Mabuhay Magazine, January 2014 by Eastgate Publishing Corporation

TraVel+liFeSTyle January 2014 MABUHAY January 2014

www.philippineairlines.com

SPARKLING SYDNEY Sparkling Sydney

MeLbourne, brisbane & darWin ISSN 0217-6998

the Year of the Wood horse Luxurious treehouses FESTIVALS IN CEBU, ILOILO, AND KALIBO | EXCLUSIVE: PH’S TOP GOOGLED DESTINATIONS

CONTENTS

V o l .

3 6 ,

N o .

1 ,

J a n u a r y

2 0 1 4

SectionS

Google reveals to us some of the most searched places in 2013.

| Feng Shui 101

No matter what your astrological sign, there’s something exciting in store for you this year. Find out from feng shui expert, Marites Allen.

| The Great Triathlon Experience

| Brisbane Unique

This city in Queensland shines with its offering of natural attractions, adorable wildlife, and a jolt of exhilaration.

An Alternative Aussie | Experience: Darwin Let’s explore Australia’s Northern Territory, where exciting experiences await you.

| Natural High

Andy Round gets close to nature without foregoing comfort in these treehouses.

| Beginner’s Guide To Ati-Atihan

Kalibo starts the year with a bang as they celebrate the “Mother of All Festivals.”

traVel+liFestyle January 2014

www.philippineairlines.com

| An Insider’s Guide to Melbourne Local comedian Xavier Toby reveals to us his most loved spots in his city.

| A Festival After the Rain

With such savory dishes and a rich cultural background, Iloilo should be one of the destinations you should visit this year.

A Photographer’s Guide to Sinulog Award-winning photographer Erwin Lim gives us tips on how to capture the best of Sinulog Festival.

Leanne Walker explores the coastal beauty of Australia’s most iconic city, Sydney.

| The Philippines on Two Wheels A group of men embarks on a journey around the Philippines with their trusty motorbikes.

Swim, bike, run—think you can do it all in one race? Let Tessa Prieto-Valdes give you a sneak peek of what to expect in this pinnacle of fitness.

SPARKLING SYDNEY Melbourne, brisbane & Darwin

ISSN 0217-6998

| Coasting the ‘Burbs

philippines Christmas by the beaCh

January 2014

The Philippines’ Top Googled | Destinations

60 MABUHAY

80 | PAL Pages

FESTIVALS IN CEBU, ILOILO, AND KALIBO | EXCLUSIVE: PH’S TOP GOOGLED DESTINATIONS

Mabuhay Covers Jan.indd 1

12/10/13 9:58 AM

on the cover

A Bright Start for the Year Crowds gather around the Opera House as fireworks are lit to celebrate the new year in Sydney Harbour. Photo by Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW

ERRATUM

We, Eastgate Publishing Corporation, publishers of the Mabuhay Magazine, regret publishing the incorrect flag of Thailand on page 18 of the November 2013 issue. The editorial board apologizes to those offended by this error and to Philippine Airlines who is not in any way involved in conceptualizing the said page.

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

VALERIE CAULIN has been calling Iloilo City home for the past seven years. As her city celebrates Dinagyang Festival this month, Valerie gives us tips on page 42 on where to go. She has published her works in different travel sites and other magazines like Entrepreneur (Philippines). 4 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

XAVIER TOBY is a writer and comedian. His debut non-fiction comedy book Mining My Own Business is available now via: www.uwap.uwa.edu.au. Xavier is also a constant feature at fringe and comedy festivals around Australia. Starting on page 52, he tells us the quintessential experiences in Melbourne, Brisbane, and Darwin. www.xaviertoby.com

RACHEL TEOTICO is a copywriting monkey in an advertising agency. On most days, she writes for grocery shelves and bathroom stalls and does her best to avoid abusing exclamation points. On page 70, she opts for a motorbike instead of the typical swivel chair she uses.

PRESIDENT’S NOTE

Climbing Higher After a busy, eventful 2013, during which we grew bigger, reached farther and finally took off, Philippine Airlines is stepping it up even more this year, gaining altitude in our quest to become a full-fledged global network carrier. Our fleet expanded by 18 aircraft last year—remarkable given that the new jets arrived only in the last six months—but we will top that this year by adding 23 aircraft. Sixteen of these are from the 64-aircraft Airbus order we placed in August 2012. They include seven A321s, two A330-300 HGWs in the high-density, bi-class cabin layout that we launched last year, and our latest product—the A330-300 HGW in a tri-class configuration of economy, premium economy, and PAL’s new business class cabin. Laid out in a novel herringbone pattern, the cabin features plush, full-flat seats equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. We’ll have seven of these tri-class A330-300 HGWs in our fleet in 2014. We’re also acquiring seven more long range Airbus aircraft. Overall, the PAL Group’s fleet will swell to over 90 aircraft by the end of this year. All these new airplanes mean more routes, destinations, and frequencies are in the offing. The revamp actually started late last month with a hefty increase in capacity to Tokyo Narita, in time for the peak holiday period. Manila - Narita increased from daily to triple-daily while Cebu - Narita went from daily to double-daily. Manila - Singapore also received a boost, going from four to six flights daily. By this summer, we will be expanding our European footprint with services to Frankfurt and Rome. We’ll also add a second gateway to Tokyo by launching a double-daily service to Haneda and upgrade capacity to Osaka and Nagoya (double daily), and Fukuoka (daily). We look forward to welcoming you on board our many new services in 2014. Happy New Year and mabuhay!

Ramon S. Ang

President & Chief Operating Officer Philippine Airlines

EDITOR’s NOTE

A Brand New Year

Vo l . 3 6 , N o . 1 , J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

he great thing about a new year is we can start fresh, like pressing the re-set button. And there’s much to be positive about this year. Notwithstanding our recent calamities, top global financial institutions still believe that the Philippines will have a higher growth rate than our neighbors, thanks to our economic fundamentals. Our airline, Philippine Airlines, continues its aggressive transformation with new aircraft and dynamic service improvements, some of which are in play like WiFi connectivity on flights and a new, sleeker Mabuhay lounge.

Photo by Justin Ventura

We are featuring three big festivals taking place this month that are being held in honor of the infant Jesus fondly called the Santo Niño. The Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, Aklan, and the Sinulog in Cebu both take place from January 13 to 19 while the Dinagyang in Iloilo is from January 24 to 26. Since everyone now takes pictures, our multi awardwinning contributing photographer, Erwin Lim, generously shares tips on taking festival photos.

Crocodile pate from Adelaide River Inn, Darwin, Australia (Photo by Aude Mayans/Tourism NT)

The Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo will be held on January 24-26, 2014. Photo by Jake Borres

Further down South, we have practically a mini Australia special report with features on Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Darwin. One of the editorial innovations that we are introducing this year is a common denominator among travelers: food. For instance in this issue, we tip you off where to enjoy the best batchoy (pork noodle soup) in Iloilo and the best pies in Brisbane and Sydney including a 24-hour pie cart. And for the adventurous, we have kangaroo meat in Melbourne and something that Bear Grylls might be easily comfortable with: grubs (insects and beetles) and crocodile meat in Darwin.

I bought a calendar with nice daily quotes and I would like to share a few of them. For those who want to do bold things, Wendy Kopp, an American educator said: “when Thomas Edison invented the light bulb, he didn’t start by trying to improve the candle.” But all work and no play are not good either as a British proverb encourages us that “the world is his who enjoys it.”

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 2014

EDITORIAL

Charles C. Chante sImeon s. Ventura, Jr. Jane Ira h. InquImboy Jomar r. GalVeZ anna CeCIlIa l. GoleZ Kara r. santIaGo rodel d. ambas alyanna G. sIson Jared Carl mIllan PIa r. oCamPo

Publisher Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Art Director Contributing Writers Copy Editor Graphic Designer Intern Creative Consultant

PhILIPPInE AIRLInEs

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

EAsTGATE PUBLIshInG CORPORATIOn

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

EASTGATE WEBSITE: www.eastgatepublishing.com MABUHAY FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/MabuhayMagazine MABUHAY TWITTER: @mabuhaymagazine PAL WEBSITE: www.philippineairlines.com MOBILE SITE: www.philippineairlines.mobi FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/flyPAL TWITTER: www.twitter.com/flyPAL Mabuhay Magazine is published monthly for Philippine Airlines by Eastgate Publishing Corporation. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2014 by Philippine Airlines. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed in this magazine are the writers’ and not necessarily endorsed by Philippine Airlines or Eastgate Publishing Corporation. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject advertising and editorial material. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and artwork will not be returned unless accompanied by self-addressed, stamped envelopes. Publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Address all correspondence to: Mabuhay Magazine, Eastgate Publishing Corp., Rm. 704 Prestige Tower Condominium, F. Ortigas Jr. Road., Ortigas Center, Pasig City. 1605; Tel: (+632) 635-7348, 635-9067, 633-4004 to 09; Fax (+632) 635-9221; E - mail: info@eastgatepublishing.com; Mabuhay is authorized in the Philippines under PCFM Cr No. 388. Color separated and printed in the Philippines by THE HOUSE PRINTERS. For inquiries on advertising, please e-mail adsales@eastgatepublishing.com or call (trunkline) +632 633 4004 loc. 14 or 15 and (direct line) +632 635 7882.

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

WHAT’S UP

Cultural celebrations and an adrenaline-filled sport event set the energy for the rest of the year. PHILIPPINES

Every year, hordes of devout believers flock to Quiapo to participate in the procession of the Black Nazarene. A centuriesold tradition, it is believed that anyone who touches the religious relic will be granted a miracle.

PHOENIX IN MANILA JANUARY 21 WORLD TRADE CENTER, PASAY CITY

Grammy Award-winning French indie pop band Phoenix is coming to Manila for the first time to perform hits from their earlier albums, as well as from their 2009 Grammy Award-

AUSTRALIA winning album, Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix. www. karposmultimedia.com

PASUNGAY FESTIVAL JANUARY 21 SAN JOAQUIN, ILOILO

Witness the best breeds of bulls and horses fight it out at the town arena during the Pasungay sa San Joaquin. Pasungay is the culminating event of the Bayluhay Festival, whose aim is to reflect on the history of Panay Island centuries ago when the ancestral Aetas bartered with Malay chieftains.

CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION JANUARY 31 BINONDO, MANILA

Watch the sky light up the second time this month as the Filipino-Chinese community celebrates what they consider the most important festival of the year. Dancing dragons parade the streets to attract prosperity, health, and wisdom, while fireworks emblazon the sky to scare off evil spirits.

Phoenix

12 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

AUSTRALIAN OPEN JANUARY 13–26 MELBOURNE

What’s a better way of spending an Australian summer than watching the world’s finest tennis players compete at the prestigious Australian Open. Familiar names such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Maria Sharapova battle it out at Melbourne Park for both glory and prize money. www.ausopen.com

BIG DAY OUT JANUARY 17, 19, 24, 26, 31, AND FEBRUARY 2 AUCKLAND, GOLD COAST, MELBOURNE, SYDNEY, ADELAIDE, AND PERTH

Witness some of today’s best musical acts perform in this year’s Big Day Out, now on its 21st year, happening in five cities in Australia and in Auckland, New Zealand. Headlining this year’s event are big names Arcade Fire, Pearl Jam, and Snoop Dogg, among others. www.bigdayout.com

Novak Djokovic

AUSTRALIA DAY COCKROACH RACES JANUARY 26 BRISBANE

Cockroach races sound strange, but they’ve been around for around 30 years! The numbered roaches are released from a bucket, and the first to the edge wins! No bets are allowed, but you’ve got enough entertainment that you won’t need them. www.cockroachraces. com.au

NAZARENO PHOTO BY: Mark Fredesjed R. Cristino

PROCESSION OF THE BLACK NAZARENE JANUARY 9 QUIAPO, MANILA

TRAVEL LOG

BLACK BEAUTY Nobody wants a black sheep, but here's one that you will welcome. With its location at the penthouse, newly opened Black Sheep affords you with a commanding view of the skyline. But to maximize the full experience, it's best that you book either the Sky or View tables and opt for private dining. The private dining menu includes the creations of internationally trained Chef Jordy Navarra such as Kitayama wagyu with squid ink and potato puree, free-range chicken with truffle sand, and foie gras with white chocolate and walnuts. Couple those with one of their 100 single malt whiskeys from Scotland to Japan, and your experience will surely stand out. The Penthouse, W Fifth Avenue, 2nd and 5th, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City

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TRAVEL LOG

Rimowa Goes Green

Never Forgotten A photographic exhibit by American photographer Jacob Maentz will be on display at the Yuchengco Museum from January 10 to 23. The exhibit entitled The Forgotten Ten will showcase a year and a half of Maentz’s documentary work from various indigenous communities around the Philippines. In partnership with Asia Society Philippines, the exhibition will give an inside and depictive look into the diverse and culturally rich lives of our nation’s often forgotten people, featuring images of their everyday life, culture, and traditions. The photographs that will be on display are part of a long-term project called the Katutubong Filipino Project started by Maentz in 2012. The aim of the project is to help bring about awareness of the Philippine indigenous peoples by visually documenting their slowly disappearing and changing cultural heritages. The Yuchengco museum is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm and is located at the RCBC Plaza, Ayala Avenue, Makati City. www.katutuboproject.org

Rimowa reveals its Salsa Deluxe Special Edition in Olive Green, which is made of high-quality, extremely durable polycarbonate. Exposed to tough travel conditions like force, moisture, and heat, your Rimowa will still be it tiptop shape. The limited edition Olive Green completes the existing colors of Oriental Red, Black, Seal Grey and Brown. Level 2 Shangri-la Plaza, Mandaluyong City

Nomnom Moments at NamNam Restaurant Filipino restaurant NamNam has expanded its menu to satisfy cravings in those hours between lunch and dinner—merienda (snack) time. Highlights include classics like the Arroz Caldo Espesyal, a rich chicken breast congee with house special albondigas “scratch” eggs, Afternoon Lumpia Rolls with hoisin peanut dipping sauce, Pan de Churros con Tsokolate, and an all-time Filipino classic the Halo-Halo. Some “twists” which are intriguing and equally appetizing are the Croque Maria, a fluffy, crispy battered pan de sal stuffed with alamang and crispy garlic pics, and the Nilupak a la Mode with creamy vanilla ice cream, sesame seed sprinkles, and crispy root strings on a cassava and coconut crepe. The choices are plentiful and every few months, expect even more specialties added to the menu. Ground Floor, Greenbelt 2, Makati City

Tickled by Teak For those wanting to give their homes a bit of a makeover this coming Year of the Wood Horse, consider Teak Castle, a Filipino brand that showcases quality furniture made of 100 percent solid teak wood. This sturdy material is imported from Indonesia and designed mostly by an Australian designer. And just in time for the Chinese New Year, Teak Castle is holding a major sale that can go as low as 70 percent off. Whether using more wood in your homes is lucky or not, we think that this great sale is enough reason to check out Teak Castle. With branches in Quezon City, MC Home Depot (Taguig City), SM North Edsa, and SM Megamall. +632 921 8037 16 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

Wearable Sounds Crazy for Sisa If you find yourself traveling to the south of Manila this holiday break, chances are, you’d stop over for breakfast or lunch along the SLEX. Lucky for you, heartwarming Filipino food is waiting for you. This is the location of Chef Florabel Yatco’s newest baby, Sisa’s Secret. It’s a casual dining restaurant that brings back the nostalgic way of dining in an eatery, wherein you get to pick from a wide selection of prepared dishes. And just exactly what food is waiting for you? There’s a steaming bowl of bulalo, lechon manok, Floring’s pork barbecue, and a whole lot more! With a wide menu of Filipino favorites, balikbayans will surely satisfy their cravings here. Caltex Mamplasan, South Luzon Expressway, Sta. Rosa, Laguna

Native Union reinvents the mobile sound experience with Monocle, a new multi-use speaker, handset, and speakerphone for your phone, laptop, or other sound device. Its unique round, hands-free design puts welcome ease in music-listening and phone calls while on the go. Use it as headphones, play music out loud, or link up multiple Monocles for bigger sound. With an easy plug-and-play feature and volume controls, highquality audio and microphone, and durable nylon-reinforced cable, Monocle makes for a "wearable" all-around gadget that’s compact, functional, and stylish.

