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Directory Alphaland Corporation info@alphaland.com.ph +63.2.8337.2031
Membership tccmembership@alphaland.com.ph +63.2.8737.0000 loc. 109 or 113
Aegle Wellness Center Reception info@aeglewellnesscenter.com
Sales Office sales@alphaland.com.ph +63.2.8846.6205
Events and Banquets tccevents@alphaland.com.ph +63.2.8737.0000 loc. 108 or 136 +63.908.887.0916
The City Club +63.2.8737.0077 +63.917.821.9795 +63.949.889.6237
Sports and Recreation sportsandrec@cityclub.com.ph +63.2.8737.0000 loc. 107
Balesin +63.917.323.2017 +63.998.582.3962
The Alpha Suites Reservations info@thealphasuites.com +63.2.8737.0088 +63.2.7752.3625 www.thealphasuites.com
Balesin Island Club Events and Banquets ktcortes@alphaland.com.ph +63.917.522.2038
Leasing Office +63.2.5337.2031 loc. 228 +63.917.522.0335 ampileasing@alphaland.com.ph Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges Sales Coordinator Sienna Muncada slmuncada@alphaland.com.ph +63.948.250.8387 +63.917.804.5786 Project Sales Manager Alex Cenzon accenzon@alphaland.com.ph +63.977.786.9008 The City Club Trunk line +63.2.8737.0000
Reception frontoffice@thealphasuites.com +63.2.8737.0088 loc. 180 The Residences at Alphaland Makati Place Reception reception@makatiplace.com.ph +63.2.8737.0070
Reception tccfrontoffice@alphaland.com.ph +63.2.8737.0000 loc. 104
Editorial Team Anna Ongpin
Editor-in-Chief
Luisa Banta Nic Belasco Emerald BaĂą Ăąares Sheena Concepcion Managing Editor Danielle Ferrer Ronnie Moranas Colleen Buenaventura Sienna Muncada Editor Chef Valerie Nombre Charles Galvez
Graphic Artist
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Writers
Membership Sales sales@alphaland.com.ph +63.2.5337.2031 loc. 227 +63.2.8846.6205 Reception frontoffice@balesin.com.ph Reservations reservations@balesin.com +63.2.8337.2055 Concierge balesinconcierge@alphaland.com.ph +63.908.887.4787 +63.917.509.7190
ALPHALAND ATMOSPHERES is the lifestyle magazine of Alphaland Corporation. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of Alphaland Corporation. Cover photo taken at the Balesin beachfront during Aegle's Serenity Series. Participants enjoy the fresh breeze and sound of the ocean waves during a rejuvenating session of Kundalini yoga led by Rosan Cruz. Interested advertisers may contact the magazine's Advertising Sales Team at sales@alphaland.com.ph
Contents Table of
President’s Message & Announcements
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2020 Highlights
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Chef Recommends: Balesin Island Seafood Dishes
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A Gastronomic Adventure at The City Club
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RVO’s Wine Selection
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The Luxury Hotel Experience, Redefined
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Concierge Recommends: Balesin in the New Normal
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Issue 11 | July - December 2020
LIFESTYLE
A Gastronomic Adventure at The City Club
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The Luxury Hotel Experience, Redefined
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TRAVEL
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle at Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges
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The City Club Featured Reciprocal Club: Capital Club Lagos
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Water, Water, Everywhere!
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Sports & Recreation Programs
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Concierge Recommends: Balesin in the New Normal
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Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle at Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges
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Message President’s
I am so happy to be joining the Atmospheres staff in welcoming you all to our Alphaland properties, as we all jointly set forth in exploring the New Normal. We are lucky to have the Aegle Wellness Center both at Alphaland Makati Place and at Balesin Island to help us navigate the safest path through this COVID pandemic. Some of our safety enhancements include reduced seating levels at our nine restaurants at The City Club, enhanced disinfection procedures at The Alpha Suites and Baguio Mountain Lodges, and controlled occupancy levels at Balesin Island Club. We have even implemented a QR code tracking system in Balesin to have contact tracing in place as we all work to keep our Alphaland properties COVID-free. And we are doing all this while keeping work fun and employees motivated, all with the goal of keeping you safe in this new world we now live in. So enjoy reading this latest copy of Atmospheres, and don't hesitate to share your feedback with us at info@alphaland.com.ph.
DENNIS VALDES
Announcements Balesin Island Club Dear Members and Friends, Our hearts and thoughts go out to all who have been affected by this unprecedented pandemic. We recognize that travel may not be your first thought, however, we would like you to know the safety of our members and guests, team members, and associates is our top priority. We want to thank you in advance for putting your trust in our team as you plan your future trips. Together with our trusted Aegle medical experts, and in line with government protocols, we have established precise guidelines for a COVID-free, safe holiday experience. Please do take a moment to make yourself familiar with our health and safety protocols at bit.ly/BICProtocol We have been welcoming members and friends again to the Club since the island reopened on the 16th of June. We highly recommend that you get acquainted with all updated travel information prior to your journey. Our Balesin team will be guiding you through all the processes and will update you on the latest information. Arriving in Balesin will be comfortable, as you will enter a haven of tranquility in a spread-out, lush, tropical island, just far enough from the stress and tensions around the country. With its seven kilometers of beautiful, fine white-sand beaches and uncrowded villages and facilities, Balesin Island Club is able to offer you the rejuvenation and peace of mind that has become so important for all of us. And to complement your much-needed vacation in our island home, we have partnered with the country’s best performing artists to bring you exciting and memorable surprise concerts and shows. See you soon in paradise.
