Adventures Onboard a Hong Kong Taxi Cab

One of the things I do online while preparing for a trip is to research on the destination. Particular concerns include the locations of the places I intend to visit, the possible modes of transportation and the cost involved. I did so prior to the recent trip to Hong Kong and yet we had our share of misadventures.

Cost. The cost of taking a taxi surprised my traveling companions. We spent HKD 120 for taxi fare from the Hong Kong International Airport to Hong Kong Disneyland, HKD 230 from the park to Tsim Sha Tsui and HKD 205 each way from Disney's Hollywood Hotel to the Giant Buddha. I was not at all surprised having checked the rates prior to our and was why I exchanged enough money at the airport for our 3-day vacation. One may argue that we could have taken the MTR. However, as we were travelling with our luggage and a senior citizen, we opted for the more comfortable yet more expensive option.

Color. Taxis in Hong Kong are color coded. Those which service the city are red, the new territories green and Lantau blue. We found that we could only take the blue taxi from Disney's Hollywood Hotel to the Giant Buddha.

Taxi Stands. Hail a cab from a taxi stand. However, as we were to find out in Hong Kong, some taxi cabs do drop off and pick up passengers in places other than taxi stands. After watching A Symphony of Lights, we waited in the taxi stand near Sogo but taxis were few and far between. And those which showed up were hailed by passengers not in the taxi stand zone.

Language. In countries where English is not the primary language, it's best if you have a card with your destination written in the local language to show the driver. This prevents the possibility of being brought elsewhere. I came prepared and brought with me a Hong Kong Visitors' Guide I picked up at the airport and a Tsim Sha Shui guide which I printed out. The driver of the taxi we took from Disney's Hollywood Hotel took us exactly where we wanted to go. I didn't foresee any problems on our return to the hotel. After all, taxi drivers should know where Disney is. Unfortunately, the taxi driver thought we were going to Hollywood Road. That mistake set us back an additional HKD130. We thought it best not to argue with the driver and to think of it as a field trip to Central.

Moral of the story: Be prepared.

hong kong, taxi, travel

Twisted Travels x 2

Remember the book that blogging brought?

After much anticipation (on my part), it finally found its way to me. It all started August 8 when I saw Ajay's post about Melo's contest. It got me interested and I jumped in and blogged about it. Seven hours later, Melo informed me that I've won a copy of Jessica Zafra's Twisted Travels. Five days later, Melo emailed to say that copies have been shipped and to expect delivery in 2 days.

And so began the book's twisted travel. Six days from shipping, I have not received my copy but saw that some of the winners have and blogged about it. I was not very concerned, the weather was bad but I emailed Melo anyway. He assured me that he'd check with the shipping company. Nine days from shipping, still no book. Melo too has not received any returned mail. Eleven days from shipping and no book, Melo assures me that I will get a copy though it might not have the author's signature anymore if the original one meant for me got routed to another person's address.

My secretary received the book 12 days from shipping and as I was out of town, I only got it 2 days ago or 15 days from shipping. And it was a signed copy. Hurray!

This is not a rant post about the shipping company or the hospital's mail delivery system but just a demonstration of another case of twisted travel. Again, thank you to Ajay for the tip, Melo for the book and Jessica for the wonderful dedication which reads

Whether travel expands or narrows your mind is really up to you.

Oo nga naman.

My book may have had a twisted travel but I'm sure it's going to be a smooth read.

twisted travels, jessica zafra, lakbay pilipinas, melo villareal

Disney's Hollywood Hotel

Part of the reason why I wanted to go back to Hong Kong is to be able to stay at a Disney hotel. I feel that they have a certain magic that cannot be duplicated by another hotel. I was right.

Two hotels service Hong Kong Disneyland. I chose Disney's Hollywood Hotel over Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel because it was cheaper. I was not disappointed.

Rates. The lowest priced room was HKD1100*, comparable to most hotels in Kowloon. However, the advantage of staying in the Disney hotels is that they allow up to 4 people to a room. So the room actually comes out cheaper.

Rooms. I reserved a garden view room online but we were given a free upgrade to a sea view room. Our non-smoking room had 2 double beds, flat screen TV, in-room safe, in-room internet access, iron, refrigerator and a tub in the bathroom.

Online Reservation. From the time that I made an online/email inquiry about the hotel, I was impressed by the speed with which they handled their correspondence. All my questions were answered and promptly at that.

Express Checkout. On the day of checkout, a summary of charges is delivered to a guest's room. These will then be billed to the guest's credit card presented at check-in. There is no need to approach the front desk. The room key may be kept as a souvenir.

