Number one in my list is to conduct a photo-shoot! then eat, chit-chat with other crew or passengers, then nap (just kidding) lolz! Have fun flying! =)
lifestyle
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Bucket List Check: Sky Diving
Published June 28, 2014 by starvillanuevaIf you’re going to jump out of a plane you might as well pick somewhere beautiful… like Hawaii!
I’ve made a reservation through online a week before going there. I even booked a shuttle service since the location is on the North Shore of Oahu quite far from where I am staying and nobody can drop me off there because of the fact that nobody knows I was going there till they saw the photos! Haha!
I barely slept that night thinking I was going to jump out of a perfectly nice aircraft at 14,000 feet!
Precisely at that moment I realized there is no backing out! It was an indescribable feeling!
Falling at approximately 130mph towards the aqua marine blue sea, and the wind is rushing through your ears quite loudly as you try to grasp the magnitude of everything around you, it was surreal. I was trying to keep my eyes open the entire time because the view was beyond the word amazing.
The whole thing lasted about 12-15 wonderful minutes. It was absolutely spectacular. So spectacular, that makes me wanted to do it again!
The things you’ve always wanted to do? go ahead do them! It will be an unforgettable experience for you too.
Star Villanueva MTV “SHE” BTS Photoshoot
Published April 7, 2014 by starvillanueva
This video was intended to be a behind the scenes footage that turns out to be a Music Video that I really love! It made me fell in love with myself even more!!!
Cinematic Venice Italy!
Published July 12, 2013 by starvillanueva
I know I haven’t’ been posting about my travels for more than a year now and many has been questioning me already – but Yes! I’m still a Flight Attendant. I still do travel. I’ve been to Cairo-Egypt, Copenhagen-Denmark and Verona-Italy this year and a lot more. It would be the same reason why I haven’t posted anything lately. It’s either I’m busy with photo shoots, gym, too lazy or no time because I always go home to Manila during my long day offs to see the development of the renovation of my Condo unit.
For many, a desire to explore the world is hard to ignore, but for me I’ve always have a desire to see the place whenever I saw it in movies, series or even history book or travel channels. I love places with so much stories. It fascinates me. It makes me want to be in that place wherever it is. Thank God for this flying career that sends me to almost any destination I want.
The canals and architecture of Venice make it especially cinematic that made it one of the favorite location for movies like The Tourist- stars Angelina and Johnny Depp in a romantic thriller that takes place almost entirely in Venice. It’s a beautiful look at the city of Venice so worth watching for the scenery and who can’t forget about Venice’s role in Indiana Jones third installment? Venice is one of several locations featured in the explorer’s quest for the Holy Grail.
Connecting the districts of San Polo and San Marco across the Grand Canal in the heart of the city, the Rialto Bridge has always been busy crossing in Venice.
The crowd there will convince you that you are at the most famous square of Venice. It is the largest square in Venice and you will see people sitting and enjoying their wine, artists drawing portraits, and notorious pigeons flocking around the tourists. The impressive St. Mark Basilica is a must-see.
Get down at Rialto Bridge, the oldest bridge to cross the Grand Canal. There are a variety of restaurants here. Have your Lunch and wander about lazily on the streets of Venice. Cross the tiny bridges and have a peek at the real Venice, You will feel that the city seems to exist for tourists alone and most of these houses are either hotels or empty.
*** Again please be aware of impostors and scammers who keep using my pictures! –https://starvillanueva.com/2011/04/30/beware-of-scammers/
All About Modeling – A must see!
Published March 21, 2013 by starvillanueva
Location Shoot in Zekreet, Photo by: Parc Cruz
The Film City Zekreet are famous film setting of the movie Transformer and setting of some of the Arabic movies and television shows.
A lot of people want to be a model because it’s glamorous, lucrative, have lots of perks and you might want to be recognized in the modeling world. Modeling is extremely competitive, and the industry is filled with rejection, but successful models are doing something that they love. Here are some major truths about becoming a model, as well as some realistic advice to make it happen for you (Excerpt from Marie Claire)
(Photos are from my instagram account: @StarVillanueva)
Decide what kind of model you hope to be. Technically, anybody can be a model. However, do remember that if you don’t meet certain requirements, the work available to you will be incredibly limited, and you may have to compensate in other departments.
