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Affordable Overlooking Cafe in Binangonan Rizal | Sikatan Sikada Cafe

Nothing beats the taste of a good cup of coffee on a rainy or even a warm sunny day. Coffee itself soothes and warms up my insides, but the best experience is when you can drink it while gazing out at nature.

Sikatan Sikada Cafe is a recently opened coffee shop with a view of Laguna de Bay. This place is very relaxing, and the staff are indeed very friendly. I discovered this coffee shop while looking for a new place with relaxing view to wind down after a long week.

Here's a short video of the place to give you a better idea of what to expect.

We ordered Hot and Cold Mocha Latte, and my first sip was sweet but bittersweet, just how I like my coffee. We also got a Clubhouse sandwich, which was tasty but a little pricey in comparison to other coffee shops. They also serve rice meals, specifically breakfast meals, as well as other coffee and beverage options.

Aside from the coffee, which I absolutely love, what I like and appreciate about this place is the ambiance and the breathtaking nature view, as I am a sucker for breathtaking views and also enjoy landscape and nature photography.

Speaking of photography, I was testing a new camera lens loaned to me by Tamron Philippines, which I used to take these photos. I used the Tamron 18-300mm lens, which I consider to be the ideal lens for me because it has a zoom capacity that ranges from wide-angle to ultra-telephoto. For me, good photos are essential because they serve not only as memories but also as stories to tell.

Sikatan Sikada Cafe is located in Pitallo St., Brgy. Mahabang Parang, Binangonan, Rizal, right next to the Westridge Subdivision. It was easy to find, making it a great place to visit. I highly recommend this coffee spot for foodies, coffee lovers, travelers, photographers, or anyone looking for a new place to visit or unwind. This is a must-see whether with family, friends, lovers, or colleagues.

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Relax and Enjoy A Panoramic View Of Nature's Landscape ​At Cielo Alto

If you're looking for a quiet, serene, and relaxing place away from the city, or if you just want a change of scenery from your normal daily routine, this is the place to be.

We discovered this new hidden spot with a picturesque nature view while wandering in the mountains of Tanay Rizal, where you can just sit or lay down and stare at the evergreen mountains and trees.

Cielo Alto is a staycation and event venue in Mayagay, Tanay Rizal, nestled in the Sierra Madre mountain ranges. Its panoramic view of nature's landscape, cold weather, and starry night sky will enchant you.

They offer accommodations ranging from P3,000 to P4,000 per night, ideal for couples, groups of friends, and families. They have a restaurant nearby, but guests can also use their kitchen and bring food without paying a corkage fee. The place is still being renovated because they are extending the main lobby building and adding a pool, but it is already perfect for staycations and paghahanap ng sarili.

Since the area is not huge, you can expect it to be less crowded, and you will undoubtedly enjoy some peace and quiet while in there.

Here's a short video tour of the place.

My friends and I had a great time during our stay because the staff are friendly and accommodating, and the view is breathtaking both during the day and at night. We chose a cabin because of the view deck from which we could enjoy the nature and mountain views, as well as the breathtaking night sky.

I definitely recommend this spot for those looking for peace and tranquility, wanting to reconnect with nature, and astrophiles like myself who enjoy gazing at and photographing the night sky.

Rates and accommodation

CABIN (A-Shaped) - P3,500 (good for 2 with two complimentary breakfast. Additional 200 per head in excess of 2, maximum of 5 pax. Common CR available.)

VIP ROOM 1 - P4,000 (good for 2 with two complimentary breakfast. Additional 200 per head in excess of 2, maximum of 4 pax. With own CR.)

VIP ROOM 2 & 3- P3,000 (good for 2 with two complimentary breakfast. Additional 200 per head in excess of 2, maximum of 6 pax. With own CR.)

Travel Requirements:

Fully Vaccinated Card

Valid ID's

Important Notes:

Book your reservation early

Check in/Check out time: 6AM to 6PM (Day tour), 2PM to 11AM (Overnight)

Kids are allowed

Parking is available

Put on your mask

Bring alcohol and sanitize

Observe social distancing

If you are staying in a cabin, you should do some leg exercises because there are a lot of stairs to climb.

Relax and Enjoy!

For more information and inquiries, visit their Facebook page or send a message to 09683219112.

So, where to next?

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Glamping with Nature & Experience a Sea of Clouds in Viewscape Nature's Park

Rizal province is well-known for having some of the most breathtaking mountains and nature scenery for camping, hiking, and relaxing. It is a destination for those in need of some fresh air and a dose of nature.

Viewscape Nature's Park is a new camping area and nature park located in Sitio Maysawa Barangay Cuyambay Tanay Rizal, which is a few hours away from the city. They offer affordable lodging options such as camping, glamping, car camping, and private rooms.

We booked a family room for P4,000, which sleeps six people and has three twin beds and a private bathroom. They also allow their guests to use the kitchen, dining area, and roof deck. The Ubod Rooms, on the other hand, are one of their most popular accommodations. They are instagrammable triangle-shaped rooms that are ideal for glamping and cost P2,500 per night.

