What is a Wellness Center?

Posted on June 3, 2013 by jenni

There’s this Benjamin Franklin saying that goes “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” that has been on my mind recently and that I hope will also inspire you to pursue the right path to good health.

My husband and I believe in preventive medicine. We have been doing our best to lead healthy lives. An example of this is our preference of chia seeds (these tiny babies are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, fiber and antioxidants) over any other seeds or grains in the world. Before I go preaching about food, let me tell you our story.

Tom and I have been looking for a medical facility that could help us stay healthy. We’ve been reading about wellness centers abroad where people go to to get tested not because they are sick but because they want to stay healthy.

Tom and I are not LifeScience endorsers, just believers of preventive medicine but, if LifeScience is reading this, you can get us as your models. Haha!

Photo taken using Instagram

What is a wellness center? A wellness center or clinic is a building or facility that is devoted towards the promotion of healthy living as well as the prevention of illness and disease.

Early this year, Tom and I visited a total wellness facility with an ambiance that was the farthest cry from a hospital with Kenneth Cobonpue furniture to boot!

I know that most of us turn to Google for information we need on anything especially about food and health. Well, this is a first-hand experience and a scientific one at that. All of us have physical make-up unique from each other. Our genes that we have inherited from our two unique parents were combined to further that uniqueness. I believe that the “one size fits all” rule will never apply here. LifeScience provides all the medical information and tests to stay healthy.

Our research on how preventive medicine works helped us realize that we can map out the health of our future. Good thing we found out that this innovation is already available in the Philippines through LifeScience! As an investment not only to our health but also to the best life, Tom and I had below LifeScience exclusive tests done. The results took a while to come back since LifeScience sends the samples to partner Klentze Institut in Germany.

LifeScience is evidence based. They take out the guesswork by validating the Anti-aging Physician’s initial assessment through a series of laboratory tests exclusive to LifeScience. These tests determine the exact state of the patient’s well-being, validate the Anti-aging Physician’s prognosis or identify the root cause of the patient’s present health issue.

Translayshun: Waley ng hula-hula, buking na sa ebidensya! Alam na. LOL

Some of the more basic tests include:

Micronutrient Profile. This blood test shows a patient’s vitamin deficiencies as well as reveals their levels of antioxidants, nutrients and minerals essential to their bodies’ internal functions.

Tom and I are holding bags of our Day & Night vitamin packs from LifeScience.

Photo taken using Instagram

My translayshun: The Micronutrient Profile Test is a blood test that shows what vitamins we need to take. Yes! Not all of us should consume doses of the same vitamin C or E everyday. Aside from vitamin deficiency, this test also showed us our levels of antioxidants, nutrients and minerals so we know what other supplements we need to maximize our bodies’ internal operation.

Food Intolerance Test. This immunoglobin G (IgG anti-body) test determines a patient’s digestive reaction to as much as 220 food samples. Not to be mistaken with a food allergy test (immunoglobin E anti-body, or IgE), this one determines one’s intolerance to specific foods and which inflammatory reactions will eventually lead to disease.

The difference between food allergy and food intolerance

Photo taken using Instagram

My translayshun: The Food Intolerance Test, this is an immunoglobin G or IgG anti-body test that showed us what certain food we are intolerant (not allergic) to. This revealed that the healthy food like wheat and soy that I have been ingesting are food that I should avoid!Tom, on the other hand, is intolerant to milk! His 30 years of practice of drinking milk gave him that bloated feeling and he didn’t even know it. Little did we know that some food that we thought are healthy or normal for us to eat would one day lead to a disease.

This is the result of my F.I.T. I've been eating soya beans/tofu and what thinking it's good for me when in reality, according to my test, my body is intolerant to these food! After months of not eating food that I'm intolerant to, I hardly feel bloated. AMAZING!

Photo taken using Instagram

Hormone Profiling. To address problems brought about by hormonal imbalance—and there are many: stress, decreased metabolism, increased abdominal fat, reduced bone mineral density, irregular menstrual cycles, high blood cholesterol, etc.

My translayshun: Best for women who suffers from menopause.

Gene Testing. A one-time profiling test that allows patients to understand the blueprint of their DNA, this test reveals health conditions and diseases to which they are prone, and thus allow for the most ideal program to steer the patients away from living a lifestyle that will cause their bodies to take that path.

My translayshun: This will knock your socks (or stockings) off! The Gene Testing! I absolutely adore scientific breakthroughs! LifeScience describes it as, “A one-time profiling test that allows patients to understand the blueprint of their DNA, this test reveals health conditions and diseases to which they are prone, and thus allow for the most ideal program to steer the patients away from living a lifestyle that will cause their bodies to take that path.” After knowing diseases we were susceptible to, we can definitely work our way to good health!

