Brigada: Brain aneurysm survivors

Hi, my name is Cha Sy and I am a survivor.  A Ruptured Brain Aneurysm Survivor.

People I met almost always says I look normal.  The truth is my left eye still has a combination of black and white clouds. That hinder me from doing the tasks that I used to love.  Yes, that clouds are the very reason why I still can't drive. Those who know me personally would vouch my love for photography and traveling. Unfortunately, I had a problem with my balance so I can't take good photos and videos anymore. But I recently bought a tripod so, I think my problem would now be partially solved. 

Here is our interview done by Ms. Lala Roque for Brigada. Thank you very much.

ASIN BENGUET ATTRACTION

When in Baguio, you should not miss the chance to visit Asin, Benguet.  I visited this place in three different occasions so far.

Asin, Benguet is accessible by public utility vehicle. Jeepneys are the cheapest mode of transportation.  You could also opt to take a cab for convenience.

As you traverse the road going to Asin, you'll see different wood carvings on the side of the road. I had a chance to take a look on one of the stores and was able to buy some wood works. But that is another story.

Anyway, back to Asin, Benguet.   As mentioned above, I visited the famous Bencab Museum three times already.  Why?  I simply love the atmosphere and all of the art works there.

Benedicto Reyes Cabrera, better known as "BenCab", is a Filipino painter and was awarded as National Artist of the Philippines for Visual Arts in 2006. He is one of the best-selling painter of his generation of Filipino artists. I admire his art works as well as his advocacy in giving a chance to young and struggling artists to showcase their art works at his museum in Asin, Benguet.

I personally met BenCab on my third visit to Bencab Museum. You could see it in the way I smile that I was so giddy.  I really admire the guy.  Note: The first time I visited the BenCab museum several years ago, I got to met his beautiful daughter also.

The view of the "Bahay Kubo" from the viewing deck never misses to refresh my soul. I don't know if it is because of the cold weather or the Kamote fries that they serve in their restaurant called Cafe Sabel. 

You could seat prettily in one of these colorful chairs and enjoy your cappuccino or latte with the yummy kamote fries.

The very simple "Bahay Kubo" in the middle of the water and plants produces a gentle breeze that makes one feel peaceful inside. It is as if telling you to be at peace, love life and live life to the fullest.

The view from the third floor balcony is a bliss.  As the mountain breeze gently caresses my cheeks my soul calmed down and soothed my inner core and thoughts.

Watching it from the balcony made me feel sleepy I snooze on one of their benches. Ha ha ha! 

The different flowers that bloom around the Bahay Kubo creates a rainbow of colors that add to the beauty of the place. 

This view is just across the bahay kubo. Where the farmer hired by BenCab plant trees, Kamote and flowers. According to one of the guide at BenCab museum behind that mountain is the South China Sea. 

The author posing with the breathtaking view of the adjacent garden, farm, hill and mini-forest.

Who said that the Philippines is not rich? Look at those thick forest view.

Enjoy! Smile always!

Love,

`•.¸¸.•´´¯`••._.•   🎀  𝓉𝓇𝒶𝓋𝑒𝓁🍑𝓃𝓈𝒽🍩𝑒𝓈𝓉𝓇𝒾𝓃𝑔  🎀   •._.••`¯´´•.¸¸.•`

GOLDEN KITTY

Everybody's favorite cartoon character will be a golden girl in a few years time! 

  

Hello Kitty ( ハロー・キティ) was born on November 1,1974. Hello Kitty is a fictional cartoon character produced by the Japanese company Sanrio, created by Yuko Shimizu and currently designed by Yuko Yamaguchi.  Hello Kitty's character is a perpetual 3rd-grade student who lives outside London. Though she appears to be a cat, her creators insist that she is only nothing but a cartoon character.

Some of my friends love her so much that they collect Hello Kitty accessories and memorabilias. And one even went to Kittyland in Malaysia. Another blogger friend went to Japan and stayed at a Hello Kitty themed hotel.

In the Philippines, you can experience Hello Kitty at the MAKATI GOLDEN KITTY CONDO

I can feel your excitement! The inner child in me makes me so giddy whenever I see Hello Kitty!

Your staycation in Makati will definitely be a notch happier if you stay at this hello kitty theme condo!

From dining in a hello kitty theme dining table together with hello kitty...

To its walls...

Down to its bedroom you'll definitely fall in love with Hello Kitty all over again!

