CAFE 's THE PARISIAN WAY

Before the emergence of Starbucks and Seattle's Best... the Streets of Paris have been the original place for authentic street cafe's.

Parisian cafés serve as a function of social and culinary life of the Paris.  They have been around for centuries in one form or another, the oldest one still in operation is "Café Procope" on Rue Buci, since 1686.

Paris cafes are the meeting place , the neighborhood hub, the conversation matrix, the rendez-vous spot, the networking source,a place to relax or to refuel, the social and political pulse of the city. 

The café business sometimes doubles as a “bureau de tabac”, a sidekick tobacco shop that can sell you everything from metro tickets to prepaid phone cards.

Typical Paris cafés are not “coffee shops”. They generally come with a complete kitchen offering a restaurant menu with meals for any time of the day, a full bar and even a wine selection.

Paris cafés crystallize the quintessential Parisian way of sitting undisturbed for a couple of hours, delightfully watching the world go by. Some of the most recognizable Paris cafés include Cafe de la Piax, Les Deux Magots, Cafe de Flore, Le Fouquets, Le Deauville , and many more.

Whenever you are in Paris try out one of these :

	Café de Flore  - +33 1 45 48 55 26 -		Café Marly  33 1 49 26 06 60 -
	Café des Deux Magots  +33 1 45 48 55 25 -
	Cafe Charbon  +33 1 43 57 55 13
	Le Marceau - +33 1 47 20 01 95
	Brasserie Lipp  +33 1 45 48 53 91 -
	L'Arbuci   +33 1 44 32 16 00 -
	Giorgio Armani France - +33 1 45 48 62 15 -
	De la Ville Café +33 1 48 24 48 09 -

EUROPEAN STREET FASHION : PARIS OVERVIEW

Paris Street Styles 

Paris, France - the city's youth and their sociocultural competitive fashions and trendsetters drives have been fully engage in setting the stage for future fashion creations . 


After years of hearing about Tokyo Street Fashions dominating and absorbing more and more of the European youth market inspired - once again - this is now the recent revolution in teen styles.

To nobodys surprise this has triggered a reaction with teens in Milan and they are gearing up as they gather more inspiration from their Parisian pals. Outsiders are unaware of the growing European wide networking of dating behavior as the power of the Euro currency assist greater freedoms and options.

Many here still used to think Parisian are all dressed-up, as if they have just went down the catwalk/ runway. Nonetheless, as many American expatriots are now writting back home and in their blogs, and are discussing in their variouis meetups within Paris itself. They now see the Parisians as being more simplified but still with that look of sophistication which makes the European distinction, IE. the way in which scarfs are draped over one's shoulder, in everything which exist with their visual view of fashions consciusness in seeing whats happening. They in turn similarly dressed out in Parisian Street Styles when returning home and noticed immediately heads being turned towards their direction.

To be dressed like millions of Europeans - each in his or her way has caused instant celeb status.  Its the 1920s all over again and both returning Americans and European youth culture, there are people who really wants keep up with the latest fashion trends and wear only what is being written about in both Paris and Milan who wear inexpensive brands which this new  style trend has created and don't care about the caprices of vogue. This is revolutionary, and now youth trendsetting as well-hopefully to socioculturally transcend over the Atlantic within the near future.

I see a bright future in the discovery of artistic expressions everywhere as the European youth in Paris explore fashion possibilities without necessarily depending on a certain logo or famous brand.

Fashion Evolution Seen Right On the Streets . Fashion As a Lifestyle As it Should Be. 

LOCO OVER LEATHER : Hermès Fever

What Makes  Hermès  The Most Coveted Accessory

 Of All Times ?

Hermès despite the increasing progress in technology stays true to it's vision in making sure every piece of accessory from Hermès is an expression of ART in only the purest form and function.

Leather has been the cornerstone of Hermès’s oevre for almost two centuries. Little wonder then, that the French luxury brand is dedicating a whole exhibition to the material, making its long-standing love affair the focal point of the aptly-named ‘Leather Forever’.  

Hermès turns 175 this year. And with Britain having much to celebrate – thanks to the Olympics and the Queen’s Jubilee – debuting ‘Leather Forever’ in London was the brand’s own canny way of joining in on the cultural celebrations.

Hermès stays true to their vision of making every single piece of  accessory an expression of art. Thus, regardless of the changing times and availability of machines replacing  leather craftsmen ,  Hermès  remains uncompromising . 

