Staycation Bliss: Budget-Friendly Ways to Beat the Heat!

Sometimes, the best vacations are the ones closest to home, especially if you want to escape the scorching heat these days. It doesn’t have to break the bank. It can be even more cost-efficient depending on how well you plan your quick escape. It’s a good thing there are now tools that can help you scan through best deals just like AirAsia MOVE.

With staycations, you can skip the hassle of long travel time on the road or at the airport. Whether you’re out to work or relax, there’s a suitable accommodation for your needs.

Here are some recommended staycation hotels:

For the Work-driven and Tech-Savvy

Red Planet BGC The Fort & Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard

Stay connected with lightning-fast Wifi 6 and enjoy in-room entertainment with Google Chromecast.

Book your stay at Red Planet BGC  or Red Planet Cubao Aurora Boulevard at 50% OFF or for as low as PHP 1,675! Get an additional PHP 400 discount using promo code “EXCLUSIVE” upon checkout. Promo code is valid until April 30, 2024.

For the City Explorer and Party Lover

One Cristina Suites

Situated at the heart of the Makati’s party hub, Poblacion, One Cristina Suites offers chill and fun vibe for a great price. It’s also a few steps away from Makati's premier shopping malls like Power Plant Mall, Glorietta Mall, and Greenbelt Mall, this hotel is also ideal for retail therapy enthusiasts and food lovers. 

Book a room at One Cristina Suites via AirAsia MOVE for as low as PHP 1,497!

For the Families and Fun-Seekers

Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino

If you are staying in Cebu, indulge into the fun vibe at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino. Avoid the hustle and bustle on the road, and have everything you need in one place, from casinos, concerts, restaurants, to cafes.

Book your stay at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino, and get a PHP 400 discount using promo code “EXCLUSIVE” upon checkout. Promo code is valid until April 30, 2024.

Solea Mactan Resort

For the kids and kids-at heart, this resort is perfect for you! Dip and splash with your family with 8 pools and an exhilarating inflatable waterpark.

Book your stay at Solea Mactan Resort via AirAsia MOVE. Get a PHP 400 discount using promo code “EXCLUSIVE” upon checkout. Promo code is valid until April 30, 2024.

For the Beach Lover

Shore Time Hotel Boracay

Whether you’re living on the island or in it for an indefinite stay due to Boracay’s pristine sands’ irresistible charm, check out Shore Time Hotel Boracay.  There’s a wide range of hotel selection that suits your budget. Choose from affordable rooms for solo travelers or spacious bunk bed options for your barkada. Enjoy a restful sleep with comfortable orthopedic mattresses and pillows.

Book a room at Shore Time Hotel Boracay via AirAsia MOVE for as low as PHP 2,700! Get a PHP 400 discount using promo code “STAYNOW” upon checkout. Promo code is valid until April 30, 2024.

Visit AirAsia MOVE and get exclusive discounts on hotels perfect for your staycation needs. Download the AirAsia MOVE app today and start planning your perfect staycation!

Stay updated with everything from the AirAsia MOVE by following @airasiamove.ph on Instagram and AirAsia MOVE Philippines on Facebook.

For a seamless and enhanced experience, download your AirAsia MOVE from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei AppGallery.

An Evening with Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: Inspiring Peace and Joy in a Diverse Audience

 

An audience of over 1,300 people from all backgrounds was captivated by the joy and wisdom of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, world renowned humanitarian, spiritual leader and ambassador of peace, at a public talk held at The Fifth at Rockwell, Powerplant Mall, Makati. Organized by Art of Living Philippines and the International Association for Human Values (IAHV), the event gathered spiritual enthusiasts, government leaders, peacebuilders, influencers, and a diverse mix of people to highlight the importance of finding inner peace and joy during these trying times. 

The event was graced by the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr., Secretary Benhur Abalos, Jr. of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Secretary Jaime Bautista of the Department of Transportation (DOT), AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations Maj. Gen. Arvin Lagamon, and His Excellency Ahmed Abdallah Ibrahim Hafez, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

During his talk, Gurudev shared how meditation gives people access to their own happiness and well-being while finding inner peace. He said, “To access this treasure we need to begin by focusing inwardly and for this we need some training. Meditation is this training. As we meditate more, we gain confidence in our innate basic goodness and well-being. This unlocks our potential and gives our lives tremendous meaning.” 

 

In the face of adversity, Gurudev also said that meditation not only opens a gateway to compassion but also connects people deeply with themselves and others. 

