It’s me, gracing the pages of a Magazine! 3rd time!
30 Sep 2011 8 Comments
in Accomplishments, All About Me... My Life..., bath & body, fashion, fitness & nutrition, health & wellness, inspirational, internet, lifestyle, Magazine Exposure, manila, places & travels, Short Stories/ Thoughts, skin care, Special Feauture
I got featured again at Health Today Magazine October 2011 Edition, before my photo was just was just ¾ or ½ page of the magazine, but this time I’ve got the whole page! Yey! This is what I am waiting for! Thanks you Ms. Ingrid Cabrido for this opportunity and Mr. Leo Bautista for the photo!
For others maybe Photoshoot could be tiring, not for me because I’m used to wearing makeup and high heels, and of course, I love my pictures being taken by professionals! Modeling or posing in front of camera is one of my life’s joy… I don’t consider it as a career though – it’s just something I enjoyed doing. As what I’m saying since then, as long as I’m happy with what I’m doing I don’t care if there’s no fee involve. I’m just after the experience, exposure and addition to my picture collection and personal portfolio.
Here I am, gracing the pages of Health Today Magazine October 2011 Edition for the 3rd time!
Letters To Juliet’s -Verona, Italy
16 Aug 2011 4 Comments
in europe, Italy, places & travels Tags: behind the scenes, destinations, europe, italy, layover flights, Letters to Juliet, Movie Filming Locations, Verona
Mention the name Verona and you immediately associate it with romance and the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet immortalized in Shakespeare’s works. Now with the release of the movie “Letters to Juliet” The movie,was intriguing recently because it dealt so closely with the romance and intrigue of one of Italy’s most beloved icons, Romeo and Juliet was written by Shakespeare set in Verona.
The house is claimed to be that of the Capulets’ from Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, which is now a big tourist attraction featuring the balcony, small courtyard and also a bronze statue of Juliet. Casa di Giulietta, or Juliet’s House, is located in the center of Verona at via Cappello 23,. Follow the directions to Piazza del Erbe and once you see the graffiti covered sign post and the plaque above the archway, you will recognise it by the number of people inside the courtyard.
Pass through the short dark tunnel, and you’ll find yourself in the intimate courtyard & Juliet’s Balcony vying for a photo opportunity with fellow awe-struck visitors.
The dark tunnel through which you entered houses a collection of love letter on its walls, left for the secretaries of Juliet to answer. For just €6, you can visit the interior of the house to see the bed from the 1936 Zeffirelli’s movie Romeo and Juliet.
Young ladies write letters to Juliet, often asking for advice in love, and tuck them into the wall. At night, the letters removed and the next day brings another collection of notes and letters. In the movie, it is a group of women who answer each one. In real life, it is a group of volunteers in Verona who make it a point to answer the 5,000 letters that arrive for Juliet each year.
Some of the letters are left in the wall each evening, and others are mailed to Juliet in care of Verona. The group that answers the letters call themselves the Club di Giulietta. These fifteen or so volunteers are divided by languages spoken and romantic expertise.
There is a bronze statue of Juliet located in the courtyard. Legend states that those who stroke the right breast of this statue will have good luck. Many people believe it, and travel long distances to visit.
Juliet’s Tomb - It’s inside the monastery which has been indicated as the place where the final events of the tragedy took place. Lovers from all over the world come to visit this romantic hideout and remember Shakespeare’s great masterpiece.
Me and Manhattan
31 Oct 2010 8 Comments
in Layover Flight, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, museums, new york, places & travels Tags: layover flights, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, museum, new york, Short Stories/ Thoughts, u.s.a
* Photo of myself with the view of Manhattan Sky Scrapers while inside a ferry tour
Manhattan is a picture-perfect city, with modern movie sceneries (yes, NYC is possibly the most filmed city ever). Who can ever forget classic movies such as Maid in Manhattan & Serendipity both filmed in Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Maid of Honor & Autumn in New York’s Bethesdan Fountain in Central Park, SATC-Day After Tomorrow-Spider Man’s New York Library, Kingkong’s Empire Estate… among others…You can visit most of these must-see tourist sites for free.
* Grand Central Station
You can spend the whole day if you explore Central Park, an oasis amidst busy New York streets. But it’s worth the time. And make sure you go inside the majestic Grand Central Terminal. Most likely, you’ll find yourself gawking in glitzy Times Square, which you have to experience during both day and night time. The great thing about Manhattan is that it’s truly a “walkable” city. It’s best experienced on foot but remember to avoid or shall I say DO NOT repeat the worst thing I ever than in my whole life! ….and that is to walk in Manhattan with my 4inch high-heels shoes! (See The Picture/ Evidence here)
* Grand Central & Chrysler Building
Visit famous skyscrapers and churches such as Rockefeller Center, Chrysler Building, New York Public Library, New York Wall Street Journal, the United Nations headquarters, Radio City Music Hall, Stock Exchange, Yankee Stadium, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Museums, among others. And while it costs about $20, you might as well as go up the observation deck of the Empire State Building to get a bird’s eye view of the city. (haven’t tried going up there yet, still waiting for someone special to accompany me there! Haha!)
