๐ต๐ญ New South-East Asian Adventures Of Dining Cum Socializing In The Philippines With My Mom & Her Friends In April 2024 ~ Section 1 ๐ต๐ญ
Ladies & Gentlemen, as we gradually enter this coming Northern Hemisphere spring season, please do accept my apologies for the lack of main overseas trip reports for the past two months. To keep you all updated on my overseas travel diaries, I would like to welcome you to this newest main overseas trip report detailing my one-week Feng Shui learning cum bonding journey to the Philippines in April 2024. This major overseas trip report will comprise of a total of just four main sections, for which, this shall constitute the first section of the report itself.
There will be a total of two main focus topics, excluding the prologue, that are to be covered in this first core section of the report. They are the in-bound early afternoon journey bound for Manila and the mid-afternoon road journey to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila. Although I cannot permit comments to be posted for my videos published on YouTube for security reasons, you may post or leave your comments in the comment boxes located at the very end of each overseas trip report segment.
Part 1 ~ The Prologue
After returning from our one-month long winter getaway vacation to western Japan over the major Lunar New Year period in January & February 2024, I spent the next month or so helping my parents out with their private medical enterprise and other administrative errands. My younger brother even returned Down Under to Western Australia in late February for his fourth main year of Australian university education, and would return to Singapore in mid-June for his mid-year tertiary semester break after completing his first semester examinations.
Barely a few weeks into March, my mom received an invitation to conduct some Feng Shui matters in the Philippines over the course of April. My dad even had to go down to Perth, Western Australia, for the rest of April in order to assist my younger brother with several errands there. Knowing how boring it could be if I was the only one back at home in Singapore and that I could broaden my major overseas travel prospects, I promptly decided that it would be best to accompany my mom up to the Philippines. Over the time my mom and I would be in the Philippines, we would make Manila our base and spend one night in Boracay Island.
My mom also had to agree that I would be better off following her to the Philippines, knowing that there would be several good places she would be introducing me to in terms of food. Some of my parents' good friends, including Aunt Lily Lau from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Aunt Tuesday Leong, would also be joining us for this coming major Feng Shui trip, with Aunt Tuesday Leong expected to join us the day after our arrival into Manila. Furthermore, the three Lai sisters, Aunt Sandy Lai (who is also my godmother), Aunt Charmaine Lai and Aunt Crystal Lai, would also be coming for the trip, with this upcoming trip marking my maiden trip to the Philippines.
While I was glad to be visiting another country, I would be lying if I mentioned that I was not nervous since I had learnt that the Philippines had significantly higher crime rates, unlike Singapore and Japan. As with the United States, there was a possibility that violent crime and gun crime would be more prevalent in the Philippines than in Singapore, Taiwan and Japan, with most firearms being obtained or owned illegally. Sensing my concerns, my mom then assured me that our hotel would be situated in one of the affluent parts of Manila, with our transport vehicles to be bullet-proof.
In the wee hours of the morning of Tuesday (9 April), I was up and about preparing the remainder of my baggage in preparation for the coming trip to the Philippines. Having prepared my bulkier check-in baggage a few days before the trip, I quickly knew that I just had my carry-on belongings to prepare. My parents had even reserved a MaxiCab to come and take us to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 by exactly 8.30 a.m. later that morning, knowing well that we would have to factor in the morning rush hours on the highways during weekdays.
For the routine in-bound early afternoon flight to Manila, we would fly with Singapore Airlines on flight SQ 912 bound for Manila, which would be scheduled to depart from Singapore Changi Airport safely by 12 noon, and arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 3.45 p.m. late that afternoon. This coming flight would be a significant one since three of our good local friends from Singapore, the Lai sisters, would be joining us on the very same flight for their in-bound flight to Manila. Furthermore, this would be my second overseas learning and bonding journey with the Lai sisters after Taiwan in May 2023.
Apart from that, one of our good Malaysian friends from Kuala Lumpur, Aunt Lily Lau, would be joining us on the exact same flight. She would be traveling with Singapore Airlines on flight SQ 103 bound for Singapore, which would safely depart from Kuala Lumpur International Airport by 8.55 a.m., and arrive in Singapore Changi Airport at 10.05 a.m.. Once Aunt Lily had arrived safely into Singapore, she would have a brief transit layover of almost two hours prior to finally connecting to her coming regional flight bound for Manila and joining us at the same time.
For my dad's flight Down Under to Western Australia, he would be flying with Scoot on flight TR 008 bound for Perth, which would safely depart from Singapore Changi Airport at 12 noon, and eventually reach Perth Airport at precisely five o' clock later that evening. Given that his flight would be departing from Terminal 1, we promptly knew that he could just take the inter-terminal Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain to Terminal 1 upon securely arriving at the main departures and drop-off point located outside Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 later that morning.
Once I had finished preparing my baggage, I went to have a shower and changed into my attire in preparation for the coming journey to Manila. My housekeeper also made me a warm beverage to provide me with some energy for the coming overseas trip at the same time. With my parents waking up at precisely 7.30 a.m. sharp, I immediately laid my own baggage in the main living room area so as to prepare for the MaxiCab's arrival at our house later on. Given that my mom had directly provided me with some Philippine pesos, I knew that it would not be necessary to exchange any currencies at the airport later on.
Later that morning, our MaxiCab to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 eventually arrived at the front gate of our home at 8.30 a.m.. The cab driver, who was a Malay gentleman, got out of the cab and assisted us in loading our baggage into the rear trunk areas while we safely got on board in preparation for the rapid early morning road journey to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2. Once everything was directly loaded in, we soon departed the familiar surroundings of our home at exactly 8.35 a.m. sharp for a routine early morning road trip timing of half an hour over the Pan Island Expressway (PIE) to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2.
Soon enough, we finally arrived at the departures and drop-off point located outside Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 by 9.05 a.m.. While my mom and I went to get just three baggage carts, my dad helped the MaxiCab driver to unload our baggage safely from the rear trunk area before loading them onto the carts. Upon paying our cab fare and thanking the driver for his services, we headed into the departures and check-in lobby and saw my dad off for his journey Down Under to Western Australia before he caught the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain to Terminal 1.
With my mom and I now left to commence our journey to the Philippines, we quickly headed to the major Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters, eventually reaching there at 9.15 a.m.. Proceeding to the nearest open check-in counter, a lady check-in staff agent requested for our passports while I promptly helped to load the bulkier check-in baggage onto the bulky baggage carousel to have them tagged all the way to Manila. The local check-in procedure for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila took not more than approximately five minutes.