 

“As a child when we cried it would not take much time before we smiled again. As adults however, when we cry it could take months and sometimes years before we can smile again. We have not learned how to manage our own mind. The secret to managing our mind and emotions lies in the breath,” Gurudev explained. This is what the Art of Living and IAHV teach people to do through their programs and initiatives. 

Earlier in the week, upon his arrival in Manila, Gurudev was welcomed by the First Lady Liza Marcos at a dinner reception at the Goldenberg Mansion, Malacañang Palace. They spoke on the benefits of meditation and the need for meditation centers in the metropolis. 

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also gave a highly impactful keynote address at the Asian Development Bank (ADB) entitled “Mental Health and Well-Being: Strengthening Resilience for Individuals, Societies and Nations”, where he talked about staff physical and mental well-being and how these considerations can be woven into ADB’s development projects.

 

Later that day, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar held a closed-door meeting with key stakeholders working on peacebuilding and conflict resolution, including key officials from the AFP and the Philippines Government, as mentioned earlier, and representatives from the United Nations, Z Group, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.

 

Through a myriad of programs and teachings conducted by Art of Living and IAHV, Gurudev has reached and touched the lives of almost 450 million people in 180 countries – including 15,000 Filipinos – empowering and equipping people to tackle challenges at the individual, societal, national, and global levels. 

 

The cornerstone of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s teachings is the Sudarshan Kriya (SKY) – a simple but powerful breathing technique that has been demonstrated in over 100 independent peer-reviewed scientific studies to significantly reduce depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress; boost immunity; improve sleep; and increase life satisfaction; among other benefits. 

 

Recognized for his significant global contributions, Gurudev has to date received 26 honorary doctorates and 55 government honors, including the highest civilian awards of Colombia, Mongolia, Paraguay, and Suriname. Twenty-nine days have been named after him in various cities and states across the USA and Canada.

 

Gurudev continues to help a growing number of Filipinos foster deep and profound inner peace, happiness, and well-being through numerous educational and self-development programs offered by Art of Living and IAHV. 

 

Platinum sponsors of the event were Standard Insurance and Wings Publication International. 

 

For more information about the organizations programs, visit www.artofliving.org and www.iahv-philippines.org 

 

This Boracay Italian restaurant has been delighting diners for 21 years and continues to thrive

 

Imagine sinking your teeth into the cheesy goodness of a crispy yet moist prosciutto pizza slice that’s baked fresh inside a wood-fired brick oven, prepared by an Italian Chef, no less. As you take the bite, strings of melty cheese are pulled away, and you savor the flavors of Italy bursting on your palate. You look at the view of sparkling blue seas from a comfortable second-floor dining balcony and feel the fine, powdery sand between your toes as you head out. No need to imagine for long, this is a reality at ARIA Cucina Italiana.

 

Established in 2003 on world-renowned Boracay island, the 21-year-old beachfront restaurant stands the test of time with its authentic cuisine, owned by entrepreneurs Juan Elizalde and Paolo Occhionero, under the leadership of Italian Executive Chef, Salvatore Vincentis. Vincentis’ delectable and authentic creations continue to wow people from all over the globe. No wonder, his standards in the kitchen are strict, especially when it comes to the freshness and quality of ingredients, as some are even flown in straight from Italy so as not to compromise their delicious Italian fare. ARIA’s curated menu is the most comprehensive one on the island, with dishes catering to various tastes and preferences.

                                                                   Aria’s seaview second-floor dining area

 

Other than their high-quality ingredients, it’s the wood-fired brick oven that makes their pizzas truly delicious. It packs on the flavor, thanks to the intense heat it generates that cooks the pizza quickly, resulting in a crisp crust while locking in moisture and flavor. The wood imparts a distinctive smoky flavor to the pizza you can't achieve with other cooking methods. It also tends to keep authenticity alive as they have been used for centuries in Italy and other parts of the world for baking bread and cooking pizza. The tradition and craftsmanship associated with these ovens add an element of authenticity to the pizza-making process, which ARIA guests surely love.

  

ARIA has been providing the best Italian fare in Boracay for 21 years and counting 

 

Their extensive selection of 26 pizza varieties inspired by various regions in Italy (ask for the secret menu if you want half-and-half options, and for big groups, you can make it La Famiglia) is sure to impress you. For other menu items, you can also indulge in their Fritto di Calamari con Maionese Elle Erbe and Prosciutto e Mango, both considered some of the best appetizers on the island. As for salads, it’s the Cocomero Salad that people quite regularly enjoy. For pasta lovers, there are the special black fettuccine pasta dishes with the Fettuccine Nere and Al Nero. The Chicken Parmigiana, baked to perfection in their brick oven, is also a crowd favorite. To try something new, our Gnocchi alla Sorrentina AKA potato dumplings are an underrated delight. To quench your thirst, they also offer Italian cocktails with an extensive list of wines that are sure to complement your mouth-watering dishes. To end your meal on a sweet note, treat yourself to ARIA Tris di Dolci or their perfectly creamy ARIA Gelato with a wide selection of 18 flavors, made fresh daily with imported ingredients. With all gelato flavors crafted daily, it’s undeniably the finest ice cream dessert experience in Boracay.