MICHAEL A.P.M. ASPERIN COO & BALESIN ISLAND CLUB CEO The City Club The “new normal” is here, and The City Club is ready! We have strict sanitation measures in place and we keep things as contactless as possible to ensure your family’s safety each time you work, play, and dine at the Club. Our Food & Beverage Director Chef Valerie Nombre has been working overtime to ensure top-notch food is prepared daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We accept dine-in reservations, as well as orders for takeout or delivery. We also added the Balesin Vannamei Shrimp Burger to the menu, and we’ve brought back special offers such as All-You-Can-Eat Prime Rib Wednesdays, and launched new offers such as Salathip Thai Tuesdays, Toscana Thursday Feast, and Costa del Sol’s Sunday Special. The pool is open (with social distancing) and members have been taking full advantage, enjoying fun under the sun. Other sports & recreation facilities are reopened and compliant with existing guidelines. Our trainers are on standby, ready to address your fitness needs. For health concerns, visit Aegle Wellness Center on the 6th Floor. Dr. Ben Valdecañas and his team are available for consultations and will put you on a personalized path to health & wellness. You have plenty of time to set up your annual gatherings at the Club. Give us a call and lock in your event dates. We are already accepting reservations for intimate celebrations at our restaurants and private dining rooms, with social distancing and health and safety protocols in accordance with the existing guidelines. See you at the Club!
NICHOLAS BELASCO THE CITY CLUB GENERAL MANAGER 2
Balesin Island Club’s Countdown to 2020
2020 HIGHLIGHTS
The new decade was ushered in with a bang at The Balesin Marquee with a sumptuous buffet spread and performances by DJ duo Those Girls, flute virtuoso of pop Jong Cuenco, and premier OPM band Mojofly.
Balesin Valentine's Day Weekend
The two-day Valentine's lunch and dinner for couples and families at St. Tropez was a hit. The special set meals were perfectly paired with wines from Titania. Members and guests also had a great time as island favorite Rox Puno serenaded everyone at the Clubhouse Performance Theatre with love songs and all-time favorites.
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Aegle Wellness Center’s Serenity Series Balesin: Yoga + Wellness Weekend
Aegle's Serenity Series Balesin: Yoga + Wellness Weekend on July 31 to August 2 gave guests the refreshing break they needed after being quarantined at home. They had relaxing Kundalini yoga and gong bath sessions by the beach, led by Rosan Cruz, accompanied by the soft hums of the ocean and the fresh island breeze.
Aegle Wellness Center’s Serenity Series Balesin: Zumba + Wellness Weekend
TIE T H E K N OT: A L P HAL AND B RI DAL FAI R 2018
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With immune-boosting wellness services complemented by the revitalizing Zumba sessions led by Robby "ZIN Rob" Caguimbal, Serenity Series guests had a mind- and body-enriching experience at Aegle - Balesin on September 25 to 27.
LIFESTYLE SECTION
Chef Recommends: Balesin Island Seafood Dishes By: Chef Valerie Nombre, The City Club Food & Beverage Director; Ronnie Moranas, The City Club Assistant Manager for Marketing & Sales Balesin Island, located 29 nautical miles off the eastern coast of Luzon, is a private island surrounded by 7.3 kilometers of white sand beach and the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean and Lamon Bay. Fish and shellfish are grown and caught in and around the island. The surrounding waters of the island and its aquaculture farms are teeming with fantastic seafood, such as Balesin vannamei shrimp, lobster, Lapu-lapu (grouper), sea bass, hito (catfish), samaral, and bangus. They are caught sustainably by the members and guests themselves at Balesin Fish Fun or at the North Point Seafood Farm, or by local fishermen whose bountiful catch are bought by Balesin Island Club to support the fishermen’s livelihoods. Here are a few of the many must-try dishes featuring freshly caught Balesin seafood: Gamberetti vannamei Balesin in vino bianco Balesin vannamei shrimp in white wine This delicious dish is prepared using freshly caught Balesin vannamei shrimp raised sustainably in Balesin Island’s aquaculture farms. It’s a rich source of immune-boosting nutrients like iron, selenium, vitamin B12, copper, and phosphorus, as well as calcium, which promotes bone health and muscle function. The vannamei shrimp’s flavor is enhanced and complemented by white wine, parsley, basil, and red chili flakes. The herbs and spices also boost the dish’s anti-inflammatory qualities. Available at Toscana Ristorante Italiano at The City Club, and at Trattoria Toscana in Balesin Island Club. Pescado con salsa verde Freshly caught Balesin fish pan-fried with parsley sauce Originating from the Basque country of Northern Spain, this dish features freshly caught Balesin fish, typically Lapu-lapu, marinated in lemon and pan-fried in olive oil. The dish’s name literally means “fish in green sauce”–the green sauce being olive oil with fresh chopped parsley. This simple yet delicious dish contains excellent amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, vitamin D, and phosphorus, which enhance and support the immune system; niacin, which supports the nervous and digestive systems, and helps balance cholesterol levels; and iodine, for thyroid function and brain health. Available at Costa del Sol at The City Club, and at Casa Grande in Balesin Island Club. Samaral Sashimi Freshly caught Balesin samaral Have you experienced the clean, fresh taste of raw samaral? Also known as rabbitfish and popular as Cebuano danggit when dried, samaral is now available as sashimi at Sakura Japanese restaurant. Be sure to try it on your next trip to Balesin! Available at Sakura at The City Club and in Balesin Island Club.