FEAturED APPS Foodspotting - Tired of the usual restaurant reviews? Download the app and get a comprehensive food guide that’s centered on dishes, not just the restaurants.

NOW OPEN: DiSNEy AulANi oyster Hotel reviews & pHotos Get honest reviews and photos of hotels and resorts so you know what you’re actually getting.

A delightfully themed family pool, a new kids’ splash zone, and two new quick-service dining locations are among the highlights of the expansion at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Ko Olina, Hawaii. - Neal Turnage resorts.disney.go.com/aulani-hawaiiresort

Fly to Shop Malaysia’s international airports are giving everyone the chance to shop and dine like royalty with their Indulge Till You Fly (ITUF) Campaign. Rewarding travelers for shopping and dining at its five international airports, Malaysia is giving the Grand Prize winner a RM1million (US$310,000) shopping spree in Hong Kong, Tokyo, New York, London, Paris, Dubai and Kuala Lumpur. All you have to do is spend a minimum of RM250 (US$75) at any F&B or retail outlet in Malaysia’s five international airports. The ITUF Champaign aims to redefine their airports as not merely transit and connection points, but places of respite, where you can indulge even if it is for a little while. The contest runs until February 28, 2014. www. malaysiaairports.com.my/indulge

www.philippineairlines.com I 17

IN THE nEWs Our Islands

“City of Dreams” arrives in manila “City of Dreams Manila,” an integrated casino resort with a world-class counterpart in Macau, will be built in the Entertainment City and will feature a 260-room Crown Towers Hotel. The complex will cover about 6.2 hectares and will include the ultimate in entertainment, hotel, retail, dining and lifestyle facilities for all its patrons. Melco Crown Resorts Corporation, a leading casino gaming and entertainment resort developer in Asia, in alliance with the SM Group’s Belle Corporation, is behind this newest development.

Baskin roBBins iCe Cream Chain enters Ph market With over 70,000 restaurants across the globe, BaskinRobbins excitingly announces its touchdown in Manila. In the next five years, the global ice cream parlor chain is planning to set up around 50 branches throughout the archipelago to bring smiles to Filipinos with their 31 fun and exciting flavors to try. Are you excited for your next scoop of Jamoca or Mint Chocolate Chip? 18 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

h&m to oPen first PhiliPPine store in 2014 The Swedish fashion retailer, in partnership with the SM Group, will open its first store in the Philippines this year. Boasting about 3,000 stores worldwide, the popular retailer flagship Philippine store will be at the newly renovated SM Megamall.

the south east asian fooD market 2014 Salon International de l’Agroalimentaire (SIAL), together with Worldbex Services International and the World Trade Center in Manila, brings us the South East Asian Food Market this coming June. The Philippine leg of this SIAL initiative is themed “Best Kept Secret for Food and Wine Business in Asia,” which will boast samplings of fusion cuisine and local produce.

travel for a Cause: Bangon tours If you’re looking for a meaningful travel experience, the Department of Tourism officially launched “Bangon Tours” to help the survivors of Typhoon Haiyan. Participating partners have pledged to allocate a percentage of their revenue to relief efforts— making it possible for you to help while on your adventure.

IN THE NEWS DESTINATIONS 101 Sydney Opera House (Tourism NSW)

desTinaTion

South Bank, Brisbane (Photo from Tourism & Events Queensland)

Sinulog, Cebu (Photo by Harry Wad)

ciTy advenTures

The $5 sTreTch

Shangri-La Boracay (Photo from Shangri-La Resorts)

local eaTs and TreaTs

sydney

Bask in arts and culture at the Opera House and city museums, enjoy the beaches by swimming and surfing and shop in local boutiques.

Take Sydney sculptor Tom bass’ self-guided tour ($3) and explore his works across the city.

sean’s panorama Dine with a view of Sydney while watching the sunset. The perfect pair for fresh and local favorites. 270 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach

brisbane

Appreciate nature in the city’s Botanical Gardens where people frequent the cycling paths and recreational parks.

Gas up ($5) and drive to nearby mount coot-ha and catch a glimpse of a view overlooking majestic Brisbane.

The Three monkeys coffee and Teahouse Simply the best coffee in town! Never mind the long lines, it will always be worth the wait. 58 Mollision Street, West End

Kalibo

Home to pristine beaches and environmental reservations, Kalibo and its neighboring islands are the perfect getaway for the water enthusiast.

Take a shuttle ($4) towards Caticlan, a 2-hour drive away from Kalibo, to catch a ferry ($2) going to the world-famous island of boracay.

lemon icafe Fresh seafood with a French twist, enjoy the ambiance and exciting menu at Lemon iCafe. D’Mall, Boracay Island

cebu

Take part in the festivities at Cebu’s local Mardi Gras festival, Sinulog and hop on a ferry and go island hopping in the waters of Cebu.

Form a group of five to chip in and get to swim with the whale sharks in oslob.

marjo’s pochero The best pochero, a local take on osso bucco stew, can be found in Marjo’s. Need we say more? Gorordo Avenue, Cebu City

inTernaTional arTisTs conTribuTe To haiyan vicTims ThrouGh “sonGs for ph” Songs from music icons The Beatles, Beyoncé, Eminem, Bob Dylan, and U2 will be part of an album produced to raise funds for the victims of Typhoon Haiyan. The songs will be available on iTunes and 100 percent of the proceeds will go to the Philippine National Red Cross. 20 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

WinTer olympics 2014 The 22nd edition of the Winter Olympics will commence on February of this year in Sochi, Russia. There will be 98 events for 15 chosen winter sports that will be competed for and bested out by about 46 participating nations and territories.

The Giver movie, a sTar-sTudded casT Lois Lowry’s timeless read, The Giver, is set to be adapted on screen this year. Fans are looking forward to see their favorite classic unfold as the stellar cast, which includes Jeff Bridges, Meryl Streep, Katie Holmes and Taylor Swift, bring each character to life.

IN THE FItneSS hOLIDAYS neWS TERRA WEllNESS AT DIScovERy ShoRES – BoRAcAy, phIlIppINES

Hailed by Travel+Leisure as the 2012 Best Hotel Spa in Asia, this Discovery Shore’s gem is home to Terra’s Journey. This spa’s signature therapy package includes treatments and healing rituals that either cleanse, calm, or rejuvenate. Guests who prefer their massages on the beach will enjoy these services, too.

como ShAmBhAlA BAlI, INDoNESIA

Surrounded by a river which doubles as an exotic Asian spa paradise, the 9-acre Como Shambhala Estate offers a holistic approach to your journey of fitness and well-being. The Jungle Gym, which is literally a jungle within the complex, is a great alternative venue to do circuit training, running, and daily morning walks.

cANyoN RANch AT ThE vENETIAN lAS vEgAS, uSA Tired from the usual Vegas fare? Take a break from all the exquisite dinners and partying as the 134,000-square-foot and 5-star fitness center offers classes such as boxing, wall climbing (the center is equipped with its own 40-foot wall), and various spa treats at their very own Aquavena, the biggest thermal water spa in town.

IlluSTRATIoN Claudine Delfin Bambu Indah,By Bali, Indonesia

ANANDA IN ThE hImAlAyAS, A DESTINATIoN SpA INDIA

A 4-hour train ride from New Delhi takes you straight to a hidden paradise deep in the Himalaya Mountains. Ananda Spa offers Yoga Detox sessions by expert yogis which may run up to a week and various Hindu spa treatments. These activities, coupled with the unparalleled beauty of the surrounding mountains, are sure to top the list of your favorite sweet escapes!

BIllABoNg RETREAT – SyDNEy, AuSTRAlIA

With its new 18-bed boutique setting just a few minutes away from the heart of Sydney, Billabong Retreat offers the best bang for your buck ($400 for a weekend package good for two to four persons)! For health enthusiasts and first-timers seeking for adventure, the cozy atmosphere and excellent organic spa cuisine will make your relaxation, gentle yoga, and meditation classes quite the experience.

On the Web

SKIFT WWW.SKIFT.COM

Perfect for those with a perennial travel bug, Skift offers the latest tidbits, trivia, and travel news all over the globe. The website usually has commentaries on the latest travel buzz—newest destinations, places to try, and package deals, so be sure to check it out!

BETWEEN 9 AND 5 WWW.BETWEEN9AND5.COM Looking for a day hotel while waiting for your connecting flight? This website will help you track accommodations with flexible check-in and check-out times that are close to your airport of origin.

EATER WWW.EATER.COM mARRIoTT AND IKEA INTRoDucE moxy hoTElS Dubbed as the next big thing in hotels, this Marriott and IKEA collaboration is directed toward the millennial market. Moxy Hotels, the hippest and newest craze in the industry today is focused on meeting every 20-something’s need—flexible check-in times, a vast array of world-class amenities, architectural space, and a convenient self-service option for almost all the hotel’s offerings. This makes your stay much more affordable, too!

Find out the latest and best of restaurants across America. With Eater, no hole-in-the-wall burger joint and top-secret coffee shop will be so hard to find.

www.philippineairlines.com I 21

MILES TONES

FIRST SINULOG

LOCAL

January 20, 1980

The first Sinulog, an annual religious festival celebrating the Sto. Niño or Holy Child, was held in Cebu. Photo by Jomar R. Galvez

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS January 1, 1919

American writer J.D. Salinger was born in New York. His popular and acclaimed novel The Catcher in the Rye gained significant infamy upon its release and shot Salinger into literary fame. He is among the most popular authors in the world.

January 16, 1974

January 14, 1899

Carlos Peña Rómulo was born in Camiling, Tarlac. A journalist, diplomat, and the first Filipino to become president of the United Nations General Assembly, Romulo was also a co-founder of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, a general in the U.S. and Philippine armies, and a university president.

January 23, 1899

Emilio Aguinaldo was inaugurated as President of the First Philippine Republic. A native of Cavite, Aguinaldo held positions as president of the Philippines’ revolutionary government, president of the Biak-na-Bato Republic, head of a dictatorial government, and president of another revolutionary government from June 1898 to January 1899.

January 1, 1906

By virtue of Philippine Commission Act No. 1123 of April 1904, English became the official language of the Philippines. Anyone who did not know how to speak it was not eligible for government service.

English fashion model Kate Moss was born in Croydon, Greater London. Popular for her highprofile relationships and “It” girl lifestyle, she is one of the most recognizable and highest-paid supermodels ever despite her rather short frame.

INTERNATIONAL

January 13, 1977

January 1, 1971

Cigarette smoking was more than a cultural symbol—it was part of the American way of life. But after countless studies linking a multitude of health problems to smoking, cigarette advertisements were finally banned on American television—forever changing the way the American public looks at cigarettes.

English actor Orlando Bloom, who rose to fame by playing elf-prince Legolas in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings film trilogy, was born in Kent, England. Bloom was also named as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 2009.

January 22, 1946

Kate Moss (Photo courtesy of Stuart Weitzman)

22 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

President Truman established the Central Intelligence Group, an interim authority that was the direct predecessor of the Central Intelligence Agency, which in turn was formed in September 1947 and is perhaps the world’s most famous spy agency.

fashion

StELLA LuNA For its latest collection, Stella Luna takes inspiration from the Parisian architectural, fusing the brand’s signature architectural line with chic Parisian historical elegance. Minimal modernism sits alongside romantic art Nouveau inspired decadence.

WHAt FOR What For Girl is evolving and takes the fashion lead with a stronger feminine beauty, playfully mixing urban casual with an effortlessly easy city chic. Opposite extremes of contemporary casual and modern luxury join together to make a desirable wardrobe of high fashion essentials, all crafted with the brand’s signature urban elegance and easy luxury.

HAVEN FOR SOLES Put a spring in your step this year with the gorgeous selection of footwear from Adora’s Shoe Mecca.

hoe lovers, this is your sweet spot. Here, you will see that every pair of pumps, flats, and wedges is carefully selected to factor in all of your occasions, and from sizes 35 - 40. The best part? Your delight to an accessible price range. Their frontliners are also as intimately attached to shoes as much as you are, and they will find the perfect pair that you will absolutely love. Whether it’s from Schutz, What For, Pretty Ballerinas, or Stella Luna, the shoes you fit will be a match for your soles. n

ScHutz The new designs of this Brazilian brand hark back to the Golden Age where crafted ornaments flourish. A strong presence of sequins and different kinds of glitter are also evident.

PREtty BALLERiNAS Get back to nature with the softest suedes and lovely elements of nature. The floral ornaments may have a neutral earth color, but you will definitely stand out with each step.

The Shoe Mecca is located at Adora, 3/F Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City. Tel. No. +63 2 217 4029.

Olivia Palermo wears Schutz. 24 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

exclusive FEATURE

THRILLS OF ALL TYPES: The Far Far Away Castle (ABOVE) from the land of Shrek in Universal Studios Singapore is 39.4 meters high, capped by the turret’s flag. Themed after the hit television show Battlestar Galactica, the world’s tallest pair of dueling roller-coasters (INSET)—one seated and the other, suspended, will propel thrill-seekers on several inversions.

THE PHILIPPINES’ TOP GOOGLED DESTINATIONS Thinking of where you’ve been this year, or where you should go next year? Whichever it is, let this year’s Google Zeitgeist list* for the Philippines— specifically the top-searched international destinations for 2013—add reasons to why you should come back, or book that flight immediately.