Luggage. If your room is not yet ready at the time of check-in or you want to explore the park some more after check-out and before your flight, guests' luggage may be stored for free at the concierge.

Location. The hotel is walking distance to the park. It is a good choice if you intend to spend most of your Hong Kong stay in the park. Taxi to Kowloon costs approximately HKD220.

Shuttle. A free shuttle runs between the hotels and the park and is a good alternative to walking for senior citizens.

Dining. Of the 5 dining establishments in Disney's Hollywood Hotel, we were able to try 3.

• Hollywood & Dine. Like a fast food but choices are limited. A serving of 5 siumai (which tasted more like squidball) costs HKD10 while a can of Coke costs HKD15.


• Studio Lounge. This is the hotel's bar where you can relax, eat a sandwich and order a drink with or without alcohol. Sandwiches cost HKD50 while drinks start from HKD40.


• Chef Mickey. Buffet at its finest. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and supper. I saw the executive chef and it was not Ratatouille, more like Chef Gusteau in human form. Breakfast consisted of international choices. We even got a 30% discount on breakfast because we booked it together with the room reservation.

Only in Disney hotels. Where else can you hear Mickey's voice announcing the floors in the elevator, swim with Goofy or find hidden Mickeys in your breakfast and all over the hotel?

Magic.

*1 HKD = 5.9 PHP

disney's hollywood hotel, hong kong disneyland, travel

Disturbia

Every killer lives next door to someone.

That's the tagline of the movie Disturbia which stars Shia LeBeouf of Even Stevens and Transformers fame. It tells the story of a depressed teenager forced to stay home who discovers many things about his neighbors and gets hurt in the process.

I had some hesitation about seeing the film because I didn't fancy getting scared. But having nothing else to do with some time to spare, I figured I could sit next to a family or just walk out of the cinema when things get too scary. I sat a few seats away from a couple and somehow I did not feel scared. There were moments of surprise, gore and some comedy too.

I was expecting the scenes to later turn out as a figment of the depressed teen's imagination but like the other characters in the movie, I was fooled into thinking that Shia LeBeouf's character has gone bonkers.

I did not get scared at all but if that happened on the street where I live, I would relocate right away. Somehow, with all the crimes that were committed in that house and all its gory details, I don't think the neighbors' lives would be the same again.

disturbia, shie lebeouf, suspense thriller, movie

Lantau

It was a good thing that we spent our last day in Hong Kong visiting the Po Lin Monastery Giant Buddha on the farther side of Lantau Island. The trip was tiring as it took a good 40 minutes each way by taxi (HKD 205 from Disney Hollywood Hotel). Although the road to the world's largest outdoor seated Buddha was smooth, the route had a lot of curves going up and down the mountain. My sister who was not that good in handling motion felt sick both ways.

Only Kayers went up the 200 or so steps to see the Buddha up close. My sister, 79-year old aunt and I all stayed behind. I had no intention of climbing those steps anyway for fear of cramps and I woke up that morning feeling a beginning migraine.

A free shuttle runs between the Po Lin Monastery/Tian Tan Buddha and Ngong Ping Village. We were glad that we took the shuttle. My sister had a Chinese body/foot massage to calm her nerves after the tricky ride up the mountain. Kayers found Chan Pui, her dad's bilin. I had a photo opportunity with the village mascot. My 79 year old aunt was wary though that we won't make it on time for our return flight which was a good 10 hours away.

Tiring trip but worth it just the same.

hongkong, po lin monastery, giant buddha, ngong ping village, travel

Hong Kong Disneyland

The happiest place on earth holds different attractions for people of varying ages and how my travelling companions and I enjoyed the park is a testament to that.

Today was not my first time at Hong Kong Disneyland, I was there too in December 2005. But despite it being my second time at the park, it still brought out the child in me and made me giddy. I particularly enjoyed Mickey's Waterworks Parade, a new feature that was added in the summer that guarantees that the audience will get wet unless you stay in a dry zone. Well, we stayed in a dry zone all right and ended up mostly dry. It's a good thing that my cousin Kayers' jacket shielded the both of us from the water attack. It was also interesting to see Adventure Land overtaken by pirates.

Kayers, who was a part of a university choir who toured Europe and won accolades, particularly enjoyed the live performances and Mickey's Philharmagic. She also had a blast taking pictures. Photo opportunities abound in the park.

Like my musical cousin, I also enjoyed the shows, parades and the fireworks. Must see attractions are The Festival of the Lion King and The Golden Mickeys. Both were live performances and could easily rival those on Broadway. A number of faces looked Filipino. I was craning my neck to see if I could spot Ralion Alonso, a favorite theater actor/dancer from Repertory Philippines before he joined the exodus to Hong Kong Disneyland.