This place has one of the most scenic mountain views, but the best part is the sea of clouds during sunrise and the beautiful and clear night sky. Which is something that most people who want to unwind and reconnect with nature would enjoy.

They offer a variety of activities for adrenaline junkies, such as Caldera Bath, Astrophotography, and the Adventure Trail experience, which includes exploring campgrounds, visiting caves, and bird watching.

Note: Make sure you're prepared for these activities!

As a lover of the night sky, I thoroughly enjoyed stargazing and astrophotography here. For me, the starry night sky is a source of peace and healing.

This place allowed me and my friends to take a deep breath and clear our minds of the uncertainties and problems that had been troubling us. We will definitely go back here.

(More photos and videos can be found on my Instagram and Tiktok!!)

Rates and accommodation

ENTRANCE FEE:

Day Tour - P150

Overnight - P250

OTHER FEES:

Tent for 4Pax - P600

Tent for 2Pax - P400

Mattress - P100

Tent Pitching - P200 (Size of a Regular 4Pax Tent)

Car Camping/Tenting/Roof Tent - P500

Caldera Bath - P300

Bonfire- P200

MODERN ROOMS:

Family Room with T/B (Good 6Pax) - P4,000

Family Room common T/B (Good 4Pax) - P2,500

Guest Room with T/B (Good 2Pax) - P2,500

Single Room common T/B (Good 2Pax) - P2,000

Glamping Room (Good 4Pax) - P3,500/3,000

Travel Requirements:

18-65 years old

Fully Vaccinated Card

Valid ID's

Photocopy of Vaccine Card & Valid ID

Registered in Staysafe.ph

Important Notes:

Book your reservation early

Check in/Check out time: 6AM to 6PM (Day tour), 2PM to 11AM (Overnight)

Pets are allowed

Parking is available

Put on your mask

Bring alcohol and sanitize the space

Observe social distancing

Bring Powerbanks because the electricity in the location is generated by a solar panel

Breathe and Enjoy!

For more information and inquiries, visit their Facebook page or send a message to 09309860284.

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7Artisans Lenses: Expectations vs. Reality

When it comes to photography, having the right equipment is essential, especially when you want to focus on specific subjects, but what if I tell you a secret about a lens brand I love because it produces high-quality photos at a fair price?

One of the most common issues for beginners in photography is investing in gear, specifically lenses, because most native lenses are expensive, and as a beginner who only wants to explore, they are not willing to take the risk of spending a lot of money on lenses at first.

A college professor recommended 7artisans to me a few years ago. It surprised me when he told me the price and questioned it at first because he was selling it for such a cheap price. I used to think that low-cost lenses couldn’t produce high-quality images, but this brand has completely changed my mind.

7artisans 35mm f/0.95

Let me begin by introducing you to the 7artisans 35mm f/0.95 lens. A sleek, compact, and versatile prime lens that you can take with you wherever you go. It works well in low-light conditions and gives you control over the depth of field for isolating subject and using specific focus techniques.

This lens is best suited for portraits, food, and product photography, but it can also be used for travel and landscape photography. Here are some of my sample photos taken with this lens, and what I like best about it is the super bokeh effect it delivers.

Size and Weight ⋆⋆⋆

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The 7artisans 35mm f/0.95 retails at PhP 9,990 but since 12.12 year end sale is coming, you can get it for only PhP 8,991. They also have a BUY 2 GET 1 FREE LENS promo. I personally recommend this lens to portrait photographers looking for a high-quality, low-cost lens.

7artisans 25mm f/1.8

The 7artisans 25mm f/1.8 is another of my favorite lenses that I own and recommend. This is a wide prime lens made of metal with a sleek design that is lightweight and portable. It is best suited for astrophotography, landscape photography, and street photography.

Here are some of my sample photos taken with this lens, and as a photographer who enjoys photographing the night sky and taking star and milkway photos, I totally love it.

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It retails at PhP 3,690 but since 12.12 year end sale is coming, you can get it for FREE when you purchase 2 lenses from 7Artisans Authorized Resellers.

If you want to learn more about the 7Artisans lenses or try them out for yourself, here is a list of their AUTHORIZED Sellers. Please note that buying from these AUTHORIZED Sellers ensures that you will receive authentic lenses with a warranty.

You may also get in touch with 7Artisans Philippines through their Facebook Page or Instagram Account.

Feel free to comment on these lenses too! :)

[jovelynbmateo]

Best Overlooking Coffee Shops to Visit in Tanay Rizal

Coffee and nature are the best forms of therapy. It is one of life's simple pleasures that we can enjoy alone, with friends, or most of the time with family. As we continue to adjust to this new normal we all seek an escape other than the corners of our homes where we can sit, breathe, and let our minds wander, even if only for a brief moment. Here are some of the best overlooking spots in tanay rizal where you can enjoy both coffee and nature.

For many of us, a cup of coffee is an essential part of our day. Some people can't even function without it. These coffee shops serve the best coffee, whether you like it hot, cold, dark, bitter, or sweet.

