En Route

Our Great Binondo Food Trip

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Goal Setting

lynneenroute — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 01:24:27 +0000

[caption id="attachment_18" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Photo courtesy of www.northern.edu/.../Eiffel_Tower2.jpg"][/caption] I’ve been thinking of putting up this blog for the longest time. Given so many things that catch my fancy depending on the mood I’m in, I wanted enough latitude to be able to talk about any of them. Let me start with the title, en route. It’s a common enough phrase. And it’s in French. My passion is travel. My ultimate destination is Paris, France. Why? I just love how beautiful and romantic it is. My time frame for actually getting myself there is anywhere from 2 to 10 years from now. So until then, I’ll sneak in trips to other destinations whenever I can. Next, in order for us to get anywhere, there’s the part of being in transit. I commute to almost anywhere and roughly thirty percent of the time is spent stuck in traffic somewhere. I often find myself eavesdropping in on conversations from other passengers, listening to the radio station that’s on or talking with cab drivers. You’d be surprised at how much you actually absorb if you pay attention. Lastly, there are other aspects of life that we cannot ignore. We all have multiple roles we have to play. We think of our career, education, family, health among other things. We put on our different hats for different tasks. And each task has an objective. Whether we are looking at long-term or short-term goals, we have to take different steps in order for us to get from one place to the other. People like to say, “It’s not about the destination, it’s about the jouney.” In almost every case, that’s true. Usually, it’s the “how” of things that make the end “what” mean so much more. I hope to be able to share with you the bits and pieces I pick up along the way, and in the process, help you realize what piece of the world out there you want for yourself.

About

lynneenroute — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 01:24:27 +0000

En Route (\äⁿ(n)-ˈrüt, en-, in-, -'raut\) adv. & adj. On or along the way. [Fr.] We’re all going somewhere whether we’re aware of it or not. Most often, we do. And we encounter all sorts of things on the way – sights, people, food, drink and all the other colorful things that make life oh-so interesting. Here's an invitation to join me for the ride. I am an Advertising Executive/ Travel and Food Enthusiast/ Blogger Wannabe on a never-ending pursuit of learning.

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Je parle un petit français

lynneenroute — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 10:55:10 +0000

Je rêve de voyager le monde (I dream of traveling the world.) Bonjour! (Hello! Good day!) The title of this entry translates to "I speak little French." As a means of encouraging myself to pursue my dreams of flying off to the city of lights, I have been trying to study French. I'm taking up an extramural course from UP College of Arts and Letters (UP CAL) under the Department of European Languages. So far, I've only learned the super basics. Counting up to a hundred gave me a migraine! My classes for French 2 just started 2 days ago and we've just reviewed what was covered in the previous course (which I took last year...). It's fascinating how European languages really have masculine and feminine genders for their words. I'm no expert but these are some of the common words and phrases I have learned so far. And no, they don't teach Jean-Paul Gaultier, Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Yves Saint Lauren in school. Shame on them. Je m'appelle (My name is) Lynne. Je suis philippine (I am a filipina.) J'ai vingt sept ans (I am 27 years old.) J'ai (I have) S'il vous plait (Please) Merci (Thank you.) Mes passions sont voyager et manger. (My passions are traveling and eating.) à bientôt (See you soon) Un (One) Deux (Two) Trois (Three) Quatre (Four) Cinq (Five) Seis (Six) Sept (Seven) Huit (Eight) Nuef (Nine) Dix (Ten) I can already count up to a hundred but that would be too long to post here. And I can also sing the alphabet song in French! (Maybe in another entry...) I'll let you know what else I pick up as the course progresses. :) Until then, au revoir (goodbye).

Want to Learn a Foreign Language On Your Own?

lynneenroute — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 12:09:41 +0000

Check out myhappyplanet.com. It's a social networking site that focuses on learning new languages. Create friends from all over the world who will be more than happy to teach you and even Skype with you (a word of caution for your own safety though). They also link to different lessons found on Youtube and other partner sites.

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lynneenroute — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 03:28:13 +0000

Nicole Hyala & Chris Tsuper/ Mr. Fu

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lynneenroute — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:16:51 +0000

It's embarrassing that I've seen so little of my own country especially when I supposedly love travel. (Okay, need to save a LOT more.) Well I'm going back to Bohol for a close friend's wedding in August... That counts for something. My favorite local destinations so far are Bohol, Cebu and Boracay (pre-moss invation), plus a town in Batangas. :) My Lakbayan grade is C! How much of the Philippines have you visited? Find out at Lakbayan! Created by Eugene Villar.

Overheard on the Radio

lynneenroute — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 04:36:14 +0000

When you're stuck in traffic for a good hour and a half, there is little else you can do. A lot of us make use of the time to get additional sleep (c'mon, that's an hour!). There are those who are fortunate to have a travel buddy and they usually talk non-stop throughout the trip. Sometimes, I like zone out with my iPod on. And then, there are other times when I become intrigued by what people are listening to on the radio. I consider myself fortunate whenever I hear Ted Failon on Korina Sanchez (lately it's been Pinky Webb I think) on DZMM on. I also tend to have a higher regard for the driver. But when it's not news on the radio, they're most likely tuned into Love Radio, Yes FM, Energy FM, or 101.9 For Life. At least these are the common ones I can remember. (And as you can see, Magic 89.9 and RX 93.1 are not part of the commonly listened to stations.) So between the hours of seven and ten in the morning, we have the morning drive time, which is considered prime time on radio given that you have a captured audience (i.e. "no choice" and when you're just a passenger, you feel even more so). So stations really capitalize on key personalities to build up at these time slots. Back then I'd get really irritated by all the non-stop jabbering and laughing. I was coming from a Chico and Delamar background so it was really jarring to listen to. But surprisingly, there is wit in the exchange among the DJs, so sometimes I actually listen in. The entertaining ones are actually Love Radio's "Tambalan ng Balasubas at Balahura," Nicole Hyala and Chris Tsuper or Energy FM's Mr. Fu. Lately, I'm finding Mr. Fu more fun given his "taray" towards his texters who generally seem to have lost all sense of self-respect in matters of the heart. And he tells them like it is. If they are already nagpapakushunga (as he says), he gives them a long and witty and funny wake up call. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Nicole Hyala & Chris Tsuper/ Mr. Fu"][/caption] It's interesting how much radio programming has improved nowadays. Although I honestly think a lot of copying of formats is going around but in the end, people will still gravitate towards the most unique and entertaining ones. That's why all these DJs are so important to the networks. Some of them even host TV shows and events and record songs. If you just spend thirty minutes listening to any of these shows, you'll get a picture of who the general public really is. And when you've gotten the chance to immerse yourself in "pop culture" let me know which one wins: "Tru-la-loo, walang halong eklavoo" or "May ganon?" (Photos from Google Images)

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Mr. Jones - Ultimate Comfort Food

lynneenroute — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 05:02:02 +0000

While waiting for a 10:30PM movie, we decided to try out Mr. Jones finally. It has been on our list of dining establishments to try after all the positive reviews we've heard. Two words: Comfort Food The modern diner setting lends it a more relaxed feel compared to a hustling actual diner with blaring music. We got the best booth in the house, a nice round table in the corner, fit for two to four (great for a dinner for two actually). It was a bit different from the typical red booths and it afforded you a view of the whole restaurant, including a peek of what's happening outside.

We just had an order of steak and eggs to share. With our current appetite, we were actually kind of sad we couldn't order more food. That might be something to try with a bigger group of friends because the servings are HUGE. There is just something about these all-day breakfast offers. I guess this is why I called it comfort food. The warm meat with mushrooms, perfectly cooked sunny-side up eggs and potato wedges was good up to the last bite. Given our shared love for alcohol, we also sampled two of our favorite drinks, a mojito and a cosmopolitan. Both were good. Both had very nice presentations and were pretty to look at. But both could have used more alcohol. (Well, that's part of what we were paying for, right? I wanted the Russian-standard vodka they specified on the menu.) In the end, I complemented and washed down everything with a glass of Chardonnay.

Compared to the other restaurants on the strip of Greenbelt 5, Mr. Jones was the only one packed that night. Rightly so with the kind of food they serve. The servings are big and are always well-plated, making everything look more mouth-watering. Our table was right next to the kitchen doorway so I found myself constantly looking at what the other tables were ordering. If you're also out there for the drinks, tell them not to go easy on the alcohol. There are certain times we actually need a bit more to relax. Here are other photos from a separate trip. I shall be back to try the steak and the ribs. Yes, I love my meat. :D

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Toy Story 3 – “As Long As We’re Together”

lynneenroute — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 13:17:41 +0000

[caption id="attachment_90" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="From the official Toy Story website"][/caption] Disney-Pixar does it again. The magic of Toy Story touches both young and old. In fact, the story gives off a certain maturity, almost as if you have grown old along with the characters which, come to think of it, we actually have. Friendship takes the forefront as Andy, the owner of the toys, goes off to college, raising the question about what will happen to the toys now. Who will play with them? The group, led by Woody and Buzz, goes through different trials, encountering different toys along the way. It teaches them the value of loyalty, working as a team, and looking out for each other. As you go along, you not only appreciate the story, but you also see how the makers were able to bring out unique qualities of iconic toys such as Barbie and Ken. Even the staple toy baby of a little girl played a part. [caption id="attachment_108" align="alignleft" width="99" caption="From Google Images"][/caption] Personally, I felt a pang of nostalgia when I saw Barbie wearing the clothes of one of my first dolls, the Diva and the Rockers Barbie. And between Woody and Buzz, I still prefer Buzz. The fact that he has a Spanish mode might even have driven him up a notch. :D It’s a movie for everyone above 7 (some scenes might be scary for really young children) and I always like watching animated films in 3D. Maybe it could have used more of that.

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First Bay - More Power at Five

lynneenroute — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 23:47:10 +0000

[caption id="attachment_82" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="First Bay Power Corporation Bauan Tech Substation"][/caption] June 18, 2010 (Friday) Five years down the line, First Bay Power Corporation puts up their own substation to better power the town of Bauan, Batangas. Aptly so, they also celebrated their fifth year on that same month. A milestone for all the hard work everyone has put into it. Congratulations, First Bay! In the cover photo I am staring up in awe at all this technical and engineering stuff that makes me giddy of sorts. :) I fondly call him Optimus. [caption id="attachment_111" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="From this (the old office)..."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_112" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="...to this (the new and improved office)."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_113" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="First Bay during box-office pay days"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_114" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="The Team"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_84" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Anniversary Dinner "Behind-the-Scenes" Picture-Taking"][/caption]

Malcolm’s Burger – Wagyu Burger, Wine, World Cup

lynneenroute — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 23:49:06 +0000

It was a rainy Friday evening last week and we were hungry after a long day at work. It was a debate between eating now to let the rain die down or driving closer to home and searching for a place to eat there. Waiting the rain out won and we found ourselves at Malcolm’s in the Fort. And wow, were we happy or what we made that decision. We spent the night just raving in between bites of their wagyu burger and sips of wine. They actually have a set meal of about P499++ that already includes a starter (soup or salad), a main course, and a scoop of ice cream for dessert. Now that is good value. The Wagyu burger just melted in your mouth and blended well with the mild taste of the cheese. I had our burger cooked medium well but it came out a bit medium. Something I’ve learned about giving instructions for how you like your meat cooked, you should always choose something in between because chances are they could over or undercook it. So you’re better with something in between, not too rare for you and not too well done for your taste also. The rest of our Friday night budget went to some good wine. We had a Reisling wine and that’s what we finished while the game between Portugal and Brazil came on. To be honest, I am not a World Cup fan and that was the first-ever game I had watched in my entire life. Despite my lack of any athletic and sporty bone in my body, I actually got excited over the game. And yes, part of the consolation was the fact that they kept closing up on Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal. I like how Malcolm’s is tucked away in a quiet corner and you can enjoy your meal in peace and really appreciate it. Overall, our Friday night was a good job. Next time, we plan to try the wagyu sisig. Malcolm's Burgers is at the ground floor of Fairways Tower in the Fort, 5th Avenue corner McKinley.

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Going Up?

lynneenroute — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 06:36:32 +0000

Random post. On the way up to our floor at 2PM everyday, it is a nightmare taking the elevator of our building.

