It Feels Like Christmas at SOLAIRE North

It really is happier here at SOLAIRE Resort North as the BER months usher in the world's longest Christmas season that only happens in the Philippines. We went here from Manila and for starters, we got serenaded by the one and only Concert King Martin Nievera. This was done with several of Solaire's executives like Gregory Hawkins, Donato Almeda, Thomas Arasi, Enrique Razon Jr of Bloomberry Resorts Corp, PAGCOR's Alejandro Tengco and Vina Oca, former Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta, Mayor Joy Belmonte of Quezon City, and good looking birthday boy Congressman Arjo Atayde.

Both of their properties in the south and north will be offering holiday inspired room packages, fun experiences, entertainment like no other and food that is world class. At the Solaire Resort property, they had Lea Salonga and American Idol's Clay Aiken. In Solaire North, they also had Ballet Philippines and a whole choir to sing along Christmas songs which everyone enjoyed!

Here's what it looked like that evening!

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If you want to be part of the festivities, go follow them on their social channels or visit Solaire North, Fresh or Solaire Resort in the South. I had so much fun with them in several events and entertainment coverages, so I'd be so surprised if you don't feel the same when you're there!

Desired Majestic Views at Horizon Terraces Garden Suites

People dream of a home that's comfy, designed well, proximity to nature wtih majestic views you could wake up each day to raise your family and have a cup of coffee. This and more can be done at Horizon Terraces Garden Suites, the premier mountain resort real estate property at Tagaytay Highlands. People love it there!

We couldn't really blame them as this luxury condominium estate boasts fresh air, lush greenery and views that could rival the best in the world. The secret, is combining function, purpose and nature. In this part of the Philippines, you can now have your space become your personal home office, a study, or a place to further promote health and wellness for each member of the family. What's good is that these properties are spacious, with one or two bedroom units, designs to maximize space, it is laid out so you can get your family and guests fit in comfortably.

People also desire the higher floors as it offers stunning views of world famous Taal Lake, Taal Volcano, Mount Makiling and nearby mountains as well. For those who prefer garden views, the Garden Units have fast access to it... you'll love the green surroundings and nature. Walk around the Central Garden and trot along the Garden Courtyard, Pocket Gardens and working Sun Dial that people use for real. For those who workout, you may go to the Sensory Garden and do your sessions including yoga, short runs and stretching. They've also got swimming pools and the Midlands Golf Course for those who would want to putt the greens whenever available. Thing is, they're also available for flexible payment terms so it would be easier to own units or two. This is also developed by trusted SM Prime Holdings which is a subsidiary of Highlands Prime, Inc. (HPI). They know properties in the metro and Tagaytay areas like the back of their hand.

If you want to know more, you may visit their FB page https://www.facebook.com/Tagaytayhighlands, their IG account @tagaytayhighlandsofficial of their official website www.tagaytayhighlands.com.

Dreams Do Come True at Tagaytay Highlands’ Horizon Terraces Garden Suites

Having Tagaytay Highlands as your address in the south would definitely be something anyone would envy. In the past, being there had the impression of seclusion, luxury and exclusivity. Times have changed and the three hour drive from Manila is becoming shorter as they made this once elusive mountain resort into a residential condominium has been introduced by Highlands Prime as Horizon Terraces.

This addition made over the years welcomed an Asian themed low rise garden suites and villas. The Horizon Terraces Garden Suites have beautifully crafted one and two-bedroom units measured from 43 to 68 square meters set atop 5 storey buildings and nestled in 3.2 hectares of land. It's got pretty nice views of nature and you can open up sliding doors to let the cold breeze and light in which Tagaytay is loved for. Imagine having your family waking up to that everyday! That would be a dream come true no?

Not to be outdone by the views are their Central Garden. They dedicate over 70% of their land for recreational and garden spaces, so you're definitely not shortchanged. Horizon Terraces also has over a hectare of it so you've got space for kids to run around and roll around for fun. For some light life therapy for everyone, they have pools and sensory gardens that you can enjoy. Of course, the balconies at higher floors come with majestic views of the Taal Lake and Taal Volcano and the Horizon Terraces’ Garden Suite ownership comes with membership to The Country Club and throngs of facilities inside Tagaytay Highlands. I've been there a couple of times and it's like a series of cabins in the Swiss alps, you'll love the steak which I recommend you get once you're there. You'll live the dream!

Tagaytay Highlands remains as a private resort/network of themed residential communities. If you're a member/homeowner, a family member or guest, you'll certainly enjoy it too. If you want to know more about the property or wish to own one, just give them a call via +63275052422 or their mobile number +639175150158. You can also visit their official website  www.tagaytayhighlands.com or follow their IG (@tagaytayhighlandsofficial) or Facebook page by searching Tagaytay Highlands.

Tagaytay Highlands Marks 25th Year

I have been here a couple of times and I remember them so fondly. It's not because of the people I'm with, but more so the memories we made in an ambiance unfamiliar with most people in Manila. Tagaytay Highlands marks their 25th year and this mountain resort that is 90 minutes away from Manila has literally breathtaking views, feels like you are on the Swiss Alps right in the heart of Tagaytay City.

