15 November 2016

Budget Buffet Dining at 7 Flavors by Chef Boy Logro



My love for buffets has declined over the years. My family and I frequent buffets when I was in college and I noticed that we stopped going recently. I just find some restaurants' selection not that satisfying anymore. I think the trend has become more focused on the quantity rather than the quality of food that they serve. And that perception has definitely changed during my recent visit at 7 Flavors in San Juan City.

Budget Buffet Dining at 7 Flavors Restaurant by Chef Boy Logro

If you haven't heard of 7 Flavors yet, 7 Flavors by Chef Boy Logro is an international cuisine located at 196 A. Mabini Street, Brgy. Batis, San Juan. The restaurant opened its doors to the public last May 13, 2015. The restaurant is divided into two areas. The first floor is for those who like an ala carte type of meal while the second floor is the buffet area. Both areas are quite spacious and there's an ample space for parking as well. 

Budget Buffet Dining at 7 Flavors Restaurant by Chef Boy Logro
It was Halloween we went there. Thus, the setup. ;)

The food selection at 7 Flavors is not that overwhelming and I actually prefer it that way. When I get to eat at hotel buffets, I don't really have the space in my tummy to even taste everything. Their menu is just appropriate for me to have a taste of everything and to actually go back and enjoy the ones that I liked the most. 

Budget Buffet Dining at 7 Flavors Restaurant by Chef Boy Logro

22 October 2016

When in Zambales - Capones Island and Camara Island Tour



There are several coves and islands that can be found at Zambales. The more popular ones are also located at San Antonio such as Nagsasa Cove and Anawangin Cove. But whether or not you'll be staying at said coves, a trip to San Antonio, Zambales won't be complete without a tour or even a glimpse of Capones and Camara Islands. These two small islands can actually be seen from Pundaquit Beach. The scenery and sand that these islands offer are unlike the ones found at where we stayed at.

Capones Island on the left and Camara Island in the middle
Capones Island
Several coves, such as Anawangin and Nagsasa, from afar
Beautiful rock formation will welcome you at Capones

15 October 2016

When in Batangas - Taal Volcano Tour



A trip to Talisay won't be complete without a glimpse of Taal Volcano. From our primary school history lessons, this one is said to be the smallest volcano in the world. What amazes me the most is that this popular tourist attraction is actually a volcano within a lake with a lake and an island within its crater And there's no other way to enjoy and experience Taal Volcano than to hike up all the way to its crater. During our visit to Club Balai Isabel, we had the chance to be up close and personal with Taal Volcano.

Peaceful Taal lake in the morning
Here's our boat!
Racing with the other group!

I think there are several other towns from which you could take a boat ride to Taal Volcano. But since we were staying at Club Balai in Talisay, we had our boat ride from there. There were six of us in the boat plus our boat operator. I think the local government is strict when it comes to safety as they limit the number of people inside the boat and made sure that everyone wears their safety vests. Anyway, it took us around 20 to 30 minutes to reach our destination. The boat ride was extremely smooth. The lake is calm and peaceful especially in the morning.

08 October 2016

Natural Republic Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel Review



My aloe vera obsession just won't stop! After trying out The Face Shop's Jeju Aloe Soothing Gel, I got myself several tubs of Nature Republic Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel during my recent Althea Korea shopping experience. I actually wanted to try out this one when I first got acquainted with Althea (earlier this year) but I was already eyeing a different kind of day moisturizer on my second haul. Nevertheless, I decided to stick with aloe gels because they've worked out well for me.

Natural Republic Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel

As I have previously mentioned, I am not really particular with the brand of the product that I am using and I am open to experimenting and trying out new products when it comes to skincare and makeup. I have always wanted to try out this product because I think this one's Nature Republic's bestseller. And I am curious if it could live up to the hype. Anyway, here are some of the details about this product from Althea Korea's website:

01 October 2016

#TeamAldouson3




I haven't attended any blogger events during the past few months. Since I am near the finish line, that is, the end of my law school journey, attending blogger events and seeing my friends every now and then were some of the things that I have to give up. But I think my hesitation in attending blogger events was more on fact that I won't be able to deliver right away when it comes to blog posts. When Aldous invited me to the third anniversary of the group that he made - the TeamAldous - which I am proud to be a part of, I just have to say yes. Aldous became one of my friends when we were both starting out (around 3 years ago already!). And he was one of the reasons why I got into food blogging. And besides it was held on a Saturday night. So right after my CivRev quiz, I headed to The Royal Caterer in San Juan to take part in this celebration.

