Le Spa at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

Due to our cancelled Calaguas trip, I had decided to have a "me" time at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila. Last week, I had just won a gift  certificate for a one-hour signature massage at Le Spa (yes, call me lucky!) and I thought this is the perfect time to use it.

I arrived at Le Spa thirty minutes before my appointment. Warm interiors with a modern feel welcomed me into the spacious lounge. I was then asked if I want to use the wet area, and of course, who am I to say no! The lady at the reception led me to the wet area, gave me a robe and taught me how to encode my pin number onto the high-tech locker.

Tip: Go to Le Spa an hour before your schedule if you want to make the most out of your stay at the wet area. This way, you can indulge in soothing Jacuzzi, or pampering steam/sauna.

I quickly changed into my robe, had a shower and drank a glass of cold water. Afterwards, I went straight to the steam bath.

Take your pick: steam or sauna?

I was the only one inside the steam room so I indulged in the relaxing warm room for about 10 minutes. I sniffed the warm steam, as if I am doing some kind of breathing exercises during a Bikram class. For me, this is the best steam bath I've ever had. Just the right steam. Not suffocating. The doors were easy to open. Just push it outwards! I remember there was a time whenI was in another spa and the steam was too intense that I couldn't breathe anymore. And worst, when I was trying to open the door, it wouldn't open! Only to find out that it's a sliding door that needs a forceful sideward pull to open! Good thing I didn't pass out!

Steam

After that soothing steam bath, I took a plunge into the warm Jacuzzi. It was so relaxing! I indulged for another 10 minutes. The water was warm, not hot. The pressure is enough to softly knead your aching muscles. Best of all, it can comfortably fit a group of five to seven people, perfect if you're throwing a bridal shower, or a girl's day out.

Jacuzzi

Afterwards, I had my last stop at the sauna. I brought a glass of water inside as I knew it can be dizzying sometimes due to the dry, hot air inside. While I was lying down in this inviting sauna, I couldn't help but miss hot flow yoga. I wish I can get back to practice soon.

Sauna

At 4:00 pm, I was already in the lounge, waiting for my therapist to lead me to my room. But before I continue my story, let me share with you some photos of one of Le Spa's breathtaking rooms, which I got the chance to see last week during the Spiral press launch.

The room at the second floor of Le Spa has its own bath tub and steam bath. If you are a couple and wants to spend some time together while watching the famed Manila sunset, then better book this treatment room at around 4:00  to 6:00 pm.

There's also a private veranda where you can chill out before or after your treatment. In their spa menu, there's what they call:

 “Duo” Couple’s Romantic Ritual

Indulge in a 3-hour use of a romantic couple’s suite with a choice of a 90-minute Marrakech Sweetness or Filipino Pride massage for two; includes a bottle sparkling wine, decadent pralines and a sensuous bath ritual.

Priced at Php 6,000 

Imagine watching the sunset while indulging in sparkling wine and pralines after your massage. Or, if you want to go the extra mile, then stay overnight with:

Jardin D’ Eden

A 3-hour World’s best or Local favorite Massage for couples and overnight accommodation at Sofitel with breakfast for two.

Price at Php 12,800

It would have been nice to share this romantic rejuvenating experience with your loved one. I want to do this on Valentine's Day or our next anniversary! =)

Enough for daydreaming and let's get back to reality. The therapist led me to my single room at the second floor. From its windows, I can see the large pool and the Manila Bay, of course. The minute we entered the room, she asked me what music do I prefer. Among the choices (classical, jazz, nature, ethnic), I chose nature, and I must say I love it. The music resembles the soothing waves of the sea and the refreshing air that envelopes the trees. It reminded me of my massage experience at the payag-payag in Bluewater Sumilon (click here), where I fell asleep to the natural sound of the breeze and waves.

Foot wash

The therapist gave me a foot wash, with some sea salt from the Dead Sea as sanitizer. This one alone was relaxing. The foot wash lasted for about 10 minutes. Afterwards, she started on my one-hour signature massage. When I asked what oil do they use, she said it's sweet almond oil. The scent was very mild for my liking, as I am used to lemongrass, green tea or virgin coconut oils.

Single room

The massage was fantastic with the right pressure especially on my back. She put a  hot towel afterwards which I really like. Again, I fell asleep. And after awhile, I woke up when I heard the sound of a bamboo rainmaker, which she said they usually use to mark the end of the massage. Cool!

The rainmaker that they use to mark the end of the treatment

When the massage was over, she offered me some organic Da.u.de mango tea which I also like! It's naturally sweet due to the natural flavors of mango, but I bet there's no sweetener added on it. Yum!

I went out of the  room relaxed and recharged. How I wish I can go back  soon. It was really one of my best spa experiences in the Philippines!