Singapore Airlines (Japanese: ใทใณใฌใใผใซ่ช็ฉบ; Chinese: ๆฐๅ ๅก่ช็ฉบ; Korean: ์ฑ๊ฐํฌ๋ฅด ํญ๊ณต) is the national flag carrier and the largest airline of the Republic of Singapore. Headquartered at the Airline House located in 25 Airline Road, the airline has its hub at Singapore Changi Airport, serving a total of 75 major overseas destinations across Asia, Africa, North America, Oceania and Europe with a large aircraft fleet consisting of Airbus A350 XWBs, Airbus A380s, Boeing 737s, Boeing 737 MAX 8s, Boeing 777s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The airline company plays a role as a competitor along the well-known Kangaroo Route connecting the Commonwealth of Australia and the United Kingdom via the Eastern Hemisphere.
The airline was founded two years after the Second World War as Malayan Airways on 1 May 1947, until it was split into both Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines from 1 October 1972. Progressing through its development, it took delivery of its first Airbus A380 on 15 October 2007 and operated the first official Airbus A380 service between Singapore and Sydney on 25 October 2007. It was also the first core customer for the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, having acquired the first aircraft units from 14 March 2018 and launching the type's maiden flight between Singapore and Osaka (Kansai) from 3 May 2018. Being one of the 10 main airlines to be awarded five-star rating by Skytrax, Singapore Airlines won the special 'Airline of the Year' award five times in 2004, 2007, 2008, 2018 and 2023.
The airline directly operates three of the world's longest non-stop passenger flights between Singapore, Los Angeles, New York and Newark. Initially operated utilizing only five Airbus A340-500 jets since February 2004, these flights were discontinued after selling its Airbus A340-500s back to Airbus by late November 2013. However, with the delivery of the Airbus A350 XWBs, including seven Airbus A350-900/ULRs, the airline reinstated non-stop services to the United States from 23 October 2016, beginning with San Francisco. This was followed by Newark from 11 October 2018 and Los Angeles on 2 November 2018, including Seattle on 3 September 2019. As part of the Star Alliance network since 1 April 2000, the airline company has major code-share agreements with many fellow Star Alliance carriers via its own KrisFlyer frequent-flyer program.
The departures and drop-off point located outside Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 shortly after we had arrived during the early morning rush hours
Overlooking Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 from the departures and drop-off point located outside Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
Entering the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
Finally arriving at the Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters located in the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
After completing the check-in process for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila at the manned Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters located in the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2, we finally received our boarding passes at 9.20 a.m.. The check-in agent then informed us that today, Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila would depart at exactly 12 noon from Gate No. F56. Boarding time would also commence by exactly 11.30 a.m. sharp, approximately half an hour before the scheduled departure time.
With that instant, we thanked the check-in staff agent for her services and headed to the major departure immigration checkpoints with the rest of our baggage. To clear the major departure immigration checkpoints, we safely made use of the automated facial recognition gates reserved for Singaporean citizens and Permanent Residents (PRs), with the entire departure immigration clearance process lasting not more than approximately five minutes that early morning itself. Soon enough, we were finally in the main transit area of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 at 9.25 a.m..
Given that we had plenty of time left before Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila later on, we decided to proceed to the Silver Kris Lounge for some early morning refreshments first. With that moment, we walked through the major transit level of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 and quickly changed to an elevator up towards the airport lounge mezzanine transit level area. The entire airport terminal passage connecting from the major transit level to the Silver Kris Lounge lasted not more than approximately 10 minutes that morning.
My Business Class boarding pass for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Manila
Walking through the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in the direction leading to the departure immigration checkpoints during the early morning rush hours
Finally in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
The departure flight information screens in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
Bypassing some duty-free retail outlet stores in the main transit area on the way to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
About to make a left turn leading to the elevator connecting to the airport lounge mezzanine transit level in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
Approaching the elevator connecting to the airport lounge mezzanine transit level in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
Walking through the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
Overlooking the Enchanted Garden in the main transit area from the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 on the way to the Silver Kris Lounge during the early morning rush hours
Finally arriving at the main entrance to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
After walking across the main transit area of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 for not more than approximately 10 minutes, we eventually arrived at the front entrance area to the Silver Kris Lounge at 9.35 a.m. sharp. Heading over to the airport lounge reception counters, a staff receptionist requested to see our boarding passes before permitting us to enter the main lounge premises. Once we had our boarding passes examined, my mom and I entered the lounge and secured a good seating spot near the self-service refreshment corners before helping ourselves to some refreshments.
While waiting for Aunt Lily to directly arrive on Singapore Airlines flight SQ 103 from Kuala Lumpur later on, we got out our portable electronic devices and discussed on prospective places to eat at after completing the necessary tasks for the days ahead. Soon enough, Aunt Lily eventually met us in the main Silver Kris Lounge at precisely 10.10 a.m. just after arriving from Kuala Lumpur. Greeting her warmly, we helped to look after her baggage while she helped herself to some morning refreshments and sat down to catch up with us after such a long time.
Mid-way through our time in the lounge, my dad sent us a message informing us that his coming flight Down Under would be delayed by approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, and would be rescheduled to depart at 1.20 p.m. instead. None of us were surprised by this, knowing from previous flight experiences that Scoot was rather notorious for mass flight delays or last-minute flight cancellations. Later on, all the three Lai sisters joined us in the Silver Kris Lounge safely by 10.50 a.m. after checking in and clearing departure immigration. Greeting them warmly, we quickly offered to keep an eye on their baggage while they went to grab some lounge snacks for themselves. Aunt Lily and I even quickly realized that it would soon be time to proceed to Gate No. F56 in Concourse F for our regional early afternoon flight to Manila later on.
The inner dining area of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 shortly after we were seated
The self-service refreshment corners in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours shortly after we had entered
About to help myself to some early morning refreshments at one of the self-service refreshment corners in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
About to pour myself a glass of 2016 Chateau Rahoul, Graves, French red wine at one of the self-service refreshment corners in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level in Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
A plate of scrambled eggs with chicken sausages and ham with a bowl of potato chips and a glass of 2016 Chateau Rahoul, Graves, French red wine for myself
A plate of har gow dim sum shrimp dumplings for myself in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Planning out the first section of the Southeast Asian overseas trip report on my blog via my portable laptop in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 using Avenir as the selected font for the report
A can and glass of Schweppes soda water for myself in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Overlooking the self-service refreshment corners from our seating area in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The interior view of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 from our seating area shortly before it was time to proceed to Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F
To: Manila, Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL / RPLL), Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines
Aircraft: Airbus A350-941 Regional
Registration No.: 9V-SHC
Class: Business Class
Seat No.: 11K
Date: Tuesday, 9 April 2024
After spending approximately 1 hour 20 minutes of having some light early morning refreshments and using our portable electronics in the Silver Kris Lounge situated in the central mezzanine transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2, the clock was now showing 10.55 a.m.. Given the fact that passenger boarding for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila would commence in just 35 minutes, I safely packed away all of my belongings and departed the Silver Kris Lounge for Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F with Aunt Lily. My mom and the Lai sisters even agreed that they would join us on board the aircraft later on.
