacific’s 32 destinations within the Philippines

PHOTO BY CORBIS

Take in Siem Reap's sights, p.145

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international trip journal

Singapore

Sydney

Marina Bay Sands

Area code +612 Touchdown Kingsford Smith International Airport Get to town via taxi, train

Birkenhead Point in Drummoyne is a factory outlet shopping haven offering both Australian and American brands, including Cotton On, Forever New, Valleygirl, Ugg, Levis and Nike. For cheap souvenirs, check out Paddy’s Markets. It’s just a five-minute walk from Central Station.

Area code +65 Touchdown Singapore Changi Airport Get to town via MRT, bus, taxi

Stay at Green Kiwi Backpacker Hostel. It’s near Bugis MRT station. Rates start at S$22 per person. (55 Bussorah St; tel: +65 9695 9331; greenkiwi.com.sg). If you’re on the hunt for pasalubong, head to Bugis Village, Chinatown and the Mustafa Centre.

Chris Estepa

Melissa Catherine Saldua

IT consultant

online freelancer

DID YOU KNOW?

COVERING 1KM OF SEASIDE REAL ESTATE, BONDI IS SYDNEY’S LARGEST BEACH. THERE CAN BE AS MANY AS 40,000 PEOPLE HERE ON A SUMMER WEEKEND.

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international trip journal

Kuala Lumpur

Kota Kinabalu

Batu Caves

Area code +60 (3) Touchdown Kuala Lumpur International Airport Get to town via train, taxi

Take the bus to Penang from Petaling Bus Terminal or Puduraya Bus Terminal. Experience the mountains and the sea, and walk the streets of George Town. Sample the glorious food, particularly the laksa (spicy noodle soup).

M. Terri Chio Gonzales legislative research analyst

Area code +60 (88) Touchdown Kota Kinabalu International Airport Get to town via bus, taxi

Though KK is not all that big, it’s home to an array of shopping centers such as 1Borneo, Centre Point, Merdeka, Waisan Square and Suria Shopping Mall. On a Sunday morning, you can visit KK’s Sunday Market on Gaya Street in the Central Business District. It’s open from 6am to 1pm.

Odie Cacho market analyst/teacher

DID YOU KNOW?

THE TEMPLES AT BATU CAVE ARE DEDICATED TO LORD MURUGAN, THE HINDU GOD OF WAR.

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Seoul

Busan

Area code +82 (2) Touchdown Incheon International Airport Get to town via AREX (train), limousine bus, taxi

Area code +82 (51) Touchdown Gimhae Busan International Airport Get to town via subway, bus, taxi

If you want to experience Korea’s generosity, hospitality and community spirit while sampling an array of local culinary specialties, head to Gwangjang Traditional Market. Visit the Food Alley to try tteokbokki, twigim, soondae, mayak kimbap and bindaetteok among others. kwangjangmarket.co.kr

Haedong Yonggung Temple is no ordinary Buddhist temple.

It’s not on a mountain but on a cliff near the water.

The temple, along with the three-story pagoda, is on the northeastern coast of Busan. This is the ideal place for an unforgettable Busan photo-op. yongkungsa.or.kr/en

Rommel Delos Santos

Eva Marie Wang graduate student

engineer

DID YOU KNOW?

BUSAN'S HAEDONG YONGGUN TEMPLE IS ONE OF THE THREE SACRED PLACES DEDICATED TO THE GODDESS BUDDHA OF SOUTH KOREA.

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Bandar Seri Begawan

Area code +673 Touchdown Brunei International Airport Get to town via taxi, bus, hotel shuttle

Tokyo

Area code +81 (3) Touchdown Narita International Airport Get to town via Narita Express (N’EX train)

Rough it a bit by visiting Ulu Temburong National Park. Take the water taxi from Bandar Seri Begawan to Bangar in Temburong District. From there, hop the bus to Batang Duri, where you can board a longboat bound for the park via the Temburong River.

Mayumi’s Apartment is a really good place to stay. It’s located in a quiet area and there are a number of stores nearby.

It’s also just two stops from Shibuya Station. I found it via Airbnb.com.

Chome-38-11, Yoyogi, Shibuya

Shey Velicaria

Jerome Sy

supervisor

sales manager

DID YOU KNOW?

ULU TEMBURONG NATIONAL PARK HAS BEEN A PROTECTED AREA SINCE 1991. IT’S KNOWN AS THE GREEN JEWEL OF BRUNEI.

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Nagoya

Osaka Sunshine Sakae

Area code +81 (52) Touchdown Chubu Centrair International Airport Get to town via train (Meitetsu Airport Line and ÎźSKY), bus, taxi, and car rental

Check out the Nagoya Festival, which happens on the third weekend of October. Head to Hisaya Odori Park to get in on all the festivities. And if you visit the Nagoya Castle around the middle of this month, you can view the Chrysanthemum Dolls.

Osaka Castle

Area code +81 (6) Touchdown Kansai International Airport Get to town via taxi, train, bus

Eat your way along the streets of Dotonbori, sampling delicacies like takoyaki (a ball-shaped Japanese snack) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake). While there, check out the stores for bargains.

Tet Kaimo

Mary Jude Pili

training officer

English instructor

DID YOU KNOW?

TIPPING IS NOT CUSTOMARY IN JAPAN.

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B.E. Creative Collections

international trip journal

Hanoi

Ho Chi Minh City

Area code +84 (4) Touchdown Noi Bai International Airport Get to town via airport taxi, hotel service

MasterChef Vietnam’s Minh Thuy cooks up a storm at her familyowned restaurant in the backpackers’ district. The menu features Vietnamese and German dishes at reasonable prices.The chef herself is often in the restaurant. 20 Ngo Huyen, Hoan Kiem District; www. minh-thuy.com

Area code +84 (8) Touchdown Tan Son Nhat International Airport Get to town via taxi (Mai Linh Taxi or Vinasun Taxi)

Learn how to cook Vietnamese food by enrolling in a halfday cooking class at The Vietnam Cookery Center.

You’ll be taught how to prepare a full-course Vietnamese meal, from salad to dessert. 26 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe 1; tel: +84 8 3827 0349 Carmel David

Meryl Algenio

brand manager/blogger

publicist

DID YOU KNOW?

HO CHI MINH CITY’S CU CHI TUNNELS ARE AN EXTENSIVE NETWORK OF SUBTERRANEAN PASSAGEWAYS USED DURING THE VIETNAM WAR.

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international trip journal

Siem Reap

Area code + 855 (63) Touchdown Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport Get to town via tuk-tuk, hotel shuttle, taxi

Try to catch an apsara dance performance.

The Apsara Theatre near Wat Bo Road holds daily shows with dinner. The Temple Club on Pub Street features free apsara dance performances for diners every evening.