My sister's eyes lit up when a Disney themed store would come into view. She loved shopping in the park and though she had many opportunities to do so, she wouldn't tire of it and would even shop in the Disney store of the hotel up to closing time.

For my 79-year old aunt, the availability of benches around the park was a blessing for her as the walking can be very tiring. Like the 3 of us, she also enjoyed meeting the characters up close.

We all loved dining at the park. In fact, I consider its menu better than Disney World because it's not all burgers and turkey legs, there's dimsum too.

It was during our character breakfast at Plaza Inn that Goofy smothered my aunt with affection. She claims Goofy made a pass at her. Isn't that enough proof that the happiest place on earth is for all ages?

hong kong disneyland, travel, walt disney

Discover Hong Kong

Acting as the group's travel agent, I arranged our itinerary to have 1 day each to see Hong Kong Disneyland and the traditional and modern sides of Asia's world city.

To see its cosmopolitan side, we trooped to Tsim Sha Tsui, a district in Kowloon best known perfect for the tourist. It offers an interesting mix of shopping centers, cultural sites and dining choices. Nathan Road is where all the shopping seems to radiate featuring both international and local brands. Many of the stores offered discounts as part of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival. Granville Road is where the outlets are.

We spent the evening on the promenade by the Avenue of Stars. We watched A Symphony of Lights -- buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbor light up as a laser show and fireworks unfold. It was a perfect way to cap the day and to welcome us to Hong Kong.

discover hong kong, tsim sha tsui, a symphony of lights, kowloon

Travel Packing Tips

Tomorrow, I'm going to the happiest place on earth with 3 new travelling companions. This is our first time to travel together. I wonder what it will be like.

In a previous post, I mentioned what a traveler needs to do online while preparing for a trip. I followed that up with another post, this time on looking good in travel pictures. The bit about packing right, not necessarily right elicited a response from Sexy Mom who shared her own lessons in travel.

What do I pack? I usually bring 1 set of clothes for each day I'm travelling. I don't want to be photographed wearing the same item all the time. To sleep in, I pack scrubs. I bring at least 2 shoes, both of which should be comfortable for long walks. And of course, the other essentials, mobile phone, camera and chargers. Not to be left behind is a universal adaptor. I bring toiletries too but remember to put them in my checked baggage. I have to have something to munch in case I miss some meals. When travelling, I am very wary of getting a migraine attack so I avoid all the possible triggers. Medicine for pain, diarrhea and allergy are also regulars in my travel kit to avoid the hassle of getting a prescription in a foreign country.

On short trips, I manage with a small luggage. I usually carry a messenger bag because the compartments are great for storing documents for easy presentation and because the bag can easily be strapped to the body for security purposes unlike ladies' bags. I also bring with me a collapsible bag in case I shop more than my luggage can accomodate.

It helps if you have a checklist so you don't forget something and to pack them all back once you're ready to go home. Here are some lists I found on the net which you might find helpful: One Bag, Disney Vacation, Frommers, Travelite.

Find the list which suits you. I wonder how my new travelling companions packed. I can't wait to find out.

travel, packing list, vacation, disney, pack light

DVD, DVD

Have you seen the public service advisory being run by the Optical Media Board with the help of Kodak and another sponsor? If you haven't, chances are you have not watched a movie on the big screen lately.

Th ad begins with a skilled thief going through the process of breaking and entering, escaping detection and then stealing. The camera then shifts to a seller of pirated DVD offering his wares to a couple. The authorities catch up with him and cuffs him. The spot ends with Edu Manzano's voice saying "Stop piracy, it funds other crimes".

The intention behind the ad is good. The way it was presented was straight to the point. However, I wonder why they're showing it on the big screen. People who watch in cinemas are the least of their problems. I think the ad would have more impact if seen on regular television.

dvd, piracy, optical media board, edu manzano

Cyma

As much as I want to try other cuisine when dining out, I had some hesitation about sampling Greek cuisine. I guessed it would be expensive. And if it were and the food did not suit my palate, it would be a waste of money.

It's a good thing then that the restaurants comprising The Ledge, the dining hub of Shangri-La Mall, have their menus displayed outside. You at least have an inkling of what they serve and the price range. All the establishments in this restaurant row have one goal in common: to convince the passerby to come inside. When a passerby peruses the menu, a server immediately appears, greets him and guides him through the menu.

That's exactly what happened to me at Cyma, the Greek restaurant at The Ledge. I was impressed with the attentiveness of the crew and allowed myself to be led inside.