To add to that, you have to share breathing room with people who are either sticky from the heat outside or reek of cigarettes (sorry smokers but, a lot of you do...) or both. :( 2PM's what I call the changing of the guards for the call centers so all of them are rushing to meet their time-ins. For most of us agency folk, that's when we come back from our late/ long lunches or our coffee breaks. Going back up is a journey in itself. Our office is in the Insular Life Building along Ayala Avenue in Makati. I was just in the Insular Life Building in Alabang this morning and it was a stark difference. The lobby looked like a hotel's. There was a complicated fountain installation that served as a relaxing ambient sound to the whole entrance. And the lifts were efficient, fast, and they were actually working! This last photo was taken last October 13, 2009. The sign has not moved for a year I think. Oh the irony of it all. They say they're working to improve things. If nothing ever changes, then nothing ever improves, right?

I should really remember to stop having my trips to the bank and Starbucks at this time.

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lynneenroute — Sun, 04 Jul 2010 10:07:35 +0000

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Today I turn 6 in BBDO

lynneenroute — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 02:37:00 +0000

I consider it a feat. In an industry known for people jumping from one agency to another within an average of two years, six years is quite remarkable I think. Especially if it's your first job. I entered advertising last July 5, 2004 with no clue what the difference was between a marketing and communication objective. I didn't know FA stood for Final Art and not Flight Attendant. :P I didn't know what a compre was. I didn't know what BBDO meant. I didn't even know an agency called BBDO existed back in college. And six years ago, David Guerrero didn't even know who I was. He'd finally get to know I worked for him six months later. :D That all seems so long ago. I spent the first two years of my career just doing and learning everything...in silence. That's why you can't blame people for not knowing me because I was soooo quiet especially for an Accounts person. Still, I like to look back on everything I was able to experience throughout the years. Let me see... [caption id="attachment_158" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Mountain Dew "Fan" TVC shoot in 2005. Tin and Brandie are now our ECDs"][/caption] The latest I've gone home for overtime was overnight. I went home the next day. [caption id="attachment_159" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Just some photos of my OT nights, one wearing the crown (courtesy of Aldous)"][/caption] I've handled numerous accounts, local, regional, even pro-bono. [caption id="attachment_160" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="With the kids of Childhope Asia Philippines"][/caption] I was seconded to Client-side for three months. Drove me crazy but it's not an opportunity that comes to every Accounts person. Well, what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger, right?

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="588" caption="May 7 - August 7, 2007"][/caption] I've gotten drunk at least once during an office party. The most memorable one was the 2005 Christmas party because that was the first time I had gotten drunk in my life. And I guess it all started then... I've been a talent several times. Most of the time you either see parts of me, or you don't even know it's me until I point out a blurred person in the background and say, "That's me!" [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Visa Outdoor "All It Takes" 2005/ Marie Claire Reproductive Health Bill 2008"][/caption] [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Anchor "Ready" 2009"][/caption] I'm an Account Director now. I know what FA means. I guess you could say that I was a compre when I started out as Account Manager. I don't want to say I'm in the FA stages of my job already because there's still so much to learn. I know that. That's why I'm here. :) And of course, I have worked with some of the best people, if not the best, in this industry. I'm lucky. So there. Whether I go on 7 years or not next year, we don't really know. But what I can say is that it's been an overall great experience because of all the people I've met and worked with and just everything I have learned along the way.

Overall rating for 6 years: Time Well Spent. I've mentioned this before to some people. I guess why I find it always better to stay is, when you've experienced a certain standard, how can you opt for anything less? P.S. And to those who are curious, BBDO stands for Barton, Batten, Durstine and Osborne

The Philippines - En Route to Being Better?

lynneenroute — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 02:54:24 +0000

"Change is good." And I think this start of a new administration is something all of us have been anticipating and hoping for. I, for one, feel optimistic about things. The fact that President Noynoy recognizes that he cannot do it alone is a start. And I can feel that all of us know that he can't take on it by himself, that we have a shared responsibility. It's like Christmas. The positive outlook and eagerness for positive change seems to be in the air. I write this after his inaugural speech last June 30, 2010. It was twenty minutes of very direct-to-the point statements. They were concrete. They were simple. They didn't sound like him reaching for the moon and making us wait for the fulfillment of what would be empty promises in the end. They require a lot of cooperation though from the people he shares the administration with. It will require strong discipline and implementation. It's funny how the promise on not abusing the siren or the wang-wang caught everyone's attention. It probably got tweeted and Facebooked about so many times just on that day. Because it's a real problem. It's a very tangible sign of abuse of power that all of us have experienced at one point or another. Although, as I write this, I know some crafty (and downright corrupt) politicians have found a way around this by using the hazard signals instead but still with a motorized escort to help them cut through traffic. And so they won't get reported, they even remove the plate numbers of the vehicles. With this policy alone, I think Noynoy already has a lot of work to do. One of my favorite parts of the speech was the not-so subtle threat to former president GMA and her "midnight appointments." It's true that it's a very underhanded way to put in place people that will favor you in the future. It's screaming, "I have a hidden agenda!" I like the idea of a Truth Commission in government. It provides the certainty that someone will be made accountable for his/ her wrongdoings. It makes the quest for justice for definite. And with former Chief Justice Hilario Davide heading the commission, after seeing him during the impeachment hearings of former President Estrada, a lot of us know that he has handled something of this nature before. He has dealt with injustice against the people up to the level of plunder from a nation's leader. We know he has made the decision before to make someone accountable. His appointment, for me, supports Noynoy's statement of, "There can be no reconciliation without justice." In his speech, he itemized certain sectors that he will focus on namely education, transportation, tourism, trade, the police force, employment, tax collection, and agriculture. He also mentioned plans to provide PhilHealth services for everyone in three years. With the right people, three years just might be workable. Given our population wherein citizens are either to old or too young to work, this is a benefit that many will find useful. Let's not abuse it also because funds for that will most likely come from the taxes that the working class pays. Let's remember we're all in this together. Lastly, I share his view that not all government officials are corrupt. I also like to think he can say this with conviction because he knows he is living proof of that. It's the time now for all these honest officials to come out of the woodwork and rally their cause. It's now the time for them to not allow the prevalent system of corruption to dictate upon them and force them to quietly go about their duties within their areas of responsibility. It's time to really show that they're not as bad as what we all perceive them to be. Let's just take the issue of red tape. We all know it's a classic characteristic of government. From experience, I can actually say that at least the NCR office of the DTI Promo Permits division actually has a process that helps it bypass and avoid this red tape and "under-the-table" dealings. I can't say it's a hundred percent honest but from there you can already see that some government offices at least implement controls to prevent any abuse or misuse of the government position. There are people with integrity in government still. While it's too early to tell, somehow that's still comforting. If we believe there is good somewhere, that belief just might be powerful enough to be a self-fulfilling prophecy. Because for so long we've believed the opposite about our government that maybe those in it even feel there's no other choice but to play the game. If they can't beat them, they'll join them. This time, let's hope they all join in on the right path and good, honest governance. As part of this oath-taking, we are all stakeholders. Let us not forget that. While we see the opportunity for good change, we should not go back and slip into our own little worlds of obliviousness and ignorance. We still remain vigilant. And we do our part. We obey the rules and not make them work in our favor. We don't cause an uproar just because something is inconvenient for us without thinking of everyone else's welfare. The mark of democracy is when the majority wins. We are the majority. Government only represents us. As Noynoy said, we are his bosses. True democracy will only exist if we do our part. Then, and only then, will it be - as Lincoln said in his Gettysburg address - "a government of the people, by the people, for the people." Photo courtesy of the office of the President

Chocolate Kiss - Home to Good Hickory Smoked Spareribs

lynneenroute — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 08:49:32 +0000

June 26, 2010 (Saturday) There are many things that are iconic about UP. We have the colleges themselves which are historical landmarks on their own, the different statues that are scattered all over the campus, the Oblation, the UP Ikot and Toki jeeps, and I even miss the giant trees that serve as a canopy all around the Academic Oval. And of course, let’s not forget the various food establishments that range from your typical fishball stand to actual sit-down restaurants that serve a full menu.

On my second week of French extramural classes, I decided to go back to one of UP’s most famous dining establishments. During my undergraduate years, I think I only had three chances to try Chocolate Kiss out. The realities of being a student on an allowance kind of limited the frequency of me craving for entrees apart from what was served in Casaa and the UP College of Mass Communications/ Plaridel Hall. It was a quick lunch and we ended up halving an order of the Taco Salad and the Hickory Smoked Spareribs with their trademark Iced Tea.

The Taco Salad was a serving good for two to three. I actually thought we ordered the Nachos Overload instead when I saw it. I think the main difference between the two is that the Nachos Overload has some Jalapenos mixed into it. As a “salad”, it was a plate full of nachos with loads of toppings – salsa, ground beef and cheese. I think I got full from this alone. But I was on a mission for spareribs also. I have only recently acquired the appreciation for spareribs and this is actually one of the really good ones I’ve tried. The meat falls off the bone clean. Their sauce had the right amount of sweetness and tang to it. And it comes with a generous helping of either rice or garlic mashed potatoes. I never realized how much value for money the place actually offered until then. If you have enough money for a P250++ meal, it’s worth the trip. It’s easily accessible within the UP Diliman Campus in the Bahay ng Alumni. They have the café on the first floor and the restaurant on the second floor. While they share a general menu, there are some items that are exclusive to each also. They also have another branch in Roces Avenue, Q.C. I’m intrigued about their Blue Marlin Salpicao so that’s next on my list. And I would appreciate it if I actually had room to spare for dessert then. Their Devil’s Food Cake caught my eye and I even saw on the menu that they have a Chocolate Kiss Suite where you can choose three from among the Devil’s Food Cake, Carrot Cake, Dayap Chiffon Cake, Kahlua Butter Cake or Prune Cake. For only Php75!!! The UP branch is open everyday from 7AM to 10PM while the one in Roces is open Monday to Saturday from 11AM to 10PM.

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LEMURIA – Fancy Dinner at a Female Lemur’s

lynneenroute — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 01:43:40 +0000

I had to find a way to remember where we were heading for dinner last July 2. It was a dinner for the birthday of my boyfriend’s sister. Every time I was asked about my plans that Friday night, I kept on trying to remember what that place was called. I either said, “somewhere in Horseshoe,” “L-something” or “Lumeria”. Of course the last one was close but still wrong and sounded like some fantasy kingdom for some RPG video game. We had dinner at LEMURIA, an exclusive fine-dining restaurant that’s tucked away in Horseshoe Village, Quezon City. The menu boasts of gourmet French-Mediterranean cuisine and wine-lovers (like myself) will get thrilled at their extensive wine list. The restaurant actually sits on top of the cellar for Brumms Quality Wines, Inc. They welcome you at the gate so by the time you enter the restaurant, a waiter is already there to usher you to the table you reserved. The whole place is warmly lit. The yellow lights play well against the light wood panels and various trinkets that decorate the place. A dish is about at least Php500. A main course can cost you anywhere from Php700 and Php1200. For appetizers, we ordered the Feta and Watermelon salad, with chick peas in lemon vanilla, macopa raspberry vinaigrette and Pasta ala Romans, Homemade ravioli of ricotta and organic egg, walnut and parsley. I was surprised at how the combination of a watery fruit like watermelon tasted well with vinaigrette. You can get full with just these alone. They also provide freshly baked (or heated) bread served with butter.

For the entrée, those who wanted it light opted for the Sea Bass, poached in saffron olive jus with braised fennel while those who longed for meat took the Braised lamb shank, apricots and red wine sauce and the Entrecote, Grilled (Angus or Wagyu) served with mashed potato. The sauce options are: Bordelaise sauce, Mushroom sauce or Foie Butter (mmm, foie butter…). [caption id="attachment_177" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Sea Bass, Poached in Saffron Olive jus with Braised Fennel"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_175" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Braised Lamb Shank"][/caption] I can’t remember the two wines we tried but they were both good. Just the thought that is was taken from a cellar downstairs lends an addition to the experience of drinking it for me. We finished it off with an order of Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate.- Ravioli, flourless chocolate cake and chocolate soufflé with grand Marnier. I would have regretted not having any dessert. I liked the soufflé best. [caption id="attachment_178" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate"][/caption] Now, I still get the name wrong. But at least I have a way of remembering it already. And I’ve been told that one thing I should try is the Seared Foie Gras, braised cabbage and fig glaze from the appetizers list. Lemuria can be located at #5 Julieta Circle Horsehoe Village, Quezon City, Philippines. Best if you reserve because you can never tell how much demand a place like this could have at any time. Telephone numbers: +63.2.724.5211, +63.2.722.2185, +63.2.724.6306 Fax Number: +63.2.721.5352 E-mail Address: sales@lemuria.com.ph, lemuria@brumms.com.

