World Bistro

Yamazaki Grocery and Restaurant

2011-11-04T07:52:00.001-07:00

Was at my favorite hole-in-the-wall value for money Japanese eatery at Little Tokyo -- Yamazaki.

I discovered it through a high school friend who lived in the area a few years ago. Its a great place for the happy tummy, happy wallet combo, with take home groceries too.

Tonight, service was even better than the last few times I was there. I had dinner with two friends who haven't eaten there before and the waitstaff were very patient in explaining all the dishes and inclusions. They usually give a menu and Japanese and just provide the menu with pictures when requested.

As usual, I ordered my favorite grilled salmon, which came with miso soup, rice, tofu, cabbage and pickled chicken and root vegetables. All of that for 195p. I also couldn't skip the gyoza (75p) and all three of us shared a cup of green tea ice cream (95p) from the grocery.

My friends are definitely coming back!

Ma Maison in Manila

2011-11-02T05:20:00.001-07:00

Ever since I saw construction begin at Greenbelt 2, I've been looking forward to the opening of Ma Maison. It claims to be a western Japanese restaurant.

The entree usually featured in their posters is the Tonkatsu, which is a breaded pork cutlet. It is traditionally served with brown sauce and a cabbage salad with sesame dressing.

I've always liked Tonkatsu. As a child who treated Sanrio as a saint, my parents often took me to Tokyo, Tokyo, where I had my favorite triple T: Tonkatsu, tempura and tofu.

As I got older, I ate healthier and forgot about Tonkatsu until I ate at Saboten in Bangkok recently. Saboten specializes in cutlets but serve more than just pork. They had several pork cuts and even had salmon and beef if I remember correctly. If there's salmon, I forget everything.

What set Saboten different from Ma Maison is that the former had unlimited cabbage salad, miso soup, rice and tea together with the cutlet. At Ma Maison, there was no soup, they only had one kind of pork cutlet with a literal siding if cabbage and potato salad. Yes, the drink is separate too. All of that for less than 500p.

What's good about Ma Maison is the size of the cutlet. It's huge. Think serving size of italliani's or Krazy Garlik since they are all part of one company. Taste is fine. If you haven't tried Saboten, one will likely come back.

There are lots of other interesting dishes that do not seem French nor Japanese to me but are worth coming back for.

Travel 2011

2011-10-16T03:57:00.000-07:00

Since last month, I've been itching to travel all because my birthday's coming up, my weekends are supposed to vanish, and my last trip was August 2011. But I don't have any companions, those who are free don't have money, and I was not free when those who had money were going to travel.

About a month on, no surprise trip coming along yet. About four days ago, a friend said we can meet up in Milan for a weekend, another just sent me a message today that I can spend a few days in Bratislava, and the following weekend in Prague with friends. But dear friend can't go to Milan anymore so there's no point going to Prague and Bratislava. All other destinations seem to be too expensive or I've been there already. I do not want to travel alone.

So to pacify my deprived soul, here are a few snapshots of the places I've been to outside Manila this year. For others, it may seem a lot, but for people like me, this list needs to be longer. Not to sound ungrateful but, who said it's wrong to make the most out of life?

Coco Beach, Mindoro

Nagsasa Cove, Zambales

Typhoon Bebeng-ed Out in Donsol, Sorsogon

Endless stopovers in Istanbul

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Baku, Azerbaijan

Prague, Czech Republic

Frankfurt, Germany

Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam

Somewhere in Viet Nam, I forgot. I'm a bad traveller. :P

Mekong Delta, Viet Nam

Bangkok, Thailand

And that's all for now, as of August 2011. Rest of the year, surprise me with a trip, please? I've lowered my standards. A local trip would suffice. But please, not alone.

Japanese Fine Dining

2011-10-09T00:12:00.001-07:00

My family loves Japanese food and we can eat at Japanese restaurants consecutively every time we're out. This weekend, we went to Kimpura, one of the oldest traditional Japanese restaurants in Manila. It's been around for more than three decades.

During this visit, we had the sirloin and seafood teppenyaki, a sashimi platter, a mango and kani salad, some soft-shelled crabs and cold green tea noodles.

It's generally pricier than most restaurants but what you get at Kimpura is absolute service by a real institution. :)

Brunch

2011-10-09T00:05:00.001-07:00

It's a lazy rainy sunday and we're all just hanging out at home. We bought bacon for the first time in years yesterday and brunch was a great excuse to have a little luxury.

We prepared homemade wheat waffles with bacon bits, smoked Edam and some fruit jam.

Simple joys!

Southeast Asia by Rail

2011-10-06T02:42:00.000-07:00

I've always been a fan of trains may it be intra-continental ones, within a country, the classic tram or the modern metro above or underground.

Been through a number of train rides across Europe and now that I am trying to think of the most memorable one, each one seems to stand out. What I remember most between the ride between Vienna and Prague was the extreme change of scenery from the "wild" looking plants in the Czech Republic and the suddenly seemingly "orderly" flaura growing along the tracks in Austria. Then there was this beautiful border town along Usti nad Labem between Prague and Dresden. Just love little villages along the river. And once on a train between Berlin and Amsterdam, I remember how industrial and flat the view was. Just seemed to be an endless view of meadows with the occasional factory until you slowly see the windmills and irrigation tracks. Then there was the underground tram ride in Budapest -- the oldest of them lot for posterity purposes.

Yet one trip I will not forget is the one between Antwerp and Rotterdam. It had the dullest scenery of all train rides I've had yet the most luxurious seats. Cherry and purple velvet cushions with tables like that of a first class plane ride. I was on the way to Rotterdam to have dinner with a friend after killing time in Antwerp for a few hours. I was so excited and eager to go to Rottderam that I boarded the wrong train -- the Thalys train from Paris. And I don't remember the ride because of the velvet seats. I remember it because of the EUR 55 fine I had to pay for a trip that lasted less than an hour for boarding the wrong train. Too much excitement is bad! Thankfully, my dear friend treated me to a Japanese buffet in Rotterdam. :)

So there it is, my occasional brush with trains. A few weeks ago, I did some metro rail exploring with my sister around Manila and was surprised with the convenience of going around the city. We have about three rail lines in Manila, all of them awkwardly connected requiring long walks among them. I often take the line along EDSA -- the city's main road but rarely the latest line -- LRT 2 and never took the oldest line -- LRT 1 until a few weeks ago. LRT 1 goes to all the historic districts and it's amusing that all the stops are marked by landmarks within the area. It's too bad though that it's only plastered on the train's ceiling and not found on the website nor distributed as a rail map at any of the stations. When the weather is good, I want to come back and explore.

But what really got me excited today is finding out that Southeast Asia is pretty much connected by rail and I can go all the way to Bangkok from Singapore and see a few Malaysian cities along the way. Yay! (See this link.) Despite my airline background, I love travelling by train. It always goes through scenic routes, there's no traffic, you can walk around and it always begins and ends at the city center. All those good things make me forget that I have to carry my things up and down platforms.

I've never travelled in Southeast Asia by train nor alone and knowing this fact gives me a slight comfort that it can be done safely and enjoyably!

Dim Sum at Luk Yuen

2011-05-04T07:35:00.000-07:00

Before having dinner at a Singaporean restaurant the other night, I had some dim sum with T and D. Dim sum is like small portions of food usually steamed, fried and sometimes broiled earliest associated with drinking tea among travelers along the Old Silk Road (which can extend from China all the way to Turkey).

Our Dim Sum place of choice in Makati was Luk Yuen. We weren't planning to eat much, just a merienda, which is really just a light-in-between snack that most Filipinos have.

While waiting for them, I was served some crunchy and salty fried wanton wrappers as I ordered a serving of taro puffs. Taro puffs is my ultimate dim sum favorite and I only like it from Luk Yuen. It's fried mashed taro with minced pork filling. It's just always so divine with the chilli sauce. The only taro puff better than Luk Yuen is at the Mandarin Oriental's Tin Hau restaurant. Now that is very high end.

When they arrived, we ordered a serving of radish cake and hakaw (shrimp dumplings). They weren't the very best we've had but were good complements to the taro puffs and hot tea. The wait staff were even generous enough to give us hot soup. All in all, total bill was under US$7.00. Such a gastronomic bargain!

Working Class Foodies

2011-05-04T05:27:00.000-07:00

My dear blogger-friend recommended Working Class Foodies over the weekend and now I am addicted! "Siblings Rebecca and Max Lando, her dogs, and friends and family, on a quest to find the best local and seasonal ingredients the city has to offer, and turn them into delicious meals - all while keeping the budget under $8/person." Check out this video.

I'd do the same from time to time and if only I had video cam of sorts. Maybe a little project D and I can do at home. And we've got a dog too, Chewie. :)

Capones Island and Nagsasa Cove

2011-05-04T05:10:00.000-07:00

Although I am from Zambales, I never really heard of Capones Island and Nagsasa Cove until a week before I joined some friends for a weekend off. I was familiar with Anawangin and was intrigued: how could the beaches have pine trees?

It had been a long first quarter of 2011, with three trips cancelled so far, I decided, I was not gonna flake on this one. I almost did but I was persuaded to show up, and thank God, I did! For roughly US$58, all we had to do was show up at the meeting point in Quezon City, and we were driven away from the city for a weekend. This rate included private roundtrip transport from Manila, meals at the cove (2 lunches, one breakfast, one dinner and one merienda), the tents we slept at, the service and humor of the tour group we hired.

We left Manila around 4am and stopped at Jollibee in Olongapo for breakfast (own account) and by 8am, we were already on board a boat en route to Capones Island. The highlight of the island is the lighthouse from the Spanish period perched on top. It was a quick but challenging hike to reach the top, if you were like me who took the short cut (through rocks and boulders instead of the concrete steps). And it surely was worth it. The views were breathtaking, I've never been to Batanes but it seriously felt like we were in Batanes. Cliffs against the sea as far as your eyes can see. It was Batanes meets Ilocos. The light house was poorly maintained and since the spiral staircase was shaky and the top was too crowded, we just enjoyed the scenery below and tooked some photos.

Then off we were to a 45-minute boat ride to Nagsasa Cove. It is probably four or five coves farther than Anawangin. When we got there, lunch was waiting. Most of us were too sleepy that lunch just came and went. We just laid out our malongs on the sand and slept after eating. Buhay baboy. The sand was so soft and the trees just gave ample shade between the tents and the huts. And yes, there was a concrete toilet and shower with locked doors.

Dessert was halo-halo with ice shaved on the spot. A few took a dip in the sea, while some of us stayed on talking and drinking. What a relaxing afternoon. And dinner was just as quick. Chatting under the stars and the full moon, again our malongs on the sand was futile in the end. Our sleeping bags were calling.

Come morning, the inevitable walk around the cove to take pictures and swim. And for now, I will just let the pictures do the talking. Pine trees, mountains, sun, sand, sea and sky. Pure weekend bliss.

At Work or Not

2011-04-14T19:03:00.000-07:00

I should not be blogging but I suddenly have free time at work. And below is a cartoon I received from my work e-mail a few weeks back: Work-Life Integration. Indeed the boundaries for both have blurred in my life and I am thankful that the dots are connecting bit by bit. It would be delightful for work and life to be integrated --- doing what I love and enjoying every bit of it. But sometimes, it's just too much. Then I wish, I need Work-Life Balance. Again.

Coco Beach

2011-03-07T06:47:00.000-08:00

Began 2011 with a quick escape at Coco Beach thanks to a Bank holiday. Here, you can enjoy happy hour by the beach, grab some books from their multi-lingual library, delight in generous seafood and carnivorous calories, have a massage and forget that some staff can make your stay less than idyllic. Despite the rustic rooms, which foreigners apparrently prefer, it's all good in Coco Beach. I wouldn't mind going back.

Lavenda Cafe

2011-03-07T05:28:00.000-08:00

Another enjoyable lunch captured through my camphone. Was out having lunch with M and V in Makati last weekend. It was raining and instead of crossing over to Greenbelt under the rain, I suggested Lavenda Cafe along Benavidez Street in Legaspi Village.

