Mabuhay Magazine, November 2013 by Eastgate Publishing Corporation

tRaVEl+liFEstYlE NOVEMBER 2013 MABUHAY NOVEMBER 2013

www.philippineairlines.com

Manila to london: non-stop MaNila tO lONdON: NON-stOp

ISSN 0217-6998

THE BEST OF HO CHI MINH | PUERTO PRINCESA IN 3 WAYS | CHRISTMAS IN DUBAI

PARIS SHINES AT

AZURE

THE

aris Hilton is radiant. Her sparkle sets hearts on fire and her shine is true and spectacular, most especially when she is by the shore. It is at the beach where she finds her balance, her sanctuary, her release – whether taking a dip in the cool waters, lounging on powdery white sand, sipping afternoon cocktails, bronzing her lovely skin, or grooving to the beats at the beachside bar. Century Properties brings all that Paris loves about the world’s best beaches to the Azure: the country’s first and only masterplanned urban residential community with a man-made beach and the exciting Paris Beach Club. Paris sure knows how to light it up – and now so can you! For a home in paradise right in the heart of the city, look no further than the Azure. Because as Paris knows, there’s nothing else like it in the world.

azure.com.ph THE AZURE is located on SLEX (West Service Road) between the Bicutan and Sucat Exits, directly adjacent to SM Bicutan – about a 15 minute drive to Alabang in the south, and 10 minutes to Makati in the north via the expanded skyway.

Azure Urban Resort Residences is being developed by Century Limitless Corporation, a member of the Century Properties Group. The design of the beach club by Paris Hilton does not in any way change the name of the project. In no way is Azure or Century related to Hilton Hotels Worldwide.

Contents V o l .

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| Mutya ng Pilipinas

Discover how the Mutya ng Pilipinas national pageant serves as a platform to highlight everything that is beautiful in the Filipina and the Philippines.

| Meet Me in Makati

Makati is buzzing this season and Tessa PrietoValdes shows us the best staycation spots.

Best of Ho Chi Minh City: | The Past and Present

Esther De La Cruz highlights the best of the old and the new in Vietnam’s largest city.

Character, Culture, and Chinese Dumplings

Dive deep into the cultural and food hubs of Taipei with Oz Mendoza.

Learn how this modern fleet will make a trip to the mid-east a magical one.

| Christmas in Dubai

| My London

| London Calling

| Take Me to the Fair

| Boracay: From the Local’s Eyes

| In the Land of the Giants

December lights up London with the coolest winter events, as listed by Daniel Allen.

Local kitesurfer Kathrin Borgwardt shares her favorite spots on the island.

Valerie Caulin treks to the north of Iloilo Province for an adventure beyond sun, sand, and sea.

| High as a Kite

| Puerto Princesa in Three Ways

Taking your holiday celebrations to the desert, Christina Fernandes paints a perfect Christmas scenery in Dubai.

Swiss-Filipina writer ESTHER DE LA CRUZ caught the travel bug early. Her childhood was punctuated with family trips around Thailand and to Malaysia. In 2006, she uprooted from Bangkok to study journalism in Manila before striking out again, this time for motorcycle-mad Ho Chi Minh City (on page 30), where she works in media relations for the hospitality industry. When she’s not typing away on her laptop, she enjoys tracking down hidden cafés and bars, trying out vegetarian recipes, and plotting her next adventure.

Jun Ventura gives us a sneak peek into the world’s biggest lifestyle fair: Ambiente.

PAL Returns to Mid-East with | New A330 Aircrafts

C O N T R I B U T O R S

2 0 1 3

Believe it or not, Ilocos Norte has been named the “best wind and wave combination in Southeast Asia” and Kim G. Ventura takes you along for a wild ride.

Whether it’s exploring on a motorbike, being awed by its natural wonders, or getting pampered, S.A. Pontillas shows you how to take on Puerto Princesa.

S.A. PONTILLAS is one of the editors of the now-defunct Bandillo ng Palawan, an awardwinning environmental newsweekly. He is a fellow of the 1997 Silliman and the 1998 UP national writers workshops. His travel writings have previously appeared in BusinessWorld Online and in several magazines. His interests outside writing include complex data visualization, application of network theory to real-world problems, and birding. He reports breaking stories for a Paris-based news agency. On page 68, he shares with us the latest trends in his city, Puerto Princesa. www.tumblr.com/ blog/grnpnsth

Gian Pangilinan has been living in London for a year now and he walks us through this city that has captured his heart.

SectionS

I I 10 I What’s Up

06 President’s Note 08 Editor’s Note

I 16 I In the News 20 I Milestones

12 Travel Log

I 78 I Last Frame 80 I PAL Pages

74 The Lighter Side

on the cover

An Old Icon, a New Name The Elizabeth Tower, or more commonly known as “Big Ben,” is London’s most iconic landmark. It was renamed last year in celebration of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee. Photo by Eurasia Press 4 I Mabuhay Magazine I October 2013

GIAN PANGILINAN recently made the move to the UK and is currently working in London with Swiss investment giant UBS AG. He has acclimatized well and is excited more than ever about his new life and all the good things that London offers. Since his move, he has traveled the south of England, Scotland, Spain, the Canary Islands, Sweden, and is looking forward to seeing Eastern and Mediterranean Europe soon. He shares his usual haunts in the city on page 46.

PRESIDENT’S NOTE

We’re Back in Europe This month, Philippine Airlines fulfills a longstanding goal by returning to one of its principal markets: Europe. It’s been 15 years since the PAL colors blazed across the continent’s skies on a commercial flight, and we’re quite excited to be back. London, the vibrant capital of the United Kingdom and one of the great cities of the world, is our first gateway in Europe, with a five-times-weekly service to Heathrow from November 4. This is just the start: We will be opening more destinations in the continent in the coming months. It is significant that our European comeback starts in London. The city was among the flag carrier’s pioneer destinations in 1947, when PAL created history as the first airline from Southeast Asia to fly to Europe. Back then, London was the terminus of an epic transcontinental journey that departed Manila once a week, stopped in five countries along the way, and landed in the British capital more than 44 hours later: the longest sector in the PAL timetable. Today, that same journey can be completed in less than 13 hours via PAL’s exclusive, direct service – the fastest way from Manila to London. And it’s even faster on the return flight to Manila: Just 12 and a half hours owing to the westerly tail wind. More importantly, PAL is the only airline that offers this convenient, nonstop service between the two cities. This is a major advantage for both business and leisure travelers. Instead of the 17 to 20 hours you spend on other airlines that make two or three stops, you can get to London in a third less the time, allowing you more quality time with associates or loved ones. Indeed, as our ads fittingly put it: “Leave Manila in the morning, make it to London in time for afternoon tea.” And you do so in style, onboard our luxurious Boeing 777-300ER aircraft featuring well-appointed seats, including lie-flat Recaro seat-beds in Business Class; state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment with Audio Video On Demand capability; gourmet cuisine by our team of international chefs; and PAL’s signature “at home” service that exude the warmth of Filipino hospitality at 30,000 feet. We’re thrilled to welcome you to Europe via PAL’s direct service to London Heathrow. Watch out for more destinations as we spread our wings across the continent. Mabuhay!

Ramon S. Ang

President & Chief Operating Officer Philippine Airlines

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EDITOR’S NOTE

London: Capital of Cool

Photo by Justin Ventura

borrowed this phrase from our contributor, Daniel Allen, as it aptly describes this truly global city. The timing of PAL to resume flights to London this month is perfect. For happenings, Daniel Allen provides a list of varied, exciting events, most of which are free, taking place this month and in December in London. For things important to most Filipinos, like shopping, dining, and nightlife, our Londonbased contributor, Gian Pangilinan, shares his personal favorite spots. When you visit London, you are bound to drop by and shop at Harrods with 330 departments, 32 restaurants, and where you can experience a beloved British tradition: afternoon tea. This daily dining ritual, taken between 3 and 5 p.m., involves sipping tea with sugar and milk accompanied with scones and conversing with your companion. It is one of those British traditions that help define their way of living as civil and refined.

London is a world city. If you watched the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2012 London Summer Olympics, you would have noticed that the British performers come from several races. Indeed, more than 50 percent of the city population traces their roots elsewhere than white British. But this is what makes London vibrant and dynamic. It draws from the best of this diversity, which propels it to be continuously evolving, interesting, colorful, and trendsetting. By the way, if you are into plays and musicals, currently playing in London are The Lion King, Mamma Mia, Much Ado About Nothing, and Wicked. In December, Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera will be showing. For concerts, Bruno Mars has one on November 21 while Bob Dylan will have one from November 26 to 28. Boyzone will also have their 20th Anniversary Tour on December 20.

LIVING IT UP IN LONDON: The casino at The Empire in Leicester Square. Photo courtesy of London on View.

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake recently struck our popular tourist island provinces of Cebu and Bohol last October 15. Fortunately, that day was a holiday and there were fewer casualties. Severely damaged though, were the centuries old churches of Bohol. If you want to help the victims and in the rebuilding of damaged structures, you can send your donations to the PAL Foundation (+632 851 2980 or +632 855 8000 local 2653). PAL is also providing free air transport of relief goods and airfares to certified medical volunteers. Meanwhile, Petron which is a sister company of PAL under San Miguel Corporation is accepting donations through any of its vast network of gasoline stations. The country’s leading daily newspaper, Philippine Star, has also activated a fund drive and know more how to send your donations on: contactus@philstar.com.ph. Other compassionate Philippine corporations, like telecommunication firms, have also gone into action in providing assistance.

Simeon S. Ventura, Jr. Editor-in-chief

For comments and suggestions, you can email me at jventura@eastgatepublishing.com.

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EDITORIAL

Charles C. Chante sImeon s. Ventura, Jr. lynette lee Corporal Jomar r. GalVeZ nyx s. martIneZ Jane Ira h. InquImboy anna CeCIlIa l. GoleZ rodel d. ambas alyanna G. sIson Jared Carl mIllan pIa r. oCampo

Publisher Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Art Director Senior Copy Editor Editorial Coordinators Copy Editor Graphic Designer Intern Creative Consultant

PhILIPPInE AIRLInEs

luCIo C. tan Chairman and Chief Executive Officer ramon s. anG President and Chief Operating Officer

EAsTGATE PUBLIshInG CORPORATIOn

Chairman of the Board Vice-Chairman President Vice-President, Operations Operations Manager Advertising Manager Marketing Communications Manager maan F. nItura Account Manager nerIe sIlVestre-Correa Accounting Officer leah l. reGalIZa Executive Assistants stephanIe C. oentoro lorIe m. FernandeZ Business Services Consultant eFren C. CaraG Legal Counsel Manila, Phils. Charles C. Chante luIs b. quIsumbInG sImeon s. Ventura Jr. sammy l. Chan KIm G. Ventura louIe d.s. Gamboa Jane Ira h. InquImboy

EASTGATE WEBSITE: www.eastgatepublishing.com MABUHAY FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/MabuhayMagazine MABUHAY TWITTER: @mabuhaymagazine PAL WEBSITE: www.philippineairlines.com MOBILE SITE: www.philippineairlines.mobi FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/flyPAL TWITTER: www.twitter.com/flyPAL Mabuhay Magazine is published monthly for Philippine Airlines by Eastgate Publishing Corporation. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2013 by Philippine Airlines. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed in this magazine are the writers’ and not necessarily endorsed by Philippine Airlines or Eastgate Publishing Corporation. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject advertising and editorial material. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and artwork will not be returned unless accompanied by self-addressed, stamped envelopes. Publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Address all correspondence to: Mabuhay Magazine, Eastgate Publishing Corp., Rm. 704 Prestige Tower Condominium, F. Ortigas Jr. Road., Ortigas Center, Pasig City. 1605; Tel: (+632) 635-7348, 635-9067, 633-4004 to 09; Fax (+632) 635-9221; E - mail: info@eastgatepublishing.com; Mabuhay is authorized in the Philippines under PCFM Cr No. 388. Color separated and printed in the Philippines by THE HOUSE PRINTERS. For inquiries on advertising, please e-mail adsales@eastgatepublishing.com or call (trunkline) +632 633 4004 loc. 14 or 15 and (direct line) +632 635 7882.

ADvERTIsInG REPREsEnTATIvEs

HONG KONG/CHINA EASTERN INFLIGHT MAGAZINE PRODUCTIONS Rita Chow Tel: (852) 2823 1080 Fax: (852) 2352 6204 E-mail: rita@cinmedia.com JAPAN ADVERTISING COMMUNICATIONS, INC. Akiyoshi Ojima Tel: 81-(0) 3 3261 4591 E-mail: ojima@media-jac.co.jp KOREA JES MEDIA, INC. Young-Seoh Chinn Tel: (822) 481 3411/3 Fax: (822) 481 3414 E-mail: jesmedia@unitel.co.kr AUSTRALIA FREE SPORTS PRESS Peter Anderson Tel: (612) 9789 5003 Fax: (612) 9789 5004 E-mail: peterando3@ gmail.com SWITZERLAND IMM INFLIGHT MEDIA MARKETING Marcel Wernli Tel: (+41) 061-319 9090 Fax: (+41) 061-319 9095 Website: www.inflight-media.ch E-mail: inflight-media@swissonline.ch USA LEE & STEEL INC. Michael Lee Tel: (203) 445 8900 Fax: (203) 445 1885 E-mail: medialee@aol.com UAE DESTINy MEDIA Aleem Aziz Tel: (9714) 297 6978 Fax: (9714) 297 6988 E-mail: mediaone@emirates.net.ae UK MAJOR MEDIA David Hammond Tel: + 44 020 8467 8884 Fax: + 44 020 8467 5558 E-mail: majormedi@btopenworld.com We, at Philippine Airlines, are happy to have you on board. Please sit back and relax, and allow us to make your flight enjoyable. For your own safety and convenience, please observe the regulations listed on the back pages. “Mabuhay” is a Filipino verb in the form of a command: “Live!” It is also a wish: “May you live!” Whoever says it wishes you the great gift of a long and full life. It is both a blessing and a lusty cheer. “Mabuhay” (ma-boo-high) is such a large word that it lends itself to a wide number of secondary uses: Welcome, Congratulations, Thanks, Godspeed, Hello, Good Luck, Cheers, Posit, Sante, Viva, Kambei, Aloha, and many other expressions of goodwill. All these are a part of life, but it is the gift of life that makes them possible. “Mabuhay,” in other words, is an invocation and a celebration of life itself.

WHAT’S UP

THAILAND

LOI KRATHONG NOVEMBER 17 BANGKOK

When the moon shines on the Chao Phraya River, people gather to float krathong, lotusshaped lanterns made from banana leaves and decorated with flowers, asking for good luck and forgiveness. An ancient tradition, Loi Krathong today is celebrated with added spectacles of fireworks, beauty contests, and competitions for the biggest and grandest krathong. www.loikrathong.net

PHILIPPINES

DUBAI

MANILA+BORACAY LATIN DANCE FESTIVAL NOVEMBER 21–28 MANILA AND BORACAY

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW NOVEMBER 5–9 DUBAI INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTER, DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTER

Get ready to spice up your month for the country’s hottest Latin dance festival. Aficionados as well as celebrated and multiawarded Latin dancers from Asia, Europe, and the Americas will once again gather for this series of parties and workshops. Manila will host a world salsa competition for four days, which will culminate in the island of Boracay. www.manilalatindancefestival.com

VENTHRILLA IN MANILA NOVEMBER 15 AND 16 CULTURAL CENTER OF THE PHILIPPINES, PASAY CITY

Join three of the country’s most popular ventriloquists as they take you on adventures throughout Manila. Using famous landmarks like Divisoria and the University Belt, Ony Carcamo, Wanlu, and Ruther Urquia perform to tell stories of youngsters studying in Manila. www.culturalcenter.gov.ph

UNITED REPUBLIQ FESTIVAL NOVEMBER 21 MALL OF ASIA CONCERT GROUNDS, PASAY CITY

One of Manila’s hottest clubs, Republiq, will host what may be the most epic outdoor EDM festival in recent years. Put your dancing shoes on and get ready to ride the wave as DJs Axwell, Nicky Romero, NO_ID and more will be spinning sounds until you can’t dance anymore. www.facebook.com/ requbliq.club

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Car fans, get ready to be dazzled by the largest motor show in the Middle East. This annual motor show will welcome over 100,000 motoring enthusiasts and global manufacturers who will unveil new models of cars and motorcycles from the world’s best brands. www.dubaimotorshow.com

November dazzles with an assortment of parties and grand pre-holiday affairs.

