Sun, water and islands

CEBU, Philippines – February’s gloom finally dissipated with March’s beam. And with temperature rising everyday with the sun, there’s no holding back: Summer is officially here. March on!

Ushering in the sizzling season was Islands Banca Cruises’ (IBC) lifestyle launch on a sunny Friday. The members of the press were treated to a whole day frolic and pampering commencing with a shopping spree at the newly renovated Islands Souvenir flag store in Mactan. Then it was all sunshine delight as soon as we embarked on the Cruises’ luxurious outrigger, cruising on to Gilutungan Island for some marine-life encounter.

When the sun reached its height, we ferried towards Bohol waters and docked in the isle of Pandanon. There the pampering began with a bountiful feast highlighted with crabs and grilled prawns. Spoiling was certainly in order because a massage parlor was set up in the middle of the beach, open at your own leisure. It was relaxation surrounded by nature’s wonders of sight, sand and sun. And capping the day was a sunset cruise back to mainland with a cocktail on hand. Ahhh…who could complain?

Meanwhile, Krua Thai, BTC celebrated in advance Thailand’s biggest holiday, the Songkran Festival. Similar to that of our New Year’s, the Songkran marks the renewal of ones life with water as symbol of cleansing. For this year’s celebration, the restaurant brought the rich Thai culture to Cebu with its flavorful cuisine by introducing a number of additions to its exquisite menu. Giving guests further taste on Thai tradition was a dance performed by Thai students from the Gullas College of Medicine.

On the same occasion, Krua Thai made a formal announcement that its branches in SM and BTC are under new management, Royal Krua Thai Inc. Operations manager Jim Hiranpruck also announced that before the end of April, the company will be opening a new diner at the heart of the city. So, watch out for Mae Krua serving your favorite cuisine in Ramos St. Congratulations, Royal Krua Thai!