This cafe has been around for almost a year now and has been my go-to place for comfort food either on the way home or by delivery. For me, it's Japanese food next door. They've got nourishing ramens that take away all the illness keeping you in bed; sushi and sashimi platters that make you want to have with some sparkling wine; and my favorite bento pictured above -- tempura bento for only PhP180. It comes with three pieces of shrimp, some veggies, kimchi, half an egg, some sashimi (salmon and squid this time), and some miso soup on the side. They also serve some Italian food, cakes and alcohol even before lunch -- all I have not tried because of my loyalty to their Japanese fare.

Here are some snapshots from food delivered on my birthday. Me and M attended a function with not much food and so ordered the rest to be shared with the rest of the family.

Home-made pizza

2011-03-07T04:23:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, T had a guest, and requested D and I to make some merienda. Merienda is a light snack taken between the major meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner but never after dinner) in the Philippines.With our handy oven toaster, we made pizza with the following: left over pan de sal, store-bought tomato sauce simmered with garlic and dried Italian herbs, some red bell peppers, Greek olives, Czech blue cheese, and Dutch cheddar cheese. It's yummier than it looks!

Strawberry Waffles at Home

2011-03-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my last post was almost six months ago - September! It's been insanely busy since and tonight is the first evening that I actually have nothing much to do. It's just nothing much because it's just checking final exams and papers, and the semester is officially over once those grades are submitted.

Even if I've neglected this blog and had lots of jobs to do, I haven't stopped eating and did a bit of travelling too. For starters, here's some waffles I made at home a few weeks back. Waffles from our local Maya hotcake mix, honey from Palawan, and strawberries from Baguio.

Here's to definitely more posts to come!

Crisps, Crisps, Crisps

2010-09-02T09:20:00.000-07:00

If there's a snack I can have indefinitely, it's chips or in British English, crisps. As a child, Jack 'n Jill barbecue chips and V-cut were my local favorites. The imported Lays and Ruffles would be luxuries (actually, even until now). Of course, there were other kinds of chips like Sun Chips and tortilla chips but nothing comes close to good old potato chips.

Growing up, I very much enjoyed chips homemade style that were previously available at Oliver's Sandwiches. Eventually, I loved the chips at Dome Cafe, which I found out, was actually supplied by my uncle (of Jed an Julian's). I'm talking about chips similar to what is served at Cibo, except that those at Oliver's and Dome Cafe were tastier - as if there were bits of paprika and rock salt.

While living in the Czech Republic, practically every chip brand was heaven. After all, I was in the heart of Europe, potatoes were plenty. My then favorite was Bohemia Chips. That familiar crimson bag just stops time and takes me back to pleasant memories. In my more recent sojourn in the UK, I fell in love with Sensations Crisps. From plain and simple Walkers to the distinct flavours of Sensations chips - lime and Thai spice were my favorite then. Whenever I'd see those large bag of Sensations, I would just dream I can afford them all the time -- they were quite pricey crisps even for those who had work and welfare.

So it's with so much delight that I finally found my new favorite crisps here at home, courtesy of Red Rock Deli. Oh thick, firm, flavourful crisps! I first tried the Lime and Black Pepper and was an immediate fan. Even my dad and sister are addicted. I've compared prices and it's cheapest at Cherry Foodarama (118p), most expensive at SM (148p), and mid-priced at Landmark (130p) more or less last time I checked. I tried the Honey Soy Chicken flavor last week but I found it bland in terms of flavor. If Red Rock's not your thing, there's more in the market now. Got to love Manila for having choices!

Razon's of Guagua

2010-08-24T09:10:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I found myself having late lunch at Razon's of Guagua along Timog Avenue. I was waiting for my dad and as soon as I saw Razon's, my choice for lunch was made. When I think of Razon's, usually the Pancit Luglug, Sisig or the Sizzling Bulalo come to mind. And I normally order the Sizzling Bulalo. But since I was eating alone, that would be too much. And for Php 230 per order (without rice), the Bulalo did not fit my impromptu lunch out. Meanwhile, the Pancit Luglug would be so bitin (definitely not enough) for my healthy appetite. So Sizzling Sisig it is!

Now to order one entire sizzling plate with additional rice or the combo meal which had a reasonable portion of the Sisig with rice and egg? For only PhP140, I opted for the latter and just told the lady at the counter I was going to have water as beverage. Once I said water, the lady directed me to an obscure counter where a water cooler and a stash of glasses were located - clean and dirty glasses next to each other. I requested for my glass to be washed, which a staff thankfully did, got my own water, and found myself a table.

Yes, this is a self-service eatery (so I won't refer to it as a restaurant). Actually, as I will eventually write, Razon's remind me of a fast food chain without service. Perhaps I was just surprised that it was a self-service eatery despite the number of staff present -- there were more staff than diners at any one point -- even if the diners were just there for Halo-halo.

Almost like a fast food restaurant where you go to the counter to order and pay for your food and drinks, the only difference at Razon's is that they bring the food to you, quite quickly actually. And there it was, my Sizzling Sisig with a bright yellow egg sunny side up!

To be honest, I only find the Halo-halo great at Razons's (other diners who came and went while I was there seem to think so too because that's all they ordered) and everything else is just okay. That means it is likely better somewhere else. And that is exactly how I found their Sisig. I very much enjoyed eating Sisig at Grilla, Dencio's, Gerry's or at Aysee's (I wonder if it is still open). So Sisig at Razon's is more for nourishment (if fats can really nourish) than for enjoyment. To redeem the lunch, I should have ordered Halo-Halo. But it was too late, I has to go. And I don't think I'm coming back very soon.

Razon's of Guagua. Unit 11 Timog Commercial Complex. Phone: 3766434/3766545

Still Here!

2010-08-22T08:25:00.000-07:00

Another holiday has passed - Ninoy Aquino's death anniversary - yet it was just a typical Saturday except that people did not have to work. I saw some banners and flowers at the People Power Monument along EDSA yesterday morning and that's about it.

I've been busy the past few months living life - work, family, friends. Even if I did not blog, it does not mean my love for anything food and travel was put on hold. Since the last holiday (Independence Day on June 12) where I took a daytrip to Corregidor Island with some friends to learn more about the 2nd World War in the Philippines, I've been to Hong Kong, Macau, and have been eating out a lot in Manila. Of course, there are heaps of pictures and stories to tell. Someday, you'll see them all here.

But for tonight, I leave you with the August issue of ABS-CBN's Food Magazine. I don't usually buy food magazines but this particular issue caught my eye at Mini Stop one weeknight. Surprisingly, this issue is not much about food as it is about drinks! Aaaaahhh! The August issue is full of thirst quenchers! I'm not talking about fresh fruit drinks but beer, wine and cocktails! And the perfect food to take them with.

FOOD August 2010 Cover

Yummy foreign beers in the market. I particularly want to try some Trappistes beers at Distellery.

And the cocktails, which I will always give up if there's no good brew on offer

Of course, there's the wine I only know by preference
(note to self: attend winetasting lessons soon)

Lastly, there's Turkey -- the country I will visit and discover someday.

Canapes, Beer and the World Cup!

2010-06-12T12:09:00.000-07:00

Canapes can roughly translate to finger food, often served during cocktails. It's just that canapes sound so French and the ones I love are Spanish ones -- stuffed with chorizo and cheese! However they're called, I sometimes have the occasional craving for these salty, flaky, puffed bites from Dulcinea, a mid-prized Spanish chain all over Manila. Although it was Dulcinea staff who referred to these as "canapes" I will not dare call them tapas either. Tapas to me are not made of puff pastry and baked.

After a long day at Corregidor yesterday, without any real delicious food, I came home craving for some "canapes" and Cerveza Negra - a local dark beer. Thankfully, Dulcinea was near enough, and with just 97p per 100 grams, it was certainly easy to give in to my cravings. I chose a box full of cheese twists, one stuffed with ham and cheese, tuna, and chorizo! Yum! With a chilled bottle of beer at 35p at Rustan's next door, I was all set for Argentina vs. Nigeria!

Prichon Wraps

2010-05-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

If you think fried piglet is horribly strange, you are mistaken because that is what exactly Prichon is. In the Philippines, an entire pig is traditionally roasted on open fire called Lechon. But a few years ago, yummy Prichon was born. I must admit, I've only tried it once less than ten years ago at some Spanish restaurant along Jupiter Street (I'm not mentioning the restaurant as it is not the point of this entry) and was not pleased. Then I forgot about Prichon. Lechon was more than fine.

Photo from Charlie's Prichon

Then this morning, on a sudden stroll around Salcedo Market to get a present for our Argentine guest, I re-discovered Pritchon. I, like the rest of my family, love roast duck wraps: roasted duck with some cucumber slivers, spring onions and hoisin sauce wrapped in thin pita bread. It's just a no fail snack we love.

At an average looking booth was a humble sign: Pita Wraps. My apologies for not having pictures, I was there for an errand and not a leisurely walk. Slightly thicker than cheese sticks, it was pritchon bits with cucumber and hoisin wrapped in an almost crepe-like cover. Yummy! salty, sweet, fresh and just right. Except that after my first round of the market, I came back and got another roll. For just 50p, it was a treat!

Philippine Elections 2010

2010-05-12T06:56:00.000-07:00

The festive mood outside our precinct

Being in Manila for the first time during elections since I turned 18 (in 2004, I lived in Prague, and in 2007, I lived in Leeds), I've really been keen to vote this time. After all, it seems that this year, a new President would make a lot of difference, hopefully positive ones.

After queuing for almost a day just to register last year, I was in no mood to lose my chance and be disenfranchised. Last 10 May, my family leisurely went to the voting precinct past 2 in the afternoon. More than a week prior, I already noticed my name missing from COMELEC's online precinct finder. Whatever. I am gonna go and vote.

And when I got to the designated elementary school, a young PPCRV volunteer directed me to the wrong floor (for my precinct) even if I knew already based on the boards outside. She did not check my name, just my precinct # on the stub. Then turns out, my name's not on the voter's list outside the classrooms, the masterlist next to the PICOS machines, the principal's masterlist and the ppcrv computers.

As I absolutely wanted to vote, I went to COMELEC and found out they misspelled my name and placed me in a different barangay. After much checking, somebody had to write the precinct chairman in my correct barangay and precinct to allow me to vote. So despite the hassle, I happily exercised my right to suffrage. Who knows if I will still be able to vote come the next elections?

At the time of writing, Noynoy Aquino has lead the tally with former President Estrada in second place for the top post of the land. Although I did not vote for Noynoy (I voted for Gordon, whom I believe has much more to show for in terms of demonstrated capacity and political will), my vice presidential bet is leading the race despite the controversy as the Liberal bet Mar Roxas has not conceded yet. I believe in liberal ideas but in the Philippines, theory, is certainly far from practice.

It's the second time we're having an Aquino for a president. We've had a Macapagal twice as Commander in Chief too. And although Estrada might not get a second chance, his family is well in place politically. With our entertaining array of top elected senators, and with GMA, officially proclaimed as congresswoman in Pampanga, what will happen to our country? Education, governance, political will? Whatever!

---

sorry for the orange text in the middle. For some reason, despite changing the color, it stays the same - orange.

Cultura en Manila

2010-04-23T09:15:00.001-07:00

Life has been pretty steady, bordering on boring. I have not traveled since Mactan although there are heaps of photos to organize and good eats to write about.

For the longest time, I've been on a "best roast duck" hunt in Manila with my dad. And so far, surprisingly, the best one is with Go! Fan at SM City Annex in Quezon City. Kiss the Cook Cafe also has good duck wraps with hoisin and spring onions we keep on craving for.

Roast Duck from Go! Fan

And since the first quarter of 2010, Lorenzo's Way at Greenbelt 5 has been one of my favorite restaurants. I just love the fact that I can rely on the quality of their food and leave not only nourished but seriously delighted with my dining experience. Food is guaranteed to be flavourful and they don't make you wait forever to indulge in gastronomic delights. Aside from the seafood couscous, one of my favorite entrees there is the Clams Malaguena. Yummy clams swimming in its own sauce with serrano ham and pine nuts!