Sinag Kapihan

First on the list is this newly opened coffee shop located in KM 68 Marilaque Hi-way, Sitio Hinadyungan Barangay, Tanay Rizal. Alfresco dining with a view of the mountains and the Pililla Windmills in the distance.

Aside from their coffee, my personal favorites and recommendations are the Garlic and Shrimp Pizza, Roast Chicken, Tapa, and Sinigang na Baka.

It is my friends' and my current favorite overlooking coffee shop. They have a strong signal, so you can work while enjoying the experience. I also appreciate how friendly and approachable their staff is.

Epic Resto

Epic Resto, our newly discovered hilltop restaurant, is part of Epic Park Rainforest, which is located on Sampaloc Rd in Tanay, Rizal. They just opened their doors to the public, and I must say that the view from this restaurant is captivating. It's a perfect location for watching breathtaking sunsets.

I fell in love with this place right away because it is positioned on a hill and is surrounded by green trees and grass, with views of Laguna Bay and the city. You could spend the entire day sitting here.

They are more of a restaurant than a coffee shop, so expect a variety of menu options ranging from breakfast to lunch to dinner. On weekends, they also serve a special menu.

Kape Natividad

Kape Natividad Roastery and Cafe is known for its affordable coffee and pugon pizza and is located in Marikina-Infanta Hwy, Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal. They serve excellent food and have a spectacular view of the clouds and mountains.

They recently expanded the space to accommodate more customers. Aside from their coffee and pizza, my recommendations and personal favorites here are the Mixed Berries Smoothie, Silog meals, and Sinigang na baboy.

You can read more at https://jovelynbmateo.com/post/645006669611433984/kape-natividad-tanay-rizal

Yeyi's Pizzeria & Café

Last but not least is Yeyi's Pizzeria & Café, which is located at KM61 Malapapaya St, Tanay, Rizal. This is not your typical coffee shop because they serve alcoholic beverages. Cocktail hour? They've got you covered!

Since the space is quite small, I highly suggest that you come here during the weekdays to avoid having to wait in line. They also serve delectable food and beverages such as coffee, smoothies, and liquors. Nachos, Pizza, and a Strawberry Milk Smoothie are three of my favorite foods.

If you plan on visiting those coffee shops, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Wear a mask and keep alcohol and hand sanitizers on hand at all times

There are checkpoints on weekends

Visit during the week to avoid crowds

Be cautious and stay safe

[jovelynbmateo]

Juan Gadget Now Becomes JG Superstore

Juan Gadget, a Philippine online gadget store, announced on October 1, 2021, that it will now be known as JG Superstore. After only 5 years in the e-commerce industry, the company has significantly expanded its product offerings, partner brands, and overall recognition and trust from customers across the country. JG Superstore continues to go on a mission to empower Filipinos, Juan Gadget at a time.

The company's founders, Oliver and Jill Tan have been on the same mission since the company's inception in 2016, and that is to honor God and serve the Filipino people. JG Superstore has been renamed Juan Gadget, and its mission is to empower Filipino Juan Gadget. With the company's consistent growth and commitment to serving every Filipino, the company is moving forward with providing more options, discounts, and happiness to every Juan to make their shopping experience with JG Superstore more superb.

From a small 25 m2 space building in San Juan to a 1000 m2 space in Greenhills, San Juan, the company has truly expanded to encompass their growing customer offerings. JG Superstore is now one of the Philippines' leading electronic retailers, having joined the Lazada Winning Circle and being available on Lazada and Shopee. The company currently carries over 100+ trusted brands in their catalog, including Panasonic, Fujifilm, Instax, Rode, Sennheiser, JBL, Godox, Manfrotto, Audio Technica, Samson, Fender, Benro, and others, as well as over 5000+ quality products.

JG Superstore is also excited to unveil its new and improved logo identity, but the company's core values will not change. JG Superstore is fully prepared and committed to serving their customers by providing the lowest prices, fast delivery, local warranty, and excellent customer service to ensure that every Juan is a super happy Juan.

Some of JG Superstore’s Top-rated Products:

You may visit their website at https://jgsuperstore.com.

[jovelynbmateo]

GUESS Originals Summer 2021 Collection + GUESS Originals KIT Program

The Summer 2021 GUESS Originals collection is back with a new essentials line called the GUESS Originals Kit Program.

Seasonally, the program is modified with essential core fits and colors in premium fabrics and timeless designs for men and women. The GUESS Originals capsule and Kit Program, which includes the brand division's most modern denim styles, will be available beginning July 16, 2021, in selected GUESS retail stores and guess.com.ph. 

GUESS Originals Collection 

The Summer GUESS Originals Collection for both men and women is inspired by the California surf scene and features surf-inspired graphics from the archives. The pastel colors and softer washes in this delivery are inspired by the relaxed California lifestyle. The summer collection features timeless silhouettes with a fashion-forward twist.