Joy Imperial account director

Bali

Jakarta

Area code +62 (36) Touchdown Ngurah Rai International Airport Get to town via taxi

Lining Jalan Laksmana in Seminyak are quaint shops ranging from outlet stores to boutiques featuring the creations of local designers. Offerings include casual and beach wear, jewelry and leather goods. For cheap finds, souvenir shopping and Indonesian art, visit Ubud Market.

Crissy Ancheta

Area code +62 (21) Touchdown Jakarta (SoekarnoHatta) Airport Get to town via taxi

Sample local fare like nasi goreng (fried rice), gurami (crispy fried fish) and beef rendang. If you have a local friend, ask to be taken to a local ibu or Nyonya shop to try other local dishes like tempeh (soybean cakes) and ayam penyet (smashed fried chicken).

Myrene Pascua consultant

group account director

DID YOU KNOW?

APSARA IS A TRADITIONAL CAMBODIAN DANCE-DRAMA INSPIRED BY THE APSARAS ADORNING THE TEMPLES OF ANGKOR.

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international trip journal

Bangkok

Phuket

Taipei The Red House Theater

Area code +66 (2) Touchdown Suvarnabhumi International Airport Get to town via taxi, Airport Link, limo, bus

Area code +66 (76) Touchdown Phuket International Airport Get to town via taxi, tuktuk, van, bus

Area code +886 2 Touchdown Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Get to town via bus, taxi, Taiwan High Speed Railway (THSR)

Stay at Tune Hotels Asoke (www.tunehotels. com) and enjoy a meal at nearby Suda Restaurant. Visit Ayutthaya, one of Thailand’s most popular tourist sites.

Marvel the huge temples and the displays of Buddha images. For pasalubong shopping, head to Chatuchak Weekend Market.

Visit sites like Patong Beach, Bangla Road, Phuket FantaSea Show, Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach, Karon Viewpoint, Phromthep Cape and Wat Chalong Temple. If you have more time, join an island tour and see James Bond Island and Phi Phi Island.

Visit Alishan National Scenic Area in Chiayi County, one of the nation’s most popular tourist spots. Here you’ll find mountainous terrain and dense forests rife with flora and fauna. The trip from Taipei to Chiayi via high-speed rail takes about 90 minutes.

Michelle Rogio

Kristine T. Agustin

Desiree Grace Tan

bar and restaurant operations manager

sales supervisor

freelance designer

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international trip journal

Beijing

Shanghai

Xiamen

Bird's Nest Stadium

Area code +86 (10) Touchdown Beijing Capital International Airport Get to town via train, taxi

Watch The Legend of Kung Fu show at Red Theatre (www.redtheatre. cn) to learn more about Chinese martial arts. Make time to visit the Great Wall, the Beijing Botanical Garden and the Beijing Zoo to see the giant pandas. If you’re feeling adventurous, sample the exotic fare at Wangfujing Night Food Street.

Paul Agabin

Area code +86 (21) Touchdown Shanghai Pudong International Airport Transport from airport taxi, maglev, bus, hotel service

Area code +86 (592) Touchdown Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport Get to town via taxi, bus, hotel shuttle

Don’t miss sampling the popular xiao long bao at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant (Shanghai First Food Hall East, Nanjing Pedestrian Rd, Huangpu). Also, chill out at café chain Wagas, which has branches throughout the city (wagas. com.cn).

Visit Gulangyu Island, where you’ll find a lot of nice shops, eateries and other intriguing sites. The sunsets are beautiful, too.

Or take a side trip to Tulou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is about three hours away by bus. Bring your own snacks if you’re joining a tour.

Aina Cruz

Betty Uy

entrepreneur

photographer

Essays.ph founder and CEO

DID YOU KNOW?

GULANGYU ISLAND, WHICH IS ACCESIBLE FROM XIAMEN BY FERRY, IS A PEDESTRIANONLY ISLAND.

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international trip journal

Guangzhou

Area code +86 (20) Touchdown Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Get to town via Airport Express, taxi

Book a room at the Guangzhou Riverside International Youth Hostel, which is right by the Pearl River. Nearby are restaurants, cafés, bars, and cultural venues in disused factory buildings. 15 Changdi St, Luju Rd, Liwan District Dorothy Hui graduate student

Hong Kong

Area code +852 Touchdown Hong Kong International Airport Get to town via Airport Express, bus, MTR, taxi

Go to Nan Lian Garden (60 Fung Tak Rd, Diamond Hill, Kowloon) if you’re looking for some serenity. It’s home to elegant architecture and scenic ponds. Entry is free. Walk over to Chi Lin Nunnery (5 Chi Lin Dr, Diamond Hill, Kowloon) to complete your tranquil getaway.

Macau

Area code +853 Touchdown Macau International Airport Get to town via bus

When in Macau, be sure to go casinohopping. There are free shuttle buses that take gamers from one casino to the next. If you love dining buffet style, try Café Deco (www.cafedecogroup.com) at The Venetian Macao. It serves Asian and Western favorites.

Richard Ian Randolf H. Magpili

Carisse Eusebio

call center agent

trainer

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Dubai

Kuwait

Area code +971 Touchdown Dubai International Airport Get to town via taxi, metro, bus

Area code +965 Touchdown Kuwait International Airport Get to town via taxi, bus

A trip to the Gold Souk means being awestruck at the spectacle of wall-to-wall gold and marveling at the phenomenal prices. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a market that showcases a seemingly endless array of gold jewelry. Deira Corniche (near Baniyas Square) at Sikkat al-Khali St

Hop on a boat to Failaka Island for the hourlong trip across the azure waters of the Gulf to see Greek ruins and heritage houses. The ferry makes daily trips, departing in the morning and returning in the afternoon. tel: +965 2574 2664

Lira G. Mitchell

Al P. Manlangit

real estate agent

architect

DID YOU KNOW?

THERE ARE STRUCTURES ON FAILAKA ISLAND DATING BACK TO THE BRONZE AGE.

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international trip journal

Dammam

Riyadh

Area code +966 (11) Touchdown King Khaled International Airport Get to town via limo (taxi)

Visit the City of Old Diriyah. It is an ancient city of major historical significance and is considered one of the most alluring attractions in Saudi Arabia. If you have more time, take the train or drive to Half Moon Bay near Al Khobar.

Visit Al-Marjan Island, better known as Coral Island. It’s one of the first man-made islands in the province and is connected to the Dammam pier via a bridge. There’s a lighthouse there which you can climb up to the top and enjoy the breathtaking view of the surroundings.

Boris Buenavista

Irene Benitez

business systems analyst

nurse

DID YOU KNOW?

Area code +966 (13) Touchdown Dammam King Fahd International Airport Get to town via taxi, bus (if you are on a tour package)

WOMEN VISITING SAUDI ARABIA ARE REQUIRED TO WEAR ABAYA (LONG CLOAKS) AND NIQĀB (VEILS) IN PUBLIC PLACES.

