Mabuhay Magazine, January 2013 by Eastgate Publishing Corporation

TRAVEL+LIFESTYLE JANUARY 2013 MABUHAY JANUARY 2013

www.philippineairlines.com

Canada’s Liveliest City

toronto buzz CANADA’S LIVELIEST CITY

the City’s hip, Fun spots toronto on $100 a Day

ISSN 0217-6998

Melbourne’s sporty Vibes • the Dog Whisperer: Cesar Millan • Cebu • iloilo • Kalibo

LIFE’S A BEACH

Or at least that’s how it should be. With so much to deal with throughout the course of your day, from maddening traffic jams, to an ever increasing workload, the daily grind can indeed take its toll on body, mind and soul. But imagine, coming home after a tiring day, serenaded by the soothing sound of waves caressing the powdery white sand of the country’s first urban man-made beach. Welcome tomorrow morning’s sunny skies on a private balcony that overlooks your very own tropical paradise, or enjoy a romantic dinner by the water in one of two posh restos at a Beach Club designed exclusively by international icon, designer and celebrity, Paris Hilton. Life’s a Beach at the AZURE URBAN RESORT RESIDENCES, and this is the life you deserve. It’s beachfront property right in the heart of the City that’s yours for the taking. Call Century Properties today.

(632) 818-9041 (63) 917-555-5274

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. Authorized to sell by HLURB: LTS # 24077 (Rio), LTS # 23646 (Santorini), TLTS No. 12-04-018 (Positano), LTS # 25655 (St. Tropez) and TLTS No. 12-05-020 (Miami). Azure Urban Resort Residences Rio Tower will have 756 residential units and 184 parking slots. Santorini Tower will have 525 residential units and 86 parking slots. Positano Tower will have 597 residential units and 320 parking slots St. Tropez Tower will have 561 residential units and 127 parking slots. Miami Tower will have 559 Residential units and 309 parking slots. Target Project completion date is December 2012 (Rio), December 2013 (Santorini), November 2014 (Positano), December 2014 (St. Tropez), May 2015 (Miami). 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. Not for distribution in US and Canada.

Natural, Original

I've been suffering from Myalgia, or muscle pain, for years. In the last 5 years, my persistent pain and illness made me feel weak and sluggish despite the medicines. Doctors couldn't pinpoint what was wrong with me. When I tried Capsules upon the insistence of a friend, I did not expect a miracle. In just a day and initial 2 capsules, the suffering I had for years subsided tremendously. Today, I continue my Capsule Plus together with my medication. The pain and muscle weakness have long gone, and more importantly, I went back to my favorite exercise, boxing in the gym. At 60, it has given me strength to last for 12 rounds in boxing, to the surprise of my trainer and co-boxers. This regular exercise plus controlled diet has enabled me to lower my cholesterol to a normal lever as well. Praise the Lord for my healing through !!!

PHILIPPINE AIRLINES’ INFLIGHT TRAVEL+LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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Charles C. Chante simeon s. Ventura, Jr. lynette lee CorPoral eleazar s. salCedo nyx s. martinez Jane ira h. inquimboy rodel d. ambas benJamin l. abesamis Jomar r. GalVez Joshua l. laGandaon anna leah b. de leon emmanuel n. densinG ruth P. riVera Jamie l. saCdalan Kara r. santiaGo Pia r. oCamPo

Publisher editor-in-Chief managing editor art director senior Copy editor editorial Coordinator Copy editor Graphic designer Final artist staff Writer staff researcher/assistant interns

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pHiLippine AirLines luCio C. tan ramon s. anG

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Chairman of the board Vice-Chairman President Vice-President, operations operations manager account manager account manager account manager Pr & events manager accounting officer executive assistant business services Consultant legal Counsel manila, Phils.

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GOOD TIMES: Cebu’s Sinulog Festival is one of the most-awaited celebrations every January. Photo by Erwin Lim

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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, jventura@eastgatepublishing.com; mabuhay is authorized in the Philippines under PCFm Cr no. 388. Color separated and printed in the Philippines by house Printer. mabuhay’s digital magazine iPad app by imageworkz by Cranium esolutions, inc. 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.

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P A L

P R E S I D E N T ’ S

M E S S A G E

A New Dawn is Breaking at Philippine Airlines As we welcome 2013, your flag carrier is taking major strides to further upgrade its aircraft and equipment. Last year, two brand-new Boeing 777300ERs and four Airbus A320s were added to our all-jet fleet. This year is even more exciting when we take delivery of new aircraft––the first batch of new planes which forms part of the 65 aircraft ordered from Airbus. This will ensure greater service efficiency and reliability. Aside from connecting you to preferred destinations nonstop, our new aircraft offers passengers enhanced inflight facilities, comfortable seats, generous legroom, greater fuel efficiency, and value for money. Our new planes are even environment-friendly with less fuel emissions. We also launched an enhanced, user-friendly website complemented with a new passenger service system that provides one-stop-shop convenience. You are now a click away using our website to make reservations, pay for tickets and other customized services online before proceeding to the airport. Focusing on our strategy to cover and connect the Philippines to the world, it is with great pleasure that I cheerfully announce the inauguration of direct services to Toronto. Starting Nov. 30, 2012, you can fly to and from Ontario’s capital city thrice a week. This year, we will also start services to Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territories, with plans to revive services to Europe and the Middle East. With this, we can rightfully claim that no other Philippine carrier comes close to matching our international presence. On the financial front, our revenues are up almost 4 percent driven by stronger passenger traffic. If we stay on course, we hope to end our fiscal year in March with a modest profit. Our relative success in the few months that San Miguel Corporation has been at the helm of Philippine Airlines is but a reflection of your vote of confidence in our brand of service and safety standards. For this we are most grateful. I look forward to 2013 and beyond with hope and optimism. On behalf of all employees of Philippine Airlines, our stockholders and myself, I would like to thank you again for your continued support and patronage.

Ramon S. Ang

President & Chief Operating Officer Philippine Airlines 6 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

E D I T O R ’ S

N O T E

Photo by Justin Ventura

Try Toronto am not familiar with Toronto so I asked our contributor, Robin Esrock, (famous as the co-host of National Geographic’s “Word Travels”) about his home city. Robin aptly describes Toronto as if “someone put dozens of nationalities in a blender and just turned it on. It’s definitely the most buzzing of Canadian cities that even Vancouver tends to feel sleepy after a visit to Toronto.” If you need more enticement on why you should take the next PAL flight to Toronto on PAL’s brand new Boeing777, consider these other “come-ons.” It’s the 4th most livable city in the world, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit. And this is not surprising for it has more than 8,000 restaurants and 35,000 hotel rooms. And yet, 18% of its land area is devoted to 1,500 parks, 8,000 hectares of parkland, 187 kilometers of bike trails, 7.8 kilometers of pedestrian paths, and 3 million publicly-owned trees. With the energy of a bustling cosmopolitan city of 5.7 million people spiced with so many nationalities—including about 100,000 Filipinos— and breathing with parks and greenery, Toronto is certainly not a boring place. And it’s not that costly either, ranking only the 50th most expensive city in the world. Just to emphasize the point, Robin provides tips in this issue on how to enjoy Toronto on less than $100 a day, while Jules Torti shares her insider knowledge The 13-acre Distillery District in Toronto has more than 40 on the city’s cool, hip spots. heritage buildings and is a designated National Historic Site This being the start of the of Canada. New Year, we have features on feng shui, new travel wardrobe trends, and innovative travel tips. Contributor David Sendra Domenech applied his resourcefulness to get an interview with the highly popular Cesar Millan, better known as the “Dog Whisperer.” Good job, David. In the last 3rd quarter of 2012, the Philippines posted an economic growth rate of 7.1% behind China’s 7.4% but ahead of Indonesia’s 6.2%, Malaysia’s 5.2%, Thailand’s 3%, and Singapore’s 0.3%. Let’s hope the Philippines continues to become better in all sectors and its benefits will filter down to the masses. Philippine Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr. succinctly describes our current phase as the renaissance of the Philippines. Happy New Year! It’s easy being “green” in Toronto. These Toronto residents are probably practicing what they’ve learned from “Dog Whisperer” Cesar Millan by having a relaxing stroll at the park with their pets.

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

For comments and suggestions, you can email me at jventura@eastgatepublishing.com. 8 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

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TOP ATTRACTION: Throngs of shoppers and sightseers fill the streets of downtown Toronto, where the popular shopping complex, Toronto Eaton Centre, welcome around 1 million visitors weekly.

toRonto BUZZ

Get to know the hip, budget, and best attractions of Canada’s liveliest city.

42 Budget Trip: Toronto Under $100 a Day

44 The Best of Toronto

Save up on your Toronto trip by checking out these card-friendly haunts.

Discover this mega-city’s first-rate nooks and crannies.

PeRSonALitY

FenG ShUi

54 César Millán: Meeting the Dog Whisperer

86 The Year of the Water Snake Forecast

Learn a thing or two from this world-renowned dog trainer to the stars on how to handle dogs--and humans.

What’s in store for you in 2013? Let internationally acclaimed Marites Allen’s Chinese New Year predictions be your guide.

noteS FRoM the LAnD DoWn UnDeR Choose your bliss--from the savvy to the sporty--in Australia’s two dynamic cities.

46 Sydney’s Savvy Suburbs

Wander around the Harbor City’s smart neighborhoods, from the chic Paddington townhouses to the swanky Surry Hills.

50 Top Melbourne Treats

Have the time of your life trying out this city’s diverse water activities, great eats, and excellent shopping finds.

ICONIC: Bondi Beach is Australia’s most famous beach.

ceLeBRAtionS

BeYonD tRAveL

Party all night long in Cebu, Kalibo and Iloilo.

30 Taking Off in Style

60 10 Spots to Party in Cebu

Party peeps, listen up! Hit up the throbbing cocktail and music scene until the wee hours of the morning.

66 Festive Kalibo

Take to the streets and dance to the lively beat of Aklan’s Ati-Atihan Festival.

70 An Insider’s Guide: Dinagyang Fun in Iloilo

Make the best of the Dinagyang festival by going on out-of-town trips, sampling local delicacies, and visiting historic sites.

Give your travel wardrobe a makeover with these great tips.

SectionS

I I 16 I Travel Log 24 I In the News 28 I Milestones 88 I The Lighter Side 90 I Last Frame 94 I PAL Pages

08 Editor’s Note 14 What’s Up

on the coveR

Toronto High

CN Tower, the most prominent feature in Toronto’s skyline, is one of the tallest structures in the world.

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.

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

Travel writer and TV host ROBIN ESROCK has just finished an epic journey to every Canadian province and territory to write his first book, The Great Canadian Bucket List. He shares his Best of Toronto list on page 44 and Toronto on the Cheap on page 42. He says: The most exotic food I’ve come to love is Ethiopian cuisine, where everyone shares a delicious, spicy stew meal and eating with their hands. www. robinesrock.com

JULES TORTI is a freelancer with a magnetic attachment to extremes, from ice hotels to desert landscapes. This chronic blogger is known for eating questionable things usually involving bacon. On page 38, she gives firsttime visitors a glimpse of what keeps Toronto abuzz. She says: The most exotic food I’ve come to love is fried grasshoppers, which requires a good flossing afterwards. www.julestorti. wordpress.com

Freelance travel photojournalist ANDREW MARSHALL has traveled to over 50 countries in the past 20 years to cover a diverse range of features for various magazines worldwide, as well as supply photographs to Lonely Planet Images. He is currently based in England. On page 46, he takes readers to Sydney’s most savvy places. He says: The most exotic food that I’ve come to love is oysters.

MICHELLE WILDING is an award-winning Sydney-based freelance journalist. If she’s not writing, snapping away or producing feature videos, you’ll catch her traveling the world sampling fried tarantula legs. She goes bohemian in-between trying out Melbourne’s aquatic attractions on page 50. She says: The most exotic food that I’ve come to love is mazamorra moraday y arroz con leche (Peruvian purple corn and rice pudding). www. ohmishy.com.

VALERIE CAULIN, a History graduate of the University of the Philippines Visayas, fell in love with Iloilo and now has the perfect balance of family life and freelance writing in this “City of Love.” Celebrate the Kalibo and Dinagyang festivals with her on pages 66 and 70, respectively. She says: The most exotic food that I’ve come to love is braised chicken feet in black beans. www.valcaulin.com

A field biologist by training, JUDE BACALSO is a travel writer and photographer by choice and a radio DJ by accident. He is also editorat-large for Cebu Daily News and was recently appointed Brand Ambassador for the Radisson Blu Cebu. On page 60, he goes on a hot hangout-hopping spree in. He says: The most exotic food that I’ve come to love is agos-os, fermented pig head parts and sweet potato mixture. Twitter: @JudeBacalso

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W H A T ’ S

U P Dinagyang Festival merrymakers show their devotion to the Child Jesus via colorful street parades and dances.

Cologne Christmas Market

PHILIPPINES

SINULOG FESTIVAL JANUARY

CEBU CITY With the theme “One Beat, One Dance, One Revolution,” this year’s Sinulog Festival will rock Cebu City in its annual celebration of the miracle of the appearance of the Sto. Niño (Holy Child). The Sinulog Grand Parade will hit the streets of Fuente Osmeña on January 20. Come join the festivities— Viva Pit Senyor! www.sinulog.ph

DINAGYANG FESTIVAL JANUARY 25–27

ILOILO CITY Featuring parades, sights, and sounds that highlight the rich culture and tradition of the Ilonggos dating centuries back, the Dinagyang will include a fluvial procession along Iloilo River, the Kasadyahan parade, and the Dinagyang Ati competition. www. exploreiloilo.com

The festival season kicks off with a bang in January with street dances, film, shopping, and theater activities. DUBAI

Now on its 35th year, the Sundance Film Festival continues to be a venue for quality indie films from all over the world.

USA

SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL JANUARY 17–27

PARK CITY, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH Hailed as the mecca of independent cinema, this year’s Sundance Film Festival will feature various internationally acclaimed films to celebrate the creativeness and vision of all indie filmmakers worldwide. www.sundance.org

DUBAI SHOPPING FESTIVAL JANUARY 3–FEBRUARY 3

DUBAI, UAE Now on its 18th year, the Dubai Shopping Festival with the theme “Dubai at its Best” will feature various attractions like international concerts, musicals, outdoor and sports events, and fashion shows to complete your shopping experience. Start the year right at this 32-day extravaganza with the entire family. www.dubaievents.ae

ATI-ATIHAN JANUARY

KALIBO, AKLAN Aside from the usual stopover in sunny Boracay, why don’t you take a side trip to nearby Kalibo for Ati-atihan festival, a yearly celebration honoring the Sto. Niño. Filled with painted faces, extravagant costumes, and a thunderous clashing of drumbeats, Atiatihan is something one should never miss! www.kaliboatiatihan.com

COLOR MANILA RUN JANUARY 6

BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY, TAGUIG CITY In need of a different kind of marathon? At Color Manila Run 2013, runners will have to go through different stations—getting covered in colored powder along the way and finishing the race as bright and cheerful human canvasses. Registration fee is Php750. www.facebook.com/ColorManilaRun

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The cast of Throne of Games, a hilarious take on the fantasy series Game of Thrones, at the Next Stage Theatre Festival

CANADA

6TH NEXT STAGE THEATRE FESTIVAL JANUARY 2–13

TORONTO, ONTARIO Be sure to allot time to participate in this year’s Next Stage Theatre Festival in Toronto, one of PAL’s newest destinations. The festival, which draws as many as 6,000 spectators annually, will feature independent theater from a wide variety of genres. This year’s roster includes Awake, The Peace Maker, Post Eden, and Pitch Blond, among others. www.fringetoronto.com/nextstage-festival

Teletubby Land…for Real!

It’s a scene straight out of the British kids’ show Teletubbies. But thank God the show’s odd, colorful characters don’t appear out of nowhere here. Elevated with views of the Parramatta River in Sydney, the Blaxland Riverside Park Regional Playground covers more than three hectares and offers 12 play environments, including a double flying fox, a mega-swing, tunnel slides, a scramble wall, spinning play-disc, play mounds, a giant climbing web, and a Viking swing. Recently added were a huge multilevel tree house, a sandpit, and New South Wales’ largest water play facilities. Seriously, parents, resist the urge to regress. www.sydneyolympicpark.com.au

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T R A V E L

L O G

Toys for The foodies At least once while growing up, you heard the proverbial “don’t play with your food.” Well, we’ve now grown up, so it’s time to break the rules. MOLECULE-R frees us to play in the kitchen. With their different molecular gastronomy kits, any dish or cocktail can be deconstructed into a Top Chef dish at the comfort of your own home. Just how fun are the kits? How about making a layered martini, adding a touch of airy lime foam to your tequila shot, or on the culinary side, creating an arugula spaghetti or balsamic vinaigrette beads that burst in the mouth? www.molecule-r.com

Tearrific! Time for style The Harry Winston Ocean Dual Time Black Edition is definitely a statement piece. Made with Zalium, which is light, harder than titanium, and hypoallergenic, this timepiece is highly resistant to almost all forms of corrosion. Its home time indicator and the second time zone subdials are adorned with Super Luminova on the numerals and indexes, allowing both time indicators to be read easily in darkness. With the seductiveness of an all-black, high-tech sports timepiece and enough light to make it a genuinely practical traveling companion, the Ocean Dual Time Black Edition is the perfect timepiece for the world traveler. www.adora.ph

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Stepping into the chic black-and-white interiors of da.u.de Tea Lounge feels like entering another neighborhood altogether—somewhere in New York, perhaps? Created by Renee Sebastian, the first and only certified tea master in the Philippines, this spot offers an enticing array of fair trade loose-leaf teas. Take a whiff from mini-canisters to make your selection or go straight for bestsellers like the fruity Skala and refreshing Seffarine. Craving for something different? Try creative tea-based coffee alternatives, shakes, coolers, and cocktails. Enjoy your drink with a High Tea set (Php1,400) or tea-infused dishes, including the popular da.u.de Pho (Php390) and Crisp Pork Bahn Mi (Php340). we.lovedaude.com/. – Annabelle Marquez

sing, Katy, sing! Spotlight Artists Centre presents the acclaimed musical Katy. It features the colorful life of the Philippines’ queen of jazz and bodabil star, Katy Dela Cruz. Miss Saigon alumna Isay Alvarez plays the lead role, while other stars include Dulce, Tirso Cruz III, Gian Magdangal, Epi Quizon, Lou Veloso, and more. This revival staging will be held from Jan. 17 to 23, 2013, at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Tickets can be bought from Ticket World (+632 891 9999), SAC (+632 899 8089), and CCP (+632 832 1125).

2nd level

T R A V E L

L O G

There They go!

New raceTrack iN Malvar/TaNauaN ciTy, BaTaNgas Horse racing in the Philippines becomes more exciting this month with the opening of a world-class racing track in Malvar/Tanauan City, Batangas. Created by the Metro Manila Turf Club, Inc. (MetroTurf), this expansive 21-hectare horseracing complex has 620 stables, a lighted racing oval, grandstand, clubhouse, air-conditioned dining and lounge areas, digital betting terminals, video screens, and the latest broadcast capabilities. To attract horse owners and bettors, MetroTurf will adopt the best practices of world-renowned racetracks like the famous Hong Kong Jockey Club. This racing complex is just the initial phase of a grand development that encompasses 45 hectares to be developed by the Dolores Industrial Park Corporation. With Batangas province being the home of 90% of thoroughbred horse ranches in the country, founder Dr. Norberto Quisumbing, Jr. envisions the whole complex to become the “Kentucky of the Philippines” that will offer the highest standards of horseracing and breeders. And that’s not all. A complete leisure lifestyle will soon rise with an exclusive membership club, recreation attractions, and a boutique hotel. MetroTurf racing track is less than two hours away from Metro Manila through the Southern Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and the Star Toll (taking the Tanauan City exit).