I am so excited forthe golden character of Hello Kitty!  I couldn't wait to see how fabulous her 50th birthday would be. Have you already featured Hello Kitty's 50th birthday in your mind?

If you wonder how nice it is to sleep in a Hello Kitty character room you can book one from me at my e-mail travelonshoestring@gmail.com

Book this Makati Golden Kitty Condo now!

MY SHARON CUNETA ENCOUNTER

I grew up with Sharon Cuneta's career at the helm of the action. She's called the "MEGASTAR" for a reason. You would see her almost everywhere, be it in TV commercials, television specials, variety shows, talk shows, movies, you name it and she's probably there.  Correct me if I am wrong, but the GGV time slot of Vice Ganda used to be Sharon Cuneta's musical variety show entitled "The Sharon Cuneta Show".  I believe, Sunday night programs are reserved to the network's superstar and the megastar had a ten year stint with Kapamilya in that particular time slot.

Then sadly she slowly faded away after leaving the Kapamilya network.  A lot of rumors came out  and they're not even nice. So, imagine my happiness when she came back to the #Kapamilya network after a lengthy hiatus. 

Genuine. That is how I would describe her smile the first time I laid my eyes on her.  You see, I was never a "Sharonian" though when I was so much younger, my friends and I would pretend that we were the trio of Sana'y Wala ng Wakas. I remember when we were first year high school, at the "Alleluiahan" in front of our school, my friends and I would sit there and listen to Sharon's music.  With a cassette recorder in tow, my friend Ning, who has the most beautiful voice among us would play as "Sharon Cuneta", I don't really remember well if it was my bff Pia or me who played Dina Bonnevie. Hmmm...I think I pretended to be Cherry Gil because I love her dialogue in that movie. "You're nothing but a second rate, trying hard copycat! "  Ha ha ha! Oh my goodness, I still know her lines after all these years! I even got hit by a flying ball courtesy of Jingo who accidentally kicked it straight to my face when my friends and I were daydreaming to be the Sana'y wala ng Wakas Trio, lol. 

Recently, I was bowled over by the lists of Sharon Cuneta's achievements when I got invited to a blogger conference at Todd English. I never thought that she is a song writer until she revealed it to all of us. She's the song writer behind some songs popularized by several popular singers. She's a total package! Beauty and Brains in the real sense of the word. No wonder she captures the heart of Senator Kiko and the hearts of her fans. I was able to interview some of them during the event. A 14-year old fan flew all the way from Cebu just for that special night with Sharon. Another fan, a 21-year old lass from Davao flew in just to see Sharon. Another one flew from Bicol, another is from Germany. It is simply amazing! Sa tutuo lang po,  na overwhelm ako sa pinakitang suporta at pagmamahal ng mga Sharonians sa kanilang idolo. More power to all of you guys!

S H A R O N

Sweet-  You could not deny the fact that Sharon is really sweet. Not only to her family and friends but also to her fans and everyone else.

Heart-    You know that feeling when you met someone who has a heart that cares? That is exactly what she exudes.

Appreciative- Sharon appreciates the love and care given by her fans. She knows them by their names. And that is amazing to a person with her position and stature. As you know, there's a lot of popular individuals who don't even smile to their fans. Parang utang na loob mo pa kapag nag smile sila. Ha ha ha! But with the megastar, unlimited smile and yakap pa siya to her fans. Unbelievable but true. She is so sweet to everyone.

Radiant- Sharon Cuneta emanates light and joy.  She radiates that energy that makes you feel light even though you have problems. Maybe that's part of her charm. You could feel it for yourself when you get to met her personally.

Obliging - ready to do favors. She is very helpful. She has everything. She doesn't need to work, but she still does to help more people.

Natural- Warm, calm and jolly. She has a very pleasant personality.  I became a fan after that short encounter. I find her so charming.

Sharon Cuneta will be holding a concert on September 28, 2018 at Araneta Colliseum to mark her 40th year in showbiz.  The concert will begin at 8:00 p.m. You could buy your tickets from https://www.ticketnet.com.ph/events/detail/129TICKETNET

NOTE: This is not a sponsored post. I did not even win anything sa pa raffle niya. I was not given anything kahit magkano not even pamasahe, except for a Magnolia chicken which I eventually forgot hu hu hu nasayang, sira na siya when I remember na meron palang ibinigay na hilaw na chicken na need lutuin. This is my own experience when I was given a chance to know her a little bit better. All pictures and  opinions are mine.