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philippines trip journal

Cauayan

Laoag

CAUAYAN IMAGE: SAMUEL DE LEON; LAOAG IMAGE: LESTER LEDESMA

Area code 78 Touchdown Cauayan Airport Get to town via tricycle, hotel service

Stay at a DOTaccredited hotel like The Hotel Andrea (Don Jose Canciller Ave). Sample the specialties at Aling Luring’s Goto and Serkele (14 Dalupang St). Café Isabela is another must-try restaurant (Roxas St).

Ma. Rosario Mondonedo-Olano tourism officer

Area code 77 Touchdown Laoag International Airport Get to town via Sirib bus, tricycle, jeepney, pre-arranged van rental

Try sandboarding with the LEAD Movement (www.facebook. com/ilocossandboarding).

Also, take a hot-air balloon ride at Fort Ilocandia and go tubing and rafting on the Karingking River in Solsona.

When you get hungry, stop

by City Cup Café (Ranada Bldg, Rizal St).

Trixie C. Ablan public relations officer

DID YOU KNOW?

YOU CAN EXPERIENCE A NEW ADVENTURE AT THE TRIBAL VILLAGE IN NUEVA ERA, ILOCOS NORTE. IT’S HOME TO THE TINGGUIANS, WHO SHOWCASE THE RICH CULTURE OF THE ILOCANOS.

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Manila

MANILA, CLARK & TUGUEGARAO IMAGES: LESTER LEDESMA

Area code 2 Touchdown Ninoy Aquino International Airport Get to town via taxi

Have a grand stay at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila (CCP Complex, Roxas Blvd, Pasay City). Then take a drive to the Seaside Market where you can check out the wet fish market, flea market, and food and drink shops (Diosdado Macapagal Blvd).

Clark

Tuguegarao

Area code 45 Touchdown Clark International (Diosdado Macapagal) Airport Get to town via car rental, taxi cabs, shuttle service

Drop by Deca Wake Park for some wakeboarding fun (clarkwakeboard.com).

To learn more about the local culture, visit the Center for Kapampagan Studies, which houses a display of Kapampangan crafted goods.

Also, visit Nayong Pilipino to bone up on local history and geography.

Carlo Jimenez graphic designer & entrepreneur

Area code 78 Touchdown Tuguegarao Airport Get to town via hotel shuttle service, tricycle

Your trip isn’t complete without trying the famous pancit batil patong. Go where you see tricycle drivers enjoying pancit; that’s your assurance of good food.

Try J-ren’s Panciteria on Diversion Rd or Jovan’s Panciteria in Atulayan.

Maria Angelica Espaldon

Nicky Ty communications coach/ blogger

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contract manager

philippines trip journal

Virac

Area code 54 Touchdown Naga Airport Get to town via taxi, hotel shuttle

Check out the famous churches in Naga: Peñafrancia Basilica Minore, Naga Metropolitan Cathedral and Our Lady of Peñafrancia Shrine and Parish. Dine at Casa Soriano Family Heirloom Cuisine and order Auntie’s chicken and baby back ribs (39 Concepcion Grande).

Legazpi

Area code 52 Touchdown Virac Airport Get to town via tricycle, hotel service, UV Express, car/van rental

Live the life of a surfer by staying at Puraran Surf Resort (info@ puraransurf.com). Try surfing the Majestic Waves, visit Mamangal Beach, view the sunrise at Batalay Point and catch the sunset on Imelda Boulevard. After a long day, enjoy a meal at Blossom’s Restaurant (Rizal Ave, Sta Cruz).

Dennis Caramoan civil engineer/government and private contractor

DID YOU KNOW?

Area code 52 Touchdown Legazpi Airport Get to town via taxi, tricycle, jeepney

Visit Cagsawa Ruins and ride an allterrain vehicle with Bicol Adventure ATV. Hike or jog to Ligñon Hill Nature Park to enjoy fantastic views of the city. Then stay at the Oriental Hotel, which serves up remarkable views of Mayon Volcano (Taysan Hill, Sto Niño Village).

Dexter Comandante

Rina Sarmiento trainer and entrepreneur

anesthesia equipment specialist

LEGAZPI WAS NAMED AFTER MIGUEL LÓPEZ DE LEGAZPI, THE SPANISH EXPLORER WHO CONQUERED THE PHILIPPINE ISLANDS IN 1565.

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NAGA AND VIRAC IMAGES: FERDZ DECENA; LEGAZPI IMAGE: LESTER LEDESMA

Naga

philippines trip journal

Puerto Princesa

PUERTO PRINCESA AND BUSUANGA IMAGES: LESTER LEDESMA

Area code 48 Touchdown Puerto Princesa International Airport Get to town via tricycle, multicab, van

From Puerto Princesa, take a six-hour van ride (book in advance) to El Nido and book a room at Las Cabanas Beach Resort (www.lascabanasresort. com), which offers picturesque views of the nearby islands. Do a wholeday island-hopping tour.

Have fun kayaking around the cove!

Busuanga

Area code 48 Touchdown Francisco B. Reyes (Busuanga) Airport Get to town via van, hotel shuttle

Check-in at the new, conveniently located Coron Ecolodge (coronecolodge.com). Dine at Lolo Nonoy’s to enjoy local versions of popular Filipino dishes and barbecue favorites. Going island hopping? Ask your boatman to tell you which foods you have to choose from.

Jeremy Aganan

Kaye Jimenez

businessman

writer and filmmaker

DID YOU KNOW?

PUERTO PRINCESA WAS ORIGINALLY NAMED AFTER PRINCESS EULALIA OF SPAIN, THE DAUGHTER OF QUEEN ISABEL II AND DR. FRANCISCO DE ASIS.

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REGION VI

Aklan • Antique • Capiz • Guimaras • Iloilo • Negros Occidental Iloilo City • Bacolod City

TOP “MUST-EXPERIENCE” TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Aklan

Sta. Monica Church, Panay, Capiz

Atihan Festival 1. Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati(3rd weekend of January) 2. Boracay Island, Malay alan 3. Jawili Falls, Jawili, Tang an, Malay 4. Pangihan Cave, Katipun anga Buru ria, Aleg t, Poin l’s 5. Arie n, Balete 6. Basura Garden, Poblacio y Bugtong Bato-Naisud, Ibaja 7. Katunggan it Ibajay, minia, Heritage Her (La stry Indu ving 8. Piña Wea z House of Piña) Arts and Crafts, Dela Cru , New Washington den Gar ita pagu Sam n 9. Akla

Piña Weaving, Aklan

Capiz

Tel. No.: (+63 36) 621 0042 Telefax No.: (+63 36) local 133 621 2935 Email: capiz.tourism@ yaho Website: www.capiz o.com .gov.ph

1. Baybay Beach, Roxas City 2. Sta. Monica Ch urch, Museum and Bell, Panay 3. Agtalin Shrine , Dulangan, Pilar 4. Suhot Cave and Spring, Dumalag 5. River Tours (Pa nay, Cadimahan, Pal ina) Roxas City 6. Hinulugan Fal ls, Pilar 7. Basiao Beach, Ivisan 8. Our Lady of Lo urdes Grotto Medit ation Hills, Maninang , Sapian 9. CAPIZtahan (Fo undation Day Commem oration of the Civil Governmen t of Capiz, 2nd week of April) and Sinadya sa Halaran (1st week of Decemb er)

Guimaras

1. Caluya Group of Islands, Caluya 2. Bugang River & Malumpati Cold Spring (from Brgy. Guia to Brgy. Sto. Rosario and ends in Brgy.