On the 2 occasions that I was there, I ordered the Chicken Gyro (PHP125), a house favorite. It is made up of chicken, red onions, tomatoes, tzatziki and pita. The serving is good for one but may actually be shared by two. It is very filling and tastes very good.

The other items in the menu are likewise appetizing and I intend to try them some time when dining out with family or friends. While eating my gyro, my eyes would wander to other diners' tables to see what they're enjoying. An important feature of the menu is that the dishes are labelled whether heart healthy, recommended by the chef, etc. The diner then makes an informed choice.

The restaurant is always full of people. This is another indication that they serve good food. It's best to come early, make a reservation or allow some time to be on the wait list.

Try Cyma. You won't be disappointed but be prepared to spend if you're ordering the main entrees.

cyma, greek restaurant, the ledge, shangri-la mall

Stationary bike x 30 minutes

A Love Story

No excuses today. I finally kept my date with Aga.

A Love Story is a tale of a couple whose marriage suffers because of distance, lack of time and different priorities. It is a story of a couple who meet and fall in love but sadly, at a time when a commitment has already been made by one party to another. It speaks of forgiving, letting go and second chances.

That said, the plot of the movie is nothing extraordinary. We've seen countless tales of infidelity on the big and small screen. But what makes this film different is how Maryo delos Reyes executed a common storyline into something that tugs your heart and even surprises you. Indeed, a story may be interpreted many ways. It is the telling that counts.

There were instances in the movie that confused me primarily because it was presented mostly in flashbacks. But the movie would lose its charm if it were told another way. If told chronologically, it would have been no different from the usual man-woman-mistress story.

Acting wise, Maricel Soriano and Aga Muhlach showed why their careers have endured this long. Known for her fast talking histrionics as she was seen in comedies initially in her career, Maricel has undoubtedly matured as an actress. Her recent films (Inang Yaya, Soltera, Separada) show that she too can master subtlety. This film is no exception. In a scene with Aga towards the end of the movie, there were no words spoken, no moving around but the audience felt their characters' pain. Aga, on the other hand, showed a range of emotions in the movie reaffirming his position as the best of his generation. In their scenes together, they exhibited a chemistry that one wonders if they've been a team for years. I am not a fan of Angelica Panganiban but I know now why she's given so much attention by ABS-CBN. She played her part wonderfully and realistically. She might not be in Aga and Maricel's league yet but she's definitely on her way.

The expert directing and the main actors individual strengths fused to make a great film. I'm glad I kept my date with Aga. I fell in love with the movie and would consider seeing it again.

a love story, maricel soriano, mario delos reyes, aga muhlach, angelica panganiban

Photo from this site.

Treadmill x 45 minutes x 270 calories

SM Hypermarket Ends Tsinelas Search

A supermarket may not be the first thing on your mind when searching for gifts but trust me, I found the perfect gift in SM Hypermarket.











When my dad's tsinelas (slippers) broke, he started looking for a replacement but couldn't find any. In all the places he went to, slippers of all shapes, sizes and colors greeted him. But all were of the sipit mode, similar to the very popular Havaiianas. He wanted the peep toe, band type slip on kind . It was a good thing then that we spent Father's Day breakfast at Icings in SM Supercenter Pasig. Before heading home, we passed by the supermarket. Lo and behold, it was as if we were led there on Father's Day. My dad tried the World Balance slippers on and has been happy since. It was a cheap gift but my dad got what he really wanted. Sometimes we need to look beyond what is flashy to find what will make us happy.












SM Hypermarket Pasig has served me well in other instances. The grocery is complete with both dry and wet goods that one need not visit the wet market anymore. After all, if you can find all the things you need, at their freshest, in an air-conditioned area which smells good, why even bother going to the palengke? For those who'd rather not cook or bake, ready to eat chicken, pork and even duck plus freshly baked breads are available. They have a number of dining options too, including Taste Asia, a coming together of Asian cuisines, served either cooked or paluto as you like it. On Sundays, mass is celebrated at 9AM at the Taste Asia area.

Find out more. Be updated and interact with SM Hypermarket through their blog.

SM Hypermarket, Philippines Supermarket, SM Hypermarket Blog Writing Contest

Stationary bike x 30 minutes

Chicken from my Childhood

Good news came to me this morning while walking along the promenade of SM Supercenter Pasig. Savory Chicken is opening a branch. And I so love their chicken. It brings back memories of my childhood.

As a child growing up in Binangonan Rizal, trips to the city were extra special. On Sundays, we would hie off to Araneta Center in Cubao to catch a movie, walk around Ali Mall or Rustans and occasionally go to Fiesta Carnival. These adventures would always be capped by dining at Savory Chicken.

