Hop Inn Hotel: Our seaview room experience

Three months ago, I won a free staycation from Traveloka from their #TravisTravels and #CrazyEasyTravels promo at UP Town Center and just this August, we availed it! Let me share to you our experience in Hop Inn Hotel Ermita.

Why I chose Hop Inn Hotel Ermita branch? What caught my attention is their Seaview Room. From there, you can have a beautiful sunset view from Manila Bay.

LRM_EXPORT_20180827_201906-01 — Manila Bay view from our room

No sunset view as we had a bad weather during our stay 🙁

ABOUT HOP INN HOTEL

This hotel just recently opened some of their branches across the Philippines started last 2016. It’s originally in Thailand. It is designed for budget-conscious business and leisure traveler. At Hop Inn, they will welcome you with their “4 Pillars Promise” which are COMFORT, CLEANLINESS, CONVENIENCE, and SECURITY. Hop Inn Hotel is the perfect choice for business trip or vacation.

hop inn hotel ermita — Hop Inn Hotel Ermita has 9th floors.

Now, let me tour you to the hotel by sharing some of our pictures during our stay.

LOBBY

As you enter the door, their spacious lobby will welcome you. Huge, comfy couch will accompany you while waiting for checking in.

7/11 is just beside the hotel so you don’t need to worry if you’re hungry or need something. It has also a cafe located at the other side of the hotel. You can have your breakfast there as the hotel doesn’t offer breakfast meals.

Upon checking in, they will ask you for a valid ID for confirmation. After that, they will give you 2 key cards (which I didn’t have a pic). One is for your personal key and the other one is for you to left in your room.

Even their hallway is spacious. Look!

ROOM

The room is clean. It has 2 complimentary bottled water inside. It has a work station with a view. In our room, the view is the Manila Bay.

Look how Ian felt comfy with the bed. HAHA.

It has an open closet and a safety vault inside the room.

You can also order food online and delivered it straight to your room just like what we did.

For the cr, it has clean towels, hair dryer, tissue, and soap & shampoo. The cr is spacious too.

My only decent photo with the view.

RATINGS

ROOM –

The room is simple. Since it’s a hotel, expect the room to be small. But if you’re there just to sleep and rest, it’s good to go. There is space for luggage in case you came from the airport.
The room is clean and bright. Actually, the hotel itself is covered with blue and yellow color that makes it really bright.

RATES –

The rates are very affordable yet it will give you comfort and relaxation! One of the cheapest hotel in the heart of Manila.

Where to Book?

SERVICE –

The staff are very polite and accommodating. From time to time, someone will knock at your door to ask you if you need anything (eg: water). By the way, they already have free complimentary bottled of water inside the room when you check in.
By the way, you can also do early check in just like we did.

AMENITIES –

Since it is a hotel, don’t expect any kitchenware or tools from them.
The room has bed, safety vault, hangers for clothes, work station, cable TV, fast internet connection. I had a bit problem regarding with their WiFi. It seems not working in all mobile phones. I can’t connect my other phone (Huawei) in their WiFi though the other one (Samsung) works well. I don’t know what’s the problem with that. But anyway, it’s okay. I just used my other phone for browsing the whole time of our stay there.
For the cr, they have a hair dryer, clean towels, tissue, and soap & shampoo.
If you need anything, just call their staff at the lobby. They have 24-hour front desk.

LOCATION –

They have few branches now in the Philippines. They also have branches in Thailand. This branch is very accessible and easy to find as they are found in the center of Malate. Nothing to worry about where to eat because it is surrounded by 24-hour convenience stores and restaurants.

By the way, they have a parking space also.

Other Branches (Philippines):

HOP INN ALABANG – Lot 2 Block 4 Phase 3, Market Street, Madrigal Business Park, Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa City
HOP INN ASEANA – Lot 9 Block 5, near corner of Bradco Avenue and Macapagal Boulevard, Aseana City, Parañaque City
HOP INN MAKATI – 7806 Makati Avenue, Poblacion, Makati City

CONTACT THEM AT:

Tel: (02) 5283988

Fax: (02) 5283999

E-mail: info.ph@HopInnHotel.com

ADDRESS:

1850 M.H. Del Pilar Street, Malate, Manila

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS:

Website: www.hopinnhotel.com

Facebook: Hop Inn Hotel Philippines

Instagram: @hopinnhotelph

WHERE TO EAT IN MALATE?