There is only one meaning to this: a smart scientific investment to good health. It broke down the walls to what we believed were beneficial to our bodies. These tests definitely took out the guesswork and have paved the path to the healthy lifestyle we have been dreaming of. Health is wealth so they say. It is true because naivety about our own bodies results to huge hospital bills and unpleasant confinement or even surgery. I call it the missing link to the pink of health.

Brings me back to Benjamin Franklin and to the one hundred dollar bill. Think about it!

LifeScience Center for Wellness and Preventive Medicine
8th floor, Accra Law Tower, 2nd Ave cor. 30th street,
Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.
T: (632)- 828LIFE M: (63) 917-573LIFE

Family Weekend Getaway

Posted on May 27, 2013 by jenni

Day 1

It has been ages since our last family trip to Tagaytay. Nothing much has changed from that Tagaytay we visited. The charm of this place is unchanging in its stance in the midst of neighboring developments. So instead of our usual family staycation in Metro Manila hotels, we decided to get out of the city for the long election weekend. We needed the therapeutic lull of birds chirping that was a sense of healing from the noise of the city. The fresh air from the cool mountain breeze was a welcome break from the pollution of Manila. In other words, fresh-freshan ang pegaloo!

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Pine trees!!!

The month of May is also extra special for the Epperson’s as we celebrate three consecutive occasions: our wedding anniversary, Tom’s birthday and Mother’s Day.

Crosswinds Resort was the perfect venue in a picturesque Swiss Alps setting. The hundred acres of green including the 20,000 pine trees, a Christmas Village (scroll down to find out) and rolling hills just like a perfect painting.

What we like about Crosswinds is that it is located away from the hustle and bustle of Tagaytay’s main road. Crosswinds Resort Suites is located in Tagaytay City, about 2 km from the Tagaytay Picnic Grove. It’s easy to get to from the Tagaytay rotonda. Click here for the map.

We checked-in Crosswinds’ service hotel managed by Hotel International, Inc. We booked a two-bedroom suite for the weekend.

The room is simple, cozy and very zen, perfect for a relaxing weekend.

Fresh fruits and flowers welcomed the Epperson’s

Kid’s station

We love hotel rooms with kitchen!

The master bedroom with a balcony and spectacular view!

I could wake up to this view everyday.

The kids’ bedroom

Aryanna and Dylan haven’t seen rolling hills so they were blown away by the view from their room to say the least.

When out of town, go out!

Walking around the village and smelling the fresh air is something my family and I miss a lot. Crosswinds has acres of land to explore.

Dylan Finn running around and enjoying the abundance of space.

Me: “Guys, relax. Let me take your photos.”
Tom, Aryanna and Dylan: *deadma*
Me: “C’mon! Be serious.
Tom, Aryanna and Dylan: *points finger to temple*
Me: ” Da hell…”
Tom: “You said to be serious. We’re thinking. This is our serious pose.”

Our explorations brought us to hidden and undiscovered place. Like Santa’s House. OMG!!! It’s Christmas at Crosswinds 365 days!

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The jokers in the family.

Sleigh ride in the Summer!

We had a great time walking around… Goofing around. Even the sky was perfect.

The life we imagined: fresh air, a yard, trees, and a Swiss chalet. Haha!

After spending time with the kids, it’s time Tom and I get to spend quality time and celebrate our 18th year anniversary.

I booked a dinner for two at Antonio’s. More about this place on my next post.

Photo taken using Instagram

Happy Anniversary, hun! You bring joy into my life!

Day 2

When you have a toddler, sleeping in is not an option. Even if it’s your birthday.

We took advantage of our spectacular bedroom view and had Tom open his gifts in the balcony. Again, having kids mean you never get to open your own gifts.

Photo taken using Instagram

It’s hard to give my husband gifts as he is not materialistic. I do know that he would like some peace and quiet. So, we tried to leave him alone.

After an hour to himself, he realized we were all starving so he cooked his favorite breakfast: buttermilk pancakes!

Happy birthday, Tom!

Day 2 is all about chillaxing. No pressure to go out or be somewhere.

Aryanna and Dylan make the best playmates. They are never bored. They always find something to amuse each other. Simple things like two chairs and a comforter make the best indoor tent and a make believe cave.

Lunch meant burgers at Breakfast at Antonio’s.

When in Tagaytay, it’s all about the Taal Volcano view.

One of our favorite burgers is their House Burger. It’s simple yet mouthwatering.

Cornichon love

The soft sesame seed bun is the bomb!