Soon enough, Aunt Lily and I safely reached the entrance to the passenger holding lounge located at Gate No. F56 by exactly 11.10 a.m., which was in ample time for general boarding for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila to securely commence in just 20 minutes. Passing through security, we were soon in the major passenger holding area at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at precisely 11.20 a.m. that early afternoon. Observing the number of passengers at Gate No. F56, I could quickly see that Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila would be nearly filled to the brim today.
For today's trip, Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila would be operated by an Airbus A350-900 Regional aircraft, registered 9V-SHC and powered by only two major Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84 engines. 9V-SHC was delivered to Singapore Airlines from 2 February 2019 as the third major Airbus A350-900 Regional jet aircraft and the 31st Airbus A350 XWB aircraft for the company. The overall delivery would thus make the entire wide-body aircraft have a passenger service age of approximately 5.2 years old today.
One final view of the self-service refreshment corners in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 shortly before Aunt Lily and I departed the lounge for Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F
Overlooking the inner seating areas in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 as Aunt Lily and I began to make our way to Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F
Walking through the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 shortly after Aunt Lily and I departed the Silver Kris Lounge for Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F
Bypassing a Lotte duty-free retail outlet store located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 on the way to Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F
Walking through the transit area food court located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 on the way to Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F
Approaching the elevator connecting to the main transit area in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 on the way to Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F
Bypassing Gucci (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 Branch) located in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 on the way to Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F
Bypassing more duty-free retail outlet stores in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 on the way to Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F
Bypassing Bee Cheng Hiang (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 Departure South Branch) in the main transit area on the way to Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Walking through the automated passageway leading to Gates No. F54 to F60 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Finally arriving at the main entrance to the passenger waiting lounge located at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Finally inside the passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Our aircraft for today, 9V-SHC, being serviced at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in preparation for her coming regional early afternoon flight over the South China Sea to the Republic of the Philippines as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila
A closer view of 9V-SHC being serviced at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in preparation for her coming regional early afternoon flight over the South China Sea to the Republic of the Philippines as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila
The departure flight information screens in the passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 detailing important information about Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila
One additional view of 9V-SHC being serviced at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in preparation for her coming regional early afternoon flight over the South China Sea to the Republic of the Philippines as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila
The passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 shortly before the first boarding announcements for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila were made
After spending approximately five minutes of anticipated waiting in the local traveler waiting lounge located at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2, all the first boarding announcements for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 bound for Manila were soon made by around 11.25 a.m.. The Business Class passengers, including all the KrisFlyer Gold club members and passengers requiring priority assistance, were called out to board the aircraft first. As Aunt Lily and I were among the first customers to be summoned for boarding, we promptly got our blue boarding passes and passports ready to be checked by the gate staff on duty.
Passing through the jet bridge of Gate No. F56 to Door A, Aunt Lily and I were safely on board 9V-SHC at 11.30 a.m., which was just in good time for a 12 noon departure bound for Manila. At the front aircraft entrance door, two in-flight attendants warmly welcomed us on board and pointed out the direction to our seats situated inside the Business Class cabin. Placing our belongings into their respective stowage areas, we secured our assigned Seats No. 11K and 16K in preparation for our coming regional major early afternoon flight timing of 3 hours 45 minutes to Manila. The other ladies then met us on board at precisely 11.40 a.m., securing their assigned Seats No. 11D, 11F, 11K and 14K, with Aunt Crystal seated in Seat No. 42D located in the Economy Class cabin.
The Business Class cabin we would have for this coming regional early morning flight bound for Manila would be the new and more modern generation of major Regional Business Class seats. Manufactured by Stelia Aerospace and sporting an Opal design, these seats were introduced from March 2018 with the major delivery of the airline's Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner jets, and are even found on the company's fleet of Airbus A350-900 Regional aircraft. Arranged in a staggered 1-2-1 configuration, these seats can safely recline into a complete lie-flat bed of up to 180ยบ to allow all passengers to sleep during longer flights or overnight flights.
The cabin attendants safely went through the aircraft cabin distributing the hot towels and beverages to the Business Class passengers. To commence the coming afternoon flight to Manila, I had my usual glasses of orange juice and champagne, which I mixed to create a glass of mimosa for myself. I also had a look through the KrisShop in-flight duty-free shopping magazine, also filling out a duty-free shopping coupon in order to purchase a Scale 1:500 die-cast airplane model for myself. While the flight attendants were collecting the used hot towels, I submitted my coupon to one of the other flight attendants at the same time.
Another flight stewardess soon came to my seat so as to confirm my main meal order for the in-flight lunch service later on. As for the main lunch course, I would have the roasted herb-crusted lamb chops served with rosemary flavored lamb gravy, selected seasonal vegetables and mashed potatoes infused with garlic confit. This main lunch dish was special since I had ordered it via the airline's 'Book the Cook' service during the course of our reservations. Once the in-flight stewardess had recorded my lunch order, I sat back to enjoy my self-mixed mimosa and edit some trip report data while awaiting departure from Gate No. F56 later on.
A clearer view of 9V-SHC while passing through the jet bridge of Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
A view of my seat, 11K, during the boarding process at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin during the boarding process at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin from my seat during the boarding process at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 Regional, registered 9V-SHU, being serviced at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in preparation for her coming regional early afternoon flight over the Kingdom of Thailand as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 710 bound for Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi)
A glass of orange juice and champagne for myself, which I would mix to create a mimosa, during the boarding process at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Planning out the first section of the Southeast Asian overseas trip report on my blog via my portable laptop during the boarding process at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 using Avenir as the selected font for the report
Reviewing the KrisShop in-flight duty-free shopping magazine during the boarding process at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The cover page for the in-flight dining menu for the flight segment between Singapore and Manila
Reviewing the main food section of the in-flight dining menu for the flight segment from Singapore to Manila during the boarding process at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the champagne and wine sections of the in-flight dining menu for the flight segment from Singapore to Manila during the boarding process at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the wine, cocktail and aperitif sections of the in-flight dining menu for the flight segment from Singapore to Manila during the boarding process at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the cocktail, aperitif, spirit and beer sections of the in-flight dining menu for the flight segment from Singapore to Manila during the boarding process at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the non-alcoholic beverage sections of the in-flight dining menu for the flight segment from Singapore to Manila during the boarding process at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Awaiting departure from Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
After the clock struck exactly 12 noon, all of the aircraft doors were closed, and the aircraft soon pushed back from Gate No. F56 situated in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2, as scheduled. Once the main safety briefing information video was shown on our in-flight entertainment video screens, the large wide-body aircraft began to make its way over the airport tarmac to its assigned major airport runway for the regional afternoon flight voyage bound for Manila, securely passing Gates No. F58 to F60 and Terminal 4 en route. The airport passageway connecting directly to the assigned runway took not more than approximately 15 minutes.