1. Uncle Hwangso Jip Restaurant

2. Fantastic Chef

August 24, 2019October 12, 2019

Uncle Hwangso Jip Restaurant: Unlimited Samgyupsal for as low as 299 php

We had a staycation in Malate. Just near from our hotel, this Korean BBQ Restaurant caught our attention because it has long lines. We decided to have our dinner here.

LRM_EXPORT_20180827_153835-01 — Long lines outside

ABOUT UNCLE HWANGSO JIP

They just opened earlier this year. You can really feel the Korean vibe here because it is owned by a Korean. The manager also told us that this is their second branch. Their first branch is located in KOREA. Yes. So that’s why I’m insisting that it’s a legit Korean BBQ restaurant.

uncle hwangso jip restaurant — Looks like a small restaurant but it’s not.

When you enter the door, this is what you’ll see… Looks like messy but it isn’t. All the words written/posted at the wall are in Korean. HAHAHA. The place is spacious too. I liked how they want it not to be crowded unlike in other Korean BBQ restos.

This is one of the cubicle inside. This is ours. HEHE. Look at the TV, subtitle is still written in Korean. LOL.

Each table has its own tissue roll and there’s a place for your trash. Plus point for this!

Now, let’s go the main event. FOOD!!!!!

I really appreciate their service because when we enter the cubicle, the food were almost ready. YAY!

The side dishes were prepared already though the meat weren’t yet. Of course it’s okay. They served it when we’re inside the place already.

SAMGYUPSAL

LRM_EXPORT_20180827_180329-01 — Pork and Beef

Their meat have thick cuts but still easy to cook. Look how the meat looks like when cooked! YUUUUUM. They also have scrambled eggs. You can refill it too. 🙂

Their side dishes contains: kimchi, pipino, toge, banana, potato marble, fishcake, radish, etc. You can refill those together with the lettuce and rice.

DRINKS

They offer a lot of drinks. But since I didn’t try the Soju yet, we decided to give it a try. HAHA. But I think it’s gonna be my first and last time that I will try it. LOL. Plus the fact that it is expensive. Imagined, 250 php for one bottle?! No way! HAHAHA.

They said that it’s best paired with calamansi just like drinking tequila.

OTHERS

Ramen (150 php)

Perfect for curing hangover. LOL. After drinking some Soju or beer, this is perfect! It’s just sad that we didn’t enjoyed eating this because we’re already full when they served it to us. We didn’t even finished eating it. HUHU. Wish I can go back again to try this!!! The ramen is spicy but tasted good! The soup was delish and the noodles were soft!

RATINGS

FOOD –

Legit! Why? It’s our second time to eat in a Korean BBQ resto wherein they have onions with soy sauce for dip. The first time we had this was when we’re in Singapore!
The pork and beef were so tender and looks good when cooked! It has pre-flavored also which I also loved because some Korean BBQ resto didn’t have one.
For their side dishes, it has different variants too so I commend them for this. Ohhhh! Their sauce was the bomb!
If you’re not a fan of unli thingy, they have ala carte food. Also, they offer other korean food like ramen an bibimbap too.
By the way, did I mention that they have NO TIME LIMIT here? Yaaaaas!

PRICE –

Super affordable price! For as low as 299 php, you can have unlimited samgyupsal (pork only). For 499 php, you can have unlimited (pork and beef) samgyupsal.
NOTE: For leftover food, you will be charged 200 php each.

SERVICE –

I really appreciate their customer service. When we went here, I saw all the staff accommodate each and every customers inside. Even the owner (Korean) was accommodating guests which I liked!

AMBIANCE –

I thought their place was small because the door outside looks small. But when I enter the restaurant, I was surprised with what I saw. The place looks like you’re in Korea! Why? Each corner has words (which I don’t understand) written in Korea. HAHA. As in! Background songs was loud (tho they played Filipino songs, eeenk). There are few cubicles that has own TV which you can watch movies! YAAAAAY.
I think that’s why many Koreans are dining here because of the legit ambiance.

LOCATION –

Located near Malate Circle. I found out that there are many Korean restaurants in Malate. But what makes this restaurant different was they are the only one who has long lines!

OPERATING HOURS:

12:00 NN-5:00 AM, daily

CONTACT NUMBER:

3563393

ADDRESS:

610 Julio Nakpil Street, Malate, Manila

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT:

Facebook: Uncle Hwangso Jip Restaurant

August 24, 2019October 12, 2019

Casa Almarenzo: Not your ordinary bed & breakfast in Bolinao

Just a short story, we were supposed to visit here last Summer but unfortunately, they were fully-booked already so we just opt to visit La Union instead. Check our experience at Villa Marand in Bauang, La Union last May, 2018.

