Azumi Boutique Hotel: Where The Sun Also Shines Down South!

I've seen the sun rise in the east but I didn't know it would also look this good when the sun sets down south in Alabang. This right here is going to be my home and office for two days. This is the Azumi Boutique Hotel. I think they have about 16 floors including the Penthouse which I'll tell you about in a bit plus 3-4 floors for parking and a full restaurant in the ground floor. Let's check in shall we?

The Room

This is my room, they call it the Queen Room probably because its got a queen sized bed. I was alone when I checked in but this is good for two (or three if you have a kid hanging around). The wood panels, cabinet and bed is probably done to present a more simple, minimalistic Japanese looking theme.

You may think the room might be a tad small in square area but I didn't even feel cramped because they designed the interior with mirrors and transparent glass (on the shower) which made the illusion of a very continuity conducing place. 

 

You've got the basic toiletries available; soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and towels. Don't worry about the open glass panel because there are blinds on that same spot. It would be a good thing for honeymooners though, I can imagine. Aside from that, one feature that I like about this is the Rain Shower. It doesn't feel like high pressured water is pointing straight at your skin. The water temperature is also perfect if you want to relax in a hot shower.

You also have 2 complementary bottles of water and a full fridge/mini bar. The drinks cost 50/80 bucks but if you prefer other drinks, there's a Puregold, 7-11 and various stores around Azumi Boutique Hotel that you can go to for whatever you need.

You can prefer to close the shutters but if you look around, I've got a quite nice city view. If you see the buildings in the center, that's actually Alabang Town Center. You can shop the whole day and just go back to your room whenever you want to. I also had lunch at Nathaniel's which is just by the road in front of Azumi Boutique Hotel for variety. They Puto Pao and Palabok is legendary, I took home lots of it.

Then I went a few floors up. Then... I thought I was dreaming.

The Infinity Lap Pool

The Penthouse has got this huge lap pool. It's like an oasis around the concrete jungle of Alabang. I love this place so much that I'll surely go back and swim in the evening. It's not to crowded either, so it's the perfect thing if you want a break from the city without even leaving it. It's also got a function room on the same floor that can probably fit around 50-100 people, as a matter of fact there was a party going on when I went there hence no shots. You can get arrangements to rent it off with the Azumi Boutique Hotel staff. Call if you must!

Then I got the chance to have an even better treat... 

I got to do a bit of night swimming. I also got to see this beautiful city at night while resting on the edge of their pool 16 stories high! No selfies when I'm half naked of course! It was relaxing, really cold and so nice up there. I called it a night.

Then the next morning I was able to walk around the hotel and check out what they have on the ground floor.

This is Romulo Cafe. I'm a huge fan of this restaurant especially the one in Jupiter Street, Makati. I love how they put a modern twist to the usual Filipino food they serve. They don't make it too fancy, in fact I can actually categorize this as a comfort food place because I'd love to indulge with whatever they have on the menu. The stay in Azumi Boutique Hotel that I got had a buffet breakfast along with it. I'd like to recommend you get a lot of the tapa they had on the table. It just had the right amount of seasoning and not too salty. Loved that part.

The hotel also has their own dedicated Nail Spa that occupies the huge right wing of the building's ground floor. It's perfect for Mothers, daughters or friends who want to have a nail sparty and bond over making themselves beautiful.

The Lobby and Checking Out

Their lobby is classy, fit with neutral colored accents and filled with chairs and sofas that are very comfy. I checked out at 12PM and was expecting a long queue on front, but no. They even knew my name when I gave them my keys. After that, they didn't even have me stand and wait for it on the counter and asked me to sit patiently on the sofa. Everything was settled in around 5 minutes. I headed on to buy "pasalubong" (gifts) for people at home and bade good bye. I love impeccable service.

Azumi Boutique Hotel would be a great place to start if you want to do business in the south. I was relaxed, I had fun and was yearning for more. I think I understand the charm of this quaint place.. they make everything easy and accessible for you. They don't make things hard and give you your money's worth. I've checked the prices online at Agoda and their rooms cost around 2,5K - 4,1K a night. The other rooms are called the King Room (which has the King sized bed and a larger bath area) and the Garden Room (which has got it's own lawn that's almost big as my room). I think you can hold small parties there and entertain guests on a good sunny day.

For what it's worth, Azumi Boutique Hotel definitely was a good choice for business but it didn't feel like I was there for work. I felt very comfortable and right at home. This just means I have to travel more even within city limits, into places I haven't been to in Manila. Azumi Boutique Hotel ranks high in my books and I hope I get to spend time with my friends there soon. I still feel the Infinity Lap Pool is still so inviting! I didn't know the sun would shine like this down south!