UNITED KINGDOM OXFORD STREET CHRISTMAS LIGHTS NOVEMBER 5 OXFORD STREET, LONDON

Just as the holidays are about to begin, several streets around London turn up the magic and turn on their Christmas lights for a festive display. One of London’s premiere shopping streets, Oxford Street, will call revelers and shoppers once again to witness the transformation. And keep an eye out for the celebrity guest who’s invited to switch on the lights (last year, British pop singer Robbie Williams had the honors).

HONG KONG LAN KWAI FONG FESTIVAL NOVEMBER 23 AND 24 LAN KWAI FONG, HONG KONG

Every November, the streets of Lan Kwai Fong turn into a world of colorful lights, street dancers, and over 80 stalls serving food, wine, beer, and cocktails from around the world. Parade performers, acrobats, and interactive games will keep all ages entertained. www. lankwaifong.com/lan-kwai-fong-carnival

special promotional feature.

A HolidAy MAde in PArAdise This holiday season, multi-award-winning wellness resort The Farm at San Benito, offers an all-inclusive package for travelers looking for an escape from today’s stressful environment. “Balance! Wellness Holiday” lets you enjoy exquisite organic food, the healing power of touch, the wonder of modern science, its famed wellness activities, and The Farm’s luxurious villas for five days at a very competitive price. Their most exclusive villa, The Lakan, will also be launched this month. Bask in ultimate privacy with its two bedrooms, walled-in gardens with koi ponds, maid’s quarters, and a heated swimming pool with hydrojets and relaxation bale. A healthy and luxurious Christmas? It’s possible at The Farm. Rates for the four-night/five-day Balance! Wellness Holiday package start at Php53,000++ per person on quadruple sharing. www.thefarmatsanbenito.com

Golf Heaven: Anvaya Cove Anvaya Cove, the first leisure residential project from Ayala Land Inc., recently had the soft opening for the highly anticipated Anvaya Cove Golf & Sports Club, a members club whose 18-hole Golfplan design many view as a "coming of age" golf project for the Philippines and its fast-growing economy. Located two hours west of Manila, on an extraordinary seaside property south of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Anvaya Cove Golf & Sports Club was sited, designed and constructed with clear ambitions—not merely to be the nation's best course, but the first Filipino course to be considered truly world-class. The foundation of any such ambitions is enabled by the natural terrain and location. At Anvaya Cove, the property's 3.5 kilometers of coastline, 130 meters of elevation change, and long, sweeping views across Subic Bay to the mountains of Bataan all meet or exceed the elite standard. 12 12 II Mabuhay Mabuhay Magazine Magazine II July November 2013 2013

TRAVEL LOG

ExcEllEnt thai Flavors There is plenty of good food to try at Celadon. A foodie’s paradise, it is the go-to place for lip-smacking Thai cuisine and a quick leaf through the menu will lead to many exciting and unique options. The pomelo salad was juicy and flavorful, with strong tantalizing aromas that will give a refreshing lift. The red curry chicken is rich, delicious and studded with juicy mangosteen, requiring you little work to enjoy its subtle goodness. The soft-shelled crab’s moist flesh and crunchy exterior is a wonderful textural contrast and is very addictive, showcasing Chef Cheryl Pineda’s proficiency with this creative dish. A cozy, casual joint that is decently priced with excellent size portions, Celadon is a gem for authentic Thai cuisine that family and friends can enjoy. Ground Floor, Power Plant Mall, Lopez Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati City - Ernest Gala

ripped in 60

on staGE: tEatro PorvEnir

Gold’s Gym Philippines, the country’s leading authority in fitness, recently launched the revolutionary Rip:60 Training System with no less than the founder of Rip:60 himself, Jeremy Strom. Rip:60 is an innovative new training tool that guarantees a ripped physique in 60 days, in less than 60 minutes a day. The Rip:60™ trainer uses gravity and body weight as resistance, with a complete system that includes 60 days of progressive workouts that give guaranteed results.

To celebrate the sesquicentennial of national hero, Andres Bonifacio, Dulaang UP stages Teatro Porvenir, a Palanca-winning play written by Tim Dacanay and directed by Alexander Cortez. A mix of history, mythology, literature, and religion, the play re-imagines the revolutionary leader Bonifacio as an artist. The show runs from November 20 to December 8, 2013 at the Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero Theater, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City. +632 9261349, +632 9818500 local 2449, and 4337840

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Stella Adler in the Philippines

Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) partners again with the Stella Adler Studio of Acting, NY to provide professional training for Filipino actors. The 12-day class explores the language and principles of Stella Adler’s approach to acting to develop the actor's intellect, body, voice, spirit, and imagination. Techniques in acting for film and television will also be included. The class runs from December 9 to 20, 2013 at the PETA Theater Center in Quezon City. http://petatheater.com/

Old-World luxury in Dumaguete Doing business or simply relaxing in Dumaguete? Either way, staying in a centrally located hotel is desirable. La Residencia Al Mar is right on bustling Rizal Boulevard, the city’s historic heart and favorite promenade. Silliman University, Dumaguete’s top attraction, is a mere block away. Built in 1901, the hotel was once the stately mansion of one of the city’s prominent families. Today it has been modernized into Dumaguete’s leading boutique hotel, while retaining its Old World charm. It boasts 17 well-appointed rooms and suites, including some with balconies looking out to the bay; business center with free, unlimited Wi-Fi Internet access; and the city’s premier finedining steakhouse, Don Atilano, and Japanese restaurant, Wakagi. www. laresidencialmar.com – Celia Soliman

Complex Beauty The Harry Winston Ocean Collection introduces, for the first time, a combination of two sophisticated complications in a single timepiece: the Harry Winston Ocean Tourbillon Jumping Hour. The tourbillon in the Ocean Tourbillon Jumping Hour has a very unusual design. Instead of being located on the back of the movement plate, it is suspended from two gleaming, hand-chamfered steel bridges which seem to hold it free in space—seeming to move with no apparent mechanical connection to the rest of the timepiece. Only sharp eyes will uncover its secret: the tourbillon is driven by a wheel geared to its outer circumference, which is nearly completely concealed by the minute track of the dial.

Beauty by Nature Garnier is known not only for creating quality cosmetic products, they are also known for harnessing the power of natural ingredients. Their newest innovation for the “Light Complete” product line is just that: quality and nature’s power. Ten times more effective than regular vitamin C, the combination of Snow Pine White Source and Pure Lemon Essence can significantly reduce the appearance of stubborn dark spots, acne marks and sun freckles.

Seeing Sounds

Marshall Headphones pays homage to the golden age of Rock n’ Roll with the Stanmore compact stereo speaker. Equipped with analog interaction knobs, a vintage looking front fret, brass details, and the iconic Marshall script logo, Stanmore offers the aesthetics of the legendary Marshall equipment but produces the modern, crisp sound of high-quality sound system. It can also be connected to various devices: from Bluetooth and Apple TV to the standard 3.5mm and RCA inputs. Available in the Philippines at Beyond the Box, Digital Hub, Digital Walker, Egghead, iStudio, and Quicksound.

Supersize Health There is no such thing as the “king of vegetables,” but malunggay (Moringga oleifera) might as well be it. Malunggay, in a research conducted by Trees for Life International, was found out to contain “more vitamin A than carrots, more calcium than milk, more iron than spinach, more vitamin C than oranges and more Potassium than bananas.” And Atienza Naturale found a way to formulate malunggay in its purest, unadulterated form, which comes in 500 mg capsules. www.atienzanaturale.com

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IN THE NEWS Our ISlaNdS

Filipinas Reign supReme The beauty and charm of the Philippines prove to be finest in the world when two Filipina hopefuls were crowned the winners in their respective contests. Last September, Mutya Datul became the first Filipina and the first Asian to win the Miss Supranational title. The 21-year-old Isabela native was also awarded Miss Personality during the pageant. The Miss World 2013 crown, meanwhile, was handed to Megan Young, making her the first Filipina to hold the title. These recent victories make the Philippines the first ever country to win all five major beauty pageants: Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss International, Miss Earth, and Miss Supranational.

this YeaR’s oscaRs Race to FeatuRe Filipino stoRies Two foreign-produced films featuring Filipino actors will bid for the Best Foreign Language Film award in next year’s Academy Awards. Crime drama Metro Manila, starring John Arcilla and Jake Macapagal, is the United Kingdom’s entry. Meanwhile, Ilo Ilo featuring Angela Bayani as a nanny of a middle-class family in Singapore is the country’s submission for the Oscars. The Philippines’ own entry, meanwhile, is Transit, a film about a teen forced into hiding in Israel. 16 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

potteR’s magic casts a Filipino spell The first in the phenomenal series of books by British author J.K. Rowling has been translated into Filipino. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: The Filipino Edition was translated by Palanca winner Becky Bravo and published by Lampara Publishing House. The renowned publisher has also translated several international bestsellers such as The Hunger Games trilogy and the Twilight saga.

pinoY pool masteRs emeRge WoRld champions Master pool duo Dennis Orcollo and Lee Vann Corteza recently bagged their World Cup championship after beating Dutch pair Neils Feijen and Nick Van der Berg, 10-8, in a match held in London. Third and fourth ranked Corteza and Orcollo won US$60,000 (Php2.6 million) in cash prize.

space, the Filipino’s Final FRontieR After screening over 28,000 applications from all over the country, it came down to two at the end of the AXE Apollo National Challenge. Evan Rey Datuin of Dasmariñas, Cavite, and Mario Mendoza Jr. of Taytay, Rizal, will join the international AXE Apollo Space Camp in Orlando, Florida, to undergo training, which will determined who could be the first Filipino to be sent to space.

IN THE NEWS BEST OF THE BEST

Thailand

Asia’s Top Climbing Spots

Malaysia

Asia’s Best Diving Spots

asia’s Top CliMBing spoTs 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Railay and Tonsai, Thailand Chiang Mai, Thailand yangshuo, China haMpi, india halong Bay, VieTnaM

Source: www.nytimes.com

indonesia

World’s Best Surf Spots

asia’s BesT diVing spoTs

WoRld’s BesT suRf spoTs

1. pulau sipadan, Malaysia 2. siMilan islands, Thailand 3. deRaWan islands, easT KaliManTan, indonesia 4. Raja aMpaT islands, indonesia 5. TuBBaTaha Reef naTional paRK, philippines

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

uluWaTu and KuTa, Bali, indonesia Cloud 9, siaRgao island, philippines Tofino, VanCouVeR island, Canada suRf pool, uniTed aRaB eMiRaTes fulong BeaCh, TaiWan

Source: www.cnn.com

Rafael nadal, seRena WilliaMs ConqueR u.s. open Seasoned tennis player Serena Williams beat Belarus’ Victoria Azarenka during the women’s finals of the 2013 U.S. Open, giving the American her 17th Grand Slam title. On the men’s side, Spaniard Rafael Nadal reigned supreme against Novak Djokovic for the men’s title. The match marked the 36th time that the two faced off, and Nadal’s victory is his 13th Grand Slam title.

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The sCienCe of MeMoRy Now for something straight out of Hollywood, researchers from the Scripps Research Institute have found a way to erase dangerous drugassociated memories in mice and rats without affecting other more benign memories. According to research leader Courtney Miller, “not unlike in the movie Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, we’re looking for strategies to selectively eliminate evidence of past experiences related to drug abuse or a traumatic event. Our study shows we can do just that in mice.”

aussie CiTies soMe of WoRld’s MosT liVaBle It’s certainly a good day in Australia as four of its cities placed in the top 10 of the Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2013 Global Livability Survey. Melbourne, for the third time in a row, is the world’s most livable city, followed by Vienna, the lone European city to make the top 10. Adelaide, Sydney, and Perth ranked 6th, 7th, and 9th, respectively. The survey ranked 140 cities based on their scores on stability, health care, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure.

Hi-TecH HoTels of THe fuTure QT SYDNEY, AUSTRAlIA

It’s the Internet age and hotels are stepping up their game in the tech front. Australia’s QT Sydney is one of the hotels looking to heighten the hotel game with tech innovations. Expect digital art, light installations, HD video, and elevators that play tunes according to the number of passengers. www.qtsydney.com.au

THE PENINSUlA HONG KONG

At the Peninsula in Hong Kong, guests will only have to lift one finger for the ultimate stay. Each room has custom-made tablets, pre-programmed in the appropriate language for accessing movies and city guides. Touchscreen panels adjust lighting, call housekeeping, and turn on an electronic “do not disturb” sign so you’ll never have to get out of bed. www. peninsula.com/Hong_Kong

BEllAGIO lAS VEGAS, NEVADA

The Bellagio is not only a Las Vegas landmark— it’s also a tech marvel of a hotel. It uses Cisco CleanAir technology, which adapts the wireless signal to combat interference, and with over 330 routers spread out, you’ll never have to worry about being offline. Another tech-savvy bonus: each of the 40-inch HDTV screens in every room allows you to stream video from your devices. www.bellagio.com

Bambu Indah, Bali, Indonesia IllUSTRATION BY Claudine Delfin

GARDEN COURT HOTEl, DOWNTOWN PAlO AlTO, CAlIfORNIA

At this Silicon Valley hotel, it’s no surprise that each guest can tap into a 50-Mbps connection over Wi-Fi, 52-inch HDTVs with 30 HDTV channels, iPod, and iPhone docking stations and two phone lines. Don’t forget to catch a ride on an Uber app car service vehicle for your round trip to nearby San Francisco. www.gardencourt.com

OPUS VANCOUVER

Upon arriving at this hotel, you’ll be greeted with the usual welcome drink—and an iPad for use during your stay. You’ll also find a Samsung Galaxy SIII in your room for unlimited calls and Internet access. Each room also features iPad docking stations, iHome DVD/CD players with surround sound, heated tiled floors, and up to 46-inch Sharp Aquos TVs. vancouver.opushotel.com

on THe Web

WWW.TRIPMOBA.COM

This first Philippine-focused online travel engine allows you to book flights and hotels, compare air fares, and purchase unique travel experiences in just one user interface.

WWW.WHATSBUSY.COM APPlE GOlD VS. SAMSUNG GOlD After Apple launched its gold-colored iPhone 5S in September, Samsung announced the Gold Edition Galaxy S4, which will come in either gold pink or gold brown. The South Korean telecom giant introduced the limited-edition phone via its Samsung Mobile Arabia Twitter feed.

SAINTHOOD fOR POPES JOHN PAUl II AND JOHN XXIII Pope Francis announced that Popes John Paul II and John XXIII will be canonized on April 27, 2014. Polish John Paul II, who led the Catholic Church from 1978 to 2005, was the first nonItalian pope in 400 years, while Pope John XXIII, pontiff from 1958 to 1963, called the Second Vatican Council, which led the Church to transformation and progress.

Calculate wait times at airports and other hotspots with this site. The tool uses traffic information and weather conditions, among others, to give you a heads-up on a location.

WWW.UNIQUE-GUIDES.COM

Unique is a series of video and interactive “microguides” that present unique locations in some of the world’s great cities.

WWW.IWANNAGOTHERE.COM

This site serves up specials such as romantic ideas for trips and Europe on a budget, as well as presenting you photos for inspiration on your next trip. www.philippineairlines.com I 19

MILESTONES

THE FIRST U.S.– MANILA FLIGHT For more than 30 years after the United States took control of the Philippine Islands, its only link with its Pacific colony had been sea travel. This changed on November 22, 1935, when the tale-off of the Pan American World Airways, China Clipper, was witnessed by a crowd of around 125,000 gathered on the shores of San Francisco Bay to celebrate the first transpacific commercial flight in history. Commanded by Captain Edwin C. Musick, the China Clipper soared over the Golden Gate Bridge and 59 hours and four stopovers later reached its destination, Manila, establishing the first air-link between the Philippines and the United States.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS NOVEMBER 3, 1953

Award-winning Filipino actress Vilma Santos-Recto was born in Bamban, Tarlac. Aside from an illustrious career in showbiz, she served as mayor of Lipa City and is currently the governor of Batangas.

NOVEMBER 27, 1932

Described by Jovito Salonga as “the greatest president we never had,” Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr. was born in Tarlac, Pampanga. His political career began as mayor of Concepcion, Tarlac, and he later went on to become one of the leading figures of opposition against then president Ferdinand Marcos. His assassination in 1983 spurred the People Power Revolution.