The restaurant in SM Supercenter Pasig will soon open and they already have an eager customer in me. I can't wait.

savory chicken, sm supercenter pasig

Stationary bike x 30 minutes

Choosing Bong Over Aga

I thought I'd see Aga Muhlach on the big screen today. I've been looking forward to A Love Story, his team up with Maricel Soriano and Angelica Pangilinan, since I saw its trailer. In fact, I told my relatives to see me at the movies. I even had the screening time and cinema set where we'd meet. After all, my cousin from Marikina likes Aga too. And so does my sister and 79 year old aunt.

I was wrong. Doc Aga will have to wait for next week before I see him. All because I chose Doc Bong over him.

My good friend Bong and his wife flew to China and I'm covering his post today. That explains why I'm stuck in the clinic writing this post on a Saturday. Bong and I cover for each other. When he leaves, I sign on. He does the same for me when I leave. And I already have plans for next weekend.

So it was really no question whom I'd choose between Bong and Aga. After all, Aga is just another screening or a DVD away.

aga muhlach, a love story

Stationary bike x 30 minutes

Healthy Choices for a Healthier Lifestyle

In my attempt to lead a healthier lifestyle, I have made a few changes.

• Exercise more.
• Give up Coke Light. (17 days and counting!)
• Eat wisely.
• Destress.

In picture is one of my healthy choices and my lunch today. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad. This is a healthy choice but it could have been better if I asked that the salad dressing be served on the side. I remembered only after I had placed the order. It would also be better if there were no bacon bits or croutons. Those add up the calories. But then again, if I don't eat those, it would feel I'm wasting my money. Or a vinaigrette based salad would be a better choice. Or I could have just ordered half instead of whole or split the whole order with a friend.

I guess the best way is to do it the old fashioned way. BYOB. For those not familiar with the acronym, it means bring your own baon. That way, you have the most control over what you eat.

Any suggestions about how to lead a healthy lifestyle?

grilled chicken caesar salad, healthy lifestyle, exercise, stress, eating wisely

Stationary bike x 30 minutes

Zhuang

In picture is my meal last night at Zhuang, the family's current favorite Chinese restaurant. Priced at PHP128, this Soy Chicken and Asado Combo is very filling and is best enjoyed with hakao (PHP70) or other dimsum treats.

Notice the tea cup beside it. I had Chinese tea last night. Priced at PHP25 per pot (and refillable too), the tea was a good alternative to Coke Light (which I have been free of since August 1).

There was no special occasion yesterday to visit Zhuang except it being a wet, stormy day and congee or hot soup seemed appropriate. Comfort food, really.

Zhuang is located in Pioneer Center along Pioneer Street. Function rooms are available. One may order ala carte or set. They have recently added a buffet priced at PHP199 for both lunch and dinner.

This is NOT a paid post. We love the place really even if I'd like to try other cuisine when dining out with family.

zhuang, chinese restaurant, coke light, pioneer center, pioneer street

Stationary bike x 30 minutes

Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage

Our parish is fortunate to have the pilgrim image of Our Lady of Antipolo today on the feast of the Assumption. My mom says that the mass that we just heard is also a thanksgiving for the recent trip to Singapore and a petition for the upcoming trip. After all, Our Lady of Antipolo is otherwise known as Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage and is the patron saint of travelers.

our lady of peace and good voyage, our lady of antipolo, assumption

Evan Almighty

Thank God for sneak previews, I was able to see Evan Almighty earlier than most of Manila. I've wanted to see the movie since viewing its trailer. I knew it would be funny plus it had Morgan Freeman playing God, a great departure from his usual roles.

It was funny definitely especially Steve Carell's transformation from the pet hating congressman to a modern day Noah. The scenes showing the animals following him around were a delight visually. However, the plot ceased to be believable towards the end. Although God works in mysterious ways, He does not intervene in a grand way for such trivial problems as profiteering in Congress.

Morgan Freeman as God voices this sentiment

Let me ask you something. If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient? If he prayed for courage, does God give him courage, or does he give him opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for the family to be closer, do you think God zaps them with warm fuzzy feelings, or does he give them opportunities to love each other?

The same is true when we sin or go astray, God does not strike us down with lightning, He gives us the opportunity to be better and, to echo the movie, to change the world with one random act of kindness at a time. Thank God for that.

evan almighty, movie, review, steve carell, morgan freeman

Photo from this site.