Mandaluyong’s latest luxury residential address

After much anticipation, the first luxury boutique condominium in Mandaluyong City is now ready for occupancy. As the premier project of game-changing developer Francisco Madrigal-Bayot Jr., The Address at Wack Wack represents the Madrigal-Bayot family’s passion to deliver homes for those who value exclusivity, privacy, and luxury. This is being done continuously together with partners who are considered leaders in their own fields: Jose Aliling and Associates for Project Management, Monolith for Construction, R.S. Caparros for Structural Consultancy, and, of course, Architect Wilbert Tan for his minimalist design. www.theaddressatwackwack.com

eco Tip of the Month

Maximize your usage of your computer during the day. If possible, limit your usage to only four hours a day and turn it off completely at night. Doing this will reduce your machine’s CO2 emissions by 83%! www.philippinebiocharassociation.com

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Para’Kito Anti-Mosquito Bands www.facebook.com/ ParaKitoPhilippines

seated Bliss Kohler, the manufacturer of cutting-edge kitchen and bath fixtures, launches the Numi toilet. Boasting a range of luxurious features that include a sleek, interactive LCD touchscreen interface, a built-in bidet and deodorizer, a dualflush capability, an intuitive automatic open-and-close lid and seat, a built-in music system, and a heated seat, Numi is an innovative product that makes a bold design statement. www.kohler.ph

T R A V E L

L O G

Antel Hotel gets an Upgrade

Loco over Lego Malaysia is now attracting more kids and kids at heart with the opening of Legoland. The theme park features replicas of iconic Asian landmarks such as the Petronas Towers, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, and Marina Bay Sands, recreated using over 25 million Lego bricks. The park also features the iconic children’s building bricks and more than 40 rides and attractions, including roller coasters and interactive shows, as well as 4D theater and F&B and retail outlets. Watch out for the other attractions that will soon be built, like a Lego-themed water theme park and The Legoland Hotel. www.legoland.com.my

Best Western, “The World’s Largest Hotel Chain®,” celebrated with Antel Hotel as it embarked on two milestones: the launch of the newly built The Serenity Tower and its upgrade as Best Western Plus—the first ever in the Philippines. The celebration commenced with a ribbon-cutting ceremony facilitated by Elena Jao, President and Chairman of Antel Land Holdings Inc., and Khalid Ragab, regional operations manager of Best Western Asia and Middle East. www.antelhotel.com

TRAVELER’S PICK

Passport to Indulgence

JUST OPENED

Third Time’s a charm Fifteen years later, the corner restaurant that originated in Pasig City has blossomed into three, with Café Juanita's newest branch in Molito Lifestyle Center, Alabang. Retaining its corner café charm, the menu has the same time-tested recipes of Dr. Boy Vazquez. The food is definitely Filipino—rich and full-bodied. Try the Two-Way Pork Adobo, the crisped portion sits atop the traditional version. On the lighter side, savor the Pinoy Ratatoy, the localized version of Ratatouille with tuyo (dried fish). Any of the Sinigang dishes on the menu give the right kick. The waiter brings you a small tasting cup to test the sourness before he serves it up tableside. And when your senses are fully satiated, you are offered another slice of decadence in the form of Sticky Toffee Pudding. +63917 3456568. – Charisse Aquino-Tugade

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The Discovery Leisure Company, Inc. (TDLCI), the Philippines’ premier resort and hotel property and the name behind the Discovery Suites, Discovery Country Suites Tagaytay, and Discovery Shores Boracay, honors guests with an exclusive Passport to Indulgence. By simply booking a room in any of these properties, a wide range of lifestyle adventures are yours to indulge in at the partner establishments. Passport to Indulgence is the ultimate VVVIP pass, with remarkable discounts, freebies, upgrades, and special perks, for a fabulous 2013! +632 719 8888

I N

T H E

N E W S

Our Islands

METRO MANILA ON THE RISE Itching for some fun and recreation? Manileños don’t need to venture far to explore, as the Philippine capital was named by an international travel website as one of the top 10 Asian “destinations on the rise.” Trip Advisor ranked Metro Manila as fourth in the list, just behind Jakarta, Indonesia; Kathmandu, Nepal; and Kolkata, India. The website cited Manila as being a diverse mix of “historic and modern, rich and poor” as it highlighted ancient Intramuros as one of the city’s most popular sites.

HUMBLE IN VICTORY, GRACIOUS IN DEFEAT Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, who was knocked out in his fight against Juan Manuel Marquez, was gracious in his defeat against the Mexican boxer. “I have no excuses. It was a good fight and he deserved the victory,” the eightdivision world champion said in a statement to his fans. The boxer and politician has no plans of retiring. MARKET MADNESS The Philippines’ stock market lands in an international news website’s list of bestperforming stock markets this year. CNN Money ranked the Philippines 9th in the list of

24 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

40 best-performing stock markets in the world, noting a 26-percent gain as of Nov. 14. THOSE TUNA PIE CRAVINGS Jollibee’s scrumptious tuna pie is so irresistible even Yahoo! deemed it one of the “13 Fast Food Menu Items That Have Fanatical Cult Followings.” The Philippine-based fastfood chain also serves the menu item in its stores in California, Washington, New York, and Hawaii. GOOGLE FOR FREE! Good news for tech-savvy Pinoys! In a test run by Google, the country will be the first in the world to try out the Free Zone service, which allows users to access Gmail, Google+, or Google search for free on most internet-enabled mobile phones. Log on to http://g.co/freezone.

CLASSY ENOUGH FOR A CRUISE Who said the Philippines couldn’t be a world-class stop for a luxurious cruise ship? The Royal Caribbean International, a Florida-based Norwegian and American cruise line, now includes Manila and Boracay as two of its

A CALL FOR HELP In early December, typhoon Pablo (international name Bopha) swept across Mindanao, causing violent floods and landslides that buried homes and wiped out banana plantations. As of Dec. 10, there are around 600 recorded casualties, 800 people missing, and 300,000 left homeless. Visit www.president.gov.ph/pablophreliefph for a complete list of relief operation efforts.

destinations in its Asia Route, according to the Department of Tourism. The itinerary includes a tour around popular spots in Manila, and beaching around world-famous Boracay.

I N

T H E

N E W S

Best of the Best

united kinGdoM

Best Places to Spend New Year’s Eve

ukraine

10 Must-See Places in 2013

thailand Best Budget Destinations

Best Places to sPend new year’s eve 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

london, united kinGdoM MiaMi, Florida aMsterdaM, the netherlands ko Pha nGan, thailand toronto, canada Berlin, GerMany rio de janeiro, Brazil edinBurGh, scotland Goa, india

SOURCE: www.cntraveller.com

10 Must-see Places in 2013 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

criMea, ukraine Marseille, France raja aMPat, indonesia ravenna, italy Great Bear rainForest, canada Malawi Quito, ecuador BaGan, MyanMar caPe Breton, nova scotia, canada uGanda

SOURCE: travel.nationalgeographic.com

Best BudGet destinations in 2013 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

ko Phi Phi, thailand toronto, canada PalM sPrinGs, caliFornia antalya, turkey loire valley, France nashville, tennessee northern ireland slovakia Boracay island, PhiliPPines the BahaMas

SOURCE: travel.yahoo.comz

international tourists reach one Billion

Jetsetting is no longer just for the wealthy. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, international tourism reached 1 billion travelers last Dec. 13, 2012—that’s one in every seven people in the world crossing an international boundary. The reason, experts say, is prosperity in developing countries and the perception of a more peaceful planet.

26 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

it’s GettinG hot in here Mother Nature is getting hotter, and that’s far from being a compliment. According to United Nations meteorologists, 2012 ranked among the nine warmest years since records were started to be taken 160 years ago, further increasing the chances of extreme weather conditions. Among the most alarming is the melting of the Arctic ice, which occurred much faster last year than in 201

over 800 Million views For “GanGnaM style” He’s racked up the most “likes” in YouTube. Now he has become the most watched. Clocking in at around 808 million views in early December, Korean pop superstar PSY’s smash hit “Gangnam Style” is now the most-viewed video in the video-sharing site, surpassing the 803 million views of popheavyweight Justin Bieber’s “Baby.”

the duchess eXPects a child The royal stork finally brought the baby home, and Britain’s Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting their first child. Genesreunited.co.uk, a family history website, predicted that the child, who will be next in line to the British throne regardless of gender, will be born late August of this year.

To p D e s t i n a t i o n s t o E x p l o r e A l o n e i n 2 0 1 3 go solo in sydney

sydney, aUstralia Aussies have a knack for traveling alone, so why shouldn’t you? It can be a pain in the pocket to explore the harborside city, but snare some sheets at any of the plentiful hostels and you should be fine. Go people-watching at Bondi Beach, hiking through Sydney Harbor National Park, or selfreflecting at any of the numerous museums in the city.

caroUse witH coUntry mUsic

nasHville, tennessee, Usa Traveling alone to Nashville would be the closest thing to popping Prozac. Home to the likes of Taylor Swift and other iconic musicians, this whimsical city is where you get our country-music fix. Listen to original music in the city’s bars, bob your head to bluegrass at the Station Inn, or gawk over music legends at the Country Music Hall of Fame.

meet new mates

dUblin, ireland Pop into a pub in Dublin and you’ll most likely strike a conversation with a random stranger. In a country known for its “thousand welcomes,” this city never runs out of fun-filled diversions (or potential mates!). Share a pint of Guinness and some fish and chips with patrons in a pub, or head over to Grafton Street for some stress-busting shopping.

adventUre alone

costa rica After such a tough year, you’ve had that picture in your head—your self-lounging in a picturesque beach, or exploring a lush jungle with nothing to bother you but exotic wildlife. Head to Costa Rica, says Yahoo! Travel, and soak up the rays in Nicoya Peninsula’s 80-mile shoreline, hike the fiery Arenal Volcano, or meet fellow travelers through guided tours of the country’s national parks.

be a wild cHild

amsterdam, tHe netHerlands Traveling alone to let loose? Look no further than Amsterdam. This “party city” is perfect for nights of debauchery. Head over to Rembrandtplein for clubbing in the after-hours, or soak some beers and live music at Sugar Factory or Melkweg. You’re free as a bird in this European city, except for one rule: no cameras at the Red Light District. That’s a serious breach of etiquette!

On the Web www.stay.com

Select from listings of top attractions in over 100 destinations worldwide, and this website turns it into a personalized itinerary you can print out or send to your smartphone. Featured in the New York Times.

www.bringfido.com

Planning to pack your pooch with you on your next trip? Browse this website for more than 25,000 petfriendly hotels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds in 150 countries worldwide. a one-way triP to tHe red Planet Would you live in Mars if it meant never coming back to Earth? Around 1,000 astronauts already volunteered. The Mars One organization plans to land four astronauts on the Red Planet in 2023 and send four additional crew members every two years. The organization plans to raise funds for the project by creating a reality show around the training and selection of its astronauts.

tHe new Korean Traditionally, to be Korean means to be born to Korean parents in Korea and taking pride in being of “one blood.” But Jasmine Lee, born Jasmine Bacurnay in the Philippines, is changing all that. She is the first naturalized citizen and the first non-ethnic Korean to win a seat in South Korea’s National Assembly, marking a huge demographic shift in the country’s modern history.

www.globalfreeloaders.com

Save money and make new friends! This website helps you snare free overnights in the homes or apartments of generous people worldwide.

www.golearnto.com

Learn a new skill on your next holiday. This website gives you educational vacations by suggesting destinations where you can learn cooking, painting, horse riding, or yoga, among others.

www.philippineairlines.com I 27

M I L E S T O N E S

PHILIPPINES

FILIPINA TAKES OVER MODELING WORLD On Jan. 22, 2011, in New York City, Danica Flores Magpantay was named 2011 Supermodel of the World by prestigious modeling agency Ford Models. The 17-year-old daughter of former Supermodel of the World-Philippines Lala Flores is the first Filipina to bag this award from one of the world’s biggest modeling competitions. Along with the title, she won a US$250,000 modeling contract with Ford Models.

JANUARY 30, 1899

The Supreme Court was organized in Manila after years of having the judicial power bestowed on the old Real Audiencia—the highest tribunal in the Philippines back in the day.

JANUARY 24, 1991 The play adaptation of Victor Hugo’s masterpiece, Les Misérables, opens at Theatre St. Denis, in Montreal, Canada. JANUARY 9, 2007 Apple Inc.’s CEO, Steve Jobs, announced the release of the iPhone. Six versions of the iconic device have been launched since then, the latest being iPhone 5, which was released in the last quarter of 2012.

JANUARY 23, 1899

JANUARY 8, 1956 Elvis Presley’s “Don’t Be Cruel/ Hound Dog” single went to No. 1 on the Billboard Top 100 and stayed on the top spot for a record 11 weeks.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS JANUARY 25, 1933

Former Philippine president Cory Aquino, who assumed office in 1986 after a successful People Power Revolution that overthrew Ferdinand Marcos’ 20year dictatorship.

JANUARY 29, 1954

Host, producer, and philanthropist Oprah Winfrey was born in Mississippi to Vernon Winfrey and Vernita Lee. Coming from humble beginnings, she started at “AM Chicago,” a 1983 talk show that was later renamed to “The Oprah Winfrey Show” in September 1986 and aired until May 2011.

28 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

JANUARY 26, 1930

Born in Tagbilaran, Bohol, Napóleon C. Abueva is the Philippines’ National Artist for Sculpture. Also known as the Father of Modern Philippine Sculpture, he is the only Boholano to receive the National Artist distinction for visual arts.

JANUARY 6, 1955

Whether he is playing the role of Mr. Bean or British spy Johnny English, Rowan Atkinson is sure to give you a load of laughter with his hilarious antics and natural charisma. Atkinson is also a recipient of both the Laurence Olivier and BAFTA Awards.

The First Philippine Republic was inaugurated in Malolos, Bulacan, which signified the end of more than 300 years of Spanish rule over the Philippines. This was short-lived, however, as Emilio Aguinaldo, the country’s first president, surrendered to the American forces in 1901.

TRAVEL & TRENDS

Taking Off in STyle Cheers to a new year of globetrotting adventures. GIANcARLA ESPINOSA ARITAO has the latest travel trends.

TEch TRENDS

The trend in technology is to get the most mileage out of a certain item. Best seen in the concept of universal chargers, the Tumi Travel Charger Kit has interchangeable charging tips and electrical adapters. Travelers can now go to different countries without being bogged down with a slew of cables and chargers for gadgets. We are now seeing more travel-friendly camera developments such as image stabilization and facial recognition, with some models equipped with features reminiscent of Star Wars technology. The Samsung MV900F is a pointand-shoot camera that allows the user to zoom in and out at the flick of the hand in front of the camera.

30 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

LuGGAGE EASE

As luggage restrictions increase, it’s natural for travelers to prefer suitcases that don’t take up precious space and weight allocation. The newest travel models, like the Rimowa Salsa Air, boast the ability to perform without adding pounds. Made of polycarbonate plastic, it only weighs 2.4 kg but is durable and scratchresistant. However, one of the biggest trends in luggage now is personalization, with more manufacturers producing models specifically geared toward a particular gender. Colors lean toward metallic finishes or jewel tones instead of neons or pastels. If going for a neutral, gunmetal gray is more interesting than the ubiquitous black. Finally, show your personality with an item that comes in an interesting pattern, such as the Samsonite Essensis.

JETSET DRESSING

If last year was all about color, then this year is all about leaving the spectrum behind. Monochromatic looks are more practical for travelers because it leaves more breathing room for mixing and matching. This season, pragmatism is coupled with being on trend. Go for the sharp contrast of black and white, as seen in the latest runway presentations of Marc Jacobs and Jil Sander. When it comes to outerwear, coats and jackets are inclined to have a sportier silhouette. This means that more voluminous styles such as the blouson are preferred. Items such as the classic leather jacket will come with a twist—like an unexpected patterned weaving—to give materials an edgier appeal.

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FASHIONISTA

RED CARPET-READY Usher in the new year with the most exquisite baubles from Brazil. hat do J. Lo, Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Sharon Stone have in common with Filipinas? These ladies have access to the most stunning Brazilian gemstones crafted by H. Stern. Hailed by Time magazine as “the king of diamonds and colored gems, capable of unveiling the personality hidden in every precious stone,” H. Stern, world-renowned jeweler from Rio de Janerio, has been taking the world by storm since the 1950s. With half a century of experience in the business, H. Stern believes in the power of creating unique pieces suited only for the highest of royalty. Donned by A-list celebrities on the red carpet, H. Stern pieces are definitely showstoppers. Worn by highprofile icons in the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Sharon Stone, these women know exactly what will put them in the spotlight. What better way to accentuate their elegance than by gracing the halls adorned with timeless avant-garde designs?

If it weren’t for H. Stern, Brazil’s dazzling colored gemstones—aquamarines, amethysts, topazes, citrines, and tourmalines—wouldn’t be as well known and as highly valued as they are today. Until only a few decades ago, jewelers were interested only in the colored stones that were prized and valued at that time: emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. The success of this jeweler comes as no surprise. So much innovation propelled H. Stern’s growth and expansion around the world, first throughout Latin America, then to the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. Today, H. Stern has over 160 stores in 12 different countries. Starting this December, select H. Stern designs from its red carpet collection will be in Manila for a limited time only. Fashion-forward Filipinas wishing to bask in the spotlight of the Golden Globes or the Academy Awards will be able to grab the opportunity to take home with them these prized pieces straight from Rio de Janeiro.

H. Stern is available only at Adora, 3/F Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati; +632 217 4029. n

“HOuSe” OF blINg: The 12,000-square-foot H. Stern Building in Rio de Janeiro is the largest built for jewelry manufacturing and commercialization in the world. 32 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

COLORFUL TAKE

FREEZE FRAME: Tessa Prieto Valdes strikes a pose in a French Rococo-themed attire made of newspaper in a photo taken by talented photographer Francesca Balaguer-Mercado.

The Sea PrinceSS’ Fab new Year’S wiSh LiST TESSA PRIETO-VALDES ticks off her wish list for the Year of the Water Snake. he Year of the Water Snake arrives with a bang on Feb. 10, 2013 and here’s wishing that a good year lies ahead for all of us, especially when one’s fortunes are aligned with the stars. With a little help from feng shui, a form of Chinese geomancy aimed at creating harmonious surroundings based on energy patterns (or qi), we can look forward to a year of auspicious beginnings. Energies change directions and locations annually, so we must start the year right by identifying the locations of the major afflictions in our home for the year. According to feng shui practitioners, natural or man-made disasters and hostilities will be reduced considerably. Diplomatic ties among countries will be 34 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

strengthened, with more friendly coalitions and cooperation taking place. Goodwill is abundant and resources will be sufficient. I have used feng shui’s fortune enhancers for decades to boost my life aspirations. Feng shui has also been very much a part of my interior design practice. FENG SHUI FASHION UK-based Filipino feng shui expert Marites Allen is my friendly consultant. We have an annual Chinese New Year party at my home to attract positive energies. She has just launched Frigga, a fashion brand by the House of Allen Ltd. Named after the Norse goddess of prophecy and destiny, Frigga incorporates feng shui principles into fashion designs,

with each item rooted in the concepts of prosperity and luck. Allen has collaborated with feng shui master Lillian Too to come up with clothes and accessories for Frigga. One of her favorite designs are those of soaring birds to enhance health or give an extra dose of luck. See more Frigga designs at www. maritesallen.com. As the Chinese New Year approaches, expect Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world, to be a beehive of activity. The center of the busyness is definitely the new Ramada Manila Central hotel. TRAVEL I hope to have more travels this year, including a trip to Bhutan, which is on top of my bucket list. Right after Chinese New Year, my girlfriends and I plan to hit the streets of Bangkok and do some serious shopping. The last time I spent “one night in Bangkok” was in late November, to watch

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COLORFUL TAKE

FACES AND PLACES: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) Renowned Queen of Burlesque Dita Von Teese with beautiful Vietnamese actress Truc Diem in Bangkok; Frigga Fashion owner and feng shui expert Marites Allen and Tessa Prieto Valdes; Tessa with Ramada Manila Central guests Philippine Volcanoes National Rugby Team player Andrew Wolff, Rosan Cruz, and San Beda basketball forward David Semerad; Tessa with husband Dennis Valdes.

queen of burlesque Dita Von Teeseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s show at the Sofitel Bangkok and for an intimate and juicy interview afterwards, with the rest of the Philippines press contingent, Pepper Teehankee and Melo Esguerra. The international press corps had a great time watching the show hosted by Remy Cointreau regional managing director Xavier Desaulles and global brand director Justin Weston. The highlight of the evening? La Dita skinny dipping in a giant Cointreau highball glass. HEALTH & FITNESS I am hoping to do a lot of triathlons and running events this year. I am already signed up for the Ironman 70.3 in Cebu on August 36 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

4, my gift to myself for my half-century milestone. Hopefully, the training will give me a Ditaesque figure for the race.

is definitely an understatement here. Her other works are worth a look at www. francescabalaguer.com.

