Ceddy's Random

Monday, January 14, 2019

Food Review - Hot Palayok Restaurant and Grill

Cedric Penarubia January 14, 2019 0 Comments

Food Review - Hot Palayok Restaurant and Grill

Buffet Restaurants- Bang for your wallet!

Buffet restaurants are everywhere in the city of Abu Dhabi. Offering different promotions to attract customers.

If you want an Asian Cuisine, One restaurant that I can recommend is

The Hot Palayok Restaurant and Grill.

Unplanned Food Trip

This was an unplanned food blog trip (seriously). A friend of mine invited me to try a newly opened branch at Abu Dhabi World Trade Center. I have experienced dining with them before on their other branch at Madinat Zayed Shopping Center. I don't have time to write a review for some reason.

Catchy, Detailed and Impressive

But.. One thing that catches my attention on this branch is how they put up everything. Everything is well set up. Impressive Patio with an accent of blooming shaded flowers and accent of hue brown.

The Patio

Classic

Sugar cubes?

Manila Fame!

The interior design of the restaurant is ambered with hue brown, that defines the color of a palayok- a clay pot used as the traditional food preparation container in the Philippines (that's why they named it after). Comfortable couches too. The sugar cube lighting and the huge wall graffiti is very catchy too.

It was a peak hour ( around 2:30 PM) when we visit the restaurant and we were advised to eat at the patio as there is no vacant table inside.

During my dining, They are currently serving Filipino Cuisine. Seafood, chicken and beef dishes.

Traditional Filipino sweets and desserts such as ice cream are available too.

"palitaw"- sweet rice cake

Sushis, cakes, and fruits are available too!

And ice cream station? ✌

There is a made to order cakes if you want too 😉 Especially made for birthdays or christening.

made to order cakes

There's a grilling area wherein you can request the chef to cook a specific dish listed on the menu. Either beef or chicken. I tried the beef. I forgot to ask whats the name of the dish, but trust me, the beef is so tender and juicy. Superb taste!

To see is to believe

I'm allergic to chicken, so beef instead.

This is what I ordered. The beef is so tender!

Menus to choose from

Grilling Station

Due to my curiosity, I asked the waiter when do they offer promotions for Buffett.

Listed below are the schedules for your reference and the pricing as well.

Tuesday - Asian Cuisine

Wednesday- Barbecue Night

Thursday- Seafood

Monday and the rest - Filipino Cuisine

Weekdays: Lunch is 29 DHS. and Dinner is 49 DHS.

Weekends: Dinner and Lunch will cost you 49 DHS.

The waiters and waitresses are very attentive and will assist you anytime. Very friendly and *good looking too 😉 . Here's the team of Hot Palayok World Trade Center Abu Dhabi Branch.

The manager was present and I got the chance to speak with him sad to say, I forgot what was his name.

Overall. The quality of food and the service experience is excellent.

10 out 10 👌

I have some additional pictures below 😊

That's a wrap!

Thanks for reading my food review.

Don't forget to like, share and subscribe for more!

--Ceddy

Wednesday, December 19, 2018

Liebster Award 2018 Nomination - Ceddy's Random

Cedric Penarubia December 19, 2018 0 Comments

Liebster Award 2018 Nomination - Ceddy's Random

Hello Guys! Ceddy here... It's such an honor to be nominated for the 2018 Liebster Award made possible by Flysoulmates 😃 I have never been recognized for the past 2 years especially in this activity, and I am so happy and blessed that I am nominated.

I started my blog 2 years ago here in Abu Dhabi, way back then, no monetization, no followers or people who make comments to my content. My goal is just to write and share it with the world. However, as time goes by, I met a lot of bloggers online and learned more ideas and tips. One of them is Andrew who is the CEO and founder of flysoulmates.com. I am so happy that my blog was recognized and a big thanks to Andrew in making this possible.

About Flysoulmates

Flysoulmates

A co-blogger of mine introduced me to a group. Sharing tips and ideas across the blogosphere. And eventually, I E-meet Andrew. He always visits new places and sharing his content across the blogosphere. From the US to EU countries. He has his own signature way in creating his own content and video intro which is very catchy to the readers. Check his content and don’t forget to subscribe to their mailing list or visit their website here

About Liebster Award:

Liebster Award is a virtual award given to one blogger by another blogger. It is a way to provide recognition to great content and exposure to fellow bloggers. If you are nominated for this award and would want to reciprocate, here are the simple rules to follow:

1. Thank the blog who has nominated you and send a link back to their blog.

2. List the rules of Liebster Award in your post

3. Answer all the questions provided to you by the person who nominated you.

4. Nominate minimum 5 deserving bloggers of your choice.

5. Create a set of 10 new questions you would like to ask your nominees.

6. Display the award Logo on your blog

Here are my answers to Flysoulmate's Questions:

What is the first country that you visited abroad? Tell us about your experience?

