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Here are 5 spots where you can marvel at some of the spectacular Christmas Trees all over Cebu:

Radisson Blu Hotel’s Christmas tree
Upholding to the establishment’s theme, Radisson Blu lights up their Christmas tree with an accent of blues and whites. Radisson Blu’s Christmas tree signals the beginning of the merriest season of the year. In fact, the tree’s ornaments can be bought and proceeds shall help support Smile Train Philippines’ campaign to give free operations to children with clefts.

Cebu City Marriott Hotel’s Christmas tree
Marriott Hotel made sure not to miss any beat as it adorned its traditional lush green tree with fiery red bows, flowers and other Christmas trinkets. The bold embellishments of the tree was also emphasized by the hues of silver and gold, giving more life and color to the already glamorous Christmas tree.

Montebello Villa Hotel’s Christmas tree
Kindling a sense of warmth and timelessness, Montebello Villa Hotel’s 14-foot Christmas Tree is bedecked with red and gold decorations that gives their guests the warmest welcome for the holidays. Giving great importance to family and traditions, Montebello Villa Hotel makes sure that everyone feels the absolute joy of the Holiday season.

Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu’s Christmas tree
Vibrant and highly dreamy, Shangri-La’s Christmas Tree is a true definition of a dream come true. With vivid hues of blue and gold, Shangri-La’s Christmas Tree will make you feel as if you are on a tour with the addition of a miniature hot air balloon on its design.

SM Seaside City’s Christmas tree
Raising it’s bars on a notch, SM Seaside City Cebu’s Christmas Tree awes everyone with its extraordinaire carousel underneath the actual Christmas tree. The 60-foot Christmas Tree was lighted with the presence of Marissa Fernan, Vice President of SM Holdings, together with other special guests. A performance from Cebu Philharmonic Orchestra also set the mood of the night even more aglow.
]]>We take a look at some of the most promising establishments worth checking out this year.

The new BLU Bar & Grill (Photo: Manna Alcaraz/Facebook)
With its sophisticated ambiance and majestic views of the city, it’s no surprise how Marco Polo Plaza Cebu’s BLU Bar & Grill has remained a favorite spot among locals and foreigners for the longest time. Last year, they went through renovations, with the new BLU Bar unveiled just right in time for Christmas season.
While it’s still the same BLU people know and love, the changes vastly improve the overall experience—the most notable being a bigger and chicer indoor area which can now be closed off in case of bad weather. And while you’re at it, indulge in a plate of the spicy gambas before washing it off with the Chocolate Martini made from Cebu-grown cacao by Ralfe Gourmet.

The Clove on the Quay (Photo: Facebook)
The Cebu Yacht Club is becoming one of the best places to hang out when in Mactan, especially with the opening of several new restaurants in the past few years. More recently, the Yacht Club welcomed the newest member of the family, The Clove on the Quay.
The most gorgeous view of the sunset serves as the backdrop for thirst-quenching cocktails (happy hour starts at 4:00 p.m.), and then nightfall transforms it into an uber chic bistro serving Mediterranean and North African fare. Big groups will love the Spice Trade Platter which includes beef kebabs, tikka masala, grilled prawns and vegetables, and Sultan rice pilaf. My personal recommendation would be the immensely tender and flavorful Boeuf Bourguignon.

The Weekend’s Faux Gras (Photography by Oliver Echevarria/Zee Lifestyle)
Considering it’s is from the same man behind Ilaputi, we’re looking forward to Jan Rodriguez’s newest venture. Set to open sometime after Sinulog (crossing fingers), The Weekend is brimming with the promise of new flavors and dishes sure to be instant favorites.
Already, Zee Lifestyle had a preview at last November’s holiday potluck feature, with Jan serving us Roasted Buffalo Cauliflower with fresh carrot and jicama sticks, and a blue cheese dip; as well as the Faux Gras made of bacon fat and pureed bacon. It also has a selection of cocktails with… interesting names, but that’s for us to know and you to find out when they finally open.

League Sports Bar (Photo: Facebook)
Judging from the photos alone, League might be the most legitimate sports bar in Cebu just yet. Having opened recently, it boasts of a warm and comfortable ambiance that everyone— whether sporty or otherwise—would immediately feel at home at. We also spot billiards and foozball tables in the middle of the industrial-chic decor, so while we’re not watching the latest sports on the television, we can always just hang out and have fun playing games.