Once you’ve taken the bus tour, it’s time to try the two other popular modes of transportation – the subway and taxis. The MTA New York City Subway is certainly the fastest and cheapest way to go around New York City. One trip costs $3 Get the Fun Pass for unlimited rides for the day for only $8 Of course, a trip to the Big Apple wouldn’t be complete without taking one of the city’s 10,000 yellow cabs.
The other must-eat in New York is steak. There are plenty of high-end steak houses in NYC like TGI-Fridays, Hard Rock and Bubba Gump but if you just want really cheap but really good snack while walking, try Sabrett Hotdogs! It’s all over Manhattan and all kinds of people are buying those! Tourist or not, Ladies in all races, Gents on a necktie or Tshirt, young or old, named it. I even have the guts to encouraged the crew with me on a layover to try it too! And Guess What!? Sabrett is now available in Philippines!
New York is also the mecca for shoppers. For high-end and fashion-forward shops, simply walk the entire length of Fifth Avenue, Madison Avenue, and Soho. Visit “destination” stores just because their famous or are attractions by themselves such as huge department stores including Barneys, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale’s, World’s Largest Macy’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue.For Youngsters, go to Nintendo World or M&M’s World to see the Word’s biggest Wall of Chocolates!
* You may Shop with your Trolley bag if you’re tired of carrying loads of baggage or shop with your Freezing gear outfit, there’s no excuse not to go for shopping in New York! None!
…and last but not the least, if you’re too tired with the buzzing city why not try to hibernate in the Greeneries of Central Park, bring your iPod, favorite book or pair of sneakers and Viola time will just pass without you noticing it, did that already and it’s truly relaxing! I blogged aboutCentral Park Before: Read it at: http://starvillanueva.com/2009/06/28/central-park-new-york-usa/
Hollywood – Entertainment Capital of Los Angeles
05 Jun 2010 19 Comments
in family, lifestyle, Los Angeles, museums, places & travels, u.s.a Tags: California, Hollywood, lifestyle, museum, places & travels, u.s.a
Hollywood is known for a lot of things, like the set tours of different movies, thrill rides themed with timeless movies like Jurassic Park and Saw, and of course, the overall experience that you get an insider look at how movies are made, Universal Studios Style. I’ve been lucky enough to get to visit the Universal Studio Theme park in California several times in my life. Each time I’ve gone had been an amazing, fun experience that always leaves me looking forward to my next visit.
The new ride on my last visit was The Simpsons Ride, . The Ride was converted from the old Back To The Future ride; it’s a simulator ride that’s intense. It’s theme is adorable. Even though you’re technically not going anywhere, you are moving around in your ride car, and there’s even a part that simulates a rollercoaster ride, When you get to universal this is one of the first thing you should go because for sure you’ll want to ride it twice before the lines goes long!
Enjoy the ride then get straight back on and take a look around, you get a birds eye view of Springfield and its really detailed and impressive. Springfield is the fictional city in which the American animated television series The Simpsons is set.
It’s a simulator you sit it this car and watch this huge screen it has lots of effects so that it really doesn’t feel like a simulator with lots of thrills and the unexpected but everyone gets back to earth safely with a few laughs along the way. Water gets sprayed at you too and does it quite well. Very fun! It feels like a rollercoaster with out going upside down of course but still camera is not allowed inside the car. The surprise at the end is funny too. Dont forget to smile.
House of Horror – Universal Studios Hollywood turns into one big real-life horror flick. Using inspiration from popular Horror films. It’s better not to show your fear. Even if you are scared, don’t show it. If you run away screaming, Either Zombies, Freddy, Jason, Chuckie, Dracula or Frankenstein may follow you especially in the scare zone, because they have a lot of room and there are blinking lights in all the mazes which makes it harder to walk or run!
Lastly, hit a water ride! You will absolutely get wet on the Jurassic Park River Adventure water ride. Riders take a boat through waters where man-eating dinosaurs roam and be prepared for the long drop at the end.
A multi-level outdoor escalator, which give you some breathtaking views of the city. If you’re afraid of heights, If you’re afraid of heights or escalators, there are stairs (also outdoors) which run parallel to the escalator (good luck) — there are plenty of people who use them, God bless them! It will be a major journey!
Aside from the main Universal Studio Hollywood theme, there’s also the CityWalk entertainment strip, which does not have any entrance fee. At hopping City Walk there’s plenty of places to eat, including the Hard Rock Cafe. There’s also night clubs, bars, and a movie theater to see the latest movies. It’s really a more grown up experience in comparison with Disneyland.
***See The Rest of The Pictures*** 
Hollywood Truly Comes Alive with it’s STUDIO TOUR!
04 Jun 2010 1 Comment
in Los Angeles, museums, places & travels, u.s.a Tags: California, Hollywood, Los Angeles, museums, places & travels, Studio Tour, u.s.a
Universal Studios Hollywood is the only movie and television-based theme park to offer guests the authenticity of a working movie studio. It will really make you feel like you’re part of the movies.
We Were actually in Desperate Housewives’ Wisteria Lane…
* A scene from Desperate Housewives…
The tour of the park was really interesting. Trams go down to the Universal back lot, where they’ve filmed thousands of movies. You have to stay on the tram. But at night, you get off the tram and at literally five feet away from Bates Motel (from the movie Psycho) and the War of the Worlds set and JAWS (yup, the shark actually comes out to attack!).