It was not that long until the aircraft approached its assigned airport runway located near Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 4. Soon enough, the two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84 engines spooled into action, and the aircraft soon lifted off from Singapore Changi Airport at 12.15 p.m. for its coming regional early afternoon flight time of 3 hours 05 minutes over the South China Sea to the national metropolitan capital city area of the Republic of the Philippines. We then climbed further into the bright and clear early afternoon sky for a regional early afternoon flight duration of 3 hours 05 minutes over the South China Sea to the core hustle and bustle of the metropolitan capital city area of the Republic of the Philippines.
Finally pushing back from Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The on-board safety briefing information video showcasing the proper use of portable electronic devices on board flights and how to properly stow them during taxi, take-off and landing
About to make our way across the main airport tarmac to our assigned runway shortly after pushing back from Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941, registered 9V-SJB, being serviced at Gate No. F59 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in preparation for her coming regional early afternoon flight over the Java Sea down to the Republic of Indonesia as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 958 bound for Jakarta (Soekarno๏ฝฐHatta). This particular aircraft was familiar to me as I had previously traveled on it as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 037 from Los Angeles to Singapore in late January 2022
Taxiing past some remote aircraft parking stands near Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 and Terminal 4 on the way to our assigned airport runway
A Cathay Pacific Airbus A350-941, registered B-LQB, being serviced at Gate No. G18 located in Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 4 in preparation for her coming regional early afternoon return flight over the South China Sea back to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) via the Kingdom of Thailand as Cathay Pacific flight CX 712 bound for Hong Kong via Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi)
Taxiing past Gates No. G10 to G17 located in Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 4 on the way to our assigned airport runway
An AirAsia Airbus A320-216, registered 9M-AQG, being serviced at Gate No. G10 located in Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 4 in preparation for her coming regional cross-strait return flight over the Johor Strait back to Malaysia as AirAsia flight AK 1716 bound for Langkawi
Taxiing past Gates No. G1 to G5 located in Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 4 on the way to our assigned airport runway
Making a left turn towards our assigned airport runway located near Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 4
Singapore Airlines Flight 912 ~ Early Afternoon Departure From Singapore Changi Airport
Ascending further into the bright and clear early afternoon skies shortly after taking off from Singapore Changi Airport
Shortly after taking off from Singapore Changi Airport, the seat belt signs were turned off by around 12.20 p.m., which was approximately five minutes into the routine flight. While the flight cabin attendants sprung into action to commence the in-flight service, I went to the lavatories and got out my own portable electronics for my own personal use during the course of the regional early afternoon journey to Manila. A flight cabin attendant appeared by my seat to confirm what beverage I wanted to accompany my main in-flight lunch course later on.
Given that I would be having a red meat dish for my main lunch course, I immediately requested to have a glass of 2020 Rhonea Porte d'Autanne, Vallรฉe du Rhรดne, French red wine so as to accompany my meal. Once the flight attendant had taken down my beverage order, she went back to the front galley to help the other flight attendants prepare for the coming in-flight lunch service later on. It was not that long before an in-flight lunch cart eventually stopped by my seat and that I was given my main meal tray containing my appetizer by one of the other flight attendants.
The first appetizer course consisted of sliced silken chicken salad served with crunchy vegetables, fresh herb slaw, roasted sesame, miso and honey dressing. A flight cabin attendant even securely poured my glass of 2020 Rhonea Porte d'Autanne, Vallรฉe du Rhรดne, French red wine, while I also asked to have one piece of Italian grissini, garlic bread and crispy flatbread. The sliced silken chicken tasted quite alright for my liking, with the miso and honey dressing providing additional flavors to the chicken, though the vegetables and herb slaw left an aftertaste that I was not quite fond of.
However, the highlight of the appetizer course was the bread pieces that I had as they paired well with a hint of olive oil. Once I was finished with my in-flight appetizer meal course, one of the in-flight cabin stewardesses securely came by my seat to collect my used in-flight appetizer plate and cutlery and kindly offered to refill my glass of water. With my appetizer course cleared away, I sat back and did some personal surfing and trip report editing on my laptop while waiting for my main in-flight lunch course to be served.
The view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin from my seat shortly after the seat belt signs were turned off
A view of my seat, 11K, during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Bintan Island, Indonesia
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Bintan Island, Indonesia
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Bintan Island, Indonesia
Cruising over the South China Sea near Bintan Island, Indonesia
Planning out the first section of the Southeast Asian overseas trip report on my blog via my portable laptop during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Bintan Island, Indonesia, using Avenir as the selected font for the report
My first in-flight lunch course: Sliced silken chicken salad served with crunchy vegetables, fresh herb slaw, roasted sesame, miso and honey dressing with my glass of 2020 Rhonea Porte d'Autanne, Vallรฉe du Rhรดne, French red wine
Cruising over the South China Sea near Matak Island of the Riau Islands, Indonesia
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Matak Island of the Riau Islands, Indonesia
The view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Matak Island of the Riau Islands, Indonesia
A piece each of Italian grissini, garlic bread and crispy flatbread to accompany my in-flight lunch appetizer course
Cruising over the South China Sea near Seluan Island of the Riau Islands, Indonesia
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Seluan Island of the Riau Islands, Indonesia
The view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Seluan Island of the Riau Islands, Indonesia, shortly before the main courses of the in-flight lunch service were served
After spending approximately 45 minutes of using my portable electronic gadgets and having my first in-flight appetizer courses over the South China Sea, a cabin attendant appeared at my seat again at 1.05 p.m.. This time, she had my main lunch meal course consisting of roasted herb-crusted lamb chops with rosemary flavored gravy, seasonal vegetables and mashed potatoes infused with garlic confit. With my main meal course placed on my lunch meal tray, I immediately tucked into my coming in-flight 'Book the Cook' lunch over the South China Sea.
