Make Iloilo a City Wonder

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Oks Na ang Riverside Beach Resort 'Pag may B-day

Hiniwat namin ang ikawalumpu't taong kaarawan ng aking lola sa Riverside Beach Resort sa Trapiche, Oton, Iloilo. Dito sa Oton, matatagpuan ang iilang mga resort na madali lang mapuntahan ng mga tao mula sa lungsod at sa iba pang mga karatig na munisipalidad. Kung nais nilang mag-relax kasama ng malamig na simoy ng hangin at maaliwalas at mapayapang tanawin ng baybayin, marami-rami ng mga beach resorts ang maaaring pagpilian sa lugar alinsunod sa mga serbisyo na gustong matanggap ng mga kustomer.

Magaan sa loob na isiping hindi napapabayaan ang mga baybayin ng Oton. Dahil sa pag-aalaga ng mga residente sa yamang tubig na ito, nagkakaroon ng masagang pagbabago. Maraming nahuhuling mga isda, talaba, pusit, at iba pang pagkaing pandagat na maaaring pagkunan ng pamumuhay. Nagsisitayo rin ang mga seafood restaurants sa lugar kaya't nagkakaroon ng trabaho ang mga tao rito. Basta't napapanatili ang kalinisan ng ating kapaligiran, marami ang maidudulot na positibo nito hindi lamang sa kalikasan ngunit pati na rin sa mga mamamayan nito.

Sa Riverside Beach Resort, bagama't mura ay may mga magaganda at matitibay na mga cottages ito na may iba't-ibang mga sukat - may mga malalaki para sa malaking pamilya na gustong magsalu-salo at may mga maliliit din na silong para sa barkada.

Kung nais niyong mag volleyball, may mga puno ng niyog na maaaring pagsabitan ng net. Sa malaking espasyo sa pagitan ng mga ito ay maaari nang maglaro ng naturang isport. Magaling na ideya rin ang pagpapalipad ng saranggola malapit sa baybayin.

Mahaba-haba din naman ang linya ng buhangin ng baybayin kaya't malayang magtampisaw sa malinis nitong tubig. Huwag lang lumangoy papalayo dahil wala namang life guard ang magmamatyag at magbabantay sa mga lumalangoy bente kwatro oras.

Swak itong puntahan ng mga nagtitipid sapagkat ang presyo ng isang cottage ay nagkakahalaga mula 150 php pataas at maaari pang magdala ng mga pagkain na pagsasalu-saluhan. Sa Oton mismo ay marami ng mga tindahan at mga restwarant na pwedeng pagbilhan ng mga talaba at iba pang pagkaing pandagat kaya't siguradong busog ang tiyan ng lahat.

Kung nais namang magbanlaw pagkatapos ng paglalangoy,  may poso naman na maaaring paliguan. Siyempre, dapat cowboy lang kung nais niyong dito mag-beach sapagkat hindi naman ito tulad ng mga mamahaling mga resort kung saan merong world-class na mga amenities at kung anu-ano pang mga water sports activities. Yung nga lang, hindi masyadong malinis yung mga comfort rooms pero mapagtiya-tiyagaan naman. Saan ka pa sa limang piso na entrance fee, hindi ba?

Kung gusto niyong mag-bonding at mag-chillax sa hindi gaanong ka-bonggang budget, tamang-tama na ang resort na ito. Kung habol lang naman ninyo ay maaliwalas na tanawin, preskong hangin, at malamig at malinis na baybayin, magandang choice na ang Riverside Beach Resort. Enjoy na yun. Maaari pa kayong magpicture-picture sa pang-photoshoot na lokasyong ito.

Cooling It Down at Grotto Vista Resort, Bulacan

         From Manila, my two cousins and I went to Bulacan to meet another cousin and to take a swim in a popular pool situated there. It was scorching hot in Manila that we just wanted to dip our bodies into the cold water and release the accumulated heat that was waiting to burst out from our sweltering systems.