UNIvErSAL STUDIOS, SINGAPOrE Universal Studios in Singapore is where you can enjoy being in different realms of your favorite movies and television shows, all at the same place. There are seven zones to traverse: Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, Lost World, Far Far Away, and Madagascar. The theme park promises an exhilarating experience throughout with the wide array of rides and shows that will keep you excited all day long (tip: be physically prepared).

BUrj KHALIfA, DUBAI Dubai, one of the fastest growing and most dynamic cities in the world, is home to the awe-inspiring needle-shaped skyscraper, Burj Khalifa, which stands over 800 meters tall. The tallest man-made structure boasts the world’s first Armani hotel on the lower floors, and houses 900 residences, 37 floors of office space, a finedining restaurant, and an observation deck. Surrounded by an 11-hectare park of lush landscapes and six water features,

PAL flies between Manila and these destinations regularly. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. 26 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

this majestic tower is definitely the must-visit centerpiece of downtown Dubai. Bangkok, Thailand The Thai capital is a haven for both the shopper and cultural wanderer in you. Visit temples, feed some elephants, practice Muay Thai, and ride the tuk-tuk (similar to a tricycle). And after you indulge, relax with a Thai massage. The Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall was used as a Parliamentary House and now functions as a museum curating works of Thailand’s national artists. The building is art in itself, embodying Italian Renaissance architecture. Navigate through Google Street View—wherein you can check out the place virtually—for a closer look and to view more key attractions in Thailand. China Ranking second to Italy with the most number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites on earth, China’s cultural splendor is embodied by its various dynastybuilt structures, such as the imperial palaces of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, and MAN-MADE MARVELS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaew where the Emerald the Great Wall of China, among Buddha is found; the Great Wall of China is the only man-made structure that can be seen from space; the others. China’s landscape historic landmark Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad in Guam overlooks an astounding beach strip. varies throughout its vast width, featuring notable natural destinations, such as the Five Sacred Mountains, the Trends—a search tool that lets you see the trending VIRTUAL TOUR Huangguoshu Waterfalls, and the Three Gorges of the subjects around the world—Filipinos’ interest in Guam With Google Maps’ has been consistently high in 2013. Yangtze River. Look Around mode, guam Another noteworthy white-sand destination with an endless array of marine activities, Guam is famed for its warm hospitality and laidback attitude. Heavily influenced by the Spanish occupation and the arrival of Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, and Micronesian immigrants over the last half-century, Guam offers a fascinating and rich mix of Asian, European, and Polynesian cultural traditions and cuisines definitely worth experiencing. Most notably, according to Google

ToronTo, Canada A melting pot of immigrant cultures and traditions, Toronto is one of the world’s most ethnically diverse cities by percentage of non-native-born residents. Its cosmopolitan reputation makes it an enchanting destination for cultured folks whose interests span museums, theaters, festivals, and sports events. n * In no specific order

you can visit a destination before you get there, even while on-the-go. See landmarks, parks, storefronts, and over 5 miles of road in more than 50 countries with 360* street-level images. Just download Google Maps on your smartphone.

www.philippineairlines.com I 27

new MIDDLe ROUTES EAST

MILESTONES (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) A PAL Express aircraft receives a water cannon salute upon touchdown at Dubai International Airport; Media delegates and representatives from Philippine Airlines and DNATA-Dubai with Andrew Balde, NAIA T2 Assistant Manager, at the Burj Khalifa’s viewing deck; Officials during the cake cutting ceremony to celebrate the flag carrier’s return to Dubai

Flying high in Dubai PAL launches direct flights to one of the world’s most dynamic cities

here are 555,230 Filipino expatriates currently living and working in Dubai, according to a January-June 2013 report by the Philippine Consulate. Going by sheer numbers alone, it is a market that can no longer go unserved. Which is why last November 6, when PAL* finally launched its direct service to Dubai, the flight was virtually full—carrying not only overseas Filipino workers but also family members, all eager to be reunited with their loved ones. “Our flights to and from Dubai will not only give our countrymen a direct, convenient link to their homeland but will also pave the way for loved ones in the Philippines to visit this dynamic, diverse and culture-rich city,” said PAL president and COO Ramon S. Ang. “We also look forward to serving businessmen and tourists shuttling between Manila and Dubai. We have worked hard to make sure that our aircraft, our service, even our fares, meet the needs of all our customers,” he added. For the Dubai flights, PAL will deploy its newest long-range aircraft, the Airbus A330-300 High Gross Weight model, which features a comfortable, two-class cabin configured into Premium Economy and Economy Class. “Aside from experiencing the brand-new Airbus A330, we are also

Under Licensing Agreement

offering our passengers a new great-value combination—a full service product priced affordably and competitively. More than that, we are also proud to offer our greatest asset: the caring and attentive service of our cabin crew and the expertise of Asia’s finest pilots,” Josen Perez de Tagle, PAL assistant vice president for External Affairs, said. “We are truly honored and proud to be of service to our countrymen whom we consider as our country’s best ambassadors of goodwill and friendship in the Middle East,” he added. PAL will fly to Dubai five times weekly, with flight 2P 658 departing NAIA Terminal 2 in Manila every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 1:00 PM, arriving at the Dubai International Airport at 6:15 PM (local time). The return service, flight 2P 659, departs Dubai on the same days at 7:45 PM and arrives at Manila’s NAIA Terminal 2 at 8:15 AM the following day. Flight time is approximately eight hours, with a four-hour time difference. For 2013, the PAL Group successfully launched flights to three other cities in the Middle East: Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates last October, and Riyadh and Dammam, both in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, last December. Meanwhile, the flag carrier is scheduled to begin flights to Doha, Qatar in the first half of 2014. n

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

28 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

TRAVEL TIPS

TODDLER ON BOARD

ou’ve barely made it past airport security without a hitch. You have all the extras stashed away in your carry on luggage—snacks, clothes, wipes, and diapers. Your toddler is safely seated, quietly fiddling with the seatbelt buckle. You’ve finally boarded the airplane. Now what? After an often times grueling trip to the airport, the true test of your patience lies in how you deal with your toddler within the limiting confines of the aircraft. Much of your trip’s success depends on adequate preparation. Your plane ride might get bumpy, but your toddler’s behavior doesn’t have to be. At least until he or she decides otherwise. Here are some tips to stack the odds in your favor. Schedule the flight during sleep or nap time. If you manage to find an agreeable time, your little one will be asleep at least halfway through the flight. Let the toddler know what to expect. I bought a second hand picture book about airplanes for my son. I read it to my three-yearold boy several days leading up to the flight. We brought the book during the trip and used it out to talk him through what’s happening, which helped ease the disruption of his daily routine. Burn excess energy before the flight. Let the kid push strollers, ride the escalator, get on moving ramps, or spend time at the play area, if your airport has one. Board the plane either first or last, but not in between. Both options have their pros & cons. Being first means you get first dibs of the overhead compartment, whereas being last means less time spent inside the plane with a fidgety toddler. Decide what works for you, and choose accordingly. Bring out the munchies during take off and landing. Letting your child chew on a snack minimizes the painful effects of changing air pressure on your toddler’s ears.

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Embrace technology. Make sure the gadgets are fully charged. Prepare games that are toddler friendly. Bring your child’s favorite toys. I let him choose which toys to bring, and tell him to be mindful of space and carry on weight constraints. Bring a new toy. The novelty will keep your kid preoccupied. Sticker books can keep my boy quiet for close to an hour at a time. Wrap it and turn it into a gift to make it extra special. Use what’s available to entertain him. What you have in your purse could potentially distract him. My toddler has been held captive by my hair claws, sunglasses, tissues and lipgloss for at least 20 minutes at a time. Request for some ice in a glass with a straw. Try giving this to your child if he starts getting fussy. Playing with it just might keep him quiet. Find empty seats. If it’s not a full flight, this is a chance for the little one to stretch out and explore the airplane without bothering other passengers. Make sure to let the flight attendant know you plan to move to another seat. Bring a scarf. Aside from keeping mom stylish, it can be used to keep the toddler warm when used as a blanket, or as a handy cloth wipe in case of any spillage or toddler vomit, if a towel or wipes aren’t within easy reach. Sorry mommy. Enlist the help of the flight attendant. In my experience, flight attendants have been my best ally, especially during long flights. If you’re traveling alone with your toddler, they can help look after your little one if you need to go to the bathroom. They are there to lend an extra hand should you need help putting away your carry on luggage. Keep calm and carry on. No matter how prepared you are, your toddler could still have a meltdown. The only thing you can control in this situation is your own reaction. Switch to zen mode, and know that this flight, however long it might be, will be over soon. n

ILLUSTRATION BY Claudine Delfin

Doting mom VANESSA CHUA-SALAS gives us tips on how to manage the little kid on a long-haul flight.

Toy STory KiTS AwAiT PAL Junior JeTSeTTerS PAL passengers aged 2 to 11 can immerse themselves in funfilled activities with the likes of Woody, Buzz Lightyear and other well-loved Toy Story characters while traveling on Philippine Airlines. When kids hop into any of PAL's flights between Manila and London, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Honolulu, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Darwin and New Delhi, junior jetsetters will surely enjoy these activity kits that promise to give them a fun time during their long flight. Each Junior Jetsetter Activity Kit contains a dental set, eye mask, sliding puzzle, activity book and crayons. For outbound flights, green drawstring bags house these items, while blue drawstring bags are for inbound flights. Passengers with children aged 2 to 11 travelling with them on these flights may inform PAL Reservations at (+63 2) 855 8888 to prepare a Junior Jetsetter activity kit for their young ones. n

www.philippineairlines.com I 31

CELEBRATIONS

WHERE TO WELCOME THE CHINESE NEW YEAR DeVon WonG takes us around Asia for the region’s most happening events during the Chinese New Year.

very year, Chinese communities across the world are connected in an orchestrated roar of a million firecrackers. There’s certain nostalgia in knowing Lunar New Year celebrations are a common experience for the global Chinese community: there’s the rekindling of family bonds through overstuffed bellies, the divvying of red envelopes to eager hands, and the endless cackle of fireworks echoing throughout the night. But there’s something unique at each stop in our guide to celebrating the Year of the Horse in Asia. GuanGzhou Visit Guangzhou’s annual iconic flower market to start planting the seeds for prosperity for 2014. It’s a carnival of colors and fragrances for shoppers who want to mark a symbolic new beginning. The Tianhe Sports Center is a good starting point to stop and smell the roses. Expect the market to become increasingly busy in the days leading up to the New Year. Macau There’s more to Macau than frigid casino air. Trace back history in Senado Square for a unique fusion of Chinese tradition and Portuguese influence on New Year’s Eve. Quaint cobblestone roads will be bustling with performances and tourists reveling in the sea of lanterns draped overhead. BeijinG There may be frost on the windows, but you’ll find warmth in numbers as crowds take

BLinGS oF LucK: The right charms can help you attract good luck this year.

to the streets to soak up Beijing’s aggressive fireworks displays on Chinese New Year’s Eve. Expect the entire skyline to glow in multicolor through the night. The areas near Drum and Bell Towers in the Houhai Lake district are a popular viewpoint. ShanGhai Awaken your senses and an ancient tradition by standing in Longhua temple when the bell tolls at midnight to ring in the New Year’s Day. As the city’s largest and oldest spiritual center dating back nearly 2,000 years, there will be plenty of locals and tourists praying for their wishes upon each of the bell’s 108 chimes. XiaMen The Haicang district in Xiamen offers a range of events, cultural performances, and ornate lantern displays throughout New Year’s Day. Based in the heart of the city, nearby tourist destinations like Tianzhou Mountain and Qingjiao Ciji Temple are also worth exploring. honG KonG The Sha Tin Racecourse will be your best bet in the Year of the Horse. The Chinese

New Year Cup is guaranteed to draw fans who want to double their luck in the New Year. For nongamblers, traditional lion dancing, fortunetellers, and a grand bazaar will keep you entertained. This year’s event takes off on February 2. Access to the races is free for tourists with valid ID. SinGapore Not every city can boast a Chinese New Year parade with military precision. Expect thousands of attendees in a most colorful, larger-than-life (and organized!) party for the masses at Singapore’s Chingay Parade at the Formula One Pit Building. This year’s event falls on February 7 and 8. See chingay. org.sg for tickets and details. Taipei This year’s Taiwan Lantern Festival will be hosted against the mountainous backdrop of Nantou County, where more than 100,000 lanterns will be launched into the night sky. With the event taking place on Valentine’s Day in 2014, you can expect more than lanterns in the air. n

PAL flies between Manila and these destinations regularly. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. 32 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

CULTURE

Feng Shui 101

THE YEAR OF THE WOOD HORSE Money-making opportunities in the first half of the year, luck for couples who are planning to get married, and success for women. ISABEL L. TEMPLO summarizes Feng Shui expert Marites Allen’s predictions for 2014.

No Horsing Around: Regardless of your sign, a horse figurine can help get you through the demands of 2014, especially if you’re feeling weak or your energy is down. Image courtesy of Marites Allen/World of Feng Shui Philippines.

“I

t’s a year when going with the flow is best.” too. Marites cautioned against speculation because of a At her Feng Shui Convention last December, possible crash in December: “If you’re playing the stock Filipina Marites Allen gives her forecast for market, get out by the end of July.” International Affairs: The volatility and rebelliousness the Year of the Wood Horse. With the absence of the Earth and Water elements of the energy of 2014 will also manifest in international and the appearance of Fire four times in the chart, she relations. Power struggles and international conflict are indicated. “Leaders could be described the year as “very volatile.” Here is the rest of her forecast: On Fire: According challenged,” Marites pointed out, Business and Economy: Earth to Marites Allen, the adding that this will be true even in business. element businesses, such as real fiery color red and Relationships and Family: It estate and construction, and Water earthy colors are will be a good year to get married element businesses like shipping, or to have a baby—but new transportation, and banking, will lucky for 2014. relationships may have a negative face obstacles. The mining industry will be stable. Restaurants and marketing and lighting outcome. Marites also said that married couples should be careful as extramarital affairs, especially on the part businesses will flourish. “If you’re going to invest, concentrate on the first of the husband, are indicated in the chart. Women rule in 2014! Marites emphasized that this is half of the year,” Marites emphasized. Growth will slow down and business expansion will not be as good in the true for wives and women in positions of power, while second half of the year. This will affect the stock market, their male counterparts will not be so fortunate.

34 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2013

Lucky Sectors South – Wealth Star Southwest – White Star (victory) West – Heavenly Star North – Multiplying Star (prosperity) These sectors can best be used as your living room, dining room, home office, or family room. “Make it the busiest part of the house,” Marites said. The other sectors can be cured to lessen or prevent the likelihood of illness, misfortune, or loss of money.

