This is Christian John

Welcome to my world || Random thoughts of my everyday life

[thisischristianjohn]

Miguelitos Diner

⭐️⭐️.5/5

Ordered their Miguelitos burger meal. Burger was big, taste wise it was ok, patty was soso. The burger was a little wet (maybe too much dressing and the patty was that juicy) that it was a little messy eating the entire thing.

I liked that you can add flavor to the fries (comes with the meal) but serving size is I guess too small. Blue lemonade was alright (but would have preferred if the drink that came with the meal was soda instead).

Plus points since they are located beside the cinemas so you can grab a bite prior to a movie or get some snacks to bring in the cinema.

#burger #foodreview #manila #manilaburger

[thisischristianjohn]

OK so the Uniqlo Philippines Global Flagship opened last week at Glorietta 5 and today I got a chance to visit the store.

It is huge! If you thought Uniqlo stores were already big, this one is 5X bigger or more.

1st floor has your Men, Women and Children’s departments with a huge selection of items. I’m guessing all the possible items that Uniqlo sells will be available here with all sizes on stock.

The 2nd floor has a dedicated travel section (you can get all the down jackets you want), UT section and their Veranda with Kenneth Cobonpue furniture (please note that you cannot bring items out to the veranda). The veranda is a nice place to sit and rest if you get tired from all that shopping. Maybe a coffee kiosk can be added in?

If you are a big fan of Uniqlo, this is for you. All the products you can think off all in one roof.

[thisischristianjohn]

Lazy days at the park. I think (and probably most Manilenos would agree) that Manila needs more parks and less malls (where its just a boring building with the same shops as the nearest mall beside it). And while many people would agree, many would also say that malls provide much needed air conditioning (to combat the sweltering tropical humidity - which is true) and plus there’s a lot of things to do in the mall as well (which is a good point - especially for someone who likes to shop and eat like me). But, there’s nothing like a lazy weekend, just sitting in lush greenery (sans the sweat inducing humidity) and just talking or just lazily people watch. I like that Ayala triangle gardens has large trees and a manicured lawn so you can just set-up and sit. Here in the south, we have a lot of open space and lot of huge trees (making us more closer to nature) however we don’t really have a manicured park and these open spaces with trees are really empty lots with overgrown grass. Well hopefully soon Filinvest land will make that happen and I’ll be glad to send my weekends there.

Follow me on Instagram: @thisischristianjohn

Read my travel blog: christianjohntravel.blogspot.com

[thisischristianjohn]

Three new coffee chain stores recently opened here at the south which will make the caffeine addicted or laid back “let’s hang-out and have coffee” southerners something to rejoice about.

Festival Mall has 2 new stores, its first Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and its 3rd Starbucks Coffee (total of 6 coffee chain stores for the mall, 3 Starbucks, 2 Seattle's Best and 1 CBTL). The 2 stores are beside each other and is located at the new expansion wing facing Asian hospital (As of now, it is not accessible by the mall, you have to drive there. Another tip, until August 31, 2017, parking is free, have your parking ticket validated by the barista).

I guess because of the location and accessibility, there’s not much of a crowd (for now) which is great for people who want a little more space and some quiet (without the gazillion conversations going on within your earshot).

The 3rd new store is a Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf located at the ground floor of the new Ayala Malls Southpark. Its a good location because unlike other malls, it’s the only major coffee chain and the only competition would be Dunkin’ Donuts (but who could say no to some Bavarian filled or Choco Butternut with their coffee).

With the booming business and development here at the south, I guess its just natural that these  stores will be popping up. I guess we’ll be seeing more in the near future (Costa Coffee, Tim Hortons or Dean and Deluca maybe?).