So when my sister told me that they finally booked a room in Casa Almarenzo, I reserved my weekend already to go with them. The reason why they booked a room was because they were celebrating their wedding anniversary. Yay! We’re so extra. LOL.

ABOUT CASA ALMARENZO

Casa Almarenzo Bed & Breakfast is a private getaway located along Patar Road. A small, quiet town located at the western tip of Pangasinan. All rooms have breathtaking sea views. You can have a romantic honeymoon here as they have deluxe rooms. Also perfect for family & company outings.

Here’s the view of the resort from the main road.

Now, let me tour you around the resort by sharing some pictures of us during our staycation!

FRONT DESK/LOBBY

You can also have your dinner or breakfast here. Aside from that, they also have welcome drinks. YAY!

POOL AREA

It has 2 pools. The one is for kids and the other is for adults.

Some snaps while enjoying the pool! LOL

ROOMS

First, let me introduce you to our main room which I loved! Look at that cute double deck! So inlove with this room.

And now, here’s our connecting room…

Both rooms have a veranda with a breathtaking view.

The room has a complimentary bottled of water, coffee, and a can of biscuits.

ROOM BUILDINGS

We had our dinner beside the pool. If you wish to cook your preferred food, just inform the staff.

We have complimentary breakfast for 4 so we availed it. Breakfast starts at 7:00 AM and ends at 9:00 AM. The servings were huge! We even had free desserts! YAY.

If you wish to have a side trip to Bolinao Lighthouse, Patar Beach, and Bolinao Falls, they have a shuttle van inside the resort. Just inquire at the front desk.

RATINGS

PLACE –

The resort is so minimalist. It has a white and blue color scheme. But it has colorful chairs around the pool area. That time, they didn’t used it because the chairs were made by wood and it was raining that time. The place is peaceful! Very perfect for chilling while looking at the view.
But most of all, I observed that they put some Words of God/bible verses around the resort. So plus points for this!!!
The rooms were so cute! I loved how they designed it. It has a santorini vibe. The rooms were spacious too. The aircon worked well! The bed was comfy. Uggh.

RATES –

The rates are very reasonable! What you see is what you get. The rates include a complimentary breakfast too.

Where to Book?

TravelBook.PH – Book here to grab low rates!!!
Agoda
Tripadvisor

SERVICE –

Upon entering the resort, some staff will assists you immediately. At their front desk, they have welcome drinks which you really need after the long drive. This is so refreshing!
They also offer “paluto”. You just have to inform them what do you want them to cook. Of course you have to pay them.

AMENITIES –

What I really loved about them was their breathtaking infinity pool. I’ve been wanting to try an infinity pool. The last time was way back 2016, in Bellevue Hotel in Bohol.
Since it’s perfect for groups, they have videoke and billiards at the roof deck. They have a mini basketball court just beside the parking area. They also have a hammock just beside the pool perfect for your IG feed. HEHE.
They also have water activities but unfortunately we didn’t tried it because of the bad weather. HUHU.

LOCATION –

You need to endure the 6-7 hours ride to get to this place. But I am assuring you, IT IS WORTH IT! The tiring ride will be paid off once you step inside the resort. It has a good sea view. It is beach front tho the sand is not that white and fine. But it’s only 15 mins to Patar White Beach. You can also do a side trip to Bolinao Lighthouse and Bolinao Falls!
How to get here?
You can ride straight to Bolinao buses in Cubao from Victory Liner and Five Star Transport. It will take at least 4-5 hours to reach Bolinao and 10-15 minutes to Casa Almarenzo Bed & Breakfast.

CONTACT THEM AT:

Phone: (02) 441 6566 / 09171668658

E-mail: reservations@casaalmarenzo.com

ADDRESS:

313 Patar Rd., Brgy. Estanza, Bolinao, Pangasinan

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS:

Website: www.casaalmarenzo.com

Facebook: Casa Almarenzo Bed & Breakfast

Instagram: @casaalmarenzoph

WHERE TO EAT IN BOLINAO?

Sungayan Grill

August 24, 2019September 12, 2019

Tito’s Fil-Mex: Now open in Ayala Malls Feliz

There are few Filipino-Mexican restaurants around here in Metro. But most of them are quite pricey for me. Now, there’s another Fil-Mex resto opened along Pasig City and I’m so happy because the food were really affordable!