She expounds on the forecast for the corresponding Chinese zodiacs: RAT You will have a very busy year, with good prospects. Relationships will be excellent, but watch out for backstabbing. Protect yourself against harm. Best months: May, July

SHEEP Among all the signs, you’re the star this year! You’ll face excellent prospects in the areas of wealth and success. You’ll also enjoy very good health and relationships. Best months: June, August, October

OX You will enjoy success and good health. Be conservative in your spending. Guard against betrayal and burglary. Best months: March, May, July

MONKEY It’s a great year for money and business. Your health may suffer, and there may be obstacles—but you can overcome them. Watch out for jealous friends. Best months: June, August, October

TIGER It will be a trying year, with the possibility of betrayal and danger. Try to strengthen your health. You will be lucky with money. Best months: March, May, July RABBIT It will be a victorious and lucky year, with new sources of income. Relationships will be rewarding—but watch out for conflict! Don’t stress yourself out. Best months: July, September, November DRAGON Something huge is coming your way, and good wealth prospects abound. You will also enjoy strong health. You will be prone to irritability, so try to avoid conflict. Best months: August, October, December SNAKE You will face obstacles throughout the year, but you can easily overcome them with your good luck. Take care of your health, as energy will be low. Best months: August, October, December HORSE Wealth and relationships will be at their best. “Bank on your luck, because it only happens every 12 years,” Marites emphasizes. But watch out for stress and low energy. Best months: April, June, August, and January 2015

ROOSTER It will be a glowing year for money, business, scholastic pursuits, and spiritual matters. Relationships could be stressful. Try not to worry. Look after your health. Best months: February, April, June, November, January 2015 DOG Conflicts and obstacles are in your chart, so be cautious. Align yourself with friends. Cash flow problems are on the horizon, so avoid large financial commitments. Best months: March, October, December BOAR This will be a very challenging year. There is danger of being cheated or mugged. This is not the year to lend or borrow money. Success and health indicators are very good, though. Best months: March, October, December

Feng Shui Master: Marites Allen was given the title of “Master in Feng Shui” in November 2013 by the International Feng Shui Association, the first Filipina to be recognized with this title. www.philippineairlines.com I 35

DINING TRENDS

ASIA’S BEST BITES If you can try only 50 restaurants in Asia, which would they be? Next month, you can have the rare chance to learn from celebrated master chefs in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants.

KITCHEN MASTERS: Chefs Joan Roco (LEFT) of Spain will be one of the prominent chefs who will showcase their skills during the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants event. Chef Ben Shawry of Australia transforms these organic walnuts (RIGHT) into culinary works of art.

ather than trek across Europe and the AsiaPacific to sample meals from the world’s best chefs, food lovers can travel to Singapore next month and meet culinary masters at just one destination. Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, sponsored by S. Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, will welcome some of the world’s leading chefs to Capella Singapore to participate in a series of interactive workshops and a forum on culinary trends. As part of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2014 awards, the two-day program offers an opportunity for you to hear from and interact with the world’s most prominent chefs, such as Joan Roca of El Celler de Can Roca (Spain), Yoshihiro Narisawa of Narisawa (Japan), David Thompson of Nahm (Thailand), Björn Frantzén of Restaurant Frantzén (Sweden), Ben Shewry of Attica (Australia), Andre Chiang of Restaurant Andre (Singapore), Manjit Gill of Dum Pukht (India), and Manish Mehrotra of Indian Accent (India). The program comprises a one-day forum on February 23 titled “The Future of Food: Back to our Roots,” and a series of “Signature Dishes” workshops on February 24. “The Future of Food” forum will explore current and future gastronomic trends through a series of talks, discussions, short films, and spirited debates. Divided into three sessions, topics will include “Raw: The Rise of the Vegetable,” “Authenticity: Integrity and Interpretation,” and “Keeping it Real.” The day will conclude with a cocktail party where attendees can meet the presenters. But foodies will love even more what’s in store on the 24th. For aspiring chefs and food lovers, the “Signature

Dishes” workshops offer the ultimate opportunity to learn from the masters. Each workshop will be hosted by an international award-winning guest chef who will reveal the inspiration, techniques, and processes behind some of their most prized and beloved dishes. Classes are limited to between 15 and 20 participants and will run from 2 to 2.5 hours. Tickets for the all-day forum, which include access to the cocktail party, are priced at S$240 (Php8,400), while a seat at one of the six workshops start from S$250 (Php8,750). Discounts of up to 25 percent are available for culinary industry professionals. For ticket booking and inquiry, visit www.theworlds50best.com/asia. n

A Bite of the Best Instead of making reservations at multiple restaurants to experience worldclass food, you can even sample their signature dishes by booking online at www. theworlds50best. com/asia.

PAL flies between Manila and Singapore seven times weekly. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. 36 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

photo graphy

A Photographerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to Sinulog With thousands of photographers shooting Cebuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sinulog Festival, local Erwin Lim is happy to share tips on how his photos have consistently bagged awards for this event.

Sinulog FeStival 2014 HigHligHtS -January 19 (6 a.m.) Fluvial procession -January 20 (7 p.m.) Grand finale and fireworks

38 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

WHAT’S IN A WORD “Sinulog” is the Cebuano word for “like the flowing water.” If you will notice during the parade, the rhythmic movement of the dancers and crowds mimic the flow of water.

How many years have you been taking photos of the Sinulog Festival? I started shooting the Sinulog festival in 1988 and joined the photo contest that was sponsored by Kodak and Agfa Film. Obviously, I didn’t win! How many awards have you garnered for your Sinulog photos? I think I started winning the Sinulog photo contest in 1989—just the 4th place and another consolation prize. I got lucky the following year, then the next year, and every succeeding year afterwards. I consistently get lucky to land in the winner’s circle every year. In 2008, I was very blessed to win the grand prize against 6,000-plus entries. All in all, I have close to 20 major awards and a few minor ones to date. Can you share some of the best vantage points in the city? The festival runs for about a week with the major events culminating on the weekend (fluvial and solemn procession on Saturday then the street dancing on Sunday). I normally hang out in the Santo Niño Basilica or walk around the vicinity. Every year, each place is always different. There is always something happening somewhere so be extra observant. I prefer to shoot thick crowds from a higher vantage point. During the fluvial procession which happens early Saturday morning

(January 19), it’s nice to shoot from the old bridge where all the decorated boats pass, and also at Pier 1 near Fort San Pedro where the fluvial procession ends. What happens here is the Santo Niño image is being carried from the pier to the basilica grounds. Shooting from one of the boats can also be interesting but, limited. During the street dancing on Sunday, I prefer to walk around rather than stay in one place. I just follow the light. I don’t mind shooting where the rest of the photographers are (it’s really almost impossible to avoid them) as long as you have in mind what and how to shoot your subject. The number of photographers joining the photo contest grows every year—about a thousand at least! But if you can avoid them, then do so. What does it take for someone to create Sinulog photos that stand out? 1. You have to think out of the box. 2. Do your homework by researching on previous award winning photos of other photographers. Remember that your entry or entries will be judged against thousands of other entries. 3. Go the extra mile; wake up early and be ahead of the race.

“Be resourceful and don’t just wait for things to happen; make them happen!”

PAL flies between Manila and Cebu 11 times weekly. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. www.philippineairlines.com I 39

FOLK TALE

The Carabao and The Grass (Cebuano) “One lacang,” answered the animal. “Did I not tell you to sow only one seed every one thousand dupas? See, the men would never be able to clean their fields. From this time on you must help them clean their fields of weeds,” said Bathala. “Master,” answered the animal in pleading tones, “if it pleases you, I will just graze on them.” “Yes, you eat the grass and other weeds, but if you cannot exterminate them, you’ve got to help the men clean their fields of the weeds and they will even harness the plow on your neck.” And thus the carabao was doomed to eternal servitude. 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 40 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

ILLUSTRATION BY alyanna Sison

any, many years ago the fields were all weedless. The farmers after sowing the seeds indulged themselves in gambling, drinking, and other vices and idle amusements. Bathala saw this and conscious of the evil results of such practices he planned to make men work harder for he does not want to have men remain idle for a minute. One day he told the carabao to sow the seeds of weeds in the earth but strictly commanded him to plant only one seed every 1000 dupa (arm span); but the carabao, being a little bit deaf, planted a seed every lacang (step). Not long after that the weeds grew and Bathala, seeing them too close together, asked the carabao: “How far apart did you sow the seeds?”

LOCAL COLORS FESTIVALS

A SHOW OF FAITH: Similar to the Sinulog Festival in Cebu and the Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan, the Dinagyang Festival is held both to honor the Santo Niño and to celebrate the arrival of the Malay settlers on Panay Island.

A FESTIVAL AFTER THE RAIN Local VALERIE CAULIN shares with us the best way to experience her city during the Dinagyang Festival. Photos by JAKE BORRES

hristmas may be over but come January in Iloilo, the merrymaking continues. Like its sister cities and festivals, the Dinagyang combines indigenous traditions and pays homage to the Holy Infant Child Jesus or Santo Niño. Previously referred to as the “Iloilo Ati-Atihan,” the term “Dinagyang” means revelry or merrymaking. It takes place after Cebu’s Sinulog and Kalibo’s Ati-Atihan. The celebration’s highlights happen between January 24 to 26 where visitors can look forward to a mix of concerts, food festivals, cultural presentations, and of course, street dancing. Here is your guide on where to

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enjoy the beat of the city during this special time of the year. Smallville Complex (Mandurriao district) is the city’s entertainment hub. There’s Bauhinia Filipino Cuisine where you can discover Iloilo’s dishes beyond the usual favorites, talaba and batchoy and Terra for Mediterranean cuisine. Those in the mood for fine dining should check out Amalfi Cucina Italiana and the restaurants that line the Avenue. End your meal by warming up at Coffeebreak or trying sweets from Nothing but Desserts. For live band performances, head to the establishments near the entrance. Want to

WHAT’S IN A WORD Dinagyang comes from the word “dagyang” which means “merry-making,” which coined by an Ilonggo writer and broadcaster. Prior to that, Dinagyang was only referred to as “Iloilo Ati-Atihan.” ORIGINS Dinagyang started when a replica of the Santo Niño was brought to Iloilo from Cebu in the late 60s, and street dancing was held in honor. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS Many Ilonggos observe the primary element of the festival—religion. Participate at the religious fluvial and foot procession (January 17th) and the religious dancing known as “sad-sad” on January 25th in front of the San Jose Parish where the first Dinagyang was held.

THINGS TO DO: (FROM TOP) Visit the Flow Superclub for karaoke nights and Esplanade for quiet walks along the river. PAL Express flies between Manila and Iloilo five times daily. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 9000 or visit www.philippineairlines.com or www.flypalexpress.com. www.philippineairlines.com I 43

LOCAL COLORS FESTIVALS PAST PERFECT: Pre- and post-war buildings line Calle Real, which means “high street,” reflecting their rich and storied past.

belt out your own tune? Book a private room for a karaoke night with friends at Flow Superclub and Smallville21 Hotel. If you’ve still got the energy, dance the night away at Club Aura and Club 21. You can also opt for more steady paced activities within the city. Enjoy a leisurely walk at the 2.2-kilometer Esplanade that lines the Iloilo River. Accessible from major streets of Mandurriao and Molo, it is a stone’s throw away from Smallville. Esplanade reflects the gentle nature of the local Ilonggos and their attitude of being able to enjoy every moment. Get to know the city’s roots at J.M. Basa Street, previously known as Calle Real (“high street”). Here you’ll find pre- and post-war buildings that offer a peek of the city’s heritage as the center of international sugar trade. Majority of these buildings have been extensively restored but to further preserve the area, a pedestrianization program was recently approved. Tentatively until March 2014, this historical street will be

closed to traffic from 5pm on Saturdays and the rest of Sunday. Come Dinagyang, Calle Real will be filled with food stalls, live performances and other attractions. For more food and entertainment spots, visit Plazuela de Iloilo. Its expansive space will host bazaars and food festivals but you can also choose from the area’s restaurants, majority of them with al fresco settings. Popular choices are Ponsyon for local dishes, and Hamada, Steps of Rome and Hong Kong Kitchen for international cuisine. There is also Deco’s for batchoy and an intimate space for desserts at Maridel’s. Alternatively, if you’re traveling as a group, book the culinary and culture tours of Camiña Balay nga Bato in Villa-Arevalo (+63 033-336-5075; allot at least 24 hours notice). Rates start at Php150 for a minimum of 5 people. You’ll be served the best tsokolate (hot chocolate) in town and a delicious pancit molo. If you’ve had your fill of local dishes, perhaps it’s time to start streetdancing. n

SIDETRIPS On an extended stay? Have an education tour in southern Iloilo and visit old churches or ancestral houses. Better yet, pack your swimwear and jump on a boat to nearby Guimaras Island for instant beach getaways. Photo by Elaine Margaret U. Borres

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Deco’s batchoy

AN URBAN CITY IN THE MAKING Visitors will notice the massive construction in the city like the Iloilo Business Park that used to be the old airport of Iloilo, that will give rise to Iloilo Convention Center, condominiums and hotels.

伊洛伊洛市的愉悦时光伊洛伊洛居民VALERIE CAULIN与我们分享在迪纳洋狂欢节（Dinagyang Festival）期间探索其城市的最佳方式迪纳洋狂欢节是纪念圣婴耶稣（或当地方言称之为Santo Niño）的节日，于每年的一月 24日至26日举行，成千上万的游客都会在这期间涌入伊洛伊洛市，届时，您可趁机探索这座城市。 Smallville广场座落于Mandurriao区，是娱乐休闲的好去处。若想跟朋友来一场卡拉OK之夜，可前往Flow Superclub和 Smallville21酒店；Club Aura和Club 21则是跳舞玩乐的绝佳场所。您如果饿了想医肚子、尝美食，可沿着街道拜访下列几家餐厅：Bauhinia Filipino Cuisine （伊洛

伊洛菜肴）、Amalfi Cucina Italiana（高级餐饮）、Terra（地中海菜肴）、Coffeebreak（咖啡)以及Nothing but Desserts （甜品）。吃饱后，您可从Mandurriao和Molo主要街道通往沿着伊洛伊洛河的2.2公里长海滨大道悠闲漫步，享受微风吹拂。若想了解更多当地的文化，可到Calle Real（“大街”）感受伊洛伊洛的丰富历史与文化遗产。携带孩子同游者会被 Plazuela de Iloilo的庆祝活动所吸引。顶级餐厅如：Ponsyon、Hamada、Steps of Rome、Hong Kong Kitchen、Maridel 以及 Deco适合男女老少用餐。您若欲同时体验伊洛伊洛特有的美食与文化，可于Villa-Arevalo向Camiña Balay nga Bato 预订烹饪与参观民房之旅。

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LOCAL COLORS FESTIVALS

WHAT’S IN A WORD: Kalibo, Aklan’s capital, came from the phrase, “isa ca livo,” in reference to thousands of locals converted to Christianity during the Spanish rule. Photo by Ree Dexter Ingeniero

Beginner’s guide to Ati-AtihAn A festival newbie? Kalibo’s Ati-Atihan is a good way to dip your feet in the Philippine festival experience, says VALERIE CAULIN. And for those who have attended various festivals, to experience the first of all festivals in the country is a must!

ounding drums, contagious dancing beats, and elaborate costumes seem common for every festival in the Philippines. But they can all be traced back to the first festival in the country: the Ati-Atihan of Kalibo. Practiced since the 13th century, it has been referred to as the “Mother of all Philippine Festivals.” Ati-AtihAn 101 Ati-Atihan means “to become an Ati.” The Atis are a Philippine indigenous ethnic group that still inhabits Aklan and the rest of Panay Island in the Visayas region. Its roots can be traced back as a thanksgiving

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celebration among the Atis for bountiful harvests. When the Malays arrived and traded with the chief of the Atis, the two groups celebrated together, covering the Malays’ bodies with soot to mimic the appearance of the dark-skinned Atis. Hence, the term “Ati-Atihan” was born. The tradition of the Ati-Atihan festival was continued and adopted when the Spaniards arrived. The Spaniards then combined the thanksgiving celebration with a veneration to the Holy Child Jesus or Santo Niño. Ati-Atihan is held every third Sunday of January, the feast day of the Santo Niño with pilgrims crying “Viva kay Señor Santo Niño!”