Order freshly caught seafood from Balesin Island and pick it up either at the Alphaland Manila Hangar Lounge or at The City Club. For inquiries and orders, please contact Concierge and Balesin Store Manager Luisa Banta at +63.917.597.9651 or Chef Valerie Nombre at +63.917.711.8890.
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A Gastronomic Adventure at The City Club By: Ronnie Moranas, The City Club Assistant Manager for Marketing & Sales
One of the best parts of travelling is experiencing the distinct delicacies of each destination, the culture and heritage that influence their ingredients, preparation, and even the way each dish is eaten. Even with the pandemic putting a temporary stop to leisure travel, you can still enjoy an authentic Spanish, Italian, Greek, French, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, or steakhouse dining experience right in the metro at The City Club! Start with the Club’s signature dishes, prepared by our world-class chefs, and enjoy the cuisine of your choice at any of our nine specialty restaurants (also including Filipino cuisine). All our restaurants are compliant with current health and safety guidelines, so you can have a hearty and worry-free meal with your loved ones. These dishes are also available at our sister club, Balesin Island Club.
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Tang Palace's Sweet and Sour Pork Crispy pork with pineapple and bell peppers
Salathip's Pad Thai Thai noodle dish with egg, peanuts, and Balesin vannamei shrimp or chicken
A Taste of France's Baked Oysters Rockefeller With spinach and hollandaise sauce
Balesin Islander's Kare-kare Oxtail stew in peanut sauce
Costa del Sol's Paella Valenciana Mixed seafood, Balesin vannamei shrimp, chicken ham, and chorizo on saffron rice
Mykonos' Grilled Lamb Ribs Served with red onion salad, stuffed bell pepper, and bulgur salad
Toscana Ristorante Italiano's Spaghetti Alle Vongole Veraci Alla Roberto Spaghetti with fresh baby clams in white wine sauce and whole garlic Ă la RVO
Sakura Maki Eel, cream cheese, avocado, and tobiko, with shrimp on top
Mark's Prime Rib's Slow-roasted, Bone-in USDA Prime Rib of Beef With Dijon mustard and herb crust
For table reservations or takeout and delivery orders: +63.917.799.8894 | +63.908.887.0910 | +63.2.8737.0000 loc. 104
RVO's Wine Selection: Montes Classic Series Sauvignon Blanc Curico Valley, Chile, 2018 Tasting Notes Crystalline, light yellow in color with a distinct citrus scent; has enticing notes of herbs, melons, and guava, and a mild note of pepper; aged in 100% stainless steel; medium-bodied with a balanced acidity and a persistent finish. Best served with a fresh seafood dish or salad. Wine Features Type: White Grape variety: Sauvignon Blanc Alcohol: 13% Available at The City Club and Balesin Island Club For orders at The City Club: +63.917.799.8894 | +63.908.887.0910 +63.2.8737.0000 loc. 104
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TRAVEL SECTION
TRAVEL SECTION
The Luxury Hotel Experience, Redefined By: Sheena Concepcion, The Alpha Suites Marketing Manager As the world navigates through the complexities of the new normal of travel and hospitality, The Alpha Suites, a luxury brand of serviced apartments in Makati and the #1 hotel in Metro Manila and 2020 Traveler’s Choice award winner on TripAdvisor, rises to the challenge by redefining the way it delivers guest experiences in the time of COVID-19.
all suites are also sealed to ensure that no one enters the room after it is sanitized. Meanwhile, the common areas of the hotel, including the lobby and elevators, are sanitized every 30 minutes as part of the hotel’s heightened commitment to safety.
Offering complete and state-of-the-art luxury serviced apartments, each with a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, The Alpha Suites provides world-class accommodations with warm Filipino hospitality and a wide array of dining, health, recreational, and business amenities. The Alpha Suites has been working nonstop to innovate its already high standards of cleanliness and sanitation in preparation for the hotel’s reopening. This proactive approach to the pandemic has proven to be effective, as the entirety of The Alpha Suites complex remains completely free of COVID-19—an impressive feat that it intends to maintain. In addition to the increased frequency of disinfection of the high-touch areas in the guest rooms, The Alpha Suites’ meticulous housekeeping team has been thoroughly sanitizing all suites with its state-of-the-art, laboratory-tested UV equipment, which eliminates harmful pathogens on room surfaces. As an additional precautionary measure, Stricter health protocols are being enforced in the hotel to prevent the spread of COVID-19 8
take-out stations at its specialty restaurants. The hotel’s lagoon-style swimming pool is open to a maximum of 10 swimmers at a time to enforce physical distancing, and guests can enjoy a worry-free dip in the pool knowing that ideal water conditions are being maintained in compliance with international standards. All these “new normal” practices reflect The Alpha Suites’ steadfast commitment to keeping the hotel and its facilities 100% free of COVID-19.
The Alpha Suites is also enforcing stricter health protocols, including requiring guests and staff to use face masks and face shields, undergo mandatory temperature checks and frequent hand sanitization, and use disinfecting footbaths upon entry to the hotel. Hand sanitizer is provided at the Front Desk and at the restaurant takeout stations for everyone’s use. Guests will be asked to complete comprehensive travel and health questionnaires prior to check-in. Pursuant to the guidelines of Philippine and global public health authorities, physical distancing is being strictly observed in common areas of the hotel, with floor markers being placed around the property to help guests keep a safe distance from one another.