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lynneenroute — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 03:03:15 +0000

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lynneenroute — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 01:56:12 +0000

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Jade Palace - Noodles and dimsum are perfect for rainy weather

lynneenroute — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 02:01:52 +0000

It’s been pouring heavily the past two nights. I mean, I like rain showers, brief spells, overcast weather but the minute rain becomes pelting and comes with lightning and thunder, I wish I were curled up at home instead. Maybe with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate or a bowl of noodles. :) Our original plan of keema, pita bread and Moussaka melt with beer turned into noodles and tea. This was after suffering rejection from numerous cab drivers for 30 minutes under the rain. Jade Palace is divided into two areas. The smaller area is like a canteen where tables are fit for groups of 2 to 4. Then the bigger portion has bigger tables that are good for 10. It’s more formal and sometimes becomes venues for celebrations. [caption id="attachment_189" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Doorway dividing the two areas"][/caption]

We got the Fung Shing Dumpling mixed noodles. You can order all the normal dimsum a la carte except for fung shing. It has pork, shrimp and black mushrooms inside – like a combination of hakaw and shark’s fin. It comes with a hot soup and a choice between flat or thin noodles.

Everything’s priced reasonably and the servings are big enough for 2. The noodles only cost me Php115. They even have a giant siopao for just Php45.

At least, despite being wet from the rain, we ended it stuffed and happy. The beer can wait another time.

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A Few Interesting Signs and Sightings

lynneenroute — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 03:47:20 +0000

When you're on the road, you come across so many things. Some funny, some witty, some just different. Here are just a few. [caption id="attachment_202" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Cab advertisements - Patronage vs. Placement. We were listening to AM news."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_203" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Mascots on the road"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_204" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="This remains yet to be proven true or false."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_205" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Ghurl (ahem, guard), on duty"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_206" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Some organic accessories for the tires"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_208" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Errr, yes. For product recall perhaps?"][/caption]

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Duo Steakhouse and Wine Bar - Everything comes in pairs and with memories

lynneenroute — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 02:24:33 +0000

This was a belated birthday dinner celebration. We reached Serendra hungry and we were looking for a nice dinner place with good meat. You know the food is good when the beginning of the conversation is marked by the first bite. And no matter how many topics you branch out into, every bite will bring you back to raving about the food.

Duo Steakhouse and Wine Bar offers you a cozy atmosphere that somehow reminds you of the chatter that goes on during Sunday lunches with the whole clan. But it also affords you that fine-dining type of setting to feel that you’re not having just any ordinary meal. They even have paintings up on the wall using different art styles with prices on them.

And not ordinary it was. We went for an order of the Chicken and Prawns Risotto. The very fist bite was like fireworks. Like your tongue goes on overdrive because there’s an explosion of different tastes all of a sudden. You taste the chicken, the shrimp, the broccoli, mushrooms and even the broth they cooked the risotto in. And then the flavors coalesce to a warm and fuzzy feeling akin to sipping a bowl of chicken soup from grandma on a rainy day.

We partnered this with Steak and Seabass. First of all, whoever thought of putting these two together in one dish is a genius, because that night we were looking for both. Seabass is probably my favorite fish. I always associate it with the beach so I end of thinking of blue skies and waves. Pair this up with steak that has a hickory kind of sauce and you have contrast. But it works because they end up complementing each other.

I can’t believe I’ve never tried Duo before. Given its location, the competition surrounding it, and its extensive menu, I say it is priced okay. I didn’t exit the restaurant feeling robbed. I actually exited thinking of trying the Steak and Foie Gras next time. With a big sigh of contentment, I summed up the meal with, “I’m so glad we chose this place.” Apparently, I was the picture of sheer joy at that specific moment.

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lynneenroute — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 04:48:31 +0000

Meet Pep

lynneenroute — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 23:17:33 +0000

We are on our way to conquering the world with mintiness. Pep is a peppermint plant that I gave as a birthday gift to someone who has a fascination (and obsession) for mojitos. Pep's in his first real pot right now. Apparently, they need lots of sunlight and as long as the soil is damp, he should be fine. The excited owner will be transferring him when he's bigger. And we also plan to take some sprouts and plant them in other areas. Would you like to volunteer your vacant lot? :P [caption id="attachment_231" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Pep the peppermint plant! :D"][/caption]

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Laya Personal Dining Experience - Just for you

lynneenroute — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 22:42:01 +0000

You know a great place when you see it. That’s how it was like for me when I first got to Laya. (To think I just saw it in a consumer report on the trend of personalizing things for consumers a week before my first visit.) Now it’s one of my personal favorites. I love the ambience. I love the fresh air. And I like what you come up to after the drive to Antipolo in search of it.

The owners, Chef Ricci and Irene, have added their personal touch in everything especially the flavors, design and service at Laya. The house, that’s been converted to a restaurant, plays venue for their collections from their travels.

Laya offers a fixed price of P750 per head for 6 courses. Their food is a mix of different Asian cuisine, mostly Thai with a twist. They have a fixed weekly menu so you can schedule your visit based on what set of dishes appeals to you the most. Also, you will usually have two options for your main course. On other days, you can also reserve the place to yourselves as long as you give them advanced notice. It allows them to prepare all the details for your stay. [caption id="attachment_356" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="A ring of rose petals around our dinner table"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_360" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Personalized menus"][/caption]

The different courses play up different tastes and you will need to pace yourself because you can get pretty full from their servings. Here are some photos of the items we’ve tried during our two visits. Of these, I would have to say that my favorites include the dessert with Chocnut Dip, the Norwegian Salmon, and the deconstructed Ceasar Salad.

[caption id="attachment_354" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Trio of Appetizers: Crabstick & Cream Cheese Dumpling with Spicy Mango Sauce; Shrimp & Chicken Wanton Bag with Thai Sweet Chili; and Stirfried Kaffir Lime Pork in Lettuce Wrap"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_355" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Grilled Chicken and Fried Wanton Salad in Oriental Soy Dressing"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_357" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Herb-Marinated US Hanging Tender Steak With Honey Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Mixed Greens"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_358" align="aligncenter" width="453" caption="Cashew-crusted Norwegian Salmon in Ginger Honey with Saffron Cashew Rice Pilaf"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_359" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Cashew Mango Kesong Puti & Chocnut Banana Spring Rolls with Creamy Chocnut Dip"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_361" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Spiced Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wontons"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_364" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Asian Caesar Salad Sticks with Ginger Aioli (I have loved anything with aioli in it ever since)"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_363" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Thai Tomato Basil Soup with Shrimp Dumplings & Cilantro Foam"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_365" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Hoisin Baked Norwegian Salmon with Soba Noodles, Shiitake Mushrooms and Sesame Scallion Salad"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_366" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Red Curry Glazed Pork Loin Roast with Roasted Onions & Saffron Cashew Rice Pilaf"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_367" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Bananas in Thai Coconut Pancake with Mantecado Ice Cream & Latik Sauce"][/caption] Laya is located at the end of Sierra Madre St., Grand Heights Subdivision, Antipolo City. TAKING ORTIGAS From EDSA, take Ortigas heading towards Cainta. Along the way, you'll pass Robinson's Cainta and Ever Gotesco, both on your right. At the very end of Ortigas, follow the road when it veers to the right, heading towards Taytay. Then take the first immediate U-turn slot, almost across Chowking. Drive past Chowking then take the 2nd right turn. This winding and ascending road will take you up to Antipolo. When you reach a rotonda, stay on the right fork then you'll pass the Capitolyo and Ynares Center both on your left. About 100 meters after the Capitolyo and Ynares Center, turn right on Grand Heights Road, which is right after Salon Style/ Lechon Manok ni Sr. Pedro. (If you see a Rapide or Unciano Hospital both on your right, turn back because you went too far). After taking a right turn at Grand Heights Road, just follow the road and drive past a pink and yellow guard house. Then turn right on Sierra Madre. You will see Pinto Art Gallery on your right. Keep going straight until you see the last house on your left before the dead end. WELCOME TO LAYA TAKING MARCOS HIGHWAY Take Marcos Highway and pass Robinson's MetroEast and Sta. Lucia Mall, both on your right. When you reach the first major intersection, you'll see a Masinag Wet and Dry Market, McDonald's and 7-Eleven all on the left corner. Turn right on that intersection to Sumulong Highway. Along Sumulong, you'll pass Padi's Point on your right and shortly after that, Assumption on your left. About 5 minutes after passing Assumption, you will come across an intersection where you turn right (heading towards Hinulugang Taktak). The take the first left and follow the road until you see a USA88 Gas Station on your left. Turn left at USA 88/ P. Oliveros Street (heading towards the Antipolo Cathedral). Keep going straight until you see a Petron station on your right, turn right after the station. Follow that road until you hit the first major street, that's J. Sumulong Extension. Turn right on that road. Keep going straight and turn right at the end, which is Sen. L. Sumulong Memorial Circle. Immediately after making the right turn, look for Rapide and the Grand Homes sign on your left. Turn left on the street right after that, which is Grand Heights Road. (If you see Ynares Center & Capitolyo on your right & a Rotonda, turn back, because you went too far). Just follow Grand Heights Road and drive past a pink and yellow guard house. Then turn right on Sierra Madre. You will see Pinto Art Gallery on your right. Keep going straight until you see the last house on your left before the dead end. WELCOME TO LAYA Phone: 0917-8464322 Friday: 6-10pm, Saturday: 11am-2pm, 6-10pm, Sunday: 11am-2pm

Bohol's Charm

lynneenroute — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 01:43:36 +0000

I recently flew down to Bohol to join my friends, Philip and Mae, on their fabulous wedding day. I just spent my fourth vacation there and ended it with the constant desire to go back really soon.

In my five days there, my initial fascination about this island was still ever-present. Contrary to my past two trips which were mostly spent on the beach of Panglao island, I opted to stay in Tagbilaran City. It was a welcome change of scenery and you instantly feel the change in pace of life at least for a few days. Tagbilaran City is known as the City of Friendship. I can personally attest to this. The Boholanos have an innate love for their home. You can see that it’s ingrained in them to care for it and promote it. The hospitality is the best I’ve experienced based on the local destinations I’ve been to so far. The streets are clean. They’re safe to walk in even at night. There is discipline on the road even if some roads are narrow already. They promote tourism for their home best by showing how much they take pride in it. This is a destination where you can do so much. Whether you’re looking forward to relaxing and doing nothing or trying out the local food or seeing the sights, Bohol has everything to offer. The tours can consist of daring to go on their zip line over Loboc River, climbing 214 steps to the top of one of the famous Chocolate Hills, marveling at the sheer genius of putting up a man-made forest, or bumming around on the beach with a cold beer in hand. No matter how many times I go here, I keep wishing to go back. And each visit I make, I find at least one more reason to love it.

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Tim Tam

lynneenroute — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:33:29 +0000

Made my day. Like Lloyd said, they seem so underrated. But they're just really good! Especially this strawberry flavored one. There's something about strawberries and chocolates together that just tastes so good. I love Tim Tam. And Goya dark chocolate. :D

JJ's Seafood Village

lynneenroute — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 01:03:20 +0000

JJ’s is like a complex near the Tagbilaran bay. It offers accommodations, food, and venues for functions.

We were in search for something new to try during our stay in Tagbilaran and we stumbled upon this on the internet. Fresh seafood? Why not? The smell of the sea as we drew nearer helped us confirm that the place must really offer fresh seafood. The restaurant is called Mandarin Restaurant, offering of course, Chinese cuisine.

We wanted something light so despite the call for purely seafood, I got some chopsuey to go with some spicy, sizzling shrimp.

It might not be the best place in terms of ambience but we were happy with the shrimp (and yes, even the chopsuey). And in terms of value for money, you won’t go wrong. We ordered rice that’s worth P35, thinking it was just a cup. They served us with a plate that had rice that was good for about 5 people. It’s too bad they didn’t have any lapu-lapu fillet available when we were there. That could have been interesting.

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MA FEMME EST UNE ACTRICE

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CHARLOTTE GAINSBOURG, YVAN ATTAL

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lynneenroute — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 12:10:28 +0000

Ma Femme est une Actrice (My Wife is an Actress)

lynneenroute — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 12:14:48 +0000

I can imagine it must be hard, whether it's the guy or the girl, to be in a relationship and have to share your partner with the rest of the world.

Here, you see Yvan struggle with the pangs of jealousy and insecurity over the attention and the special favors that his wife, Charlotte, receives. Not to mention the intimate scenes with co-stars that she has to do (and he has to watch). Imagine that.