Clams Malaguena from Lorenzo's Way

And to break this linear life of work and eating out, I'm going to Dia del Libro at Instituto Cervantes tomorrow. Time to brush up on my forgotten first foreign language. Books, films, and a Latin party!

Dia del Libro

I leave you with a one stop shop for Cultura en Manila - Spanish style! Hezky vikend!

Hello 2010!

2010-03-10T07:22:00.000-08:00

The past few months have been a blur. I finally have a job at an international development organization, and the semester's almost over. I'm certainly going to miss my students and being in the classroom. Meanwhile, I spent a weekend in Cebu with my former co-volunteers and did some mangrove planting at Olango Island to boot! So here's a few snapshots from our hotel in Mactan.

Summer's almost here and it means we're getting closer and closer to election day. With El Nino and rotational powercuts around, I wonder if successful elections will merely be a dream or a reality. One thing's for sure, I haven't received my voter's I.D. (I had to transfer my registration from Prague to Manila).

2009 was a grand travel year with several local and international destinations like Budapest, Bangkok, Jakarta, Bicol and Bohol. I'm hopeful 2010 would make my passport colorful and my mileage high. Haha! But on a serious note, although I got accepted to attend graduate school at the Hague and Budapest this year, I wish more exciting things will come along professionally. There should be something to look forward to this year apart from good health for my family and friends. :)

Cagraray Island Escape!

2009-12-12T05:31:00.000-08:00

Waking up with this view is just priceless!

And lounge the afternoon away in cozy beds like this facing the sea?

Maybe, try copper sand and cool waters surrounding Misibis Bay Raintree?

or take a dip in the infinity pool?

Paradise awaits in Misibis Bay Raintree.

---

Thank God Martial Law has been lifted in Maguindanao. Now, what to do with the Little One who is still running in Congress? I was speaking with someone from the Coalition Against Corruption yesterday over potential projects for 2010. And he had something nice to say: Everyday is a good day to fight corruption!

Hello December!

2009-12-10T08:05:00.000-08:00

Since it's midnight and there's work tomorrow, this is a going to be quick and short. November was a blur. Had a chance to attend a conference in Jakarta and had luxurious accommodations at the Grand Hyatt. And the pampering didn't end there. I also hied off on a weekend in Legaspi and Cagraray Island in Bicol - Misibis Bay Raintree is just sublime. Perfect escape -- with yummy pili chocolate cake.

November was when Manny Pacquiao got his 7th boxing title and when Efren Penaflorida was named CNN Hero of the Year. Two reasons that make Filipinos proud. But in between there's this barbaric massacre in Maguindanao. So disappointing considering we have a vibrant democracy in an environment governed by the rule of law. And when December came in, the Little One declared Martial Law in Maguindanao. I can't believe the government is panicking over a clan. A clan! A family vs. Government?!?

15 days before Christmas. Much can change, hopefully, towards something merrier!

The Weekender

2009-10-18T02:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a photo of BusinessWorld's Weekender from last weekend. It was Friday and a copy was free for everyone's perusal at the pool - best way to dream about the weekend before 5pm. Believe it or not, it was the first time I came across BusinessWorld's weekend edition. I've always read BW on weekdays and just never had the chance to appreciate the regular weekend escape in print.

While living abroad, I thrived on the lifestyle pages of weekend periodicals. Back in Leeds, it was the Guardian and back in Podebrady, it was just Financial Times and International Herald Tribute in between flights. It got me the habit of consulting the newspaper for events and shows, new restaurants and just anything under the sun.

If it weren't for last weekend's BW Weekender, I would not have been reminded to watch Julie & Julia last week (which I absolutely loved, I haven't finished watching the film for the first time and I wanted to watch it again already) or becoming aware that My Life in Ruins was showing as well (better worth waiting for HBO next year, in my opinion).

So, here's to a new habit! Reading BusinessWorld's Weekender that is.

Sweet Treat

2009-10-17T23:19:00.000-07:00

My boss was away for a week and gave me some cookies for pasalubong. Pasalubong is the Filipino term for a gift that one brings when one comes home, often from a trip (local or abroad), or even after a day's work.

Here are some gooey chocolate chip cookies from Too Good Gourmet and makes for a perfect comfort food amidst Manila's rainy gloomy mood after the typhoon's tragedy. For a tropical third world country like the Philippines, our dessert preferences are arguably quite western. As normal as it is to go grab a Frapuccino at Starbucks after dinner out it is common to crave for chocolate cake, a cheesecake or even scones. Pretentiousness or not, chances are, it's even harder to find local desserts like rice cakes at restaurants than western treats.

One Fine Day

2009-10-03T12:21:00.000-07:00

A day off and having the liberty to wake up naturally (often late) is always a good day in my book. Stumbling upon a series of blogs makes it even better.

Later in the day, a short walk brings me and my mom to watch "No me pidas que te bese porque te besare." It succeeds in taking me away from Manila and takes me to what truly matters to people - to persons, set in the suburbs of Barcelona. We're all special. "Dreams come from trauma" was reiterated in the movie. You got to get over it. Understand it and deal with it. Then move on. "Close your eyes, and say it." Trauma or not, I think dreams are born out of desire -- from lacking something in the present and wanting, hoping, yearning for something to happen -- to be.

Back home, more blog travel with "No Reservations" in the background. I've seen this movie before and never tire of watching it. Anything with food, I'm on it. Anything with successful single women, finding love, I'm on it.

And since we're on to love, I boiled a potato, mashed it with some butter and pepper, added some bacon strips and put it on high in the microwave. With mushy spuds drowning from crunchy bacon fat (I just thought about adding the bacon after I was done with the "mashed potato"), arugula greens somehow tamed the cholesterol. Boy, you must try this instant piece of heaven! Crispy bacon, creamy potato and bitter arugula all in one spoon!

Yes, we're still on love. To cap the night, my boyfriend's midnight visit, driving around the village with his Turkish music in the background is just the cherry on top of my perfect sundae. Cheesy as it seems, but what could beat a day with food, blog and movie travel plus loved ones?

Food Blogs

2009-10-03T00:07:00.000-07:00

Here's a drawing from a new discovery: Lobstersquad. If only I can be back in Madrid savouring the joys of food!

On a typhoon-stricken weekend like this, it's best to stay home. The telly was on while I was preparing a quick lunch: sauteed Hungarian sausages with garlic, paprika and olive oil spaghetti. By the time I was done cooking, my surfing ended at the National Geographic Channel. Food Lovers Guide to the Planet featured how essential bread is in a variety of cultures like France, Italy and India. Aaaaah. The passion for bread. The show featured an American baking fresh baguettes daily in Paris, an American guest in a Tuscan kitchen learning how to prepare the traditional bread salad with unsalted bread, and a devoted American learning the art of French bread in mainland U.S.

But what caught my attention most was the next segment on food blogs. Four bloggers were featured: Sticky Rice from Vietnam, Chez Pim from San Franciso, Cha Xin Bao from Hong Kong, and David Lebovitz from Paris. One medium, different reasons, all about food from different corners of the world.

Visiting their pages, led from one blog to another, and one article to another. I eventually stumbled upon an article at the Times UK giving a glimpse of remarkable food bloggers from all over the world. Read more on Meet the Food Bloggers. Suffice to say, I am inspired and have heaps to read during my idle moments. I've also updated my food and travel links on the righthand side of the page for easy reference to blogs I find interesting.

Happy reading!

Fresh Green Salad

2009-09-28T07:39:00.000-07:00

Romaine lettuce, arugula leaves, tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, calamansi juice and olive oil. I used to be just a Caesar Salad girl. I still love it but when I lived abroad, I became friends with a Cypriot girl who introduced me to fresh green salads: fresh Mediterranean salads with black olives and fresh peppers with lemon and olive oil vinaigarette. That's when I started treating peppers like fruits - eating them as soon as they're washed. Aaaah. Crunchy sweet peppers!

It's been a few years since I lived in Europe the first time as a student. The first time, I left Manila in September. The second time, as a volunteer, I returned to Manila in September too. It's been two years since. Two years since I decided to finish graduate school and attempt a living a linear life - just stay put and be normal. It's been roughly a year since I started this blog to document and share how I've been coping with linear life in Manila. A blog to chronicle how I try to adopt the lifestyle I enjoyed away from home and note interesting things along the way.

After all, the lifestyle I enjoyed most was being surrounded with culinary delights that seemed ordinary to locals, art and culture as a way of life, taking the tram and metro to work, and travel, travel, travel. This blog is primarily about food and travel as I look back to my gourmet nomadic life and see how it's possible to do it all over again.

In gist, the past year has been rough and busy but with it's fair share of blessings too. After work and school-related travel for such a long time, the past 12 months, I re-discovered traveling for simple pleasure and leisure. Having had the opportunity to travel every month, including Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary, Thailand and Bohol for plane rides, despite an unfilfilling desk job makes up for linear life.

It's almost autumn but it's never too late to restart. My month is coming up. And after rough year, I'm eager to have fun again. :)

Legazpi Sunday Market

2009-09-26T03:34:00.000-07:00

Some flowers from last Sunday

Given that the Legaspi Market is just a few blocks away, it's one of the many good things in my life that I take for granted. Imagine, fresh produce, frozen meat and seafood, flowers, booze, and meals from all over the world all within walking distance? That is paradise in a concrete jungle. And I just walk - no worries about parking.

I haven't been there in almost a year and last weekend's visit came as a surprise. I've always thought Salcedo Market had better variety and more stalls but I was quite pleased with the changes at the Legaspi Market. There's enough stalls and choices to whet your appetite and the dormant shoppaholic in you without leaving you the bitin feeling. Except for the heat and lack of tables to eat on, Legaspi Market has come a long way. An informative article by Myrza Sison says it all. I leave you with some snapshopts from a wonderful afternoon at the market.

Some organic balms. I got a pot of mosquito repellent and it works!

Some entertainment while looking at organic footwear

Fat Dimsum!

Some plastic bags I loved in Bangkok and where I got a handmade purse for PhP 95!

My must-buy: Hungarian sausages!

Spices sold by a scary man

My First Adobo

2009-09-25T23:37:00.000-07:00

Close friends and family have always known I love food: cooking, eating, talking and dreaming about it. As much as I have been cooking since at least 11 years old, I've never really mastered the art of Filipino cooking. You see, if it's not the crunchy/ crispy sort like chicharon, crispy pata, lechon kawali and bagnet, I would not crave for Pinoy food at all.

When I was living abroad, the closest to Filipino food I prepared were frying the dried seafood my mom sent (danggit etc.), preparing instant champorado, and grilled Liempo. My single attempt at making adobo was a catastrophe as I didn't have the right soy sauce - it was too thick that I was not pleased with the consistency of the sauce, I never bothered again.

Since 2004, one project I've always wanted to do was to learn how to prepare Filipino dishes I'm content with. I have several Filipino cookbooks from Mommy and Tatay but never I cooked from them. I admit, I've never really religously followed a recipe (maybe that's why I never bothered to bake). I just read for inspiration and cook based on what I have in the kitchen. Despite all the cookbooks and cooking shows, cooking is more of a learning-by-doing thing.

So I enlisted my mom's lunchtime last weekend to teach me how to cook Adobo. All I needed were two pans (for the boiling and frying), soy sauce, vinegar, water, salt, pepper, and of course, chicken. It would probably be better with bay leaves, but I assure you, it's the manner of cooking that makes a difference in the taste.

We just marinated the chicken with all the ingredients for awhile, and left it to boil until the room was filled with the acid smell of vinegar. Do not stir. Once the smell is gone, we lowered the fire until the chicken was tender. Just dry the chicken through a strainer and fry on high heat. This is my chance to shred some pieces. Once fried, add the sauce in batches. Eventually, the oil is supposed to form a frame around the edge of the pan with the runny brown sauce surrounding the meat.