NOVEMBER 30, 1863

Andres Bonifacio, the Father of the Philippine Revolution and founder of the Katipunan, was born in Tondo, Manila. Bonifacio and his fellow Katipuneros tore their cedulas (community tax certificates) as a symbolic gesture of their defiance of Spanish rule and the start of Philippine Revolution against Spain.

NOVEMBER 6, 1861

The game of basketball was born with James Naismith. He wrote the original basketball rulebook, founded the University of Kansas basketball program, and lived to see basketball adopted as an Olympic demonstration sport in 1904. The Canadian sport innovator is also credited for introducing the first football helmet.

NOVEMBER 12, 1929

Princess Grace of Monaco, also known as Grace Kelly, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Kelly won an Oscar for Best Actress for her role in The Country Girl, and then left her Hollywood life in 1969 to marry Prince Rainier.

NOVEMBER 14, 1840

A pioneer of the Impressionist movement, French painter Claude Monet was born in Paris. The term Impressionism is derived from the title of his painting “Impression, Sunrise” (Impression, soleil levant).

LOCAL NOVEMBER 7, 1898

After the Negrenses’ revolt against the Spanish authorities, the liberators of Negros assembled in Bacolod to promulgate a constitution and establish the República Cantonal de Negros (Cantonal Republic of Negros). History has it that the revolutionaries, led by General Juan Araneta from Bago and General Aniceto Lacson from Talisay, were actually carrying fake arms consisting of rifles carved out of palm fronds and cannons of rolled bamboo mats painted black.

NOVEMBER 12, 1979

On this day 15-year-old Mimilanie Laurel Marquez, widely known as Melanie Marquez, won the Miss International beauty pageant held in Tokyo, Japan. Marquez is one of four Filipino women who have so far won the title since the beauty contest began in 1960.

NOVEMBER 21, 1849

Then Governor-General Narciso Clavería y Zaldúa issued the famous “Claveria Decree,” which called for the adaptation of a standardized record of surnames for Indios (what Filipinos are called during the Spanish times). The list was based on a catalog of Spanish surnames, as well as the names of places, plants, animals, minerals, art products, and character traits, both in the native languages and in Spanish.

INTERNATIONAL NOVEMBER 5, 1605

Guy Fawkes’ Gunpowder Plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament was discovered by authorities. Today, Guy Fawkes Night is commemorated throughout Britain with bonfires and fireworks displays.

NOVEMBER 2, 1947

The first and only flight of Howard Hughes’ “Spruce Goose” flying boat occurred in Long Beach Harbor, California. It flew about a mile at an altitude of 70 feet. Costing US$25 million, the 200ton, eight-engine aircraft, also known as Hughes’ Hercules, was at that time the world’s largest. It was designed, built, and flown by Hughes himself.

NOVEMBER 4, 1922

King Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered in the Valley of the Kings near Luxor, Egypt, by British archaeologist Howard Carter. The tomb was found nearly intact, and contained numerous priceless items now exhibited in the National Museum in Cairo. The opening of King Tut’s tomb by Carter’s team is widely regarded to have launched the modern era of Egyptology. 20 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

special promotional feature.

CITY SCENE

A DOSE OF HISTORY: Located in the Makati central business district, the Ayala Museum is one of the country’s most visited museums. Its highlight are the dioramas that showcase Philippine history.

MEET ME IN MAKATI TESSA PRIETO-VALDES knows best than to join the peak travel season. Here, she suggests staycation options in buzzing Makati City.

ith its eclectic mix of a highly cosmopolitan culture and various entertainment sights, Makati City is a surprisingly great place to have a relaxing vacation. The city is the financial center of the Philippines and also a major commercial hub in Asia. More than that, though, it is now also a social and cultural nexus. Makati is home to a large number of art galleries, usually found in the major malls around the city or perhaps in the lower-rent yet chic district around Chino Roces Avenue. The galleries feature contemporary local artists, and many of these budding talents have been able to penetrate the global art scene, including a handful whose works have 26 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

been featured in established art auctions such as Sotheby’s. My favorite museum in the city is the Ayala Museum. Located adjacent to the Greenbelt Mall, the museum is now the home of the Filipino Heritage Library, the country’s first electronic library and oneJoin the Makati Staycation promo by registering at www. makeitmakati.com/ MakatiStaycation.

stop electronic research center. The highlight of the Ayala Museum is its collection of gold jewelry from the country’s

pre-Spanish era. This collection is at par with the ancient gold jewelry collections of many world-class museums. Another Ayala Museum favorite, and one that thousands of schoolchildren visit each year, is its dioramas, which capture the history of the country in miniature. Augmenting these displays, there is now another area showing the various political stages of the country and the descriptions of each leader during those times. Although it is a fairly young city, Makati has quite a number of historical sites. The Church of Sts. Peter and Paul was first built in 1620, the first parish church of the town. The Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church, also know as the Guadalupe Ruins, was built by

ALL IN THE CITY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) the tour map of the Makati Staycation promo; one of the dioramas at Ayala Museum; Holiday Inn & Suites’ Flavors Restaurant; Eugene Tamesis (Director for Marketing & Sales, Raffles and Fairmont Makati), Ailea Zialcita (VP, MasterCard), the author Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Mel Ignacio (AVP, Ayala Land), and Christian Pirodon (Area Manager, International Hotels Group Phils.)

the Augustinian fathers in 1629. These two important sites are part of the Rediscovery Makati tour now being touted by the city government under its “Make It Happen, Make It Makati” promotion. Makati’s nightlife is bustling, with dance clubs and live entertainment centers. Since all Filipinos love singing, there are numerous karaoke places to sing your heart away. And there is no disputing that the city is home to the country’s best restaurants. My favorite Filipino restaurants are Fely J’s, Abe, and Milky Way. There are countless 28 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

Japanese and Korean restaurants as well. With all these highlights, a vacation in the city can truly be a memorable affair. To increase its tourist traffic, Makati has launched the “Makati Staycation” promotion, in partnership with MasterCard and four top hotels in town—the InterContinental Manila, the Holiday Inn & Suites, the Fairmont Makati, and the Raffles Makati. The “Makati Staycation” gives MasterCard users special discounts and perks in the four participating hotels until December 31, 2013.

There are also various other mid-priced hotels in the city, which gives visitors great hotel rooms at affordable prices. Among the latest crop of new mid-range hotels is the Y2 Hotel along Makati Avenue. Its yin-andyang interiors give the Y2 an Asian feel. Indeed, with so many things going on in Makati City, it is truly the place to visit in the Philippines today. n Follow @tessavaldes on Twitter or visit www.tessaprietovaldes.com.

TOP PICKS

WHEN TO VISIT: From July to September, Ho Chi Minh City experiences almost-daily showers and storms. Visitors prefer the months from October to March. Bear in mind that northern parts of Vietnam can be frigid in December and January, so pack accordingly.

THE BEST OF HO CHI MINH CITY, PAST AND PRESENT Ho Chi Minh City–based ESTHER DE LA CRUZ reveals the charms of Vietnam’s largest city.

START THE DAY RIGHT Vietnam is the world’s second largest exporter of coffee, and the potent local robusta beans play a starring role in social gettogethers all across Ho Chi Minh City. Soak up the ambience at La Fenetre Soleil, a bright, casual café located in a renovated French building overlooking the leafy intersection of Pasteur and Ly Tu 30 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

Ben Thanh Market

Trong. La Fenetre’s funky furniture and romantic décor are even lovelier after dark. Alternatively, check out the best of contemporary cafés in the city at L’usine on Dong Khoi. Treat yourself to one of the café’s famous cupcakes and stop to browse L’usine’s (www.lusinespace.com) retail space for a look at lines from top local designers, trendy accessories, and inspired stationery. BE READY TO BARGAIN Ho Chi Minh City can’t compare with, say, Manila’s shopping malls, in experience or variety, but you’re guaranteed to find many good reasons to reach for your wallet nonetheless. Take a stroll down Dong Khoi, and you’ll pass tailors, art galleries, leather artisans, two posh shopping malls, propaganda poster stores, fashion boutiques, and watch dealers. Known as Rue Catinat during the French colonial period, Dong Khoi has always been the center of commercial gravity in Ho Chi Minh City.

PHOTOS BY Frederik Wissink

orning in Ho Chi Minh City is something of a ritual. Makeshift cafés unfold onto the pavements, vendors brew coffee and serve steaming bowls of noodles, friends chat and read the paper under the trees, and legions of elderly citizens make their way home—arms swinging—from their morning exercise. Ho Chi Minh City may be surging headlong into the future, but its long-held traditions and colonial vestiges anchor the city strongly to its past. It’s this melding of youth and age, oriental and continental, that gives the city its distinct character. Discover the best of this fascinating destination with our picks from both sides of Ho Chi Minh City.

TOP PICKS

TRAVELLER TIPS BRAVE THE STREETS: Ho Chi Minh City’s notorious motorcycle traffic is really not that scary. Strike out in the sea of motorcycles—be clear about your pace and intention—and you’ll find they don’t stop but rather flow around you. DON’T BE SCAMMED: To avoid being scammed, stick only with Mai Linh and Vinasun taxis. On arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, take the lift to the second-floor departure area to find a line of these reliable cabs.

PHOTO BY PHOTOS BYDaniel Frederik Allen Wissink

EVERYDAY SCENES: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) CucGachQuan Restaurant; native products sold along Dong Khoi Street; a Ben Thanh Market stall selling local food; Dong Khoi Street

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CHILL OUT ZONES: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) Old world charm at Park Hyatt Saigon; May Restaurant; Kara Salon & Spa at Caravelle Hotel

If you enjoy a good haggle, head to Saigon Square 1 or 2, where everything (including authenticity) is debatable. Look in at Taka Plaza for cheap dresses, shoes, accessories, and more. The iconic Ben Thanh Market sells souvenirs such as lacquer ware boxes, mother-of-pearl chopstick sets and rattan coasters at rock bottom prices. Just be prepared for the market’s notoriously brusque customer service. TREAT YOUR TASTE BUDS Ho Chi Minh City is a food-lovers’ paradise, a chock-full of affordable restaurants from every corner of the globe. But chances are you aren’t here for the international fare. Vietnamese food is characterized by delicate flavors, use of fresh, healthy ingredients, and lots of rustic tabletop preparation. You can’t go wrong by booking at table at CucGachQuan (www.cucgachquan.com.vn/ en) or May Restaurant (www.may-cloud. com), both located in beautifully renovated homes and both in District 1. If you enjoy a somewhat rambunctious, al fresco environment with loads of grilled seafood, cold beer, and great finger food,

check out HaiLua at 11 Ngo Van Nam. Families may enjoy the hands-on approach at Wrap and Roll’s (www.wrap-roll.com) bright, clean restaurants, where diners can sample any number of Vietnam’s famous DIY spring rolls and intriguing sauces. SLIP INTO A SPA Few people outside Vietnam are aware of how varied and competitive the country’s spa industry is. An hour-long massage with steam and sauna goes for US$15–20 in most decent downtown spas; and the Vietnamese foot massages—which really include arm, neck, and head rubs—are the perfect interlude after a hot afternoon of sightseeing. For a full day of pampering, call up L’Apothiquaire (www.lapothiquaire.com), a French day spa set in a gorgeous villa just outside the city center. Put the finishing touches on a luxurious day of pampering with a refreshing swim and a mani-pedi at Kara Salon & Spa at the Caravelle Hotel (www.caravellehotel.com). If you only have an hour or two to spare, relax at MiuMiu 2 (http://miumiuspa.com) on Chu Manh Trinh Street.

SNAG A ROOM WITH A VIEW Visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City. There are atmospheric river view hotels, tiny boutique gems, modern chain hotels, and all manner of budget lodging right downtown. On the “splurge” end of the scale are the impeccable colonial-style rooms at the Park Hyatt Saigon (saigon. park.hyatt.com), a five-star hotel located in historic Lam Son Square and boasting a delicious breakfast buffet and stylish bar, 2 Lam Son. For something a little cozier, quieter, and easier on the wallet, try the charming Ma Maison (www.mamaison.vn) boutique hotel in District 3. Traveling on a budget? Clean, good-value rooms for less than $20 per night line the backpacker streets of Bui Vien and Pham Ngu Lao. n

PAL flies between Manila and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) daily. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. www.philippineairlines.com I 33

ART IN THE CITY

CHARACTER, CULTURE, AND CHINESE DUMPLINGS OZ MENDOZA takes a stroll in two of Taipei’s most happening spots. THE PAST, RESURRECTED: With a rich history and background, Huashan 1914 offers a mix between the old and the new, the traditional and the modern; making it the ideal place for Taipei’s cultural goings on. Café Lumiere is just one of the many interesting spaces found in Huashan 1914.

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be confronted with some piece of ribald (and amusing) street art, a reminder of the anarchic spirit that raised Huashan 1914 out of urban decay. In 1997, the Golden Bough Theatre troupe took over these abandoned remnants of the Taipei Wine Factory, which had been lying idle a full 10 years. The troupe fixed up a small portion of the factory as a space for staging experimental theater performances. Authorities soon caught on and put a stop to that, but the old wine factory had already made a mark on Taipei’s cultural map. In 1999, the Association of Culture Environment Reform Taiwan officially began restoring the buildings, ushering in the former factory’s renaissance as an arts center. Today’s Huashan 1914 is a hub for cultural happenings. It has played host to various music festivals, the Taiwan Book Fest, Star Trek: The Exhibition, Taiwan Designers’ Week, and Huashan Living Arts Festival—a fete of performance art, calling to mind the park’s avant-garde theater origins. My

visit to the park coincided with the Taipei Photo Festival. The show spanned two levels of exhibition hall 4B-1 and showcased a dizzying variety of works by young contemporary photographers. A number of interesting establishments are found at the park, including: SPOT HUASHAN (光點華山電影館) SPOT-Taipei, an arthouse cinema founded by Hou Hsiao-Hsien and lodged within a historic building in Zhongshan, opened this second theater in Huashan 1914. Even if you have no plans of watching a movie, it’s worth stopping to linger at the adjacent Café Lumiere, preferably over a slice of cheesecake. The café, suffused in whiteness with touches of red and muted browns,

PAL flies between Manila and Taipei six times weekly. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com

PHOTOS BY Oz Mendoza

HUASHAN 1914 CREATIVE PARK (華山1914文創園區) A cluster of aged buildings in Taipei’s central government district, Huashan 1914 Creative Park has become a hotbed of commerce and culture ranging from the sophisticated to the avant-garde of the streets. It’s come a long way from its origins as a winery erected by the Japanese nearly a hundred years ago in 1916. Today, the weatherbeaten walls of the colonial-style buildings evoke a richness of character that lends a haunted elegance to the delapidation upon display. Despite the cracked brickwork, the paint-stripped concrete, the corroded metal supports, and the splashes of graffiti, the area feels grime-free—indeed, it’s almost genteel. So it’s hardly a surprise that behind the gritty façade you’ll find deluxe restaurants, cafés, and shops. Galleries occupy a couple of buildings, and one large factory space is now a showground for trade expos. But retreat to the restroom and you’ll

special promotional feature.

