Michi Photostory

Gallery by Chele is previously known as Gallery Vask. This fine-dining restaurant started in the year 2013 and ceased operations last January 13, 2018 for renovation. After few months of improvement, they finally opened their doors again last May 22, 2018. The restaurant has a bar, dining area, and lounge. Chef Chele Gonzales and Chef Carlo Villaflor rebranded the restaurant. Now, they are not just offering Spanish cuisine but they also use local ingredients in their menu.

Gallery Vask was part of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurant for two straight years so it is no doubt that this is not an ordinary restaurant. My husband was fortunate because he was able to dine at Gallery by Chele on their second day of opening. When he went there, the restaurant was busy maybe because of some media who are doing an interview and taking pictures.


They had team dinner at Gallery by Chelle and Chef Chele Gonzales even toured them at stvdio lab. The Stvdio Lab is a test kitchen and venue for collaborators. They say that they make the restaurant looks laid-back and casual but for us, it still looks a fine dining restaurant. hehehe! The place was not crowded so you will have a privacy here, make sure that you book an appointment.


Gallery by Chele offers Three Course Tasting, Five Course Tasting, and Eight Course Tasting. You can also order from their a la carte menu. Check the rates below.

3 Course Tasting P1500
Cocktail Pairing P595
Wine Pairing P695

5 Course Tasting P1950
Cocktail Pairing P895
Wine Pairing P995

8 Course Tasting P2900
Cocktail Pairing P1395
Wine Pairing P1995

The menu is inclusive of 12% VAT, 10% Service Charge is not included.

At that time, they had Five Course Tasting plus additional order so I will share the menu and photos.

Bites 

Starters 

Tiger’s Milk (Oysters - Ceviche -Cashew)
Tropical Crab (Pomelo - Cucumber - Lime)
Pearls and Clams ( Prawn-Moringa-Seaweed)

Main Choice of: 

Holy Mole (Chicken- Songhum- Chocolate)
Beef Curry + P350 (Sweet Potato - Beef - Spices)
Sour Ribs + P1300 (Snake River Farm Wagyu - Onion - Talinum)

Dessert 

Coco-Nuts (Jackfruit - Pomelo - Kafrir Lime)













When I looked at the photos, I did not see anything special. Yes, the presentation is different and the food looks new to me. So I asked my husband kung okay ba kinain niya kasi parang wala ko type except sa Main Course. He said, “Ang sarap kaya, small serving pero busog kami”. Panget picture ko kasi medyo madilim sa restaurant. He said the food and wine are excellent. Service is excellent. It was a memorable dining experience for him, every bite is a different experience.

My husband doesn’t just give an excellent grade so I was really surprised when he said “Excellent”. He always says, “Okay lang” or “Good”. Now I know why they are part of the 50 Best Restaurant in Asia. The price is steep but I will consider this for a special occasion.

Read: Lunch at Las Flores BGC

Gallery by Chele Opening Hours

5PM for cocktails and bites every Tuesday to Saturday
Reservations for Dining Area from 6PM to 10:15PM
Bar and Lounge available for walk-ins.
After-hours drinks and bites served from 10:30PM to 1AM

Gallery by Chele 
5/F Clipp Center, 11th Avenue corner 39th Street,
Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, 1634

Family vacations can be exciting, and it is even more exciting to click some fun pictures together. Those photographs document the fun times spent together with your family and freeze those moments in your memory forever. However, if you are not careful, you can ruin those beautiful moments and get disheartened when those holiday photos do not turn out to be amazing. Follow great tips and make use of raw photo editor to enhance those pictures. Read on to learn some tips on how to take good quality family travel photos.


1. You have the right equipment

A lot relies on the camera you use and how expert you're with it. People often use their smartphone camera and apps to get amazing pics. However, the best results are seen with a good quality camera.

2. It is important that the family is prepared 

When taking pictures, ensure that your family is aware but not conscious. Take candid images of the family having fun together. The family should feel comfortable and enjoy the time together. Those fun moments should reflect on their faces and in their body language.

