Home Blog Page 481

Starbucks Cherry Blossom-Inspired Beverages + Tumblers now available in Cebu

0

From Japan to the Philippines!

Cool breeze, faded pink flowers, and new beginnings — the arrival of spring is one that is always anticipated by many especially in Japan. The rare sight of Sakura trees coming in full bloom lifts blissful spirits, signifying a unique sense of renewal and optimism. E\very year, Starbucks offers to bring that cherry blossom experience but always with its own twist.

This February, spring winds are beginning to blow cool air as Starbucks embraces the changing of the season with a cheerful menu of new favorites inspired by the sweet-smelling peach blossom.

SBUX20_AP-Spring20 PR Images

The Pink Peach Blossom Cream Frappuccino blended beverage is as pleasant as a bright sunny day. From the peach jelly infusion in the cream base, to the pink flower meringue topping, this Instagram-mable pink peach beverage tastes as delightful as it looks.

Starbucks also offers another sweet and refreshing variation with the Chocolate Black Tea Peach Blossom Cream Frappuccino blended beverage, which blends the aromatic black tea, creamy chocolate, and tart pink peach sauce. Indulge in this new season’s favorites and let these featured beverages bring you spring in a cup!

These are priced for ₱175 (tall), ₱190 (grande), and ₱205 (venti).

SBUX20_AP-Spring20 PR Images2

For those who want to spend their breezy days vigorous and full of energy, one can count on refreshing Starbucks Smooth Brr-ews.

Perfectly balanced with tart and tangy citrus, the new Yuzu Cold Brew is layered with flavor and texture that is crafted to deliver a smooth and satisfying cold brew experience. Yuzu is a highly aromatic citrus fruit popular in modern Japanese cuisine, which is usually an elevated ingredient across the region.

Another new offering is the Coconut Milk Cold Brew, which lays foundation on the Starbucks Signature Cold Brew, lightly sweetened and finished with a delicate float of coconut milk which cascades throughout the cup. This all new variant will be made available in select stores.

These are also priced for ₱175 (tall), ₱190 (grande), and ₱205 (venti).

Aside from the featured beverages, Starbucks also welcomes the cherry blossom season with charming merchandise blooming in Starbucks branches. Teeming with pastel pink hues, the new collection features the dreamy landscapes brought about by the soft and lovely textures of the Sakura.

Embrace the season of flowers at its fullest with the Spring Sakura Paper Card. Designed to add a delightful ray of sunshine, the pink card portrays the Sakura flower in detail. It will be available for an initial activation amount of P1000 per card.

Experience springtime in Starbucks starting February 18, and have a picture perfect moment as you feel the cheerful spring breeze.

Sergio’s Strawberry Farm in Dalaguete: The Strawberry Capital in the South

There’s one place in every Filipino’s mind when we think about ‘cool place’, and no, it’s not your air-conditioned bedroom but a destination where there are lots of pine trees and rice fields. Yes, it’s Baguio City! Aside from the tall trees and beautiful tourist spots around, there is one thing that Baguio is most famous about –a farm full of delicious strawberries!

However, do not fret if you do not have the time and enough savings to fly to Baguio because not many people know, we can actually experience a taste of Baguio in Cebu, at Sergio’s Strawberry Farm. And it’s situated right at the Summer Capital in the South.

The town of Dalaguete is regarded as the Summer Capital in the South because of its cold climate which prevails in Barangay Maloray and Barangay Mantalongon – the reason why the strawberry farm developed where visitors can freshly pick, purchase, and munch.

There are tables and chairs available where you can enjoy and order fruit-and-vegetable mixed salad. Aside from the strawberries, the farm also grow lettuce and other veggies

Make sure to schedule a visit to the famous strawberry farm in Cebu and see for yourself!

Note:

  • There are designated areas in the farm for picture-taking purposes.
  • Please follow the management’s “Clean As You Go” policy.

Rates & Other Information

Fees:

  • Entrance fee: ₱50 per head
  • Price of strawberries: ₱800/kilo

Other Information:

  • Opening hours: 8AM to 5PM on Saturdays and Sundays only (CLOSED on weekdays)
  • Contact numbers: 0906-610-0632 / (032) 273-7834
  • Social: Facebook Page

How to get there?