   

#My40Years #SharonCuneta #SharonMy40Years

A Taste of Tuscany Under the Baguio Sky: #TuscanyNight at Azalea Baguio

A Night in Tuscany...Right Here in Baguio: #TuscanyNight at Tradisyon, Azalea Baguio!

Craving a delicious escape in Baguio? Look no further than Tradisyon at Azalea Baguio for their #TuscanyNight every Saturday! Tonight, my blogger friends and I had the pleasure of indulging in their unlimited buffet, and let me tell you, it was a feast for the senses.  

I've had my fair share of grilled meats, but this Angus beef was on a whole other level. Cooked to a perfect medium-rare, each bite was a revelation. Imagine this: the meat practically melted in your mouth, bursting with a rich, satisfying flavor that had our entire table raving. The quality of the cut was undeniable, and the grill master deserves serious kudos for achieving that beautiful sear on the outside while keeping the inside incredibly juicy.

For only Php550, you get a smorgasbord of grilled goodness from 6pm to 10pm. We're talking Angus beef, chicken, and pork, all cooked to absolute perfection. Each bite was bursting with flavor, and the variety ensured there was something to satisfy every craving.

But it wasn't just the meat that impressed me. The buffet also offered a delightful selection of side dishes that perfectly complemented the grilled mains. Fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and flavourful rice dishes rounded out the meal, making it a truly satisfying experience.

The ambiance at Tradisyon added to the overall enjoyment. The restaurant boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening with friends and family. Plus, with Baguio's cool night air, it felt like a delightful escape to a charming Tuscan countryside.

Overall, #TuscanyNight at Azalea Baguio was a fantastic experience. The delicious food, friendly service, and beautiful setting made it a night to remember. If you're looking for a satisfying and affordable buffet in Baguio, I highly recommend checking it out!

Motorcycle Ride

Motorcycle Ride

I was only a few years old when I first rode a motorcycle.  Growing up, it has always been my dream to own a motorcycle. But when my dad had an accident in his motorcycle we were all ordered not to use a motorcycle, yes not even as a rider.  Why? Because one can die in an instant using this two-wheeled ride,

Nowadays, we were all use in having everything in an instant. Fast food, instant coffee, instant noodles are all in demand because of this demand for instant food and drinks!

That is why someone came up with a conclusion that even life is now an instant thingy!

So, be careful at all times follow the rules and regulations. Use proper gears and protective helmets and never wear black on black always use glow in the dark stickers if your lights are busted!

Enjoy the ride and keep safe!

Roxas President's Inn: A Comfortable And Affordable Home Away From Home

Roxas President's Inn: A Comfortable And Affordable Home Away From Home

Roxas President's Inn is a quaint boutique hotel in the heart of Roxas City in the province of Capiz.  Ideally located at the very street where you could take a heritage walking tour of the history rich city.  It has a touch of local character, offering a unique experience to travellers that wish to live and enjoy the Capiznon way of life.

For me, the property's strategic location in the heart of the history rich city is very ideal for holiday-maker, from families to couples seeking a romantic get away,  as well as for solo travellers planning to discover the province of Capiz and its neighboring province iloilo. Where its rising star attraction "Isla de Gigantes" in Carles, Iloilo is just three (3) hours away from Roxas City.  Making the city an ideal and strategic jump off point.

Visitors who wants to experience the unique Capiznon laid back provincial life have the opportunity to do so without giving up on the amenities that are required by the modern tourist.  

 

Roxas President's Inn, in fact present an interesting contrast between the traditional facade and setting to its innovatively designed interiors. Rooms are individually designed with minimalist furniture and antique touches, yet they retain a hip and contemporary look. The hotel offers 5 main room types, mainly:

• Deluxe Single 
• Deluxe Matrimonial
• Deluxe Twin 
• Deluxe Full
• Presidential Suites

Deluxe Single Php1,100 per night +VAT+service charge with free breakfast

Good for one person

Deluxe Matrimonial Php1,700 per night + VAT+service charge with free breakfast

Good for two (2) persons

Deluxe Matrimonial Php1,700 + VAT+service charge with free breakfast

Good for two (2) persons

In each room type, one can also find individual and elegant designs, with a number of original features such as its Capiz laden headboard makes the hotels relatively unique.