Perfectly situated in the heart of the Makati Central Business District, The Alpha Suites is the best choice for business travelers who are adjusting to “new normal” work arrangements, as each state-of-the-art suite comes with an in-room work station plus high-speed internet so guests can attend online meetings and continue to stay productive in the comfort of their plush suites. Leisure travelers, in addition, will definitely enjoy the convenience of staying in The Alpha Suites’ generously sized suites (far bigger than typical hotel rooms!), with full-size and fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas where they can rest, cook, and move around. There’s also an upscale grocery in the adjacent shopping mall at Alphaland Makati Place, just an elevator ride away. While the pandemic will likely bring more changes to the hospitality industry, The Alpha Suites is ready and will continue to redefine the luxury hotel experience to stay ahead of the curve. Guests in the new normal can expect the hotel’s frontline staff to continue delivering the same acclaimed, five-star service that The Alpha Suites is known for—only now, they will be clad in protective gear, including face masks, face shields, and gloves, for the safety and reassurance of guests and staff alike. Visit www.thealphasuites.com/offers to see our special offers.
All health protocols of the hotel are being closely monitored and supported by the medical team of Aegle Wellness Center, a state-of-the-art, integrative health and wellness center located on-site in the Alphaland Makati Place complex. Aegle Wellness Center provides medical services and bespoke wellness programs, including COVID-19 Antigen swab tests, Immune Boost IV Drips, and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. The medical doctors and staff of Aegle are on hand 24/7 to meet the needs of The Alpha Suites. The Alpha Suites has also adjusted the operations of its amenities in response to the pandemic, such as opening Every suite is sanitized with state-of-the-art UV equipment and cleaned by our meticulous housekeeping team
A Special Gift from The Alpha Suites Enjoy an additional 10% off your next booking* when you use the promo code TASATMOSPHERES on www.thealphasuites.com from October to December 2020 *The offer is subject to change depending on the available rates at the time of booking. Blackout dates apply. For inquiries: +63.2.8737.0088 | +63.2.7752.3625 | reservations@thealphasuites.com
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Concierge Recommends: Balesin in the New Normal By: Luisa Frances Banta, Concierge Manager & Balesin Souvenir Shop Manager The world has been shaken by the COVID-19 pandemic. In Balesin, it has changed the day-to-day life of the employees and residents alike; it has turned things around and brought people closer to nature. It has encouraged enterprise, productivity, and a more meaningful way of life. Like the rest of the world, Balesin has adapted to life in the “new normal” and, in fact, has made the best of the lockdown.
Aside from the myriad of farms, you’ll also want to bring your kids to our Seafood Farms. At the Picnic Grove, you’ll find our popular Balesin vannamei shrimp, hand-fed giant crabs, and the newest addition—the Balesin hito. At the North Point Seafood Farm, kids and kids-at-heart will be thrilled to catch their own samaral, sea bass, and bangus! Since transporting fish to nearby towns has not been allowed during the lockdown, Balesin has been supporting its local resident fishermen by purchasing their abundant catch, including Lapu-lapu, blue marlin, and tanguige. These are enjoyed tremendously by members and guests, both on the island and in Manila via our Balesin Bounty store (more on that in a bit).
Visit the Tahik Farm (part of our expanded organic vegetable farms) and discover how our fresh fruits and vegetables served at our restaurants are cultivated by the barangay community
Farming and Fishing Surrounded by the bounty of nature, Balesin has expanded and cultivated its farmlands and aquaculture projects. Everyone on the island has contributed to the success of our new Fruit Orchards, development of the Tahik and Kaingin Farms, and the expansion of the Organic Gardens. Each of these expansions and developments has been a labor of love—Balesin personnel and residents worked side-by-side cultivating fruits, vegetables, and herbs for members and guests, as well as employees, to enjoy. The next time you visit the island, it will definitely be worth your while to take a tour of our impressive farms.
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Red duck eggs produced by the Pateros ducks (native ducks) we raise and house at our Balesin Duck Farm. Try them at our specialty restaurants or take home a dozen from Balesin Bounty.
Poultry Farms and Produce During the lockdown, we have also taken the opportunity to expand our poultry farms near the Sports Center. Today, you’ll find the Duck Farms, where we produce and make our best-selling Balut and Red Eggs. When you stroll around the Poultry Farm, you’ll also spot our Guinea fowl, native chickens, and turkeys. The Guinea fowl fresh eggs and red eggs, and the variety of flavorsome Guinea fowl dishes, are also becoming favorites of members and guests.
Balesin Bounty Another major new project we began during the lockdown is Balesin Bounty, located at the E.L. Tordesillas Airport, where all-natural, high-quality specialty food items from the island can be bought to take home. The Bounty selection includes fruits and vegetables from our farms, seafood from our aquaculture ponds, freshly caught fish from the local fishermen, Balesin Pure Sea Salt from our salt beds, honey from our Honeybee Farm, eggs from our poultry farms, assorted sauces and condiments concocted by our talented chefs, desserts, chips, jams, and preserves made from local produce, potted herbs and plants from our organic gardens, and more. It’s a showcase of Balesin products locally crafted with love.
Explore the island at your own pace with our brand-new 2-seater golf carts, available for rent at the Sports Center
Members and guests who are not on the island may also order items* for pick-up the following day at the Alphaland Hangar in Pasay City or at our sister club, The City Club in Makati. New Wheels to Explore the Island There are a number of members and guests who have stayed on the island continuously since we re-opened in June, and many have enjoyed spending their time going around the island at their own pace with our brand-new electric scooters and spiffy electric golf carts. Try out these new wheels to tour the island on your next visit.
