PIZZA EXPRESS

Being Asian makes me attached to any meal that comes with rice. But a good Italian restaurant is worth a try if it serves its pizza and pasta tasting authentically. In sending off a friend with well wishes for another contract as a performer in a cruise ship, we decided to go for Pizza Express in Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui. Located at the ground floor of the Ocean Terminal maze, it owns a good ambiance looking over the pier that extends to a vast harbor.

FOOD


In terms of taste, no complaint. The girls started with Brushetta Italia. All I tasted since I came in late was the pieces of ham that came along with it. Very minimally served because it was so tasty. I loved that. We ordered Parma Pizza ( which is their most sought after pizza in Pizza Express ) and it didn't fail us since it was wiped out as soon as it was served. I get to taste a bit of it and the tomato sauce was rich enough. Presentation seems to be in concomitance with homemade pizza. My Farfalle con Salsiccia came in creamy but bland. I don't think the rosemary gave it that much flavor and I think it needed more "twang" from the Italian sausage. An additional Gnocci Al Pomodoro was ordered and my friend's appetite was served.

SERVICE

The waiters would take your
order with all smiles but one thing that we remember that night was it took them so long to bring our orders over. Three times we reasoned out with it to keep positive vibes flowing. Maybe they wanted us to indulge on the view, the appetizer or the wine but they really forgot my order that we had to follow up on that. I guess we were pretty loud about blogging on disappointing stuff so they didn't make us pay for it anymore. Besides the truth that they made us wait, they could really have forgotten about it.

AFFORDABILITY

Pretty reasonable since they know how to compensate with the errors made on their behalf. If you intend to hold a group dinner, prices per serving ranges from HK$100-200 including drinks. All come with 10% service charge. Pizza Express accepts major credit cards. One helpful information is that the servings of pizza could be shared within 2-3 people while the pasta could go for a single serving. But if you're not that hungry, two people can dig in.

LOCATION

From TST station, take L5 exit. The Ocean Terminal holds a line of restaurants whose exit leads to the ferry terminal to Central.

OTHER INFORMATION

Reservation may be done by calling (852)-2376-1182. Pizza Express in the Ocean Terminal just has 150 seats so expect it packed on weekends. Opening hours from Mon-Friday is 12nn and 11am during Saturday and Sunday. All days have set 10:30pm for your last order since the mall will close by 11pm.

Side note to my friend, Rhiannon Lambert! Live the life rockstar! And I'll be hearing about your Mediterranean and Caribbean experience soon.

PURPOSEFUL LIFE

It had been almost a month that famous social networks had been bombarded by news about Haiyan victims, issues and donation drives yet there's one (unexpectedly) that would leave a mark not only to the Philippines but to the whole world. This is Paul Walker's shout out to the Fast and the Furious fans, the last recorded video of the movie star before he passed away last November 30, 2013. Let's take a look.

Paul Walker, who just celebrated his 40th birthday, was on his way to a car show supporting Philippines, still recovering from getting hit by the super typhoon Haiyan, leaving hundreds of people homeless, hungry and sick. His friend who was driving then had lost control of the car, hit a tree and exploded instantly leaving both his friend and Paul Walker dead. The actor, famously known as Brian O'Conner, (because of his starring role in the Fast and the Furious movies) was also known of letting his Porsche be driven for extensive efforts to help out and for the car show's success.

In addition to this humanitarian deed that I would like to feature on my Laid-back Tuesday, is Angelina Jolie's moving speech for being given the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award last November 16, during the 2013 Governor's Awards, held in the Dolby Ballroom at Hollywood and Highland in Hollywood, California.

It is indeed humbling that these people don't hesitate in helping those who are in need despite the fact that they are beyond our reach in terms of status, fame and finances yet they choose to stay grounded, responsible of others and purposeful. I am in awe.

WINTER 2013

WINTER is the coldest season of the year in temperate climates, between autumn and spring. It is caused by the axis of the Earth in the respective hemisphere being oriented away from the Sun. Different cultures define different dates as the start of winter, and some use a definition based on weather, but when it is winter in the Northern Hemisphere, it is summer in the Southern Hemisphere and vice versa. In many regions, winter is associated with snow and freezing temperatures. At the winter solstice, the days are shortest and the nights are longest, with days lengthening as the season progresses after the solstice.

