What exactly is Fuerza Bruta?

While in discussion about the invites for the opening night’s show, I asked Hoopla.ph’s PR manager if it’s okay to take photos during the show. She said it’s okay, but I can join the media preview the day prior. So off to the Manila Hotel tent I go on February 13th, not knowing what to expect. They led us to a seemingly empty room, and the first thought in my mind was “this is it?”

Fuerza Bruta (brute force) is a 360-degree interactive theatrical experience featuring a non-stop collision of dynamic music, visceral emotion, and kinetic aerial imagery.

We were treated to a 15-minute preview — one act of the hour-long show. It was the water-based act that I can only describe as an artistic slip and slide. It certainly got me curious about the entire show.

You can take photos and videos, but no flash please!

Last night, we walked back into the performance area and stood around, wondering whether we’re in a good spot. The lights dimmed and we started hearing sounds. We looked around in the dark, confused where to look. The lights came on and everything outside the tent ceased to exist.

The audience are encouraged to dance along, touch the pool, or in this case, smash the props

I’m not going to give away the details of the show. All I’ll say is that it’s a great way to unwind after a long day. It’s more like a party than a show — it doesn’t matter where you stand, you’ll still feel as if you’re in the center of it all.

The show ends with a dance party with the cast

Fuerza Bruta is in Manila from February 14 to March 26, 2012 at the Manila Hotel Tent. Tickets costs Php 2,500 per person on weekdays, Php 3,000 on weekends. This includes entrance to the Fuerza Bruta Lounge and 2 complimentary drinks. Show starts at 8:00pm, with additional 11:00pm shows on Fridays and Saturdays. The performance area is standing room only, so wear something comfortable that you wouldn’t mind getting wet. For ticket and inquiries, visit www.hoopla.ph or call (02) 320-1111.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Lying down on the grass and watching balloons soar into the air. Can’t do that when you’re working.

I quickly sent a text to Rey and Heinji and got positive responses: we’re going to Clark, and we’re leaving at 3am. It was already 8pm.

That’s what I love about impromptu plans: it leaves you no time to make up excuses to flake. With barely 2 hours pf sleep (some none at all), we drove out of Manila and arrived in Pampanga while it’s still dark out.

Being at the event as one of the invited media is very different from being there as a regular attendee. Though I certainly missed breezing through the gates and having a pass to get to wander around with the balloon crews, it was also quite enjoyable to just lie down on the grass and listen to the announcer explain how hot air balloons fly — something you don’t get to do when your mind is preoccuppied with taking pictures and noting every detail.

It was also great to be out with friends again. Hazel, Rey and Heinji are three of my oldest friends and it’s been a while since we’ve all hanged out, much less go on a road trip together. We actually made the same trip 8 years ago, when I was on assignment for the travel magazine I used to work for. It was the year the balloons didn’t come and we were way behind our scheduled departure time. It was good to know that while things change, whether for the better or worse, you can still count on your friends for a great weekend.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Balloons!

I was lucky that I still managed to get some sleep, as Caltex, our host for this trip, billeted us at the Hotel Vida in Clark, so we can be at the venue before the crack of dawn. It was still dark when we pulled up to the field, but the traffic was starting to build and the parking lot was quickly filling up. Though there are activities almost every hour for the next four days, the highlight was the flight of the hot air balloons.

Watching these huge balloons inflate and take flight are worth sacrificing a couple of hour’s sleep. Hot air balloons are not a common sight in the Philippines, and seeing them just once a year brings wonder and joy, even to those just watching from the ground.

It’s a weekend of everything that flies

Caltex has been supporting the hot air balloon fiesta for years. On the eve of the first day, they launched the online game Captain Bubbly’s Enjoyable Journey, that lets players “fly” a balloon through the Philippines. Players earn points at each stage, which they can donate to a chosen charity: Project Seahorse Foundation (PSF) for environment, Smokey Mountain Team for sports and Hospicio de San Jose (HSJ) for education.

“We have been a partner of PIHABF for the longest time as Caltex’ way of supporting tourism in the country. This year, we wanted to leverage the hot air balloon festival to draw attention to non-profits that significantly help people lead better lives and reach their dreams. This air show is the perfect occasion to let dreams soar and Caltex is proud to be associated with the Philippine hot air balloon fiesta as it draws enormous attention to the country’s tourism industry.”

– Veronica Pangilinan, CPI Caltex Brand Manager

Taking his panda out for a walk

To play the game, just Like the Caltex Philippines page on Facebook, and then click on the Captain Bubbly tab. Full game and donation mechanics can be viewed here.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Pool!

Luckily enough, Gail invited me for a resort opening a couple of weekends ago. Turns out it was for the re-opening of the Blue Dolphin Resort in Balayan, Batangas.