Shop all-natural, high-quality specialty food items at Balesin Bounty
New Discovery Aside from the welcome improvements to the island during lockdown, we also recently discovered a breathtaking sandbar in the middle of the sea not far from Balesin. If you’re up for an adventure, cruise our pristine waters with your loved ones on the newly refurbished Alpha One power boat and check it out yourself! The pandemic has certainly taught us all important lessons— to focus on the basics and to invest in your well-being. A trip back to your island home might just be what you need to recharge your body, mind, and soul.
The local fishermen's freshly caught fish
*For Balesin Bounty inquiries or orders: bit.ly/BalesinBountyOnline | +63.917.597.9651 balesinconcierge@alphaland.com.ph
Try our latest pièce de resistance, freshly baked Key Lime Pie, available at our restaurants and to take home at Balesin Bounty
Cruise Balesin’s pristine waters on the Alpha One and discover a stunning sandbar near the island 11
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle at Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges By: Sienna Muncada, Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges Sales Coordinator; Emerald Bañares, VP - Marketing & Special Projects
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many of our plans and routines in an unexpected way. As we’re encouraged to stay at home and work from home, our activities have been limited to essential errands or shopping, long hours of sitting while working, watching television, scrolling our phones, and the like, while physical activities are narrowed down to home exercises or solo, distanced workouts at the gym, and non-contact sports. With our communal stress at an all-time high, our tendency to binge or “stress eat” unhealthy and instant food has also increased. The stress and anxiety in the “new normal” can take its toll on our well-being if we’re not mindful. At Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges, sticking to a healthy and active lifestyle even when you’re taking it easy at your vacation home comes more naturally, even during a pandemic, thanks to the following factors. Delicious Food With Fresh Produce. More than ever, we’re reminded that health is wealth, and one of the best ways to achieve good health is through a healthy diet. Enter the Baguio market, popular for its fresh, abundant, and affordable produce (not just strawberries!), making it one of the must-visit places when in Baguio for those who love to cook. The Clubhouse Inn also offers delicious and healthy dishes for your convenience. Here are three favorites from the menu that we recommend for a healthy diet. 12
Fresh Orange Juice. The freshly squeezed orange juice is one of our bestsellers. It’s a delicious and good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, thiamine, folate, fiber, and antioxidants, and is best served at breakfast as your morning pick-me-up with its tangy and sweet flavor.
Fresh Fruit Platter. Watermelon, apple, mango, orange, and, of course, strawberries—this fruit platter is jam-packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that our bodies need.
Tranquility for Your Well-being. Don’t forget to take care of your mental health and spirituality. Practicing mindfulness a few minutes every day in which you deliberately pay attention to what you’re sensing, feeling, and thinking, helps improve your self-understanding which can help offset the negative impact of things in your life that you can’t control, such as the pandemic. Whenever you feel exhausted physically and mentally and have a hard time calming down, visit our Chapel. The serenity, fresh air, and stunning view will help you reflect, meditate, and clear your mind. Whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, your log home is an excellent place to unplug and catch up on your reading list or to spend quality time with your loved ones. Cozy up with your book or gather round the fireplace with your family— either is a great way to warm the soul.
Salmon Salad. This fresh field salad with grilled salmon, steamed potatoes, and green beans, served with yogurt-dill dressing, is a delicious must-try!
The Great Outdoors. If you prefer exercising outdoors, your log home deck is spacious and conducive to various workouts, such as yoga, boxing, and high-intensity interval training. And on top of that, the glorious view of the mountains will motivate you to keep going. You can brisk walk and jog around the property as well, breathing in the fresh mountain air while enjoying the view. Try to do this at sunrise. If you're lucky, you will witness the sea of clouds.
A Good Night’s Sleep. If you’ve been having a hard time falling asleep during the pandemic, you’re not alone. With sleep playing a vital role in good health and well-being, it’s essential to abstain from using electronics for at least an hour before bed, get light exposure in the morning around 7 AM, prioritize regular exercise and connecting with loved ones, consciously make time for sleeping at night, and stick to your sleeping schedule. The cool, clean mountain air is known for promoting deep sleep, and the beds, mattresses, and linens at Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges are of premium quality so you can get a restful night’s sleep in your cozy, quiet bedroom. Leave your curtains open so you'll be greeted a good morning by the sun.
For Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges inquiries: Sienna Muncada (Project Sales Coordinator): +63.948.250.8387 | +63.917.804.5786 | slmuncada@alphaland.com.ph Alex Cenzon (Project Sales Manager): +63.977.786.9008 | accenzon@alphaland.com.ph Sources: www.healthline.com/nutrition/20-healthiest-fruits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_6, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fulfillment-any-age/201312/five-proven-keys-improve-your-well-being, https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2020/09/03/coronavirus-sleep-insomnia/
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THE CITY CLUB RECIPROCAL CLUB: CAPITAL CLUB LAGOS By: Nicholas Belasco, The City Club General Manager; Danielle Ferrer, The City Club Assistant Marketing Manager When in Nigeria, visit Capital Club Lagos, one of The City Club’s reciprocal club partners. Located on Victoria Island, Capital Club Lagos is Nigeria’s first 5-star private business and social club, and offers an exclusive and luxurious setting for business events and social networking. The many facilities of the Club, which include lounges and social areas, casual and fine dining rooms, private meeting rooms, and a courtyard with spacious gardens, provide plenty of choices for members and guests to work or meet productively or to spend leisure time indulging in the Club’s world-class dining and refined social atmosphere. There are also bedroom suites for accommodations, perfect for relaxation after a long day’s work.
