Review Manila

Bonchon Chicken: The best buffalo wings in town

2011-12-18T22:59:00.013+08:00

Location:

- Ayala Triangle Gardens
- Greenbelt 1
- SM Megamall Building A
- Libis (Acropolis)
- Robinsons Galleria
- Greenhills Promenade
- Katipunan (2nd Level, Regis Center)
- Shangri-la Plaza (Lower Ground Level)
- University Mall, Taft Ave. (near La Salle)
- Ill Terrazzo (Tomas, Morato)
- SM Mall of Asia

Website: www.bonchon.com.ph
Facebook: Bonchon.Chicken.Philippines

Products/Services:
Yummy and incomparable hot wings...'nuff said! Aside from buffalo wings and drumsticks, Bonchon also offers Fish Taco, Bulgogi Wrap, Chicken Sandwich,Chapcae, Calamari, Fries, Ginger Tofu Salad, Ceasar Salad and Chops. If you're not really a fan of spicy food, I suggest you try, at least once, their spicy hot wings. Believe me, you won't regret it! Just keep your iced tea handy though. ^_^

Environment/Ambiance: Ambiance is okay for a fast food but just a word of caution, there are lots of people dining in and more often than not, you need to ready yourself to be wait to be seated. Almost all Bonchon's branches are small and so far, the most spacious are their branches in the University Mall along Taft Ave., near La Salle and the newly-opened Bonchon, Mall of Asia.

Surprisingly,people don't seem to mind waiting, I think that's already a testament of how good and worth the wait Bonchon Chicken is. The store's lighting and interiors are perfect but I just noticed that almost all of the stores' floorings are a bit slippery for the reason I know not.

Staff: Staff are generally friendly and willing to assist.

Price: Bonchon's price can be quite daunting at first, but considering the quality of taste, I must say that it's actually worth your every penny. At Php135.00, one can already enjoy their value meal which consists of three buffallo wings, one rice and iced tea. If you are not a fan of spicy food, you can opt to ask for the regular flavor.

Remarks: A must try and totally addictive. You can never get enough of Bonchon everyday. I think their spicy wings made them famous. The rice they serve are also perfectly cooked and their iced tea is also good. Once you have tasted Bonchon chicken, I tell you, you will have high standards already when it comes to Buffalo wings. My only suggestion...more bigger and spacious place please...

My Cool Mint Spa: My Spa of Choice

2011-06-20T15:30:00.014+08:00

Location: G/F Elizabeth Hall Bldg., Katipunan Ave. Quezon City (Beside the big Shell gas station and across Petron gas station)

Contact Nos: (02) 920-9531 / (02) 436-1160 / 09274446132

Open Daily: 12:00 noon to 10:30 pm

* Reservation is not required but highly recommended

Services:

Massage Therapy

- Swedish
- Shiatsu
- Combination
- Reflexology
- Lymphatic
- Aromatherapy

Body Treatments

- Botanical Salt Body Polished
- Coffee and Spice Citrus
- Whitening Body Polish
- Apricot Body Polish
- Seaweed Wrap
- Dead Sea Wrap
- Waxing

Spa Packages

- Footloose Package (body massage 1hr + 30 mins footsie)

- Feel Squeaky Clean Package (body massage + body polish)

- Glowing, Glowing Gone Package (body massage + refreshing facial)

- It's a Wrap Package (body massage + body wrap)

Ambiance: The place is relatively quiet and the private rooms are spacious enough and nice. It has its own bathroom but unfortunately no toilet unlike other private rooms.

Their common room, I must say, looks neat and relaxing but it would be much better if all (male or female common room) of the rooms/beds are located on the 2nd floor and not just adjacent the receiving area or lobby. Sometimes you can see the people inside from the sheer, white, curtains so I think it would be kind of uneasy to have your full body massage with the thought of accidental peek a boo. Anyway, common room at the ground floor is actually okay just as long as the covers are not only curtains.

Staff: Staff are nice and their therapists are very good. My Cool Mint Spa is under the management of The Palm Garden Health Spa, the first who introduced health spa concept in the Philippines, so I think they really underwent rigorous training.

Price: Full body massage for 1 hour starts at Php350 for the common room and Php500 for the private room. You can extend the massage for another 30 minutes for an additional Php250. I must say that their pricing is reasonable enough compared to other health spas out there. You'll really get what you paid for and I must say, much more. By the way, My Cool Mint Spa also has a special ongoing offer right now. Their body massage only costs Php280 for common room and Php400 for private room but is only applicable during Monday-Thursday, 12nn-5pm and cannot be availed during holidays.