The resort has both fan and air conditioned rooms, and a nipa hut that can house up to six persons. Rates start at Php 2,000 per night (fan room). For big groups, the resort can be rented to your exclusive use for Php 20,000. Not a bad rate if there are 30 of you using the facilities.

Open space for dining tables, programs and dance contests?

Food isn’t included in the rate, nor do they have a restaurant, but the kitchen is available for your use (stoves, pots and pans, dishes and cutlery included) for a minimal fee.

There are plenty of open areas if you’re going to be doing games or programs, and a sort-of promenade with a view of the beach. Balayan’s beach is black sand, which makes the water look dark and foreboding, but it’s actually pretty clean. If salt water isn’t your thing, you can dip in the pool instead. A bridge divides the pool — a wading pool for the kids, a bigger and deeper pool for the adults.

Sunset at Balayan beach

Are you a singer, not a swimmer? You’re free to use and abuse the resort’s karaoke machine that was strategically placed near a gazebo by the beach.

Balayan is about 3-4 hour’s drive from Manila. Though not one of the popular beach choices for Batangas, it’s great if you’re looking for that small-town vibe, away from the crowds.

Blue Dolphin Resort
Balayan, Batangas
Website: www.bluedolphinresort.net
E-mail: rea.pollard9@gmail.com
Telephone: +6325063525
Mobile: +639178439169

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Mababaw lang ang kaligayahan namin

Back in December 2010, Cla, Chris and I were driving from the Kalibo airport and into the town when we saw Jenny’s sign near the plaza. For some reason, we fixated on it. It didn’t help that Chris and her family, who have been living in Kalibo for years have no clue who this person was. It was easy enough to search for information on Facebook, but unfortunately, Cla and I weren’t able to come back to Aklan for the 2011 ati-atihan festival, and Chris was running a fever and therefore wasn’t able to look for her.

This year, we were all set for ati-atihan, but Chris sadly reports that there was no tarps announcing her return to this year’s festival. Once again, Facebook comes to the rescue and we found out that Jenny will be parading with her band of super heroes.

The downpour throughout the afternoon put a damper to our spirits. After the rain has stopped for some time, we ventured out, hopeful but not entirely optimistic. We were swept away by the music and the energy of the crowd, and as we rounded a corner, Cla suddenly yells that she has spotted the Wonder Woman of Aklan.

It may seem weird that we’re fixating on this person dressing up as superheroes, but there’s something about her that makes us happy. Different strokes for different folks, and if there’s something that you know would make you happy, go out and go after that something.

Kalibo is already in fiesta mode, even if the main event isn’t until Sunday. Every afternoon, there are activities around the city that goes on until late in the evening.

If you are flying into Kalibo enroute to Boracay or flying out of Kalibo from Boracay, bear in mind that a portion of the main road is closed to vehicular traffic. Give plenty of time allowance if you will be catching a flight. The weather forecast for the next couple of days is rain, so come prepared with your rain gear and waterproofs if you want to take photos or participate in the festival.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Lagoon pool and villas

Located in Cagraray Island in Albay, the resort is far enough from the city to make you feel you’re away from everything, but not too far to make traveling there uncomfortable. The drive to the resort from Legazpi takes about 1 hour of driving through (good) roads that wind along the mountains and a short ride on a barge to cross to the island.

Segway lessons

A warm welcome greeted us upon arrival at the resort. A lei was placed on our necks, a cold towel placed in one hand and a refreshing drink in the other, then we were led to the reception to check in. While waiting for our room assignments to get sorted, a hotel staff sped past the reception building on a Segway.

ATV trail

The resort offers various activities to guests, including Segway tours around the resort, ATV tours that passes through the ecopark, windsurfing, jet-ski and Hobie Cat sailing. Parents traveling with kids will surely appreciate the kid’s indoor play area and the outdoor playground. There is also the ubiquitous spa and gym, as well as an infinity, lagoon and children’s pool.

Misibis Bay beachfront

All our meals were had at the Spice Market, where F&B manager Rex Cortez plied us with stories and drinks. For a non-drinker, he sure can whip up some pretty good cocktails. Be sure to try out his Lemon Drop, frozen margarita and coconut lychee martini. If alcoholic drinks aren’t for you, try the Cagraray Sunrise, a refreshing drink with cucumber and carrots.

Yummy frozen margarita

The buffet selection wasn’t as extensive, but there is a good enough selection of meat, fish and vegetable dishes, and of course, Bicolano favorites like laing and Bicol Express. There is also a good variation of the buffet offerings so you don’t see a repeat of any meal during lunch or dinner. Dessert lovers will surely be delighted with the array of sweets offered.