Zaldivar, Pandan) 3. Igpasungaw Falls, Igpasungaw, Sebast e, Antique 4. Malalison Island, Culasi 5. Bagtason Patadyong Weaving, Bagtas on, Bugasong 6. Aningalan, San Remigio 7. Binirayan Festival, San Jose (Last week of December) 8. Nogas Island, Anini-y 9. Tibiao Eco-Adventure Park, Tibiao

l (3rd week of April) Manggahan Festiva d Friday) aan Bukid (Every Goo Bal sa al talt Pag g An ras ima Gu an, ter y, Jord Old Trappist Monas Guimaras as, Nueva Valencia, Alubihod Beach Are ras Wonders Farm and ima (Gu t cui Cir Agri-Tourism nt Center in earch and Developme FDEC National Mango Res m in San Lorenzo, SEA Valencia, Far Salt ario Seb an, Jord Nueva Aqua-Culture Farm in Sibunag) Marine Reserve and in Spring Bloom Farm Southern Orchard and ras Shrine, Jordan, Guima kid Bu n a-a Bal 6. ras a, Buenavista, Guima 7. Roca Encantad Lorenzo, Guimaras San ls, Hil ily Fam 8. Holy ncia Guimaras ur, Nueva Valencia, Vale -Tour 9. Suba Malawig Eco

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

ental The Ruins, Talisay City, Negros Occid

3 34) 433-2515 Telefax No.: (+6 cc@yahoo.com nego Email: tourism_ .negros-occ.gov.ph rism Website: www.tou

Iloilo Golf and Country Club, Sta. Barbara, Iloilo

dan trail), (via the Guintub 1. Mt. Kanlaon ty Ci ta La Carlo Ruins, Talisay uses, Silay and the rcia 2. Ancestral Ho ukal Resort, Mu mb Ma of gs 3. Sulfur Sprin e sites, Sipalay div d an es ach be , 4. White sand Marine Reser ve at Carbin Reef 5. Snorkeling Sagay City ve, Cauayan and Marine Reser 6. Danjugan Isl , Bacolod ias tor Vic , lf Courses 7. 18-hole Go and Murcia d week of April ) gros Festival (2n 8. Panaad sa Ne nedicto; Be r do y, Don Salva 9. Rapha Valle , Victorias City; May’s Organic rm Fa a los ña Pe City Garden, Bacolod

Tel. No.: (+63 33) 540 7110 Email: antique_philippines@yahoo.com Website: www.antique.gov.ph

021 Tel. No.: (+63 33) 581-2 057 Fax No.: (+63 33) 581-2 @yahoo.com Email: guimarastourism aras.gov.ph Website: www.guim

Iloilo

Negros ntal Occide

Antique

Tel. No.: (+63 36) 262 4692 8033 Telefax No.: (+63 36) 268 com.ph Email: aklantourism@yahoo. v.ph Website: www.aklan.go

Igpasungaw Falls, Sebaste, Anti

que

Guimaras Mangoes Telefax No.: (+63 33) 338 4910 Email: iloiloprovincialtourism@gmail.com Website: www.iloilo.gov.ph

1. Heritage Churches of Southern and Central Iloilo (Leon, Pavia, Cabatuan, Sta. Barbara, Tigbauan, Guimbal, Miag-ao and San Joaquin Churches) 2. Coral gardens of San Joaquin, Banate, Concepcion, and Carles 3. Carabao-Carroza Festival, Pavia (3rd of May) 4. Weaving, pottery, metalcraft, bamboocraft, bobbin lace making, and food industries, Southern and Central portion of the province 5. Hiking, spelunking, and mountain biking in Alimodian, Dingle, Passi City, Igbaras, and Leon 6. Waterfalls of Lambunao, Alimodian, and Igbaras 7. Iloilo Golf and Country Club, Sta. Barbara 8. Island hopping in Concepcion, Ajuy and Carles 9. Resort hopping in Southern, Central, and Northern Iloilo

Bacolod City

Tel. No.: (+63 34) 434 6751 Telefax. No.: (+63 34) 708 3066 Email: bacolodcitytourismoffice@gmail.com Website: www.bacolodcity.gov.ph

Iloilo City

1.

2.

3.

4.

Tel. No.: (+63 33) 333 1111 loc. 512 Telefax No.: 336 Email: benitojimena@yaho 3439 o.com Website: www.iloilocity.gov.p h

City Gallery, Iloilo City Hall , Plaza Libertad Complex Calle Real Museo Iloilo, Bonifacio Driv e 19th century Casa Mariqui t, Santa Isabel Street, Jaro and Camiña Balay nga Bato in Osmeña St., Arevalo 5. Hablon weaving at the Sinamay House and Arev alo Handwoven Products in Osmeña and Sta. Cruz Sts., Arevalo and barquillos mak ers at Deocampo’s in Santa Isabel, Jaro 6. Magnificent churche s ( Jaro Metropolitan Cath edral in E. Lopez Street, Jaro; Sant a Ana Parish Church in Molo; Santo Niño de Arev alo Parish Church in Villa, Arevalo; Iglesia de San Jose de Placer in Calasanz St., City Proper; and many mor e).

7. Ilonggo’s seafoods and rich cuisine at Tatoy’s Manokan and Breakthrough Restaurant in Arevalo 8. Iloilo River Esplanade, Benigno Aquino, Jr. Avenue 9. Iloilo Dinagyang Fest ival (every fourth Sunday of January) and Iloilo Paraw Regatta Festival at Villa Beach (every third Sunday of February)

Festival 1. MassKara Festival (3rd week of October) and Bacolaodiat (Chinese Lunar New Year) ential Road 2. Bacolod City Government Center, Carlos Hilado Circumfer 3. Negros Museum, Gatuslao St. South 4. Negros Forest Ecological and Biodiversity Foundation, Capitol Road 5. Bacolod Public Plaza and Bandstand 6. San Sebastian Cathedral and Bishop Palace, Rizal St. 7. Barangay Sang Birhen Chappel, Sta. Clara Subdivision 8. Panaad Park and Stadium, Brgy. Mansilingan 9. Pope John Paul II Tower (PJPII), Rizal Extn., BREDCO

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM REGION VI

Bacolod City Government Center

Capitol Grounds, Bonifacio Drive, Iloilo City, Philippines Contact Nos.: (+63 33) 337-5411 (Information) • 509-3550 (Accounting) • 503-2705 (Accreditation) • 335-0245 (Telefax) Email: deptour6@mozcom.com Websites: http://www.westernvisayastourism.com.ph http://www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com

Iloilo Dinagyang Festival

philippines trip journal

Iloilo

YOUR HOME

BY THE UNDERGROUND RIVER.