Remarks: My Cool Mint Spa is now definitely my #1 spa to go to whenever I feel like pampering myself, Blue Water Day Spa comes next. Ambiance, amenities and cleanliness wise, my vote goes for the latter, but the detailed and relaxing massages that My Cool Mint Spa offers, plus the affordable prices that goes with them, is definitely a catch. Our first visit there (we tried swedish combined with reflexology) was awesome although our very recent one was not that great. See, we told them that we're going to avail the 1 1/2 hour massage but their therapists only massaged us for 1 hour. I think they are also in a hurry to finish. The receptionists apologized and only asked us to pay a 1 hour massage.

My friend and I were actually wondering what happened because what transpired did not really meet our expectations. I just realized that maybe, the best time to get a massage is during the first hour of the spa's opening when the therapists are not yet tired and in a hurry to finish. When we had our first massage at My Cool Mint, the spa has just opened so our experience was good. Maybe this also goes out to all spas out there?

On the other hand, the 1/2 hour extension that My Cool Mint Spa offers is also a personal favorite. I'm quite sure that most feel that a 1 hour massage is too short and a 2 hour massage is just too long. Thus, this 1/2 hour extension for a price of Php250.00 is actually a brilliant idea.

Regardless of what happened during our last visit, which is really a minor one (there must be some kind of misunderstanding only), I would still go back to My Cool Mint Spa and try their body scrubs. I had a massage and body scrub at Palm Garden Health Spa way back 2008 and It was really good. So this time, again, I am expecting their body polish to be equally great. ^_^

La Puerta Al Paraizo: Your Gateway to Paradise

2011-03-23T01:23:00.011+08:00

Location: Barangay San Roque, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, Philippines

How to go there: From Iloilo, take a pump boat at Ortiz Wharf to Guimaras' Jordan port. At the port, ride a tricycle or multicab then ask the driver to bring you to La Puerta Al Paraizo. You may also take a jeepney to Lucmayan then ride a motorcycle to take you to the resort. Travel time from Jordan port to La Puerta Al Paraizo is 45 minutes.

Hours of Operation: 24 hours

Email: lapuertaalparaizo@rocketmail.com
Facebook: La Puerta Al Paraizo

Contact Numbers:

Ms. Helen: 0927-5079024 and 0926-4135970

Panoramic view of La Puerta Al Paraizo

Amenities/Facilities:

- Restaurant
- Swimming pool
- 24/7 roving security guard

Environment/Ambiance/Food: La Puerta Al Paraizo is the perfect place to detach from your 21st century gadgets and just commune with nature. Phone signal is unreliable in the resort so it's useless bringing your laptops and blackberries to work or update your Facebook and Twitter of your whereabouts.

Even the rooms have no television so bathing under the sun and star gazing at night are just some of the things you could do in replacement of being a couch potato.

In the morning, you will be greeted by the chirping sound of birds and soft rustling of waves. The powdery white sand, pristine water and green islets surrounding the resort is truly a picturesque sight to behold.

La Puerta Al Paraizo is enclosed in a cove so the water is calm and can be compared to Leonardo DiCaprio's movie "The Beach." Sunset watching is also perfect since the resort faces west.

The rooms are clean and offer a scenic view of the beach. I personally recommend the hill room which stand atop the island. The view from inside that room is just spectacular and breath taking. All the rooms don't have television but the Hill and Free Standing Rooms has personal refrigerators.

Food is superb. It might look pricey at first since one viand already costs a minimum of Php 200++ but since it's already good for 2-3 persons, then I think that's already reasonable. The owners told us that during our stay, their best cook is not there, but we enjoyed the food being served to us, so how much more if their best cook was there.

Staff: All their staffs are very friendly. From the owners down to the guards. Ms. Helen and her husband David are very hands-on in their business that they are the ones who fetch and send off their guests at Jordan Port. They always make sure that their guests are okay and having fun. They can drive you to the pasalubong centers in Guimaras on your way home. In our case, Ms. Helen even bought us a treat at the Guimaras Trade & Information Center. Judy, the one in the reception and cashier is very nice. She's very accommodating and has lots of stories to tell. You'll definitely feel at ease and safe at La Puerta Al Paraizo and you can easily tell how honest their staffs are. We always leave our cellphones in one tree to catch some signal and even if we leave it for many hours, we're assured that we can still find them on the same place where we left it. I bet we can still find our phones on the exact spot even if we leave it for 24 hours. ^_^ Though this is not really advisable especially if there are lots of guests. I really think that the staffs and management should maintain this rapport with their guests because I'm positive that this is one of the best assets of the resort and would set them apart from the others.

