Iceland leaves you spellbound as you wander from a place to another place. Iceland is expensive, true, but don't let expensive prices put you off from exploring what this country has to offer. It's a country remarkable in many ways, bursting with a variety and richness of mesmerizing landscapes, from ravishing tundra to divine fjords, to the stunning northern lights, than can beguile anyone in an unrivaled fantasy. You will be left wondering, "How could such a small island offer diverse and jaw-dropping landscapes?".
Here's my travel guide to the "Land of Ice and Fire"...
Here's my travel guide to the "Land of Ice and Fire"...
In every great city, there lies a great hotel. A hotel that sits a clear mile above the rest offering a standard of excellence that can knock the socks off anyone lucky enough to experience it. To be that hotel in a city as affluent, dynamic and cultured as Taichung, it has to be a damn good hotel. This is my experience of the Hotel Se7en in Taichung...
amba Taipei Ximending (yes, it starts with a small letter "a"), is a hip and boutique hotel located in the Taipei's Harajuku district and it seems to be a hot topic in the Ximending district. It is a part of amba Hotels & Resorts group chain by Qun Xin Properties Limited. Prior to my most awaited Taiwan adventure, I honestly stalked amba until our trip. Truth beholds that no amount of digital wanderlusting could express my feelings how excited I was.
Here's my experience of amba Taipei Ximending...
Here's my experience of amba Taipei Ximending...
As soon as I decided to visit Taichung, I couldn't wait to hunt down some of the coolest boutique hotels in the city. After a bit of online research, I fell in love with the dark and sophisticated design of P&F Hotel so we booked in for a night.
P&F Hotel is a boutique and quaint hotel in Taichung located at 101 Shifu Road in the Central District. Central District is incredibly convenient area to stay in Taichung. It's close proximity to Taichung Railway Station and Yizhong Street Night Market, is another reason that swayed my decision to stay here.
Here's my take on this posh Taichung hotel...
P&F Hotel is a boutique and quaint hotel in Taichung located at 101 Shifu Road in the Central District. Central District is incredibly convenient area to stay in Taichung. It's close proximity to Taichung Railway Station and Yizhong Street Night Market, is another reason that swayed my decision to stay here.
Here's my take on this posh Taichung hotel...
I decided to kick start my pre-birthday trip by taking a little escapade to Taiwan, starting from Chiayi and ending it in Taipei. It only made sense to find a casual respite as our first base in Taiwan. This is why we decided to call Hotel Liyaou home for our first night in Taiwan. Read on to know more about my experience of Hotel Liyaou in Chiayi...
When I’m thousand of miles away from home, my go-to mood fixer is Netflix. I always love the feeling of coming back to a hotel room to watch my favorite Netflix shows after an exhausting day exploring a foreign land. The best feeling, of course, is coming back to my homebase, all wrapped up with layers of blankets, while watching another new Netflix episode.
Here are my 5 binge-worthy Netflix shows:
1. Santa Clarita Diet
If there’s any material in the zombie genre that you shouldn’t miss, it's Santa Clarita Diet – thehorror-com series tells you the story of the Hammond Family: real estate brokers Joel, Shiela, and their teenage daughter Abby that’ll charm you in the most twisted way, all the way to the season finale. It gives you frequent laughs, and an engaging premise.
2. A Series of Unfortunate Events
The narrative core of the Netflix series, A Series of Unfortunate Events, is ostensibly about the plight and fate of the plucky Baudelaire orphans. A Series of Unfortunate Events continues to be the most hilariously original and darkly ironic show to ever be called “binge-worthy.”3. Altered Carbon
Altered Carbon has received high ratings, and for good reason. It's visually stunning, has an interesting sci-fi plot, and Joel Kinnaman — of The Killing fame — does a great job. Yep, another movie worth your sleepless nights.4. Evil Genius: The True Story of America's Most Diabolical Bank Heist
This Netflix’s true crime docuseries is so good that it is just insidiously perfect to obsess over. Delve into an astonishing twists of an extraordinary bank heist on August 23, 2003 that took place in Erie,Pennsylvania.
