A Visit to Casa Loma (Old Castle in Toronto)

How would you feel if someone tells you that he wants your (his and your) house to be as grand as Casa Loma?

Well.. if you haven't seen Casa Loma, you might feel giggly and blush-y.. but once you get to see and tour the "castle" (yes, it is a castle!), you would worry how you can keep the entire place clean and tidy.

Welcome to Casa Loma! This blog is looong over-due, and might be the last entry for my Canada series.

Here is an old picture of the castle

Something about history, it was built for 3 years from 1911 to 1914, and was the residence of Sir Henry Mill Pelatt. It was never a residence of any government official, but Casa Loma was used to conceal research on sonar and sonar devices during World War II. 

How to get to Casa Loma?

Let's get Downtown Toronto as our starting point. From Downtown, Toronto, the nearest subway station is Dundas. From Dundas, take the Southbound train and alight at Dupont. From Dupont station, it is just walking distance to Casa Loma.

We don't really know how to get to the castle, we just boarded the train and went to our favorite place (Downtown Toronto), and from there, we asked direction from the subway store keeper. It was such a breeze. Cool and safe. I surely miss that. 

We met interesting people and creatures on our way 

to Casa Loma.. 

Click Read More to see more pictures of Casa Loma.. 

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Sunsilk Asks Me About the 25-Hour Challenge [Win a Trip to Palawan] + Giveaway

I opened my inbox one day and I was greeted by a note from Sunsilk asking me how would I spend 25 hours?

I would probably just sleep! But that would be too selfish. It seems that I am given additional hour in a day to spend it wisely.

I thought of flying to Europe but that would mean wasting 18 hours (Manila to Amsterdam for 14 hours, stop-over for 2 hours and another 2 hours to land to London). Besides, I am only given 25 hours not 25 million.

So I thought I would just go to India! It is in my to do list this year to visit and travel to India. I know a lot of friends frowned about the idea and there are only a few who said yes to go with me. But I don't care going there alone as I have friends there who are willing to adopt me.

What will I do?

The 13 hours of travel will sure make me hungry, 

I will start the travel with a food fest!

And I wouldn't care if the food would make me fat, 

I will check out the popular beaches in Goa

Then probably snorkel with an elephant..

Click Read More to know how the rest of my 25 hours will be spent in India.. 

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What Have You Missed at the First BDJ Box Beauty Social Event?

I am so looking forward to this long weekend. I need to catch up on sleep, catch up with friends, and catch the dust that is falling from the ceiling (my room needs some loving). But before I start with the broom and dust pan, let me first shared what you have missed last week during the first BDJ Box Beauty Social event.

I was planning to go alone and meet up with one of my co-writers but I promised my mom that last week would be our bonding day. I missed that. I missed going out with mom, checking out stores (and what the mannequins are wearing), trying out new restaurants and shopping for shoes (my mom and I love Payless). So I dragged her to Mall of Asia and we still managed to shop first from Freeway before heading to our destination.

The BDJ Team is kind enough to accommodate us and signed me up for all the talks. But my mom found a spot at the lobby and just sat there and waited for me while I checked out the booths and joined forces with Cher.

So what have you missed? Alot!

Click Read More to see what happened at the first BDJ Beauty Social.. 

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TGIFriday's New Menu and Stars Behind the Bar Tour

I might have previously mentioned in this blog that if there is one job that I wanted to do, it is to be a bartender in a local bar. It was a big dream when I was in College - to be a bartender in TGIFriday's. I wanted to wear those suspenders, cover my uniform with pins and wear the silliest hat, and probably sing Happy Birthday to guests.

How fun it is to be paid for something that you love doing? It was a dream that was never realized. I ended up as a barista instead - which is so much like a bartender, except that, I made coffee not cocktails - and there was no throwing of bottles involved.

Last week, I met amazing, talented bartenders from TGIFridays as welcomes the summer with new bar menu.  And please expect a great show.

Click Read More to see some action..

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Samsung Digital Appliances

I think I will find myself in the Home and Living section of Department Stores after Samsung launches the new Digital Appliances product lines.

