philippines Archives ⋆ Page 4 of 8 ⋆ Leia Khu

First OOTD

Posted on August 16, 2014 by xerox

Hi everyone! I know it has been awhile since I posted something on this blog. Just wanna let you know that, yes, I’m still here and I still think about you guys.

I have been aching to share a lot of things to you like my Butuan-Surigao trip, my first experience as a hired food critic, my business Agent Dolly, my food trips with le boyfie, my aerial yoga and so much more… But somehow, there’s just too much going on lately that I don’t feel like writing about them anymore. Maybe I’ll write about them some other time… However, I cannot promise that. But what I can promise is to try to keep this blog alive.

And in the spirit of putting life back to my blog, I shall now throw random photos of myself every now and then when I have nothing else to post. I know this sounds borderline narcassistic but I swear that they will never be tasteless selfies. Haha!

I’ve been thinking about injecting fashion and beauty posts on this blog for awhile now and I think it’s about time that I should.

For those who don’t know, I used to be an aspiring fashion blogger on Multiply. I would post most of my OOTDs there back when I was in college until they closed their operations.

My main influences were Style Arena, Japanese Streets and Lloyda Lim.

But obviously, I outgrew them all. I now have fully embraced the grungy and edgy chic vibe with the 90’s kind of flair. Those who know me on a personal level know that I identify myself best with this kind of style. My main influences are Jenn Im and Luanna.

But this doesn’t mean I won’t deviate from this style from time to time though. As always, what I wear depends on my mood and my hair color.

If you like to see more OOTDs on my blog, please don’t forget to show some love here so I’ll know if I should post more OOTDs in the future. Also, follow me on Instagram for more updates. Hope ya’ll enjoyed this post! 🙂

Midnight Caffeine Fix at Cafe Noriter

Posted on April 6, 2014January 22, 2019 by Leia Bartolome

Cafe Noriter is a Korean coffee shop franchise based in Cebu City.

Noriter is actually a Korean word which translates to “playground” in English.

Aptly named, there are two-story play dens inside this unconventional cafe where customers can nestle in and enjoy coffee.

The vibrant and colorful interior is very appealing to young people like us who want a cozy place to hang out and have a good time.

Everyone is free to stick photos and personalized notes on the ceiling, walls, shelves and just about anywhere which add to the playful and carefree vibe that Cafe Noriter exudes.

I find their menu rather limited in choices though. The prices are a tad steep (150~180 PHP) yet I can’t find any reason to complain. Considering the ambiance, free WiFi, friendly wait staff and terrific service, the prices are (in my mind) well-justified.

My boyfriend and I managed to score a spot in one of their elevated play dens which gave us a wonderful bird’s eye view of the entire cafe. I secretly love people-watching. But I guess that’s not a secret anymore. 😉

Before we actually got settled, one of the wait staff prepped our spot by vacuuming the teddy bear, fixing the clutter and making sure the deck was absolutely clean in the littlest time possible. Now that’s service!

As we were waiting for our order, I was surprised to see my college classmates taking the spot next to us. The world is small indeed. 🙂

Okay, finally, our orders! On the left is Caramel Frappuccino and on the right is Java Chip Frappuccino. The Caramel Frappuccino wasn’t very memorable for me (to be fair I’m not much of a caramel fan myself)… However, Java Chip is definitely a must-try.

I loved how our beverages were served in glass jars for that extra homey touch.

For food, we tried their Ciabatta. Basicallly, it’s a grilled ham and cheese sandwich served with pickle relish and spiced mayo. It was alright. I like it.

We should have tried their Honey Bread too though. I heard a lot of people singing praises about it. Too bad we missed it. At least we have another reason to go back here when in Cebu. 🙂

And of course, I couldn’t leave Cafe Noriter without trying their Green Tea Frappuccino. This did not disappoint! I would have ordered another serving if only my tummy allowed.

Cafe Noriter is a place for fun, creativity and photo-ops. They have reinvented “cafe experience” for all lovers of coffee and tea like us.

If you haven’t been here yet, I highly encourage you to indulge your inner 9-year-old self and give this awesome place a try. I guarantee happiness and Instagram-worthy photos!