One-bedroom deluxe villa

We stayed at two different rooms during our stay. On our first night, we had one of the villa rooms, One-bedroom deluxe by the poolside. Upon entrance, we were greeted by a small table with a plate of fresh fruits and cookies. Further in was a huge couch that transforms into extra beds, and a terrace looking out towards the lagoon pool. The bedroom was huge, and instead of having the desk pushed up against a wall, it’s located right at the headboard so you’d have an unobstructed view when working or laying on the bed.

Inside the bathroom

The bathroom was huge, which is a big plus if you’re sharing the room with four people. It has two sinks so you can brush your teeth while your roommate puts on make up. The toilet has its own enclosed space, and the tub was bigger than the average. Best of all, the shower is separate.

Garden view room

On our second stay at Misibis Bay, we were assigned to the Garden View rooms, which were opened just last June. Decorated with colorful accent colors, these rooms have a completely different vibe from the villa rooms, but still maintains the same level of comfort and service. Though the bathroom is much smaller, it is still roomy enough for two people.

Garden view bathroom

Misibis Bay is perfect for those who want to take it easy and relax. True, it’s rather pricey, but it’s a pretty good splurge. The resort’s 3 days, 2 nights package is all inclusive of all meals, non-motorized activities and certain motorized activities. The only thing you have to worry about is how to divide your time between lounging in the pool and doing all those activities.

More pictures on the Just Wandering Facebook Page.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

View from the Pico Sands Hotel

When I woke up later that afternoon, I had to ask myself if I dreamt that conversation. A text message confirmed that I didn’t. It was Niel again, asking if I can still join them if they arrange a van to pick me up in Makati on Saturday morning. Why not, I asked myself. Might as well go since they were making all these effort for me.

Hobie 16 boats at the Hamilo Regatta 2011

I went straight to Makati after work on Saturday morning for the van going to Batangas. The drive was a little over 3 hours to Nasugbu, but if you’re to take the ferry from SM Mall of Asia, travel time from Manila drops down to just 90 minutes.

Pico de Loro Country Club pool

We were dropped off at the Pico Sands Hotel, part of the Pico de Loro community in Hamilo Coast. Aside from the hotel, there is also the Country Club and eight condominium buildings built around a man-made lagoon, bordered by a mountain range with a view of the sea. I can go on and wax poetic about the place, but the bottomline is, this place is very very pretty.

Bowling lanes

After putting our bags down in our room and freshening up, we hopped on a shuttle to the Pico de Loro Beach Club, where the Hamilo Regatta is taking place. About a dozen Hobie 16′s were bobbing in the waters, battling with the waves and the wind. Despite being in Boracay the weekend prior, I was elated to be back at the beach. Hazel and I picked a beach hut and sprawled in the lounge chair. There’s something about the beach and Hamilo Coast that compels you to relax and take it easy. It took a lot of willpower to peel ourselves from the lounge and join the others for a tour of the Country Club’s facilities, which includes a tennis court, indoor basketball, volleyball, badminton and racquetball courts, swimming pool, bowling lanes, billiard tables, game room, KTV booths, children’s activity area and a ballroom that can accommodate up to 500 guests.

Sun Coral Cafe’s Caesar Salad

We trooped back to the hotel to rest after the tour. Making the most of our stay in Pico Sands, we scheduled for a foot massage in the hotel’s Rain Spa. Refreshed and (sort-of) recharged, we headed back to the Beach Club for dinner. The Sun Coral Cafe serves a selection of local and international favorites, with indoor and outdoor dining facilities. The Pico de Loro Beach Club also features a Kultura Boutique, which came especially handy as our supposed day trip turned into an overnighter. Let this be a lesson to me: don’t answer phone calls while sleeping.

Our room a the Pico Sands Hotel

Our room at the Pico Sands Hotel has two queen-sized beds, LCD TV with cable, coffee and tea service, mini-bar and a balcony with a gorgeous view of the lagoon, the Jacana condominium and the mountains. The best thing about the trip was sitting out in the balcony, talking and sharing stories, taking in the view, enjoying the tranquility. Not a bad way to spend the weekend.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Inside Zubuchon. This restaurant is just too pretty.

While Cebuanos might argue that Zubuchon isn’t really the authentic Cebu Lechon, I was still quite excited to try the restaurant. Being an avid Market Manila reader, I’m really excited to try the dishes Market Man has been writing about.

Zubuchon lechon

This isn’t the first time I encountered Zubuchon, actually. We were able to try it back in 2009 when they were still selling freshly chopped lechon at the Banilad town center. In 2010, fresh and frozen Zubuchon was available at the domestic pre-departure lounge of the Mactan-Cebu International airport, so I was able to buy it again during a quick trip to Cebu. Market Man finally took the plunge and opened the first Zubuchon restaurant in Cebu earlier this year at Mango Square.