The story makes you end up feeling for the couple. You understand what they are both going through and you can't blame them for acting the way they do. It doesn't help that there are also certain outside factors that contribute to the gap they experience in their marriage struggle. It's an amusing film. Especially Yvan's character. Oh, and the actors, Charlotte Gainsbourg and Yvan Attal (also the director and writer of the film), are married in real life.

I was able to share this movie with my classmates in French 2. We watched it with English subtitles. :P It was funny that we were both watching the story and we were all trying to catch at least some words we could understand at the same time. A struggle still since they all talk so fast. We will learn. Eventually. Avec optimisme (hopefully). :) Photos from IMDb.

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What is French Cuisine?

lynneenroute — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 05:58:39 +0000

The French seem to be very famous for so many things - their architecture, their fashion and corresponding well-groomed citizens, and their food. You see restaurants around that describe their menus as a collection of French-meditteranean dishes and to be honest, I still can't quite place what it represents. Apart from thinking cheese and wine, I don't have a very specific way of describing what French food is like. [caption id="attachment_485" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="Image c/o http://www.houseoffrance.org/French_cuisine.html"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_484" align="aligncenter" width="350" caption="Image c/o http://www.houseoffrance.org/French_cuisine.html"][/caption] Us Pinoys like rice and viands that are very saucy. We like things sweet, hence the sweet blend ketchups and Pinoy-style spaghetti sauces. [caption id="attachment_474" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Image c/o http://recipe.foohta.com/kare-kare/"][/caption] When it comes to Japanese, we all think raw food, sushi, sashimi and sake. We think teriyaki sauces and bentos. [caption id="attachment_475" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Image c/o http://blog.hotelclub.com/top-10-international-cuisine/"][/caption] Mexican food means beans, corn and rice with lots of flavors and spices. I think of tacos and burritos - wraps that you eat holding the food in your hands. [caption id="attachment_476" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Image c/o http://www.fanpop.com/spots/mexican-food/images/573303/title/food-photo"][/caption] Of course the top of mind for Italian would be pizza and pasta with fresh herbs. [caption id="attachment_477" align="aligncenter" width="440" caption="Image c/o http://www.wayfaring.info/2007/09/27/naples/"][/caption] The Thais love spicy food and always have at least three types of spicy sauces on the table for you to put on already spicy, curried dishes. [caption id="attachment_478" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Image c/o http://www.foodmayhem.com/2007/04/born-too-late-for-street-food.html"][/caption] So, from what I've looked up, the French are known for haute cuisine. That would be translated to "high cuisine" or "grand cuisine". Maybe food imitates life. The artistry behind all their beautiful, iconic landmarks seems to be mirrored by the food they eat and the elaborate process and presentation that go with it. [caption id="attachment_473" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Image c/o http://blog.hotelclub.com/top-10-international-cuisine/"][/caption] What other terms in French refer to food we are familiar with? Well, there's croissant, escargot, and foie gras. Hmm, a not-so-ordinary bread (like our ensaymada sans the margarine and sugar, hahaha), something a bit exotic and difficult to eat, and something very rich and not commonly served everyday. And most of them can be quite expensive. It is starting to make a bit of sense. I guess the best way to find out is to actually try more of it against the other cuisines. Or when I fulfill my mission of getting there, I could let you know. :) Or maybe those of you who have been there could also let me know what you thought of it. [caption id="attachment_479" align="aligncenter" width="397" caption="Image c/o http://french.lovetoknow.com/Image:Wine_and_cheese.jpg"][/caption] Maintenant, I'm happy thinking of cheese and wine but I'll be looking out for French restaurants also. Je Suis Gourmand anyone?

"Suroy" (Bohol Part 1)

lynneenroute — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 02:19:51 +0000

Suroy is how they say ‘go around’ or pasyal in Bohol's local dialect. It also pertains to a local music festival during the Christmas season. This place is rich in things to feast your eyes on. I’ll share with you some of the places I highly recommend for everyone to go to. (And this is just part 1) 1. Chocolate Hills Of course, no visit to Bohol is complete without seeing these mounds of limestone which they are known for. Local lore, on the other hand, says that these hills were formed when two giants fought and threw chunks of land at each other. The Chocolate Hills span the three towns of Sagbayan, Carmen, and Batuan. Sagbayan and Carmen both offer the opportunity to climb one of these hills for a panoramic view. For Carmen, the climb involved 214 steps. There is also the option of a ramp that snakes down on the side of the hill. They appear like giant Kisses in the summer because of their brown color. Now, they are a bright green due to the rains that have come.

2. Panglao My visit wouldn’t have been complete without a trip to Bohol’s beaches. The most known stretch is Alona beach in Tawala, Panglao. I learned from our bangkero, Kuya Jun, that the name came from Alona Alegre, an actress back in the 1980’s who ran topless along that stretch, bringing fame to the area from locals and tourists alike. According to Kuya Jun, she also helped promote the beach to her friends. We were also able to discover another long and wide stretch of powder-white sand in a place called Sapa Bolod, Panglao. (I’m just basing this on what’s written on the side of a boat we saw docked there.) The whiteness and fineness of the sand rivals that of Boracay. The only difference is that the beach gets rocky after a few meters.

3. Bohol Eco-Tourism Adventure Park Now, this place is new and exciting. Bohol already launched an adventure park in Danao. That’s a separate tour altogether. If you want to take the zipline or cable car ride without having to drive all the way to Danao, there’s a nearer venue right in Loboc, which is just a few minutes drive from Tagbilaran. For P350, you will feel your heart pound as you slide or fly over 250 feet with a view of the Loboc River as you cross it. The experience was awesome. The fear is only present in the beginning. On your second slide (yes, because you have to cross back to the other mountain where you started), all you feel is sheer thrill. I took a video of one of my trips across the river just so you can see the view from up there. [youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRd2vHRXP0U]

Bohol is so rich in beautiful places to visit. You will never run out of things to do. I love the Philippines. :D

"Suroy" (Bohol Part 2)

lynneenroute — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 02:46:22 +0000

Like I said, there is much to be done in Bohol. This part continues my recommendations for "suroy". :) 4. Dolphin Watching This was the highlight of my trip in terms of sightseeing because a dolphin is one of my favorite animals. We left the city at 5:30am to make it to Alona beach by 6am. According to the locals, the dolphins come out during the 7-10am window. I boarded the boat scared that I wouldn’t even see one dolphin. So the very first group we sighted took my breath away. Forgotten was my fear of falling into the water because I actually got up and stayed at the ship’s prow. They're just really graceful creatures of the sea. The only problem was that there were so many boats already in one area that you can’t blame the dolphins for not staying on the surface too long. Some boats are not trained well to keep the standard distance from them. It's a bit hard to get photos and videos of the dolphins also given the distance and the rocking of the boat. But I still highly recommend this. Your costs will include paying for the boat and if you stay in the city, you will need transfers to and from the beach. Best to go straight to the bangkeros who usually hang out along the beach anyway looking for tourists who want to go dolphin watching the next day because the hotel or travel agent will always have a cut in it. [youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGnUOfkuLh0]

5. Man-made Forest This is a two-kilometer stretch that is filled with tall, looming mahogany trees. You will pass this on your way to other towns like Bilar from Loboc. The winding roads prove exciting for those who love to drive and the lush greenery and shade it provides calms and soothes the mind. Mahogany trees grow relatively faster compared to most trees. You will see hundreds and hundreds of them on either side of the road. You will also feel the temperature drop once you enter the canopy of leaves. According to a local, part of the reason for planting all these trees was to help avoid floods in the area. Now, how come we can’t do that elsewhere in the Philippines?

6. Loboc Firefly Watching Loboc has always been famous for its river cruises and floating restaurants. They’re also actually famous for their Loboc Children’s Choir which has won contests around the world. This cruise, however, has a certain twist. You take it at night and you cruise in darkness along the banks of the river. Eventually, you will come across trees that look like they have Christmas lights on them. The leaves will be twinkling from the many fireflies that inhabit them. This process of bioluminescence apparently, comes about when the firefly breathes. Once they stop blinking, that means they cannot breathe. This also plays a part in their mating ritual. The males usually take up the upper portion while the females occupy the lower bushes. The blinking of their lights will help in attracting a mate. Once they select the partner that has the best blinking pattern, the female will “eat” the male to sustain her as she reproduces. A firefly’s lifespan is only about three months so they have to reproduce often so as not to die out. This won't be my last visit to Bohol. I love the Philippines.

Casa Filomena – A breathtaking view of Tagbilaran bay, just 10 minutes away from the city

lynneenroute — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:06:20 +0000

A fresh breeze from the sea, the soft lapping of the waves on the rocks below, and no-nonsense Filipino food. Whether you want a romantic dinner venue with a special someone or you’re looking for a more special place to have lunch or dinner conversation with your friends, Casa Filomena will not disappoint. They are open for lunch and dinner and the menu is mostly Pinoy food like sinigang and lechon kawali. During the day, they even allow swimming in their pool for a fee.

Casa Filomena actually has two villas that you can rent for P3,000 a night. A villa is big enough for maybe as much as 8 people (with extra beds). While I recommend dining here at least once, I don’t recommend it for the overnights. This isn’t Panglao yet. You’re still in Tagbilaran, just a bit further so might as well just stay in the city proper itself because it will be cheaper by a good P1,000. If you’re after a place with a pool and a beach to swim in, go all out and stay in Panglao already.

Casa Filomena has a boutique hotel counterpart in Tagbilaran called Soledad Suites. Now this place, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND. It has free-wi-fi, includes breakfast in its rates, has a restobar and coffee shop (Brewpoint) on the ground floor, and offers outstanding service. Rooms are nice, simple and clean. I love it there so much in fact that it's my peg for the kind of boutique hotel I'd love to run someday.

To contact Casa Filomena or Soledad Suites, you can use the following contact details: Tel. Nos: +63.38.411.3074, +63.38.501.7421 Fax No.: +63.38.411.2117 E-mail: soledadsuites@yahoo.com, soledadsuiteshotel@gmail.com You can also try getting in touch with Ms. Leony Mendoza, the GM of Aurora Travel and Tours through +63917-3200422. She's based in the lobby of Soledad Suites and also helps arrange accommodation and tour packages for guests.

Tanie's Carenderia (Bohol) – How homecooked, native fried chicken should be

lynneenroute — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 05:42:54 +0000

Of all the hole in the walls I’ve tried, this is surely part of the top 5. Who would think something so unpretentious could be home to really tasty fried chicken?

I found out that people, both locals of Bohol and tourists alike, really go all the way out to the town of Carmen to eat here. Nowhere else in Bohol will you taste Tanie’s fried chicken. It’s so good that some even bring them back home to Manila. It’s best enjoyed with a nice cold beer or soda. I'm sure it's affordable (like almost all the food in Bohol). We got treated for this so I wasn't able to get the price. If you happen to be in Bohol, it’s a recommended place to go to with your companions. But the chatting with each other over the meal can wait. You’ll be too busy eating. Trust me. [caption id="attachment_403" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Pick out the parts or pieces that you like"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_404" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Before being cooked...next time you see each other, it will be crispy fried. :)"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_406" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Hello fried chicken!"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_407" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="There were 5 of us and we had 3 plates of this size. How much chicken was that?"][/caption]

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lynneenroute — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 06:34:45 +0000

Despicable-Me

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lynneenroute — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 06:43:19 +0000

Despicable Me - "It's so flufffaaayyy!!!"

lynneenroute — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 07:03:30 +0000

Cute, cute, cute. Nothing like a bunch of kids with very distinct personalities to change your heart. This line was one of the most memorable. This, and "It's so fluffy I could die!" The story is very simple. You know what the plot is all about practically from the beginning. Gru, our "superbad" villain, lets you in on his grand plan at the start, making you empathize with him every step (or setback) along the way. I think the keyword here is: entertaining. With a simple story to tell, all the fun is in the characters and how the relate with each other. All the minions were great too. I want one now. And a unicorn.

A must-watch for anyone. (It would have been great if it came out during Father's Day here in Manila.) I think I want to own a copy of it too. [youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82utG7Q3G_k&feature=related] *Photos from Google Images and video from Youtube.

