Seda Nuvali Tower 2: Escape from the Ordinary

Every year, my partner and I uphold the tradition of celebrating the holiday season either at a hotel or abroad. This year, we've decided to opt for a staycation just outside Manila, seeking a more private and serene atmosphere. 

Last week, we were invited to experience a staycation at Seda Hotel Nuvali. Our time there was nothing short of extraordinary; the hotel offered perfection in every aspect, from delectable cuisine to top-notch amenities, including a convenient gym on the second floor. 

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the hotel provides opportunities to feed fish or take a boat ride in Nuvali.  Additionally, Solenad mall offers further exploration for those looking to add a touch of retail therapy to their stay.

As the holiday season unfurls its tapestry of twinkling lights, joyous melodies, and the anticipation of festive gatherings, families begin their search for that perfect getaway to celebrate these special moments.

In this search for a holiday haven, Seda Nuvali is one captivating destination, offering a blend of serene natural beauty and luxurious comfort. 

Nestled in a lush landscape yet brimming with modern amenities, it’s a place where holiday dreams find their home, and the spirit of the season comes alive in every corner.

At Seda Nuvali, every aspect of your stay is crafted with families in mind. From the spacious family suites that provide a home away from home, to the engaging activities and facilities that delight every age, there's something for everyone. The children can revel in the play areas while adults unwind by the pool or explore the local scenery. 

Executive Suite

Family Suite

As the festive season deepens, Seda Nuvali transforms into a wonderland of holiday cheer, creating an atmosphere where families can bond, celebrate, and create unforgettable memories against the backdrop of this picturesque retreat.

Step into a world where relaxation and productivity seamlessly blended at Seda Nuvali's newly opened Tower 2, a home of comfort and style, designed to cater to the discerning needs of both leisure and business travelers. Nestled amidst the tranquility of Nuvali's lush greenery, this Hotel redefines the boundaries between work and play, creating a sanctuary where productivity and pleasure converge.

Escape from the Ordinary

 

Seda Nuvali is a getaway like no other.  With the upgraded transportation networks, the escape from the fast-paced life of Metro Manila is just an hour away. It's a journey that leads to a realm of satisfaction and style, tailor-made to cater to the discerning needs of both the leisure and business travelers.

 

The hotel’s 2nd tower offers endless possibilities, where you can embrace relaxation and productivity in harmony. The newly added suites cater from business travelers who prefer the luxury of space or for local guests who would love to stay together with their family members.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lou Sv (@lemongreenteaph)

The Suite and Executive Suite are ideal for those who would like to have a separate living area from the bedroom such as top executives on business travel, or for couples who are preparing for their wedding day. 

The Family Suite on the other hand, features a master’s bedroom, a separate children's room designed with bunk beds, and a spacious living area, excellent for families seeking for extended getaways. Soon-to-open is the Seda Suite located at the top most floor giving you abundance of space with a full-sized living and dining areas while delighting in the magnificent view of the man-made lake.

Families and friends can also indulge in a resort-like staycation, taking a dip in the child-friendly swimming pools, a great Pool Bar experience while enjoying the sunset, and exploring the expanded children's playroom and game room complete with updated consoles and computer stations.

A Haven for Work and Play

For the business traveler, the co-working space on the 9th floor of Tower 1 offering a 4-hour and 8-hour use, is the best spot for focused work, equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and a delightful array of snacks and refreshments. It's where productivity meets relaxation, giving a true "work from paradise" experience.  

The Narra Ballroom, designed to host up to 400 guests, is a spacious venue for corporate events and social gatherings. Our events specialists will ensure a smooth conduct of events from start to finish.

Misto Café, Seda Nuvali's latest offering, is a delightful to-go destination. It's perfect for guests on-the-go, offering freshly baked pastries, home-blend refreshments, and delectable cakes. For a more substantial meal, treat yourself to Misto restaurant with a variety of ala carte dishes or carefully crafted Filipino Bundles, featuring 3 different menu sets with a variety of traditional and Filipino dishes such as Kare-kare, Pinakbet, Crispy Tadyang, Pancit Canton and Seafood Bicol Express. All these are paired with steaming hot rice and iced tea, all for only PHP 3,200 net good for 5 persons.  