Squid stuffed with lechon sisig

We were welcomed to the restaurant by Joan Danao, Zubuchon’s General Manager. As we settled into our table (after taking a hundred photos of the restaurant and the lechon), we perused the menu and was quickly overwhelmed with the choices: everything is made with lechon! Sinigang na lechon, lechon sisig, mongo with lechon… where do you start? Joan fired off a list of dishes she wanted us to try and soon enough, our table was practically groaning with the amount of food our little party of six.

Yummy santol juice and kamias (iba) shake

I wouldn’t go too much into detail about the food, except that it does tastes as good as Market Man describes it. When you do get a chance to eat at Zubuchon (whether in their Mango or Escario branch), do try their home made chicharon, squid stuffed with lechon sisig and the Zubuliempo. Despite not being a fan of kamias, I thoroughly enjoyed their iba shake, which also serves as a great palate cleanser. If you’re a santol lover like me, be sure to order the santol juice. It’s simply amazing. For dessert, you can try Joan’s leche flan, which is very light and not too sweet. If you have more space in your stomach, also try the biko, which they source from a seller who’s been making it for decades.

The best biko you’ll ever taste

Prices range between Php 150 to Php 400 and serving sizes are good for 2 to 3 people. It’s not the cheapest restaurant to dine in, but it’s a pretty good value for money. It’s definitely a good place to try lechon and other Filipino dishes.

Islands Banca’s Butanding docked at Pandanon Island

Following our lechon-laden dinner, we headed to Mactan island for our island hopping tour with Islands Banca. This is my first time to island hop in Cebu and I have to admit I was more than intrigued with Islands Banca. I’ve seen their website last year and thought it was frivolous; island hopping can be done with regular outrigger boats at half the cost, so why shell out more money?

Inside the banca

I got my answer when I saw the Butanding. Named after the gentle whale shark, Island Banca’s biggest boat can accommodate up to 30 passengers and features padded benches, cushioned lounge chairs, comfortable couches and inviting beanbags. There’s even an iPod dock, Wi-fi and a toilet. It’s basically a chill out lounge on water.

Stools and tables that doubles as a cooler

Islands Banca’s services goes beyond providing you with a banca. It’s manned by trained crew who will attend to your needs and even prepare a picnic for you if you so choose. Since we had limited time, we only made two stops: to the Gilutungan Marine Sanctuary to snorkel (they have a snorkels on board) and to Pandanon Island in Bohol.

Pushing off their dock in Punta Engaño

At the risk of sounding shallow, the tour was made better by bean bags. I’ve been to a number of island hopping trips and in all of them, I ended up nodding off and waking up every 5 minutes because sleeping sitting up in a moving outrigger boat is really not the most comfortable thing in the world. Lying on my beanbag towards the bow of the boat, sea breeze keeping me cool while the sun shines brightly overhead, and the gentle rocking of the boat as it cuts through the water, I was in my most relaxed state in months.

Pandanon Island’s beach

If you have limited time in Cebu and can’t take an island hopping tour, you might want to try their Chill-out Cruise, which takes you across the Mactan channel at sunset. The 90-minute cruise departs at 5:30pm from the Cebu Yatch Club and costs Php 295 per person (inclusive of one drink).

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Radisson Blu’s lobby

Of course, it’s par for the course for us to experience first hand why Radisson Blu is ranked the #1 hotel in Cebu in the travel website Tripadvisor.com.

The coffee-holic’s dream

We were given Business Class Superior rooms. The 61-square meter room has a receiving and work area. I love that there’s a divider between the bed and the receiving area so you can close off the area for privacy. The receiving area features a 2-seater couch, an arm chair, a 37-inch LCD TV with cable and a Nespresso machine, which I’m sure would delight any coffee addict (and impress whoever dropping by your room). There’s also the complimentary tea service and mini-bar, which is discreetly stored in the counter cabinet.

Work and leisure area

Sharing the sleeping area is the work space at the opposite end and what I call the “reading area.” The arm chair was surprisingly comfortable, and I quite enjoyed sitting in it while watching Gossip Girl on my laptop.

The desk gives you a view of the docks and the sunset. There is ample space in the table for your laptop and documents, but if you have an unusual amount of paperwork, you can also put them in the counter beside the table.

Got gadgets? No problem.

My favorite feature of the work area is the bank of electrical outlets. Forgot to bring your universal adapter? No problem! Their outlets can accommodate any type of plug. What impressed me most though was the USB dock for charging devises that you would normally need a laptop to charge. How convenient is that?

Comfy, comfy bed

Ever since I heard Raj complaining about Leonard putting disgusting memories in his memory foam mattress, I’ve been wondering what a memory foam mattress and how it differ from other mattresses. I’m no mattress expert, but that bed sure was divine. I slept comfortably and if not for text messages coming in the middle of the night, I slept soundly until morning (which is rare).

