Britney Live in Manila: How much is the ticket?

What a great surprise!

It has just been confirmed this morning that Britney Spears will indeed hold a concert here in Manila this year. Way back during the '90s, Britney made waves in the international music scene since she released her very first single, Baby One More Time. Since then, her songs and albums have always been a chart topper, thus earning her the title - Global Pop Icon. 

And for the first time, Britney Spears will be coming to Manila on June 15, 2017 to hold a very special concert at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. 

Wilbros Live has made the official announcement just today, March 28, on their Facebook page. More details are yet to be released, but in case you're wondering, here are the ticket prices as posted by Wilbros Live:

Tickets will be on sale starting April 5, 10AM, at SMTickets.com. For more info, you may call SM Tickets at 470-2222.

Now, who's excited for Britney Live in Manila?

My Sisters' Birthday Staycation at Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila

Family time!

It was two of my sisters', Ate Pia and Pau, birthday weekend and the eldest decided to spend it in Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila that is just across SM Sea Residences in Pasay. Though we just live in the same block, we don't often do this staycation so I said yes without a doubt!

My sister Sandra and her family went there early so the kids can enjoy the pool. 

Kuya JEM and Sean enjoying the pool

My nephew Sean got his own Instagram account where he shares pictures of his toy collection. If you love toys too, go follow him at @seanstoysandthings. 

View of SM Sea Residences from the pool area

There are also restaurants within the area and convenience stores for late night snacks.

JEM and Sean at Sbarro

It was Friday then and as expected, commuting is so much stressful. So after all my errands for the day, I met with my sister Pia and Lallen so we can go there together.

Upon arriving at the hotel, we had a hard time finding our room because the room numbering and the elevators are so confusing. It's a condotel so there's a separate elevator for residents and guests but the layout just doesn't work. Anyway, it took a while before we got used to finding our way back to our rooms.

Despite the confusing floor layout, we really love our rooms. It's really spacious and the bed is so comfy! They also have a walk-in closet but no bath tub in the bathroom. :(

Got a Suite Room for myself :)

My sister Sandra with husband Andrew and son Sean

Golden Phoenix Deluxe Twin Room

The following day, we had our lunch at Mall of Asia which is just a 5-10 minute ride from the hotel. If you're fit enough and up for some strolling, you may even walk your way to the mall. It's really that close.

We didn't spend much time in the mall so we went right back to the hotel after eating and spent the rest of our day there. Upon getting back to my room, I found this sweet surprise which is just some of the many perks you'll enjoy when you sign-up to their membership program:

Fruit plate + birthday cake and wine

That night, we just stayed in our room for dinner and celebrated Ate Pia and Pau's birthday.

Papa, Pau, Ate Pia, Me, and Ate Sands (insert Claud)

And what makes their birthday celebration grander? This nice view of the pyrolympics - Philippine International Pyromusical Competition - from my room at the second floor. Just imagine if your room is in much higher floor. I'm sure the view would be so perfect.

Also nearby is the Harbor Square which is just within CCP Complex, probably a 15-20-minute drive from the hotel.

A post shared by ED (@dwrdsnts) on Mar 11, 2017 at 9:37am PST

And before we check out the following day, the trip wouldn't be complete without a shoot. :D

A post shared by ED (@dwrdsnts) on Mar 11, 2017 at 11:00pm PST

A post shared by ED (@dwrdsnts) on Mar 13, 2017 at 12:37am PDT

A post shared by ED (@dwrdsnts) on Mar 13, 2017 at 7:44am PDT

Our stay was so worth it and fun, in fact, I signed up to their membership program that is inclusive of the following perks:

• 2 Complimentary overnight accommodations in a Deluxe Room with buffet breakfast for two
• 2 25% hotel room discount vouchers that can be availed during weekdays 
• 1 15% hotel room discount vouchers that can be availed during weekends
• 2 upgrade vouchers to a Suite Room
• 1 complimentary birthday cake and wine

What confused me, however, are the emails I received after signing up. Found these issues as I read through them:

Choice of words. It's as if I've already redeemed my vouchers.

Wrong email address and phone number. And, no, I have not received a physical membership card

(Virtual) Membership card shows incorrect date (Member Since...next year?)