THE LEgEND Of THE gOLDEN SALAkOT When the Malayan datus came to Panay Island to escape a tyrant datu in Borneo, they gifted the Ati chief named Marikudo with a golden salakot (pointed hat) and his wife with a golden bracelet in exchange to settle in the lowlands and for the Atis to go to the mountains. The said event is called the “Barter of Panay.”

LOCAL COLORS FESTIVALS

ati-atihan checklist Water Comfortable footwear and hats Avoid wearing white shirts, expect some stains from painting. travel with a cause! Aklan was damaged by supertyphoon Haiyan last November. Help rebuild Kalibo and the rest of Aklan through tourism that provides jobs to the locals. Expect some remnants of the supertyphoon in some establishments and attractions. Be patient and understanding.

Be a responsiBle photographer: Refrain from disturbing dancers and pilgrims when taking your precious shots of the festival. Photo by Ree Dexter Ingeniero

Solemnity of the Ati-AtihAn Kalibo is a relaxed and simple town, so it’s no wonder that the AtiAtihan is generally chaos-free, making it ideal for first-time festival goers adjusting to the big crowds. Visitors are encouraged to respect the town, the people, and the celebration. Drinking and partying are all part of the festival, but keep in mind to refrain from being rowdy. StAying in town Expect fully booked hotels and higher room rates with a minimum of 3 nights stay during the festival. You can still try to scout for hotels and rooms in Kalibo, but another option is to stay in neighboring cities like Roxas (45 minutes away) or Iloilo (3 hours away). whAt to Do Main events occur from Friday (January 17-19) with all-day dancing. Join the Ati-Atihan streetdancing events on Friday called “Sad-Sad Pagpasaeamat” where devotees and visitors dance for intentions and thanksgiving. In between events find solace amid the Bakhawan Mangrove Eco-Park. From the mangrove trail, you can shop for fabrics and other pieces for your home at De la Cruz House of Piña (www. houseofpina.com). The products here are made from local fibers and materials like nito, abaca, and piña. The local market of Kalibo also offers many native products with a bargain. Kids and kids at heart can proceed to New Washington, 10

minutes from Kalibo, to Sampaguita Garden Resort (www. sampaguitagardensresort.weebly.com); Php50 consumable entrance fee) to purchase dolls and other Precious Moments merchandise with their signature tear-drop eyes.

These local dishes from Saylo Cuisine take more time to cook. Order other dishes and try their lumpiang shanghai (spring rolls) and black pasta. (Photo by Loida M. Cordova)

SAvoring KAlibo’S flAvorS Ati-Atihan is the time to enjoy local dishes in Aklan. The onestop restaurant for these dishes is Saylo Cuisine (www.facebook. com/pages/SAYLO-CUISINE). Try their Linapay (Php70), pounded freshwater shrimp wrapped in taro leaves and cooked in coconut milk. Aklan is also known for their chicken dishes, specifically Chicken Binakoel (Php290), sweet native chicken soup cooked inside a bamboo bud and Inubarang Manok (Php160), native chicken cooked with coconut milk, lemon grass, and banana stalk core known as ubad. For dessert, try Inday-Inday (Php60), steamed rice flour patty topped with bucayo (strips of young coconut simmered in a mixture of water, muscovado sugar, and coconut milk). n

PAL flies to Kalibo six times weekly, and PAL Express flies to Kalibo thrice daily. For more information, call PAL and PAL Express reservations at (+632) 855 8888 and (+632) 855 9000, or visit www.philippineairlines.com or www.flypalexpress.com. 48 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

HEALTH & FITNESS TRIATHLON

RUN OF A LIFETIME: Eneko Llanos of Spain winning the 2013 IRONMAN Asia-Pacific Championship in Melbourne, Australia. Photo by Delly Carr

THE ROAD TO FITNESS TESSA PRIETO-VALDES recalls Cebu’s recent Ironman triathlon and how she’s got her eyes set for another dream triathlon—in Melbourne.

eing fit has different degrees of intensity. The pinnacle of fitness is the triathlon. A triathlon has three legs—swim, bike, and run—with distances varying from a standard 30 km to around 200 km. All over the world, there are various triathlon races happening throughout the year. The most popular of all these is the Ironman series, best known in the Philippines by their premier event, the Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Cebu. This race totals 70.3 miles or over a hundred kilometers. After training for a whole year, I completed my second Ironman 70.3 in 2013, a good 30 minutes faster than my first race. In a challenge that’s measured in time, every minute counts. The unheralded Australian Courtney Atkinson led from the start to post a startling victory in the 2013 Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 held at the ShangriLa Mactan, Cebu. Atkinson shocked experts when he

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The author during the Ironman Cebu that was held last year. Photo by Michael Jo

turned what many thought would be a two-way battle between Ironman world champions Pete Jacobs and Chris McCormack into his own personal race clinic as he set a new course record of 3:58:07 en route to winning the triathlon. “It was an amazing race. This is truly a world-class field. Congratulations to Ironman organizer Fred Uytengsu for attracting such a strong field. The people coming out to cheer really helped me,” said Atkinson. Atkinson churned the waters to come out first in the 1.9km swim part of the race with a time of 23:50. He then turned in the best time as well in the 90km bike ride with 2:12:38, enabling him to cruise comfortably to the victory with a time of 01:18:40 in the 21km run. Jacobs, a regular fixture on the Ironman circuit, was the second man out of the water with a time of 23:53. He has won three consecutive championships from 2010 to 2012.

If you want to learn more about Ironman, visit www. ironman703phil. com or www. ironmanmelbourne.com.

“If I had to make a New Year’s resolution to complete a full Ironman, it would be in Melbourne, Australia.”

@ Follow @tessavaldes on Twitter or visit www. tessaprietovaldes.com. EYES ON THE PRIZE: Age group athletes exiting the tunnel on the East Link express way in Melbourne. Photo by Delly Carr

The top five men and their official times were, all from Australia: Atkinson, 3:58:07; Jacobs, 3:59:09; David Dellow, 4:02:22; McCormack, 4:03:15; and Brent McMahon from Canada 4:04:05. At the women’s division, Alaska Team TBB’s Caroline Steffen led from the start to become the champion. Steffen shares, “It’s always good to be back. This means a lot to me because it’s actually easier to win for the first time. It’s more difficult to defend. I was hoping to come in faster than last year. So I did.” Steffen posted a whopping 11-minute winning margin over second placer Bree Wee. Belinda Granger placed third, repeating the order of finish of last year’s race. Also from Alaska Team TBB, Banjo Norte won his first major race by prevailing in the Filipino Elite category. Norte has a fairy tale story; a “poor boy from Cagayan de Oro” discovered by the Alaska grassroots program. A few months ago he was just a trainee and now he is the champion. Already in its fifth year, the Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 is the most popular Ironman 70.3 race in this part of the world. From a modest field of less than 400 participants during its inaugural staging five years ago, this year’s edition drew 2,150 participants from 35 countries across six continents. If I had to make a New Year’s resolution to complete a full Ironman, it would be in Melbourne, Australia. The Ironman Asia-Pacific Championship had its debut in Australia’s sporting capital, Melbourne, and has

fast become a “must-do” race for endurance athletes around the world. In March 2014, a team of over 80 Philippine triathletes will be competing here. The first leg of the Melbourne Ironman is a 3.8k swim located at the Frankston Foreshore near the developed Pier Promenade precinct. Spectators will enjoy great views from the Frankston Pier as racers head north before returning to the beach and into the Transition precinct at Pier Promenade. Melbourne’s 180km bike course is a two-lap course that incorporates the Eastlink Motorway between the transition area located at the Frankston Pier Promenade and the Springvale Road off ramp on Eastlink. The Eastlink Tollway, a world-class expressway, is closed exclusively for the use of competitors on race day and provides athletes with the fastest and highest quality racing conditions on the international triathlon circuit. The racers’ final stage of the event is an iconic 42.2km marathon starting from the transition area at Frankston and ending at the St. Kilda foreshore, among the picturesque and spectator-friendly Catani Gardens and Melbourne’s impressive skyline in the background. All in all, Melbourne figures to provide an electric atmosphere and emotional scenes as the Aussie crowd brings home the final finishers before cutoff. It is a scene not to be missed! n RACE TO FITNESS: Age grouper on the point to point run course from Frankston to St. Kilda in Melbourne. Photo from FinisherPix

PAL flies between Manila and Melbourne thrice weekly. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. www.philippineairlines.com I 51

SPOT LIGHT

WORLD CITY

SOUTHERN BEAUTY: The beautiful Bronte Beach is located south of Bondi. Although the latter is more popular among tourists, Bronte doesnt’ disappoint with its exciting row of cafés.

COASTING THE ’BURBS Sydney’s Southern Beaches Coastal Walk is an invigorating blast of sea spray-laden air and great views, interspersed with guilt-ridden indulgent stops at the many cafés that line the bays. LEANNE WALKER writes. Photos by ANDREW MARSHALL

he southern beachside suburbs of Bondi, Bronte, and Coogee Bay are each symbolic of the brass, laid-back, and pleasureloving nature of Sydneysiders. A magnificent coastal walk along the cliff tops connects these three suburbs. Starting in Bondi, you can amble the full length in a few hours, pausing for indulgent stops at the many cafés along the way or a dip in the cliff ’s sea-baths. Bondi Beach and its mile-long curve of golden sand is synonymous with Australian beach culture: lifesavers with their red and yellow caps, bronzed Aussie surfers, bikini-clad babes, and an ocean that peels in a never ending series of waves—all just 8 km from the central business district. The foundation stone for Bondi’s famous beach pavilion was laid way back in 1928 with changing facilities for 12,000 bathers, shops, 52 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

With a vibrant surfing culture, Australia has produced some of the world’s leading brands of surf wear, such as Quiksilver, Roxy, and Rip Curl.

a gymnasium, and Turkish baths. Today the beach is just as popular and the foreshore is an eclectic mix of ice-cream parlors, designer cafés, greasy fish-and-chip joints, kosher shops, and surf fashion stores. If you can drag yourself away, the coastal walk starts at the southern end of the bay at Bondi Icebergs Club, famous for its members who swim every day of the year. Full membership is hard earned by swimming three Sundays out of four from May to September (winter) for five years. Amazingly, the club has approximately 600 members. The views both south and north climbing up over Mackenzies Point are breathtaking. The full force of the Tasman Sea here collides with the Australian continent, sculpting the creamy gold sandstone cliffs into grotesque overhangs and blowholes. Looking north you

SPOT LIGHT

BEACHSIDE CULTURE: Take a break on the Coastal Walk and enjoy coffee and poached eggs (LEFT) at the Bogey Hole Cafe in Bronte. A classic Saturday “arvo” scene unfolds along the Coastal Walk at Coogee Beach (RIGHT).

Where to Stay The Dive Hotel (235 Arden Street, Coogee Bay; www. divehotel.com.au) is the place to stay whilst in Sydney. Owners Terry Bunton and Mercedes Mariano employed the genius of Sydney architect Virginia Kerridge to transform what was once a down-at-the-heels guest house into an oasis of style, maintaining much of its original charm while integrating cutting-edge modern design to create a boutique beach-house feel. Rooms start from $170 per night.

can take in the headlands of the Sydney Harbour Heads and southward, you’ll find bay after bay fringed by beachside bungalows. An Aboriginal rock engraving of a fish on the headland reminds one that life in the “beach burbs” was once very different. New South Wales’ founding governor Arthur Phillip noted the Cadigal Aboriginal people roamed this entire area, and in the 1880s the surrounding land was used for grazing dairy cattle. From Mackenzies Point follows a series of stunning cliff-top view points, snaking its way into the picturesque little Tamarama Bay, where the average water temperature is a pleasant 21°C. While Bondi Beach is seared on the minds of visitors as one of the world’s most beautiful urban beaches, the beaches of Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly, and Coogee are every bit as lovely. The Tamarama Café is perfectly situated and the inviting open-air tables and chairs on the boardwalk over the sand are impossible to ignore. Enjoy the view with a drink before taking to the trail again for the up-and-over rollercoaster ride into Bronte in time for brunch.

Brunching in Bronte is a bit of a local institution and competition is fierce for clientele between the beachside cafés. Holding its own is the wellestablished Bogey Hole Café (473 Bronte Road), the place to “do brunch” and be seen. Poached eggs on toast washed down with the ubiquitous latté while reading the Sydney Morning Herald and taking in the view is about as “Sydney as it gets.” Down at the sea baths, John “Meggsie” Maguire emerges from the azure-blue water wearing his “trademark” Bronte Speedos. He’s been a member of the local surf club for over 50 years and like many, swims lengths of the pool every day of the year come rain or shine. “I learned to swim in these sea pools, my kids and grand kids learnt to swim here and I reckon half of Sydney has too,” he’ll tell you. Some of the sea baths on the trail along with many others around Sydney have been listed by the National Trust. In the early days of white settlement, people swam in the natural rock pools and many of these original swimming holes are still in use. The “Bogey Hole” or “men’s pool,” the natural rock pool alongside the concrete walled sea

PAL flies between Manila and Sydney four times weekly. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. 54 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

SUBURBS BY THE SEA: Despite the presence of these low-rise buildings, great views still await you at every turn along Sydney’s Coastal Walk.

baths at Bronte, is one of these special places. Back on the trail the cliff-top path winds through the Waverly Cemetery. This surely has to be the most scenic place to be buried in Australia, with ocean views literally to die for. Famous residents here include Australian poets Henry Lawson and Dorothea Mackellar, and aeronautical pioneer, inventor, and explorer Lawrence Hargraves. From the cemetery you will round another headland offering glorious views south, then drop down into the long, narrow inlet of Clovelly Bay for, dare I say it— yet another waterside café. Perfectly sheltered from ocean swells, this bay is also a favorite swimming and snorkeling spot. Underwater residents include huge lobsters and large blue gropers. Next up, lovely Gordon’s Bay is more like an indentation between two headlands cloaked with native vegetation than a bay. Varieties of wattle, banksias, lily, coast tea tree, lobelia, sassafras, and bracken fern are

just a few of the native species surrounding the bay. A small boat club is situated down by the pocketsized beach, creating a scene that has all the charm of a European fishing village. The residents are passionate about this little bay and on a designated Sunday each month, gloved volunteers armed with clippers, garbage bags, and shovels make sure it remains as pretty as a picture. If you opt for a swim at Clovelly, then your arrival in Coogee should be just in time for a rewarding lunch at Coogee Bay Hotel followed by a dip in the ocean. Coogee Bay is the great all-round Saturday “arvo” (afternoon in Australian English) beach hangout. While not quite as grand in scale as Bondi, Coogee Bay does, however, have all the essential ingredients: golden sand lapped by blue seas, volleyball courts, and headlands shaded with Norfolk Pines and is a fitting finale to a marvelous Sydney coastal day out. n

THinGS To Do Take a group surf lesson at Bondi with Let’s Go Surfing. Lessons run 364 days of the year (www. letsgosurfing.com.au). Snorkel the Underwater Nature Trail in Gordon’s Bay. Take a tour of Waverly Cemetery. Have a relaxing outdoor massage on the decks over the water at Coogee’s famous Wylie’s Baths (www.massagebythesea.com.au).