Bathroom counter and amenities

The toilet and bath was just the right size for one with ample counter space for even the most high maintenance traveler. I was delighted when I saw there was a shower cubicle instead of a bath tub because I hate showering inside tubs. There are two shower heads — fixed and hand held. The water pressure is really good and the water heats up in no time. Again, there is plenty of space for your bath things.

Thai dishes at the Feria restaurant

Feria, Radisson Blu Cebu’s all-day dining restaurant serves a wide array of cuisine. You’re spoilt for choice, whether you’re hankering for meat, pasta or salads. Speaking of pasta, Feria gives you the option to have freshly made pasta cooked to your preference. Another homemade favorite is their ice cream, which is made right there in the restaurant to the full view of diners. It’s a clear winner among the guests, as we see the chef making a new batch every time we go in to dine.

A small sampling of Feria’s desserts

Guests staying at the Business Class rooms have access to the Executive Lounge at the 20th floor. While the dining area is smaller and offer a limited variety of breakfast items (but don’t worry, there’s bacon!), there is significantly less people dining here. So if you’re looking to have a very relaxed breakfast, this is the place to go.

Radisson Blu Cebu is located right beside SM Cebu and has direct access to the mall. The hotel is about 20 minutes away from Mactan Cebu international airport, and 10 minutes from downtown Cebu. It’s quite a convenient location. No wonder they’re getting high marks.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

US Ambassador Harry J. Thomas and Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim in front of the Thomasite’s plot

Named after the USS Thomas, the vessel which took them to Manila, 530 American teachers were stationed in the Philippines to “establish a new public school system, to teach basic education and to train Filipino teachers, with English as the medium of instruction.” [Source: Wikipedia]

Hosted by the City of Manila, the ceremony was a solemn affair headed by the men and women of the Philippine Navy. Flowers were offered on the graves by students of the Ramon Magsaysay College, members of the National Historical Commission, Manila Historial and Heritage Commission and Department of Education, as well as Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim and US Ambassador to the Philippines, Harry J.Thomas. The commemoration was capped with a three volley salute, which took everybody by surprise.

The Thomasites Plot on Main Avenue

Event details aside, it was great to be back in the North Cemetery. As the taxi was making its way to the Thomasite’s plot, my eyes were hungrily taking in all the details of the mausoleums we pass by, mentally noting their location for future visits. The Manila North Cemetery is the final resting place of many notable Filipinos. Not only that, many of the tombs and mausoleums have very interesting architecture and detail. While these are scattered all over the sprawling 54 hectare land, a walk down Main Avenue is enough to whet your curiosity if you’re pressed for time.

Mousoleo de los Veteranos de la Revolución

The first to catch your notice would be the Roxas family plot, which is in the rotunda. Buried here are Former President Manuel A. Roxas, his son Gerardo Roxas, Sr. and grandson Gerardo Roxas, Jr. Boxing champion Pancho Villa and composer Manuel Velarde, Jr. are also buried in Main Avenue. Aside from the Thomasites, there are other group plots on Main Avenue like the Armed Forces of the Philippines cemetery and the Masonic burial grounds. The big find for us that morning though was the Mousoleo de los Veteranos de la Revolución (Mausoleum for the Revolution Veterans), which we stumbled upon by accident. It was in an alley off Main Avenue, an imposing structure that rises up above the other graves. Here lies the remains of the men who fought during the Philippine revolution in 1896 to 1901.

That was as far as we were able to explore since we had to rush off. I’m itching to go back (yet again) to take my time exploring the cemetery.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Amazing map by the designer/photographer/calligrapher extraordinaire, Cla
(Click on the image to see the bigger version)

Little Tokyo is actually a compound where you can eat the best and most authentic Japanese meals in Manila. Many of these restaurants are own by Japanese, with a Japanese chef manning the kitchen, preparing and cooking ingredients imported from Japan and served to Japanese nationals.

Though I’ve been hearing about this place for years, it wasn’t until 2007 that I finally tried eating there. Thanks to my dolly obsession, I’ve gotten to know and became great friends with a crazy bunch of people who are as passionate about food as they are about the toys they collect. Aside from the toys and food, we all have a common interest in Japan. And so Little Tokyo became our unofficial meeting place.

Since then, I’ve taken friends to this little slice of Japan in Makati, pointing out which restaurant serves the best value lunch sets, telling them about the special deals of each, and treating them to a medley of flavors. Now, it’s your turn to take the tour.

Hana’s mix fry bento

Here’s a run down of the restaurants and shops in Little Tokyo, with a short description and recommendations for each. I’ve enlisted the help of some friends who’ve tried more restaurants than I have and have more discerning tastes to share their favorites with you.