Apart from the log cabins and luxury homes, my Uncles and cousins also get to enjoy playing at the 18-hole Highlands Golf Course and the championship 27-hole Midlands Golf Course, both world class and considered as some of Asia's most exciting golf course. Getting from one place to another is a breeze because the North American log cabin communities, Woodlands and Woodlands Point are accessible via Funicular system, all takes you up and down the slopes with ease. Parts of the 3.2 hectare property also has Horizon Terraces which is a residential mix of Asian-contemporary garden villas and suites. Some of the new developments also include the Japanese-inspired Katsura and Yume, modern Asian-inspired community Sycamore Heights and a tropical resort residential enclave called Vireya. I envy their addresses.

Tagaytay Highlands has continued to be the gamechanger in luxury mountain 

resort living here and in all of Asia. Bloomberg dubs these as "The Hamptons of Asia” and revered this is where the region’s ultra-rich spend their weekends. I couldn't blame them though. It's why they were awarded Best Leisure Development in the Philippines in 2017 at the Asia Pacific Property Awards (APPA). We feel they're just starting.

Congratulations on 25 years of luxury living Tagaytay Highlands!

AirAsia and Solaire Will Take You Places

It looks like good news come in folds as AirAsia the world’s best low cost carrier and Solaire make your travel dreams come true with their loyalty rewards program. If you’re a Solaire Rewards Program Card holder and have gone up the ranks from Silver, Gold, Platinum, Emerald, Ruby and Diamond status, you can exchange your equivalent status points so you can get to your dream destinations for free.

AirAsia BIG Members have been enjoying their rewards for some time already, so what’s this you say? Cyrus Sherafat,Solaire Resort’s Executive Vice-President for Marketing says “AirAsia’s has continued to provide our guests with memorable experiences that go beyond our borders. We are delighted that we can reward our loyal Solaire Rewards members with AirAsia exclusive privileges no matter where they are, so they too could fully enjoy their dream destinations. The deal is, 1 Solaire Rewards Status Point can be converted to one AirAsia BIG Point so it will be easier to track and redeem  that flight you’ve always wanted. This will only happen upon linking the AirAsia BIG Member ID to your Solaire Rewards.” 

Now go earn your rewards points and get to that play area so you can get to your dream destination with these free points!

I’ll try flying soon if I could, this will be and easy and convenient way members can use their points other than the perks they have over at Solaire.

Have a wonderful rainy afternoon!

KUMAGCOW

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Discovery Shores Boracay Nominated at the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards

If you haven't heard yet, the place I stayed in Boracay a few months back just got nominated for the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards. They have been consistently getting accolades as one of the best destination resorts in the world and this year, they're proving once again to be worthy of this award as the voting ends tomorrow February 29. Discovery Shores Boracay is one of the best places I've ever been to and if you want to make the country proud this year, you better get ready to vote for them today by going to their website https://tlworldsbest.wylei.com.

You will be brought to answer a survey then to a voting page. All you need to do is choose Hotels > Asia > Philippines > Boracay > then Discovery Shores Boracay Island. Rate the property then choose NOT to rate hotel brands. You will then be notified that your vote is complete and voting will only be allowed until the 29th of February. That's tomorrow so if you have spare time today, would you mind voting for them? I just did. This will not only be good for the business, but will make the country proud!

If you wish to know more about their awards, check Discovery Shores here.

For more information about their property:

Discovery Shores Boracay

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http://www.discoveryshoresboracay.com/

Naughty Fun at Solaire with Macho Gwapita Concert

It was a naughty and nice afternoon to get to talk with the Comedy Concert Queen Aiai Delas Alas and the Total Entertainer Rico J. Puno as they bring to the Philippines their best concert series yet as seen in the US and Europe called MACHO GWAPITA. This is going to be seen on July 26, 2014 at Solaire Resort's Grand Ballroom.

A word of warning, this show isn't going to be for kids. They are not going to hold back on the green jokes which folks from Las Vegas also found so amusing when they did the shows there. If the US leg was successful, what's stopping it from being more fun if it's in the Philippines right? 

Rico J also mentioned some stories while they were doing the shows in Vegas, Aiai also remembered a drunk guy in the audience who was heckling and saying expletives in the beginning and almost forced them to kick him out of the venue... later on, he was laughing so hard and even enjoyed the show. Aside from the usual song numbers, you'll get the very best antics that only an Aiai can bring. I heard she'll pour in several of her skits as seen on her concerts and add in several new material that she wouldn't dare spill because she wants you to watch the show. 

