The Girl Behind the Pen

With the rise of social media, finding the best hotels and resorts that feed your aesthetic is easier than ever. But there are times that what’s shown in pictures does not live up to your expectations the moment you set your feet in the property. That’s why, when you’re lucky enough to find a place that truly pleases you, you’re in for a great vacation time. 

Five hours and a half from Manila brings you to a little paradise in Sual, Pangasinan. Situated in the middle of a fishing village, Masamirey Cove Resort boasts of a stunning beach, good food, and chill ambiance — basically everything you’d want to have while you’re on a beach trip. 

The beach overlooks many little islands surrounded by gleaming turquoise blue waters, greeting you with warm crashing waves. Those looking for a pristine beach near Manila to unplug from the bustling city life will find it at the Masamirey Cove Resort. It allows you to enjoy a Boracay-like fine white sand sans the crowd.

While there’s a Balinese edge to this gem in Sual, you’d feel that there’s still Filipino touch. Many of its spaces feature nipa hut cabanas and beach lounge chairs made of bamboos. 

The resort also offers tons of water activities. From kayaking to island-hopping tours, you’ll never run out of things to do in Masamirey. But what I really like most about this resort in Pangasinan is its lounge beds facing the beach. You get to enjoy fresh air, a good amount of sunlight touching your skin, and the beautiful view of the sea. There are trees covering the lounge beds so you can enjoy chilling by the beach at any time of the day without worrying about the sun rays. As much as I want to bring out all the energy I have, the lounge beds are calling me to just stay put. 

As for their food, you’re in for a pleasurable gastronomic experience as everything will give you a bang for your buck. I’m a lover of anything sinigang and to use lechong kawali there delighted me in every possible way. 

Nothing beats discovering new places that did nothing but to satisfy you. There’s no denying, Masamirey Cove Resort is an achiever when it comes to that. 

Masamirey Cove Resort

So now, I will be listing all the details you need to know about Masamirey Cove Resort in Pangasinan. 

Address: Sual, Pangasinan

Family Room Rate: PHP 11,000 per night 

Overall look: 9/10

Hospitality: 9/10

Pets allowed? No

Kids allowed? Yes!

Contact information: You may contact them through their Facebook page. 

I'll be honest — no matter how much I try to keep a positive mindset, there's not a day that goes by that I haven't thought of at least a single dilemma that would question my own life. I started to wonder: is the experience of growing up so bad that we keep complaining about it almost all the time? 

In the days leading up to my birthday, every year, I secretly wished that:

• This is the year I find myself.
• This is the year I get to experience the things I’ve been waiting for to happen.
• This is the year I fall in love with myself again and stopped relying on anyone else for happiness.

Here's the funny thing, when we were young, we thought everything we had at that moment was for keeps. But as we age, we slowly realize that not everything is there to last. 

There will be a lot of disappointments, countless heartaches, and soul-crushing heartbreaks but all that is a part of the adulting experience. And, you may end up feeling betrayed not only by the people and opportunities you held dearly but also by your own emotions to the point that you want to build a wall around you to stop letting everybody in.

It may be difficult to accept but the reality is that as we grow up, priorities change and we become our own person. 

I guess the most valuable lesson I’ve learned so far is that it’s okay that our dreams change. Although some of our childhood expectations are far from reality, there are “unplanned” dreams we never thought we’d ever get to fulfill, and things we unexpectedly discovered among ourselves that we never thought we were capable of. 

No one ever said growing up would be easy. But hey, it has its fair share of fun, too. Growing up allows us to meet different versions of ourselves. And each time it puts us through both difficult and easy situations, we come out as different persons. So, let's embrace what this adulting throws us. Let's embrace its certainties and precariousness. Because when we do, chances are that we leave no room for regrets. 

Skirt from Revolve

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Baguio has always been on everyone’s bucket list but IDK, I always wonder: what’s so good about Baguio that people really love? 

Tbh, whenever the chance presents itself to me, I’m always shunning the thought of going there. As soon as Ber months start, my mom would always tell me to book a hotel in Baguio so we can spend Christmas there along with thousands of people thinking the same. I’m always the first one in the family to object. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve enjoyed my time during my past trips to the Summer Capital. 

I just didn’t fancy traveling 6 hours just to what — be stuck in traffic again or congest the city even more? I’ve been there several times already and each time I visit, it just gets worse. Everywhere I go, there’s a queue for just sightseeing, for getting souvenirs, for getting my fave Good Shepherd ube jam, and even for getting lunch. Does the line ever end? 

In October this year, I gave Baguio another chance. This time, I appreciated it even more. The crowd was still there but not as much as it is during peak seasons. Perhaps, I was too young to appreciate Baguio then. Or maybe I visited at the wrong time. 