Bacolod

DALUYON BEACH AND MOUNTAIN RESORT SABANG BEACH, BRGY. CABAYUGAN, PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, PALAWAN

Area code 33 Touchdown Iloilo International Airport Get to town via taxi, van

ILOILO AND BACOLOD IMAGES: LESTER LEDESMA

Iloilo is famous for its breathtaking mansions (Lizares Mansion, Lopez House), some of which are being developed as cafés or restaurants. For lovers of fine architecture, Jaro Cathedral, Jaro Belfry and Molo Church are mustsees. Also, check out Iloilo River Esplanade.

Dr. Elvie Victonette B. Razon-Gonzalez gastroenterologist/writer

Area code 34 Touchdown Bacolod-Silay Airport Get to town via shuttle van, taxi

L’Fisher Hotel and L’Fisher Chalet, both located on Bacolod’s main street (lfisherhotelbacolod. com), make for ideal bases.

Go food tripping! Order the salpicao and chicken pesto at Pepe’s Restaurant and dig into a corned beef steak at Wamba’s Bistro. Both are on Lacson Street. Head to Negros Showroom for souvenir shopping.

SALES & RESERVATIONS OFFICE Door D RamadaGoodwill Bldg. Rizal Avenue Ext., Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines T: +63.48.433.6379 F: +63.48.434.1174 M:+63.917.826.9989

Nicky Ramos businesswoman/traveler

DID YOU KNOW?

ILOILO WAS ONCE CALLED IRONG-IRONG, AFTER THE BORNEAN DATU, PAIBURONG .

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www.daluyonbeachandmountainresort.com inquire@daluyonresort.com

out s mar tt hi eves .

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philippines trip journal

San Jose

Caticlan

SAN JOSE IMAGE: FERDZ DECENA: CATICLAN IMAGE: LESTER LEDESMA

Area code 43 Touchdown San Jose Airport Get to town via tricycle

Aroma Family Hotel and Resort Complex has modern amenities and is located near the airport (Airport Rd, Brgy San Roque). If you have more time, take a trip to Ambulong Island or Grace Island and just bask in the beauty of nature. Check out Ligad Visual Arts & Print Shop for unique souvenirs.

Area code 36 Touchdown Godofredo P. Ramos (Caticlan) Airport Get to town via tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port then boat ride to Boracay Island

While in Boracay, try helmet diving and scuba diving.

Or book an island-hopping tour and go snorkeling, too.

Recharge at Lemon Café and choose from its wide selection of coffees and cakes. Or buy a chori burger from a vendor on the shore and enjoy it with a cool drink from Jonah’s.

Marco Stadler student

Joanne U. Tugade cashier

DID YOU KNOW?

MT IGLIT NATIONAL PARK CAN BE REACHED THROUGH SAN JOSE. THIS IS THE SANCTUARY FOR BUBALUS MINDORENSIS OR THE TAMARAW.

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philippines trip journal

Cebu

Area code 36 Touchdown Kalibo International Airport Get to town via tricycle

Area code 32 Touchdown Mactan-Cebu International Airport Get to town via taxi, multi-cab, van

La Esperanza Hotel on Osmeña Ave is a convenient place to stay.

It’s on a block with bus and van terminals and is a five- to 10-minute drive from the airport. Try the famous liempo (pork belly) at Ramboy’s Lechonan and Restaurant (Toting Reyes St).

Take a road trip to Oslob to swim with the whale sharks.

Also, explore Camotes, Malapascua, Virgin and Bantayan Islands. When on Malapascua Island, book a room at Tepanee Beach Resort (info@tepanee.com) and dine at Amihan. Try the carpaccio di barracuda.

Rachelle Dayne Cleope

Licelyn Labrador business analyst/website administrator

product content writer

DID YOU KNOW?

CEBU’S CARBON MARKET IS SO NAMED BECAUSE THE PLACE WHERE IT’S LOCATED WAS ONCE THE TERMINUS OF A RAILWAY LINE, AN AREA WHERE COAL WAS SOLD AND STORED.

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KALIBO & CEBU IMAGES: LESTER LEDESMA

Kalibo

philippines trip journal

Roxas

Davao

ROXAS IMAGE: SAMUEL DE LEON; DAVAO IMAGE: LESTER LEDESMA

Area code 36 Touchdown Roxas City Airport Get to town via tricycle, taxi

Rent a pump boat to go snorkeling around Mantalinga. If you have a whole day to spare, head to the island barangay of Olotayan and have a picnic on one of its white-sand beaches. Ask at the beachfront restaurants or resorts for available bangkeros.

Tanya Conlu

Area code 82 Touchdown Davao International Airport Get to town via taxi, bus, van, jeepney

Bring out the adventurer in you by going on a day tour at Eden Nature Park (edennaturepark.com. ph), where you can test your skills on obstacle courses and brave the zipline and the skycycle. Catch your own lunch at the ďŹ shing garden.

Taryn Navarro student

conservationist

DID YOU KNOW?

THE PEARL FARM BEACH RESORT, TUCKED IN A SECLUDED COVE ON SAMAL ISLAND, NEAR DAVAO CITY, WAS ONCE A PLACE FOR CULTIVATING PEARLS.

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philippines trip journal

Dipolog

DIPOLOG IMAGE: FERDZ DECENA; OZAMIZ & CAGAYAN DE ORO IMAGES: LESTER LEDESMA

Area code 65 Touchdown Dipolog Airport Get to town via motorcab, hotel van

Ozamiz

Cagayan de Oro

Area code 88 Touchdown Ozamiz Airport (Labo Airport) Get to town via motorcycle

Treat yourself to good eats at 7 Treasures Asian Cuisine Restaurant. After dinner, unwind at Tonino’s Resto and Wine Bar. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will have fun at Cogon Eco-Tourism Park, where you can ride an allterrain vehicle or go on a nature walk.

Pay tribute to the Lady of Good Voyage at the Ozamiz fort known as Cotta.

Swim with the dolphins, feed fish and snorkel at Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park and climb Bucagan Hill to get a bird’s-eye view of the city and Panguil Bay. Dine at Hukad restaurant at the Royal Garden.

Rhey Davie Magdayao

Milagros T. Castanos

IT/freelance photographer

Freelance writer and science editor

Area code 88 Touchdown Laguindingan International Airport Get to town via shuttle, motorela, jeepney, taxi

Check out Stargate Dream Vacation and Resort, where you can go hiking or horseback riding through the forest and try riverbank trekking. Then go on a food trip. Kagay-Anon near Limketkai Mall serves terrific Filipino cuisine.

Also, dine at the best seafood restaurant in town, Red Tail.