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Payag Restaurant – Jo’s Chicken Inato

lynneenroute — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 02:18:04 +0000

There’s grilled chicken and then there’s Jo’s Chicken Inato. This is Bohol’s version of the famous Bacolod inasal. Payag, which means bahay kubo or nipa hut, specializes in this dish. The taste is enough to forget you are in a restaurant. I opted to eat with my hands to savor everything up to the last bite. The restaurant has both al fresco and airconditioned dining areas. The outdoor area, called Plaza Juanita reminds you of an old town square where there are cobblestones and lampposts decorating the streets.

The indoor area, however, just has “chicken” written all over it. Each nook and cranny has every chicken or rooster decoration imaginable. Even the tables are painted with images of a chicken, paying homage to their specialty.

Prices are reasonable. For just P90, you already get stuffed from a grilled chicken barbecue. And good news for rice lovers, they offer rice with no limit. Add a little more and you also get a stick of pork barbecue with your meal.

This is truly and institution in Tagbilaran already. This is just one classic example of how Bohol supports local businesses and how good food will always keep bringing people back. Payag Restaurant is located at No. 18 Carlos P. Garcia, East Avenue in Tagbilaran City. This should be accessible through a simple tricycle ride for any tourist who is staying in the city.

Sunburst Chicken - The Taste That Sticks!

lynneenroute — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 03:58:28 +0000

Here's yet another chicken entry from Bohol. :D Sunburst has invaded Bohol!!! I first tried this in Cebu, where it first started. Wow, they have huge chicken! And who cares about the grease every now and then if the chicken is sooo good (with emphasis on every now and then)? Sunburst offers you an ambience that's like Pancake House's but with the kind of food that reminds you of Max's. That's a good mix. Casual and laid-back with good value-for-money food.

One of the best things they have is you can buy several pieces of the same part. A regular order of 5 pieces of drumsticks is just Php200. You can even choose the tail part.

Now, we all love Max's for its Jufran that goes well with their chicken. Try mixing your own dip to go well with Sunburst. Mix banana ketchup with some hot sauce and worcestershire (sweetness + bite + tang).

[caption id="attachment_563" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="We had 7 pieces for take out, Manila-bound."][/caption] They had a branch in Manila before but I guess that venture didn't work out so their focusing on their stronghold in Vis-Min. Right now, they have branches in Cebu, CDO and Bohol (which is just about 2 months old now). I vote we attempt to bring this back to Manila!

Simply Butterflies Conservation Center (Bohol) - Natural Ice Cream

lynneenroute — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 23:34:42 +0000

Almost everyone, surely, must have had an ice cream candy at one point in their life. A lot of us have experimented on making our own using maybe orange juice, some Magnolia Chocolait or whatever drink you’d like to try frozen. At the butterfly conservation center in Bohol, I disregarded the butterflies (due to my fear of spiders, which I assume tend to hang around where there are lots of bugs…like a butterfly garden). For people who aren’t like me, you can go inside and appreciate the beauty of so many butterfly species.

I, on the other hand, appreciated their natural ice cream. A lot. They offer it in tubes, ice candy style for P35, or in cups for P40 I think. There are a lot of flavors to choose from like Cacao, Durian, Fruit Salad, Carrot, Pineapple, Cookies and Cream, and Dragon Fruit. I personally loved the Buko Pandan. The sweetness is just right so if you get more than one piece you won’t get sick of the taste. It’s cool and refreshing and eating it makes me feel like a kid again.

The Streets of Bohol

lynneenroute — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 23:40:26 +0000

Everywhere is fascinating when you take in the sights and sounds. Here are some snapshots of life in Bohol. [caption id="attachment_293" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Tricycles are the common mode of day-to-day public transportation. That, or you walk."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_294" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="BreaDelicious. Saw several branches in Tagbilaran. We have this in Manila too, right?"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_295" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Yes, one day, even paradise will fall. :P Non-acidic water, good for gastritis patients. Hahaha."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_296" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="BQ Mall (by Bohol Quality Corp.)"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_297" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="I think there are more motorcycles and scooters than cars."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_298" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Fruit vendors on the way to Panglao's beaches"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_299" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption=""Want some durian?""][/caption] [caption id="attachment_300" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Boiled corn for the road"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_301" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Kuya Jun, a Panglao bangkero. Princess Chiara was a gift to him from a generous tourist patron."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_302" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Lanzones are in season right now"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_303" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="A student walks amidst the shade of the Sta. Cruz church, located near the school."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_304" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="A jolly staff from the Butterfly Conservation Center"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_305" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Orderly traffic"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_306" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="A Magic Spot!"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_307" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="More motorbikes on the way to the airport"][/caption]

apathy

lynneenroute — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 10:05:53 +0000

I've had a bad day, but I'll turn it around

lynneenroute — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 10:07:59 +0000

This is a condensed version of the lyrics of Daniel Powter's "Bad Day". And maybe today is not one of my best ones. Give me any extreme emotion and I burst into tears, good or bad. Too bad. I wanted to make it happen. But maybe for this special case, apathy is the best thing for me. [caption id="attachment_583" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="If we don't take care of the customer, maybe they'll stop bugging us. (From despair.com)"][/caption] It just made me remember my hierarchy of comfort food. 1st level - COFEE: Useful for normal day-to-day stress, warm, can be sipped over a longer period of time - hopefully the time it takes to calm down. 2nd level - ICE CREAM: The best kind's McDonald's plain sundae cone. It's a cheap treat (cheaper than a coffee I realize...) and it literally cools you down. Plus it's sweet and is easily associated with fun times during childhood. 3rd level - PIZZA: Okay, something heavier. Best over long discussions with friends. You can pick on the cheese, eat the toppings one by one and just feel your frustration go away with each bite. I don't know. There's something about melted cheese that's just comforting. 4th level - WINE/ ALCOHOL: I've only ever reached this high in terms of my need for comfort. This is for those times when you want to easily and temporarily forget so that when you remember, you'll be a little more detached from it already and you can plan what to do afterwards. Besides, trying to decode and appreciate wine and knowing how much had to be paid for it is enough to preoccupy me.

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Why Travel?

lynneenroute — Sat, 18 Sep 2010 06:48:36 +0000

I have always viewed the world as this big, vast place that I will never ever get the chance to see. If you have read some previous entries, you would have seen that I dream of one day going to Paris. But like any dream, it is fueled by passion. I have a natural love for travel...and everything that goes with it. What is travel? Well technically, it's just about moving from one point to the other. Technically, if I moved 5 meters to my right I would have travelled already. You see, this getting from one place to another is something we always do. It's as natural to us as breathing and blinking. We go to school, church, work, the mall and wherever it is we normally go to. We always make all these journeys but we never see any importance in them. When we think travel, we think of vacations, out-of-towns, plane rides and beaches. We save up for them because they ultimately come with a price tag, whether it's a budget trip or luxury getaway. But why? Because it makes us feel good. We feel we are entitled to it. We earned it. We want to experience something new. Personally, I travel because I know that there is just so much beauty out there. Going somewhere involves meeting people, taking in the sights and sounds of the place. It's about observing how life is and how people interact, what's the culture like, what's the same and what's different. It's not all about being pampered and cam-whoring and letting everyone know about it. Because apart from pictures, what do you really take out of it? You leave with memories of things like how the sunset in Batangas and Boracay are just awesome. You remember the smiles you get from the nice and friendly people of Bohol and Sagada. You look back on how your feet hurt because you wore wrong shoes when you went to the interconnected malls of Robinsons and Limketkai in CDO. You will know what it feels like to walk along the streets of Old Manila in Binondo. [caption id="attachment_592" align="aligncenter" width="637" caption="A Boracay Sunset"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_432" align="aligncenter" width="637" caption="Staff from Bohol's Butterfly Conservation Center"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_593" align="aligncenter" width="637" caption="Ongpin Street in Binondo, Manila"][/caption] Literally everywhere, especially here in our own country, the Philippines, presents you with so much to enjoy, experience and learn. It's this aspect of learning, I think, that we should always keep in mind. Because the more open you are to it whenever you go somewhere, the richer the experience becomes for you. If your mind were a bank and the number of steps you took represented a peso, each step you take going anywhere ultimately makes you richer. And the amount you learn with each step magnifies it and helps increase its value. [caption id="attachment_596" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Crispy Pata, anyone?"][/caption] That's why we should travel. And why Philippine travels are the best to start on. It can be as simple as observing around your own neighborhood and looking for funny signs along the road, or trying out a different cafe from your usual one and just doing small talk with the barista. It's easier to appreciate other cultures when you understand your own. Again, we travel to learn. To learn languages, different cultures, ways of cooking. To develop better appreciation for things, to improve ourselves, to have more to share. This is my entry to the Let’s Go Sago! anniversary contest and I hope this helps give you a different way of looking at how your next planned travel will be. [caption id="attachment_594" align="aligncenter" width="637" caption="I try to take in and document as much as I can of anywhere I go (shot from the Loboc zipline courtesy of the talented Audrey Binay)"][/caption]

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lynneenroute — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 06:56:11 +0000

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lynneenroute — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 08:16:27 +0000

My Top 28 for my 28th Birthday

lynneenroute — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 09:14:17 +0000

I have a word I always use: interesting. Because that’s how life is and that’s why I love it. I consider myself very lucky and very blessed to be where I am right now. But I also give myself a pat on the back because I feel the year has been more fruitful because I was more open to so many things. Here, I share with you some of the highlights. I divided them into key parts: FOOD, PLACES, MILESTONES, TO-DOs, and EXPERIENCES. FOOD: Because I have a natural love for it and like trying new food. These are some of the new places I’ve tried this past year. 1. MR. JONES provides great comfort food in BIG servings. 2. LEMURIA: Fine-dining mixed with the charm of personal dining restaurants. 3. DUO: A good call we made on a hunger-filled Friday night. I loved the risotto! 4. MALCOLM’S: Because I love burgers and their Wagyu burger is good. 5. BINONDO: Tried Tasty Dumplings’ Pork Chop Rice and Ongpin Mañosa’s Maki Mi. And a little way off Binondo was Ma Mon Luk – my first time there. :)

6. CALDA PIZZA: This giant pizza won’t disappoint. It made our guests of about 30 on two separate occasions quite happy.

7. JADE PALACE: When it’s raining and the traffic is bad, their Fung Shing dumpling noodles is a good default to wait the traffic and weather out. 8. TANY’S FRIED CHICKEN: Crispy, tasty fried chicken! 9. JOHANNA’S GRILLE: I cannot, cannot get over how good their spare ribs are! Great value-for-money too! They’ve expanded already but we foresee this restaurant still going a long way. [caption id="attachment_612" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Johanna's Platter!"][/caption] PLACES: A mix of new and old travel highlights, since the places you see help broaden how you see the world and how you appreciate things and I do have a personal love for some. 10. HONG KONG: It was my first time in HK and I tried to enjoy all the back-and-forth runs to get to all the different must-see places in a span of 3 days. It was shopping, eating, and drinking. Not to mention walking! We tried the Rainbow Restaurant after a ferry ride and The Pawn for drinks for an officemate’s despedida. [caption id="attachment_618" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="The view from my hotel room in HK"][/caption] 11. H&M: Here, I went wild. :D

12. HONG KONG DISNEYLAND: I like feeling kiddie. The Astro Blasters were fun. And I felt teary-eyed and sentimental watching the fireworks display.

13. BEACHES: I love the beach and will never tire of going back. If I could have it my way, I’d like to live on the beachfront. This year, I celebrated an anniversary in Laiya, enjoyed a really relaxed vacation in Boracay, had a laughtrip spoof photoshoot in Barangay Sampaguita also somewhere in Batangas, and re-visited the beaches of Panglao in Bohol. MILESTONES: Events in my life this past year that have been important for me or account for some level of achievement. 14. 6^TH YEAR: 6 years is just a lot of years when you think of it, especially in this industry. 15. LOTTERY TVC: My part was minor but I’m proud to have helped in making this TVC possible. It was a film finalist this year in Cannes! [youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3OsLyTZJjU] 16. MAE and MUSHIE’s WEDDINGS: two good friends have found their partners in life. I was happy I was there to share the moment with them. TO-DOs: Because I believe we should set realistic goals. We have big ones and then we have small ones underneath that can count as steps towards the bigger dream. 17. BPI MAXI-SAVER: It’s kinda funny because it’s just simply opening another account for savings. It's just that BPI’s maxi-saver has a higher interest than your normal savings account. But, next stop, need to learn the stocks. 18. BLOG: I started this blog last June 21 and I’m kinda enjoying putting together different articles. Some entries are greater hits than others, which is fine. As long as I get to share and especially recommend the great places I’ve been to. 19. FRENCH 2: I’ve been attempting to learn French. This began last year and I took the 2^nd course this year. I really want to learn this because I’ve always wanted to learn a foreign language. On y va! 20. RUNNING: This is seriously something I should go back to both for health…and weight reasons. :P Did nights with my running partner around Bonifacio High Street for several weeks in preparation for our Boracay trip. 21. PEP: Remember the mint plant I gave as a gift? He has grown more sprouts. We have been getting more and more addicted to the idea of growing things. I’ve been told it can be therapeutic. EXPERIENCES: Things you encounter and go through whether on vacation or when you’re simply out with friends. 22. GO-SEE: This is funny. I got nervous for this. It was for a hair ad and I had unfortunately just cut my hair. Oh well, there was nothing to lose. :P 23. AMBER ULTRA LOUNGE for AUTOINDUSTRIYA: A weekly bar trip to unwind, which culminated in AI’s anniversary celebration. Saw the coolest (and some of the most expensive) cars. Was able to spend several nights with different groups of friends. Gained some new ones also. 24. QUIZ NIGHT: Really challenging stuff! Every Tuesday night at 121 Bar and Grille in Allegro Center Pasong Tamo Extension.