Then, every core memory of me in Baguio came running to me — listening to teachers’ many ghost stories before sleeping at what has been said a haunted place, posing beside a white horse with pink hair for a photo op, getting 3 for ₱100 keychains with my name on (I still have them now), getting more sets for my friends and cousins, lining up to get a few jars of ube jam from the Good Shepherd, seeing men with well-sculpted abs and bums dancing along the Session Road wearing a traditional costume at the Panagbenga Festival, seeing my then ultimate crush, Enchong Dee, in person, along with AJ Perez one month before his fatal car accident. 

Come to think of it, those were good days after all. 

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Many have a notion that being fashionable means putting together all the stylish pieces to create that look of the day. While this is true, it's not always the case. Sometimes, all it takes is just one piece to look stylish. Alright, I won't beat around the bush anymore — I'm talking about jumpsuits.

Years ago, I was so into mixing and matching pieces thinking I'll create a fashion statement or something. But lately, I find myself in the pleasure of slipping into a jumpsuit or rompers. This summer staple is no longer for the dry season alone — but for all seasons! 

The Good & The Bad of Wearing Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits are easy to fall in love with, actually. It's breathable, versatile, and classy, and makes effortless dressing so stylish. Perfect for every lazy fashion woman. What I really like about jumpsuits is that I don't have to worry about mixing and matching tops and bottoms. This white jumpsuit from Ever New makes me so excited for days when I have to wear this because it's so simple, easy to style, and very elegant. With a jumpsuit like this, you just need one and you're done!

However, a white jumpsuit like this has its drawbacks, too. There are jumpsuit styles that are too difficult to put on and take off to the point where you don't even know which hole your arm should go to. Another thing is that jumpsuits are more flattering to taller women. But if you're petite like me, there are tricks on how you can make a jumpsuit love you back: wear heels or platforms. Lastly, the thing I hate the most about wearing a jumpsuit is, whenever I'm going to the restroom, it can really be a pain. Imagine, going to a public restroom and you have to take off the whole thing (at least for the top part) for you to pee.

While wearing jumpsuits have disadvantages, those drawbacks don't outweigh the benefits of wearing one. Whether it's summer or not, I will always have a jumpsuit ready. 

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There's a new sartorial trend that's taking the style scene by storm and it's inspired by one of the most popular fashion icons that I'm so sure you know who. Named after Mattel's iconic doll, Barbiecore has been on the radar of every fashionista lately.

But what is Barbiecore anyway?

The Barbiecore fashion trend is anything that follows the fabulous world of Barbie. This style is fun, girly, chic, and classy. And given the resurgence of Y2K fashion that features bright and bold colors, there's no denying that it plays a role in the rise of Barbiecore trend.

How to dress in Barbiecore?

If you really want to pull off this style, you only need one color to make it right — pink! Barbiecore is all about looking pretty in pink. The hotter hue the pink is, the better. Though that's the much-preferred hue, you can also wear other shades of pink such as fuchsia and bubblegum. Other than the color, you must also have these staples to channel the trend: block heels, a sparkling bag, and holographic accessories

My thoughts on the Barbie core trend

It's fantastic! 

Barbie was everything to me when I was a little girl — it was my style icon, my best playdate, my go-to gal, and my dream persona. I remember as a child, I used to write letters to Barbie. Of course, the seven-year-old me thought I was talking to her but it was the Mattel staff, really. They sent me replies to my letters and some cute little pink gifts and Barbie merch. I was so crazy about Barbie that I even dreamed of having a collection one day. I remember those days when I told my dad to bring me a Barbie doll when he goes home after work and those nights that he delivered his promises; I can also vividly remember the times when I fought with my sister because she played with my dolls and ripped my favorite Barbie's head! It was a terrible fight and one of the worst we had. 

Anyway, Barbiecore is something that really tickles every little bone in me. This trend is bold and empowering, and I'm all for it.

To cap this off, Barbiecore is more than just about wearing the right color and pieces. Barbie represents femininity, women empowerment, and dreams. Barbiecore is more than a trend — it also reminds us that any woman can do, can get, and be anything she wants.

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By invite-only events, over-the-top influencer trips, and exclusive gifts —  these are just some of the most coveted perks from the global fashion brand, Revolve, any fashion blogger or influencer dreams of experiencing. While in its early stages, most of the selected Revolve Brand Ambassadors were only those who have millions or hundreds of thousands of followers. But now, they are opening their doors to micro-influencers through the Revolve Brand Ambassador Program!

What is Revolve Brand Ambassador Program?

The Revolve Brand Ambassador Program lets micro-influencers and even general users become ambassadors for the brand. Through this initiative, Revolve works with the ambassadors on marketing campaigns. 

What are the benefits of Revolve Brand Ambassadors?

The Revolve Brand Ambassadors will get rewarded as they promote and engage with their favorite brands and products. If you are selected, you will get commissions and exclusive incentives including early access to new brands, participation in #REVOLVEAroundtheWorld trips, and access to events including REVOLVE Festival.

Now if you maximize your power of influence and become one of the top sellers, you will get an opportunity to create an X REVOLVE capsule collection like Aimee Song's Song of Style Collection and Camila Coehlo collaborations.

And the most asked question is: how to get a seat in the club?