Nadia P. H. Nassef programme assistant

EXPERIENCE A LIFE UNCOMMON Century

The Residences at Commonwealth by

www.commonwealthbycentury.com

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philippines trip journal

Pagadian

PAGADIAN IMAGE: SAMUEL DE LEON; ZAMBOANGA & CAMIGUIN IMAGES: LESTER LEDESMA

Area code 62 Touchdown Pagadian Domestic Airport Get to town via tricycle, habal-habal

Find adventure at Alindahaw Lakeview Resort in Lakewood, Zamboanga del Sur, just an hour from Pagadian.

Don’t miss Big J Grill House Steak & Seafood on Rizal Avenue. There’s also Yammy’s Seafood Grill on FS Pajares Ave. Ronald Von D. Rivera OIC-chief administrative officer

Zamboanga

Area code 62 Touchdown Zamboanga International Airport Get to town via van, tricycle, taxi, jeepney

Visit Fort Pilar and light candles for all your petitions. Then trek to Merloquet Falls or go spelunking at Salaan Cave or Manicahan Cave. Here you’ll find blind white fish that evolved to survive in total darkness along with amazing stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Camiguin

Area code 88 Touchdown Camiguin airport Get to town via motorela, tricycle

See Katibawasan Falls, Sunken Cemetery, Ardent Hot Spring and White Island.

Go snorkeling in the waters around Mantigue Island.

You’ll see a big reef that’s home to a staggering array of marine creatures. Head downtown to buy a famous and delicious Vjandep pastel.

Caroline C. Fabian, MD, MPH

Arvie Perreras

medical intern

secretary

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philippines trip journal

Dumaguete

TAGBILARAN IMAGE: LESTER LEDESMA; COTABATO IMAGE: FERDZ DECENA

Area code 35 Touchdown Dumaguete (Sibulan) Airport Get to town via taxi, tricycle

Visit the tourism office at Sidlakan Negros or Quezon Park and ask for details on dolphin watching with a stopover at the sand bars in Manjuyod. You can also go snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming with the turtles or just laze around on the white beaches at Apo Island and Danjugan Island.

Hazel Neri Fernando executive admin staff

Tagbilaran

Area code 38 Touchdown Tagbilaran Airport Get to town via taxi, tricycle

Visit the sights, such as the Chocolate Hills, Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park, Tarsier Conservation Area and Baclayon Church.

Then at night, stroll along Panglao Beach, where you’ll find an assortment of grilled seafood and other treats.

Visit Aproniana Gift Shop for souvenir items and local delicacies.

Dezzy Villanueva OFW

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Cotabato

Area code 64 Touchdown Awang (Cotabato) Airport Get to town via tricycle, multicab/ jeepney

See the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Masjid, which is also known as the Grand Mosque of Cotabato.

It is the largest mosque in the Philippines and was funded by Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei Darussalam. Also, check out Tamontaka Church, the city’s oldest.

Oliver Ibot Esmundo, RN knowledge management assistant

philippines trip journal

Area code 85 Touchdown Bancasi Airport Get to town via jeep, multicab

Visit St Joseph Cathedral, Butuan National Museum and Balanghai Shrine, Bunawan Ecopark and Wildlife Preservation Center and Delta Discovery Park. Also, take a cruise on the Agusan River or climb Mt Mayapay.

Try the chicken barbecue at Tatay’s Inato Grills N’ Restaurant.

General santos

Area code 83 Touchdown General Santos International Airport Get to town via taxi, van, hotel shuttle

Try your hand at boxing at the Pacman Wild Card Gym, right in front of SM City Gensan. Or be mesmerized by the queue for the daily tuna catch at Gensan Fishport. Satisfy your hunger at Grab-ACrab Restaurant. Order the spicy crab and crab rice.

Maria Cora C. Tito

Tawi-Tawi

Area code 68 Touchdown Sanga-Sanga airport Get to town via tricycle, car rental

Climb Bud Bongao and make a side trip to Simunul Island.

Also, visit the famous Panglima Sugala Golden Masjid in Bato-Bato, just an hour over land from Bongao. Got more time? Take a side trip to Panampangan Island in Banaran, about three hours away by motor launch.

city tourism officer

Catherine Estiaga

Faiza S. Asri

R&D officer

barangay chairwoman

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BUTUAN IMAGE: FERDZ DECENA; GENERAL SANTOS IMAGE: LESTER LEDESMA; TAWI-TAWI IMAGE: SAMUEL DE LEON

Butuan

philippines trip journal

Area code 86 Touchdown Sayak Airport Get to town via van, motorbike rental

Surigao

Tandag

Area code 86 Touchdown Surigao Airport Get to town via multicab

Area code 86 Touchdown Tandag City Airport Get to town via tricycle

It really feels like home at Turtle Surf Camp (General Luna). It offers rentals along with surf, kite and paddleboarding lessons. Visit Sohoton Cave and swim with the stingless jellyfish, or better yet, head to the other side of the island where you can take a dip at Taktak Falls.

Head to Enchanted River in Brgy Talisay, Hinatuan. Visit the Britania Islands in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur and go island hopping while there. Stay at an apartelle in Florland Resort (Bislig City). Dine at International Doll House & Ocean View Park Restaurant, which has good food and a great view of the ocean.

Have dinner at the Boulevard, where the view of the bay is wonderful. Get some great barbecue starting at 5pm and enjoy the breezes.

Buy pusô (rice in coconut leaves) and eat with your bare hands. For dessert, try the special halo-halo at Goldbar, also at the Boulevard.

Shang Gumban

Heide Casio-Noga

Aleah Taboclaon

volunteer nurse

AP analyst

blogger

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SURIGAO AND TANDAG IMAGES: LESTER LEDESMA

Siargao

airline news UPDATES FROM CEBU PACIFIC AIR

CEB BAGS LCC OF THE YEAR AWARD Leading aviation think tank, Centre for Aviation (CAPA) recognized Cebu Pacific Air as the Asia-Pacific Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) of the Year, in the CAPA Aviation Awards for Excellence in Singapore held last month.

“Our LCC of the Year has endured a tumultuous period in its home market, but maintained its focus and had the highest operating profit margin in the Asian airline industry,” said CAPA Executive Chairman Peter Harbison.

“The carrier has launched a long-haul operation which

strategically improves its long-term position by opening up new markets, while quickly responding to the challenges in this segment,” he added.

CAPA also cited CEB’s alliance with the Tigerair group, and its ability to adapt as competition intensifies. It was also able to turn around Tigerair Philippines, which is now also profitable.

The think tank also recognized CEB’s focus on its home market, and its rapid but scalable expansion that does not come with excessive aircraft orders and capacity.

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“The Cebu Pacific team is honored to be recognized by CAPA. We will continue to approach growth conservatively and responsibly in order to build a sustainable airline business.

Ultimately, this sustainability will allow us to expand to more destinations, making our low fares available to more people,” said CEB President and CEO Lance Gokongwei.