ART IN THE CITY

is of striking and trendy design. On display is a small collection of cinema-related books for sale. You’ll also find shelves of designer trinkets for decorating an artsy metropolitan apartment. WIND MUSIC FLAGSHIP STORE (風潮音樂旗鑑店) This store has a fascinating collection of esoteric Asian music. On my visit, I got to listen to an album of haunting Tibetan music entitled Spacious Expanse of Dharmadhatu. I later learned that the album was published by Wind Music, which is an independent record label that specializes in documentary recordings of ethnic minority musicians. They also offer albums of traditional Chinese music, New Age music, and even popular music. The store is a must-visit for lovers of world music and meditative sounds. CDPIAZZA Despite its name, CDPiazza offers much more than CDs. A store for the hipster in you, CDPiazza displays many unusual toys, games, gadgets, collectibles, and designer T-shirts. You’ll also find charming wooden handicrafts and colorful ukuleles. A LITTLE TEAHOUSE (老叢茶圃) This is the place to visit for a pot of tea, or a delectable piece of Taiwanese-style mochi. VVG THINKING VVG Thinking can only be described as 36 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

A DIFFERENT STROKE: Café Lumiere isn’t your typical café. Not only are the warm colors of the commonplace coffee shop absent, but it is also stylish and modern with artsy ornaments adorning the space.

a “postmodern bistro.” The brick walls and elegant furnishings suggest a luxury Italian villa, but the metal screens and tin can tableware bespeak an industrial vibe. It’s an oddball venue that feels more like a crazy attic than a (pricey) fusion restaurant. How to get to Huashan 1914 Creative Park: Take the MRT (Nangang Line or Xinzhuang Line) to Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station and leave by Exit 1. The park is about five minutes’ walk going east, just past Jinshan North Road. YONGKANG STREET (永康街) Yongkang Street is a narrow lane packed with street eateries, restaurants, and antique shops found in the Kang Qing Long neighborhood. This lively, well-lighted street is a favorite haunt of Japanese travelers, many of them coming for a taste of Din Tai Fung’s famous xiaolongbao or steamed dumplings. Of course, the street is also popular with many Taiwanese, who can be found lining up at various shops hawking beef noodles, milk tea, or shaved ice treats. The lively, well-lighted street offers a medley of gustatory delights. This is no tourist street packaged for traveler’s purses; it’s an honest-to-goodness neighborhood lane where a number of great foodie joints happened to sprout and meet with astonishing success. Ice Monster, famed for its mango shaved ice dessert, originally opened on this street before switching

locations—a similar establishment called Smoothie House has taken over its Yongkang 15 spot. Yongkang Beef Noodle Restaurant, said to make the best beef noodles in Taiwan, is a mainstay of the area. It’s a nofrills eatery, but it fills up every night with diners hungry for the signature braised beef noodle soup. Most notably, Yongkang Street is home to the original branch of Din Tai Fung, a restaurant whose name is synonymous with Chinese dimsum. The restaurant is one of the first places you’ll run into at Yongkang Street, but it’s almost always fronted by a queue of wouldbe diners. Don’t worry, just get in line. After a few minutes’ wait, the host will take your order and tell you what time you can expect to get a table. In my case, I was to come back after 20 minutes. You can easily pass the time with a stroll down Yongkang Street. There’s a lot to check out—dirty kitchens selling steaming hot dimsum, sidewalk vendors hawking herbal teas, quaint antique storefronts displaying curious bric-a-brac, a traditional Chinese tea shop. Relax, take in the sights, then saunter back in time for a serving of savory xiaolongbao. How to get to Yongkang Street: Take the MRT (Xinzhuang Line) to Dongmen Station and leave by Exit 5. A few steps will take you right to Yongkang Street. n

PHOTOS BY Oz Mendoza

GUSTATORY HUB: Yongkang Street is home to restaurants big and small, stylish and shabby; offering countless options for those who are looking for authentic Taiwanese food.

NEW ROUTES

PAL RETURNS TO MID-EAST WITH NEW A330 AIRPLANES More than just being your home in the sky, Asia’s first airline spreads its wings to take you farther to these exciting destinations.

YOUR BRIDGE TO THE MIDDLE EAST: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) Traditional water cannon salute welcomes PAL’s aircraft after a 15-year absence in operation in Abu Dhabi; Philippine Ambassador to Abu Dhabi H.E. Grace Princesa, PAL SVP for Airline Operations Nicky Gozon and Abu Dhabi Int’l Airport executives formally launch the inaugural flight; Abu Dhabi inaugural flight deck crew led by Captain Narciso Generoso with crew members headed by purser Marlon Valencia

hilippine Airlines, using its new Airbus A330-300 aircraft, returns to the Middle East starting with Abu Dhabi on October 1, 2013. The new generation A330-300, with 414 seats, is equipped with more powerful engines—Rolls Royce Trent—and bigger fuel tanks, allowing the airplane to carry more passengers and cargo than the current A330 model in the PAL fleet. PAL’s first brand-new A330-300 arrived in Manila September 28, direct from the Airbus manufacturing plant in Toulouse, France.

38 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

Four more will be delivered before the year ends. Since March 2012, PAL has taken delivery of 17 airplanes—from the ultra-modern B777-300ER and the long-range A340-300, to the single-aisle A320-200 and its latest derivative model, the A321-231. The PAL fleet, which now consists of 44 jets, will further expand with more than 60 aircraft deliveries expected until 2019. PAL President Ramon S. Ang said, “The return of PAL to the Middle East will not only offer Filipino workers in the region the most direct link to the Philippines but also provide travelers

ANOTHER MILESTONE: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) Phil. Ambassador to Abu Dhabi H.E. Grace Princesa with PAL SVP for Airline Operations Nicky Gozon; The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque as seen through the many arches inside the magnificent structure; The famous Ferrari World theme park boasts of the world’s fastest coaster, the Formula Rossa that can accelerate from 0-240km/hour in 4.9 seconds; The media familiarization group at the Emirates Palace with PAL Dubai’s Joey Tiberio, PAL Corporate Communication’s Tini Rosales, PAL Sales’ Marvin Aranzanso and Philippine Ambassador to Abu Dhabi H.E. Grace Princesa; the Abu Dhabi working committee with members of the press during the inaugural reception at Le Royal Meridien Hotel

convenient connections with PAL’s extensive international and domestic route network from our hub in Manila.” PAL will first fly to Abu Dhabi five times a week, departing Manila at 4:25 PM and arriving 9:45 PM at Abu Dhabi International Airport— rated by Skytrax as 2013 best airport in the Middle East—which is 38 kilometers southeast of the United Arab Emirates capital. The return flight will arrive in Manila 12:25 noon every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Four other cities in three Gulf countries will be linked by PAL and its affiliate PAL Express to Manila before the year ends: Dubai (United Arab Emirates), Doha (Qatar) in November, and Riyadh and Dammam (both in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) in December. With PAL and Qatar Airways on code-share cooperation, Doha will be served by both airlines. Meanwhile, PAL Express will operate its first long-haul flight to Dubai on Nov. 6, 2013. PAL Express will also use the new A330-300 on a fivetimes-a-week service to Dubai. n

10 Best Attractions in the Middle East Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi Ferrari World, Abu Dhabi Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Burj Khalifa Tower, Dubai Souq Madinat, Dubai Dubai Mall Dubai Fountain Ski Dubai Souq Waqif, Qatar Katara Cultural Village, Qatar

www.philippineairlines.com I 39

HOLIDAY HOTSPOTS

CHRISTMAS SURPRISES: The Address Downtown is one of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prominent hotels that offer festive surprises for the family during the holidays.

CHRISTMAS IN DUBAI CHRISTINA FERNANDES shows us how her city lights up during the holiday season.

or most visitors, the thought of Dubai conjures up images of dates rather than roasted chestnuts, 1,001 Nights instead of the Nativity, and sand over snow. Nevertheless, this Gulf metropolis has embraced Christmas wholeheartedly, perhaps unsurprisingly, considering the number of expats who live here. Dubai has a reputation as shopping haven and to those on a quest for presents, the Christmas season is no exception. The best single place to buy gifts is probably the Dubai Mall, where shoppers will find everything, from electronics to fashion, in one place. If you are looking for a present with a local touch, head to the Camel Company for Dubai-themed T-shirts, pens, notebooks, and other paraphernalia, to Al Nassma for delicious camel milk chocolates, and

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to Gallery One for posters and canvases with UAEbased motifs. Fashion is king at the Dubai Mall and you can take your pick from hundreds of outlets, with prices ranging from budget-friendly H&M and Salsa to serious luxury spends such as Dior and Chanel. Footwear addicts will salivate over the Level Shoe District, which sells footwear from mid-range to luxury. Electronics are also in good supply, from Sharaf DG to Jumbo Electronics. It should be said, however, that while the selection of electronics is excellent in Dubai, the prices are not necessarily low. Of course, there are plenty of other malls in Dubai with a similar albeit smaller offering, including Wafi, Ibn Battuta, Mall of the Emirates, and Mercato, to name just a few. Souk Al Bahar and Souk Madinat

Under Licensing Agreement

PAL Express flies between Manila and Dubai five times weekly. For more information, call PAL Express reservations at (+632) 855 9000 or visit www.philippineairlines.com or www.flypalexpress.com.

HOLIDAY HOTSPOTS

While shopping in Dubai, one will hardly encounter a situation where Arabic is required or even useful since most sales clerks and merchants are expats, and English is the lingua franca across the UAE. For those who would nevertheless like to get into the local spirit by learning a few words in Arabic, here are some useful phrases and terms for shopping: Bikam? (How much?) Haadhaa ghaalii (That is expensive.) Uriid an ashtarii… (I want to buy…) Hal anta tabii’…? (Do you sell…?) Uriid shay’an arkhas, min fadlik. (I want something less expensive, please.) ufaDDil haadhaa. (I prefer this [one].) 42 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

Sa’dfa’… (I will pay…) Laa uriid an adfa’ akthar min… (I don't want to pay more than…) Ghaalii (expensive) Rakhiis (cheap) Tanziilaat (sale/discount) Sajjaada (rug) ‘itr (perfume) Hariir (silk) Jild (leather)

Jumeirah abound with Arabian atmosphere and locally themed fashion, accessories, and furniture. While the malls’ prices range from mid- to high-level, bargain hunters do have a few more budget-friendly options to choose from. There is Al Attar Mall in Karama, also known as “Filipino Mall” because of its popularity with the Pinoy community. It is home to numerous fashion, fragrance, jewelry, and electronics outlets, as well as two Filipino restaurants: Chowking and Goto King. For cheaper electronics, head to “Computer Street” (Khalid Bin Al Waleed Street) in Bur Dubai. Mina Bazaar, also in Bur Dubai, is home to budgetfriendly ready-made fashion, as well as being a hub for tailors who will fashion custom designs at reasonable prices. The Souk in Deira offers everything from low-cost cooking utensils to spices and furniture to jewelry. Don’t’ forget to haggle! If you plan to shop for Christmas decorations, the Party Zone (located in Jumeirah Town Centre, the Dubai Mall, and the Spinney’s Market Complex in Mirdif ), The One furniture store (at the Dubai Outlet Mall, Dubai Mall, and on Al Wasl Road in Jumeirah 3, among others), and Artikel (at the Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Festival City and Dubai Mall, among others) are popular. Harvest Home at the Jumeirah Centre is one of Dubai’s bestkept secrets and a real gem when it comes to Christmas decorations. For the more budget-conscious, Carrefour, Géant, and Lulu hypermarkets offer a large selection of Christmas ornaments and decorations.

PHOTO BY Christina Fernandes (MIDDLE & BOTTOM)

SHOPPING CENTRAL: Visit Souk Madinat Jumeirah (ABOVE) or the Souk Al Bahar (LEFT) to choose from a wide selection of the most authentic local products.

PINOYS IN DUBAI Between 600,000 and 700,000 Filipinos live in the UAE, 400,000– 450,000 of them in Dubai, where they make up more than one-fifth of the population. During Christmas, homesickness can often be overwhelming but in the typically positive Pinoy spirit, Filipino expats make the best of it by organizing plenty of holiday events and activities. Music is in the Filipino soul, so one of the most popular ways of getting in the Christmas spirit is musical events, from Himig ng Pasko’s Christmas Carol competition and dance duo contest to FilCom’s annual Christmas party. The award-winning Dubai Vocal Ensemble, which sang at the Emirates Golf Club’s tree lighting ceremony last year, also holds numerous Christmas-themed music events. There is also Christmas caroling at the Philippine Consulate General, as well as the local churches, including Saint Mary’s and Saint Francis of Assisi, where the Filipino community sells traditional puto bumbong and bibingka as well.

FESTIVE SEASON: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) Wafi’s Tudor-style Christmas village display last year; The Palace Downtown; Christmas at The Address Downtown

During Christmas season, almost every mall will be bursting at the seams with holiday decorations and activities. Some of the most popular include the enormous Christmas tree in Dubai Mall, Santa’s Grotto at Ski Dubai in the Mall of the Emirates, and the Tudorstyle village at Wafi. The Christmas Festival at Media City, with traditional foods and caroling as well as plenty of Christmas decorations on sale, has become one of the go-to events of the season. Marina Mall’s traditional Christmas Market is also popular. There are plenty of events and activities that help instill the Christmas spirit even in the most ardent Christmas scrooge. Numerous tree lighting ceremonies with traditional foods and caroling are on offer, including at Wafi, the Irish Village, and, of course, the Dubai Mall. You can witness Saint Nicholas arrive on a

boat in the traditional Dutch way at Festival City. The Elves Tea Party at the Palace Old Town is very popular with the kids and plenty of other hotels hold Christmas events, including the Holiday Inn, the Sheraton, the Crowne Plaza, the Address Hotel, and the Westin. Those looking for a little less commercialism may find JESS school’s annual Night Market; it’s complete with gymnastics performances, craft tables, and Santa’s grotto, as well as DESS school’s Festive Fayre. Throughout December, there are literally hundreds of Christmas events and activities on offer around Dubai. So if you’re headed to the UAE during the holiday season, take a deep breath, brave the crowds, and let the Christmas spirit reign. n www.philippineairlines.com I 43

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FASHION

INSPIRED PIECES: The serpent-inspired earrings are long and winding, while the necklace hugs the curves of the neck and extends down the back (LEFT). Meanwhile, feathers of a majestic bird (RIGHT) soaring through the skies were stylized in the jewelry and became long earrings, rings, and a statement cuff.

TRACES OF ANCIENT AMERICA

This exquisite Red Carpet Collection takes you on a deep dive into a pre-Columbian culture.

s the holiday season approaches, H.Stern brings to Manila an exceptional jewelry collection straight from Brazil. On this rare occasion that it will be showcased here for a limited time, the spotlight is on the Ancient America collection. Ancient American civilizations left behind a rich cultural heritage in which they expressed a relentless attempt to understand the universe and its natural phenomena. Faced with a variety of cultural and aesthetic expressions from these civilizations, H.Stern designers were most fascinated with the belief that united all people of the preColumbian era: the certainty that the world was full of entities influenced by spiritual beings. The universal view was that souls or spirits existed not only in humans, but other pieces of the natural environment as well— animals, plants, and minerals. H.Stern interpreted the beliefs and used them as a basis for the new Ancient 44 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

America Collection. Marked by patterns that reproduce animal skin, each piece in the new collection (when worn) allows one to take on the spirit form of the animal by which it was inspired, be it a serpent, fish, or even jaguar. The serpent was considered a symbol of the underworld, rebirth, and renewal. Pavé diamonds in various tones of cognac and black set in Noble Gold simulate the pattern of snakeskin in these pieces. Three sizes of rings wind and curl up around the finger. The bracelet is a show all on its own with the sinuous and snake-like movements. The jaguar was a symbol of the earthly world and men of strength and power. The jaguar’s spotted coat was re-created in rose gold, studded with black and white pavé diamonds. There are three sizes of rings, two earrings, and a bracelet, all of which beautifully interpret the jaguar spots. The fish symbolized fertility from water, nutrition and life. The fish scales are represented by small triangular plates made

of malleable Noble Gold and yellow gold. Pieces include long drop earrings, rings, and a bracelet. There is an additional option of earrings in onyx, the black stone used since ancient times and known for absorbing and dissolving negative energies. The bird symbolized the world of the gods, of peace and spirituality. These pieces are crafted in brushed yellow gold and rose gold with cognac diamonds. The jewelry in H.Stern’s Ancient America Collection has a soul that is enchanting and full of personality; a strong and magical force that attracts the eye. The pieces have the power to transform women, who, like pre-Columbian men, love to reinvent themselves—hence, their passion for fashion, beauty products, and accessories. n H.Stern is available only at Adora, 2/F Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City. Tel. No. +63 2 217 4029

PERSONAL TAKE

My London

A city boy at heart, GIAN PANGILINAN falls in love with the dizzying array of dining and nightlife options in this city. TRIPLE TREAT: If you want to experience the best of London in one go, head to Sketch where you can take a pick among several dining rooms with different themes. You can have some afternoon tea, a Michelin-star dinner, and cocktails.

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have been living in London for a year now, and one thing I like about this city is the perfect marriage of the old and new. Given the fast pace of life, the British have done a tremendous job preserving bits of their heritage and making them last. We are talking medieval castles and Victorian halls standing side by side futuristic monoliths like The Shard and The Gherkin. The buzz of this city is an immediate draw, and it’s hard to get bored with its global offerings. Extensive shopping choices from the weekend markets, fast fashion brands in the high street, to designer labels are a constant temptation. Even coming out of a club at 3 a.m. feels like a Saturday afternoon with people walking about everywhere. Here are some of my favorite places in London: SHOPPING & MARKETS Leadenhall Market (Gracechurch St.) Smacked right in the middle of the financial district, close to the Lloyd’s of London and the Bank of England buildings, this is where you will find a lot of well-suited city professionals during lunch hour. The roof structure and cobbled floors of the current structure is a Victorian restoration masterpiece, so it is definitely worth a look even if you are not hungry. Stables Market in Camden (Chalk Farm Road) Camden is popularly known as the center of everything kitschy in London—where the likes of the late Amy Winehouse and Kelly Osbourne come

together. You can find everything here from World War II soldier hats, manuscripts of unpublished books, and hooker high heels, to flashing neon ice cubes. Food stalls offering cuisines from all over the world are everywhere. This is definitely a good place to shop and eat especially if you are tired of the usual malls and high-street brands.