5.13 Reasons Why
This show truly teaches everyone that watches that every word or look you may make to someone else can alter not only their day and attitude but their life. That all your actions, even the smallest ones, can affect other people. This is a Netflix original and truly worth the watch.Let's Watch...
I like how I can watch all my favorite Netflix shows through Globe even if I am at the other end of the world. Wonder how? It’s all because my Netflix subscription is bundled with my Globe broadband plan.You can also enjoy these 5 binge-worthy shows and more when you subscribe to Netflix with Globe through the following:
- BROADBAND - Get a free 6-month subscription to Netflix with Plan 1299 and up.
- POSTPAID - Subscribe to Netflix using your Postpaid plan and register to GoWATCH 399 to get
- more date for watching popular series and films.
- PREPAID - Subscribe to Netflix by availing of GoWATCH for as low as 99 with 2GB of data to
- watch Netflix
Wood Watches by JORD: A Timepiece Fit for the Wanderer Soul x Giveaway
27 April 2018 Baguio, Benguet, Philippines
As I seat on my bed, feeling every bit of fiber swathed around my body, I am counting how many days are left before I will head for my most awaited adventure of the year to Taiwan. It has been months since I last set foot for a feat, seven months to be exact, yet it feels like a hundred years. As I count how many times my mind is insinuated with thousands of pictures that I have never seen, itching to see the world again, and yearning to quench my wanderlust. It is about time!
"Sometimes I feel like if you just watch things, just sit still and let the world exist in front of you - sometimes I swear that just for a second time freezes and the world pauses in its tilt. Just for a second. And if you somehow found a way to live in that second, then you would live forever."
― Lauren Oliver, Pandemonium
Flight tickets are booked, reservations has been made, every detail planned out, waiting for that day. As I anticipate that escapade, it came right in time. I caressed the smooth dark charcoal packaging, and I though to myself, it was as if it was made out of velvety rose petals. My heart is beaming with excitement, I immediately grabbed a pair of scissors and opened the parcel. To my delight, the sweet scent of wood welcomed and teases my nose. I lift the intricate burnt umber wooden cover and there it was.
When JORD reached out to me for a partnership. I was so elated as we shared our mutual interest regarding our future travels. With their meticulous branding, attention-to-detail masterpieces and my weakness for luxury mementos... how could a girl say no? Their gorgeous wooden timepieces are to die for. As I scanned JORD's website for my own hand-made timepiece, I was overwhelmed because there's a lot to choose from. Made from 100% natural wood, ranging from ebony, golden camphor, rosewood and more, and modeled after a contemporary lifestyle. As I scrutinize my senses, finding myself a connection to an opulent watch for a bond that will lasts trough time and space. I took a deep breathe, "breath in, breathe out", I said. That hue I am currently obsessing over came to my mind. I am infatuated with the turquoise color and before another decision could be made, I have chosen a creation from JORD's Cora Series Collection in Zebrawood and Turqouise.
The small things do matter. Those tiny little pieces of perfection that add complexity and color to your everyday, they matter. Every facet and feature, every unexpected element, and every last detail will not go unnoticed. Dive into the cool Turquoise tones of our Cora, perfectly balanced by the warm and untamed Zebrawood grain. Crafted to be adored, this timepiece was created for you.
Having such a gorgeous timepiece wrapped around the wrist is a classic piece to any ensemble. The watch itself is lightweight, handcrafted with sapphire crystal glass, swarovski crystal markers, and premium quartz, chronograph to an absolute masterpiece. Having also learned that the watch is splash proof it was just perfect for any travelling folk.
If you are looking for a premium and unique gift for the wanderer soul in you or for someone special in your life, then JORD wood watches are just the thing for you. Each watch comes beautifully packaged in a wooden keepsake box that voices that this exquisitely piece tells more than time.
The Giveaway
To celebrate my adventures, I have partnered with JORD for an amazing giveaway - a $100 gift card which you can reward yourself a little keepsake of your choice to savor your time and travels. Oh, I forgot to mention that it comes with FREE SIZING and FREE SHIPPING.
The best thing? Every participants will receive a $25 e-gift which you can use to purchase a hand-crafted perfection. You may also use the code: CHARLOTTEANNE upon check out. You have until May 11th to enter this JORD watch giveaway!