The lamb chops tasted really succulent and tender, with the herb crust and rosemary flavored gravy pairing well with them. I also enjoyed all the seasonal vegetables and mashed potatoes that accompanied my main meal course, with the French red wine pairing quite well with it, thus making it one of the best major in-flight lamb dishes I would ever have on board a flight. Once I had finished my main dish course, a flight cabin attendant came directly to my table to collect my used in-flight lunch tray and asked whether there was anything I wanted for dessert.
To conclude this in-flight lunch service, I promptly decided to have the Milo dinosaur cake with a glass of Baileys Irish Cream and some mineral water. With that, the flight attendant took down my dessert orders and returned with them by around 1.30 p.m. that afternoon. The Milo dinosaur cake tasted quite tender and had the appropriate amount of sweetness in it, with the Baileys Irish Cream pairing well with the in-flight dessert course. It was indeed a sweet and appropriate way to round off a good and hassle-free in-flight meal service.
Once my used dessert plate and drink glasses were cleared away, I spent the next one hour doing some personal surfing and trip report editing work on my laptop. Another flight attendant then appeared by my seat again at around 2.50 p.m., with an in-flight duty-free shopping bag containing my Scale 1:500 die-cast aircraft model. As soon as the required credit card payment had been made, I immediately packed my purchase in my baggage and did some more personal surfing on my laptop until it was time for the descent cum arrival into Manila.
As for my exclusive Scale 1:500 die-cast aircraft model I had purchased on board, the details are as follows:
1) Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 Herpa Scale 1:500 (529051-001)
Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 Herpa Scale 1:500 (529051-001)
My main course: Roasted herb-crusted lamb chops served with rosemary flavored gravy, selected seasonal vegetables and mashed potatoes infused with garlic confit
My used in-flight meal tray shortly after I had finished my main in-flight lunch course
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
Cruising over the South China Sea between Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
The view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
A plate of Milo dinosaur cake and a glass each of Baileys Irish Cream and mineral water for myself to round off the in-flight lunch service
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to the Spratly Islands
Cruising over the South China Sea close to the Spratly Islands
A view of my seat, 11K, in its lounging position during cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to the Spratly Islands
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to the Spratly Islands
My newly-purchased Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Herpa Wings Scale 1:500 exclusive die-cast aircraft model from the KrisShop in-flight duty-free shopping service
A view of my seat, 11K, in its lounging position during cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Palawan, Philippines
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Palawan, Philippines
Cruising over the South China Sea close to Palawan, Philippines
The view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin from my seat shortly before the seat belt signs were illuminated in preparation for the descent cum arrival into Manila
In accordance with the Philippine Standard Time (PhST), all the 'fasten seat belt' signs were illuminated by three o' clock sharp, approximately 20 minutes in preparation for the coming afternoon descent and arrival into Manila. Since we had less than an hour left before the mid-afternoon arrival into our final destination, we promptly placed all our belongings back into their respective storage spaces and fastened our seat belts before the aircraft could securely commence its one approach into Manila. The flight attendants then went around the aircraft cabin conducting their final safety checks at the same time.
The mid-afternoon sun was shining brightly across the major waters of Manila Bay as the aircraft began to make its final approach into Ninoy Aquino International Airport later on. After a regional early afternoon flight duration of approximately 3 hours 05 minutes across the South China Sea from the warmer tropical island surroundings of the Republic of Singapore, we finally touched down into Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 3.20 p.m., approximately 25 minutes ahead of schedule. The aircraft then made its way across the central airport tarmac to its assigned arrival gate located at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Filipino: Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Ninoy Aquino; Spanish: Aeropuerto Internacional Ninoy Aquino) is a large Filipino international and domestic airport complex located between the cities of Pasay and Paraรฑaque, Metro Manila, Philippines. Named after the late former Philippine senator, Ninoy Aquino, it currently serves as the main international airport complex for the large Metro Manila region and is the busiest central international airport complex in the Republic of the Philippines, with at least approximately 45.4 million passengers passing through the airport complex in fiscal 2023. The airport currently serves as a base for PAL Express and Philippine Airlines and as a main focus city for Air Juan, AirSWIFT, Cebgo, Cebu Pacific and Philippines AirAsia.
The airport was opened in 1948 as the main airport for the Manila metropolitan area of its surroundings, occupying the former site of Nichols Field, with the international runway lengthened to handle more international flights in 1954. On 21 August 1983, the late former Philippine senator, Ninoy Aquino, was assassinated along the airport tarmac with a single gunshot, which resulted in the main airport complex gaining its current name in his honor. From 22 July 2008, Terminal 3 was opened for passenger service to cater to some major domestic flights, with Cebu Pacific and many foreign carriers operating out of Terminal 3 from 31 July 2014 after several technical airport delays owing to construction setbacks and legal issues.
The view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin from my seat shortly after the seat belt signs were illuminated in preparation for the descent cum arrival into Manila
Cruising over the South China Sea close to Paluan, Philippines
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Paluan, Philippines
Cruising over the South China Sea just above the Lubang Island, Philippines
The view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin from my seat as the aircraft begins to make its final approach into Manila over Manila Bay
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our final approach into Manila over Manila Bay
Cruising over the waters of Manila Bay as the aircraft begins to make its final approach into Manila
Cruising over the waters of Manila Bay near Paraรฑaque as the aircraft begins to make its final approach into Manila
Cruising over several housing settlements in Paraรฑaque as the aircraft begins to make its final approach into Manila
Singapore Airlines Flight 912 ~ Arrival Into Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Taxiing past some aircraft maintenance hangars near Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 shortly after we had touched down
Taxiing along the main airport tarmac close to Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3
An Etihad Airways Boeing 777-3FX/ER, registered A6-ETH, resting at Gate No. 108 located in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 after arriving from her long overnight flight over the Bay of Bengal and South China Sea from the United Arab Emirates as Etihad Airways flight EY 424 from Abu Dhabi
A Cebu Pacific Airbus A330-941N, registered RP-C3907, being serviced at Gate No. 109 located in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming regional domestic flight to the Province of Cebu as Cebu Pacific flight 5J 569 bound for Cebu
Bypassing Gate No. 110 on the way to our assigned arrival gate located in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3
An Emirates Boeing 777-31H/ER, registered A6-EGX, resting at Gate No. 111 located in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 after arriving from her long overnight flight over the Bay of Bengal and South China Sea from the United Arab Emirates as Emirates flight EK 332 from Dubai
Finally arriving at our assigned arrival gate, Gate No. 112 located in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3
The view of the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Regional Business Class cabin from my seat shortly after arriving at our assigned arrival gate, Gate No. 112 located in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3
After taxiing through the central airport tarmac for approximately 10 minutes towards Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, we soon arrived at our assigned major arrival gate, Gate No. 112, at 3.30 p.m.. Once all the seat belt signs had been turned off, we promptly unbuckled our seat belts and retrieved all our belongings from their respective storage spaces before the disembarkation process by Gate No. 112 could commence safely. Some aircraft cleaners even came on board the aircraft to disinfect the cabin before the flight attendants could permit the passengers to disembark.