Fries for sharing

Coffee break at Bag of Beans, another must-go when in Tagaytay.

Found this small store Coffee Country that sold organic vegetables. We bought some greens for dinner. It rained that day so we stayed in and cooked dinner in our suite.

Another beautiful sunset in Tagaytay.

Day 3

Mother’s Day has never been this sweet! My little man gave me a rose. I’m the happiest mom alive!

Photo taken using Instagram

Started my day happy, cuddled my kids under the sheets. Life’s simple pleasures.

Photo taken using Instagram

We woke up early on our last day. We wanted to beat the traffic going back to Manila.

It's always hard to say goodbye.

Good bye, Crosswinds!

Last stop

Photo ops before leaving Crosswinds. We’ll be back!!!

My family treated me to brunch for Mother’s Day. Yes, we went back again to Breakfast at Antonio’s. What can I say? We’re creatures of habit.

Aryanna’s order: Banana Pecan Waffle

For the purists like me, Golden Brown Waffle. Exactly like Pancake House’s but with better syrup.

Tom had omelette

Our rug rat runner. Sige, magpakapagod ka, Dylan!

One last look at beautiful Taal Volcano.

What a very calming and soothing long weekend! Recharged, rejuvenated and revitalized are the words that can describe what we felt – ready to take on our next adventures!

Thanks a lot to the staff of Hospitality International, Inc. of Crosswinds Swiss Luxury Resort! We hope to be back soon!

As the old world poet Ovid beautifully worded it, “Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop.”

Shoppingero/shoppingera, stop and smell the pine trees! Visit Crosswinds Swiss Luxury Resort and Hospitality International, Inc. other properties now!

Mother and Daughter Adventure: Singapore, Part 2

Posted on March 26, 2013 by jenni

The beauty about flying to Singapore for the summer is that there are a lot of fun activities, inspiring cultural events and great food selection for the whole family to enjoy.

What is a mother and daughter Singapore adventure without visiting museums, theme parks, food trips and a bit of shopping?

If have little time to spare but want to maximize it, Singapore offers a wide variety of attractions each offering different kinds of entertainment – from the adventurous to the educational, all of which offer great opportunities for families to bond and have a great time.

Did you know? Singapore may be the smallest country in Southeast Asia but it has emerged as one of the best places to live in Asia with a very high quality of life measurement. The country has emerged as the ‘Happiest country in Asia’ in a study reported by ABC News. 95% of Singapore residents appreciate the clean, safe and efficient society. The study also showed that in Singapore, family is the most important unit and despite materialistic goals, the family and community always takes precedence. This is turn helps build a content and happy society. Source

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No visit to Sentosa is complete without meeting its most famous, 37-metre tall resident, The Merlion – an enduring icon of Singapore that's half-lion and half-fish.

Every morning, Aryanna and I were greeted by the Merlion in Imbah Station, Sentosa, just across from Mövenpick Heritage Hotel.

We started our days early para makarami!

Marina Bay Sands

Maison Louis Vuitton floats elegantly in Singapore’s Marina Bay.

Aryanna: “Lego, mom!”
Me: “r u srs?”

The Art of the Brick® museum show was on tour in Singapore. This exhibitions is focused exclusively on the use of the popular toy, LEGO® bricks, as an art medium and artist Nathan Sawaya.

This New York-based artist has multiple unique exhibitions created solely from standard LEGO bricks with several new sculptures created specifically for each exhibition. Each show has countless colorful LEGO pieces which Sawaya has transformed into whimsical and awe-inspiring creations.

Aryanna and I were lucky to have seen this show during our visit.

Pe-cube-ular

Sawaya’s ability to transform this common toy into something meaningful, his devotion to spatial perfection and the way he conceptualizes action, enables him to elevate what almost every child has played with into the status of contemporary art.

Nathan Sawaya's iconic sculpture, 'Yellow'.

Nathan Sawaya left a comfortable life as a corporate attorney to pursue a career in Lego art.

“These works are very personal to me, since they reflect my growth as an artist as I strove to discover my creative identity,” said Sawaya. “The museum exhibition is accessible because it engages the child in all of us while simultaneously illuminating sophisticated and complex concepts. Everyone can relate to the medium since it is a toy that many children have at home. But my goal with this exhibition when it first debuted in 2007 was to elevate this simple plaything to a place it has never been before.” – Nathan Sawaya

Self-portrait

‘Swimmer’

Unlike most people, New York-based artist Nathan Sawaya never stopped building, creating and exploring his own imagination using LEGO® bricks which he has played with since a young age.

It all started with one idea and one brick

Thinking with The Blue Guy Sitting

Lego is for kids of all ages

Peek-a-boo! Check out our paparazzi photographer Edleen in stealth mode. Haha!