Passing through one of the film’s most highly recognizable scene from a set left completely intact from Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster, “War of the Worlds,” guests aboard the Studio Tour will observe a small town devastated by an elaborately 747 jetliner crash. Maintaining scenic authenticity, a series of special effects dramatically enhance the surrounding ruins with still-smoking wreckage and shattered debris.
*747 Aircraft from the scene “War of The Worlds“
* The Fast & The Furious
*The Fast & The Furious – Tokyo Drift Cars
Courthouse Square – A large town square named after the imposing Courthouse building most famously seen in the Back To the Future trilogy. The square has been seen in hundreds of Universal films (and those of other studios).It’s currently appearing in the CBS TV drama Ghost Whisperer.
For More Detailed Description Visit: http://media.universalstudioshollywood.com/attractions/about_the_attractions
See The Rest of The Studio Tour Picture: http://starvillanueva.multiply.com/photos/album/130/Hollywoods_Universal_Studio_Walk_of_Fame
My Very Own Star Bliss Salon & Spa
27 Apr 2010 20 Comments
in Accomplishments, All About Me... My Life..., Asia, bath & body, family, fashion, fitness & nutrition, health & wellness, investment, lifestyle, manila, My Spa, places & travels, product review, real estate, skin care, Special Feauture Tags: Accomplishments, All about flight attendant, bath & body, food, health & wellness, investment, lifestyle, money talks, my spa, skin care, special features
* Pang billboard sa Edsa hehe!
Starbliss_Spa@yahoo.com
Quiet Mountain Retreat
02 Mar 2010 4 Comments
in Asia, family, lifestyle, places & travels, Short Stories/ Thoughts Tags: Asia, family, lifestyle, places & travels, Thunderbird resort, vacation
Walking in ROME… ITALY….
15 Oct 2009 28 Comments
in europe, Layover Flight, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, museums, places & travels, Short Stories/ Thoughts, Special Feauture Tags: europe, italy, layover flights, museum, places & travels, rome, vatican
The Eternal City of Rome is famous for its mind-blowing monuments, remarkable churches and magnificent museums but the squares in Rome are the best places to enjoy the vibrant city life and the perfect spot to laze away your day surrounded by people and history.
Roman Forum from the Capitoline Hill In this post we started by walking though the Capitonline Hill. Many of the current structures on the Hill are from the Medieval period or designed by Michelangelo during the Renaissance. Along the way, you’ll see people in costumes that will let you have a souvenir photo for an amount of 2 Euro…
After several pictures, we get to enjoy dinner at a very nice restaurant near the Fountain di Trevi. It was along the side of the street, with umbrellas and they were preparing candlelight dinner for evenings. When in Rome, we surely did as the Romans do. We had gelato, as there are shops in every other corner of every piazza. I could not get over the number of delicious flavors of this creamy Italian ice cream.
We Reach through taxi the lively Piazza di Spagna from where you will immerse yourself into beauty, history and mystery where the combination of a monumental staircase, the world renowned Spanish Steps. They said a trip to Rome would also not be complete without a visit to the – Spanish Steps, the most famous square in the city then Climb its 138 steps!
Ways To Enjoy Singapore
05 Oct 2009 4 Comments
in Asia, Layover Flight, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, museums, places & travels Tags: Asia, layover flights, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, museums, places & travels, sentosa, Singapore
Singapore is simply amazing! Our 2 ½ stay in Singapore is not enough. There is much more to see and do. From the famed Chili Crab and Hainanese Chicken Rice to Sentosa Island and the Singapore Zoological Gardens. Experience for yourself the towering skyscrapers in the business district, the hustle and bustle of the Orchard Road shopping belt or the friendly chatter of Singaporeans going about their daily tasks in the heartlands. The number of activities that can be packed into this pulsating island, day and night will astound you. And the best part is that you can visit Singapore at all times of the year as its tropical climate means sunshine all year round.
After 8hrs 20mins travel time from Doha to Singapore, Finally arrived at the Hotel (Holiday Inn Atrium) around 3pm of Sept 28. Jero was then waiting for me in the lobby since 12 noon, he arrived on the same day, from Manila via Philippine Airlines and he just booked his ticket online on the last minute because he just knew that I have a flight to Singapore.
From the hotel we made arrangements for our tour in the Night Safari. Minutes later, a shuttle service came at the hotel to fetch us and all the other tourists from other hotels in downtown, it was $58 Singapore Dollars per person. But next time I rather go to Sentosa, it’s more enjoyable and picture friendly unlike Night Safari where it’s not allowed to take pictures to the animals because they said camera flash may cause blindness to the Nocturnal animals, etc.
The Night Safari (they call it Singapore Zoo during the day), where it has been much acclaimed for its open landscape and spaciousness wherein the animals live in enclosures simulating that of their natural habitat. The zoo is filled with exotic animals like white tigers, polar bears, and Asian elephants etc. It is the world’s first such attraction. We experienced wildlife on a 45-minute tram ride, we refused the Walking Trails to get a feel of the park in eight geographical zones covering forty hectares of forested park. The sight of watching over one hundred different species of nocturnal animals (including leopards, lions and tigers) is simply amazing and something you will always remember.