Armand Angeles, General Manager of Seda Nuvali said, "As we unveil Seda Nuvali Tower 2, we take great pride in introducing a new chapter in our commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences,” He adds, “Our Lifestyle Hotel concept is redefining the boundaries between leisure and business, creating a space where every guest can seamlessly transition from work to play and back again. Our aim is to offer a sanctuary where tranquility, productivity, and the local charm converge. We look forward to welcoming guests to this remarkable destination in the heart of Nuvali, where every moment becomes an opportunity to craft cherished memories." 

Seda, which means "silk," symbolizes the brand's commitment to providing a fluid and captivating accommodation experience. Notably, Seda holds the distinction of being the first Filipino hotel chain in Asia to achieve the esteemed "Customer Gold Service Property" (CGSP) certification from the American Hotels and Lodging Educational Institute, reaffirming its dedication to upholding global standards of excellence in service and hospitality.

Additional Exciting Offers

As the holidays approach, Seda Nuvali is offering up a few treats for its guests, whether they are visiting for a work-cation, raring for some excitement with the family, or just simply looking to spend some quality time under the sun. 

Nuvali EK-sperience: Book a magical staycation for as low as PHP 7,300 net and get 2 regular day passes to Enchanted Kingdom. This exclusive offer includes a stay in a Deluxe Room, 2 regular day passes to Enchanted Kingdom, and complimentary breakfast. Available until December 28, 2023.

Pre-Holiday Getaway: Treat your loved ones to a day of relaxation and tranquility. For as low as Php 5,500 net, breathe in the cool breeze at Seda NUVALI and create heartfelt memories in our newest amenities and facilities.

Coffee-nectivity: Enjoy three hours of unlimited coffee, tea, and pastries for only PHP 275 net (brewed coffee and hot tea) or PHP 300 net (espresso and chocolate drinks, hot or iced). Available until December 31, 2023 from 2:00 to 5:00 PM.

Filipino Bundles: Bring your family and friends to Misto and enjoy your favorite Filipino dishes for your next heartfelt bondings.

Php 3,200 | Good for 5 persons

All platters come with iced-tea and steamed rice

Artisanal Honey-Glazed Ham: Celebrate gift giving with Misto’s signature cured ham with sweet-savory flavor, tender-crisp meat and glazed with authentic Palawan honey for only 

Php 1,700 net (1KG).

Baker’s Corner: Choose from a mix of freshly baked indulgences made with all natural ingredients consciously curated, making your holidays extra sweet and cozy.   

Festive Season Buffet: Spend an unforgettable Christmas feast at Seda NUVALI featuring fiery flavors starting from international favorites to local classics.

Christmas Eve Dinner | Php 2,700 net per person 

Christmas Day Feast   | Rates start at Php 1,899 net per person

New Year’s Buffet: Welcome the brand-new year with happy tummies and high spirits. Dine at Seda NUVALI’s Narra ballroom bathed in gleaming lights and colorful variety of premium food selections paired with live band performances.

New Year’s Eve Dinner | Php 2,900 net per person 

New Year’s Countdown Dinner | Rates start at Php 1,800 net per person

New Year Lunch | Php 1,899 net per person

The opening of Seda Nuvali Tower 2 introduces an elevated concept of B-Leisure, where business and leisure are seamlessly intertwined, offering you an unforgettable experience in the heart of the dynamic Nuvali community. It's a place where tranquility and productivity merge effortlessly, and every moment is an opportunity to create cherished memories.

Situated at the epicenter of business and commercial districts, Seda Nuvali embodies the essence of Seda Hotels, offering a seamless weave of service excellence, exceptional value, and exciting destinations, crafting an exceptional hospitality experience for its guests. This expansion is a testament to Seda's dedication to continually redefine the art of hospitality.

