Monday, March 31, 2025

At Savoy Cafe Boracay Where Aklanon Dishes are Served Alongside Hotel Staples



Then it happened, and I learned that Aklanon cuisine has distinct characteristics of its own, even though having historical traces from the Visayan region.  After stumbling upon Boracay Island Flavors at Savoy Hotel Manila, I couldn't undo my admiration for the said cuisine.   The Chicken Binakol made me remember my Lola Vita, (she's a Boholana) who has a recipe book with that dish included and she wished she could have cooked it when we visited her when I was young.   I never had a chance to taste it even knowing about it in my early teen years.  That recipe book happened to be a treasure trove and the only book I read when I was on vacation at that time, which probably inspired me to be who I am now, a food lover.

Do you know where I finally had a taste of the Binakol?  It's at Savoy Hotel Manila during the launch of Boracay Island Flavor menu offering, which sadly ran for a couple of weeks only.  

How happy I was when I saw it at the menu of Savoy Cafe Boracay.  I guess you know what transpired next? 

It was until dinner when I had a chance to again rekindle my liking for Aklanon dishes.  Savoy Cafe has an extensive selection for Filipino and international cuisines.  But what I love is how they have infused the regional dishes and their local ingredients to some of their dishes.  Aklanon dishes are so steeped on Visayan traditions and mainly uses what the islands are rich of, like the coconut. Hence, most of the native dishes uses gata or coconut milk, it's water and the meat of course. Various use of the coconut have been passed on from one generation to another, from different meat to seafood and to their meryenda (snack) or desserts, and the hotels' restos in the Newcoast area were not exempted to this.

It was hard choosing the dishes we are to have as everything looked appetizing.  My husband then asked  the staff  for help in ordering, likely their best-seller or her preference.  Her initial suggestion was The Binagoongang Lechon Rondalla. With a cheerful smile and warm service, I can tell what the culture of this hotel is, such a charm, and so we did order her suggestion and it was beyond our expectations.

Here are the dishes we ordered...

Chicken Binakol

Grilled Pompano


Savoy Special Pizza

Binagoongan Lechon Rondalla

Grilled Salmon with Salad





Saturday, March 29, 2025

Japanese Crafts and Gastronomy in Gifu: Why Higashi Mino is a Hidden Gem for Art and Culinary Lovers

 


Tucked away in Gifu Prefecture, Higashi Mino is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With the highly anticipated Chuo Shinkansen set to make the region more accessible, Higashi Mino is poised to become a sought-after destination. But with rising concerns about over-tourism, now is the perfect time to explore this culturally rich area before the crowds arrive. 

As Osaka Expo 2025 approaches, Higashi Mino is gearing up to shine on the global stage. Beyond its scenic hiking trails, it offers an authentic cultural journey through traditional

Thursday, March 27, 2025

Travel Madness Expo 2025: The biggest travel and trade fairs is happening on July 11-13, 2025




TRAVEL MADNESS EXPO (TME), one of the most anticipated events in the Travel Industry, offers the best travel deals for a decade now. With new travel experiences and more exciting destinations both local and international, travelers can look forward to great value for their money for the 2025 edition.

 

Travel Innovators Inc, President MA. PAZ ALBERTO and 12th TME CHAIRPERSON, as always, is making sure that no stones shall be unturned for this highly-anticipated annual event.

 

“We are ready to provide you with the ultimate travel experience. Our exhibitors are working tirelessly to curate the best and most unforgettable trips for you to take. Whether you dream of exploring the hidden gems of the countryside or jetting off to far off lands, we are here to make it happen. From luxurious accommodations to thrilling excursions, we have thought of every detail to ensure that your vacation is nothing short of magical,” says Ms. Alberto. 

 

Lanson Place Mall of Asia Sets a New Standard for Extended Stays in Manila


Discerning travelers who seek seamless blend of comfort, convenience, and sophisticated living for extended periods will find Lanson Place Mall of Asia a haven. Lanson Place Mall of Asia’s elegantly appointed serviced residences redefine the concept of a "home away from home," making it perfect for the needs of long-term travelers and expatriates embarking on new adventures, and corporate guests requiring a refined and comfortable base, 


Each residence is meticulously designed to cater to every need, featuring a fully equipped kitchenette for preparing favorite meals, a full-sized refrigerator to stock with essentials, water filtration system, an electric induction hub for convenient cooking, and the indispensable in-room washer/dryer. High-speed Wi-Fi ensures seamless connectivity for work and play.


The allure of a longer stay at Lanson Place Mall of Asia also lies in the exclusive resident privileges designed to elevate everyday living. Guests are invited to indulge in the serenity of the Residents' Lounge, maintain their wellness routine at the state-of-the-art Fitness Centre, and soak in breathtaking city views from the Rooftop Infinity Pool.

Sunday, March 2, 2025

Duchess Fine Teas Introduces a World of Flavors to Manila—Luxury Tea for Everyday Wellness

 


As the number of health conscious people rises, and I myself is a self-proclaimed one, tea is becoming the beverage of choice. As many have been seeking a balanced lifestyle. Now, with the launch of Duchess Fine Teas at WOFEX DRINKS 2025 from March 27 to 29 at the World Trade Center Manila, Filipinos can explore an extensive selection of branded fine gourmet teas from India, Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, China, and Sri Lanka. Available in loose-leaf and pyramid tea bags, all blends come in beautifully designed tin cans, perfect for daily enjoyment or gifting.


Traditionally, the Philippine tea market has been limited, but Duchess Fine Teas is changing that by offering over 150 varieties. Their range includes black, green, white, herbal, and floral blends, with both caffeinated and caffeine-free options. This diverse selection allows everyone to find a tea that suits their taste and wellness goals.

Recognizing the growing demand for quality beverages, Duchess Fine Teas provides an opportunity for the HORECA (Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering) sector to enhance their menus with premium tea blends. Coffee shops, abundant throughout the Philippines, can also diversify their offerings by incorporating these unique teas, catering to the evolving preferences of their health-conscious clientele.