Saturday, December 31, 2005

Sunday, December 25, 2005

Merry Christmas 2005



During this magical season of joy and love, I want to take a moment to wish you a Merry Christmas filled with warmth, laughter, and beautiful memories. May your heart be filled with peace, your home be adorned with happiness, and your spirit be illuminated with the light of hope.

As we gather with loved ones, let us cherish the precious moments shared and appreciate the blessings that surround us. May the spirit of Christmas bring us closer together, reminding us of the importance of kindness, compassion, and understanding.

Let us also remember those less fortunate and extend a helping hand to those in need. In giving, we receive the true essence of the season and make a positive impact on the lives of others.

May the twinkling lights brighten your path, the melodies of carols fill your heart, and the love of family and friends bring you infinite happiness. Enjoy this special time of year and embrace the joy that fills the air.

Merry Christmas EveryJuan.
Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones. 
May the blessings of this season be with you today and always.

#MerryChristmas,
#MerryChristmas2005,
#Christmas2005,
#istariray23moments,

Saturday, August 20, 2005

Moments_Apples & Wines



Women are like apples on trees. 

The best ones are at the top of the tree. 

Most men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt. Instead , they just take the rotten apples from the ground that aren't as good, but easy.........

The apples at the top think something is wrong with them, when in reality, they're amazing.
They just have to wait for the right man to come along, the one- who's brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree.

Now Men.........

Men are like a fine wine.
They begin as grapes, and it's up to women to stomp the shit out of them until they turn into something acceptable to have dinner with. 

Sunday, June 05, 2005

Magnifico 2003


"Step into the Heartwarming World of 'Magnifico': A Tale of Love, Sacrifice, and Hope"

Directed by Maryo J. de los Reyes
Written by Michiko Yamamoto
Produced by Violeta C. Sevilla
Starring: 
Jiro Manio
Lorna Tolentino
Albert Martinez
Gloria Romero
Celia Rodriguez
Mark Gil
Tonton Gutierrez
Amy Austria
Cherry Pie
Danilo Barrios
Susan Africa
Isabella De Leon
Dindin Llarena
Joseph Roble
Cinematography Odyssey 'Odie' Flores
Edited by Manet A. Dayrit
Music by Lutgardo Labad
Production company Violett Film Productions
Distributed by Unico Entertainment (United States)
Vagrant Films (Canada)
Release date
January 29, 2003
Country Philippines
Language Tagalog



Released in 2003, the Filipino drama film "Magnifico" takes audiences on an emotional journey that tugs at the heartstrings and leaves a lasting impact. Directed by Maryo J. de los Reyes, this cinematic masterpiece weaves together a narrative that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit amidst adversity.


Set in a rural Philippine community, "Magnifico" follows the story of a young boy named Magnifico, played by Jiro Manio, whose unwavering love and selflessness shine brightly in the face of overwhelming challenges. Despite coming from a humble background and grappling with poverty, Magnifico's pure-hearted intentions and acts of kindness touch the lives of those around him.



The film beautifully captures the complexities of family dynamics, societal issues, and the power of human connection. As Magnifico navigates through life's struggles, he becomes a beacon of hope for his family and neighbors, embodying the true essence of compassion and sacrifice.


Through poignant storytelling and powerful performances by a talented cast including Lorna Tolentino, Gloria Romero, and Albert Martinez, "Magnifico" immerses viewers in a world filled with poignant moments, inspiring messages, and profound lessons about love, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit.


The film's evocative cinematography, heartfelt musical score, and authentic portrayal of Filipino culture and values contribute to its timeless appeal and universal themes of family, community, and the pursuit of happiness against all odds.


As audiences delve into the rich tapestry of emotions woven throughout "Magnifico," they are reminded of the enduring bonds of love and the transformative nature of kindness and empathy. At its core, "Magnifico" serves as a poignant reminder that in the midst of life's challenges, it is the small acts of compassion and generosity that have the greatest impact and resonate long after the credits roll.


"Magnifico" stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to uplift, inspire, and illuminate the human experience. With its touching narrative, stellar performances, and profound exploration of life's joys and sorrows, this Filipino drama film continues to captivate audiences and resonate deeply with viewers of all backgrounds, making it a true cinematic gem that shines brightly in the landscape of Philippine cinema.