30 September 2016

How to Make Your Next Travel Stress-free



Traveling is one easy way wherein we could escape the stresses entailing our daily lives. When times get tough and we feel so burned out, traveling can make all those negativity go away. Whether you prefer hanging out by the beach while listening to the crashing waves or catching up the sunrise, you'll be sure to have a clear mind and renewed energy after a peaceful and well-rested time off from reality.

It cannot be denied though that there are times when travel brings us stress due to things within and also beyond our control. The list is endless although the frequent ones that we encounter are delayed flights and trips, overbooked accommodations, and so on. So to keep you sane and on track, here are some tips you could use to make your next travel as stress-free as possible.


Buy tickets ahead
This goes both as to bus or flight tickets. Not only will you be able to reserve a seat for the travel date of your choice, but you could also save more. You could get more affordable flights to Cebu, Coron, or Boracay by booking way ahead than your scheduled trip.

Make a travel plan
Spontaneous trips may be pleasant and adventurous, a well planned trip is always the best way to go if you want a stress-free travel. It is when you have set everything out to the last detail can you have genuine peace of mind during your vacation. Sort out your itinerary by checking travel blogs and other reviews in the internet. You may also create your own based on recommendations by friends and acquaintances. To maximize your peaceful vacation, I suggest steering away from crowded tourist destinations and pick out a nature adventure that you'll surely enjoy


Make reservations
Of course, it is always best to book your accommodations ahead. Some hotels even give huge discounts for early reservations. By such, you'll have no other thing to do when you arrive at your destination but to check in and relax! The same goes with popular restaurants that you know are always packed. By reserving ahead, you are sure to get seats during your visit.

Keep an open mind
With everything planned and set for your trip, a room for change should always be recognized. There are times when things won't still go as planned despite all precautions made. When such occur, always keep an open mind and check out your other options so that your trip won't get ruined. You may also make a Plan B to keep you on track.


Vacations and travel should never be stressful or expensive. I see it as the only means by which we could truly relax and enjoy while learning and gaining new experiences. By keeping in mind all such tips given, you are assured of a stress-free and delightful travel.

XO, Mish


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25 September 2016

Fashion21 Auto Eyeliner Pen Review



Local brands are really close to my heart. Not only are they affordable and easy to find, they surprisingly have great quality. I know I tend to underestimate them, but local products are definitely at par with their imported counterparts. When it comes to cosmetics, I love drugstore/department store brands! Since they’re so affordable, you won’t regret testing out a new product in the market even if doesn’t turn out well. I believe cosmetics and skin care are kind of a hit or miss thing. You just keep on trying out new products until you find the one that’s perfect for you.

Fashion21 Auto Eyebrow Pen

Speaking of trying out cosmetics, I was able to get a hold of the latest products from Fashion21. If you haven’t heard of Fashion21 yet (which I highly doubt), it is a local brand offering budget-friendly and quality cosmetics. You could literally find them in every department store! Anyway, I was able to try out Fashion21's Auto Eyebrow Pen lately. I am not a pro when it comes to doing eyebrow makeup and I am far from #kilaygoals, but this product was really easy to use for a makeup rookie like me.


As regards the packaging, I was definitely impressed! Honestly, Fashion21’s products used to have tacky packaging and I am glad that they were able to improve their products’ packaging. The pen is a black matte one with the name of the product printed on it. It is very lightweight and the product can be dispensed with by retracting the pen. I actually tried opening the pen to its max and it contains more or less two inches of eyeliner.

19 September 2016

#DefyTheDay with Kratos Strong Coffee



I have always felt like more is expected from everyone nowadays. You could not just do a single thing and be good with it. Applying it to Plato's idea of roles in the society, you can't just be the best Philosopher King that there is, or the best auxiliary that there is, or the best artisan that there is. You have to be all of them at the same time and be good at all of them. Times have definitely gone tougher and we have to be tougher than anything that that would come our way.


I strongly agree that the youth nowadays are urban warriors living a multifaceted like. They defy expectations by outdoing themselves all the time. Admittedly, it is hard to keep up with everyday life. That is why there are weapons we could use to help us #defytheday and win our daily battles, such as the new Kratos Strong Coffee.