The men's collection includes tees, tanks, sweat shorts, and slim and straight leg denim in light, dark, and black washes. Jogger pants, hoodies, and crew neck sweatshirts return in monochromatic tones to provide a laid-back look to your style. The iconic triangle logo appears on the back pocket of all denim pieces from the GUESS Originals seasonal collection.

The women's capsule includes tanks and crop tops in pale banana yellow and jet black. Knit sets in the shape of button-ups are the ultimate in comfort for your wardrobe. A two-piece matching crop top and short set in daisy prints is the ultimate lightweight and fashion-forward summer look. Cropped mom jeans, high waisted jeans, and skinny jeans are among the denim options.

GUESS Originals Kit Program 

Each style featured in the GUESS Originals collection corresponds to a core style in the Kit Program. The program's silhouettes emphasize premium denim and heritage styles from the brand's design archives. The Kit pants offer a variety of styles, including elevated lighttwill cargo pants, light chino khaki woven pants, and light to dark stonewash denim. The Kit Program also includes chambray shirts and pocket tees for men. The women’s GO Kit Program offers a variety of ribbed tanks, bodysuits, mid-thigh shorts, as well as a light and dark stonewash denim jacket.

Pricing for the GUESS Originals collection + GUESS Originals Kit Program ranges from P 1,698 to P 3, 898 for tops, bottoms, dresses, hats and denim. Cop yours now!

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Life During the Pandemic: From Being Distressed to Appreciating Life

It has been over a year since the pandemic began. A lot of dreams and plans had to be put on hold, and so many changes had to happen for us to be able to cope with the situation. I'd like to share my story of how I went from being distressed to appreciating life and getting to know myself better.

Despite the difficulties we face, this pandemic has taught me valuable lessons. It taught me to appreciate the little things in life, such as waking up each morning, the beauty of nature and the magnificence of the sky, and spending time with my family.

Being able to travel, go places, and dress up were some things I truly missed. Today, I dressed up and went on a date with myself in my hometown, which I'm thankful to be in during the pandemic because it's surrounded by beautiful greenery and is safer than the city.

What I enjoy the most about being here is the simplicity of life. It allows me to slow down and savor each moment, sipping my coffee while listening to the birds sing, the wind whisper in my ears, and the sun's rays on my face.

In this day and age of digital technology, it's good to be reminded of the benefit of simple living. However, simple living doesn’t have to stop you from utilizing the advantage of technology, one which is convenience. The ability to buy anything in a few clicks from my gadgets without exposing myself is a great advantage. But I learned to be a wise buyer and for me being one usually means waiting for sale online before checking out.

This outfit is an example of a wise purchase I made in Shopee. I’ve been a fan of BNY for a long time, so I make it a point to visit their store on a regular basis to look look for discounts. So, guys, I'd like to share with you this great offer to save up to 60% off your favorite OOTDs from BNY during the upcoming 7.7 Mid-Year Sale.

As we slowly return to the new normal, tourism is gradually reopening provided we follow safety precautions. In preparation for future trips I’m purchasing travel outfits for my OOTDs. I'm just glad of the sales and discounts offered and the amount I am saving from it, yay!

How has your life been lately, and how are you coping with the pandemic?

[jovelynbmateo]

Tips on Saving Money When Upgrading Home Appliances

Everyone seems to be obsessed with renovating their spaces and homes to make them more "homey" and aesthetically pleasing. Despite the challenges that we are currently facing as a result of the pandemic, there are a few positive aspects that it has brought us.

Aside from renovations, we all know that the majority of we are active in improving healthy habits and living a healthy lifestyle. With that said, we must ensure that our spaces are safe and that our appliances provide benefits and highly practical solutions not only in our lives but also in the world. Imagine your current appliance to be the toxic friend you've been wanting to get rid of. Now that you have the opportunity to replace it, you will choose a more functional one that provides an effective solution because you have already experienced the disadvantages of the old one.

Here are some tips for saving money and selecting the perfect appliance for your home.

1. Make a list of what you need

In this age where it's easier to shop than ever, we easily forget to weigh between our wants and needs. So make a list of what you truly NEED so that you can set a budget for each appliance that you intend to purchase.

2. Look for energy-saving appliances

Energy-efficient appliances, such as Beko's, allow households to save money and energy while also providing a more environmentally sustainable option and promoting a healthy lifestyle. They provide energy-efficient and feature-packed appliances that improve each household's level of energy conservation. I came across this brand while I was buying a new refrigerator for our home.

3. Consider upgrading to smart appliances

Switching to smart devices is a great idea if you prefer convenience and productivity as it allows you to multitask efficiently, allowing you to focus on other priorities such as working from home. Consider being able to control your appliances mostly through your smartphone or voice assistant while on a zoom call with your boss.

4. Try to DIY

Instead of purchasing a new bed frame, why not spice up the old one? There are numerous DIY tips available online, particularly on YouTube that can help you save money and allocate it to other appliances.

 5. Ask for recommendations

Ask your friends for recommendations or join some Facebook groups that provide factual reviews of appliances so you know what you're getting is worth the money.

6. Compare prices

Look at several stores rather than just one to find the best and most affordable deal. Devote time to finding the best appliances with the best rates.