At Underwater World in Sentosa Island, the hidden life of the sea unfolded before our captivated eyes as we plumbed the depths of the underground living museum that houses some 2,500 marine and freshwater animals of 250 species from various parts of the world.
Inside the oceanarium, a travelator moved us along a submerged glass-encased tunnel from which we watched at close range a plethora of underwater creatures including stringrays, eels, turtles, jellyfish, sharks, sea cow (also known as dugong) and other fishes.
Also tried Singapore’s tallest observatory tower, still located in Sentosa offering guests panoramic views high above sea level across Singapore even up to neighboring Malaysia and the Indonesian islands. The Tiger Sky Tower has a capacity of 72 in its enclosed, air-conditioned cabin.
No trip in Singapore is complete without Shopping. Singapore is a Shopping haven for fashionistas around the world. It has the best brands, the best shopping malls, at fantastic bargains and if Saks Avenue or Beverly Hills needs a little competition, Orchard Road it is! There is just way too many great shopping malls not to be missed and our friend can spend hours shop, window shop or just walk around the Orchard Road area to soak in the city’s atmosphere.
A Day in the Life of a Flight Attendant on Vacation Leave
04 Aug 2009 16 Comments
in Accomplishments, All about flight attendant, All About Me... My Life..., Asia, family, fashion, food, inspirational, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, places & travels, Short Stories/ Thoughts Tags: Accomplishments, All about flight attendant, Asia, inspirational, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, manila
I was invited as a guest speaker at NCBA (National College of Business and Arts) for their 3rd-4th year HRM (Hotel & Restaurant Management) student with Tourism subject. The discussion firmly focuses on my travels to different countries, International Tourism, customer related information and life as a flight attendant.
My seminar only last 40-50 minutes but the question and answer portion made my stay longer. At first they were hesitant to ask, Later on they started calling Ma ‘am Star! Ma’am Star! Ma’am Star from each corner of mini theater room even some professors asked few questions too. It turns out to be a conference!
I actually had fun speaking in front of a crowd while sharing my stories and of course with pictures along with my stories because I’m not the type of person who keep telling things what they have but no evidence or proof at all (but words). I’m just laughing in my mind while listening every time I’m hearing stories such as I have this-that, Bought this at and there. haha! But I rather be quiet. I’m used to those kinds of personalities already. Oh come on, words are not even considered hard proof evidence in court hearings. The Judge may just condemn you right away. What I mean is, if you have it SHOW it. End of story. Not just by words. As the saying goes, puro kwento-walang kwenta! Again, I rather be quiet and let you boast your exaggerations and that’ll make me a good listener. Hehe!
After the Seminar, The College Dean personally thank me and told me that I should come back, etc. Then we proceed to HRM room to have lunch because they prepared lunch for us. After that went to Gateway Mall, then had a soothing massage at Blue Water Day Spa in Capitol Hills. The spa has a great ambiance and greenery view of a golf course, it’s like being away from the busy life of Metro Manila but it’s just actually in Quezon City near Celebrity Sports Club. (See Their Website)
I won’t summarize my speech anymore because it’s so long, but here’s my final message to them “Never get afraid of things which are achievable by you. Nothing is Impossible in this world. Many individual who’ve had a dream in their
childhood and succeeded in achieving those dreams has proved it. So I suggest we should aim and dream for a goal and try to succeed them without any laziness & losing control of ourselves. Let’s make every time worthwhile because Time is Gold!”
Related Post:
- All The pictures of my NCBA Seminar – Click Here
- House Blessing & Christian’s Birthday
- Everyday is a Holiday!
So the Story Goes… (July Vacation Summary)
31 Jul 2009 4 Comments
in All About Me... My Life..., Asia, family, gadgets, inspirational, investment, lifestyle, places & travels, Short Stories/ Thoughts Tags: baguio, casa milan, fairview, family, goldland resort, hotel veniz, lifestyle, manila, maruja, neopolitan, pangasinan, places & travels, urdaneta, vacation
Living in my mom’s mansion is like living in a holiday resort. It’s a real comfort zone, every corner of the house are elegantly furnished and well decorated. It made me realized what I’m missing. I’m missing the life that I used to have. Few more flights & Travels and I might resign next year! I will resign NOT because I’m getting married, I will resign because I miss my life and I want to focus on managing my business, list goes on…
My leave started dining out in Pepper Lunch at Rockwell, shop 2 Carts of Groceries in Duty Free, Ate in Aristocrat Roxas Blvd. Then Went home in our previous house to get some stuff & check my mails then slept in our new home for the 1st time.
My family & visitors can have an option to have breakfast by the poolside in our backyard, have lunch casually by the Zen type dining table in the kitchen or dine in the contemporary dining table at the other corner of the house with the view of the pool area or in one of the spacious balcony around the house, in façade or better yet eat while standing on the nook located in bar area. If your choice is none of the above then you can be humble to dine with the maid or driver in the mini-kitchen like my mom!