15 September 2016

Go Healthy with Aussie Oranges



I believe that most of our daily activities take their toll on our health one way or another. The same could be said more so when we take into consideration other factors such as stress and pollution. With that, I think it is important that we pay attention to our lifestyle, especially when it comes to the food that we put in our body.


I am currently in the middle of my midterms week and I am feel worn out and tired already. However, I make sure to eat properly and still have decent sleep to make sure that my body would function well especially when taking my exams. Luckily, I was able to receive a bag filled with Aussie oranges a few days back! They were perfect in time for my stressful exam week.


Honestly, I am not a fan of fruits. But these Australian oranges made me a convert. They're sweet (no sugarcoating here!) and filling. They make me feel energized, too! If you aren't convince with what oranges could do for your body, here are some reasons that could definitely change your mind:

03 September 2016

The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam Review



One of the items that I got from Althea Korea's beta testing here in the Philippines was this product. I was looking for a facial wash for daily use then to add to my shopping bag. I would have gotten the Aloe Cleansing Foam from Nature Republic if it weren't the whitening/brightening phase I was in. I decided to get this one as it was the cheapest brightening cleansing foam at the website.

The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam


Info about The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam from Althea Korea:


20 August 2016

Zaful Swimwear Haul and Review



If there is anything Zaful is known for, it is their wide collection of swimsuits and other beach wear. Fret not because their swimmies are extremely affordable. Anyway, I was offered by Zaful to review several items of my choice. I bet you couldn't imagine how thrilled I was as you all know I am a certified beach and swimwear addict (check Instagram for proof!) Anyway, here's my lovely haul!


First up is a red halter bikini with scallop design (US$11.17). I fell in love with this one upon seeing it in their website. It's something that perfectly suits me - not too revealing and has a unique design. This one definitely did not disappoint me. I got a small and it fits me okay. I should have gone one size up though because I gained some weight lol. The bottom's kind of tight on me but I intend to lose weight anyway. The top was adorable! It does not have underwires, but it has pads. I can't wait to wear this one on my next beach trip!

Prettiest bikini ever!!!

12 August 2016

Dresslink Top and Swimwear Haul + Review



Remember my Dresslink wish list which I posted a few weeks ago? Dresslink just made my dreams come true by sending me each and every item on that list. I know that you're all looking forward to outfit posts but I'd rather review everything first so you could decide whether or not to buy at Dresslink. 🙂

What I love most about Dresslink is their extremely cheap prices. Their clothes go as low as $2 and up depending on the item you would get. Based on my previous shopping experience with similar sites, there's a hit or miss chance when it comes to shopping with them. It's like taking a risk because sometimes the products are great (perfect fit and material), sometimes so-so (like wrong sizes, or poor quality). But no one's complaining cause more often than not they are actually okay!

Anywayyyyy, here's my small haul! The first thing I got was a Blue Printed Off Shoulder Top (US$ 3.56). This one's my favorite among all of the items that I got. It is lightweight and perfect for summer. The fabric's breathable. I was worried that it would be too cropped. This one has a perfect length and not too short. The garter for the shoulders looks like it would loosen up after a few used but that's something you can remedy. I got a large (Asian medium size), but it perfectly fits my small frame lol.

Love the print!
Garter doesn't look sturdy, but that's no biggie for me

Another item that I got was a Black off shoulder Top (now US$3.33, but I got it on sale for US$2.64). I am a huge fan of off shoulder tops and this one did not disappoint me! It has a nice flattering fit.The fabric's stretchable but goes thin (yet opaque and looks quite shiny) when stretched. I would order one size up if they had sizes but this one comes in only one size. This one's for those who are accustomed to wearing small or extra small clothes.

06 August 2016

Women Get Empowered All Around With NEW! PRIVA Perfect Care 2-in-1 Feminine Wash



The modern-day woman does not settle for anything less than perfect. From her style, to her look, down to every single detail there is to notice about her, she likes to take things up a notch. When it comes to her personal care products, she expects the same level up. Her intimate care needs are no different. In fact, Priva® is made precisely for the woman who wants more—and gets it! From the makers of pH Care, the Priva® line is the advanced whitening feminine wash used for everyday care of the modern-day woman’s intimate area with added benefits that specifically address her needs. 