Exact Location: Brgy. Maloray, Dalaguete, southern Cebu — approx. 3 hours away from Cebu City.

BY BUS: From the South Bus Terminal, take a bus bound for Dalaguete, Cebu. Then, ask the conductor or bus driver to drop you off at Dalaguete Proper. Bus fare is ~₱120 (one-way).

From there, ride a motorbike (habal-habal) going to the Strawberry Farm. Standard fare is ₱150 per head (round-trip). Finally, as you arrive at the farm, pay for the entrance fee. Then, buy and savor!

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and search for “Sergio’s Farm” in Dalaguete.

Accessible and Affordable Samgyeopsal In The City

There are only 3 most important trends in the food world of Cebu and that is the hype of milk tea, unlimited chicken wings and, of course, the introduction of Samgyeopsal in our lives.

And to anyone who doesn’t know the magic word Samgyup, it is unlimited grilling of delicious meat. Formerly referring to grilled bacon strips, the term Samgyeop has evolved and is now the favorite word of every meat-loving Cebuano.

Deciding to eat samgyeop isn’t hard, choosing where to eat it is mind boggling. Well, don’t you worry because I might just have the list to help you decide.

Here’s the list of accessible and affordable restaurants found inside the SM Supermalls in Cebu.

Kogi-Q

There are many who would pledge loyalty to this restaurant for it is known for its affordability and credibility when it comes to Korean food, Korean grill and fine service.

One of the highlights of dining here would be to try their marinated beef and shrimp.

  • Rate: ₱399 per head – Eat & Grill All You Can
    • No leftovers (fine at P150/person)
  • Opening hours: 10AM to 9PM daily
  • Contact number: (032) 412 3357
  • Locations:
    • 2/F SM City Cebu
    • 3/F Sky Park, SM Seaside City Cebu

Seoul Korean Grill + Cuisine

If there is something that can defeat samgyeop, it’s Samgyeop paired with the infamous Korean liquor Soju. Samgyeop+Soju is the perfect combination that can be found in Seoul Korean which makes the experience not only mouth-watering but mouth-watering with a spike.

  • Rate: ₱350 per head – Unlimited Samgyeopsal
  • Contact number: 0927-039-5535
  • Location: G/F SM City Consolacion — in between Jonies and Leonas.

Lamujin

They have the perfect meat combo. Pork + Beef + Lamb.

If that won’t satisfy you, I don’t know what will. Their grilled lamb is supposed to be very tasty, you’d be stuffing yourself up in no time. It’s definitely a must-try.

  • Must-try: Lamujin’s famous Grilled Lamb for ₱890
  • Location: 3/F Sky Park, SM Seaside City Cebu

Tong Yang Plus

Shabu-shabu and Barbecue, Tong Yang Plus gives you the best of both worlds.

Their concept of fusion allows you to mix and add your favourites to your own shabu-shabu bowl. You just choose and grill away from their wide array of options – lean cuts of pork, chicken, beef, seafood, sausages, offal and many more.

  • Rates:
    • Weekdays Lunch: ₱538 + 5% service charge
    • Weekdays Dinner, Weekends Lunch & Dinner, Holidays: ₱638 + 5% service charge
    • Kids below 3FT: FREE
    • Kids 3FT-4FT: ₱178 + 5% service charge
    • Kids 4FT above: ₱348 + 5% service charge
  • Opening hours:
    • Mondays to Fridays
      • Lunch: 11:00 am – 2:30 pm
      • Dinner: 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm 
    • Saturdays and Sundays
      • Lunch: 11:00 am – 2:30 pm
      • Dinner: 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm 
  • Contact numbers: (032) 234 1888, (032) 234 2888
  • Location: Lower Ground Floor, Seaview Wing, SM Seaside City Cebu

Yakimix

Yakimix prides themselves of being a sushi, smokeless grill restaurant. Here you don’t only have meat but a buffet of sushi, sashimi, shrimps and many more.

Yakimix have a wide array of cuisines from Japanese to Chinese to Korean, to American, assuring you that you can fully take advantage of that feast.

