Bacolod Blog Series: Calea Pastries and Cakes

Bacolod City is now officially our home! After our "epic journey" traveling by land, we have finally settled down. (Hooray!) More details on the road trip, here. 

Now, our next stop is to explore this place since Masskara Festival will be celebrated in a few months specifically in October. I have decided to create a blog series featuring our latest discoveries in this beloved city. 

I love sweets and I'm really crazy about desserts. So, my first featured post is all about Calea Pastries and Cakes. 

Whenever you mention where's the best place to have cakes, locals would immediately mention this place. Known as "the home of the country's best cheesecakes", Calea Pastries and Cakes should be on top of your itinerary whenever you visit Bacolod.  

They offer a wide selection of cheesecakes, imported chocolate cakes, refrigerator cakes, and muffins which will make you go gaga on what to choose. 

Here are some of our favorites.

Strawberry Cheesecake

Blueberry Cheesecake

Oreo Cheesecake

Chocolate Mousse

I won't go over a detailed review of how they taste but I'll tell you. Everything is so good.

But can you guess what's the best thing about their cakes? They are super affordable. Each slice is around Php 95 only. They also offer coffee and blended drinks just like your typical coffee shop.

Calea has several branches in the city: Robinson's Place Bacolod, The District/ Ayala Northpoint, and the main one at Lacson Street. 

So, next time you're in Bacolod, consider dropping by here. Just a heads up. This place is really popular among tourists so, it gets pretty crowded sometimes. 

Enervon Prime “Seniors on Tour” Travel Promo: No One is Too Old for An Adventure

My dad is turning 67 tomorrow and who says 67 is too old for a new adventure? Definitely, Not Enervon Prime! 

Unilab's adult nutritional drink that has protein and other essential nutrients, Enervon Prime has a very exciting promo for all adults age 50 and up to have the chance to travel with two friends or family members to a domestic or international destination—for free!

Joining is easy: you only need to buy P500 worth of Unilab’s Enervon Prime adult milk variants, upload the proof of purchase, choose from the list of destinations, and share a video why you like to travel to your chosen destination. You can log on to www.enervonprime.com to register and send your entry. You can also find in the website the list of supermarkets where the Enervon Prime Seniors on Tour video booths are set up so you can submit your entry.

A family member may send an entry on behalf of the senior. Two seniors will be chosen to win any of the tour packages in Cebu, Bohol, Ilocos, Palawan, and Davao, while another two seniors will be chosen to win any of the international tour packages in Cambodia, Hongkong, Macau, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand. (This is great for my parents since they are both seniors already)

According to says Enervon Prime product manager Barry Barrientos. “The Enervon Prime Seniors on Tour travel promo is a way of paying tribute to seniors—our parents and grandparents--who make the most out of their lives by keeping their bodies healthy and their muscles strong so that they can take on new adventures,” What better way to have an exciting adventure than an all-expense-paid travel escapade?”

Promo runs from August 15 to October 15, 2015. For more information, visit www.enervonprime.com.

 

Pet Friendly Inn in Kalibo, Aklan

Our land travel from Manila to Bacolod by land was such a long trip that we decided to spend one night in Kalibo. Every parent's concern when traveling with their furbabies is that we do not have a lot of pet-friendly hotels and inns available in the country. 

Given that our overnight stay was not really planned, I was not able to make any reservations nor even research a place where they would allow Crumpy to stay. I was just praying and wishing that we could find a place where dogs are allowed. We were so tired from the 18-hour trip and we badly need a place to crash. 

Good thing, we saw the Garcia Legaspi Mansion Tourist Inn. It is not really a fancy place to stay but rather it is quite old already. Its location was great because it's in the heart of the downtown area. You can easily spot the place because it's just in the main street after you pass by the famous Kalibo bridge. It is beside Andok's which is open 24 hours so, you get to have decent food anytime you need without going far. 

We got a room good for 3 persons for Php 1,350. I wanted an extra bed for Crumpy. The room was fully equipped with hot and cold shower, cable TV, aircon and comfortable beds. It was just what my little family needed. 

It even has a small nook where we had our meal. 

Recommendation: If you are looking for an affordable place to rest or if you have your pets with you then you might want to consider this tourist inn. The staff are very friendly. The only problem was that they do not have ample parking space. But generally, we had a good stay enough to energize us for the next day's trip. 