                                                           ARIA’s dedicated and enthusiastic team

 

ARIA Cucina Italiana continues to thrive as a top-of-mind Italian beachfront restaurant, despite all the challenges it faced during Boracay’s closures for the island rehabilitation in 2018, and then followed by the pandemic in 2020. Choosing to stay open to keep staff employed, they continued operations and adapted a digital system for online orders and delivery. The quick transition has been beneficial, as their online orders are still up and running. Their long-standing core and front dining team show gratitude by staying excellent in their service which is reflected in their diners’ satisfied experiences. 

 

With 21 years of authentic Italian food that never compromises on taste and quality, and best-rated reviews on TripAdvisor and Google, be sure to expect many more to come.

Visit ARIA Cucina Italiana at D’Mall, Station 2, Boracay Island. 
Follow them on Instagram @ariacucinaitaliana.
See the menu here.  Order via Viber: +63 998 482 8490 

 

OPPO and OnePlus teamed up to bring a fresh AI Phone experience to over 10 million users

As the era of AI Phones officially unfolds, OPPO accelerates its global AI Phone strategic layout following its participation in MWC 2024. Partnering with Google Cloud, OPPO delves further into exploring a fresh AI Phone experience. Multiple AI innovations from OPPO made their debut at the Google Cloud Next '24 conference, alongside the joint announcement with OnePlus to utilize Google's powerful Gemini models.

"Generative AI marks a significant milestone in the evolution of artificial intelligence. It brings forth greater creativity, novel possibilities, enhanced technical scalability, and significantly improved efficiency. These factors instill us with confidence as we step into a new era of AI Phones," stated Nicole Zhang, GM of AI Product at OPPO and OnePlus. "Our deep collaboration with Google Cloud throughout our journey is pivotal. Google Cloud's open platform capabilities holds profound significance for OPPO's advancement of AI Phones."

 

Leading the Way in Utilizing the Latest Gemini Family of Models

As a key step in fulfilling the mission of ushering in a new era of AI Phones, OPPO and OnePlus will integrate Google’s Gemini models. This integration will empower various product lines of OPPO and OnePlus to undergo significant upgrades and evolution in AI experiences, thereby reshaping the way global users interact with their smartphones.

 

OPPO and OnePlus jointly announced their commitment to introducing a series of innovative features leveraging the advanced capabilities of Google’s Gemini models throughout 2024. These endeavors aim to forge the most formidable mobile AI experience, allowing a broader user base to effortlessly embrace the fresh appeal of AI Phones.

 

The Four Core Capabilities of AI Phones

The technological revolution brought by generative AI has opened up infinite possibilities for the mobile industry. OPPO has been dedicated to collaborating with global industry partners to redefine AI Phones.

 

At the Google Cloud Next '24 conference, OPPO shared insights on AI Phones with global AI innovators. OPPO believes that AI Phones should possess four core capabilities: efficient computing, perception of the real-world, self-learning, and creativity. Through AI technology, smartphones will gain new perceptual, interactive, and intelligent capabilities, reshaping the mobile experience.

 

During the conference, OPPO also discussed its comprehensive considerations regarding the full-stack transformation and ecosystem restructuring of AI Phones, aiming to strengthen its presence in hardware platforms, intelligent systems, and ecosystem development.

 

Enable More Users Globally to Experience the Boundless Joy of AI Phones

During the event, OPPO announced that more than ten million users can already enjoy generative AI features on their devices such as the OPPO Find X7 Series and OnePlus 12. 

 

In 2024, OPPO and OnePlus will further roll out AI features globally, including the highly acclaimed OPPO AI Eraser.

 

The OPPO AI Eraser allows users to effortlessly identify and remove objects, seamlessly filling in the background with hardly any trace of post-processing.

 

Behind this exceptional experience lies OPPO's proprietary powerful AI recognition and image filling technology. OPPO AI Eraser can currently recognize over 120 categories of objects, including people, pets, phones, flowers, trees, and buildings. To achieve optimal generation results, OPPO has trained its model using billion-level data sets based on the industry-leading Diffusion model, ultimately achieving industry-leading AI Eraser performance.