  • Rates:
    • Mondays to Fridays
      • Lunch: ₱499 per head
      • Dinner: ₱599 per head
    • Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays
      • Lunch & Dinner : ₱599 per head
    • Children below 3ft: FREE
    • Children below 4ft: ₱299 per head
  • Contact numbers: (032) 343 7732/ 09771048726
  • Location: Upper Ground Floor, Mountain Wing, SM Seaside City Cebu

SB19 is coming to Cebu this February 22!

Cebu A’TINs, Wag niyong ikunot ang inyong noo because SB19 is coming to the Queen City of the South this weekend!

The first-ever P-Pop (Pinoy pop) boy group trained under a Korean entertainment company, SB19, is confirmed to perform for Pepsi Philippines’ special event, The Pepsi Taste Challenge, happening this February 22, 2020 (Saturday) at SM Seaside City Cebu.

Join SB19, Karencitta, Mandaue Nights, Pam Swing, and Ricci Rivero at the Mountain Wing Atrium of SM Seaside. Doors open at 11AM.

This 1-day event is for FREE, but you need to be at least 13 years old to join the event. Attendees below 18 years old are required to bring a guardian.

Cebuano marathoner Doc Yong is the first Filipino to finish the World Marathon Challenge

1

Truly the pride of Cebu!

CebuDoc Group of Hospitals President, Ophthalmologist Dr. Yong Larrazabal proudly announces his feat during a media conference in Cebu City as the first Filipino to finish the WORLD MARATHON Challenge – running 7 Marathons in 7 Continents in 7 Days.

From February 3 to February 12, marathoners ran the standard 42.2 km marathon distance each in Antarctica, Africa, Australia, Asia, Europe, South America and North America within 168 hours, or 7 days.

Participants ran in total of 295 km (183 miles) over the 7-day period and spend about 68 hours in the air.

Dr. Yong shows the medals he won during the competition

The World Marathon Challenge is a multievent marathon competition that started in 2015. The Guinness Book of Records also acknowledges the event for record setting purposes.

Trivia: Doc Yong is also the husband of celebrity actress and singer Donna Cruz. They already have four kids.

Cebu’s dancesports gold medalists’ dance cover of ‘Tala’ goes viral

Despite having been a banger in 2016, Sarah Geronimo’s “Tala” has only rose to fame in the last quarter of 2019. People of different ages and stages have been grooving to its iconic dance moves.

However, just when we have thought that its phase in the dancing arena has surpassed, here is yet another cover from our well-loved Cebuano champions. Unlike the other covers that have been circulating on the internet, Cebuanos surely like to take it up a notch – the dancesports way!

Philippines’ prides, Grand Champion in the Dancesport category (Salsa, Rumba, and Chacha) during the recently concluded SouthEast Asian Games: Pearl Marie Cañeda and Wilbert Aunzo, didn’t disappoint!

They made sure to groove in every move and sway along the way. They may have not copied the steps of the iconic “Tala,” they made sure it’s still worth watching and of course, sharing.

Trust me if I tell you, the “Tala” dance craze, as of this writing, is showing no signs of being buried in the hatchet. Yup, it’s not going to die down soon.

Watch the viral video below taken and posted by Jay-r de la Calzada:

Global shipbuilder Austal just built its Biggest Ferry ever in Balamban

0

Cebu is on its way to the top globally and is now making waves even in the shipbuilding industry.

The vehicle-passenger ferry, Fjord Line’s FSTR (Hull 419), is the largest aluminum vessel ever constructed and launched in the Philippines – and the largest (by volume) ever constructed by Austal, worldwide.

To be known as FSTR, this 109 metre high-speed catamaran ferry was launched by Austal Philippines in their shipyard in Balamban, Cebu.

Trivia: A catamaran is a multi-hulled watercraft featuring two parallel hulls of equal size. It is geometry-stabilized and derives its stability from its wide beam.

Hull 419 was made by approximately 1,000-strong Filipino shipbuilding team utilizing local skills and expertise in design, engineering and shipbuilding.

I am exceptionally proud of the entire Austal Philippines team. The launch of Hull 419 from our newly expanded shipyard is a significant event that highlights our capability to deliver multiple projects concurrently – safely and cost effectively.