Last week, Samsung revealed (amazing) product lines from microwave oven, to refrigerators and washing machines.

It was an interesting event, as the host claimed that she is a yaya and her bosses are the Samsung brand Ambassadors - Tessa Prieto Valdes, Daphne Osena and Rissa Mananquil-Trillo. 

The Samsung Team is very proud to share their latest products. I love the pride in each Samsung business head who went up the stage to introduce the new products. I would have the same pride if I am working for Samsung (very much the same pride I have for the company I am working for) - the products that they have are not just work of art but innovative too. 

Click Read More to know the new Samsung products.. 

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The Martys

Have you always wanted to be a rockstar? In my case, I just wanted to be a rockstar's girl. But seriously, my parents don't have a very nice story about a certain "rockstar". Anyway..

Back in College, aside from dreaming of getting your degree and diploma, we have this secret dreams that we try to reach, little by little, and so we joined groups. Cheerdance groups, bands, Photographers Circle, etc. You bet, I was part of the "newsletter" team.

Last week, I witnessed how young College students reach for their dreams (and mic and guitars) and be part of a band called The Martys.

A few months ago, Oishi called for aspirants from different colleges to bring together four lucky winners who will be part of the newest band (The Martys!), and tour together and win Php100,000. Awesome. So it is not just one band from one school, but the band could be composed of members from different schools.

And so, the finals was held last week at the Eastwood City Mall.

Hosted by the ever witty Ramon Bautista

Click Read More to know who are the members of the new band - the Martys!

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See You at the First BDJ Box Beauty Social on March 24!

If you have not heard of BDJ Box, where have you been? I hope not in London, to visit the Queen. Because - I would be really envious!! Anyway, envious might be what the girls would feel if they haven't experienced the surprises of BDJ Box. 

BDJ Box was launched last December, and I am one of the few who received a very first BDJ Box. See my post here regarding the launch. 

Find me somewhere in this video.. ;)

Those two are co-writers for www.wheninmanila.com

Awesome!

BDJ Box is a beauty product discovery subscription service for women and brought to us by the lovely bellas and makes of the Belle de Jour Power Planner. BDJ Box aims to help every Filipina unbox her own beauty. For P480 a month, subscribers receive a mass-customized box with at least 5-6 of the best beauty products delivered to their doorstep. It is like receiving a gift monthly!

What I love about BDJ Box, it is partnered with really nice brands. Think Loreal, Shiseido, Strip, etc. Now, BDJ Box will host an event on March 24, 2013 at SM Mall of Asia.

What to expect?!

Click Read More to know how you can join..

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Brandsfever: Online Store and Customer Service Review

Two years ago, when group-buying sites and members-only discount stores started opening in Manila, I have published a blog and compiled them all here. After two years (I think the link needs updating), I stayed loyal with my favorites - and one of them is Brandsfever. 

My first transaction with Brandsfever was hassle-free. I ordered online, paid through credit card and the item arrived at home. You can read the rest of the story of the first transaction here. Then, I ordered two more stuff.

Monroe Andy Warhol Frame

The second one was also processed smoothly. This time though, instead of getting the package at home, I received a claim card from the post office. Why did the service/delivery changed? I have no idea. I was just thinking that I need to pay taxes. Luckily, when my dad claimed the package, he was only asked to pay Php40 for the storage fee.

Click Read More to know how the third transaction went...


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Hauls of the Week: From Forever 21 SM Makati Sale

There is a pandemic in Manila. People, mostly ladies are hit. How would you know you have the symptom? If you found yourself carrying a yellow shopping bag. I saw alot in Makati yesterday, and on my way home, I am one of the victims. But I am a happy victim.

Did I make you worry? Well, the pandemic is happening only until today, February 17th - it is Forever 21 Mad Sale in SM Makati and SM Cebu.

I just couldn't resist. I used to do alot of shopping online from Forever 21 even before the brand landed in Manila; and after it has opened a store here, I thought I would stop. But I never stopped. Even if I am outside the country, I will find my feet bringing me to F21 store - and on my mind I will think "this is the last time I am doing the major hoard, we have a store in Manila anyway". But back in Manila, I found myself inside the F21 store again.