Coffee and Comfort Cafe (Photo: Facebook)
Coffee & Comfort Cafe goes beyond being just a coffee shop. It’s also a study center, which is perfect considering its location. The environment is also conducive for meeting clients and doing freelance work. Of course, the main highlight of the place would be the delectable creations of Miles Semblante, who’s been seen more in chef whites than elaborate costumes in recent years. People have been singing praises about her French toast with caramelized bananas, while the Choco Bacardi Frappe proved to be a hit over Sinulog weekend.

Tim Ho Wan (Photo: skyscrapercity)
When is Tim Ho Wan in SM Seaside City Cebu opening? Your guess is as good as ours, considering when we poked around, we couldn’t find a definitive answer either. But we’re putting the Michelin-star restaurant on this list anyway, simply because we’re so excited to have our fix of their famous steamed pork buns that we can only cross our fingers it’ll finally open this year.

La Vie Parisienne (Photo: Marco Paulo Diala/lamikaayo)
Who doesn’t know La Vie Parisienne? Famous for its croissants as much as it is for those iconic pink cherry blossom lighting fixtures, it’s become a popular hangout among locals and visitors over the years. Sometime last year, they added a chic extension that just may be their most stylish area just yet. With dome-like ceilings and pretty chandeliers, it’s a new dimension to La Vie Parisienne that bolsters its Instagram-worth reputation, while offering a new experience to its patrons.

Shaka Hawaiian Restaurant (Photo: Facebook)
Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Indian… heck, even Lebanese. Name it, and chances are Cebu has it. What was remarkably absent was Hawaiian cuisine—a gap that the Pages Group of Restaurants was all too happy to fill up with their latest venture, Shaka. The place is hard to miss; after all, it basically dominates one block of Cebu I.T. Park, incorporating the existing terrain for one charming ambiance. It all but reminds me of my childhood dreams of having a treehouse. Pineapple fans rejoice! Shaka utilizes the fruit into majority of its dishes in so many unexpected ways, you’d find yourself coming back for more.
Pro tip: You can drop a hint and share this list too! Who knows, your own manito or manita might be struggling on what to get you as well. 
Matte lipsticks were a big hit this year, and there’s no reason the trend wouldn’t continue in 2017. Pass it on to the new year with Happy Skin’s moisturizing matte lippie, which contains shea butter and collagen that hydrates lips while leaving a gorgeous matte finish. Happy Skin’s holiday collaboration with Disney also brings limited edition (read: must-have!) shades. ‘Snow White’ features an apple-red shade, while the ‘Anna’ has that roasted cherry tone that’s popular right now.
UGF, SM City Cebu | Facebook
Earlier this month, ‘Greenery’ was announced as the color of the year for 2017. Take this relaxing yet vibrant shade with you one step at a time as you conquer the Year of the Rooster, with a brand new pair of Havaianas. The neon green Top is definitely on point, while, the Liberty Green pair features a fun and whimsical print that’ll turn heads.
All Flip Flops | Ayala Center Cebu, SM City Cebu and SM Seaside City Cebu
If you’re looking to impress, you can’t go wrong with a dinner at The Pig & Palm. Just in time for the holidays, Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton is whipping up a special seven-course meal with an optional champagne and wine pairing. Slots for this two-day event (December 22-23) are extremely limited.
MSY Tower, Cebu Business Park | Facebook

Kandaya Resort in Daanbantayan, Cebu (Photography by Dan Douglas Ong: Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, October 2015)
Okay, this is really pulling out the big guns, but who wouldn’t want to experience paradise? Kandaya Resort’s iconic infinity pool, luxurious rooms and myriad of activities from island hopping to a private beach in Malapascua Island to horseback riding guarantee that a stay in this gorgeous resort is on top of anyone’s wishlist.
Daanbantayan, Cebu | Facebook
With the rise of the athleisure trend, sporty accessories have become acceptable in daily wear. Not sure where to start? Put your thinking cap on with New Era’s expansive selection of headgear. Their store in Cebu has over 500 hats to choose from, whether you’d like to root for your favorite sporting teams or show off your love for pop culture.
SM Seaside City Cebu | Facebook