Taken in a Prestigious Yacht @ The Pearl Doha
Photo By: Edmond Baclit
One of my magazine feature during mid 2012
Photo by: Bobet Faune
A Runway Model: Most women on the catwalk are mostly tall, very skinny (Except this does not pertain to Victoria’s Secret models) If you’re not that tall, don’t lose hope, I’m not that tall either! But managed to make it to runway many times! See this post for more info: https://starvillanueva.com/2012/06/21/photoshoots-fashion-show-and-flying-in-between/
It’s one of the “Shoot for a cause”-fundraising event that I participated,
been published on some Qatar Newspapers
A Print Model: This is my chosen field it just need a beautiful face with great personality and height is not really necessary plus you’ll have a bunch of newspaper, magazines and tarpaulin as a souvenir of your exposure.
My 4th Photo shoot for the month of March 2013
Photo By: Ryan Bulaon
An Underwear Model: For women, this requires large breasts but small hips.
Other Types of Modeling: If you don’t fit any of the face or body descriptions, perhaps you can be a foot, hair, or hand model or in case you are not skinny don’t lose hope because there’s also A Plus Size Model: If your body is full and curvaceous, you may be able to be a plus size model.
Other Types of Modeling: If you don’t fit any of the face or body descriptions, perhaps you can be a foot, hair, or hand model or in case you are not skinny don’t lose hope because there’s also A Plus Size Model: If your body is full and curvaceous, you may be able to be a plus size model.
Photo By: Clarence Pacis
Educate yourself. There is a lot you can learn from reading books and articles on modeling. Reading quality guides, articles, and books will both help you to improve important skills (like posing) and to better understand how the industry works.
Realize that it’s tough. The modeling world is jam-packed with pretty faces. Just because you are good looking does not mean that you can succeed as a model. In the modeling business, it is not just about looking great. You have to fit the need of specific jobs just in order to get a chance. Modeling is only for serious people who carry unique looks and characteristics. Since there are so many people trying to become models in today’s world, it’s very challenging to get a breakthrough and will only come with patience and perseverance.
BNY – Bunny Jeans Image Model
They have it all from Sporty Attire to Formal Wear!
Visit Doha Trendsetter Showroom in front of Montazah Hospital, Doha Qatar
Photo By: Leo Bautista
Please Like my page @ http://www.facebook.com/5tarvillanueva
Follow me at instagram/twitter: @StarVillanueva
*** Again please be aware of impostors and scammers! – https://starvillanueva.com/2011/04/30/beware-of-scammers/
Proud of My Weekly Column at Philippine Star Today and The New Image Model-Endorser of BNY!
Published September 24, 2012 by starvillanueva
Maiden Issue of my weekly Star Bliss Column at Pilipino Star Ngayon – September 23′ 2012
I have been postponing for ages to write the good news. Maybe because until now, I’m ecstatic and overwhelm with all the blessings that keep coming. I’m now an image model/endorser of Bunny Jeans or better known as BNY. I’ll be modeling their clothes in Philippines and in Middle East. My first photoshoot using BNY clothes was held in Doha, Qatar. I love all the clothes, it’s so comfortable & classy. I’ve already attended one of their events and then they introduce me in the stage as one of their endorsers. The feeling was so surreal, I’m so glad. Thanks to “Doha Trensetters” – The Company that imports brands such as Hammerhead, Dickies & BNY in Doha. They have a showroom in Montazah st. in front of Montazah Health Center. So readers from Doha, please visit their shop! They have variety of wardrobe collections from jackets to pants, shirts, polo and dresses.
I’m so excited to see myself on another magazine, but this time I’m in the cover. Honestly, I haven’t seen the layout yet but they said it’s now for printing and might be published next week. It is really something!
Ok, too much of being in the modeling side, here comes the other side of me. I’m so proud to announced that I now have a regular weekly column at Philippine Star Today (Pilipino Star Ngayon) my articles will be about beauty, fitness & health and yet another feature at Health Today Magazine is also coming out. I really consider it a milestone in my life that I will treasure and forever will be proud of.