Me with some of La Puerta Al Paraizo's staff

Price: Compared to other resorts in Guimaras, La Puerta Al Paraizo's rate may look a bit steep but considering their services and location, then their price is already reasonable. Their regular fan room costs Php 1,600; regular aircon room is Php 2,400 ; Hill room is Php 3,600 (good for 2); Free standing room is Php 3,800 (good for 2-4) and Family room costs Php 4,000 (good for 4-6).

Remarks: The only downside in staying at La Puerta Al Paraizo is the unreliable phone signal. Alhough this can actually be an advantage to those who want to escape the city life, but can also be a disadvantage to most people. We actually saw an indoor antenna/repeater at the restaurant but the staff told us that it was struck by lightning so when we stayed there, there are only two spots where we can get a phone signal. ^_^ Also, their restroom needs to have an additional bathroom floor drain so the excess water inside the restroom can easily be drained, although this don't really mind at all since we're just in the beach most of the time. =)

I highly recommend staying at La Puerta Al Paraizo. The one year old resort is still undergoing improvements but the place looks promising enough. I suggest that they put or set up kayak or canoe and zip line (from the main resort to the nearby island) as additional attractions since the resort's location is perfect for these two fun activities. More rooms will be added soon and there's a plan of connecting the main island to the nearby islet via a hanging bridge. Now I can't really wait to go back again and see further attractions at La Puerta Al Paraizo. I just hope the price will remain affordable. ^_^

Seven Suites Hotel and Observatory: A stellar weekend getaway

2011-01-23T20:19:00.006+08:00

Location: Hollywood Hills Subd., Sumulong Highway, Antipolo City
Philippines

How to go there: From Cubao, ply Marcos Highway until Masinag Market, after Masinag Market, turn right until you reach Seven Suites Hotel, which is on the left side. You may also ride a jeepney to Antipolo but be sure to ask the driver if it will pass by Sumulong Highway.

Hours of Operation: 24 hours

Website: http://www.sevensuites.net

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sevensuiteshotel

Contact Numbers:

682-0330; 682-2076; 217-5443

Amenities/Facilities:

- Function rooms
- Billiard table
- Spa
- Swimming pool
- Restaurant
- Wi-Fi access
- Observatory

Environment/Ambiance/Food: The ambiance is great because of its somewhat zen feel. It's theme can be compared with Tagaytay's "The Boutique" because of its color motiff which is black and white. Because of its location, the chilly weather in Seven Suites is just perfect for couples who want to escape the hustles and bustles of the Metro even for just one night. With its perfect city light backdrop, Seven Suites Hotel is also a great place for practicing night photography. The overlooking cityscape is probably one of the best assets of this hotel cum observatory. The nearby restaurants like Grilla, The Spaghetti House and the in house restaurants Hollywood Steak house and Sugar are also strategic locations for watching the sunset. Debuts and weddings are also being held in Seven Suites because of its romantic ambiance. Watching the sun set while pledging your vows amidst the hotel's garden is just a splendid sight to behold.

There's nothing very special with the rooms, although I can only speak for the De Luxe Rooms since I haven't seen yet their suites. The cable channel is not clear, there are few sockets in the room and bed is not cozy enough for me. By the way, if you hate taking the stairs, then Seven Suites might not be for you. The hotel is 5-storey tall, including the penthouse or observatory but there's no elevator. Although it doesn't really mind it at all since this is actually a good form of exercise and they can save a lot of energy from it. I like the idea that Seven Suites takes high regard to the environment, in fact, they have a mini garden where organic and medicinal plants are grown.

Each room is named after the 7 days of the week, thus earning it the name Seven Suites Hotel.

Foodwise, I must caution that it's quite expensive. I haven't tasted yet their steak although it actually looks delish but I have tried one of their desserts already which is the "Controversial Smores." I don't know what's so controversial about it but it's yummy. Hehehe. I love how they named their desserts (Sugar), like for example, the Politically Correct Sacher Torte. Hahaha. So cool and unique. You'd really be intrigued.

Our breakfast was alright although there's really nothing special and you can't actually get to choose your food. In our case, it's an omelette, which is tasty, toasted bread with butter, bread isn't hot anymore upon serving, cereal, coffee, and pineapple, which I think was just the one in can because it doesn't tastes fresh. But anyway, all in all, I love the breakfast, at least it's not the usual Tocilog, Tapsilog, Bacon and Egg, etc. =)

Staff: Staff is friendly and accommodating including the manager. They always try to strike a conversation with their guests and greets them with a smile.