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Read my travel blog: christianjohntravel.blogspot.com

[thisischristianjohn]

Crimson Hotel here in Filinvest City Alabang is an easy go to place for that quick luxe get together over lunch or dinner. It’s also a good place to stay for that quick staycation for some R&R and room service (stayed here 2x already, staff is incredible, super nice ). I like that Crimson seems to always have something going on to make things interesting. Last March (celebrating my mom’s birthday), they had a Vietnamese theme that highlights the cuisine (like Vietnamese chefs were there preparing the food, 1 word - authentic). Now, there’s a fiesta theme (I guess reflecting all the different fiesta’s in the Philippines, which is a lot by the way), making Cafe 8′s vibe festive (and I’m guessing the lunch spread will offer traditional fiesta food, we were there for breakfast so not quite sure) . It was a good breakfast, that turned to brunch since we were there until almost lunchtime (I guess we had a lot of catching-up to do since we last saw each other last December). Apart from the festive theme, there’s also an on-going Hiraya Art Exhibit at the lobby showcasing the incredible talents of Filipino artists. Paintings and sculptures are on display and got me thinking that I wish I also had the artistic talent. Both shows 2 aspects of the Filipino, tradition (Fiesta) and talent (Art exhibit). Interested to see what’s the next when I come back to eat, or stay (hopefully soon).

Follow me on Instagram: @thisischristianjohn​

Read my travel blog: christianjohntravel.blogspot.com

[thisischristianjohn]

Follow me on Instagram at @thisischristianjohn as seen on Cafe Mary Grace, Tous les Jours Philipines,  Philippine Images, Crimson Hotel Filinvest City and Hungry Manila.

[thisischristianjohn]

Thanks to Shipping Cart, shopping from the US has been easier (I mean despite the fact I have family there already and I go yearly for a business trip), and thus, make saving harder too (don’t get me wrong, I am a good saver :)), LOL! This time around, I got some items from one of my favorite brands, Michael Kors. Both items were already on sale (I love sale!) and there was an additional markdown (I love it even more!) so I took advantage (or else I would have spent maybe $1000 for both). For someone who’s just 5′4″, I sure like to wear high tops and obviously I am not one to shy away from some fur. But hey, white plain high tops is on trend and leather and fur backpack, instant statement piece to an outift.

Now how to style the pieces -

1. White High Tops sneakers - since its plain and white, you can go crazy with your top or bottoms, put on some print and studs, its OK. Well it also works pretty well with plain tops too. For summer, a white tee and the sneakers will be on point.

2. Backpack - since you already have the backpack as a statement piece, no need to get attention on your outfit. A plain shirt and shorts/jeans would do the trick.

Follow me on Instagram: @thisischristianjohn​

Read my travel blog: christianjohntravel.blogspot.com

[thisischristianjohn]

Foodie weekend at MOA (Mall of Asia).

Harry’s - Not sure how long Harry’s has been operating (seems like this replaced Carnival which serves the same type of cuisine - fast food) but this was new to me so decided to try it out. The brand is from Australia (it says so on their ad) and serves, hotdogs and chicken (look out Pink’s). Again, not sure if they are on soft opening or what because for a hotdog, chicken poppers, fries and onion rings, it sure took a while to serve (I mean these are fried food, it wouldn’t take that long to prepare). The hotdog to me is like Pink’s, something you need to eat with a knife and fork (unless you want to make a mess). Iced tea was good, something like Wendy’s or Army Navy but not as sweet (which was good). The entire order was filling to say that least (or we were just super hungry) and I liked the onion rings and the sauce, everything else was just OK but I don’t know if this can justify the price tag (cost around Php 800 more or less). Would I eat here again, hmmmm maybe, if I want to bring in food at the cinema.

World Street Food Congress - after a late and filling lunch and an action packed Wonder Woman movie, we headed out to the World Street Food Congress, again to eat. This is a haven for foodie lovers since you can try different types of cuisines from all over the world. There’s a fee of Php 150 but is consumable you will be provided with tickets that you can use to purchase food) and inside, you’ll have option paralysis and maybe a big stomach if you want to try as much food as you can. It was like a Coachella but for food. There’s a live band, there’s a beer station and there are also some cooking demonstrations going on. We were still full from our late lunch so we just tried a couple. I especially liked the Vietnamese Banana Sweet Cake, because ofcourse, desserts are always yummy! For street food, the prices tag maybe steep (because street food should be cheap, right?), since there seems to be nothing below Php 150 and some has a Php 280 price tag. I guess you’re paying for the quality of the food? But if you want to try as much food as you want, maybe don’t eat breakfast/lunch and make sure to have a lot of cash. 