I've raised these concerns to the front desk and she let me talk to the marketing department about it. The Marketing Guy was supposed to an email as a proof that the (some of the) perks were in fact not claimed yet but I have not received any as promised.

Anyway, if you sign up to their membership program and got the same set of emails, better clarify it with their front desk.

Overall, it was indeed a fun family weekend! We were only supposed to stay at Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila for one night but we really enjoyed it there so we decided to extend one more night. 

What's your best family staycation? Share your fun experience below!

Landers Superstore to open new branches in Pasig and Muntinlupa

Inspired by the increase in spending power of Filipinos and the year on year growth in retail, Landers Superstore, the country’s fastest growing membership shopping establishment, recently announced its plans to expand to the southern and eastern part of Metro Manila. 

Backed by thorough research and the success of the first two superstores, Landers Superstore is poised to take advantage of the rapid developments in Pasig and Muntinlupa Cities. 

Two Landers Superstore outlets will be opened in these areas, as confirmed by Atty. Lowell Yu, chairman of Southeast Asia Retail Inc., which recently formalized an agreement with Megaworld Corporation, the developer behind ArcoVia City along C5 in Pasig and Alabang West in Muntinlupa City. The expansion, he explained, will provide residents from these two townships and from neighboring areas with an exclusive one-stop shop where they can find a complete array of their everyday lifestyle needs.

The retail industry has been growing exponentially, propelled by the steady increase in the spending power of Filipinos specifically towards household consumption expenditures. These factors, plus the strategic locations where we are setting up, made us decide to expand our investment in this category. Atty. Lowell Yu, Chairman of Southeast Asia Retail Inc. 

In the second quarter of 2016, the company launched the first Landers Superstore in Balintawak, Quezon City, followed by another three-hectare store in Paco, Manila. 

Southeast Asia Retail Inc. chairman Lowell Yu (right) and Megaworld Corporation senior vice president Kevin Tan (left) during the recent announcement of the alliance between Landers Superstore and Megaworld Corporation.

Given the overwhelming response from the first two Landers Superstores, Yu is optimistic that the new superstores will have a positive reception.

“It’s all about giving our members better value for their money.  As members, they have access to products and brands that are not available elsewhere in a setting that lets them shop minus the stress, the long lines, and tight grocery area. Many of our members bring the entire family to our store because the spacious layout makes shopping really convenient and enjoyable. This way, we also promote family bonding.”

We had a chance to experience shopping at Landers in Paco and we really enjoyed it there. The opening of a new branch of Landers Superstore truly excites me especially that one of the new branches will be closer to our home.

If you want to know more about Landers Superstore like how to be a member, some great finds, and other features and offerings of the store other than shopping, you may read more about our experience here: http://www.ednything.com/2016/12/Landers-Superstore-shopping-experience.html

Have you tried it at Landers already? Share your experience in the comments section below! :)

Experienced the magic of Beauty and the Beast at the Venice Cineplex VIP Cinema

The moment Disney has released its first teaser, we have already been waiting for Beauty and the Beast to be commercially available in cinemas. Yes, I am biased when it comes to musicals, but who doesn't love Disney? Literally, everyone grew up to their movies! I don't know but there's always this fascination in me seeing my favorite cartoons or comic characters come into live action movie. I bet most of us do enjoy it, don't we?  

So last weekend, Megaworld Corporation invited us for a blocked screening of Beauty and the Beast and experience their newest cinema in the most romantic mall in the metro, the Venice Cineplex. 

Whenever we are watching a movie, we see to it that we get our money's worth. Especially when we highly anticipate the movie we are to see, we don't mind spending extra just to enjoy it, not just with a big screen, but also with the comfort and great service that the place has to offer for movie goers. 

With oh-so-comfortable reclining seats, and butlers ready to serve unlimited popcorn and drinks with just a touch of a button, the VIP Cinema at the Venice Cineplex truly lives up to their name. It offers a premium and exclusive feel that is perfect for movie dates.