Turn the page for more news from Cebu Pacific >

airline news

TERMINAL FEE NOW INCLUDED IN CEB TICKETS

More flights to the Visayas

Fly to Roxas via Cebu Pacific

Cebu Pacific Air boosts flight options to the Visayas, with additional flights bound for Bacolod, Cebu and Roxas in the 4th quarter of this year.

From October 9 to December 3, passengers can choose from 13 weekly flights (up from seven) between Manila and Roxas, and from

to and from the Visayas. We believe that air travel brings convenient accessibility not just for the tourism sector, but also for the business sector,” said CEB VP for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.

In the Visayas, CEB also flies to Caticlan, Dumaguete, Kalibo, Iloilo, Tacloban and Tagbilaran.

128 weekly flights (up from 114) between Manila and Cebu.

Those with plans to travel between Manila and Bacolod can choose from 49 weekly flights (up from 42), from October 26 to December 3, 2014.

“CEB continues to study opportunities to stimulate travel

CEB NOW FLIES TO RIYADH AND DAMMAM, SAUDI ARABIA After the launch of Riyadh and Dammam flights last October 1 and 4, respectively, Cebu Pacific Air has become the only low-cost carrier flying between the Philippines and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Flights from Manila to Riyadh depart at 5:05pm (Manila time) and arrive in Riyadh at 11:35pm (Riyadh time) every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

Starting October 1, the NAIA terminal fee of 550 has been included into CEB tickets.

The Manila International Airport Authority implemented the integration to make traveling from Manila more convenient.

The scheme will still honor passengers exempt from paying the terminal fee, including infants and overseas Filipino workers. Exempted passengers who paid the terminal fee on tickets issued or re-issued on or after October 1 should proceed to refund counters located after immigration counters on the date of their departure, or at the MIAA Admin building upon arrival.

Dammam

Flights from Riyadh to Manila depart at 12:45am (Riyadh time) and arrive in Manila at 3:40pm (Manila time) every Monday, Thursday and Saturday.

Meanwhile, CEB started operating thrice weekly, nonstop flights between Manila and Dammam last October 4.

CEB’s Dammam service departs Manila every Monday, Thursday and Saturday

at 9:55pm, and arrives in Dammam at 2:40am the next day. The return flight departs

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Dammam every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday at 4:10am, and arrives in Manila at 6:35pm.

A joyful holiday awaits in Singapore

CEB SUPPORTS BIMP-EAGA CONFERENCE IN DAVAO Cebu Pacific Air was the official airline partner of the 2nd BIMP-EAGA and IMT-GT Trade Fair and Business Leaders’ Conference 2014. Business players from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand converged in Davao City for a series of sub-events designed to strengthen economic, social, and cultural relations in preparation for the ASEAN integration in 2015.

“CEB is proud to be the official airline partner

PHOTOS BY STB (SINGAPORE); WORLD ENERGY CITIES PARTNERSHIP (DAMMAM); SAMUEL DE LEON (ROXAS)

Celebrate Christmas in Singapore Usher in the season of giving by indulging your loved ones in Singapore.

Enjoy romantic dinners at award-winning restaurants with cuisines ranging from Mod-Sin, Asian Fusion to Continental. Then take a stroll along Orchard Road to experience Christmas on A Great Street. Look out for the MasterCard Christmas Rewards promotion and use this opportunity to surprise your loved ones with an early Christmas present.

Round off the night bar-

hopping around the many cocktail and rooftop bars along Clarke Quay, Singapore River and Robertson Quay with interesting mixes of drinks playing on local flavors as you cherish these special moments.

Get a head start on the celebrations by flashing your Cebu Pacific boarding passes at selected hotels and iconic attractions to enjoy special discounts and rates until December 31, 2014.

Visit www.cebupacificair.com/ html/hot-deals.html and www.

YourSingapore.com/PH

of this event, as the region comes together to discuss important developmental issues. We remain invested in boosting tourism and trade in all the destinations we fly to, and continue to work with government and private partners for a competitive region,” said Candice Iyog, Vice President for Marketing and Distribution.

BIMP-EAGA stands for Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia the Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area, while the IMT-GT stands for Indonesia Malaysia Thailand Growth Triangle.

BRINGING CULTURES TOGETHER Cebu Pacific Air was the official airline partner of the 2nd Katutubo Exchange (KX) last August. It flew delegates from various ethnic groups around the Philippines, including the Mamanwa of Surigao, the Manobo and Bagobo of Davao, the T’boli of South Cotabato and the Kankanaey and Yapayao of Ilocos Norte, to Manila, where they visited schools

CEB, ISRAAID HELP REBUILD LIVES AFTER YOLANDA CEB continues to lend its support to IsraAID, a non-profit NGO helping those affected by Typhoon Yolanda.

IsraAID deployed a team of medical professionals, post-trauma experts and specialists, to help rebuild Ormoc in Leyte, one of the hardest hit areas. It also offered mental health and psycho-social services to help survivors cope with post-traumatic stress, and conducts post-trauma training courses for teachers, health workers, volunteers, and firefighters to increase their capacity to understand the impact of trauma and utilize expressive arts for basic psychosocial intervention.

“There is still a lot of work to be done and we can use all the help we can get. We’re fortunate to have the support of private companies such as Cebu Pacific,” said Adva Vilchinski, IsraAID Country Director for the Philippines.

“Their assistance was very crucial for us, allowing us to cut the airfare costs of our team. This allowed us to appropriate our funds well and reach more people in need.” www.israaid. org.il

and government offices, and showcased their indigenous culture through songs and dances.

The Katutubo Exchange Organization, founded by Dr Edwin Antonio, conducts the Katutubo Exchange Program to promote and raise the awareness of the public towards the indigenous cultures of the Philippines, and to provide the participants new learning experiences.

KX delegates in Rizal Park

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Where to next

Asia Beijing KUWAIT

Middle East

Incheon

KOREA

JAPAN Narita

Busan

Osaka Nagoya

Dammam Dubai Riyadh Shanghai SAUDI ARABIA

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES OMAN

CHINA

Taipei

Xiamen

VIETNAM

Guangzhou Macau

TAIWAN

Hong Kong

Hanoi

CLARK

THAILAND

MANILA

CAMBODIA

THE PHILIPPINES

Siem Reap

Bangkok

KALIBO Ho Chi Minh City

CEBU ILOILO

VIETNAM Phuket Kota Kinabalu

MALAYSIA

Bandar Seri Begawan

BRUNEI

Kuala Lumpur

SINGAPORE Singapore

INDONESIA Jakarta

MAP LEGEND

Denpasar

Cebu Pacific hub City with Airport Cebu Pacific Flight Cebu Pacific New Flight Operated by both Cebu Pacific and Tiger Philippines (DG)

Sydney

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Laoag

Tuguegarao

Cauayan

The Philippines CLARK MANILA

Naga

Virac

Legazpi

San Jose Busuanga

Caticlan KALIBO Roxas Tacloban

ILOILO

Bacolod CEBU

Tagbilaran

Surigao

Puerto Princesa

Siargao

Camiguin

Dumaguete

Tandag Butuan

Cagayan de Oro

Dipolog Ozamiz Pagadian

Cotabato

DAVAO

Zamboanga

General Santos

Tawi-Tawi

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Onboard treats

Hot meals Available only on international ďŹ&#x201A;ights

ON SHORT-HAUL FLIGHTS PHP350 each

Chicken Inasal

Beef Teriyaki

Baked Mac

Grilled slices of chicken marinated in a special mixture of calamansi, pepper, vinegar and annatto. Best paired with pickled green papaya (achara) and soy sauce.