Follow me on Instagram: @thisischristianjohn​

Read my travel blog: christianjohntravel.blogspot.com

[thisischristianjohn]

Celebrating my mom's birthday at Crimson Hotel Filinvest City Alabang. The weekend combined 2 things I like, family and food. Thanks to Deal Grocer (which is a favorite of mine), we were able to enjoy the sumptuous dinner buffet at Café 8 at a discount (because who doesn't want savings, right?). We were also pleasantly surprised that they have a Vietnamese spread celebrating the diverse flavors of Vietnamese cooking. They had 3 Vietnamese chef's preparing the food that made it really authentic and they seemed very happy when we tried the dishes. We had nothing but good feedback since the food was delicious.

Follow me on Instagram: @thisischristianjohn​

Read my travel blog: christianjohntravel.blogspot.com

[thisischristianjohn]

My First International Trip for 2017 was to explore the nearby city of Taipei in Taiwan. Here are some highlights of my trip -

1. Cherry Blossoms - yes. We all know that when you hear that flower the 1st thing that comes to mind is Japan. But yes, Taiwan has Cherry Blossoms too! Since I traveled a little later in March, its not as many but I was still able to catch the remaining few.

2. Chiang Kai Sek Memorial Hall - probably one of the most visited sites in the city. If you like architecture, you’ll be able to admire the intricate details of the buildings. Its also a good way to spend your time, taking pictures, people watching, and grabbing a snack or some souvenirs as well. Plus, you can see Cherry Blossoms here too!

3. Night Markets - in particular, I visited Shilin night market. I guess your Taipei experience wouldn’t be complete without some shopping and street food, these 2 are my favorite things. 

4. Tianyuan Temple in Tamsui District - this is also a good place to see some Cherry Blossoms. Also, you can see more of Tamsui by going to the boardwalk.

5. Yangmishan National Park - if you like the outdoors and do some hiking, then this is for you. You have different trails and areas which you can explore and easily you can spend the entire day here.

6. Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall - another site to visit while in Taipei. I particularly liked the garden and that it was already near Taipei 101 (if you plan to go there).

7. Taipei 101 - probably the icon of Taipei and Taiwan. You can probably spend and entire day here, there’s the observatory, shops and a lot of dining options to suit your budget. We did 2 things in particular here: 1. Din Tai Fung - this famous restaurant and their Xiao Long Bao is what we came here for. The wait time can take 60 - 80 minutes (this was a Sunday) but you can pass the time by going around the mall and checking out the shops. 2. Secret Starbucks at the 35th floor - there are 2 Starbucks here, one at the ground level, and another, what they call secret and is located at the 35th floor. You’ll need a day in advance to reserve your place and you’ll need to spend a minimum of NT 200. But again, you’ll have a nice view of the city, while drinking your coffee.

Follow me on Instagram: @thisischristianjohn​

Read my travel blog: christianjohntravel.blogspot.com

[thisischristianjohn]

Thanks to ShippingCart, I now have more reasons to go and shop online (which is very bad for my credit card). Haul for this shipping are items from 2 of my favorite brands, Ralph Lauren and Zara.

I like Ralph Lauren because I like the timeless Americana styles. Obviously I am not afraid of heavy prints so I got a mixed pattern/mixed print shirt that screams USA from a mile away (with the stars and stripes). Another is the plaid/tartan print canvas and leather bag (perfect for my out of town trips) because this for me is a classic RL style.

From the classic to the fashion forward (which I like about Zara). We have Zara in the Philippines however I see that some styles are not available in Manila and some are just available online or abroad. Just like prints, I'm not really one to shy away from some risky fashion choices. case in point, I got a denim jacket that has fringes and studs (an updated take on the otherwise classic black denim jacket). A simple white t-shirt wouldn't fly with me so it has to have some embroidered tiger with snakes (hahaha). Lastly, metallic shoes. Again, I'm not one to shy away from a little attention with these bold and shiny footwear.

What do you guys think?

Follow me on Instagram: @thisischristianjohn​

Read my travel blog: thisischristianjohn.blogspot.com

[thisischristianjohn]

Snapshots of the city - Makati. Spent one (hot) Sunday afternoon strolling around the Makati Business district. On Sundays, the atmosphere is totally different compared to weekdays (well duh, offices are closed) so its like having the place to yourself.

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Read my travel blog: thisischristianjohn.blogspot.com

[thisischristianjohn]

Random snapshots of Filinvest Alabang.

