Askmemom: KinderCity Review

We love to go to Nuvali because Kyle likes to do some "fishing".  

When he talks about fishing, it literally means "feeding the orange fishes" at Solenad!  Have you been there and your family mommies?  I find that activity to be extremely relaxing and fun!  Even my dad-in-law was hooked!  I just don't know how many packs of fish food he bought just to make sure all the "slim fishes" gets their share of food!  *laughs*

It was raining so hard when we went to Nuvali so we had no choice but to feed fishes under an umbrella then keep ourselves dry at the nearby mall - Vista Mall.  

Vista mall is a kind of mall I love to stay in, I'm not much of a shopping girl, all I need in a mall is --- less crowd, ATMs availability, coffee shops, good restaurants and of course, kiddie play areas which the mall has a lot of!

One of the biggest kids play area located at the topmost floor is called KinderCity.  You won't miss it!  Kyle obviously didn't and pulled are hands and wanted to go in immediately.

NOTE: This was our 2nd time at KinderCity and I believe won't be the last.

You have to make sure to bring your own socks but you can always purchase from them.  You have to pay kids and adults separately and unlike Kidzoona and other kids play area - you cannot do shifting!  If you plan to go out and change "bantay", you have to pay this new adult's admission fee which I think isn't the best idea - I get them, most adults take selfies there but seriously, most adults can't play and are just sitting inside, I wish they would follow the rule as that of other kids play area -- just my humble opinion.

Now back to the review, KinderCity is refreshing, it's not the usual kids play area that you see, yes, they have the basics --- toys to play with, basketball court, ballpit etc...but what I love about KinderCity is how fairytale lovers would appreciate - someone like Kyle.

His imagination went wild when he played Captain in this huge boat!

Weekend Food Trip at: Crisostomo

Whenever we have time in our hands and we are itching just to get out of the house, Nuvali Tagaytay is always our choice because...just because we're boring that way!  *hahaha*

Thanks to Mr. AMW he actually booked an overnight stay at my favorite hotel at the area called Seda Hotel.  It was for our post-anniversary celebration and this momma couldn't be happier!

And since we're boring that way, we also go to our favorite Filipino restaurant around the area called Crisostomo -- funny how we haven't tried dining at Crisostomo in Manila but thrice in Tagaytay!

Of course, we obviously went for the "usuals" too because when we're on vacation, our brains are in automatic shut-off so we'd rather go for what we usually order so no brain cells are wasted!

Lengua Laruja  

Php495.00
  Braised ox tongue with mushroom gravy

It was saltier than the last time we had this, it was perfect the first 2 times but with extra garlic rice, you don't have to worry at all!

Family Staycation at: Tagaytay Wingate Manor

2 weekends ago, without plans, we've decided to have a short staycation in Tagaytay.  It was Holy Week so I wasn't expecting to be able to book an overnight stay there.  Thankfully, I have a friend who recommended me Tagaytay Wingate Manor so we've decided to give this place a try!  Thanks Travis and Dee for helping me book!  It was last minute but everything goes smoothly.

Located right at the heart of Tagaytay were you can do activities, dine in restaurants and a whole lot more, I like how it is tucked inside a road where there are more trees and fresh air.  Tagaytay Wingate Manor is a two-storey property with a total of 24 rooms.  Because it was peak season, the place was packed but thankfully, I don't feel like the place was crowded.

We originally wanted the Premier room but since it was full, we went for Standard Queen Room and went for extra bed because we want our hardworking #yayatab to be on vacation with us too!

The Pig Pen Restaurant Review

Two weeks ago, just when Christmas/New Years' rush is settling down, I've decided to book a Hotel at Nuvali Sta. Rosa Laguna for a quick family getaway/Staycation outside the city just to relax and rejuvenate ourselves after the crazy Christmas Break when Kyle got sick and we spent the holidays doing nothing but worrying about his health.

Thanks to my dear friend Marge who gifted me an overnight stay at Hotel Seda and it was one of the best place to stay with the family without the long drive!  It took us an hour and a half to arrive there.  The place was still packed but I like how Nuvali was developed in a way families can have fun even with the crowd.

I did a lot of research on some good restaurants to try at Nuvali.  Pig Pen Restaurant popped on my browser.  Though I know they have a second branch at Makati, I didn't bother wanting to try it at Makati because we seldom head there....and of course TRAFFIC.