Hana
Our favorite restaurant in LT. Khursten describes Hana as having the best “Japanese comfort food.”
Specialties: Takoyaki
Order: Hana maki, pork senbei (BACON!), cubic steak, tofu steak
Average cost: Php 200
Related reads:
Hana: Authentic Takoyaki in the heart of Makati
Hana scores a homerun with their new menu options
Like Hana on Facebook

Kagura
If you’ve read Ranma 1/2 manga or watched the anime, you’ve probably wondered how okonomiyaki tastes like. Wonder no more and try this hearty Japanese pancake here.
Specialties: Okonomiyaki
Order: Modern-yaki with everything on it
Average cost: Php 250
Related read:
What to Eat Where: The Quick and Dirty Japanese Resto Guide for Manila

Okonomiyaki from Kagura

Seryna
A popular lunch place for employees and executives working in the area. Open for dinner too.
Specialties: Sushi, sashimi
Order: Kaizengozen (chirashi-don), kami nabe
Average cost: Php 350
Related reads:
A box of treasured from the sea
Little Tokyo’s Seryna: Best. Chirasizushi. Ever.

Kikufuji
Izakaya style dining
Specialties: Sushi and anything seafood
Order: Seafood salad, Salmon ikura bowl, maguro-don, shake ikura-don, nasu tempura
Related reads:
Unforgettable Sushi at Kikufuji
Discovering umami in Kikufuji

Kaizengozen from Seryna

Urameshiya
Love meat? Grill ‘em here!
Specialties: Yakiniku
Special: Gorge on all the meat and seafood you can grill and eat every Tuesday for Php 500.
Note: This is not like the other yakiniku places in Manila that feature smokeless grills. They use the traditional grills that leaves you smelling like meat. If you have pets, expect a very amorous welcome when you get home.

Yamazaki
A Japanese grocery with a small restaurant off the side
Order: Cha-han (fried rice)
Average cost (restaurant): Php 140

Chotto stop
Convenience store selling various Japanese food products for Php 80. Has a small restaurant serving bento on the side.
Average cost (bento): Php 250
Related read:
Co-op finds a new home

Shinjuku Ramen
A favorite among Filipinos
Specialties: Ramen

Grilling meat at Urameshiya

Sekitori
A small restaurant serving sumo-sized meals
Specialities: nabe (hotpot)
Order: Chanko nabe

Oishinbo
Filipino-owned Japanese restaurant

Riozen
Another Izakaya serving the usual Japanese favorites
Order: Tonkotsu ramen, ikura-don, yakitori

Nodasho
A Japanese chef mans their kitchen
Specialties: Sukiyaki and sushi

Bunchum
An old coffee shop that also doubles a bar and stays open until late.
Order: Crispy pata

There you go! I do hope you find it useful, and I hope I bump into you at Little Tokyo one of these days!

Little Tokyo
Chino Roces corner Fernando Street
Makati City, Philippines
View on Google Maps

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Adarna’s Bicol Express

Sooo Pinoy feeds your national pride through the appreciation of Filipino cuisine. Thru Sooo Pinoy, you will learn more about the history of Pinoy food and discover where to find the best Filipino restaurants for these dishes. Ang sarap maging Pinoy!

Sooo Pinoy’s purpose is to feed every Pinoy’s love for Filipino food by providing information about the most popular Pinoy dishes and helping diners identify the top Filipino restaurants in the country.

Source: Sooo Pinoy Facebook page

Adarna Food and Culture
119 Kalayaan Avenue, Quezon City
View on Google Maps

Don’t leave Adarna without trying the kesong puti and langka fry

The best place to start any Pinoy food tripping. Showcasing Filipino heirloom recipes, Adarna prepares Filipino food as it was traditionally made, using ingredients that you probably won’t think to use.

Must try: Seafood special, Bicol Express (caution: spicy!), Adobong Batangas ala Adarna and Keson puti and langka fry for dessert

FNC-Nathaniel’s Bakeshop
ITC Commercial Bldg, Timog Avenue, Quezon City
View on Google Maps

Nathaniel’s Buko Pandan Salad

Known for its Buko pandan salad that’s served like ice cream, Nathaniel’s of Pampanga also makes the best Puto pao I’ve ever tasted (none of that bitter aftertaste that other puto paos has).

Must try: Buko pandan salad, Puto pao

Kabigting’s Halo-halo
592 N.S. Amoranto (near Banawe), Quezon City
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Kabigting’s sinful halo-halo

While other shops boasts of a long list of ingredients in their halo-halo, Kabigting’s version keeps it simple: creamed corn, halayang white beans and carabao milk pastillas topped with evaporated milk and finely shaved ice. The result is a thick mixture reminiscent of a cold guinataan. It tastes incredibly rich and very very yummy.