Cafe Noriter is located at One Acacia Place, Unit 10 &11, Archbishop Reyes Ave., Cebu City. They are open 9AM – 11PM daily. For reservations, you can call them up at +63927-364-7138.

Dining Alfresco at Radisson Blu Cebu

Posted on March 15, 2014January 22, 2019 by Leia Bartolome

If you want to book an upscale hotel stay in Cebu City, Radisson Blu is the place to be.

Ranked 13th in the Top 25 Hotels in the Philippines in the 2014 Travellers’ Choice Awards by Trip Advisor, this exceptional 5-star hotel exudes an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere that is perfect for a pleasure or business trip.

Welcoming every hotel guest is a vast contemporary atrium lobby which serves as the focal point of the hotel.

As someone who has never been in a ritzy hotel before (promdi represent!), I was in sheer awe as my eyes scanned the glamorous expansive space. The lobby is so spacious you can drive a car inside (but obviously this is not permissible).

Outside the hotel is a terrace which offers a view of the city attractions and leads out to the Pool Bar.

The Pool Bar is an ideal venue for alfresco dining. They offer a fantastic selection of cocktails, beverages and mouth-watering dishes.

My boyfriend and I were lucky enough to get an invitation to indulge in a lavish feast of local and international dishes.

I didn’t know where to start digging in… Everything was utterly divine!

Salads

Fresh Seafood

Desserts

Japanese

Chinese

Look at those siopaos! Too cute to eat!

Local

International

As we dined, we listened to a live band, watched a pyro show and soaked with the city’s atmosphere. It was an experience like no other.

I can’t wait for us to go back to Radisson Blu… But next time, we better stay for a night or two.

Radisson Blu Cebu is located at Serging Osmena Boulevard, Corner Juan Luna Avenue, Cebu City. You may call them at +63 32 402 9900.

Davao-Gensan Trip Part 15: Bon Appetit La Boutique

Posted on November 10, 2013January 22, 2019 by Leia Bartolome

It’s Day Five and we’re back in Davao once again.

In my quest to explore new gustatory territories, I already had my radar on Bon Appetit La Boutique weeks before our trip. They serve authentic French cuisine in a public square located at Plaza del Carmen, Loyola Street.

I never had a legit French meal in my life so I figured it would be a good place to start.

Sophisticated, elegant and charming, the interior of Bon Appetit La Boutique is a beautiful reflection of France. It is a perfect setting for romantic dinner dates, anniversaries and other special occasions.

Displayed on their walls are artworks and some French products for sale.

Sketches

Foie Gras
Fat Duck Liver

Canned French Delicacies

Fragrance Pillows

Fragrant soaps in Pomme (apple), Lavande (lavender) and Cannelle Orange (cinnamon orange) scents.

You know they’re the real deal because the menu is written in French. It’s okay, I can’t read French too. Hehe 🙂

Okay, nuff jabbering. Food. Now.

Baguette et Tapenade
Homemade French Baguette with Tapenade

Made with ingredients imported from France, this baguette can’t get anymore authentic in taste.

I’m very picky and hard to please when it comes to bread. You can ask my boyfriend. So when I say that I actually enjoyed eating this means a whole lot.

The baguette didn’t have that awful starchy aftertaste that breads made in local bakeries here in the Philippines tend to have.

Upon closer inspection, you can tell that the baguette has a light and airy texture with a thin, crispy golden crust.

Tapenade was something I never heard of before. It is a gourmet condiment usually used as spread for bread and is made out of black olives blended with herbs and olive oil until it forms into a thick paste. Its robust and distinct taste adds a unique flavor to the baguette.

The baguette and tapenade were actually on the house. Yey for free bread basket!

Crêpe Sarrasin, Oeuf, Jambon et Gruyère
Buckwheat Crepe with Fried Egg, Ham & Gruyère Cheese

While normal people would have this for breakfast or brunch, we had it as an appetizer simply because we can (fit lotsa food in our bellies). 🙂

Folded inside the crepe is a sunny-side up egg with slices of ham and melted Gruyère cheese.

Gruyère cheese has a rich, creamy texture and tastes sweet and salty at the same time. There is really nothing like it.

This is something I can have everyday! Light, savory and decadent. That’s what it is. It’s one of those things you have to try!

And yes, the salad did go very well with it too.