Capital Club Lagos also provides all the amenities of the modern workplace with WiFi on all levels, enabling fast connection speeds so you can work in the lounges. This allows you to get your business done without a hitch, even when you’re thousands of miles away from your office. No matter where you are in the world, take advantage of The City Club’s reciprocal partnerships and enjoy an expanded members-only experience. We only partner with the best, so check our list of reciprocal Clubs located in major cities in the world when you plan your next trip abroad. 6, Elsie Femi Pearse Street, Victoria Island, P. O. Box 75961, Lagos, Nigeria Tel.: +234.814.30000.74 | +234.814.50000.74 www.capitalclublagos.com
The City Club Reciprocal Clubs Looking for your post-quarantine travel destination? The City Club has nine other reciprocal clubs where you can enjoy a luxurious stay. Please contact The City Club General Manager Nicholas Belasco at +63.2.8737.0000 loc. 102, +63.999.886.8007, or nmbelasco@alphaland.com.ph for more information on how to avail of our club reciprocity arrangements. Capital Club Dubai Gate Village, Building 3, Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC), Dubai, United Arab Emirates +971.4.364.0111 www.capitalclubdubai.com Capital Club East Africa 4/7 Floor, Imperial Court, Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya +254.70.90.38000 St. James’s Hotel and Club Mayfair 7-8 Park Place, St. James’s London, SW1A 1LS, England +44.20.7316.1611 www.stjameshotelandclub.com 14
Royal South Yarra Lawn Tennis Club 310 Williams Road North, Toorak, VIC, 3142 Australia +613.9829.1556 www.rsyltc.org.au The Ranchmen’s Club, Calgary 710 13th Avenue S.W. Calgary, Alberta T2R 0K9 Canada +403.228.3885 Tower Club Singapore 9 Raffles Place, Penthouse (62nd - 64th Floors), Republic Plaza Tower 1, Singapore 048619 +6737.3388 www.tower-club.com.sg
Cercle de Lorraine - Club van Lotharingen Place Poelaert 6 Poelaertplein Bruxelles 1000 Brussels, Belgium + 32.2.374.65.25 www.cercledelorraine.be
Terminal City Club Vancouver* 837 West Hastings St. Vancouver, BC V6C 1B6, Canada +604.681.4121 www.tcclub.com
American Club Jakarta* Jl Brawijaya IV/20 Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta Selatan 12160, Indonesia +62.21.270.2438/39 +62.21.726.4559/61 www.americanclubjakarta.org
*Balesin Island Club Reciprocal Club For inquiries for Balesin Island Club reciprocal clubs: +63.2.5337.2031 memberrelations@balesin.com
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HEALTH & WELLNESS SECTION
Water, Water, Everywhere! By: Benedict Francis D. Valdecañas, MD, MSc, FPOA, FPCS Aegle Wellness Center Medical Director
Chances are you’ve probably heard that the human body is 75% water. Just as the planet we call Earth is. Truth is, the human body is 65% water for males, and 60% for females. Yes, there really is a gender difference. This is because males are more muscular and muscles hold water. Women, on the other hand, have more fat tissue that displaces water. Water is a vital part of the basic functions of the human system. Water, or H2O, as we learned in grade school science, is two parts hydrogen that binds with all carbon-based life forms to make up its basic structure, and one part oxygen that fuels all of life’s cellular processes. This basic molecule defines everything we are, from our cells’ form to their function. Being almost three-quarters water is not the only similarity the human body shares with our planet. The Earth’s main bodies of
water, its oceans—and the seawater in them—are the closest substance, in terms of composition, to human blood. Medical history is rife with attempts to use seawater as preventive or curative therapy, beginning with what I would consider the Greek's greatest gift to longevity, thalassotherapy. Like all great ancient civilizations, the Greeks believed that all life on the planet sprang from the sea. Now being able to look at the basis of life at the molecular level, I’d say they really hit the proverbial nail right on the head. Thalassotherapy, from the Greek word for "sea," makes use of the components of this element of the Earth for medical treatments including weight loss, detoxification, anti-ageing, and regeneration; these components include the seawater itself, mud and silt, algae, and seaweed, as well as coralline minerals. Hippocrates, the father of ethical medicine, was noted to have prescribed his ailing patients a regimen of baths in the Mediterranean sea and drying off under the sun on the temple steps. Let us not forget that breathing in seaside air helps the air sacs in our lungs become more receptive to oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange, enhancing the interface between this vital exchange of gases. But let’s go back to our cells practically containing and bathing in fluid closest to seawater. Paramount of these cellular functions is our defense against bacterial and viral invaders, our immune system. Any change in this fluid content and
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component can make a person more predisposed to illness. Case in point, by just maintaining optimal hydration, we can keep most infectious diseases at bay. That’s just making sure we meet the minimum daily fluid intake of three liters—one easy way to optimize one’s immune status. Studies prove that even a day of relative dehydration decreases immunity against most viral infections by as much as fifty percent. And considering our present dilemma amidst this CoViD-19 pandemic, knowledge is indeed power; if only we could disseminate virally, pardon the dark pun, the fact about maintaining adequate hydration and electrolyte balance. The human immune system is an array of specialized cells designed to not only fight viral invaders like this novel coronavirus, but to recognize these viruses early enough to mount a defense against them before other cells of the body are destroyed. That’s how viruses cause disease; they colonize your cells and use their cellular machinery to multiply themselves. And when your cells are filled with these viral clones, they burst, releasing these multiplied viruses to colonize more cells. Until you don’t have any more cells to
fight them, nor to support normal organ function, leaving the host organism—that’s you—to die. The great writer Ernest Hemingway felt his senses were at their acutest, his thoughts at their clearest, when he was nearest the sea. For some reason neither he, nor we in this present day of technology and research, can explain why being near a body of seawater seems to charge us with so much healing energy. Ancient civilizations surrendered to it. A company in France, started by René Quinton in the 19th century, made an industry out of selling purified seawater in ampoules, which are still used for medical treatments to this day. So it’s not a surprise that water, as basic an Earthly element as it is, can spell the difference between life and death, or wellness and illness. Such a simple habit of maintaining hydration, regular baths in seawater, and respecting the fact that our very beings were borne of Earth and all the elements on this planet—this simple concept can keep us healthier even with regard to health challenges such as the CoViD-19 pandemic we face today.