CLICK HERE TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY
Note: Both the $100 and the $25 codes will expire on May 11th.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by JORD Watches. All opinions are my own.
If you are planning on visiting America, you will be spoilt for choice. There are so many amazing places to visit here. One such place is Tennessee. It often gets overshadowed, with tourist spots like Florida and New York receiving all of the attention. However, if you want a true taste of America, Tennessee certainly has a lot to offer. With that in mind, read on to discover some of the reasons why you should visit…
It boasts impressive architecture – Firstly, one of the reasons to visit this destination is because the buildings here most certainly impress with their architectural details. From Victorian Gothic style to Greek Revival, there are many different architectural styles on display. Buildings to note in this regard include the Tennessee State Capitol, the Parthenon, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, Graceland, Ryman Auditorium, and Belle Meade Plantation.
It’s a great place for those seeking an outdoor adventure – If you are an active and adrenaline seeking person; you will find plenty of options here. This includes zip lining, cycling, camping, hiking, and much more. You don’t have to get active to enjoy the outdoors either, as viewing the sunset and watching the wildlife can be just as thrilling. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park gives you many possibilities.
The beauty of Mother Nature here will take your breath away – The natural landscape in Tennessee is truly stunning. Make sure you pack your camera because you are going to come across lots of amazing photo opportunities. You will also come into contact with a wide range of wildlife too.
The food is amazing – Southern meals are made to satisfy, from delicious fried chicken to mouth-watering BBQ food. There are some great restaurants in the area too. Don’t worry if you don’t eat meat; you will find a good selection of vegan and vegetarian options.
There are lots of great accommodation options – One of the great things about visiting Tennessee is that you can easily cater your vacation to suit you. This is because of the range of accommodation options that are available, including popular hotels like Knoxville Marriott, as well as B&Bs and motels too. No matter your budget or your taste, you will be able to find the perfect base for your trip.
The musical talent is incredible – Last but not least, there are thriving music communities in both Nashville and Memphis. Country and blues lead the way here, so you will find lots of national, regional and local talent taking to the stages at various live music venues every evening. There are also some great music museums here, including the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
As you can see, there is a lot to love about Tennessee. If this is a place that you are planning on visiting, you are bound to have a great time!
Seeing as Venus Garden is based in my beautiful hometown of Baguio, Philippines, this post tells the story more of a culinary adventure than a travel adventure. With a weakness for 5 star luxury and another international trip looming around the corner, I decided it was the perfect excuse to seek out another Baguio gastronomic experience at Venus Garden before I leave my hometown once again. Being the second by reservations only private dining I know in Baguio, I was excited to find out what it had to offer.
Venus Garden is hard to find on the map and when they told me that it is located overlooking a golf course, I have a feeling that it is located either at Camp John Hay or at Suello Village. But I don't think it's in Camp John Hay, it had to be Suello Village. When I was looking for this gem, I needed to confirm the location. I had to ask directions straight from Venus Garden's Facebook page. I knew it! It's in Suello Village. I immediately hailed a taxi cab from the gates of my apartment to it's location, just in time for lunch time.
Situated in one of the most sought after real state in Baguio city, the Venus Garden is perched overlooking one of the most scenic golf courses in Baguio City. At first glance, you may think it is just another luxury home but ensconced within this lovely vacation home is a cozy restaurant in the basement, perfectly planned in style.
Despite it's amazing views, this private dining can be really tricky to find which means it is tucked away from the hustle and bustle. Upon entering the enclosed property, I was immediately rewarded with vibrant floras in the garden.
Walking into the white, light, and bright finish of Venus Garden there is one thing that would strike you. The minimal and airy interiors of the home, the whole design of the house was straight of an interior magazine. I immediately felt a sense of calm and tranquility and this ambiance oozes throughout the whole property. The contemporary yet luxurious style and decor makes for a refreshing change from the more dining establishments in Baguio City.
Whilst there was a sublime tasting buffet menu on offer, my food buddies and I have decided to go a la carte so we could pick exactly what we wanted. Choosing what you want to eat can be overwhelming as there's a lot to choose from. I didn't eat any breakfast or any light lunch prior, so I am more than ready for a feast.
