de-light cuisine at spiral sofitel manila

It used to be that healthy food translated to me as bland and boring but eversince I started doing Crossfit religiously,  it changed my lifestyle and allowed me to open up my mind and give it a chance. After two months of working out and living with healthier food choices, I wouldn't have it any other way.

Once you get started, it gets easier. And the food, I find, is actually really tasty and better suited to my taste.

I no longer feel sluggish and bloated after meals, just perfectly content and satisfied without the guilt.

A great example of a delicious yet healthy meal is the new De-Light Cuisine at Spiral Buffet in Sofitel Manila.

Spiral's De-light was developed to compliment Sofitel and Vietura's new Beauty Staycation packages  - overnight stays that promote wellness: a sound mind + a sound body = a sound life.

It was during my Timeless Beauty staycation (read here) that I got to sample these new offerings that are perfect for the health conscious and those who want a refreshing mid-meal break from the other heavy dishes at Spiral buffet.

Yes, De-light dishes are included in the regular buffet so you can opt to go healthy all the way or insert a few of their dishes into your meal for a less-guilty buffet experience.

De-Light dishes are easy to spot, just look for the "De-Light" logo which also includes other information such as fat content and calorie count.

For our degustation that night, we got to try their Cold Gaspacho Soup, several main dishes, fresh-pressed cocktails and even an enjoyable low-fat dessert.

de-light cold gaspacho soup

 I am not really a fan of cold soup but this was okay. I enjoyed the one topped with shrimp at the far end though I would probably skip on the other two next time...it felt more like juice to me rather than soup...but that's just me, like I said, was never really a fan of cold soup in the first place...:P

shrimp and pomelo salad

 Healthy or not, Shrimp and Pomelo Salad has always been at the top of my Thai food list of favorites so I was really happy to find it included in the De-Light menu. Spiral's version is one of the cleanest tasting salads I have ever tried. The shrimp and pomelo used was extremely fresh. Shrimp was sweet and the Pomelo was perfectly ripe so it didn't leave a bitter aftertaste in the mouth.

Tandoori Chicken

 This didn't feel like diet food at all. Their Tandoori Chicken was well-seasoned and juicy. It was difficult to have just one piece. I couldn't get enough of the creamy cilantro sauce that was served alongside it.

Tofu with Fresh Scallops and Brocolli

 3 of my favorite things to eat. This was a no-brainer for me, loved it even before tasting it --- although the others found it a bit bland, I loved every bite. The tofu was silken and gave a great contrast to the crisp broccoli and springy scallops. I also found the sauce to have just enough flavor and the right type of consistency to perfectly compliment a delicate dish such as this one.

shrimp rolls

 This was so refreshing. A great snack or appetizer, something I wouldn't mind having everyday.

Salmon with Asparagus

 I'm not a big fan of Salmon because most restaurants tend to overcook it and you're left with a dry slab of fish. It can also be quite fishy when the fish used isn't fresh. This one though was super fresh and perfectly, perfectly cooked. Juicy, tasty, delectable and extremely luxurious as a main dish.

Sushi!

 Enough said! Who doesn't love this Japanese delicacy?

tuna tartare

 Like Sushi with a twist! Also extremely satiating and surprisingly heavy on the belly in a nice, guiltless way.

Fresh Oysters

 Bigger in size than I'm normally accustomed to but just as good. ;)

Yoghurt with Strawberry Compote and Green Tea Sponge Cakes

Hooray for guiltless dessert! Add the compote to the yoghurt and mix together for a cold treat. The light as a feather green tea sponge cakes work extremely well at cleansing the palette when the yoghurt/compote's sweet/sour flavor gets a bit too much. Get the most out of the dish when you alternate bites.

In conclusion: With De-Light at Spiral, eating healthy is now an exciting and gratifying experience. I enjoyed it so much, I skipped on all the other dishes included in the regular Spiral buffet. Having a 100% untarnished healthy meal from start to finish results in a nicely full but light belly. My mood was improved, I didn't leave the table sluggish and most importantly, I didn't feel like I was missing out at all.

For more info on Sofitel's Beauty Staycations, click HERE or visit: http://www.sofitelmanila.com/en

For first dibs on promos and new offerings, connect with Sofitel Manila on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@SofitelManila)

ootd: pink peonies

Happy Saturday!

This is what I wore to the Bluewater Day Spa event a few days ago at the fairly new Marco Polo hotel (see here). It was my first time there. It's a shame I didn't have a chance to really look around the place but I did manage to get a glimpse of the pool which was pretty cool...it was an indoor infinity at the 27th floor if I remember right. Looked like a nice place to chill with a couple of pina coladas on a sunny afternoon...

Anyway, my outfit...