After spending time at an Arcade and Bookstore, Kyle was ready to eat and the place wasn't packed!  We immediately ordered the dishes recommended by the server.

Papadum (Indian Tortilla) Nachos topped with Beef

Php180.00

A pretty unique way to enjoy your nachos in my opinion.  The chips are a tad bit oilier than regular nachos but they are so crunchy you'll forget about the oil and just enjoy this appetizer!

After 4 Years, We're Back at Denny's, in the Philippines!

Almost four years ago, we dined at Denny's San Francisco when Kyle was around 11 months old!  I won't forget that day because I was done with a Grand Event Launch and the dad and baby just woke up and we were all hungry so we head on to the nearest American Restaurant for comfort food and family bonding.

Fast forward to today, I've heard about the arrival of Denny's Restaurant but I never thought of getting in without my boys!  I guess, I'm just sentimental that way!  If ever I'll dine in this restaurant again, it'll be the 3 of us just to reminisce old times.

And the funny thing was, it had to be at Sta. Rosa, Laguna!  We had a short family staycation just before my year gets busier each week!

Upon checking out the menu, it was totally different from the ones I saw in the US, they added more Filipino Dishes and even Filipino Breakfast meals to cater the locals.  

I was craving for Waffle so I have to get this!

Weekend Food Trip at: Pamana, Tagaytay

The long weekend is a perfect time for the family to bond and where's the nearest place to bond near the Metro?  Tagaytay!  Though I've been in this city gazillion times, it has always been a wonderful experience with the family (or even friends) bonding there!  Amidst the crazy traffic, our little boy (and us!)  had so much fun!

I've done some research on good Filipino Restaurants around the area and Pamana Restaurant  popped on my Google Search.  Did a bit of phone call and was told I can't do reservations during holidays, it's fine though as we arrived 2:00pm for late lunch and the place was not as jampacked anymore!

Note: Dine outside and you get the lovely view of Taal Volcano.

Cafe Voi La, Tagaytay Review

We spent a couple of weekends ago at Tagaytay just because we wanted to get out of the Metro and relax.  Well, truth be told, it wasn't that relaxing as our lunch was served so late we stuffed ourselves with food at 3-4pm and even stayed for a late afternoon coffee + snacks.  Just when we planned to go back to home-sweet-home, it was extremely traffic so we did what most families would do.... stay somewhere else (like restaurant) and wait for traffic to ease up.

To make the long story short, it did not ease up and got worst, but at least, we had late dinner at Cafe Voi La which is actually a lovely surprise.

The restaurant is located at Alpine Village Crosswinds and you may need to call for reservations especially on weekends because the place is packed!  I didn't get to take photos of the restaurant outside as it was extremely dark when we got there!  All I have is a lovely family photo for you to see the interior of the restaurant.

Well there could probably be changes on the restaurant interior as it isn't Christmas or New Years season anymore.  But rest assured you get the feel of home with extra "oomph".  Unique furniture in bright and vibrant colors, the restaurant itself seems like a nice "spot" just to relax and take photos!  Everything will be Instagram-worthy I tell you!

Now let's talk about the food.  Since we were all stuffed, we've decided to lie low with our orders!  But looking at the menu, this restaurant serves Asian dishes mostly fusion.  

Special Senator's Salad

Php395.00

Assorted green lettuce, paper thin slice of smoked salmon, grilled prawns, 

shiitake mushrooms garnished with parmesan shavings.

I am quite impressed with this simple salad, indeed, I understand the reason why this was highly recommended by the server.

Weekend Food Trip at: The Morning After, Nuvali

It was a sudden decision to go to Tagaytay over the weekend last month!  To celebrate my Brother-in-law's birthday!  It was a wonderful quick getaway because I have been working hard (too hard) for the past months, well...years to be exact!  So it was perfect for the AMW family to just let loose and enjoy the quick trip outside the Metro.

On our way back, we've decided to dine at Nuvali because...Traffic!  And it was the best decision because Nuvali is really a perfect place for families who enjoy good food and wonderful view.  I can literally feel the spirit of Christmas while chasing after my son!