25. GO-KART RIDE: The only ride I was able to take in Enchanted Kingdom (oh, apart from the Log Jam :D).

26. FIREFLY WATCHING: I was anxious because it was pitch black, the water was so black (and I was watching Swamp Monsters earlier and I am not a good swimmer…) but seeing the trees light up along the banks of Loboc river was still a marvelous experience. 27. DOLPHIN WATCHING: I love dolphins. Did this in Bohol also. 28. ZIPLINE: An exhilarating and breathtaking flight across a the span of a river in Loboc! Looking forward to another year ahead. Cheers!

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lynneenroute — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 09:20:32 +0000

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lynneenroute — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 14:09:44 +0000

My Interesting Birthday - Some Things Never Change

lynneenroute — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 03:57:36 +0000

September 23, 1983, my first birthday, I was in the hospital because of a primary complex. My birthday party happened on October 10, I think.

It was usually common for me to be sick every time my birthday came because I'd always get excited. Funny, but I get a fever when I get too excited (before swimming trips, over Valentines Day flowers, and other big occasions). 27 years later, history repeats itself. I spent maybe 10 hours in the ER of Makati Med and the Medical City combined. I had my late and hurried lunch (which may have triggered my gastritis) at 2pm and ate my next decent meal 18 hours after. I didn't expect anything to go wrong that day as I ate a nice breakfast with a slice of a lemon meringue pie my mom got for me.

I brought myself to the Makati Med ER because the pain was intense. I spent the moments alone in the ER actually believing I could get back to the office in maybe 2 hours. 2 hours later, and 2 different injected medications after, I was still in excruciating pain. I limped to my doctor and asked, ‘what next?’ and then she tells me they need to extract blood for some tests that will take 2 hours. I think I nearly fainted. That long? This was when I started feeling sorry for myself. :( [caption id="attachment_672" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Makati Med's cramped ER"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_673" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Happy birthday to me...?"][/caption] So all tests are negative and then they tell me they think I should get admitted because I’m not responding to medication and their plan is to give me Demerol, which will knock me out. Well, it was kind of hard to feel better because I needed to lie down and yet I was forced to sit and stretch my legs out in front of me in a cramped waiting area. Ray finally came and I signed a waiver saying that I was leaving Makati Med against medical advise and we braved the traffic to the ER of Medical City. Instead of admitting me right away, this male ER doctor (who I am not a fan of), decides to give me more stomach medicine and some IV fluids to hydrate me. Let’s just say I was still in pain at 1AM. But at least I had a bed in the ER… Finally, I got my room at 3AM...and was able to eat my next meal 18 hours later. Whew. [caption id="attachment_674" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="A bright spot: Pop Tarts!"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_675" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="My meal after 18 hours"][/caption] I was out by Saturday morning and got my fair share of visitors (and my sister who enjoyed spending 2 nights over at the hospital). Learnings:

Must NEVER eat late or miss a meal again. Ever.
Skyflakes will be my best friend again.
Always have someone with you when you go to the hospital so someone can help follow-up for you.
Your acidity level triples at lunch time – an interesting fact I heard from my Gastro doctor.
Makati Med really needs to fix their ER already.
Some doctors need to learn how to show compassion to their patients, not make them feel like they think the patient was stupid enough to want to feel pain that’s 9 on a 1-10 scale of pain.

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lynneenroute — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 08:00:45 +0000

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lynneenroute — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 08:01:18 +0000

Binondo - A Walk Through and a Taste of Manila

lynneenroute — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 08:03:56 +0000

Manila is just layers and layers of history. One of the most popular towns is Binondo – famous for its Purple Engine and of course, Eng Bee Tin.

That day’s agenda was just to explore Ongpin Street and end it with Ma Mon Luk.

We began with lunch at Tasty Dumplings, conveniently located across from the Binondo church, right beside one of the Eng Bee Tin branches. Tasty Dumplings has this sweet and salty fish sauce-like sauce that they mix with all of their dishes. We had their fried kutchay dumplings and pork chop rice. We ate the leftover kutchay and dipped it in sweet chili sauce and it’s really good. The pork chop is thinly sliced and breaded, served on top of a cup of rice and some vegetables. It was too much, even for two of us (and we still had much to eat!)

Then we walked on and on, just taking in the life on the street...

Until we saw this hole in the wall.

Now, this, is no ordinary food place. Ongpin Mañosa is actually one of the oldest restaurants in Binondo. It’s a no frills place that’s akin to a canteen where people just eat and go. We sampled their maki mi. You get pork cutlets with garlic at the center, homemade egg noodles, and a thick sauce (a broth most likely thickened by cornstarch). Slurping spoonfuls of the thick soup, I have to say the egg noodles alone with it are really yummy. And then with the chunks of pork with garlic thrown in, you just take it notches higher. The pork in the soup gets to this sticky, chewy state that's actually fun and comforting to eat, like you're eating something cooked at home. That tasted very authentic.

The trip to Binondo was not complete without a shopping spree in Eng Bee Tin. I stocked up on Mongo Hopia (which also comes sugar-free now) and Tikoy, my all-time favorite snack.

Armed with leftover bags, we went to our final stop: Ma Mon Luk. Yes, THE Ma Mon Luk. This is already an institution when it comes to Chinese food. And walking into the restaurant, you are immediately take back several eras in terms of the architecture and layout of the place. We walked away with their trademark noodles, siopao and siomai.

[caption id="attachment_658" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Richard Gomez from way back."][/caption]

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lynneenroute — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 11:13:46 +0000

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Bonfire- As Seen By A UP Student

lynneenroute — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 12:05:35 +0000

I'm not from Ateneo but my brother studied there from pre-school up to college (Super loyalty award!). So I've seen plays and attended a fair, a dance, and a prom at some point. My sister also studied college there and we usually bring her to school before I get dropped off in UP for class then we pick her up after whoever's class ends later. So I've spent bleary-eyed mornings at 7am in Katipunan traffic because of my sister's early classes (my class was usually at 8:30am...) and I've also bonded somewhat with the KFC and Pancake House across Gate 3 because that's where I usually wait.

And there I was, watching the Woodstock-like merrymaking, picking on McDonald's fries, Chooks-to-go chicken and whatever else was set out and considered "for sharing". Oh, and let's not forget the cooler of booze our friends brought. Awesome. [caption id="attachment_698" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="A Sea of Blue"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_700" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="A show of fireworks"][/caption] So, congratulations guys. I admire your school spirit. Others would call it fanaticism. But I love how you party. Thanks for a really fun night. Since it was fun, I don't think it's so bad to wish that you have a reason to do it again next year. (Unless by some off chance that we beat you. :P) [caption id="attachment_701" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="A beer can silhouetted against the bonfire"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_699" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="School Spirit!"][/caption] PS: Maybe they can invest in a multi-level parking next time?

The Challenge to UP Students Now Given by Prof. Winnie Monsod

lynneenroute — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 09:52:33 +0000

We can be proud of being from UP Diliman all we want. But if we never become agents for positive change, if we become part of the problem, then we are not worthy of the education that was subsidized by the state for us. One of my favorite parts is when she recites a mantra. "I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. What I can do, I ought to do. And with the grace of God, I will do it." Which supports my personal motto: One makes all the difference. [youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sF3yPcqO6gE&feature=player_embedded#!]

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lynneenroute — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 15:53:54 +0000

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lynneenroute — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 01:43:51 +0000

Marcia Adams' Restaurant - A Slice of Tuscany

lynneenroute — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 02:24:59 +0000

I’ve been struggling to find the perfect word to summarize my experience at Marcia Adams’ Restaurant. Then it hit me. That’s exactly it. The word is: experience. I had requested for a road trip for my birthday and our lunch destination was purposefully kept secret from me. I had a pretty good hunch given we were in the Tagaytay area but I still couldn’t be sure since that area is just full of different restaurants already. My guess was confirmed when I saw their door and I just shrieked, “Tuscany!”

It was like walking into a secret garden. Instead of polished and manicured lawns, a stone path leads you downhill amidst so many different plants and trees and flowers. Just going down to the restaurant itself was such a sight to take in already.

And when I saw the actual restaurant, I think I just fell in love with it over and over and over again. I can just go on and on about the charm of the place. Part of the charm actually is the personal touch that the owners, and our gracious hosts, Neil and Marcia Adams lend to the place. Marcia’s love for plants is evident in this picturesque setting. She grows her own herbs, which she uses to complement the flavors of the dishes she prepares for guests. Neil, an electrical engineer, regales you with his different stories while you take breaks in between courses. Our discussion ranged from the history of the place to things like the contraptions he’s installed for the restaurant’s water supply. Having opened just December of 2009, their Tuscan-inspired restaurant has already attracted the attention of many food enthusiasts and several magazine features. Each piece has a story behind it – stories that they were so willing to share with us. The whole place is built using second-hand lumber from demolished buildings. The tables in the main dining area have different designs for the legs. There is a wooden beam in the ceiling that is probably a hundred years old and the bricks lining the pavement and the arc at the entrance were originally from Bacolod.

After spending so much time and effort to get all the legalities in place, this couple’s hard work is paying off with word of mouth driving it. The reality is, when it comes to food and destinations, people won’t recommend just anything unless they think it’s worth it. And based on my research, Tuscan cooking is all about flavors and simplicity. It doesn't always need a lot to come up with great dishes. Trust me, it's worth raving about. Again, it's all about the experience. And yes, we have to talk about the food. The menu is Mediterranean in inspiration and it changes from time to time. For a cover charge of P700 per head, you already enjoy an appetizer, main dish, dessert, and a non-alcoholic drink. In case another dish catches your fancy, you can still get that for an à la carte price. We ordered the grilled aromatic pork and the lamb skewers for the main course and wow, we were happily stuffed after. Just scroll down to see our available menu that day. The photos and labels will be self-explanatory as to how good it was. :) [caption id="attachment_737" align="aligncenter" width="491" caption="Amalfi Prawns"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_746" align="aligncenter" width="491" caption="Soup of the day: a hearty bowl of meaty flavors like ham and sausage"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_719" align="aligncenter" width="491" caption="Grilled Aromatic Pork"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_720" align="aligncenter" width="491" caption="Classic Shish Kebabs"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_721" align="aligncenter" width="491" caption="Grilled Orange with Dairy Ice Cream"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_724" align="aligncenter" width="491" caption="Fried Bananas with Dark Chocolate Dip"][/caption] I recommend getting a table in the sunset lounge for a view of fields and rolling hills on the other side of Tagaytay, away from the lake. It also affords you a bit of a view of the mountains in the distance. Or, you can just bask in nature with the relaxing view of the garden.

This was one of the best surprises I've had. It was the perfect venue for a quiet celebration. The serenity of the place allows you to just appreciate where you are and feel blessed. They're building a bed and breakfast right next to the restaurant so that's certainly something to look forward to. It's the overall experience of being here -- how personal it is, the stories and all the little items of interest -- that makes it worth coming back to. I'd like to thank Marcia and Neil for making our stay really memorable. To get to Marcia Adams, coming from the Tagaytay Rotonda, going to Nasugbu, look for the arch that has concrete pineapples on them. Turn right immediately after the arch and look out for the Tuscan door somewhere to your left. And then you can welcome yourself to an amazing experience. It’s best to reserve since you can never know if they will be full or not. E-mail: marciasresto@gmail.com Cellphone number: 0917-801-1456 You can also check them out in Facebook. Look for Marcia Adams’ Restaurant.