ARTS I would like the Water Snake to allow me to do an artistic project. I am now collaborating with several artists, designers, photographers and stylists for a digital exhibit and graphic book that will showcase their talents. Extremely gifted photographer Francesca Balaguer-Mercado artistically created a French-inspired Marie Antoinettethemed costume made out of newspaper, in particular my lifestyle column pages in the Philippine Daily Inquirer. Interesting

CHARITIES I also hope to continue to fill the year with charity events. I am particularly excited about the annual Red Charity Gala that I host with beautiful lady philanthropist Kaye Tinga. This year, we are featuring the fashion genius of Ezra Santos, a Dubaibased Filipino designer who is positioning Filipino fashion in the global scene. I know thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot to ask of the Year of the Water Snake, but with lots of heavenly luck, I pray that all my wishes will come true! n Follow @tessavaldes on Twitter.

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SPOTLIGHT TORONTO

MAYTIME GIG: The Cinco de Mayo (May 5) pub crawl is one of the most anticipated party events of the year, where friends gather and go on a beerdrinking and pub-hopping in the city's best bars.

Hip, Hip ToronTo! JULES TORTI explores Toronto’s electric urban playground. oronto’s downtown core buzzes with slick brewpubs, chill coffee joints, luxe spas, and indie shops. Here’s a foolproof snapshot of the best places to dip, get tipsy, eat pie, and play ping-pong. Get Naked! Shake off lingering jet lag by submerging in the therapeutic waters of Body Blitz (471 Adelaide St. West and 497 King St. East), Canada’s first water spa for women with two chic downtown locations. Located in converted warehouses, the spas offer a warm escape from the elements. Strip down in the clothing-optional space and make your way through the circuit ($55): the Dead Sea salt pool, hot Epsom 38 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

pool, cold plunge, aromatherapy steam, and infrared sauna. Order a thick Vitamin D shake made with bananas, soya milk, cocoa, and honey and kicked up with nutmeg ($7). Take advantage of the spa menu that reads like a romance novel with aromatherapy massage, scrubs, and bakes. The Winter Warming Mud Bake ($140/hour) is a seasonal favorite, while the Moroccan Spice Body Glow ($205/1.5 hours) is a popular go-to for detox and invigoration. MarketiNG 101 Looking for a beat-up pair of cowboy boots? Army fatigues? Graphic tees? Bordered by Spadina, Dundas, Bathurst, and College streets, the

Did you know? Toronto is the 50th most expensive city in the world, with annual household expenses totalling C$83,847 as of 2009 (Statistics Canada).

STOP, LOOK, AND SHOP: Toronto's numerous stores are great places to hunt for souvenirs, such as soccer scarves, handmade jewelry, and the quintessential authentic Canadian token, a bottle of maple syrup. Photo by Stuart Dee

GREENLAND

ALASKA

canaDa

TORONTO

USA

MEXICO

ToronTo nicknames

❃ T.O. ❃ T-dot, ❃ Hollywood North, ❃ Queen City, ❃ Hogtown, ❃ Broadway North

PSYCHEDELIA GOES ORGANIC: The Kensington Market Garden car heralds the arrival of summer. Photo by Jules Torti

Kensington Market area is an eclectic hotbed of inexpensive, used clothing and retro furniture shops, cheese boutiques, bakeries, and global eats. Grab a stiff and frothy latte ($3.50) at the slick and industrial Cafe Pamenar (307 Augusta) to start your shopping odyssey. Don’t be surprised when you find yourself ducking into Wanda’s Pie in the Sky (287 Augusta)

for a generous slab of her Peanut Butter Mousse Pie ($8) or swoon-worthy buttery shortbread cookies ($1.60). Be sure to leave ample time to sort through the jammed jean racks at Exile (20 Kensington) and Courage My Love (14 Kensington). Foodie types will be easily distracted at the Good Egg (267 Augusta) by the tchotchkes (knickknacks), colorful kitchen gadgets, and gastro book section. The Blue Banana Market (250 Augusta) has two floors of whimsy and promises that “you will get exactly what you want, even if you don’t know what it is.” Most shops in the area close by 6 p.m. while nearby restaurants and bars keep humming well into the night. Sit and SiP Discerning beer drinkers in Toronto are making a beeline for the Russian stouts, Dubbels and Baltic porters on tap at the inconspicuous Bellwoods Brewery (124 Ossington Ave.). The former scrubby auto mechanic garage is now an inviting space of white-washed walls, rustic wooden tables, and blackboard menus. The air is permeated with heady

Famous Canadian Stars Justin Bieber Celine Dion Jim Carrey

www.philippineairlines.com I 39

iNSiDer ciTy TiPS ToroNTo

Day PaSS Believer

3 4 5

The SocialS NeTwork

The Grid – Toronto’s free entertainment weekly offers tips on the city’s best live music, comedy acts, theater, and festivals.

TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) day pass – For C$10.50, two adults have unlimited access to public transportation systems (buses, streetcars, subway) for 24 hours beginning at 5:30 a.m. during weekends. For $3, get on the 192 Airport Rocket at Terminal 3 and alight at Kipling Station for easy access to the subway and bus networks.

FooTlooSe

a Belly’S BeST FrieND

“Street dog” or “street meat” – Load up on grilled Polish, Italian, and Hungarian sausage, beef, and veggie dogs ($3–4) topped with bacon bits, sauerkraut, hot pepper rings, and green olives.

Free Runs – Offered by the Running Room (Wednesdays, 6 p.m.; Sundays, 8:30 a.m.), the one nearest to downtown is the TD Centre Running Room store on the concourse level at 66 Wellington St. West.

1. Kensington Market 2. Bellwoods Brewery; 3. Smoke’s Poutinerie; 4. Body Blitz Spa; 5. SPiN Galactic

Show off A ping-pong social club? With two bars, 12 pingpong tables, and a snack-heavy menu (bourbon and bacon popcorn, $5; soft-baked pretzels, $8; and roasted banana splits, $8), Spin Galactic (461 King Street West) is a reliable go-to for eats, chatter, cocktails, and mad racquet skills. The mastermind of several enterprising owners, including actress Susan Sarandon, Spin only has roots in New York, Milwaukee, and Toronto.

RETRO COOL: Visitors to Smoke's Poutinerie will be transported back to the '80s, thanks to the flair of the owner named Smoke, who put the fries concoction into every Toronto foodie's vocabulary. Photo by Jules Torti

hops from the fermenting tanks situated behind the open brewpub. The brew list often rotates but watch for the Sour Grandma’s Boy made with yellow plums, Roman Candle IPA (India Pale Ale), and Trappiststyle Fortune Cookie ($3-15). Peckish? Adventurous types will go bonkers for the grilled duck hearts ($4). Cobs of paprika and lime-kicked corn are always a hit, as are the locally sourced cheese boards.

fuel up Neighboring Quebec has long been synonymous with poutine. The signature dish of salty fries blanketed in gravy and cheese curds is a calorie juggernaut. Join the queue at one of seven Smoke’s poutinerie joints (578 Queen Street West) peppered around the city as Smoke’s takes poutine to the next level with extras like double-smoked bacon and chipotle pulled pork ($5.99-7.99). Choose between peppercorn gravy, curry sauce, and over 20 variations that will fill your gut for a good six hours. Grab a window seat, tip back a Pop Shoppe root beer or black cherry soda ($2.25), and see why Toronto was smart to steal from its neighbor. n

Value for Money? The 101,528-hectare land (in what is now Toronto) was sold by the Mississauga people to the British in the late 18th century in exchange for 2,000 gun flints, 24 brass kettles, 10 dozen mirrors, 2 dozen laced hats, a bale of flowered flannel, and 96 gallons of rum. Total value: 1,700 British pounds.

PAL flies between Manila and Toronto three times weekly. Swingaround tour packages are available. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com 40 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

SPOTLIGHT TORONTO

CLEAR-CUT: The Crystal at Toronto’s Royal Ontario Museum is the centerpiece of a $256-million renovation project that opened in 2007 and comprises five interlocking, self-supporting prismatic structures designed by architect Daniel Libeskind. Within the canted walls of this glass and aluminum structure are the museum’s heritage buildings.

ToronTo on $100 a Day Toronto isn’t one of the world’s cheapest cities. But ROBIN ESROCK knows just where frugal travelers should go. ACCOMMODATION Located on the corner of King and Spadina, Global Village Backpackers (www.globalbackpackers.com) within short walking distance to tourist attractions, shopping boulevards, public transport, and thumping nightlife. For about a third of the price of a basic hotel (for as low as $23 depending on the season and length of stay), enjoy clean, private rooms with shared bathrooms. If you’re really counting your pennies, consider the dorms, but expect to get social with travelers from around the world. Alternatively, check out Air Bnb (www.aribnb.com), where you can find rooms for as little as $30 a night. SPLURGE The Gladstone (www.gladstonehotel.com) stands out for its eclectic rooms, each designed by a different artist. The former Victorian hotel is also a popular gallery and hipster hangout. Rate: From $137/night

Mega Metropolis Toronto is Canada’s largest city and the fifth most populous city in North America as of 2010, after Mexico City, New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

The Thompson (www.thompsonhotels.com) is stylish and trendy, and has a fantastic 24-hour diner downstairs and a lobby that packs in the beautiful. From $220/night ATTRACTIONS Torontonians appreciate having fun on a budget. With a CityPass (www.citypass.com/toronto), save up to 50 percent ($60 per adult) visiting must-see attractions like the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Ontario Science Centre. The Art Gallery of Ontario is free Wednesdays (6 pm–8:30 pm) while thrifty shoe-lovers will appreciate “Pay What You Can” Thursday nights at the Bata Shoe Museum. Stroll around St Lawrence Market, consisting of three historical buildings, and find that perfect spot for a delicious deli lunch. Check out the boardwalk at the Harbourfront Centre, look for public events at the happening corner of Yonge and Dundas Square, or window shop in the wonderful Kensington Market. Explore the Distillery District, High Park, Chinatown, and Little Italy, and you’ll realize why Toronto is famous as a city of neighborhoods.

RECORD HOLDER: Yonge Street is the longest street in the world, with a 1,896-kilometer stretch from Toronto to Rainy River, Ontario. 42 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

FASCINATING TORONTO

HIGH & MIGHTY

At 1,815.4 feet, the CN Tower is also home to the world’s highest bar, Horizons Restaurant, so go ahead and make a toast. Bottoms up!

IN GOOD COMPANY

Global Village Backpackers is a good place to get tips on what to see in Toronto if you’re on a budget.

CHOMP, CHOMP!

Paramount Fine Foods is highly recommended for its freshly made pita bread, hummus, and yummy Portobello Boursin Steak. Ask for their garlic sauce!

GO CHUCK YOURSELF 1. Paramount 253 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M5B 1N8, Canada 2. Global Village Backpackers Hostel 460 King Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 1L7, Canada 3. Horizons Restaurant 301 Front Street West, Toronto, Ontario M5V 2T6, Canada 4. CN Tower 301 Front Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 2T6, Canada

SUPER EDGY: Height does matter among extreme adventure travelers and CN Tower’s Edgewalk is way up there in their bucket list. Built on the roof of the tower’s 1,168-foot restaurant, the Edgewalk offers an hour and a half (and 20-30 minutes outdoor walk) of excitement.

SPLURGE The CN Tower, one of the world’s tallest freestanding structures, is the most iconic landmark in Toronto. Its viewing deck gives you spectacular 360-degree views of the city. Better yet, suit up and strap in for an unforgettable jaunt, the Edgewalk (www.edgewalkcntower.com), around outside on the 1.5-meter wide rim, directly above the world’s highest bar.

Do try this epic burger meal at Holy Chuck made of six patties, six cheese, triple bacon, and caramelized onions all stacked between three grilled cheese sandwiches.

TRANSPORTATION Toronto is blessed with an extensive public transit system and an efficient underground subway system, all accessible for $10.50 per adult for 24 hours (it’s even cheaper on the weekends) via a TTC Daypass. Most notable, and certainly the most fun, are the oldfashioned streetcars that run up and down the major arteries. Passengers get on and disembark literally in the middle of the streets, which can take some getting used to! Another way of getting around, especially in the summer months, is the Bixi bike system. These electrically assisted bikes have been a smash success, with over 1,000 bikes available from 80 charging stations located throughout the downtown core. A credit card is needed to “rent” a bike for a 24-hour period, with bike lanes easy to find. FOOD Torontonians eat out more than folks in New York and Chicago, which explains its enormous choice of restaurants. Worth checking out are these under $100 yummy fare: Paramount (253 Yonge St.) – Authentic Lebanese cuisine packed with locals feasting on huge portions that stretch dinner into tomorrow’s lunches. Little India (255 Queen St. West) – One of several excellent Indian restaurants found in the area, with a large, value-for-money buffet.

Toronto’s Pride 2ND - world’s most business competitive global city 3RD - in 2012 Cities of Opportunity 4TH - world’s most livable city 4TH - world’s top tech hubs (Sources: KPMG 2012 Comparative Alternative Study, 5th Annual Cities of Opportunities Report, Economist Intelligence Unit, Startup Genome)

NO GREAT DIVIDE: As of December 2012, US-Canadian dollar exchange rate is US$1-C$0.98. www.philippineairlines.com I 43

SPoTLIghT ToRoNTo

Tim Hortons (various locations) – a Canadian institution, Timmy’s (as locals call it) is a simple coffee-donut-sandwich deal that offers fantastic value. Food Trucks (various locations) – another recent phenomenon in the city that’s perfect for budget travelers!

FAVE PASTIME: The Rogers Centre is where baseball fans go come game time.

Fresh (various locations) – A healthy alternative, serving up well-priced salads, freshly squeezed juices, stir-fries, and wraps. Holy Chuck (1450 Yonge St.) – Easily among the best burgers in town (though not the cheapest) with interesting gourmet combinations (foie gras and truffle oil on your beef patty, anyone?) and the popular deep-fried pickle.

SPLURGE Canoe (54th floor, 68 Wellington St. West) – Located at the top of the TD Bank Tower and widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in Canada, Canoe is a place to see and be seen (and bruise your credit card while you’re at it) for about $100 per person. IN VOGUE You can’t walk a block in Toronto without seeing hipsters. Skinny-cut jeans, odd new-wave haircuts, perhaps an old bicycle at the waist, or 1980s head scarf. Join them at the Hawker Bar (164 Ossington Ave.) for well-priced Malaysian-style street food, and nightly drink specials.www.seetorontonow.com. n

Filipinos in Toronto Filipinos are the 4th largest minority group in Toronto at 102,555 (4.1% of the population) after South Asians (298,372; 12%), Chinese (283,075; 11.4%), and Blacks (208,555; 8.4%).

THE BEST OF TORONTO

RobIn ESRock LookS AT SoME oF ThE FInEST oFFERIngS In cAnAdA’S T-doT. BEST NEw RESTAuRANT Momofuku Shoto momofuku.com/toronto/shoto/ It takes a lot to create a stir in Toronto and new York chef david chang did just that with his 21-seater open kitchen that has an inventive menu that includes lamb belly and apple soup, peppery goose dumplings, and crunchy tempura sardines. Reservations are a must. $150 per person

BEST MuSEuM The Royal Museum of ontario www.rom.on.ca canada’s largest museum of culture and natural history houses 40 galleries and over 6 million items, including its world-famous collection of fossils, meteorites, design, and artifacts of canadian history. There’s something for everyone—interactive exhibits for kids, and huge galleries about ancient Rome, china, and Egypt. Tickets: $15 (adults); $12 (children)

BEST MARkET

BEST VIEw

St Lawrence Market www.stlawrencemarket.com

CN Tower www.cntower.ca

Recently named by national geographic as the World’s best Food Market, the 200-year-old St Lawrence Market has over 120 stores that epitomize the city’s multiculturalism. Its two sections are the north side, with weekly farmer’s markets, and the South side, with food stalls, delicatessens, restaurants, and art galleries.

With over 2 million visitors a year, the cn Tower is one of the Toronto’s biggest tourist attractions. once the tallest freestanding structure in the world, the tower offers stunning 360-degree views of the city, stretching north toward the suburbs, and all the way across Toronto Island and Lake ontario. Tickets: $24 (adults); $16 (children).

BEST ShoPPINg Eaton Centre/Queen St. west Located on at the heart of downtown on Yonge Street, Eaton

centre is one of canada’s busiest malls, with over 230 retailers, restaurants, and services (open daily until 9:30 p.m.). In contrast, Queen Street West is the city’s hippest fashion district, luring with boutique restaurants, hip galleries, and unusual retail stores.

Robin Esrock is the star of Nat Geo Adventure’s Word Travels, and has just finished writing his first book, The Great Canadian Bucket List. Find him at www. robinesrock.com

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

JOURNEY SYDNEY

PIE HAVEN: Harry’s Cafe de Wheels, which opened in 1945, has become an Australian icon popular for its meat pies that even media mogul Rupert Murdoch had these goodies shipped to Los Angeles for a post-Academy Awards party. Photos by Andrew Marshall

Sydney’S Savvy SuburbS From Sydney’s bohemian chic of Paddington to style ghetto Danks Street in Waterloo, ANDREW MARSHALL checks out this “city of villages.” DOWN ‘THE DEPOT’ It all began with one man’s idea to turn a factory into an art gallery complex. The Depot concept took off and the trend was set—all in a span of five years. Today, ultramodern warehouse apartment blocks, art galleries, restaurants, and retail outlets are springing up overnight. The Gallery complex known as 2 Danks Street, brainchild of Sydney lawyer Leo Christi, was formerly a Kodak factory building. Among the 10 galleries housed here are Stella Downer (contemporary Australian works), Conny Dietzschold (an international and Australian mix), and the Aboriginal and Pacific Art Gallery. The building’s resident eatery is the Danks Street Depot; a café/cocktail bar whose chef/owner Jared Ingersoll’s Mediterranean-inspired menu set the benchmark for the other restaurants in the area.

46 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

Where to Stay

THE DIVE HOTEL, a small, family-run hotel on the Coogee beachfront, with a well-equipped kitchenette. Dive also has a spacious three-bedroom annex for families and groups (www. divehotel.com.au).

Across the road at Fratelli Fresh (7 Danks St.), Barry McDonald’s fresh produce market housed in another former factory is the wholesale of choice for some of Sydney’s leading restaurants. A free cookingschool here is so popular that it’s often booked out for months in advance. BRUNCH AND BATHS The southern beachside suburbs of Coogee Bay, Bronte, and Bondi are each symbolic of the brassiness, laid-back nature of Sydney-siders. A magnificent walk along the cliff tops connects all three. It takes a few hours starting at Bondi, with frequent stops in cafés along the way or a dip in the sea-baths built into the cliffs. From Bondi via picturesque Tamarama Bay, you’ll end up in time for brunch at the Bronte Strip—a row of beachside cafés popular with locals in the know. Bogey Hole Café (473 Bronte Road) is the place to be seen and “do brunch.” Back on the trail the Coast Path winds through the Waverley Cemetery (Australia’s most scenic place to be buried with famous residents such as Henry Lawson and Dorothy McKellar) and Clovelly Bay

(another great spot for refreshments), before ending up at Coogee Bay. Coogee Bay is the great all-round Saturday “arvo” (afternoon in Australian) beach hangout. It has a more intimate feel with all the essential ingredients; golden sands lapped by blue seas, volleyball courts, headlands shaded with Norfolk Pines, and The Dive Hotel (235 Arden St.). BOUTIQUE BROWSING The narrow, tree-lined streets of Paddington are home to Victorian terraced townhouses where the salons of Australia’s top fashion designers can be found. The legendary Saturday morning market on Oxford Street is a hub for up-and-coming designers, who sell everything from eclectic hand-made jewelry, home accessories, and vintage clothing. On nearby William Street, Victorian cottages have been converted into fashion boutiques housing the creations of big-name designers such as Collette

THE GOOD LIFE: Sydney streets offer pleasant surprises, from the corner cafés in Surry Hills to to beachside brunch spots and vintage-type jewelry stores.