Getting There Bondi is 8 km from the Sydney CBD. Catch the 380, 382, or 389 buses from the city and on the return, catch the 375 from Coogee Bay to Circular Quay.

new Year’s Eve 2013 Sydney holds arguably the world’s most breathtaking New Year’s Eve party. If you happen to be here on January 31, the Opera House is your sweet spot for the most amazing fireworks show. Download the 2013 Sydney New Year’s Eve App from the App Store or on Google Play for a complete event guide.

iConiC BiTE: Pie and mushy peas Harry’s Café de Wheels (Cowper Wharf Road, Wooloomooloo, Sydney) This 24-hour pie-cart has been serving pies and mushy peas alongside the wharves since 1945. People of all walks of life have “scoffed” a pie at Harry’s famous cart. The smiling faces of customers like Elton John, Brooke Shields, Olivia Newton John, and Pamela Anderson peer out of the multitude of photos on display at the counter. It’s also something of an institutional rite for taxi drivers, sailors, and late-night revelers.

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URBAN SCENES

An InSIdER’S guIdE TO MELBOuRnE Melbourne regularly sits atop lists of the world’s most livable cities, but is it worth your time as a tourist? What a silly question. Of course it is. XAVIER TOBY shares why.

Best time to Visit All year round, although while it never snows, the city is often buffeted by a wind that blows straight from Antarctica during the winter. If you prefer it warmer, come between September and April. Melbourne is also renowned as a city of four seasons in one day, so pack and dress for anything. It’s not unheard of to get sunburnt and catch a cold in the same afternoon. ARt oN tHe stReets A vehicular and pedestrian laneway, Hosier Lane is one of the more celebrated landmarks in Melbourne because of the sophisticated urban art emblazoned on its walls. It is on the southern edge of the central city grid. Photo by Justin Ventura 56 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

URBAN SCENES

CITY COMFORTS (cLockWIsE FroM ToP) The main square in Federation square is paved in 470,000 ochre-colored sandstone blocks from Western Australia. (Photo by Justin Ventura); shebeen Bar (Photo by Paul Barbera); a cocktail from The Emerson; st. kilda Dispensary

nlike other tourist destinations, Melbourne doesn’t wear its fine features out in the open, like Sydney’s sequined ball gown of landmarks, or the Gold Coast’s skimpy bikini of beaches. If Melbourne were a dress, it’d be a subtle black number. Ask Melbourne to empty its handbag though, and you’ll find treasures galore, making it worthy of its title as Australia’s “most European city.” The most sport-mad place in Australia, you can catch a game of anything while you’re here, or even just take a tour of the huge and iconic MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground). The live music scene is easily the most vibrant in Australia, so find out what’s on and simply rock along. Melburnians are also obsessed with their coffee. But beware: it’s so

strong that after a couple of cups you may not blink. The city’s temple dedicated to the bean is the newly relocated Brunetti’s (389 Lygon St., Carlton; www. brunetti.com.au). Melbourne features some immaculate gardens and wonderful art, so make a day of wandering through the Royal Botanical Gardens, then cross the road to the National Art Gallery. Travel there by tram and if you still have the time, continue down to St Kilda’s beaches and the idyllic Port Phillip Bay. For new and outstanding cafés, head to The St Kilda Dispensary (13 Brighton Rd., St Kilda; www.facebook.com/TheStKildaDispensary) and Shebeen (26 Manchester Lane; www.shebeen.com. au), the latter is also a popular bar that you can enjoy

LocAL TrIcks Unlike sydney, Melbourne is not a city of big impressive landmarks. Its essence is hidden in its alleys and suburbs. so before heading out, do your research. The city center is walkable, while the best of the rest is only a short cab ride away, so you can avoid the public transport system, which can be challenging to follow. With sport-mad culture, go to a game of footy (football) if you can, and if you want to start a conversation, ask the person what sport they’re into. They’ll gladly tell you. For hours.

PAL flies between Manila and Melbourne thrice weekly. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. 58 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

completely guilt free—all profits go to charity and there’s even free popcorn! The shiniest and tastiest cocktails in town can be found across at The Emerson Club (143 Commercial Rd., South Yarra; www.theemerson.com.au), which includes a rooftop and is a fitting tribute to Melbourne’s obsession with old-world European opulence. What’s old is new again at The Duke (146 Flinders St.; www.dukeofwellington.com.au). Established in 1853 as Melbourne’s oldest pub, after extensive renovations it has reopened with aspects of its classic exterior, but inside is sleek and slick at its best, with drinks and food to match. For food, Melbourne regularly gets top international marks for both quality and variety. Some local favorites include The Standard Hotel (293 Fitzroy St., Fitzroy; www. thestandardhotel.com.au) for quality pub eats in a true pub atmosphere with excellent live tunes in the evenings. For gourmet dumplings, head to the Hutong Dumpling Bar (14 Market Lane; www.hutong.com.au). If you’re after tapas so good that they feature in their very own cookbook, visit MoVida (1 Hosier Lane; www.movida.com.au). For Thai with a twist in the form of some drinks, then it’s Cookie for you (1/252 Swanston St.; www.cookie.net.au). Lastly for food, make the trip to Sirens, a short drive from the city with views of one of Melbourne’s best beaches (Beach Dressing Pavilion, Esplanade, Williamstown; www.sirensrestaurant.com.au). A day in Melbourne only gets better once the sun goes down. For live music, try either the aforementioned Standard Hotel, or Melbourne’s quality tune institution The Retreat Hotel (280 Sydney Rd., Brunswick; www.retreathotelbrunswick. com.au) where live music is played seven nights a week. Rooftop bars are oh so hot right now in Melbourne, and with a setting that includes life-sized stuffed African animals, try local favorite the Carlton Hotel (193 Bourke St., Melbourne, www.thecarlton.com.au). For cocktails that are consistently voted the best in Melbourne, head to The Black Pearl (304 Brunswick St., Fitzroy; www.blackpearlbar.com.au). Parties that last past morning happen at Revolver Upstairs (229 Chapel St., Prahran; www.revolverupstairs.com.au) or at The Apartment (401 Little Bourke St.; www.theapartment.com. au). So those are some tips for discovering Melbourne, but by far the best idea is just to ask around. The locals may seem aloof, but they just don’t like interrupting. Really, they’re amazingly friendly so if you want some genuine tips, simply approach a local. n

ICONIC FOODS OF MELBOURNE Melbourne is Australia’s most European city, and there is a stupefying range of great food on offer. For three distinctly Melbourne options, try these. ChICkEN PaRMIgIaNa. It may be Italian in name, but “chicken parma” is on the menu of every pub, and several websites rate the best in the city. Commonly a chicken schnitzel topped with sauce and melted cheese, variations and inspirations on this theme abound.

EVOLVINg CULTURES (FROM TOP) In many places such as Bourke St., busking, or street performances, are generally rewarded in the form of money, but food, drinks or other gifts may also be given. Although it opened in 1912, Luna Park is still a vibrant hangout spot today. Photos by Justin Ventura

Mrs. Parma’s 25 Little Bourke St. www.mrsparmas.com.au

Monarch Cakes 103 Acland St., St Kilda www.monarchcakes.com.au

Town hall hotel 22 Errol St., North Melbourne www.townhallhotelnorthmelbourne.com.au

kaNgaROO MEaT. In Australia kangaroos outnumber people, and in many places they’ve reached pest proportions. Kangaroo meat is lean, tender, and flavorsome.

a LITTLE SLICE OF VaNILLa. A pastry that originated in France, every year bakeries and cake shops across Melbourne vie for the title of best in the city, and to the victor go the spoils of many sales. The French Lettuce Patisserie & Bakery 237 Nicholson St., Carlton www.thefrenchlettuce.com

Napier hotel 210 Napier St., Fitzroy www.thenapierhotel.com/ Portland hotel 127 Russell St., Melbourne www.portlandhotel.com.au/

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Top DoWN DESTINATIONS UNDER

SUNNY SIDE UP: Catch the most gorgeous views of the city from Brisbane River on board the City Cat ferries (LEFT). Cuddly koalas and other endemic animals await you at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and Zoo.

BrisBane uniQue When can we move in? XAVIER TOBY lists 8 things about this city that give it an enviable lifestyle

very city has buses, a cinema, fast food and overpriced souvenirs. None of which is of interest to most visitors. Want to discover what makes a city special. What will you find here that you can’t find anywhere else in the world? Well, gather in close, get comfortable and keep this to yourself, because you’re about to find out what’s so special and unique about Brisbane. Oasis in the City South Bank boasts Australia’s only inner city beach as well as rainforest walks, lush gardens, promenades, local artist markets, choice exhibits from the worldwide smash that was Expo 88, and a free public herb garden. www.visitsouthbank.com.au

COmplimentary river Cruising No other city offers boat rides for free. Head along the Brisbane River to easily explore destinations from the tourist cruises, City Cat or the completely free City Hopped – which hits the main tourist spots. www.translink.com.au; www.brisbane.qld.gov.au Queen street mall All excitingly jumbled together here are local boutiques, high-end fashion stores, 24-hour restaurants, pubs, department stores, free live performances and the rest of it, all conveniently set out in a pedestrian mall. Tourist information is readily available if you’re after something specific, or interested in joining one of the free daily walking tours. www.bnecity.com.au

LOcAL KNOwLEDgE Similar to every Australian city, Brisbane has a compact city center, but its outskirts are widely spread. If you’re planning multiple daytrips, consider joining a tour group or hire a car for ease of transport. If you’re after some typical tap beer, ask for a “schooner of VB.” Don’t worry, it will come in a glass and not a boat. Every sentence said by an Australia tends to sound like a question. Even if it is a question, such as the common greeting, ‘How are ya?’ It’s okay not to answer.

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The World’s largesT Koala sancTuary Sure other places have these mini bear-like creatures that aren’t actually bears, but nowhere else has so many, or so much to tell you about them. Get a photo with one, meet a kangaroo and view all sorts of other examples of Australia’s unique native wildlife at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and Zoo. www.koala.net

Kangaroo PoinT cliffs For more views and adventure take a short taxi ride or long walk to Kangaroo Point Cliffs. Over a million years old, you can climb them, jump off themkayak on the Brisbane River below and choose from a gamut of other activities. It’s even worth a visit just for the photo opp. www.kangaroopoint.com.au

The BiggesT and BesT for arT Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) is Australia’s largest modern and contemporary art museum. Right on the river, it’s also surrounded by walking and riding trails, as well as several other arty extravagances. It has continually changing exhibitions and special events. www.qagoma.qld.gov.au

live music in The valley Fortitude Valley is where Brisbane’s biggest party starts and finishes. Over the years, some of Australia’s top bands have emerged from this tight strip of bars, clubs and establishments. Avoid the big names and choose one of the smaller live music venues. This is where the locals go to jump around – join them to experience a scene that’s ingrained itself in the fabric of Australia’s music history. n

sTory Bridge advenTure climB For an exhilarating experience, sign up to cross this bridge with unrivalled 360-degree views. Booking in advance is a must. www. storybridgeadventureclimb.com.au

dId you know? WORDPLAY Brisbane was originally called “Edinglassie,” a combination of the Scottish cities Edinburgh and Glasgow. The locals were so against the name that they refused to use it, and the city was quickly renamed after Sir Thomas Brisbane, an ex-soldier and then Governor of New South Wales. SINKING GAMES Brisbane’s magnificent City Hall is built on a swap, meaning that it sinks at least a few centimeters every year, and requires constant remedial works.

eye see you: Most cities feature a bridge you can cross, but there are only three in the world that feature a bridge you can climb, including Brisbane’s Story Bridge.

IconIc Foods oF BrIsBane salt and PePPer calamarI - Equally popular at pubs and Asian restaurants, this local favorite gained notoriety due to the abundance of seafood, and being damn delicious. the lido café restaurant 120 Racecourse Rd, Ascot http://www.lidocaferestaurant.com.au/ the Vietnamese 194 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley http://www.thevietnameserestaurant.com.au/

toP QualIty steak - Don’t be put off by the crowds at these pubs. With varied and quality cuts of cow sourced from dedicated farms around Australia, they’ve become renowned meat institutions with locals and tourists alike for a very good reason. Breakfast creek Hotel 2 Kingsford Smith Dve, Breakfast Creek http://www.breakfastcreekhotel.com/ norman Hotel ‘Brisbane’s worst vegetarian restaurant’ 102 Ipswich Rd, Woolloongabba http://www.normanhotel.com.au/

meat PIes - In every Australian town you’ll find a bakery, and every bakery sells meat pies. These Brisbane artisan bakeries have turned the humble meat pie into an artform. rock n roll Bakery 500 Logan Rd, Greenslopes http://www.rocknrollbakery.com.au/ Piefection Gourmet Pies 1373 Logan Rd, Mt Gravatt http://www.piefection.com.au/

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ADVENTURE

wET And wIld. Darwin is a tropical city, with a monsoonal wet and a dry season. July to August is the dry season and is the ideal time to visit as it almost never rains. Such climate makes it fun for water activities like swimming in Barramundi Gorge in Kakadu (ABOVE) and the beer can regatta in Mindil Beach (INSET). Photos courtesy of Tourism NT

AN ALTERNATIVE AUSSIE EXPERIENCE: DARWIN XAVIER TOBY dishes out the excitement that can be had in Australia’s remote tropical city—from encounters with crocs, specialty burger stores, and the locals’ love for beer.