PETRONAS TWIN TOWER

The first country that I visited abroad was Malaysia.

Before going to Abu Dhabi, I went to Malaysia for a quick tour- 3 days and 2 nights.

It was a surreal experience! High rise buildings, hustle, and bustle Kuala Lumpur with a mix of a multicultural populace. I felt like I went back in time, as the tour consists of cultural heritage and all about the history of Malaysia. Huge malls and indoor parks that I couldn’t imagine. And of course, I didn’t miss the PETRONAS Tower. The iconic landmark of Malaysia.

3 days and 2 nights are not enough and I’m thinking to return back in this country! Soon.. :) Check my review here :)

Are you more travel solo or group travel?

Traveling Alone

I prefer to travel alone. Traveling with friends or family can be fun. However, I prefer to travel alone. Why? Because I have my own attention and I can focus on my surroundings. Getting the chance to interact with the local people and I can find my own rhythm, so if I want to stay in a place longer than usual, I will and of course, it opens up more travel possibilities.

What is your next destination?

Screenshot credits to wikipedia

Georgia!!! It is on my bucket list and God’s Will when everything is planned accordingly. I’ll get going next year. I don’t have Schengen visa at the moment, so for me to experience a European picturesque, I chose this country as they are likely similar to the EU Countries, no doubt that this country is situated in the middle between Europe and the Asian continent. I recently visit Georgia's neighbor, Armenia :) Read more about Yerevan on this link. :)

Where is your happy place?

Photo credits to Al Bahar

Brainstorming while enjoying the cool breeze

My Happy Place! I am writing this content here in Al Bahar Corniche Beach Abu Dhabi (at the moment). Writing content by the shore is very relaxing. My mind can think of endless ideas for my blog. A lot of locals, expats, and tourist were here to unwind. I am always here during my free time. It’s the best place to hang out during winter. This public beach is free for everyone and offers pay to go Wi-Fi too.

Tell us about your travel list essential?

A checklist is a must!

Well, I keep It simple.

For my toiletry, I usually have my toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, sunscreen, lotion, perfume, and a soap. Just basics. However, If I’m going to stay in a hotel, I don’t bring soap at all nor shampoo.

For my travel health essentials, I have my small medicine kit for my allergy and my other prescription medicines. Pain and headache relievers, hand sanitizers as well.

For my gadgets, I always make sure that I have a back up such as Power bank, gimbal stabilizer, charger, travel adapter and lastly my laptop. I don’t bring a DSLR at all. I use my phone to take pictures and its easy to transfer via airdrop (I’m an avid Apple user, by the way, lol) And most of all. I have an app translator so that in case that there's a language barrier, it would be easy to explain to the local. Make sure to download it offline so that you can use it just in case.

Have you ever volunteer abroad? If so, Where? If not, Is it something you would consider doing?

I never tried! But Yes! Of course! I would love too! Volunteering is a great opportunity to get to know more other people, make friends and experience their culture!

If you had any advice for the first-time traveler, what would you say to them?

Always be ready. Packed up your things, always have back up just in case. Don’t forget to smile and make eye contact with the local. Don’t be afraid to learn new things on your way! Step out of your comfort zone. If you are getting a hard time, take it as a challenge, to discover new things and meet new people and leave good memories. Don’t forget to take photos. Make friends!

Tell us what blogging brought you?

Uhhh. That was 4 years ago. Taking photos and putting a caption and uploading it on Facebook. And I ask myself. How about writing an entire story behind those pictures and sharing it with the world? So this is where my blog started. 2 Years ago, In Abu Dhabi. I started to visit places and had a self-study about blogging and here it goes. My blog was born and up until now, I am still writing fresh content and sharing it with the world. Mainly from my travel blog to hotel reviews and more.

What is the most surprising secret you revealed in your blog?

Do I really need to answer this question? Hahaha. Well, it would never be a secret if I told so. I wrote a content about a relationship *thing. So yeah, I am the person behind that story. Curious? You can read my content- Stumbling on Happiness. :D

What is your favorite airline company?

Etihad Airways! I flew with them round trip twice! Friendly cabin crew, always on time for departure/ take off, the IFE, and the food! Awesome! Check my review here. Special mention to these Airlines as well :

1. Air Arabia

2.Philippine Airlines

3. Cebu Pacific.

4.Malaysian Airlines

Now that I have answered all questions, it is time to share our nominees, I am happy to extend the 2018 Liebster Award nomination to:

1. Bharat Bhushan Sharma of www.travelparable.com

2.TJ Del Mundo of www.tyudorials.com

3. Gabriel Rossini of www.anhedoniasurrealista.blogspot.com

4. Steve Anc of www.healthymummy.club

5. Kelly Loftus of www.kainspired.com

Best of luck to you guys! Cheers!