The limited edition Cebu bottle from Johnnie Walker Blue Label Philippine Crafts: Our Cities special collection
A bottle of whisky is always a classic gift, but there’s no reason it should be boring. Surprise your Secret Santa with a limited edition bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Philippine Crafts: Our Cities. With three distinctly Filipino designs to choose from—the Manila Jeepney, the Cebu Guitar, and the Davao Pearl—anyone would definitely appreciate having these added to their collections.
Available in leading supermarkets | Facebook
Personally, it’s hard to choose just one kind of footwear from this decadent shoe brand because there’s something for every girl. If we really had to recommend one thing though, it would be the Apophis pumps in black. It’s the classic black pump with a gorgeous twist—dragon wings. Perfect for the Khaleesis in your life.
Why yes, men can be into shoes too. For your guy friend (or “guy friend”), a great addition to his growing footwear collection would be the DM’s Lite, the newest shoe from Dr. Martens. Featuring the brand’s signature style but in a new ultra-lightweight Phylon midsole, it’s both durable and even more comfortable. Go timeless with the black pair, or be a little more edgy with the Newton cherry red one.
General | 2F, Ayala Center Cebu | Facebook
With items at Php 88, it’s easy to buy a lot of stuff that any pet lover and their furry BFFs would certainly appreciate. Take your pick from colorful collars to cute food bowls, and fun harnesses to amusing chew toys. There’s also quite a selection of doggy t-shirts that Fido can wear for Christmas.
Streetscape | Cebu I.T. Park | The Outlets at Pueblo Verde | The Persimmon Plus | 4J Bldg., Mango Avenue | E-Park Talamban | Facebook
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The Magnum Pleasure Store is a global concept, where pleasure seekers can enjoy the ultimate Belgian chocolate experience of Making Your Own Magnum. Currently in SM Mall of Asia, the global concept is now available for pleasure seekers in the Queen City of the South as it opens in one of the biggest premium shopping malls of Cebu: SM Seaside City. This haven of chocolate and ice cream indulgence, called Magnum Cebu, will allow for mall-goers to get inspired by an array of rich Belgian chocolate flavors, and exciting premium toppings to create truly unique Magnum bars.
Open to the public on November 17, 2016, the Magnum Pleasure Store can be found at the upper ground floor of the Mountain Wing of SM Seaside City Cebu, right across Starbucks. Keeping true to the pop-up concept of every store, Magnum Cebu will be open for a limited time only, so be sure to enjoy a blissfully delicious signature Magnum bar for 120 pesos before it lands in a different city.
At the counter, Pleasure Seekers select a “naked” Magnum bar of silky Vanilla or rich Chocolate ice cream, as well as a Belgian chocolate coat amongst white, milk or dark chocolate. Next, the now-coated Magnum bar is sprinkled with toppings that range from the classics like marshmallows or crunch balls; special, luxurious toppings like freeze-dried raspberries or pistachios; or adventurous toppings like chili or sea salt flakes. Finally, the creation is drizzled with a choice of white, milk or dark chocolate, and the store’s Pleasure Maker will top it off with an M coin. The finished product, a customized Belgian chocolate masterpiece of your own dreaming, is yours to enjoy.
Pleasure seekers have exciting events and activities to look forward to. From November 17 to November 27, 2016, the first 50 customers to show up daily with a Magnum Cebu photo will have the chance to indulge in a free Make Your Own Magnum bar. All they need to do is visit Magnum Cebu and share the promo photo found on Magnum PH’s Facebook page to claim their prize. Pleasure Seekers can also look forward to catching a glimpse of their favorite Magnum Cebu ambassadors during the store opening. On top of all these, Magnum Cebu is set to launch new limited edition toppings consumers can add to their favorite Make Your Own Magnum bar.
Carrying on the global success of Magnum Pleasure Stores, Magnum Cebu is sure to be a new and different experience for Cebu mall goers. With each visit, a unique experience is made. Indulge in the ultimate pleasure of making your own Magnum with rich Belgian chocolate at Magnum Cebu in SM Seaside City, for a limited time only.
]]>The Sky Park is an elevated area set amongst a landscape of verdant foliage and soothing water features that offers a myriad of dining choices and a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Sky Park is composed of three playgrounds: the Fun & Play, Water Play, and the Sky Play. SM Seaside City Cebu tapped award-winning industrial Cebuano designer Kenneth Cobonpue to plan and execute the Sky Play, one of the three playgrounds, which brings to life the colorful world of children’s imaginations in hopes of nurturing a child’s creative thoughts through the simple joys of outdoor play. The whimsical and modern design by Kenneth Cobonpue perfectly coincides with SM Seaside City’s sophisticated design by Arquitectonica.