Price: I must say that Seven Suites' rate is kind of stiff compared to other hotels which is far better than theirs when it comes to facilities and service. However, since it's an observatory as well and it's actually the only nice hotel or place to stay in Antipolo, then that explains the price I guess. And come to think of it, not all people can have the chance to experience using a telescope in their whole life. I for one have dreamed of owning one since I'm a frustrated Astronomer.^_^ By the way, their lowest room rate starts at Php 3,920 and can go up to Php 12,320 for a suite.

Remarks: Since it's a January when we went there and the weather is chilly, it's actually expected that no one will go swimming in their pool, but I do hope that they can actually clean it everyday just in case guests want to take a quick plunge, same goes with the jacuzzi. Their lobby has mosquitoes as well which is quite disappointing. You can actually play billiards for free but they only have one billiard stick. =/. Their penthouse or observatory in the roof deck is not very presentable and clean so I hope they could do something about it. I think they should create a special room ala Planetarium and sell souvenirs related to Astronomy, like stars, planets, etc. I bet it would be a hit to children and adults. After all, they are the only hotel cum observatory in the country so they should invest on it.

Posh Nails Hand and Foot Spa: Bring out the "Kikay" in you

2010-11-16T21:42:00.019+08:00

Location: 1081 Upper Ground Floor, Ali Mall, Araneta Center. (Beside Ricky Reyes Salon)

Other Branches:

MAIN OFFICE:

2nd floor, Octo Arts Building,108 Panay Ave.
Quezon City, Philippines
Ph: 373.8762

OTHER LOCATIONS:

TOMAS MORATO
CTTM Square Bldg., Tomas Morato Corner Timog
Quezon City, Philippines
Ph: 926.5077
E-mail: tomasmorato@poshnails.com.ph
Business Hours: 10AM - midnight

GREENHILLS
2nd Level, Fox Square Bldg.,
Connecticut St., Greenhills,
San Juan, Philippines
Ph: 496.8713
E-mail: greenhills@poshnails.com.ph
Business Hours: 10AM - 9PM
MEGAMALL
5th level Building B
Ph: 923.3237 or 914.9992
E-mail: megamall@poshnails.com.ph
« (map it) »
Business Hours: 10AM - 9PM

THE FORT
2nd level The Venice Mall
Mckinley Hill Piazza
Taguig City, Philippines
Ph: 359.5384
E-mail: thefort@poshnails.com.ph
SM FAIRVIEW
Unit 19 Lower Ground Floor Annex 2 SM Fairview
Quezon City, Philippines
Ph: 351.7396
Business Hours: 10AM to 9PM
E-mail: sm-fairview@poshnails.com.ph

ALI MALL
Upper Ground Floor Alimall Phase II
Cubao, Quezon City
Philippines
Ph: 709.2955
E-mail: alimall@poshnails.com.ph
ALABANG
2nd floor, BCGroup Building
Filinvest, Alabang
(beside South Supermarket, on top of HSBC, Hap Chan and Aussie Cafe)
Alabang, Philippines
Business Hours: 10AM - 10PM, 7 days/wk
Ph: 407.9849
E-mail: alabang@poshnails.com.ph

KATIPUNAN
317 Unit 3B Oracle Building
Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City
Philippines
Ph: 352.2481
E-mail: katipunan@poshnails.com.ph

SM MARIKINA
3rd floor, Cinema Level
SM City Marikina
Philippines
Ph: 0922.825.5520 or 02.513.4573
E-mail: sm-marikina@poshnails.com.ph
BINONDO, MANILA
2nd floor, Pacific Center Building,
Quintin Paredes St. Binondo, Manila
Philippines
Ph: 353.7564
Business Hours: 9AM to 9PM
E-mail: binondo@poshnails.com.ph

ROBINSONS GALLERIA
L3 West Wing, Body Senses Area
Unit 03244 Robinsons Galleria
Ph: 513.7417
E-mail: galleria@poshnails.com.ph

How to go there: (Ali Mall branch) Coming from both north or south, take the MRT then go down at Cubao station and walk your way to Araneta Center to Ali Mall. Ali Mall is at the back of SM Cubao. If you hate riding the MRT, you may opt to ride a bus or cab.

Hours of Operation: For Ali Mall branch, they are open from 10AM-9:00PM. Hours of operation usually depends on the branch. Better call the branch first to be sure.

Website: http://www.poshnails.com.ph

Facebook: POSH NAILS Hand and Foot Spa

Services:

- manicure and pedicure
- hand and foot spa
- hand and foot scrub/massage
- nail art
- eyelash extension/retouch
- waxing
- paraffin
- back and full body massage
- Posh Nails also offer POSH SPArty packages for birthdays, bridal showers, baby showers, etc.