FROM HIGHBROW TO CASUAL: Pretty afternoon tea offerings (RIGHT) await you at Sketch. Camden’s kitschy vibe (LEFT) attracts artists from all over the world.

RESTAURANTS Côte – London Bridge (The Riverside, Hays Galleria, Tooley St.) Côte is my favorite modern French bistro, and offers French cuisine that is uncomplicated yet full on flavor, weight, and presentation. From moules marinière, tuna Nicoise, to poulet Breton, the menu is delicious but not heavy on the pocket. This particular location also offers an amazing view of the River Thames. They get full quickly so it is always good to book in advance. Balans (60–62 Old Compton St.) Balans is a gay restaurant in the middle of Soho, but the clientele is totally mixed. People go there for the lively atmosphere and the great food. Specialties are steaks, seafood, and the famous Balans burger. The best part about this place is that it’s open until 5 a.m. on weeknights and 6 a.m. on weekends so it is a perfect place to eat for those who wish to grab a bite (and maybe a cocktail again) post clubbing. I don’t know if it’s just me, but try to observe the wait staff as they tend to hop and walk with a sway in their hips.

Here are a few other things that might be helpful when eating out in London: Fries are called “chips.” Chips (like the crunchy potato ones) are called “crisps.” Ketchup is commonly referred to as “tomato sauce.”

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PERSONAL TAKE

EVERYTHING’S ABUZZ: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) From the lively atmosphere in Balans Restaurant and Opium’s apothecary-inspired interiors, to the dazzling Sushisamba, a night out in London will truly be filled with amazing options.

portal to another world—a flashback in time once you shut the door. Sketch (9 Conduit St., Mayfair) Sketch is the kind of restaurant the sophisticate who lives and The mood in Opium whispers shady business, where illicit affairs breathes art and food go to. It occupies two floors on the former site and secret conversations, apart from the smell of burning incense, of the Royal Institute of British Architects. There are several dining fill the air. A dark, creaky, winding staircase lets you access the three rooms with different bars and different themes serving afternoon tea different rooms all designed with a mix of antique oriental and cool and cocktails, to a five-course Michelin-star dinner. This place is so modern furnishings. The bar resembles an apothecary wherein they fashionable, in fact, that even the toilets—a collection of bright white, mix up your cocktails using ingredients stored in medicinal bottles, egg-shaped, space-age pods—are a talking point. Prices are sky high, jars, and other strange looking infusions. The signature Opium Cocktail No. 1 is poured into but you will be fascinated by the a crimson dry ice-based vessel décor that your sipping a cocktail WHEN IN LONDON, SAY IT LIKE THE LOCALS at the table so the drink itself would slow down significantly. “During my first few weeks here, I wanted to order lemonade to appears to be brewing and go with my meal. Moments later, the waiter brought me a glass smoking on its own. Oh, and COCKTAIL BARS & of 7-Up with ice so I insisted on my glass of lemonade. I had no don’t be surprised if you go RESTO-LOUNGES clue that Londoners referred to the fizzy lemon-lime soda as to the toilet and someone Sushisamba (38th and 39th “lemonade” here. Then on, I reminded myself to always, when at a bar, order my Vodka with ‘lemonade.’” screams at you in Mandarin. Floors, Heron Tower, 110 It’s all part of the ambiance. Bishopsgate) If you are looking for an upscale place to socialize and sip cocktails while enjoying breathtaking 360-degree Salvador and Amanda panoramic views over the London skyline, this is the best shout to go to. (8 Great Newport St.) Salvador and Amanda is an authentic tapas bar with an extensive Sushisamba bids an interesting blend of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine and culture. It has a massive dining hall with floor-to-ceiling glass menu, covering everything like chorizo lollipops, Andalusian-style sea and a sushi bar where they also serve interesting cocktails—Shisho Fine and bass, and Iberican ham croquetas, all of which are my favorites. I love how its rustic ambiance comes to life with a chatty crowd and lively their Batida de Mango are my favorites. Spanish music. Try to come on a Tuesday and experience “Flamencana,” obviously their Flamenco night. Although, I highly recommend a few Opium (15–16 Gerrard St.) Somewhere in Gerrard Street is a numberless jade door that is a Sangrias before you start clacking and screaming olé! n PAL flies between Manila and London five times weekly starting on November 4, 2013. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com 48 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

NEW DESTINATION

LONDON CALLING DANIEL ALLEN lists down the winter wonders in England’s capital of cool.

DAZZLING: Fuerzabruta, which means “brute force” in English, is a stunning performance unlike any other. There are no seats and no script. This phenomenal show overwhelms you visually, auditorily, and kinetically.

here may be lots of chill in the air, but the winter season sees London’s event-packed calendar really starts to heat up. Celebrated English author Samuel Johnson once said: “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” So break out the diary and jot down a few dates. After all, there’s plenty of time to catch up on some sleep on the plane ride home. Dating back to 1215, when King John allowed London’s residents to elect their own mayor, the Lord Mayor’s Show is one of the capital’s best-loved pageants. From exotic samba dancing to military marching bands, the show offers a host of entertainment as it winds its way through the heart of the City, and there are accompanying fireworks in the evening. The

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event takes place on November 9, 2013, and is completely free (www.lordmayorsshow.org). Make your stay in London easy breezy with these apps: LONDON’S OFFICIAL CITY GUIDE APP For a list of the city’s free events, suggested sightseeing stops, and maps KABBEE To get the most budget-friendly mini cab BARCLAYS BIKES To hire bicycles; journeys under 30 minutes are free

One of London’s most prestigious shopping streets, Oxford Street will sparkle

once again this Christmas as the worldfamous Oxford Street Christmas lights are illuminated starting this month to the usual fanfare and frivolity. The lights will be turned on by popular celebrities who come out to meet the crowds. Let the festivities commence! Experience British fashion at the Isabella Blow: Fashion Galore exhibition, celebrating the life of and wardrobe of the late British patron of fashion and art, known for discovering models Sophie Dahl and Stella Tennant. Held at Somerset House, the exhibition will showcase over a hundred pieces from Blow’s incredibly rich collection of haute couture. The exhibition will run from November 20, 2013, to March 2, 2014 (www.somersethouse.org.uk).

NEW DESTINATION

A SENSORY EXPERIENCE: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) One of Argentine group Fuerzabruta’s dynamic acts; Fuerzabruta’s highlight: the performers moving on a sheet of plastic right above the audience; Becky Unthank at the Spitalfields Music Winter Festival (Photo by RJonny Walton)

PAL flies between Manila and London five times weekly starting on November 4, 2013. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. 52 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

WINTER IS COMING: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) Sculptors attempt to create artworks from two-meter ice blocks in London’s annual Ice Sculpting Festival; Lord Mayor’s Show, celebrating the yearly appointment of London’s new Lord Mayor (on photo is last year’s mayor); Dino Snores may be a cultural sleepover for kids, but adults are free to enjoy it as well.

Those passing through the center of London between November 22, 2013, and January 6, 2014, should drop by Hyde Park, part of which will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland over the festive season. London’s best-loved green space will boast a traditional German-style Christmas market with wooden chalets, Bavarian bars and cafés, funfair rides, a giant observation wheel, clowns and acrobats, plus the obligatory Father Christmas and elves. Discover a “Christmas Less Ordinary” at Taste of Christmas this November. Moving to the enchanting venue of Tobacco Dock and with an exciting line-up of London’s best restaurants, foodie entertainment and a boutique Christmas food market, the all new Taste of Christmas really will be the culinary event of the festive season. (www.tasteofchristmas.com). Indulge in some top-drawer London dramatics as Jude Law stars as Henry V in Michael Grandage’s production of Shakespeare’s patriotic history play at the Noel Coward Theatre. The show will run from November 3, 2013, to February 15, 2014 (www.delfontmackintosh. co.uk). Taking place from December 6 to 17, 2013, the Spitalfields Winter Festival is an end-of-year musical celebration not to be missed. Taking place at several Spitalfields locations in East London, the festival “explores the area’s hidden corners” with early and contemporary music, musical tours, opera for under 2s, and free events which bring together global and local artists (www.spitalfieldsmusic.org.uk). Following a sell-out success in 2006 and a triumphant limited run in 2012, the Argentine Fuerzabruta show returns to London for an extended run in late 2013 and early 2014. “A dazzling experience that

floods the senses with a nonstop collision of music, emotion, and aerial imagery,” the adrenaline-fueled show is sure to pack out North London’s Roundhouse venue once again. The show will run from December 23, 2013, to March 2, 2014 (www.roundhouse.org.uk). New Year’s Eve wouldn’t be New Year’s Eve without fireworks. London’s impressive display is a sight to behold, with the perennial pyrotechnical show taking place on the River Thames, below the London Eye. The best views are from Victoria Embankment, the South Bank, and the Westminster and Waterloo Bridges. If you can see the Eye, then you’re in for a treat. Situated next to Canary Wharf subway station—and completely free—the London Ice Sculpting Festival is the place to chill out in the capital after New Year. Teams from around the world compete over two days to create the most artistic and unusual works, and there are ice-sculpting classes for those who want to try their hand at carving out a frozen masterpiece. Estimated dates are January 10–12, 2014 (www.londonicesculptingfestival.co.uk). Fans of Night at the Museum with Ben Stiller will be delighted to hear of the London Natural History Museum’s Dino Snores night, taking place on January 10, 2014. Suitable for kids aged between 7 and 11, nocturnal activities will include a torch-lit tour and a live show about creatures that bite and sting called “Revenge of the Minibeasts.” After snuggling down in the shadow of the Diplodocus skeleton in the museum’s central hall, overnighters will enjoy a hearty breakfast (www.nhm.ac.uk). n

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Global Design TrenDs

WORLDS COLLIDE: In today’s highly competitive world of product design, one key in standing out is to merge seemingly illogical themes such as this brand wherein they combined a rustic country design with elements of pop art.

Take Me To The Fair Almost filled with design overload, JUN VENTURA shares what the most prestigious lifestyle fair is all about.

have always been interested in design, so when I got invited to the biggest lifestyle fair in the world—Ambiente in Frankfurt, Germany—I, of course, grabbed the chance. This European fair was certainly worth it. In size, it’s venue is easily 10 times bigger than the Philippines’ newest exhibition center, the SMX Convention Center beside the Mall of Asia. The fair was so vast that it was spread out in more than 10 exhibit halls and you need to ride a shuttle bus just to visit the outlying halls. If you want to find out what the coolest trends are in lifestyle products and want to go into this business, Ambiente is the fair to go to. In last year’s event, there were 4,600 exhibitors from 81 countries, including the Philippines. If you want to sell your products here in the future, almost 140,000 trade visitors—mostly buyers—from 143 countries attended during this year’s five-day fair.

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BEHIND THE SCENES: Patrick and Anne Marie Tan, WE-Link consultants; Chenx Tibajia, Philippine Star; Juergen Werz, Area Sales Manager for Asia Pacific; Wilbert Novero, WE-Link General Manager.

FILIPINO PRIDE Ambiente has been one of the best platforms for Filipino manufacturers to showcase their products to the world.

A POP OF COLOR: This year’s design trends dictate very playful sensibilities especially for home decorations.

TODAY’S TRENDS: NO SAFE DESIGNS So what design trends did I scan? For one, nothing is plain and boring. Even the minimalist designs that I saw in countries famous for it—Japan, Germany, and the Scandinavia—featured a dash of color. I guess people want to enliven their lives and the best and easiest way to do that is seeing colors in products that they use. The more cheerful, the better. Another trend that I saw was fantasy. These designs surprise and seem so illogical that they trigger curiosity and a smile. I saw dangling from the ceiling inverted potted plants and on the floor, artificial grass with long-stemmed, colorful flowers that evoke scenes from the hit movie Avatar. The other strong design trend that struck me was playfulness. There were so many products for adults that could easily be at home in a nursery school, like giant teddy bears and candy-colored chairs. So what do these all mean? I believe that people nowadays are mostly uptight, ridden with so many anxieties from a daily barrage of depressing news, so they want to retreat to the best memories of their lives—their childhood days. So what clicks now are

products that appeal to the “child” in us—the bright, cheerful colors and the fun memories of nursery settings, stuffed toys, fairy tales, and animated movies.

NO ROOM FOR BORING Even kitchen tools are now designed into cute animals and given a splash of cool colors.

GOING FOR IT: SOME TIPS Perhaps while reading this, you are telling yourself, “I can do this—making products with cool designs.” And there’s only one way to find out and that’s giving it a try. Take note that the world’s most valuable company, Apple, started only in a garage.

First tip that I can share is that you have to design to your comfort level. Meaning, if you are a classic person, then don’t attempt to design something bold, and vice versa. But remember, you are doing this as a business and not as a hobby, so design and produce products that will sell. Secondly, be passionate about quality. Buyers, especially those at Ambiente, are not looking for something cheap—they are looking for good quality. Again, Apple’s obsession with design and quality makes their products highly desirable. Thirdly, be conscious about commitments like quality standards and delivery schedules. These can make or break your reputation. Lastly, go with the professionals who handle global exhibits. The best and most experienced Filipino group that can assist you in participating in global exhibits is WE-LINK (www.we-link. gesi.com.ph) who offer one-stop services: from design, booth construction, and meeting exhibit requirements, to shipping, visa applications, and hotel and travel arrangements. The nice thing is, PAL is flying again to Europe by starting with regular flights to London, which is just a short hop away from Frankfurt where Ambiente is held every year from February 7 to 11. n www.philippineairlines.com I 55

PERSONAL PICKS

ZeN ZoNe: Asya Premier’s Adlaw Bar, located on Station 3, is a favorite chill-out spot of travelers who are looking for a peaceful spot.

FROM THE LOCAL’S EYES kathriN borGWardt is a professional kiteboarder and lives half of the year in Boracay for the past 10 years. Here, she shares her favorite spots in one of the world’s best islands, and about her newly opened cooking school.

What do you like about boracay? You can find everything you could imagine in Boracay. You can have beaches and sunsets, but you can also party all night long. There’s also a diverse mix of international restaurants for every taste. And if you want action whether it’s scuba diving, stand-up paddle, kitesurfing, taebo, golf, windsurfing, kayaking, sailing or if you want to pamper yourself with a massage or yoga, you can have it all on this eight-kilometer island. But personally as a kiteboarder, Boracay has a good community and offers perfect training conditions in Bulabog Beach. NibS by the beach: Adlaw Bar offers several tapas.

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PERSONAL PICKS

FlAVors AnD sights: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) One of the author’s favorite offerings from Adlaw Bar: the bestselling adobo pizza; kitesurfers head to Bulabog Beach at the break of dawn to enjoy the cool winds; tourists in Boracay enjoy an Asian cuisine class in Cooking School Boracay.

AsyA Premier suites — Perfect for viewing the sunset and for the longest happy hour on the island. Cocktails and pizzas are offered at reasonable prices in this quiet part of White Beach. Must try: the fish dishes, pizzas, desserts, and mojitos. islA restAurAnt on BulABog BeAch — It’s a good place to have a breakfast of porridge, salmon toasts, or Spanish omelettes while watching kitesurfers in action. There is always someone interesting to chat with here, especially the kitesurfers. Must try: the mango float. VAlhAllA steAkhouse in D’mAll — Steaks, salads and burgers are on the menu of Valhalla. The desserts are also superb.