For inquiries: info@aeglewellnesscenter.com 17
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Sports & Recreation Programs ACTIVITY
MEMBER RATE
GUEST RATE
SCHEDULE
TRAINER AND CONTACT
BADMINTON
Php 275 per session
Php 385/session
By appointment
Emmanne Julleza +63.915.362.8775 Julleza Badminton Training Camp
Php 660/session Php 6,000/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 765/session Php 6,540/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 440/session Php 3,820/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 545/session Php 4,360/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
By appointment
Alejandro Aala +63.907.733.0933 Assistant Coach at Manila Japanese School
Php 6,000/12 sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 6,540/12 sessions (Valid for two months)
Monday and Friday 7 PM - 10 PM By appointment
Lloyd Escoses +63.977.829.8311 Escoses Training Camp, BWF Level 2 Certified Coach, BWF Shuttle Time Tutor and Teacher, College of St. Benilde Badminton Head Coach
BALLET
Php 820/session Php 2,725/four sessions (Valid for one month)
Php 875/session Php 3,270/four sessions (Valid for one month)
By appointment (minimum of three students)
Anna Suntay +63.917.529.3045 Balletworks Manila, Cecchetti and RAD registered ballet teacher
BASKETBALL
Php 1,000/session Php 4,500/five sessions (Valid for two months) Php 8,700/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 1,500/session Php 4,900/five sessions (Valid for two months) Php 9,500/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Saturday 11 AM - 1 PM
Nicholas Belasco +63.917.584.3207 Former PBA player Phoenix Assistant Coach
BOXING
Php 600/session Php 5,000/ten sessions (Valid for 45 days)
Php 700/session Php 6,500/ten sessions (Valid for 45 days)
By appointment
Allen Simbajon +63.928.907.9386 Professional boxer, Elorde stable
CYCLING DYNAMICS
Php 545/session Php 110/extra hour Php 3,815/ten sessions
Php 545/session Php 110/extra hour Php 3,815/ten sessions
(Queuing)
BADMINTON (Coaching)
BADMINTON (Training)
BADMINTON (Training)
FUTSAL
Php 4,910/eight sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 5,450/eight sessions (Valid for two months)
Registration fee: Php 1,100
Registration fee: Php 1,100
For individual enrollees: Php 985/session Php 10,350/12 sessions (Valid for two months)
For individual enrollees: Php 1,100/session Php 10,895/12 sessions (Valid for two months)
Monday - Friday 6 AM - 9 AM, 5 PM - 9 PM Saturday 6 AM - 12 NN
By appointment
For toddlers, beginners, and recreational students: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 1 PM - 3 PM Saturday 9 AM - 11 AM 1 PM - 3 PM
For group enrollees: Php 3,050/four sessions (Valid for one month) Php 5,995/eight sessions (Valid for one month) Php 7,625/12 sessions (Valid for two months) Php 13,620/24 sessions (Valid for two months)
For beginners and recreational students: Tuesday and Thursday 4 PM - 6 PM
JIU-JITSU
Php 450/session Php 3,250/unlimited access (Valid for one month)
Php 550/session Php 3,500/unlimited access (Valid for one month)
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM
KENDO
Php 655/session Php 1,965/four sessions (Valid for two months) Php 3,705/eight sessions (Valid for four months)
Php 765/session Php 2,180/four sessions (Valid for two months) Php 4,140/eight sessions (Valid for four months)
KRAV MAGA
Php 495/session Php 3,820/eight sessions
Php 600/session Php 4,360/eight sessions
KYUDO
Php 710/session Php 2,725/four sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 765/session Php 2,835/four sessions (Valid for two months)
(Japanese way of the bow)
PERSONAL TRAINING
Red Avelino +63.917.706.0020 Philippine Futsal Academy, Confederation Futsal Level 1, Men's Futsal National Team Head Coach, Former Futsal National Team player
For individual enrollees: By appointment
For group enrollees: Php 2,725/four sessions (Valid for one month) Php 5,450/eight sessions (Valid for one month) Php 7,085/12 sessions (Valid for two months) Php 13,075/24 sessions (Valid for two months)
GYMNASTICS
Carlo Lazatin +63.920.928.7069
Gerald Pilapil +63.955.478.2980 4-time STCAA Gymnast, 3-time Palarong Pambansa Gymnast, Milo Little Olympic Gymnast, Batang Pinoy Gymnast, 3 Days Federation in Gymnastics Certificate
For teens: Saturday 7 AM - 9 AM
Wednesday 6 PM - 8 PM Sunday 4 PM - 6 PM
Tuesday and Thursday 6:30 PM - 8 PM
Sunday 9:30 AM - 12 PM Wednesday and Sundays 1 PM - 3:30 PM
Anthony Lim II +63.977.817.2525 Jiu-jitsu Brown Belt Holder Koji Igarashi +63.916.369.1218 5th Dan Holder - All Japan Kendo Federation, IGAKEN Ladies Coach 2nd place, All Asian Competition in Hong Kong Fred Nogales +63.917.118.0988 Krav Maga Philippines Chief Instructor, Certified under Krav Maga Global Graduate Level 5 Instructor Martial Jeudy +63.921.998.8577 San (Third) Dan Kyudo
Php 985/session Php 8,715/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 1,090/session Php 9,260/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