I grew up reading health, beauty and fitness magazines and newspapers and here I am now. Having my own column in a real and well-circulated newspaper. God is so good. He will always give more than I asked for. I’ll be forever thankful.
So anyway, I shall finally post the pictures I got off the net for the BNY Catalogue and from my Intagram account at #StarVillanueva
I had shot this more than a week ago during the peak of summer season, Yes! still having photo shoot under the heat! So imagine the humid and I was wearing BNY checkered collection polo shirt but still looking so comfy! Good thing I shot some of it in a covered area, at least there wasn’t any direct sunlight all the time so no need to retouch my makeup often, since I’m doing my own makeup, it’s not that I don’t trust makeup artists but I just personally preferred to apply it on my own. I personally think that I did a job well done! Cheers!
*Once again beware of my posers (see details here)
* Please like my Facebook page
Fitness First!
Published August 30, 2012 by starvillanuevaI recently became a Fitness First Gym member. I took advantage of the 14 months membership because of its huge discounts. It’s just that when I exercised at home or hotel gyms, I already get used to do with what I am doing and experienced a plateau, a condition when the person exercising finds his fitness, strength or endurance staying at a constant level. Fitness First is perhaps the most popular gym in the worldwide. Reason? They have so many branches, mostly in malls, making them the most accessible gym anywhere.
The benefits and what I like about Fitness First gyms:
- Free gym introduction session for new members
- You can also use more than 500 Fitness First gym worldwide.
- Secured gym access by swiping member card at the gym entrance gates.
- Free fitness assessment and they recommend programs to lose weight, get fit for sport, build cardio fitness, strengthen muscles.
- Many fitness instructors where you can ask help for gym equipment usage at any time in the gym.
- Cardio exercise machines (treadmill, cycling, etc) have TV’s with satellite TV channels. You get a free headphone when you join so that you can choose TV channels and listen to it privately while doing exercises so that you won’t get bored.
- Many Group Exercise classes! Fitness First has world renowned programs such as BODYJAM, BODYBALANCE, BELLYDANCE, BODYCOMBAT, BODYATTACK, RPM, BODYSTEP, BODYPUMP and other popular dance classes like YOGA, ZUMBA and SALSA and more!
- You can participate in as many classes as you want and you don’t have to pay extra. Cool!
- Members lounge and cafe bar (unlimited free drinks)
- Steam room and sauna, it feels so good to sweat out!
- Safety lockers to keep your stuffs and hot/normal hair dryers are provided.
- Free DVD rental. You can borrow any of the 500+ movies and watch it at home.
- Free use of computers and internet wifi. • Many fun member events and theme based fun classes during celebrations
- Now you know why I joined to Fitness First gym. Joining Fitness First is really worth the money spent.
Part of my motivation to stay fit is to wear to exercise clothes and accessories! My friends are telling me that its just my excuse to go shopping! haha! I love my Pink boxing gloves, It’s still so girly despite of throwing heavy punches! Pink is all that matters! (Photos are from my Instagram account, Follow me @ #StarVillanueva )
Cyber Life
Published June 1, 2012 by starvillanueva
“People will always talk about you, so might as well give them a reason…”
Like what I’ve said before, I’m a certified homebody, If I don’t have work or photoshoot, I’m basically just at home facing my laptop! Here’s why even if I’m busy with my flights, magazine team meet ups, writing articles, modelling & my Star Bliss Salon & Spa I still managed to have a cyber life. (But I don’t chat-never. So beware of those posers using my pictures to find a chatmate or whatever they called it.)
My Multiply is flooded with pictures I know. Hehe! So I wanted to make a distinction between my photos and my blogs. My Multiply will still be my official Photo website (though it’s not updated anymore) while Livejournal or wordpress will be for my blog entries such as reviews, travel infos, property, investments interesting articles I gathered from the net, other Flight Attendant blogs, health/beauty tips, inspirations and anything under the sun!
You may also follow me through Twitter, I find it easy to update, with just a simple question what are you doing? Your friends and family will be updated. Live Feed! BTW, My Instagram name is #StarVillanueva…
My Suggestion to those who want to start blogging or thinking of having one. I’ve found that writing a blog about your travels is good motivator to go out and find new things, which in turn makes you more of a traveler. Write up a short post on your trip or about anything. Sometimes, probably no one will read it, but that’s not the point, it’s primarily for you, the audience is secondary.
To my beloved readers, I have more than a million things to share to the world through words and pictures, but very busy to update my blog lately… Just continue to take time to listen to me through my photoblog “Welcome to My World, Fly with Me”… Thank you
* Please Add: http://www.facebook.com/starbliss.spa on Facebook to know the latest promos & updates!
Started the Year Right with Healthy Living and Photoshoot!
Published February 7, 2012 by starvillanueva
As someone who avoids crowded gyms and treks on the treadmill and different hotels during layovers, I prefer to stretch my muscles and clear my mind in a peaceful and private environment. Yoga presents an opportunity for self-reflection, shedding light on any internal negativity and providing the means to expel such flawed thinking through its meditative properties.
I began my yoga journey back in high school days a decade ago. Yoga is not that popular those days, I can only see yoga studios whenever my family and I will travel in the states it’s also there where I got the video Cds!
I didn’t limit myself with yoga, I’ve also tried Pilates and Zumba classes in Sheraton hotel here in Doha, Zumba is a health boosting dance fitness program, a latin inspired calorie burning experience! I’ve used some muscles I haven’t been using in awhile! I’ve also wanted to try Pole dancing but it’s not offered anywhere here in Qatar, I’ll definitely try it soon after my resignation, It’s always good to try something new when it comes to fitness exercise so that you won’t get bored and will still be motivated.
But still I preferred Yoga classes in Al Sharq Hotel also here in Doha. Theyoffer Yoga classes twice a day for 50 Riyals each class. After my sessions, I felt less stressed, more flexible, and renewed physically, mentally, and spiritually plus a glowing complexion is the bonus of it!
Benefits of Yoga:.
Stretches muscles you never knew you had! And literally massages your internal organs, keeping the tissues stimulated, free from disease, improve posture and it slows down aging process!
Learning to love yourself – how often do we set aside an hour to actually spend time with ourselves? By allocating time to stretch, focus and simply be, we are affirming our own self worth, and increasing vitality.
Detoxification – by limbering up, poking and pinching those tissues which once lay dormant, you increase blood-flow throughout the entire body and assist in the removal of toxins and greater alkalinity – deep breathing increases alkalinity by removing excess CO2 from your system and learning to focus on and appreciate the flow of energy and bring peaceful calm to the mind.
Words to remember: For what good are your 2012 plans if you aren’t healthy enough? What good is working like a dog if you aren’t healthy enough to enjoy the fruits of your labor? What good is luxuryon the sick bed? “Health is wealth” so better start the year right with a fitness program & healthy lifestyle!
Philippine STAR Ngayon
Published October 26, 2011 by starvillanuevaWhether we admit it or not, at one point in our lives, we’ve wondered what it would be like to be in the shoes of our favorite celebrities–where fame, fortune, and endless Twitter followers and Google hits come up at the click of their name.
Philippine Star Ngayon (I’ll publish the Hi-Res once I get the copy, I have 2 more pictures on page 2)
Still available Nationwide in Philippines, October 2011 issue of Health Today from bookstores or magazine stands near you, grab yourself a copy now.
It’s me, gracing the pages of a Magazine! 3rd time!
Published September 30, 2011 by starvillanueva
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!
Available to all leading newstands, bookstore, and supermarket! Grab a copy now! God Bless you all, Thanks!
Letters To Juliet’s -Verona, Italy
Published August 16, 2011 by starvillanuevaMention 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.
Another Magazine Exposure & Endorsement! =)
Published July 31, 2011 by starvillanueva
In Health Today’s August Edition – I’m endorsing the Art & photography workshops in the city. It is a fact that doing something enjoyable has been associated by positive stress, the healthy kind that motivates the person.
Discovering a new talent can be rewarding, especially when it can lift your spirits & open your eyes to a new opportunities. While finding your inherent strength you may meet your inner artist – and develop a deeper appreciation of beauty from between – HT
When Health Today’s July issue was released I wasn’t in the Philippines. I was really eager to have a copy the soonest so I just asked one of my colleagues who happened to have Manila flight to grab a copy for me, since she’s Korean I instructed her where she can find it… National Bookstore, FullyBooked, Booksale, even in grocery’s magazine rack or 7-11, but unfortunately, she forget about it… but anyway, I had a Manila flight a week after so it’s ok! As soon as I landed, I immediately, went to bookstore! Wow! Nothing beats the feeling of buying a magazine to see your face in it! The feeling is surreal!
I’m looking forward to have more endorsements, and photoshoots too… Modeling and practicing my make up skills are really an enjoyable moment for me! I started building up my portfolio in my FB but it’s not yet formal because I don’t have much time to update it from time to time.
Right now, I’m a flight attendant, businesswoman, entrepreneur, real estate investor, model, magazine writer, Star Bliss Salon & Spa owner of 2 Branches and soon to be a professional make up artist, Jeweler & Hotelier!
“When you dream, dream BIG, and never give up. There’s no law that says you have to dream small. Your dream is just yours. Never let anyone tell you that your dream can’t happen, it can! Nurture your dream. Keep seeing yourself do what’s never been done before. Believe me, it has no other choice but to come true!”
* I have a new business, but I’ll keep it private for now as instructed by my mom, Shhhhh! Don’t tell anybody! =)
* Again please BEWARE of Scammers & Posers who loves to use my pictures!
* Related Post: A Smile that made it to HT July 2011 Edition!
The Star is Back!
Published March 20, 2011 by starvillanueva“Too many things to blog too little time….”
It has been a couple of months since I have last written in this blog. It’s just that I somehow change my lifestyle (a little) and that caused me to lessen my time being online. I’m very much occupied with lots of things lately (Photoshoots, Travels, Business, Work, etc). Instead of just resting in my accomodation in Doha during my long days off. Now, I’m usually spending it by going home in Manila or New York (I Love NY!) Even during my vacation leave last Nov-Dec 2010. I divided my 15 days vacation in MNL & NY. Very tiring because of the travel time but it’s worth it! There are lot’s of Sale in U.S during those holiday seasons (Everybody is crazy for shopping mode!) Then last Feb, my mom & sis went to NY luckily I have 5 days off that time so I was able to joined them too! We strolled along Manhattan & Went Ice Tubing/ Skiing for the 1st time in Poconos, Pensylvania. (If time permits, I’ll blog about it!)
Another thing that makes me busy lately is reading books! I don’t know what’s with the year 2011 that made me hooked in books! of course, I do read books from time to time but not as much as this year! To the point of finishing one hard bound book that I just bought in the airport before my 14 hours straight flight! and whenever I’m in the mall by myself, I’ll be most likely be found in the bookstore! I’m now currently reading. “Straight Talk, No Chaser” by Steve Harvey – It’s the follow up version of “Think Like a Man, Act Like a Woman!” by the same author.
As for my layover flights, I still do enjoy going out to explore the city! Which I hope one of these days I’ll have the courage to spend my whole day to upload the pics & blog about it (If time permits!). It’s also a good thing that even though I’m not bidding for asian destination (besides Manila). I always have it. I love asian sector than European sector for the reason of “Pampering”. It’s pretty common that Spa are way cheaper in Asia than anywhere else in the world and yet very satisfying. I spent New Year in Kuala Lumpur, my collegues & I went to salon to tried their hair treatments. After a week, I flew to Singapore to have my Acrylic Nails Done. Then Ventosa & Body Massage in Shanghai China while the most recent is in Saigon, Vietnam where I tried 2 hours hotstone massage. Now you know why I love Asia! All the things that I can’t do in Manila due to lack of time, I can all do it somewhere else in Asia! (How I wish I have time to blog about all these things soon! I’ll be more than willing to share my spa reviews! if time permits!) Ohhhh I’m so addicted on going to spas to pamper myself. It’s my way of distressing after a hard work above the sky! That explains why I have my own Star Bliss Salon & Spa! =)
And lastly, Photo shoots! I loveeeeeet! Modelling & Posing infront of camera is amazingly fun! I love all the pictures! Although it’s consume lots of time during my day off, it’s still worth it! They’re all professional photographers and for that, I’ll be featuring the photos in this blog soon! Promise I’ll find time despite of my busy sched! haha! but anyway, here’s some of it!