Must try: Halo-halo and palabok

Nihaya Halal Fastfood
Norzagaray Street, Quiapo, Manila
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Ayam Papag with niyog

Looking to try something different? Head to Quiapo’s Muslim district and have a meal at Nihaya Halal Fast Food. With prices ranging from Php 25 to Php 70, this is a great place to get acquainted with Maranao cuisine.

Must try: Ayam papag with niyog (chicken liver stew with grated coconut), beef rendang (spicy beef stew), Yellow fin kinilaw (kinilaw with coconut milk)

Master Hopia
206 Villalobos St, Quiapo, Manila
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What’s your hopia?

Looking for a snack you can munch on while walking through Quiapo? Stop by Master Hopia and try one (or 6) of their several varieties of hopia.

Must try: Monggo, macapuno, pineapple

Excelente Ham
155-157 Palanca St, Quiapo, Manila
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Bacon!

One bite of Excelente’s bone-in ham and I am overwhelmed with visions of holly, poinsettias and mistletoe. This is the ham we all grew up gobbling on Christmas morning after opening all our presents. Excelente has always been a favorite among Filipinos, with lines spilling out to the street during the holidays. Their hams are available year-round so you can experience Christmas anytime of the year.

Must try: Bone-in ham, bacon

Cafe Adriatico
1790 M. Adriatico St., Remedios Circle, Malate, Manila
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You’re guaranteed to be knocked out by Cafe Adriatico’s crispy pata

Traditional Filipino food at the fine dining restaurant Cafe Adriatico in Malate is a lovely way to cap the day. We were welcomed with a hearty bowl of Sinigang na Bangus belly sa bayabas. It was my first time to try sinigang cooked this way and I must say, I’ve been missing a lot in my life. Cafe Adriatico is open 22 hours a day (closing only between 5am to 7am), so you know where to go if you’re having some late night cravings for crispy pata.

Must try: Sinigang na Bangus Belly sa Bayabas, Lola Ising’s Adobo, Knockout Knuckle

Sooo Pinoy is an initiative of Unilever Foodsolutions, in cooperation with the Department of Tourism and the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Fall of Icarus

Varekai is just one of 19 Cirque du Soleil shows in 2011. Premiered in 2002, it has since toured around the world to more than 15 different countries and 60 cities to an audience of over 6 million. The show is currently touring Asia, with Manila as one of its stop.

Icarian Games

With Varekai comes the Cirque du Soleil’s mobile village comprising of the Grand Chapiteau (Big Top) where performances are held, the ticket tent where the refreshments and souvenir shops are, the Tapis Rouge where VIP ticket holders can enjoy cocktails and lounge before and in between performances and the artistic tent where the dressing rooms, wardrobe, training area and physiotherapy rooms are. Seeing the yellow and blue tent rising up in the field across the Quirino Grandstand is enough to make one giddy with excitement for the spectacular show.

Triple Trapeze

The show focuses on the story of Icarus, who falls from the sky into the mysterious forest of Varekai. It takes us through 13 different acts, with the creatures of the forest teaching Icarus to live, love, walk and fly again. I’m not going to tell you what happens in the show, because it’s best to experience it for yourself. If you haven’t seen a Cirque du Soleil show yet, get ready to pick your jaw up from the floor. If you have, then you know you won’t be disappointed.

Handbalancing on canes

Let’s just say it was a night filled with awe (at the entire production – costumes, set, original music, performances), wonder (at how the artists are able to do all those things with their bodies) and laughter (at the not-so-typical clowns).

View more photos of Varekai in Manila in the Just Wandering Facebook Page.

Manila performances will have a limited run until July 24. For tickets, visit the on-site box office at the blue-and-yellow Grand Chapiteau across the Quirino Grandstand or check out www.hoopla.ph. For more information, contact 775-0939, 881-0947, 0919-4508125 and 0917-4436463.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Dulipay river

My first trips were to Bulusan. When I was young, the family will make the epic 14-hour journey to this small town in Sorsogon. It would usually be during the Holy Week — we leave Wednesday evening, rolling into Bulusan morning of Maudy Thursday, eager to swim and explore, but getting told off that we can’t because it’s Lent. The first two days of the trip involved hearing mass at the Parish of St. James the Greater and getting our freedom to head to the beach and swim in the river on Saturday. On Easter Sunday, we pack up our things and head back to Manila in the afternoon.

Trips to Bulusan became less and less as I grow up. Prior to last April, my last trip to the province was in 2002 after graduating from college. Though it wasn’t Holy Week yet, it was almost as if it was — we hardly had time to really enjoy the place.