Oh by the way, the gorgeous recording artist Rita De Guzman will also be part of the show. She'll be singing a few songs and probably her original "Bilang Ikaw". She was quite applauded that afternoon by the media and if she's opening the show on July 26th, that's even more reason to watch the show. :)

Oh by the way, Aiai was a little distraught about the Nora Aunor "National Artist" incident. She also said that if credit was due her, it should be given. She didn't hide her disappointment about President Noy. She also told us about Kris, but I'd rather leave the details on the tabloids and newspaper reporters who were there. Anyway, we're here to enjoy... and that's exactly what you're going to see when you get tickets to the show. Remember, Macho Gwapita with Aiai and Rico J will show on July 26, 2014 and will start at 8PM. A hilarious fun filled comedy and music night awaits you! Oh and yes, you'll help the foundation too! :)

For more information about their establishment:

Solaire Resort

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http://www.solaireresort.com

Solaire and AirAsia Launches SkySolaire!

Solaire and Air Asia in a very special partnership.

I wasn't really prepared to know what was about to happen, but I was just as excited as the people from Solaire and Air Asia as they were about to embark on something BIG to help boost the gaming and tourism industry at the Air Asia Hangar in Andrews Avenue, Domestic Airport in Pasay City. What am I talking about? Well.. have a look at this video.

Donato Almeda the Board Director of Solaire says "This is a key undertaking between two dynamic brands, we are raising the bar and even taking it to the skies!"

Maan Hontiveros, CEO of AirAsia Philippines says they fully believe in partnerships and this collaboration will surely be a boost to the tourism industry. They are planning to have flights directly to cities in China, Malaysia and Korea.

Ladies from AirAsia will be donned in colors of Solaire Gold and Black ensembles. Then they unveiled the plane that afternoon!

This is SKY SOLAIRE!

This is the Airbus A320, now it's fully covered with the Solaire brand. With the world class service that's also seen in their hotels and establishments, you can only expect nothing but the best in Sky Solaire. 

Solaire and AirAsia has plans of making this a continued effort; to even get additional planes and a bigger campaign up until 2016. This will be something that people from other nations would take notice of and surely, a way to entice them to visit Solaire in the future. They will see how it is to have so much fun in the Philippines and perhaps get food and entertainment in one place called Solaire!

For more information about their establishment:

Solaire Resort

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http://www.solaireresort.com

An Afternoon of Solaire Mixology

We had the chance to roam around inside Solaire a couple of days ago to try out some of the drinks they have in their restaurants. The activity included some pretty good exercises on how to make them and I got to mix drinks right off the bat. Yes, we were a little overwhelmed but I think we did get the hang of it.

We poured Bourbon, Chambord, Cherry Herring and Cranberry Martini into the shaker with ice. Then poured the whole thing in a martini glass and put the mango-pomegranate foam on top. This is a sweet cocktail called Duchess. It would be a pretty good starter if you're with friends and starting the night young.

This one is a Margarita with Agave Caviar Pearls. It's made with a mix of Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, Lime Juice and Demerara Sugar. I usually have this frozen but their version is a bit fancy since they put in those floating thingies on top. I love the contrast and how it tasted. It's a bit unusual because the pandan like taste was present so you can't really imagine that with ordinary margaritas. It is really special.

This one's called Smoked Russian. It's got Vodka that is infused with smoke from hickory chips, tobacco infused Kahlua, giving it a darker profile. Stir the cocktail with a cinnamon stick and you've got it made. I love dark ones because it's more masculine, I'm not a fan of the sweet ones.

SM WOMAN for Philippine Fashion Week

Shining, glistening, she proudly surfaces... the SM WOMAN in the halls of SMX Convention Center for Philippine Fashion Week Holiday 2014. This is another brand carried on The SM Store to cater to women who want luxurious clothing at the fraction of a cost. Style wise, I have seen the collection exude femininity without sacrificing quality - a feat which every Filipina dreams of. This is their answer to your clamor. Your happiness starts with a little loveliness.

And that of course is what we saw at the preview a few hours before the show. This wouldn't be possible without these ladies.

The SM Woman collection was interpreted in sections; the new age Filipina can now wear something for Fashion, Career, Casual, Evening and Resort. Impressed and attracted on these pieces that follow Fall/Winter shades - but it's all a mix and a bit more structural, floral, pastel, basic, graphic and soft yet flowy dresses. They've got it all! Which reminds me, didn't they say "We've got it all for you!"?

Now, I wouldn't want to flood you guys with photos so I'll spare you the drama and just put it in one video slide show. It's got pretty good music too. Enjoy!

The difference is, it's lighter in construction, brighter and bolder in colors, prints are more modern, designs are elegant and classy... but... it's very affordable. You wouldn't think they'd be pricing them 799 to a little less over a thousand bucks. Unbelievable!

I'd like to commend SM Woman for opening the show with gorgeous Jasmine Maierhofer. Her gorgeous face was something talked of angels, people were at awe when the SM WOMAN sign was raised to start the show. Aside from that, your resort wear was a fresh addition. Something that I used to see in latin shows looks so perfect in our tropics. Like a glove. The bright prints and more modern construction of coats and cute capes was adored by the ladies I sat with that evening. That says a lot

For more information about their stores:

SM Woman

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http://www.smsupermalls.com