Once the aircraft doors were opened, we conducted a final check around our seating areas to make sure that there was nothing left behind on board. As we disembarked from 9V-SHC via the second aircraft exit door, the in-flight attendants thanked us for choosing to travel with Singapore Airlines and wished us a pleasant one-week stay in the Philippines. We then walked through the jet bridge of Gate No. 112 leading into the central airport passenger terminal building at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 with our belongings.
After flying with an airline company on a particular flight section, I give that airline an overall holistic score report to help me determine whether that airline is worth flying with for that sector or as a whole. If the airline's flight service has a rapid stopover at another airport before its final destination, the final score report will be issued at the end of the second sector (i.e., if flying on Singapore Airlines flight SQ 025 from New York (John F. Kennedy) to Singapore via Frankfurt, the airline will directly receive the final result at the end of the second major sector between Frankfurt and Singapore). With rising competition levels between several airlines, this airline grading system is updated every three to four years, though in light of COVID-19, a newer system will not be implemented until at least 2026 or 2027.
The airline score report consists of five main components, which are the seating, in-flight catering, in-flight service, aircraft cleanliness and legroom space. Each major component weighs up to 20 points, thereby totaling up to 100 points. A minimum overall aggregate score of 50% or higher is required for an airline to obtain a pass. The top grades, 'Outstanding' and 'Exceeds Expectations' are both quality passes, while the 'Acceptable' grade is considered a borderline pass. The 'Fair' and 'Poor' grades are considered below passes, with the lowest grade being 'Dreadful', thus implying that the airline has not met the prerequisite for the minimum grade.
As of 1 March 2024, the airline grading system for my overseas travels is as follows:
Outstanding: 80% or above (Airline has an excellent rating and performance)
Exceeds Expectations: 65% ~ 79% (Airline has a good rating and performance)
Acceptable: 50% ~ 64% (Airline has an adequate rating and performance)
Fair: 35% ~ 49% (Airline has a fair rating and performance)
Poor: 20% ~ 34% (Airline has a poor rating and performance)
Dreadful: Below 20% (Airline has failed to meet the prerequisite for the minimum grade)
Singapore Airlines Flight 912 Score Report
Seating: 19 / 20
In-flight Catering: 16 / 20
In-flight Service: 17 / 20
Aircraft Cleanliness: 17 / 20
Legroom Space: 18 / 20
Total: 87 / 100
Grade: Outstanding
Upon tabulating the overall score experience of this journey, Singapore Airlines has obtained an overall aggregate score of 87% for this flight sector from Singapore to Manila, thereby meaning that they have successfully obtained the highest grade of 'Outstanding'. Apart from the appetizer dish having a weird aftertaste, the in-flight meal catering exceeded my expectations, with the cabin attendants showing good levels of professionalism in catering to me. The seat was also quite comfortable for any regional journey like this, especially for afternoon flights. Well done, Singapore Airlines! You have indeed proven yourself to be 'A Great Way to Fly'.
Part 3 ~ The Journey To The Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila
After disembarking from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 from Singapore at Gate No. 112, we passed through the airport terminal passageway leading to the major arrival immigration checkpoints in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3. The entire passageway from Gate No. 112 to the post-arrival immigration checkpoints took not more than approximately five minutes that late afternoon. Reaching the major arrival immigration checkpoints by 3.45 p.m., we instantly proceeded to the foreign visitors' priority lane and got out our passports to be checked by the immigration officers on duty, with the entire arrival immigration process taking not more than approximately five minutes.
Upon clearing the central arrival immigration checkpoints by 3.50 p.m., I immediately went over to check which baggage belt number our bulkier check-in baggage would arrive at. According to the baggage information screens, our large check-in baggage from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 from Singapore would be arriving at Belt No. 1. With that, we quickly took the nearest escalator down to the main baggage claiming level and grabbed four baggage carts before heading to Belt No. 1 to collect all our bulkier check-in baggage from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 from Singapore. The entire baggage collection procedures took not more than approximately 15 minutes that afternoon.
One final view of 9V-SHC resting at Gate No. 112 located in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 after arriving from her regional early afternoon flight over the South China Sea from the Republic of Singapore as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 from Singapore
Walking through the airport terminal passageway leading to the arrival immigration checkpoints located in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 during the late afternoon rush hours
About to make a right turn towards the arrival immigration checkpoints located in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 during the late afternoon rush hours
After collecting all our larger check-in baggage from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 912 from Singapore at Belt No. 1 and passing through Filipino customs, we were safely in the main arrivals and meeting lobby of Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 at 4.05 p.m.. Three local Filipino guides holding up our names for the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila also came over to assist us with the baggage carts before directly escorting us to the vehicular pick-up point area near the open-air parking lot located outside Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.
At the vehicular pick-up point, there were two large limousine-style vans comprising one black GMC Yukon and a silver Toyota GL Grandia waiting to take us over to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila. While the three Lai sisters were in the Toyota GL Grandia limousine van, I followed my mom, Aunt Tuesday and Aunt Lily in the GMC Yukon. Once our baggage had been loaded into the hotel limousines, we departed Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 at exactly 4.15 p.m. for a routine late afternoon hotel limousine road trip of 15 minutes to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila located in the center of the Bonifacio Global City business district.