By appointment
Joey De Vera +63.947.732.2009 Bachelor's Degree in Physical Wellness, Spartan Race Super - Top 20, Aquathlon Vermosa Sports Hub - 8th placer, Running coach for Standard Insurance Com
Php 1,310/session Php 13,075/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 1,420/session Php 13,075/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
By appointment
Joms Blanco +63,936.953.1885 Fitness Instructor's Course Certified
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ACTIVITY
MEMBER RATE
GUEST RATE
SCHEDULE
TRAINER AND CONTACT
PILATES
Php 1,310/session Php 5,450/five sessions (Valid for one month) Php 10,895/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 1,420/session Php 7,085/five sessions (Valid for one month) Php 14,165/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
By appointment
Ian Hontanosas +63.917.791.5977 Certified STOT MAT, STOT Reformer
For individual enrollees: Php 1,525/session Php 13,075/ten sessions (Valid for six weeks)
For individual enrollees: Php 1,745/session Php 13,620/ten sessions (Valid for six weeks)
By appointment
For two enrollees (per person): Php 8,715/ten sessions (Valid for six weeks)
For two enrollees (per person): Php 8,715/ten sessions (Valid for six weeks)
Rheysonn Cornilla +63.920.977.8922 Sport Physical Therapist and Athletic Performance Coach
STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING/ PHYSIOTHERAPY
For kids’ classes: Tuesday and Thursday Every hour from 1 PM - 5 PM
SWIMMING (Bert Lozada Swim School – Kids’/Adult Class)
Php 655/session Php 5,995/ten sessions (Valid for ten weeks)
Php 1,200/session Php 6,540/ten sessions (Valid for ten weeks)
Saturday Every hour from 8 AM - 11 AM For adult classes: Tuesday and Thursday Every hour from 6 PM - 9 PM Saturday Every hour from 1 PM - 5 PM
SWIMMING (Bert Lozada Swim School - Swim Team)
SWIMMING (Bert Lozada Swim School - 1 on 1)
SWIMMING (Mermaid - 1 on 1)
SWIMMING
Php 5,450 (Valid for one month) Php 14,710 (Valid for three months) Php 26,145 (Valid for six months)
Php 5,995 (Valid for one month) Php 15,250 (Valid for three months) Php 26,690 (Valid for six months)
Monday - Friday 4 PM - 7 PM Saturday 6 PM - 8 PM
Php 1,090/session Php 3,270/five sessions (Valid for five weeks) Php 10,895/ten sessions (Valid for ten weeks)
Php 1,635/session Php 3,815/five sessions (Valid for five weeks) Php 11,440/ten sessions (Valid for ten weeks)
By appointment
Php 2,070/sessions
Php 2,455/sessions
Php 1,910/session/enrollee
Php 2,290/session/enrollee
Php 1,635/session/enrollee
Php 2,020/session/enrollee
(Streamline)
Php 5,995/eight sessions (Valid for 45 days)
Php 8,170/eight sessions (Valid for 45 days)
TAEKWONDO
Php 5,995/eight sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 7,085/eight sessions (Valid for two months)
TENNIS
Php 1,000/session Php 4,500/five sessions (Valid for two months) Php 8,700/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 1,500/session Php 4,900/five sessions (Valid for two months) Php 9,500/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 1,090/session Php 10,895/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 1,310/session Php 11,440/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
(Mermaid - Class of two)
SWIMMING (Mermaid - Class of three)
SWIMMING
TENNIS (Coaching)
TENNIS (Training)
TENNIS (Ball Boy)
Php 440/session Php 3,815/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 545/session Php 4,360/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 140/session Php 1,365/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Php 195/session Php 1,910/ten sessions (Valid for two months)
Antoinette Caampued +63.927.299.8928 Contact person
By appointment
Roxy Barrios +63.917.543.7699 Founder: Mermaid Institute/Swim Institute, Certified First Responder (First Aid/CPR/AED) from American Heart Association, AIDA 2 Freediver
Tuesday and Thursday 6 PM - 7 PM
Noy Basa +63.917.855.6692 Palarong Pambansa Gold Medalist, Fastest Filipino Ironman Finisher in Melbourne, Australia in 2015
Saturday 5 PM - 6:30 PM Sunday 10 AM - 11:30 AM
Saturday 10 AM - 11 AM
Donnie Geisler +63.917.584.0808 Two-time Olympian
Mafae Belasco +63.917.512.7251 BUSA Tennis Trainer, Multiple title holder (Australia, Philippines) Junel Ucag +63.919.626.2471 Certified USPTA Professional 2 Tennis Workshop ITF, 24 years USPTA (ten years hitting partner and trainer, 14 years coaching)
By appointment
All rates are inclusive of VAT and service charge Program availability subject to change based on sports regulations 20
Angelo Lozada COO - Bert Lozada Swim School, Former National Swim Team Coach, World Swimming Coaches Association Level 2 Coach, US Swim School Association Infant Aquatic Teacher
For inquiries: +63.917.799.8894 | +63.908.887.0910 | +63.2.8737.0000 loc. 104
Denmark Martizano +63.916.709.7908 Former Manila Polo Club Tennis Trainer Bryan Salumbides +63.927.082.2737 Former Manila Polo Club Tennis Trainer
N/A
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