 

AI Eraser will start to roll out to devices such as the Reno 11 Pro, Reno 11, Reno 11 F, Find N3, and Find N3 Flip.

 

OPPO and OnePlus are actively collaborating with Google to integrate cloud AI products into more mobile devices. This powerful partnership will equip OPPO and OnePlus smartphones with even more advanced AI capabilities in the future, making features like news article summaries, real-time audio content organization, and creative social media content generation possible.

 

OPPO's Commitment to Advancing and Popularizing AI Phones

AI is deeply ingrained in the DNA of OPPO and OnePlus product development. Over the past few years, OPPO has utilized its integration capabilities in software, hardware, chipset, and OS to create industry-leading mobile imaging performance. Its achievements in computational photography have been widely recognized by users worldwide.

 

Meanwhile, OnePlus has leveraged its robust AI capabilities to achieve ultimate optimization in performance. Combined with breakthrough technologies like the Trinity Engine, OnePlus provides users with the fastest and smoothest experience.

 

Earlier this year, OPPO established its AI Center, consolidating resources related to AI research and development to systematically enhance its AI capabilities, with a focus on creating AI Phones.

Over the next 3-5 years, OPPO and OnePlus will continue to develop over 100 new features based on generative AI technology for global users and will remain committed to collaborating with global partners to create truly revolutionary AI Phone experiences.

Experience an unforgettable summer with realme 12 5G

Summer is one of the most exciting seasons because it’s the perfect time to visit some of the Philippines’ tourist destinations. There’s something for everybody: beaches in Boracay and Siargao, dive sites in Coron, surf spots in La Union, hiking trails in Mount Batulao, and many more.

Wherever the destination is this summer, there is a need for the perfect companion for adventures under the sun. Look no further than the realme 12 5G, a versatile smartphone that can elevate the vibes and make this summer one for the books. Here are some reasons why the realme 12 5G is the ultimate summer must-have:

Turn up the heat or cool down with playful colors

Summer is about embracing the vibrant energy of the season, where every hue seems to burst with life under the sun. Step into the season with colorful clothes and eye-catching prints that reflect the essence of summer. Whether it's strolling along sandy beaches, exploring bustling city streets, or enjoying a leisurely picnic in the park, let the style speak volumes with the colors of the realme 12 5G. These playful colors in Woodland Green and Twilight Purple evoke refreshing tones that mirror nature after a glorious sunset. 

Conquer outdoor activities without the fear of dust and water exposure

For those who thrive on the adrenaline rush of summer adventures, the season presents an opportunity to dive into high-powered activities that get the heart racing. Whether it's conquering rugged trails on a thrilling hike, carving through the waves on a surfboard, or going deep into the mysteries of hidden caves, the realme 12 5G is the ideal companion. Engineered with IP54 Dust and Water Resistance, this smartphone ensures protection for users going on summer adventures. From dusty trails to unexpected water splashes, rest assured that the realme 12 5G is built to withstand any particles, allowing focus on capturing every exhilarating moment without compromise. 

Stream and be entertained even under the bright sunlight

Even while the summer sun beats down, entertainment shouldn't be compromised. The realme 12 5G ensures that users can enjoy uninterrupted streaming and immersive entertainment experiences, no matter how intense the sunlight. Featuring an expansive 6.7-inch Sunlight Display, this smartphone offers clarity and visibility with up to 950 Nits of brightness, even under the glare of a bright afternoon. On top of that, the realme 12 5G takes viewing experiences to the next level with its impressive 120Hz refresh rate, guaranteeing super-smooth scrolling and seamless streaming of any content. Plus, with the innovative 6-level Dynamic Refresh Rate technology, the realme 12 5G  adapts to usage patterns, automatically adjusting the refresh rate to optimize performance and preserve battery life. 

Stream the launch of the new realme 12 5G live on Facebook and TikTok

Designed to enhance every aspect of one’s summer adventure, realme’s newest smartphone aims to elevate user experience. Don't miss the chance to see the unveiling of the latest addition to the realme 12 Series 5G lineup. Tune in to the exclusive online launch event streaming live on realme’s official Facebook and TikTok on April 25, 2024, at 6 PM, and be among the first to discover the features and innovations that will redefine summer tech. 

To learn more about realme’s latest updates, visit the realme official website and follow realme on Facebook.

 

Ivana Alawi is the new Infinix ambassador

The all-new Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G has made it easier to supercharge your day with its 100W All-Round Fast Charge 2.0 + 20W Wireless MagCharge. What better way to showcase this powerful feature than with Infinix’s newest ambassador, the electrifying Ivana Alawi.