– Austal Philippines President Wayne Murray

FSTR features:

  • Transporting 1,200 passengers
  • Speed: 40 knots (nautical mile per hour)
  • Carry 404 cars across two decks

Trending: Lambug White Beach in Badian, Southern Cebu

Saan nga ba talaga aabot ang 310 Pesos mo?

Cebu never fails to surprise us with its Instagrammable views yet affordable beaches. Lambug White Beach is undeniably one of the hottest go-to beach destinations this 2018. The crystal clear water, the great blue skies and the refreshing scenery will surely enthrall you.

No need to travel outside Cebu and spend thousands. With a pocket-friendly adventure to South, your feet will surely bring you to the Little Bora of Southern Cebu! What’s great about it? You will get to experience and enjoy the pristine white sand of Lambug White Beach in Badian. There’s an entrance fee of P45 per head, and tents are also allowed.

Let me give you a quick tour.

Lambug Badian Cebu (1)
Photo by Jerllan Randell Labora
Lambug Badian Cebu (5)
Photo by Jerllan Randell Labora

 
If you wish to stay overnight, you can bring your own tent or a mat “banig” (no charge) so you can truly enjoy stargazing the whole night. Just make sure to bring a blanket and a friend to ward off the chills.

Rates & Other Information

Fees

  • Entrance fee: ₱45 per head
  • Tent charge: ₱50 per head on weekdays, ₱150 /head on weekends (bring your own tent) — if you are staying near/in a resort.
  • Cottage: ₱500 per day
  • Bus fare: ₱140 /head
  • Tricycle: ₱30 /head

Contact information

Where to stay in Lambug Beach?

Lambug Beach Homestay

Lambug Beach Homestay
0916 762 0044
Starts at 500 PHP

CHECK RATES

Magic Beach Resort

 

Magic Beach Resort
0922 322 5168 / 0906 307 7210
Starts at 700 PHP

CHECK RATES

Grandeur Beach Resort

Grandeur Beach Resort
0926-278-9880 / 0933-338-3686
Starts at 1,000 PHP

CHECK RATES

5J Escarpe Lodge & Beach Resort

 

5J Escarpe Lodge & Beach Resort
0919-662-4673
Starts at 500 PHP

CHECK RATES

How to get there?

Exact location: Brgy. Lambug, Badian, Southern Cebu — 3 hours away from the city.

From the South Bus Terminal, take a bus going to Badian or Oslob. Fare is P140. Tell the bus driver to drop you off at the town center or “lungsod” of Lambug Badian. Travel time is approximately 3 hours.

From the town proper, ride a tricycle going to Lambug Beach. Fare is P30 per person. Travel time is 20-30 minutes.

You can park your car or motorcycles for a very minimal fee.

February 14: A Single’s Itinerary in Cebu

0

Being single on February 14 isn’t really a bad thing.

It’s just that this day makes us very aware of that — a “Single Awareness Day” as popularly called.

Well, I say this to every single person out there, and I mean all types of single: Valentine’s is not really equal to “Couples Day”, it is a Love Day. We can do whatever we want and celebrate this day in our own way.

And if you’re still not sure on what you’ll do, we’ve got you covered! Head down to our list and seize the day.

Enter Watsons

The “naa rakoy tan’awn” line has been wasted too much on this store.

Known as a trap for luring the ladies, with skin care products and essentials, Watsons (this is not a sponsored article btw) would be the store to lose yourself into. They have the “love yourself” essentials. Not just for the ladies but for the gents too, they might be shy about it but they definitely want some of that moisturizer masks.

Watsons at SM Seaside City Cebu

Pamper yourself

Look good and feel good. Instead of stressing it out, the sweetest revenge for all those couples out there is to take care of yourself. Dress nicely, go to a salon get a mani/pedi, a haircut. Have facials or better yet get a long nice massage. Flaunt that pampered and glowing you.

Also read: Top Eyelash Beauty Lounges in Cebu

Vi Vogue Cebu (1)
Vi Vogue in Mandaue City

Go to your choice of theme park

The wonderful thing about Cebu is, almost everything is within your reach. We have a collection of theme parks like the Cebu Ocean Park, WaterWorld Cebu, Cebu Safari & Adventure Park, and Anjo World Theme Park (including Snow World).