Ambiance: If you are a kikay girl, then you'll definitely fall in love with Posh Nail's modern, relaxed, funky and girly ambiance. With a combination of pink and lilac, beaded curtains, posh and cute pillows and comfy couches to boot, one would always feel like she's in a slumber party. Take out the chips and chic flick, anyone? ^_^

To complete the setting, a soothing music is being played in the background that would make you want to just fall into a deep slumber while getting your hands and feet pampered. The place is quiet and feels very homey that falling into sleep is not far off the field. In fact, I brought with me my friend and while she's having a pedicure, she fell asleep. Hahaha. Maybe I should've asked for an eye mask for her, I read that they are offering them to clients who want to sleep. So yes, sleeping there is legal. ^_^

Staff: (Ali Mall Branch) Posh Nails Hand and Foot Spa's staff are really friendly, especially the receptionist Ms. Rose. She's very accommodating to everybody and she even reminded us of our free drinks when we opted not to get one at first. =)

I also love how their staff are well-trained and unlike other spas out there, Posh Nail's staff are not in a hurry to finish their client's pedicure, manicure, etc. just to get more customers.

In short, Posh Nails won't only let you feel like a celebrity but a princess in your own right as well. They really value and connect with their clients.

Special thanks goes to Ms. Cat Ilacad of course. =D

Price: At first, the price of treatments at Posh Nails is quite daunting, but I bet that you have to try it for yourself to see if it's really worth it.

Remarks: For my treatment, I tried the Absolute Fruity Bliss and chose the Strawberries & Cream which I definitely love. I heart strawberries, that's why. By the way, this treatment is a combination of hand (which is arm already,and that's good) and foot scrub, massage, themed with manicure and pedicure. IMO, if you are going to try this, it would be best if you are wearing shorts/leggings and sleeveless. But anyway, this is just a suggestion. You don't have to follow it it if you don't want. ^_^ You may just want to borrow a robe from them if you feel so.

Posh Nail's Ali Mall branch is just barely a year old but it looks like they have avid clients already. If you are going to compare it to a website, Posh Nail has low bounce rate. Hehehe. The place always has many clients but is never jam packed that you'd want to transfer to another nail spa. It just shows how good their services are that people keep coming back for more.

Posh Nails Hand and Spa also offers free drinks like coffee, iced tea or hot cocoa. If you want something heavy, they also have a list of food to choose from to fill up your tummy. Of course, this food is not free already. Hehehe.

And oh, they also have a kiddie station where you can just leave your mini kikay lounging with the coloring books and cute chairs while mommy's being spoiled. But if your "mini-me" is also as kikay as you are, then treating her for a kiddie posh pampering won't be a bad idea at all. Yes, Posh Nails would be glad to groom and spoil your kids as well at a lower cost of course.

One thing I discovered about Posh Nails is that they also offer a full body massage. I was like, "Wow! That's so cool. I now have a new massage spa to go to at Cubao." For a price of Php 550.00 for 1 hour, I think it isn't bad anymore. I have to try it some other time. ^_^

There's just one suggestion I have for Posh Nails, specifically for Ali Mall branch, since I haven't been to their other branches yet. Maybe they could add solo couches so clients won't have to share the 3-2 seater couch with other people. Well, not that I actually mind being seated with other people but how about the others? A one seater couch with a simple or flowy curtain for a sort of privacy (for those who want to snooze) and a more cozy feel would definitely do wonders I guess. I've been to a nail spa before with this kind of set up and I actually love it. But then again, this is just a suggestion.

Their cute and cozy waiting area

Lookie! They have a promo. ^_^

T House Tagaytay: Total Bliss

2010-11-14T22:35:00.006+08:00

Location: 3195 Calamba Road, Tagaytay City, Philippines

How to go there: Ride a bus Tagaytay, get down at Olivarez then ride a tricycle and ask the driver to bring you at T House. T House is beside the Ina ng Laging Saklolo Church.

Hours of Operation: 24 hours

Website: http://thousetagaytay.com

Facebook: T House Tagaytay

Contact Numbers:

For Inquiries and Reservations

Sun: +63922-8THouse
Smart: +63908-8955-431 / +63908-8955-430
Globe: +63917-4642-867
Manila Landline: (02)788-7356

For BANQUET Inquiries and Reservations

Sun: +63922-8846875
Smart:+63928-9409954
Globe:+63916-3684918
Manila Landline: (02)788-7354

Amenities/Facilities:
- Fine dining restaurant
- Spa
- WiFi
- Parking lot

Environment/Ambiance/Food: The place is superb,no bones about it. T house, by the way, stands for Tranquility House and the name already speaks for itself. The place is real quiet and all you can hear is the flowing water in their fountains. Lots of trees and there's this specific area where you can just lounge while listening to your iPod or reading magazines. Since the place is full of plants and trees, it's sort of expected that tiny insects will be flying around. Well, that's actually the use of the net (posh mosquito nets) in every couch.