MAC Cremesheen in Creme Cup

Last year was all about bold, hot, pink lipsticks for me. Talk about NARS Schiap and MAC Pink Nouveau as my daily power lipstick. I just adore how it brightens my face even without any other makeup involved. But after awhile, I kinda got tired of my Barbie pink lippies so I looked for something pale. And so I learned about MAC Cremesheen in Creme Cup (Rustans, Php 1000).

 

 

It was my first time to try a MAC Cremesheen lipstick and I must say I am loving it. It is not matte nor glossy, just somewhere in between, thus, it isn't drying but still has good staying power. MAC's Pink Nouveau has a Satin finish and it has a nice amount of moisture when you apply it. But mid-day I noticed that it tends to clump on my lips, making it look cracked. That's not the case with MAC Creme Cup. It feels like a lip balm with a nice color payoff.

 

 

Pros:

Nice pale pink color perfect for daily use, or to pair with bold or smokey eyeshadows

Good staying power. I reapply after 4 hours or after eating

Not drying

Nice smell

Cons:

Can look too washed-out when worn alone. Ideally, it should be worn with a statement blush or bold/smokey eye makeup

Price can turn some off (not me, definitely!)

 

lip swatch under flourescent lighting

hand swatch

With my satisfaction with MAC Creme Cup, I am now eyeing MAC Shy Girl or Ravishing as my next lippie haul. Help me choose please! I am NC30. =)

Having A Ball

MGR in red ball dress by Renan Pacson
Awit ng Ibong Adarna necklace by Palamuti by PJ Valenciano
Makeup by Chuchie Ledesma for Creations by Lourd Ramos
Hair by Jay-Ar for Creations by Lourd Ramos

Last November 17, 2012, I had the privilege of being part of Manila's most anticipated charity ball of the year - the 11th Philippine Tatler Ball - held at the Rizal Ballroom of the Makati Shangri-la Hotel. Just like in the past years, the well-heeled society congregated to the opulent venue in their most alluring evening gowns and suits. 

The night before the ball, we already had our hair colored and trimmed at Creations by Lourd Ramos in Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City. I was so happy with my new hair color (base: mocha brown, low lights: dark ash brown). Trimming my locks also gave it more volume and subtle, sexy waves, which I actually love.

The night before the ball

On the day of the ball, I had to go back to Creations to have my hair and makeup done. I was actually planning to do my own hair and makeup but decided last minute to have it done professionally at a salon. Chuchie, the makeup artist did a neutral smokey eye look for me complemented by pale nude lips. She had also put some falsies (a first time for me) which really made my eyes look dramatic. I hope I can replicate it on my own! For my hair, Jay-ar rolled my locks into big velcro rollers for some big sexy curls. Nice!

Subtle smokey eyes and pale lips plus sexy curls!

My friend , Renan Pacson, made me a bustier dress with full bias skirt in metallicized silk tafetta, while PJ Valenciano had created a red and black Awit ng Ibong Adarna necklace and earrings to complement my gown. 

Awit ng Ibong Adarna by Palamuti

The design is inspired by a mythical bird from Philippine literature “Ibong Adarna” by Francisco Balagtas. It has simple swirling patterns perfect for the ball's Chinoiserie theme. The necklace can actually be worn to add flair to a plain white or black shirt. 

The night was full of gastronomic masterpieces, overflowing wine and champagne, entertainment, and of course, a charity auction for the benefit of Sa Aklat Sisikat Foundation. 

________________________________________________________________________________

Renan Pacson

www.renanpacson.com 

Twitter:: https://twitter.com/RenanPacson

Youtube:: http://www.youtube.com/renanpacson

+63 917 498 3831

Palamuti by PJ Valenciano

www.pjvalenciano.com

http://palamutishop.com

https://www.facebook.com/palamutibypjvalenciano

pjvalenciano@palamutishop.com

+63 917 8607193

+63 2 9641997

The Mandarine Reflexology and Spa at The Bellevue Manila

On our first night at The Bellevue Manila, our itinerary includes a pampering one-hour massage at the Mandarine Reflexology and Spa. 

The spa is located at the third floor of the Tower Wing where the pool and the poolside bar are also located. We were welcomed by warm interiors in shades of red, yellow and black. 

While waiting for our room to be ready, we were served two cups of tea. The tea was not too hot nor cold, just enough to awaken our senses before a rejuvenating retreat.

After awhile, we were led to our room, a couple's room that is. It is spacious enough to fit two beds and a small bed for my toddler (where she stayed the whole time playing her Dad's cellphone). There was also a huge flat television, so my daughter indulged in Nickelodeon for the time being.