          From Quiapo, we rode an FX that dropped us at SM Fairview. My guy cousin, who is battling mood swings and pimples due to adolescence, decided to buy a board short from the mall’s department store.  We searched by the racks as well as by the tables where a lot of shorts were stacked on. Nothing caught his fancy. If there was, it would either be too big or too small for him.    Luckily, the statue wearing a board short which according to my instinct, would be the perfect fit, caught my attention. We then asked the salesgirl if we could try the one that the dummy was wearing. She did agree, stripping off the short from the mannequin and when my cousin tried it, it was exactly the one he’s looking for.

          What I loved about SM City Fairview was that it closely resembled SM City Iloilo that visiting the former made me feel I’m home again. Plus, Fairview had boutiques I couldn't find from other SM branches.  You’ll just love to drop by Jewels and Chemistry for awesome fashion finds. The mall also offered fun rides and exciting arcades at the top floor.

          Before we could head to our main destination, we first dined at Mang Inasal located at the Robinson’s Mall just right across SM. After we filled our tummies with unlimited rice, yummy chicken inasal, and sizzling sisig, we excitedly rushed outside for a transportation that would drive us to Grotto Vista. We found a jeepney labeled with “Grotto” that brought us directly to the resort.

          For a fare of 17 php each, we had arrived at Grotto Vista Resort,  Bulacan’s Premier Resort and San Jose del  Monte’s Pride. I was awestruck by the numerous people going to and fro the resort. When we get there, a show was going on right in front of what seemed to be their largest pool.  The show  was led by funny hosts who entertained the visitors through cracking a lot of jokes and who facilitated activities audience get to participate into.

          We paid 160 php each for the entrance fee since we decided to do night swimming as it was getting dark anyway. We were also given a key for a locker where we stored our bags and other necessities like our cellphones and wallets.

          The resort comprised of many pools but some only operate through private reservations such as the Covered Pool, Scenic Pool, and the Private Pool which could be rented for 12 hours.  Two pools were opened that day, the Galleon Ship and the Island Kiddie Pool. The first one, I guess, was the widest. Right in its middle, a huge archetypical ship complete with sails was built for swimmers to play into. Long, curvy slides descended from the top of the ship and from the rooftop patio located at the side of the pool. This pool was just right for the whole family to bask into especially for the kids since it only reached about  4-5 feet. Most of the deep pools were only open for reservations.

          We also tried the Island Kiddie Pool.  Just like the Galleon Ship, the height of this pool’s water also just reached to about 4-5 feet. But what’s special about this pool was its showers that fall from the pillars and from the Mushroom-like structures which could be your perfect spot to just sit down under its shade while letting the water pour upon your tired feet.

          A long, winding slide was also situated at the edge of the pool while shorter slides are built in a tree-like structure in the middle where a bridge connected to the foot way.

          We took most of our time swimming in the Island Kiddie Pool because I just loved the downpour of the showers and although smaller than the Galleon Ship,  it wasn’t that crowded compared to the latter. I enjoyed dipping with my cousins and how could we not take pictures, right? Summer with a splash of cool water on your skin has always been this ecstatic!

          There were also a line-up of food stands right at the entrance. Rooms were also available for overnight stay. There were large and small cottages to gather a family or a barkada. Videoke machines were also ready to function for those who love to belt out.

          After my cousins and I felt as if the heat within our bodies had completely vaporized, we then packed up, ready to leave for our next stop- meet another cousin and chat the night away.

The Avengers Paraphernalia at MOA

         I went to SM Mall of Asia yesterday and guess what, I met Thor and Iron Man of The Avengers! Too bad they're not breathing since they're just human-size statues waiting for their fans to take pictures with them. But up close, it seemed as though they're real,  equipped to save someone's life from danger. It was funny how a kid's eyes bulged in surprise when he's head was already close to Iron Man's face the moment he was carried by his father for picture taking.