3. There is enough light 

It is essential to take these images when there is plenty of sunshine and take advantage of the magical light. Those images taken just before sunset come out fantastic and those last hours of sunlight are known as Golden Hour. Just remember to have the sun behind you. When shooting during the sunniest parts of the day, ensure that you get the most colors in your photos.

4. Do not forget to incorporate the background 

As a rule of thumb, always have the background in your photo. The background is necessary as it speaks about the moments and enhances the story. So, take a wider-framed shot that holds the family in the center. Let the background setting accentuate their joy.

5. Avoid flash 

It is a good idea never to use a flash. Carry the right equipment that allows you to shoot in low light and avoid turning the flash on. This is because, if the flash is not used correctly, you end up getting a bad quality of light. Be careful on the cloudy days as those clouds work as a filter over the sun.

6. Make sure to ignore the camera 

Capture the spirit of the family as they are in those fun moments. While they should be aware that they are being photographed, they should not be looking at the camera. There should be more light on their faces and get ready to capture those most beautiful smiles and moments.

7. Take plenty of photos 

It is a good idea to take lots of pictures. You might never know what treasured moments you end up capturing in your lens. There may be a great photo opportunity awaiting or getting created anytime or any moment. It could be those pretty falls, the slippery cold rocks or the beautiful background.

Just keep the above tips in mind to take better family vacation photos every time and create great memories!

When I was planning for our Bangkok Thailand trip, I was torn between Chocolate Ville + IKEA Bangna or Chao Phraya Princess Dinner River Cruise for our first day. Chocolate Ville and IKEA has no entrance fee and of course, the dinner river cruise is not cheap. My son doesn’t like to visit temples so I was thinking that I can see the temples during our cruise kahit sa malayo.


The night before our flight, I immediately checked if there are still available slots for dinner cruise. I availed the Chao Phraya Princess Dinner River Cruise at Klook. There are different Dinner River Cruise that you can choose from so just read the package and reviews. I chose Chao Phraya Princess Dinner River Cruise because of the price and rating.

Adult P1581 (P2497)
Child P1332 (P1831)

I reserved 2 Adults and 1 Child for P4494 or $86.21, paid via Paypal. They have no cancellation policy and no refunds for no-shows or late arrival so make sure that you arrive on time.

Read: Where to Buy Discounted Tickets for your Next Travel Adventures 

Chao Phraya Princess Dinner River Cruise is a 2 hours dinner cruise at Chao Phraya River where you can see Bangkok’s historic landmarks such as Wat Arun, The Grand Palace, Wat Pra Kaew and city’s skyline at night. Indulge in a gourmet buffet that serves Thai cuisines, Halal foods and other international dishes.

After exploring Terminal 21, off we went to River City Complex. We rode BTS Skytrain Asok to Saphan Taksin Station.

Travel to Siam Station using BTS - Sukhumvit Line (4 stations)
Travel to Saphan Taksin using BTS -Silom Line (6 stations)
Then go to Exit 3, ride a taxi to River City Pier.
Follow the signs going to Chao Phraya Princess Cruise check-in counter. (office)

Train: THB44/person
Taxi: THB50

I gave my printed voucher. The staff looked for my names and went inside the office. Then he gave me tickets and stickers (color-coded) and advised the number of boat and boarding time which is 7:45PM. I was expecting 7:30PM so the schedule was not followed.

7-7:20PM - Check-in
7:30PM Departure
9:30PM Return

At that time, I was thinking if I made the right decision, we’re all tired and sleepy but we need to wait because I already paid for it. Remember, Bangkok is 1 hour behind so if ever we’re in Manila, we’re already sleeping at 8PM (Bangkok Time). We’re lucky that we found a bench where we could sit or else nakatayo kami. While waiting, you can see ladies who are holding a basket of orchids, they will pin orchid on your clothes and take a picture. Before the end of the cruise, they will sell the photos with photo frame at THB250.