Dinnigan, Leona Edmiston, and Helen English. Pop into the Paddington Alimentari (2 Hopetoun St.), a euro-style café delicatessen, for a quick lunch. AL FRESCO DINING The once dilapidated Finger Wharf in Wooloomooloo Bay dating from 1917 is now a “swish” complex of residential apartments (actor Russell Crowe has his penthouse here) and swanky waterside restaurants including Otto’s (Italian), Manta (seafood), and

www.philippineairlines.com I 47

JOURNEY SYDNEY

HAPPY HOUR: Sydneysiders and tourists looking for some laid-back local pub that offers friendly service, value for money meals and a comfy, casual atmosphere can always go to Shakespeare Hotel at the corner of Devonshire and Steel streets.

China Doll (Asian). There’s nothing more iconic of Sydney cuisine than a plate of freshly shucked rock oysters combined with a crisp white wine while taking in the harbor views. At the other end of the dining spectrum, though with every bit as much character, is Harry’s Café de Wheels (Cowper Wharf Road), a 24-hour pie-cart serving pies and mushy peas since 1945. Besides having served famous customers like Elton John, Brooke Shields, Olivia Newton-John, and Pamela Anderson, it’s also a sort of institutional rite for taxi drivers, sailors, and late-night revelers. STREET SAVVY SURRY HILLS Formerly a “slum” housing the poor, Surry Hills today is now a fashionable scene of restaurants, designer galleries and leafy Victorian streets where corner shops house some of Sydney’s best cafés. Down at the Bourke Street Bakery (633 Bourke St.), the aroma of freshly baked bread overlaid with stuffed focaccias attracts long queues. Over the road, the Book Kitchen (255 Devonshire St.) is both a café and a bookstore, offering a huge selection of cookery and other food related books. Further up the hill is fish n’ chipper Mohr Fish

(202 Devonshire St.), favored by U2’s Bono. Order the Mahi—oyster mushrooms, snow peas, and a generous dollop of creamy mashed potatoes washed down with a chilled chardonnay. According to the New York Times, the scrambled eggs at Bills 2 (359 Crown St.; owned by celebrity chef Bill Granger) are the best in the world. Creamy golden eggs drench thick slabs of toast accompanied by button mushrooms and roasted tomatoes. Divine. n

BOOK ’EM: A café by day and restaurant at night, The Book Kitchen in Surry Hills serves up organic and biodynamic food and wine. All around the restaurant are shelves filled with food-related books that customers can either browse or buy.

PAL flies between Manila and Sydney four times weekly. Swingaround tour packages are available. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. 48 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

EXPERIENCE MELBOURNE

FACE-OFF: Feeling daring? Get that ultimate adrenaline rush by coming face-to-face with sharks in the “safe” confines of Melbourne Aquarium’s 2.2 million-liter Oceanarium. Shark Dive Xtreme is great for both certified divers and non-divers alike. Photos by Michelle Wilding

TOP MELBOURNE TREATS It’s the peak of summer and Melbourne is the ground zero of all things sporty and bohemian, writes MICHELLE WILDING. WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE

Although both games sound intense, anyone with a reasonable level of fitness and love of water can play. So what’s stopping you?

Yoga Sunrise Kayak Tour Early birds, salute the sun the fun way! Half-anhour of warming postures will ensure you’re awake, refreshed, and ready to see Melbourne just after dawn on a guided sunrise float. Paddle your way up the iconic Yarra River past Flinders Street Station, Crown Casino, and the lively South Bank district before returning to base.

Shark Dive, Melbourne Aquarium Here, daredevil divers and keen beginners can mingle with some of the most feared and misunderstood creatures of the deep. There are also turtles and stingrays to peep on in the whopping 2.2-million-liter Oceanarium.

… get drenched in some of Melbourne’s best aquatic capers

Richmond Recreation Centre Community groups host a range of pumping water sports like underwater hockey and canoe polo. 50 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

Middle Park Beach A great place to take a dip and relax, it’s an exceedingly popular spot for playing beach volleyball and wind surfing. So hire a board, hold on tight, and give the latter a go.

Australia’s Sports Capital Melbourne plays host to internationally acclaimed sports events: Australian Open (tennis) Grand Prix (motor racing) Rip Curl Pro (surfing) Melbourne Cup (horse racing) AFL Grand Finals (Aussie football)

BREAKFAST AT AMICI’S: Amici Bakery prides itself in its all-natural-no preservatives food, where everything is made from scratch and “nothing is brought in”, from its the hearty Breakfast Wrap to the fluffy omelette choices.

EAT UP

… top-notch coffee, world-class wine, master chefs—go ahead and savor it all. The Hardware Sociéte A quirky gem tucked away in a well-planned side street, this French/Spanish-inspired café offers innovative fare—from Mediterranean omelets, desserts, and salads, to uniquely fused eats. Order a coffee and be surprised at the cute anisette-spiked tiny cinnamon doughnut sitting snugly on a teaspoon. Sip herbal tea and smile at the teapot adorably clothed in knitted rainbow covers.

Melbourne by the Numbers 4.1 million population 1 million+ - no. of international visitors each year 20,400 - no. of theater and cinema seats

Amici Bakery Cafe Clients have been known to return and order the same dishes time and again to split with a pal. Think

166,537 - no. of cafe, restaurant, and bistro seats

MAX ENTERTAINMENT

Some novel ideas for the bohemians at heart: Nova Cinema for quality, art-house flicks Ding Dong Lounge, an underground gigs serving up rock/electro sounds Alumbra Soul Sessions, the place for funk, reggae, and RnB lovers, with canapé and fruit platter-filled VIP booths, plus A$17 summer BBQ grills out on deck.

SLEEP WELL

Longing for a good night’s rest? Here’s a mini-guide to the city’s best slumber stops:

pumpkin and goat cheese omelet, plus the meat breakfast wrap, washed down with its signature berry iced tea. A small bakery treat to finish wouldn’t harm your waistline, right? Estelle Bar & Kitchen Indulge in the five-course degustation for a journey of flavors and creatively plated delights that earned it a One Chef Hat award (Australia’s Michelin Star equivalent). If you’re indecisive, the kitchen can design a banquet of dishes for you.

The Blackman Art Series Hotel Named after renowned Aussie figurative artist Charles Blackman, this luxury dig is right next to the hottest boutiques and restaurants. Adelphi Hotel A converted warehouse invites with a 25-meter glassbottomed rooftop pool and a ninestory high view, overlooking busy streetscapes. Downstairs, enjoy a Turkish sauna and fitness studio. City Garden Hotel Best for the budget and comfortconscious traveler. All apartments

are kitchenette-equipped. Book in advance to score bargain online rates. Brooklyn Arts Hotel Quiet and quirky meets old-world charm, thanks to an attentive owner, and her two dogs. Choose from budget rooms or pricier but still affordable queen suites upstairs.

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EXPERIENCE MELBOURNE

WEEKEND PLEASURES: (FroM LeFt) What used to be a grimy junkyard in the back streets of Fitzroy is now a beehive of artistic activities where all things handmade are created and sold. the rose Street weekend market features everything from hippy fashion and cute accessories to fine artworks and jewelry pieces.

Strapped for Time? Take a Tour! Melbourne Lanes and Arcades Walking Tour is a visitor’s shortcut to all the hidden bars, street art, local designers, culinary hot spots and dazzling historical architecture.

STREET ART: Graffiti art is taken to another level at Laneway Art.

GO ALL OUT

… anything goes in Melbourne Chapel Street Here, shopaholics can spend their days and eves bagging goodies. The multicultural South Yarra end is lined with a mix of edgy local fashion, designer boutiques, and the country’s first Top Shop store.

Flinders Lane Retail therapy seekers, troop to this hip and happening strip known for its crafts and tiny boutiques like Christine, Lady Petrova, and Alpha 60 for some homegrown and international treasures. Rose Street Markets Need some presents to take back home? You can always grab thoughtful handmade gifts here during Saturdays. n

2-Day Great Ocean Road Surf Tour is good for both beginners and experienced surfers at the popular coastal town, Torquay, the birthplace of Rip Curl and Quicksilver brands. Bohemian Brunswick Tour on Fitzroy’s famously offbeat Brunswick Street strip won’t bore you—outré galleries, unpretentious cafés, live music, old bookstores, and trendy fashion sprees.

PAL flies between Manila and Melbourne three times weekly. Swingaround tour packages are available. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. 52 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

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PERSONALITY

CÉSAR MILLÁN: MEETING THE DOG WHISPERER César Millán tells DAVID SENDRA DOMENÈCH what it’s like being the world-famous “Dog Whisperer.”

ROAD TO SUCCESS: César Millán’s success story makes for a good film plot. With only US$100 in his pocket after illegally crossing the Mexico–US border, he lived on the streets, swept floors, washed cars, and ate $0.99 hotdogs. He got a job at a dog-grooming parlor after taming a snarling dog. His first Hollywood celebrity clients? Will and Jada Pinkett-Smith. Photos courtesy of www.cesarsway.com

ésar Millán’s life is filled with one adventure after another. The popular host of National Geographic’s Dog Whisperer was born on the night a hurricane ripped the roof off their house. At 21, he left the family farm in Mazatlan, Mexico, and jumped the border into the United States in search of the American Dream. Now at 43, César is head of a multimilliondollar dog rehabilitation center and a foundation that aims to help dog centers nationwide. How would you describe yourself—a dog trainer or a rehabilitator? My philosophy is more about dog rehabilitation through exercise, discipline, and affection. A dog may be very well trained and still be unbalanced, just as a balanced dog may not be trained. What do you think about humans who abandon or neglect their dogs? One of the saddest parts of my job is seeing how dogs are mistreated, and too often this comes from lack of education or available resources. This is the reason why I established The Millan Foundation in 2007, 54 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

Dog Whisperer Facts

thanks to our fans’ strong support, to help provide financial support and rehabilitation expertise to dog shelters throughout the United States. My work with dogs has taught me that most animals can make excellent companions, and what they need is proper care and a second chance. Exterminating them is simply not acceptable. When you look at a dog, what do you see? I see the truth. The human always tells me a story but the dog always tells the truth.

Broadcast in over 110 countries Global viewership of over 30 million

What have you learned from dogs? So much! The most important lesson though, is to live in the present. Dogs don’t harbor resentment or hold on to past trauma. They live in the moment and move on. This is such an important lesson! Dogs have taught me about forgiveness, about being “one” with the universe, and about being humble. Dogs don’t know fame or status or wealth; they just know whom they follow and what needs they have instinctively. And they love unconditionally—that is the true beauty.

PERSONALITY 1

IT’S RAINING DOGS...AND DOGS! Millán has published the best-selling book, Cesar’s Way, and runs Cesarsway. com, the largest dog-dedicated website in the United States, with over 1.2 million unique views per month.

What are some common mistakes that people make with dogs? People humanize dogs and don’t understand their psychology as pack animals. Almost all dog problems in modern society come from two things: lack of exercise and lack of leadership. Additionally, especially in America, owners tend to give affection, affection, and more affection, when what the dog really needs is exercise, discipline…and then affection. How should humans deal with their dogs? Show the dog that you are the pack leader. Then fulfill the dog’s needs through exercise by walking the dog in the correct way. Discipline them by giving rules, boundaries, and limitations. It’s very important that we honor the identity of a dog so he can find his life force with us. Before I work on the dogs, I analyze the human first and see what their energy is like and how they are responding (or not) to the problem. Do dogs mirror their owners’ personalities? Energy transfers from humans to dogs, so if you are feeling anxious, fearful, stressed, frustrated, or even too laidback, your dog can react and mimic those emotions. Is there any creature you can’t rehabilitate? I’ve never met a dog I couldn’t help, but I have met humans that couldn’t be helped.

56 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

Dog Trainer to the Stars

César Millán’s celebrity clients (and fans) include Scarlett Johansson, Will and Jada Pinkett-Smith, Nicolas Cage, Oprah Winfrey, Charlize Theron, and Simon & Yasmin Le Bon.

What’s your first pet dog’s name? His name was “all of them.” I was fortunate to be raised with a pack of dogs. What are your happiest childhood memories? My days on my grandfathers’ farm in Mazatlan. I remember being fascinated by the communication and pack dynamic of the dogs there. I would spend hours just watching them. I have tried to recreate that balanced environment with my Dog Psychology Center in Santa Clarita, California. I also remember the smell of chile rellenos that my mother used to cook. What was it like coming to the United States? I came to America to make a difference. I remember being afraid but excited about the future. It was difficult—I had to live on the streets for several months. But I was so blessed to be helped by some incredible people—from the man who helped me cross the border to the two incredible ladies who offered me a job helping in their grooming parlor in San Diego, even though I spoke no English. If you could be a dog, which would you be? Any dog with an owner that practices the fulfillment formula—exercise, discipline, affection, and strong pack leadership. n

FUN TIMES

FOR THE LOVE OF DOGS: Seth Casteel (with his rescued Mini Labradoodle Nala) used to photograph homeless dogs as a volunteer in Los Angeles’ animal shelters. Today, he has a nonprofit organization that help animals through photography and teaches workshops to increase adoption rates.

Underwater Canine Capers

n the surface, it seems to be a simple pool exercise: a dog’s leap, a splash, and then a wet head surfacing with a ball, triumphant. But beneath the water is a chaotic ballet of bared teeth and bubbles, paddling paws, fur and ears billowing in the currents. From leaping Lab to diving Dachshund, the water is where a dog’s distinct personality shines through; some lounge in the current, paddling slowly, but others arch their bodies to cut through the water with the focus and determination of a shark. This is just a glimpse of what you’ll see in award-winning photographer and animal rights

activist Seth Casteel’s “Underwater Dogs,” a collection of more than 80 portraits, dozens of which have yet to be seen by the world. Casteel’s work is unique among pet photographers—a new way of looking at an old friend, the water lending a vibrant kind of energy that you can’t look away from. Each image bubbles with exuberance and life, a striking reminder that even in the most lovable and domesticated dog, there are more primal forces at work. In “Underwater Dogs,” Casteel gives playful and energetic testament to the rough-and-tumble joy that our dogs bring into our lives. n

TOP DOG: “Underwater Dogs” features Seth Casteel’s underwater dog photographs, which drew a combined 150 million views on Facebook and Twitter in February 2012, have been featured in the New York Times, Time, Animal Planet, and National Geographic, to name a few. For more, visit www.littlefriendsphoto.com. 58 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

PARTY TIME

LOUNGE CRAZE: Cocktails, fun chats, and great music overflow nightly at the sleek and sophisticated Grey Goose Lounge in Cebu's popular hangout, The Loft. This lounge does not disappoint as evident in the long list of Cebu's who's who that frequent the place. Photo by Erwin Lim.

10 PLACES TO PARTY IN CEBU In Cebu for the Sinulog Fest? JUDE A. BACALSO knows a dozen hot hangouts worth hitting up.

1. GREY GOOSE LOUNGE (www.facebook.com/theloftcebu)

Vibe: It’s what Alice fell into if the tunnel opened up into Kenneth Cobonpue’s private wonderland— the celebrated Cebuano designer’s version of an enchanted forest. Crowd: Button down shirts, designer jeans, custom dresses, and bespoke shoes. Cebu’s dressed-down but well-dressed. Music: Some of the best DJs in the world (like Kaskade) have spun at the adjacent dance club’s famous turntables. Prices: Order signature Grey Goose cocktails for Php400 a pop, or local beer for only Php70. Cuisine is prepared exclusively by Guiseppe, one of the best Italian restaurants in Cebu.

2. FRONT GATE (www.facebook.com/frontgatecebu)

Vibe: Easy and unpretentious. The 13-year-old hole-in-the-wall began as a Mexican steakhouse, but has gotten a new lease in life as a cross between neighborhood cafeteria and watering hole. Crowd: Siblings Sidney and Gary Uy infuse their culinary-school-honed techniques (Sidney worked for Holiday Inn London and Amanpulo’s kitchens) and bring in their crowd: 20s to 30s, laid-back, alcoholloving, burger-obsessed crew. Music: With a playlist as varied as its customer base, at any night it can run the entire gamut of alternative rock, Top 40, house, lounge, to Gangnam Style. Prices: Local beers start at Php35 and the basic 100 percent all-beef patty burger start at Php75.

CEBU PUTS ON THE CHARM About 1.9 million tourists, including over 800,000 foreigners, visited Cebu in 2011, according to the Department of Tourism. The province is aiming to attract 4 million tourists by 2016.

MEGACITY: Metro Cebu is the Philippines' second biggest metropolis, after Metro Manila, with about 4.2 million residents. 60 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

WORLD-CLASS: Designed by awardwinning furniture designer Kenneth Cobonpue, this Lounge is the only official Grey Goose Lounge in Southeast Asia. Photo by Erwin Lim.

3. DISTILLERY (www.facebook.com/TheDistillery.Cebu)

Vibe: Brick cladding and industrial feel suggest drinking in an alleyway, but with air-condition and strategically placed pin and recessed lighting. Crowd: Young. One is allowed to bring in any food into the bar corkage-free, as long as drinks are ordered. Music: Ranges from commercial top 40s, house, hip hop, and RnB on the weekends, with an in-house DJ. Prices: Try flavored beer, from chocolate to honey to framboise to nikeberry from Floris (Php180) and Timmerman’s (Php200). 4. ALCHOLOGY (Ground Floor, Mango Square Mall, Gen. Maxilom Ave; +6332 4159917)

Vibe: Alchology is not only about size (600 square meters), but proximity to the vortex of action—the exciting Mango area. Crowd: The club draws in the partyphile of every shape, size, and economic bracket. Music: In-house DJs play nightly with an international DJ flown in monthly. A whole lot of RnB, vocal house, and the latest dance tunes. Prices: Local beers start at Php50, a shot of imported scotch at Php100, vodka at Php80 and cocktails starting at P120. 5. RADISSON BLU’S LOBBY LOUNGE (www.radissonblu.com/hotel-cebu)

Vibe: By night, the cavernous lounge at the Radisson Blu is enveloped in a glow projected from the bar’s intricately patterned lighted panels. Crowd: The locals with a hankering for live music and interesting cocktails fill the 180-seater space. Music: An acoustic band plays nightly from 6 pm until midnight. Prices: Try their best-kept secret, the Ginger Honey Simple living at its best Pandan Mojito (Php239).

SOMETHING'S BREWING: Besides a great wine selection, the constantly jampacked The Distillery boasts a wide array of beers, including German, Irish, Brazilian, Belgian, Canadian, Australian, Jamaican, English, and Japanese, to name a few. Photo by Erwin Lim

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VINTAGE VIBE: Gilt Artisan Lounge & Cocktail Lab is a heady den filled with retro-glam and decor, including pop art images that take you back in time while lazily sipping its signature creative cocktails. Photo by Erwin Lim.

6. GILT ARTISAN LOUNGE & COCKTAIL LAB (www.facebook.com/GILT.Artisan.Lounge)

Vibe: Deliberate kitsch of the interestingly mismatched furniture (fancy a seat on saddleback, your grandmother’s sofa or a resin hippopotamus?) and an intelligent menu. Crowd: An appreciation for the finer things is a requirement here—those who have seen it all, and just want a place to kick back with a good drink in hand. Music: The dancing kicks in appropriately on the weekends with a guest DJ, and live acoustic acts provide a weekday musical respite. Prices: Local beers start at Php80, and their popular Vodka Cranberry cocktail at Php180. Try Smoked Bangus pate in toasted bacon rolls and microgreens (Php160), one of the best small bites.

8. SCRAPYARD (www.thehouseofcebu.com)

Vibe: Mismatched furniture—a collection of quirky pieces found in scrapyards from Berlin, the Middle East, and Shanghai make up this new watering hole within the boutique hotel The Henry. Crowd: For now, only those in the know populate the Scrapyard, just the way they like it. Music: You can be your own DJ (inside their unique booth: the reworked shell of a classic VW beetle) by plugging in your music player. Prices: Must try: Their Cebuano take on the Brazilian national cocktail, the Caipi-mansi uses local lemon instead of lime in this heady mix of cachaca (sugarcane rum) and raw sugar granules! (Php180).

SCRAP WITH AN ATTITUDE: Don't be fooled, these mismatched scrap items found at Scrapyard are not the usual found objects; they came all the way from flea markets in Shanghai, the Middle East, and even as far as Germany. Scrapyard got style? You bet! Photo by Erwin Lim.