Me and Manhattan
Published October 31, 2010 by starvillanueva
* 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: https://starvillanueva.com/2009/06/28/central-park-new-york-usa/
Time Flies When You’re Having Fun & Adventure!
Published September 8, 2010 by starvillanueva 
One Sunday morning, my family and I didn’t have any plan but it turned out to be my favorite day of the month! (August) Headed to Serendra & Market Market Mall in Global City during its SALE day so we we’re inside the mall from morning till evening without noticing it. Spent the whole day, fitting clothes & shoes! And satisfying our cravings in some food chains such as Zagu, New York Fries and New York Hotdogs! Then later on had dinner in Kamayan buffet restaurant! I think I totally forgot that there’s this word called “Diet!”
Then saw the wall climbing it’s kinda cool, but gravity is something that everybody should be scared of. This kind of activity is easy but even with the gears, there’s still a chance for these gears to malfunction so, you just have to be careful everytime you do this kind of stuff.
It was my brother who climbed first. Then I accompanied my sister. While looking at how steep the rock was, I fearlessly started to hit the rock and grab anything I can hold on to with my hand. Though I’m a first time climber, I wasn’t scared at all because I love heights! and it was actually safe because of the gears that they let us use. The wall also has certain stages of varying difficulty depending on your experience and capability. There is what they call the 90-degree wall, for beginners. The wall is just flat and doesn’t have many obstacles all you need is to power lift and push yourself up.
I wasn’t wearing the right clothes and shoes (just rented proper shoes) because it’s not planned at all. I really had so much fun! I wish I can’t go to different wall climbs as often as I want to!
As we walked around Serendra, I’ve been spotted to do a 10 seconds commercial and mini-photoshoot for Fox Channel! I’m glad my mom also have her camera with her the whole time because my Sony digicam kept on vibrating like a cellphone on a vibrate mode! It produces blurry pictures!
The happenings didn’t end there! Also went to McKinley Hills to check the developments of my condo. I love the ambience in Venetian Mall though it’s a mimicked version it still reminds me of Venetian Mall in Las Vegas that I visited early this year and Venetian Mall in Macau.
There’s more! The night didn’t end there. Before they start calling me “Indianera” for not showing up every time they invite me, I’ve decided to meet my friends at Starbucks in Rockwell Makati. We spent more than 3hours of non-stop laughter! Abby – my colleague from the airline just arrived that time, I’m glad she didn’t forget to bring the Alviero Martini passport holder & wallet that I asked her to buy during her recent flight to Rome, Italy.
Related Post: All The Pictures from my Recent Leave
Fun-Filled Tagaytay Zipline Adventure
Published July 19, 2010 by starvillanueva“When you’re with your family, it’s always a precious moment that money can’t buy”
The Day Started by attending an early mass at Antipolo Church (around 4am) and a Coffee zip in Mcdonalds! Then my mom and I saw the Tagaytay Zipline on a Newspapers’ frontpage! Since we were blessed with bright rays of sunshine and no sign of rain that morning, we thought of going to Tagaytay! Tagaytay is one of the place my family and I always visit, it’s near, it’s cool, it’s refreshing.
This time, we tried Picnic Groves’ Zipline! I love the feeling I get when the adrenaline is pumping through my body! Whether that be from bungee jumping, roller coasters, Parajump, skydiving, or other activities, I cannot seem to get enough of it. Some might call me an adrenaline junky since I am always looking for the next adventure!
We all soared above a lush jungle on a zipline! Since we are in the Philippines and not America, the safety regulations are quite different this giving you the option to be strapped in however you wish. My choice was to fly face first while lying on my stomach, like Superman. (Since I already tried being strapped in Harness while sitted in Singapore’s Sentosa Zipline which I should blog next time.) You are secured by a few straps that are supposed to be one size fits all. My 10-year-old sister and I both had the same size of harness.
I felt extremely secure because the strap was invading my personal space. Besides flying higher than a football field above the ground, the view encompasses a reflection of the center part of the volcano off the crater lake that has formed from a previous explosion. Best part above all (in my opinion) is that they have their own photographer to click a photo of you while your up in the air! The Photo will be given after 10-15mins! Wow! I love souvenir photos especially rare moment ones!