7. Sell the old

Purchasing new appliances entails the disposal of old ones. Instead of dumping it, try to sell it and use the money as an additional fund to your budget. Post it at a reasonable price on various online marketplaces, and you'll be surprised at how many people are looking for pre-owned appliances.

Note: This post is not intended to provide financial advice, but rather to give helpful suggestions for making appropriate decisions when upgrading your home.

If you have tips and recommendations feel free to drop it in the comment section below!

[jovelynbmateo]

Own an Affordable House and Lot in Lumina Homes Through Facebook

In this digital age, you can get and sell anything on Facebook, not just through posting, but also through live selling. Lumina Homes decided to step up their game by giving you the opportunity to get your dream home by participating in their live selling activity across the country and simply commenting "Mine."

Live Selling sa Barangay Lumina is a digital way to implement the house and lot purchasing experience during an Open House event, but with some fun elements added such as games, freebies, all-out inventory, and limited-time offers via Facebook. It is an interactive activity that allows house and lot reservations by simply commenting "mine" during the live stream as another way for Lumina Homes to connect with partner networks and interested home buyers.

Head to the Facebook pages of your preferred Lumina projects below to witness the “Live Selling sa Brgy. Lumina!"

LUMINA HOMES IN NORTH LUZON

1. Nueva Ecija - https://www.facebook.com/LuminaCabanatuanOfficial/

2. Rizal - https://www.facebook.com/luminapililla/

3. Tuguegarao - https://www.facebook.com/LuminaTuguegaraoOfficial/

4. Tarlac/Manaoag/La Union - https://www.facebook.com/luminatarlacofficial/

5. Bulacan - https://www.facebook.com/LuminaPlaridelOfficial

LUMINA HOMES IN SOUTH LUZON

6. Bauan - https://www.facebook.com/1luminabauan/

7. Lipa - https://www.facebook.com/1luminalipa/

LUMINA HOMES IN VISAYAS

8. Bacolod - https://www.facebook.com/LuminaOfficialBacolod/

9. Iloilo - https://www.facebook.com/LuminaOfficialIloilo/

LUMINA HOMES IN MINDANAO

10. Malaybalay/Valencia - https://m.facebook.com/luminamalaybalayofficialpage/

11. Ozamiz - https://www.facebook.com/LuminaOzamizOfficialPage/

12. Pagadian - https://www.facebook.com/luminahomespagadianofficial/

13. Butuan - https://www.facebook.com/LuminaButuanCityOfficial/

14. Tagum - https://www.facebook.com/luminahomestagumofficial/

To check the complete list of Lumina Homes nationwide, visit: 

https://www.lumina.com.ph/property-listing/

Lumina Homes also offers Mega Deal of the Month: PAYnagaan Extended DP Promo at 36 months for Lumina Bacolod East. PAYnagaan ang monthly downpayment for your dream Lumina house and lot in Lumina's soon-to-be-developed project in the east of Bacolod! Where you can get your own 2-story home today for as little as $5,219* per month until March 31, 2021!

[jovelynbmateo]

Affordable Café In Rizal with Overlooking View | Kape Natividad

We found an affordable café with excellent food and a relaxing view of the mountains. Whether you want to fill your day with nature while enjoying your favorite coffee blend and spending quality time with friends and family, this new café in Rizal is a must-try.

Kape Natividad Roastery and Café is a local coffee shop that supports local coffee farmers, originally located in Coffee Roasters in Marikina, and has already opened a branch in Tanay Rizal.

Since Rizal is known for its natural beauty and leisure activities, the location of this café is perfect for those who want a quick weekend getaway from the city and take a break from their busy lives. They offer a variety of food, from coffee, pizza, and breakfast menus to some of the favorite Filipino dishes.

They have a selection of drinks, whether you want coffee or non-coffee based drinks. Each of us ordered Iced Coffee for P100, and since I like my coffee sweet and milky, I had Cafe Mocha, but their Salted Caramel Latte is also a must-try! What I really love about coffee shops is the sweet aroma of fresh coffee beans spreading all over the area. The intoxicating scent is addictive.

The Pugon Pizza, which only cost P150 to P250 depending on the flavour, is another highly recommended food on their menu. We ordered Just White and Jalapeno Cream Cheese. Both flavors are tasty and mouth-watering. *Insert in-love emoji here*

Other than coffee and pizza, they also offer cheesecakes (which is really good too!!! 5 stars for their blueberry cheesecake), pasta, rice dishes and burgers. I will definitely go back to try each one of the them.

Although the place is small, the food is appetizing and affordable, which is what I like about the place and why I recommend it to people who love to eat, drink coffee, or just want to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

It is located in Marilaque Tanay, Rizal or you can search for "Kape Natividad Marilaque Tanay, Rizal" on google maps or Waze for directions. They are open from 6 AM to 8 PM on Mondays to Fridays and 6 AM to 9 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

They are no longer strict when it comes to travel, but safety measures are still being observed. Mask and face shield are still required, but there are no more checkpoints and they no longer require a medical certificate and travel pass. I highly recommend that you visit during the weekdays if you want to spend more time and enjoy the place as it's packed with people on weekends and holidays.