AirAsia Philippines advices guests to enroll Fast Pass for seamless travel during the holiday rush

AirAsia Philippines, Asia’s leading Low-Cost Airline, is advising its guests to prepare for the Christmas and New Year holiday rush by planning their travel itineraries and baggage bundles together for greater convenience.

Aside from packing light and having only the essentials, AirAsia is encouraging its guests to avail of the AirAsia Fast Pass which offers guests a dedicated check-in counter, priority boarding, and extra hand-carry baggage of up to 14 kg. 

“This is perfect especially for those who are always on the go and are conscious of their time. Fast Pass will allow guests to skip long queues and give them the liberty to bring all necessary items as long as it is within the allowable limit. This is also essential for those who are bringing pasalubong for the holidays,” AirAsia Country Head for Communications and Public Affairs, First Officer Steve Dailisan shared. 

Meanwhile, AirAsia Philippines remains confident that bookings towards the end of the year will continue to observe an uptick despite the Civil Aeronautics Board’s (CAB) decision to retain the Fuel Surcharge at Level 7 for the month of December.

A Level 7 fuel surcharge will mean that passengers traveling next month will be charged a fuel surcharge between Php219 to Php708 for domestic flights and from Php722.71 to Php1,124.26 for international flights, depending on the distance. 

“While fuel prices remain volatile, AirAsia will stay committed to offering best value deals not only for flights but also for hotels, rides and other products offered via airasia Move (formerly airasia Superapp). We encourage our guests to plan their travels ahead to save on cost and optimize their budget”, Dailisan added.

Asia’s Leading Low-Cost Airline is cushioning the effect of fuel prices though the offering of promos such as the Go Go Go Holideals which offers PHP 91 one-way base fare for domestic and international flights booked until 26 November for travels until 30 April 2024.

AirAsia Philippines also advises its guests to download the airasia move for faster online check-in and maximize the self check-in kiosks at the airport. Asia’s Leading Low-Cost Airline is also advising its guests to regularly visit the airasia fly safe page, airasia newsroom, and airasia Super App social media platforms Facebook and Twitter for flight schedules and other travel advisories.  

Kuya J brings a delectable array of dishes perfect for celebrating the Holiday season

 

Christmas is just around the corner and Kuya J is excited to share our festive Christmas

activities for everyone to enjoy.

 

Elevating the Filipino dining experience to new heights, Kuya J brings a delectable array

of dishes perfect for celebrating the season of giving with your family and friends.

 

“We are thrilled to introduce our festive Christmas menu at Kuya J, celebrating the

warmth and joy of Filipino traditions. Christmas is always a very special time for many

Filipinos and it’s best celebrated with loved ones”, said Kuya J Group President Mr.

Winglip Chang. “That’s why we at Kuya J decided to make celebrations even more

special with our new offers crafted to give everyone a nostalgic taste of Paskong Pinoy.”

Crispy Pata with Pineapple Brown Sauce (SRP P1,299)

Indulge in the crispy and meaty perfection of Kuya J's best-tasting Crispy Pata with a

luscious pineapple brown sauce and garnished with succulent pineapple slices — every

bite tastes like Christmas! This dish is a celebration of flavors that will leave your taste

buds dancing with delight.

Cheesy Bibingka with Salted Egg (SRP P139)

Experience SImbang Gabi feels with Kuya J's Cheesy Bibingka, now made even more

special with the addition of salted egg. Each bite is filled with fluffy rice cake topped

with the salty-sweet combination of salted egg, cheese, and traditional latik.