One of the restaurant we've decided to try is called The Morning After.  As much as the name implies breakfast-related dishes, I'm glad they serve so much more!

Korean Bibimbap

Php255.00

A Korean Classic with a twist, their version includes spiced Chicken Fingers (which I like) and their Korean inspired sauce is actually a bit different than the usual red paste.  Theirs is spicy but has a sweeter taste.

Weekend Getaway: Taal Vista Hotel, Tagaytay

Happy Friday AMW Friends!

The year is almost ending and I believe a lot of you shares the same sentiments as I do --- "I'm suffering from burnout!  I need a break!"

I've been burnt out not because of my regular job plus freelance makeup job, I felt so tired and lifeless after going through 4.5 months of morning sickness!  In between throwing up, I mentioned to Mr. AMW how much I would love to relax and travel, it doesn't have to be by plane but a short trip outside MY ROOM!  *laughs*  

I have mentioned Tagaytay so many times and would you believe I never asked for food?  Just a simple relaxing day at Tagaytay will do!  (Something about the short travel, fresh air and cool breeze.)

Since I'm adorable, super cute....and (the real reason) Pregnant!  *laughs*  Mr. AMW caved in and it was perfect timing as I got an invite to stay at Taal Vista Hotel anyways after missing the Christmas Lighting Ceremony last November!  I happily packed my overnight bag and left my "makeup kit"!  (Darn "forgetful" hormones!)

The weather was on our side when we arrived!  And let me boast for once, I didn't study Tourism for nothing!  Let me tour you around Taal Vista Hotel like a real PRO! *winks*

Taal Vista Hotel isn't a stranger to me as I've stayed here several times but it was decades ago! Today, the most cherished heritage hotel Taal Vista unveiled their newly restored Lobby...

Lobby Lounge and Bar.

The feeling of comfort does not end there!  Once we were done checking in, we were ushered to our Deluxe Room located at the Lake Wing. 

Very comfortable king-sized bed with 3 pillows (4th pillow available on top of the dresser).  A comfortable couch where you can sit back, relax, raise your legs on the round table and watch television as you add some pounds pigging out! :P

The room is equipped with flat screen television with cable TV channels.  Complimentary, water, tea and coffee and a mini bar!

What sets Taal Vista Hotel apart from other hotels nearby?  The spacious bathroom!  2 people can do jumping jacks inside without hitting each other!  Okay, fine!  There's no reason why you need to do jumping jacks inside a bathroom but it's a nice (and weird) "visual" right?  *laughs*

Basic toiletries

2 sets of toothbrush, soap, shower cap, sanitary bag, 

body lotion, bath foam and conditioning shampoo.

You also get a pair of slippers and each room has a safety box to store your belongings.

My favorite part of the room?  The balcony!  Keith and I went on vacation with his family.  His parents and sister stays next door so we can easily chat and take photos even on different rooms.  *Laughs*

See?  You can't stop "camwhores"! :P

Seriously speaking, the best view of Taal Volcano can be seen without me having to leave the room, I can even enjoy my "welcome fruits" and complimentary water as I absorb the warm sunlight and breathe on fresh air that I haven't experience for the past months!

Since I need the exercise after 4.5 months of going up and down on just ONE flight of stairs, we were toured around the other wing called Mountain Wing which was refurbished recently during the hotel's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and 73rd Anniversary Celebration.

Check out the pool area and the cool breeze doesn't stop these people from having fun!

Also located at the Mountain Wing is Asmara Spa.  Different massages and body works are done here for complete relaxation!  *whispers*  They even offer Filipino Ventosa (Cupping)! 

The spa entrance has a welcoming vibe with a mixture of old and new. 

Various scented candles were on display as soon as you head on to the reception area.

Spa room

Couple's Room

My mom-in-law and sis-in-law enjoyed an hour of Aromatherapy Massage in which I was told puts them to deep sleep as the comfort level was beyond 100%!  They were gushing on how nice their room was and wanted me to take a peek but I can't as another couple was using the room!

Heading back to the lobby, you will also pass by the historic pictures of the hotel.

And to those who pay attention to details, the table centerpiece near the historic pictures changes every 4 days!  On that weekend we arrived, a Sampaguita Foyer Flower Arrangement of Red roses, birds of paradise and button mums were used to create a nice symbol of love, respect, courage and passion.  This was the great idea of the hotel's newest GM Mr. Walid Wafik.