"Magnifico" received critical acclaim and accolades for its powerful storytelling, stellar performances, and emotional impact. The film garnered numerous awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals and award-giving bodies in the Philippines and beyond. Some of the notable recognitions include:

1. FAMAS Awards:
   - Best Picture
   - Best Director (Maryo J. de los Reyes)
   - Best Child Actor (Jiro Manio)
   - Best Supporting Actress (Lorna Tolentino)
   - Best Screenplay

2. Gawad Urian Awards:
   - Best Picture
   - Best Director (Maryo J. de los Reyes)
   - Best Child Performer (Jiro Manio)
   - Best Supporting Actress (Lorna Tolentino)


3. Metro Manila Film Festival:
   - Best Picture
   - Best Director (Maryo J. de los Reyes)
   - Best Supporting Actress (Lorna Tolentino)
   - Best Story

4. Asian Film Awards:
   - Best Supporting Actress (Lorna Tolentino)


Audiences around the world can relate to "Magnifico" on a profound level due to its universal themes of love, sacrifice, resilience, and hope. The film delves into the complexities of family relationships, the struggles of everyday people facing adversity, and the enduring power of human kindness. Audiences can find a connection to the characters' experiences, emotions, and challenges portrayed in the film, regardless of their cultural background.


Many viewers resonate with Magnifico's character, a young boy who embodies innocence, selflessness, and a genuine desire to help others despite his own hardships. His unwavering optimism and ability to find joy in the simplest things resonate with audiences who appreciate the importance of empathy, compassion, and perseverance in the face of difficulties.


The portrayal of familial bonds, community support, and the indomitable spirit of the human heart in "Magnifico" strikes a chord with viewers who have experienced struggles, loss, or moments of triumph in their own lives. The film's poignant storytelling and relatable characters invite audiences to reflect on the values of love, selflessness, and resilience that transcend cultural barriers and speak to the shared humanity of all individuals.


In essence, "Magnifico" serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring qualities that unite us as human beings—our capacity for love, kindness, and the strength to overcome life's challenges with grace and dignity. Through its powerful narrative and universal themes, the film continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, touching hearts and inspiring reflection on the beauty and complexity of the human experience.

#Movie,
#Pelikula,
#Magnifico,
#Magnifico2003Movie,
#MaryoJdelosReyes,
#JiroManio,
#LornaTolentino,
#AlbertMartinez,
#GloriaRomero,
#CeliaRodriguez,
#MarkGil,
#TontonGutierrez,
#AmyAustria,
#CherryPie,
#DaniloBarrios,
#istariray23moments,


Wednesday, May 25, 2005

Sunway Lagoon, Malaysia

Spend our weekend in this Amusement, Water Park, and mini Wild Park in one with friends who were very friendly enough and assisted us in getting our ticket pass.

I am indeed amazed by the water adventures this park offers which we do not have in PH as of this writing. Mind you, I did not waste any moment trying each of those.

The wave/surf pool is superb and indeed very fun.

Sunway Lagoon is a popular theme park and water park located in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, just outside Kuala Lumpur. It is a premier attraction known for offering a wide range of thrilling rides, attractions, and activities for visitors of all ages. Sunway Lagoon is divided into six distinct areas, each with its own unique theme and attractions.

1. Water Park: This section features numerous water-based attractions such as slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and water playgrounds, providing a fun and refreshing experience for guests looking to cool off and have some aquatic adventures.

2. Amusement Park: Filled with exciting rides, roller coasters, and carnival games, the amusement park section of Sunway Lagoon is perfect for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies seeking an action-packed day of fun.

3. Wildlife Park: Visitors can explore a variety of animal exhibits and interact with wildlife at the Wildlife Park, which offers opportunities to see exotic animals up close and learn more about conservation efforts.

4. Extreme Park: Adventure enthusiasts can test their skills and courage at Extreme Park, which offers activities such as bungee jumping, go-kart racing, rock climbing, and other challenging experiences.

5. Scream Park: For those who enjoy horror and thrills, Scream Park features haunted houses, spooky mazes, and interactive scare zones designed to provide a spine-chilling experience.

6. Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon: A themed zone featuring beloved Nickelodeon characters, this area offers family-friendly attractions, water slides, and live entertainment for children and fans of Nickelodeon shows.


Grand Canyon River Rapids

This ride is like what we have in the Enchanted Kingdom where you will ride a little round boat that'll toss you around with strong waves traveling a trail under a falling waterfall.

Expect that you will get soaked when the ride is over😁😁😁 

Sunway Lagoon is a popular destination for families, groups of friends, and thrill-seekers looking for a fun-filled day of entertainment and adventure. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, the park offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit attraction for tourists in Malaysia.

This park offers a variety of adventures from water, rides, food, and souvenir items from stores that are scattered throughout the entire area. Big events were also being held in this place and if you still have spare energy a shopping mall is just nearby that actually has everything from grocery, department store, cinema you name it. They have it hereπŸ˜‰

Amusement Park

If you don't feel like swimming or getting wet, this side of the area offers an amusement park full of ride adventures that will make you scream at the top of your lungs. 

Pedestrian Suspension Bridge

We were able to cross this suspension bridge which to date holds the title for the longest bridge in the world at 428m in length. From this bridge, you will definitely get a bird's-eye view of the entire park from 60 feet above their man-made lake. 

From Left to right; Avin, Alvin and Dave

From Left to Right; Avin, Madzy, Alpha, iStariray, Kaye, Jenny, Dave and Koko
My apologies for our blurred picture😁

Pirate’s Revenge at the back

Wrapping up our day in this park is our picture-taking that'll serve as a remembrance of our weekend getaway with our Malaysian friends. 



3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

Opened: 29 April 1993

Themes: Extreme Park, Amusement park

Area: 36 ha

Operating season: Year-round

Theme Park Operation Hours
Open Wed-Mon: 10:00am till 6:00pm

Closed every Tuesday, except on Malaysian School & Public holidays

#SunwayLagoon, #SunwayLagoonWaterPark, #SunwayLagoonAmusementPark, #Malaysia, #SunwayLagoonMalaysia, #istariray23laboy, #istariray23travel, #istariray23moments,

Monday, May 16, 2005

The KL Monorail


The Kuala Lumpur Monorail, commonly referred to as the KL Monorail, is an iconic mode of transportation in Malaysia's vibrant capital city, Kuala Lumpur. As one of the city's major public transportation systems, the monorail plays a crucial role in connecting various key areas, providing convenience and efficiency for both locals and tourists alike.

The KL Monorail was officially opened on August 31, 2003, with the aim of easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity within the city. The system stretches across a distance of approximately 8.6 kilometers and consists of 11 stations that cover popular destinations such as Bukit Bintang, Chow Kit, and KL Sentral.

One of the notable features of the KL Monorail is its elevated track, which allows passengers to enjoy panoramic views of the cityscape as they travel between stations. This unique perspective provides a different experience compared to other modes of transportation, making the journey more enjoyable and memorable for riders. Additionally, the monorail's sleek and modern design adds to its aesthetic appeal, making it a recognizable symbol of Kuala Lumpur's urban landscape.

The KL Monorail operates daily from 6:00 am to midnight, offering frequent and reliable services for commuters and tourists. The trains are air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment even during hot and humid weather conditions. The stations are equipped with escalators and elevators, ensuring accessibility for all individuals, including those with disabilities.

Apart from its transportation benefits, the KL Monorail also serves as an attraction in itself. Tourists often take rides on the monorail simply to experience the unique perspective of the city or as a means to reach popular shopping malls, entertainment centers, and tourist attractions. With the monorail linking various key spots, visitors can easily explore the bustling streets of Bukit Bintang, visit the famous Petronas Twin Towers, or even access the vibrant nightlife of Jalan Alor.

Overall, the KL Monorail offers a convenient, efficient, and memorable way to navigate Kuala Lumpur. Its elevated track, modern design, and connectivity to key destinations within the city make it a vital part of the capital's transportation infrastructure. Whether you are a local resident or a curious tourist, riding the KL Monorail is an experience not to be missed, allowing you to explore the city with ease while enjoying breathtaking views of Kuala Lumpur's ever-evolving skyline.