ABOUT TITO’S FIL-MEX

Opened this August, 2018. This Filipino-Mexican restaurant is owned by Camille Prats and her husband VJ Yambao. So if you want to see them or the Prats family, drop by at their resto and you might see them there! 🙂

Upon entering the place, you will see colorful tables and chairs.

yummycups — Cookies N Cream w/ Creampuff (110 php)

The kitchen is kinda open so you can see how they cook and prepare the food.

The main event…FOOD!!!

DRINKS

For the drinks, they have beers, spirits, shakes, house wines, cocktails, etc.

APPETIZERS

MAIN

DESSERTS

chocolate ice cream, oreo crumbles, mallows, and nips

cheese ice cream, mallows, nips, and strawberry syrup

soft roll, cinnamon sugar, cream cheese, and vanilla ice cream

RATINGS

FOOD –

I loved how they combined Filipino and Mexican food. All the food that they served to us were tasty and good! I also commend their good plating! Plus point for this.

MY TOP PICKS:

Tres Quesodillas – I’m a cheese lover so this is my number 1. Hehe. Biased but it’s really good. The cheese really melts in your mouth. Uggggh.
Sisig Burritos – I loved how they put sisig in the burritos. Not a fan of burritos but this is an exemption. HEHE. Who doesn’t love sisig, by the way? The meat were so tender and chewable. Just be careful when eating this, it’s kinda messy. HEHE.
Fajitas – The crowd favorite. All of us enjoyed this food. It’s actually my first time eating this so I really don’t know how it should taste but I loved how they cooked their meat. So tender and their dip was amazingly delish!

PRICE –

The food were very affordable! It ranges from 40-500 php only! Again, all the food were good so you have to try this! The serving of the food is good for sharing so you don’t have any problem.

SERVICE –

The serving of the food were quite slowly because they really cooked the food well since it’s mostly meat. I commend the staff though they are only few and still accommodated us one by one if we have queries.

AMBIANCE –

My expectation was the food is huge because it looks like big in their page but it’s not that big. You will feel a little bit Mexican-vibe because of its wall designs. It has also colorful chairs and tables and has a mini bar beside the kitchen.

LOCATION –

Ayala Malls Feliz is a newly-opened mall in Pasig City along Marcos Highway. You can visit them any day during mall hours. The place is very accessible because it’s inside the mall and the mall is just located along the highway so if you’re hungry, you can drop by at their restaurant.

OPERATING HOURS:

10:00 AM-9:00 PM, Monday to Thursday

10:00 AM-10:00 PM, Friday to Sunday

ADDRESS:

5th Floor, Ayala Malls Feliz, Marcos Highway, Pasig City

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS:

Facebook: Tito’s Fil-Mex

Instagram: @titosfilmexresto

August 24, 2019November 11, 2020

Sungayan Grill: Experience the floating restaurant in Bolinao

Before heading back to Manila, my cousin suggested a restaurant where we can have our lunch. We need to have a heavy meal because another long drive were waiting for us.

Related link: Casa Almarenzo Bed and Breakfast

ABOUT SUNGAYAN GRILL

Sungayan Grill is a floating restaurant in Balingasay River. This river is known as one of the cleanest rivers in the Philippines. Also, this is the most recommended restaurant in Bolinao, Pangasinan. Why? Because it looks like the one in Bohol. The only difference is they don’t offer buffet.

bolinao sungayan grill — View from one of the floating huts

DISCLAIMER: The water is color brown because of the bad weather when we went there but mostly, it is color green.

This is the floating restaurant in Loboc, Bohol. So beautiful, right?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Hungry Traveler PH (@thehungrytravelerph)

Let me first tour you around the place. Upon entering, a pathway will welcome you with some views.

If you have a vertigo, I highly suggest to just dine-in at their restaurant instead of their floating huts.

They have live band in the restaurant also.

But if you’re an adventure seeker and want to experience the floating huts, go and feel free! Yay 🙂

And now, for the main event. The food!!!!

Grilled Sungayan, Grilled Bangus, Grilled Liempo, Grilled Squid or Calamares, Steam Crabs, Steam Okra, Grilled Eggplant, Seaweeds Tomato, Green Mango, Padas (Bolinao Bagoong) Alamang, with free 1 platter of rice and 1 pitcher of iced tea

NOTE: Order all you need before your hut leaves because you might regret it like we did. HAHA. Our rice wasn’t enough so we just cry like a baby and just enjoy the remaining food. LOL.