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Garcia Legaspi Mansion Tourist Inn

1061 Roxas Avenue, Poblacion Kalibo, Aklan

(036) 2625588

What's New? Apo ni Lola's Durian Pie

There is no doubt that I love Apo ni Lola Durian Delicacies. Aside from a wonderful customer experience whenever I visit their store in Matina, their products are definitely the best durian pasalubong you can ever find. 

That is why they truly deserve their latest award from the Golden Globe Annual Awards as the Best Durian Pasalubong Treats Provider. One of their secrets to the success is constant innovation. Their product line has grown from durian candies to ice cream, preserves and now pastries. 

The Apo ni Lola Durian Pie is something durian lovers would surely enjoy. Its crust is just perfectly baked and the creamy filling will surely ease up your durian craving. It is so creamy and delicious. Definitely, a must-have pasalubong and I guarantee that it is worth every peso you spent on it. 

So, what are you waiting for? Visit Apo ni Lola Durian Delicacies and grab the durian pie as a pasalubong, snack or dessert. 

How to Spend Your Summer with a Bang? + Giveaway

Things that come into mind when summer is mentioned are waterparks, beach, out of town trips like Boracay, Batangas, Palawan and Puerto Galera or any place where swimsuits, sunnies and sunblock is a must-have. However, last Wednesday, I was fortunate to discover a very unique and awesome experience at Stronghand Shooting Range. 

Stronghand Shooting Range takes pride being known as a teaching range. Mr. Alfred M. Zaballa, Range Officer was very patient and fun while giving us tips and reminders. 

As beginners, we attended the basic course, "The Proper & Practical Pistol" where we were taught:

• The 4 Rules of Gun Safety
• How to Handle a Pistol
• How to Clear a Pistol
• How to Shoot a Target

The basic course can be completed in one session. Normally, it lasts 1.5 hours with live firing. They also offer Advance Classes which covers fast target acquisition, timed shooting, twin tamps, target traverse, quick reloading and a lot more. Private sessions are also available upon request. 

After the course, I was both excited and nervous to do the live shooting. We used a 9MM HS Pistol. Stronghand is an exclusive distributor of HS pistols. These are very high quality pistols which features grip safety, trigger safety, firing pin block/drop safety, loaded chamber indicators, out of battery safety and a lot more. 

Stronghand Shooting Range has a toxic-free environment. Aside from using toxic-free formulation of ammo, they also have HEPA filter and turbine air exchanger. 

It is also family-friendly. It provides a totally safe, comfortable and fun experience. They have a 180 degree viewing window, seminar room, large and small bays and their staff has an approachable attitude about guns and ammo. They also have a coffee shop and prices are very affordable. 

Learning to shoot in the firing range should be part of your bucket list and here are a few reasons: 

1. It is very accessible. Stronghand is located at La Defense Building 1660 E. Rodriguez Sr. Ave., Cubao, Quezon City. 

2. There is no need to get concerned about swimsuits and beach perfect bodies. You can come in your most comfortable attire. Only ear muffs and glasses are important. 

3. It can also boost your confidence.

4. It is a perfect way to de-stress and say goodbye to your worries and fears. 

5. Shooting teaches us discipline and responsibility too. 

Are you wondering how was my target board? 

If I am to describe the whole experience in one word, it would definitely be "FULFILLING" and so, go ahead and visit Stronghand Shooting Range and have the summer you will never forget. They are open from 10:00AM - 7:00PM from Mondays to Saturdays and 10:00AM - 5:00PM on Sundays. You may also visit their website for more details or call them at (02) 721-7174. 

For ladies, it is best to visit them during Wednesdays because you get 50% off on Range and Firearm Rentals. 

We would also like to thank RMDC, Inc for organizing this event. For more information about RMDC, Inc., you may check their website www.wearermdc.com or visit their office at La Defense Building 1660 E. Rodriguez Sr. Ave., Cubao, Quezon City.

Lastly, I want one of our readers to have this great experience too. We are giving away three vouchers from Stronghand Shooting Range that you can share with your friends. This giveaway will run from April 27 - May 21. 

The mechanics are pretty simple. 

1. Like My Metro Lifestyle's FB page.

2. Like Stronghand Shooting Range FB page.  

3. Share this giveaway in FB. Make sure to tag My Metro Lifestyle and Stronghand Shooting Range. Tag two friends and use hashtags   #iamstronghand #showyourguns. 