Priva Assistant Product Manager Karole Santos, Chic Driven Co-Founder Issa Litton, blogger Denise Heredia, Tessa Prieto-Valdes and Phoemela Baranda at the Priva booth

Priva® partnered with the ChicDriven Women Empowerment Expo last July 16 to 17 at the Glorietta Activity Center in Ayala Center, Makati City. The expo was exactly the venue that drew Priva® women together: the ones who aspire for more and want to level up. With the “chic driven” woman in mind, the expo intended to “share, inspire, and empower women to truly have it all.” Since Priva®‘s latest variant, Perfect Care 2-in-1, highlights that same unbridled and uncompromised need of women to enjoy perfect intimate care, it came in as the perfect partner for the ChicDriven Women Empowerment Expo.

20 July 2016

#AltheaTurns1: Pioneer of K-Beauty in SEAsia celebrates 1st Birthday!



With its daebak deals, awesome prices, and wide range of products, there is no wonder why Althea Korea is currently celebrating a successful 1st year. If you haven't heard of Althea yet (and I highly doubt it), it is a wonderful shopping land where you can get your K-Beauty fix and have it shipped from Korea to your doorsteps. You also get free shipping for orders over PHP1,500, 30 Days Unconditional Return and products are 100% guaranteed Authentic. Their awesome services are currently available in the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore.


Instead of receiving gifts for their birthday, we (bloggers) were the ones who received presents and got first dibs on their great birthday deals. Before heading to that, let me show you first my Althea Korea haul! You could say that I currently have a Korean skin care addiction.


I hoarded Nature Republic Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel (₱180) and The Face Shop Rice & Ceramide Moisture Toner (₱190). I've been using aloe gel on my face for months now, but it's my first time using Nature Republic's. It's also my first time to use The Face Shop's toner so I'm looking forward as to how these will work for me.


I got the Piolang 4D Pore Balance Foam & Pack (₱240) as a night cleanser to replace my The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Cream when it goes empty. I also got the It's My Daily Sun Cream (₱240) to replace my Nivea Sun Cream. I am hoping this one's not as sticky and heavy as the latter.


I initially wanted the Innisfree Jeju Blackhead Balm but I got the MeFactory 3 Step Pig Nose Pack (₱80) instead. I'll probably try the former on my next Althea haul. Lastly, I got the It's My Nail-Nippers (₱120) and Red the SAEM Saemmul Real Tint (₱190) for my sister. I think I should have gotten one of those tints for myself.


I also got Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Foam samples as freebies! Honestly, there are tons of products that I still wanted to try such as Laniege BB Cushion, Innisfree Volcanic Black Head Out Balm, and more. I'll definitely get them when I need to restock on my staple products.


If you have noticed, the box my products were in is different from the usual pink (or purple or green) Althea box.  It's because Althea Korea is launching its Limited Edition Birthday Box (same as the one I got) + DIY Party Kit on the 20th of July onwards. This will be included in orders placed on that day onwards until supplies last.


Also from the 20th until the 31st of July, free goodies will be given for first 1,500 shoppers. These will be full size beauty products and until while stocks last. For its birthday giveaway, just pick 3 Top Sellers to get 100% REBATE! The rebate will be credited into your account.


Lastly, you may take part in the #AltheaTurns1 Instagram Contest. Joining is really simple! Got your Althea party kit? Wish Althea Korea a happy birthday by using the hashtag #altheaturns1. Up for grabs are  a chance to wiamazing prizes such as Macbook Air, Ipad Air 2, iPhone 6S, Galaxy S6 Edge, Canon EOS M10 Selfie Camera, Althea credits and beauty hampers from Althea! Prizes total worth KRW10,000,000 are up for grabs. You may send in your entries from the 20th July until the 15th August, 2016.

So daebak, right?! Head on over to ph.althea.kr to check out Althea Korea's awesome products! Like their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/altheaphilippines.

XO, Mish


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16 July 2016

The Body Shop Strawberry Lip Butter Review



When I was in high school and after my Lip Smackers addiction, I got introduced to The Body Shop's Born Lippy Pot Lip Balm in Strawberry. Since makeup's not allowed at school then, they're kind of the only "makeup" (i.e. as a lip gloss) that I could wear. My Born Lippy days may be over but I'm definitely not over The Body Shop products cause I recently added their Strawberry Lip Butter to my daily skin care routine.

The Body Shop Strawberry Lip Butter

I got a Strawberry Lip Butter as a Christmas gift last December and I totally forgot about it until last summer break. I'm so glad that I was able to remember about it because it's turned out to be my current favorite lip product!