Leather and craft is our essence and our identity’, said Chief Operating Officer Axel Dumas at the opening. Case in point, an on-site workshop – framed by a wall piled high with the brand’s iconic orange boxes – housing craftspeople from the Hermès workshops in Paris, who are on-hand to demonstrate the brand’s intricate leather-working process.  

The exhibition has been sensitively designed by Alexandra Plat, who has created an ultimate fantasy world of leather, filled with surreal touches such as a sunset-lit ‘desert’ flanked by a sandy floor - a tented display of travel-related accessories taking centre-stage. A viewing station, equipped with glittering silver opera binoculars, taunts the viewer's line of vision towards a giant neon Kelly bag, filled with different variations of the brand’s iconic bags through the years.

The Leather Forever Exhibition in London which showcases the Fashion Evolution of  Hermès  is simply a Fashion Education in It's Truest Form. One cannot simply be awed by the equestrian-themed room of the Hermès 'Leather Forever' 
exhibition.

The French luxury brand is dedicating a whole exhibition to the material, making its long-standing love affair the focal point of the aptly-named ‘Leather Forever’

The exhibition has been sensitively designed by Alexandra Plat, who has created an ultimate fantasy world of leather. Upon entering, the visitor is greeted by this 'library of skins'

In one  room, an on-site workshop houses craftspeople from the Hermès workshops in Paris, who demonstrate the brand’s intricate leather-working process. The exhibition is awash with evocative touches, such as a sunset-lit ‘desert’ flanked by a sandy floor - a tented display of travel-related accessories taking centre-stage 

A viewing station, equipped with glittering silver opera binoculars, taunts the viewer's line of vision towards a giant neon Kelly bag filled with different variations of the brand’s iconic bags through the years

Pointing visitors towards the entrance of the exhibition is 'Zouzou' the rhinoceros in white ostrich skin, created by Leïla Menchari for the windows of the 24, Faubourg Saint-Honoré store in Paris


Taking centre-stage in the room entitled 'When dreams become reality' is this multicoloured, winged saddle, made at the Hermès Sellerie workshop

Leather has been the cornerstone of Hermès’s oevre for almost two centuries

Ending the exhibition journey is a sumptuous stage curtain, which opens up to reveal four one-of-a-kind versions of the 'Passe-Guide' bag. Created specially for ‘Leather Forever’, the bags will be auctioned for charity with Christie’s .

But the most playful message has been saved for last. In a room containing a toy theatre, a sumptuous red and gold stage curtain opens and closes dramatically. Revealed, are four one-of-a-kind versions of the 'Passe-Guide' bag. Paraded one after the other in rotating fashion, the bags are magically swapped as the curtain closes and then opens. Created specially for ‘Leather Forever’, the bags will be auctioned for charity with Christie’s.

A Hermès accessory... is every woman's ultimate fashion dream come to reality...

Hermès.. Every  leather artisan and craftsman's vision of art expressed visually.

Quality Uncompromised. Artistic Vision Realized.  

A Filipino Culinary Afficionado Known Simply As Tito Chef

A Filipino Culinary Afficionado  Known Simply As Tito Chef

I take ultimate joy in finding dining places yet undiscovered.

I love speaking to Filipino Chefs on the rise to the fulfillment of their passion in everything gastronomically exciting.

So when I saw Tito Chef Restaurant opening in the South I told myself this one I will surely try. 

My best dates came with me : my munchkins Nicolas and Sabina and off the three of us went to an exciting bonding time... dinner !

The exteriors are well lit from the outside . Interiors were in basic white and earthy colors accentuated with paintings of  International Filipino artist Frederick Epistola.  He makes me so proud I am Filipino. The paintings add to my enlightenment of the visual senses too.

Then as always when trying out new places, came the most difficult part, is the cuisine selection . This is a challenge specially to my kids who are very picky for food  but are already at the age where they enjoy good food themselves.

Nicolas chose Pan Fried Sole ( P 235 ) delicious looking fish fillet in butter and garlic rice. 

To my amazement my son Nicolas, who has been introduced to challenging dishes since he was a kid never seem to compliment food easily ,  ( A food critic indeed at his age )  said it was delicious. So I tasted it myself. The fillet was cooked well with the butter not overwhelming and  the herbs add a certain kick to the flavor. I must say yes it reminds me of the same dish I tried  in a 5 star hotel in Vegas. 

My daughter Sabina tried the Barbecued Pork Spare Ribs (P280 ) and I must say the pork is sweet and tender with just the right amount of fat and pork meat . A comfort food with a twist. Something that reminds you of your mom's home made cooking presented in a more refined manner that suits a demanding clientele.