Servings are huge and reasonably priced so go here if you are starving and if you need to power up for a long night out partying. Must try: baby back ribs and Cajun chicken fingers. BorAcAy: BeyonD the BeAch Cooking School Boracay offers classes on Asian, French, Japanese, and Italian cuisines. Local and international chefs from Boracay who want to share their passion about food teach essential skills and techniques that everyone can use at home. The lesson starts with buying ingredients in the market, then the cooking is done in small groups so that everyone can have a truly hands-on experience. Every student—kids are also welcome—enjoys a personal cooking station in a large preparation area. The course costs Php1,800 and includes a lunch or dinner, a recipe book, photos of the class, and an apron. info@cookingschoolboracay.com n

PAL flies between Manila and Kalibo six times weekly. PAL Express also flies between Manila and Caticlan eight times daily. For more information, call PAL Express reservations at (+632) 855 9000 or visit www.philippineairlines.com or www.flypalexpress.com. 58 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

Photo By Anna Leah De Leon (RIGHT)

If you have to pick three restaurants on the island, what would they be?

FOLKTALE

THE PEOPLING OF THE EARTH (Aklanon)

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the ground became fairies and malignant or evil spirits. The seeds that rolled down the lap of the valley and the lowlands enjoyed light and became human beings. One seed fell into a very deep hole in the earth and slipped down, until it found itself wedged between two stones and became a huge and hairy ape. It was said that every time this white ape moved, there followed an earthquake. n

THE MYTHS Philippine Folk Literature by Damiana L. Eugenio Published by the University of the Philippines Press, 2001. Paperback, 513 pages. University of the Philippines Press, E. de los Santos St., University of the Philippines Campus; (+632) 928 2558; up.press@gmail.com; www.uppress.com.ph

ILLUSTRATION BY Benjamin Abesamis

nce upon a time, the great Makakagahum found himself all alone on the wide earth. One day, he cast his staff upon the ground and let it grow and it became the beginning of plants. Then he got its seeds and scattered it all over the ground, and living things leaped out from them. Those that fell upon the trees became birds and monkeys; those that fell under the cracks on

ISLAND BLISS

In the olden times, locals believe that Gigantes Islands, of which this one is part, were inhabited by giants. An old manuscript registered the islands as “Islas de Gigantes” or “Islands of the Giants.”

IN THE LAND OF THE GIANTS

loilo appeals to many visitors as a heritage and foodie destination. But unknown to many, the northernmost part of the province beckons any child of the sun and worshipper of nature’s pure grace. The Gigantes group of islands is located in the fishing municipality of Carles, more than 3 hours from Iloilo City and less than 30 minutes from Roxas City, the capital of Capiz. The road trip is a good visual warm-up before hopping to a passenger boat that seems to take you to a different world. This unrecognized gem has the perfect recipe to temporarily cut off yourself from the turmoil of modernity. No cellphone signal and scheduled power, it is a place to refresh your soul even for a short weekend.

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CLUSTER OF ISLANDS Gigantes Islands comprise six islands of the 12 under the jurisdiction of Carles, Iloilo. Gigantes Norte and Sur are the main islands and the only ones permanently populated, while the smaller ones are partially inhabited. One of the smaller islands is Gakit-Gakit Island, more of a stopover for fishermen to spend the night or find refuge from turbulent weather. Antonia Beach is in this island with one family residing on it (entrance is Php20). They can even cook simple dishes for you while you snorkel. A small cave just a stone’s throw away from the beachfront gives stunning views of the neighboring islands. If you want to see a sandbar, a quick stop to Bantigue Island should be part of your itinerary.

GETTING THERE From the Iloilo Airport, head to Tagbak Terminal in Jaro. Take Ceres bus to Carles or Estancia. From Estancia (2.5 hours from Iloilo City) The port has bigger vessels traveling to Gigantes Island (2 hours). Cheaper compared to via Carles route but boat schedule demands visitors to stay in the island for two nights. From Carles (3 hours from Iloilo or 30 minutes from Roxas City) As of this writing only chartered boat rides are available. The trip takes only 45 minutes. Contact Carles Tourism Officer Joel Decano (+63 918 4685006) Best time to visit: March– May (avoid May–October because of huge waves)

PHOTO BY Aaron Vicencio

VALERIE CAULIN explores this undiscovered—but delightful—corner of Iloilo.

ISLAND BLISS

Cabugao Gamay (“Small Cabugao”; cabugao is the local word for pomelo or shaddock) is Gigantes’ poster island (entrance Php20). The island has two beaches: a sandy isthmus sandwiched between lush hilltop and stacked rock formation. Enjoy one of the most stunning views your eyes ever laid upon by climbing these rocks. Completing the sailing experience is Gigantes Saltwater Lagoon or as the locals call Tangke (tank). Part of Barangay Gabi of Gigantes Sur, Tangke with tall monolith cliffs around looks like an open cave. The small opening at the mouth of Tangke supplies it with saltwater from the open sea. Enchanting and eerie at the same time, bats and even monkeys inhabit the lagoon. The deafening silence can be broken with your soft whispers and cries from the flying birds. The perfect time to visit is during high tide when the lagoon’s water level is high, which guarantees easy maneuver for boats to anchor. At the mouth of Tangke, guests can also skin dive or snorkel during high tide. MORE THAN SAND AND SUN The adventure doesn’t end as you leave the smaller islands. Those with the physical strength and time (approximately 2 hours) should try spelunking and trekking Longon-long and Bakwitan caves. There are countless caves in Gigantes Islands, most of them unexplored and unnamed but still used as temporary shelter during storms. Gigantes is also an unrecognized historical site. In fact, ancient coffins were discovered in Longon-longon Cave (longon means

Under Licensing Agreement

“coffin”) and old potteries are being unearthed up to this day. In the 1990s, the islands were peppered with excavations after the discovery of burial grounds. Gigantes is also one of the few small islands in the Philippine with Spanish-era lighthouses. A short motorcycle ride (Php10 one way), and you can see the familiar structure of Spanish-era red-brick quarter. While the original Gigantes Lighthouse has been destroyed by typhoons, a new and modern edifice is open for visitors to climb, and offers an unobstructed view of neighboring islands and even the province of Masbate on clearer days. BASE CAMP Seeing the tourism potential of their place, some Gigantes locals now offer homestays and even put up small resorts for accommodations. For first-time visitors and those who still want some comfort, Gigantes Hideaway Resort (Php200 per person, one air-conditioned room available for Php500 per person) is the best place to stay (www.facebook.com/isla.gigantes). One of the first to bring in visitors to Gigantes, this accommodation has a unique setup where boatmen also act as your guide and “butler.” The price of meals is based on the prevailing price of ingredients. Gratuity is the basis for paying the services of your boatmen and the cooking of your food, on top of boat rental and ingredient prices. n

PAL Express flies between Manila and Iloilo five times daily. For more information, call PAL Express reservations at (+632) 855 9000 or visit www.philippineairlines.com or www.flypalexpress.com.

64 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

PHOTOS BY Aaron Vicencio (LEFT & UPPER RIGHT); Rey Caulin (LOWER RIGHT)

FULL BOUNTY: Located at the heart of the Visayan Sea, which is part of the Coral Triangle (the world’s epicenter of marine biodiversity), Gigantes Islands will spoil you with sea bounties like saltwater oyster and queen scallops.

SPORTS

UP IN THE AIR: Kitesurfing is the fastest growing water sport in the world and is fairly easy to learn (some can do it in just three days). It’s a thrilling combination of windsurfing, wakeboarding, and power kite flying.

HIGH AS A KITE KIM G. VENTURA discovers the thrill of kitesurfing in an unlikely place: Ilocos Norte.

f you visit the windmills of Bangui in Ilocos Norte, don’t be surprised to see kitesurfers zipping by in their colorful kites and doing fancy somersaults. The secret is out and kitesurfers have found paradise in the waters of a far-flung resort named Kingfisher, where the wind can take them 25 kilometers down to the Bangui windmills. From the Bangui windmills, it’s around 30 minutes by road to reach Kingfisher, a resort owned and personally run by Mon Manotok who describes it as the perfect place to escape. He’s been receiving invitations to hold global competitions, but he prefers to keep his home simple and uncrowded. Staying here is like visiting an old friend’s rest house as the atmosphere is very homey and

66 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

inviting. A large hut sits in the middle of the property, which serves as the restaurant and a place where everyone can converge for socials at the end of the day. Accommodations range from simple wooden bungalows near the shore to a couple of villas with city comforts like hot showers and LCD screen satellite television sets. Being a private resort, you won’t have to compete as much with other riders to get your daily dose of some awesome wave action. It’s definitely a far cry from the crowded waters of the more popular Bulabog Beach in Boracay, but its existence is slowly picking up on the international kiteboarding radar. Described as the “best wind and wave combination in Southeast Asia” by Fabrice Beaux, a Neil Pryde International ProRider, you can expect consistent wind from October until the end

Kingfisher Beach Resort The resort is located in Sitio Ayoyo, Barangay Caparispisan, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. www.kingfisherbeach.com

PAL flies between Manila and Laoag 10 times weekly. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Kingfisher Beach Resort

CLOSER TO NATURE: Kingfisher Resort is enjoys a great location at the northern tip of the Ilocos Norte, where the coastlines and natural attractions await intrepid travelers.

of March. In fact, it is very seldom that you will get two days of zero wind. The presence of all three essential ingredients: flat water, strong winds, and big, clean waves is quite rare and makes Kingfisher such an ideal site for both beginners and pros alike. It is also the first and only Asian center of Vela Kitesurf resorts, a globally known source for windsport travel experiences, so you’re assured of utmost safety. All instructors are either proriders or sponsored riders and they use the latest gear. Besides kitesurfing, you can also try windsurfing or admire the unique reef formations while on a kayak, or better yet, a stand up paddleboard. Snorkeling, swimming, or simply hanging out in the shore is surprisingly safe despite the strong waves. If you want to explore more of the province, you can hire a van and try sandboarding in the sand dunes of La Paz, or visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Paoay Church and other historical landmarks like the century-

old Burgos lighthouse. Another option is to hire a motorbike so you can get up close and personal with the friendly folk tending to the fields nearby. The options are endless. As Mon says, “The province is beautiful, the waters are clean. The only trash you’ll find washing up on shore is either seaweed or driftwood. Even if they aren’t kiters, they will like it here. I’m not a kiter but I just fell in love with the place.” n KITESURFING 101 Kitesurfers use a small surfboard with or without straps attached to a giant, parachute-type kite and use the power of the wind to soar through the air, cruise at top speeds, and perform acrobatic stunts just like a motocross bike rider. A big advantage is its portability as the boards are relatively short and the kites can be deflated and packed up easily. www.philippineairlines.com I 67

NATURE & LEISURE

PUERTO PRINCESA IN THREE WAYS S.A. PONTILLAS explores three journeys to the green soul in Puerto Princesa.

BIRDWATCHING The Puerto Princesa Underground River has a secret. Every morning, way before the visitors line up for their paddle boat ride to the geological wonder, a visitor comes out of the jungle near the outlet of the river. As if on cue, the resident Palawan Peacock Pheasant forages half an hour after five and deftly disappears with other birds back to the forest as the sun starts to warm the jungle canopy. In some mornings, the peacock is joined from a distance by a clutch of camouflage-clad birders (birdingpal.org) who brave the pre-dawn chill off the coast of Sitio Sabang just to witness the natural phenomenon. They come with binoculars and zoom-lensequipped cameras. By the time the day’s first batch of visitors to the underground river arrive for their paddle boat ride, the birders have either moved to another birding site in the 22,202-hectare national park or on a rented van whisking to the forests of Irawan and Iwahig for a chance to see the diminutive Palawan flycatcher or the melodious tree babbler. 68 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

Under Licensing Agreement

PAL Express flies between Manila and Puerto Princesa four times daily. For more information, call PAL Express reservations at (+632) 855 9000 or visit www.philippineairlines.com or www.flypalexpress.com.

PHOTO BY Rommel Cruz

eveling from the recent international acclaim of the Puerto Princesa Underground River as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, pegging Palawan’s capital to a single definitive tagline becomes tricky. On separate occasions this year, I told two visiting friends that one can think of this bastion of ecotourism as “Choose Your Own Puerto Princesa.” There is so much on the green plate.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Rommel Cruz (OPPOSITE PAGE & BELOW)

ONLY IN PARADISE: Acacia Tree Garden Hotel (ABOVE) is one of the city’s newest hotels in the city. The Palawan Peacock-Pheasant (BELOW) and the Brown-throated Sunbird (OPPOSITE PAGE) are just some of the exotic birds that are spotted by the local group of birdwatchers.

This other side of Puerto Princesa’s burgeoning eco-tourism is quite young, and birdwatchers are a mix of two basic personalities. There’s the contemplative birder who leisurely observes birds from the context of their natural surroundings. Local bird guide Rommel Cruz muses, the contemplative ones never stop being amazed by the appearance of an endemic bird even if they had already seen it the day before. And there’s the twitcher kind of birder. This one is on a race—he keeps a list of birds to see and moves from one site to another to maximize the number of birds in his life list. Both kinds of birders stick to sacred rules of birdwatching: to keep quiet on the ground, and to refrain from altering a bird’s natural habitat. Scaring the birds for a chance for on-flight photography is a no-no. It can earn you the ire of fellow birders, or worse, a stiff fine from park wardens. One Monday morning in September this year, while waiting for guests at one of the hotels near the Puerto Princesa

Baywalk, Rommel spotted a flock of white specks on the clear morning sky. His heart skipped a beat when he heard a distinctive call. Reaching for his camera with its zoom lens attachment, he was still adamant in believing what he suspected. In recent years, Philippine cockatoos have been largely confined to a town south of the city where the Katala Foundation has successfully rejuvenated their dwindling population in an island off Palawan’s eastern coast. That September morning brought good news: Philippine cockatoos are now thriving in Puerto Princesa. Rommel and his guest birdwatchers have a new bird on their list. STAYING IN A green brand of pampering is an emerging trend among those who opt to be city bound. The trend of green boutique hotels is exemplified by Acacia Tree Garden Hotel (www. acaciatreehotel.com). The 25-room cluster of Mediterranean-style villas ensconced inside a forested swath www.philippineairlines.com I 69

NATURE & LEISURE

FROM BED TO TABLE: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) Hotel Centro; La Terasse’s adobo overload and Palawan honey nougat; Aziza Paradise Hotel

of land in Bancao-Bancao is three minutes away from the airport. Vigan-tiled units on ground level have private porches, while premium units on the second floor have verandas, giving a sense of home in a balmy atmosphere overlooking the hotel’s pool. On the other side of the city, strategically located near the Puerto Princesa North and South Roads, is Hotel Centro (www.hotelcentro. ph). This full-concierge service hotel is the first in Palawan to use its own relaxing hypoallergenic brand scent that wafts through five floors of interior space. Centro’s passively heated pool never stops to amaze guests who opt to take a relaxing dip while having a nightcap at the Soul Pool Bar. Further north along BM Road in the outskirt of Puerto Princesa is Aziza Paradise Hotel (www.facebook.com/AzizaParadiseHotel), the newest full-range service resort complex in the city. The hotel’s 125 rooms and four luxurious villas exude a tropical forest feel. Intercontinental food is available at the Demeter Dinner across Aziza’s 2,000-seat convention center. New full-course dine-out options for the visiting urban maven is formal at La Terrasse (www.laterrassepalawan.com) and laid back at the White Pinoy Restaurant & Bar (www.facebook.com/pages/ White-Pinoy-Restaurant-Bar). Both establishments are located along the city’s busy tourism strip on Rizal Avenue Extension near the airport. Ask for the Crispy Duck Rolls at La Terrasse and take home 70 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

their special culinary Palawan Honey Nougat creation. The Slovenian chef de cuisine at White Pinoy whips up meat and pasta dishes right on the open counter. Sip your red from their selection of wines and malts as he masterfully flambés your tenderloin. A flair for an exotic culinary creation? Try the Abet Kilawin (jellyfish salad) at Kamia Bay Resort (www.kamiabayresort.com) in Luzviminda. This eco-resort provides kayaking and snorkeling experience in an intimate and exclusive setting a breeze away from downtown Puerto Princesa. The resort’s jungle also makes for an interactive trekking adventure that ends on a hill overlooking the small inlets of Puerto Bay. OFF ROAD MOTORBIKING Just outside the Puerto Princesa Airport terminal are numerous motorbike rentals. A motorbike can be had for as low as US$5 per day. With a long network of uncrowded roads traversing the long spine of Palawan mainland, self-navigated free riding to Sitio Sabang— the jump-off point to the Underground River—or the towns of San Vicente and El Nido up north have become a choice for intrepid travelers to Puerto Princesa. But you don’t have to leave the city to experience motorbiking at its best. You can even take motorbiking a step up—off road right within Puerto Princesa. Noncompetitive enduro biking can be fun when you

have the right skills and a good guide. You don’t even need to ride the most powerful and biggest bike in town. Here, there is somebody who can make sure you learn the ropes before you explore the numerous offroad possibilities beyond the city limits. Frenchman Jean-Luc Gadriot is one of them. In his younger days, he drove fourwheel formula racing cars. Nowadays, he drives around Puerto Princesa on a regular Honda XRM bike. Born with a wanderlust, he says he never stops exploring around every day of his life. He would have walked around every cranny in the jungles or bush forests of Puerto Princesa, but he says walking can only take him short distances. He has to take a motorbike. On mountain routes, he leaves the XRM home and drives his Kawasaki KLX 140 L. Jean-Luc espouses a level of riding different from the repetitive cycles of a motocross track. The fast alternation of rhythm of off-road enduro riding is enough to give a natural adrenaline rush. “One moment you are moving at an idle 5 kilometers per hour, the next second you are hitting 60 or 40,” he says. In Jean-Luc’s privately maintained 1.4-kilometer off-road track World Trails Asia (palawanmotorbiketour.blogspot. com) located in a four-hectare jungle just

east of downtown Puerto, falling is one of the technical skills you learn in the fourtiered enduro riding program—along with navigating through ruts, sharp cambers, downhill turns, spin-less turns, log crossing, and proper body positioning. A basic urban motorbike-driving ability is a plus for those who sign up for training in the enduro school. In return, “whatever you learn, there will be benefits for dayto-day riding. You get a heightened sense of anticipation and you will be practicing more active defensive driving. It’s very, very beneficial. No joke!” Jean-Luc convinces. As for the off-road paths outside downtown Puerto Princesa, the footpaths and carabao tracks that take you to hills overlooking Honda Bay or Puerto Bay look formidable, but with proper technique and discipline, they are accessible. Is it environmentally friendly? Yes, an 80-kilogram sub enduro bike creates less impact on natural tracks than a half-ton water buffalo. You have to drive properly, of course. n INTO THE WILD: Jean-Luc Gadriot of World Trails Asia espouses off-road motorbiking in Puerto Princesa.