Azumi Boutique Hotel is located at 2205 Market Street, Madrigal Business Park, Phase III Alabang 1780 Muntinlupa City. You can call them for reservations at 8699888 or email reservations@azumi.ph for any inquiries.

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Azumi Boutique Hotel

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http://www.azumi.ph

Mad For Pizza

When the sign says so, it probably means what it is. This is the day that we went to MAD FOR PIZZA at IL TERRAZO in Tomas Morato, Quezon City. It's a stones throw away from ABSCBN and the Boy Scout monument too. This is rarely new and they've got the star of the show emphasized on the day of my visit. The Pizza choices were enormous! Aside from that, you can probably have it made and customized as you want it. Toppings all you want! You are the boss!

The Drinks

I only saw three or four drinks on out table. I ordered the Bottomless Iced Tea and got to also taste the Salted Caramel Milkshake. I must tell you to order the frozen version of the Iced Tea since it's a tad better than this normal one. The serving is ginormous though to for the price, it's worth it. The Salted Caramel Milkshake was good too, but make sure you go to this place with an empty stomach because they have it all BIG in this joint. It's a sweet treat!

Salads and Starters

Freshly made Hawaiian Salad that's both sweet and crunchy would be best for those watching their weight. The Nachos were as fresh as they make it on the spot when you order it. You can even feel it hot after they pour the cheese, beef bits and salsa. The Disco Fries was an even better alternative because it had all the good characteristics of the nachos but the filling ability of fries. I had second servings of this so you know how good that must have felt LOL. The Fish and Chips was also good but I must say you have to eat it while its hot. It tends to be soggy if you let it out that long, but really who wouldn't finish the plate right after they put it on your table.

TOYCON 2014: The 13th Philippine Toys, Hobbies and Collectibles Convention

It looks like we're going to have some fun again in the 13th installment of the Philippine Toys, Hobbies and Collectibles Convention or TOYCON this June 20-22 at the SM Megatrade Halls 1-2 and 3. They will also be celebrating the 75th Anniversary of DC Comics and my favorite hero Batman. They have prepared a full sized Batpod, a kids area, sell Batman merchandise and a gallery of Batman memorabilia that you'll really love.

They also have a Rourouni Kenshin live action display plus original costumes from the movie. You'll also see sections for Marvel's The Guardian's of the Galaxy, the GI Joe 50th Anniversary exhibit, the Philippine Lego users group and the Finals of the Philippine leg of World Cosplay Summit hosted by the Philippines' own Alodia Gosiengfiao. There will be a lot more exhibitors and activities during the whole event. You can buy tickets now at www.smtickets.com to see everything in the flesh at SM Megamall!

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Toyconph

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ACME MADE Skinny Sleeves 50% Off at Digits Trading

Looks like there's good news from Acme Made - the brand of Laptop, Tablet, Phone and Camera Cases from San Francisco. In the Philippines, this is available in shops like iStudio, Beyond the Box, iCenter, Switch, iStore, digitalhub, Liteware, Powerhub, Mobile1, IGIG Center, Senco Link and techsavvy. They feel you needed something so good with your Macbook Air and Macbook Pro devices so they came up with the idea of giving you all a 50% voucher that you can use with selected Acme Made products that you can use from June 10 to July 10, 2014.

It's time to take care of those gadgets that you took so long to save up for and the sleeves will do it if you don't want it to be scratched on surfaces or normal wear and tear. Head on to the Digits Trading Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/digitstrading and check out other Acme Made products that they have inside the store. Get the discount and the best protection you can have for your devices and if you have other devices, don't worry because their other products will fit it too!

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Allen Dizon Stars In Kamkam (Greed)

Allen Dizon stars as Johnny, a man who revolves around a community laden with drugs, gambling, illegal activities and modern concubines.

I never watch Filipino films on an ordinary day, but I did a few days ago with the invitation of some friends from GMA and Heaven's Best who produced the film. I didn't expect much because I always had a weird notion about pinoy films, but when I heard that this was a Joel Lamangan masterpiece, I knew I had to watch it.

Kamkam (Greed) talks about Sitio Kamkam. A community where the poor indulge in everything illegal. From water and electrical connections, to pot sessions, gambling and womanizing was a norm. Johnny ruled the streets and there were a handful of people who could go against him. The Barangay Captain and his men, the court of law and probably a few paid policemen. It delves on what we often call normal in some communities in the Philippines. There's an utter disregard to ethics, professionalism and even human life.