- WIKIPEDIA

This year, winter in the Northern Hemisphere (which is responsible for the north east monsoons combined with warm maritime airstreams, affect Hong Kong's weather) starts on December 21, 2013 and will end March 19, Wednesday.

So many things come into mind when we talk about this promising season. Glitter, laughter, hot cocoa, abundant food and a lot of gatherings are just but a few representations.

Let me share to you my top 10 favorites as this season approaches:

1. WELCOMING THE HOLIDAYS

Here in Hong Kong, Winterfest will begin on November 29 this year as the country welcomes the holidays with spectacular festivities. The city is lighted up with grand Christmas lights and explosive decorations that attract thousands of tourists worldwide annually. The Harbour City in Tsim Sha Tsui are packed most of the days of the Holiday Season. For shopaholics and most especially tourists, it is advisable that you take care of your personal belongings that it really gets too crowded even if you love that "Boxing Day" vibe. Hong Kong is safe but with that much shopping bags that you'll carry around as you shop, it's more likely you'd misplace your phone while paying or when trying on the clothes that you wanted to buy. So, there's a chance that you'll loose it.

IFC in Central, Hong Kong offers the stylish, high-end decors to showcase Hong Kong creativity. Couture designers and fine artists, last 2012, had graced the mall with classy decors with subtle blue and white lighting to let the cooling effect of Christmas succumb on you.

Langham Mall in Mong Kok remains competitive as they have the longest elevator. Same theme, but bigger treats and freebies given by promoters surrounding the area. It makes me remember the famous Ayala strip in the Philippines, almost all malls strive to put up the best. A line of buildings would flaunt what they got in terms of their Christmas decorations. The louder, the better!

Langham Mall, Mong Kok

Just when I had to purchase make up in Elements (one of HK's finest malls located just outside the KOWLOON MTR station), I found their decor so warm and unique with miniature villages covered with snow. Much more awaits as Winter approaches.

Now, does it snow in Hong Kong? Thank God, no! There was a time, I think 2009 when the winter months had taken a long toll. I remember gazing out at the window asking when will the sun come out again. Personally, I prefer a sunny day than a grey day. Hong Kong holds a chilly 0 degree Celsius temperature as the country's coldest ever recorded. It doesn't snow here but the breeze that gushes thru could be freezing during the months of January and February as the result of the melting ice from China and Russia.


2. Yes! SHOPPING!!!


So, since it gets cold and breezy, it is a must that you'd keep yourself warm. Put out those scarves, purchase a good pair of boots and choose a good jacket. Light layering from Autumn might just be needing a bonnet, pair of gloves and probably an additional outer cover.

Starting from head to toe, I love wearing bonnets and when it gets too chilly, I wear ear muffs. I've had some bubble jackets but for formal dinners and serene gatherings, it's good to be able to use a coat or two. Neutral colors are always the best. You can combine them with a lot of shades and easier to pair with your footwear. Long sleeve warmers are good investments. And so are leggings or thick panty hose for your dresses. Winter leggings had become trendy since last year. Probably one of the reasons why I am not that in love with Winter is the unavailability of explosive hues to choose from with its basics but the winter leggings makes this season more enjoyable. Sweats are good when you stay home and decide to watch TV over a hot cup of coffee. Sweats are partnered with a hoodie most of the time that for me, I find it as my go-to hibernating clothes. Boots are preferred during Winter above all else. Ugg Boots from Australia, I believe, are the most sought after here in Hong Kong. But since winter leggings became a hit, elf shoes or oxfords were instantly welcomed as they emphasized the playfulness of the getup.

Besides the fact that it happens once in a blue moon, Christmas is the time of giving. And that's the ultimate reason why it's good to do Christmas shopping. No matter which form: gifts, time, effort, love, there is something about this time of the year that makes "giving" oh! so special! It is important to remind all of you to do your Christmas shopping early. So that you'll get to enjoy my next favorite.