The food is great though quite expensive, I think it's almost Php 600.00/person. However, when you stay overnight at T House, you can just drown yourself with their heavenly tasting breads. Take note, it's unlimited. Love the cheese bread. I really wished I got loads of them and took them home.

Their room, like the ambiance outside, has a zen feel. Nothing very special but I must say it looks really cool. They have rooms inspired by the elements of Earth, Water and Fire with corresponding colors. Brown, blue and red respectively. We stayed at Earth 7 since almost all the rooms are already booked. Yep, they have so many visitors so be sure you book ahead of time. We're just lucky to get a room even though we just walked in.

Haven't tried all of their services but their one hour full body massage worth Php 500.00 is worth the money. I must say that I love their body massage than Sonya's Garden's.

Would love to go back soon. I'll give it 4 stars out of 5 since there's always a room for improvement. Maybe they can find a way where they can lessen the crawling and flying insects...though they don't really bug me at all. Hehehe. ^_^

Staff: All their staff are very friendly. From the managers down to the guards. All of them always wear a smile on their faces. You'll really feel at home with them.

MC Mountain Home Apartelle

2010-11-03T20:30:00.007+08:00

Location: Km. 68.9 Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway (Aguinaldo Highway), Buck Estate, Alfonso, Tagaytay, Cavite, Philippines.

How to go there: Ride a bus to Nasugbu, Batangas then tell the conductor to drop you off at MC Mountain. MC Mountain Home Apartelle is way past Olivarez, Mendez and just a stone's throw away from Sonya's Garden.

Hours of Operation: 24 hours

Website: http://www.mcmountaintagaytay.com

Facebook: MC Mountain Home Apartelle

Contact Numbers:

Mobile Number: 63 917 7947500 / 63 922 8454857

E-mail:reservations@mcmountaintagaytay.com / adoramcmountain@gmail.com

Amenities/Facilities:

- Dining Hall
- Wi-Fi access
- Dry cleaning and laundry services

Environment/Ambiance/Food: MC Mountain Home Apartelle is the best bet to stay when you're in Tagaytay and on a tight budget. The place is homey enough for a good and relaxing stay. At a rate of Php 1, 900, we were surprised upon seeing the King-Sized bed in our room. I especially love their comforter. ^_^ Their Standard Room, as expected, is not that big, but they do have a closet. It's quite disappointing that they don't have cable channels (I don't know if it's just in our room) and TV signal is not that good. Bathroom in our room is not too squeaky clean but it's tolerable. At least they have cold and hot water in the shower. =D They have complimentary soap, shampoos and toothpaste but no bottled water so you might want to purchase one outside, or if your stomach is not sensitive, you can just ask one from the receptionist. These are just some of the improvements that I wish to see on my next visit. =)

With regard to their food, there's really nothing special with their breakfast. The usual tocilog, tapsilog, etc. One downside of staying in MC Mountain is that it's far from Tagaytay's scenic spots like the Picnic Grove, Palace in the Sky and the like. But good news is, it's very near the ever famous Sonya's Garden, Caleruega Church, Antonio's and Bag of Beans. There are no convenience stores near the area so better buy what you need when you are in Olivarez . Jeepney or bus ride from MC Mountain to Olivarez and vice versa is approximately 10-15 minutes.

Staff: MC Mountain's staff are friendly, especially one of the owners Mr. Daniel Crisostomo. He and his wife Mrs. Adora are very hands on in their family business. We were only able to meet Mr. Daniel and he was really accommodating. He even takes pictures of the guests. Mrs. Adora, on the other hand, sounds really friendly over the phone. The owners' congeniality, I believe, is the best asset of the hotel.

Price: Rates start at Php 1,900-Php 2,880.00, depending on the room. They have the Sunset View Room, Taal Volcano View Room, Sunset and Taal View Room, Standard Room and Deluxe with Twin Bed Room. Their rates are quite affordable considering that they are situated along the highway and very accessible, especially if you need to attend a wedding at Caleruega, want to visit Sonya's Garden or have a dinner at Antonio's.

One Tagaytay Place Hotel

2010-11-03T16:33:00.011+08:00

Location: # 445 Tagaytay-Calamba Road, Barrio Sunggay West, Tagaytay City, Philippines, 4120

How to go there: Coming from Manila, take the bus to Tagaytay or Nasugbu, Batangas then get down at Olivarez Rotonda. Ride a tricycle and ask the driver to drop you off at One Tagaytay Place. One Tagaytay comes before the Picnic Grove.