Click Read More to see what I got!

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Mister Donut Goes Japanese with Pon De Ring!

Pon De Rick and the whole Mister Donuts team invited me last Tuesday for an intimate dinner to let us taste the newest offerings of Mister Donuts. The event was held in the newly renovated Mister Donut Cafe in Greenhills. I remember staying in this place years ago - having coffee, donuts and fun conversation with friends after work.

After so many years, I am surprised to see the store to have a more colorful, and livelier ambiance, and the menu offers pasta, sandwiches and designer donuts. If you are wondering what is the special new products from Mister Donut, there is no more need for wondering and pondering, as I present to you Pon De Ring.. 

The box would make you think I bought it in Japan!

Click Read More to know more about Pon De Ring and the new Mister Donut Cafe...

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McCormick Bread Spreads

Our family always has a good relationship with McCormick. Even before I took up the course and worked with pots and pans at school, we always trust McCormick products for our spices and flavorings.

Last year, I got invited to a McCormick event for the launch of the McCormick Bread Spread, but unfortunately, I wasn't able to go. The PR team is nice enough to advise me that they will send me samples of the new products for me to try. I have totally forgotten about this, as it was during the time when heavy storm hit Manila.

I am surprised to receive a package from McCormick last week. The delivery man might have taken forever to deliver it, but I am just happy to try these new offerings from McCormick!

I know they look like lotion/facial wash, but hey, the packaging makes a good use.

Click Read More to know more about these new offerings from McCormick..

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Zalora Wish List: Orange

Summer is really ON! I find myself getting more and more attracted to the color - orange - probably because it reminds me of sun rays, and it represents youth, happy times and joy.

I am browsing some stuff in Zalora.ph and collated my wish list - mostly in ORANGE!

Click Read More to know why I am loving them now..

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What's in the Mail? Avon Anew Clinical PRO Line Corrector VIP Pack

When Mother Earth announced that Avon Philippines is giving away VIP samples of Avon Anew Clinical PRO Line Corrector, I set my alarm and signed up as soon as the site opens.

Although I am not very experimental when it comes to beauty products, the thought of anti-aging and free samples excite me more than anything.

So the package finally arrived last week. I love mails and packages!

Click Read More to know more about the new product and how to get samples..


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Freeway's Spring Print Collection/Summer Collection 2013

Now I see florals, neons, nature hues. We don't have four seasons here, but we have adopted Spring and Freeway is happy to release its Spring Print Collection.

The collection incorporates beauty of nature to produce young, fresh and youthful pieces. I personally enjoy dressing up with cool, vibrant and colorful pieces. I am forgetting blacks and basics for now.

Always an innovative brand, Freeway started developing its own beautiful prints, influenced by the success of its National Artist Collectors Series which pioneered wearable art by interpreting the works of our Filipino National Artists on clothes.

Click Read More to see the Spring Print Collection...

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French Man, Taboo and Emoticons

So now I am here at my room - my shoes, clothes and the walls of my room are watching me. I am typing with my chipped nail polish while worrying about my wiggly molar. Some websites say (and even "the substitute" dentist confirms) that it is normal.

Normal or ordinary was not how I would describe yesterday. It was exactly one year, I boarded a plane going to Jakarta to meet (and live) with 9 other people from different countries. Yesterday marks an anniversary of a friendship of Phils, Mexico, USA, India, Austria and Brazil. That sounded like an international deal.  You can read about this story here. 

Anyway, Friday has been good to me. I am glad. I was supposed to swing by the When in Manila writers potluck party (sorry guys, and Teacher Cheryl - I wasn't able to go), but I woke up late and had to run to work. At work - where I felt that I have never really worked. It was not a usual Friday.

I haven't even spent 15 minutes in the office, when my calendar told me it is time to go to the Boardroom Meeting room. We had a very informative meeting which lasted for two hours. Back to my station where I dealt with a system issue and pressing timeline, this gave way for me to interact with a manager from France. From a system issue and incorrect approval routing, our conversation then focuses on cultural differences.

Interesting how an issue would be a bridge to build client relationship?