3. WRAPPING GIFTS

With the Christmas medley on the background and the aroma of cinnamon blending in with your hot coffee, wrapping gifts becomes instantly delightful. This is something that I inherited from my aunties. They are amazing in wrapping gifts as they can make it look like a t-shirt or an explosive bag of treats, it was just enticing to see it. Most especially, once it gets under the Christmas tree, you don't want anything except open them but as for my family's tradition, we have to wait until Christmas eve to open the gifts altogether. Elders in our family give "aguinaldo"s as well and as I have come to age that it was my turn to give it out to my own godsons and goddaughters, I resorted to giving gifts instead. It's much fun for kids. If I give out money, I feel like I'm teaching them to lose the idea of giving.

4. GIFT-GIVING

 

The art of gift giving is all about, how well you know the person. It's not just about buying any gift. It's more of,

if I give this to my friend, would I like it to be given to me too?
What is my wife's favorite color?
What is that one simple thing my husband would need endlessly?

You'll be surprised when the simplest detail about that special person helps you get the perfect gift. So as I ended #3 with the statement, "If I give out money, I feel like I'm teaching them to lose the idea of giving" = it is about giving a chance for the relationship to flourish more. Because money just spoils everything about gift-giving. It gives the receiver the notion that it's the most convenient thing to give. Somehow, it wasn't given that much time and effort. Sometimes, a personal touch also can make it extra meaningful. Your gift should remind the receiver of you. Of course, my opinion goes for just giving gifts during the holidays. At weddings, funerals and baptismal gatherings, monetary presents are advised. In Chinese culture, giving of money is more of blessing the person with good fortune. So, either way  the most important detail about giving gifts is, it is something given from the heart and it is given not to expecting anything in return.

5. HOLIDAY PRESENTATIONS

From the year 2000, I have been blessed with the opportunity to be casted in so many holiday shows. I've done events from the Philippines and up until now, I still get to perform and extend Christmas greetings to thousands and thousands of people every year.

Let me give you a throwback to my most favorite amongst all of these shows by watching this.

Yes, it is beautiful and magical indeed.

When I was still young, I've always asked my parents to take me and watch Disney on Ice as a group comes in Manila to perform for the whole month of December. It never happened but God had blessed me to be part of spectacular shows at the present here in Hong Kong Disneyland. Come and see the Christmas Illumination everyday in the park at 6:30pm. Hear sweet carols and see Hong Kong Disneyland's giant Christmas tree light up with mini fireworks as Goofy, Mickey and Minnie rides the sleigh to help you thru the countdown.

6. WINE AND CHEESE

Festivities are just not complete without the line up of  Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas parties, and New Year's Eve countdowns. Nobody wants to miss out on turkey, the roast beef and the pumpkin pie. But being guilty afterwards is harder to deal with. One way to help you out in digestion is the wine. Its acidity aids in the churning of meat. To some people, it's too much of an astringent that they need cheese to balance it out and to keep the mouth's moisture intact.

When talking about wine, my personal favorite is rose wine since it's somewhere in the middle of both red and white. Not too dry and not too strong. This habit had been quite cultural. Not everybody would go for it. But the beauty of having some wine and cheese lies on the company you have. And I believe all of you would agree. Wine also helps in keeping you warm and helps in regulating the heart rate if taken in reasonable amounts.


7. GATHERING UP

This is a special time to sit down and celebrate with loved ones over a scrumptious meal. People who work overseas save their vacation leave for this. And that is mostly observed among Filipinos. But I must say, wherever you are, as long as your family and loved ones are with you, that's where the feast is. Like what my sister shared, let's not forget to be thankful and to gather as much every chance we get. The Holidays are not just the only time to celebrate what we have. Life is short and showing our love and giving time to our family should be done every time if you may. You don't want to wait until it's too late to do that.

8. MAKING MEMORIES

Take as many photos as you can of somebody's Christmas outfit, your mom's stew, or your gift and have it posted up to remind you of such happiness that you once owned. I got one of my god daughter taken because I loved how comfortable she was in being a walking "attitude". She loves attention (I mean, who doesn't!???) and she's such a darling. She loves celebrating and she loves seeing people coming together and having fun. Check this out! I think, her outfit says it all!