I totally connected with this quote.

'Everlasting'

I love this particular piece.

The older couple complete with a lifetime’s worth of emotional and physical baggage and still going through life together, the man affectionately leading his wife by her hand. It’s good to see depictions of the body in decline as an acceptance of the frailty of our nature. The man here has jowls and a voluminous gut and his companion still retains her sex appeal even with the extra layers of fat.

Aryanna turning herself into a Lego creation through the use of the interactive photo booth.

What will lift you up? Love? Faith? Success? ‘Ascension’

A 6-meter long T-rex dinosaur skeleton! Rar!

Playful writing

“Shadow Play: What sculpture will you be today?”

Peranakan Museum

The Peranakan Museum explores the culture of Peranakan communities in in Southeast Asia. Installed in the former Tao Nan Chinese School, built in 1912, this intimate museum possesses one of the finest and most comprehensive collections of Peranakan objects. Galleries on three floors illustrate the cultural traditions and the distinctive visual arts of the Peranakans. The Peranakan Museum provides a stimulating and educational experience for all, while representing the living culture of the Peranakan community in the region. The museum is a component of the Asian Civilisations Museum, operating under the National Heritage Board.

Another must-see in Singapore is the Peranakan Museum.

Who are the Peranakans?
For centuries, the riches of Southeast Asia have brought foreign traders to the region. While many returned to their homelands, some remained behind, marrying local women.

The Malay term ‘peranakan’ which means ‘locally born’ also refers to other communities that developed in Southeast Asia like the Chitty Melaka and Jawi Peranakans.

The Peranakan Chinese are descendants of Chinese traders who settled in Malacca and around the coastal areas of Java and Sumatra, as early as the 14th century. In the 19th century, the Peranakan Chinese, drawn by commerce, migrated to the bustling ports of Penang and Singapore.

The Chitty Melaka, or Peranakan Indians, descended from unions between South Indian Hindu merchants and local women, from the time of the Malacca Sultanate in the 15th century. Linguistically, the Peranakan Indians speak a type of vernacular Malay which incorporates some Tamil words.

The Jawi Peranakans (or Jawi Pekan) are descendants of intermarriage between South Indian-Muslim traders and women of the local community. The Jawi Peranakans clustered around urban centres, particularly in the trading port of Penang.

The Peranakan culture is a unique hybrid culture that is still part of Singapore’s living heritage.

Lovely chandelier

Aryanna loves pink bedrooms!

Plato-platuhan to the max!

Aryanna: "Can I bring this cat home?"

Haji Lane

Haji lane is in the Kampong Glam neighborhood of Singapore. Young people frequent the shops along this lane for the independent fashion boutiques and Middle Eastern cafes.

Aryanna’s Haji Lane find

When in Haji Lane, try Bergs Burger. We loved the ‘The Berg”Miss Piggy’ Burger and Fries with Special Berg Sauce! Mmm…

Sentosa

Sentosa is an all-in-one hotspot, which offers an exciting array of adventurous activities and things to do like visiting historical monuments, as well as world-class entertainment spots.

Papa-paparazzi!

Sentosa 4D Magix “Pirates”

#swagalicious

The token Merlion shot

Here we go!!!

Living on the edge

Breathtaking view!

Pretending to be calm and excited but sweating bullets. LOL

This is how we got that shot

Ehmeged, we’re alive. We love heights!

Singapore Seafood Republic, Sentosa

Singapore Seafood Republic is touted to offer the Best Chili Crab in Singapore. We believe!

Ready to dig in… Again!

The soup was so good I forgot the name. Haha

Garlic Bokchoy

Singapore Seafood Republic's award-winning Chili Crab

World famous for its unforgettable tangy spice! Sooooo goooood!

The chilli crab is best savoured with an ordered of fried savoury buns.

That claw!

Aryanna trying to be neat with her shrimps. Ain’t gonna happen, sweetheart.

Tiger Sky Tower

Tiger Sky Tower gives a panoramic view of Sentosa. A must!

Universal Studio

Aryanna and I were going to skip Universal Studio but in the end we glad we went!

She's got the whole world in her hands

Universal Studios Singapore is a theme park located within Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island, Singapore. It’s the region’s first Hollywood movie theme park, Universal Studios Singapore®.

Featuring 24 movie-themed rides and attractions, 18 of which are unique to Singapore, thrill seekers and families will be the first to experience many new rides and shows based on blockbuster hits. The young and young at heart will be entertained by Shrek® and gang on an incredible 4-D adventure in the world’s first Far Far Away Castle. Thrill seekers can face warrior mummies on Revenge of the Mummy™, a psychological thrill ride in total darkness. Other highlights include Madagascar: A Crate Adventure™ and Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure®.