I tried it the other night and I was just slightly pleased with my version but I think I'm one step away from my mom's adobo, which is my benchmark. :) One more try, then I move on to Sinigang.

Kitchen Travel

2009-09-03T23:34:00.000-07:00

I'm such an Asian Food Travel addict (Discovery Travel & Living on weekends, and Diane knows this!) that when I saw the trailer for French Food at Home, I was hooked. Key words: Kitchen Travel.

To be honest, I've only seen two episodes because most nights, I'm also watching my telenovelas. Haha! But since watching an episode one Saturday morning with mom, I knew I liked the show. I like the way the chef made fancy French stuff seem easy to prepare that in the end, you wish you had all the ingredients to try it yourself - regardless of whether you know how to cook or not. She made me want to do that with Turkish food but that was just a thought.

And tonight, I decided to google the show, and now I know the chef's name: Laura Calder. The more I learn about her, the more I'm falling and the more I'm getting excited! You see, I've been a secret admirer of Muccia Prada simply because she was a former communist and has a PhD in Political Science, and she put all of that behind her to be a fashion designer. I've got no secret fashion aspirations but as early as I knew I wanted to join the UN, I knew I wanted to cook, and be a chef.

The nerd and wanderer in me was delighted to find out she spent so much time studying, gallavanting and getting lost while loving food the whole time. Imagine, masters from London School of Economics and a dream to be a diplomat? The pillar behind politics, philosophy and economics of pol eco! She left her job, her fiance, and her life to study cooking.

I'm not yet in the dire situation of leaving everything behind but food, oh food! Time stops when it comes to food. :)

I'm still reading her blog, some articles and I leave you with some quotes that I absolutely like!

"So much in life seems permanent when we’re in the thick of it (our childhood homes, friendships, stages of our lives) that it can be a real shock when we realize that, in fact, nothing is forever – everything moves on."

"Big deal, you may say, but I think seemingly insignificant moves like this in life must be a sign of something deeper at work, no? Just like when people suddenly get transformative haircuts… I just got one of those too, actually, (not pictured here), so who knows what’s in the wind." "It made me consider how much lies dormant and ignored in the world until the right person comes along and breathes life into it. Like delicious forgotten recipes, like old toys locked in a trunk, like aspects of our personalities that hide in the shadows until someone comes along and shines a flashlight on them…"

"My resolutions are to be very loyal to yoga (not hard, because I’m addicted) and also to listen to my gut and trust it, always. " - I like this because I started my belly dancing and yoga bit at home but things got in the way and now, I stopped again.

The trick is to find the interesting people: that’s what makes any place come alive."

"As my instructor said the other day: "Generally, if something feels difficult, it's wrong, and what feels easy is right." Apply that little tip to work and relationships for a second… She's right."

"sometimes life steps in and forces our minds to change"

And my favorite because it's so timely:

"It never ceases to amaze me how the things we imagine to be permanent or certain in life never stay put or turn out as we expect."

There are still heaps of things I want to do before I make the big bold move; It just feels good to know that despite one's age, one can leave it all behind and pursue one's "dormant passions." :)

You can more from here, here, and here. But this is the juiciest article of all: Laura talks about men and food. :)

Inspired

2009-08-23T23:32:00.000-07:00

: Rogue Magazine on Chef Gaita Fores and Pepato

It's been exactly a year since I browsed a local foodblog. Over the weekend, I remembered there's more to Manila's food scene than clickthecity.com and random citations in Preview magazine and High Life.

I clicked on Dessert Comes First and remembered what it was like to breathe, eat, and shit gastronomy. All of a sudden, I remembered who I was and what I have always wanted to be - a chef/food writer/gourmet nomad. And I also remembered Our Awesome Planet. I joined their Pampanga tour last February and had the best and most memorable breakfast spread yet: Italian sausages, smoked salmon, steak, fritatas, yogurt, cereal and fruits, capuccino and fresh fruit juices. Well, those are the only ones I can remember tonight.

I'm sure there are more Pinoy blogs like those of MarketMan but I haven't had the chance to browse them yet. I've seen enough to be reminded. I am glued to AFC and the Travel and Living Channel but I guess, I've become a passive viewer.

Anyway, as stated in my previous post, I've decided to take a short culinary course next year. So far, I've found two schools in Manila: ISCAHM and CIA. International School for Culinary Arts and Hotel Management along Katipunan Avenue has a longer history than the Culinary Institute of Aristocrat along Roxas Boulevard. Both offer the short course I'm interested to take: weekend classes spread through 2-3 months providing basic culinary training. Right now, I've got a biased preference for ISCAHM. :)

It feels good to be inspired. Tomorrow, I'm getting copies of Rogue Magazine (because Lori Baltazar of Dessert Comes First is featured this month) and Travelife (because I must get my travel writing act together and it has features on Buenos Aires and Macau- two places I want to visit).

This weekend is the beginning of something good. I love the fire of inspiration!

Kitchen Help

2009-08-20T23:31:00.000-07:00

For the longest time, I've always been comfortable in the kitchen, both cooking and eating. I've been blessed to share that joy with family and friends through the years, although not as much in recent times.

I've been longing to rekindle my passions and cooking always comes first. After browsing NYtimes for some inspiration, I stumbled upon Mark Bittman''s article on Paris bistros.

Opening up my own place has always been a dream I shared with my mom, and expressed to K. It has always been a retirement option, and retirement seems a long way to go. Lately, I've been thinking of what I really want and how to get it.

I want to open my own bistro by employing out-of-school youth who share the same passion for food. I want a gourmet-charity-bistro of sorts. And to make that happen, I'm planning to enroll in a short culinary course in March. I know it seems so far away but that's when my weekend teaching post ends (more on that next time).

Yup, school again. Instead of dole outs, I believe in skills transfer: the VSO way.

One day, it will come full circle: all the eating, all the traveling, all the learning, all the helping. One happy fulfilled community. :)

Let's do this Again

2009-08-19T23:27:00.000-07:00

: My favourite painting of all: Salvador Dali's Muchacha en la Ventana

Crossing over timelines.
Musings over realistic imaginations.
The mundane, the grand and everything in between.

-----

Same old thoughts in a new home.

It's my first time on wordpress, and first time to commit to public blogging all over again in a year. Yup, hello world! Again.

----

It's been a slow week, and I've been thinking how cooking really fulfills me. Tonight, I made onion soup at home. I caramelized onions with butter, then added chicken broth, salt and pepper. Meanwhile, I toasted some bread covered with a generous heap of cheese. I heated the bowls, put dollops of mozarella, poured the boiling soup over, and topped it with toasted bread with cheese. Et voila! homemade onion soup!

I know for sure I can cook. And any one who's lived with me and welcomed me into their kitchen knows I've got what it takes. But somehow, the daily grind of concrete jungle life has distracted me from pursuing my passions. Must find a culinary course after work or on weekends soon. :)

Or dance classes. Anything but intellectual pursuits for now.

Dobrou noc!

Budapest is Love!

2009-06-23T04:08:00.001-07:00

I was in Budapest last spring and it's one city I'm coming back to! It's got the charm of an old city, yet despite its faded imperial glory, is just about to make it happen in the 21st century!

I love Baguio!

2009-06-03T07:18:00.000-07:00

I've been to Baguio several times before but my recent trip impressed upon me an I-love-Baguio-I-want-to-keep-coming-back-to-Baguio" type of feeling.

Perhaps it was being with family and friends. I was there with the B. family and all they did was reminisce about their childhood and visit all the places they frequented then.

We had lunch at the Baguio Country Club where I enjoyed some freshly made caesar salad and bought some banana bread. Now I know why the banana bread is a country club specialty- it's best for banana-haters who can only tolerate a hint of banana with the right sweetness and perfect moist. I'm now a banana convert.

Visiting the Baguio market just made me want to fast forward to retirement where I won't do anything but cook! Gosh, the freshest vegetables at bargain prices! Probably a dozen lettuce bulbs for only PhP50! Everthing was there, even crabs. And strawberries, oh strawberries!

I also met up with R. and at my request, took me to the Tam-awan Village. Since I've been to Ifugao before, I wan't impressed. The funny thing is, there was an artist in front creating a steel monument for the Baguio centennial celebrations come September. Well, we thought he was the artist. Maybe just a welder. Hahaha!

R. and I bid farewell when I met up with E. at the U.P. Baguio campus, and off we went to Camp John Hay.

I haven't been there before and just had to see it. After some photos, and laughing at the graves at the lost cemetery, we were off to Cafe Wills for some food and drinks. One thing I love about Baguio, is it's cafe culture. I like it that I can have great food and alcoholic drinks, practically anywhere, and anytime. Need not be at a bar late at night with loud music or our local version of a biergarten.

Time was running out and E. dropped me off at Rosebowl to have dinner with my family. Apparently, Rosebowl is another institution where oldtimers go.

I just love Baguio! Each place seems like a short ride away and there's so many places to see. And at some point, you can even view the South China Sea beyond the mountains.

I can't wait to come back!

Crabs and Mojitos

2009-05-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

Over a weekend ago, I spent Friday night with E. and M. for some Vietnamese heaven at Aquaknox. Think Arzenal with velvet chairs and nuvo lounge music in the background. I was too hungry, I only took a photo of the crab. It was so good, it beats my fond memories of than long crabs from SFO. And yes, it's the best mojitos I've had so far. Aquaknox does not scrimp on ingredients. I'm definitely coming back. And bring more friends.

Taal Heritage Tour

2009-05-18T07:57:00.000-07:00

On Labor Day, I joined my mom, together with the Philippine Italian Association, to a day trip to Taal, Batangas. It's not really a municipality by the lake where the volcano is located but somewhere near Calatagan. At least that's what the signs stated. I just road the bus, listened to the guides, visisted churches, old houses, sampled local food and heard mass officiated by Fr. Suarez.

Inside the Villavicencio Residence

Exteriors of Marcella Agoncillo's home, the lady who made the first Philippine flag.

Several versions of our flag

The Felipe Agoncillo Residence

Taal's Basilica

And manang at the market, selling fish

If you want to take a trip yourself, send an email to heritours@yahoo.com.

Paradise, At Last

2009-04-20T06:01:00.000-07:00

I finally got a taste of summer thanks to a day trip to Sepoc Island through Eaglepoint Resort in Mabini, Batangas. It's a 20-minute boat ride and the slow ride sets the mood for a relaxing stay on a private island.

And this little paradise, awaits...

And this view from the top:

I can't wait to come back! Got to love the Philippines!!!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-13T08:59:00.000-07:00

I brought some easter chocolates home from Germany, and here's a photo my dear sister took last Sunday.

The bunny, eggs, empty yellow-dotted pitcher, and an unripe pineapple.

Back Home

2009-04-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

It's Easter Sunday and it's only now that I've been able to get my bearings. I was away for a few weeks last month for a short stay in Germany, the Czech Republic and Budapest.

Oh Budapest! I love Budapest and would love to return for a longer stay. And as for the Czech Republic, it will always be my home away from home. But Germany, now I see it in a different way. Almost five years ago, I was in Berlin for the EU accession of the ten new members. Berlin was old, yet modern- very, very cosmopolitan. This time, I stayed in the west, in a small town called Gummersbach and travelled all the way east to Dresden.

There's so many pictures from that trip, it's taking awhile to sort it. For now, I leave you with some photos from a tour in Pampanga I joined in February, thanks to the expert guiding skills of Ivan Dy, Anton Diaz, and Ivan Henares of Ultimate Philippines.

Hot Air Balloon Festival in Clark, which I'm sure have lots of spectacular photos online.

The best breakfast I've ever had, I had at C's Italian restaurant! Steak in the morning, smoked salmon, stewed mushrooms, sausages, ham, omelettes, fresh yogurt, fruits and juices just to name a few!

Just a sample of what I had for lunch at Abe's Farm

To cap the day, birdwatching in Candaba.

Overall, it was an enjoyable yet tiring day. Although breakfast at C's was truly memorable, after breakfasts at the Akademie in Gummersbach and the hotel in Dresden, I've changed my mind.