There's nothing more rewarding than being part of good memories. Hearing your family's achievements and seeing them grow from an experience to the next is inspiring.

9. KEEPING IN TOUCH

Reality bites to some who are not fortunate of means to get closer to their loved ones because of distance, a passed argument or lack of time. And it's always hard to find the right time to do something about it. Little do we know that this is the best season to reach out, make amends and remember ties that you've suppressed but was kept dearly in your heart. There is an elating force when this Christmas comes and it's not wrong to take advantage of it. The natural high that it radiates to all of us is an encouragement to be the better person and to be able to let go of the past. It is a stepping stone to renewing bonds and making better ones. Social networks have been quite a medium to a lot of advertisements, unsolicited comments (ha!) and news that actually are irrelevant to our lives. Why not make a good use of it by keeping in touch with the people that matters to you most and start by wishing them Happy Holidays.

10. CELEBRATING LIFE

It holds a great impact in life to realize how fortunate I am compared to others. I am not looking at it in the context that what I have is all better but, I couldn't find of anything more to wish for except time and health for me to have more days with my family. I did mention this on my birthday post but I am saying it again. That is a reason for me to celebrate life and the best way to celebrate is to share to the ones dear to us by blessing them of what we have in abundance.

Blessing a person could be in a way of listening, surprising them with a cooked viand if they are from a busy day of work or a mere wish for them to have a prosperous year ahead, or by just inviting them over in the name of merriment. The idea is, it could be anyhow. It may be a huge step to take if we just randomly pick somebody to let them inside our house so, be careful with that. But there are ways that you could extend that calling to give and share. Start with the ones near you.

And most of all, acknowledge God above of that ability to extend a helping hand, of that roof in your heads and be appreciative of what you have. The world is round and the lives on the other side may be different from yours. If you are reading this, you are 1 of the world's 1/3 that has access to the internet. The rest don't even know it and maybe barely thriving. That's a blessing right there.

That's it for my top 10! You are welcome to share yours. Just leave the blog addresses that you wrote it on and it would be a blessing to read your shared thoughts. You are welcome to leave any addition as well via the comment boxes below! Enjoy the Holidays!

DIN TAI FUNG

Din Tai Fung - Causeway, Bay

Coming from a 6-day vacation made me miss Hong Kong food. Fortunately, my uncle and his family had come to Hong Kong for a day of shopping sandwiched within the 3 day, 2 night Macau trip. My cousin Ana wanted to try Hong Kong's famous Din Tai Fung since she said it was pretty popular of its food amongst tourists and that a lot of people are lining up for it. She owns an Ig (Instagram) account so she got hold of people's posts describing it was worth trying. I felt curious and was wondering why I have never tried it while I lived here for 6 years! I haven't heard it too.

We were walking along Canton Road and after little navigation via the google maps and after asking for directions, we have gone up to 3/F of Silvercord Building. Located in Shop 130, Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, we were greeted by a proud article from the New York Times and we felt blessed that we didn't have to line up. It was for an early dinner (5-ish) because they had to go to the pier for the ferry to Macau around 7. I was so happy that there was not much people so we got a table right away. I've read reviews about it with a lot of disappointed customers that complained about the waiting time. So, if you'd go there on a weekend and during the 12nn and dinner time, brace yourself for a minimum waiting time of 20 minutes. They have a take-out counter right upfront which was smartly put to avoid crowding, leaving an option for people in a hurry.

Upon achieving a good seat by the window, the view wasn't that promising because all that you could see are roads and cars on the go - not impressive and a bit stressful in general. Tea was served and menu and a dim sum check list were handed.

The menu was a little bit pricey I must say. And I didn't expect that it would be limited in terms of choices. I live in Harbour Plaza Resorty City in Tin Shui Wai and my girlfriends and I are fans of Dimsum Breakfast. And Moon Ting Fong had a better list. We got there most of the time since it's the nearest. Because of it too, I kind of know how cheap it could be and how tasty it should be. Our favorite is the xiao lung bao which is the main dim sum offering in Din Tai Fung alongside Shanghainese and Taiwanese food and Chinese buns. So, I encouraged my relatives to order it since it is worth a try.