Kenneth Cobonpue with Marissa Fernan, vice president of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. led the opening of the “gate” last September 23, 2016 in an Alice in Wonderland themed launch. The whole crew of The Mad Hatter, The Red Queen, and The White Queen graced the celebration. This sure delighted the kids including guests of honor Jack Booth, Ambra Anzani, and Sabi Fernan.
Besides showcasing the fashion from labels such as Aidan Mattox, Adrianna Papell, David Meister and Jessica Howard, the fashion show also unveiled Fashion Forum’s Cebuana style influencers—Zee Lifestyle editor Patty Taboada, businesswomen Susan Chua and Maureen Sanchez; master aesthetician Dianne Gandionco-Huang, florist Pinky Chang, architect Gerlie Ang, Rotary District 3860 District Governor Mary Ann Alcordo-Solomon, and philanthropist Amparito Lhuillier. The ladies were escorted by dashing gentlemen, most of whom were wearing suits and tuxedos from the SM Department Store.
The M·A·C Astounding Vital Audacious Fantastic featured live body painting sessions, upbeat dance routines, and a performance from DJ Nina Saputil and Joyce Pring.
]]>The collections, ranging from decadent romanticism to bohemian grunge, showcases exquisite pieces that are perfect additions to your holiday wardrobe, or – who knows? Something to look forward to unwrapping from underneath the Christmas tree.
The spontaneous mix-and-match of various prints and colors of fashion pieces in the Women’s Collection is once again brought back this season, after making a short cameo in the past Spring/Summer Collection. Exquisite tailoring, extravagant embroidery and leather straps are essential for an ostentatious bohemian look from decadent romanticism.
This trend is achieved in the mash-up of strong, tailored trousers & blazers, and the feminine floral shirts and crisp blouses with bell sleeves and ruffle details. The retro feel of the collection is emblazoned on each piece, giving it a worn-in, lived-in look in order to add a touch of glamour and quality.
Upholstery fabrics, large tweeds, floral prints with dark backgrounds, geometric patterns, and tiny print patches play a leading role in this trend. The leopard print cannot be forgotten in this collection, as it appears both boldly – in billowy trapeze dresses – and with subtlety –in pleated skirts and long coats.
Casual meets sporty is the most popular trend of the season, giving the entire collection a more modern look and feel. The fashionable but sporty aesthetic is evident in floral bomber jackets with sateen finish, knitted A- line skirts, formal trousers with a white stripe down the side, and various other technical garments.
The après-ski look, the usual street style look for mountainside sport activities, include funnel-neck tops and wide- ribbed jumpers. Black and white compose most of the collection’s color palette, but hints of cognac, burgundy, and navy are injected here and there among the pieces.
Bits of rock ‘n’ roll are inserted into several garments, such as tweed pants and metallic finishes that give off a more youthful look.
Four trends inspire the Casual department of the Women’s Collection:
Bohemian grunge. The grunge look is back with the essentials, such as skinny trousers, the Biker jacket, plaid shirts, ripped denim jeans, subtle lingerie, and combat boots. These pieces can be customized with embellishments, patches, or pop rock-style pins, giving them a more fun and relaxed touch.
Canal Saint-Martin. A relaxed, sporty style, with comfy fabrics and garments like the bomber jackets, varsity jackets, and cotton skirts and t-shirts are combined with floral prints and Breton stripes that are reminiscent of the young Parisian hangout, the Canal Saint-Martin.
Khaki. The khaki color adds to a twist to more feminine garments and elements like lace, embroidery and pleats. Combined with the subdued color are military accessories like army buttons, skinny jeans that resemble cargo pants, and structured jackets.
Masculinity. Somber colors and textures such as tweed, stripes, and the Prince of Wales checker breathe life into maxi garments combined with mini skirts. The pantsuit ensemble is made more feminine in this collection as tulle, lace, and ruffles serve as subtle embellishments.
(Sfera) Men releases two new collections for the Fall/Winter 2016 Season.
City sunset. The newest color for Fall is the subdued tone of Camel, which is supported by khaki, renewed greens, ink blues, and mid-greys. Burnt orange highlights certain pieces from the collection. Outerwear, accompanied by overcoats and wool-blend fabric, present new shapes that drop into a structured, tailored fit that is ready for colder weather. Thick shirts and knitwear also make up the collection, in time for temperature drops on holiday travels.