I personally loved the Cedar Grilled Salmon P375. A lot of times I have ordered salmon and have been disappointed in many restaurants  I have tried. Yes, finally I must say this one is a best seller  to come ( if not yet one ). The taste of combined sweetness and  saltiness with the burnt crispy pieces from the expert grilling process was simply a savory delight. 

The place allows you to enjoy food presented in a fine dining way , but with a bonus of allowing you  the flexibility of wearing only your casual best. 

There is a wide variety of dishes to choose from. Soups and Appetizers cost between 

P 120 - P260 with choices from Aubergine Cappuccino to Calamari with Kimchi mayonnaise. Entrees selection can suit every preference from Seafood, Poultry , Meats  Pasta and Sandwiches with prices ranging from P 195 to P795 ( Steaks ) . 

And a fine place to dine cannot exist without great wine. They have Merlot, Shiraz Cabarnet, Montepulciano to name but a few.

But nothing makes my heart beat faster than the desserts.... Chocolate Citrus Gateau, La Opera, Banoffee Pie, Nutella Sansrival ...ohhhh la lah.... desserts that melts in your mouth and brings you to heaven.

Prices Range from P 95- P165 per slice. A slice so sinful it keeps you craving for more.

Personally meeting Chef Menoy Gimenez was an added bonus. Tito Chef Restaurant is the brainchild of Chef Menoy Gimenez and his culinary team. Fondly called "Tito Chef" by his nephew, Chef Menoy decided to name his neighborhood restaurant after that, set it downsouth Manila.

The place is complete with a culinary store, wine repository and an alternative art gallery. With a progressive bistro menu, there surely is something for everybody-- starters to share, generously portioned entrees, specialty pastas and delectable classic desserts.

What else do you need for a great wine and dine experience that is not painful to the budget ?

I strongly recommend this place located at  President's Avenue, corner Adelfa Street, Parañaque City, Philippines, 1700  with Contact Number : 6328425577.

Chef Menoy Gimenez

I will not be surprised if this restaurant expands soon in various locations. 

I am excited to see  their vision of opening a Culinary School in the South with Chef Menoy Gimenez behind it. After all he has also contributed a lot in mentoring budding chefs at CCA. 

If you are the type who enjoys great visual food presentation which will not disappoint your taste buds nor create such a drastic pinch to your  wallets.... THIS IS THE PLACE TO GO.

CRAZY OVER MILAN OUTLET SHOPS

CRAZY OVER MILAN OUTLET SHOPS 

Whether you're looking for Gucci, Prada, or Versace, when it comes to designer outlets, there are so many to choose from.


Try out  Salvagente, which means "life-saver" in Italian, and is at 16, Via Bronzetti (tel: 02 76110328, www.salvagentemilano.it). As well as offerings from Prada, Armani, Alberta Ferretti and other top names, there are keenly-priced boutique-level clothes, including trousers, skirts, dresses, and sweaters. Also handbags, shoes, belts, and scarves. 

A small men's department too. The end-of-season sales (end December and early-July) are great: 20% or 30% discount rising to 50% or 60% off until everything is cleared. You can spend the equivalent of $50 and come out with three or four items. To get there, take the 60 bus. This links the Duomo with the central Station, and vice-versa of course. Get off in Via Bronzetti at the stop nearest the corner with Via Archimede. Finding the place can pose a bit of a challenge. If you are coming from the direction of the station, just after the bus-shelter, and before you reach the hairdressers, you will see a green iron gate with a bronze sign on it that says (surprise, surprise) Salvagente. This tells you that the place is open 10.00-12.30, and then 15.00-19.00 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, you can shop right the way through from 10.00 to 19.00. As with many stores in Italy, Salvagente is closed Sunday and Monday morning. Note that they take cash only. Don't despair, there is an ATM at the bank after the aforementioned hairdressers, on the corner with Via Archimede.


TO NAME A FEW : 


Prada outlet at Montevarchi (tel: 055 91901; www.prada.it),  Some 35 km from both Florence and Arezzo, The Mall is at Reggello and features Gucci, Loro Piana, Sergio Rossi, Armani, and Bottega Veneta. Open 10.00 to 19.00, Mon-Sat; also Sundays in summer. By car, just take the A1 southbound from Florence, turn off at Incisa, and then head for Leccio on the road to Pontassieve. Alternatively there's a shuttle bus service from Florence. For details, call 055 8657775, fax: 055 8657801.


Salvagente : you will surely find something you like here.

Via Bronzetti 16, Milano - Tel. 02 76110328

Ciovassino Fashion Discount :, classic, high fashion designers such as Givenchy, Yves Saint Laurent, Marco Cavallo, Sonia Rikyel.
Via Ciovassino 3, Milano - Tel. 02 89012294
Open 10am – 7pm closed Monday



Bruno Magli : Via Manzoni 14, Milano - Tel. 02 781264
Tuesday- Saturday 10am -7pm, Mondays 3pm- 7pm



Vestistock : stocks designers like Prada, Armani, D&G, Ralph Lauren, Valentino and Iceberg.
Piazzale Lavater, corner of Via Ramazzini 11,Milano - Tel. 02 29514497


El Dorado Stock House : constantly changing it's stock, for men and women. Some designers

like Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino, and Costume National can be found.
Via Montenapoleone, 26 - Tel. 02 76006027
Open 9:30am - 7:30pm

ENJOY EUROPE.. BUT BE SMART IN YOUR SHOPPING TOO.

THIS THING CALLED CANCER .....

This Thing Called Cancer ...

We all know and hear someone suffering from cancer...

But only when a loved one close to us suffers this do we truly pay attention.

Statistics : Every hour 4 Filipinos die of cancer.

Six women die of cervical or breast cancer everyday.

Awareness and Key is the Solution.

"Everything was like every second...the moment pain struck and I found out I had cancer I was never the same.." -- A Cancer Warrior

WHEN ORDER BECOMES DISORDER FAST

Discovery of someone that he/she has cancer is equivalent to stillness of everything.Numbness in the discovery itself is not only painful for the cancer victim but to all close to that person.

What was once a life of order suddenly becomes chaotic in uncertainty. Doubts overwhelm..."Do I survive ? " " What are the options ?" " Can we afford this ?" Are but a few questions that invade one's mind...

Fear envelops and one asks : " Why ME GOD ?" 

SLOW ACCEPTANCE

Cancer patients that have spiritual support and overwhelming love given by family are helped tremendously.

Only when acceptance that GOD IS IN CONTROL ..will the doubts fade. Acceptance that our life is limited physically eases the pain of family members and make the journey for healing be full of discoveries and triumphs too.

THE BEST WAY TO FIGHT CANCER IS NOT TO LET IT DESTROY THE QUALITY OF LIFE & TIME REMAINING .

CANCER CANNOT KILL YOUR SPIRIT UNLESS YOU ALLOW IT.

The More you shut God away the more miserable you will be. 

FOR GOD IS IN CHARGE SO ALLOW HIM to MOVE IN YOUR LIFE. After all this life is borrowed is it not ?

STRENGTHENED BY PAIN

The pain of sickness that tears us apart can also bring us together. For the pain  brings every loved one together in unity.

CANCER CANNOT KILL THE LOVE YOU HAVE FOR EACH OTHER. So do not waste time with regrets. Every second matter..spend it with the most important people in your life.

Gone were the questions of WHY ME ? Instead responding positively to it changes everything.

One life you have. Live it well or waste it even more ?

LAUGH MORE. LIVE WELL. LOVE EVEN MORE.

Medications, therapies and research all varies. But the greatest medicine of all IS LOVE..

Show a cancer patient how he/she is deeply loved every single moment you can.

HOPEFUL IN PRAYER 

The Journey is Long and Filled With Hope and Doubts. Amidst all there are no certain answers.

Only ONE THING I AM SURE OF ..THIS THING CALLED CANCER is SMALL COMPARED TO OUR GOD !!!

Let Us Pray For Every Cancer Warrior.

CANCER IS SO LIMITED

IT CANNOT CRIPPLE LOVE

IT CANNOT SHATTER HOPE

IT CANNOT ERODE FAITH

IT CANNOT EAT AWAY PEACE

IT CANNOT DESTROY CONFIDENCE

IT CANNOT KILL FRIENDSHIP

IT CANNOT SHUT OUT MEMORIES

IT CANNOT SILENCE COURAGE

IT CANNOT INVADE THE SOUL

IT CANNOT REDUCE ETERNAL LIFE

IT CANNOT QUENCH THE SPIRIT 

IT CANNOT LESSEN THE POWER OF RESURRECTION

--Anonymous

GET EVEN SEXIER

SEXY IS NOT ONLY ABOUT THE CURVES...

... BEING SEXY STARTS WITH THE RIGHT ATTITUDE ...