Since baby AMW is still tucked inside my tummy and I can control him anytime of the day, what about families who bring kids with them on a vacation (outside their tummy?).  Well, Taal Vista Hotel itself is a huge playground for kids and kids-at-heart! 

But just in case they want something more, there's a Kid's Corner for your kids to play their hearts' content.

There's also a nearby gym to drain all their energy and game room!

Breathtaking view of the Lake Wing as taken by Mr. AMW after sunset.

Since it's the season to be jolly!  This is my favorite season to visit Taal Vista Hotel as you can feel the Christmas spirit everywhere you go!  A huge Christmas Tree that immediately greets you at the lobby area.

A cute Christmas House on your way to Cafe on the Ridge.

A real Christmas Tree complete with a huge sleigh and 

Christmas gifts located outside the hotel near the parking area.

My favorite part as of the moment, the hotel's iconic stone fireplace brings warmth and intimacy.  This area is photogenic both day and night!

**photo taken night time

**photo taken daytime

Do you believe me now?  :D 

Lucky me, I was able to meet the recently appointed GM of Taal Vista Hotel Mr. Walid Wafik.  He is responsible for the hotel's daily operations and special projects and I see him around the hotel making sure everyone's having a great time!  He's definitely doing a wonderful job making every guests feel special!

P.S. I was tip-toeing when this photo was taken!  Such a tall man! :D

That weekend, I also met new friends!  Other bloggers who visited the hotel and wonderful friends from SM Investments.

L-R Richie Zamora with his wife and super cute daughter, Ms. Celine Arenillo, 

Joanne Tan, me and Ms. Ana Carissa Daez.

I also want to thank Ro Manalo (farthest right on photo below) whom I met early this year at the Orly Feel the Vibe launch at Pico de Loro, Batangas.

It was definitely a memorable weekend and Mr. AMW and I plan to go back for another get-away before I pop!  As for the rest of you, this is the best time to treat your family and friends for a mini vacation!  Check out the activities lined up this Christmas Season.

• December 15-16, 22-24 (12:00nn-2:00pm and 6:00pm-8:00pm) - Meet Santa
• December 24 (Christmas Eve) room rates include Christmas Dinner for 2.  Price starts at Php10,000.
• December 25-30 room rates starts at Php8,300.
• December 31 Bubbles and Bling: New Year's Eve Countdown Party (7:00pm-2:00am) at the Grand Ballroom.  Tickets are Php3,000 per person includes dinner buffet with live musical entertainment and entrance to the hotel's countdown party featuring an open bar, live DJ and bands and fireworks show.
• Guests who check in on December 31 will be given 2 complimentary tickets to Bubbles and Bling.  Room rates start at Php10,300 and include a complimentary buffet breakfast for 2, one round of cocktail drinks by the Lobby Lounge fireplace for 2 and food & beverage dining credit worth Php500.00 and a special turn down amenity.

Taal Vista Hotel
Kilometer 60, Aguinaldo Highway,
Tagaytay City 4120
Tel nos: (632) 917-8225/ (6346) 413-100/ (63917) 809-1254
Website: www.taalvistahotel.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/taalvistahotel
Twitter: (@taalvistahotel)

And to those who are on a budget, GREAT NEWS!
I will be giving away an Overnight Stay in a Premier Room with Breakfast for 2 to ONE LUCKY AMW READER!

Are you excited?  I am very excited to share this great gift from Taal Vista Hotel!  Please visit me back this weekend as I continue my post on the food I had at Taal Vista Hotel!  

Have you visited Taal Vista?
How was your experience?

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Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Service received for PR purpose.  Opinions and reviews 100% mine.)

AMW Reports: UBE at Tagaytay

I'm back from my wonderful Singapore trip!  Thank you Lord for the chance and opportunity given to me to explore such wonderful country!

I'll stop talking about Singapore FOR THE DAY as the last day wasn't that exciting for a tourist but it was exciting for me as I was able to meet my long time blogger friend Mhean!!! Thanks Mhean for the meetup!  I appreciate it that you came all the way from "never land" to treat me lunch!  Boy am I lucky! :P

This post was written before I left for Singapore....