Fall forest. Forest green and deep blue are the two main colors that make up this trend, mixed in with a light burgundy. Wool and cotton blend with technical fabrics for outerwear. New styles on outerwear emphasize collars and certain details, specifically on jumpers and jackets.
Smart Sfera Men. In its most elegant line, the dominant colors are shades of blue and grey, which we find on shirts, sport coats, trousers, and knitwear. In terms of shape, the new trend is the knitted jacket with sport coat lapels and the band collar in shirts.
]]>Since its release in the Philippines, businesses have tapped into Pokémon Go’s popularity, leading to lure parties and other fun gimmicks. Here’s a quick guide to the city’s Poké Stops and Poké Gyms for the Zee Lifestyle Pokémon trainers out there.
AYALA CENTER CEBU
Cebu’s premier lifestyle destination is also a premier Pokémon destination. Several areas at The Terraces, The Gallery, the Active Zone and the Activity Center are all Poké Stops, which led to an epic lure drop party last weekend. Hashtag your screenshots with #FindEmAtAyalaMalls and #PokemonGoAyalaMalls.
Known for year-long affordable deals through its various outlet stores, shopping at The Outlets at Pueblo Verde is now made more interactive, as the place itself is a certified Poké Gym. There are also several Poké Stops throughout the strip mall.
ROBINSONS GALLERIA CEBU
Cebu’s new favorite mall also joined in on the lure party bandwagon last weekend, even throwing in exciting prizes for those who’d catch Pokémon at Robinsons Galleria Cebu. Be one of 100 winners of gift certificates by posting your screen grabs on Facebook and Instagram with the hashtags #GOExploreToWINatRobinsons #CatchEmAllatRGC and #RobinsonsGalleriaCebu, and your name, mobile and e-mail.
SM CITY CEBU & SM SEASIDE CITY CEBU
Both SM City Cebu and SM Seaside City Cebu (the Cube, in particular) are level two Poké Gyms as of press time. This has attracted a lot of aspiring trainers. Add the hashtag #GottaCatchEmAllAtSM to share the Pokémons you’ve caught in the malls.
MARCO POLO PLAZA CEBU
This five-star hotel in Cebu City has received attention for its Lobby Lounge being a Poké Gym, but did you know the main entrance is also a Poké Stop? Stock up on those Poké Balls, lure modules and other goodies before you enter.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL MACTAN ISLAND CEBU
Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu has three Poké Stops – the Mövenpick logo at the entrance, the fountain in front of the main lobby, and at the flowing pond fountain by the beach. Additionally, the Conservatory at the Ibiza Beach Club is a Poké Gym.
SHANGRI-LA’S MACTAN RESORT & SPA
Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa has a total of 14 Poké Stops scattered all over the sprawling beachside property. The Treasure Island at the main wing’s swimming pool is also a Poké Gym. Score treats when you screen grab any Pokémon during the flash mob dance at Tides Restaurant with the hashtags #flashmobatTides, #TidesatShangrila and #ShangrilaMactan.
Beyond being a home to comfort food inspired by delicacies throughout the country, Isidra Comfort Cantina is also a Poké Stop. Drop a lure while you enjoy the bestselling twice-cooked adobo, and let all the Pokémon come to you.
Get your fill of Filipino favorites while you battle it out. Lantaw Native Restaurant at the South Road Properties is currently a level three Poké Gym.
MAGELLAN’S CROSS
It’s home to the symbol of the Cebuanos’ acceptance of the Christian faith from the Spanish, and now it’s a Poké Gym too! Don’t forget to take a moment to light a few candles while you’re there battling for Pokémon.
THE MACTAN NEWTOWN
The iconic Dolphin Fountain at The Mactan Newtown is a Poké Gym. The township is also close to four Poké Stops – the Mactan Barangay Hall, the Battleship Wood Sculpture, the Fr. Jules Chevalier Statue and the Sto. Niño de Cebu Mactan. Furthermore, The Mactan Newtown is very pedestrian-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about your safety.
We’re updating this list as we go! Share your favorite Poké Stops and Gyms through the comments, or on our social media pages.
]]>Called Astounding Vital Audacious Fantastic, the cosmetics brand is set to take over SM Seaside City by storm with the grand opening of its boutique on August 20. Lose yourself in a stunning color carnival of chaos and creativity, with high-energy performers, extravagant models, masquerade masks, thrilling DJs and live body art!
M·A·C at the SM Seaside City is the first-ever boutique in the Visayas. Expect a wider selection of well-loved cosmetics, from eye shadows, to lipstick, and everything in between! #MACAVAF
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