Kayaks waiting to be boarded at the Bulusan Lake

I can’t remember a trip to Bulusan without rain. While people are complaining of a very hot Lenten season, my memories of Bulusan during lent always involved rain. True to tradition, it was pouring when we rolled into town. I was eagerly looking out the window of the jeepney we were riding, taking in everything that came into view and mentally comparing if it was the same as my last visit.

A lot of things have changed. Roads have been paved, towering concrete houses where old nipa houses stood. My phone was able to get signal from Globe and there’s even a couple of Internet shops. Yet a lot of things remained the same. There was that one house and the store that still looked the same as it did when I first laid eyes on it in the early 80′s, and of course the familiar faces of friends and family. I find myself thinking how my parents feel every time they come home to Bulusan. If the changes I’ve noticed for the past 20-something years have been huge, how much has the town changed from the Bulusan they’ve known since the late 1930′s?

Dancalan beach on a rainy day

The longest I’ve stayed in Bulusan was 10 days. That was when I was in high school and on summer break. I wonder how different the experience would be if I go back and stay longer. Maybe this is the time to find out?

Written for the 7th Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival on the theme “hometown.” This round is hosted by Mhe-anne Ojeda of My Comings and Goings.

View the archive over at Estan Cabigas’ Langyaw.com.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

It’s the same thing every year: while everybody is heading out of the city for some much needed holiday during Holy Week, I willingly (sort of) opt to stay in Manila. It’s more like I have no choice – I work for an American client and we follow the US holidays. Though it pains me to see all my friends’ updates about how much fun they’re having at the beach, I relish the nearly empty metropolis. No traffic, no hoards of humanity… bliss.

Every time I go to UP, I take a picture of this road.

The streets were practically deserted. The cab ride that usually takes 30 minutes was cut in half, and I found myself in UP Diliman earlier than expected (even if I was already late). Though I’m not an alumnus, the campus is one of my favorite places in Quezon City. The sunflowers that warmly welcome you, the tree lined oval that pulls you to walk its length and the crunch of the dry grass as you sit down or lie down has a calming effect. I don’t need to travel far to feel relaxed.

People watching at the Sunken Garden

Two friends who have always spent Holy Week out of town suddenly found themselves stuck in the city with me. It’s been a while since we last hanged out together and though we always see each other online, there’s just no match for the bonds that form when you hold your conversations offline.

Nothing beats the feel and the crunch of dry grass on your back

We sit on the grass, sharing the new developments in our lives as we watch the sporty-type people playing in the Sunken Garden. Sometimes we’d talk a mile a minute, followed by a cackle of laughter and there a times when we’d lapse into comfortable silence. We’re happy with just being there and being with each other.

The more things change, the more they stay the same.

It was Good Friday and most places are closed. We ended up at the most obvious choice: McDonald’s Katipunan. It was the natural choice – the three of us all studied in the area; UP, Miriam and Ateneo – this branch played a huge part in our college life.

Over Quarter Pounders with Cheese, Chicken McNuggets and French fries, we reminisced about the thing we’ve done, the people we’ve known. In between sips of Coke and McFloats, we discussed our plans for the future. It was like being back in college, except this time we’re more realistic than idealistic.

A McDonald’s meal is never complete without French fries

Old habits die hard. It was as if we are on auto pilot as soon as we sit down in our booth. Anna opens the packets of ketchup and squeezes it unto her napkin. Mela makes sure her food never touch each other. I start the meal with a couple fries dipped in the vanilla soft serve ice cream topping my watermelon Sprite McFloat.

Perfect for cooling down

When we travel, we’re encouraged to try the local cuisine. It’s a gastronomic experience; a great way to immerse yourself with the native culture. Though this is an unwritten rule that I try to follow, I also believe in comfort food. There comes a time when you can’t stand to see another bowl of noodles and yearn for something familiar. The golden arches is almost always a sight for sore eyes for weary travelers who just got off the 4th minivan that they had to take to get from one end of the country to another, no matter how much the hardiest of travelers protest. At least it is for me. It’s as welcomed as the knowledge that the nearby McDonald’s branch is already open 24-hours, so I can have my McChicken Sandwich when hunger strikes as I work in the middle of the night.

Comfort food, friends and conversations about anything and everything under the sun — just what the doctor ordered.

As always, Mela finished last. She was still cradling a half-eaten burger as Anna and I polish off our nuggets and fries. I looked around the restaurant, marveling at how different it looked from the one we frequented years ago. Yet no matter how different the branch looks now, at its core it’s still the same McDonald’s Katipunan we grew up with.

A smile begins to tug at my lips. This may not be the grand vacation experience that others do during Holy Week, but the staycation is exactly what I needed.

How about you, which McDonald’s do you visit the most? Find out which McDonald’s store is nearest you here!

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!