Hours of Operation: 24 hours

Website: http://www.onetagaytayplace.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/onetagaytayplace

Contact Numbers:

Tagaytay Reservations Office (+632) 584 4111, (+632) 584 4156, (0922) 834 8874, (046) 483 0111, (046) 483 5813 to 17.
Manila Sales Office (+632) 818 8318, Fax Number: (+632) 818 8319

Amenities/Facilities:

- Function rooms
- Fitness Center
- Spa
- Game room
- Restaurant and Bar
- Swimming pool
- Wi-Fi access

Environment/Ambiance/Food: One Tagaytay's ambiance is very nice but don't expect the like of Taal Vista Hotel or T House. Bluntly speaking, the hotel's facade is not interesting or appealing enough for tourists. Their lounge and restaurant isn't that spacious but their rooms are superb. I so love their rooms that I never want to go out and explore Tagaytay anymore. Their bed, pillows and comforter are probably one of the best that I have tried. Their rooms are very clean and it has a mini refrigerator, 2 small couches, coffee table, coffee maker and LCD TV to name a few. They have a small pool at the roof deck which is a sort of infinity pool but it's just so-so, . Well, I bet no one goes to Tagaytay just to swim so I'll let this one pass. =) With regard to the food or breakfast, nothing really special. Just the same 'ol breakfast being served in other restaurants. However, it's good that there's a store that sells pasalubongs and a 711 within the hotel's compound so it's actually a big factor for visitors.

Staff: One Tagaytay's staff are friendly and very polite. In fact, I think that they have an SOP that staff aren't allowed to use the elevator together with the guests. There's one instance that we boarded the lift then when one staff saw us, he immediately gave way and alighted the elevator. Well, of course I really don't mind taking the lift with hotel staff so I was surprised by that act.

Price: There are lots of inns, appartelles and hotels in Tagaytay which are a lot cheaper compared to the Php 3,000- Php 4,000 overnight stay at One Tagaytay but I assure you that their room, specifically their bed, will make up for that price. ^_^ Very cozy indeed.

Iko's Breads and Cakes: Best for less

2010-08-08T19:47:00.014+08:00

Location: Caniogan, Pasig / SM Megamall Supermarket, Freshly Baked

How to go there: From Mega Mall, ride an FX to Pasig, ask the driver to drop you off in Pasig Rotonda. Walk towards 711, it's on the left side going to Pasig, then few meters from 711 is the tricycle terminal, tell the driver to drop you off at Iko's Bakeshop. The shop is actually known already in that area.

Hours of Operation: 8AM-9PM

Website: N/A

Contact Number/s: 409-1197/468-9583/628-4383

Products/Services: Cakes, pastries, pasta and YUMMY cupcakes. They also serve coffee.

Environment/Ambiance:The place is quite small considering that they have many customers already. The place is neat and cozy looking but a dim light and few couches would definitely do wonders since people just don't go there to order and leave. They actually hang out in the place. Good there's also a Wi-Fi connection in the cafe.

Staff: Staff are friendly and very accommodating.

Price: No bones about it, you'll really get more than what you paid for.Their choco moist cake is yummy, but no doubt that their cupcakes made them famous. Not to mention the affordable prices that go with them.

Note: If you want the best value for your money, then Iko's Bakeshop is the best choice. Their cakes, about 10-12 inches in size, only cost about Php600.00 ++ and that's already inclusive of the cake topper. However,if you want a figurine of your own, then you are most welcome to bring some as cake toppers. Their cupcakes are only Php20.00 but if you want a customized design, then it would cost you around Php35.00. Really really not bad because I assure that
their cupcakes are really superb.

Red Mango: It's healthy to be natural

2010-08-01T21:17:00.001+08:00

Location and Hours of Operation:

Mall of Asia
2nd Floor, Entertainment Mall (Across Highlands Steakhouse and the IMAX Theater)
Greenbelt 3
Cinema Level (4th Floor, beside Chimara)
Sun-Thurs: 11am – 11pm
Fri-Sat: 11am – 1am
Eastwood Mall
2nd Floor, Eastwood Mall Veranda (between Thousand Cranes and A Different Bookstore)
Sun-Thurs: 11am – 11pm
Fri-Sat: 11am – 12am

TriNoma
3rd Floor (in front of Fitness First and Toys R Us)
Sun-Thurs: 10am – 9pm
Fri-Sat: 10am – 10pm

Megamall
Upper Ground Floor, Building A (beside Breadtalk)
Sun-Thurs: 10am – 9pm
Fri-Sat: 10am – 10pm

Website: www.redmango.com.ph

Facebook: Red Mango Philippines

Products/Services:

All-natural frozen yogurts and waffles. Frozen yogurt comes in original, green tea or on shaved ice.