Cue smoke machine for dramatic effect

Fresh lang ang peg pero ang init, grabe!

We belong here

Everybody deserves an Oscar.

My favorite

Waiting in line for the Transformers 4D Ride.

The future of 4D is here! We won’t ruin your experience but all we can say is, Transformer 4D Ride is the best. Ride. Ever.

Battlestar Galactica: Human vs. Cylon is a pair of steel, dueling roller coasters at Universal Studios Singapore. One half of the ride features an inverted roller coaster track in blue, and the other half features the traditional seated roller coaster track design in red. It is the tallest dueling coaster in the world; tipping at 42.5 metres (139 ft).

Battlestar Galactica: Human vs. Cylon roller coaster is the scariest roller coaster ride Aryanna and I have been to date and we loved it! Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!

Welcome to Far Far Away! Can’t wait to go back and bring the boys with us the next time!

Thank you Singapore for an amazing and unforgettable adventure! Our mother and daughter trip allowed us to bond and experience new things and make more memorable memories. We had a blast!

Don’t forget to fly Cebu Pacific to Singapore! Budget flights = More budget for fun activities and food trips!

For more of our Singapore adventure watch my daughter’s shows:

Pepper Travels

Tip: Watch on HD

Pepper’s Amazing Fashion Haul

To watch ALL of Aryanna’s videos, go to youtube.com/pepperdraws

Mother & Daughter Adventure: Singapore, Part 1

Posted on March 22, 2013 by jenni

School is finally over for Aryanna and I just finished working on a project for ten straight days. It’s time for a much-deserved vacay!

What better place for mother and daughter bonding time than a trip to Singapore! Wooooohooooo!

Thanks for bring the girls to the airport. Goodbye boys!

Aryanna and I are all packed up and ready to go!

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Fly Cebu Pacific! Spend less on airfare = More shopping and adventure!

We flew via Cebu Pacific. When flying in Asia, budget flights are King.

We arrived Singapore hungry.

Our tour guide Josephine from the Singaporean Tourism Board brought us to Singapore Food Trail.

When in Singapore, eat Hainanese Chicken Rice! This was cooked perfect!

My new favorite dish: Black Pepper Beef. I believe I ate 3/4 of the serving. PG lang ang peg.

We tried the Fried Oysters with Egg but it was way to oily for our liking.

Special Prawn Noddles

It’s the world’s largest observation wheel. Standing at a stunning 165m, Singapore Flyer is the height of a 42-storey building – that’s some 30 metres taller than the famed London Eye. Taking a flight on this S$240 million wheel is a one-of-a-kind experience you wouldn’t want to miss.

Time for our mother and daughter adventure!

The Singapore Flyer is the best ride to take when first arrive Singapore (and after eating a full meal, haha!)

I’ve ridden the Singapore Flyer many times and each experience is different, especially now that I’m with my daughter Aryanna. It was her first time in Singapore and it was a good first ride seeing the beauty of Singapore.

Enjoy Singapore Flyer by yourself, with friends and loved ones.

Step into the Journey of Dreams – a brand new attraction at Singapore Flyer, and be awed by an engaging multimedia showcase that provides a deeper appreciation and understanding of the Singapore Story and the iconic Singapore Flyer, and extend your experience onboard the scenic flight on the Flyer, taking in amazing 360° views of Singapore and beyond.

Aryanna liked the interactive videos. She was in the zone. I had to force her to stop playing. Grabe.

Get a visual 360° feast of iconic and historical landmarks and views from the Marina Bay to the Singapore River, Raffles Place, Merlion Park, Empress Place and the Padang. There is no other place in Singapore that offers these breathtaking, magnificent day and glittering night views.

Aryanna enjoyed the magnificent cityscape of Singapore.

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What a beautiful city! No pollution and beautiful, clean landscape.

Get lucky! With Singapore Flyer’s 28 capsules and each capsule’s maximum capacity of 28 persons, the evident figure of 28 means “double prosperity” or “easy to prosper” in Cantonese.

With 3,332 panels of 42 varying shapes and sizes of spectrally selective glass, the Flower Dome is like a giant puzzle!

Next stop, Gardens By The Bay!

There are several attractions at Gardens By The Bay but Aryanna and I decided to concentrate on two areas: The Flower Dome & Cloud Forest

Supertree Grove. These unique trees of up to 16 storeys in height can be found all around the Gardens - twelve at the Supertree Grove, while the remaining six are placed in clusters of threes at the Golden and Silver Gardens.