Here's a short video of our dine in experience at the place:

How To Get There:

Via Private Transportation: From EDSA, drive through Taytay, Angono, Binangonan, Cardona, Morong, Baras and Tanay to Manila East Road. On the left side you’ll see the restaurant sign.

Via Public Transportation: Take a van or FX to Tanay, Rizal from Starmall Mandaluyong or LRT Santolan (near SM Marikina). Their terminal is in the public market of Tanay. Ask them where the terminal that goes to Sampaloc, Tanay. Ride a jeep or a tricycle from Sampaloc and ask them to drop you at Kape Natividad in Marilaque Tanay, Rizal.

Other must visit places in Tanay:

Martessem Mountain Resort

Top 3 Best Tourist Spots in Tanay Rizal

[jovelynbmateo]

Weekend Staycation in Tagaytay City | New Normal Travel

As the pandemic progresses and the cases of COVID-19 continue to rise and fall across the globe, some countries are already opening their borders for travel, including the Philippines. A lot of tourist spots are already opened with new protocols following the "New Normal" to ensure everyone's safety.

After spending many months at home, we all need a break and time to get away from all the stress and anxieties we've experienced due to the sudden, major changes in our lives as a result of the pandemic. 

Last weekend, my friends and I decided to go for a long weekend getaway near Manila and decided to go to Tagaytay City. 

Traveling to Tagaytay is much like a normal pre-pandemic trip, except that you need to wear a mask inside your car for the entire trip, but the traffic situation from Manila to Tagaytay is no longer that bad since the Manila–Cavite Expressway, also known as CAVITEX, has already opened.

We found a hotel in Tagaytay City that's definitely worth the price because of the location and the view. It's a great place to unwind, whether you're alone, with friends, or with family. 

The Splendido Hotel is located in Alfonso, Tagaytay. An underrated place with a scenic view of Taal Lake, surrounded by nature and a calming view of the mountains.

We booked a Premier Deluxe Double Room and require a barangay health certificate or medical certificate as a safety protocol to confirm your booking.

The room is large and clean, has a bathtub, a TV and a balcony with a very relaxing view. 

Another thing I love about the hotel is that they give a sanitary kit that includes a mask, alcohol, and sanitizer, unlike other hotels.

The property is very large, so you can enjoy a lot of leisure activities such as basketball, tennis, swimming, bowling and golf. They also have a restaurant, a bar, a conference room and a spa.

You can also enjoy the cool breeze and witness a breathtaking sunset, and as a person who loves sunsets and cold weather, I've enjoyed my stay there. It's one of the many reasons I'm recommending and will go back to that place.

The view from our room after sunset.

A peaceful and relaxing view every morning. I swear, I could wake up to this view everyday, I know you want that, too!

NEW NORMAL PROTOCOLS TO REMEMBER:

Wearing a face mask and a face shield is a must.

Strict social distancing in public transportation and when dining.

All establishments in Tagaytay are already closed at 8:00 pm-9:00 pm.

You may also check Tagaytay Travel Guide for more info.

Our 3 days and 2 nights stay at the Splendido Hotel were one of the most relaxing trips that I had since the pandemic happened. You may check their rates and book here or call +63 46 423 3358  / +63 46 423 3362.

What's your most memorable quarantine/pandemic trip? Share it in the comment section below!

[jovelynbmateo]

Essential Oils for Self-Care | Essential Kit Giveaway

Self-care has been a major thing for everyone since the pandemic began. We have all gone through a phase where we needed to find things that would keep us sane in this whole situation, and essential oils are one of the things that have become important to me in my daily self-care rituals.at have become important to me in my daily self-care rituals.

Diffusing essential oils every morning and before going to bed had been a significant part of my daily routine.

Aromatherapy is an alternative system that uses essential oils to produce beneficial effects and promote well-being through inhalation and skin application.  

I used to buy cheap essential oils online, but I came to realize that the aroma doesn't last long and it doesn't have a lot of benefits, unlike other brands. I recently discovered Casa de Lorenzo Organic Products, a brand that sells organic Castile soaps and essential oils that bring a wide range of benefits to our bodies. They offer various scents made from plants in the Philippines and produced by Filipino farmers and communities.

ALMACIGA ESSENTIAL OIL – Used as a fire starter, caulking for boats, smudge for mosquitoes, and incense for religious ceremonies. There are documented pieces of evidence that the resin is burned and smoke is inhaled for asthma and other minor respiratory problems. The Almaciga Essential Oil’s aroma falls in-between Elemi and Frankincense making it another potential alternative to Frankincense.

CALAMANSI ESSENTIAL OIL – Calamansi scent has been used to relieve depression and anxiety. It is also one of the few aromatics that not only masks the nasty smell but completely neutralizes it, making the essential oil a great oxidizing agent to cleaning products. It is also a great ingredient to skin toners or blended with other essential oils in a massage blend.