As I mentioned before, there are several dinner cruises so don’t forget the name of the boat, boat number and boarding time. You can also check the stickers of other passengers so you’ll get idea kung sino kasama niyo sa boat. The boarding is organized but of course, first come first serve. You cannot choose seats, the seats are already assigned once they gave you the tickets.


Finally, at 7:45PM, they allowed us to board. The Chao Phraya Princess Boat has two floors and we’re on the first floor so it is hard to take good photos without reflection. There are chips, nuts, water and juice on the table.


After several minutes, the boat started to cruise and they announced that we can start eating. It was already past 8PM (past 9PM Manila Time) so our stomach is no longer in the mood for the buffet so we did not eat that much. The buffet spread is good enough to fill your hungry stomach. It is your chance to try different Thai cuisines too. There is a fried chicken so if you have kids in tow, they have something to eat.




There is a live band too so if you are a fan of 80’s and 90’s songs, you will love your cruise. Eat and enjoy your cruise. Remember "Life goes pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it"

Watch the video here.




Even we’re tired and sleepy, we enjoyed our first dinner river cruise. It is nice to see Bangkok’s popular attractions at night. It is a different experience compared to our Loboc-Loay River Cruise in Bohol.

We took a taxi, as expected driver did not want to use taxi meter so we paid THB200. (River City Pier to Four Points by Sheraton Hotel) Price is not bad anymore if you compute our Train + Taxi on your way to River City Complex.

Read: Four Points by Sheraton Bangkok
6 Days Trip in Bangkok with Kids

First time to book with Klook, use this link to get discount

Klook.com * This post contains affiliate link/s. If you decide to make a purchase, I will earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support.

This year, our family has been eating a lot of buffet meals so it is really hard to stick with our diet. We had a lot of family celebrations, family outings and travel trips so buffet meals is part of it. I won’t deny that I gained a lot of pounds this summer so I hope back to regular programming na when classes resume. 

Last weekend, we had lunch at La Fiesta at SM by the Bay. My aunt-in-law was back in the Philippines for a short vacation, that is the reason why we had a spontaneous family outing at Woodside Farm and Waterpark. Last Saturday, we picked them up so we can drop them at the airport but we’re too early for the check-in time so my husband decided to kill our time at MOA. 


The best way to kill our time is to eat. We don’t have reservation so I checked three buffet restaurant and we ended up at La Fiesta. Pangalawa kasi ko sa waiting list so mas malapit na. The staff advised me that buffet spread is up to 2PM only and we agreed. After several minutes of waiting, the staff ushered us to our table and it was 1:15PM already so we only have 45 minutes to get our food. This was my first time na late kami buffet, lagi kami early bird so we can take our time and we can enjoy the buffet. 

Read: Dinner at La Fiesta: A Taste of Filipino

Well, it’s been four years since the last time we dined here at La Fiesta. There are few changes na rin, I saw Japanese station so they are serving other cuisines na rin and the buffet spread are not limited to Filipino Cuisine. Since I only have limited time, I only took few photos and hindi na food kasi marami na bawas yung serving plate. Hehehe!





I was happy that there is Lechon de Leche, kahit ulo part na lang naabutan ko. This is our favorite in their buffet spread and we’re glad na same pa rin ng taste. So sad lang kasi wala papaitan, sisig and laing during our visit. Wala na rin si Manong Sorbetero for dirty ice cream. 



They still have acoustic band and local folk dances so timing rin for our balikbayan visitor. We took advantage the birthday promo (3+1) since it is also my husband’s birthday month. I don’t know if nasulit namin yung buffet rate since we only have limited time but it was a good experience for my AIL’s family. 

La Fiesta Buffet Rate 

Monday to Friday (Public Holiday Not Included)

Lunch P688 
Dinner P888 

Saturday 

Lunch P738 
Dinner P988 

Sunday and Holiday

Lunch/Dinner P988 

Kid's Rate

Children below 3.5ft FREE 
Children below 4.5 ft P380 

La Fiesta: A Taste of Filipino 
Bldg 1 SM by the Bay, Seaside Blvd. 
Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City

Parking Fee: P50

Carrying a child in the womb is no easy feat and make that nine months. For the mom who is expecting a child, giving birth is only a part of the job. Giving birth, which can only take a moment or not, is not an easy thing to do. It needs a lot of pushing and pain and a lot more pushing. That is why a so-called push present is usually given by the child’s father to the mother to show appreciation for all the pushing she has done to deliver the baby.

A push present is in fact not needed when a baby is born because the baby itself is the greatest gift a mother (and a father) could have, a gift of life. Apparently, some still choose to show their love and gratitude by giving an actual gift. Read on for some push present ideas to surprise a new mom.


1.  A Stylish Diaper Bag 

Diaper bags nowadays have many designs to choose from. Look for one which is fashionable but can still carry all the baby and mom’s essential stuff. When having a baby, traveling light is not a possibility. Mom will be utterly grateful to receive something which she can carry in style with a baby in tow. And who knows, it may still look great even after the diaper days are done.

2.  Custom Shirt or Mug 

Push presents need not be fairly expensive. The effort that a new mom exerts by carrying the baby for nine months and the intense labor cannot be equaled by any material gift. Thus, a custom shirt or mug which says it all may be a bigger surprise for her than any pricey gift.

3.  Memory Book 

We cannot deny that all babies are cute and all new moms dote on their little ones so much so, capturing every moment they possibly can. In this digital age, that is possible, and yet it is still more charming to look at a photo book where you can actually flip the pages. It gives a more intimate feel to it that a new mom would probably relish from baby’s birth to forever. While you are into giving a physical photo book, why not pair it with a camera which can instantly print? Your push presents will be highly appreciated.

4.  A Spa Day Certificate 

After the exhaustion of giving birth and carrying a heavy bundle for many months, moms need time for relaxation. More than any material gifts, new moms would probably appreciate some personal time away from mommy duties. Daddy can take care of the baby at home while mom is away on a spa/massage treat.

5.  Jewelry 

No need to go overblown when expressing gratitude to your spouse for bringing out your baby into the world. But when you’ve got money to spare, jewelry as a push present is a great way to show your gratefulness. In a way, it also shows how special a new mom is and reminds of the day your little bundle was born each time she wears them.

Now that you have several ideas of what push presents to give, you can now decide which one will be special for your spouse and of course within your budget. A push present need not be costly as you may need to spend on more important things when the baby comes out, just a great gesture that you are eternally grateful.

Moving can be stressful, but moving thousands of miles away from your current home can add more stress to the situation. However, being prepared for the long-distance haul can make it easier for everyone involved. From packing to the actual move itself, be sure to use these tips for moving cross-country so you can enjoy a less stressful situation and move into your new home without any issues.

Summer vacation is about to end and I’m not yet ready for the school year 2018-2019. I'm not yet finished with my school preparation because I still want to enjoy the remaining “no school days”. #lazydays Last Sunday, we had a spontaneous family outing at Woodside Farm and Waterpark Resort. 



I woke up early but I just stayed in the bed, I went down past 7AM to prepare breakfast. My husband informed me that we will swim, call time is 9AM at Biñan, Laguna. What?!? Kanina pa ko gising, hindi man lang sinabi ng maaga sa akin so we only have 1 hour to eat, take a bath and pack our things. Spell S-T-R-E-S-S! 


Well, my mother-in-law texted my husband night before the trip but we always sleep early so hindi na nabasa ni hubby and when my husband read the message, he did not inform me right away. #angsayasaya So off we went to Laguna to pick-up my in-laws and convoy na to the resort. We just used Waze App for the direction, the landmark is Wyeth Building and Marcos Twin Mansion. 

I have no idea that there is a resort in Cabuyao, Laguna. All I know is yung mga resort sa Pansol, Laguna so it is nice to discover new resort. We arrived past 10AM, since it was an unplanned trip we don’t have any reservation. Good thing they were able to accommodate us, we’re more or less 20 persons. Day trip is from 8AM to 5PM. 





