We have all heard that line countless times, especially after finishing a big meal or feasting on every single dish in a buffet.
Fortunately, many of us realize that, after pigging out, we need to get back on the nutritious track and return to our healthy lifestyles. Let’s call the buffet a momentary lapse, or a give-in to temptation.
In my endless quest to stay fit and sexy, I discovered Vietura Aesthetic Lifestyle, the first and only aesthetic lifestyle institute of its kind in Asia. The wellness center recently celebrated its first anniversary and marks its success in the rise and transformation of the Philippine medical tourism industry.
Sofitel Philippine Plaza general manager Adam Laker revealed that the hotel is pioneering this lifestyle destination model in the country, with renowned wellness expert Dr. Mary Jane “MJ” Torres. He also noted that guests’ preferences have evolved.
Today’s medical tourist is looking for a luxury resort environment to escape, unwind and rejuvenate. Vietura provides comprehensive beauty and wellness programs within a five-star, luxury resort setting. In a win-win outcome, Sofitel now has a new market of guests and Vietura is in the forefront of the country’s bid to be a hub for medical tourism.
Vietura has been so successful that Sofitel’s sister hotel in Bali, Indonesia, the Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort, will open Vietura’s second branch soon this year. Other hotels in the Sofitel Luxury Hotels group are also looking at replicating this model.
Unveiled at the Vietura anniversary were Magnifique beauty retreats, namely, Summer Beauty, Timeless Beauty and Detox Retreat, as well as the Dermaheal line of scientifically advanced beauty products from South Korea.
Dermaheal is the latest innovation in stem cell research. The product line is based on stem cell technology that stimulates and enhances skin cell growth and proliferation in order to stop the signs of aging. The results can be seen in as fast as two weeks.
Vietura programs are supported by the hotel and its recreational facilities through various packages that include luxurious overnight accommodation, pampering wellness treatments and De-Light cuisines the Sofitel brand of hospitality is known for.
To further educate the market on the benefits of living a healthier and a more balanced lifestyle, Vietura is also set to stage monthly themed talks that will highlight trends and breakthroughs on detox, anti-aging, weight loss and nutrition.
I was also happy to try the colonics session at Vietura. It is the only center in the country with that machine.
Afterward, I had a superfood dinner, with a menu created by French chef Bettina Arguelles complete with a detox juice bar and guilt-free desserts.
To find out more about Vietura Aesthetic Lifestyle, log on to www.vietura.com.
Celebrity chef restaurant
If we are what we eat, then we must be very good, especially after we sampled the rounds at The Todd English Food Hall at the SkyPark of SM Aura Premier. A brainchild of multi-awarded celebrity chef Todd English, the Food Hall has a New York ambience to go with its authentic international flavors.
Chef Todd teamed up with local restaurateur Rikki Dee’s group to bring the first and only celebrity chef restaurant in the country. I’m sure The Todd English Food Hall will set a new standard in the ever-growing culinary scene in Manila.
The Todd English Food Hall is a European-inspired specialty dining place that offers nine diverse culinary stations to satisfy the most discerning palettes. Offering the finest food with the freshest ingredients, matched with impeccable service, The Todd English Food Hall gives a delectable dining experience set in a stylish and convenient atmosphere.
My fave was the Pasta Station, with its extensive and delicious selection and tasty sauces. Next to it is the Pizza Station, which included a range of English flatbreads. The Grill is the place for diners seeking signature dishes.
Over at the Asian Station is a wide selection of noodles and other Asian specialties. The Raw Bar has fresh Maine lobsters, oysters, clams, shrimps and more. Sushi lovers can also enjoy their favorite Japanese cuisine prepared by a master sushi chef at the Sushi Bar. And, of course, the Dessert and Bread Bar is there to cap off every meal.
The Todd English Food Hall also has an award-winning mixologist to serve up the world’s finest wines and cocktails.
The entire area is a huge 900 square meters, designed by Ivy Almario. The global architecture is reflected in mosaic marble floors, elegant wood paneling, ceramic backdrops and stained-glass windows.
30-day challenge
I am what I eat, so I try to balance all that delicious food with exercise. As usual, my fave is to attend Bikram Yoga at Bikram Manila, owned by good friend Olay Aninion.
The center has a popular 30-day challenge that is the best way to slim down quickly for the beach months.
Check it out at www.bikramyogamanila.com.
Fastest Pinoy
She is what she eats, and we can see the results when we meet triathlete and coach Ani de Leon-Brown. Ani recently completed the Ironman Melbourne with a super-fast time of 11 hours and 8 minutes.
She was the fastest Filipino at the race, and, if I’m not mistaken, also now holds the record for any Filipino in any triathlon of that distance.
Congratulations are in order to the huge Pinoy contingent that completed the Ironman Melbourne. Among the group was my running buddy Raeanna Cranbourne.
Let me end with a cute joke I just heard: “If you are what you eat, then I will eat a Victoria’s Secret model.”
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