ELEMI ESSENTIAL OIL – Elemi Essential Oil has been popular to the rest of the globe but also us Filipinos. It has 2 types, the first one and the most popular, comes from the resin of the Canarium luzonicum tree or the Manila Elemi. The 2nd one comes from the resin of the Canarium ovatum tree or the Pili tree. Well known for its skin rejuvenation benefits, anti-inflammatory, additive for massaging strained or tired muscles, and provides relief to respiratory troubles and a great stress reliever.

DALANDAN ESSENTIAL OIL – Like Calamansi, the sweet citrus oil from the Philippines is extracted from its peels by distillation. Undeniably citrusy and sweet, Dalandan Essential Oil is one of the favorites of all time. Apart from feeling good after smelling Dalandan Essential Oil, this can also be used as Calamansi oil.

My personal favorites are Dalandan and Calamansi, which makes me feel relaxed after a stressful and exhausting day.

Casa de Lorenzo Organic Products offers Castile soaps made from Olive Oil, Virgin Coconut Oil, and essential oils. They have been dedicated to offering their customers unique natural options coming from the plants in the Philippines.

Do you use essential oils for self-care, too?  If yes, feel free to join my INSTAGRAM GIVEAWAY and get a chance to win this essential package from Casa de Lorenzo, which includes Castile soap and two bottles of Essential Oil!!!

[jovelynbmateo]

Get Your Dream Home With Lumina Homes This 2021

Make your dream of owning a new home happen this 2021 with Lumina's affordable house and lot offers.

Lumina Homes was founded in August 2012 in response to the national government's call for private developers to help resolve the country's rising housing backlog, especially in the mass market segment.

It was awarded “Top 1 Developer” by Pag-IBIG Fund in the Pag-IBIG Fund Chairman’s Report held last February 2020  for providing the most value-added housing loans and serving the largest number of housing borrowers nationwide.

Since 2012, it has been able to expand its geographical footprint to more than 50 project locations in key cities and municipalities including Rizal, Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, Zambales, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Pangasinan, La Union, Cagayan, Isabela, Cavite, Batangas, Laguna, Quezon, Camarines Norte, Albay, Sorsogon, Iloilo, Capiz, Cebu, Negros Occidental, Agusan del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Bukidnon, Misamis Occidental, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and South Cotabato.   

For Rizal, we have Lumina Binangonan, Lumina Baras, and Lumina Pililla.

Lumina Homes communities offer you an affordable yet exclusive subdivision lifestyle. It is equipped with a 24/7 guarded entrance, roving security, and shuttle service. At the height of the pandemic, regular measures were taken to disinfect the amenities that include a covered multi-purpose hall, gazebo, play area, mini gardens, and shuttle service to keep homeowners from getting infected. 

Lumina house and lot offerings also comes in various types that individuals or families who wish to buy has option to choose which type best suits his/her/their housing needs: Anna Rowhouse (a 24 sqm house on 36 sqm typical lot with provision for 1 bedroom), Angelique Townhouse (a 35 sqm house on 36 sqm typical lot with provision for 2 bedrooms and carport), Angeli Duplex (a 42 sqm house on 54 sqm typical lot with provision for 3 bedrooms and carport), and Athena Single Firewall (a 53 sqm house on 63 sqm typical lot, with provision for 3 bedrooms, family area, and carport).

Lumina house and lots are built-to-last using “cast-in-place” and “Industrialized Building System (IBS)” technology which makes each home durable, disaster-ready, and pest-resistant. With affordable packages that range from 500,000 to 1.7 million and can be availed through easy financing options under Bank and Pag-IBIG. Reservation fee for a quality 2-storey home is as low as 5,000 pesos.

Lumina Homes are strategically located in less populated areas, but are easily reached through major thoroughfares. It is part of Vista Land masterplanned communities ensuring that all the important places – schools, hospitals, places of worship, major thoroughfares, and business centers – are just 1 ride away from the subdivision. These include Vista Land’s retail brands like Vista Mall, AllDay Supermarket, and AllHome.

How to Choose & Reserve Your Lumina Home in the New Normal

https://www.lumina.com.ph/news-and-blogs/news/how-to-choose-and-reserve-your-lumina-home-in-the-new-normal/

https://www.lumina.com.ph/news-and-blogs/news/lumina-homes-offers-11-discount-on-shopee-11-11-big-christmas-sale/

[jovelynbmateo]

Revitalizing PH Tourism with “Hinahanap-Hanap Kita Manila”

The “Hinahanap-Hanap Kita Manila” online concert held last December 13 was a resounding hit! Aiming to promote Manila’s cultural heritage sites, the highly anticipated virtual concert succeeded in taking both local and international audiences at the edge of their seats for a unique and totally breath-taking spectacle. 