Jean Garcia, Sunshine Dizon and Jackie Rice plays as Johhny's wives. They (Jean and Sunshine) get along quite well but when the third wife arrived, he favored her more than the others. Jealousy ensued, family ties got severed and it wasn't a pretty picture. Their son's and daughters in some way also had their own issues come in between. the performances of Lucho Ayala and Joyce Ching were a revelation here so you must watch how their story makes the situation more complex for their Father.

Allen Dizon says yes, there was initially some awkwardness when they shot the film because the roles just required a few adult scenes with his wives. Other than that, it's also the first time that he got to work with these ladies too. He was also impressed with his co actors in this film and adds even the kids did quite well for the most. He also mentioned that people will be able to relate with each character because they'll all see themselves with them at one point. The closeness of the characters with real life is astounding and people will appreciate how much they've portrayed some of the good and bad things that Filipinos are accustomed to. Another thing that I'm very fond of is the role of award winning actor Jim Pebanco as Johnny's gay best friend. He presents a comedic, touching and supportive persona that would want Johnny's life easy. The thing is, they found Johnny's body one day... floating lifeless in the river. Who would do such a thing? Why would a man who only wanted to provide for his family find his untimely demise. You better find out why on July 9, 2014 as it shows on selected theaters nationwide!

This also stars Emilio Garcia, Elizabeth Oropesa, Jim Pebanco, Joyce Ching, Lucho Ayala, Rita De Guzman, Hiro Peralta and Kerbie Zamora. This is written by Jerry Gracio and of course Directed by Joel C. Lamangan by Heaven's Best Productions. See how this daring, dramatic film unfold the story about greed in so many ways.

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Kamkam

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http://www.benchtm.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.

Rose Fostanes: My Way

Rose Fostanes sings "This is my life"

Filipina caregiver Rose "Osang" Fostanes sang her heart out a few days ago in a press dinner at Sir Boy's Food Republic in Quezon City. Rose Fostanes won the hearts of people worldwide for winning XFactor Israel which happened a couple months ago. She went back to the Philippines to record and promote her own album released by Star Records. She happily waved the thing when we sat down with her that evening. She laments "This is it, this is my dream! I now have my own album!".   

I have already known her story because I followed her journey in XFactor Israel in Youtube videos but I didn't know how much struggle she has gone through being an OFW. Her family is so proud of her because she has fulfilled a life long dream at the age of 45. It's a little late she says but she's so happy she won the stint even if she's not an Israeli. She also says it was awesome to see the Israeli's to be so genuinely good to her. No matter how flawed some of her songs are, they still applaud her normally. She is a little sad though that some Pinoys have been too critical about her performances and says she reads all those comments from websites. She is a little sad but hopeful that this in some way would change. Going back to her album, she says this has been a really good blessing for her and she also hopes that Filipinos would appreciate how much work is put in in these songs. Her interpretations of classics and the new songs from world class composers was a surprise. I even heard something very pop and modern which she says was given to her in Israel even if she didn't win XFactor yet, a number that you should never miss to listen to. Who knows, she might end up hitting the charts soon and get played regularly in the airwaves, something that she wishes to see soon. 

She hopes that you continue to support her like the time you watched her in X Factor Israel. "Rose Fostanes: My Way" is now available in major record stores nationwide and is released by Star Records.

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Mastercard's Priceless Surprises!

I'm going to the Great Singapore Sale this month and I can't wait for the perks that MasterCard is giving away too. Aside from the super low prices on fashionable clothes, watches, jewelry, furniture, electronics, toys and dining, they'll throw in a chance for you to see Justin Timberlake LIVE from Sydney, Australia! Aside from that, if you charge 100 Singapore Dollars on your MasterCard purchases you'll also have the chance to win a return trip to Singapore plus a weekend stay at the famous Marina Mandarin Singapore’s Meritus Club Room. Isn't that neat?

Not only that, tourists like me can get free passes to Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark and the LightSeeker musical if we use MasterCard cards to book accommodations in Resorts World Sentosa – Equarius Hotel, Festive Hotel, Hard Rock or Hotel Michael. That's already a few hundred Singapore dollars worth of deals right there! They go in and add 10% off on all dining and retail outlets in Resorts World Sentosa just because you're special when you use your MasterCard cards.

On the daily rewards promo, each S$20 purchase in a single receipt can get you the chance to win S$1,000 every day including a brand new Subaru Impreza 1.6i, a Nissan Sylphy 1.8L every week in Singapore Press Holding's weekly draws. Imagine the perks we're gonna get if we just shop in Singapore this month until July. I better pack my bags and go now! I hope I win! :)

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