When the routine of daily life starts to bore me, I go to any of the de luxe hotels in the metro and recharge. Thank goodness, there’s always something interesting and enjoyable in these world-class “sanctuaries” that easily make their mark among the metro’s fun-loving denizens. Here are a couple of those hotels which people like us, perennially harassed working individuals, can go to for that much-needed leisurely break.Oakwood Premier
The traffic in the metropolis has never been a deterrent for me from going to this cocoon of luxury at the Joy Nostalg Center, Ortigas Business District, because I know that its facilities and culinary offerings are worth the time you spend on the road. Recently, the hotel hosted a Cocktail Party at its Nostalgia Dining Lounge for the beautiful candidates from all over the world for the Miss Earth 2016 Beauty Pageant. Selected friends and loyal supporters of Oakwood Premier were invited to hobnob, over our favorite drinks and canapes, with the lovely lasses.
The amiable hotel general manager, Meinrab Schibler, made sure that the evening’s set up would allow guests to have a chance to chat with any of the 83 candidates, each of whom was stunning, to say the least. I had the chance to chat with the pretty Chloe Syquia Skarne, who is Miss Sweden, and is the daughter of my friend, movie and TV star Gabby Concepcion.
Of course, those from South American countries stood out with their looks, as later validated by the results on Finals Night which proclaimed Miss Ecuador as Miss Earth 2016, Miss Colombia as Miss Earth-Air, Miss Venezuela as Miss Earth-Water, and Miss Brazil as Miss Earth-Fire. Too bad Miss Bolivia, who was also my favorite, didn’t make it to any of the top 4 spots.
The Miss Earth Beauty Pageant has been produced, since 2001, by Philippine-based Carousel Productions, headed by its Chairman and President Ramon Monzon and Executive Vice President Lorraine Schuck. What sets this beauty pageant apart from the others is its commitment to work with local and international groups and non-governmental organizations actively involved in environmental causes. What is interesting is that its campaign for environmental awareness is also in sync with Oakwood Premier’s dedication to eco-responsibility.
New World Makati Hotel
A recent discovery was made when the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) decided to hold our latest Board of Trustees monthly meeting at the New World Makati Hotel. Its latest Food and Beverage promo is something that foodies like you and me will certainly enjoy, especially if you go for Chinese Dim Sum.
The hotel’s popular Jasmine restaurant, a Chinese specialty dining venue, has an ongoing “Unlimited Dim Sum Promo” every lunchtime. For only P988, anyone can have as many delectable Dim Sum items as he/she can take in one sitting. It is a most satisfying Chinese lunch one can have, especially because there are so many items to choose from, and you can go for seconds, for thirds, for fourths. And, since they are all prepared by a Hong Kong chef, you are assured of the best quality and exquisite taste. The choices even include several mouthwatering dessert items, to ensure a delightful end for the meal.
When my good friend, hotel general manager Farid Schoucair, dropped by to say “Hello” to our group, we heaped praises on him for the scrumptious lunch. He shared his management secret with us—he always meets with his chefs to ensure that they maintain, at all times, the high standards of quality food in all of the hotel’s food and beverage outlets. Small wonder my colleagues and I enjoyed the feast!
If you’re in the mood for a real Chinese culinary treat, you’ll be very happy with the ongoing Unlimited Dim Sum Lunchtime Promo at Jasmine of the New World Makati Hotel. The choices are many, and each item tastes soooooo good…you’ll forget your name!
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YOUR FRIDAY CHUCKLE
Little Johnny attended a horse auction with his father. He watched as his father moved from horse to horse, running his hands up and down the horse’s legs and rump, and chest. After a few minutes, Johnny asked, “Dad, why are you doing that?” His father replied, “Because when I’m buying horses, I have to make sure that they are healthy and in good shape before I buy.” Johnny, looking worried, said, “Uh, oh, Dad, I think our plumber wants to buy Mom.”