Known for her entertaining and relatable vlogs, Ivana always makes sure to power up her days so she has the energy to finish all her tasks. With the Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G, Ivana is able to work and entertain herself throughout the day without worrying about her phone battery reaching zero. She also uses her Infinix smartphone to update her millions of followers on her upcoming projects.

 

“What I love about the Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G is the fast and convenient charging. I use my phone to attend online meetings, watch videos, take OOTDs, and so much more, kaya important sa akin yung laging fully charged at hindi mabilis maubos yung battery,” says Ivana.

 

Ivana isn’t the only one who sees just how reliable the Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G is. “Kahit yung family ko naka-Infinix na. Ang ganda talaga ng specs ng Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G at super affordable pa.”

As a content creator, Ivana Alawi makes sure that she's fully charged with the Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G's 100W Fast Charge + 20W Wireless Charge.

 

Apart from its impressive fast charging capabilities, the Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G is also equipped with the Dimensity 7020 5G Chipset and up to 256GB extended RAM for seamless performance. Its 3D-Curved 120Hz AMOLED Display ensures that you have a crisp viewing experience, and the Corning® Gorilla® Glass material protects the screen from damage.

 

As one of the top tech brands in the country, Infinix aims to make smartphones accessible to Filipinos. The Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G is the ideal phone for people who are always on the go. Like Ivana, they can experience the power of the 100W All-Round Fast Charge + 20W Wireless MagCharge in their everyday routines.

 

Keep your eyes peeled for more updates on the Infinix NOTE 40 Series and new ambassador Ivana Alawi via Infinix’s Facebook page and Facebook Community.

BEVI Thrives as It Dominates Industries in Its 18th Year

Truly inspirational success stories in the ever-changing world of business are few and far between. One such tale is that of Beauty Elements Ventures, Inc. (BEVI)., a beauty and skincare company established in 2006, now celebrating 18 years of remarkable growth and achievement. 

 

Like a seed planted with a strong vision, BEVI entered the market strong--the first to introduce commercial use of kojic acid in the Philippines. Determined to grow and flourish, the company developed a range of high-quality products; and is now housing brands that cater to categories beyond skin care. 

BEVI navigated the competitive landscape with grit, creativity, and dynamic strategy at its very core, guided by its desire to foster genuine connection with the market. 

The company did not stop with a single seed that grew into a revolutionary product; instead; BEVI continued to innovate, deliver excellent products, and expand its portfolio, reaching success beyond beauty, skincare, and wellness.

 

Through this forward-thinking mindset, the company overcame challenges and emerged stronger each time, proving that from the very beginning, it was born to bloom. 

 

Now, in its coming-of-age year, BEVI has blossomed into a flourishing company, setting the standard for others to follow suit.

 

As it strives to elevate the company and its brands, BEVI is thrilled to unveil exciting product launches that delve into new territories.

 

Kojie.san, the brand that has earned its premier spot in the market, introduces Kojie.san +, which takes skincare to new heights of luxury and indulgence. Meanwhile, Life by Kojie.San will enable consumers to experience beauty from within, with its range of liquid food supplements. Revolutionizing the brand even more, Diamond Skin by Kojie.San will offer a treasure trove of skincare delights, in the form of a skincare set with potent active ingredients. 

BEVI likewise redefines the standard of hygiene with Defensil, a revolutionary line of products that blends advanced protection against germs with a nurturing touch for the skin--a testament to BEVI's dedication to overall wellness.

 

True to its vision to expand and excel in newer markets, the company is also venturing into the pet food market. 

 

Happy Bites by Top2Tail is a line of dog food infused with love, dedication, and passion for pets, guaranteed to delight furry companions at every life stage with wholesome and delicious meals. 

 

BEVI’s pursuit of innovation extends beyond these quality products.

 

Aligned with its commitment to taking its services to the next level, it proudly introduces an array of offerings under its esteemed group of companies.

 

BIGi (Basic Integrated Global, Inc.) provides comprehensive solutions in eCommerce, global distribution expansion, and digital marketing initiatives; SPC Microtech boasts state-of-the-art analytical and testing laboratories to ensure the highest standards of safety and efficacy in products; BEVM (Beauty Elements Ventures Manufacturing, Inc)., and OSP (One Stand Point Manufacturing Corporation) are dynamic forces in manufacturing services; and the world-class PBB (Philippine Bottling Beverage) manufactures and tolls bottled products.  

 

With all these and more to come, it is clear that BEVI will only grow, evolve, and blossom in the future, continuing to fulfill its destiny as a company born to bloom.