So happy I got a new pair of skorts again! This time printed for a refreshing change. My white and black pair are already showing signs of wear from being overused so I thought it was high time to purchase another one. I've been so addicted to skorts eversince I got my first pair. They're truly the most comfortable and easiest thing to wear + the cut is flattering on most body types. This one by Persunmall is cut just right in a way that it camouflages the belly and thighs, fabric is also really cool against the skin which is perfect. No more polyester for me while the weather is still super humid.

chanel boy bag street style

wear mauve

printed skorts street style

persunmall pteris skort

sm ladies fashion blouse | persunmall skort (see here) | mango touch sandals | @wearmauve (on IG) necklace

photos by tracyayson.com

WEEKEND BEAUTY | TEXTURED WAVES + DEFINED LASHES

Photos via: Guy Lowndes

Just came across these gorgeous beauty looks from an old Joie lookbook. The textured wavy hair and defined lashes make for the perfect weekend beauty inspiration.

Get the look:
+ Oscar Blandi Pronto Texture & Volume Spray
+ Eyeko + Alexa Chung Eye Do Mascara
+ Halston Heritage Striped Bateau Long-Sleeve Sweater

ayala style origins 2014: menswear

Ayala Style Origins was held the same day as Nikola's (my daughter) birthday. Since we were also planing to have dinner in Greenbelt, I decided to take her along with me to watch the show. 

I wasn't sure wether she would appreciate it or not but I like exposing her to as many different forms of art possible to make her aware of the many choices and opportunities available for her.

Just as I expected, she got restless during cocktails and the pre-show. I can't blame her, despite the many outdoor air-conditioners, it was still pretty humid.

Thankfully, she started to settle down as soon as we were able to seat ourselves and catch Joey Mead and RJ Ledesma take the stage to host the show.

I was expecting to be bombarded with complaints throughout the fashion show but what I got was the total opposite of that. As soon as the first model strutted down the runway, she was quiet, attentive...and that's how she stayed throughout the entire 30 minutes or so that it lasted. Quite a feat when it isn't Nickelodeon providing the entertainment.

The designers who participated in the Menswear Show for Ayala Style Origins were successful in doing what every designer must aspire to accomplish: which is to inspire all ages and leave their mouths gaping in awe after a glimpse of their creations.

Out of the box thinking led these fashion designers to utilize materials such as plastic for eye catching outerwear and "teddy bear material" for an outfit worthy of a stylish overnight snuggle in.

Each piece that walked down that runway was meticulously put together and envisioned. You could almost see the passion pouring out of the ensembles as they passed by...and there was not a shortage of diversity.

From heavily embellished matador-like outfits to the ultra minimal Japanese, many were represented and all impeccable without exception.

A standing ovation to all those who lent their talents towards making Ayala Style Origins one of the most unforgettable shows of the season.

MODEL-OFF-DUTY: ANJA RUBIK | SUMMER STYLE

Photo via: Elle

Why, oh why, can't I have legs like model Anja Rubik? She's killing it in New York City wearing a  green button down and slouchy black shorts. Major summer style inspiration.

Get the look:
+ Sandra Ingrish Split Neck Tunic
+ Vince Raglan Top in Sage
+ Joie Beso Shorts
+ alice + olivia Butterfly Shorts
+ Sigerson Morrison Vesta Heel Booties (also here)

Look of the Day: Hard Light

Hard afternoon sun and crazy wind are a blogger's nightmare, especially when combined. I personally prefer soft morning light on my outfit pictures, sunsets will do as well, but what can you do if it's your only opportunity to shoot an outfit?

1) make sure the wind is blowing in your back, this way the hair will look more voluminous

2) if squinting on a picture is not an option, stand facing the sun and turn your head to a side, so that one part of your face was lit up without any harsh shadows

3) if you can't/don't want to find a shadow, try turning your back to the sun and then just add some contrast to your pictures in Photoshop.

I'm wearing:

Crackled top - Cameo (a gorgeous dress in the same print here)

Sleeveless blazer - Zara (similar one here)

Jeans - Asos

Necklace - Zara (similar one here)

Watch - Michael Kors

Heels - Zara (similar ones here) 

Bag - Asos 

SHOP THIS POST:

Follow me on Instagram:
 

sm woman launch at philippine fashion week holiday 2014

I haven't gotten this excited about a Philippine Fashion Week show in awhile.

The launch of SM Woman yesterday at the SMX surpassed all my expectations and I was more than pleasantly surprised. Calm is not a word to describe how I felt last night.

Here's why:

phfw 2014

First off, the pre-show was hosted by Teresa Herrera.

sm woman philippine fashion week

Of all local fashion icons, she is my ultimate fave and I aspire to become like her when I reach her age. To this day, she is still able to pull-off any outfit with utmost style and grace doesn't matter if she's dolled up in a dress or clad in shorts and an over-sized top at a music festival. She always looks perfect. (love you! :-*)

teresa herrera

Second, the show.

Not to exaggerate...I was overwhelmed with gratitude that finally, a brand has emerged that truly expresses my personal style aesthetic. Looking at SM Woman's debut collection felt like taking a peek at my closet.