 

Kuya J Christmas Bundle (SRP P2,799)

For the ultimate Christmas feast, Kuya J presents the Christmas Bundle, a gastronomic ensemble that includes the new Crispy Pata with Pineapple Brown Sauce, crispy Patis Chicken Skin as an appetizer, flavorful Squid Sisig, satisfying Sotanghon, four pieces of

Cheesy Bibingka with Salted Egg, a rice platter, and a pitcher of iced tea. Each bundle is good for four to five persons.These mouthwatering Christmas dishes will be officially launched on November 15,2023 and will be available for your enjoyment through dine-in, take-out, and delivery via www.central.ph/eats, Grab Food, and Foodpanda.

 

Share the joy, spread the love, and make this Christmas an unforgettable culinary experience with us and indulge in the magic of Christmas Masaya at Kuya J.

 

Join the excitement online and share your Kuya J experience by tagging us at @KuyaJRestaurant and by using the official hashtags: #KuyaJ #KuyaJNewDish #ChristmasMasayasaKuyaJ #KuyaJHoliday.

 

Want to have your own Kuya J Restaurant? If you're interested in joining the Kuya J family, feel free to contact us directly at franchise@kuyaj.ph. We’d love to have you onboard!

BPI adopts digital-first HR with its partnership with Darwinbox

Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), the country’s pioneering bank, adopts digital-first HR with its partnership with Darwinbox, Asia’s leading Human Resource Management System (HRMS) provider. With a legacy spanning over 170 years, BPI has enhanced its employee experience and streamlined HR processes for its 18,000-strong workforce, covering a diverse range of banking services.

BPI has leveraged Darwinbox’s technology platform to enhance employee experience, streamlining every phase of the employee’s journey, from the onboarding process to retirement. Dubbed as Real-time HR Express Assist or RHEA, BPI employees now have access to a one-stop-shop solution for all their HR needs, including Time & Attendance, Performance Management, Recruitment & Onboarding, issue resolution through Helpdesk, and employee engagement via Vibe, Darwinbox’s integrated social network for businesses. 

(L-R) Gina Eala, BPI Chief Human Resources Officer; TG Limcaoco, BPI President and CEO; Jayant Paleti, Darwinbox Co-founder; and Sasank Raavi, Darwinbox Country Manager-Philippines.

“We continue to reinforce our value of being customer obsessed to give the best solutions not only to our customers but also to our people. Our partnership with Darwinbox marks a significant milestone in our ongoing journey to enhance the employee experience at BPI. With RHEA, we hope to empower our employees to achieve and do more as we continue to pursue our vision to build a better Philippines – one family, one community at a time,” said Maria Virginia “Gina” Eala, BPI Chief Human Resources Officer.

The first phase of the digital HR transformation went live as scheduled, an achievement that the BPI team found particularly noteworthy. In less than a year, the project team implemented modules from hire-to-retire that enable, empower, and engage Unibankers in creating memorable moments.

Mobile accessibility is one of the key features of RHEA, ensuring that every employee, including those working in branches, can access HR services anytime. “Having RHEA available through mobile phones ensures the platforms’ accessibility and user-friendliness for our entire workforce while upholding the highest level of security and flexibility,” remarked Eala. She further added, “Our most valuable assets are our employees, which is why we prioritize their holistic well-being to boost their productivity in the workplace.”

BPI employees have the opportunity to experience RHEA, BPI’s new platform that serves as a one-stop-shop for all their HR needs. 

“BPI is a pillar of the Philippines’ banking industry, setting standards for over a century with its innovative mindset, a trait we wholeheartedly share. We are proud to be part of the bank’s digitalization journey. Together, we are transforming the employee experience of more than 18,000 people across the nation. It is a massive undertaking, and we are happy to be the bank’s trusted HRMS partner,” shared Jayant Paleti, Darwinbox Co-founder.

“It takes crystal clear vision from the leadership to take on a project of this magnitude, and it’s been nothing short of a joy working with the BPI team on this. Transforming HR at an organization with such scale and legacy was a very rewarding challenge. We are happy to be part of BPI’s mission to build a better Philippines,” added Sasank Raavi, Darwinbox Country Manager-Philippines.