Old town in the city!

2009-01-17T09:14:00.000-08:00

Welcome to San Juan!

I attended the wedding of a dear friend of mine last month, and the marriage rites were held at the Church of the Holy Cross - right next to Angelicum and Dominican College built in the 1600s.

I was just amused that it had the old town charm yet surrounded by contemporary city structures and modern malls, just a few kilometers away.

Such a pity I don't have pictures of the church facade. Either way, it was just such a darling wedding. It made me feel I was in the province for a traditional wedding in the afternoon.

On beer, Dvorak and Mt. Pinatubo

2009-01-17T08:42:00.000-08:00

Finally, I found a day off and have the chance to upload. It's been awhile. The past few weeks, I've been craving for pub grub. I've been in the mood for dark beer and sausages. I did get to visit Donau something (haha! I forget, as usual) and got myself some currywurst and kielbasa - still not as tasty as the real thing.

Yesterday, I was also able to watch Ruggero Barbieri conduct the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra with Jovianney Emmanuel Cruz as pianist at the CCP. Cruz was just brilliant! I hear he will have another performance sometime in September at Insular in Alabang. The performance, entitled "Glimpses of Europe" was at the occasion of the Czech Republic currently holding the EU Presidency.

Either way, it was soothing to hear Antonin Dvorak's Symphony No. 9. I still feel strangely connected to that country - especially after having been to Dvorak's hometown three years ago. Such a pity. His home was such a shack - regardless of whether it was next to the Nelahozeves Castle or not, it needs major renovation and maintenance. Reception followed. Chit-chat with old and new acquaintances.

Now on to my first adventure of the year: treking to Mt. Pinatubo!

Believe it or not, I saw an advert on Facebook, texted the number, got the details and booked myself and Diane. It was so much fun!

We rode a van with other tour participants and were in Capas, Tarlac in an hour and a half. After breakfast, it was a quick drive to the spa barangay of Sta. Juliana where we boarded the 4x4s. It was another hour and a half on bumpy and dusty road and clear waters before we trekked for over an hour to reach the crater.

The crater is just breathtaking! It felt surreal being inside a volcanic crater, Mt. Pinatubo at that! Its ashes even reached Manila when it erupted in 1991. Anyway, the water was sulfuric blue. As it was windy and nippy, the water was just as cold when we took a dip! Thank God for floaters, I wouldn't have felt secure to try the lake. It was so worth it! Except that it would really dry your hair until you wash it properly.

After a buffet barbecue lunch, it was the same routine going back. It seemed shorter to me - especially when I slept on the 4x4 ride back. I must have been really tired to fall asleep on bumpy roads.

It's something I wouldn't do again soon but I recommend everyone to try it out at least once - especially when the weather is cool. It could be a leisurely trek.

Crystal Beach and Beads

2008-12-15T18:45:00.000-08:00

Hola!

I have been neglecting this blog for awhile. Blame it on barely having free time. Much of that time has been spent well though, including a surfing trip in San Narciso, Zambales and a day trip to Imus, Cavite.

I've got no interesting pictures to post from the surfing trip although I could say it is a very convenient place to go to. We took a Victory Liner bus (choose from their many stations in Manila) headed for Sta. Cruz, Zambales. As soon as we were on board, we told the conductor we were getting off in San Narciso. When we got there, we hired a tricycle, Php 15 per head to take us to Crystal Beach.

Crystal Beach is quite complete. It's got huts (optional with A/C), real meals and snacks, surf boards, instructors, bonfire, and of course the beach. The downside though is that they don't sell alcohol or encourage smoking. Not that I mind at all. But that could be such a bummer for most people on holiday.

I know Cavite is right next to Manila, and lots of people from Cavite work in Manila too. But it still seems like a world away despite all the shopping malls present at every town. I was stuck with with E. on the coastal road for what seemed like 2 hours because of traffic. We eventually got to Imus to attend a friend's father's wake and met up with other friends.

We were quite surprised to see that the funeral home was quite grand, decent and classy given that it was along an internal service road in Imus. Each room had chandeliers and they were all made of Czech crystals! If only pictures could be taken during wakes but superstitious beliefs dictate otherwise.

Other than that, Christmas is underway with all the get-togethers with family and friends. With everything settled, it's nice to be finally home.

2010 and beyond!

2008-11-19T06:25:00.000-08:00

"Bless the President so we will have forbearance, good health, the tolerance to lead this nation up to 2010 and perhaps who knows even beyond."

-Press Secretary Jesus Dureza, at the end of the opening prayer he led at the start of a Cabinet meeting in the Aguinaldo State Dining Room (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20081118-172871/Arroyo-to-2010-prayer-Oh-my-God).

Here's today's front page:
Watching the "off the record" reaction of the President on TV was unbelievable. It was so much like her "I'm Sorry" speech.

Likewise, I can't believe I took part in ousting ERAP in EDSA when I was still in college. With Romulo's children no less! During that time, it seemed like the right thing to do. And even years later in Prague, I voted her. For sure, I wasted my overseas absentee vote. :(

What is happening to our country???? With the recent events, we should have more than hope that things will take the right course.

EU Network Meeting

2008-11-13T07:08:00.000-08:00

The ballroom was quite empty given the ratio of attendees and the ballroom size. Present, were mostly EU expats, a number of diplomats, chamber members, and of course, local businessmen. Such events are good in fostering economic cooperation in the private sector through clubs and organizations.

Overall, it was a good event. Lots of prizes were given, and food was great. What left me outraged though, was a comment someone made from the Spanish group that San Sebastian is a "probinsya" and where the "probinsyana" who prefer mountains, beaches, good food and a laid back lifestyle live.

Personally, I don't find anything wrong with that. I suppose, if one has lived the fast-paced urban life, one would seek "probinsyana" lifestyle, once in awhile. At least for me, I can talk about experiencing both small and big city life, both in Europe and the Philippines.

Perhaps, I am more outraged because San Sebastian, in the Basque region, is my favorite place in Spain. It looks like Switzerland, where you replace the lakes with the sea, the mountains looming over, Michelin-rate restaurants, a royal summer getaway (much like Karlovy Vary), and everything a proper city offers except an airport (you have to go to Bilbao, an hour away, to fly out).

To each his own I guess. To be fair, after three days in San Sebastian, I had too much. I wanted to go back to the city, and 13 hours later by train, I was back in Madrid. It remains though, to be my favorite Spanish city. Perhaps, because it is not a touristy place, and one could really mingle with the locals.

I would write about San Sebastian and post pictures, but that can wait. For now, here are some pictures from tonight's cocktails:

Beef Yakiniku, chicken in a pastry dough, parma-ham wrapped asparagus with melon

Satay skewers, risotto balls with pesto sauces, and some empanada

The South of Manila Awaits!

2008-11-11T08:14:00.000-08:00

More photos of random places in Quezon and Laguna:

Interiors of the Lucban Church

Pako for sale at P5 per bundle

"Ube" Funeral Home in Tayabas

Lucban Church

"Exotik" Meal

Lumban Church Interiors

The South of Manila is Worth a Visit!

2008-11-09T17:48:00.001-08:00

Who would have thought so much could be done in one weekend? I am talking about nurturing friendships, hilarious laughter, 7-kilometer dark roads, countless churches, the Laguna and Caliraya lakes, quaint provincial towns, breakfast at the plaza, a deluxe room with a view, eclectic cafes and hotels, and, the palaisdaan among others.

It’s been a trip long overdue. After blocking our schedules for weeks, I finally took a weekend off with E. and M. Another friend was supposed to join us, but he was off to Pakistan yesterday. Suffice to say, three girls, with E. on the wheel, had so much fun!

We took the “backdoor route” to southern Luzon through Rizal, and Laguna, before spending the night in Lucban, Quezon. We practically stopped at every interesting town that either had a beautiful church, sold some delicacy (Budin in Tayabas, Quezon or Queso in Lumban, Laguna) or when we were simply hungry (Nilagang baka at langka in Pagsanjan or steamy sinigang na tanigue sa miso in Kalayaan, both in Laguna).

It was a beautiful drive with the Laguna de Bay on one side, and mountains looming on the other. At one point, the man-made Caliraya Lake sitting on top of the mountain was right there, overlooking Laguna de Bay. We did encounter lots of “overlooking” resorts in between Rizal and Laguna, as well as bukal and batis resorts. Those were not included in our stops though.

I am just amazed with what Philippine provinces can offer. This side of Laguna, and the parts of Rizal and Quezon we drove through were quite rural (without malls at least), yet were full of cosmopolitan flavor.

While waiting for the 7PM mass at the Lucban Church, we spent an hour or so having nachos, beer, banana and langka turon, iced amaretto coffee and tasty spicy sausages, with real Portuguese bossa nova in the background. Gravel flooring, dim lights, cheap printed plastic tablecloths, and open-air dining. Yet it was all hip, and kitschy. I am talking about Café San Luis, right off Lucban’s main square. Right behind our hotel, Patio Rizal.

E. notes that Patio Rizal is the perfect residence when one vistits Lucban for Pahiya. I certainly agree. Our room had two balconies: one facing the plaza, and the other facing Rizal street. With A/C, cable tv, and a bath with a tub, it is more than one would expect. Service is excellent. Staff are there when needed, and they’re not the overeager sort.

Another place one should either visit is Mi Casa en Tayabas. It would certainly be your home in Taybas! Walking around to buy Budin from the Quezon Museum, we stumbled upon this Mexican/Moroccon looking establishment. It was so colorful! Its walls were painted, floor tiles had different designs, it has glass doorknobs, bottle lamps and so much more. The food was tasty enough but should be presented better. And they serve Heineken beer!

When we were in Lumban to buy cheese, a street vendor even let us in his neighbor’s house so we could go home with P50 bag of salty delights. In Paete, a serving of tokwa was just P10. We were just strolling along and discovered this tiny garage full of wooden tables that served special halo-halo for P40 each. It was a nice way to wait for the rain to stop.

We ate at lots of places (including what should have been Kamayan Palaisdaan, instead of just Palaisdaan) and made several stops along the highway but we surprisingly visited lots of churches. My favorites though are the churches in Tayabas: the interiors of the Basilica and the exterior of the Purple church (which is actually just used for wakes, and is not real church). I like Tayabas. It’s artistic. But Lucban, is homey and relaxing.

It was one fun weekend. Yet, I still wonder why males (from youngsters to men) always carry a bolo with them. Our take is to cut through the thick foliage (especially in Luisiana, Laguna).

Paete Church

Lake Caliraya

Nilagang Baka at Langka

Lucban longganisa for breakfast at the Plaza

Lucban Church and Buddy's on the left

Interiors of the Tayabas Basilica

Eating in Cagayan de Oro City

2008-11-07T08:34:00.000-08:00

Tonight, my co-volunteer M. asked me if I knew any Pizza Hut branches in Cagayan de Oro (CDO) city. Frankly, I could not remember any. My guess is that there should be one, either at SM or at Limketkai. Those two are the only commercial establishments I remember that house Manila-based brands.

When we were living there, we mostly sampled the local food and restaurants. Although we also frequented SM for Mang Inasal's, and because it was the closest decent place to eat from SEARSOLIN, Barangay Lumbia, and any post-water rafting trip. If we were somewhere in the city center, we'd go to Limketkai for familiar brands like Pancake House.

But in Ketkai, as we called it, there's an al fresco strip, that I think is even better than Greenbelt, and would rival the Fort. I only say so because one would expect a province to be backward, but CDO is definitely not. This strip, which has a name I forget, has seafood restaurants, sleek cosmopolitan bar-restos serving Thai food, a dessert place, an American resto, a Brazilian bar with live jazz acts and more.

How I wish I can remember the names as I lived there for awhile, and CDO is the only other place in the Philippines I'd consider living at if I had to move out of Manila.

Talking about the food establishments one can find in the Divisoria area alone would make you realize that CDO is a hip city. On weekends, the entire plaza is closed off and lined with open grills, blind masseuses, fruit vendors, and performers. And the shopping or ukay-ukay. On any given night, there's the Park Cafe in front of Xavier University.