More free hot bread. They won’t stop serving free bread until you get to the main course or until you say so.

Penne Sauce Roquefort et Noix
Penne Pasta with Roquefort Cheese & Walnut Sauce

Roquefort is a type of blue cheese characterized by its blue veins of (edible) mold. It has a strong characteristic odor and taste that may put a lot of people off. But if you happen to like blue cheese, you will surely enjoy this dish like we did!

Served al dente, the penne was pasta perfection.

Steak de Gindara Grillé Sauce Beurre Blanc
Grilled Butterfish with White Butter Sauce and Potato Gratin

Tender and moist, the grilled butterfish was a delight to eat. The beurre blanc sauce was rich and buttery and it helped elevate this seemingly simple dish.

And the potato gratin was AHMEYZING. I could eat a casserole of that all by myself. It’s rich, creamy and tender. It’s so good that I’d rather have it over pizza any day! And yes, I still can’t believe I actually said that.

Bon Appetit La Boutique is a restaurant one should not pass up. I will not hesitate to recommend this place. Warm service, outstanding meals and fantastic dining experience.

Open Mondays thru Saturdays, 11AM to 11PM. Prices usually range between 300 and 500 pesos.

Davao-Gensan Trip Part 14: Little Kitchen Restaurant

Posted on November 8, 2013October 7, 2018 by xerox

Still unbelievably full from lunch, we opted for a light supper…

Little Kitchen Restaurant is a popular snack house in Gensan which is owned and managed by a doctor.

Originally built to cater the doctor’s patients and other people within the vicinity, Little Kitchen Restaurant unexpectedly turned out into a flourishing food business.

With the cozy atmosphere, it’s too easy to feel at home here. The wait staff are accommodating and the service is prompt.

For appetizers, we got complimentary garlic butter toasts. Loves it! Who doesn’t love free food? Hehe 🙂

For our supper, we had Shrimp Scampi Pizza. It had a crispy crust topped with olives, mushrooms, shrimp and cheese. This is one of their best sellers.

I know the pizza sounds really good on paper but it was a little too bland for my taste. It was a huge letdown for me because I really wanted to like it. Just everyone else does.

But despite being disappointed, I’d still like to go back there and sample other of their food items. I’m sure I’ll find something I’d love.

Little Kitchen Restaurant is located at Quirino Avenue, next to Calderon Clinic.

Davao-Gensan Trip Part 13: Blugre Coffee

Posted on October 30, 2013October 7, 2018 by xerox

Brewing since 1998, Blugre Coffee is a coffee shop chain based in Davao which is known for exotic durian coffee blends.

Why Blugre Coffee has made its way in Gensan is no surprise as one of the major franchisees is the power couple, Manny and Jinky Pacquiao.

Walking into the coffee shop, I was caught off guard by a strong whiff of durian aroma lingering in the air. To be blunt, the scent was a little bit off-putting because I am not particularly fond of durian… However, it was bearable.

While Blugre Coffee specializes coffee, they serve pastries, desserts and other hot and cold beverages as well.

Too full for anything else, we just had some iced latte for a little afternoon pick-me-up.

And although I was never a fan of durian, I braved myself for one of their durian coffee blends: Durian Arctic Blast… Which I painfully regretted.

Well, at least I tried. Let’s face it, it’s not for everyone. I read awesome reviews about it though and is certainly a hit with all the durian lovers out there.

Blugre Coffee is a great place for study, work, hangouts, or meetups. You don’t have to be a durian connoisseur to be here. When in Gensan, visit them at Robinsons Place or at JMP Building.

Davao-Gensan Trip Part 12: Team Pacquiao

Posted on October 26, 2013October 7, 2018 by xerox

General Santos is the hometown of Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao, the “Fighting Pride of the Philippines” and the first and only eight-division world boxing champion.

Whether you’re a fan of his or not, his chain store Team Pacquiao is one of the must-go-to places in Gensan.

With several branches nationwide, Team Pacquiao carries various products and limited edition collectibles especially made for all the Pambansang Kamao fanboys to covet.

They offer Pacman must-have items like graphic tees, polo shirts, jackets, caps and other novelty items.