Environment/Ambiance:

I haven't visited all of Red Mango's branches so I am just speaking for Trinoma's. But basing on the photos from Red Mango Philippines' official website, all their branches looks spacious enough except for the one in Trinoma, where Red Mango is just situated in the middle, in front of Toys R Us, more like a booth actually. There are so many people lining up so needless to say, the space is not enough for their customers. However, heard that they have a new store in Trinoma located at the Ground Floor of TriNoma's Open Park (Beside Max's), so I think that would be spacious enough for their ever loyal customers. Better check it out!

Staff: It's good that they take orders beforehand and jot it down in their order sheets, just like in other fast food chains. That way, it lessens traffic already in the cashier area. They also serve waters and you can get one from their roving staff.

Price:

Frozen Yogurt's price depends on what type of yogurt you want, and of course, the size, below is their most updated price list.

Original

S (4oz)-Php 80
M (6oz)- Php 115
L (8oz)- Php 150
Family -Php 220

Green Tea
S (4oz)-Php 85
M (6oz)- Php 120
L (8oz)- Php 155
Family -Php 225

On Shaved Ice (with 3 toppings)

S (4oz)-Php 125

Price per topping is Php 20.00. Compared to Frutti Froyo, Red Mango has less toppings to choose from. And yes, it's not a buffet of toppings where you can enjoy the feeling of selecting and putting your favorite toppings in your Yogurt. Some of Red Mango's toppings include Mango, Kiwi, Blueberry, crushed Graham, sliced Almonds, Banana, Melon, raisins, cornflakes, grapes, granola, etc.

Remarks: If I were to compare Frutti Froyo from Red Mango, of course I would go for the former. Red Mango, I think, is more catered to people who are really into the natural taste of yogurt, which is sour, and majority of kids won't actually dig. Frutti Froyo, on the other hand, has a wide array of flavored yogurt selection, from the original taste of yogurt up to the vanilla and chocolate flavor, which can be best enjoyed by kids and kids at heart. If you are on a limited budget, the safest way to go is Red Mango because you have the control over the price you are going to pay, unlike with Frutti Froyo, price of your Froyo will come as a surprise depending on the weight of your treat. Nevertheless, if you are someone who loves to concoct his/her own Froyo with more than 20 toppings to choose from (like me ^_^), plus the surprise that comes with it, then you know where to go.

But as what was mentioned above, Red Mango doesn't only have Frozen Yogurts, they also serve mouthwatering waffles which comes in Blueberries n' Cream and Banana Almond. Looks delectable enough so they're also a must try at the price of Php 85.

Frutti Froyo: Welcome to Yogurt Heaven

2010-07-30T10:40:00.001+08:00

Location:

- Tomas Morato (corner Scout Madrinan)

- Petron Square (Katipunan Ave. corner Mangyan Rd. La Vista, QC):

- Trinoma, 3rd Level next to the Sony Ericcson store.

Hours of Operation:

* 11 AM to 12 Midnight (depends on the location)

Website: www.fruttifroyo.com
Facebook: Frutti Froyo

Products/Services:

Yummy frozen yogurts. And take note, not the usual sour yogurt. Yes! They are flavored Yogurts. There's the vanilla, chocolate, green tea, taro, banana and of course the original, etc. And to top it off (take it figuratively and literally), there are lots and lots of toppings to choose from. So many that you will be having a hard time what to get. It's like a buffet and toppings overload. They have mallows, chocolate balls, gummy bears, walnuts, almonds, graham, choco balls, raisinets, mango, nata de coco, kiwi, strawberry, grapes,oreo, hersheys, white and dark chocolate syrup and MORE!

Environment/Ambiance: Overall ambiance is okay and cozy. Lighting and color is perfect and appetizing enough. They just need a bigger space to accommodate people since most of the time, people stand to make their own concoctions.Too much traffic going on. (Tomas Morato Branch)

Staff: Well, they are generally friendly and willing to assist. I'm speaking for Tomas Morato Branch.

Price: Compared to other Yogurt treats out there, so far, I get the best value for my money here. The buffet is pretty tempting enough so you actually decide for the price of your Yogurt. By the way, it's Php18.00 per oz.

Remarks: A must try and totally addictive. You can never get enough of Froyo everyday. I especially love, and I would reiterate it again, their buffet toppings. So far, I love Frutti Froyo out of all the other Yogurt places out there.