It Feels Like Christmas at SOLAIRE North

It really is happier here at SOLAIRE Resort North as the BER months usher in the world's longest Christmas season that only happens in the Philippines. We went here from Manila and for starters, we got serenaded by the one and only Concert King Martin Nievera. This was done with several of Solaire's executives like Gregory Hawkins, Donato Almeda, Thomas Arasi, Enrique Razon Jr of Bloomberry Resorts Corp, PAGCOR's Alejandro Tengco and Vina Oca, former Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta, Mayor Joy Belmonte of Quezon City, and good looking birthday boy Congressman Arjo Atayde.

Both of their properties in the south and north will be offering holiday inspired room packages, fun experiences, entertainment like no other and food that is world class. At the Solaire Resort property, they had Lea Salonga and American Idol's Clay Aiken. In Solaire North, they also had Ballet Philippines and a whole choir to sing along Christmas songs which everyone enjoyed!

Here's what it looked like that evening!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

If you want to be part of the festivities, go follow them on their social channels or visit Solaire North, Fresh or Solaire Resort in the South. I had so much fun with them in several events and entertainment coverages, so I'd be so surprised if you don't feel the same when you're there!

Healthy Morning Routines and Habits

It must have been a little too hard for people to absorb the term work-life balance. Whoever coined it must have been buried in work still to take credit for it, but I fully understand because we all have such a fast paced lifestyle. This makes you think a lot about how you could start your day right.

Yes, a good routine would certainly be beneficial for folks like us. Starting at breakfast, we need to make sure we have the right amount of food that can increase our energy levels so when it's already time for work, we have the power to induce productivity when we need to. A short prayer, meditation, would clear your mind off things before ticking off tasks in the office.

Waking up with a meal like yogurt and oatmeal would be sufficient, something fruity and light so you don't feel sluggish in the first hour, to last throughout the day. Like Dr. Angelica Carsula who does this most of the time, she feels it's best to have a low fat yogurt, and team it up with something that is good for digestion (oh oatmeal does that!).

Aside from the usual fare, you could add activities to help you get into the mood. There are tons of exercises that Eloiza Regaliza suggests you do, particularly running and riding a bike. It gives her focus to do a lot, but never forces friends to over exert themselves, just encourage them. She even adds eggs, veggies and bread with the yogurt too.

Popular host Show Suzuki can be seen extra energetic every time we see him in events. He does the same routine to make sure he has the energy to also make the audience feel his vibe, as it is one of his priorities. He gets one of these Nestle Yogurt cups to push him at the start of the day. This is with the help of over 1.25 billion live healthy bacteria that not only gives the energy, but also strengthens his bones and boosts his immunity. He makes sure it is part of his breakfast, because he cares much about his gut health. If you want to see the possibilities, go follow Nestle Yogurt FB and IG accounts, their website, or simply but a cup off fridges in leading supermarkets and stores nationwide! 

As they say, #YoGurtThis!

Razon's by Glenn: In the Business of Serving "DELIGHT!"

Filipino comfort food is always served at Razon's by Glenn. It's a company built with family - and love. Consequently, they're celebrating their 21st anniversary and are gunning to have 60 branches by years end. The chain is largely known for their Palabok, Halo Halo, Bibingmamon, Beef Tapa, Beef Kare Kare, and new innovations on the usual Filipino flare. Their menu stemmed from real Kapampangan heritage and flavors, so you don't get disappointed in what they serve.

The Beef Kare Kare is a bit sweet and can be eaten even without bagoong. The peanut sauce has home made peanut butter in it, which they made themselves. The Bibingmamon is available in 4 flavors namely Original (which I prefer), Cheesy Melt, Custard and Nutty Custard. The Beef Tapa is on the sweet, smoky, and spicy side, but quite tender. Their Fresh Lumpia is good and savory, it felt like what grandma used to make. They have a hefty serving of Pork Chop with gravy (my personal favorite served that afternoon). They also teased us with their conceptual Crispy Palabok, which I'm sure young ones and everyone would enjoy!

For those looking for something extra comforting, they've got Caldo Overload which you can ask for refills if you want more. You get the fuzzy feeling that comes with it on a rainy day.

Razon's by Glenn is third generation owned. Their grandma gave them freedom to be creative in recipes, hence the variations they made with the dishes.

Bibingmamon is quite nice, as the name says, it's a cross between the Christmasy Bibingka and the fluffy Mamon. This was quite delicate and perfect to pair with coffee.

Razon's by Glenn has always been regarded as the best spot for Halo Halo. This Special Halo Halo was quite satisfying despite it only having a few ingredients. I personally think it's the Macapuno that makes it different from the rest in the market.

We also got to talk to the owner and President Mark Anthony "Glenn" Razon. Right now, they have 36 branches operating nationwide, but aggressively plan to have 100 of these stores before 2030.

Glenn reiterated "We are not just selling products, we are providing delight!". This is the reason why people who visit their stores feel happy every time they get to taste the dishes coming out of their kitchen. It's also a family spot, so whether you're a Lola who wants their merienda fix or the cutest bunso that wants something sweet, Razon's by Glenn makes every moment special no matter what age group you belong. 

Visit their stores nationwide, or if you prefer to be part of the movement, they are looking for franchisees. Just get in touch with them via their social channels or official website razonsbyglenn.com.