AMW Reviews: Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil

I am one super lazy girl when it comes to lotion or body oil application!  There are weeks I would go with straight application and another week leaving my skin bare and dry!

But once I got pregnant and passed my crazy morning sickness stage, I religiously apply these moisturizing products as I find my skin getting even drier than usual!  Let's say I have the best crocodile skin available in the market?  (Limited Croc Skin buyers anyone?) *hahaha*

Thanks to my dearest Shobe Sophie for gifting me this!  I am so touched she thought of me during her vacation in New Zealand/Australia! 

Palmer's says ---

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil is an advanced, multi-purpose skin perfection product that can be used all over the body, including face.  Cetesomate-E Complex helps improve the skin penetration and absorption characteristics of the formula into the epidermal layer of the skin.  Cetesomate-E Complex along with our exclusive blend of key ingredients helps improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, dry, damaged skin, uneven skin tone, aging skin and fine lines and wrinkles.

Skin looks and feels instantly soft and smooth with this unique non-greasy non-staining formula.  Also ideal when used as bath oil for a deep moisturizing treatment.

Ingredients: Canola Oil, Isopropyl Myristate, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Dimethicone, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa), Seed Butter, Tocopheryl Acetate, Fragrance, Rosa Canina Seed Extract.

Size: 60ml/2fl. oz.


AMW says ---
Pros

• Palmer's as a brand is against animal testing.
• Smells great!
• Moisturized my skin for the whole day!  I only apply this once a day every after shower.
• The dry patches disappears after 2 weeks of usage.
• I also use this on my tummy area and Mr. AMW describes my "bump" to be smooth and soft.
• Gets absorbed into the skin in a minute and skin is grease-less and oil-free.
• Skin looks shiny and healthy.
• No allergic reactions or itchiness.

Cons

• A bit messy, I had to put this inside a plastic resealable bag after every use as the bottle is oily all over.

Overall

A lightweight skin therapy oil that gets absorbs into the skin in no time!  It gives an appearance of soft and smooth skin in an instant and effects of dry skin like dry patches and itchiness is greatly reduced after 2 weeks usage!

Tips

• Best used after shower or bath.
• Since the product is a bit oily at first 30 seconds, continuously rub the product on areas needed until the product gets absorbed into the skin and wipe your hands with clean towel.
• If you are scared to use oil all over your body, uset he Palmer's Skin  Therapy Oil only on areas that tend to dry up.  (Elbows, knees, heels, etc...)
• Use daily.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Pregnant and non-preggy friends who likes the moisture of body oil minus the grease!  Works on all skin types!

Where to purchase and how much?
Since this was gifted to me, I'm not sure how much this cost locally so any help from readers who have purchased this will be greatly appreciated :D

Would you give this product a try?  Pregnant or not?
I will definitely continue to use such product even after I give birth! I am loving the scent the way my skin feels after every use!

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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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Stay happy!

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

AMW Bulletin: Crocs Christmas Sale!

To all my fellow "late-shoppers" who are probably panicking over last minute Christmas Buys!  Here's something for you to check out from Crocs.

**photo taken from Crocs

Visit any Crocs concept store nationwide until December 31, and for a minimum purchase of Php4,500, you can get your next regular-priced pair at half the price.  

Aside from that, the complete fall/holiday 2012 collection is now available in all Crocs stores so choose the design that suits your taste!  From wedges, ballet flats, slip-ons and sandals for women.  For the men, there's boat shoes, sneakers and leather slip-ons!  Let's not forget the kids!  Classic clogs, sneakers and cute sandals will also be available for that cute tiny feet!

If you are a Citibank Credit Card user, they also offer 0% intrest for 6-months installment!  This promo applies to all existing discounted footwear!

Visit www.crocs.com.ph and Crocs Philippines on Facebook and @CrocsPH on Twitter for additional
information

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Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Watsons Men Shower Gel

It was exactly a year ago when I received all 3 Watsons Men Shower Gel and gave it all to Mr. AMW and told him: "You need these!  You stink!" (in a very loving way) :P  

Surprisingly, Mr. AMW didn't take it negatively and happily took all 3 shower gel variants and surprise surprise!  After a year, I was told he used them all up!  (Very unusual as Mr. AMW is very loyal with his Safeguard bars!)

As a husband of AMW, you just can't get things for free without giving me feedback right?  So there I went pestering him with Pros and Cons and I'm glad the kind hubby happily obliged with my long interrogation!  

Shall we?

Watsons says ---
Watsons Men Shower Gels are formulated with ion-moist 4men, a powerful moisturizing agent for deep hydration to prevent skin dryness after showering.

• Watsons Men Energising Shower Gel is infused with minerals and an energetic scent that is gentle to skin yet long-lasting to energize your body throughout the day.
• Watsons Men Fresh Blast Shower Gel contains a mix of peppermint, geranium, musk and sandalwood scents to refresh your mind and body, while added menthol provides a cooling sensation.
• Watsons Passion Shower Gel contains a mix of lavender, crane grass and amber scents provoke your mind and body, while added sea salt helps to rejuvenate skin after showering.

AMW says ---
Pros

• Easy grip, sporty packaging.
• Smells great.
• Comes in 3 variants where guys can get to pick the scent they want.  Mr. AMW's favorite is the energizing variant.
• Doesn't leave an oily-feel to the skin.  Very important for ALL guys!
• Skin doesn't feel dry after every shower.
• Price.
  

Cons

• The scent isn't long-lasting and I can't tell when Mr. AMW uses this particular shower gel.

Overall

For someone as picky as Mr. AMW in terms of bath products, this passed his standard.  He likes the scent and the way it doesn't dry out his skin and best of all, there's none of the greasy-feel!

Tips

• Shower gels are best used with loofah or bath sponge.  
• Buy these shower gels and give them as gifts this Christmas!
• Once signs of irritations occur, stop usage immediately.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Guys who like the clean after-bath feel yet want their skin to stay moisturized.


Where to purchase and how much?

Available in Watsons in Watsons Your Personal Care Stores and SM Department Store Beauty Section.  Each shower gel costs around Php200.00 or less.  Like Watsons Philippines on Facebook for more product updates and promos.

Do the men in your life use shower gels?
Both my brothers do, also Mr. AMW (from time to time), I'm glad the men in my life are taking care of their skin! :D

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Laneige Snow BB Soothing Cushion SPF50+ PA+++ Review

It's mid-week once again and Christmas is almost near!!!  Do you have a list on what to spend with your Christmas Bonus? 

My answer is baby-related stuff!  Anything for Baby AMW of course!

While you are still thinking about your "Christmas Wish List", I will be sharing a review on a unique product called Laneige Snow BB Soothing Cushion.  As much as I would love to test this outside, the shade I got for review isn't right but for the sake of review, I only tried this out "indoors".

Snow BB Soothing Cushion Compact + Refill

Laneige came up with the Snow BB Lines featuring Snow BB Cream (cream), Snow BB Balm (Balm) and Snow BB Soothing Cushion (emulsion).  The latter is what I will be featuring!