From qualifications to the step-by-step process of applying for the Revolve Brand Ambassador Program, I'll tell you everything here so read on.

How it works

Who can join the Revolve Brand Ambassador Program?

Initial qualifications have been established to create an open framework with a balanced and diverse approach for members of our community.

Evaluation considerations include, but are not limited to:

• Platform diversity (e.g. Instagram, YouTube, Tik Tok, Personal Blog)
• High-quality visual approach to content
• History of engagement with followers
• Audience

A dedicated in-house team, under REVOLVE’s Brand Marketing division, will lead the vetting process.

Revolve Brand Ambassador Incentives

Additional incentives will be offered as part of REVOLVE’s commitment to creating a rewarding and engaging experience for its customers. These include, but are not limited to:

• Opportunity to collaborate with REVOLVE to curate your very own X REVOLVE capsule collection. 
• Participation in one of REVOLVE’s well-known experiential marketing events
• Participation in exclusive Brand Ambassador events
• Clothing credits & exclusive product giveaways

What I got as a Revolve Brand Ambassador

I've been a long-time fan of Revolve and believe it or not when I saw my name with "Revolve Brand Ambassador Program" in my inbox, I couldn't help but be excited and worried at the same time. It feels so surreal that I got so worried that it might be a scam that will trap me from clicking the links. To verify if it's legit, I had to check all the links and background check the person who emailed me. That's how paranoid I was at that time. When I was able to confirm everything, I was over the moon! As a Revolve Brand Ambassador, I got so many drool-worthy clothes to add to my wardrobe. 

I can't wait to wear everything! I'll make sure to share my whole Revolve Brand Ambassador Program experience in my future posts along with these clothes when worn.

If you think you have what it takes to be a Revolve Brand Ambassador, apply now, and let's be part of the club together!

While each fine dining restaurant is unique, they all share a few common goals — to provide exceptional service, craft the most exquisite menu, and deliver a high-end experience. If you are looking to splurge on good food and good views, Mireio (pronounced as mee-reyo) is one of the many fine dining restaurants in Makati that will not disappoint you.

Situated in the central business district, Mireio is a brasserie-style restaurant offering Provencal-inspired cuisine. If you are well-versed in poetry, the fine dining restaurant's name will ring a bell. Mireio is named after Nobel Prize winning poet Federic Mistral's poem about a forbidden love between two young Provencal people of different social backgrounds. 

As you set your foot on Mireio's entrance, you will be welcomed by chic decor and a breathtaking cityscape view. The interior is simple but very elegant. The best tables are those in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows giving you an impeccable and unobstructed view of the Makati cityscape. If you love sunsets, I suggest you book for 5pm to see the whole dining area turn pinkish orange as the sun goes down. 

Just like the poem, this fine dining restaurant in Makati exudes romance and sophistication. You will not only see that from its interiors but also from the menu as they offer dishes crafted from the heart. The menu highlights the flavors of provinces in south of France. For starters, I ordered the roquefort cromesqui with iberico ham, tomato concasse arugula (PHP 640). Of all the dishes I tried at Mireio, this is my favorite. It is oozing with a savory flavor that bursts as you bite it. 

Starter | Roquefort cromesqui, iberico ham, tomato concasse arugula (PHP 640)

For the main course, I got their grilled free range duck breast, celeriac puree, green apple and duck juice. I’m a fan of duck but not the ones cooked in medium-rare. So I had to ask my boyfriend to switch meals. His was french free range bresse chicken supreme, creamy shallot puree porcini mushroom and baby spinach. It was delicious. I loved everything about it from the meat to its sauce. Then I paired it with Mireio’s cosmopolitan that’s just right for someone who doesn’t fancy alcoholic drinks too much. It is sweet and has a slight punch of alcohol. I liked it, too. 

Main course | Grilled free range duck breast, celeriac puree, green apple and duck juice (PHP 1,950)

Drink | Cosmopolitan (PHP 450)

Main course | French free range Bresse chicken supreme, creamy shallot puree porcini mushroom and baby spinach (PHP 1,500)

Then for dessert, I ordered the 65% maracaibo mousse with chocolate ice cream, truffle cake, and hazelnut crunch. I also tried Mireio’s coconut curd, fresh mango, and pineapple soup. Both desserts are heavenly! 

Dessert | Chocolate mousse (PHP 750)

Dessert | Coconut curd, fresh mango, and pineapple soup (PHP) 465

And as I said earlier, this fine dining restaurant in Makati will not disappoint you. Dining at Mireo Raffles Makati is one for the books.

Mirèio

Address: 9th floor, Raffles Makati, 1 Raffle Drive, Makati Avenue, Makati City

Budget: PHP 10,000 for a full-course meal for two

Food: 7.5/10

Overall look: 9/10

Hospitality: 8/10

Is Mireio Makati fine dining restaurant open now? Yes they are open.

Dress code: Smart casual

Contact information: +632 7795 1840 | mireio.makati@raffles.com

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