As you enter Garden By The Bay, you are welcomed by these man-made Jurassic levelz Supertrees. Whoa!

How the Supertrees work

Did you know?

The Supertrees are embedded with environmentally sustainable functions like photovoltaic cells to harvest solar energy.

Supertrees are made of four parts: reinforcement concrete core, trunk, planting panels of the living skin, and canopy.

While waiting for our guide Josephine to get our tickets, photo ops na!

Kalerky, lalaki ng langgam sa Singapore! LOL

Learn about the lifecycle and pollination of the baobab and banksia trees or the role of animals in the plant eco-system on the multimedia screens. Have hands-on fun playing with the interactive wall and discover how the little things we do affect nature. Great for kids and adults!

Welcome to the Flower Dome!

Spectacular and innovative in design, it is one of the icons of Bay South Garden. The Flower Dome replicates the cool-dry climate of Mediterranean regions like South Africa, California and parts of Spain and Italy. Home to a collection of plants from deserts all over the world, it showcases the adaptations of plants to arid environments. Stop and smell the flowers in the colorful changing displays of the Flower Field, which reflects different seasons, festivals and themes.

Enjoy a cooling and leisurely stroll through the Flower Dome and experience the eerie profile of the baobabs, surrounded by fascinating succulents. Immerse yourself in the spectacular view of the Marina reservoir skyline, as you embark on your journey through the Mediterranean Basin, South West Australia, South Africa, Central Chile and California. You'll discover amazing plants and flowers from different corners of the globe, and you'll be amazed by how different parts of the trees are used in daily lives across different cultures.

Generation “Instagrammers”

Did you know? The world’s largest columnless greenhouse, the Conservatories’ glass sits on a steel grid that acts like an eggshell.

Aryanna and I were lucky to visit the Flower Dome when we did as they had set it up in preparation for Easter Sunday. Check out the festive Easter garden!

Air is cooled at the lower occupied zones through chilled water pipes in ground slabs, while warm air is vented out at the top.

My lovely daughter sitting inside the Easter Pagoda. Todo avail ka lang, Aryanna!

Beautiful blooms!

Aryanna and I were welcomed by the spectacular man-made waterfalls inside Cloud Forest! Nabasa lang ang beauty namin dito! Keribelles!

After a leisurely walk and 10,000 photos at the Flower Garden later, we hopped over to the Cloud Forest.

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Refresh yourself in the mist of the waterfall just as the plants in the Cloud Forest! High in tropical mountains, these plants would absorb the abundant rainfall, releasing the water gradually to create a constant, long-lasting supply for the land beneath them – supporting even more plants!

Enter the Cloud Forest, a mysterious world veiled in mist; entirely different from the Flower Dome. A 35-metre tall mountain covered in lush vegetation shrouding the world’s tallest indoor waterfall showcases plant life from tropical highlands up to 2,000-metres above sea level.

Ascend to the mountaintop in comfort by lift before descending via two walkways in the clouds for an aerial view of the canopy and mountainside below. Learn about unique biodiversity and geology of cloud forests and the environmental threats they face within the nine unique zones in this cool-moist Conservatory.

Lost World Take a walk up to the highest point of the mountain, which replicates the cloud forest vegetation at around 2,000m above sea level. This is where you can also enjoy fantastic views of the Marina Bay waterfront. Look out for carnivorous plants such as pitcher plants and the Venus Fly-catcher, against a carpet of delicate ferns and moss.

Sometimes getting lost means…

Finding paradise! Very Avatar lang ang peg nito.

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Planted Walls. The mountain has been densely planted with a mixture of fascinating orchids, delicate ferns, colorful bromeliads, dazzling begonias and menacing carnivorous pitcher plants. All of these are epiphytic and live on top of other plants in nature, requiring little substrate and are perfectly adapted for growing on vertical walls.

If you’re afraid of heights, don’t look down. Aryanna and I were not afraid.

Meet our lovely guide Josephine! She's brilliant! We also have the same taste in food and furniture!

Agate ba kamo?

On top of the Cloud Dome mountain you will find the largest Agate! Tingnan ko lang kung kaya ‘to ng coffee table n’yo.

I love this area that’s at the back of the waterfall! You could hear the thunderous sounds of the waterfalls but feels calming at the same time.

Open air area on Boon Tat Street Lau Pa Sat Festival Market 18 Raffles

All that walking made us hungry. And when in Singapore, eat hawker food!

Our guide Josephine took us to Boon Tat St. for dinner located in the Central Business District of Singapore. Yes, it’s located right smack in the busy streets of SGX Center. Roadside dining is possible in Singapore because there is no pollution in the city. You can eat and breathe fresh air at the same time. I only hope for this in Ayala Avenue.