         There were a lot of  cool Avenger miniature toys and collectibles that were displayed in the glass shelves. Some toys were also for sale. Of course, the children were really awed by all these fictional heroes coming to life. But the adults, especially the big guys, couldn't also take their eyes off from the various Avenger characters that come in different entertaining sizes and shapes.

These miniature toys re-enact a thrilling fight.

I am with the invincible Thor.

Captain America collectibles! Awesome!

You're the man, Iron Man!

Cute Captain America toys on display

Who said The Hulk cannot flash a smile?

Summer at the Mall

          When the heat being emitted by the summer sun just seems to be intolerable, Filipinos have a better , most common way to combat such – malling!

          That’s what my cousins and I exactly did. We strolled  at SM Megamall where people unstoppably swarmed its stores and restaurants. Truly, malling is a surefire way to escape the steamy atmosphere at home and in the streets.

          I have always loved window-shopping.  My eyes are entertained by all these cool stuff that allure me to cash out some moolah from my pocket. When temptation lurks, all I need is a little self-control, buying only the things that are of importance. But just because one doesn’t go home with bags of new clothes and shoes, it doesn't mean he can no longer enjoy malling. In fact, just by cooling oneself as he walks past different stalls is already an entertaining recreation most especially when he’s with family and friends.  

          My cousins and I first filled our hungry tummies with the tasty, superbly meaty Mexican Chicken from El Pollo Locco. Seriously, I just couldn’t get enough of this delicious chicken.

         Then, after being energized with a fulfilling food, we just strolled through shops and department stores.  I bought a transparent spectacle on sale so that I could transform into the nerdy me when the mood arises.

         Afterwhich, we just headed to Papemelroti, a store that sells recycled paraphernalia and keepsakes such as this awesome little notebook and this simple, inspiring organizer (picture below) I purchased for just a cheap price.

         Well, I didn’t spend my summer by the beach but I did happily spend it in a place where families and friends usually come together to chill away from the scorching heat. I spent my summer at the mall and honestly, I liked it.

Cinderella Searches Her Shoes

           My cousin and I went to Glorietta mall because she was planning to buy a new pair of shoes. Before we could start the hunt, we first snack out at McDo. I ordered their new Iced Coffee for an upper.

McDo's gift for coffee lovers.

          Afterwhich, we strolled and strolled, and our feet were getting weary of going from the department stores to boutiques just to find the perfect pair. Whenever we went inside one shop, my eyes would instinctively look for a chair or bench just so my toes could rest for awhile.  "Cinderella" had been searching for what she thought would be the exact fit and style but we had already roamed the neighboring malls, Greenbelt and SM, yet it seemed it wasn't her lucky day after all.
           It wasn't a good day too for my bladder since I kept going to the toilet almost every hour and I didn't know why. Maybe because I was eating a lot of sweets lately that my sugar might have shoot up.
          Our day wasn't that bad, I may say. Though our feet were almost giving up from all the trudging from one mall to another, we still enjoyed laughing and chatting while we visit many cool stores with cool finds. Too bad we just had to stare at them and dream they were all ours...hahaha. We also treated ourselves with a scrumptious lunch at Hen Lin, Greenbelt branch. I liked their fried sharksfin which came with rice for 51 php only. My cousin got herself a lumpia meal which also tasted good.

An affordable yet satisfying meal at Hen Lin.

           Cinderella didn't go home with the shoes she was yearning, but I guess, life's like that. It's the journey that's important, not the destination. We had fun going around Makati and that's the fulfillment a brand new shoes cannot similarly give.

Meet-up at SM City Lazaro

          I met with my friends, Glaiza and Emrose, at SM Lazaro for a quick malling and catching up with one another. Being here in Manila isn’t easy when it comes to travelling from one place to another especially if you’re new in the metro just like me. Unlike Iloilo City, Manila is puzzling me with the twists and turns of its roads and it would obviously be tough for me to memorize it for one day. But I guess, given the time (and the map!), I can probably master it. For as long as you’re alert and know how to ask questions, I think you’ll probably adapt with the busy yet alive environment.