7. BELLINI (www.anzani.com.ph)

Vibe: Sit on world-famous Dedon outdoor furniture made by hand in Cebu on a panoramic hill, and indulge in one of the best cuisines on the whole island. Crowd: The young movers and shakers call Bellini their own, making it an essential stop in Cebu’s barhopping culture. Music: A bossa nova band plays live on Wednesdays, contemporary music on Fridays, and current genres for Saturdays. Prices: Local beers start at Php70 and the signature Bellini (Prosecco and peach puree) at Php250.

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WATERING HOLE: A popular after-dinner place, Bellini offers great brews, luscious desserts, and good live acoustic music. Photo by Erwin Lim.

9. LABELED LIQUOR STORE AND BAR (www.facebook.com/LabeledCebu)

Vibe: The downstairs area is well-lighted, with a long and elevated table that encourages congregating, while the dim upstairs is for cozying up. Crowd: Built for the easygoing, upwardly mobile, Labeled’s crowd alternates between full-on barkadas (cliques) to the intimate twosomes. Music: On weekends, a homegrown DJ spins electro house and progressive house. Weekdays, it can range from old-school RnB to pop tunes. Prices: Local beers start at Php40, but Labeled lets you grab foreign beers like the Australian ginger brew Bundaberg for just Php120!

NO TO "POCKET HANGOVER": Enjoy your booze without the skyrocket prices at Labeled Liquor Store and Bar, which offers some 100 selections of liquor, including rhum, beer, vodka, tequila, cocktails, shooters, gin, whiskey, and more. With regular DJs playing in the background, it's a great place to unwind until the wee hours. Photo by Alec Toting

10. TREFF (www.waterfronthotels.com.ph/cebu/outlets/ treff.html)

Vibe: Modern space, encased in a sheet of glass, a 20-foot-high transparent ceiling looking straight out into the sky, Philippe Starck ghost chairs, blanc-chic al fresco lounge. Crowd: Treff (German for meeting place) brings together both extremes: the indoor area is louder, darker; while the outdoor lounge is laidback and awash in natural moonlight. Music: An in-house DJ plays dance music, RnB, and 2K pop hits on weekends. Prices: Local beers start at Php120, with happy hour nightly from 5 to 9 pm.

CLASSY: With its glass walls, trendy Philippe Starck furniture, "inventive" food and signature drinks, it's no surprise that Treff is a favorite among Cebu's well-heeled set. Photos by Erwin Lim

SINULOG 2013 SURVIVAL GEAR Festivals are fun, but this one comes with extreme heat and hordes of crowds. Last year, a record turnout of 4 million people (including a 20,000-man security deployment) showed up. Use this guide to navigate through Sinulog—and survive!

WATER

To stay hydrated under the heat, and for washing up after grime, face-paint, beer, and mud that may (will) end up on you.

ROUTE MAP

Check out the maps and two Sinulog routes at www. sinulog.ph before heading out.

WHISTLE

To make some noise for Sinulog (or else just scream “Pit Senyor!” at the top of your lungs!), and if you’re in a group, devise a different whistle tone to help find each other in the mad throng!

PROPER FOOTWEAR

Lightweight sneakers or those nifty breathable shoes meant for the beach.

SUN PROTECTION

Bring sunblock, a cap, or headgear and sunglasses!

CELL PHONE

Keep in touch when you fall out of formation, or record the sights and sounds of the Sinulog with your social networks.

CASH

Keep your cash in a secure area (a hidden pocket on the waistband), wrapped in waterproof material.

INSIDER TIP: For a small fee, register and join the Sinulog photo contest at the official website. Even with a point-and-shoot camera, you’ll get access to cordoned-off areas!

PAL flies between Manila and Cebu 13 times daily. PAL also flies between Cebu and Bacolod, Caticlan, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Ozamiz, Surigao, Tacloban, and Zamboanga, all of which are operated by AirPhil Express under its codeshare agreement with PAL. PALakbayan tour packages from Manila to Cebu are available. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www. philippineairlines.com. 64 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

A THOUSAND SMILES

RHYTHM OF THE STREETS: Lively drumbeats and dances-and lots of smiles-greet visitors attending the yearly Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo, Aklan. Often referred to as the "Queen of Philippine Festivals," the festival earned at least Php3 million in the 2012 festivities. Photos by Ree Dexter E. Ingeniero

FESTIVE KALIBO The capital town of Aklan is slow-paced and ordinary, typical of rural life. But during the Ati-Atihan Festival, it jolts to life with celebration. Reports by VALERIE CAULIN

ounding drums, bodies painted black, colorful and elaborate costumes—they all paint dramatic, visual stimulation. Kalibo’s Ati-Atihan is held every January, and is one of the Philippines’ most recognizable festivals. Kalibo comes from the Akeanon “sangka libo,” which means a thousand. It traditionally represents the number of natives who converted to Christianity when the Spanish friars adapted the festival to honor the Santo Niño (Holy Child), and set it to the third Sunday of January. But the festival’s origin dates much earlier than that. In the 13th century, Malay datus (tribal chieftains) and their people first performed the AtiAtihan when they settled in the island and made it their new home away from Borneo. Celebrating with a ritual dance, the newcomers covered their skin with soot to mimic the dark skin of the native Atis. In fact,

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Ati-Atihan means “to be like an Ati.” This year, the Ati-Atihan will be celebrated on January 13–20, 2013. Bare-faces are not allowed, so don’t be surprised if a total stranger puts black paint on your face. Just laugh and join in. Let loose and dance! Unlike other festivals where onlookers are mere spectators, Kalibo’s Ati-Atihan is unique because everyone is encouraged to participate. BAKHAwAN ECO-PARK Covering a total of 200 hectares of bakhaw (mangroves), what started as an environmental cause way back in the 1990s is now a major attraction in Kalibo. Offering shelter to more than 37 species of birds, the eco-park offers cool breeze and different shades of green. Observe community life with children harvesting mud crabs, mollusks, and other shellfish. A new addition is the tamilok (shipworm)

KALIBO LINGO The language spoken in Kalibo and the rest of Aklan is called Akeanon.

Jawili

Kalibo

Tangalan Antique Phaidon Beach

Beyond Kalibo In Brgy. Afga in Tangalan (a 30-minute drive northeast of Kalibo), youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find four hectares of Wave-Rock Formation, which used to be a quarry site for coral stones. Come during low tide to enjoy the best views. In Jawili Beach, a few meters away is a stretch of white-sand beach, with a few newly developed bungalows for day trips. The Jawili Falls (entrance fee of Php5) are an impressive seven cascades. Cottages are available for Php150.

seven-Basin Falls: Located about 30 kilometers from Kalibo, Jawili Falls enchants with seven waterfalls and crystal-clear pools.

The province of antique, an hour out of Kalibo, boasts 7 kilometers of white-sand beach, rich marine life, and a thriving fishing community. Visit golden Beach and Phaidon Beach Resort (www.island-dreams.com).

challenge (Php200), a type of shellfish that tastes like oyster. Tigayon Hills and Caves Climb 46 steps uphill alongside centuries-old trees and enjoy a good vantage point of Kalibo River. Sixteen-century Chinese ceramics where excavated in this area, which are now on display at the Museo It Akean (Aklan Museum). Sit down and enjoy mountain breeze and the see the occasional lawin (serpent eagle) soars across. n ConTaCT: Tangalan Municipal Tourism office www.tangalan.ph; Bakhawan eco-Park (+6336 2627696) la Herminia PiĂąa Weaving industry www.laherminiaweaving.com.ph; Kalibo Tourism and Cultural affairs (+6336 2621020);

one WiTH naTURe: Bakhawan Edo-Park, a community-based eco-tourism project in Kalibo, has an 800-meter trail that cuts through a mangrove forest.

PAL flies between Manila and Kalibo five times weekly (and daily for flights operated and codeshared with AirPhil Express). PALakbayan tour packages are available. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855-8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. 68 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

卡利波的街头风情阿卡兰（Aklan）首府是一个典型的悠闲乡村，但在阿提安提汉嘉年华（Ati-Atihan Festival）期间，万众皆激情沸腾，颠覆了其慢悠的生活。VALERIE CAULIN特别报道。卡利波圣婴阿提安提汉嘉年华卡利波的阿提安提汉嘉年华于每年的一月份举行，是菲律宾最精彩热闹的节庆。届时，大街小巷都充满着震耳喧天的鼓乐声，舞者把身体涂黑、身穿色彩鲜艳的精致服装跟随者游行队伍出巡。卡利波这名称是源自阿卡兰文“sangka libo”（意指一千）。早前基督教修道士们纳入这节日以供奉圣婴（耶稣圣婴），并把日期定为一月份的第三个星期日，当时有多达一千名的土著改信基督教，这就是该数目的由来。在13世纪，阿提安提汉节原先是由从婆罗洲迁入新居地的马来部落酋长及其族群欢庆。他们在庆典上表演祭祀之舞，那些新迁入者则用煤烟薰黑身体，以模仿阿提土著的黝黑皮肤。实际上，阿提安提汉的原意是模仿阿提族。

今年，阿提安提汉节将于2013年1月13日至20日举行。在这嘉年华，没有人会置身事外，因此别感到震惊若有陌生人随手把黑色涂料往您的脸上抹一把。既然来到现场，您不如就参与其盛、释放自我痛快狂欢吧！相较于其他只供路人观赏的节庆，卡利波的阿提安提汉嘉年华显得更为独特，因为大家都可随心所欲的参与其中。 Bakhawan生态公园这片红树林占地总面积200公顷，早在90年代就已开始推行环境保护的工作，如今已成为卡利波的主要景点。这里是 37种鸟类的栖息地，拥有不同的植物群落，凉爽的空气，景色怡人。游客可携带孩子在这观赏泥蟹、软体动物以及其它的水生贝壳类动物，新加入的有tamilok（船蛆）挑战（200比索），一种吃起来犹如生蚝的贝壳类水生动物。 Tigayon山与洞穴攀上46个梯级，抵达山顶即可饱览壮观秀丽的卡利波河。山上的Museo It Akean（阿卡兰博物馆）展出16世纪在这地区挖掘出的中国陶瓷。游客可在此享受悠闲时刻、尽情游走微风山谷、抬头仰视雄鹰在天空展翅，自由翱翔。

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LOCAL PICK

ILOILO

A HAPPY OCCASION: The Dinagyang Festival, happening Jan. 18 to 27, began in 1968 as a joyful reception of the Santo Niño (Holy Child) replica gin to the Parish of San Jose City. Dinagyang comes from the Hiligaynon word dagyang, which means “to be merry and very happy”. Photo by Emmanuel Lerona

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE: DINAGYANG FUN IN ILOILO Even just a short visit to Iloilo can be memorable. Reports by VALERIE CAULIN efore the festival begins, start your Ilonggo experience by visiting two of the main churches within the city: Jaro Cathedral, where the great hero Graciano Lopez Jaena was baptized, and the “feminist” Gothic Saint Anne Parish in Molo. Jaro’s belfry and the spires of Molo Church dominate the city’s skyline. Houses of the sugarcane barons of the old days still stand today, drawing both curiosity and amazement from passersby. Some of these old houses are now used as commercial establishments, others as schools. The grandest of them all, the beaux-arts Nelly Garden built in 1928, is now used as a wedding venue and is open for exclusive tours. (Call +6333 320 3075 or email nelly.garden@yahoo.com) Tee Time Santa Barbara Golf Course, 15 minutes from the city, is the oldest golf course in the country. Scottish engineers in charge of building Panay Island’s railroad system built this course in 1907. Take a walk around

its lagoon or enjoy the view of this 18-hole golf course at the balcony of its clubhouse, before stopping in at the mini-museum. The newly renovated pre-war buildings along Calle Real (JM Basa and Iznart Streets) with their magnificent Art Deco architecture add snapshot appeal to the city’s nightlife. WheRe To DANCe, PARTy, AND DiNe iN iloilo Benigno Aquino Avenue in Mandurriao is Iloilo’s newest entertainment strip. There’s also Smallville for dining with live bands. Paseo de Arcangels (behind Philippine Airlines’ office) is another party destination popular with reggae music lovers. Restaurants serving local dishes and international cuisine, café, a cake shop, and a wine bar are all housed at Plazuela, a family-friendly complex. Haute cuisine and international menus can be had along The Avenue inside Smallville.

Did You Know? Iloilo’s economic boom during the second half of the 1800s led to it being declared the “Royal City (Queen City) of the South” by Spain’s Queen Regent Maria Cristina. The city’s prosperity afforded its residents luxurious lifestyle.

20TH CENTURY MALLING: Hoskyn’s, which is still open with their fixed-priced goods, is regarded as the Philippines’ first department store. 70 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

Photo by Emmanuel Lerona

heated leaves of buyo or Piper betel (Php700). The traditional Dagdagay Foot massage (Php300) will ease your tired soles.

ILOILO’S MANY FACES: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) A colorful Dinagyang street parade scene; Nelly Garden, built in 1928, is now a popular venue for weddings and group tours; Sisig Lobster at Cilantro’s; San Joaquin Church’s intricate sculpture in relief depicting the victory of the Spanish against Moorish invaders in the Battle of Tetuan. Photos by Ray Caulin.

Craving for good ol’ Ilonggo food? Try batchoy at any branch of Ted’s and Deco’s. Pata (cow’s leg braised in tamarind-based broth) is another Ilonggo dish. Savor this sticky sour dish (Php55 per serving) at Ped Bacs Kusina, an institution when it comes to Ilonggo dining (www.facebook.com/pedbacskusina). Cilantro’s Vietnamese dishes (www.facebook.com/ CilantroIloilo) are more budget-friendly at Php90 per 100 grams, plus cooking fees. They serve the only sisig lobster in the city. Cool off with a tall glass of Vietnamese iced coffee, Ca Phe Sua Da. PamPering Indulge in a rejuvenating massage at Skinetics Wellness Center (www.skinetics.com.ph), nominated as “Medi-Spa of the Year” at the 8th AsiaSpa Awards held last November 15, 2012. Lutay, a traditional Ilonggo massage, makes use of virgin coconut oil and

geTTing ouT oF ToWn Want to venture outside the city borders? Then visit the neighboring Guimaras—an island famous for its impossibly sweet mangoes. Just 15 minutes off the southwestern coast of Panay, Guimaras Island, with its tranquil white-sand beaches, is a big shift from the frenzy party mode left in the city. Explore the town of Buenavista at the other side of the island and stay at el retiro Beach Park (www.elretirobeachpark.com). Then explore the Santo Tomas de Villanueva Church in the town of Miag-ao, one of the four Philippine baroque churches inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage list. In San Joaquin, the province’s southernmost town, the San Joaquin Church boasts a peculiar façade. It celebrates the triumph of the Spanish armies against the Moors during the 1860 Battle of Tetuan. The main chapel of its campo santo (cemetery) is a notable site for those keen on arts and architecture. n

PAL flies between Manila and Iloilo five times daily. PALakbayan tour packages are available. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. www.philippineairlines.com I 71

F O L K

T A L E

ILLUSTrATIOn by bEnJAMIn AbESAMIS

The Dove anD The Crow

few days after the inundation of the world, God sent a crow down to earth to see how deep the water was on the land. When the crow flew down to earth, he was surprised to see so many dead animals everywhere. It came to his mind that perhaps they would taste good, so he alighted on one of them and began to eat. He was so very much pleased with the abundance of food about him, that he forgot all about the command God had given him, and he remained on earth. On the third day, since the crow had not returned, God sent a dove down to earth to find out the depth of the water, and to make other observations of the things that had taken place on the earth. As the dove was a faithful creature, she did not forget what God told her. When she reached the earth, she did not alight on any dead animal, but alighted directly in the water. Now, the water was red from the blood of so many creatures that had been slain. When the dove stood in the bloody water, she found that it was only an inch deep. She at once flew back to heaven, where, in the presence of God, she related what she had seen on earth, while the crimson color on her feet was evidence of the depth of the water. After a short time the crow returned. He came before God, who spoke to him thus: â&#x20AC;&#x153;What made you so long? Why did you not return sooner from the earth?â&#x20AC;? As the crow had no good reason to give for his delay, he said nothing: he simply bent his head. God punished the crow by putting a chain on his legs. So that today the crow cannot walk: all he can do is to hop from place to place. The dove, which was faithful to God, is now the favorite pet bird the world over. The red color on her feet may be seen today as evidence that she performed her duty. 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

TOTAL RECALL: Pigeons and doves are intelligent creatures who have amazing memory, especially when it comes to remembering human faces. 72 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

TRAVEL TIPS

Illustrations by Benjamin Abesamis

ENHANCED TRAVEL: 8 Ways to See the World Differently This year, we welcome you to lose yourself in new travel experiences. Get to know a place by allowing yourself to take risks, or to do things beyond your usual travel habits. NYX MARTINEZ suggests some ways to make the most of your journeys in 2013.

1. Do your research Don’t go out blindly. Knowing a bit about a place beforehand gives you the confidence needed to explore when you get there. Read some reviews and guidebooks before setting out—and then, when you’re there, just go with the flow. Suggestions: Look up expat websites, search and post your interests or questions on community forums, or read sites like tripadvisor.com to get good deals and ratings on a place.

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2. Get creative For something beyond the usual, join creative journeys like culinary tours, cooking classes, pottery lessons, and food trips. Often done with just a handful of people, these getaways will be more intimate and inspiring. Suggestions: Kulinarya Tagala is a culinary tour of Laguna, Batangas, and Quezon (+632927 5630989). Jeepney Tours (jeepneytours.com) explores Manila and other provinces the Pinoy way—aboard a private jeepney ride.

near you; XE Currency keeps track of live rates. In Metro Manila, Looloo is a hot new app for anyone who loves going out!

3. Use travel gadgets and apps If you don’t let yourself fall into the easy trap of looking at your phone too much, rather than looking at the town, you’ll find a few useful apps out there. Suggestions: Google Translate App to learn new phrases; Free WiFi Finder searches and finds free and paid WiFi hotspots in your area; LocalEats lets you know yummy local eateries

4. Converse with your concierge Overflowing with up-to-date info, these service people are trained to be reliable and honest, so if you are paying for a hotel, make the most of it. Right after booking a room, introduce yourself to the concierge by phone or email, and tap into their resources— everything from secret restaurants to where you can score concert tickets.

5. Learn from a LocaL See the “real” city—where the locals go. But how exactly do you “find” locals besides hitting up random strangers in bars? Social networking has already bridged the gap across continents, with travelers embracing online communities of other trusted travelers, and sharing cultures. In a recent trip to Ho Chi Minh City, I tried Couchsurfing and ended up not only saving money, but getting the inside scoop on the hottest hangouts not only in the city, but also the lesser-known outskirts. www. couchsurfing.org

6. avoiD famiLiar fast-fooD joints When visiting Milan last summer, I was both surprised and disturbed to see how many tourists packed into McDonald’s beside the busy Duomo Square. Leave your appetite for familiar food at home, and discover a new country by letting your taste-buds do the traveling. Eat at sidewalk restaurants; try new spices; taste new flavors. Have some fun at hawker stalls; it’s your chance to be experimental!

7. if you are traveLing as a coupLe, spLit up for one Day anD go soLo Lifestyle writer Joanna Goddard calls it, “That Weird Thing We Do on Vacations.” She says, “We always spend a day apart on vacations. It’s refreshing and liberating to have time alone to do exactly what you want, and then you can meet for dinner to share stories and photos.” (Forbes magazine named Joanna Goddard’s popular blog CUP OF JO in the Top 100 Lifestyle Websites for Women. www.joannagoddard.blogspot.com) 8. Don’t be afraiD to get Lost “Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves,” wrote American author and philosopher Henry David Thoreau. Granted, it’s rare that we go out to get lost on purpose, but if it does happen, that sense of disorientation often leads to Alice-in-Wonderland types of discoveries. n

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH

ISLAND RETREAT: Nope, this ain't your typical picturesque Scottish isle but something closer to home—at the northernmost tip of the Philippines, in fact. Batanes is a traveler's hideaway and a photographer's muse.

