10 Benefits of Drinking Tea

     I've become an avid tea drinker since I realized there's more to tea than its relaxing aroma and that mild flavor that I've gotten used to.  A cup of tea holds more health benefits than you can imagine.  And since some of us are looking for ways to lead a healthier life, here are few of the reasons why tea should become part of our habit.

TEA HAS ANTIOXIDANTS  Tea has antioxidants which help boost our circulatory system letting blood flow properly to all our organs so they can function at its best.  Antioxidants also slow down the aging process, and it help cells to repair and regenerate.  Many studies suggest antioxidants also assist our bodies in preventing cancer.

Christmas in Manila!

     Hey guys!  A few more days and it's already Christmas!  As we look around, the world is undeniably bursting with the holiday spirit.  Malls are packed with shoppers and people are scurrying about happily talking about parties, gifts and other Christmas stuff.  Though this season isn't supposed to be superficial, we can't help but channel that Christmassy feeling through our gifts, delicious food, new clothes, new gadgets, cheerful outlook, forgiving feeling and the most visible of them all -- Christmas decors.

The Sky Garden at SM North Edsa.  Happy Holidays everybody!

     Homes and cities around the world are now sparkling with lights and the colorful Christmas decorations are giving exceptional cheerfulness and happy feeling into the air.  Cliche, but definitely true, right?  And so, here are some of the Christmas sights I've captured with my camera as The Pinoy Wanderer explores the city of Manila.

Benefits of Internet Marketing

      Over the years, people have become fully comfortable with the Internet and businesses have been quick to use this to their advantage.  Internet marketing, as one aspect of business, have utilized this trend so that companies and organizations, whether big or small, can reach its full potential.

     Internet Marketing (also known as web marketing, online marketing, or e-marketing) is defined by Wikipedia as the promotion of products or services over the Internet.  Let's face it, most people stay online -- and what's the best place to promote products but someplace where people hang out all the time, right?

In my opinion, here are the top three advantages of Internet Marketing:

Add ME on Facebook!

      Hey guys, what's up?

     It's been a busy weekend for The Pinoy Wanderer and I'm still trying to get my thoughts organized before I publish another post.  For the meantime, though it's absolutely not important, I'd like to let you know that I've made a new Facebook account specially reserved for new friends that I will meet through the Internet.  So, if you have Facebook and you would like us to be FRIENDS, don't hesitate to add me.

My FACEBOOK ACCOUNT.  Add me up!

     You can do it several ways:

1. Search for my account using my email:  mynameismyke@yahoo.com
2. Or go click this LINK and add me. 

      Easy, right?

     While you're at it and if it isn't too much to ask, do like my blog's Facebook page too.  I promise not to spam your timeline, will just be posting updates from my two blogs so my posts can get to you the soonest.  Here's the link to my blog's Facebook page:  http://facebook.com/yourlooktoday


     Hope to hear from you soon!

tags: The Pinoy Wanderer facebook page, Show Me Your Look Today facebook page

Ricky Lee and Amapola, the Book Launch

     After three years of hard work and occasionally waking up at 3AM, Ricky Lee's second novel was officially launched last Sunday, November 27, 2011 at the Skydome in SM North Edsa.  I'm grateful to be amidst the crowd who loudly applauded for Mr. Lee and warmly welcomed his new book.

Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata, Ricky Lee's second novel

     Hey guys!  The Pinoy Wanderer is back for the conclusion of my post about Ricky Lee and his new brainchild 'Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata.'  It was my first time to attend a book launch, and I was greatly surprised by how it was never boring and instead, really entertaining.  Read on to find out what transpired during the book launch.

Ricky Lee and Amapola

     Ricky Lee's second novel Si Amapola Sa 65 na Kabanata was officially launched yesterday, November 27, 2011, at the Skydome, SM North Edsa -- and I was there!

Ricky Lee, his pen is an extension of his brilliant mind.

Who is Ricky Lee?

ECommerce Solutions: The Business Solution

What is ECommerce?

     Electronic Commerce or ECommerce is defined as the buying and selling of products and services through the Internet or by any electronic means.  When we order pizza online, buy the newest phone through the manufacturer's website (before they even come out), or apply for a job vacancy over the Internet -- that's ECommerce.  Yep, we are active participants of this concept that has re-shaped the way people live and do business.

     Small and big business throughout the world has made ECommerce Solutions a part of their business plan because simply put, it is just the better way to do business.  Having an online portal where you display your products/services so potential customers can check and buy them at anytime they wish to -- is already an advantage against those who don't employ this technology.

Pacquiao-Marquez III

     On the third face off between the Filipino boxing icon Manny 'Pacman' Pacquaio and Juan Manuel Marquez of Mexico, the fighter from the Philippines emerged victorious via majority decision.