We ticked that and we had our personal picks. Mine was a Wonton soup, my uncle had a serving of the bitter melon and bean curd (which he thought was pork tripe in the picture and that's what he meant to order - but turned out, it was alright) and white Haianese Chicken.I was surprised that most of it were served cold except for the yang chao chao fan (Yang Chao fried rice)

This was a great choice!

As we ordered, I noticed that the staff understood most of my Cantonese and English, as well so, if ever tourists worry about that, don't fret! It's all good to tell what you want in English and point to the menu if ever you can't pronounce the Chinese term. I am not quite sure though of the taste. And I've tasted much better Chinese tea before. I guess the location favored it to be infamous amongst visitors and locals since it is the nearest authentic Chinese food in the busy street of shops and labels and commercial offices.

Here are some other important information that may favor you:

Open around: 11:30 - 22:30

Contact info: 2730 6928

Transportation:

A. MTR	Tsim Sha Tsui/ East Tsim Sha Tsui Station	Exit closest to destination ● Exit A1
		Wheelchair-friendly exit ● Exit L4 (passenger lift) ● Exit A1 (stairlift)
B. Bus	Bus	Routes
	KMB	2*, 2C*, 7*, 9*, 12*, 13X*, 81C*, 87D*, 98D*, 208*, 215X*, 219X*, 224X*, 260X*, 268B*, 269B*, 271*, 281A*, 296D*
	Citybus	973

- http://e-cgo.org.hk/gourmet/en/restaurant-detail?id=23

Payment Method: Visa、Master、AE、Cash、UnionPay、JCB、Others

The founder, Bingyi Yang, is successful up until today after following up his oil business with his own dumpling business. Din Tai Fung was first built and introduced in Taiwan in 1958 and still uses up the phone line that it was registered into. Now, it branches out to Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the USA and Australia.

COME AND HELP OUT!

 

 "If you, then, though you are evil,

know how to give good gifts to your children,

how much more will your Father in heaven

give good gifts to those who ask him!"

 - Matthew 7:11

This past week, I've been seeing a lot of people being active in helping out Tacloban from being hit by the 3-times-stronger-than-Katrina, typhoon Haiyan. Some sincerely, some, just because of wanting to be talked to in the famous social networks online. Whichever is the real purpose behind it, let's not forget that we can help in our own little ways. And the most meaningful of all are the events where you helped willingly.

I work with 5 people of whose families have been victims of the tragedy. The little Filipino community here opted to help the ones first whom we know personally since that's the only way we would know that our help would go directly to the right hands.

I would like to extend the invitation to those who live here in Hong Kong to check out the 2nd bazaar for a cause that is going to be held in Pa Mei, Tung Chung Village. You are welcome to donate anything (though you could check out this article for the suggested list of "10 Worst Things to Donate after a Disaster").

Since, it is hard to ship goods and clothing directly to the families of our colleagues, the bazaar will sell the collected donations all for HK$5. Once you drop your donations, you might see something that you'd want to purchase. So, please feel free to look around. Also, this 2nd Donation Drive happening on Wednesday, (Nov. 20, 2013)  is strictly for adults only. Details go as follows:

Fund Raising for "THE CAUSE" Grown Up Edition

November 20, 2013, Wednesday
4PM to 12:05am
@ Hanedy and Butch's Rooftop near Pa Mei carpark

IMPORTANT:
Kids are DIScouraged to join

FOR SALE!!! All you see for ONLY $5 each.

This time, we would like to ask VODKA or RED WINE donations as well for this will be a night for the grown-ups.
$5 for each shot of VODKA
$5 each glass of RED WINE
100% of the proceeds will be given directly to Super Typhoon Yolanda Victims.

You guys can still bring donation for us to sell and please bring them to us
already SORTED for easy set-up.

Please Spread the word.
Thanks in advance for all your help."