Do not feel too comfy though or you'll miss the climax! That day, I've seen two Disney classics: Beauty and the Beast AND Sleeping Beauty :D

With my dear friend Jen on her #wokeuplikethis look haha

Other than the VIP Cinema, the Venice Cineplex also houses 4 more cinemas that are equally world-class in quality with plush and comfortable seats and equipped with the latest big screen and sound system technology. Cinemas 2 and 5 will be operating in Dolby Atmos System, an award-winning sound program created to give movie lovers the most innovative and immersive experience in film viewing through its multidimensional surround sound.

So the next time you plan a movie date, you should definitely try it here at the Venice Cineplex VIP Cinema. With just a few bucks difference from what you normally pay for a regular cinema, you'll definitely get a way better movie experience.

For tickets, you may book online through www.blockbusterseats.com. And for more information, you may call the Venice Grand Canal Concierge at 624-1971 / 0917-512-9934, or email them at veniceconcierge@megaworld-lifestyle.com.

Bloggers at the Venice Cineplex at Venice Grand Canal Mall (Photo grabbed from Ruth dela Cruz)

Philippines' Next Top Model High Street to start airing this March

It's been a while since we've last seen Philippines' Next Top Model on TV. With the incredible standing we've had in the past 4 cycles of Asia's Next Top Model, it is but right to bring back the most popular model search back to Philippine TV.

Philippines' Next Top Model High Street

Last Saturday, the second cycle of PNTM, dubbed as Philippines' Next Top Model High Street, was officially launched at Bonifacio High Street where the judges and host were introduced and the contestants were presented through a fab fashion show.

The newest cycle of PNTM will be hosted by beauty queen-turned-reality show champ Maggie Wilson-Consunji. Maggie was crowned Binibining Pilipinas World in 2007 and just recently won the Amazing Race Asia in 2016. 

PNTM Host Maggie Wilson

Joining Maggie in searching for the next top model is a set of tough and credible panel of judges. First is PMAP President Rapha Kiefer who's had a 12-year modeling career in Asia. There's also Rain Dagala, who is the Editor-In-Chief of Meg Magazine, the country's best fashion magazine, and a stylist to many of the local celebrities. And completing the list is Miss International 2016 Kylie Versoza. Kylie will serve as this cycle's model mentor for the contestants where she'll guide them in every challenges they'll face throughout the show. 

PNTM Model Mentor Miss International Kylie Versoza

PNTM Judge Rain Dagala

PNTM Judge Rapha Kiefer

During the media launch, the contestants strut their stuff as they walk on the runway wearing swimsuits by Wear Sandy Cheeks, ready to wear clothes from Basic Movement by Esme Palaganas, Athleisure by Kaye Morales, and High Fashion clothes by Pat Santos. They also showed their best selfie looks as they walk with their Oppo smartphones.

Here's what happened during the launch:

And here's the complete list of the lucky ladies who are vying for the title "Philippines' Next Top Model":

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Name	Age	Place of Origin	Short Description
Khelly Gail Welt-Magrantay	23	Tanay	Social media influencer.
Kimberley Naomi D. Valies	21	Bacolod	Fil-Surinamese.  Looks like Tyra Banks. Borrowed money to audition in Cebu.
Angela Lehmann	25	Bicol	Swiss-Filipino. Has scoliosis.
Aivie Mai Duelas Phan	21	Alabang	Grew up in Canada. Musically inclined.
Petche Ann Vale	20	Bohol	Been modeling for 2yrs now.
Jan Helen Villanueva	24	Bulacan	Athletic. Breadwinner. Joins pageants to support family. Loves a good competition.
Adela Mae Marshall	19	UK	Fil-Brit. Grew up in UK and moved to PH with mom to explore Filipino heritage. Doesn’t want to be categorized as ‘another mestiza’ model.
Emma Jane Ribot Ekberg	19	Sweden	Fil-Kurdish; Voluptuous Body.
Shekinah Danquah	23	Cagayan De Oro	Bullied for dark skin color; Been in the modeling industry for 5 years now.
Katrina Garcia	22	Antipolo	Sees modeling as an art form.
Pauline Thea Ann Esguerra Ibuyan	18	Quezon City	Still in highschool. Plays basketball..
Koleen Angela Mercado			Gamer.  Musician and composer.
Alex Santos	20	Calamba	Joins pageants.
Anna Angelica Sotto	25	Davao	Writer, journalist and newscaster.
Janine Barnedo	23	Albay	Joined a whitening brand’s competition and won even if she’s morena.
Ina Dominica Guerrero	23		Calls herself “Afrohead”.  Started joining pageants at 17.  Lived part of her life in the Bahamas.
Gracia Elizabeth C. Mendoza	19	Batangas	3rd year college student.
Janelle Bianes Olafson	27	San Diego, CA	Radio DJ.
Janilyn Medina	20		Commercial and events model. Mother. Proud bi-sexual.
Blaise Marie Zuraek Buendia	20	Chicago	ADMU cheerleader.
Reicheliue Emory Pascual Santos	21	Pasig	Licensed commercial pilot and swimmer.
Krizzaleen Mae Valencia	23	Davao	Was a law and pre-dentistry student, but graduated as masscom student. Tries every opportunity available.
Sarah Jane Montilla Edwards	23	Manila	Smallest model in the cast at 5’4".  Commercial and event model.