4. Comment in this blog post with your name, email address, FB name and link to your shared post. 

5. This is open to Metro Manila residents only. Winner will be announced on May 22. 

This post is brought to you by Val. 

Be a Goddess for a Day and Be with Nature.

Have you ever imagined yourself become nature's caretaker like a mysterious and enchanted creature living in a beautiful garden? 

Well, honestly, it is one of my dreams since I was a child. I have spent a lot of time in our garden and have fallen in love with flowers, butterflies and anything green. I just find it really beautiful that both my 18th birthday and wedding is garden themed.

So, when I saw this Mobile Home, my heart literally jumped. I would love to stay here. This is way better than staying in the same old hotel room. As a bonus, it is so affordable at only Php 1,500 per night. 

Here at Paradizoo, you can be a goddess for a day and be with nature. 

You can experience watching green picturesque fields together with different kinds of animals.

Feel our ‘Plant Me Home’ experience.

Interact with different interesting animals like llama, camels, miniature horses,  greyhounds, labrador retrievers 

Ride on a cart drawn by an albino Carabao!

Are you as excited as I am? If yes, you can also join us this coming April 18, 2015, Saturday for a Press Conference at Residence Inn Tagaytay and know more good news from us! Truly, Zoomanity group wants you to experience that one great staycation, all-in-one place!

10 Things I make "kwento" about Davao City

I grew up in Davao and I am proud of it. So proud that despite being in Metro Manila for more than 5 years, I still keep my bisaya accent. No need to change to the "Tagalog" way of speaking. Thus, strangers and friends would immediately ask me, "Saan province mo?" and I would proudly say, Davao. Then, they would ask, "San sa Davao?" and I would reply "Sa Davao City mismo." Then the conversation would start.... 

Here are the 10 Things I make "kwento" about my hometown. 

1. Durian - When I was a kid, I did not like durian for an unknown reason. However, when I was in college, I discovered how delicious and special the "King of Fruits" is and it suddenly became my favorite. Aside from its taste, I love Durian for health reasons. Helps me whenever I have asthma attacks. It is also known to be rich in potassium.

Photo Credit: Janice Lopez

2. Apo ni Lola Durian Delicacies - Whenever we talk about Durian, people would tell me, "I do not like the fruit but I like the durian candies". Yes, durian candy is an all-time favorite pasalubong from Davao City and do you know where to get the best durian candies? 

Apo ni Lola Durian Delicacies makes the best durian candies in town. I am able to witness the humble beginnings of this company and how it grew to become the leader in the market. Their sweet treats are made with pure love and highest quality standards. Not to mention, whenever you visit their store in Matina, you will get the best customer service and unlimited free taste. 

For more details about their products and how to order, you may visit their facebook page. 

3. Davao Crocodile Park - Crocodiles are common in Metro Manila especially in EDSA -- ang dami. (hahaha!) Kidding aside, Val has long been fascinated by reptiles thus, whenever we talk about Davao City, it's impossible that this park is missed out. It is home to the famous 18-feet long crocodile named Pangil who's the largest living crocodile in captivity in the country (after Lolong died.) It is a petting zoo, wildlife sanctuary and a recreation all in one place. Thus, whenever you are visiting, make sure you include this in your itinerary. Don't forget to check the show schedules to maximize your visit. 

4. Samal Island - Samal Island is known for its white sand beaches, clear waters and beautiful marine life. Currently, there are a lot of beach resorts now open that I am sure you can find a place that suits your preference and budget. This island is actually no longer part of Davao City yet it is so near that you can afford to have breakfast there and be back at home by lunch time. You can reach this beautiful place by riding a ferry. 

Photo credit: http://www.pearlfarmresort.com/

5. Philippine Eagle - With too much problems going on in the Philippine society, we may feel that there is no more hope but did you know that this rare "PAG-ASA" is from Davao City? Okay! That is out of the topic. Going back, Pag-asa is the actually a male Philippine monkey eating eagle. He is the first one to be bred and hatched in captivity. The Philippine eagle is one of the critical endangered species and you may find the Philippine Eagle Sanctuary in Calinan.