The hut is getting pulled by a small boat. I commend the boatmen for being so professional. Even though it’s raining hard, they still dedicated to make their customers satisfied. Plus point for this!

Here are some shots of the other floating huts too.

RATINGS

FOOD –

They take their food into another level! Most of the food in their menu is seafood and grilled food. We got their Seafood Fiesta which is good for 10-12 pax and perfect for boodle fight! All of the food we got were yummy and fresh!

PRICE –

The price here are much cheaper than in Dampa Restaurant because we all know that Pangasinan are abundant in seafood, right? If you are in a group, I suggest to try their seafood fiesta!
Note that if you want to avail that floating huts, there is a 1,000 php fee.

SERVICE –

Since they serve the food fresh from the grill, the serving time of the food took us 20-30 mins, I guess? We’re all hungry that time so we’re not quite satisfied with their service. Hehe sorry, hungry pips eh. But I commend them for preparing the food well.

AMBIANCE –

When my cousin told me that we’ll be having our lunch here, I immediately imagined my first time in a floating resto, which is in Bohol! Ugggh, unfortunately, the water that time was brown because of the bad weather but the ambiance is kinda same in Bohol. You can never go wrong with a good view while having a boodle fight lunch with your family, right?

LOCATION –

From Manila, it will take 6 hours to get here. I highly suggest to take a visit here when you’re going to Bolinao. Not recommending to visit here for only a day unless you’re just near the area. The ride is really exhausting.

OPERATING HOURS:

9:00 AM-8:00 PM, daily

CONTACT NUMBER:

09123534433

ADDRESS:

Balingasay, Bolinao, Pangasinan, Philippines

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS:

Facebook: Bolinao Sungayan Grill

Instagram: @sungayan_grill

WHERE TO STAY IN BOLINAO?

Casa Almarenzo Bed & Breakfast

August 24, 2019

Chin Chan Ramen: Newly-opened ramen house in Caloocan

ABOUT CHIN CHAN RAMEN

This ramen house is only 3-month old! They named this after their son’s name Chin Chan which is a cutie baby boy! About the food, a legit Japanese is preparing all the food so nothing to worry about how they are serving the food.

Now, onto the food!

RAMEN

RICE BOWLS

SIDES

RATINGS

FOOD –

At first, we’re kinda hesitant to push through because when I saw their FB page, the food looks like there’s nothing special. But when I tasted their food, I felt bad for myself for judging them because of the look of their food. Their food were nothing but amazing! You guys should try it! Now I know why there’s many people eagerly waiting to get a seat. THE FOOD ARE SO DELISH!

OUR TOP PICKS:

Cold Ramen – Have you heard about this? I’m surprised when they served it to us and told the name of this food. But it’s a must when you visit their place! I loved how the noodles were still soft after not eating them for a while. The sauce was sweet.
Curry Ramen – The noodles were really soft! It has many ingredients, more on seafood. It has also a spicy-kick which I loved.
Gyoza – Very affordable yet tasted good. The size of the gyoza were quite big compared to the other gyoza’s I’d tried before! Must try.
California Maki – Not a fan of Maki but according to Ian, it was fresh and not smell fishy.

PRICE –

I found their ramen pricey at first because it ranges from 160-190 php and to mention that they are only starting their business. But now I know why! Because its good. The ingredients were so many. We didn’t even finished eating it because we’re full already. The rice bowls are very affordable for only 99 php.

SERVICE –

Even though they lack of their staff, I highly appreciate them for giving the other customers a good customer service! They are very accommodating and generous. I just hope that they will add more staff. 🙂
Serving time of the food is 15-20 mins.

AMBIANCE –

Since they just starting up, they tried to open their ramen house just outside their house. They just put a tent and put tables and chairs. From time to time, they add some more when people are starting to line up. According to one of the owners, they are planning to make their house open for customers too. Meaning, it will be a literal ramen house. Hehe.

LOCATION –

If you’re from South Caloocan, maybe it’s just near to you. If you’re craving for some ramen and lazy to go out, might want to visit them.
How to go there?
From SM North, ride a jeepney/bus going to Malanday and drop off at MCU. From there, ride a jeepney going to Divisoria and drop off at 9th Avenue. From 9th Avenue, ride a tricycle and tell the driver to drop you at R. Candido cor L. Nadurata St.

OPERATING HOURS:

6:00 PM-12:00 MN, Monday to Saturday

ADDRESS:

144 cor L. Nadurata St. and R. Candido St., 10th Avenue, Caloocan City

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS:

Facebook: Chin Chan Ramen

Instagram: @chinchanramen

August 24, 2019October 12, 2019

Cassalu Coffee & Kitchen: A third wave café in Las Piñas

Ever heard the word third wave café? It is taking coffee to the artisanal level that promote high-quality coffee by improving every step of the process, from growing coffee plants to brewing it into a cup.

ABOUT CASSALU COFFEE & KITCHEN

It is owned by the couple Loren and Noel, they started this business way back 2007. At first, they only sell their pastries made by Loren to their friends, relatives, and colleagues. When they saw that the people enjoying their delicacies, they started investing in kitchen tools. Cassalu named after their children Cassandra and Lucas, also sounds as “kasalo” which means “a person with whom one shares meals”.

LRM_EXPORT_20180822_100049-01 — View outside

First, let me tour you around the place.

The place is huge and have cute interiors! It is perfect to chill with friends, you can also study here since the ambiance is quiet and peaceful while munching their cakes and sipping their fresh brewed coffee.

Outside the cafe

Inside the cafe

Counter area

They are also open for special events. They have 2 function rooms. You can also rent the whole place. Just contact them thru their Facebook page.

Now, let’s go to the main event… the FOOD!

DRINKS

Specialty Coffee

First, they offer us their specialty coffee which I found very interesting. Why? Because they get to brew your coffee in front of you. You can also pick your brewing method. Ours were V60 and Kalita Wave.

Brazil Fazenda Paraiso 185.00 Guatemala Antigua Pastoral (Bourbon) 195.00

We got their two best sellers coffee, Brazil Fazenda Paraiso (185 php) andGuatemala Antigua Pastoral (Bourbon) (195 php).

The Brazil Fazenda Paraiso has a natural sweet taste and perfect with their Banoffee Cheesecake.

Look how they brew their specialty coffee. If you can only smell the aroma. Ughhh.

Hot Coffee

LRM_EXPORT_20180822_104319-01 — Caffe Latte (150 php)

Shot of rich espresso with milk, sugar syrup, and a layer of foamed milk

Milkshakes

FOOD

Starters

All-time favorite shoestring fries drizzled with cheese sauce then topped with bacon bits

Salads

LRM_EXPORT_20180822_102952-01 — Oriental Salad (208 php)

Crisp lettuce, carrots, crab stick, crispy wonton, diced mangoes, and shredded nori, served with Asian dressing

Pasta

An extra ordinary twist on a classic Filipino delicacy perfect blending of deep flavor and spiciness

Main Plates

Casssalu Coffee & Kitchen — Basket of Country Fried Chicken (3 pcs: 348 php/5 pcs: 568 php)

Well-loved crispy and juicy fried chicken served with potato wedges and gravy

DESSERTS

Cheesecakes

Banoffee pie and cheesecake combined into one heavenly cake

Frozen Cheesecakes

Look how they prepare their frozen cheesecake on sticks!

Cakes

One of their bestseller cakes is their Dozen Flavor Cheesecake which includes different kinds of cheesecakes. They also included some new flavors of cheesecake inspired by Filipino desserts.

RATINGS

FOOD –

They serving not only specialty coffee but also savory meals and freshly-baked cakes and pastries. You have a lot of choices!

OUR TOP PICKS:

Oriental Salad – My close friends knew that I’m not a fan of salad because I don’t like veggies (sad but true). But hey! This is an exception. I loved its plating and of course the taste! Their Asian dressing is for the win!!! Must try, promise!
Chef Red’s Kaldereta Pasta – This a good concept! Taking local dishes into pasta! If you love kaldereta, you should try this one! I loved how it was cooked. Even though we ate it cold already, you can taste the spiciness of it and the tender meat.
Banoffee Cheesecake – Ahhh this one is good also! The cheesecake was smooth and soft which is new to me because the other banoffee cheesecakes that I’ve tried had a rough texture inside.

PRICE –

The price are very reasonable. You can have it solo and for sharing. I found their cheesecake pricey but hey, it’s really good! Also because their pastries are their bestsellers so give it a try!

SERVICE –

Kudos to their staff. Upon entering the door, they will immediately assist you. While dining, some staff will asks you if you need anything. They are very responsive to other customers too. So plus point to this!

AMBIANCE –

At first, I thought it’s a small place but I was wrong. Their space is huge. There is indoor and outdoor seating. They have also separate rooms for private events. I loved how they designed the place. Colorful and comfy seats, you can feel the cafe ambiance because of the coffee beans around the area, it has also swing chairs which I loved the most!