In the smaller streets in the area, one would find an authentic Pakistani restaurant, an Italian restaurant that serves heavenly pizza and gelato, an Austrian cafe, and English restaurant with chips that bring you back to England, and even a Chinese restaurant that serves oyster cakes you'd want to have regularly. Those are just ones that I can remember, and now I am hungry!

So you see, even in Makati, I can't think of an area where restaurants serving such cuisines would be within a distance of a kilometer.

And yes, I eventually remembered that there is a Pizza Hut at the Gaisano Mall, along the highway. The last time my co-volunteers and I ate there, they customized a veggie pizza for D. to eat. They made it vegan. Now, that is service.

Diwali Festival at AIM

2008-11-07T07:12:00.000-08:00

At AIM's main lobby

A few weeks back, the South Asian student population of the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) celebrated the Diwali Festival. It was a night of overflowing booze, dancing, fashion shows, songs, and other worthy performances around the Zen Garden.

Essentially, "one of the biggest festivals of Hindus, Deepawali or Diwali in India is celebrated with lots of enthusiasm and happiness. This festival is celebrated for five continuous days, with the third day being celebrated as the main Diwali or as 'Festival of Lights'. Fireworks are always associated with this festival. The day is celebrated with people lighting diyas, candles all around their house. Lakshmi Puja is performed in the evening to seek divine blessings of Goddess of Wealth. Diwali gifts are exchanged among all near and dear ones." (http://www.diwalifestival.org/)

At the Zen Garden

There were indeed lots of lights - on the trees, around the grounds. But my friends and I did not stay long enough to finish the show. We moved to a local wine bar in the nabe for a nightcap.

Another reason why I like my neighborhood!

Gelato and my neighborhood

2008-10-22T22:46:00.000-07:00

It’s been so hot the past few days, I’ve been craving for ice cream more than I should. Despite the occasional binge, I almost always manage to control my cravings – wait for someone else to purchase a pint or gallon, then scoop out. Luckily, ice cream is so readily available and accessible, even from convenience stores that one can satisfy cravings, immediately.

Whether it’s pistachio-flavored ice cream or cappuccino lite from Arce Dairy, Mantecado from Selecta or the traditional vanilla ice cream from Nestle, it’s all available at your nearest grocery, in my case, Rustan’s. If I’m feeling a little bit picky, I can have mint and chips or durian ice cream from Fruits and Ice Cream, pretend to be healthy by having frozen yougurt either from Better Than Ice Cream or the stalls at the Legaspi Market on Sundays. What I’m happiest about is the convenience of having gelatos that will substitute going to Italy.

Growing up, ice cream to me was all the same but the difference came in the flavor. If it weren’t Haagan Dazs or Baskin Robbins, the local brands sufficed. But, when I lived in the Czech Republic, they had gelatos during most of the year – spring until early autumn. That’s where I learned of the real difference. The lightness, the tastiness and robustness of natural flavor divides the commercial from homemade. Even in such a small town like Podebrady, take-way counters (literally just a window of some groundfloor establishment) sold gelatos. My eventual favorite is stracciatella – the gelato version of cookies and cream.

I know, it’s so cliché, but it’s the one I like most because it’s not sweet like the cookies and cream we know here. It’s got chunks, light cream, a little nutty flavor there, but overall, not sweet. Just ice cream.

That’s why I was so happy to come home to Amici, the former Italian-style Cafeteria run by the Don Bosco priests (now owned by Red Ribbon), which serves a wide array of gelatos. After living in Mindanao, I binged on five flavors, forcing my companions to try as much as they could because I couldn not finish them all.

Interestingly, there’s another gelateria in Greenbelt 3. It’s in a conspicuous location yet, as if it is still hiding under the escalators going to the third level. Right beside Café Bola
in front of Tropezz Restaurant and Bar is Gelantone. They’ve got a colorful chiller full of different flavors. Sadly, when I was there over the weekend, a hoard of Chinese girls were ordering, I could barely see the actual flavors. Well, the gelato looked good, and with lot of customers, I’m sure it’s worth a try.

Another reason why I love my neighborhood: at one end, there’s Amici, and at another, there’s Gelantone.

Spotlight on Philippine Heroes

2008-10-20T06:21:00.000-07:00

In random corners of Makati, are sculptures of some of our national heroes. You'd find one at the intersection of Ayala Avenue and Makati Avenue, and two more at the intersection of Makati Avenue and Paseo de Roxas. The other night, I was at the second crossroad.

This specific statue is surrounded by other Makati landmarks too. On one side is the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, often voted as Manila's best business hotel, the Peninsula Court Building, with the massive HSBC branch at the groundfloor, one side of the Ayala Triangle Park, and the Atrium Building. At the at the Atrium, you'll find Makati branches of some government offices like the BIR and SSS (tax and security), Schwarzwälder(a German restaurant), and lots of bullet marks, a physical reminder of the 1989 coup d'etat.

Just like the other statue in Makati, this one's on a triangle, surrounded by shrubs (that look like Santan flowers) bound knee-high steel rails with white paint peeling off. The shrubs were of uneven heights, make me wonder when it was trimmed last. That brings me to the high shrubs blocking the spotlight's view.

Each triangle is like a little park. The statue in the middle, and each corner having the spotlight, surrounded by shrubs, lined by mini-steel gates. Except that, the shrubs were covering the light. So at night, you could barely figure out who's statue was meant to be lit upon. So sad. It's like an allegory for all the good intentions to glorify and highlight our heroes' achievements, but to no avail.

Maybe, I should just go look during the day.

Kutna Hora Surprise

2008-10-19T20:33:00.000-07:00

My recent post on backpacking in the Philippines generated a discussion thread between me and J., a friend of mine who also lived in Prague. The conversation ended with me concluding that I'd be better off tagging along with E. for a proper adventure. Seriously, some of the most fun and memorable trips I've had are those with E. , and the other characters we managed to include in the story: a Korean classmate, a hesitant Indian, Cesky Drahy, Amstel beer, and the list goes on.

But when it comes to adventures with E., our first ever visit to Kutna Hora comes to mind.

Any one who plans on seeing more sites outside of Prague has probably thought about visiting Kutna Hora, or at least the church made of bones in Sedlec - within walking distance to the other fine buildings to see in Kutna Hora.

Our Friday classes then, ended at 1:30PM. Most people would have lunch, but me and E. would always be usually running towards the nadrazi to catch a train to Prague (which leaves before 2pm and you need to run across Podebrady to purchase tickets and cross the tunnel under the platforms) or leisurely walk to the train station, to go elsewhere. We'd normally pass by a potraviny for some snacks or get some ice cream under the surgeon's building, just at the park.

That particular afternoon though, J., our Indian classmate, was intrigued and somehow convinced himself he would join us, wherever we went. At the nadrazi, there we were looking at the timetable, figuring out where the next departing train is headed. We figured it will pass by Kutna Hora, purchased tickets, and there we were on the platform, waiting.

It was autumn, and naturally, the sun was bidding farewell earlier than usual. Suffice to say, it looked like dusk when we arrived at the tiny Sedlec train station, and were only lucky enough to catch the bus headed for the town center. Slow, bumpy bus driving around faded gray houses in between yellow and white newly painted ones.

As with any place in the Czech Republic, the whole town lit up like fairy lights in a dark sky. As usual, the lighting effects were dramatic - puts you in a Dracula movie if you like being creepy. We were unable to enter any building, only dimly lit shops selling paper or wooden artworks (the sort your grandma would keep and would gather dust if it were yours), aromatherapy shops, and a random Cajovna. Narrow cobblestone roads lined with lamps with a yellow-glow, baroque churches with doors as high as a circus giant, and more darkness looming around.

There was not much to see because Kutna Hora was cloaked in darkness. Ghost hunting, maybe? But, not that night. And J., was getting uneasy. He was scared of being in the town, at dark. It was cold, we did not have a map, and we did not know when the last bus or train would be leaving. We could get stranded in Kutna Hora. He tried to argue with me and E., but we just tried to suppress our laughter. We were having fun seeing him agitated, complaining about his studies, the Czech Republic, and his long "back in India" narrative. (Any foreigner who has stayed in the Czech Republic beyond a touristy visit would know very well what I am talking about!) It was simple to shut him up. We'd always tell him, "you can walk, you can go home ahead." But of course, he was too afraid to do it on his own.

By dinner time though, we were back in Podebrady. I'm not quite sure where we landed that night. Probably that small pub behind the tennis court in front of the kolej. The one where the locals go and the place to be if you want to be mocked by locals, and avoid foreign students. Just like most small town pubs, this has a dozen tables or less, smells like cigarettes, and again, dimly lit. You have to cross a park lined with really tall, narrow, cylindrical trees next to rubbish bins to get to that pivnice.

Kutna Hora in Spring (St. Barbara and Jesuit College)

Don't get me wrong. Kutna Hora is worth visiting, that's why we went back in Spring - there's more sunshine. We did not only visit the bone church, walked inside Philipp Morris cigarette museum, and load up on Dutch beer at another pivnice, we did so much more. Pa pa!

Seafood Night

2008-10-17T09:41:00.000-07:00

I love it that I can easily turn my cravings into reality by either eating out at a nearby restaurant or going to the nearest grocery for ingredients - nearest means a block away or across the street.

Ever since K. mentioned seafood risotto the other night, I've been dreaming about it. I wanted my seafood mix to have salmon, squid, clams and shrimp - perfect blend of colors to contrast the pale arborio rice. But, I only found shrimp (peeled and deveined) and sole fillet - blanched in seafood stock together with oyster mushrooms.

For anyone who thinks risotto is intimidating, forget about it. Risotto is easy to make.

I started my version by melting butter in low heat until it's almost brown, adding the onions. Once the onions are caramelised, add in a glass of wine, salt and pepper, minced garlic and let the whole thing reduce. Afterwards, add the arborio rice, making sure you ladle in some stock as the liquid is absorbed. Ladle in, and stir until you reach the right consistency, and the rice is cooked. To finish, blend in the seafood, oyster mushrooms and parmesan cheese. Dobrou chut!

Oh, how could I forget my appetizer? After trying deep-fried oyster mushrooms at Mr. Rockefeller, I've been making it at home. Here's another simple recipe:

Prepare the batter by seasoning all-purpose flour and whisking in ice-cold water, leaving lumps (I normally leave it in the freezer for awhile.) While the oil is heating in a deep-fryer, wash and season the oyster mushrooms and soak in the batter. On medium heat, deep fry the oysters until crisp and golden brown.

As for the dip, whisk the contents of a coddled egg with white vinegar, pepper, salt and olive oil. Whisking somehow makes the dip fluffy. If it's runny, toss it in the microwave for 30 seconds and it's ready to serve.

All this prepared, with a glass of white wine from South Eastern Australia.

Good eats. Simple pleasures. The joy of cooking (and of course, eating).

Travel Books

2008-10-14T01:38:00.001-07:00

When I have time to kill in a mall, you'd normally find me cruising through food shops checking out what's on offer, or in front of a book shelf, figuring out a new book to read.

A few weeks back, I found myself waiting again, so I went to Fully Booked. This time, I was sold on getting Lonely Planet's Travel Writing book.

I've been wanting to write about my trips but always hesitated. I had so many issues. First, it was choosing what to write about. Second, how public do I want to go with personal experiences. Third, what can I offer that guidebooks have not? And, everybody's doing it so what would make my chronicles special? Add to the fact that I think I don't write prose well, at all. I can write policy papers, but travel articles, I struggle.

Somehow though, all those vivid memories selectively captured in pictures will be replaced by new memories and its impact would be different. (Read Milan Kundera's Laughter and Forgetting to understand what I am talking about.) So it is better to write as soon as possible. Not necessarily as it happens, but probably as soon as you hit the shake down - some relative peace. Start writing.

So finding LP's book was such a blessing in disguise! That's why I like waiting in book shops. I wander around like a child in a toy store looking at books without the intention to buy, yet I leave like a child with a candy cane on Christmas. Oh so happy!