Treadmill x 4 minutes x 270 calories

My new phone

This is an image taken using my new phone. I've been using a Nokia 6610 since 2003 with no urge to change handset. If it ain't broke, why bother? After all, my only requirements for a handset are call/text feature and triband. I am not one to go with the trend or use the phone as a fashion accessory.

But then Globe called. As a loyal subscriber, I was entitled to a free phone or a P625 monthly rebate. I chose the former and was given 2 handset options, a Nokia vs a Sony Ericcson. I wanted the Nokia so as not to learn how to use a new handset but the specifications of the SE K610i were far superior. A 3G handset with 2 MP camera and blogging capability, among others! I was convinced.

I just blogged this post from my mobile. I'm happy with my choice.

nokia, sony ericsson, globe, se610i

Stationary bike x 30 minutes
(158)

Fishbowl Mystery at the Promenade Sunday Mass

I heard mass today at the Promenade after a couple of months of hearing Sunday mass elsewhere. I was seated at an aisle seat just before the table where they put the offerings. After the offertory, I was intrigued by a fishbowl placed on top of the table. It had strips of paper in it. I thought that they must be prayer petitions.

Before the priest gave his final blessing however, he thanked the people who attended the celebration, the restaurant which sponsored the Mass and the choir and then reminded everybody that the raffle will be done immediately after the Mass. So that explains the fishbowl.

Indeed, movie tickets to the Promenade cinema were raffled off. And it appears that this is a recurring thing. The priest congratulated the winners and wished the others better luck next time.

I'm sure the priest thought long and hard if this was appropriate. I have no serious issues about the practice. I think they are doing this to encourage more people to attend mass and to stay on up to the end. But what have become of us churchgoers, have we become too preoccupied with other things that we have to be bribed with treats such as these to stay?

promenade, sunday mass, movie tickets, raffle

Treadmill x 45 minutes x 271 calories

Rush Hour 3

2007 must be the year of the sequels. This movie is the third installment of the Rush Hour franchise starring Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker. It tells of the unlikely partnership of 2 cops from different backgrounds and persuasions. Rush Hour 3 offers nothing different from its predecessor. In fact, the plot line is very similar to the first one, albeit with new villains but the same protagonists though visibly aged. Like Rush Hour, the movie starts with Lee protecting the Chinese ambassador and then his daughter at movie's end. And again the villain happened to be somebody they thought was on their side. The only difference was this was shot in Paris. The fight scene shot on the Eiffel Tower was impressive allright leading one to think that action heroes and their villains are not afraid of heights at all.

It was reported that China was not happy at all with how the Chinese was portrayed in the movie. The racial jokes were not all directed to the East however. Jokes were directed against women and other races too. But that does not make it all right.

One can be funny without offending another. Maybe it's time for the team to think of something different. No Rush Hour 4 please.

Photo from this site.

rush hour 3, jackie chan, chris tucker, movies

Treadmill x 30 minutes x 167 calories

007 Pa Rin

I have to disagree with whoever said that OSS 117 is better than 007. I found the movie boring, predictable and not funny at all. It was also difficult to follow the subtitles as they seemed faded and hard to read. OSS 117 is a bumbling, clueless secret agent. Rowan Atkinson as Johnny English was a lot funnier. And so was Austin Powers played by Mike Myers. Whoever may play James Bond, he simply cannot be surpassed by these wannabes. Nobody can beat the original. His gadgets alone will make one see an 007 movie over and over again. OSS 117, on the other hand, put me to sleep and I haven't done that in a long time.

Photo from this site

OSS 117, 007, james bond, movies

Interviewed by Delifrance

Delifrance Philippines sent the following questions to their contacts. I happen to be one of them. I decided to post my answers here and treat the 3 questions like an interview.

What is the difference between a cafe and a coffee shop? For me, a cafe is more sosyal and serves more than just coffee. A cafe is a place you'd be happy to spend your time in. A coffee shop is a place you go to for a quick bite or drink. You go to a cafe to relax while you go to a coffee shop to get your meal done with so you can spend the rest of the day doing what you want or need to do.

Do you like spicy food? No. I cannot tolerate anything too spicy. I require a lot of liquids when faced with spicy food.

What food-related gift would you like to receive for Christmas? I've always loved Crinkles, especially if the soft and chewy kind. I don't like fruit cake at all. But since I don't want to gain any more weight, please spare me the food-related gifts. Anything else is okay but I will be posting a wish list by December.

delifrance philippines, cafe, coffee shop, spicy, Christmas

What I Love, What I'd Love

I love to travel. I love travel guidebooks. I love how Jessica Zafra writes. And I definitely want her book Twisted Travels. I'd definitely love it.