Located smack bang in the center of far north Australia, Darwin is where a lot of Australian clichés come to life. Local swimming spots really are checked for crocodiles every morning, shorts and flip-flops are acceptable work wear, and somewhere in the city, fresh seafood is always being cooked on a barbecue. It’s also a region of immense natural beauty. Beaches, bays, and lush gardens surround the city, while you can visit some of the most stunning national parks in Australia on day trips, often experiencing local Aboriginal culture and getting up close to the renowned wildlife all in the same day. The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (19 Conacher St.; www.magnt.nt.gov.au) features a comprehensive look at the strength and

damage caused by Cyclone Tracy, among many other displays and exhibitions. There are also plenty of compelling war museums like the Darwin Military Museum (5434 Alec Fong Lim Drive, East Point; www. defenceofdarwin.nt.gov.au), which includes the new and highly commended Defense of Darwin Experience. Then there are planes galore at the Australian Aviation Heritage Centre (557 Stuart Highway; www.darwinsairwar.com.au). Probably the pick of the bunch is the self-guided tour through the World War II Oil Storage Tunnels (Kitchener Drive; www.darwintours.com.au/ww2tunnels.html), only a short walk from the center of town. For first-class food, views, and surroundings, wander down to the Darwin Waterfront

PAL flies between Manila and Darwin thrice weekly. For more information, call PAL reservations office at (+632) 855 8888 or visit www.philippineairlines.com. 62 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

ADVENTURE Precinct (www.waterfront.nt.gov.au). It’s the prime location for a lazy day or delightful dinner. Close by is the Indo Pacific Marine (Darwin Wharf Precinct; www.indopacificmarine.com. au), which features one of Australia’s only indoor living marine environments. Instead of staring at the fish, trying feeding wild ones by hand at Aquascene (28 Doctors Gully Rd., Larrakeyah; www.aquascene.com.au). One must do for Darwin is crocodile feeding. However, this is far better left to the experts. Crocosaurus Cove (58 Mitchell St.; www. crocosauruscove.com) is a crocodile farm and native animal zoo, where the crocs reach several meters in length. Feeding time is always a big hit, and you can even hold a baby croc yourself if you dare. There’s also the option of watching a crocodile jump for its food on a river cruise, where wild crocs leap completely out of the water to grab fresh red meat (www.jumpingcrocodile. com.au). Swimming in the river during or after this tour is definitely not recommended. Around town, Mindil Beach is renowned for its sunsets and regular markets, and the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens (www. parksandwildlife.nt.gov.au/botanic) are also well worth some wandering. Most tourists come to Darwin for the astoundingly natural beauty of the national parks further afield, and making the time for a day trip to at least one of them is a must. There are options that include trips of several days, to single day journeys where you barely need to leave the bus. Many tours also include Aboriginal YOU BRAVE ENOUGH? (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) Jumping Crocodile Cruise; a History and Culture information, with viewings ARE termite mound in Litchfield National Park; Crocosaurus Cove. (Photo of Litchfield courtesy of of cave and rock artwork that’s tens of thousands Tourism NT) of years old. The most popular is the Kakadu National Park (www.kakadu. Nuts (76 Mitchell St.; www.ducksnuts.com.au). If the mega pubs com.au), closely followed by the immense rock formations and aren’t your thing, one cozy option that’s another local favorite is the tranquility of the Katherine Gorge (www.katherinegorge.com). For Fox & Fiddle Hotel (85 Mitchell St.), while live music and the artsy those eager for a more private adventure, the Litchfield National crowd can be found at Happy Yess (23 Smith St.; happyyess.tumblr. Park (www.litchfieldnationalpark.com) is no less astounding, but a com). Head slightly out of town for the best ocean vista of any bar in Darwin at the Beachfront Hotel (34 Casuarina Drive, Rapid Creek; lot less frequented. Another thing Darwin locals are known for is drinking beer, and www.facebook.com/beachfronthotel). at the end of a full day, it’s high time to do some drinking. Two of the most popular watering holes with locals and tourists alike are The Deck Bar (22 Mitchell St.; www.thedeckbar.com.au) and the Ducks FOOD: DARWIN-STYLE Native Nibbles - Two prime examples are witchetty grubs (larvae of moths) and crocodile. Both have been eaten by the local Aboriginal people for thousands of years, and not just for the novelty value. Red Ochre Grill (grubs) Tood Mall Darwin www.redochre.com.au La Beach (crocodile) Shop 6, 51 Marina Blvd., Cullen Bay www.cullenbaymarina.com.au/5.html 64 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

You Beauty Barramundi - An aboriginal term meaning “large-scaled river fish,” barramundi is rightly renowned as one of the tastiest fish on the planet. Cornucopia Museum Café Bullocky Point, Conacher St., Fannie Bay www.cornucopiacafe.com.au Waterfront Bistro – The Darwin Sailing Club Atkins Drv, Fannie Bay www.dwnsail.com.au

Aussie Burger - Burgers might be served all over the world, but there’s something distinctive about a 100 percent Aussie beef pattie, stacked with ingredients including a slice of beetroot. Avoid the big chains and find a specialty burger store for the full Aussie burger experience. Wild Burger E7, 19 Kitchener Drive, Darwin Waterfront www.wildburgerdarwin.com.au Precinct Tavern 7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin www.theprecincttavern.com.au

TRAVEL UNIQUE TRENDS SETTINGS

HIDE AND SEEK: Swedish company Treehotel’s cutting-edge Mirrorcube treehouse blends seamlessly with its lush surroundings.

NATUrAl hIGh A new generation of designer treehouses is redefining the world of luxury travel. ANDY ROUND enjoys a dozen ways in which to branch out in style.

nce upon a time, building a treehouse was child’s play. You simply nailed a couple of planks across a few branches, installed a rickety old hut and your imagination did the rest. Not any more. The treehouse is now all grown up. For a new generation of nomadic luxury lovers, staying in a designer treehouse has become the ultimate high. From eco-reserves in the heart of the Amazon and the forest canopies of Costa Rica to the magical woodlands of Sweden, a new wave of über creatives have been reinventing this humble box in the air. Mirrored cubes, UFOs, abandoned aircraft, and handcrafted wooden spheres… these days anything goes when it comes to treetop accommodation. However, there is one common factor. Each treehouse boasts the latest in cutting-edge design and contemporary

comfort. Treehouses may be fun, but in the world of bespoke travel, that’s not excuse to compromise on luxury. Here we preview six of the most exciting. TreehoTel The founders of Treehotel have become the darlings of the designer press from Wallpaper* to Taschen. And with good reason. Suspended six meters from the ground are five treehouses created by Sweden’s most cutting-edge designers. The most striking are the Cabin (a retro-sleek capsule), the Mirrorcube (“invisible” due to its six mirrored sides), and the stunning UFO (alien abduction fantasies optional). Prices start from around US$700 for two adults. www. treehotel.se

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TRAVEL UNIQUE TRENDS SETTINGS

TO THE JUNGLE: (FROM LEFT) If being stuck in the jungle meant seeking refuge in these luxurious and cozy shelters from Chewton Glen (UK) and E’Terra Samara Resort by Farrow Partnership (Canada), then city creatures would surely sign up in a heartbeat.

Castle Cottage treehouse Glass ceiling in bathroom? Check. Furry cushions and tree trunks in bedroom? Affirmative. Leopard-print bedspread? Of course. Welcome to the treehouse at Castle Cottage in the UK. There is a big balcony for entertaining, swing seats for swinging and lots of homemade biscuits. How can you resist? Prices from £155 per night. www.castlecottage.info Chewton glen For high-life lovers who like their treehouses to come with hot tubs on the deck, the British five-star hotel Chewton Glen boasts 12 über luxurious “floating pavilions” with wrap-around balconies, bespoke furniture to fit curvy walls, log-burning stoves, sophisticated entertainment, and “secret bunks” for children. Designed by Blue Forest (see box-out story), a stay starts from £600 per night. The memories, as they say, will undoubtedly last longer. www.chewtonglen.com robin hood’s ’hood Would-be forest dwellers with a Robin Hood obsession would be wisely advised to tip their moss-green-feathered-pointy hat in the direction of Sherwood Forest in the UK. Both Center Parcs (which also has treehouses at Longleat) and Forest Holidays have cabin accommodation surrounded by Sherwood’s finest forest. Prices

High society Loved living the high life during your luxury treehouse travels and keen to recreate the experience at home? Great, because there are a host of bespoke stylish creatives out there who are waiting to make your treehouse dreams come true.

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start from a highly reasonable £229. Of course, archery courses are available, Prince of Thieves-era Kevin Costner, thankfully, isn’t. www.centerparcs.co.uk; www.forestholidays.co.uk Free spirit spheres Deep in the west coast rainforest of Vancouver Island in Canada, strange and wonderful things hang from giant trees. Perfectly round and perfectly crafted, these wonderful spheres are the ultimate forest escape. Three of them are available for hire—Eve, Eryn, and Melody—and all are hand-built by Tom Chudleigh who will happily make one for you to take away if you fall in love with your stay. Prices for an overnight Sphere experience start from C$135. www. freespiritspheres.com e’terra A new project for the five-star E’Terra resort in Canada promises to be the bright new future of luxury treehouse holidays. The 12 villas designed by Canadian company Farrow Partnership are planned to be suspended in the Bruce Peninsula Forest close to Toronto. Offering guests the chance to exchange city lights for starry nights, each onebedroom villa is uniquely positioned around a central tree and has been inspired by the shape of the spinning samara seed. Watch this space. www.eterra.ca, www.farrowpartnership.com n

Take Blue Forest (www.blueforest.com), for example. They have been responsible for some of the world’s most striking designs from Chewton Glen and Center Parcs to Tongole Wilderness Lodge in Malawi. And this is all very well, but the company’s home designs range from fairytale treehouse castles, James Bond villain lairs, and home offices to our personal favorite the stunning eco-PERCH. Prices start at about £15,000 but commercial projects can soar to £1.5 million.

Another approach to treetop life comes courtesy of www.cheekymonkeytreehouses.com in the UK or www.barbarabutler.com in the USA. Both can customize treehouses to suit your every need from young children to adults that never grew up. O2 Treehouse (www.o2treehouse.com), meanwhile, prides itself on the creation of inventive tree-based “geo-shapes.” With a look that’s more origami than old school hut, prices start from US$25,000 for basic “Sequoia Coyote” and can rise to US$52,580 for a deluxe “Sequoia Stealth” for eight. Suspend a few of these from your highest garden tree and be the envy of your neighbors. Maybe.

ROAD TRIPS

THE PHILIPPINES ON TWO WHEELS RACHEL TEOTICO discovers the trail from behind the handles of a speeding motorbike. Photos by HANNAH REYES

n ergonomic swivel chair is my typical ride. A German-made beauty with polyester seats, polymer handles, and a two-legged engine that runs from naught to 60 millimeters per hour in under 3,600 seconds. So imagine my excitement when I was told I would be riding through the Philippine countryside on the back of a BMW motorcycle, moving at an average speed of 150 kph. By the end of that sentence, my ergonomic swivel chair was quivering. PARR Motorrad is a Philippine motorcycle tour group sponsored and founded by motorcycle enthusiasts Philippe Saubier and Arthur Tan. The organization offers an offthe-beaten-path experience of the country. It’s only requirement? Visitors with a need for speed and an ass of steel. “When people talk about the Philippines, it’s always beaches and night clubs,” says Stephan Dreischl, a client of PARR Motorrad, “but there’s a lot more to the country that can be discovered on two wheels. There are mountain ranges, seas, lakes, caves, tunnels—and you can see all those things going down one road. The Philippines is unique that way. On a bike you see more, you can talk to people, stop by a roadside eatery. It really changes your perception of the country. You can’t experience that trapped inside a tour bus.” Philippe informs us that we are going on a day trip to Laguna province’s famed Pagsanjan Falls. The team we are riding with consists of three guides and a mechanic. Anton Villanueva is the tail gunner and a rider on the television series Motorcycle Diaries. Eric Mananquil is a retired army officer with extensive knowledge of Philippine geography. Mang Ver has a brain made of spark plugs and pistons. Lastly is Philippe Saubier, a native of Lyon, France, who started riding in his late 40s—after a life-changing incident.

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ROADS LESS TRAVELLED: One of the advantages of this type of travel is seeing places which you wouldn’t normally see on typical modes of transportation.

FROM A PILLION’S POINT-OF-VIEW Wind permeates the threads of my unwashed jeans and drops of rain skim the breaks of a borrowed, silver motorcycle jacket. The asphalt glistens from the sky’s earlier drizzle and trees offer respite from the climbing noontime sun. As Eric Mananquil tilts his motorcycle down a curve, my body follows in tune with the laws of physics and the growling commands of a revving motorcycle engine.

It’s a drastic change from the Thursday humdrum of manic photocopy machines and expletives thrown at malfunctioning printers. Hannah Reyes, the photographer, whizzes by, clicking furiously at the landscape that demands its photo be taken. We pass yellow carpets of unhusked rice being dried by the side of the street, and fields occupied by sunbathing flowers and snoozing farmers. We gained speed at the straightaways, where the landscape becomes

ROAD TRIPS

iT’S THE JOURNEY THAT MATTERS: With a more laid-back itinerary, you’ll be able to make a few stops along the way to your destination. Such instances have enabled PAR Motorrad to engage in social outreach activities. Safety Tips By Philippe Saubier 1. Drive defensively. Stay away from hazardous traffic conditions and keep distances from other motorists. Anticipation is key in safe riding. 2. Drive at 80 percent of your skills. Excessive speed and lack of contingency may be fatal. Proper control of the motorcycle and contingency is essential. 3. Look ahead as far as possible to anticipate any change in traffic conditions and/or potential hazards. 4. Do not overtake any vehicle especially those used for public transport from the righthand side. This is all the more important in the Philippines where stops for these types of vehicles are not always defined. 5. Follow the corner rule: “slow in and fast out” and “from the outside to inside” in order to see as early as possible hazardous traffic conditions inside the turn and be able to react swiftly and in control.