Finally in the arrivals and meeting lobby at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 during the late afternoon off-peak hours
Walking through the arrivals and meeting lobby at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 during the late afternoon off-peak hours
Finally arriving at the open-air parking lot area located outside Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on a bright and clear late afternoon
The silver Toyota GL Grandia and black GMC Yukon limousine vans waiting to take us to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila at the open-air parking lot area located outside Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3
Finally departing the open-air parking lot area located outside Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on a bright and clear late afternoon
Crossing the busy roads near the main arrivals and pick-up point shortly after departing the open-air parking lot area located outside Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on a bright and clear late afternoon
Bypassing the bus arrivals and pick-up point located outside Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on a bright and clear late afternoon
About to cross underneath the flyover roads leading to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Expressway from the departures and drop-off points located outside Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on a bright and clear late afternoon
Traveling along Andrew's Road, Metro Manila, adjacent to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Expressway on a bright and clear late afternoon
Traveling along the Skyway Entrance Ramp located directly below the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Expressway on a bright and clear late afternoon
Crossing a busy major road intersection crossing along Lawton Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, on a bright and clear late afternoon
Bypassing the Philippine Marine Corps Headquarters located along Lawton Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, on a bright and clear late afternoon
About to bypass the Robinsons Cyber Sigma building located along Lawton Avenue, McKinley West, Taguig, Metro Manila, on a bright and clear late afternoon
Crossing a major road intersection between McWest Boulevard West and Lawton Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, on a bright and clear late afternoon
Overlooking the Fifth Avenue Place residential apartment building along 5th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, on a bright and clear late afternoon
Keeping right towards the Bonifacio Global City business district near the Fifth Avenue Place residential apartment building located along Old Lawton Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, on a bright and clear late afternoon
Going through a roundabout located along Old Lawton Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, on a bright and clear late afternoon
About to make a left turn towards McKinley Parkway along Bonifacio Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, on a bright and clear late afternoon
Traveling along the roads of 9th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, close to The Finance Center building in the Bonifacio Global City business district on a bright and clear late afternoon
Traveling along the roads of 28th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district on a bright and clear late afternoon
About to make a left turn towards 11th Avenue along 28th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district on a bright and clear late afternoon
Traveling along the roads of 11th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district on a bright and clear late afternoon
Making a U-turn towards the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila located along 11th Street, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district on a bright and clear late afternoon
Making a left turn along 11th Street, Lane P, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district leading to the main entrance to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila
Finally arriving at the main entrance to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila
After a routine late afternoon hotel limousine road trip duration of approximately 15 minutes from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, we finally arrived at the entrance area to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila at exactly 4.30 p.m.. Several hotel staff porters soon came out with a few baggage carts to assist us in unloading our baggage from the hotel limousines. Once everybody had securely disembarked from the hotel limousine vans, our guides informed us that we would be heading to the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila for dinner.
With that, we thanked our Filipino guides and promised to meet them by 6.45 p.m. before heading to the check-in reception counters in the major hotel lobby at 4.35 p.m. sharp. Given that there were six of us, the hotel check-in procedures took not more than approximately half an hour that afternoon. Upon receiving our assigned room keys at 5.05 p.m., both my mom and I learnt that we would stay in Room No. 2122 situated on the 21st floor with Executive Club Lounge access, while Aunt Lily would stay in Room No. 1444 located on the 14th floor and all the three Lai sisters would stay in Room No. 1730 on the 17th floor respectively.
Thanking the check-in receptionists for their services, we were also informed that our baggage would be brought to our assigned hotel rooms at the same time. With that, we took the elevators up to our assigned floors, with my mom and I safely arriving at our assigned Room No. 2122 by 5.15 p.m.. Our room consisted of two bathrooms, a master bedroom and a living area, which my mom would use for gatherings with the rest of the other ladies. We then spent the first part of the evening unpacking all our belongings and arranging our clothes while catching up on some rest.
Gathering at the hotel check-in reception counters in the main hotel lobby located on the first floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila
The overall view of the main hotel lobby located on the first floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila during the late afternoon off-peak hours
Bypassing Misto At Seda BGC located on the first floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila on the way to the elevator lobby leading to our assigned rooms and floors
The master bedroom in our assigned Room No. 2122 located on the 21st floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila shortly after we had entered
The main living area in our assigned Room No. 2122 located on the 21st floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila shortly after we had entered
Overlooking the skyline of Metro Manila from our assigned Room No. 2122 located on the 21st floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila as dusk begins to break over its suburbs
Overlooking the skyline of Metro Manila from our assigned Room No. 2122 located on the 21st floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila at the crack of nightfall
The main living area in our assigned Room No. 2122 located on the 21st floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila shortly before my mom and I went out to dinner
The master bedroom in our assigned Room No. 2122 located on the 21st floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila shortly before my mom and I headed out for dinner
After spending the very first part of the early evening sorting out all our belongings and catching up on some rest in our assigned Room No. 2122, the clock was finally showing 6.20 p.m. sharp. Given that our dinner gathering at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila would be at seven o' clock sharp later that evening, my mom and I instantly grabbed all our necessary belongings and eventually departed our allocated major hotel Room No. 2122 before securely taking the closest elevator down to the main hotel lobby on the first floor, thus reaching there safely at 6.25 p.m..
In the main hotel lobby, we saw that Aunt Lily was already there waiting for us, with the three Lai sisters showing up five minutes later by 6.30 p.m... Soon enough, our Filipino guides came to meet us at the main entrance to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila at 6.40 p.m. sharp. They explained that we would be having a Chinese dinner gathering at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila. Boarding the black GMC Yukon limousine van we took from Ninoy Aquino International Airport earlier on, we then departed the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila within a few seconds for a routine main road trip of five minutes to the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila.
The main hotel lobby located on the first floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila at night shortly before my mom and I met Aunt Lily and the three Lai sisters
The main entrance area to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila shortly before we departed the hotel for the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila at night
Finally departing the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila for the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila at night
Overlooking the Shangri-La Hotel at The Fort Manila while traveling along the roads of 11th Street, Lane P, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district at night
Traveling along the roads of 9th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district at night
About to cross a major road intersection between 31st Street and 9th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district at night
About to cross a major road intersection between 34th Street and 9th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district at night
Crossing the road intersection between 11th Drive and 9th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district at night
Bypassing the Uptown Mall recreational and shopping complex while traveling along 9th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district at night
Making a left turn towards 36th Street along 9th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district at night
About to make a left turn towards 8th Avenue along 36th Street, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district at night
Traveling along the roads of 8th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district while getting closer to the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila at night
Finally arriving at the main entrance area to the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila located along 8th Street, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district
After a short main evening limousine trip time of five minutes from the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila located along 11th Street, Taguig, Metro Manila, we arrived at the main entrance area to the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila at 6.45 p.m.. Checking to ensure that we did not leave anything behind on board, the limousine driver kindly informed us that our guides would contact him to take us back after we had finished dinner. As soon as we thanked the limousine driver for his services, we went into the main hotel lobby with our guides, who arrived in another separate security vehicle behind us.
Walking through the major hotel lobby, we immediately took a nearby elevator up to the second floor before arriving at the hotel's major Chinese restaurant, No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่), by precisely 6.50 p.m. later on. Heading to the reception counter, our guides then informed the restaurant receptionist that a major dinner reservation was made for us at seven o' clock under Filipino Congresswoman Madam Caroline Tanchay. Upon verifying our main party reservation, two restaurant staff waitresses escorted us to a private room that could seat up to nine people and provided us with the menus to make our reviews.