畅游普林塞萨港的三种方式 S.A. PONTILLAS探索普林塞萨港绿色净土的三个旅程观鸟普林塞萨港地下河蕴藏着一个秘密。每天早上，游客排队轮候明轮船参观地质奇迹之前，可走出森林到河口处附近，因为这恰好是巴拉望孔雀雉寻找粮食的时候。它们会在清晨五点过后出来觅食半个小时，并在太阳升起时与其它鸟类敏捷地回到森林中。在有些清晨，一群穿伪装服的猎鸟者 (www.birdingpal.org)为了目睹自然现象，携带双筒望远镜及配有变焦镜头的相机，无畏黎明之前的寒意，前往 Sitio Sabang海岸远距离观赏孔雀。当第一批游客抵步以乘船到地下河时，猎鸟者已经挪身至另一个观鸟地，即一个占地二万二千二百零二公顷的国家公园或者租用货车飞奔至Irawan和Iwahig森林，寻找机会观赏巴拉望小姬鹟或鸣声悦耳的树鹛。当地的鸟导Rommel Cruz表示，热爱冥想者会对当地鸟类的外貌特点叹为观止，此外，该地还出现了一群专门观察研究稀有鸟类的猎鸟者。他手中持有观鸟清单，然后会到各地觅鸟，以求在有生之年可观赏到不同品种的鸟类，这犹如一场竞赛。留宿那些选择进城的游客如今都偏爱绿色享受。Acacia Tree Garden 酒店 (www.acaciatreehotel.com)、Centro酒店 (www.hotelcentro.ph)以及 Aziza Paradise 酒店(www.facebook.com/AzizaParadiseHotel)皆是绿色精品酒店的例证。

全新的餐饮选择La Terrasse (www.laterrassepalawan.com)为游客提供丰盛的美食。欲放松身心者，White Pinoy 餐厅酒吧(www.facebook. com/pages/White-Pinoy-Restaurant-Bar)值得一试。到位于Luzviminda 的Kamia海滩度假村(www.kamiabayresort.com)品尝Abet Kilawin（海蜇莎拉），让您享受富有异国情调的美味佳肴。越野摩托车您可在普林塞萨港体验越野摩托车的风驰电掣刺激感。 Jean-Luc Gadriot，法国人，支持不同于重复性摩托车赛道的驾驶水平。其私人经营的1.4公里越野赛道World Trails Asia (palawanmotorbiketour.blogspot.com) 座落于一个占地四公顷、普林塞萨港市区东部的森林内。在四级耐力越野赛中，摔倒也是其中一门技术，此外，您还可学到穿行车辙弯道、急转弯、下坡转弯、空转以及正确的身体姿势。至于普林塞萨港市区以外的越野通道，可带领您登上高峰观望Honda海湾和 Puerto海湾的小径和水牛走道虽然看似艰巨，但只要具备适当的技术与训练一切可行。一架八十公斤重的越野自行车比起一只半吨重的水牛,会对天然路径造成较小的影响而且又环保。当然，您得小心为上。

www.philippineairlines.com I 71

NATURE & ADVENTURE

PALAWAN’S GEMS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) The Elephant Cave is just one of the karst mountains that dot the landscape of Puerto Princesa. Sabang X Zipline offers one of the most scenic zipline rides in the country. Sabang Beach is the jump-off point to the Puerto Princesa Underground River.

Into the heart of Sabang In a place known as “the city in a forest,” one resort stands out by having the best location and the most luxurious stay.

estled between lofty green mountains and the clear blue waters of the West Philippine Sea is the sprawling 4-hectare luxury resort of Sheridan Beach Resort & Spa. Strategically located in Sitio Sabang, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, this exclusive 95-room property is a stone’s throw away from one of the New7Wonders of Nature, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. There’s so much to see and do. Hidden in plain sight is the beauty of Sabang that Sheridan proudly promotes through its 72 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

excursions. Where the sun, sand, and sea meet, guests can hop on a motorized boat and enjoy an exclusive beach-hopping adventure to some of Sabang’s secluded beaches. Snorkeling and kayaking are a must-do and watching the sun sets across the Palawan skies is an unforgettable trip worth its while. Sheridan Beach Resort & Spa is Palawan’s first ecoresort and operates an organic farm that promotes ecotours, including tree planting. For the more adventurous guests, camping is also available. Amazing sights in the form of the Karst

Mountain Elephant Cave should be checked out. The Amazing Race Philippines and Amazing Race Ukraine filmed one leg of their races on this very spot. And who could resist an ATV ride across a jungle patch? Or an 800-meter zip line of pure adrenaline rush? The call of Sabang in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, is irresistibly tempting. Will you heed it? For more information about Sheridan Beach Resort & Spa, please email at reservations@sheridanbeachresort.com or visit www.sheridanbeachresort.com. n

THE LIGHTER SIDE

A Hashtag- and Selfie-Friendly Hotel Good news, Instagram addicts. 1888 Hotel in Sydney, Australia, who claims to be the first hotel inspired by the popular photo-sharing site, will open its doors to you for free—so long as you have 10,000 followers or more. The boutique hotel—a renovated waterside, suburban heritage building—has 90 rooms, and its heritage, lively artwork, pops of colors, and chic design make it a perfect place for snapping and sharing photos. There’s even a “selfie space,” where guests can specifically take photos of themselves. Named after the year Kodak obtained its first patent, 1888 Hotel has also created a walking map of the most scenic spots in the area. If you’re not an Instagram celebrity yet, you can still win a complimentary night’s stay each month by competing with other guests for the best Instagram shot of the hotel. www.1888hotel.com.au

74 I Mabuhay Magazine I October 2013

THE LIGHTER SIDE

Playing with Light Get creative when lighting up the dark corner of your room with these two Feliix-designed lamps. Your imagination will go running with The Crystal Light, an LED lighting fixture with color-changing “crystals” that can be re-assembled to any form you desire. The Piano Light, meanwhile, is also an LED lighting fixture that allows users to “play” the light just like they’re playing the piano. www. feliix.com

The First Social Camera Here’s the solution for the carefree and adventurous photographer or trigger-happy traveler keen on sharing each moment. TheQ has unique features like an unlimited virtual online album (ditch those memory cards) and a built-in ring flash for low-light conditions. Waterproof, dustproof, pocket-sized, and comes in a variety of colors, theQ also makes editing quick and easy, and sharing a breeze with its 3G and Wi-Fi connectivity. It really is the “modern vintage camera.” www.theqcamera.com

C L I C K

WANTFUL

BORACAY BEACH RADIO

101 COOKBOOKS

COCONUTS MANILA

WWW.WANTFUL.COM

WWW.BORACAYBEACHRADIO.COM

WWW.101COOKBOOKS.COM

MANILA.COCONUTS.CO

If gift-giving is a head-scratcher for you, this site will ask you to fill in some blanks about the recipient and your budget, and then it will put together a unique gift package.

76 I Mabuhay Magazine I October 2013

Let this website take you to the white sandy shores of Boracay. Whether it’s dipping in the cool blue waters or partying under the coconut trees, BBR will provide the soundtrack to your version of paradise.

Heidi Swanson has collected over 100 cookbooks and since 2003, this site has been chronicling her adventures with the recipes found in her vast library.

This hip website shares usergenerated content on what’s the latest and coolest in Metro Manila and whatever may tickle the everyday Manileño’s fancy.

Elf Girl Rev Jen GaLLeRy Books

Php599 ($13.88)

Got Heart, Give Love Take your pick of a selection of organic food and natural products at the Got Heart Shops. Vegetables, fruits, rice, herbs, honey, wine, oils, cheeses, jams— they’re all made or handpicked with love. You won’t just be treating yourself to nature’s best: 100 percent of the proceeds go to communities of Got Heart Foundation. Dedicated to helping marginalized but productive farming and indigenous communities who are striving to sustain their livelihoods, Got Heart provides a venue to showcase quality products from 80 communities all over the Philippines. The Got Heart shop is located at Lot 10-B-10 Katipunan Ave., White Plains, Quezon City. www.gotheartfoundation.org

The Lower East Side in the city of New York holds a gift. Her name is Rev Jen, a pointy eared performance artist whose memoir is surprisingly relatable, even with an out of this world personality. Elf Girl is a homage to the struggling artist, the confused creative ingénue, or just about any other person who hates their day job. No matter what kind of life you may lead, you and Rev will definitely have at least one shared experience. – Ignatius Gan

It’s not How GooD you aRe, It’s How GooD you want to Be

L I S T E N

Paul Arden Phaidon Inc. Ltd. Php536 ($12.42)

GivE ipis a ChanCE Flying Ipis (Locked Down Entertainment) HHHH

Don’t let the band’s cringe-inducing moniker (or the album’s tongue-in-cheek title) turn you off, for Flying Ipis is one of the best rock acts to come out of the local independent scene. Live, this all-female quartet displays a potent mix of skill and attitude, and their full-length debut doesn’t disappoint. Fan favorites like “Sssikreto” and “This Song Is about You” translate well on CD, while the poppy “Over and Over Again” is ready for mainstream radio. Available on Amazon, iTunes, and at selected Fully Booked branches and other outlets.

DesseRt Comes fIRst: tHe Book

Lori Baltazar Sketchbooks, Inc. Php 1,499 ($37.74)

staRtInG fRom HaPPy

Patricia Marx Simon & Shcuster Php599 ($13.88)

www.philippineairlines.com I 77

LAST FRAME

TO EAT OR NOT TO EAT (May 2013)

Nature is indeed fascinating. Going against its instinct of preying on smaller fish, this whitetip reef shark swims beside a yellow pilot fish. Photographer Jun Lao shares that some small fish species, like this yellow pilot fish, benefit from a symbiotic relationship with whitetip reef sharks as it uses them for warding off bigger predators. During this dive in Gato Island, Cebu, Lao also witnessed how the shark luckily escaped a fishing line. There are over 100 million sharks killed yearly for their fins. www.paparazsea.com

GIVE US YOUR BEST SHOT Mabuhay is accepting high-resolution (at least 300 dpi) digital photos of interesting people, places, and things from around the world. Send your entries to info@eastgatepublishing.com. 78 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

London caLLing at the 2013 Mabuhay MiLes eLite invitationaL

The Mabuhay Miles Elite Invitational— the annual golf tournament for the cream of Mabuhay Miles’ membership—marks its 21st year this month with a slew of innovations aimed at cementing its status as the mustplay fun competition in the corporate golf scene. For starters, the tournament will literally break new ground when it is played at a mountaintop course for the first time. A new division for players 60 years old and up, Seniors, will also be introduced. And equally important, the event will serve as a curtain-raiser for Philippine Airlines’ newest destination: London. It all happens on November 12 when nearly 300 Mabuhay Miles members belonging to the Elite, Premier Elite, and Million Miler tiers gather at perhaps the two most scenic golf courses in the country—Tagaytay Highlands and Tagaytay Midlands in Cavite. Set 2,000 and 1,000 feet, respectively, above Taal Lake, both 18-hole championship courses weave around the contours of the rugged Tagaytay ridge, offering spectacular views of the lake and its iconic volcano at every turn. Linking the two layouts is the country’s only Swiss funicular system. At the Highlands course, Swiss-engineered cable cars also ferry golfers around. The European flavor dovetails handily with the tournament’s theme, centered on London, which debuts on November 4, just 80 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

eight days before the Invitational, as the flag carrier’s first point in Europe. As in previous years, the list of players comprises a virtual who’s who of the business community: company presidents and CEOs, senior executives, top professionals, and power brokers. They will be grouped into four classes, A to D, based on handicap, plus the Ladies and the new Seniors divisions. The System 36 handicapping format will govern the tournament. Shotgun tee-off is at 7:30 a.m. Of course, at the end of a long day on the fairways, there’s always the array of fabulous prizes to look forward to. These include trophies; golf accessories; travel amenities; premium gift items; stays at top hotels, resorts, and spas; and round-trip tickets to choice PAL destinations. However, the most coveted prize will need a great deal of skill—plus loads of luck—to claim: a top-of-the-line luxury vehicle from Toyota Motor Philippines and two PAL Mabuhay Class tickets to Los Angeles for the player who scores a hole-in-one shot. This being a Mabuhay Miles golf event where fun and camaraderie are as much a part of the game as the low scores, even the tail-enders get to win something. Yes, there are also consolation rewards for such dubious feats as most number of bogeys and nearest to the pin! And then, there’s the entertainment, food,

and drinks. If there’s any group that knows how to throw a party, it’s the Mabuhay Miles team. Top-notch performers, alluring entertainers, and overflowing fare await all participants. The 2013 Mabuhay Miles Elite Invitational is presented by major sponsors Metrobank Card Corporation and Petron Corporation. Minor sponsors are BDO Unibank, Pacific Paint (Boysen) Philippines Inc., Tanduay Distillers, Union Bankand Victorinox Travel Gear / World Traveller. Donors include Boracay Garden Resort, Clark Shoes UK, EDSA Shangri-la Hotel, Makati Shangri-la Hotel and Pan Pacific Manila. Century Park Hotel and Diamond Hotel Philippines are the tournament’s official hotels. n

ASIA’S FIRST AIRLINE

Philippine Airlines—Asia’s first airline—is the flag carrier of the Republic of the Philippines and the pioneer airline of the country, with a 72-year history steeped in tradition and modernity. PAL first took to the skies on March 15, 1941, with a small twin-engine Beech Model 18 airplane flying 212 kilometers from Makati, near Manila, to Baguio in the northern Philippines, carrying a full load of five passengers. Upon the outbreak of World War II on December 8, 1941, PAL’s two Beech 18s were pressed into military service, flying missions to evacuate American pilots to Australia. Both were destroyed in battle. Post-war operations resumed on February 14, 1946. On July 31, 1946, a PAL-chartered DC-4 took off from Makati carrying American servicemen home to Oakland, California. The 41-hour journey across the Pacific, with stops in Guam, Wake, Kwajalein, and Honolulu, made PAL the first Asian airline to cross the vast ocean. On May 3, 1947, PAL opened a route to Rome and Madrid, later extended to London, becoming the first Southeast Asian airline to fly to Europe. Over the next three decades, its international route network ranged from Asia to Australia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America, establishing PAL as one of the world’s leading carriers of that era. PAL keeps in step with advancements in aircraft technology, regularly acquiring the latest aircraft to maintain a young, modern fleet. From DC-3s that served as its workhorse in the 1940s and 1950s, Vicker Viscount turbo-props and Fokker F-27s were added to the fleet in the 1960s. In 1966, BAC 1-11 aircraft introduced pure-jet service in the domestic sector and in 1974, the McDonnell Douglas DC-10— PAL’s first wide-body aircraft—went into service on the trans-Pacific route. It was succeeded as PAL’s flagship in 1979 by the Boeing