Deluxe Twin Php1,800+ VAT+service charge with free breakfast

Good for two (2) persons

Presidential Suite Php2,050+ VAT+service charge with free breakfast

Good for three (3) persons

Extra person charge Php. 200.00

Extra Bed Php. 300.00

Masseuse service Php. 500.00

Laundry rates variable

*Above rates are subject to change without prior notice

This is the LCD TV and lazy boy at the deluxe matrimonial room.

The "baul" and lamp on the side of the second floor.

At the inn's lobby one can appreciate in its full glory its century old chandeliers, antique pieces as well as rare finds artifacts dating more than a thousand years old.  Heirloom mirrors can be found at its conference room. 

Antique cabinets adorned the sides of the second floor.   A feeling of awe enveloped my whole body as if embracing my whole being. I fell in love with my room in an instant. It is like a home away from home. 

The hotel maybe old in terms of years, at 18, it still proudly stands strong amidst Yolanda. If you still don't know, that super typhoon had also ravaged and badly damaged the whole province of Capiz. It is a good thing that the building were made from strong materials with strong foundation and flooring. It took the owner 10 long years to complete the hotel. Well, it paid off. The hotel stood the test of times. Knowing that fact definitely made me feel more secure and safe in this homey hotel.

TRIVIA

Did you know that at the height of Yolanda, Roxas President's Inn, whether you believe it or not, had only suffered a gutter damaged, no flood, its roof remained intact. They had a generator set and a wifi that made it possible for news anchors, writers, reporters to deliver the news and does their jobs well in real time. Both local and international news organization could attest to that fact.

We requested for an early check-in, it was approved, we request for a late check-out, it was approved also. Did you know that even on an off season time, some hotel would not have approved that request? 

The hotel manager were very helpful in giving advice as on what to do in Roxas City and the whole province of Capiz in general.  She even endorsed me to the head of tourism and culture of the province Mr. Al, thank you everyone!

Breakfast were good, they served me Iloilo longganisa and eggs with a hot chocolate made from cacao. Oh, the hot chocolate of Roxas President's Inn were highly recommended to me by one of my best college friends who now resides in Pan-ay.

Btw, they told me that they can customized your meals whether you want fresh fruits and juices, fried eggs, sliced salmons and everything you would want for your meals.

*With a corresponding charge

I stayed at their Ramos Suite together with my ate Dindin and it was everything I hoped it would be. It is strategically located in the center of the city and everything is within walking distance or is just 5 to 10 minutes away by trike. The rooms were spotlessly clean. I can say that it was one of the best hotel rooms I've ever stayed in. It is just like a home away from home. It has a very homey ambiance. The included breakfast was absolutely delicious. My favorite is the dangit and flower fish plus hot coffee. The prices of the items at their mini bar inside the room were actually cheaper than buying from a sari-sari store. 

The overall decor and feel of the hotel was great and it served as an excellent base to explore Capiz and its adjoining province Iloilo all year round.

Air Conditioning

Most 5-star hotel rooms generally offers a good air conditioning units to help keep guests comfortable for the duration of their stay. The inn may not have that star grade but I tell you, the air conditioning unit of this Inn has a cooling capabilities that helped me sleep like a baby. It created and maintained the right temperature within the room. So that is super cool and I totally love it.

Fast, Secure and Free Wi-Fi

Despite the fact that generally, people were expected to narrate or share their adventure with their family and friends. Many hotels in different parts of the Philippines and Southeast Asia have yet to offer free internet to its guests. Well, I am so glad that guests staying at Roxas President's Inn hotel can expect to have fast, secure and FREE Wi-Fi in every area of their hotel, from the restaurant, second floor and third floor as well as in their conference room. Nowadays, wifi is considered a necessity. Especially when it comes to businessmen who need to check on their businesses and also to those who wish to connect with their family and friends back at home. So this makes Roxas President's Inn stands out from others because guests don’t have to worry about their Wi-Fi bill every time they use it. Hey, that happened to me before in a different hotel and that sucks big time! NOTE: You will never experience that with Roxas Presidents inn because they provide it for you FREE of charge.

Large Size Bed

Roxas President's Inn has a large comfortable beds. According to the amiable manager they have large king, Queen, double and single size beds to ensure a comfortable stay and sleep for their guests. These beds offer guests more room to move while sleeping and easily allow them to relax and unwind from a hard day’s work or adventure due to the fluffiness of their pillows and mattresses.