#KLMonoRail,
#KLRail,
#KualaLumpur,
#Malaysia,
#istariray23laboy,
#istariray23travel,
#istariray23moments,


Tuesday, May 10, 2005

Crowne Plaza Mutiara Hotel, Malaysia

 

Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

This hotel was initially known as KL Hilton under the Hilton Worldwide management.
It was renamed in 2004 to Mutiara Hotel following a takeover.

Spent 2 months staying in this hotel which I enjoyed and their service is indeed superbπŸ˜‰πŸ‘


They have a long breakfast buffet table with different varieties of cuisine from all over the world.

From left to right:
Tariray, Madzy, Avin, Alpha, Jeanette, and Alvin a.k.a Koko


We have a fully air-conditioned spacious room with two double beds with a view of Petronas Twin Tower. 


Room Amenities
mini fridge, 
complimentary daily bottled drinking water
daily Newspaper 
daily room service
Tea and coffee facilities
Private bathroom
Bathtub
Shower
Hair dryer
Television with cable
Direct dial telephone
Safe deposit box

Extra beds details
The maximum number of extra beds allowed in a room is 1.


Closed to the window is Jeanette and later on I shared the room with Madzy.


The hotel comfort room is so spacious so this bathtub that I enjoyed using it during my stay here in MY.


Love chillin' in this side of the room as this is near my bed.


This window overlooks the KL Petronas Tower which is so lovely at night with all of its light lighted and like a twin tower candle that looks after Kuala Lumpur at night.

By the way, Kuala Lumpur traffic is so heavy during rush hours from 6PM up until 11PM. And from this window, you could see all those cars lined up in the street of KL.



Crowne Plaza Mutiara Hotel 5 stars

 Paid Wi-Fi  24-hour services,     Swimming Pool

 Fitness/Gym  On-site Dining  Meeting Facilities

 Breakfast  No pets allowed

Featuring a swimming pool, an outdoor swimming pool, and a restaurant, Crowne Plaza Mutiara Hotel Kuala Lumpur offers designer accommodation 2.3 km from the intricately detailed South Indian Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. The venue is located in the center of Kuala Lumpur, a short walk from the Luxury Starhill Gallery Shopping Mall.

Lot 10 Shopping Complex is a few steps away, while Raja Chulan train station is within a 5-minute walk from the hotel. Pavilion KL is 0.6 km from this property. Chinatown is just a few minutes drive away.

This venue offers rooms with a safe box, an iron and ironing board, and a minibar. The 564 guest rooms are spread over 36 floors.

Guests can enjoy Asian, Chinese, and Taiwanese meals at Din Tai Fung Pavilion KL within 5 5-minute walk of the hotel. There is a Wisma Cosway bus stop within 150 meters away. A community pool, a bar, and an outdoor pool area are also found on site. There is a fitness suite on this property.

Hotel Lobby

24-hour reception

Restaurant buffet

Swimming Pool

Facilities

General
Paid Wi-Fi
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
Lift
Currency exchange

Dining
Mini-fridge
Breakfast
Restaurant buffet
Cafe
Bar/ Lounge area

Leisure & Sports
Swimming pool
Exercise gym

Services
Room service
Laundry
Business center

Room Amenities
Tea and coffee facilities
Private bathroom
Bathtub
Shower
Hair dryer
Television
Direct dial telephone

Important information
Check-in: from 14:00 until 23:59
Check-out: until 12:00

Local attractions

GSC Pavilion KL Golden Screen Cinemas  350m
Sungei Wang Plaza 850m
Stadium Negara 1.6km
Bukit Bintang 350 m
Capital Square 1.4 km
Badan Warisan Malaysia 950 m
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur 350 m

Airports
Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah 18.2 km

Train stations
Ampang Park Station 1.3 km

Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia


#CrownePlaza, 
#CrownePlazaMutiaraHotelMalaysia,
 #MutiaraHotelMalaysia,
#Hotel, 
#KualaLumpur,
#Malaysia,
#JalanSultanIsmail,
#Istariray23Laboy,
#Istariray23Travel,
#Istariray23Moments,

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