BPI’s collaboration with Darwinbox represents a significant leap in its journey to modernize HR operations and provide an enhanced employee experience for its dedicated workforce.

#KasamaSaBestLife Pro Tip is to take care of yourself

Self-care has become a popular topic these days, both online and offline. Grind culture may be a thing, but more people realize that taking a break, healing, and ensuring you're okay are important in achieving your goals and being the best you can be.

 

People usually think of self-care as something luxurious and fancy. But it's just about doing things that make you feel good and healthy daily. This could be anything from working out to taking a nap or relaxing. Self-care includes all aspects of your health- physical, mental, and emotional.

 

Taking care of yourself is important; Southstar Drug and Maxicare know it well. They're health and wellness champions and want you to have a self-care plan. This way, you can learn what your body wants and needs, what it's good at, and what it's not. Having a plan means being proactive in caring for yourself and staying on top of your health.

According to life coach and clinical inner-child therapist Saps Uttam, prioritizing your health is the ultimate form of self-love and self-respect. “Your health should be your top priority. It becomes easier to maintain healthy habits and stay motivated to continue a healthier lifestyle when you prioritize self-care,” she says.

 

Dr. Art C. Libao, Chief Medical Officer of Maxicare, also agrees that taking precautionary measures to prevent an illness is far better than treating it. “Regular exercise, a healthy diet, relaxation techniques, and regular check-ups are all superior to maintenance medications. Poorly managed blood pressure can lead to complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and other life-threatening conditions, but these risks can be reduced through healthy lifestyle choices,” he points out.

 

Building a self-care plan

Now that you understand the importance of self-care, it's time to start building your plan. Take a moment to reflect on your current habits and assess how they affect your overall health. Consider all aspects of your well-being and identify areas that need improvement. From there, commit to adding more healthy habits to your daily routine, such as eating more vegetables and relaxing activities to help manage stress.

 

As you embark on your self-care journey, you may face challenges that could disrupt your progress. These could include poor time management, limited resources, and unexpected life events. Ensure you're always prepared by listing potential scenarios and planning how to handle them. Consistency is key in maintaining your self-care plan, but remember to take it at your own pace, one day at a time.

 

“Love and have compassion for yourself. This journey starts with you because you matter and are worth it. Once you show up for yourself, being there for others will come naturally. There is nothing more meaningful in this world than helping others. Always remember that it all starts with you," Uttam emphasizes.

 

Southstar Drug and Maxicare have joined forces to hold the 12th edition of Run for Wellness to support consumers in their journey toward a healthier and happier life. This running event aims to promote physical health and mental well-being among Filipinos. The two legs of Run for Wellness, held in Quezon City and Naga City, have attracted over 7,000 participants, including seasoned runners, beginners, kids, families, and individuals from various backgrounds who have taken the first step towards living their best lives.

 

Dr. Libao says running can positively impact health by strengthening the heart, improving blood circulation, and helping create healthier habits.

 

“Regular exercise has been shown to lower the stress hormone, which may explain why people often feel better after playing tennis, golf, or brisk walking. It stimulates the release of endorphins, boosting positive feelings that can encourage individuals to continue exercising,” he says.

 

By offering extensive health essentials and world-class health services, Southstar Drug and Maxicare aim to be reliable companions, "Kasama sa Best Life," for Filipinos. Visit southstardrug.com.ph and maxicare.com.ph to know more. 

Shop the perfect gift for you and your loved ones at Robinsons Department Store

The holidays are all about treating our loved ones and ourselves. As Christmas nears, many have started ticking off items on their gift shopping lists, making sure that they find the perfect presents. These can range from stylish clothing and shoes to useful home items.

 

In the spirit of bringing joy to all, Robinsons Department Store opened its doors for holiday shopping with its Holiday Collection. It offers a diverse range of products for thoughtful gifting and personal indulgence. You can enjoy exclusive promos at all Robinsons Department Store branches nationwide, as well as its online marketplaces in GoCart, LazMall, and Shopee.