According to Josephine, we must try the satay and coconut rice.

Ah, ganoon? 15 sticks of chicken and 15 sticks of pork satay and extra rice please!

One of the best grilled prawns I’ve had but the most difficult to eat too! Lakas makagutom nito! Haha!

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Sinong nakadami? Let the satay sticks be the judge!

What. A Day.

It was filled with fun adventures and yummy food trips with my daughter. What a great start to our vacation!

Shoppingero/shoppingera, tune in for Part 2 of our Singapore escapade!

For more information about Singapore, click here.

Follow my daughter Aryanna on Twitter and Instagram: @aryannaepperson

“Dampa at Paluto” Style At Marriott Hotel Manila + Pepper Eats

Posted on March 21, 2013 by jenni

Dive into an entire buffet spread of ocean treasures prepared just the way you like it ala Dampa at Paluto Style as Marriott Café brings Ocean’s Harvest. Combining the finest of seafood and meat choices cooked by skilled chefs, this will surely stimulate another exciting weekend of gastronomic dinner with the whole family.

The Epperson’s attacked the Marriott Hotel Manila last week to try their new buffet offerings.

Hola Mitchy!

We were greeted by Marriott Hotel Manila’s Director of Marketing Communications Michelle Garcia.

My beautiful nerd with the nicest and super sexy Mitch Garcia.

Our visit at the Marriott is not complete without saying hi to Executive Chef Meik Brammer of Marriott Hotel Manila. He’s quite the charmer.

What a kyoot welcome drink and lobster plush toy for our darling Dylan! We always feel special at the Marriott. Thanks!

We’re ready!!!

Seafood extravaganza!

The Epperson’s favorites:

Lemon Garlic Prawns

Grilled LOVE-sters!!!

Teppanyaki Style Mahi-Mahi

Grilled Scallops

Chili Crabs

Our ultimate favorite is the Black Pepper Prawns! Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! So good!

This deserves another shot…

And another one! Mmm… Just blogging about this makes me want to eat it again!

Time to go home. Borlog na si Dylan. Haha!

My daughter Aryanna’s show ‘Pepper Eats‘ will explain to you how this Dampa at Paluto Style works plus, watch the super fun and cool staff of the Marriott Hotel Manila join in on Aryanna’s video!

Watch now:

Tip: Watch it on HD!

Shoppingero/shoppingera, Ocean’s Surf is available every Friday and Saturday dinner. Try it!

Marriott Cafe is located at the lobby of Marriott Hotel Manila. For more information and reservations, please call (632)988-9999 or visit www.marriott.com/mnlap.

Staycation: Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, Part 2

Posted on March 14, 2013 by jenni

When you have children, staying in a hotel is not exactly pure relaxation. It’s about finding ways to occupy the kids so that Tom and I can get some peace and quiet. Parents know what I mean. We’re glad that Sofitel Manila has family-friendly amenities.

We had gorgeous weather the last time we stayed at Sofitel Manila so we took advantage and did fun stuff with the kids outdoor.

Check out the beautiful Manila Bay! It was a perfect day for a picnic.

I’ve heard horror stories about how the Bay used to stink and garbage floating. Thank God, we didn’t smell anything bad or see unwanted particles in the water. There was zero stench and the water was clear. Yay!

Nice day too for a swim

Tom on daddy mode. Time to Instax!

The life of a 3-year old!

What’s up with the look, dahling? Haha!

Tom stayed with kids and played in the pool till they had prune fingers. I went back to the suite and wrapped myself in the softest bathrobe. The floral design reminded me of Prada’s F/W floral velvet coat.

My kids are very active. They’re the type that run outside or play sports in the park. It’s hard for them to stay put and just watch TV at home. Tom and I were happy to find out that Gymboree was inside Sofitel Manila. Aryanna and Dylan played for hours during their Free Play, twice a day during our stay at the hotel.

Shogod na si ate.

Time to chill out in the room.

Aryanna is such a great sister. She loves playing with Dylan. She made sure Dylan got to watch his favorite cartoons. She spoils him.

Dylan: Look, mom! I’m wearing your shoes!
Me: Be careful, dahling.
Dylan: It’s OK, mom. I like it! *walks around*
Me: OK, that’s enough. Those shoes are too big for you. You might trip on those.
Dylan: No, mom. I like it. *walks… trips… cries*

Ayan na nga ba sinasabi ko… Wawa naman si Dylan.

After the drama, my son proped himself on his favorite chaise lounge to watch cartoons. Sarap maging bata, mabilis maka-recover sa sakuna. LOL

Nothing like a box of raisins to heal a bruised chin and ego.

The beauty about staying in Sofitel Manila is that you get to watch the fireworks show by the Bay. The photo above was taken from our suite’s balcony. We were all in pajamas watching the Pyromusical Show. Awesome!

An Epperson tradition

Tom and I played tag team. It was my turn to entertain the kids while he watched UFC.

After UFC, it was my turn to watch GLEE with Sarah Jessica-Parker as guest. Woohoo!

Brunch at Sofitel, P2,900++. Dylan force feeding Aryanna mamon, priceless! LOL

Happy everyday

Both my boys love to run. Kakapagod!

Sunset at Sofitel

Tom and I love hanging out and playing with the kids but may hangganan — time for a couple’s massage at Sofitel’s Le Spa.

Le Spa is where worldwide ancient traditions meet the refinement and skill of the latest in French cosmetology to create Le SPA: an exhilarating and rejuvenating experience. Melt your stress away when staying at Sofitel Manila and book a massage. Le Spa is open daily from 8am to 12mn with 24-hour room service massages.

Shoppingero/shoppingera, tune in to part 3 of our Sofitel Manila staycation!

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila
CCP Complex
Roxas Boulevard
Pasay City Tel: (+632) 551-5555
Fax: (632) 551-5610

Staycation: Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, Part 1

Posted on March 12, 2013 by jenni

Having a toddler makes it difficult for my my family to travel. So instead of flying out of the country for vacations, we indulge in hotel staycations in the city. We get the same feeling of relaxation sans Dylan wailing on the plane.

We checked-in Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila. The last time we stayed at here was three years ago and I was 9 months pregnant with Dylan.

Mabuhay!

I just love the traditional Filipino saya uniform of the Lobby Lounge Ambassadors!

The Eppersons take on Sofitel Manila! Are you ready?

From left: Romy Evangelista, Butler; Grace Donato Weihrauch, Guest Services Manager and Adeline Gutierrez, Guest Relations Officer

The friendly welcome committee

Someone has already made a friend. Holding hands talaga? Oh, boy.

You can call my son Dylan, “Mayor” — he says hi to everyone he sees, just like a politician. LOL

The elevator to luxury heaven can be found at Club Millesime, Sofitel

Let the luxury stay begin…

When staying in one of the suites in Sofitel, you can check-in at their Club Lounge, away from the crowded Front Desk Lobby.

Well, hello beautiful!

Now, this is what I call a yummy welcome!

Attack!

Gorgeous Signature Sofitel tableware

Truffle? Yes, please!

Relax na ba? Uhm, maybe we should go to our rooms already, noh???

The family artillery: small suitcase for each of us and one big maleta for Dylan. We brought everything for him except the kitchen sink! Haay!

I know. With the number of luggage we have, it seems like we’re ready to move in here forever!

More welcome treats and personalized note from the General Manager.

Home suite home

Everyone, let me introduce to you Sofitel’s famous ‘Sofitel Hotel’ Bedding: Superior White Goose Down ‘Sofitel’ Mattress Topper filled with White Goose Feathers (90%) and White Goose Down (10%); ‘Sofitel Hotel’ Luxurious White Goose Down Duvet; ’Sofitel Hotel’ White Goose Down Pillows

It’s like sleeping on clouds.

This was Dylan’s bed

Extra bed for Aryanna…

Near the tech station, of course.

Le bar. Spotted: sosy bottled Evian

Tom and I love the tiles!

Lanvin, no less. Clazz.

Our suite’s killer view of both the Bay and…

Cityscape

Look who’s settled in. Everything OK, señorito Dylan?

We always start our stay at any hotel with room service. How chic is the butler’s uniform, fresh orchids and white linen table cloth?

Everybody happy?

When you’re three years old, you get the best service — your own flat screen TV, chaise lounge and the softest dinner roll.

The life!

All settled in.

Tune in for ‘Part 2′ of our Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila stay!

Shoppingero/shoppingera, when was the last time you stayed at Sofitel Manila Philippine Plaza?

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila
CCP Complex
Roxas Boulevard
Pasay City Tel: (+632) 551-5555
Fax: (632) 551-5610

Insta Valentine’s Day

Posted on February 18, 2013 by jenni

My Valentine’s Day was a major surprise this year. What I thought was going to be our usual couple’s massage and steak dinner date turned out to be the one most romantic moments I’ve had with my husband Tom.

Wait, I’m getting ahead of myself here. Here’s how it all panned out:

Tom and I share simple acts of love everyday. We do loving things for each other every chance we get. So when it comes to Valentine’s Day, we go for gold. It’s full-on romance, 24/7!