Photo courtesy of Chris Farina (Top Rank) from Manny Pacquaio's facebook page

      The fight held at MGM Grand in Las Vegas on November 12, 2011 lasted 12 rounds and was a tight match between the two opposing warriors.  It can be remembered that the first meeting between these two amazing boxers ended up in a draw in 2004.  Their second bout in 2008 was just as intense as the first though Pacman was the victor via split decision only because he was able to overpower Marquez on the third round.  The third and final face off held a promise from both boxers to settle all doubts on who is the better fighter.

Buko Lychee Salad

     For many of us, the up and coming Christmas season is one of the busiest and happiest of holidays.  It's a time for many things, among others, it's a time for delicious and yummy food and desserts!

     Hey folks, The Pinoy Wanderer is back to share one of the recipes I learned from our neighbor and probably an economical addition to the Noche Buena this Christmas Eve.

My version of Buko-Lychee Salad, got this recipe from the neighbor.
This dessert gives you more chance to enjoy the refreshing taste of buko
with the subtle but enjoyable taste of lychee.

      Read on to find out how to prepare this simple yet delectable dessert...

Pork and Mushroom in Sour Cream Pasta

     I discovered this recipe many many years back when my mom and I are finding a new way to cook our pasta for Christmas.  I did a few adjustments to the ingredients and it turned out quite well.  On my birthday month, I'd like to share with you this rich and creamy pasta recipe with a subtle kick of pineapple.

Pork and Mushroom in Sour Cream Pasta:  my version of pasta carbonara

      Here's how to prepare this yummy pasta recipe...

What's Your Scent?

     Our choice of scent should be a reflection of our personality.  That's why we gotta know ourselves first before investing in a brand that becomes our smell every time we present ourselves to the world.

How well do you know yourself?

     Hey guys!  The Pinoy Wanderer is back for the conclusion of the article Cologne or Perfume? which I posted a few days ago.  I will be sharing with you some of the tips I found on the Internet on how to choose the perfume that's right for us and how to properly apply them.  Also included in this post are some of the perfumes (or colognes) that I'm recently using as well as the favorites I've had in the past.

Cologne or Perfume?

     I used to have this idea that colognes are for men, and that perfumes are, well, for women.  Until I did a bit of research and realized that this is not exactly accurate. Somehow true but not that accurate. 

One of the perfumes I'm using at the moment...

Perfumes:  A Background

     According to Wikipedia, the word perfume is from the Latin per fumus meaning "through smoke."  Perfumery or the art of making perfumes began in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, and was further refined by the Romans and Persians.  Upon further reading, I found out that it was the French who developed this art into becoming an industry which remained steadfast until today.  Wiki further says that between the 16th and 17th century, perfumes were used primarily by the wealthy to mask body odors resulting from infrequent bathing.  Mmm, this last piece of trivia is interesting...

How to Cook Pork Siomai, The Pinoy Wanderer Style

     Earlier today, Jeb and I got hungry.  We've gotten tired of fast food but we're not that keen to spend much just to satisfy our hunger.  So, we decided to cook a dish that's a common favorite, economical and something that we haven't prepared before.  We decided to cook -- (drum roll please) -- pork siomai!

     Folks, this time, The Pinoy Wanderer will attempt to become a cook.  Disclaimer:  I can cook but I'm not really a cook.  I hope that made sense.  Besides, there's always Google, LOL!

A. Bichara Silverscreens Entertainment Center: A Review

     Going to the movies is one of the most effective ways to have fun even on the most boring day.  But what does it take to have a successful movie experience?  A few things actually:  a great movie (of course!), your favorite people (if you wanna tug along someone), your favorite snacks, AND! (putting on some heavy emphasis here) -- an excellent movie house.

tags: A. Bichara Silverscreens Cinema review

A. Bichara Silverscreens Entertainment Center
Magallanes corner T. Alonso St., 4500 Legazpi City, Philippines

     I was in Bicol from late March until third week of July and since there was nothing much to do at home, going to the movies on idle weekends has become one of my hobbies.  So folks, let me tell you about one of my favorite movie houses in the country and probably my most preferred cinema in the south.

Super Bowl Of China: A Review

     If I'm craving for Asian cuisine with a kick of Chinese, Super Bowl of China is one of the places that comes to mind.  And so while my brother is still on leave from work, we visited a Super Bowl of China branch located at The Atrium in Megamall. 

The Super Bowl Of China branch we visited
is located at the 4th Floor of The Atrium in Mega Mall.

     Super Bowl of China has a wide range of enjoyable dishes that has captured the Filipino taste through the years.  They offer soups & congee, dim sum (you definitely should try their dimsum platter), noodle dishes, rice & toppings, roasts, and main dishes of chicken, pork, beef, seafood and vegetables.  Of course they have the usual drinks, fruit shakes and desserts.

       We were a bit hungry so we decided to indulge a bit on our usual favorites.  Here's what we ordered.

Conti's Pastry Shop and Restaurant: A Review

     Even before putting up The Pinoy Wanderer, Conti's has been one of my favorite restaurants.  I will most certainly explore unfamiliar territories in the future but I also feel that it's a must to re-visit old places and confirm why they are my favorites.  And so yesterday, after attending the 5:00pm mass at The Chapel of the Eucharistic Lord, I had dinner with TL Nielsen at Conti's in Serendra.