Whatever mood you are in, the splashing kind, the thrilling or cold, whatever company you keep, may it be the animals on land or of the deep seas. The good thing about these places is that you can go there alone, and still get the best experience. Fingers crossed, they are less likely to have love declarations.

Also read: Major Cebu Attractions to visit in 2020

Unplug and Binge your Netflix series

This is a subtle way to say stay at home.

Don’t connect into any social media and just live like an hermit. If you are the type of person who doesn’t really want to see or hear anything about Valentine’s, then you have to avoid it like the plague. Use this time then for more important things like finishing your favorite Netflix series.

Go on a hike

The greatest escape from Valentine’s comes with the best view. You will be least likely to see flowers and hearts here, and even the color red. The color dominating this activity would just be a nice and refreshing green.

Work out all those frustrations and have the perfect escape of the lovey, dovey city.

Also read: Katkat Goals: 6 Beautiful Peaks in Cebu for the Beginners

Meet up with your other single friends

Misery loves company. Kidding aside, being with them will make the day funnier, what with all the “chesmes” and life updates. You can be drunk as much as you want, and be the life of the party and there will be no one to stop you.

Also read: Top 10 KTVs / Karaoke in Metro Cebu

Reward yourself

Shop till you drop or shall I say, shop till your wallet drops. Valentine’s day is expensive for a person who’s in a relationship. But for singles? Money saved! You can splurge on yourself as much as you can. Reward yourself for all your struggles and hardwork in life. Before any love, there is self love.

Strut and shop.

Be the valentine

Buy flowers or gifts and give it to the people you love: your family, friends and workmates. Spread love and kindness. This action is actually very fulfilling and heart warming.

Love is love.

Also read: 6 Go-To Flower Shops in Cebu City

How to spend Valentine’s Day in Cebu without getting broke

0

Being with your significant other on Valentine’s Day sounds like a great idea.

However, not everyone can afford to spend thousands on a fancy dinner, a bouquet of flowers, a movie date, or a getaway.

Well, you don’t have to be indebted on Valentine’s Day to impress your babe. You can always have a good time on a budget.

Enlisted are 8 swoon-worthy ways to celebrate the Heart’s Day without having to go broke.

1. COOK YOUR FAVORITE DISH TOGETHER

You don’t have to go to a fancy restaurant to dine and savor your favorite dish. You can stay at home and cook your favorite dish together.

You can also discover and try different recipes. It’s surely going to be a fun and productive bonding while saving a lot of money.

2. GO HIKING

It is always best to find solace in this chaotic world. We all need to recharge ourselves to make sure we are still on the right track.

If you have no time to go to the nearest peak, just go to a walk with your significant other. Someplace quiet is always good for a conversation.

3. STARGAZE

To someone who has been so in love with a clear night sky, this is definitely my ideal date. If you share the same interest, go ahead and lay on your picnic blanket while watching the stars.

Check on the constellations. Who knows, you might also catch a falling star.

4. PLAY GAMES

You can always stay at home and just play cards, board games, dice games, or even Mobile Legends.

Maybe a ‘Never Have I Ever’ portion would be nice, too? Get to know your partner in depth this Valentine’s, okay?

5. EXCHANGE HANDMADE CARDS

If you’re one who appreciates the traditional way of courting and is very laidback, handwritten love letters are the way to go!

You can not only save much, you will also appreciate it more because of the effort having been put into it.

6. ADOPT/VISIT A PET

If you both like pets, you need not to give your partner one that has been bought from a pet shop and pay thousands for it.

You can always go to the nearest pet shop, adopt one, and take good care of it like your own baby. Else not, you can just visit these pets and play with them for the day.

Ralph & Gelai Laput

7. GO ON A ROADTRIP

You can always ditch the busy streets of Cebu and go somewhere North or South. You can also go uphill and enjoy the cold night breeze.

You can opt to just chill and talk about your future. Discuss things. Be mature.

Cebu has more than 100 Amazing Attractions you can visit.

8. SPEND QUALITY TIME

This is probably the most underrated and I must say is the most important. In this busy era, we’re so busy working for our future forgetting that we have already lost contact of the people around us.

This is the best time for you to reflect and discuss about your future plans. You can also talk about your finances and cuddle thereafter. It’s always nice to cap the day with a mature conversation.