Clean robes, shorts and towels are provided, and the sheets and pillows are all sanitary.  The room smells like a fusion of green tea and peppermint, which I both love. I asked the therapist to dim the lights so that I can take a nap while I'm having a massage.

The one-hour massage started with a few kneading to prepare the muscles to a more relaxing experience later on. I commend the therapist for using just enough pressure (I like it hard on my back and medium on the rest). She also placed a warm herbal pillow on my back which is so relaxing! I swear after that I wanna look for that herbal pillow and buy it for myself. We were, however, not able to see the shower rooms and the jacuzzi at the Mandarine Spa. I guess that's not part of the treatment. It would've been nice to stay in the jacuzzi for a few minutes before indulging in a pampering massage.

 

After our rejuvenating massage at the Mandarine Spa, we checked out the poolside and we were so amazed by the kois swimming in a little pond there. They are so big and vibrant!

The poolside also offers a nice view of the city's skyscrapers. Its vibrant lights complete the mood.

The poolside bar offers drinks, cocktails and snacks while you indulge in the Olympic-sized pool, or your toddlers enjoy in the kiddie pool adjacent to it. Good music and a smoothie will definitely make your day at the poolside!

Overall, our spa experience was a blast. So, if you happen to be in the south, why not pass by the Mandarine Spa at The Bellevue Manila.

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The Bellevue Manila

North Bridgeway, Northgate Cyberzone, Filinvest Corporate City, 

Alabang, Muntinlupa City

For more inquiries, please contact 7718181 or email tbmnl@thebellevue.com

Special thanks to Mr. Ryan Chan and Ms. Jehn Domingo for this wonderful staycation

Our Birthday Staycation at The Bellevue Manila

The grandiose lobby connecting the main and tower wings

Every year, my husband and I would always have what we call a "birthday trip". Two years ago, we went to Puerto Princesa before the Underground River was declared as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Last year, we survived the paradisal Caramoan Peninsula. This year, we decided to postpone our birthday trip to El Nido until early November in time for the long weekend. But, when we were invited to stay at The Bellevue Manila, it just seems too good to say no. Lo and behold, we decided to have a birthday staycation in the city.

Artful wall accents in vibrant colours

The Bellevue Manila is located at the heart of Alabang in Filinvest Corporate City. Its name is derived from the French words "belle" that means beautfiul, and "vue" which means view. 

It is about  a 45-minute drive from Makati City, or even less if you're taking the Skyway. Or, you may also opt to commute by boarding any Alabang-bound bus from EDSA or Osmena Blvd. Alight across Starmall and walk through the terminal near Festival Mall where vans that go inside Filinvest Corporate City are located. Fare is Php 10. It will bring you right at the doorsteps of The Bellevue Manila.

The charming elevator lobby

The reception area of The Bellevue Manila is located at the Tower Wing (the other one being the Main Wing). The warm smiles of the staff will welcome you as they assist you on a smooth check-in. A charming staff in a beautiful long dress assisted us to the Tower Grand Deluxe - our room for the night.

We were so surprised when the lady showed us complimentary wine and cheese, and a delectable birthday cake waiting for  us in our room! How sweet of them! There was the award-winning Manny O Agapitos Branco and a plate of cheeses. They must have known that I can eat cheese for breakfast, lunch and dinner! I particularly like the one wrapped in herbs.The white wine stays true to its description,  a nose of tropical fruits with a refreshing soft acidity. Nice choice for The Bellevue Manila, I must say.

A birthday treat from The Bellevue Manila

The 46-square meter Tower Grand Deluxe room is the biggest among the deluxe category. It is a corner room so it gives a panoramic view of the city. It also has a plush king-sized bed with pillows that are so soft they will lure you to sleep. I do not know how The Bellevue Manila knew that we will be coming in with Akisha, my 3-year old toddler, but a small bed was waiting for her when we got inside the room. Talk about personalized service! These people must have done their research on us very well. Thumbs up! 

The spacious room with a plush king-sized bed

We were also welcomed by a complimentary fruit basket and a note card from Mr. Ryan Chan, the Corporate Director for Communications and Marketing of The Bellevue Resorts. Sir, maraming salamat! Indeed, we had a pleasant and enjoyable stay at The Bellevue Manila. Two coupons for a complimentary welcome drink were also handed to us. The drinks can be claimed at the poolside bar and at the Vue Bar at the 22nd floor of the Tower Wing. The bar boasts a 360-degree view of the city and a state-of-the-art light and sound system.

Welcome fruit basket

The bathroom and bedroom is separated by a glass panel, a drama that I like actually. There is a tub for a relaxing warm bath, and a rain shower. Premium Acca Kappa bath amenities are also available. I particularly like the White Moss Glycerine soap which I use up to now for my face. 