LOCATION –

If you are from the North area, it’s a sad news because it’s kinda far from our place. Yes, I’m from North too. They are located in South but according to their manager, they will open a branch in SM North EDSA Annex hopefully on the first quarter of 2019. Yay!!!! So excited for this.
But if you want to try their frozen cheesecakes first, head on to their small branch at Bakeology by Cassalu in SM North EDSA.

OPERATING HOURS:

8:00 AM-11:00 PM, daily

CONTACT NUMBER:

(02) 838-8227

ADDRESS:

262 Alabang Zapote Road, Talon Uno, Las Piñas City

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS:

Facebook: Cassalu Coffee & Kitchen

Instagram: @cassalu_ph

August 24, 2019October 19, 2019

Get 1,600 php discount on AirBnb!

“Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive.”

When traveling, aside from I get to visit new places and tourist spots, I also look forward in our accommodation. But did you know that you can still get cheap accommodation yet will give you a comfortable stay through AirBnb?

In this blog, I’ll teach you on how to get a 1,600 php (US $40) discount when you register in AirBnb.

FOLLOW THESE STEPS BELOW:

1. Click this link. It will lead you here:

2. Click the Sign Up button.

3. Sign up using your Facebook account or e-mail address.

4. After you register, open your e-mail account and click the confirmation e-mail from AirBnb to validate your account.

5. After clicking your confirmation e-mail, you will receive a message at the top of your page together with your 1,600 php discount.

NOTE:

This is valid to new users only.
Your 1,600 php (US $40) will automatically credit on your first booking.

What are the benefits if a friend will sign up to my code?

Every successful friends who signed up to your code and used their discounts on their first trip, you will earn a travel credit!
You can earn up to US $20 that you can use too in your own AirBnb reservations! Your credits will automatically show up after your friend checked out!

GET YOUR CREDIT HERE.

See my staycation experiences using AIRBNB TRAVEL CREDITS!

August 24, 2019October 12, 2019

Bakeology by Casssalu: The famous frozen cheesecake on stick now in SM North EDSA

Been craving for this since I saw it online. I first saw this trending cheesecake-on-stick was in Facebook. But it took me so long because their locations are far from my place. 🙁

But good news! Bakeology by Cassalu is now open in SM City North EDSA. They opened last week of July and went there last July 31 because I really want to try this one!

And here it is! I tried one of their best-sellers. YUUUUUM.

This cheesecake is one of their Premium Cheesecakes and costs 195 php each. It is a chocolate cheesecake with mango dips inside (which tasted good to me), dipped in white chocolate topped with crushed oreos and hersheys.

They also have their signature cake, which has 12 different flavors of cheesecake! WOW!!!

For their menu, here it is:

If your choice isn’t available in their menu, you can make your own cheesecake on stick.

Their place is quite small, only good for to-go. Don’t worry, it’s easy to eat since they put it in a small carton. I ate it while walking. So very hassle-free!

It has a colorful signage outside which really catch people’s attention.

NOTE: They are located outside the mall. They are near the parking area.

Their main branch is located in Las Piñas named Cassalu Coffee & Kitchen. They have another branch in Ayala Malls Feliz, Pasig and Ayala Malls Circuit, Makati.

OPERATING HOURS:

Open during mall hours

CONTACT NUMBER:

E-mail: cassalu@rnlfoodconcepts.ph

ADDRESS:

2nd Level East Bridge Parking, SM City North EDSA

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS:

Facebook: Bakeology by Cassalu

Instagram: @bakeology_by_cassalu

August 24, 2019October 12, 2019

Urban Suites Tagaytay: Our “Couples Retreat Getaway” experience + giveaway

Since Ian got a new work, we seldom see each other. We both got busy at work so we’re thinking of having a break and need to unwind. Luckily, Ms. Irish Arbo PM-ed us on our Facebook page telling us that she will be sponsoring us a 3D2N ACCOMMODATION. Guess where? In Tagaytay! So timely that we immediately accepted the offer.

ABOUT URBAN SUITES TAGAYTAY

LRM_EXPORT_20180806_123313-01 — SMDC Wind Residences

It’s a family business who owns condo units at SMDC Wind Residences. They now have a total of 5 units from Tower 3 and 5 with different designs and setup. They got their first unit last 2016.

Click here to see their five units.

They purchased these because it’s their dream to have a house in Tagaytay but they decided to open their units for daily tourists who wants to experience Tagaytay without breaking a budget. The people’s favorite is their Minimalist Condo because of it’s cozy feels.