The Philippines' Next Top Model High Street will start airing on March 21, 2017 exclusively on TV5.

Sef Cadayona celebrates birthday at Wawa National High School

Every year, Sef Cadayona opts to spend his birthday doing something worthwhile for the community. This year, Sef celebrated his birthday with the teachers and students of Wawa National High School in Montalban Rizal.

The excitement of the students are very much obvious as they anticipate the arrival of Sef. He was warmly welcomed with loud screams and cheers the moment he entered the campus. Before the program starts, a representative of the school gave a very special message for the birthday celebrant:

Pinapaabot namin ang maligayang pagbati sa'yo Sir Sef dahil napili mo ang Wawa National High School para i-celebrate ang birthday mo. Yung wish namin ay yung career at buhay mo bilang artista ay maging masagana pa.

The kids, and even some teachers too, gamely participated in the activities like games and a dance showdown. The school allotted a short yet really meaningful time for their students to bond with their idol. Sef also handed over his gift to everyone: an electric fan for every classroom. For his parting statement to the students of WNHS, Sef reminded the kids to finish their studies:

Una sa lahat, tapusin natin ang ating pag-aaral. Napakaimportante ng edukasyon. At kahit mag-artista kayo tulad ko, magagamit at magagamit pa rin natin 'yung mga lessons na tinuturo ng teacher natin sa'tin.
Sef Cadayona to the students of Wawa national High School

And so as not to keep the children from their class schedule, everyone was asked to go back to their classrooms and continue with their classes. Everyone was still given a chance to have their pictures taken as Sef went room to room before he bids goodbye to them.

Here are the highlights of Sef Cadayona's birthday celebration at Wawa National High School:

Sef's birthday celebration was made possible by Goldilocks, Omizu, Jack n Jill Chippy Twister, Jack n Jill Wiggles, and Jack n Jill Spin, through the efforts of GMA Artist Center. 

Win a GoPro Hero 5 in Robinsons Department Store's Chasing The Sun Promo

To bring never-ending fun under the sun, Robinsons Department Store has partnered with top fashion and skincare brands for Chasing the Sun, its latest promo where consumers can win one of the 10 Go Pro Hero 5 Black 4K Ultra HD cameras up for grabs.

From March 1 to April 30, 2017, earn raffle coupons with every Php500 single-receipt purchase of any of these participating brands:

• One Raffle Coupon: Beach Hut, Body Music, Conquest, Island Haze, Nike SNS, Sun Kissed, Vans, Vaseline
• Two Raffle Coupons: Angelfish, Hawaiian Sun, Nivea, Sassa

So this summer, complete your summer essentials already by shopping at Robinsons Department Stores and don't miss your chance of winning a GoPro Hero 5 and capture every picture-perfect moment of your summer escapades!

Deadline for submission of entries is on April 30, 2017. Raffle draw is on May 12, 2017.

Discover delectable cuisines at the Singapore World Gourmet Summit

Bite into the mouthwatering innovative kitchen creations to be showcased in the globally-recognized culinary event that made Singapore a dynamic international culinary hotspot.