Certain roasted dishes, such as the restaurant's traditional signature Peking duck, were also ordered for us beforehand. Once a waitress came by to take down our orders, we ordered several dishes, such as steamed grouper with Sichuan peppers, soy sauce and chili, a few major vegetable dishes and braised Angus beef served with angelica herbs, dark soy sauce, tomatoes and almond nuts. The three Lai sisters even directly brought out one bottle of Macallan 18-Year-Old Double Cask Annual Release 2021 Single Malt scotch whisky for us to share, with Madam Caroline safely arriving at 8.45 p.m.. As the dinner dishes safely arrived at our dining room, we had a filling and sumptuous dinner gathering at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) that night.
Walking through the main hotel lobby located on the first floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila shortly after we had arrived
Bypassing some lounge-style seating areas in the main hotel lobby located on the first floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila at night
Approaching the elevator lobby in the main hotel lobby located on the first floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
Walking through the second floor housing most of the hotel's restaurants at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila at night
Finally arriving at the main entrance to No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
Bypassing a roasted meat display table at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila shortly after we had arrived
Bypassing the regular open dining areas at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila shortly after we had arrived
Settling into our nine-seat private dining room at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
The chandelier above our dining table in our nine-seat private dining room at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
The cover page for the main menu of No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
Reviewing the signature dish section created by Master Chef Alan of the main menu of No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A bottle of Macallan 18-Year-Old Double Cask Annual Release 2021 Single Malt scotch whisky brought by the three Lai sisters to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
About to sample my glass of Macallan 18-Year-Old Double Cask Annual Release 2021 Single Malt scotch whisky brought by the three Lai sisters at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A platter of traditional signature Peking duck with sauces and condiments to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A platter of Cantonese-style roasted crispy pork belly to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A chilled bottle of Billecart-Salmon Brut Nature Champagne to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
An assortment of Sichuan spicy and cold dishes to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A bowl of double-boiled papaya soup with fish maw, pork and chicken for myself at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A platter of signature traditional Peking duck crispy skin to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A platter of steamed grouper with Sichuan peppers, soy sauce and chili to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A platter of wok-fried pumpkin with salted egg yolk to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A platter of crispy lemon chicken to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A platter of steamed kai lan with pumpkins, black fungus, Chinese yam and soy sauce to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A platter of wrapped traditional signature Peking duck with cucumbers to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
A platter of braised Angus beef with angelica herbs, dark soy sauce, tomatoes and almonds to be shared among us at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
About to enjoy the remaining meat and skin of the signature traditional Peking Duck at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
The lounge seating area in our nine-seat private dining room at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila
The nine-seat private dining room at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila shortly after we had finished our dinner gathering
After having a relatively sumptuous and filling dinner party gathering at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) situated on the second floor area at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila, the clock was finally showing 10.35 p.m.. Since we were already beginning to feel tired, we wisely decided that there was nothing much to do other than to head back to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila for the night. With that moment, Madam Caroline directly settled our dinner check and warmly told us that she was looking forward to hosting us for the duration of our stay in the Philippines.
Checking to see that we had not left anything behind in the private dining area, we departed the main restaurant and walked to the elevator lobby before catching an elevator down to the main hotel lobby on the first floor. Heading out to the hotel's entrance area, we instantly saw that the same black GMC Yukon limousine van was waiting, with the other Filipino guides to follow via another private security vehicle. After Madam Caroline had departed in another security vehicle for home, we then departed the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila by exactly 10.45 p.m. for a short late night road trip of just five minutes back to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila.
Bypassing the regular opening dining areas at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila shortly after we had finished our social Chinese dinner gathering
Bypassing the open kitchen area at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila late at night
Bypassing the roasted meat display table at No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila late at night
Walking through the second floor housing most of the hotel's restaurants at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila late at night
Gazing back at the main entrance to No. 8 China House (Traditional Chinese: ่ฏๅบ8่) located on the second floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila late at night
Bypassing some lounge-style seating areas in the main hotel lobby located on the first floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila late at night
Walking through the main hotel lobby located on the first floor at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila late at night
The main entrance area to the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila late at night
The black GMC Yukon limousine van that would take us back to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila at the main entrance area to the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila late at night
Finally departing the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila late at night
Traveling along the roads of 8th Street, Taguig, Metro Manila in the Bonifacio Global City business district shortly after departing the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila late at night
Making a left turn towards 34th Street along 8th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district late at night
Traveling along the roads of 34th Street, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district late at night
Bypassing an infrastructure construction site located along 34th Street, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district late at night
Crossing a major road intersection between 32nd Street and 11th Avenue, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district late at night
Making a right turn towards 11th Street, Lane P, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City business district late at night
About to make a right turn along 11th Street, Taguig, Metro Manila, in the Bonifacio Global City district leading to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila late at night
Finally arriving back at the main entrance to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila late at night
The main entrance area to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila late at night shortly after we had arrived back
The main hotel lobby located on the first floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila late at night shortly after we had arrived back
The main living area in our assigned Room No. 2122 located on the 21st floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila shortly after my mom and I had arrived back for the night
The master bedroom in our assigned Room No. 2122 located on the 21st floor at the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila shortly after my mom and I had arrived back for the night
After a short major late night limousine road trip of just five minutes from the Grand Hyatt Hotel Manila located along 8th Street, Taguig, Metro Manila, we soon arrived back at the main entrance to the Seda Bonifacio Global City Manila at exactly 10.50 p.m.. Checking to ensure that we had not left anything behind, both the driver and our tour guides kindly promised that they would securely come back to take us out again the following day. With that moment, we immediately thanked them for their services and proceeded into the main hotel lobby situated on the first floor prior to catching the elevators back up to our respective floors and assigned hotel rooms.
Soon enough, my mom and I arrived back at our assigned Room No. 2122 located on the 21st floor at 10.55 p.m. sharp. Placing all our electronics to be charged overnight, we went to wash up and change into our own pajamas before turning in for the night. My mom then took the opportunity to advise me against staying up too late since we would be going on some sort of medical treatment journey the next day. Upon safely ensuring that the hotel room was thoroughly locked and our electronic gadgets were charging, we turned in at around 12 midnight for a well-earned good night's rest.
This officially brings the first section of my first overseas Feng Shui cum mass social bonding journey to the Philippines in April 2024 to a formal conclusion. As with all other existing overseas getaway voyage trip reports, questions and / or comments shall be more than welcome in the comment boxes located at the end of each trip report section. The remaining three sections of this main Southeast Asian getaway journey trip report will be posted publicly once I have selected the highest quality photographs and videos for each of them. Please do be patient as this will require extensive time and effort to publish them effectively.
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