Hundreds of thousands of viewers of “Hinahanap-Hanap Kita Manila’s” live online broadcast were thrilled to watch and listen to great local artists perform the groundbreaking Manila sound of Hotdog, at different Manila heritage sites. Bras Pas Pas Pas Pas and Bing Austria performed the song “Annie Batungbakal” at the intimately charming Paco Park, Raymund Marasigan and Yeng Constantino gave an animated performance of the song “Beh, Buti Nga” at the Museo Pambata, Bea Lorenzo showed off the walled city of Intramuros as she sang “Langit Na Naman”, and Nicole Laurel Asensio provided an elegant rendition of Hotdog’s “Panaginip” at the gloriously restored Jones Bridge.  Equally magnificent were Ebe Dancel and Blaster Silonga who serenaded viewers with the Hotdog classic “Ikaw ang Miss Universe” at the National Planetarium. Gary V and Armi Millare regaled audiences with the Hotdog standard “Manila” at Rizal Park, Luneta and,Team Vibe dancers who performed to “Bongga Ka ‘Day” at Manila City Hall’s Kartilya ng Katipunan, Lagusnilad and Kapetolyo in the finale. The mastering of the music was made possible by Rubber Inc and the foundation of all the songs, instruments, and arrangements were played by Bras Pas Pas Pas Pas, who also performed their rendition of “Una Sa Lahat”, “Pandesal Sa Umaga” and their own original tribute to Manila sound, “Disko Na.” 

The music videos presented at the concert’s satellite locations were creatively directed by Juno Oebanda, RA Rivera, Paolo Valenciano, Jason Tan, Alco Guerrero and Quark Henares. The concert was produced by Juno Oebanda, Dindin Araneta and Jezreel Apelar with Department of Tourism Culture and  Arts of Manila Chief Charlie Duñgo and National Parks Development Committee Executive Director Cecille Lorenzana Romero at the helm. 

Tourism and the creative industry has been one of the hardest hit sectors of the economy due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But with the support of the Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, City of Manila, Juancare Foundation Inc., and Viva Music Publishing Inc. working together with the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila (DTCAM), National Parks Development Committee (NPDC), Intramuros Administration (IA), National Museum of the Philippines (NMP), Nayong PIlipino Foundation (NPF), and Museo Pambata to mount concerts like “Hinahanap-Hanap Kita Manila”, revitalizing the Philippine tourism sector is well within grasp. 

If you missed “Hinahanap-Hanap Kita Manila” or simply can’t get enough of it, check out the entire concert by visiting this link. 

[jovelynbmateo]

Aesthetic and Affordable Room Decors from Shopee

Quarantine isn't over yet, so you still have the time to give your room the renovation it deserves. 

If you want to make your space look or feel  more aesthetic, you don't need to spend a lot on decorations. There are a lot of affordable decors that you can buy online without having to put yourself at risk by going outside to shop.

Here are some personal recommendations that you can buy to achieve that aesthetic vibe bedroom.

1. LED String Lights with Clip

Create a memory wall and add extra warm light to your room for a more relaxing vibe.

You may purchase it here for  ₱49 to ₱ 169 depending on how long you need.

2. Essential Oil Diffuser

Take a moment to relax and recharge after a long day. This 7 LED Color Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser Ultrasonic Air Humidifier will give you a good night's rest. And can also be used at night as a lamp.

You may get it here for only ₱485 and you can also shop for essential oils for  ₱38.

3. USB Astronaut LED Desk Lamp

We all need a desk lamp for late-night study and reading sessions. This handy and affordable LED Desk Lamp is available at Shopee for only ₱119!

4. Digital Projection Alarm Clock

Start your morning right without having to look at your phone to check the time or turn off the alarm. This Digital Projection Alarm Clock features a talk alarm clock, temperature, and time projection. Available here for only ₱294.

5. LED Strip lights

Make your room a VIBE with the LED Strip Light. It has multiple colors for various moods. The price range from ₱339 to ₱979 depending on how long you will need.

Share with us your quarantine room renovation and your Shopee recommendations by posting a story and tagging me on Instagram @jovelynbmateo!

[jovelynbmateo]

Why should you watch The Queen's Gambit on Netflix

The Queen's Gambit is one of the newest series on Netflix about an Orphan who discovered and mastered the game of chess at the age of Nine.

You may think this series is all about playing chess, but it's a lot more than that. It's also about finding one's self, family, relationship, friendship, and dreams. 

The Queen's Gambit currently have 1 Season with seven episodes that run from 46 to 67 minutes per episode. You can finish the entire season on a day like I did. 

Beth Harmon will take you to places where she attempts to beat the best chess masters in the world with her skills and talent. As she travels the path to success, she will meet people and experience situations that will have a huge impact on her life and goal. Just like what we're also experiencing in real life, where there are times when we're going to have to make decisions that either make or break us.

It's going to teach you that the path to success isn't going to be smooth and easy, just what parents always tell their children. There will be so many bumps, wrong turns, and mistakes that could make you miserable, but you just need to remember your purpose, and then be patient and persistent to get there. 

Besides the brilliant plot and the talented cast, the cinematography of this series is also impressive. You can stream it at https://www.netflix.com.

Other series recommendations include Emily in Paris, The Umbrella Academy, Cobra Kai, and Unsolved Mysteries.