Filinvest has truly transformed the once sleepy Muntinlupa into a vibrant city, mixing business, pleasure and nature.

Maybe I'll try to post more random pics of Filinvest Alabang and Muntinlupa through my eyes. 

[thisischristianjohn]

I love Palawan and I love Coron. I've been to this paradise twice and I would really like to come back as the place is truly magical. Coron is blessed with natural beauty, and we don't need to develop anything there, let's leave Coron as it is.

[thisischristianjohn]

Having been a loyal Agoda customer for the year (and having booked a lot of rooms), I have enough points for an overnight stay (plus the fact that some of the points would be expiring before the year ends).

Having worked in the Northgate Alabang area for 3 years, I always passed by Bellevue Hotel going to work (plus the fact that I’ve eaten at their restaurant a couple of times already too).  

If you’ve been reading my blogs, obviously I am a big fan of staycations and to start the year going, I booked an overnight stay with breakfast at Bellevue’s main wing.

I have to say Bellevue has really uped their game, now they have 2 towers which means that the hotel scene in Alabang is booming.

Also, I liked that the room was bigger (compared to some) especially the bathroom which has a separate shower and tub.

After checking in, what else to do? Go poolside and be lazy the entire afternoon. Good thing the room also comes with 2 coupons for drinks that I used poolside.

Unlike Makati, Alabang has a more laid back vibe, so after dinner, what else to do but soak in the tub.

The next day I woke up early (since I did sleep in early anyway) which was good because I was hungry and was ready to gorge on the delicious breakfast buffet.

Café D' Asie is small compared to other hotels but I think that makes it cozier. Also, don't let the small size fool you as the food is delicious. True the options are limited (as compared to others) but who needs a lot of options, when I just want bacon (in huge quantities), ham and cheese omelet and coffee (pitcher). Plus I get to taste everything on the buffet (well almost everything).

After breakfast and being full, wouldn't stop me from spending the remaining hours of my stay poolside (I don't mind my full belly hahaha).

I have to say, the quick staycation was a nice opening for the new year. Hopefully I can rack more points in Agoda so I can get to have more free nights this 2017.

[thisischristianjohn]

Like every year, I make it a point that I get to travel atleast once locally and once internationally, good thing I was able to do so for 2016.  

For my international trip, I got to go to Atlanta USA once again for a business trip. I was there summer 2014 and this time I got to enjoy the cool winter weather (no snow though) and pull of winter OOTD's. I was also able to spend the weekend at Stone Mountain Park and went outlet shopping (duh as if I would pass up an opportunity to shop?!?!).

Local travel was busy this year and I was able to go to 4 local destinations (exceeded my target by 3).

Got to visit a local heritage site, Vigan and see the famed Calle Crisologo with its cobble stone street and beautiful architecture (not to mentions a lot of toursist as well). After Vigan, we headed to the famous northern beach of Pagudpud for some sun, sand and sea. Not to mention having stop overs at the wind turbines at Bangui, Fort Ilocandia, and the famous Saint Agustine Church (commonly known as Paoay Church) which a UNESCO World Heritage site.  

I was able to visit Palawan 2X this year. Got to go back to Coron for the 2nd time (which was awesome as always) and was finally able to visit the gorgeous beaches of El Nido. Can't really decide which is better, Coron or El Nido. Both have stunning beaches and I wouldn't mind coming back, maybe summer 2017, who knows...

I was also able to visit Davao again but this time around, I was able to see more of the sights (last time I spent the weekend at Samal island only) it has to offer like checking out the mighty Philippine Eagle.

Now, I have more travel plans (hopefully I can push through with all of them), and I'm excited to see new sights, experience new things and taste different food this 2017.

Read about my travels in my blog - christianjohntravel.blogspot.com

Follow me on Instagram: @thisischristianjohn​

[thisischristianjohn]

Happy New Year! Wishing everyone a year filled with fashion, travel and awesomeness. Cheers!

What are your resolutions for 2017? They say, you have to write down your resolutions so that you'll have more motivation to meet them.

Some on my list include -

* Save XXXXXX amount in the bank.

* Travel to the following - Spring in Taiwan, Summer in NYC, Autumn in Japan (Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto), and Winter in Seoul.  

* Catch up with friends that I haven't seen in a while

* Grow my social media following

What about you?