TV 
The room that I occupied has a 50-inches flat screen, high definition TV complete with various cable channels. The TV quality was exceptional. It gives me a clear pristine images and colours.

Room Service
While it’s not a 5-star hotel, its room service is exceptional. It is comparable to my stay at the presidential suite of a 5-star hotel in Manila! Boy, the staff at Roxas President's Inn are exceptionally fast and reliable. Just dial the receptionist's number and your request will be fulfilled in a jiffy. I believe that hotels should come with this type of room service, no matter what grade they have. Truth to the fact, I was really amazed that they cleaned my room every day during my stay even if I did not request for it! The Roxas President's Inn's room service helps to make the hotel stand out from others. As you know, in the hospitality business "Service with a smile" made Roxas President's Inn staff a stand out.

Safety Deposit Box

Guests who have money and expensive things with them while they’re traveling can ask the hotel manager to safekeep their valuables during the duration of their stay. This will give guests peace of mind knowing their items are safe. I, on the other hand just left everything in my room and guess what? Their personnel are trustworthy, I never lost a single item during my stay! I later learned that almost all the staff were still the same original staff they had 18 years ago. The latest staff hored were already on its fifth year with the company. That's a tough act to follow. Congratulations to the owners and manager of the hotel. I should learned a thing or two from you guys on how to keep employees stick for the long haul.

Hot and cold showers

This accommodation provides both hot and cold shower.

Towels

Roxas President's Inn rooms come with their own soft white clean towels, which comes in a set of three. Towels were hung up at the bathroom ready for guests to find when staying in the hotel room.

I was pleasantly surprised and delighted when I saw bananas and bottled water on my table each time I arrived from my tours. Oh, I heart the staff who does that! You made me feel so at home whoever you are.  Thank you.

Conclusion
Roxas President's Inn rooms are designed to give guests a luxurious experience when staying in their hotel. It does not only reach out to its guest but also bends backwards and does an extra mile for the comfort and satisfaction of each and everyone of their guests.

Oh, their rates were truly very cheap compared to the luxurious amenities and comfortable stay. You bet! I would definitely recommend this hotel to each and everyone I know including you.  Roxas President's Inn is a real home away from home hotel in every sense of the word.

Room Tip: Ask for Ramos suite, Noynoy Suite or Duterte Suite

For reservation or for more information regarding the current rates, please contact:

Roxas President's Inn
Address: Rizal Corner Lopez Jaena Streets, Roxas City, Capiz Philippines
Toll Free:1-800-843-4343 loc.3349
Tel: (036) 6210-208
Fax: (036) 6211-040
Email: contact@roxaspresidentsinn.com

Interested to share your own Roxas City, Capiz story then shoot me an email at chasy8@gmail.com or comment below.

ILOCOS SUR: Fast Facts

ILOCOS SUR: Fast Facts

Did you know that? 

Vigan City was recently adjudge as one of the New 7 Wonders City and UNESCO World Heritage city? Cool isn't it? 

Vigan City has a special place in my heart because of its amazingly restored old churches, museums and houses. It reminds me of the old town in the capital city of Penang in Malaysia called Georgetown. 

Famous landmarks of Vigan

Calle Crisologo

You could not deny the fact that Vigan City is world famous. Especially its world renowned street in the heart of VIgan -- Calle Crisologo. The whole stretch of Calle Crisologo has antique architecture and historical houses, its road is filled with old cobblestone. From time to time horse-drawn carriage passes by and offer "Kalesa Tours".  Walked back in time and experience a wonderful time as you do your selfie and snapshots. You could even go live on Facebook and let your family and friends watch you in real time as you do your tour of this famous landmark. Go visit Vigan and be transported to a place where the old world meets the new.

Baluarte

The city is also famous for Baluarte, owned by Chavit Singson, a rich politician up North. His one-of-a-kind zoo is open to the public for free. For me, it is the happiest place up North. Animals that resides there includes a bunch of ponies, ostrich, deer, tigers, python, parrots, alpacas, giraffe, ducks, turkeys, horses. Aside from its butterfly garden, Baluarte also has albino anaconda, Palawan bearcat, raptors and reptiles. All of the animals in Baluarte are exceptionally well taken care of. And you can have your picture taken with the animals up close and personal with zero charge. Yes, they don't charge anything if you visit and go sightseeing, even if you ride the small kalesa ( carriage ) which is being pulled by the ponies.

Pinsal Falls

The largest falls in Ilocos Sur.