08 July 2016

Sweat and burn calories while you sleep



Sweating in order to detoxify is one of the things many hard-driving professionals know they have to do daily in order to de-stress and remain healthy.  Burning calories to reduce the amount of fat in their body is another. Unfortunately, many of them find it hard to squeeze in a trip to the gym or a morning walk around the block into their busy schedule.   For weekend warriors needing to break out some serious sweat, one convenient, comfortable alternative – which can also allow them 30 minutes of precious shut-eye time – is the Thermogenic treatment in SvelT’i’s beauty and wellness center in Timog Avenue, Quezon City.

The experience is something similar to being in a steam room, with three crucial differences:  the experience is private and individual, unlike the more socialized steam room which is designed to hold several people; and the patient can choose to relax and/or sleep while the machine steadily softens fats and makes them leave as sweat out through skin pores.


Dra. Lalaine Salazar, SvelT’i’s Medical Director, explains the science behind the machine, “Thermogenic emits into the patient’s body Far Infrared Rays or invisible waves of light that have the ability to penetrate our tissues, muscles, and bones. It can warm our body without heating the air. Unlike Ultraviolet light, Far Infrared Rays do not cause sunburn; nor do they damage the skin.  With the absorption of the FIR deep into the cells, the body generates heat and stimulates the increase in energy consumption which triggers a boost in metabolic process. This will result to the breaking down of fat cells, cellulite, waste, and other forms of toxic substances in the body. Thermogenic can burn 600-800 kcal per treatment.”

Prior to undergoing the treatment, the patient also steps on a state-of-the-art weighing scale that within minutes lets her know her personal health-related information which allows the clinical specialists to determine the fatty areas that need reduction. This information includes the following: weight, body fat, hydration rate, body mass index, muscle mass, visceral fat, and metabolic age. Visceral fat can also indicate the amount of fat that may be wrapped around some of the patient’s physiological organs; the higher the amount of visceral fat, the greater the risk the patient has in developing medical conditions like hypertension.  

“The metabolic rate also indicates the speed or slowness by which the patient burns calories in her body,” Dra. Salazar, continues.  “Even if you are just in your thirties, but your metabolic rate is like that of a 50-year-old, then chances are you will tire easily and not produce the amount of energy you need for your daily activities.  On the other hand, you may be 50 years old, but your metabolic rate is that of a twenty something, then chances are you have a lot of physical energy which makes you more active than people half your age.”

Thermogenic also speeds up a patient’s metabolic rate, which makes it a faster way to jumpstart your process in fat reduction and weight loss if you had been physically inactive for weeks or months.  The first session will induce a significant amount of sweat; eight to ten sessions are recommended to see the results. 

Thermogenic also improves the patient’s blood circulation, cellular oxygenation, and skin condition.  It promotes relaxation and better sleep during her rest hours, while energizing your body during the day. Sessions are likewise best taken any time of the day.

To know more about SvelT’i’s Thermogenic, please inquire at (02)332-7546 / 09188-SVELTI (783584) or visit the clinic at 5F South Insula Condominium #61 Timog Avenue, Quezon City from Mondays to Fridays from 9am-6pm and Saturdays from 8am-1pm. You may also visit SvelT’i FB page at www.facebook.com/sveltiph and IG account @SVELTI_PH.

XO, Mish


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SKINFOOD Salmon Brightening Eye Cream Review



The search for the most affordable yet effective eye cream never stopped for me. After trying out Natural Looks Eye Gel, I realized that it's perfect for day use (to help soothe and cool my undereyes especially after a sleepless night). Thus, I researched for a moisturizing and whitening eye cream for night use.

SKINFOOD Salmon Brightening Eye Cream

25 June 2016

When in Zambales - Villa Janella Resort and Pundaquit Beach at San Antonio



A few weeks before my final exams, my family decided to go for an overnight trip to Zambales. I decided to go despite my exams because my parents will be bringing Zack with them for sure. My sisters were the ones who searched for a resort but my dad made it clear to stay away from the crowded beaches of Subic and Olongapo. Thus, we settled with Pundaquit Beach at San Antonio instead. I was actually at Zambales a few weeks prior our trip for a field trip, but I didn't get to swim so I was excited for this trip.

Mountains + sea = best view!!!
Capones and Camara Islands can be seen from the beach
Villa Janella Resort