Spotted on their high shelves are some kick-ass memorabilia that you can’t get anywhere else in the world but here (and other Team Pacquiao branches of course). And out of everything I’ve seen, the Mad Mickey toy figure is something I’d like to bring home with me (but didn’t). I’m not gonna lie, they don’t come cheap at all.

They also have autographed items such as boxing gloves, coffee table books and more.

And just like a kid in a candy shop, my boyfriend was in a state of utter fascination. I swear his eyes were sparkling with joy. Haha.

When in Gensan, you should definitely swing by the flagship store of Team Pacquiao which is located at the ground floor of Robinsons Place General Santos.

Davao-Gensan Trip Part 11: Tong Yang Shabu-Shabu & Barbeque Restaurant

Posted on October 15, 2013October 7, 2018 by xerox

On the fourth day of our vacation, we took a roadtrip to Gensan…

Located at SM Gensan, Tong Yang Shabu-Shabu Barbecue Restaurant is heaven-sent for all the buffet and hotpot lovers out there.

As we came in, my jaw dropped to the floor. We were greeted with long tables filled with a wide array of fresh and delicious food selections all ready to cook and eat.

I’ve been to some eat-all-you-can buffet restaurants before but I’ve never seen anything like this.

You are given the freedom to choose your raw ingredients for cooking which can be a little overwhelming especially if you’re a first-timer like I was. They have vegetables, seafood, meat, noodles, sides, broth, sauces, condiments… You name it, they have it all – from appetizers to desserts!

One of the great things about Tong Yang is you can always come back for more food if you want to. Yes, everything is eat-all-you-can within the given three-hour time frame.

For only 299PHP/person for lunch buffets from Mon-Fri and 399PHP/person for dinner buffets from Mon-Fri and lunch+dinner buffets on holidays & weekends. Where else can you find a great deal as such this??

Too bad we were prohibited from taking close-up food photos though. Boo. Sad panda 🙁

It is also worth mentioning that they have unlimited tap beer (just add 65 PHP for beer-all-you-can), soda and fruit juices.

Please excuse our cluttered hotpot table. The left side of the table is for grilling and the right side is for stewing. I really like how you can make two stews at the same time. Really cool.

We were given sticks of butter for grilling. Don’t be shy to ask for more if needed. The butter complements the food well and makes everything taste richer. Genius.

By the way, a shoutout to our official tour guide and photographer for that day, Jed Reyes. Thanks for the treat Kuya! By the way, he’s an awesome photographer. You can check out some of his amazing shots here.

Kuya Jed observing my boyfriend as he makes sinigang for the first time. Thank God for Tong Yang’s free WiFi. None of us knew how to make sinigang so we just googled for recipes online and made it on the spot.

WADAYAKNOW. It was delicious-o!

We really had an amazing dining experience at Tong Yang. I definitely would love to come back here when I can. I suggest that you come here famished. And do bring friends and family with you because food is always better shared 🙂

PSA

Posted on September 18, 2013 by xerox

I am sorry to interrupt my Davao-Gensan series but I have a special announcement to make…

Technicolor Waves of Rhapsody just turned 2 today! Can you believe it? Because I still can’t! I never even thought I would last a year…

What started out as a mental and writing exercise has now become a hard habit to kick.

I, first, want to give a big, big thanks to my boyfriend. If not for him, this blog would not have existed. His encouragements and gentle prodding lead me to believe that I actually do have the ability to express myself through writing.

Two years ago, I’ve always second-guessed myself because I never was confident enough of my writing skills. It was only through constant blogging that I slowly gained my confidence. Looking back, I know that I have improved so much and I know there is even more room for improvement.

Second, I would like to thank you readers for your support. As cheesy as it may sound, yes, you guys are one of the reasons why I keep on writing. I just want to give you all cyber hugs right now so you can all feel the fuzzy love I have for you. Hehe.

Also, I’m really excited to tell you guys that tomorrow I will have a waterfalling adventure tour (WAT 2.0) with my fellow bloggers (please don’t mind my iffy hair)…

I am very privileged and humbled to meet these lovely people. And I think it’s only right that you should get to know these people too.