It's a very good thing then that Melo Villareal of Lakbay Pilipinas is giving away 12 signed copies of the book if you do at least 2 of the 4 requirements (comment on the post, blog about it, stumble it or submit 2 travel tales). Thanks Melo. And thank you to Ajay for the tip.

Want your own copy? Hurry up and blog about it. There are only 8 copies left. Jessica Zafra's signature is the icing on the cake.

twisted travels, jessica zafra, melo villareal, lakbay pilipinas

Stationary bike x 30 minutes

Ysabella's Chicken

I was disappointed with Ysabella's chicken, the chicken dish featured in ABS-CBN's telenovela Ysabella and only available at Bacolod Chicken Inasal (BCI). Not because it was no good, it was all right actually but because my expectations were really high. I was expecting a palate surprising, mouthwatering dish that I would instantly think of coming back for. I was expecting a dish that Maricel Laxa would steal the recipe of, Rosanna Roces would die for, Coney Reyes would hurt someone for and would launch Judy Ann Santos as the chef to watch. I was expecting a dish that could be a restaurant's bestseller and enough to sustain its clientele and their appetite. Instead, I got an ordinary chicken dish which tasted good but not spectacular. Priced at P149, the lightly fried quarter chicken came with garlic rice, gravy, grilled onions and tomatoes.

Ysabella's chicken may have disappointed me but I will follow the soap nonetheless. After Maging Sino Ka Man, this teleserye has kept me a kapamilya. And I will still go back to BCI but for the inasal.

ysabella, ysabella's chicken, abs cbn, bacolod chicken inasal, judy ann santos

Photo from this site

License to Wed

I watch movies to be entertained not to be preached at or not to muddle my brain with. That said, I enjoyed License to Wed. It stars Robin Williams as Reverend Frank who conducts a crash wedding preparatory course for engaged couple Sadie (Mandy Moore) and Ben (John Krasinki). As the course progresses in a certainly nontraditional way, the couple find themselves at odds about personality differences, parenting, sex, commitment, communication and trust. The comedy is funny at parts, boring and predictable at some. Don't expect Robin Williams in award winning mode here though. He's Mork all over again but still funny and doing what he does best and that is to make people laugh. I especially liked the child actor who played his apprentice. He stood his own and was not upstaged at all by veteran Robin Williams. I enjoyed the movie but not recommending it if you're looking for more than being entertained. If you must, catch it on DVD.

license to wed, movie, review, robin williams, mandy moore

Photo from this site.

Stationary bike x 30 minutes
(158)

Size Does Matter

I bought a Silverdot weighing scale (P495) last night at Rustan's Shangri-La using a gift certificate. I was excited to try it this morning pre-breakfast, post-void. I was taken aback. I was closer to my goal than I expected. I went off the scale and on again. Indeed, I was several pounds lighter. Off and on I went again. It was the same weight x 3 determinations. I couldn't believe it. I don't feel lighter. My clothes fit me the same way. I haven't done much except exercise some and give up Coke Light. There must be a problem with the scale. I asked my dad to weigh himself and he was several pounds lighter too.

As much as I want to believe that I have lost weight without dieting or exercising, the truth is more important (plus I deserve my money's worth too!). I returned the item today and replaced it with a Counselor weighing scale (P595). The staff of Rustan's Shangri-La was very helpful. I did weigh myself before leaving the store and this time it was close to my usual weight. Size does matter.

weighing scale, counselor, silverdot, rustans shangri-la

Treadmill x 30 minutes x 183 calories

M & M

Saw celebrities again today.

Mitch Valdes. I'm old enough to have known her as Maya Valdes. I've seen some of her movies but remember her best because of a mammography spiel she did during a corporate show. As most of the audience were doctors, I'm sure she got the message across of how painful the procedure is and that we must emphatize with our patients. I still recall her spiel each time I order a mammogram.

Mike Defensor. In college, he struck me as mayabang. I do not know him personally though. I did not vote for him then or during the last election. When I saw him today, he smiled at me. Either losing has humbled him or he has become the ultimate politician. Whatever his motivations were, his doing so earned him plus points in my book.

celebrity sighting, maya valdes, mitch valdes, mike defensor, m&m

Treadmill x 60 minutes x 344 calories

The First Rule of Writing Lies in Your Heart

Write from the heart. Speak the truth.

That's my first rule of writing. Whether writing a news piece or a feature article, it's important to be honest to your readers. And if you write from the heart, that shouldn't be too much of a problem. Overanalyzing what you write may either make you speak less truthfully so it becomes more palatable or not write at all for fear of offending someone. If you write from the heart, it is also less likely that you are speaking other people's minds. When I write a movie review for example, I write about how I feel about it. I shun reading other reviews so that I don't get influenced. Your writing should speak about the truth and how it matters to you. The reader then is assured of getting an objective point-of-view. This is particularly important in writing news articles. You need to be very objective and present only the facts.