Doodle Art

lynneenroute — Sat, 16 Oct 2010 07:52:56 +0000

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Jeep Route close up

lynneenroute — Sat, 16 Oct 2010 07:57:32 +0000

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An Esparto Day at Work

lynneenroute — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 03:12:19 +0000

These shoes were made for walking...in super comfy style. Just to show you some of the designs and how people in the office have been sporting it, here are a few photos from one unofficial Esparto day. [caption id="attachment_775" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Doodle Art"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_776" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Jeep Route"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_777" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Jeep Route close up"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_778" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Galaga"][/caption] Esparto is the brainchild of Sugar Perez and Ritchie Balajadia. From the Catalan word, espart, which pertains to the Mediterranean grass used to make espadrilles, Esparto redefines espadrilles and gives them new flair by offering them in different hand-painted and graphic-designed prints. You can even have designs customized! How cool is that? As of the moment I just own a pair. But I already have my sights set on ordering the Jeep Route and Pinoy Street Food. :D Hooray for comfy shoes! My pair goes with me on my walking food trips. :D For more information about Esparto, check out their website esparto.ph and their Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/espartoph?v=info.

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Typhoon Juan - Clearing Vertical Space

lynneenroute — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 12:17:35 +0000

Our streets just look much more pleasant without all the billboards cluttering them. If they were only placed at more decent intervals rather than clumped up where the traffic is greater, Metro Manila would look a lot cleaner. The storm's not over yet so I hope everyone stays safe. :)

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lynneenroute — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 02:49:38 +0000

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Bus Watch

lynneenroute — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 02:55:59 +0000

With all this talk of the odd-even scheme being resurrected specifically for EDSA, I can’t help but say my piece. If they could only regulate the number of buses on the road, I think EDSA will go back to being relatively manageable. In the absence of an efficient train and public transport system, you can't deprive private car owners the comforts and security of driving their own car.

We need to look at what really causes the slow down on the roads. Here we re-visit grade school science. Matter is anything that has mass and occupies space. Therefore the bigger the matter, the bigger the space they take up. So, the big monsters on the road actually are all the buses that keep shifting lanes and run with a stop and go pattern. And no, just because a lot of them are empty doesn't mean that they occupy less surface area on the road. :P

These are photos of buses cutting each other off at night last week and the tagging operations I saw near White Plains Avenue one Saturday morning.

Jeepneys and their sheer volume and invincible attitude on the road are next on my list. In one of the photos, you'll see that almost every other vehicle in Ortigas traffic is a jeepney. And yes, some of them have creepy illustrations on their panels.

Amaretto Sour

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Relish Menu

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lynneenroute — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 22:24:35 +0000

Home

lynneenroute — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 22:27:16 +0000

About

lynneenroute — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 22:27:16 +0000

lynneenroute — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 22:29:10 +0000

Vote for my Foodie Partner: A Self-Learning Mixologist

lynneenroute — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 02:03:13 +0000

It's no secret to those who have read my entries that food is one of the things I love. It's even better that I have someone who enjoys food just as much and also has a keen interest in all things alcoholic. :P To vote, check out Ray's profile on the myfoodtrip.com site. He's a definite foodie but what sets him apart is his love for mixing drinks with food as well. Because what good is a meal without the perfect complement? Ray is what you can call a self-taught mixologist. In fact, he's tending to a pot of peppermint now to supply his love for mojitos. And he has actually taught a bartender in Mr. Rockefeller how to mix a Black Opal drink. To say that his bar at home is comparable to that of a real bar might just be an exaggeration but, to say that the range of alcohol and liquor in his house is as extensive as that of a bar is most certainly not. He has also extended his mixing skills to the kitchen by experimenting with Nissin's Yakisoba which, has led him to come up with Chicken Yakisoba with Tuna flakes (Century Tuna Calamansi) and Beef Yakisoba with Bistek. But the best thing he can really mix together is his love for the open road, his eager attitude for all things new, coupled with his great planning and research skills for all his next adventures. He's the perfect travel companion because while he can be happy with a seven-peso glass of scramble, he can also organize a trip to discover places like Johanna's Grille in Bauan Batangas, Marcia Adam's near Tagaytay's border or Laya Personal Dining in Antipolo, Rizal. Plus, he has a penchant for knowing what drink would go well with each meal...or moment. Like how he paired a glass of Asti Martini with bars of Nestle Crunch while lazying it up on the beach: GENIUS. This is why I believe he is worthy to be Mr. myfoodtrip. I lifted excerpts from his profile on the site so you can read up more on his thinking for food. If he were a type of food/cuisine, he would be... Pizza best describes my personality: Comfort in what you know always works best (cheese and tomato base) and yet, always find something new to make each kind a bit different (toppings) to always have something happy to talk about. :) His motto/ philosophy on eating is... Make every bite count. Never let any morsel or drop slide in without bringing out a memorable experience. Any bite or sip can bring back pleasant memories of a joyful past or let it elicit visions of a hopeful future, all the while enjoying the company of others or of yourself in the present.

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lynneenroute — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 14:28:03 +0000

Relish - A Lunch Respite

lynneenroute — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 01:41:26 +0000

Relish, for me, is something I normally associate with pickles and Lady’s choice. :P If I were to think of it as a verb, I automatically think: cherish.

Relish Restaurant is a new addition to the numerous Makati restaurants, especially those along Valero. It’s only been open for about two months and is drawing crowds from the different offices within the area. I like it because of its simple interiors. Nice clean lines and neutral colors were used with splashes of color achieved through accents like table decorations. It’s a nice break from the usual fast-food or convenience store food we have to make do with when we’re trying to fit in a decent lunch. Sometimes it’s nice to slow down and take a break from work’s usual frenzy and just appreciate good food. The menu seems to be Mediterranean in inspiration and their servings are huge. While the dishes are good for sharing, they unfortunately charge a splitting fee of P50. I really hope they rethink this. It’s not what I’d call a come-on for a restaurant, really. If they want people to order more food, then maybe they should just have smaller servings or have different sizes like personal/ solo and for sharing. To see their full menu, click here. [caption id="attachment_861" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Roasted Pumpkin Soup"][/caption] Pumpkin soup's nice because you can actually taste bits of the pumpkin and I think some nut for texture. It's not like one of those overprocessed soups that come from a big vat and is just reheated and reheated throughout the day. [caption id="attachment_862" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Relish Roasted Chicken with garlic, lemon and oregano"][/caption] This is just half of the order. I got the white meat part and was pleasantly surprised to still find the meat juicy and tasty (because the problem with the chicken breast part is that it's usually drier than the leg and wing parts). Nice simple flavors from the oregano. The "dip" seemed like some stock and the drippings from roasting the chicken. [caption id="attachment_858" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Relish Lemonade with Mint"][/caption] The lemonade almost feels like a mojito sans the alcohol. :P They also serve select cocktails by the carafe. I’m curious if their drinks are any good. Service was good. The waiters were accommodating and even had the initiative of offering more hot water for our tea. The manager came up to us herself to ask how everything was with our meal. I hope it's not just something they're doing because they're new. It's nice to be attended to even for a few minutes so I hope they keep the level of service up. Like I said, it's good food and it's a worthy stop. Any place that affords us some peace and quiet amidst our busy workdays is always welcome. What you pay for is the whole package: food, drinks, ambience, and convenience. It’s those little breaks from our work that we actually cherish. Or should I say, relish? - Relish is located on the G/F of Ponte Salcedo Building, 120 Valero St., Makati City

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lynneenroute — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 04:47:13 +0000

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Buon Giorno – A Good Day Starts With a Good Breakfast

lynneenroute — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 07:32:08 +0000

Breakfast sets the tone for the entire day. Rush it and you might find yourself rushing the entire day. Give enough time to appreciate the meal and you could fuel yourself into dealing with the rest of the day in a more level-headed and systematic, but relaxed pace. The drive to Tagaytay on a Sunday set-up the anticipation for something warm, hearty, and preferably light to jumpstart our stomachs. Traffic was light and the weather was just pleasant that day. The choice to go to Buon Giorno was perfect. Casually sip your coffee or tea in between spoonfuls of their pumpkin soup and bites of toast with a cheese omelette. You can opt to dine inside but since we were gifted with such nice weather that day, we chose the canopied seat right beside the entrance, where we could do some people-watching the same time we admire the view of the lake. Pumpkin soup that's rich and creamy - more pumpkin than stock. Croutons were freshly added and weren't all soggy when it was served. Who does not like omelette for breakfast? The cheese omelette was naturally comforting but just maybe (this is my ambitious attempt to be culinary), it could be much better if a stronger cheese is added into the mix. Maybe a sprinkling of gorgonzola? Mmmm, freshly baked focaccia bread to be dipped in balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Buon Giorno is one of the restaurants in The Cliffhouse in Tagaytay. And for those who don’t have two hours to spare to drive out of town, they will be opening a branch in the Rockwell Business Center along Ortigas. Minus the view though. First-time visitors are asked to sign their guest book. It's interesting to see what people associate their first taste of Buon Giorno with. The sweetest thing I saw was, "SHE SAID YES!!!" Our entries were a mix of sentimentality and humor. :)

(Please don't ask me who Lily is, where her carinderia can be located...and what in the world un-real rice is... :P)

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Johanna's Grille

lynneenroute — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 05:21:21 +0000

Johanna's Grille Sisig

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Johanna's Grille House Special

lynneenroute — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 05:24:43 +0000

Johanna's Grille Lengua

lynneenroute — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 05:25:39 +0000

Johanna's Grille Lechon Kawali

lynneenroute — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 05:26:25 +0000

Johanna's Grille Ribs

lynneenroute — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 05:34:06 +0000

Johanna's Grille - Batangas' Best Baby Back Ribs!

lynneenroute — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 01:37:33 +0000

We all know that when it comes to the food business, if you don't get the food right the first time, you're basically setting yourself up for ruin. On the flip-side, if you hit gold with a recipe and let a customer base know about it soon enough, you can definitely make it. And last.

Take the example of Johanna's Grille. What started out as a very small shack has now expanded to a full-time restaurant offering a lot of no-nonsense grilled and sizzling food. Even the venue is no-frills. The interiors are simple but they do have these native capiz windows that add a nice touch to the place.

Their specialty? BABY BACK RIBS. Oh, yes. It's meat-off-the-bone tender but still really flavorful. It's like all the hickory flavor's been injected into the meat. They top each serving with a generous amount of their barbecue sauce and add corn on the side. Most likely they pre-cook the meat and just grill it to finish the cooking and seal in the flavor. Definitely value for money. Imagine a full slab of baby back ribs for just P200!!! Winner! I know someone who describes his experience with the ribs as "tear-jerkingly good." Here are other items on the menu that are worth trying. Lechon kawali that's deep fried to crunchy goodness, served with atchara and Mang Tomas.

I like their lengua. It's served on a sizzling plate, swimming in the cream sauce with lots of mushrooms. The sisig was okay also but I'm more a fan of the crunchy kind that's sinfully slathered with egg and/ or mayo (but I still ate a lot of it). :D I don't care if it takes me 2 hours to get to Bauan, Batangas if it means I can help myself to more of the ribs. While I have taken home a full slab already, nothing beats the real deal. Johanna's Grille is located at Brgy. Manghinao Proper, Bauan, Batangas. Take the street across from Bauan Doctor's Hospital (near the bridge going to Mabini). Johanna's should be on your right. This could be a great stop for those who frequent the area especially on the way to Anilao. Bauan is the town before it. And once you've tried it, let me know how it was like for you. :)

Johanna's Grille Bar

lynneenroute — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 02:01:51 +0000

Johanna's Grille Interiors

lynneenroute — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 02:02:40 +0000

Directions to Johanna's Grille

lynneenroute — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 05:48:30 +0000

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Interesting Signs and Sightings - Binondo

lynneenroute — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 04:22:09 +0000

Manila, specifically Binondo, just has this unique character to it. Here's a glimpse of some things we saw on two occasions. [caption id="attachment_1096" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="A dragon dance we chased down the street (was a gimmick of a political candidate)"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1102" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Ooh, kisses and chocolate...medical supply??!?"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1090" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="A disabled ramp that's a several inches high. A disabled mind constructed this."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1099" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Just "think safety"...in all aspects :P"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1098" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Sometimes you just have to be, erm, very explicit...I guess cats aren't very big problems..."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1087" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="A lady with an upside-down umbrella...She could easily buy a cheap replacement in Juan Luna."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1082" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Who's the white hero lifting the moon cake?"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1100" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Terrible Recto traffic due to so many inconsiderate pedestrians and jeepney drivers."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1079" align="aligncenter" width="384" caption="Intertwined phone and electric lines...an accident waiting to happen"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1084" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Filipino translations are very simple."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1091" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Ah yes, intellectual property rights, hello."][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1089" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="A tricycle driver pushing his transport over a small hill along Ongpin"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1094" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Stay at your own risk."][/caption]

Ingredients

lynneenroute — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 11:11:12 +0000

Lemon juice

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Amaretto

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Shake

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Pour 1

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Pour 2

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Lime juice

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Amaretto Sour!

lynneenroute — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 11:20:29 +0000

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The How-to of an Amaretto Sour

lynneenroute — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 02:07:51 +0000

Amaretto sour is actually a simple drink to make. The ingredients are all available in your nearest grocery. For the equipment, apart from the shaker, you can improvise on the others.