After Picnic Grove had an early dinner at Josephine’s, Starbucks and Tierra de Maria. With its cool climate and close proximity to Manila, Tagaytay has evolved from a mere quaint, transient stopover to one of the country’s favorite holiday and weekend retreats. What’s so special about Tagaytay? The food, the place, the climate, the price – everything except that it will probably make you fat to go there often!
* View The Rest of The Pictures: July 2010
My Love Affair with Coffee
Published June 22, 2010 by starvillanueva
Sharing one of my many published articles in Qatar Airways Q’ways magazine but this is the shorter version because I intentionally removed the research part such as benefits & side-effects of coffee to avoid some references issues. After being absent for 2 consecutive issues due to my hectic flying schedule, Star Bliss Nails Spa marketing, client meetings, (lists goes on) now I’m back again to writing. Sometimes, I wish we have more than 24 hours each day to accomodate all my multi-tasking habit! But as mentioned to my previous post, I like it when I’m tired, let me now share my love affair with coffee…
If there was one thing my friends & family would be jealous about, it would most likely be coffee. I drink it everyday, I think about it all the time and to say the least, my life has somehow revolved around it. The influence that coffee has brought into so many aspects of my life is astounding. One would probably find it hard to believe that coffee has influenced my work, lifestyle and health, among so many other things.
To start the flight right, I would drink coffee, then I’ll drink again during the course of the flight until the end to boost my energy. The dosage of which is enough for me to go malling or sight-seeing. Being in the airline industry for quite sometime, coffee running through my bloodstream is an understatement. The kind of lifestyle I have intensely requires tons and tons of coffee. It has become a way of life, a part of my system. I should have included coffee in my “All Time Skin & Beauty Secret Post”.
Nothing is quite as sweet as that first sip. Nothing is quite as warm as that mug against my hands. Though many, many more cups will follow this one each day, that first sip, that very first cup, is special. And so are the other dozen I’ll have for the day. I honestly don’t know how many cups of coffee I slug down each day. I don’t count — I drink. Hence, I’m so hopped up on caffeine that my body twitches with a speed of an Oryx!
This is my love affair with coffee and I intend to make it last. Coffee & Me, Me & Coffee. We make sweet music together and it is this perfect harmony that makes me fall for it madly and deeply each time.
Hollywood – Entertainment Capital of Los Angeles
Published June 5, 2010 by starvillanueva
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***
A Peek Into The Intriguing World of Traveling & Flying
Published May 28, 2010 by starvillanueva“Ang buhay parang isang eksena sa airport. May mga naghahanap. Na nabik sa muling pagkikita. Sa daming nakapaligid sayo. Hindi mo alam kung sino sa kanila ang dapat mong pagkatiwalaan.Pero may mga masarap kasama. At meron ding mga dapat iwasan. May mga naghihintay. Ang iba nagmamadali at kailangan umalis. At minsan nga nasa harapan mo na ang hinahanap mo hindi mo lang alam. Maraming magagandang experience sa aking paglipad pero sa paglapag niyo sa lupa Masaya na akong Makita ang isang pamilyar na ngiti. Saan man ako makarating kaligayahan kong makapiling ang mga mahal ko..eto ang langit para sa akin..”
I’ve been watching this trailer over and over again! I’m so touched by the way it has been presented. I’m quite affected by the words too… Aside from offering an exclusive peek into the intriguing world of traveling and flying,I’ve read that the program will also feature many of Philippines famous tourist destinations and it unravels the glamorous, colorful, and fascinating world of the airline industry.
* FA Uniform of Heart Evangelista & FA Uniform from my themed birthday.
“Bagong Araw, Bagong Flight..Ganyan ang buhay ko..Saan naman kaya ako makakarating ngayon? Sana mapadpad na kung nasan ang mga kapatid ko..miss na miss ko na sila eh sila naman ang dahilan kung bakit ako naging flight attendant..sana sa susunod na paglipad ko mahanap ko na sila para magkasama sama na kaming muli eto ang pinapangarap ko.. ang makapiling sila..eto ang langit ko.”
