2015 BEST PHOTOS

Every year, I see to it that I post a share of my yearly favourite photos. Be it because of art, experience or milestone. Last year, I had dedicated the entire line up to motherhood. Such milestone is a tick in my bucket list and I thought the delight would stop there.

This year, I had pondered on the greatest influence that happened to my life. When you have a budding family, you become protective and ambitious. And for 2015, I embraced financial freedom. 

Halfway thru the year of 2015, we had studied, researched, gotten involved in an advocacy that had built up beyond expectation. Because of my family, who is my life and my BIGGEST WHY, I got driven and I felt empowered in serving others like never before.

With that being said, I had a paradigm shift in understanding TIME. So many people had just let it pass not knowing that it is the most essential commodity known to work "for" mankind if you discover the skill of handling it well. Time is a huge factor in just about anything, and I mean ANYTHING! Relationships, investments, growth. We always think that we don't have enough of it but actually, we are given that much time that we need and we don't have to be burdened with what has to be finished up. We just need to be at the moment. We just need to live it. And that gives way to these wondrous array of "moments".

JANUARY

"DEVELOPMENT"

This was taken during Brave's first time

to hold her milk bottle. It was before I left for work.

Any form of reward doesn't come as more importantly

as compared to seeing your child's development.

The time that I get to spend with my family, most especially,

my daughter, is more precious above any precious stone,

expensive travel package or an entertainment showcase.

Seeing how she grows up and develops is surprisingly amusing.
And knowing that you are the reason behind it all?
My hands are up, it makes my heart fat.

I actually had a hard time before,
keeping up with my friends who talk about babies nonstop.

Now that I am a mom, I kind of understand why.

It's just surreal that something that came from you, that you had

created is moving, talking, bouncing and giggling!

It's addicting.

I thank God for the time I get to see her grow.

FEBRUARY

"SELFIE"

This is yet again, another moment that cracks me up every time I come across it.

My baby had been fond of seeing herself in the camera since the beginning.

And by 6 months, she expresses herself like no other.

MARCH

"VACATION"

Whenever time permits, take a vacation to replenish your soul.

Another plus to this is when your family is with you along with a good bunch of friends.

Last year, it was a first time for my little one to experience traveling with us.

Destination: MACAU

It doesn't matter where but knowing that they are with me

experiencing a memorable time is something that I'd go back to in a heartbeat if I could.

It was one of the best experiences because I

expected that it would be hard having a 6 month old baby on board.

But she was so cool and from that moment on,

my husband and I knew that she is the same with us

as far as being outgoing is concerned.

APRIL

"CELEBRATION"

This is my husband's birth month. When I asked him of what he wants

for his birthday, he had pointed to our daughter and said, "I got it already."

There was no fancy celebration but we dined out to celebrate my husband

and my daughter's christening over a dim sum breakfast.

With a Catholic name, "Gabrielle", Brave was baptised and was welcomed to the Christian world.

Besides the fact that I am fulfilling God's purpose of having our baby blessed,

as parents, we treasure this time of being able to celebrate with our good and long time friends.

Surprisingly, Brave didn't give us a hard time preparing as early as 7am

and didn't cry as she got startled upon the pouring of the holy water because it was cold.

As the priest had agreed to a last minute scheduling, some godparents weren't able to come.

We needed them to be there for the baptism to happen.

Also, it was a requirement that they are Catholics as well with a purpose

of having enough knowledge to impart if time would ever need them to.

Strict requirements were imposed, it almost didn't happen.

But it was good to be reminded to submit to God's will

and He will make it happen for you. With Him knowing the purest desires of your heart,

He will defy all odds that inhibit you from coming to Him.

As promised, He is the Way, the Truth and the Life.

April last year, God paved the way for Brave,
in God's perfect timing.

MAY

"BACK TO THE FUTURE"

It was a challenge for me to go back to my original size pre-Brave since I gained

50lbs then (ideal is 25-35 lbs. Yes! Condemn me.)

But I was able to at least, fit in the jungle costume by 9 months.

This photo above was taken on May 12, 2015.

(Proof is on FB in case you doubt my calculations.)

The times that I worked out had paid off.

Automatically, a sudden boost of self esteem and that sense of achievement

showered upon me. I am thankful for those efficient times in the gym.

It also made sense to me that as a woman, and as a mom,

if it took you 9 months to gain that much in taking care of a human

being inside of you, it usually takes 9 months to recover too.

So to those who are dealing with stressful weight gain because of pregnancy,

allow your body some time to get used to it and I promise you, once you've attained your goal,

your physical body will cry for that lifestyle of exercise and good diet.

It won't be a bitch anymore 'til then.
Just breath and keep moving forward.
Use your time well.

JUNE

"PARADIGM SHIFT"

This is the picture that started it all.
Together with the founder of COL Financial, Mr. Edward Lee,
we were blessed to have a portal to reaching to those who are in need.

Spearhead mission was given birth right at this very moment.

Spearhead mission aims to lead people into financial freedom out of an advocacy to serve.

This picture was taken when I took a free seminar tackling about investing on stocks.

at the Philippine consulate.

Before that, I had attended the Rich Dad, Poor Dad talk

which was the backbone of my pursuit to making investments.

This was the moment I decided that I want the BEST for my family

in terms of a good life.
Good life meaning, not depending on other people or any form of loan

for whatever emergencies may arise. I heeded becoming financially free.

JULY

"JOLLIBEE"

It was my dream when I was young to own a franchise of Jollibee.

But I've discovered a more affordable way to start owning it.

By being a stockholder, I take advantage of time to earn money from it.

July last year, I started with a little share.

Hopefully, it'd grow fast and strong.

AUGUST

"BRAVE AT 1"

By this time around, Brave is 11KG, can walk independently on her own,

can chew most of the solid foods I know (except peanuts),

loves to sing and was giving out preferences.

I can perceive her mood swings, excitement and longing as she turned one.

It truly was so fast that by this time, I vaguely remember

how I survived sleeping with the "fragile" Brave.

The next time after I was complaining about how demanding it was for my back as I carry her,

as I teach her how to walk up to lifting her up from every bath,

I am upfront a baby saying "no" all of a sudden,

a baby demanding a biscuit in the morning and a singer in the making.

She had grown so fast that she suddenly became not so baby anymore.

That time had passed and I'm blessed with its memories, experience and great stories

to black mail her with. Hahaha!!!!

SEPTEMBER

"CASHFLOW"

There's some letters of appreciation and acknowledgement from establishments
that I wrote about and it was beyond rewarding.
Free movie tickets came in too as an invitation as a critic.
All because of my writing, which had grown from a hobby way back 2006.
But this was the best that came in the mailbox because beyond the fact
that it's unexpected, I didn't know I could work for or even get linked to Google this way.
This saying, "What you do most of your time while procrastinating
should be the exact thing you should be actually doing."
makes sense after all.
I entitled this as "cashflow" to remind people out there
who thought there's no money behind doing your favourite thing.
Well, there is. Just be creative and use your time wisely.

OCTOBER
"BLESSED"

Now that I am rearing my baby, seeing illustrations like this make me cringe.
I am constantly thankful that we eat three times a day but I constantly ask God too.
How come there are people who are in this kind of lifestyle if we are all children of God?
I am not sure what is the exact answer to that. I don't believe in luck.
But being born out of the countries who are involved constantly in war,
or being born from parents who would never make me hold a gun,
or being born in a free country can already be considered lucky.
It is unfair to say I'm blessed and they're not.

This picture is actually one of the main reasons why I am sticking to our advocacy.
It is imperial to learning about financial freedom that we are taught of the ways
on how to fend for ourselves. This is one way to empower a person to be creative
with the tools God had given us. For us to be resourceful because nothing in this
world will be handed to you in a silver spoon.
We need to know how to THRIVE. And that's LIFE.
So if you can extend a helping hand during your free time, why not?

NOVEMBER

I have a tie for this month as God had blessed me in abundance during my birthmonth of November.

"GOOD TIMES"

My beautiful mom surprised me a week before my birthday that she'd be
flying over from America and it was truly an exciting time for me
because it will be her first time to meet my family.
FaceTime had always been there but meeting person to person is a different story.

My husband had gifted me leisure time by booking us Venetian Hotel
so that we ladies, can splurge on its exquisiteness and luxury for a weekend.
I maybe exaggerating because we were just blessed with good timing
since they have the best last minute deals.
(Otherwise, a fortune may have been spent)
but to stress out importance of time, I got to talk and spend time with my mom,
say I love you to her in person, because of the distance between us,
more than I have for the past years (3 to be exact).
She was my birthday package this year.
We had a great time.

"TWICE IN A ROW"

Now this second photo is a privilege that I consider.
It's time with loved ones and friends.
Time that you were able to spend your birthday with people twice in a row.

Year after year.

Life is too short not to appreciate the company you have,
the job you got that others would kill for,
and most especially, the time and ability for you to celebrate it all.
Time, we all know, talks about your presence and all.
But ability usually is taken for granted.
It doesn't require only time for you to give ultimate happiness to your family.
Realistically, you needed money to buy even a simple cake.
Don't get me wrong, I am happy having my mom over,
having my husband and daughter to celebrate with me.
And on top of that, are friends that care and support you, what more can I ask?
You might be whispering to yourself now, that is not enough for her yet?
Well, hear me out.
With that being said, I am thankful that I am able to provide
for what may add up to that sense of being together in terms of
a simple intimate dinner and gathering in the house.
Hence, this photo needed to be included because Angela,
who got me my cake that night, got me when I said giving out a message to all who came,
"Thank you for all for being able to celebrate with me,
twice in a row."

DECEMBER
"PASKONG PINOY"
(Philippine Christmas)

For the first time in so many years, Hong Kong Disneyland
had gifted Filipino workers (with their plus ones) who continuously are
spreading their light, sharing their talents and touching lives with their passion,
with a night of amusement, surprises and Filipino food!!!!
It was an early Christmas celebration.
For most of us who are away from home just to earn a living,
this one night of making us feel at home is much much appreciated.
Filipino entertainers came over, the tables were decorated with
the traditional Christmas lanterns (parol) and Filipino games highlighted the night.

10 years of bringing magic to guests, I am glad that in my own little way
and for the time that I am strong and able, I have been a part of it
More power to you Hong Kong Disneyland!

Related posts:

1. PARADIGM SHIFT - How my concept of time had changed.

2. JOLLIBEE - the fastest growing food chain in the Philippines, can be experienced in Hong Kong!

3. GET INVESTED IN STOCKS FOR A RICHER LIFE - here's why you should invest in stocks.

AMOR

AMOR by kytetoomalatai featuring a floral pencil skirt

River Island sleeveless top
66 HKD - riverisland.com

BCBGMAXAZRIA blazer jacket
1,785 HKD - bcbg.com

Floral pencil skirt
715 HKD - coast-stores.com

Valentino high heel pumps
7,170 HKD - harveynichols.com

Givenchy handbag
4,195 HKD - brunarosso.com

Kobelli black and white jewelry
20,095 HKD - kobelli.com

14 karat gold earrings
2,885 HKD - pearlparadise.com

Barbour leather strap watch
2,150 HKD - outdoorandcountry.co.uk

Chains jewelry
385 HKD - buckleylondon.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs hinged bracelet
theclutcher.com

Incase tech accessory
220 HKD - urbanexcess.com

CELEBRITY CRUISES AUDITIONS IN THE PHILIPPINES THIS FEBRUARY, 2016

Details of the Auditions go:

February 27, 2016 - OPEN DANCE CALL for DANCERS & DANCERS WHO SING

Sign in  at 4:00 PM

Those who sing, please bring your repertoire book in case you are asked for additional material.

February 28, 2016 - OPEN SINGER CALL for SINGERS AND SINGERS WHO DANCE

Sign in at 9:00 AM

February 29, 2016 - CALLBACKS

By INVITATION ONLY

Please bring a stapled headshot and resume to the audition. Vocalists should present their best 16-32 bars and have a contrasting piece ready if asked. Please note -- We are not looking for traditional musical theatre voices. We encourage singers showcase only their best pop/rock audition material. An accompanist will be provided at the auditions and sheet music in the proper key is required. Female Dancers should be prepared to dance in 3" heels and men should bring character/jazz shoes.

You must be a minimum 18 years of age to audition.

FEMALE AND MALE DANCERS:

Seeking Female Dancers (5'5"-5'9") and Male Dancers (5'8"-6'1"). Especially seeking fit, athletic, technically trained dancers with a strong background in jazz, ballet, contemporary, commercial, tap and partnering. Male dancers should have a strong physique, be capable of lifts and be comfortable performing onstage shirtless when required. Females should have lean silhouettes. Gymnastics, aerial training, tumbling and partnering skills are a plus! Aerial Opportunity: Dancers interested in aerial tracks must possess well developed, strong bodies to sustain the rigorous demands of aerial work. Aerial performers must be willing to work at heights of up to 30. All Female Dancers must be able to perform in 3 inch heels including turns, leaps, floor drops and partnering.

FEMALE AND MALE SINGERS:

Seeking all types. Especially seeking powerhouse vocalists; women with a strong pop or rock mix/belt to F5 and legit to C6, full voice baritenors to A4 and tenors to C4 with strong falsetto extension. Ideally all singers will read music, have good harmony skills and move confidently.

FEMALE AND MALE SINGERS WHO DANCE:

Seeking true triple threats: We require experienced and technically trained vocalists with a strong dance background in jazz, ballet, tap and partnering. All Female Dancers must be able to perform in 3 inch heels including turns, leaps, floor drops and partnering. Especially seeking women 5'5"-5'9" with a strong rock belt and men: 5'8"-6'1" with rock baritenor to A4 or tenor to C4. Must be capable of understudying lead vocalist tracks as well as performing in the ensemble of dancers.

Please bring a stapled headshot and resume to the audition. Vocalists should present their best 16-32 bars and have a contrasting piece ready if asked. Please note -- We are not looking for traditional musical theatre voices. We encourage singers to show case only their best pop/rock audition material. An accompanist will be provided at the auditions and sheet music in the proper key is required. Female Dancers should be prepared to dance in 3" heels and men should bring charter/jazz shoes.

You must be minimum 18 years of age to audition.

Don't let this opportunity pass.

It might change your life.

FIRST HONG KONG DISNEYLAND AUDITIONS IN MANILA FOR 2016

Do you think you have what it takes?

Join and find your light.

Related posts:

1. FIND YOUR LIGHT - See the Filipinos gracing the happiest place on earth with their great talent and unbeatable passion.

2. 10 THINGS TO DO IN HONG KONG - New in your list? Get abreast with what you should not miss when visiting Hong Kong

3. NO TEARS THIS THURSDAY, GET INSPIRED INSTEAD - Know why working alongside these pool of talents is so good.

Let's Play!

Let's Play! by kytetoomalatai featuring jimmy choo pumps

Abstract print dress
1,900 HKD - karenmillen.com

Jimmy choo pumps
4,635 HKD - jimmychoo.com

Alison Lou heart shaped jewelry
4,945 HKD - net-a-porter.com

Tom Ford fringe earrings
4,185 HKD - mytheresa.com

Halcyon Days black bangle bracelet
1,285 HKD - sandspointshop.com

15 DIY TIPS FOR COLORING ASIAN HAIR

According to a Cosmopolitan Philipines' advertorial back in May 2012, Asian hair is different from Western hair. So, here are pointers to help create your new look, the fun and fearless way.

1. Stand out. Don't stick out.

There's nothing worse than hair colour that makes you look like trying too hard. Asians generally look better in shades of red, brown or black. Dark eyebrows matched with platinum blonde is an unpardonable fashion crime.

2. Complement for compliments.

Reds, browns and blacks can set off Asian skin tone in various ways. Reds are perfect for fairer women. A more bronzed complexion matches well with brown shades. While the simple yet sophisticated blacks with a blue or brown sheen can be pulled off? by anybody.

3. Bring sexy black.

There's a reason why black never goes out of style. So don't be frustrated because you were born with black hair or if your work doesn't allow loud hair colours. Just choose a black-based hair colour with a coloured sheen such as blue or brown. This adds a natural and effortless touch that's always a surprise when light reflects on your hair.

4. Flaunt your style and personality.

Different hair colours can enhance different aspects of your character and even your personal style. Blacks can give a touch of elegance and sophistication. Browns can make you seem a bit more chichi and trendy. While reds are best for those who would like to look more fashion-forward.

5. Look to the stars.

If you're not sure about how a hair colour would look like on you, look for Asian celebrities who sport the same colour. Find a star who is close to your skin tone and see how she flaunts the shade you covet. Be realistic. Don't just be a "second-rate trying hard copycat." If the colour doesn't suit you, try another. The bonus is finding a celebrity with a similar complexion to yours is that you can use her colour choices as guide for your own transformations.

6. Be true to your hair.

Don't just choose any hair dye. Choose a hair colouring product that is made especially for Asian hair.  Unlike Western hair, Asian hair is usually darker and thicker - making resistant to dyes. A hair dye made for Asian hair would ensure that the pigments would penetrate each strand deeply for vibrant shades.

7. Color and care.

Choose a hair colour that is gentle to your hair. There are some formulations that may be too harsh for Asian hair causing it to be dry and brittle. This can cause the strands of your coloured hair to look like a wig. That's why it's best to have a hair dye that's also infused with vitamins to condition and nourish your hair.

8. Creamy is easy.

Our home application, a hair colour that comes in a rich non-drip cream format is best. This is easier to apply by yourself so you could ensure that the dye goes on your hair and not everywhere else. Cream formulations also ensure even application for better, more stunning results.

9. Make it a ritual.

The best thing about colouring your hair is the comforts of your own home is doing it with friends or even the man in your life who normally avoids going with you to the salon. This adds a fun touch to the process that you wouldn't normally enjoy if you just had done in the salon. Invite your friends over and make it a hair colouring date. Or better yet, make it you-and-me time with your guy.

10. Be armed and ready.

It only takes a few key tools to create your personal colouring  "salon" at home. Just invest  in a decent  mixing bowl for the hair pigment and developer, a fine-toothed comb for parting your hair, brush for applying the hair dye, and plastic gloves to protect your hands from stain. A premium hair dye would have most of these tools already inside the box.

11. Patch up.

Before applying the hair dye, test it first on the small patch of skin in your inner elbow. Do this to ensure that no irritation or allergic reaction will occur once you apply it on your hair.

12. Rules are made to be followed.

The key to doing your own hair colour is to really follow the instructions on the box of your hair dye. Don't experiment or adjust formulation just because you think you can.

13. Take your time.

Don't rush the process of colouring your own hair. Enjoy it like you would in a salon. Make sure that you part sections of your hair and apply hair colour with a brush properly. Coloring your hair part by part is the best way to ensure even coverage.

14. Make the cut.

Once you've achieved the hair colour that you want, visit a salon to get a hair cut that could bring out the beauty of your hair even more. With everything you've saved from doing your own hair colour, you won't feel guilty indulging in a haircut from a top stylist.

15. Do it with style.

This doesn't just refer to hair styling. It also means creating a complete look from head to toe that goes with the flow of your new locks. With the perfect choice of clothes, shoes and even accessories - your hair can be your ultimate crowning glory.

Be fun and fearless with your hair colour. Kolours Hair Dye had come up with a formulation especially made to penetrate and coast Asian hair for total coverage.

Related posts:
1. DIY LIP BALM - Save more than HK$500/year by making your own organic lip balm at the comfort of your own home by following this tutorial.

2. SPA IN YOUR OWN HOME - Click and read on if you're interested to mix your own facial scrub or cleansing oil.

3. CROWNING GLORY - Here are the nutrients you have to eat to have that glorious mane.

HARBOURVIEW HOTEL MACAU

Last September, my husband had to represent Team Mushu for Macau's 2015 World Tourism Day Dragon Boat Cup alongside a strong group of rowers and my daughter and I got to cheer for them on that day. They have won as Champions which is another addition to TEAM MUSHU's collection of gold medals.

On the other hand, I got to experience another hotel in Macau called, Harbourview as we spent a night there before the big day of races came.

The HARBOURVIEW HOTEL in Macau is patterned after the 18th century Prague with an exquisite European style both inside and out. Completed with 389 comfortable guest rooms and 55 spacious suite rooms, it stood up impressing a lot of tourists visiting the peninsula. Combining sophisticated charm with modern elegance, I highly recommend Harbourview Hotel to you.

Starting from HK$1,030, you can book a room here and if you're lucky, occasional promotions are offered as low as HK$791.20 every now and then depending on whether it's peak season. I got mine with a breakfast deal since I wanted to maximise my experience of this lovely hotel.

My daughter and I arrived around 4 in the afternoon. And she appreciated the huge window by looking over the harbour. This design gave the room bright lighting that elevated our moods in an instant even though it was a bit cloudy. We were both starving so we took time in looking around the free amenities that go with the room, room service and the fridge. I had set her up with a movie and she was so happy. The sheets were clean. The comfort the mattress and the pillows bring were just right. ( Meaning, it wasn't too overwhelmingly soft. I hate it when you go on the bed and it requires effort from you just to sit up. ) Everything is just neat and tidy following a minimalist approach perhaps to give the guests a serene stay. Their hotel might be a little extravagant with its interior but the rooms were decorated minimally.

The amenities got the usual coffee. The fridge also got the usual stuff. Nothing special. But the room service menu was truly attractive and browsing over it made me think of my husband since that's his favourite. I told myself, we'll just eat the snack we brought and then wait for Hogan to come so that we could experience the room service altogether. Anyway, the time was a little bit in between having a snack and having dinner. We chose to eat light.

What I'm amazed about is their bathroom. It was not that big but I love the interior. Great looking tub (though it needs an anti-slip - for the record, that's not an opinion. It comes with a  hope that the management of Harbourview Hotel, Macau would address this issue as it concerns the safety of the people. I had a minor accident with it. Thank God I wasn't actually carrying my baby when I slipped.)

The toiletries were branded (L'Occitane), complete with a pair of toothbrushes, a wooden comb and many more, all for you to use and/or take home.

There's a separate shower if that's just what you want and as you can see on the right, the bathroom is separated by a glass see through window that could be beneficial to couples on a honeymoon. Whichever you choose between the two will surely give you a luxurious time in this sanctuary.

The closet is filled with 2 bathrobes, 2 pairs of adult slippers and a pair for a child. A user friendly safe is ready for you to use to secure your cash, your passports, jewelries and anything else personal to you that may need such service.

The floor was slippery for
kids to walk on without
adult supervision.
For old people, caution is advised.

While waiting for my husband to come from work, my daughter and I tried the indoor pool and as grand as it may seem, the jacuzzi for a kid was a little too much. But that's just what they have for her. I tried to lure her but she was uneasy. After a while, I just ordered something to munch on to lure her to stay a while since I know she's just feeling a little home sick.

So, we had ordered buffalo wings, watermelon shake for my baby and orange juice for me. It was pretty worth the price. As it sat on the wooden plate, presentation was impressive, the salad added colour to the dish and the wings were mouthwatering.

My daughter seemed thirsty as she grabbed the watermelon shake right away. It was pretty quiet for there was just a family at the other separate pool and a couple at the other. There were three so it was pretty quiet. The lap pool was too chilly. We dipped but I felt myself hyperventilating to cope up with the biting cold.

As we bid goodbye to the pool, we explored the neighbouring halls and the pool extended to another gateway to fitness passing a lounging area for reading and relaxing.

Notice the separate jacuzzis behind us.
There is one for toddlers, one for school-aged
and the last one is for adults.

The gym is equipped with high tech facilities and there's enough room for doing gym ball exercises but it doesn't include a room for doing yoga, dance classes and other calisthenics. Maybe there is but I wasn't able to explore more. Needless to say, Harbourview Hotel Macau offers a great array of weights to cater guests' need for holistic wellness.

The buffalo wings we ordered with a side salad,
dressed with vinaigrette.

As soon as we reached to the room, we washed up and then I had availed a couple of movies for Brave to be kept entertained. As soon as she dozed off, her dad reached the room and was eager to put on the Rugby match where Samoa was in. She got up from that sleep alright because of excitement. I was, too, because of the long awaited room service.