6. People's Park - This is actually the safest park I know. With strict security at the entrance, ensuring that no deadly weapons and illegal stuff brought inside, one can truly enjoy the visit. I love that this place is well-kept and open to the public for free. I remember that there was even free "lugaw" for everyone. This place made me realize that being broke does not mean you can't have a good time. 

7. Drinking Water - Have you ever tried drinking directly from the faucet without worrying? Well, I can only do that in Davao. No need to go to the refilling station for your drinking water because it has one of the best potable water in the world in terms of cleanliness, safety, mineral content, and taste. 

Photo Credit: www.pixabay.com

8. No Smoking Ordinance - Being able to discipline people about smoking in public is such a huge achievement in a country where there is too much democracy. Less smoke means healthier lungs. 

Photo Credit: www.pixabay.com

9. 911 Emergency System - Have you tried calling 911 when you are in Metro Manila? Well, I guess nothing happens. However, when you call 911 in Davao City, it actually works. Davao City is the only city aside from US and Canada to have a integrated emergency response system. It responds to all kinds of emergencies: medical, fire, police assistance and other disasters. Available to all for FREE. Cool right? 

Photo Credit: http://www.davaocity.gov.ph/

10. Security - Lastly, Davao City is known for lowest crime rates and has the best police force in the country. You can enjoy walking outside your home even at 12 midnight without being paranoid. There are CCTV cameras all around the city for monitoring. It is known to be a dangerous place for criminals and a paradise for ordinary citizens like us. It has been ranked as the 4th safest place in the world. (Yey!) 

These are just a few things about my hometown that we can all be proud of.

Why did I write this? Well, It is actually Araw ng Davao (March 16) and I miss home.

HAPPY ARAW NG DAVAO! LIFE IS HERE! 

Tune Hotel : The Perfect No Fuzz Accommodation

It was actually my sister in law who made the booking in this hotel in Quezon City however due to a snow storm, their flight was delayed for 2 days. So, Val and I decided to take advantage of their accommodation because it's non-refundable and we don't want to waste their money. 

The rooms are quite small. Just enough space for the queen sized bed and 2 side tables.

Rooms include a 32 inch television, hair dryer, vault, air conditioner and a ceiling fan. There are no cabinets/ closets but there is bar where you can hang your clothes if needed. 

Their bathrooms are nice and clean too. They have a separate shower and toilet area. 

Other things we liked about this hotel is that their staff are really friendly, nice and professional. They provide great customer service. Their WIFI is also fast and stable which is suitable for video calling. I also like that they use room key cards when you access the elevator to avoid unwanted guests on your floor. 

They also have 7/11 at the lobby and Ministop on the other building for your needs. Our overall experience was wonderful. So, whenever you are looking a place to stay with the best value for your money, then, we highly recommend Tune Hotels. 

Tune Hotels Quezon City is located at Timog Avenue, Quezon City. 

For more information, please visit their website.  

Experience the Extreme Press Conference and Tour

Say goodbye to the cold weather and hello summer! 

A few weeks from now, the summer season will official start. It is the season to have fun, go out of your house and take a break. If you do not have any plans yet, then check out Tree Top Adventure. 

Tree Top Adventure offers four unique outdoor activities divided into slow and fast paced activities. One slow paced activity is the Canopy and Funicular which is similar to the concept of a cable car, but, you’ll be seated on cable chairs in which you’ll be transferring from one station to another until you complete all eight stations.  If you prefer to just walk around the area and fill your eyes with spectacular view, you could avail the Trekking and Skywalk.

Want something more extreme? 

Then you should try the fast paced activities such as the Tree Drop, Silver Surfer and Superman.  Tree Drop is the most extreme activity that Tree Top offers in which you’ll be suspended 60 feet above the ground, mission impossible style, and you’ll be falling as fast as two to three seconds. Superman, as the name implies, is a horizontal motorized zipline in which you’ll be flying back and forth, Superman style. Silver Surfer is a diagonal zipline in which you’ll be standing on a specialized platform and you’ll be gliding up and down for three cycles.   

Isn't that exciting? If you would like to know more about it, there would be a press conference on March 14, 2015 from 11:00AM - 4:00PM at the Tree Top Adventure Baguio at Camp John Hay.     

                                                                           

For your relaxation or an ultimate heart pounding adventure, visit Tree Top Adventure Baguio or Subic. You may contact 09166299381 or check their website for more information. Don't forget to like their Facebook page for updates and promotions.