This post is my entry to the group writing project instigated by Rory Sullivan of Clean Cut Blog.

my first rule of writing, group writing project, clean cut blog

Treadmill x 45 minutes x 254 calories

Krispy Kreme Booboo

I have been to the Krispy Kreme Greenhills outlet twice since it opened to buy donuts for other people as I have been avoiding donuts because of the calories. Both trips were memorable.

Yesterday was my second visit. A relative was confined in the hospital so I thought of bringing her some doughnuts. I thought of buying just a box of 6 but the staff manning the display counter convinced me that a dozen doughnuts is cheaper than if bought per piece. While paying for the doughnuts, the same staff asked me "Senior citizen na kayo? (Are you a senior citizen already?)" I was not insulted as I should have been but kidded him "Ibabalik ko sa yo 'yang donuts na yan ha. (I'll return those doughnuts to you.) He said that he saw me giving a card to the cashier. It was a credit card, my goodness. I have to wait 23 years before I can get a senior citizen card. To which he answered, "Mukha ho kasing bata kayo kaya nagtaka ako". (I was surprised because you look young. LOL.

On my first visit, I was impressed because of the attention that I received from entry to exit and the free doughnut which I hesitantly accepted having just come from the gym. The same attention happened on this visit except for the incident mentioned. As a teaser myself, I'm not pikon which is probably why I did not feel insulted.

However, I feel that people in the selling business should refrain from unnecessary remarks. Had he chanced upon a customer with issues about age, he would have lost revenue.

The same applies to people who make unnecessary remarks about weight, baldness, fashion, etc. If you have nothing good to say, shut your mouth.

krispy kreme doughnuts, greenhills, donut

Stationary bike x 30 minutes

My Addiction to Coke Light

I have a headache. It could be because I just finished eating a late lunch. Hunger and missing meals always trigger my migraine. Or it may be the lack of sleep for the last few days. Weekend up to Monday night, I was neck deep finishing the layout of a publication for release next Monday. The newly installed broadband connection added to my late nights.

Or it may be because I've decided to taper my Coke Light consumption. Withdrawal?

My idea of a perfect meal is one capped with Coke Light. I like the beverage best in a wide mouth glass filled to the brim with ice that when you drink the fizz and the ice almost touches your nose.

I've been a soft drink lover since I was a kid. When my Tito Boy says, "to complete the celebration", that means a 1L bottle of soft drink or more. In those days, we had a case or 2 of Fress, another soft drink that has since exited the market.

I have not always been a fan of diet soft drinks. My grandmother was diabetic and she had diet soda (Tab) stored in the refrigerator. Curious, I tried it and hated it. That did not stop my addiction to soft drinks. The regular kind was superb.

When the soda cans first came out, I was in high school. I would save my money to buy soft drink in a can. It somehow tasted better.

In 1993, while in med school, one of my good friends Eileen introduced me to Diet Coke. It tasted all right but with an aftertaste. Once you get used to it however, you barely notice the aftertaste. I was hooked. My addiction in low calorie. Perfect! And it got even better when they launched Coke Light.

Signs that I'm addicted...

• When stressed, I crave Coke Light.
• When I'm happy, it makes me feel even better.
• The restaurants that I frequent already know what beverage to serve me.
• I drink it anytime of the day.

I remember at least 2 attempts to curb my addiction. In 1989, I thought about dieting and losing weight. I was able to stop my Coke consumption only to go back to it during a field biology trip to Baguio after being warned to be careful with what I drink. In 2001, I shifted to iced tea. I went back to Coke Light after a mentor remarked that the former was more calorie laden.

A patient who has become a friend has also challenged me to stop drinking Coke Light. If he could give up smoking, then I should be able to give up Coke Light too.

While my position about the latest scientific study on Coke Light is similar to the American Heart Association, I feel it is time to consciously drink more water.

The decision to consciously reduce my Coke Light intake has surprised my secretary and will make my cousin Tintin happy. She sends me forwarded emails about the dangers of soda which I do not read. (Only because I delete all forwarded emails.) My colleague Flida will be similarly impressed. She has been telling me to slow down on diet softdrinks. I have instructed the people who do the grocery at home to not buy Coke Light.

I've been Coke Light free for the last 24 hours. Every meal is a struggle.

diet coke, coke light, soft drinks, american heart association, heart disease, metabolic syndrome

Treadmill x 30 minutes x 194 calories