          SM City Lazaro. This was my goal destination for the day.  I passed by the U-belt but the jeepney didn’t went further towards Quiapo because the route was closed due to an anticipated rally perhaps. The heat was just super hot, my sweat was dripping on my head. 

           I didn’t know what to ride next, so, after a few walks, I rode a taxi going to our meeting place. SM City Lazaro really looked so close with SM City Iloilo but of course, the former had stores that you could not find in the latter.

          With just one day left in Manila, my friends bought some souvenir items and they just found it at the Blue Magic store. The boutique offered a lot of gift items at reasonable prices such as cute and huggable stuff toys, handcrafted accessories, quirky greeting cards, and wooden paraphernalias painted with inspiring messages. The store was just the perfect haven for giveaways in various special occasions. I also found rosaries with beads coinciding with the different birthstones, artistically designed pens and pencils, jelly toy rats to pull off a prank to someone, and scrolls made of fabric with good poems written on them. Bags, wallets, purses, and cellphone accessories were also available.

         After some strolling, we of course, took our meal and we decided to feast on Burger King. We had their 135-peso combo consisting of  BBQ burger, fries, soda, and ice cream.  Yummy!

        Afterwhich, we just parted ways knowing that we’ll see each other again in Iloilo. They actually had plans of going to Tagaytay the next day.

         I wished I could go with them but unfortunately, It would be a little hard for me. I just imagined how cool it would be to visit Tagaytay. You can just chill away from the scorching sun and take pleasure in watching lush green trees. But for now, I’ll enjoy my stay in Manila and be amazed with the freshness it can offer my eyes. And yes, enjoy good food!

Summer Fun at Fleur De Liz Swimming Pool

          Who says living in the relaxed town of Sta. Barbara, Iloilo would deprive you with the thrill of swimming this summer?
          Fleur de Liz Complex, located at the heart of the municipality, does not only comprise of karinderyas, boutiques, and internet stations but it also has a swimming pool that will surely cool you up this hot season.
          My younger sister celebrated her birthday here and we completely had a blast. Its rectangular pool is large enough for swimmers to have a fun splash and to do as many laps as they want. It also has a circular kiddie pool wherein my cousins and I played "ura ura kamansi (pool version)". The "it" chases us but is only allowed to move along the edges of the pool and at the assumed line that crosses at the middle.
          A videoke machine is also ready to use for those chilling by the tables so those who do not feel like swimming may just enjoy singing their hearts out.
          Swimming fee costs 50 Php, same as the price when you like to get a table for you and your company.

         

Amigo Plaza Iloilo Made Me Smile

            The renovation of Iloilo Amigo Plaza Mall made it hipper and more spacious for its customers to shop in. It is actually filled with fashion boutiques from which you can choose a variety of trendy clothes, shoes, and accessories. Branches of Mang Inasal, Bench, and Blue Jay Cafe' are also located inside. Adjacent to it is a grocery stop where I love to eat siopao for a quick fix to my hungry stomach.
            If you want to sit for a bit to stretch those tired feet, there is also a small bakeshop situated within where you can take a break and munch a yummy bread or two. I just love how this simple pasyalan looked so fresh and relaxing to the eyes. If you want to cool down from the heat and pollution brought by the city, anyone can just pass here and stroll for a while. And yes, I admire its comfort rooms - clean, wide, and stylish. A sort of a lotto game is also played here where you can get lucky enough to go home with big bucks. I tried to play twice but sorry, luck wasn't on my side on that certain day. It's funny how you wish all the numbers you've marked will show up on the screen.

            I kind of missed the old Amigo though. When I was in highschool, my friends and I bought our flutes for our music class in one of the Chinese stores housed here before. And we also used to purchase some cheap exchanged gifts in a store located on the 2nd floor of the Old Amigo. Unfortunately, I don't know where those shops transferred.
            With the cool ambience and lots of finds to scour, plus the company of great friends, Amigo Plaza surely made me smile.