I absolutely love starting any meal with a good soup and having a weakness for mushrooms, there's no doubt but to grab a bowl of "Cream of Mushroom" which came with plenty of bewildering flavours of pleasure and happiness, just perfect for the cold Baguio weather. I was intrigued by the potato and vegetable contif which complimented the succulent broccoli perfectly. The Baked Penne Bolognese was probably the least flavoursome but a great addition to any palate.
Being obsessed with vegetable salads the past few months, I decided to add assorted salad greens on my plate and topped it with my choice of dressing. The creamy balsamic dressing was gorgeous and just enough to leave you wanting more.
My primal senses was immediately drawn to the grill which was situated on the terrace. The Australian Angus Rib Eye Au Jus, Grilled Herb Garlic Chicken Fillet, Blackened Salmon Fillet, and Grilled Pork Belly is served right in front of our eyes, hot off the grill by Chef Larry Lugo. We can't help it, but we went for all four grubs - it is very tender and it is a melt in the mouth.
Whilst the flavor that the charcoal fire gives to the food is fabulous in and of itself, the volume was totally amp up with special sauces on the side for each.
I would never normally order dessert at a restaurant. Firstly, because I am usually far too full and secondly because the dessert menu in your typical restaurant is never all inspiring. However, based on the amazing quality of platters, I figured it would be rude not to round off the whole feast with something sweet and I was not disappointed.
The best way to describe the strawberries drowned with milky whipped cream was totally indulgent and amazingly delicious, that you could tell were totally fresh. If you've overdone the grilled dishes, this dessert coupled with fresh fruits are ideal option to cool down your palate. I absolutely love them especially, the creme brulee cheesecake and the death by chocolate cake which was a little mouthful of pure heaven.
Venus Garden is a reservation only, private dining. They offer special buffet lunches on weekends and special occasions and reservations can be made 3 days in advance with 50% deposit. You may request a customized menu you like with Venus Garden's Chef Larry and Chef Joi - from Filipino, to Japanese, to Italian, to Carribean, to Chinese cuisines - you name it.
For now they only accept a minimum of 20 guests bookings. The restaurant basement can accommodate a maximum of 30 guests and 20 in an outdoor under the pine tress. For a much larger group you can use the dining facilities of the main house for some guests. You might want to follow Venus Garden on Facebook for updates.
The lunch buffet was literally a heavenly experience as you are among with the clouds from start to finish. The tranquil atmosphere, charming golf course view, creative savoury and impeccable desserts were spot on. It was the right way to kick off the middle of my busy week in style.
If your're looking for an off-the-beaten-path dining and a menu that changes with the season, then Venus Garden is for you - allowing hungry travelers with a taste for something special to sneak away and enjoy authentic cuisine that most people never get to experience. And if you're also looking to tick off a by reservation only, private dining for special occasions and big events from your bucket list, you've hit the jackpot!
What did you think of my Venus Garden restaurant review? Have you been to Venus Garden or are you planning to try it for yourself? If you enjoyed this post or have any more questions about my experience, please do leave me a comment in the box below!
Want to read more of my Baguio reviews?
I was hosted at Venus Garden on a complimentary basis in exchange for this restaurant review. All views are my own.
GOING THERE
Venus Garden is hard to find on the map and when they told me that it is located overlooking a golf course, I have a feeling that it is located either at Camp John Hay or at Suello Village. But I don't think it's in Camp John Hay, it had to be Suello Village. When I was looking for this gem, I needed to confirm the location. I had to ask directions straight from Venus Garden's Facebook page. I knew it! It's in Suello Village. I immediately hailed a taxi cab from the gates of my apartment to it's location, just in time for lunch time.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Situated in one of the most sought after real state in Baguio city, the Venus Garden is perched overlooking one of the most scenic golf courses in Baguio City. At first glance, you may think it is just another luxury home but ensconced within this lovely vacation home is a cozy restaurant in the basement, perfectly planned in style.
Despite it's amazing views, this private dining can be really tricky to find which means it is tucked away from the hustle and bustle. Upon entering the enclosed property, I was immediately rewarded with vibrant floras in the garden.