Urban Suites Tagaytay is located at Tower 3.

Got some questions? Click here.

LRM_EXPORT_20180806_140817-01 — Commercial areas inside SMDC Wind Residences

They offer us their Couples Retreat Getaway (7 700 php) package which includes the following:

3D2N stay in one of their premier rooms
room with wifi, cable TV, and netflix
complimentary breakfast
free 1 hour body massage for 2
towels and bathrobe
toiletries

They only have one Taal View room but if guests request for a Taal View room, it’s additional 1 000 php.

Don’t have AirBnb account yet? SIGN UP HERE.

The room we got was their Deluxe Studio Unit.

THE ROOM

This 30 sq. m studio unit has a simple yet modern design. It has 2 double-sized bed with mattress, pillows, and bed linens.

LRM_EXPORT_20180805_233235-01 — Look how comfortable my sleep was! LOL

One bed has pull-out single-size bed with matress, linen, and blanket.

It has a 40-inch flat screen TV with Android TV (Netflix, iFlix, Youtube). The room has also a 1.5 split type airconditioner.

In the dining area, they have a microwave, kettle, refrigerator. The dining table is located beside the bed. For the kitchenwares, they have spoons, mugs, and glasses. They also provided some coffee.

LRM_EXPORT_20180805_234103-01 — Dining area

They also have slippers inside the room! Plus point for this since we forgot to bring our own slippers. Hehe.

It also has a walk-in closet with mirrors. It has hangers and hook for hanging clothes. HUHU can’t stop taking pictures here. HAHA.

Inside the bathroom, it has water heater, bidet, mirror, hair dryer, and shampoo & shower gel. They also provided some toiletries like tissues and toothbrush.

And their balcony, my favorite corner! Look at the view from our room.

You can have your breakfast here, chill and wait for the sunset, or just even take your #ootd shots. LOL.

SERVICES

MASSAGE

Our package consists a free massage so we didn’t wasted any time. We got pampered for atleast one hour. Wooo! The massage was really good and relaxing! We almost fell aslept. LOL.

The only photos I got during our massage. HEHE.

They have a massage room but according to our source, it has only 2 beds so most of their customers request a room service. It costs 500 php per head good for 1 hour.

BREAKFAST

In our package, it has complimentary breakfast for 2 days! What I loved about this was they delivered the food straight into your room. This is life!

They served Pinoy breakfast and the food tasted good! If you just availed the room and want breakfast, it costs 200 php per head.

THE AMENITIES

CLUBHOUSE

Look how big their clubhouse is!

Their clubhouse has function rooms, billiards hall, and other indoor activities.

SWIMMING POOLS

It has indoor and outdoor pools.

Note: You need to pay 150 php fee if you are going for a swim.

BASKETBALL COURT

CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND

SKY LOUNGE

This has a good view and perfect spot for chilling especially at night. But take note that you need to sign up first in the lobby before going up here. One of the staff will assists you all throughout if you are going to Sky Lounge.

Since it’s raining when we went there, here’s the view from Sky Lounge.

LOBBY

BASEMENT

This is where the mailbox is located. It has also tables and chairs if you want to take a rest or chill.

RATINGS

ROOM –

The room is simple but you will feel relaxed. As in super! The room has a good AC. The internet is fast. Very perfect for staycation! Did I say that our room is also a good spot for sunset watching? Yes, it is!

RATES –

The rooms are very affordable. If you want some discounts, book through AirBnb. Don’t have AirBnb account yet? SIGN UP HERE and get a 1 600 php discount on your first booking.
AirBnb accepts DEBIT (ATM card) or CREDIT CARD. If you will use DEBIT card, put the card information on CREDIT Card option (they are at the same process).
For those WITHOUT CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS, you may apply for your own prepaid credit card called YAZZ powered by VISA. This can be secured from Metrobank, SM, and Robinsons Department Stores or at National Bookstore Branches.

SERVICE –

We met the caretaker, Ms. Mavi. She assisted us during our stay. We got some problems inside the room but she immediately respond to us and fixed whatever the problems are.

AMENITIES –

SMDC Wind Residences has a lot of amenities. All that you’re looking for are here. You don’t need to go out to other places. Their clubhouse is really big. Can accommodate hundred pax, I guess?

LOCATION –

It has a good location. Very easy to find. It has also a good view since you can sight Taal Lake. If you want to go outside and explore Tagaytay, they are near in Sky Ranch. Very accessible, right?