The Conti's Pastry Shop & Restaurant we visited last October 16, 2011
is their branch located in Serendra, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Unlimited Coffee and Cakes at The Coffee Beanery

The Pinoy Wanderer is back to talk yet again about food.  But this time it's going to be about desserts.

The Coffee Beanery that we visited is located at the

5th Level of Shangri-la Plaza Mall in Edsa.

     After attending the 5:00pm mass last Sunday at the Chapel of the Eucharistic Lord, the three of us (Hannah, Jeb and myself) headed to Edsa Shangri-la to try out Cravings' unlimited coffee and cakes.  I've been to Cravings with some of my friends last month but we got there a bit late for the unlimited coffee and cakes promo.  (I talked about it on this post).  This time my siblings and I got there earlier so yeah, cakes -- here we come!

Dads Ultimate Merienda Buffet: A Review

     Food is an important aspect of our lives that reaches across continents, ages and cultural differences.  It is an overwhelming force whose presence we simply cannot ignore.  Whether it is to celebrate something joyous like an anniversary, a birthday or a job promotion... or to forget a heartbreak or even when we're just bored, guess what?  We EAT! 

     As proof of the introduction, since this blog was created barely a month ago and has published five posts, three of the posts talked about food and dining.  And now, The Pinoy Wanderer will yet again  indulge you to one of my favorite hang out places if you're looking for affordable yet truly enjoyable food.

Dads Ultimate Merienda Buffet - P169.00

Breakfast Buffet at Somethin' Fishy: A Review

      I am not a picky eater.  In fact, my taste buds are really easy to please.  I don't know much technicalities when it comes to food but nonetheless -- allow me to share some of my thoughts whenever I dine somewhere new.

     Earlier today, we went to Somethin' Fishy in Eastwood to try out their breakfast buffet.  Somethin' Fishy has breakfast buffet (P159.00), lunch buffet (P425.00 on weekdays and P525.00 on weekends) and dinner buffet (525.00).  Prices of course are subject to change.  The breakfast buffet, from what I read over the Internet, starts from 12:00 midnight up to 10 AM.  We got there almost 9AM because I woke up late. Boo, haha!

Somethin' Fishy is in Eastwood City Cyberpark, E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave.,

Bagumbayan, Libis, Quezon City

Game of Thrones (Season 1): A Review

     I avoid watching TV series as much as possible because I'm a bit impatient and -- I really don't see myself waiting for days just to find out what happens next in the story.  I'm a bit picky too when it comes to what I watch.  Even if people have good things to say about some shows they've seen, I rarely believe them until I've read some reputable reviews and unless I've seen it for myself.

     Yep, I'm not that hard to please when it comes to food (as I've mentioned on an earlier post) but I choose carefully what I feed my mind with what I read or -- what I watch.  So Imagine my surprise when I started watching Game of Thrones!  The pilot episode kept me on the edge of my seat and I can hardly contain my excitement as I went on to the succeeding episodes.  Among the many things that came to mind while watching the series was that I needed to share this with you guys.  And so, even if this post is tad late, please read on!

Let's Talk About Coffee

     I was not really a coffee lover though I grew up with parents drinking coffee over breakfast.  Those were the times when popular brands of instant coffee are bought in glasses and before you know it, you already have a dozen of them and you use these glasses to serve guests. LOL!

     When coffee shops sprouted like mushrooms all over Manila, they've become just too hard to ignore -- specially if they give options on how you can enjoy your coffee which is totally different from the way they used to be.

Cravings Restaurant: A Review

     Hey guys! Welcome to The Pinoy Wanderer's 2nd post!

     Yesterday, after attending the 6:30pm mass at the Chapel of the Eucharistic Lord in Atrium, Mega Mall, I went to Edsa Shangri-La to meet TL and Rye.  Both of them were mentioned on a post from the Show Me Your Look Today blog.  Anyway, Rye decided that we should check out Cravings' Unlimited Coffee and Cakes because he saw this on Jessica Soho's show and it looked promising.

THE PINOY WANDERER'S FIRST POST

     Hey guys, my name is Myke and I have been blogging for approximately a bit over a year now.  Blogging was actually my brother's idea to spend spare time productively.  But as I saw him struggle to make the first post and then eventually giving it all up -- I volunteered to help.  Thus, the site SHOW ME YOUR LOOK TODAY was put up last July 26, 2010.  Up to now, the site still exists and still gaining friends.

 
      Show Me Your Look Today is somehow a fashion blog where I feature myself and people who are close to me.  It does not really focus on how a person looks like nor does it discuss in detail his/her fashion sense, but it sees FASHION as one important aspect of life that we need to attend to at all circumstances.  There's no way I will discuss how someone dresses poorly or inappropriately, but I do highlight a person's attitude or character that somehow makes one more attractive, more amusing, and more interesting -- over and above his/her personal style.