The first bazaar earned roughly HK$2,500.00. That's just HK$500 each for the family of our own co-dancers here. But they are very appreciative of all the help that we extended. Four of them now are in the Philippines to evacuate their families to Manila and just stay there for the mean time. They have spent most of their lives in Tacloban and it surely is up to leap of faith how they will start anew. But taking it day by day is the only solution and this small amount would help them to start.

Another Haiyan drive that a Philippine professional photographer, (currently residing here in Hong Kong) Mark Bautista, had done, was a Photoshoot for a Cause. Collaborating with Sunshine Huang, Ela Lisondra and Elias Hendricks, they held a successful photoshoot last November 15 with HK$3500 fund raised.

There are still 2 batches to go. Batch 2 is scheduled on Nov. 22, 2013 (also in Pa Mei Village, Tung Chung, Hong Kong) and the 3rd one's details are yet to be announced still.

With these two donation drives, please feel free to leave your email addresses if you are interested to go to the first one or avail the 2nd one. We will send you personal messages regarding location, contact numbers and/or any details you need thru it. All of these are just easy steps into extending help to our fellow men.

All of us are given an opportunity to help people. It doesn't necessarily have to be too great to shout it out to the whole world. It could be in its simplest form such as, offering a seat in the bus, sharing your time to volunteer and helping an elder with the groceries. Before we go greatly into helping the world, start with those around us.

FAB FIND FRIDAY

Happy Birthday to the Salinggawi November babies!!!!

Life, as we know it, moves on with the choices we do. As human beings, we tend to fail every now and then. But the beauty of living life comes along when you meet people that are true enough to say you are wrong. Most importantly, people who'd encourage you to make the wrong right.

my angels, Ate Naths and Ate Aima

The fabulous find I'd feature today are my family and friends who have been with me thru the years. Whether they are far away from me, moved on without me or just stayed, my life won't reach its 31st year if not for them. I would like to extend my love and blessings to the people who had inspired me, taught me, nurtured me, helped me, cared for me, loved me and most of all the ones who disagreed with me because if they never did, I would not find my way to who I really am and to be able to stand for what I believe in.

To my family in the Philippines:

RIYADH:

TAIWAN:

SAMOA:

NEW ZEALAND:

USA:

HONG KONG:

Knowing that all of you are away from harm, 

letting me know that you've thought of me on this special day,

 thank you very much and I love you. 

You are very expressive of how you wish me to be at my best.

No matter what, family comes first.

Thank you Ate Aima for this delicious cake!

To my friends who had spent money, 

effort and time just to surprise me

and make this day extra memorable,

you know who you are, 

may the good Lord bless you a thousand fold back. 

I treasure every moment with all of you and

you are the people who rejoiced

when I'm at my best.

And who have seen me, at my worst.

There are so many things to be thankful for today. 

I woke up alive from the 281 birthday greeters in Facebook 

on this day alone 

plus the ones that started greeting since the 11th.

It is beyond amazing because I am still counting.

It is a gift itself.

I have a job to go to that keeps me driven,

more than enough to make ends meet.

A job where I make thousands of people happy.

A job where I get paid for doing what I love to do.

A job where I get to share priceless moments with talented people.

November 15, 2013 = photo by: Ling Lai

And I know today I am more than blessed for seeing my

favorite sight everyday just as how it should be....

the breathtaking Tsing Ma Bridge on a beautiful day of Autumn.

I could just go on and on. But allow me to say, I appreciate everything even that number called "31". Haha!

For my husband, Hogan Toomalatai, thank you for loving me everyday. Words are not enough to let you know how much I am truly grateful that I have you in my life. You complete me and that being said, I always catch myself not knowing what else to wish for except for the time that God allotted for us to be together here on earth to be more than it's supposed to be. Either way, every second with you is a gift from up above already.

Above all, I thank You, Lord, for making me realize that the value of life is not in the material possessions that you have. It is in the happiness that you find in the simplest of things. Waking up on a bed, food within an arm's reach, the breath I take every second, sleeping soundly at night. I thank You Lord, for this life, my life.

Thank you so much for all of your meaningful gifts!