As the summer sun starts to heat-up the vacation season, another exciting event sizzles in Singapore. Now on its 21st edition, the annual World Gourmet Summit (WGS) is bringing first-time and return travelers to another mouthwatering gastronomic adventure.

Celebrating the theme “United Nations Gastronomic Assembly,” the World Gourmet Summit will feature exquisite gourmet from internationally-renowned master chefs whose menus will be featured at Singapore’s award-winning restaurants from March 20 to April 16.

Mexican restaurant, El Mero Mero, will host the Mezcal Degustation Masterclass on March 22, and the Mucho Mexico Dinner featuring Chef Daniel Ovadía on March 30, while Italian gourmet establishment, OSO Ristorante, will showcase a 12-year-old Japanese whiskey featuring Christian “Whiskey Master” Leusder on March 24.

Savor the experience of tasting an exquisite line-up of gourmet cuisine prepared by illustrious Michelin-star master chefs from around the world.

Chef Patissiere Kirkio Nakamura and Lewin Terrace’s executive Chef Keisuke Matsumota will hold the Pastry Masterclass and Afternoon Tea on March 28. In the evening, Chef Quentin Glabus’ Canadian Flavours at Wooloomooloo will showcase the best of Canadian cuisine. Swiss master butcher Grill Ueli will host a Culinary Masterclass with Tasting Menu at Hubert’s on March 29, followed by Dutch Chef Jarno Eggen’s own Culinary Masterclass with Luncheon at Miele Gallery on March 30.

The WGS Opening Reception and the 17th Awards of Excellence Presentation Ceremony takes place on March 27 at One Farrer Hotel. On March 30, Chefs Mitch Lienhard and Ryan Clift will host the 4 Hands Epicurean Delights at the Tippling Club, followed by Chef Jarno Eggen’s Roguie Gourmet Delights five-course dinner at Dolce Vita on March 31. CHOPE Ur Next Gourmet Attractions is on April 2, while Chef Fernando Arevalo’s “CFF-AOP” Theme Dinner at Artemis Grill follows on April 3. The National Kidney Foundation “Better Lives” Charity Gala is on April 6, while the Royal Gourmet Staycation is slated on April 8 to 9.

Other participating Michelin-starred establishments are Punjab Grill, Peach Blossoms, Open Farm Community, Odette, Jaan, Ding Dong, and many more.

“The World Gourmet Summit reaffirms Singapore’s culinary scene as a dynamic gourmet destination. This year, the Summit will put the spotlight on Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurants through the special participation of more than 10 widely-recognized master chefs. We are also eagerly looking forward to the launch of the Singapore Michelin Guide 2017, as well as the upcoming Singapore Food Festival which shall bring more culinary delights for our visitors.”
Lael Loh, Singapore Tourism Board Area Director for Philippines

United by love for fine dining cuisine

Singapore has made its mark as an international culinary hotspot with a pool of diverse dining establishments and festivities, including an array of affordable, yet superior quality food fare.

The launch of the Singapore Michelin Guide in 2016, a first in Southeast Asia, saw the prestigious guide recognizing street food for the very first time. Two hawker stalls, the Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle and the Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle, received global attention when each was awarded with one Michelin Star, a testament to the island city-state’s repertoire of quality, yet affordable hawker fare. As a result, Singapore is now home to the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred meal at under Php100. Adding to the list of “firsts,” the Singapore Michelin Guide also gave birth to the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, Candlenut.

Candlenut Kitchen is the first Peranakan restaurant to receive a Michelin Star from its sumptuous mix of traditional and contemporary Singaporean dishes.

Hawker stall Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle received global attention for its delicious offerings, including the only Michelin-starred meal that’s under Php100.

Highly-acclaimed culinary celebrations also attract foodie visitors across the globe, including the Singapore Food Festival happening in July, where traditional and modern Singaporean dishes are showcased and celebrated. Indeed, the Lion City has all the flavors on its plate, waiting to be enjoyed by locals and guests.

With a stellar line-up of events, activities, and the best of fine dining cuisine, Singapore is a gastronomic expedition that serious food lovers should not dare miss. Mark your calendars and join the World Gourmet Summit from March 20 to April 16, and experience a one-of-a-kind food festival. For more details on the World Gourmet Summit, please visit www.worldgourmetsummit.com and www.yoursingapore.com for upcoming events and activities.