The year is almost over!  It was a year ago (same month) when I visited one of my "must visit" country --- Korea!  I used to watch Korean Telenovelas and hoped to experience eating authentic Korean food or stroll in one of their parks, etc...  Dreams do come true huh? 

Speaking of dreams, my co-beauty bloggers turned real-life-friends dreamed about a weekend "Ultimate Bonding Experience" which can also mean "Ultimate Barkada Experience" which we fondly call U.B.E. (yam in Tagalog).  We toyed with the idea for months and....

The weekend finally happened!  Here's the proof!

 **photo taken from Shen

Rewind.  The lovely day started with an early morning meetup.  Thanks Shen for driving us to our destination with flair! :)  We thought we needed chips to keep us all awake but funny how it all ended inside the trunk as we gabbed our way to Tagaytay!

Sophie helped us book the hotel called Hotel Dominique located at Aguinaldo Highway which wasn't hard to find. 

Check-in starts at 2:00pm and it was around 11 something in the morning when we arrived so we have decided to visit  Ilog Maria Honeybee Farm.

Ilog Maria, the brand, isn't a stranger to me as I've read about this in a magazine several years ago!  I was just a fresh graduate back then and I read that the local actress Rica Peralejo's favorite skincare product is from Ilog Maria.

I got so intrigued with the brand and this was the first "virtual" shopping I did!  

I recall purchasing their facial wash, toner and honey milk soap!  

 The work area is clean and air is fresh with all the greenery

And there is such thing called "Bee Sting Therapy".  If you want to learn more about this therapy, feel free to smile and say BEE!  Not everyone is up for this and it all depends on how your body would react, so do your research well! :)

 

We met a very cute dog and the owner!  Funny how he trained his dog inspired by Cesar Millan of Dog Whisperer!   I do the same!  

 

We rested at the huge swing that can even fit 5 of us!  

 **photo taken by Shen

 This was our lovely view!  Greenery, bee hives and a rooster!  *lol*

Then we took a shot of Shen ...

because she's crazy and fun in any way! 

Then we went back to the reason why we visited Ilog Maria Farm, 

to shop!!!

 Arrays of soaps

Did you know that I read each and every product they sell?

 Their product line definitely grew!

They are also making aromatherapy oil and candles!

I think I got almost all of their tiny soaps!  I added Propolis Ointment, as I have skin irritations on certain areas and I'd love to give this a try!  I also bought their Honey Propolis Throat Spray as highly recommended by Sophie.  I do wake up once in a while with dry throat and with 2 spritz, it helps relieve the itchiness and dryness! :)

Oh, my dogs do have something from me too!  Bought them Dog soaps!  I hope I can see them smile this time when they take a bathe....okay, lets remove the smiling, it's freaky!  *laughs*

Us, enjoying our loots!
Okay, this look like an ad photo but its all according to our will! :) 

Thanks to the busy sales lady who willingly took this shot! 

Okay, no photos on the night event, after dinner we took out all our junkies (junk foods) and there goes the unlimited drinks!  *crazy laugh*  Thanks to Dang for creating the mini game turned into ULTIMATE bonding and sharing of deep dark secrets!  *tee hee heee*  It's all recorded ladies! :P  (just joking).

Though tired, we were able to wake up for breakfast and got ready to face day 2 of UBE!  Say hello to my roommates Sophie and Phoebe!

That morning after a cold shower! 

FYI: Hotel uses Solar Energy

We had a gorgeous lunch at Buon Giorno and had a nice Mochiko Ice Cream for dessert.  It was a first for me and I had Vanilla and I loved it!

We took a road trip back to Manila but did not forget our loved ones back in Manila.  We stopped by Rowena's and took home some goodies!  

The trip doesn't end inside the car, there's dancing (yes dancing!), singing and belting of songs from MY decade!  *laughs*

**photo grabbed from Phoebe

**photo grabbed from Dang

I want to thank the girls not only for the fun but the friendship that has blossomed!  Our friendship definitely has turned into a whole new level and I believe each of us has touched each others' lives one way or the other. 

Beauty blogging is just skin deep, the real friendship starts when we opened up and talked not only about beauty, but about life in general..our thoughts, our dreams, our issues in life...

Thank you Lord for blogging, thank you Lord for introducing me to wonderful people!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!