Top to Bottom, Left to Right:
Marky Go – http://www.nomadicexperiences.com/
Doi Domasian – http://thetravellingfeet.com/
Me
Glen Santillan – http://www.escapemanila.com/
Shugah Pauline Kang – http://www.wandershugah.com/
Tzaddi Esguerra – http://wheresburger.tumblr.com/
Lisa Marie Mirasol – http://www.pinaytravelista.com/
Lovette Jam Jacosalem – http://www.traveljams.com/
Gabriel Billiones Jr. – http://neoticviews.blogspot.com/
Alexander Siacor Singcol Jr. – http://www.chooseiligancity.com/
John Badawi
Yobz Tolentino (my boyfriend) – http://ayosaoi.wordpress.com/
Ferdz Decena – http://www.ironwulf.net/
Fredda Ruth Rosete – http://www.freddaruth.com/
Razaleigh Kate Jumawan – http://www.fourhappypeas.tumblr.com/
Kathleen Grace de Garcia – http://www.dasocialclimber.com/
Clement Dampal – http://www.bestspotsph.com/

Please note that this is not everyone. For those who are not in the picture, I will post their names and links as soon as I can get them.

By the way, we all received a shirt, an ID and a special gift pack!

Inside the paper bag are…

Revicon and Enervon to give us that added boost of energy for tomorrow’s waterfalling adventure; Alaxan and Biogesic to combat muscle injuries that might happen; Asian Secrets Lulur Indonesian Whitening Body Scrub to whiten our skin after being exposed for hours to harsh sunlight; Swish mouthwash to have fresh breath; and pH Care Intimate Wash because we need to feel fresh all the way down there too. Haha!

I want to especially mention the sponsors. If not for them, there will be no WAT 2.0!

Unilab
Jollibee
Iligan Paradise Resort
Jacko’s Kan-Anan
Silvestro’s
Calda Pizza
Red Planet
NPC Nature’s Park
Rent.ph
Tatay’s Grill
Greenwich
Jasmine Pensionne Home
Kopi Luwak
Keepsakes Iligan
GTC Gerona Town Center
Aruma Coffee Lounge
Perfect Wedding
Councilor Frederick Siao
Bob NY USA
Jesbey’s Diner
Delecta
Iligan de Piaya
Linamon’s Best
JCreations
New Horizon
Third Team Media
Iligan City Government
Iligan Chamber
IHARRA

That’s all for now and I gotta go because I have to be up early tomorrow morning. Bisous!

Davao-Gensan Trip Part 9: Swiss Deli and Restaurant

Posted on September 8, 2013October 7, 2018 by xerox

Just a walking distance from SM Lanang, we decided to take peek inside Swiss Deli and Restaurant.

Swiss Deli and Restaurant is simply the best source for delicious and authentic European food in Davao. They really have a LOT to offer. And when I say a lot, I mean…

They have a plethora of meat and cheeses to choose from. Varieties that I used to only see on cooking shows are here! All imported from Switzerland and Europe (most of them I can’t even spell HAHA).

Check out their shelf full of quality wine imported from different countries across the globe. They have more at the cellar. I regret to say that we weren’t able to take a look there.

They also have freshly baked bread and pastry up for grabs and a fridge full of desserts that I didn’t manage to get a photo of.

Some more choices of everything delicatessen.

And at this point I was just foaming in my mouth already. Chocolates, spreads, condiments… I could just go on and on and on! All the grocery items I have long lusted for… Were just right there in front of me. I felt so helpless that we couldn’t afford to purchase all of them. But we were not there to shop (trying not to sour grape here).

I really love their service. The wait staff were very professional and attentive.

I ordered Mediterranean Salad with penne (cooked al dente of course), lettuce leaves, onion, olives, tuna, tomatoes and cucumber tossed with vinaigrette. Simple, fresh and delicious!

My boyfriend ordered Veal Bratwurst Sausage with some mashed potatoes and veggies on the side. It was our first time to have veal so I really like how we were able to really taste the meat. No extenders. Just pure veal goodness. Never had sausage that good in my life! The best, really.

And for our dessert, we had Chocolate Mousse. Light, fluffy and had just the right amount of sweetness. A really nice treat to conclude our snack. Yes, not meal. Snack. HAHA. This was after CBTL. We’re such pigs, I know.

Serving world-class delectable meals at reasonable prices, Swiss Deli has impressed me on so many levels. Needless to say, we had a fantastic dining experience.

They’re open daily from 8AM to 10PM.
You can view or download their menu here.