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a blur of blues, yellows, and greens. After two hours mostly, we want to show them a really good time.” We continue on to ride past Caliraya Dam, an of riding, we stop for a drink by a small fruit stand where children selling boiled quail eggs quickly embankment dam atop the Sierra Madre mountain range. We turn into a small bankside, where the encircle the other riders. Philippe hands me a bottle of water and says, “This man-made Lumot Lake connects with Lake Caliraya, is my office. Okay ba?” He points to a view of rolling a reservoir created by the dam. There are small boats green hills sweeping into the calm waters of Laguna perched on water lilies and Balinese-style roofs peek de Bay. “What started as a lifestyle is now my job. through the thick heads of Binayuyo trees. We are And what can I say other than [that] I love coming told that on weekends, the lake is filled with water splashing from wakeboards, to work.” and dipped fishing rods latched Philippe goes on to tell On a bike you see onto hands also clutching beers, me that novice riders aren’t sandwiches, and cigarettes. But quite their market and more, you can talk today it is peaceful and we leave taking back riders is more to people, stop by it to its tranquility, riding on the exception than the rule. to the highlight of our trip: the “These tours were really a roadside eatery. It Pagsanjan Falls. designed for foreigners who really changes your are experienced in riding,” FALLS AND REGRESSION he says. “Foreigners because perception of the Mang Ver, our mechanic, there are already established country. tells me that motorcycles, like groups for local bike riders. a time machine on two wheels, PARR Motorrad’s goal is turns men back into children. to showcase the country to people who have the power to invest in the He tells me stories of middle-aged men running halfnaked—enthralled by the sight of a cool river—bikes Philippines.” Eric Mananquil joins in, “Our customer base parked, laughing and slinging packed mud at each are really gentlemen on bikes. They’re economists, other. Sharing a boat with Philippe and Stephan while executives, businessmen, surgeons, journalists—.” Stephan adds, “Pilots!” Philippe nods, “We want heading up the river of Pagsanjan, I witness this them to fall in love with the country, just like we regression first hand. It begins with Philippe rocking did. Perhaps change it for the better. But of course, the boat to tilt Stephan off and Stephan retaliating

with a helmet full of river water dumped on Philippe’s head. Between pranks they both wave at every tourist boat that passes us, filled with Koreans, Japanese, Americans, and Europeans. We encounter all sorts of hellos. Birds fly in and out of lofty trees while electric blue dragonflies hitch on the edge of our boat. The men prattle on about motorcycles, engines, Go Pro cameras, traveling, life, and a few dirty jokes. Their voices waft through the verdure mountain gorge that holds the river, where pipes have been lodged between smooth rocks to assist in the hauling of boats. It takes 30 minutes for us to reach our destination, where the first thing I notice is the booming sound of the waterfalls. Our boats are parked and we board a small bamboo raft. There is a rope that crosses the water, one end secured to a rock at the dock and the other tied to a rock inside a cave, behind the waterfall. Using the rope, a boatman pulls the bamboo raft closer and closer, moving past the rainbow painted across the liquid curtain, until we find ourselves pounded by a deluge of water gushing down 318 feet. It is deafening as we are pulled into the cave and water is impeding my vision, I can barely hear Hannah yelling at me to “Jump! Jump into the water!” the boatman points at a rope for me to latch onto and in seconds I am thrown into the cold drink. Hannah and I float on our backs, and push our bodies toward the dock, ready to retire with the sun. We recount the day’s adventure, experiencing the country free of metal casings, air-conditioning, and seatbelts, latching on for dear life to a driver’s waistband. It was nothing short of exhilarating. It seems that motorcycles turn adults into children because it reminds them of a forgotten freedom, one buried under routines, responsibilities, bills, and paperwork, dressed in neckties and leather shoes. On two wheels, we are reminded that despite the demands of the real world, there is also a side to it that only asks for foolishness. So if you have the time to spare, park your swivel chair and shed your office-appropriate attire. Call up Philippe and let him show you the country from a two-wheeled point of view and perhaps even through the eyes of a younger you. n

MEN OF THE ROAD: Client Stephan Dreischl and PAR Motorrad’s Antonio Villanueva enjoy a short break in an eatery on the way to Laguna.

The average daily rate for PARR Motorrad tours is US$350, inclusive of bike, insurance, accommodation, and breakfast. Rates may vary by number of riders and length of tours. Tours are customizable with options for a support vehicle, sweeper, luxury hotels, and other services at additional cost. www. parrmotorrad.com

PAR Motorrad co-founder, Philippe Saubier

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THE LIGHTER SIDE

THE TASTE OF COMFORT: Bamba’s best-selling dessert, “What’s my name again?!,” which is made of chocolate, cream, and cereals (LEFT); and Grilled Prawns on Roasted Tomato Risotto, Goat Cheese Berlinoise with Balsamic Reduction. Photos by Daniel Soriano

Redefining Comfort Food:

Bamba Bistro

Bamba is the newest neighborhood bistro in BF Parañaque that’s sure to hit the spot for those craving for a hearty meal. Chef Tina Legarda, who until recently has worked in the kitchen of the great Mario Batali at Osteria Mozza in Marina Bay Sands, is the proud owner and head chef. Bamba was born with the vision of—“everyday food with a twist, family recipes reinvented, and honest cuisine with sophistication,” Chef Tina explains. Each dish is carefully tailor-fit for the Filipino palate, with flavors that entice the senses, paying attention to every detail that’s part of your meal. The waiters are also very cordial, with service as pleasant as the meal itself. Make sure to try out their Artichoke Crostini, Le Cochon Sliders, Duck Ravioli, and Grilled Prawns on roasted tomato risotto, goat cheese Berlinoise and balsamic reduction. 55 Aguirre Avenue, BF Homes Parañaque City; www.instagram. com/bambabistro

74 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

THE LIGHTER SIDE

Totes for a Cause The Goody Bag is a fashion initiative geared toward incurring profit solely for the victims of Yolanda. Don stylish totes in designs that showcase Filipino pride all for a cause as 100 percent of its proceeds go directly to the relief efforts of rebuilding cities and towns devastated by the typhoon. The designs feature unique renditions of the affected islands depicting each province hit by the typhoon. They all contain the slogan “Bangon Pilipinas,” which is Filipino for “Rise, Philippines.” www. facebook.com/GoodyBagPH

The Farm: A Wealth of Health at the Peninsula As one of the world’s foremost health and wellness resorts, The Farm at San Benito shares its philosophy of harnessing the botanical benefits of nature. Embrace wellness and relish the restorative powers of nature with the Peninsula Manila’s latest menu, “360º Wellness, Naturally Peninsula,” a collaborative effort between the Peninsula’s and The Farm at San Benito’s culinary teams. New dishes will be rolled out every month, though make sure to try the cold zucchini bisque and the eggplant ratatouille at Old Manila. Those with a sweet tooth can savor chocolate dim sum with fresh fruit. All natural and all around Peninsula, “360º Wellness” at last brings nature closer to home. www.peninsula.com C L I C K

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76 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

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nature in your doorstep Living in the metro doesn’t mean one can’t let a little nature in. Heima introduces Garden Stories back to your homes, which offers up Filipino craftsmanship and charm in their designs. The Megan Chair in particular harks back to golden afternoons on a porch, and the Garden Stories pillow collection will add a touch of Spring flair to any room. Heima’s Garden Stories will certainly overtake you and your space with a sense of peace, relaxation, and easy living. www.heimastore.com

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www.philippineairlines.com I 77

LAST FRAME

TO GREATER HEIGHTS A flight above Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bowen Reef gives you a breathtaking view of the Great Barrier Reef, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest coral reef system. It is comprised of 3,000 individual reef systems, making it the only living structure that can be seen from space. During the flight above Bowen Reef, you will also be taken to Hamilton Island, Gloucester Island National Park, and many other islets. Photo courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland

GIVE US YOUR BEST SHOT Mabuhay is accepting high-resolution (at least 300 dpi) digital photos of interesting people, places, and things from around the world. Send your entries to info@eastgatepublishing.com. 78 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

ASIA’S FIRST AIRLINE included the Boeing 747-400 in 1993, the Airbus 340-300 in 1997, and the Boeing 777-300ER in 2009. On April 20, 2012, PAL welcomed a strategic investor into the company— San Miguel Corporation, the Philippines’ largest conglomerate—significantly boosting the flag carrier’s immediate and long-term prospects. Recharged, PAL embarked on a bold growth strategy anchored on fleet modernization, network expansion, and service innovations. On August 28, 2012, the airline placed a firm order for 54 new-generation Airbus aircraft comprising 44 short-range A321-200 and 10 long-range A330-300 High Gross Weight Philippine Airlines—Asia’s first airline—is the flag carrier of the Republic of the Philippines and the pioneer airline of the country, with a 72-year history steeped in tradition and modernity. PAL first took flight on March 15, 1941, with a small propeller-powered Beech 18 airplane flying 212 kilometers from Makati, near Manila, to Baguio in the northern Philippines, carrying a full load of five passengers. Upon the outbreak of World War II on December 8, 1941, PAL’s two Beech 18s were pressed into military service, flying missions to evacuate American pilots to Australia. Both were destroyed in battle. Postwar operations resumed on February 14, 1946. On July 31, 1946, a PAL-chartered DC-4 took off from Makati carrying American servicemen home to Oakland, California. The 41-hour journey across the Pacific, with stops in Guam, Wake, Kwajalein, and Honolulu, made PAL the first Asian airline to cross the vast ocean. On May 3, 1947, PAL opened a route to Rome and Madrid, later extended to London, becoming the first Southeast Asian airline to fly to Europe. Over the next three decades, its international route network ranged from Asia to Australia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America, establishing PAL as one of the world’s leading carriers of that era. PAL keeps in step with advancements in aircraft technology, regularly acquiring the latest aircraft to maintain a young, modern fleet. From DC-3s that served as its workhorse in the 1940s and 1950s, Vicker Viscount turboprops and Fokker F-27s were added to the fleet in the 1960s. In 1966, BAC 1-11 aircraft introduced pure-jet service in the domestic sector and in 1974, the McDonnell Douglas DC-10—PAL’s first wide-body aircraft—went into service on the trans-Pacific route. It was succeeded as PAL’s flagship in 1979 by the Boeing 747-200, which featured “Skybeds” paired with First Class seats on its upper deck—a first in the industry. Upgrades to the long-range fleet

(HGW) jets—the largest aircraft order in Philippine aviation history. The following month, ten more A300-300 HGW aircraft were added to the order. Deliveries commenced in August 2013 and will continue until 2019. Today, the PAL fleet comprises 77 aircraft across six family types, ranging from turboprop airplanes that serve far-flung islands and smaller communities of the Philippines, to “jumbo” jets that fly the intercontinental routes. As of December 2013, the fleet included four Bombardier Q300s and five Q400s; four Airbus A319s, twenty-six A320s, and six A321s; eight Airbus A300-300s and six new HGW A330-300s; eight Airbus A340-300s, four of which have new cabin configuration; six Boeing 777-300ERs; and four Boeing 747-400s. PAL is in the midst of a comprehensive fleet renewal program that began on August 7, 2013, with the arrival of its first A321, the vanguard of 64 aircraft on order from Airbus. The airline received 12 aircraft from that order in 2013, including the A321 equipped with Airbus’ new blended winglet design called “sharklets.” This made PAL the first airline in the Asia-Pacific region to operate the A321 with this new technology. Over the next six years, PAL will have a busy delivery schedule. It is slated to accept 56 aircraft in the next five years. The influx of new aircraft has allowed PAL to rapidly expand its route network. In 2013, the flag carrier launched services to 10 international destinations in seven countries across three continents, including the first direct link between the Philippines and Europe in 15 years, to London Heathrow, in November. More destinations are planned for 2014 onward. In its eighth decade, with a new investor on board, and a bold vision to chart its path, PAL can look back at a proud legacy of service to the nation and beyond to a future where it will soar once more as a major global network carrier. n

OUR FLEET

Q300 NO. OF AIRCRAFT

A320 :

Q400 NO. OF AIRCRAFT

A340 :

6 + 38*

15 + 13*

A321 NO. OF AIRCRAFT

80 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

NO. OF AIRCRAFT

* On order

NO. OF AIRCRAFT

8 + 4*

B747

A330

A319 NO. OF AIRCRAFT

NO. OF AIRCRAFT

B777 NO. OF AIRCRAFT

www.philippineairlines.com I 81

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

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

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

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

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

SERVICE GUIDE Online BOOking. Our online booking features a fully automated facility that allows travelers to decide quickly when it is most convenient and cheapest to fly. For more information, please visit us at www.philippineairlines.com. AirpOrt CheCk-in. PAL offers “early bird” advanced check-in service in select airports to avoid rush during peak check-in hours. Senior citizens traveling with up to two companions and passengers with NO CHECK-IN BAGGAGE on PAL flights departing Manila may avail themselves of the express check-in service at designated counters. AirpOrt lOunges. PAL has Mabuhay Lounges in Manila, Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, Iloilo, General Santos City, and San Francisco. Mabuhay Class passengers, as well as Mabuhay Miles Million Miler, Premier Elite, and Elite members, can unwind, dine, and freshen up in these lounges before boarding their flights. PAL has contracted the services of airport lounge operators in other interna82 I Mabuhay Magazine I January 2014

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

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

TOUCHDOWN MANILA

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

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

PHILIPPINES AT A GLANCE

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

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

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

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

SECTOR

PRIVILEGES

AIRLINE PARTNERS

SECTOR

PRIVILEGES

CEBU–HONG KONG

Cathay Pacific

MANILA–DUBAIvv

nHl

Emirates

MANILA–BAHRAINvv

unHl

Gulf Air

MANILA–KUALA LUMPURvv

nHl

Malaysia Airlines

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

AIRLINE PARTNERS

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

www.philippineairlines.com I 83

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

BASCO

LAOAG TUGUEGARAO

LONDON

MANILA

NAGA LEGAZPI CATARMAN CATICLAN

MASBATE

BUSUANGA KALIBO

ILOILO CITY

BAHRAIN DAMMAM

CALBAYOG CITY

RIYADH

DUBAI ABU DHABI

ROXAS CITY TACLOBAN CITY

AFRICA

BACOLOD CITY

CEBU

PUERTO PRINCESA DUMAGUETE CITY

TAGBILARAN CITY

SURIGAO CITY BUTUAN

DIPOLOG CITY

CAGAYAN DE ORO OZAMIZ

ZAMBOANGA CITY

JOLO

TAWI TAWI

84 I Mabuhay Magazine I December 2013 January 2014

COTABATO CITY DAVAO

GENERAL SANTOS

I N D I A N

O C E A N

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

ASIA NORTH AMERICA VANCOUVER TORONTO BEIJING

SAN FRANCISCO

SEOUL TOKYO-NARITA NAGOYA OSAKA FUKUOKA

BUSAN SHANGHAI

LOS ANGELES

XIAMEN GUANGZHOU

HONOLULU HONGKONG TAIPEI

MACAU

PHILIPPINES MANILA

BANGKOK HO CHI MINH

GUAM

PAC I F I C

O C E A N

CEBU KUALA LUMPUR SINGAPORE

JAKARTA BALI DARWIN

AUSTRALIA

BRISBANE SYDNEY

MELBOURNE

LEGEND PAL Flights PAL Codeshare Flights

www.philippineairlines.com I 85

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

DOMESTIC ROUTES & S ECTO RS

MM MI LE S

FL IGH T TIM E

INTERNATIONAL RESERVATIONS

MANILA

MM M IL E S

F L IG H T T IM E

R E SE RVAT IO NS

MANILA

Bacolod Basco Busuanga Butuan

298 413 176 489

1:10 1:45 1:00 1:30

Cagayan de Oro

486