Here are 10 questions that you will have to answer by Dec.26 2018

1. Who is your favorite blogger?

2. How did you choose your blogging niche?

3. Why Blogging and not Vlogging?

4. What advice can you give new bloggers?

5. Which was the most embarrassing thing you have ever done/happened to you?

6. Any recognition as a blogger in your community or online?

7. What do you hope to achieve through blogging?

8. For how long you've been a blogger and who motivates you to blog?

9. What is the one thing you wish people knew about you?

10. Best piece of advice you ever received?

Thanks for reading my content and see you next time :)

--Ceddy

Sunday, November 25, 2018

Yas Centro Island Rotana Review - 3 Days and 2 Nights Quick Review

Cedric Penarubia November 25, 2018 5 Comments

Rise Up! 3 is the lucky number!

Where to go?

I opt to request for 3 days compensatory off, and luckily it got approved.
Now, where to go? Yas Waterworld? Ferrari World? Okay! Got it.

But wait, What about accommodation for 2 nights?
Hmmm.. Anyways, enough with the intro. I am back again for another hotel review, so without further ado. Here is my Review of Yas Centro Rotana.

Centro Yas Island by Rotana

I got the chance to stay in one of the leading hotel chains in the region. A leading hotel management companies within the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey.

This is Rotana Hotel. I stayed at one of their best 3-star hotel, located on Yas Island.

This is the Centro Yas Island. It is a modern, stylish, affordable business hotel, adjoining Yas Island Rotana and providing guests access to deluxe facilities. The hotel is conveniently located on the spectacular Yas Island, minutes away from the Formula 1 Race Track, The Links Golf Course, Yas Southern Marina, and all-new Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

Reservations

Reservations and booking were made possible thru Booking.com, check out their latest offers by visiting this link.

Hotel Details

This upscale, contemporary hotel has a mirror accent walls and floor to ceiling windows.
The Hotel has a capacious lobby where guest can rests or while waiting for someone. Or just admire the contemporary design.

Lobby

Friendly front desk personnel will greet you upon checking in.

I am very particular to the ambiance of each hotel especially to the lobby itself. I checked in to 3 Rotana hotels and so far, they have the same aura, distinct hue, and contrast of the lobbies which is very comfortable to the human eye. Still confused? Think about using your phone and activating the f.lux effect.

Hallway

Painted canvass are carefully hanged in between the door rooms outside the hallway. The hallway is narrow however they decided to use some accented, hue and vivid carpet so that it will look more spacious.

Secure Card

The room access card is intended only for the room itself (of course) and for the floor which you were assigned. So folks, if you want to sneak out to a different floor level, then you got no chance 😉

Room Detail

Centro Room- Queen Bed is the room that I choose (One full Bed) and it can fit up 2 adults plus a child. The room is overlooking the swimming pull and I am located on the 5th floor.

The room is okay, no fancy things can be found here, except for the electric kettle, condiments, fridge, additional pillows, hangers, secure vault and linens.

For room service, the food menu is available as well which they kept in one small filer and a hotel magazine for a change.

Small round table, a chair, and a long-standing lamp are available.
A led cable tv is available too. The room is very clean, dust free. I am very sensitive to dust, so luckily, I didn't sneeze at all.

A huge long table facing the front of the queen bed is accessible. Another trick design for each of the rooms so that it will look more capacious, the fact that the room is a bit small yet they managed it to be as it is.

On my second night of stay, I find that the AC System was not working properly. And I am sweating.
It was 3AM and the AC was on fan mode, though I didn't touch the settings. Weird...
Fire exit route chart at the back door is visible as well.

Food Trippin'

Breakfast Buffet

Plenty of food choices, I highly recommend their sausage. It's very delicious. Coffee is a part of my breakfast routine, so a coffee machine is available. I choose cappuccino 😁

Dinner Buffet

A big shout out to Ramella Bedua for providing the best dinner buffet that I had!

I got the chance to eat at C Choice by Rotana courtesy of Ramella. "C.Choice" is located just the opposite side of Centro Rotana which is another hotel managed by Rotana.

Food was superb, A variety of food to choose, from Arabic to *not so sure cuisine 😝, soups, desserts, juices, salads and more.

Here are a couple of pictures that i took inside the c choice restaurant...

I was not able to take a picture of the food as a lot of guests are choosing some food and it might be uncomfortable for them.

And a few more pictures within the vicinity of Yas Rotana...

Verdict

Pros:

So if you prefer to stay in an accommodation which is accessible to Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World, ,Warner Brothers Studio and Yas Mall. This is the best hotel that you can stay with. A free shuttle bus will drop you off to some of the popular spots within the Yas Island.

A friendly hotel staff will accommodate any timetime of the day. They wear a smile and greet you anytime whenever you meet them. Awesome!

Free car vallet service is available too!