 

The promo includes up to 70% off on select items and 0% interest when you shop using any major credit card. You also have a chance to earn a raffle entry for a chance to win flight tickets to select international and domestic destinations, or win P5,000 GoRewards points when they spend a minimum of P3,500.

 

If you’re drawing a blank on what to give to your loved ones or get yourself for Christmas, here are some ideas from Robinsons Department Store’s Holiday Collection:

Dress to impress

From Christmas parties to hallmark holidays throughout the year, it’s important to have a nice outfit on hand. Robinsons Department Store’s Holiday Collection has pieces for ladies, men, and kids they can rock on any occasion.

 

The ladies line has a wide selection of dresses and tops for every style preference. If you’re looking for a printed ensemble, you can cop the deep blue Stella Jacquard Top (P849) and Skirt (P949) set paired with the elegant Stella Accessories Mini Handbag (P499). For a more elegant piece, you can opt for the Stella Silk Sleeveless Dress with Drape (P1,300). Accessorize it with a pair of Stella Accessories Dangling Earrings (P299) and Kimbel Silver Clutch (P899.75).

 

For the men, there’s also a diverse range of formal suits, like the Executive Formal Suit (P2,399) and Formal Slacks (P1,199) with the Executive Printed Woven Polo Short Sleeves Shirt (P549). There are also more casual-looking suit options, the Executive Extra Fine Cotton Long Sleeves Shirt (P899), Executive Formal Slacks (P1,199), and Gallardo Casual Shoes Izak (P999).

 

Of course, we want our kids to look and feel their best as well. Let your girls feel like a real-life Barbie with the baby pink Barbie Halter Dress (P2,499) and Bella Two-Strap Format Sandals (P699). Make your boys feel sleek with outfits like the Hammerhead Long Sleeves (P625.75), Hammerhead Vest (P359.75), Byloz Pants (P1,299.75), and Air Balance Rubber Shoes (P1,699).

 

Take beauty to the next level

Feel confident on any occasion, and stock up on makeup and skincare products from Robinsons Department Store. Sport beautiful red lips at Christmas parties with Revlon Colorstay Overtime (P625) and Maybelline Super Stay (P399). Give your skin some love with skincare picks like the 3HA Clear Soothing Mist (P599) Y.O.U Acneplus AHA BHA PHA Daily Essence (P439).

 

If you’re looking for the perfect everyday scent, shop premium picks, like Valentino’s Born in Roma Donna Coral Fantasy Women (P10,500) and Calvin Klein Eternity for Men Eau de Toilette (P5,698).

 

Fun travels with the right stuff

If you and your loved ones are planning a trip soon, Robinsons Department Store has you covered with travel essentials. For suitcases, the durable TUNKR Hardcase 8-wheels (P5,500 for Medium, P5,000 for Small) can keep your clothing and other valuables safe. Other essentials include the Stella Essentials Studded Tumbler (P349) to keep you hydrated and the Workshop Packable Parkas (P449) to keep you dry if it rains.

 

Chef in practice

Cook up your favorite meals and give your loved ones new cookware with Robinsons Department Store’s line of kitchen items. Get a skillet set from General Store (P2,049) for every kind of dish. You can also make cooking quicker and easier with a Russel Hobbs Airfryer (P9,995).

 

Add a holiday touch to your Christmas spread with the Martha Stewart 16pcs Dinner Set in Ralston Blue (P1,099.75), Printed Mugs (P169) for your hot cocoa, and the Gibson Cookie Jar (P899) in the shape of Santa’s head to store your sweet bites.

With Robinsons Department Store’s Holiday Collection, you can ensure that you and your loved ones will have a joyful Christmas with its diverse range of products. Don’t miss out on this collection’s promos to get the best deal.

 

Browse the Holiday Collection’s e-catalogue for the full “Fantastical Christmas” collection here. For more information, check the official Robonson’s Department Store social media platforms, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok.