Back in Paradise

Coming back to the island of Boracay in the Philippines gives one the feeling of the true meaning of vacation.  Since first stepping on the island more than twenty years ago, a lot things have changed.  Resorts, bars, and restaurants have come and go but every visit is something to look forward to because there is always something new.  Away from Boracay's scene to be seen, lies one of the best luxury resort hotels in the Philippines--Shangri-La Boracay. Located at the Northern part of the isle, this modern nirvana is the epitome of luxury at its finest.  The mark of distinction lies in a breathtaking look with impeccable design and outstanding style evoking the aesthetics of globally renowned Shangri-La group.  The benchmark of high quality and standard in the industry, their  accomodations, amenities, facilities and other luxurious offerings define the true essence in exclusive five-star attractions. Dining in their various restaurants is an excellent gastronomic treat that goes beyond first impressions.  Noteworthy too is the finest in hotel services topped by the endearing warmth and hospitality of the management and staff.  One of the finest vacation getaways in the Philippine islands, this remote paradise prides on its exclusivity where one can truly experience a relaxing and undisturbed vacation.  A world full of surprises, Shangri-La Boracay makes one's stay definitely a memory of a lifetime.

Hearts on Fire

This is another post birthday entry.  Was invited to have dinner at the renowned Fireplace restaurant at the Hyatt Hotel and Casino in Manila.  Haven't been there in ages, so decided to bring my siblings for a wonderful dining experience. We were welcomed by the manager Joy who was very warm, accomodating and pleasantly brought us to our corner table.  We were in for a treat to one of Manila's best kept secrets, Fireplace is famous for its prime steaks, wide selection of wines and unique setting. Marked with distinction, the chic atmosphere gives you a feeling of being inside a chalet or an exclusive cellar.  Tucked in the heart of Manila, one can be assured this reclusive haven is no scene to be seen and one can enjoy the perfect private dining experience.  Revisiting Fireplace gives the author the feeling of coming back home.  Despite the passage of time, nothing much has changed because everything has amazingly been well maintained and the cuisine is as fabulous as ever. One must try the assortment of gastronomic indulgences that will definitely satisfy your heart's craving. Loving great ambiance matched with exemplary service, every moment is truly a memorable one.  Thanks so much to Loni Balagtas, the staff and management of Hyatt Hotel and Casino for the extraordinary treat.  Cheers!
 

Light and Shade.

Wood wonders.

Lush.

The wonders of Joy the restaurant manager.

Spare me a piece of bread.

Ceasar salad.

Yummy mushroom soup with truffle oil.

Surf and Turf.  Tenderloin steak with huge prawns.

Grilled Sea Bass.

Compliments from the chef. Creamy Potato Gratin.

Sweet intoxication. Chocolate soup with vanilla ice cream.

Let them eat cake courtesy of the Hyatt family.

Loving the extraordinary pampering.  Thank you.

Sibling revelry with Erica and Catrina.

Hyatt Hotel and Casino is located in Pedro Gil Street, Malate, Manila. For enquiries and reservations, call The Fireplace on 247 8666 or email fireplace.mn@hyatt.com

Chic in the City

Have you ever had an overnight stay in one of the seasoned hotels in the Malate Area?  Well, this author was recently invited for an overnight stay at the Pan Pacific Hotel to check out the newly renovated rooms.  Having stayed there a couple of times before, the rooms now are quite impressive comparatively and personally rates high on the style meter.  As one enters the room, you immediately get this wonderful bright feeling of lightness.  The spacious and well-lit contemporary setting gives an impression of modernism accentuated with hints of Filipiniana.  Crisp ivory painted walls fused with wood create a clean and sleek ambiance highlighted with modern furnishings.  Nothing too fancy and busy to the eye, one can't help notice the luxury of space which most hotels in the city don't have.  Chic beddings are of the finest materials luxuriously set with a high thread count anyone would dream of. A major plus is the majestic panoramic view of the city or the sea one gets to enjoy most specially in the evening. Overall the new look is all about relaxed style and convenience at its finest. Five star hotel living is never complete without the exceptional specials and Pan Pacific Hotel prides itself with an impeccable 24 hour butler service unmatched by their contemporaries. The perfect weekend getaway treat and escape one must-try without getting out of the city.
  

Lap of luxury.  Spacious rooms with style-setting fusion of traditional and contemporary.

And for the perfect relaxation, one can soak in the tub for hours watching tv, listening to music or simply enjoying a panoramic view of the cityscape.

Pillow comfort. No need to count sheep, choose from an array of pillow types
to suit your needs for the ultimate trip to Never Never land.

With the new renovated rooms, we decided to shoot a fashion editorial for Luxe Magazine featuring designer retail on Asian ubermodel Jenny Rockett who was going to leave the next day for Beijing en route to Paris. It was the perfect setting for an all glammed up yet understated look of luxe. Pan Pacific Hotel treated the team like kings with 5-star pampering.  We had an overflowing coffee and tea station plus endless pastries during the entire shoot plus dinner after. 

Can't resist luxe temptations from Arnel Papa.

Max Factor's Bobby Carlos with ubermodel Jenny Rockett.

In action.

Luxe magazine's on the go editorial team.

Fashion Photographer Joan Bitagcol.

Junior associate stylist Rudolph Leonor.

Junior associate stylist Mikka Velasquez.

Junior associate stylist Donna Gonzales Lim.

Associate stylist Reg Rodriguez.

Max Factor's Bobby Carlos.

My uber yummy breakfast--salmon, asparagus, beans and smoked fish.

Make a wild guess?

 

The main event this coming September at Pan Pacific Hotel.



Pan Pacific's most gracious PR Kathy Manuel and Marketing Communications Assistant Ernie Bigay.