AWAY FROM THE CROWD Tired of elbowing the competition for that precious beach space? LYNETTE LEE CORPORAL offers great alternatives for the curious traveler. ANGONO, RIZAL—THE COUNTRY’S ARTS CAPITAL Whether it’s a colorful sculpture of a nuno sa punso (old man on an anthill) on a street corner or wood carvings of fishes hanging from electric poles, Angono, about an hour’s drive east of Manila, is a one-stop shop for the arts (not to mention the birthplaces of two National Artists—Carlos “Botong” Francisco for the Arts and Lucio San Pedro for Music). A great introduction to Angono’s artistic inclinations is via its thousands-of-year-old petroglyphs. The town’s ancestors “rocked” the ancient art world with hundreds of carvings on a cave wall depicting human and animal figures, such as stick men, pregnant women, lizards, and turtles. Shop in at Second Gallery (www.thesecondgallery.blogspot.com), which used to be Francisco’s home, now run by his grandson, Totong Francisco, before taking a refreshing dip at Villa Jhoana’s pools and grabbing some siesta time (www.facebook.com/ villajhoanaresort). Don’t miss the Blanco Family Museum (+632 651 0042). The

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family’s late patriarch, Jose Blanco, who was known for his folk realism style, has successfully passed on the paintbrush to his seven children, as well as to his grandchildren. Now, the sprawling museum is both home and gallery-cum-workshop for Angono’s young artists. Nemiranda Art Café (www.nemirandaarthouse.com) along Dona Elena Street takes you further into folk art and a closer look at Nemesio Miranda Jr.’s brand of artistry. Inside, linger over huge paper mache and wooden sculptures, paintings, and art pieces. Check out the toilets, too, and you’ll see what we mean by “bursting with creativity.” Cap off the trip with a cuppa at the café and brood over your art experience under the gaze of the giant nuno sculpture. BATANES ISLANDS—RAW AND BEAUTIFUL If you’re the type who loves to follow a tiny, dusty footpath surrounded by undulating hills covered in a carpet of green dotted with grazing cows and goats, then the picturesque rustic Rakuha-Payaman (otherwise known as Marlboro Country) communal pastureland is for you.

Photo by Sammy Ang

AT LEISURE: Whistle-stop-style tours have no place in the crystalclear waters of Coron's Kayangan Lake and the rich cultural offerings of Angono where the sights and sounds are meant to be experienced and not merely recorded in handy cameras and videos.

If you’re a traveler with a particular fondness for riding a boat built to sway with 15-foot waves on the way to the island of Sabtang while a boatman’s assistant nonchalantly pulls in a three-foot long dorado from the sea, then Batanes is for you. If you’re a beach lover who eschews the crowds, choose from among the many deserted beaches around the island and have the crystal-clear waters all to yourself. Or, if you don’t swim but love the sea with a passion, the boulder-filled Valugan Beach is the place to perfect the art of stone balancing. If you’re the romantic type out to impress your babe, be sure to book at the luxurious Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge (www.fundacionpacita.ph). Since the resort has a long waiting list, do reserve months in advance. If not, you can always have sunset cocktails atop the Basco Lighthouse and dinner at the sprawling grassy area below. With a table decked with local delicacies such as uvud (steamed or fried banana root balls with garlic and fish), turmeric-spiked rice, and all kinds of grilled and steamed seafood, this is one memorable date. For a unique trip, do rent a whole Ivatan stone house (yes, those sturdy homes fortified with three-meter walls that can withstand signal no. 4 typhoons) at least for a night. The province known for its empty jails and Honesty Coffeeshop (you take what you want and leave the payment in a basket) brings you back to the basics. It’s clean, pollution-

free, and offers healthy food. www.visitmyphilippines.com/index.php CORON, PALAWAN—MAGICAL COVES Palawan is synonymous with water—great diving sites, pretty beaches, underground rivers. But Coron, located in the province’s Calamianes group of isles up north, ups the ante on this water theme a bit by offering a variety of water attractions, including a posh, two-level pool at Asia Grand View Hotel (www.asiagrandview.com). Island-hopping adventures take you from one snorkeling and diving trip to the other. Siete Pecados, Calachuchi Reefs, Sunset Lagoon... the list goes on. But not to be missed is a trek up uneven rock steps and down onto what is said to be the cleanest lake in the country, if not in Asia: The Kayangan. There are caves around the lake accessible only if you dive down and emerge into an opening. You can sunbathe on a floating raft or just swim languidly in its still waters. Still on Coron Island are the famous Twin Lagoons, separated by a limestone outcrop and accessible either by diving beneath it or climbing over it. Take a therapeutic dip in Maquinit Hot Spring resort’s (Busuanga Island) piping hot pools. After all that trekking and swimming, this salty spring will melt those bodily aches away. Dig your heels into the black sandy pit, sit back and gaze at the clear night sky. Now, ain’t that such a wonderful life? n

A Bite of Exotica

You only live once! Why not dare try Balaw-Balaw Restaurant’s fried crickets and frog legs while you’re in Angono? It’s quite good, we promise you. Or, perhaps some finger-lickin’ fried duck that the whole town is famous for will tickle your sleeping tastebuds. www.philippineairlines.com I 77

GOOD EATS

RUSTIC FEAST: This Kamayan sa Palaisdaan specialty, sinugno is just one of the many gustatory treats visitors will get to savor in the Kulinarya Tagala culinary and heritage tour. Photos by Oz Mendoza

Quezon’s Culinary Trip: a TasTe of CulTure OZ MENDOZA travels south of Manila, eating his way through Quezon, to give us a rundown on the province’s local culture.

o experience the true character of a place, you can’t merely look at the culture—you need to taste it too. That’s the spirit behind the Kulinarya Tagala, a culinary and heritage tour that winds through several towns in the Southern Tagalog provinces of Laguna, Batangas, and Quezon. My stop? Quezon. LUCBAN: SAUSAGES AND SwEETS Lucban is famous for its Pahiyas Festival that happens during the feast day of Saint Isidore the Laborer (San Isidro Labrador) every May 15, when the town is festooned with colorful leaf-shaped rice wafers known as kiping. Koffee Klatch Restaurant serves a savory local delicacy Pancit Habhab: stir-fried lukban noodles with pork and vegetables. I left the restaurant carrying a basket full of Dealo brand treats: fingerling biscuits (camachiles), tooth-busting egg cracklets (galletas), sugarglazed thin crisps (apas), and the famous broas—local version of ladyfingers.

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Lucban is also known for its rich, garlic-infused pork longganisa (sausage). Half a block away from Lucban Church, you’ll find Eker & Ely, a store that’s said to sell the best longganisa in town. SEAFOOD AND LOCAL BREw IN TAYABAS Kamayan sa Palaisdaan translates into “eating with your hands at the fishery.” That’s exactly what you do at the restaurant by that name—although they offer spoons and forks if you want them. Dine in floating cottages set on rafts in a freshwater fish pond. Walking the narrow footbridge to your table takes a bit of nimbleness, so forget the high heels. Kamayan sa Palaisdaan’s specialty is pla-pla (Tilapia). I tried a creamy dish named sinugno, which is grilled Tilapia stewed in coconut milk and mustard leaves. I loved the ensaladang pako— tender, raw fiddlehead fern salad with a leafy, slightly sweet flavor. Tayabas has two significant points of culinary interest. Mallari Distillery is the town’s oldest producer of lambanog, highly

locAl FlAVoRS: A visit to Quezon will not be complete without sampling local delicacies, such as the delightfully flavored sweet pastry budin made from cassava and cooked in coconut milk, and the famous Lucban longganisa (pork sausage).

intoxicating liquor made from the sap of coconut flower. Drinking lambanog is a time-cherished tradition, and if you want to imbibe a bit of local heritage, buy a bottle at the Mallari Distillery storefront on Rizal Street. Another street, Kalye Budin, is named after a glutinous pastry made from cassava and coconut milk. It is lined with vendors selling freshly baked budin alongside other delicacies, including halayang ube (purple yam jam) and uraro (arrowroot cookies). For a taste of cultural heritage, I visited the Minor Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel, the largest Catholic church in Quezon. SARIAYA’S AnceStRAl HomeS The ancestral houses of Sariaya were built by the coconut barons who thrived here in the 1920s and ’30s. Now renovated and refurbished, they stand as monuments to a lifestyle that no longer exists. Don Catalino Rodriguez’s mansion has a classic, traditional Filipino style, and traipsing on its antique hardwood floors, you do feel like you’ve gone back a hundred years. In contrast, the Gala-Rodriquez house, an Art Deco marvel designed by Juan Nakpil, is surprisingly modern. The sumptuous

How to mAke kiping*

living and dining rooms would not look out of place in a contemporary estate. But then you notice the private chapel, the exquisitely ornate Provençal furnishings—and the secret underground chamber (for hiding from the Japanese during the Second World War). Another heritage site in Sariaya is the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, originally built in 1599. The present church structure dates back to 1748. Its centerpiece is the 18th-century statue of Santo Cristo de Burgos. A PotteR’S FeASt In tIAonG Your Kulinarya Tagala day trip won’t be complete without a visit to Ugu Bigyan’s Potter Garden. The potter himself was on hand to supervise the cooking of kulawo, a dish made with puso ng saging (banana blossom). It is cooked by mixing it with charcoal embers, resulting in a smoky, surprisingly meat-like vegetarian entrée. The food was served on Ugu Bigyan’s beautiful earthenware creations—a mixture of culinary and cultural artistry that perfectly matches the spirit of the Kulinarya Tagala. To arrange a Kulinarya Tagala tour, contact Tina Decal at +63927 5630989. n

courtesy of Koffee Klatch Restaurant: 1. Spread gooey paste made of ground rice and food coloring onto a large leaf (cacao, coffee, or talisay). 2. After letting excess goo drip from the leaf, place inside a steamer. 3. After steaming, the cooked kiping is allowed to dry until it’s ready to be peeled off the leaf. 4. Deep-fry in oil for snacks, or hang them as decor.

*Kiping is a colorful, leaf-shaped rice wafer used as a decoration in Lucban, Quezon’s annual Pahiyas Festival.

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FooD + triP

caVite’s best: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) Muche or bibingkoy (photo by Roy Lorenzo Maala); tamales; Lihim ni Lola; and Pancit Choko en su Tinta (photos courtesy of Eyelight 23)

Cavite’s LoCaL WorLd Cuisine Going south? Take a detour from Tagaytay and let charisse aQuino-tugaDe lead you to the province’s epicurean surprises.

hen it comes to culinary traditions, the Philippine islands cook up fantastic regional specialties. As expected in a nation with a long history of trade and colonization, its food is a combination of Southeast Asian, Chinese, Indian, and Spanish with interesting twists and turns. Many are familiar with the rich Kapampangan cuisine or the fiery Bicolano cooking, but the newest food trip is Caviteño cuisine. The province of Cavite is strategically located south of Metro Manila with a tiny hooked peninsula jutting out of Manila Bay. The tip of the province, Cavite City, was once an entry point of 82 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

ships heading toward the capital— from Chinese junks to Spanish galleons. This cultural influx, coupled with Cavite’s varying terrain, has greatly influenced Caviteño cuisine, combining local ingredients with world inspiration. Here are our top 10 must-tastes: Muche It’s the Japanese mochi and Chinese buchi with Mexican achuete coloring rolled into one. Visit Naic, Cavite, and try these sticky treats of orange rice dough filled with mashed sweet mung bean smothered in sweet coconut cream sauce. Pancit choko en su tinta Also known as pansit pusit, this Caviteño version of squid-ink pasta uses pansit bihon or rice vermicelli sautéed with squid, onions, and

squid ink. New Chefoo Restaurant (945 P. Burgos Avenue, Cavite City) offers a version of this tasty noodle treat. kilawing Pansit Filipinos love tangy flavors. They use souring agents—like the local calamansi—whenever they can. In Maragondon, Cavite, they prefer to sour their pansit bihon with kilawin puso or pickled banana blossom. Sample this dish in Servando’s Restaurant (Gen. Trias Drive, Rosario, Cavite). oyster kabuteng sisig Tagaytay is famous for its oyster mushroom farms, with many restaurants serving the tasty fungus in burgers, salads, and even drinks. In Gratchi’s Getaway (Barangay Cabangaan, Silang, Cavite), try their version of Oyster Mushroom Sisig. It has all the goodness—minus the cholesterol!

Ready to Eat! For a culinary tour of Cavite, email the Association of Restaurants in Cavite at reignedimdam@yahoo. com, or text +63927 9183477 and +63932 2943222.

ORGAnic SAlAd With its cool terrain and fertile soil, Tagaytay City is a good spot to grow different varieties of lettuce. Gourmet Farms’ The Dining Room on the Silang–Tagaytay border (Km. 52, Aguinaldo Highway, Buho, Silang, Cavite) offers freshly picked vegetable salads with sweet and savory dressings.

HAlEYAnG SAmPAlOc This pamutat or dessert, a sour and sweet jam made from tamarind, usually finishes off a hearty meal in Cavite City. tAmAlES While the Mexicans have their own version prepared with pounded corn, the cooks in Cavite City use rice flour or galapong with hefty pieces of chicken, egg, and garbanzo beans. Taste it at Gourmet Farms’ The Dining Room.

VAlEnciAnA For “Gentrisenos,” or people hailing from General Trias, this is the ultimate party paella, a one-pan rice dish filled with meats, tomato sauce, and vegetables. But unlike the Spanish version, here they cover the pan with a banana leaf, which gives it a distinct flavor and aroma. OYStERS Go to any of Cavite’s coastal towns and cities and try the oysters. Head to Bacoor via Coastal Road and get some of the cheapest oysters you can buy. Have them shucked and raw or with a splash of vinegar and chili.

liHim ni lOlA In Republic of Cavite (City Hall Road, Brgy. San Agustin, Trece Martires City), a huge 4,000-square-meter restaurant, eat some purple sticky rice treats with a lihim (secret) in every bite. This is just one entry on their extensive menu of Cavite’s most famous dishes. n mEXicAn cOnnEctiOn: According to food writer Ige Ramos, the “tamale” was brought to the Philippines by Mexicans during the galleon trade. Photo by Mike Francisco

GEOGRAPHY 101: A favorite place for quick weekend getaways, Tagaytay City is actually part of the province of Cavite—not Laguna or Batangas.

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www.philippineairlines.com I 83 This is how life is meant to be lived. Call (632) 6460756.

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GIVING BACK

A “CLASS” ACT: Kaeskwela, formed in April 2007, has reached out and helped more than 20 schools in various provinces and cities in the Philippines, including Pampanga, Laguna, Aklan, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Marikina, and Bataan. Photos by Kate de Dios-Baller

Volunteer traVel:

6 Places to reach out on the road Want to make a difference during your travels this year? NYX MARTINEZ suggests five places that will help you achieve just that. hoose from among these worthwhile causes while seeing the world and having fun. Till The Ground on an orGanic Farm WWooF, organic Farming Worldwide Ever wanted to get your hands dirty on an organic farm? WWOOF (WorldWide Opportunities on Organic Farms) may have just the solution. They link volunteers with local farmers, helping to share more sustainable ways of living. It’s an exchange deal—in return for volunteer help, WWOOF hosts offer food, accommodation, and opportunities to learn about organic lifestyles. Daily chores at WWOOF farms may include harvesting, preparing soil for planting, weeding and seeding, milking, cleaning pens, and digging trenches all week. Locally, WWOOF Farms are in Benguet, Batangas, Oriental Mindoro, and

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areas within the Cagayan Valley. Worldwide, they can be found in Sri Lanka, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. www.wwoof.ph ProTecT indiGenous PeoPle’s riGhTs saragpunta’s Tending island school, Palawan There’s more to Palawan than paradisial islands. There are the province’s original inhabitants, the Tagbanua tribe. The Saragpunta is a local nonprofit organization representing the best interests of the indigenous folk, whose families are scattered throughout various communities in the Calamianes Islands. The island school, Tending, welcomes volunteer teachers to the learning center. Its goal is to improve the fragile ecosystems and to contribute to the material well-being of the Tagbanua and to other communities. www. saragpunta.org

helP oTher PeoPle Who helP oThers rise above Foundation, cebu Since November 2000, this foundation has helped connect and cooperate with volunteers from foreign countries to facilitate their work and accommodations in Cebu. They establish contact with schools and institutions for internship programs, conduct classes, and organize dental missions for the poor. www.riseabove-cebu.org BrinG Your ProFessional skills aBroad Vso Bahaginan VSO Bahaginan recruits, trains, and sends skilled professionals to work in partnership with organizations in Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Islands. This global organization manages and develops business partnerships with companies who release their employees on short-term volunteer placements. VSO is the world’s leading independent international development charity that works through volunteers to fight poverty in developing countries. www.vsobahaginan.org Join mission clean WaTer 2012 save our surf, luzon For the second year in a row, Carla Rowland

Photo by Gen Uichanco

UNSUNG HEROES: Kaeskwela volunteer teacher Fer Mendoza engages his students in a lively recitation session (ABOVE); Kaeskwela also conducts regular feeding programs nationwide.

and Ian Zamora, owners of The Surf Institute and Zamora Surf, have made the journey to the Philippines to bring clean drinking water filters to areas of need throughout Luzon. “Ian and I love to travel in search of surf, but we wanted to do something that had more significance than getting a good ride,” says Carla. This January and February 2013, the team is focusing its distribution efforts on schools in Baler, Aurora, and Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. www.thesurfinstitute.com Help Build Better ScHoolS in tHe pHilippineS Kaeskwela, nationwide philippines Love connecting with kids? A local group will let you help in hands-on programs with public school children around the country. Nonprofit Kaeskwela (literally “classmate”) conducts workshops for teachers, relief operations, art and writing classes, feeding programs, and medical and dental missions, and collects donations of school materials. This year, Kaeskwela aims to set up more school libraries, facilitate a grant for solar panels and provide electricity to more rural schools, and find more donors for the children’s basic needs. www.kaeskwela.org n

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The Year of The WaTer Snake: a reSeT BuTTon The reign of the Water Snake—which starts on Feb. 10, 2013, and ends on Jan. 30, 2014—is an anticipated period in light of the challenges during the Year of the Water Dragon. Compared with the Year of the Water Dragon, the imminent Year of the Water Snake is looking to be a better year as shown by its chart. Water energy brings continued improvement, although it also indicates water-related disasters and fights energy. In 2013, the younger generation will play an important role in development.

There will be friendly alliances, and new technology will bring people even closer. The Flying Stars chart shows that the malevolent star number 5 has flown to the center sector, which brings inauspicious indications for Middle Eastern countries. Overall, 2013 is a good year for shifting careers or starting a business. Like a reset button, the Year of the Water Snake offers more auspicious beginnings. Here is feng shui expert Marites Allen’s brief summary for what 2013 holds for each animal sign:

RAT (1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008)

Things are looking up for you with the presence of auspicious stars in your chart. The Victory Star gives you the winning edge over competition. You can afford to be more ambitious, but be sure to counter health issues and learn to pace yourself to avoid serious setbacks.

RABBIT (1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011)

Brace yourself for some rough sailing owing to the Quarrelsome Star in your chart. You may be short-tempered, which could lead to disagreements and stressed relationships. When these happen, it would be good to spend some time alone in quiet reflection.

OX (1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009)

Outstanding possibilities await you in your personal and business life. Those in managerial or supervisory positions may be in for a promotion. There are indications of success and prosperity heading your direction and you can look forward to many happy experiences this year.

TIGER (1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010)

DRAGON (1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000)

Be thankful for your good wealth and success luck this year. The downside: low energy levels. While you strive to reach your goals, don’t overexert yourself. Beware, too, of the Robbery Star and similar afflictions.

The combination of benevolent stars in your chart indicates a fabulous year ahead. You will benefit from auspicious connections, especially with a Snake-born person. Whatever afflictions there may be will be small compared with the positive luck headed your way.

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SNAKE (1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001)

A series of small victories may have more meaning than a big one. It may not be a remarkably great year, but it will be a good one nonetheless. Just take care that you don’t get sidetracked by romantic dalliances in a year when your life energies are down.

BOAR (1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007)

There are many good prospects ahead so don’t get sidetracked by the small obstacles; focus on the bigger picture and this could still prove to be an exciting year for you.

HORSE (1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002)

Your good and bad fortune will be amplified. Be careful who you trust as you risk being robbed or cheated. Think long term and build the framework for future success. Ally yourself with people born under the Snake and Sheep signs who could share their auspicious luck with you this year.

ROOSTER (1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005)

This will be a pleasant year filled with many happy events. Be warned, however, by the presence of the Robbery Star and Loss Star in your chart. Be careful who you trust because you run the risk of being betrayed. Your affinity with Monkey- and Dog-born people will bring good fortune.

SHEEP (1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003)

DOG (1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006)

There will be slight inconvenience caused by the Illness Star, but your inner chi remains strong. Mind your relationships. A Horseborn person close to you will be a source of good fortune. Be careful, however, when you deal with those born in the Monkey year.