We got pasta, salad, fish and chips and a noodle soup for our late dinner:

It took time for my baby to settle down that night though for whatever reason we couldn't fathom. Randomly, I mentioned to our friend how annoyed I was with our window because it could give the room a much better airflow if the window could be opened. And then this friend of mine had a funny assumption. He connected my daughter's discomfort to probably an incident that Harbourview Hotel Macau maybe preventing from happening "again". You see, many gamblers in Macau lose huge amounts of money that maybe they had closed the window "permanently" to stop suicidal tendencies. That being said, I may sound delusional. But knowing that babies are pure and innocent, my baby's discomfort might have been related to some suicide committed in the room. But, no paranormal activity was observed. It just maybe has to do something with the room's vibe.

For HK$1,500/night booking with breakfast, I felt satisfied. It was worth it because of the wide array of food their breakfast buffet offered. But I wouldn't advice this if you are left to deal with your 1 year old kid. She was cranky because of not having enough sleep the night before so, she didn't want to eat anything. Breakfast buffet usually starts as early as 7am to 10am. Babies could sleep up until 10am. Since my husband's race started as early as 9:50am, I was left with her mood swings. We had to get up early and so, it was a little bit hard to enjoy breakfast.

Behind us was a noodle counter.
You choose the vegetables, the meatballs
to go with your preferred type of noodles.
Sort of Chinese style.

I love croissants!

Good to go.

I had a plate good enough for a jam packed morning and that good to go yogurt and banana was beneficial for my daughter, Brave, as soon as her hunger kicked in when we reached the pier where the race was happening.

When we reached the pier, I felt the surge of energy got channelled to Brave. She had a great time, and she had fun with everybody. Team Mushu was lining up for their final heat so we were just on time. The place was less than HK$20.00 far from Harbourview Hotel Macau as per cab ride.

Later that noon, after Team Mushu's victory, one of the event coordinators escorted the team to a lunch buffet at Harbourview Hotel Macau.

The hotel got built up in me again as I saw the tables explosive of food, drinks and desserts. I wasn't able to finish my food that morning like I said so I thought to myself this is the right time to indulge. So many people were keeping Brave company, my husband was with me and I'm sure Brave's yogurt and banana meal was pretty used up. With all the dancing and cheering we did, every dish looked so inviting!

This is just a few of the choices I was able to take a shot of. I was actually confused of which I wanted to eat because there's truly a lot. I love their choices of juice too because there was watermelon, orange, mango, guava and pineapple. There were a lot of choices for tea, you can brew your own coffee in the coffee machine. Capuccino, espresso, black and regular coffee. Name it, you got it. Tea also filled the beverage table as well as sodas in can ready for pick up and again, a take home or two can be done. Liquor can be ordered from the waiters as for additional information as proof of its aim to cater to guests' preferences.

The Harbourview Hotel Macau costs around HK$999.00 up per night. I give it a 3.5 stars out of 5 because for some reason, my daughter had a hard time sleeping overnight. For the many times I have checked in with my family with other hotels, she didn't have a problem sleeping unlike here. I also don't like how complicated their bath tub was too. It looked good but oddly shaped reaching a point that it wasn't comfortable at all.

The room surely looked luxurious but we can't even enjoy the veranda. When I asked my friend about it, he oddly said, "Maybe, you can actually open the windows before but not anymore because maybe there was somebody who stayed here before and had lost in gambling and jumped off the balcony." I jokingly agreed but deep inside, I thought he might be right. I'm not superstitious but kids do have a strong 6th sense which they can't express actually. And with money, nothing is impossible. If it was too great of an amount to lose, insanity could creep in and push people to their limits.

That was just my personal experience. And there's no proof on that story.

Transportation transfers maybe arranged but I had to ride the cab to reach the hotel. They don't have an available free coach to get you from the pier so that's already a hassle actually considering I was alone in checking in with my baby and a stroller.

So, if you're eyeing this hotel, here is a review that may help you one way or another. Please do share to anybody who's asking for some details about it too. Enjoy your getaway!

Related posts:
1. GRAND COLOANE RESORT - Another hotel in Macau that is far from its busyness and is more located on the quiet side of Macau.

2. FABULOUS FIND THIS NOVEMBER - Read as to which hotel got a free shuttle transfer from the Macau Ferry Pier!

3. HOW TO SAVE HK$5,000 IN 52 WEEKS - Wanting to have an additional spending money for travel? Make it happen starting this January!