One gloomy day, my little sister Kristine and I decided to swim but it was very cold. Since it’s not sunny, I invited Christian to jog with me around the subdivision but to my surprise in the middle of our jog it became sunny! Thank God I have my umbrella with me! The 2 of us just ended up walking around. The neighborhood is very peaceful, the only public transport inside the village is 1 shuttle bus available 24hrs, security guards are patrolling from time to time, other homeowners are just busy gardening during that morning while some are cleaning their cars and polite enough to say Good Morning with a smile!
Few blocks away from our place was Maruja’s house (featured in my previous blog), I really like that house, it was so big and nicely landscaped, their swimming pool even have a bridge and no need to mention it was PINK! Loveeet!
Also saw Director Wenn Deramas’ corner house, they said Gabby Concepcion & Lorna Tolentino started filming new teleserye entitled “Dahil May Isang Ikaw” in that house. Ok enough of those Teleserye stories back to my vacation leave topic! Haha! The following evening was our house blessing & Christian’s sweet 16th birthday celebration but it’s like a debut celebration! He has 16 gifts, 16 wish, etc. It was raining the whole day so the LCD projector was installed late but the party went well, and the menu from the caterer is nice.
Next day, went to Baguio with Jero, walk around Burnham Park and SM, stayed in Veniz Hotel in front of Burnham Park then Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto the following day. I want to see lots of places such as mines view, etc but still have business to do for the day so we went back to their Goldland Resort, pick up some documents in pawnshops and visit their Drive-in-Hotel (Also owned by them) to pick up some stuff and to try our Guns in the mini-firing range!
July 21 – Is a long day, I was invited as a guest speaker at NCBA (National College of Business and Arts) for their 3rd-4th year HRM student with Tourism subject. The discussion firmly focuses on my travels to different countries, International Tourism, customer related information and life as a flight attendant. My speech only last 40-50 minutes but the question and answer portion made my stay longer. At first they were hesitant to ask, Later on they started calling Ma’am Star! Ma’am Star! Ma’am Star from each corner of mini theater room even some professors asked few questions too. It turns out to be a conference! After the speech went to HRM room to have lunch courtesy of the School’s Dean. Then went to Gateway Mall simply because of craving Dairy Queen Ice Cream! Then went Blue Water day spa to have a soothing massage. Later that evening, we’re all in family hall having fun with videoke! (Will upload the pictures later)
July 22 – Jero’s family went over because they want to buy the 750sq. meters Mansion beside our house. It was initially offered to us by then P16Million! But months after my mom bought our house, the P16Million mansion decrease it’s price for only P10Million! Sayang sana yun nalang nabili ni Mama! Same price but much bigger! 6 Cars will fit in the garage! The owner said the reason why the value decreases was because nobody affords it and naremata na lang sa bank! (Foreclosed property) Sayang talaga! But anyway, Jero’s mom are interested to buy it but to my dismay it’s already SOLD the day before Jero’s mom went there to inquire!!! Sayang! Sayang talaga! Kung sila nakabili edi sana neighbor ko lang ang family ko in the future when I got married!
We’re eyeing on the other house on sale but it’s not finalized yet dahil busy na ang sched ni Tita no time na to see the interior setting of the house and nagdadalawang isip pa because the garage can only fit 2 cars! Yes, it is a problem! & parang hindi ko masyado gusto ’cause the design was too simple (see here) then color beige pa parang ang dull, gusto ko bright colors! (Like this one) pero bakit ba ako nakikielam hindi naman ako ang bibili! Hehehe!
Before I left, we headed to Antipolo Church, it has always been my ritual to visit Our Lady of Peace & Good Voyage on all my vacation leave. Later on, went to SoleMare Parksuites near Mall of Asia to see the developments. They said they will turnover the unit on December 2010, While my condo in McKinley Hill-The Fort will be on June 2012. Maybe by that time I should still have my nightstop kit or suitcase with me so that I can sleep over wherever I preferred!
CENTRAL PARK (New York, USA)
28 Jun 2009 11 Comments
in Layover Flight, museums, new york, places & travels, u.s.a, Uncategorized Tags: layover flights, museums, new york, places & travels, u.s.a
Central Park is one of those places that make New York such a great place to live. The huge park is located in the center of Manhattan. Its design is an example for city parks around the world.
Literally dozens of well known movie and TV scenes have been shot here including: Ransom, One Fine Day, Bullets over Broadway, Home Alone II, Serendipity, Made of Honor, Angels in America, Cruel Intention, 27 Dresses, Superman Returns, I am Legend, Autumn in New York, The Happenings, You’ve Got Mail, Maid in Manhattan, Sex and the City, Gossip Girl and more. For more info go to IMDB Central Park Filming Location.
Bow Bridge completed in 1862, is one of the most photographed and filmed locations in Central Park and it deserves every bit of its star reputation. The bridge also provides the perfect view from to watch the slowly moving row boats as they glide across the lake, or to photograph the skyline over Fifth Ave. as it rises from the leafy skirt of trees that edge it. It is one of the most popular, and best known, spots to meet and has hosted numberless romantic moments, both on and off the big screen.
The Mall The 40foot wide Mall, flanked by its majestic rows of American Elms, provides the perfect place for a leisurely stroll in any season. One can easily imagine the scene a century ago, women with parasols and men in top hats perambulating towards the Concert Ground that stood adjacent to its northern end. Now you are more likely to find skateboards than waistcoats, but the effect is still the same and even the visitors on wheels are apt to slow down just a bit and admire the cathedral-like ambience.
The Loeb Boathouse, one of the most famous icons of Central Park is located at the northeastern tip of the Lake and houses the Boathouse Restaurant. It is a romantic setting for dinner on a mid-summer 19s evening, watching the sun sink behind the trees and maybe catching a venetian gondola.
Bethesda Fountain rises high above Bethesda Terrace looking over the hundreds of visitors that come every day to enjoy the view of the Lake and relax at the “heart” of the Central Park. Besides being a favorite destination of park visitors in search of a cool place to spend a summer afternoon. Bethesda Fountain is also a celebrity in its own right. It has probably appeared in more movies than any other monument in the park, exuding a timeless romantic charm that makes it a perfect backdrop for cinematographers.
North Meadow Recreation Center is, at 23 acres, one of Central Park’s largest open areas. Ball fields first appeared there in the 1870s and it has been extensively refitted with carefully managed baseball diamonds which are in use throughout the spring and summer. Located just to the north of the reservoir the gently rolling landscape around it creates a slightly more secluded ambience. It also houses a state of the art fitness center, which includes basketball courts, handball courts and two climbing walls.
Strawberry Fields, On December 8th, 1980 John Lennon was shot dead at 72nd St. and Central Park West. Mr. Lennon had taken many walks with his wife and young son through the friendly confines of Central Park. On March 26, 1981 His widow, the artist and performer, later donated $1 million to the Central Park Conservancy to re-landscape and to maintain the 2.5-acre tear-drop-shaped parcel of park landscape. Strawberry Fields opened on October 9, 1985. Every October 9th since then has seen an all day vigil of people of all ages from around the world; fans of his music and believers in his vision.
LOUVRE MUSEUM (Paris, France)
12 Jun 2009 82 Comments
in europe, Layover Flight, museums, paris, places & travels Tags: europe, filming location, layover flights, louvre, monalisa, museums, places & travels, special features
”Pictures are archives of our lives”
The Louvre Museum in Paris is the biggest and most visited art museum in the world. Its collection of approximately 35,000 pieces is exhibited over 60,000-square-meter floor area. Among the many famous collections in the museum are Venus de Milo and Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.
Louvre Museum, well-known museum from the movie The Vinci Code. Displays the famous Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci and many other first class paintings from across Europe. Leonardo da Vinci used his finger to eraseoutlines and create an impression of fuzziness.
The Louvre is bathed in natural light that reduces the use of energy while providing a dramatic view of the sky and the outline.
Instead of a conventional building constructed above ground that might draw attention away from the original museum, the new underground complex remains low key while providing the necessary additional space required by the project. By building underground the land is also efficiently used by maintaining the open space above.
Leonardo da Vinci painted there the Mona Lisa between 1503 and 1506. The subtle smile of the Mona Lisa is world famous. Leonardo da Vinci died in 1519 in Amboise, one of the favorite towns of the king.
This huge canvas once adorned the refectory of the monastery of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice. Here, Veronese, acclaimed as a colorist and for painting vast, multifigured scenes, chose to depict Christ 19s first miracle, performed during the Marriage at Cana.
*View The Rest of my Paris Tour
Maruja
06 Jun 2009 Leave a Comment
in lifestyle, places & travels Tags: abs-cbn location shoot, casa milan, fairview, kristine hermosa, lifestyle, places & travels, shooting, taping
Few Blocks away from our house in Casa Milan, I saw the house being used for the taping of Maruja. Also saw the location shoot of another TV show from ABS-CBN “Your Song” in the clubhouse on the same day. The caretaker of the subdivision said Casa Milan are amongst the favorite location shoot of local movies, commercials & teleseryes and even asking us if we can add our house to their list for future location tapings.
If you were a fan of Supernatural or Ghost Whisperer, you would surely love the series – Maruja. It comes with simple special effects compared to other horror stories but those are enough to give you goose bumps. Besides, having grotesque effects would only turn it into a comedy. It is the story that will grip you. And of course the way the story is being told. There is so much mystery!
Reminiscing Washington D.C
20 May 2009 16 Comments
in Layover Flight, places & travels, u.s.a, washington Tags: airbus 330, layover flights, places & travels, qatar airways, u.s.a, washington
The hotel is located in the middle of a town center, but we arrive passed 9pm so the shops are close already so we just ate late dinner at Bhusara Thai Restaurant Since we only have 25hrs layover I wasn’t able to walk around Reston Town Center =( Anyway, me our CS Bernie & Loubelle went out around 6am to wait for the bus on theway to the metro train station Smithsonian. I’ve been to Washington before (year 1994) but It was long time ago. I’m glad I’ll still be able to go to the U.S like the old times…There are still many places to see but here’s some of the;
Recommended places to visit:
WASHINGTON MONUMENT - The 555ft. Marble Obelisk since 1884 & it’s the world’s tallest freestanding mansonry structure built for George Washington. The
We also visited some museums like MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY – The museum’s collections total over 125 million specimens of plants, animals, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, and human cultural artifacts. NATIONAL GEM and MINERAL COLLECTION – The collection includes some of the most famous pieces of gems and minerals such as the famous Hope Diamond and the Star of Asia Sapphire. There are over 375,000 individual mineral samples, and a research collection used by scientists around the world.
NATIONAL AIR & SPACE MUSEUM -the most popular of the Smithsonian museums. It maintains the largest collection of aircraft and spacecraft in the world. It is also a vital center for research into the history, science, and technology of aviation and spaceflight, as well as planetary science and terrestrial geology and geophysics.
MUNICH, GERMANY (Travel Review)
04 May 2009 28 Comments
in europe, germany, Layover Flight, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, places & travels Tags: europe, germany, layover flights, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, munich, places & travels
I told my colleagues that it’s my 1st time to do the flight because I keep on swapping it for Manila! But since I already swapped my 2 days Milan for a 24hrs Manila, I guess it’s time for me to explore Munich!
The signage was pretty good and I had no trouble finding my way around even though German names (double ss’s and double ff’s) were a bitof a challenge! Because I was with Sandy & Jennifer (my tour guides) they always have Germany Flights (Berlin, Munich & Frankfurt). Through a €9.00 tram. We went to Marienplatz Central Square. The ride was about 20 mins.
Also had a very huge snack of grilled veal sausages in Old Town then went to Galeria Supermarket to buy some food while on the hotel and my favorite comfort snack -CHOCOLATES!!! As I munched my way around the supermarket I realized it’s no wonder the German’s call Munich Munchin’… I mean "Munchen" Then later on had gluttonous pork dinner on Weisses Brauhaus Restaurant in front of Old City hall.
***More Pictures in my Photoblog-Click Here***
HOUSTON, TEXAS (Travel Review)
15 Apr 2009 12 Comments
in Houston, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, places & travels, Short Stories/ Thoughts, u.s.a, washington Tags: houston, layover flights, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, places & travels, texas, u.s.a
It was 16hrs direct flight from Doha, but they gave us 5hrs 45mins rest. We arrived in Renaissance Hotel around 17:30 similar to arrival time whenever I have Washington & New York flight, but Houston layover is longer stay! 2nights/3days! Sarap mag inter-state! Knowing Vegas is just around 2hrs away & Miami is just an hour away! (Via plane.)
Since Houston is the newest destination of Qatar Airways, I might as well share these infos…
· There’s no public transpo available around the area. Puro lang for hire Limo & shuttle bus. (The best parin maging commuter sa Washington/Virginia)
· There’s a food court located in the ground floor inside the hotel pero exagge ang closing time ha! 2:30pm Close na! Pati Starbucks close narin! Pag weekend Close din!
· Since mahilig ako mag grocery because my pantry should always be fully stocked coz I don’t cook, isa nnman itong magastos na layover, dahil kung ang Virginia ay may 24hrs walking distance na Harris Teeter or Target Supermarket while New York has 24hrs din na Duane Reade or CVS Pharmacy/Supermarket or K-mart. Houston naman has Kroger Supermarket located just in front of the hotel!
· There’s ATM Machine located in the Ground floor.
· Free wired Internet connection – Same as in New York wherein you’re being asked to sign in with your name & room number but they will remove the charge when you checked out. Wifi is only available in the lobby.
· Meron dun Much talk about NASA Space Station it will cost you $60 to go there by tour 9-1pm, but I suggest If you already went to National Air & Space Museum in DC. No need to go there kasi pareho lang ang makikita. (View it here)
· Free USA Today Newspaper! Gusto ko lang I-mention.. Hehe! sa IAD & JFK kc wala…
· The best parin ang sales tax ng Virginia 4.something lang… Eh dito 8.something parang N.Y but in Fairness, meron silang Tax Refund parang sa Europe! Pero Hello!? As if naman may time ka pa mag refund sa airport… If delayed departure cgro…
· As I was watching CNN, I noticed there’s QR short Commercial every 5-10mins!
· Qatar Airways’ huge Promotional Tarpaulins are scattered all over Galleria Mall, pati sa elevator, Ice Skating rink at food court.
*** Hope this helps.., Add nlng ako ulit ng info next week coz April 15-18, I’ll be in Houston, Texas again.
*** Pictures can be found here
4 Days OFF in MANILA
10 Apr 2009 14 Comments
in All About Me... My Life..., family, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, manila, places & travels Tags: family, life as a cabin crew, lifestyle, manila, places & travels
Once again I experienced the usual dilemma in every Manila flight – It’s either fully booked or no seats available, but I have my back up ticket with me so I went to Bahrain and catch Gulf Air flight to Manila.
Arrived Manila the next day around 11am, I went home to surprise my family but instead of surprising them I was the one who was surprised because nobody’s home. I called my mom then she told me they are all in Tagaytay. From Fairview to Tagaytay (North to South) Jero & I were able to go there in less than 3hrs because there’s no traffic.
Finally, I was able to meet "Lucky" our new 2 ½ months Shith zu that they just bought in Tiendesitas recently. Cute and Cuddly puppy. Then we visited our lot in La Excelsa Subdivision. It seems like my mom is planning to construct another house there because she always wants to have a rest house. This is the exact phrase I told her. "Huh!? Mama one at a time! You just bought a house & haven’t completed the furnishings yet! Hay nko mag pa parlor na lang tayo at kumain ng Buko Pie, mas masaya yun kesa magpatayo ng bahay!"