A rocks glass
Lemonade
Amaretto liquor
Lime juice
Lemon pinwheels for garnish
A shaker full of ice
A shot glass

STEP 1: Pour 3 shots of lemonade into the shaker. You can opt for any powdered lemonade or go for freshly squeezed lemons. Oranges actually work too but they're not as sour. STEP 2: Add in 2 shots of amaretto liquor. Amaretto is an almond-based liquor that isvery sweet yet still has a slight bitterness from the almond. The known brand you will encounter in liquor stores and bars would be the Amaretto Disaronno. Step 3: Put 1.5 shots of lime juice. This adds the tang in the drink. Step 4: Give it a good shake. Step 5: Pour into a rocks glass.

Garnish with a few lemon wheels and there you have it, your very own amaretto sour! :D This step-by-step guide is brought to by a candidate for myfoodtrip.com's search for Mister and Miss Myfoodtrip. To vote for him, simply click here and then click on the link on the page that says "Vote for me." Watch out for more featured drinks next time!

A "Trio" of Flavors

lynneenroute — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 02:01:35 +0000

When it comes to trying out new places, it doesn’t always have to be a newly-opened restaurant. It just has to be a discovery for you...which is what Trio was for me when I finally got to try it. Trio offers you the dining experience of either a bistro, a pizzeria, or a wine bar. And, being the pizza-lover that I am, you can easily guess what I picked. They offer several items on the menu in threes like crostinis, brushcettas, and salads.

One of the things I loved about this place is the pizza-making area that’s visible even to those walking on the square downstairs. They only usually allow kids to actually enter and watch how their pizzas are made. I guess my excitement made me kid-like enough to warrant a stay to be up close and personal with my Trio of Pizzas – your choice of three sampler-sized pizzas.

[caption id="attachment_836" align="aligncenter" width="563" caption="Before going into the oven"][/caption] Their best-seller is the Tutta Bella, which has everything on it: Italian sausage, pepperoni, ham, roasted peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, tomatoes. We chose that along with the Truffle Oil (Three types of mushrooms with a generous drizzle of truffle oil; who doesn’t love truffle oil?) and a comforting Five Cheese pizza (provolone, fontina, mozzarella, parmesan and gorgonzola).

Despite the sampler size of the pizzas. they don't scrimp on toppings. The smell of meat and cheese plus the hard-to-miss truffle oil is intoxicating. The crust is super thin but its crispiness holds the many toppings while you bite into it. I've been told this is close to how pizza is really made in Rome. Another item they offer in threes are cocktails. For just P275+, you already get three glasses of your chosen drink. Perfect to go with a Trio of Pizzas. [caption id="attachment_1007" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Mojito and Amaretto Sour"][/caption] I liked discovering the variety of flavors they offer. Another good thing to note is that prices aren’t so bad also. And being on the second floor, it actually affords you a view of what’s happening outside. It would be good to come back here with a group of friends to share everything. Like they say, the more the merrier. ---

Trio is located on the 2/F of Fort Pointe Bldg., Fort Bonifacio, Global City Taguig City, Metro Manila

Tel. No.: (02) 884-1601

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Manila's Coolest Cars - The 2010 Manila Auto Salon

lynneenroute — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 05:12:36 +0000

While I can't say that I know a lot about cars, I do get a kick out of seeing really nicely set-up ones. Plus, I've recently discovered that I like the thrill of speed. And what good are roads if you can't even spy some drool-worthy vehicles every once in a while? Last week, the 2010 Manila Auto Salon took place at the SMX Convention Center. I have never seen so many cool cars in one place at one time. Here are just a few of them.

I just realized after seeing one of the videos there that I want to experience standing in the middle while a drift car circles around me. Maybe someone from Autoindustriya will be willing to indulge me on this eventually. :P

Some also offered the car enthusiasts a chance to show off driving prowess and even a test of strength.

I am still awaiting a tutorial to up my understanding about cars. But for now, I am also content with just being a passenger and getting to see how everyone dresses up their rides. And seeing them on the road especially on early Sunday mornings when there is no traffic. :D

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The How-to of a Mojito

lynneenroute — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 03:51:05 +0000

Of Cuban origin, a mojito is one of the most popular drinks that people order whenever they go to bars. It's also a perfect summer pick because of the touch of lime that's just very refreshing. I like to think of mojitos as simple to make but it just requires a certain technique. While there are measurements, there's also a need for some "guesstimating", especially when you're new to mixing the drink. This simple guide should give you a good start. What you need are:

1 quarter of lime
20 pieces of mint leaves
1.5 shots of rum
1 shot of simple syrup
Crushed ice
A dash of soda water
A muddler
A highball glass

STEP 1: Muddle the mint with (of course) the muddler! We like to use peppermint leaves for a stronger taste and smell. The original Cuban recipes make use of a mint called yerba buena.

STEP 2: Add in the lime. You can cut them in small cube-like pieces or in wheels. Wheels tend to look nicer. :)

STEP 3: Pack the glass with crushed ice. It has to be crushed, not shaved, ice. (We didn't have any at that time so we had to make do with ice cubes from the chiller.)

STEP 4: Pour in 1.5 shots of white rum.

STEP 5: Add a shot of simple syrup. Simple syrup is basically sugar melted in an equal part of water. Some even just add sugar in directly to the drink if they don't have a ready batch of simple syrup.

STEP 6: Top it off with a dash of soda water for a little fizz.

Give it a good stir, garnish with a few mint leaves, and you have your mojito! This is usually drank with a straw (unless you're a fan of gulping in the muddled mint leaves).

For a strawberry mojito, simply substitute the simple syrup with strawberry juice. I personally like this over the classic one.

Have fun mixing it up!

This step-by-step guide is brought to by a candidate for myfoodtrip.com’s search for Mister and Miss Myfoodtrip. To vote for him, simply click here and then click on the link on the page that says “Vote for me.”

HTC Desire Z

lynneenroute — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 03:19:41 +0000

I am a Droid

lynneenroute — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 03:35:21 +0000

Christmas came early for me when I got myself a new phone! The HTC Desire Z is HTC's latest release. Main considerations for me was that it had a tactile keypad apart from just a full touch screen and that it could easily link to all my social networking accounts. Almost 2 weeks of tinkering with it and I'm quite happy I decided to go against the iPhone 4 bandwagon. :D I've lost sleep over playing Angry Birds and Slice It (which are both free from the Android Market) and simple widgets like the Weather and Friendstream (similar to Tweetdeck) make this much more fun. One of its greatest perks is HTC Sense. HTC Sense actually offers a lot of solutions but the best one is granting you access to your phone when say, you've misplaced it or it was stolen. You can block your phone and even secure your data. I only wish it had greater battery life. I've been trying to look for an extra battery but I don't think that's available yet. Maybe next year. But overall, I'm having fun with this phone. It's so smart, it's freaky. :P Check out more about it from the HTC site. I also know someone who's selling the HTC Desire Z among other gadgets. Check out DC Technology on Facebook. (Photo courtesy of the HTC site.)

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lynneenroute — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 09:36:47 +0000

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lynneenroute — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 12:11:53 +0000

Basil Pasta Salad - For the budget and figure conscious

lynneenroute — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 03:40:05 +0000

It's that time of the year when we have parties left and right. Food is just everywhere. So we need some detox every once in a while. We received a really nice wedding souvenir lately: a basil plant, which we have aptly decided to name Basil (yes, as in the singer :P). He, along with Pep, will be part of our slowly growing herb garden. We already have some choco mint, tarragon and rosemary so here's to hoping we manage to keep them all alive. So to combat all the heavy food the holidays (and well, even fast food and nights out bring), it's nice to snack on something light and healthy for a change. Something simple to make with things you can easily find in the grocery, and for a nice touch, some fresh herbs from the garden. All we need are:

Pasta: penne is recommended but the ribbons are good too.
Extra virgin olive oil: about 2 tbsp. (depends on your taste really)
Diced tomatoes: 1-2 small ones (quantity depends on your taste too)
A few leaves of basil, cut into strips

Voila! A filling but light salad. If you want some meat in it, maybe you can add some tuna. The spicy kind can add a kick to make it a tad more interesting. :) Share your own healthy concoction! :D

wpwh-giveaway-300x250

lynneenroute — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 22:37:40 +0000

Help Me Win Free Hosting!

lynneenroute — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 03:27:23 +0000

Almost half a year down since I started this blog. It's been both fun and pressuring at times because I know I need to refresh the entries regularly. Thank you for those who have viewed more than once. What would be better at this point is to actually be able to host my own site and domain name. It comes with a more challenging appeal of more flexibility with how the site will be. All I need is for you guys to comment on this post to qualify! Help me win the rookie hosting plan from WPWebHost! I really want to see how far I can push this blog. And wouldn't you want more food posts? :D

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lynneenroute — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 02:52:25 +0000

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Laya - A Goodbye Visit

lynneenroute — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 06:29:35 +0000

When we learned from Irene and Chef Ricci of Laya that they'll be down to their last month of operation, we panicked! While it has been a successful ride for them since they opened around mid- 2009, they need to relocate to Seattle. We were definitely not going to miss a final visit to this place. I first found out about Laya through a consumer trend presentation we had last September 2009 that mentioned how consumers were looking out for more personalized offers, with the personal touch serving the purpose of added value to elevate an occasion from everyday to special. A week after, we experienced just how special it could get and that's why I always have fond memories of the place.

I've always loved it here - the ambience, the service, the design of the place, and let's not forget the FOOD! The craziest thing is, just when I thought I had tasted the best of Laya, I come back and try some of the same dishes and they just seem to taste so much better! Definitely always gets better with each visit.

[caption id="attachment_1257" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="The Original Trio of Appetizers: Stirfried Kaffir Lime Pork in Lettuce Wrap; Shrimp & Chicken Wanton Bag with Thai Sweet Chili; and Nori Prawn Roll with Mango Papaya Aioli"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1263" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="A Duo of Soup Shooters: Curried Pumpkin with Coconut Cream Froth and Wanton Crisp and Thai Tomato Basil with Cilantro Foam"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1258" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Deconstructed Caesar Salad Sticks in Asian-style Aioli & Dips"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1259" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Homemade Fresh Lychee Sorbet"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1264" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Herb-Marinated US HangingTender Steak in a Red Wine & Rosemary Reduction with Spiced Crushed Potatoes"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1260" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Cashew-crusted Salmon in Ginger Honey with Saffron Cashew Rice Pilaf"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1252" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Dark Chocolate & Black Pepper Tart with Candied Ginger and Basil-infused Crème Anglaise"][/caption]

Too bad Irene wasn't feeling well when we went there. But thank you so much Irene and Ricci for the wonderful experiences we've had on all three of our visits. (I wish we went there more.) Good luck and I hope you cook something up whenever you come home to the Philippines.

[caption id="attachment_1256" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Chef Ricci"][/caption]

Hurry up and see if they still have slots. I hear they're receiving bookings like crazy. In case you miss them this month, they did say that they will still be coming up with other events for Laya patrons elsewhere (like the nearby Pinto Gallery) between January and April.

Have you visited Laya? Tell me about it as I'd love to hear how your personal experience went. :)

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lynneenroute — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 02:54:37 +0000

This is my chance to see Europe! Help me!

lynneenroute — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 02:58:48 +0000

This is it! Here's my chance! Please help me get to my dream destinations courtesy of KLM! Go to myeuropeandream by clicking the link and simply look for my entry. The title is "One Foot In Front of the Other" by lovelynne23. Please like my entry and tell your friends to like it too! This means Paris, Greece and Italy for me!