The glass panel separates the bathroom from the rest 

A rainshower in the sleek bathroom

Acca Kappa bath amenities 

From one of our windows, a panoramic view of the city and The Bellevue Manila's Olympic-sized swimming pool can be seen, while on the other, a picturesque view of sunrise in the morning.

The Bellevue Manila is a perfect nook when you want to somehow be "away" from the metro without actually leaving the city. I actually thought the location is inaccessible, but after we went there in less than an hour via the Skyway, I was quite amazed at how near the place is, and how convenient it is to commute from Makati. Plus, the location isn't as busy as Makati or Ortigas, so you will really feel like you are not in the city at all. It is very family-friendly so no need to worry about tagging your kiddos along. I am sure, The Bellevue Manila is also a nice place to celebrate the upcoming long weekends and even Christmas! 

Take advantage of their ongoing October promo rate of Php 5,500 nett per night on a Tower Deluxe room, or Php 10,000 nett for two consecutive nights or two rooms both overnight. 

More of our birthday staycation soon! So, stay tuned!

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The Bellevue Manila

North Bridgeway, Northgate Cyberzone, Filinvest Corporate City, 

Alabang, Muntinlupa City

For more inquiries, please contact 7718181 or email tbmnl@thebellevue.com

Special thanks to Mr. Ryan Chan and Ms. Jehn Domingo for this wonderful staycation

Avon Simply Pretty Haul

 Due to insistent public demand, Avon brought back its  iconic Simply Pretty Lip and Cheek Tint in roll-on bottles. Currently, it has two shades (top to bottom): Cherry Pop and Pink Blush.

Of the two shades, Pink Blush is still my favorite. It gives a pinkish, natural pop of color to my cheeks and lips. Honestly, Cherry Pop doesn't even show up on my skin. It is not pigmented so I only use Pink Blush. I got these two on sale at Php 99 each.

I also got Avon Simply Pretty Shine No More Dual Powder Foundation in Natural. I've been reading raves about it, and some even compared this to MAC Studio Fix. However, I don't see this as something at par with MAC. Why? Here are some reasons:

1. It has limited shades (only three if I remember it right). I got  Natural which is still too light and has an inappropriate undertone for me. I'm NC30 by the way. The other shades like Soft Bisque and Almond are also too light.

2. It has medium to light coverage, unlike MAC which can withstand even warm spotlights.

3. It has poor staying power. Mine only lasts two hours when applied dry and three hours when applied wet. So, the tendency is, I had to reapply more often. This eventually results to caking at the end of the day.

4. It has so-so oil control. I'd rather have Fashion 21's Tea Tree Oil Powder Foundation to control my oilies than use this one.

Hope this helps!

MUJI to GO Returns

My favorite Japanese lifestyle brand brings back MUJI to GO, highlighting 50 selected useful items for smart travel. As a frequent flier, it is very important for me to have travel essentials that are compact, convenient and functional, and all these can be found in MUJI.

Here's a peek at my favourite MUJI to GO items this season: 

Hard Carry Case Luggage

Made of durable and lightweight polycarbonate, this travel case provides supreme comfort with its 360-degree turning wheels and an adjustable carry bag to fit any height. Available in 3 sizes: 33L, 56L and 72L. I personally like the one in the middle. It looks classy allowing you to travel in style.

Suitcase Belt with TSA Lock

A durable strap that has a snug and strong fit around Muji’s Hard Carry Case, this is created to hold and secure your luggage with a built-in TSA lock. Having had some bad baggage mishandling experience with some airlines, this strap is heaven-sent for me.

EVA Pouch

Made of strong and sturdy plastic material, this pouch can give extra protection to small, delicate belongings such as accessories and cosmetics. Perfect for my kikay stuff!

Shrink Wrap T-Shirts

Wear comfortable shirts with crinkles that add interesting texture and distinctive look. Pack it into a compact, cube shape for a convenient and discrete fit inside your suitcase. This is genius! I can conveniently pack several pieces of this without the bulk, plus, no need to worry about ironing it as it already looks good as is.

Deodorant Case 

As a storage case, its special features is its deodorizing property that reduces odor of dirty clothes. It is also suitable to separate clean clothes from dirty ones inside your suitcase. Nice especially if you'll be bringing home your dirty, soaked clothes in your luggage.

Well-Fitting Beaded Neck Cushion

Known as Muji to Go’s Best Selling item, this travel pillow provides support to your neck and back when going on long flights or road trips. Never mind long haul flights, as long as I am comfy with this pillow!

Mobile Speakers

Bring your music with you through these foldable speakers with a built-in amplifier for great effects. Connection cord can be packed neatly away inside the speaker for protection and packing purposes. Perfect for my mp3 player!

What about you, have you chosen your top MUJI to GO items already? 

Go, travel in style and comfort!