Musicals To Visit Manila This 2017

Musical theater, be it from West End, Broadway, or anywhere around the globe, has always been a big hit among theater lovers in the country. We've already seen some of the bests like Miss Saigon, Les Miserables, Wicked, and The Phantom of the Opera, just to name a few, and there's so much more to see out there.

This 2017, we are yet to witness three great musicals of all time as they bring the entire production to Manila for a very limited run we shouldn't definitely miss.

SISTER ACT

Sister Act Musical

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Coming direct from Broadway, SISTER ACT is the feel-amazing musical comedy smash that the New York Post calls "RIDICULOUSLY FUN,” and audiences are jumping to their feet in total agreement! Featuring original music by Tony® and 8-time Oscar® winner ALAN MENKEN (Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors), SISTER ACT tells the hilarious story of Deloris Van Cartier, a wannabe diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a crime and the cops hide her in the last place anyone would think to look—a convent! Under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own. A sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, SISTER ACT is reason to REJOICE! 

Sister Act the Musical runs from June 27 to July 19, 2017 at The Theatre at Solaire.

Ticket Prices:

VIP	Php 6,883.50
A Reserve	Php 5,824.50
B Reserve	Php 4,765.50
C Reserve	Php 3,706.50
D Reserve	Php 1,588.50

Tickets are now on sale at Ticketworld.

West Side Story

Inspired by Shakespeare's tumultuous love story Romeo and Juliet, and set amidst the vicious rivalry of teenage gangs in the 1950s New York, WEST SIDE STORY's ground-breaking choreography and unforgettable score changed the face of musical theatre for ever when it burst unto the broadway stage in 1957.

WEST SIDE STORY packs a powerful punch, both dramatically and musically. The movie version went on to win an incredible 10 Oscars (including Best Picture) and further cemented the reputation of this undoubted masterpiece.

The West Side Story is set to open on August 10 at The Theatre at Solaire.

Ticket Prices:

VIP	Php 7,000
A Reserve	Php 5,800
B Reserve	Php 4,500
C Reserve	Php 3,500
D Reserve	Php 1,500

Tickets will start selling on March 20 at Ticketworld.

The Sound of Music

The Sound of Music West End Production

This lavish and critically-acclaimed production tells the uplifting true story of Maria, the fun-loving governess who changeds the lives of the widowed Captain Von Trapp and his seven children by re-introducing them to music, culminating in the family's flight across the Austrian mountains as tensions rise prior to the outbreak of World War II.

The London West End Production of The Sound of Music is coming to Manila this September 27 at The Theatre at Solaire.

Ticket Prices:

VIP	Php 7,000
A Reserve	Php 5,800
B Reserve	Php 4,500
C Reserve	Php 3,500
D Reserve	Php 1,500

Tickets will start selling on March 20 at Ticketworld.

TICKET PROMOS

Buy the West Side Story + The Sound of Music bundle and get 10% off on your tickets. This promo is valid only until April 3, 2017.

FREE Breakfast Sandwich or Breakfast Meal for only P49

McDonald's National Breakfast Day 2017

McDonald's is once again celebrating the annual National Breakfast Day where you can get a FREE BREAKFAST SANDWICH (Egg McMuffin, Sausage McMuffin, or Burgerdesal) at any of the participating stores nationwide. This is on a first-come-first-served basis so make sure you come early. Only one coupon/sandwich per person will be provided.

And it's not just that! Now on it's 5th year, the National Breakfast Day also offers a full breakfast meal inclusive of a breakfast sandwich, hash brown, and a drink with choices of an 8oz McCafe Premium Roast Coffee or a 12oz Minute Maid Orange Juice for only Php49. You may avail this by purchasing a pre-sold coupon available at McDonald's store until March 12 only. Take note that the coupon can only be redeemed from the store where you purchase it. Availing this coupon also gives you the privilege of skipping the long lines during the event.

The National Breakfast Day is happening on March 13, 2017, from 6am-7am, at any of these branches:

For more info, visit McDonald's official website.