747-200, which featured “Skybeds” paired with First Class seats on its upper deck—a first in the industry. Upgrades to the long-range fleet included the Boeing 747-400 in 1993, the Airbus 340-300 in 1997, and the Boeing 777-300ER in 2009. On April 20, 2012, PAL welcomed a strategic investor into the company—San Miguel Corporation, the Philippines’ largest conglomerate, significantly boosting the flag carrier’s immediate and long-term prospects. Recharged, PAL embarked on a bold growth strategy anchored on fleet modernization, network expansion, and service innovations. On August 28, 2012, it placed a firm order for 54 new-generation Airbus aircraft comprising 44 short-range A321-200 and 10 long-range A330-300 High Gross Weight jets—the largest single aircraft purchase in Philippine aviation history. The following month, ten more A300-300 HGW aircraft were added to the order. Deliveries commenced in August 2013 and will continue until 2019. Complementing the new equipment, PAL has unveiled a brisk network expansion for 2013, covering 11 new destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, plus one domestic point. These are Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Guangzhou, China; Darwin, Brisbane, and Perth in Australia; Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates; Doha, Qatar; Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam in Saudi Arabia; and Basco, Batanes, in the Philippines. PAL is also planning a return to Europe before the end of 2013, with London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Rome, and Madrid as probable destinations. In its eighth decade, with a new investor on board and a bold vision to chart its path, Philippine Airlines can look back at a proud legacy of service to the nation and beyond to a future where it will soar once more as a major global network carrier. n

OUR FLEET

A319-100

NO. OF AIRCRAFT : busINess CLAss : eCONOmy CLAss :

4 8 passengers 126 passengers

A330-300

NO. OF AIRCRAFT busINess CLAss eCONOmy CLAss

B747-400 : : :

11 + 17* 42 passengers 260 passengers

NO. OF AIRCRAFT : busINess CLAss : eCONOmy CLAss :

8 + 4* 44 passengers 220 passengers

NO. OF AIRCRAFT busINess CLAss eCONOmy CLAss

: : :

4 42 passengers 383 passengers

: : :

6 42 passengers 328 passengers

A320-200

NO. OF AIRCRAFT busINess CLAss eCONOmy CLAss

: 12 : 12 passengers : 144 passengers

B777-300ER

A340-300

A321-200

NO. OF AIRCRAFT busINess CLAss

NO. OF AIRCRAFT busINess CLAss eCONOmy CLAss

: 5 + 39* : 12 passengers

PRemIum eCONOmy CLAss : 18 passengers eCONOmy CLAss : 169 passengers

* On order

www.philippineairlines.com I 81

WELCOME ABOARD kits are provided for long-haul flights leaving after six in the evening. Junior Jetsetter Activity kits featuring well-loved cartoon characters are given to children aged 2–11 flying on flights bound for the USA, Canada, Australia, and the Middle East.

hAnd luggAge. Passengers are permitted one cabin bag each. The hand luggage should not weigh more than 7 kg, and the combined length, width, and height dimension must not exceed 115 cm or 45 inches in total. Personal items such as laptop computers, handbag, camera, and infants’ food and carrying basket may be carried separately. eleCtrOniC deviCes. These must be turned off completely while walking to/from the aircraft, during take-off, approach, and landing. Non-transmitting electronic equipment and those without any accessories that would transmit/ receive radio signals, such as laptop computers (without Wi-Fi and wireless peripheral devices) and CD/DVD/MP3 players, may be used during flight and ground stops. deep vein thrOmBOsis (dvt). This is a condition in which a blood clot forms in the deep veins in the lower extremities. Risk factors of DVT include prolonged immobility, obesity, smoking, taking birth control pills,

pregnancy, and inherited blood-clotting disorders. Circulation can be improved by practicing simple exercises while seated. sAfety On BOArd. During takeoff and landing, ensure that seat back is in upright position, the tray tables securely folded, hand luggage stowed, and seatbelt securely fastened (to ensure uninterrupted rest, kindly fasten seatbelts during the entire flight even if the seatbelt sign is off). Life vests are placed beneath your seat or in/under your armrest. In the event of sudden drop in cabin pressure, oxygen masks will automatically drop in front of the passenger. Smoking, including artificial cigarettes, is strictly forbidden at all times on all PAL flights.

fOOd And BeverAge. Philippine Airlines is pleased to serve on all international flights complimentary in-flight meals ranging from traditional Filipino dishes to favorite international cuisines. Drinks are available, featuring a variety of refreshments depending on the route. Alcoholic drinks are served only to passengers aged 18 years and older (21 years on sectors to and from the USA). Government regulation prohibits consumption of alcoholic beverages brought from outside or purchased on board. The cabin crew reserves the right not to serve alcoholic drinks if the situation so warrants. Alcoholic drinks are not available on domestic flights. Passengers with special dietary needs may order special meals when they book their flight. For more information, call our service hotline (+632) 8558888 or log in to www. philippineairlines.com. n

in-flight Amenities. Toiletries (handwash, mouthwash, lotion, and cologne available inside the cabin lavatories) and medicine for minor discomforts are available. Pillows and blankets are available upon request or can be found on the seat on all international flights. Overnight

SERVICE GUIDE Online BOOking. Our online booking features a fully automated facility that allows travelers to decide quickly when it is most convenient and cheapest to fly. For more information, please visit us at www.philippineairlines.com. AirpOrt CheCk-in. PAL offers “early bird” advanced check-in service in select airports to avoid rush during peak check-in hours. Senior citizens traveling with up to two companions and passengers with NO CHECK-IN BAGGAGE on PAL flights departing Manila may avail themselves of the express check-in service at designated counters. AirpOrt lOunges. PAL has Mabuhay Lounges in Manila, Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, Iloilo, General Santos City, and San Francisco. Mabuhay Class passengers, as well as Mabuhay Miles Million Miler, Premier Elite, and Elite members, can unwind, dine, and freshen up in these lounges before boarding their flights. PAL has contracted the services of airport lounge operators in other interna82 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

tional stations to offer the same amenities to said passengers. rhush (rApid hAndling Of urgent shipment). This is the fastest way to ship cargo domestically and overseas. An airport-to-airport service that has the highest priority in cargo, guaranteed space, fast and quick acceptance and release time, and money-back guarantee (conditions apply). For more information, please call PAL Cargo Sales and Reservation in Manila at (+632) 8313061, 8795879, 8340362, or 8533059, or any PAL office in your area. ChOiCe eCOnOmy seAt surChArge. We are pleased to announce that passengers may purchase a choice economy seat. These seats are positioned at the bulkhead and exit rows to provide the widest legroom possible on this class of service. Seats may be reserved upon ticketing. Confirmation will be done at the airport to comply with the Philippine Civil Air Regulations. Fees are collected upon check-in and may vary per destination.

fOrwArd eCOnOmy seAt surChArge. For your easy and priority disembarkation, you can get forward seats located in the front rows of the economy zone except exit rows or bulk head seats area which shall remain Choice Economy Seat. This will also ensure that families and groups are seated together. These preferred forward seating that are applicable for flights between USA/Canada and Manila may be reserved subject to applicable Forward Economy Seat Surcharge (FESS). mABuhAy miles freQuent flyer prOgrAm. Travel the world with Philippine Airlines and enjoy a host of privileges that add up to miles of difference. Open to anyone aged 2 and above, the Mabuhay Miles Frequent Flyer Program is designed to deliver to you the best rewards and privileges. And as you move up to higher elite levels, more travel privileges await you. For details, visit www.mabuhaymiles.com or visit any PAL office. n

TOUCHDOWN MANILA

advantage of “happy hour” drink promos at bars and pubs, dance up a storm at clubs and street parties, or cap an exhilarating night with a calming cappuccino at the corner café. Hotspots not to be missed are bohemian Malate in Manila, cosmopolitan Fort in Taguig, upscale Ayala and Rockwell Centers in Makati, trendy Libis and Timog districts in Quezon City, and chill out in the south Paranaque and Alabang areas.

COASTAL BEAUTY: The province of Palawan has many more natural attractions beyond the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Puerto Princesa Underground River, such as this beautiful beach in Sabang.

PHILIPPINES AT A GLANCE

Official Name: Republika ng Pilipinas/ Republic of the Philippines Capital: Manila Official Languages: Filipino, English Land Area: 1115,830 sq mi/300,000 sq km Climate: Hot Dry Season: March–May Rainy Season: June–November Cool Dry Season: December–February Temperature Range: 21°C (70°F) to 32°C (90°F) Currency: Philippine peso (Php) PHILIPPINE JEWELS. One of the New 7 Wonders of Nature can be found in Palawan, Philippines. It is the Puerto Princesa Underground River. The Conus gloriamaris or “Glory of the Seas cone” is the rarest and most expensive seashell in the world and can be found in the Philippines. Boracay, an island located at the northwestern tip of Panay, has some of the world’s best beaches, with sugary-white, powdery sand that never burns your feet no matter how hot the day gets.

RELIgION. Approximately 90% of Filipinos are Christians: about 80% belong to the Roman Catholic Church while 10% belong to other Christian denominations. Between 5% and 10% of the population are Muslim, most of whom live in parts of Mindanao, Palawan, and the Sulu Archipelago—an area known as Bangsamoro or the Moro region. SHOPPINg. The Philippines is fast becoming a shopping haven, yielding great bargains if you know what to look for and where. Divisoria Flea Market in downtown Manila is the place to go for cheap and tight-budget shopping. The country’s upscale malls carry international brands and can be found within the area of the Makati Central Business District. Handicraft stores can be found all over the country, selling export-quality products like native baskets, hand-woven fabrics, fine jewelry, and home accessories. NIgHTLIfE. Metropolitan Manila is considered a pleasure-seeker’s paradise, with an array of nighttime activities, from the soothing to the sinful. you can listen to whatever music you fancy from the country’s popular bands and singers, take

TRANSPORTATION. PAL flies between Manila and 32 cities and towns throughout the country. Public transportation such as taxis, buses, jeepneys, and motorized tricycles are available in major cities. The train services are provided by three main railway networks that serve different areas of Metro Manila and parts of Luzon: the Manila Light Rail Transit System (LRT), the Manila Metro Rail Transit System (MRT), and the Philippine National Railways (PNR). International car rental companies provide chauffeured or selfdriven limousine service. Large groups may hire medium-sized passengers vans or tourist coaches. fOOD. Filipino food may puzzle the first-time eater. Philippine history is largely responsible for this complex mix of cuisine from the Chinese traders who introduced their culinary influence to Castilian and Mexican cooking brought by the Spanish colonizers. The Americans brought the convenience of fast food meal while other Asian cuisines from the Thai, Vietnamese, Korean, and Japanese started to emerge as well. Famous Filipino dishes include lechón (whole roasted pig), longganisa (Philippine sausage), tapa (cured beef), torta (omelette), adobo (chicken and/ or pork braised in garlic, vinegar, oil, and soy sauce), kaldereta (meat stewed in tomato sauce), mechado (larded beef in soy and tomato sauce), puchero (beef and plantains in tomato sauce), afritada (chicken and/or pork with vegetables simmered in tomato sauce), kare-kare (oxtail and vegetables cooked in peanut sauce), crispy pata (deepfried pig’s leg), hamonado (pork braised in pineapple sauce), sinigang (meat or seafood in sour broth), pancit (noodles), and lumpia (fresh or fried spring rolls). n

AIRLINE PARTNERS To serve you better, Philippine Airlines broadened its route network through Codesharing with its Airline Partners, offering you more destinations worldwide. PAL sells the flight sector operated by the Airline Partner. When traveling on any of PAL’s Codeshare flights, Mabuhay Miles members enjoy certain privileges. The privileges listed in the tables below are applicable provided ticket sales and reservations are under PAL’s seat allocation and upon presentation of the Mabuhay Miles membership card.

SECTOR

PRIVILEGES

AIRLINE PARTNERS

SECTOR

PRIVILEGES

AIRLINE PARTNERS Qatar Airways

CEBU–HONG KONG

Cathay Pacific

MANILA–DOHAvv

unHl

MANILA–ABU DHABIvv

unHl

Etihad Airways

MANILA–DUBAIvv

nHl

Emirates

MANILA–BAHRAINvv

unHl

Gulf Air

MANILA–KUALA LAMPURvv

nHl

Malaysia Airlines

NOTE: PRESENTATION OF MILLION MILER’S MEMBERSHIP CARD IS REQUIRED TO AVAIL OF ETIHAD PRIVILEGES. LEGEND: u LOUNGE ACCESS n MABUHAy MILES MILAGE ACCRUAL H EXCESS BAGGAGE BENEFITS l TRANSFER SERVICE BETWEEN NAIA TERMINAL 1 & 2vv

ELITE, PREMIER ELITE, AND MILLION MILER MEMBERS, MILLION MILER MEMBERS, MILLION MILER MEMBERS PLUS 1 TRAVELING COMPANION

www.philippineairlines.com I 83

DOMESTIC ROUTES Basco / Bacolod / Busuanga / Butuan / Cagayan de Oro / Calbayog / Catarman / Caticlan / Cebu / Cotabato / Davao / Dipolog /Dumaguete / General Santos / Iloilo / Jolo / Kalibo / Laoag / Legazpi / Manila / Masbate/ Naga / Ozamiz / Puerto Princesa / Roxas / Surigao / Tacloban / Tagbilaran / Tawi-Tawi / Tuguegarao / Zamboanga

BASCO

LAOAG TUGUEGARAO

LONDON

MANILA

NAGA LEGAZPI CATARMAN CATICLAN

MASBATE

BUSUANGA KALIBO

ILOILO CITY

BAHRAIN

CALBAYOG CITY

DOHA

ROXAS CITY BACOLOD CITY

DUBAI ABU DHABI

TACLOBAN CITY

AFRICA

CEBU

PUERTO PRINCESA DUMAGUETE CITY

TAGBILARAN CITY

SURIGAO CITY BUTUAN

DIPOLOG CITY

CAGAYAN DE ORO OZAMIZ

ZAMBOANGA CITY

JOLO

TAWI TAWI

84 I Mabuhay Magazine I November 2013

COTABATO CITY DAVAO

GENERAL SANTOS

I N D I A N

O C E A N

INTERNATIONAL ROUTES Abu Dhabi / Bahrain / Bali / Bangkok / Beijing / Busan / Brisbane / Darwin / Doha / Dubai / Fukuoka / Guam / Guangzhou / Ho Chi Minh / Honolulu / Hong Kong / Jakarta/ Kuala Lumpur / London / Los Angeles / Macau / Manila / Melbourne / Nagoya / Osaka / San Francisco / Seoul / Shanghai / Singapore / Sydney / Taipei / Tokyo / Toronto / Vancouver / Xiamen

ASIA NORTH AMERICA VANCOUVER TORONTO BEIJING

SAN FRANCISCO

SEOUL TOKYO-NARITA NAGOYA OSAKA FUKUOKA

BUSAN SHANGHAI XIAMEN GUANGZHOU

LOS ANGELES

HONOLULU

HONGKONG TAIPEI

MACAU

PHILIPPINES MANILA

BANGKOK HO CHI MINH

PAC I F I C

GUAM

O C E A N

CEBU KUALA LUMPUR SINGAPORE

JAKARTA BALI DARWIN

AUSTRALIA

BRISBANE SYDNEY

MELBOURNE

LEGEND PAL Flights PAL Codeshare Flights

www.philippineairlines.com I 85

FLIGHT FACTS Facts and figures about our flights and schedules. Distances and flight times may vary due to weather conditions, flight path changes, and the type of aircraft utilized. FLIGHT TIME refers to the time from when the aircraft engines start up before take-off, until the aircraft comes to a halt after landing. MM MILES refers to flight miles earned when travelling on Fiesta (Economy) Class, as adopted from the IATA standards.

DOMESTIC R O UTE S & SE C TO R S

MM MI LES

FLI GHT TI ME

INTERNATIONAL RESERVATI ON S

MANILA

MM MIL E S

F L IGH T T IME

RE S E RVAT IONS

MANILA

Bacolod Basco Busuanga Butuan

489

1:10 1:45 1:05 1:30

Cagayan de Oro

486