Beef strips grilled in a glaze of soy sauce, sake and sugar. Topped with toasted sesame seeds.

Penne pasta cooked al dente, tossed with a special sauce made up of tomatoes, ground beef and chicken ham. Topped with melted cheese.

Paired with parmesan breadsticks.

ON LONG-HAUL FLIGHTS PHP500 each with dessert

Korean Sweet & Spicy Chicken

Beef Pastel

Pasta Marinara

Breaded chicken coated with a special blend of sweet and spicy sauce.

Beef cubes with mushrooms, potatoes and carrots, cooked in a rich, creamy sauce.

Penne pasta tossed in ďŹ&#x201A;avorful marinara sauce.

Topped with parmesan cheese. Paired with parmesan breadsticks.

FILIPINO classics Beef Caldereta

Bistek Tagalog

Filipino-style beef stew in a rich tomato sauce, with carrots and potatoes.

Beef strips cooked in a medley of soy sauce, calamansi and onions.

Chicken Adobo

Chicken Barbecue

Filipino-staple dish simmered in a balanced mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic and peppercorns.

Chicken chunks cooked in a savory barbecue sauce.

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SAVORY snacks Ham & Cheese Croissant PHP100

Eat fresh!

Our light, flaky croissant with slices of ham and cheese is sure to satisfy your cravings!

Tuna Roll PHP80 Creamy tuna enveloped in soft bread and topped with chopped parsley.

Chicken Asado Pan de Ulam PHP80 A Filipino favorite, this soft bun is filled with chicken asado cooked Kapampangan style.

Pizza Supreme Roll PHP80 Soft bun filled with bacon, mushroom, cream cheese and pepperoni sauce and topped with toasted sesame seeds.

Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Sandwich PHP180 Fresh sandwich made with sliced grilled chicken, bell peppers and tomatoes in a tangy pesto sauce.

SWEET treats

QUICK bites

Cheese Roll PHP80 Cheese-filled soft bread frosted with creamed butter sugar.

Nova PHP50

Mini Choco Chip Cookies PHP100

Chippy PHP50

Bite-size chocolate chip cookies

White Chocolate and Cranberry Muffin PHP100 NEW Moist muffin with chunks of white chocolate and dried cranberry bits

HEARTY meals Nissin Cup Noodles PHP80 (seafood/beef/chicken) Shin/Shrimp Big Bowl PHP150

!

Caution: Our cup noodles are served with piping hot water.

Please be extra careful when having them.

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Piattos PHP50 Dried Mangoes PHP200

Onboard treats

Drinks

HOT drinks Café Mocha PHP80 Creamy Dark Chocolate PHP80 Brewed Coffee PHP80 Instant White Coffee PHP40 Twinings Hot Teas PHP50 NEW ( English Breakfast/Jasmine Green Tea/ Camomile & Spearmint)

COLD drinks Mineral Water PHP50 Chuckie Chocolate Milk Drink PHP50 Vitamilk Soy Milk PHP30 Minute Maid Pulpy Juice PHP50 (orange) C2 Flavored Green Tea PHP30 (apple/lemon) Canned Soda PHP50 (Pepsi/Pepsi Max/7-Up/ Mountain Dew NEW ) Mogu Mogu PHP50 (lychee/coconut) Gatorade PHP50 (red/blue) Iced Milk Tea PHP100 (taro/wintermelon/thai)

ALCOHOLIC drinks Asahi Super Dry Beer PHP150 San Miguel Beer PHP100 (pale pilsen/light) Yellow Tail Wines PHP200 (chardonnay/shiraz/merlot)

PLEASE NOTE: • Items may vary depending on the route • Subject to available stock • Goods sold are not refundable • We accept foreign currency — please ask the cabin crew.

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Onboard merchandise

NEW

Travel essentials Wandersky Luggage Cover PHP1,200

NEW

Available in different designs Available in International Flights lights Only Onnly Destinations Compressible Tote PHP220

Parachute Backpack PHP500 Available in different designs

Paclite Messenger er Bag PHP220

NEW NEW

CEB Cup & Cover PHP250 ONBOARD by Nov 15

Selfie-Ready Stick PHP400 Available in Black & Pink

Kids Shirt PHP200

Paclite Overnighter PHP330

Lagu Beach Blanket PHP999 (sand repellent)

Can fit any 2 or 4 wheel luggage with 19 – 22 inches height.

Sporty Eyewear PHP180

Towelite Beach Towel PHP695

CEB Chubby Puzzle Plane PHP350

CEB Fun Blanket PHP350

CEB Stuffed Toy PHP350

Ceb Siesta Kit PHP280

A320 Die-Cast Plane PHP550

*Every pair comes with a soft case

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TRAVEL HARDCORE

For those who take traveling very seriously. By Manix Abrera

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Award-winning projects. Visionary developments. Excellence and innovation.

For more than 28 years, Century Properties has been one of Asian real estate’s brightest stars, with a solid reputation for building some of the most groundbreaking developments in the Philippines with the essential mix of only the most upscale of locations, cutting-edge lifestyle concepts, and award-winning property management services.

We invite you to invest in truly special and prime real estate from our current roster of Century developments.

The first and only MissoniHome-branded residence in the world at Acqua Private Residences

AZURE URBAN RESORT RESIDENCES

COMMONWEALTH BY CENTURY

The country’s first ever residential project with its very own man-made beach and a beach club designed by global celebrity designer and icon Paris Hilton.

The first development that brings Century Properties’ much heralded expertise and reputation to the Quezon City market and will redefine the standards of condo living in the bustling Commonwealth district.

(632) 818-9041 • (63) 917-5555-274 • www.century-properties.com Authorized to sell by HLURB – Acqua Livingstone: LTS No. 26972 • Azure: LTS Nos. 24077, 24076, 26378, 25655, 26396, 26395, 26379, 27016 and 28491. Commonwealth: LTS# 28528, 28530, 28529, 28611, TLTS# 12-08-042, 13-01-003, 13-01-004, 12-12-073. The images and details shown herein are intended for illustration purposes only. Acqua Private Residences is located directly across the Makati CBD and Power Plant Mall via the Estrella-Pantaleon bridge.