There is no waiting area for the guests so nakatayo kami talaga kami while waiting for the registration and payment. Imagine na lang kung mahaba ang pila, tagal namin nakatayo. The room and cottages are quite far from the entrance so it was really a long walk under the sun. It was a challenge kasi may nakawheel chair sa amin. Good thing, nung pauwi na they allowed us na ipasok na yung car para less stress sa nakawheel chair. We stayed at the cottage but you can also rent a room if you want. 

Woodside Farm and Waterpark Resort is a 2.5-hectare property that offers wave pool, giant slide, kiddie pool, pavilion pool, and bubble bath. They accept day trip and overnight guests. You can bring foods except for beverages. But if you don’t want to bring meals, don’t worry because they have cafe and convenience store.





There is a schedule for wave pool and bubble bath so just ask na lang kung what time so you can experience it. I’m not sure if every one hour but it was a fun experience for both adults and kids. You can check the video here. 

May break (lunch) din sa Giant Slides because there is only one lifeguard there. I hope there is another staff at the top of the slides who will instruct the guests if they can slide na to avoid accident. My son was hit at the shoulder, hindi pa kasi siya nakakalayo sa slide may nakasunod na. I also witnessed na hindi pa nakakababa yung nagslide, may sumunod na so sabay silang nalaglag sa pool. 

The resort was not fully booked because I can see a lot of empty cottages but the wave pool and giant slides pool looks crowded. Our family stayed more or less four hours only due to a family emergency so medyo bitin ang anak ko but the rest of the group stayed till 5 PM. The resort still looks new, facilities and service are okay.

Woodside Farm and Waterpark Resort Rates 

Weekdays Day tour: 
Adults – 349.00
Kids, Senior, PWD – 279.00 

Weekends Day tour: 
Adults – 399.00 
Kids, Senior, PWD – 319.00 

Night tour: 
Adults – 449.00 
Kids, Senior, PWD – 359.00   

Standard Check-in and Check-out 
Day tour: 8 AM – 5 PM 
Night tour: Rooms 2 PM – 12 NN / Cottages 6 PM – 6 AM 

Note: 

* No Wifi available in Casile Area 
* No bringing of any cooking materials 
* Bringing of beverages, including water, is not allowed in our resort. 
* All cooking equipments are not allowed. Use plastics containers or if you will use casseroles, we suggests to put it in a plastic bag. 
* Pets are not allowed. 

Woodside Farm and Waterpark 
Brgy. Casile Cabuyao City, Laguna

Bangkok is known for shopping, many people say that it is nice to shop in Bangkok because clothes, food, and other stuff are budget-friendly. I cannot deny that because there are so many shopping malls that I’ve seen during our visit. We stayed at Four Points by Sheraton and the nearest shopping malls are Time Square Building Mall, Terminal 2,1 and Robinson. There is a supermarket that is open for 24 hours so there is no reason for you to be hungry. These malls are just a few minutes walk from our hotel.


On our first day, we immediately went to Terminal 21, I am familiar with this mall because most of the time, this is the view from my husband’s room if he stays in Sheraton Grande. But I have no idea what is inside of the mall so I was really surprised when we entered Terminal 21.

The mall is so big and high. It is a nine-storey building and they have the longest escalator in Thailand, around 36 meters so nakakalula. Terminal 21 is a travel-themed shopping mall, now I know why it is called Terminal 21 because it features world-famous cities under one roof. So it is like traveling the world, each floor has its own theme.

Lower Ground - Carribean Beach Town
Ground Floor - Rome
Mezzanine Floor - Paris
First Floor - Tokyo
Second Floor - London
Third Floor - Istanbul
Fourth Floor - San Francisco City
Fifth Floor - San Franciso Pier
Sixth Floor - Hollywood Studio









We visited each floor just to take some pictures. This is our most visited mall because there is direct access from BTS Skytrain and it is walking distance from our hotel.

From Terminal 21, we went to River City Complex for our Chao Phraya Princess Dinner River Cruise.

Read: 6 Days in Bangkok with Kids

Terminal 21 
Opening hours: 10:00 to 22:00
Sukhumvit Road