Walking into the white, light, and bright finish of Venus Garden there is one thing that would strike you. The minimal and airy interiors of the home, the whole design of the house was straight of an interior magazine. I immediately felt a sense of calm and tranquility and this ambiance oozes throughout the whole property. The contemporary yet luxurious style and decor makes for a refreshing change from the more dining establishments in Baguio City.
THE FOOD
Whilst there was a sublime tasting buffet menu on offer, my food buddies and I have decided to go a la carte so we could pick exactly what we wanted. Choosing what you want to eat can be overwhelming as there's a lot to choose from. I didn't eat any breakfast or any light lunch prior, so I am more than ready for a feast.
Soup, Salad, and Sides
I absolutely love starting any meal with a good soup and having a weakness for mushrooms, there's no doubt but to grab a bowl of "Cream of Mushroom" which came with plenty of bewildering flavours of pleasure and happiness, just perfect for the cold Baguio weather. I was intrigued by the potato and vegetable contif which complimented the succulent broccoli perfectly. The Baked Penne Bolognese was probably the least flavoursome but a great addition to any palate.
Being obsessed with vegetable salads the past few months, I decided to add assorted salad greens on my plate and topped it with my choice of dressing. The creamy balsamic dressing was gorgeous and just enough to leave you wanting more.
Hot off the Grill
My primal senses was immediately drawn to the grill which was situated on the terrace. The Australian Angus Rib Eye Au Jus, Grilled Herb Garlic Chicken Fillet, Blackened Salmon Fillet, and Grilled Pork Belly is served right in front of our eyes, hot off the grill by Chef Larry Lugo. We can't help it, but we went for all four grubs - it is very tender and it is a melt in the mouth.
Whilst the flavor that the charcoal fire gives to the food is fabulous in and of itself, the volume was totally amp up with special sauces on the side for each.
Dessert
I would never normally order dessert at a restaurant. Firstly, because I am usually far too full and secondly because the dessert menu in your typical restaurant is never all inspiring. However, based on the amazing quality of platters, I figured it would be rude not to round off the whole feast with something sweet and I was not disappointed.
The best way to describe the strawberries drowned with milky whipped cream was totally indulgent and amazingly delicious, that you could tell were totally fresh. If you've overdone the grilled dishes, this dessert coupled with fresh fruits are ideal option to cool down your palate. I absolutely love them especially, the creme brulee cheesecake and the death by chocolate cake which was a little mouthful of pure heaven.
BY RESERVATION ONLY
Venus Garden is a reservation only, private dining. They offer special buffet lunches on weekends and special occasions and reservations can be made 3 days in advance with 50% deposit. You may request a customized menu you like with Venus Garden's Chef Larry and Chef Joi - from Filipino, to Japanese, to Italian, to Carribean, to Chinese cuisines - you name it.
For now they only accept a minimum of 20 guests bookings. The restaurant basement can accommodate a maximum of 30 guests and 20 in an outdoor under the pine tress. For a much larger group you can use the dining facilities of the main house for some guests. You might want to follow Venus Garden on Facebook for updates.
THE VERDICT
The lunch buffet was literally a heavenly experience as you are among with the clouds from start to finish. The tranquil atmosphere, charming golf course view, creative savoury and impeccable desserts were spot on. It was the right way to kick off the middle of my busy week in style.
If your're looking for an off-the-beaten-path dining and a menu that changes with the season, then Venus Garden is for you - allowing hungry travelers with a taste for something special to sneak away and enjoy authentic cuisine that most people never get to experience. And if you're also looking to tick off a by reservation only, private dining for special occasions and big events from your bucket list, you've hit the jackpot!
VENUS GARDEN
#28 Gulf View Horizon, Suello Village
Baguio City 2600
+63 998 512 3512
#28 Gulf View Horizon, Suello Village
Baguio City 2600
+63 998 512 3512
What did you think of my Venus Garden restaurant review? Have you been to Venus Garden or are you planning to try it for yourself? If you enjoyed this post or have any more questions about my experience, please do leave me a comment in the box below!
Want to read more of my Baguio reviews?
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