You will make good use of the many good opportunities this year. You have the necessary energy and enthusiasm to make things happen. You can go after your dreams without difficulties, so set your targets high.

MONKEY (1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004)

Your prospects for this year may not be that great, but if you remain confident, things will work out well. This is the year of the Snake who is your secret friend, so you won’t be without support. Be wary of Sheep-born people who could make things difficult for you.

Images courtesy of Marites Allen/World of Feng Shui Philippines.

Marites Allen, one of the recognized feng shui authorities in Asia, is president and CEO of World of Feng Shui Philippines, Inc. and the House of Allen Ltd./ULFS Inc. Contact her through www.maritesallen.com and www.frigga.co.uk.

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THE

LIGHTER

SIDE

LOCO-MOTION: Diners at The Passenger Bar will have a view of a world in motion, thanks to a series of videos from actual trains from around the world.

CHOO-CHOO TRAIN: Unique entertainment via the moving view and a great selection of drinks from the bar make for a memorable train “trip”.

All Aboard... and Nowhere to Go This lavish establishment in Madrid takes you to a bygone era of vintage trains and luxurious dining cars. You can almost hear wine glasses rattling from the bar and luggage shifting back and forth as the train plows through its tracks. But don’t be fooled: the Passenger, a coffee shop-cum-rock bar, is completely stationary. Narrow spaces, bulky arm chairs, and wooden interiors make it look like a train cabin, while “windows” playing prerecorded videos of passing landscapes create the illusion of movement. Whether you’re sipping fine coffee by day or toasting craft brewery beer to rock music by night, one thing’s for sure—guests will be the only ones “chugging.” www.facebook.com/ThePassengerMadrid

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THE

LIGHTER

SIDE

The Science of Sound In Biorhythm, your sense of hearing takes center stage. The Mind Museum’s first traveling exhibition created by the Science Gallery of Dublin, Ireland, features 14 interactive installations meant to demonstrate the unique relationship between music and the human body. Lie on the Sonic Bed and “hear” sound through your skin, or create bombastic beats with the Reactable’s touch sensitive surface. Exhibition runs until Feb. 15, 2013. www.themindmuseum.org

Bamboo for more Boom? Get more boom out of your iPod or iPhone with Loudbasstard, a nifty soundamplifying device made entirely of bamboo. Just stack your iPod in the slit, and its cylindrical shape will give you more volume out of your music—no electricity required. It’s not made to replace your electric speaker, but it’s a perfect green alternative even giant pandas will love. Loudbasstard is locally made in Cebu and sold worldwide. www.loudbasstard.com

No SoUNDS oF SILENcE HERE: This one-of-akind traveling exhibit will open your ears to the fascinating facts (and myths) about sound and how it affects our daily lives.

C L I C K

SUPERBETTER

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THE EMAIL GAME

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A website that works with Gmail, created for people who despise being drowned in a sea of emails. It turns a tedious activity into a fun beat-theclock game.

Powerpoint is so 1990s! This website dumps boring slideshows in favor of dynamic and eye-catching visual presentations for reports, storytelling, or digital resumes.

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A Planner For Go-Getters

Whatever You Think, Think the Opposite PAul Arden

Php586 (uS$15)

Raring to get out of your couch and into the world (or into the gym!)? Then get yourself the 2013 Go Getter Planner—a locally manufactured organizer with a little extra: monthly challenges and 23 discount coupons that motivate you to travel, try something new, keep healthy, and more. Php650 each, inclusive of shipping to anywhere within Metro Manila. www.facebook.com/GoGetterPlanner

Iconic figures like Steve Jobs and Andy Warhol caught their big break for a reason—they took risks and thought differently. In this quirky self-help book, advertising expert Paul Arden discusses the perks of making risky decisions and how staying “safe” can be more dangerous. Arden’s collection of unconventional advice (e.g., “Don’t go to university, go to work.”), inspirational anecdotes, bold photos, and unique ideas on creativity make this book a fun guide for those who want to be daredevils in life. – Ignatius Gan CArnIVAl OF SOulS

GreAT eXPeCTATIOnS: The coming year brings new adventures and what better way to plan them than a special planner that keeps everyone on their toes as far as goal-setting is concerned.

Melissa Marr HarperCollins Publishers Php599 (US$15)

CAT VS HuMAn

L I S T E N

The Charmes The Charmes Terno Recordings HHHH

The glory days of British bands like the Arctic Monkeys and the Libertines may be long gone, but young indie rockers The Charmes attempt (and succeed) to bring back the spirit of these UK garage rock acts with their self-titled debut. Standout tracks like “Leave The Lights Off,” “It’s Your Heart I Don’t Trust,” and “Forget Me Not” recall a time when this sound was all the rage, but have enough melodies, grit, and attitude to transcend any musical trends. – Jason Caballa Available at selected Fully Booked outlets. See ternorecordings.com for details.

Yasmine Surovec Andrews McMeel Publishing Php399 (US$10)

TATTOO A BAnAnA: And OTHer WAYS TO Turn AnYTHInG And eVerYTHInG InTO ArT

Phil Hansen Penguin Group Php599 (US$15)

BOOKS AVAILABLE AT FULLY BOOKED, FORT BONIFACIO, GLOBAL CITY

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L A S T

F R A M E

Melbourneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Moment Revelers in Melbourne usher in the New Year with grand celebrations at Federation Square, Victoria. At midnight, a $400,000 fireworks display enthralled the crowd. With a whopping $2.6 million for the festivities, 10 tons of fireworks and gold-themed images reminiscent of the gold rush era, this blowout was just the start of more than 2,000 yearly events at this buzzing venue.

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SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

LIVE A BEAUTIFUL LIFE Malungai Life Oil continues their advocacy this year to encourage people to not only be beautiful, but also live beautiful. ecognizing that wellness goes beyond being beautiful, Life Oil partnered with Philippine Medical Association, Philippine Dental Association, Presidential Communications Operations Office, local government units, Pilipinas Natin, Department of Health, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Metro Manila Development Authority, Philippine National Police and many other government

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agencies for the pilot project called Clean Air Fiesta Caravan. The project’s objective is to educate Filipinos on the importance of clean air as the current state of pollution in the country has reached dangerous levels. With the caravan are free medical and dental missions, hilot and seed planting packs. Life Oil, in addition, gave free meals and discussions about proper nutrition. Life Oil is a natural food supplement that contains 100% oil extract from fresh and nutritious Malunggay seeds and leaves. It is popularly taken as a natural multivitamin to strengthen immunity, restore balanced health, and protect against several health conditions. However, many have also discovered that this capsule’s beautiful

secret lies in its effect on the skin. Based on countless testimonials, Life Oil can leave your skin clearer and younger with regular intake—proving that being in optimum health truly shows. Be beautiful. Live beautiful. Take Life Oil daily for complete nutrients that come naturally. n

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The 2012 Mabuhay Miles Elite Invitational

PAL VP for Marketing Support Mr. Felix Cruz, Boeing’s Regional Marketing director Mr. J. Michael Carson, Allied Bank’s SVP for Retail Banking Group Mr. Alfred Chua, and MasterCard’s VP and Senior Country Manager Mr. Poch Villa-Real.

A Most MeMorAble DAy on the Green

t was a rare double celebration for the Mabuhay Miles Elite Invitational, one of the most keenly awaited events in the local corporate golf scene. This year, the one-day golf tournament notched two important milestones - the 10th anniversary of Mabuhay Miles, Philippine Airlines’ popular frequent-flyer program, as well as the 20th year of the tournament itself (it was known in its first decade as the Mabuhay Club Invitational). That made the 2012 edition of the Invitational last November 14 something to remember. Played once more at its customary home course, the sprawling Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club in General Trias, Cavite, the tournament lived up to the relaxed and carefree vibe evoked by its theme this year - “A Day on the Green.” Judging by the large number of entries - 308 registered to play this annual golfing reunion of PAL’s business-class frequent flyers has already achieved the status of a “tradition” - an event not to be missed. It obviously didn’t matter to the elite field, composed primarily of CEOs, company presidents and other captains of industry, that the event was being played for the first time in the middle of the week, on a Wednesday, and not on the usual Friday. After all, a lot of big business deals get sealed on the fairways. “Bring your best game because there are amazing prizes in store for the winners,” said Ria Carreon Domingo, PAL assistant vice president and head of the Mabuhay Miles team, before tee-off. “It’s going to be a fantastic golfing experience.” She was spot-on. From the ceremonial tee-off by executives Felix J. Cruz and Domingo T. Duerme of PAL, Alfred Chua of Allied Bank, Poch Villa-Real of MasterCard and J. Michael Carson of Boeing, to

94 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

the lavishly prize-laden awards ceremonies, the tournament was one nonstop, record-setting yet fun-filled affair. The winners were led by Louis Bartolome Borja, chief executive of the Philippine branch of International Marketing Group, who emerged lowgross champion for the second straight year and third time in four years. He also won in 2009 and finished as Class A runner-up in 2010. Borja blitzed the Aoki course with eight birdies en route to an astonishing 65, the only sub-70 round of the day and the lowest-ever gross score in the history of the Invitational. So dominant was Borja that he would have bagged the overall net trophy as well with a 64 were it not for a tournament rule barring multiple diadems for a single player. That opened the door for young logistics executive Ramon “Monchu” Nolasco to claim the overall net title, his first win in the tournament. Nolasco, general manager of Shulman Airfreight International, finished with a net 67 from a gross 77, spiked by an eagle on the front nine at Aoki. Shinichi Ogihara won Class A in dramatic fashion as all three contenders submitted net 68s. In the tie-break, the Japanese expatriate’s lone eagle on the fifth hole proved to be decisive, allowing him to overhaul Mark Gruba’s five birdies and Severino Oliva’s four. Other division winners were Ramon Batacan, who captured Class B with a net 69 at the Norman course; Richard Santos, who topped Class C with a net 70 at the Faldo layout; Winston Co, who ruled Class D with a net 70 at Norman; and 2009 champion Loralie Roberto, who snared her second ladies crown with a net 68 at Faldo. The guest champion was Ramil Villanueva with a net 69 out of a gross 75. But it wasn’t all serious competition. The Invitational is also about fellowship, camaraderie, and good-natured fun, and it started on the

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Lowest Gross Champion Louis Bartolome Borja; Overall Net Champion Ramon Nolasco; The Mabuhay Miles team; Misako Ogihara, Rachel Shah, Catherine Borja, and Mereane Siason.

golf course with a number of “fun” awards to Mabuhay Miles members who were there mainly for the joy of playing the game. The awardees included William Lee, for nearest the pin on Hole 17 at the Aoki course; Andre Borromeo, for longest drive at 325 yards; and Wilbert Tan for most pars at 11, both at Aoki. But the most popular award was the one for persistency, which was “won” by Elpidio Ong for his 16 bogeys - the most by any player - at the Faldo course. After a whole morning of whacking and putting on the greens, it was time to unwind, socialize, and wine-and-dine at the awarding rites. But if the temperature was hot outside, the mood was no less scorching inside the clubhouse, which overflowed with prizes, food, and entertainment. Indeed, it was prizes galore for Mabuhay Miles Elite members, with everybody walking away with something in the raffle - trophies, golf accessories, travel amenities, auto accessories, premium PAL and San Miguel merchandise, gift certificates at top hotels and resorts, and of course, round-trip tickets to choice PAL destinations. Then it was time to relax and get naughty and who better to do the honors than one of today’s hottest young stars, Lovi Poe. Clad in shorts, the hot actress was a huge hit with the audience, gamely posing with them throughout her well-applauded set of four songs. Bossa nova chanteuse Sitti followed and she, too, turned up the heat with a hip-swaying routine that had giddy members getting into the act as well. With dapper host Anthony Suntay providing the serious

counterpoint, Poe and Sitti were in their element, teasing the crowd with their livewire presence while dishing out superb entertainment as well. Overall, a most memorable day on the green indeed. n

The 2012 Mabuhay Miles Elite Invitational was supported by the following partners. Major sponsors: Airbus, Allied Banking Corp., Boeing, MasterCard International Philippines, Metrobank Card Corp., People Asia and Petron. Hole-in-One sponsor: Toyota Motor Philippines. Corporate sponsors: Chartis Philippines Insurance, Lufthansa Technik Philippines and Panasonic Avionics Systems. Official hotels: Century Park Hotel and Diamond Hotel Philippines. Minor sponsors: BDO Unibank, GE Aviation, Pacific Paint (Boysen) Philippines, Union Bank and Victorinox Travel Gear / World Traveller. Donors: Asia Brewery, Clark Shoes UK, Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila, Edsa Shangri-La Hotel, Intercontinental Manila, Kameraworld, Mandarin Oriental Manila, Marco Polo Davao, Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort, Microtel Inns and Suites (Pilipinas), Mizuno, Pan Pacific Manila, Phiten, Recaro Aircraft Seating, Regency Lagoon Resort, Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort, Tanduay Distillers and Traders Hotel Manila.

www.philippineairlines.com I 95

ASIA'S FIRST AIRLINE Philippine Airlines—Asia’s first airline—is the flag carrier of the Republic of the Philippines and pioneer domestic airline of the country, with a 71-year history that is 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 Manila to Baguio City, carrying a full load of five passengers. Upon the outbreak of World War II in December 1941, the PAL airplanes were commandeered by the military and eventually destroyed in combat. Post-war operations resumed in February 14, 1946, with five ex-military Douglas DC-3s. In July 1946, PAL chartered DC-4s to carry American servicemen home to Oakland, California, making PAL the first Asian airline to cross the Pacific. In May 1947, PAL also became the first Asian carrier to fly to Europe by opening regular service to Madrid. This was followed by rapid expansion of services to Asia and the Middle East in the next two decades. By the 1970s PAL’s international route network covered two-thirds of the world. PAL keeps in step with advancements in aircraft technology, acquiring the latest aircraft type suited to market demands and local aviation conditions. From DC-3s that served as a workhorse in the 1940s and 1950s, Vicker Viscount turboprops and Fokker F-27s were added to the fleet in the 1960s. After the BAC1-11 jets were introduced in the 1970s, the McDonnell Douglas DC-10—PAL’s first wide-body aircraft—went into

OUR FLEET Since its first flight on March 15, 1941, Philippine Airlines has flown almost 30 types of aircraft to fulfill its mission of providing the Philippines with efficient and reliable air transportation as the country’s flag carrier. Now with a fleet of 42 aircraft, PAL operates one of the youngest and bestmaintained fleets in the region.

service on the transpacific route in 1974. The Boeing 747-200Bs jumbo jet replaced the DC-10s in 1979 on long-haul routes, while the Airbus 300B4s replaced the DC-8s on regional services. In November 2009, the Boeing 777-300ER (extended range)— the most fuel-efficient, twin-engine jet that can fly long-haul—joined the fleet. It boasts of one of the most spacious cabins, fitted with state-of-theart inflight entertainment system. Today, the fleet consists of Boeing 747-400s, B777-300ER, Airbus A340-300s, A330-300s, A320s and A319s. They carry an average of 12,000 passengers and 180 tons of cargo daily on domestic routes, and 10,000 passengers and 170 tons of cargo daily on international sectors. PAL’s modern aircraft and equipment are complemented by frequent-customer service enhancements, both inflight and on ground. The PAL website—whose features are regularly upgraded—can now be accessed by WAP-enabled cellphones, making PAL available at the palm of your hands. Mabuhay Class passengers now get to enjoy fine-dining in the sky through a new personalized inflight meal service known as One By One. PAL’s seven-decade tradition of warm Filipino hospitality has always been coupled with strong commitment to continuous improvement of services and operations. Despite the many challenges, PAL remains focused on its vision of becoming a world-class Filipino airline.

B777-300ER

NO. OF AIRCRAFT MABUHAY CLASS FIESTA CLASS

A330-300 : : :

4 42 passengers 328 passengers

: : :

5 42 passengers 383 passengers

: : :

4 44 passengers 220 passengers

B747-400

NO. OF AIRCRAFT MABUHAY CLASS FIESTA CLASS

96 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

NO. OF AIRCRAFT : MABUHAY CLASS : FIESTA CLASS :

8 42 passengers 260 passengers

A320-200

A340-300 NO. OF AIRCRAFT MABUHAY CLASS FIESTA CLASS

NO. OF AIRCRAFT MABUHAY CLASS FIESTA CLASS

: 17 : 12 passengers : 144 passengers

A319-100

NO. OF AIRCRAFT : MABUHAY CLASS : FIESTA CLASS :

4 8 passengers 126 passengers

www.philippineairlines.com I 97

Welcome ABoARD

Welcome to Philippine Airlines! Here are a few reminders to ensure your safety and comfort on board. Have a pleasant trip!

HA N D LU GGA G E One hand luggage small enough to be placed in the overhead rack or under the passenger seat of the aircraft cabin may be carried without charge. The hand luggage must not exceed a total linear dimension of 115 cm or 45 in, and should weigh not more than 7 kg or 15 lbs. If hand luggage fails to comply with the required applicable dimensions and weight, hand luggage will be checked in and charged with the corresponding excess baggage charges (if applicable). In addition to the free hand luggage allowance, the following items are allowed onboard: a laptop with case; a small handbag; a coat, wrap or blanket; a walking stick or a pair of crutches; a small camera or a pair of binoculars; a reasonable amount of reading material; and infant’s food and carrying basket. S EC U R IT Y IT EM S The following items are prohibited from being loaded in the hand luggage or inside the aircraft cabin on all Philippine Airlines flights: liquids and gels; sharp items and blunt instruments; explosives, munitions and fireworks; weapons (including replicas), accessories and martial arts devices; large and heavy tools; and other dangerous items contained in, but not limited to, Section I.D. 8 of the U.S. Transportation Security Administration Model Security Program. All passengers traveling from/to the United States (including Guam) will be prohibited from carrying any type of lighter in their carry-on luggage and into security checkpoints. Please contact any Philippine Airlines Reservations or Ticket Office for the complete list of prohibited items. Prohibited items discovered during the security search will be immediately referred to law enforcement officers or appropriate authorities at the airport for disposition. Security Removed Items (SRI) shall be loaded in the aircraft cargo/baggage compartment subject to security clearance procedures by airport authorities. When traveling in the USA, please give enough lead time for the stricter screening of both checked and hand luggage at all commercial airports. All bags will be subject to search; bags that set off alarms or otherwise raise security concerns will have to be opened for inspection.

T A K E- OF F / LA N DI N G During take-off and landing, ensure that seat back is in the upright position and the tray table is folded or secured properly. Hand luggage should be stowed in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front. S EA T BELT S It is Philippine Airlines’ safety requirement that passengers must fasten their seatbelts for the entire duration of the flight even when the seat-belt sign is off. While you are sleeping, please fasten your seat belt over your blanket for the easy inspection by the cabin crew. This is to assure uninterrupted rest during the flight even during moments of turbulence. ELEC T R ON IC EQ UI P M E N T In the interest of flight safety, any transportable electronic equipment are not to be operated during take-off, climb out, descent, final approach and landing, except for personal electronic life support systems. Electronic devices which intentionally transmit radio signals should never be used for the whole duration of the flight. These include, but are not limited to, radio transceivers, CB radios, cellular phones, and electronic remote control transmitters. Transportable electronic equipment which are non-transmitters and without any accessories that would transmit/receive radio signals, such as laptop computers without Wi-Fi and wireless peripheral devices, video cameras/players, tape recorders/ players, CD/DVD/MP3 players, calculators, electronic entertainment devices and electronic shavers, may be used after the safe use of these has been announced. Some flight conditions may require the discontinuance of the use of electronic devices and will be announced by the crew. Personal electronic life support systems such as hearing aids, electronic nerve stimulators, respirators may be used throughout the flight.