To add on the joyous discovery of the book, Fully Booked had a promo of getting their discount card for free for a minimum purchase of PhP 2000.00 Since the LP book only costs PhP 950.00 I was on the search for add-ons. I intended to charge it on the office account so I was looking for another travel book.

Although published in 2003, 1,000 Places to See Before You Die will always be handy for anyone who aspires to travel. Hoping no natural or man-made disaster happens, god-willing, Machu Pichu or the Iguazu Falls will still be there - waiting for us to have a chance and visit them.

Still, I did not need the book. I skimmed the book to convince myself I needed it. All it took was a random page, the one on the Czech Republic no less! Call it diving intervention for me. Haha!

Adding to my amusement, I've been to all the places listed for the Czech Republic. Perhaps anyone reading this who knows me personally would say, of course it would be natural for me to have been there given my circumstances. But yeah, I have been. Knowing that convinced me that I shoud get that too. Since the bill was still under PhP 2,000.00, I added a tiny seafood cookbook and a pen. Et voila, total:Php 2,001.00

Seven places were listed under the Czech Republic in the book. Honestly, I was able to visit all those place in a span of almost nine years. According to the book, the places to visit in the Czech Republic are the following:

1. Karlovy Vary - a royal spa town in eastern Bohemia.
2. Cesky Krumlov - a living medieval town in southern Bohemia, and is very close to Ceske Budejovice and Hluboka.
3. Hradcany - the Prague Castle complex.
4. Karluv Most - More popularly known as the Charles Bridge.
5. Estates Theater - Right in the center of the Old Town, this is where Mozart premiered Don Giovanni.
6. Stareometska Namesti - In English, it's the Old Town Square. Here, you'll find the Astronomical Clock, Orloj in Czech.
7. U Fleku - It has had the license to make beer since 1499.

I think there are more, and better places to see in the Czech Republic than the ones listed above. But, I can only say this because I have been there. Oh well!

I'll definitely write about the seven places and more about the Czech Republic in separate detailed entries in the future. Each destination deserves its own post, especially the interesting circumstances of my visits.

Contentment (on a bed of salt)

2008-10-13T19:33:00.000-07:00

After a long afternoon spent shopping at a mall, my dad and I were keen on eating something nice: oysters. On a previous visit a few months back, one restaurant's banner claimed they serve oysters and Stella Artois beer. When my told me about it, my first instinct was, "he must be kidding!" One has to go to Beers Paradise, at least, to have Stella Artois. Then, I saw it for myself and was amused. Too bad we did not have time then so during our recent visit, we were on a mission: to have oysters and beer.

Unfortunately, despite walking through the two-level al fresco restaurant row, no restaurant served Stella Artois and oysters (at least based on the menus we read). Perhaps it was just a promo. With that, we decided to call it quits and moved on to do more errands while talking about the dining places we knew served good oysters.

Then surprise, surprise! Cafe Via Mare just opened a branch in the mall in an obscure place - inside the department store. I was explicitly hoping they had oysters. As you may know, Via Mare has two types: Cafe Via Mare and the Oyster Bar. The last time I had oysters from Via Mare, it was on top of the Tektite Towers in Ortigas: oysters with a view. Their branch at Greenbelt 3 also serves oysters but I was not sure about Cafe Via Mare, inside Landmark no less! But, there on the table was a cardboard menu of "Via Mare's Oyster Bar."

We opted for the combination platter (PhP 370) and waited 20 minutes for it. When it arrived, it was laid out on a steel plate with a bed of rock salt the only thing in between the oyster shells and the plate. My dad and I just guessed which type it was depending on how it looks. Each looked yummy enough you want to try it right away. The sauces were thick and cheesy. And it smelled good!

For a PhP 37 oyster, it tasted like it was worth PhP 60 each. Nothing wrong with that. I think it is still good value for money. So, that is contentment for you. Via Mare's convenient locations and price actually make oysters prepared in this way more accessible to most. :)

I just wish Una Mas was still a block away from where I stay. I miss their paella and oysters. When Una Mas was still around, I forgot about any other restaurant that served oysters. Mr. Rockefeller (in Greenbelt 3) serves oysters but despite my frequent visits, I never managed to try it. I was only always able to have either Hoegaarden or Stella Artois beers.

Breakfast at the Pancake House

2008-10-12T09:27:00.000-07:00

Coffee, Bacon Waffles and Country Breakfast (3 pcs. Contry Sausage, Hash brown Potato, 2 eggs, 2 Pcs. Toast Butter)

I've been craving for breakfast food all week so that's what I did last Saturday morning. Since it was too early for Mom's and Tina's (it opens at 10:00AM), I opted to eat across the street at Pancake House. Simple good eats. Simple comfort food.

Pictured above is what I ate: the Country Breakfast, coffee and a quarter of my mom's bacon waffle. I was such a meanie I persuaded her to get the waffle so we can share. We did split the eggs and the sausages but she still ended up having more carbs than I did. It was an okay breakast after fasting since midnight.

La Cocina de Tita Moning's

2008-10-09T07:02:00.000-07:00

I only found out about La Cocina de Tita Moning's when I joined John Silva's tour of the National Museum complex. During the tour's break, a restaurant staff came and gave us a copy of the menu. After skimming through it, I was so convinced Jen and I had to try it. So a few minutes later, the lady got our reservations, and gave us a map so we won't get lost going to San Rafael street in the San Miguel District of Manila. (We did manage to miss a few turns and had to go around twice, perhaps because we were talking about another authentic Thai restaurant.)

The San Miguel District is nothing like the concrete jungle of Makati I'm used to so it was like a mini-holiday for me. The old houses next to government buildings, a Burger Machine booth in front of the Philippine Cancer Society, barb wires everywhere, and Malacanang is a short walk away.

The restaurant is located at the Legarda Family's ancestral home - so it looked like how it was when the rest of the family lived there. Upon arrival, we were given complementary lemon grass tea and edam toasts as we chose what to eat. For starters, Jen and I decided to split a fresh arugula salad with mangoes and grapes, gorgonzola cheese, caramelized walnuts and their homemade walnut vinaigerette. Think of Cyma's Roka salad only ten times tastier. For our main course, I opted for their osso buco with white wine risotto while Jen opted for a pan-grilled sea bass with a soy-sake sauce and jasmine risotto. All this took place at the home's living room adorned with a Hidalgo painting and Czech crystal pieces.

Instead of waiting for our food at the dining table we were escorted by another staff for a tour of the house. It was during the tour that we learned of Don Alejandro's various interests (he was an ob/gyn, a photographer, and even a radio fanatic), their dressing rooms (I love his daughter's wedding dress full of heavy beads), their family library (they had an old map of Europe where Czechoslovakia was still a country), and of course, the small shop that sold some of Tita Moning's food. The tour actually ends at the dining hall adorned with red table clothes, Meisen plates on the walls, silverware and Murano center pieces.

The meal started with usual bread and butter (I love their Ivory butter knife with engravings) followed by the arugula salad. Just like all the other dishes, the salad was prepared just the way Tita Moning would have had it. That salad was heaven in a bowl. I could have skipped my ossco bucco but when it arrived, it was just as irresistable. I've never had meat that tender, tasty and LARGE - the serving was good for two in my opinion. Eating there reminded me of my lola's cooking and now I really have to learn all her recipes from my mom. For dessert, we decided to split a rich (yet light) bread and butter pudding with candied pili nut horns. :)

I did not have room for coffee or hot chocolate so I was content with silver tea: hot water in a cup. Their tablewere is so beautiful I could spend hours looking at the design. I was just amused a western plate had palm trees on it.

Although the meal was a bit pricey, it was all worth it. Where can you have a dining experience as if your were stepping back in time, you are treated like a family guest (with matching pictures too!) and food prepared just like they did 20-40 years ago? Nothing could go wrong. It was just a perfect and pleasurable dining experience.

For more details, check La Cocina de Tita Moning's Website.

Ghost Hunting in Corregidor on Halloween

2008-10-09T06:22:00.000-07:00

I've never made a big deal of Halloween and was never one of those who prepared for a costume and a party to attend. Although this year, the 31st falls on a Friday, I'm not that inclined towards taking a trip either. But, after coming across a Halloween tour of Corregidor, now I am tempted.

I am curious about how it would feel like to be in a place that's supposed to have lots of ghosts. The sunset, the sunrise, the history, the ruins and a ferry ride. Enough incentive? Except that I've heard bad reviews of their food and what if I suddenly just wanted a normal Halloween in the city? Seriously, I just don't want to be bored and hungry.

Hmmm, PhP 3,444.00 per head. That's pretty cheap for a ghost-themed adventure.

For more information, check the site of Sun Cruises.

La Boheme in Manila

2008-10-04T09:32:00.000-07:00

This time I am not going to talk about Bohemia or being Bohemian but La Boheme, the opera - here in Manila. Lots of review articles have been written about it already so I am not going to add another one.

All I really wanted to say is that I would have loved it more if I understood Italian. I do not know much about classical music but I just appreciate listening to it. It has been the second time I've heard the Philippine Philarmonic Orchestra in a week and now I want more!

CNN recently featured operas being performed at Zurich's main train station to bring it to mainstream viewers and attract interest, and the Philippine Opera Company is doing the same to entice the Filipino audience into opera. I think it's about time.

I'm happy there are more cultural events going on in Manila more than a person's schedule could afford. :)

Amazing (Race) Asia

2008-10-04T09:04:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy that Amazing Race is on again because it is one of my favorite shows - one of the few I actually follow. I'm not too keen on supporting the Filipino pair all because I'm not fond of Tisha Silang. (I know it's arbitrary but I don't mind.)

So far though, the pair I look forward to winning is Ida and Tania from Malaysia. They just enjoy what they're doing. They laugh about shitty times and embrace the good times as if they deserve every bit of it anyway. Such good attitude.

Also, tonight, they're in Taiwan. For the past five years, I've been Eurocentric but not anymore. I've been following a show called Fun Taiwan on the Travel and Living Channel and it has greatly inspired me to love my own home - Manila, and discover its hidden gems. Or at least follow the rest of Manilenos who have already done so.

Revisiting Cubao X

2008-10-02T03:33:00.001-07:00

Tess, reading tarot cards

When I was younger, Marikina Shoe Expo showcased Marikina's pride: shoes. The familiar shoe stores are still there but in the past few years, it has changed its name and its ambiance.

Although Bellini's (the Italian restaurant) still stands, other establishments have come and gone. I was there with KC to have a special dinner at Halo Organic Store and Cafe (co-owned by our schoolmates, Halmen and Jaja) for two reasons: the end of Ramadan and World Vegetarian Day. Neither of us are vegeterians nor Muslims but we both promised Halmen we'd visit, and a year later, there we were.

We got there an hour early and decided to wander around Cubao X. The last time I was at Cubao X was for a Lomo Manila event. I was also there to support a friend: Sarah. A band was setting up last night just like the last time in frotn of Blacksoup Projects Gallery; there's a new film/cafe venue and Datelines is gone - replaced by a store, which technically sells the same thing: old books and photos. There were also more dining areas like this modern two-level cafe in front of Bellini's with neon lights.

What caught our interest though was an organic shop almost across Halo called Geo Cafe. They sold ampalaya tea, malunggay noodles and a lot of other healthy things. Reminded me of that small store in Podebrady, which actually sold the same things - except their products were labelled in Czech.

Anyway, what made us stay in the store was not the products but the tarot reading. Yes, there was a lady named Tess (a very pleasant and accommodating woman) who read tarot cards for PhP 200.00 per session. Suffice to say, her readings were on our minds during and even after dinner.

Halo's interiors

As soon as we entered Halo's quaint premises, Halmen immediately welcomed us - who also pointed out that Jaja was in the kitchen cutting Malungay pastries. I am so proud of what they have accomplished! Their food is innovative, delicious and cheap!