Sleep Deprived March Roster
29 Mar 2009 4 Comments
in europe, fashion, germany, Layover Flight, life as a cabin crew, places & travels, Uncategorized Tags: Berlin, europe, fashion, germany, layover flights, life as a cabin crew, Manchester, places & travels, qatar
Then, I supposed to go on a 7days Beijing Flight. I was ready. All set. My transport pick up arrived but when I was signing in for the flight in Qatar Airways technical bldg. I was like “Hmmm, how come it’s different flight number?” OMG! They just change my flight without any notice at all… That evening I flew to Manchester, UK. I don’t mind doing the flight since I haven’t been there because I keep swapping that flight for MNL but how can I go shopping?! My suitcase is filled with gym attire, Jackets & boots. The Hotel in Manchester is Midland. The location is perfect for shopping there’s H&M, Zara, Mark & Spencer,Topshop and “Primark” is just 5mins walking distance yehey!
I really wanted to buy lots of stuff but my suitcase is packed for 7 days stay in Beijing. (No much space) But still I managed to bought lots of stuff like 2 Jackets, Lingeries, Tops, lots of warming tights, (good for winter) & some pasalubong. Spent about 70 pounds.
Back in Doha, I have Roster changes again!!! They gave me Delhi – Bahrain – Delhi back to back turn around flights!!! Waaah!!! Best word to described it – Damn Tiring!!!
I also had Tripoli – Cassablanca (morocco), I don’t have picture there because I didn’t go out, I just went to Spa for a relaxing massage & tried the much talk about “Hammam” service. (Their term for body scrub). Unfortunately, it wasn’t relaxing at all. My skin has a lot of nail scratch afterwards & the way they massage is not gentle. Ouch! Nothing beats Thai Massage or Swedish Massage in The Spa, Fitness First or City Lifestyle QC.
* View the rest of the pictures in my Photo Blog
Reston Virginia
16 Aug 2008 2 Comments
in aviation news, Layover Flight, new york, places & travels, u.s.a, washington Tags: aviation news, layover flights, places & travels, u.s.a, washington
Aug 14-16′ 2008 – I just came back from Washington (as usual) but this time we used Airbus 340 to Washington & Boeing 777 going back to Doha… I missed Airbus! The last time I flew with this aircraft is 7 months ago (Hongkong Flight) A340’s capacity is 266, While B777 is 305! And it’s equipped with “AIP” an indication panel where you can see the passengers’ seat number who pressed the call bell, so no need to look around like a hunter where the call bell is is! Hehe! And there’s jumpseat in mid galley! Unlike in B777 there’s no seat at all except for drawers!? But in B777 the bunk beds are more spacious!
Unbelievably, I was able to managed being in-charged of the mid-galley with lots of special meals, nakapag load ako ng 4carts on time eh nasa cabin din ako at the same time because of Bar Service! I can’t blame anyone why nobody helped me load the carts co’z anyone has their own task din & the one’s I’m flying with as in 4-5 times ko na nakasama mga flying buddies ko na. Nice naman sila.
Anyway yun nga back to the story. Nagulat sila How I’m able to finish loading the carts so Quick! Eh nasa cabin din ako…hehe! About the passengers naman same old stories, kakatapos lang nila kumain ask na agad what time next service or hingi na agad ng anytime snacks… Haaaay No comment na!
We arrived the hotel in Hyatt Reston Virginia around 5:30pm (it seems like the rain has just finished) then went straight to Target Supermarket, I invited Ji Hyun (Korean) if she wants to buy some groceries. I told her 18-20mins away lang! medyo rocky & puro grass yung lalakaran and both of us were wearinghigh-heeled shoes! It turns out to be 45mins walk! Sabi nya sakin, “Star, you told me it’s less than 20 mins walk!” sabi ko nalang “this is a good form of exercise!” She keeps on complaining about how far it is kasi pagod nga sa flight. Kaya nagpapatawa nalang ako the whole time para hindi ako antukin!
Napapasigaw ako sa may parking area kasi umulubog sa grass yung heels namin, Sabi ko nga kay Ji Hyun “Hey let’s go back!!!” then she still continue to walk, sabi nya she was on half way of getting out of the grass mas longer pa pabalik
.
We finished shopping around 9:30pm ate dinner then walk far again but that time its dark already, iba naman yung way namin, we crossed some bridge then followed a long fence but we end up climbing a hill with our high heeled shoes & groceries! Sabi ko nga “Wow this is unforgettable we should take a picture” sabi nya “Star! I will kill you sabi ko, “I’m just kidding!” hahahaha! Kasi naman hirap na umakyat ng hill picture pa nasa isip! Pero in-fairness funny din sya kasama naging close na kami coz we always fly
together on a 14hrs flight! =)
We supposed to go to Tysons Mall together but when I called her she was still sleeping so as usual I just went to mall by myself again… didn’t have much time to sleep in our entire 27hrs stay but during our crew rest for 3hrs during the flight I was completely deep sleep! I can’t believe I have Washington flight again
After 2days…
Qatar Airways Oryx in Blue sky… Isn’t wonderful?
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