Click Read More to know how my day went.. 

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Solo Online Summer Collection 2013

Seems like only yesterday when Pupung asked me to feature him on my site, as Solo was also looking for new models. 

Guess what, the winners had been named, and they are out to model the 2013 Solo Summer Collection.

Derek Espinosa and Ganiel Krishnan. They are both 18 years old which makes me a little too old. Apart from modelling, Derek who is a business management student is active in sports sports like basketball, swimming and running. While Ganiel is a mass communications student at Far Eastern University. This outgoing half-Indian, half-Filipina beauty is also talented in the field of music and acting.

Click Read More to see more of the new models and the collection..

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Congratulations to the Winners of Cream Silk Gift Packs!

Hello! Happy Monday Morning! I hope everyone had a great weekend.

I would make it extra special to two of my readers and followers who won gift packs from Cream Silk! Of course, thank you to everyone who joined, shared, and followed/liked my blog. I am even more kilig when Heart Evangelista even re-tweeted the contest. 

Without further ado, (drumroll please..) Congratulations to:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Jello Manongsong

Cathlea Marcelo

You guys won Cream Silk Gift Pack each.

You may pick up the prize from the Makati Office. I will send you a note how to claim for your prizes. 

Thank you again!

Not feeling lucky today? Don't fret, I got more exciting give-aways to launch soon. 

If you like this post, click the like button or the Facebook Share button! Spread the love. Like my Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/ruthiliciousblog or follow my updates on Twitter @ruthilicious.

If you are reading this post somewhere, it is originally written by Ruth and published in www.ruthilicious.blogspot.com.

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Live, Laugh & Love at Opera Haus

Ever since I got to watch the Mama Mia show last year, I found this sudden interest and appreciation to musicals and plays. Especially that the Les Miserables movie hype is still on, you might find my thought bubbles floating with musical notes.

So when I received an invite to watch the Live, Laugh and Love at Opera Haus, I immediately confirmed my attendance.

The Opera Haus is located in Bautista, Makati. It was a challenge locating the venue, but we knew  we got to the right place because of the parked cars outside the venue.

We were late coming from another event. We were literally show-stoppers. I wanted to melt and evaporate infront of the many music enthusiasts who were so focused on the show. We settled in our seats and the music started playing again.

The room was filled with people from different age range - I am guessing most of them are industry professionals. The lady sitting beside us is actually once a theater actress who performs in plays abroad. I feel little in the room filled with talented people (including the audience).

The act is now about a couple. I settled and watched. Listened, and adored. Then new stories and new artists came in the middle of the stage.  I envied these talented young artists who can sing as if they are just breathing. They move with grace, and reach the highest note effortlessly. I wish I have that talent too.

Click Read More ...

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Afternoon Tea at New World Hotel

What do you usually do in the afternoon? My afternoons are usually spent on bed. Thank you to the work schedule I have been following for 5 years.  I miss those days when my afternoons were spent at the mall, or in a movie theater (just because Mr/Ms. Professor didn't show up in the class). People nowadays still spent most of their afternoons in the mall, mostly coffee shop - to conduct meetings, meet up with friends, just have coffee, kill time, people-watch, and post something on Instagram. Oh, I miss lazy-ing around.

Last week, New World Hotel, Makati gave me a reason to wake up earlier and spent my afternoon at The Lounge. I cannot remember the last time I was in New World Hotel. I remember when I was in College, we had our International Cuisine Buffet in this hotel as part of our exposure tour then. I was the one who organized the event, and coordinated with the Restaurant Manager. That restaurant is no longer there, and the hotel has obviously transformed - I love its new boutique style ambiance.

While I sit in a comfy couch, and exchanging gracious greetings with Ms. Nini Icban, Director of Communications for New World Hotel , the staff started serving these..

and more of these.. until our table looked like this..

There is no reason to complain. Sandwiches. Luscious cake. Finest Scones, and a different Empanada. Have I mentioned a glass of champagne? and a choice of tea or coffee? 

You too can experience the same lovely afternoon when you visit The Lounge in New World Manila, click Read More to see the other yummy options..

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