I am not a fan of vegetable substitutes so my favorites would include the singkamas with garlic mayo dressing, and the vermicelli spring roll with peanut sauce. The veggie burger, made of banana hearts came out too strong for my taste. But the dessert, oh the dessert, I like! :)

Skip the Trip and Take a Staycation

2008-10-01T01:49:00.000-07:00

Staying home to be a tourist in your hometown will save you money and sanity.
By Douglas Trattner

Anybody who has tried to cram some relaxation into the typical vacation knows it's tough to take it easy and travel. With gasoline topping $4 per gallon, airfares going sky-high and everything from hotels to meals costing more, many are opting to spend their vacations close to home. It's called a staycation, and it's becoming a popular alternative to pricey travel.

"With a little creativity and planning we can duplicate that feeling of relaxation without ever leaving our hometown," says Lisa Oppenheimer, a Boston-based travel writer. Here’s how to make your staycation a success:

1. Grab a guidebook.
Buy or borrow a guidebook for the city where you live, and follow a one-, two- or three-day itinerary. If you research your city the same way you would a place outside your hometown, Oppenheimer says, not only will you find things that you haven't done before, but you'll also discover things you didn't know existed. Another invaluable source, she says, is your local convention and visitors bureau. In addition to providing information on local attractions, current events and museum exhibits, the CVB typically offers money-saving coupons.

2. Get a room.
You don't have to get off an airplane to stay at a hotel. Head downtown for glamour or in the opposite direction for value, but either way, room service is little more than a phone call away. "My kids can bring me breakfast in bed," Oppenheimer says. "But it's just not the same as being able to pick up the phone and have someone deliver it." If kids are in the picture, select a hotel with a pool. "You'll be a hero," she says.

3. Splurge at a spa.
A full-service pampering at a day spa is certain to leave you breezy, buoyant and in bliss. Oppenheimer recommends springing for a full-day package of services, but even a pedicure and a champagne lunch can do wonders. Partners should consider signing up for a couple's massage and a healthful spa dinner.

4. Sample the local winery.
Napa Valley doesn't hold a monopoly on wineries. Seek out a couple of nearby wineries for tours and tastings. "It is so rare to go looking for this type of activity at home," Oppenheimer says. "That makes it an ideal stay-at-home vacation activity." Don't forget to buy a bottle or two. No grapes nearby? Plan a tour and a tasting at a local microbrewery.

5. Take a guided city tour.
Walking tours, trolley tours and river tours provide home vacationers with a novel point of view on their hometown. Tour guides offer their twist on the area's sights, history and trivia. "I took a trolley tour of Boston, my hometown," Oppenheimer says. "It was one of the kitschiest things I've ever done. But it was so much fun that I'd do it again." Remember to bring a camera.

6. Leave the cooking to the pros.
"Cooking while on vacation at home is such a bad idea," Oppenheimer says. "But you also don't want to eat every meal away from home." Instead, consider hiring a personal chef to prepare a staycation's worth of meals in advance. Better yet, hire that chef to prepare a candle-lit dinner for two at home.

7. Change your environment.
Travel immerses you in a land of unexplored and unexpected vistas. Mimic that feeling by dining in a restaurant you've never been to in a part of town you rarely frequent. While traveling abroad, eating exotic foods is all part of the experience. At home, consider trying that Ethiopian or Moroccan restaurant you've been wanting to try.

8. Take public transportation.
Away from home, we leave the driving to the conductors, cabbies and captains. Doing so not only makes traveling more relaxed, but it also frees you up to see the scenery. Ride the subway or bus to your destination, and let someone else watch the traffic.

9. Outsource the chores.
On vacation, you never have to vacuum the carpet, fold the laundry, mow the lawn or shovel the walk. Don't do them on your staycation. Book a maid, send the clothes out to the dry cleaner and pay a neighbor kid to tend to the lawn.

10. Unplug and unwind.
Stow the cell phone, laptop and Blackberry. Just because you're in the same area code as your cubicle doesn't mean you should try to work at home. Put a hold on the mail, and stop the newspaper, too. Nothing zaps a staycation like a utility bill or depressing headlines.

11. Do nothing.
It's harder than you think. Stare into space. Take a nap on the floor with your dog. "Keep it simple," Oppenheimer says. "If it's not fun, don't do it. This is your vacation, after all."

Uno, dos, tres

2008-10-01T01:02:00.000-07:00

I woke up today with a text from cheeky Junver (yet he's the only one who calls me Ate Tin these days), which made me get out of bed and laugh:

"Hindi lahat ng batang naka-bag ay nag-aaral.
Ang ibang ay naglalakwatsa lang..."

- Dora, the Explorer

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Also, while watching Lifestyle Network this afternoon, I chanced upon a show called "The Genuine Article." It features high-end destinations for those who've seen it all and yet would like to experience something a notch higher.

Thanks to the show, I discovered their parent site fineliving.com. It has lots of interesting things to look forward to for a nesting soul like me. It even provides tips on how to make everyday life pleasurable - just like holiday living.

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I've picked up a new book to read from an old stack waiting to be noticed. Sometime last year, I chanced upon a book entitled Kafka's Soup at Powerbooks in Trinoma. I could not resist the title (obvious Czech connection) so after learning it was about food and literature plus a discounted price, I had to have it!

Fourteen literary recipes with drawings showing how it could have been if you were watching your favorite author prepare a meal -- or something like it. It's been a good afternoon read.

Mozart, Prague and related spots

2008-09-29T02:43:00.000-07:00

I realized I discussed too much about Mozart in Prague in a recent post that it deserves its own. Here’s a brief background of some of the items I mentioned.

Municipal Library Theater of Prague
Located at the Mariánské náměstí in the Old Town, the theater opened in 1942 as an addition to the library services and premises, which opened in 1891. Right in the middle of the old town and within walking distance to the Starometska metro station, it does not only house a theater but also the Bedřich Smetana Library established in 1921 as well as a Braille library in 1932 – 1942.

Loboc choir, an ensemble of singing children from Bohol, Philippines performed at the Municpal Library Theater of Prague in 2003. Emma and I were part of the few Filipinos able to see the performance of a choir who gives continuous pride to the Philippines. And on that evening, I was the one who handed the flowers to the former Philippine Ambassador to the Czech Republic, which was given to the choirmaster.

Estates Theater
Commissioned by František Antonín Count Nostitz Rieneck and opened in 1783, it still holds its original inscription, which reads Patriae et Musis - To the Native Land and the Muses. The Czech Estates purchased the theater in 1798 consequently changing its name from Count Nostitz’s Theatre to Royal Theatre of the Estates. The Estates Theatre has more predominantly been identified with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart because two of his operas premiered here: Don Giovanni in October 29, 1787 (with Mozart himself conducting the opera) and La Clemenza di Tito.

2006 marked Mozart’s 250th birth year and there were celebrations all over the world. Of course, the Estates Theater won’t be without an event aside from their usual Mozart Opera offerings. During winter that year, I was able to watch a collection of Mozart’s operas – a sampling of sorts. I suppose live performances really illicit a different feeling, which arouses interest than mere boredom. I suddenly appreciated my dad’s gesture of waking me up with classical music playing all over the house on Sunday mornings during my childhood.

Villa Bertramka
When I got to Villa Bertramka, I was not impressed. It was just a big house (but a Villa in Czech standards) with lots of Mozart memorabilia. Maybe it’s because prior to visiting the Villa, I’ve been to countless castles so I was expecting something special.

Bertramaka’s routes rest from Josefina Dušek who was a superb singer of her time, married to František Xaver Dušek who was also her music teacher since 1770. The couple met Mozart in a trip to Salzburg and has since offered their home to Mozart whenever he was in Prague. Dušek and Mozart performed a number of times in Vienna and Saxony.

Villa Bertramka also has an interesting location as it is at the periphery of Prague’s city center – neither at the old or new towns. It’s within walking distance to the Novy Smichov commercial complex – another example where the old blends with the new in Praha.

Nelahozeves Castle
My mother became friends with the Lobkowitcz family and from then on, have always suggested to clients (if they have the preference and resources) to visit or hold their events at any of their properties. In the winter of 2006, I had a pleasure of bringing a group for lunch at this historic castle, located 15 miles north of Prague at a town of the same name, where coincidentally, Czech composer, Antonín Dvořák was born.

For me, the Nelahozeves Castle is worth visiting if you have time to spare. Since I have always had a soft spot for anything Spanish (Spain was always my ideal rescue destination when the dreary and grim mood of living in Bohemia was too much to bare), I immediately warmed up to the Nelahozeves Castle. Why? Because it has the largest collection of Spanish portraits from the 16th and 17th centuries outside of Spain. Just imagine the feeling when you think you’ve seen the best at the Prado only to find out there’s more, in dear old Czech Republic!

During that visit I was able to view a temporary exhibition (1997-2007) of Six Centuries of European Art Patronage. Now the exhibition is lodged at Lobkowitcz Palace at the Prague Castle. How I wish pictures were allowed to be taken and it was not a working visit. Instead of returning to Prague by coach, we took a terribly slow cruise along the Vltava River (Moldau in German) disembarking right off the Intercontinental Hotel at the Old Town.

Urban blessings

2008-09-28T07:10:00.000-07:00

Me and my dad would often linger choosing cheeses

This afternoon, I went grocery shopping with my dad after not having done so in awhile. Going through aisles, concocting menus in our heads, having instant cravings for random things we see were all part of my childhood - and actually still is.

Today though, was different. Despite my dad's usual enthusiasm about food, he was already exhausted by half an hour. By then, we got our staples: meat, veg, some condiments and nibbles. I queued towards the cashier and he was off to get ciabatta as he waited for me to finish.

That moment, I realized how good it is to be near my loved ones. Times like this I don't want to be anywhere else but here.

Classic

2008-09-28T06:59:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I attended the 85th birth year celebration of Robert Coyuito at the Meralco Theater.

As I was watching and listening to the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra play the Philippine National Anthem, I was practically having goosebumps. I have not heard our national anthem played live in a very long time and it was good to be reminded how pleasant it is to the ears. How much pride it could elicit in a Filipino that our national anthem is actually a good one.

All of a sudden, I was pulled back into music class under Mrs Cristi where she would send her students to watch performances at CCP. In hindsight, it is good to have a well-rounded liberal arts education. Yesterday's event made me realize that. Then of course, how could I forget the Czech Republic?

Perhaps my primary live encounter (beyond books and CDs) with classical music would be while living in the Czech Republic. I suddenly remembered the evening Emma and I were laughing our asses off at the Municipal Library Theater when the Loboc Choir performed -- only to find out minutes later I was going to be the one to bring the flowers on stage.

Cristina Coyiuto playing the piano, together with her daughter Caitlin playing the flute was literally music to the ears. Such soothing hopping sounds. Obviously, I do not know how to describe music (which makes me think what I learned during music class) but it reminded me of Bolero. I've always loved Bolero.

All this time, my mind was wandering. Thinking about how much I enjoyed watching the Brno Philharmonic Orchestra play when they performed at the AFP theater - perhaps in 2004. Then I thought about my visit at the Nelahozeves Castle and viewing all those original manuscripts of Beethoven and Mozart. Such a memorable sight to see! I admire those young Czech volunteers who actually remember all the contents of the museum. My mind also brought me back to the EstatesTheatre, where I watched my first Mozart Opera, and Villa Bertramka, Mozart's home in Prague -- that's where he wrote Don Giovanni, which premiered in Prague.

My wanderings finally ended when we decided to go out and eat. After sampling some asparagus spreads, I knew the food was good. Coupled with Spanish white wine from La Rioja, I had to have more. So we abandoned Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 4 and headed out for cocktails and small bites. Luckily, the performance was heard at the entire lobby that we practically did not miss a thing!

This has been a lengthy post already but let me end with the highlight of my Saturday: meeting Margarita Araneta-Fores. She was never my local foodie idol but I have always looked up to her - her accomplishments, her parth, her cooking. Maybe when I feel like abandoning everything, I'll just do what she did: fly off to Italy, volunteer and absorb the local cuisine and customs and come back home to share it with my countrymen.