NO S MOK ING In compliance with the Administrative Order 121 of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, smoking is strictly prohibited on all PAL flights, including when the aircraft is on the ground prior to take-off and/or after landing. EMER GEN C Y O X Y G E N S UP P L Y AN D L I F E V E S T S In the event of a sudden drop in cabin pressure, oxygen masks will drop automatically in front of the passengers. An inflatable life vest is located beneath the seat or in/under the armrest. Please watch the live or film demonstration of safety procedures, which will be given or screened prior to take-off. F IES T A BOU T IQUE A selection of duty-free liquor, cigarettes, perfumes and other high-quality gift items can be purchased during the flight from our Fiesta Boutique. Payment may be made on selected currencies. Credit cards acceptable on major routes. The minimum amount for credit cards is US$10.00 and the maximum amount is US$250.00. Please refer to our Fiesta Boutique Catalogue or inquire from our cabin crew. INF LIGHT A ME N I T I E S On long-haul flights, you receive an overnight kit that contains grooming items and other travel essentials to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Mabuhay Class passengers are treated to additional amenities in their kit, such as branded toiletry products and handy travel accessories. Our cabin lavatories are also stocked with other toiletry products to help you freshen up for your arrival at your destination. For a more comfortable rest especially during long-haul flights, pillows and blankets are available upon request or can be found on the seat. Seats can be reclined except those that remain fixed for safety or other physical reasons. We also suggest

98 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

that passengers tune in to the Flite Lite channel of our Flights of Fancy inflight radio program to keep them relaxed during the flight. Fun and treats are in store for PAL Junior Jetsetter passengers from ages 2 to 11 when they hop in on their flights. On flights between Manila and San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Vancouver, Honolulu, Sydney, Melbourne and New Delhi, kids are provided with Junior Jetsetter Activity Kits featuring some of the most beloved cartoon characters of all time, Mickey Mouse and Friends. The kits contain activity books, coloring materials, puzzles, stickers and toys, which provide children with hours of fun, while educating them on various travel destinations. Two different activity sets, packed in easy-to-carry bags, are available on flights originating from Manila and on flights bound for Manila.

C O MP L IME N T A RY B E VE RA GE S Complimentary beverages are offered on all international flights. On long-haul flights, distilled water is passed around everyhour-on-the-hour in between meals to promote passenger well-being. A L C O HO L IC B E VE RA GE S Red Wine / White Wine / Gin* / Vodka* / Whiskey* / Brandy / Selection of Beer (*Available only on long-haul flights) Alcoholic drinks are served only to a passenger aged 18 years and older. Government regulation prohibits passengers from opening and drinking alcoholic beverages other than what is served inflight. For the safety and comfort of all concerned, the cabin crew may decline to serve alcohol to passengers who appear to be intoxicated. Alcoholic drinks are not available on domestic flights and Vancouver—Las Vegas— Vancouver flights.

N O N -A L C O HO L IC B E VE RA GE S Cola / Diet Cola / Uncola / Diet Uncola / Orange Juice / Apple Juice / Ginger Ale / Absolute Distilled Water / Tonic Water / Soda Water / Lemon Iced Tea / Lipton Tea / Coffee IN F L IGHT S N A C K S On flights between Manila and Los Angeles, San Francisco, Vancouver and Honolulu, Philippine Airlines invites passengers to enjoy our complimentary snack selection. These include Asian noodle soup, meat-filled buns, and pastries. Preferred snacks may be requested from the Cabin Crew anytime during the flight. READING MATERIALS We carry a number of Filipino and foreign language newspapers to keep passengers abreast with the lastest news and current events. Our inflight magazine, Mabuhay, is available for all classes of service on all international flights. Our Mabuhay Class service on international flights carries an array of News, Business, Fashion, Travel and Sports Magazines, including some Foreign Magazines on selected flights. These may be requested from the Cabin Crew onboard the flight.

B E FO RE YO U L E A VE Passengers must ensure that all personal belongings are in their possession before disembarking. If anything is forgotten, passengers may check with ground staff or call Philippine Airlines. D E E P VE IN THRO MB O S IS ( D VT ) DVT is the formation or presence of a blood clot (thrombus) in any of the deep veins of the body, most frequently involving those of the legs, thighs or pelvis. The blood clot may interfere with the circulation and manifest as combinations of pain, soreness, heaviness, swelling, warmth, skin discoloration, or prominent superficial veins over the affected area. It may also break off (an embolus) and travel to the lungs or other organs, sometimes leading to undesirable complications. Warning signs of lung involvement (or pulmonary embolism) include shortness of breath, sudden unexplained coughing, or abrupt chest pain. If you experience any of these symptoms during the flight, please inform any of our cabin crew right away; or if you already have left the aircraft, please seek medical attention immediately. 1. Internal Risk Factors: DVT especially affects people with pre-existing medical conditions, such as a history of thrombosis or embolism, heart disease, stroke, or malignancy. Other risk factors include advanced age, obesity and paralysis, use of oral contraceptives, pregnancy, recent childbirth, blood coagulation disorders, varicose veins, recent major surgery, and fractures of the pelvis and lower extremities. Prolonged immobility due to illnesses or injuries may also predispose one to DVT. Before you make travel plans, consult your physician to determine your fitness to take a flight. You might also need to secure clearance form our PAL Medical Office before you purchase a ticket. 2. External Risk Factors: Sitting or sleeping in cramped positions for extended periods may occasionally induce DVT. For your comfort and relaxation, we suggest you perform in-seat exercises. Extreme dehydration can also increase the risk of DVT, so drink plenty of water and minimize alcohol and caffeine intake before and during the flight.

YO U R FE E D B A C K WIL L B E A P P RE C IA TE D We encourage any comments or suggestions on how we can further improve our products and services. Please call our Customer Relations Office at telephone number 777-5932, fax number 777-5928 or email wecare@pal.com.ph.

Get acquainted with the Philippines even before you arrive. These tips will guarantee a carefree and informed stay.

PH I LI P P I N E S A T A G LANC E Stretching 1,839 km north-to-south off the

southeast coast of Asia, the Republic of the Philippines has a total land area of 300,000 sq. kms. Its 7,107 islands comprise one of the largest island groups in the world. About 92 million Filipinos make up the population, 55% of whom occupy the largest island of Luzon. Filipinos comprise 111 cultural and linguistic groups of Malayo-Polynesian origin, with varying degrees of Chinese, Spanish and American influences. Majority are Roman Catholics, though a significant number are Protestants and Moslems. The Philippines is the world’s third largest Englishspeaking country after the United States and the United Kingdom. Filipino is the national language; English is used for commercial and legal transactions. Literacy rate is a high 94%.

CLI M A T E The Philippines is a tropical country with an average temperature of 32°C (89.6°F). March to June are hot and dry (36°C); rains and typhoons abound from July to October; November to February are pleasantly cool (around 23°C) and dry. In mountainous regions, temperatures dip to about 15°C. Light casual clothing is recommended for daily wear and Barong Tagalog or coat-and-tie for business and formal functions.

TOUCHDOWN MANILA

The secret to a satisfying shopping expedition is to go where the locals go, whether it be to world-class malls, bargain-rich flea markets or “tiangges,” ubiquitous sidewalk stalls, or tiny “holes-in-the-walls.” Handicraft stores can be found all over the country, selling export-quality products like native baskets and hand-woven fabrics, exquisite shellcraft and fine jewelry, or one-of-a-kind home accessories. Antique shops are a rich source of Philippine antiquities such as carved wooden furniture, old religious images, unique tribal artifacts, or vintage collectible pieces. The country’s upscale malls carry international brands with prices comparable to those in Hong Kong or Singapore. Don’t forget to check out the kiosks scattered throughout these sprawling spaces. They sell interesting items you may want to bring back home—from household bric-a-brac to curio items, native delicacies, or even the must-buy souvenir T-shirt.

NI GH TL IF E Metropolitan Manila is considered a pleasure-seeker’s paradise,

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas supervises authorized foreign exchange dealers (at airports, hotels, major commercial establishments and all bank branches), and posts official exchange rates for most international currencies.

with an array of nighttime activities, from the soothing to the sinful. No wonder it has been consistently voted as Asia’s number one destination for entertainment and relaxation by expatriates. You can listen to whatever music you fancy from the country’s popular bands and singers, take 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, and the trendy Libis and Timog districts in Quezon City.

TR AN S P O R T A T I O N Philippine Airlines flies between Manila and 18 cities

FO OD Filipino food may puzzle the first-time eater. Philippine history is largely

CUR RE N C Y The monetary unit is the peso, divided into 100 centavos. The

and towns throughout the country. In Metro Manila, taxis, buses, jeepneys and a four-line Mass Transit System (LRT and Metrorail) provide public transport. In certain areas like Binondo (Manila’s Chinatown) and the old walled city of Intramuros, horse-drawn carriages or calesas ply short routes. International and local car rental companies provide chauffeured or self-driven limousine service. Large groups may hire medium-sized passenger vans or tourist coaches.

SH OP P I N G The Philippines is fast becoming a shopping haven, yielding great

responsible for this complex cuisine: on a matrix of native dishes akin to those in the rest of Southeast Asia, Chinese traders added their culinary influence, Spanish colonizers threw in touches of Castillan and Mexican cooking, and U.S. colonization brought in convenience and fast-food meals. Eating in the Philippines can therefore be an outstanding experience at all budget levels. In recent years, a profusion of restaurants has emerged, many catering to continental European or exotic Asian tastes. There are some good Japanese restaurants, too, plus a smattering of Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, and other cuisines.

bargains if you know what to look for and where.

AIRLINE PARTNERS To serve you better, Philippine Airlines broadened its route network through Codesharing with its Airline Partners, offering you more destinations worldwide. Together, PAL and the Airline Partner sell the flight sector operated by the Airline Partner.

In Manila, Codeshare Flights operated by PAL’s other Airline Partners arrive/depart at NAIA1. For details on Codeshare Flights, please refer to the PAL Flight Facts and Flight Schedule on page 169 and page 170. When traveling on any of PAL’s Codeshare Flights, Mabuhay Miles members enjoy certain privileges. For specific Mabuhay Miles privileges per Airline Partner, especially on baggage allowance and lounge access, please contact the Mabuhay Miles Service Center at (+632) 817 8000. Mabuhay Miles members can redeem travel awards on PAL-operated sectors only. The privileges listed in the table shown are applicable provided ticket sales and reservations are under PAL’s seat allocation (ticket should reflect “PR” in the carrier designation box) and upon presentation of the Mabuhay Miles membership card.

SECTOR

PRIVILEGES

AIRLINE PARTNERS

CEBU-HONG KONG

LEGEND LOUNGE ACCESS

MANILA-ABU DHABIvv

EXCESS BAGGAGE BENEFITS

MANILA-BAHRAINvv

MABUHAY MILES MILAGE ACCRUAL

MANILA-DOHAvv

TRANSFER SERVICE BETWEEN NAIA TERMINAL 1 AND 2vv

MANILA-DUBAIvv

ELITE, PREMIER ELITE AND MILLION MILER MEMBERS MILLION MILER MEMBERS

MANILA-KUALA LUMPURvv

MILLION MILER MEMBERS PLUS 1 TRAVELING COMPANION

NOTE: PRESENTATION OF MILLION MILER’S MEMBER SHIP CARD IS REQUIRED TO AVAIL OF ETIHAD PRIVILEGES www.philippineairlines.com I 99

SERVICE GUIDE S P E C I A L M E A LS Special meals may be requested on all Philippine Airlines international flights to cater to the various dietary requirements of passengers, for reasons of age, health or religion. These include: baby meal, child’s meal, western vegetarian meal, low-fat meal, diabetic meal, fruit meal, gluten-restricted meal, Moslem meal, Asian vegetarian meal, seafood meal, Hindu vegetarian meal, Kosher meal and low-sodium meal. Please call PAL Reservations at least 24 hours before date of departure to ensure availability.

“Early Bird” advanced check-in service in select airports to help passengers avoid the rush during peak check-in hours. Check-in counters generally close 45 minutes before flight departure. If passengers check in after the counter closure cut-off time, they may not be accepted for the flight even if they are holding a confirmed booking. Always have your travel documents on hand. As with other airlines, Philippine Airlines may refuse carriage to passengers who lack the necessary travel papers.

PAL passengers can now compare fares across a seven-day period. Our online booking features a fully automated facility called “Calendar Pricing” that displays the lowest fare available over a seven-day range—three days before and three days after the planned travel date—thus allowing travelers to decide quickly when it is most convenient and cheapest to fly. Experience the difference. Book online! For more information, please visit us at www.philippineairlines com.

EXPRES S C HE CK- IN CO U NTE R S Senior Citizens traveling with up to two (2) traveling companions and passengers with NO CHECK-IN BAGGAGE on PAL flights departing from Manila may avail of the express check-in service at designated counters. For more information on restrictions and check-in procedure, log on to www. philippineairlines.com.

PAL Mobile connects passengers to us while on the go! Our mobile site, www.philippineairlines.mobi, gives flyers the more flexibility and convenience. With web-enabled mobile phone, Blackberry or PDA, passengers can check the latest arrival and departure times, check flight schedules, track Mabuhay Miles mileage, and know more about our latest news and promos. Important advisories, travel essentials, contact information and a lot more can also be accessed. For more information on how to access the PAL Mobile site, check our FAQ at http://www.philippineairlines. com/faq/pal_mobile. Normal browsing charges apply. Please contact mobile carrier for details. NE E D T O RE CON FIRM Reconfirmation is not required for all Philippine Airlines flights. However, we recommend that when making reservations, passengers provide telephone numbers at every stopover in their itinerary. This will allow us to call and advise them of any changes in their flight. AIRPORT

CH E CK-IN

Philippine Airlines offers the

AIRPO RT LO UNGE S Philippine Airlines has Mabuhay Lounges in Manila (Domestic and International), Cebu (Domestic and International), Davao, Bacolod, Iloilo, General Santos City and San Francisco. Mabuhay Class passengers, as well as Mabuhay Miles Elite, Premier Elite, and Million Miler members, can unwind, dine, and freshen up in these lounges before boarding their flight. In other International Stations, PAL has contracted the services of airport lounge operators to offer the same amenities to said passengers. AIRPO RT T RANSFE R SE R VICE IN M A NIL A For passengers connecting from a Philippine Airlines flight at the NAIA Centennial Terminal 2 to a code share flight operated by any of its Airline Partners at NAIA Terminal 1 (and vice versa), a complimentary transfer service is available. This service is subject to certain conditions and qualifications. For more information, please inquire with any of our Transfer service staff at the arrival area. C HO IC E ECONO M Y SE A T SU R CHA R GE Feeling cramped-up sitting with limited legroom when traveling on economy class? 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. Please advise our Customer Service representatives of your request. Seat 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. TR A VE L ING WITH INFA NTS Infants at least 16 days old may be accepted for travel. Passengers requiring the use of baby bassinets should book their flights and make the necessary reservations at least 24 hours before the date of departure. We follow a One-InfantPer-Adult Policy. Philippine Airlines reserves the right to decline bassinet requests without prior reservation. These bassinets are limited in number as they can only be attached to certain seats on the plane and are available only on flights with a flying time of three (3) hours or more. The bassinets are approximately 70 cm long and 30 cm wide, with a weight limit of 10 kg. They are not suitable for infants over 18 months of age. Infants who turn two years old at the time of travel are required to occupy seats for safety reasons. FR E E B A GGA GE A L L O WA NCE O F IN F A N T S ON U S, G U A M A ND C A NA D A F L IGHTS An infant paying at least 10 percent of the adult fare is entitled to one piece of checked baggage weighing 7 kg (15 lbs) and whose dimensions do not exceed 45 inches. The passenger is also entitled to one fully collapsible child’s stroller or pushchair. FR E E BA GGA GE A L L O WA NCE O F I N F A N T S ON NO N - U S, GU A M A ND CA NA D A FL IGH T S From the Philippines, an infant paying at least 10 percent of the fare is entitled to 10 kg (22 lbs) of checked baggage plus one fully collapsible child’s stroller or pushchair.

Philippine Airlines introduces the RHUSH (Rapid Handling of Urgent Shipments) airport-to-airport service, the fastest way to ship cargo domestically or overseas. Enjoy the following advantages with RHUSH: highest priority in cargo, guaranteed space, fast and quick acceptance and release time, and money-back guarantee (conditions apply). But what makes RHUSH the hands-down choice is its guarantee that your cargo is released on the day you expect it. For particulars, please call PAL Cargo Sales and Reservations in Manila at (+632) 831 3061 / 853 3062 / 853 3059 / 851 3063 / 879 5879 / 834 0362, or any PAL Office in your area.

FLIGHT TRANSFERS IN MANILA Philippine Airlines offers worry-free transit procedures for passengers coming from an international flight with an immediate connection to a PAL domestic flight. Upon arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Centennial Terminal 2 in Manila, all passengers have to do is clear with immigration, claim their baggage from the carousel, and proceed to the Special Customs Examination Counter for baggage clearance. They must then return the baggage to the carousel to ensure its loading on the domestic flight. If passengers onboard a PAL flight from the USA, Canada or Narita are connecting to Cebu or Davao, they can proceed directly to the PAL Domestic Terminal at NAIA 2 after clearing Immigration. Baggage no longer has to be cleared in Manila, as the appointed Customs personnel in Cebu or Davao will take care of your baggage clearance. If passengers do not have their boarding passes for domestic flights, they may proceed to the PAL Transfer Desk at the Arrival Area for assistance. Passengers may take the escalator or elevator located at the Arrival Lobby to go to the PAL Domestic Terminal. Airport Terminal Fees: Php550 for international departure and Php200 for local departure (paid in Philippine pesos only). Departing passengers for international destinations are advised to check with airport or tourist information counters (Tel. Nos. 524-1703; 832-2964) for the departure fees which may change without notice.

PAL PASSENGERS FROM THE USA, CANADA OR NARITA WITH CONNECTING FLIGHT TO CEBU, DAVAO OR LAOAG (FOR CHECK THROUGH PASSENGERS ONLY): 1. Disembark from plane and go through Immigration check. 2. Proceed to PAL Domestic Terminal (via escalator or elevator at Arrival Lobby). 3. Pay terminal fee of Php200.00 at the Domestic Terminal. 4. Proceed to the assigned gate for your connecting flight.

100 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE FOR FLIGHT TRANSFERS

PASSENGERS FROM ANY OF PAL’S INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS BOUND FOR ANY PAL DOMESTIC STATION: 1. Disembark from plane and proceed to the Transfer Desk to check in for your connecting flight. 2. Go through Immigration check. 3. Proceed to Baggage Claim Area. 4. Proceed to the Special Customs Examination Counter for clearance. 5. Return baggage to the PAL staff at the baggage area for reloading. 6. Proceed to PAL Domestic Terminal (via escalator or elevator at the Arrival Lobby). 7. Pay terminal fee of Php200.00 at the Domestic Terminal. 8. Proceed to the assigned gate for your connecting flight.

FLIGHT FACTS

Below are useful facts and figures about are 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.

I N T E R N AT I O N A L MM FLIGHT MILES T IME

RESERVAT IONS

Abu Dhabi Bahrain

4,352 4,580

9:00 9:58

Bangkok Busan

1,368 1,515

3:15 3:45

Beijing

1,797

4:25

Doha Dubai

4,528 4,294

8:15 8:45

Fukuoka Guam Ho Chi Minh Hong Kong Honolulu Jakarta

1,445 1,596 1,002 712 5,296 1,732

3:30 3:40 2:30 2:00 10:15 6:15

00971 2 6351700 00973-17225650 extension 212 (662) 633-5713 / 14 (8251) 466-0333 (8251) 464-7890 (8610) 6510 2991 2992 / 2993 (974) 455-8760 (9714) 203-3788 / 316-6632 (8192) 415-3232 (671) 632-1615 / 17 / 19 (848) 832-872105 (852) 230-19350 / 51 1-800-435-9725 (6221) 300-15757 (6221) 526-8668

R OUTE S & SE CTOR S

MANILA

(via Singapore) Manila-Singapore Singapore-Jakarta Kuala Lumpur (via Kota Kinabalu) Manila-Kota Kinabalu Las Vegas (via Vancouver) Manila-Vancouver Vancouver-Las Vegas Los Angeles

3:35 1:35 3:40 7,393

1:55 16:15

7,290

12:05 2:40 12:30

Macau Melbourne Osaka Nagoya San Francisco

723 3,927 1,651 1,741 6,978

1:55 8:00 3:55 4:00 12:00

Seoul Shanghai Singapore Sydney (via Melbourne) Manila-Melbourne Melbourne-Sydney Taipei Tokyo Vancouver

1,624 1,152 1,476 3,883

4:00 3:10 3:35 10:50

731 1,879 6,560

8:00 1:30 2:00 4:15 12:05

714

2:10

Xiamen

DOMESTIC R OU TE S & SE C TOR S

MA NIL A

Bacolod Busuanga Butuan

298 489

1:10 1:05 1:30

Cagayan de Oro

486