Author: Issa
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A Coffeeshop and a Library in One? That’s Ma’an Coffee Factory in Cebu
A.S. Fortuna Banilad is fast becoming a favorite street of coffee lovers. If you’re coming from Gov. M. Cuenco Avenue and searching for a spot to hang out with your caffeine fanatic mates or book-loving BFF’s, the lure of Ma’an Coffee Factory (in A.S. Fortuna) is hard to resist. A cup of Brazil NY2 Cerrado First,…
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Hamakaze Dining and Bar in 5 Pictures
For weeks, I’ve been craving a bowl of ramen, a plateful of gyoza and three spoonfuls of Japanese-style fried rice. With the rainy weather early this evening, Neil, a fellow foodie and self-confessed ramen lover, suggested the nearest ramen spot from his office, Hamakaze Dining and Bar – a hole-in-the-wall Japanese resto along A.S. Fortuna,…
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Brunch with Em at Poetry & Prose Patisserie, Shangri La Plaza
Poetry & Prose Patisserie looks like it’s made for friends who wish to share intimate conversations about life, love, and career. Maybe it’s a stretch to say it’s a luxurious setting but it is one of those places where the ‘cafe society people’ would want to hang out. And at this dessert haven I met…
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Siargao Holiday: A Super Special Birthday Gift
While some girls would gush over a luxurious bag or a pricey piece of jewelry for their birthdays, I would be the happiest person on the planet if I get an all-expense-paid vacation. In Siargao, where else? Be careful what you wish for, according to a popular song.. and you know the rest. Angels apparently…
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My 50 Dream Destinations if money was no object
I haven’t been everywhere but it’s on my list. – Susan Sontag Good day, dreamers and travelers! Have you always wanted to see the world? Got a long list of your dream destinations? I’d like to have a peek! To start the ball rolling, I thought I’d begin by sharing my list with you. So…
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Beat your own demons with these 4 common sense tips
I’m just another woman who thinks like you do. Saying so, I know how active your nerves are within a day. Since we have brains that refuse inactivity, we have to make sure we pack a day with work, play or a hobby. Or else, our enemies prowling around like lions will eventually devour us. Listed below…
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Hotel Review: An Unexpected Staycation at the Maxwell Hotel Cebu
When my friend Jewel came to visit Cebu recently (to check in on her family and attend her dental appointment), she decided to invite me to a one-night staycation at the Maxwell Hotel Cebu. Our supposed coffee date became a sleepover date at the hotel, which promised to be a mirthful one. I haven’t seen…
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Temple of Leah: A Photo Tour
First-time visitors to Cebu city find it flat, busy, and noisy until they discover lookout points such as the Tops and Temple of Leah. When my fifth sister, Rhissan, and her friend, Elaine, came to visit me last August (yes, 2016), I decided to take them to the Temple of Leah. Why? Because 1) I’ve…
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Talks of Travels and Wedding Bells at 32 Umber Cafe & Co.
I’ve long wanted to ask this, “What’s the inspiration behind 32 Umber’s design?” Every time I pass by this boxy coffeehouse near Grand Convention Center (Cebu), it makes me take a double take. Seriously, always. So one day, I finally gave in to my curiosity and checked out what this space has to offer. The Coffee Haunt with…
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It’s OK to Open Your Heart in Mt. Kapayas
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to visit Mt. Kapayas in Cebu, it might not come. You need to connect with hiking enthusiasts and a good guide for this journey. Even more, you need a friend like Marj, the legendary wanderer, to remind you that it’s time to hike again. I don’t have to…