I would wear 90% of the clothes that I witnessed gracing the runway last night.

Ruffled hem skirts, neoprene, digital prints, crop tops...that's all me! And it is extremely evident in my ootd's.  I used to have to order most of my clothes abroad or spend small fortunes in ZARA but now with SM Woman, a top only costs around P500-P600. Imagine all the money I'll be able to save!

And the quality + fit of the clothes are so good. The fabrics they use are top-grade.

Their debut collection includes a wide variety of styles to suit different needs and occasions. Wether you're planning an office wardrobe, going to the the beach, looking for a cocktail dress or wanting to update your casual pieces, SM Woman has "got it all for you". ;)

And in no less than extremely fashion forward styles.

sm woman holiday 2014

Here's a sneekpeak:

Last night's was truly one of the best shows I have ever seen at Philippine Fashion Week.

The new SM Woman collection is now available at The SM Store.

for more info, connect with SM Woman socially on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SMWoman, Twitter: @_smwoman and Instagram: @SMWoman

FREJA BEHA ERICHSEN | RUSSH JUNE/JULY 2014

Photo via: Style

Smitten with model Freja Beha Erichsen's June/July cover for RUSSH magazine. What a smile!

Get the look:
+ Banana Republic Ribbed Pullover
+ Jin Soon Nail Polish in Nostalgia

3 MANICURES TO TRY NOW

Photos via: Harper's Bazaar

I'm always on the hunt for new manicure inspiration and these three nail looks caught my eye. I like to keep it simple, so my favorite of the three is the pale pink and metallic tip take on the french manicure. Get all the how-to details for each nail look here.

Get the look:

romwe paisley boho romper 57% off!

Here's something that'll get you through several summer seasons...

ROMWE's Paisley Boho Romper...a timeless print that never fails to exude that charming gypsy feel.

Romwe's boho romper comes with adjustable straps and pockets...(I like bottoms with pockets so I know where to  put my hands when taking photos :P)

Anyway... 

If you've always wanted to try the style, now's the best time. Get this super cute piece of clothing for only $11.99 instead of $27.99.

Catch the ROMWE Romper Sale HERE!

bluewater day spa: lifestyle redefined

As early as last year, I would categorize spa visits as a luxury. Although I always knew in the back of my head that regular massages do wonders for your circulation to prevent all sorts of disease, I never really saw it as a necessity until this year when I started to really open my eyes and embrace healthier living.

On my street alone, there are about 5 spas. They've been sprouting like mushrooms in recent years. How do you sift the good from the bad, the worth visiting to the better left untried bracket?

As a pioneer in the industry, Bluewater Day Spa recognizes the high demand for a good massage, something that will leave you contented and satisfied. They also would like to change the mindset of people who see the spa as a luxury. 

Nowadays, with our busy schedules and grueling traffic that is enough to send anyone into the loony bin, it is important to take time for ourselves to rest, rejuvenate, de-stress and allow our inner beauty to reach out.

Bluewater Day Spa addresses this need with the release of their new campaign called "Lifestyle Redefined".

Lifestyle Redefined turns the spa experience into a necessity by offering affordable and relevant hotel-like services to the public.

They offer a wide range of non-invasive treatments and pamper sessions tailor-made to suit everyone's different needs.

They have also employed a roster of popular actors and actresses  who embody a healthy lifestyle as brand ambassadors.

Personalities such as Iya Villania, Aljur Abrenica, Ian Batherson,Mikaela Lagdameo- Martinez, Fabio Ide, Kim Suiza and the Semerad Twins, Anthony and David and several others were chosen to inspire us not only to stay fit and healthy but also to reward and heal our bodies after a heavy workout or a tiring day at the office.

According to Iya : “It is important for celebrities like us to take care of ourselves since people will see it when you’re stressed because it will show in your skin,”

Aljur and Ian go to the spa for their soothing massage and pampering treatments.  They also love that their favorite wellness center allows them to bond with their friends at the Spa Theater, a first and only in the Philippines from BlueWater Day Spa.

“My favorite BlueWater Day Spa treatment is the Revita Firm and Revita Shape treatments.  Using the technology of heat, it is a non-invasive approach to tighten the skin and lift it at the same time,” says Mikaela. 

Also launched at the event held at Marco Polo Hotel yesterday was two new massages: the Eman Massage and the Brazilian Hand and Foot Massage. Both are exclusive to Bluewater Day Spa and are definite "must-trys."

BlueWater Day Spa currently has six (6) branches: Ortigas-Greenhills (7278420), Makati (8173126), Capitol Hills (9524829), Eastwood City (9151247), Tomas Morato (4865584), Cotabato City (09276031084) and Naga City (09177391822).  They are also open for Franchising.

For more information, you may visit their website: www.bluewaterdayspa.ph, or be in the loop through their social media accounts, facebook.com/bwdspa, twitter.com/bluewaterdayspa and instagram: bwdspa.