How Travel Can Fix Your Work Burnout (without Quitting Your Job).

In all honesty, work burnout has a way of sneaking up, even when things are technically “fine.” Yeah, sure, emails get answered, deadlines are met, and on paper it looks like everything’s rolling. But the spark’s gone. It’s just entirely gone, and probably won’t ever come back either. Plus, there’s this dull, heavy feeling that follows you from your inbox to your weekend plans.

Photo credit: Yan Krukau on Pexels.

Sadly, no amount of sleeping in on Sunday seems to fix it. But depending on the type of work you do (ideally, remote), there might actually be a fix to this. Yep, you don’t have to quit your job, move to Bali, travel during high season, or even start a mushroom farm in order to feel better. Sure, those sound fun, but sometimes, all it takes is a change of scenery to jolt your brain back to life.

Your Routine Might be the Real Problem

How does your life look on a day? For a lot of people, they wake up, check their phone, reply to work messages, open the laptop, eat the same lunch, go to bed, and do it all again. That loop, even when it includes the occasional happy hour or gym class, can turn into mental quicksand. You get stuck in it, and even the stuff you used to enjoy feels like a chore.

Photo credit: Miro Alt on Pexels.

Now, with all that said, travel, even the slow kind, interrupts that loop. It forces your brain to process new sights, new smells, and new layouts. That alone can kick-start your motivation again. It's not just about palm trees or beaches, it's about novelty. Something, like that novelty rewires the way you think about your day.

You Don’t Need a Sabbatical to Feel Recharged

A lot of people think they need to quit their job or take months off to recover from burnout. But no, it’s entirely not true. But again, it depends on your employer or the business you’re running. But for the most part, you can take your laptop, book a decent spot, and just work from somewhere else for a little while. It doesn’t need to be exotic, expensive, or dramatic.

But it does need to be different enough to reset your brain. Actually, even working in a space with a new view, different sounds, or fresh faces around you can make you feel a little more like yourself again. Nope, it doesn’t even need to be expensive either, just take something like a hostel in Makati as a nice example, you can meet others staying there, you can chit chat, there’s strong wifi, you can probably even do some networking too.

Photo credit: Towflqu.

Sure, you’re still working, but you don’t have to feel that corporate drain because you’re routine is shaken up a bit.

Burnout isn’t Always About the Work

Sometimes burnout is about the work, sure. But more often, it's about how the work fits into your life. If every part of your routine feels robotic, the work starts to feel heavier than it is.

It really can’t be stressed enough that switching up your location, your surroundings, and the people around you changes that. You can keep doing the same job, for the same clients, on the same laptop, but if you’re doing it while sipping coffee at a new spot in a city that isn’t your own, everything hits a little different.

Complete the ‘Premium’ Experience at B Hotel Alabang.

Foodies need not look any further if they want to enjoy the best of Filipino food and more. B Hotel Alabang’s Prime Café offers the Philippines’ most sought-after dishes as well as other favorites from around the country.

This boutique hotel in Alabang may not be the largest in the area, but it is packed with everything you need in the city. A relaxing and homey accommodation, an outdoor Jacuzzi for ultimate relaxation, a gym, a function room that can accommodate up to 80 persons, a well-known Filipino restaurant, and a Pastry Corner for the best-baked concoctions in the Metro.

“We take pride in providing good quality of service. Being the number 1 TripAdvisor hotel in the Alabang area is an honor for us, and I believe that this achievement is proof of the quality of hospitality that we have always strived to provide our guests,” said Ms. Glennis Narciso, Hotel Manager of B Hotel Alabang during a media get together.

One aspect of their service that they are highlighting is their very own restaurant – Prime Café. This restaurant offers an impressively wide variety dishes and of particular note is the top-notch Filipino cuisine that it is known for. Their chefs headed by Sous Chef Andrea Urcia put their heart into every dish that they serve, especially the ones that boast rich flavors.

Prime Café offers buffets and Bistro a la carte and is open daily from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm. Lunch buffets are scheduled every Friday from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm and cost only Php 750 per person. They also offer breakfast buffets every weekend from 6:00 am to 10:00 am which only costs Php 650 per person.

And even if you are in the North area, you may still get to taste the best Filipino and also international cuisine at B Hotel in Quezon City headed by Executive Sous Chef Vincent Odejar. The Lobby Café in B Hotel Quezon City is known for specializing in international cuisine that will surely give you a delicious journey for your taste buds. Serving ala-carte dishes and buffet breakfasts, the Lobby Café is also a feast for the eyes as it is to the tummy. It has also a cool vibe that perfectly matches the hotel’s industrial architecture.

B Hotel Alabang and B Hotel Quezon City are 4-star hotels that are both managed by The Bellevue Hotels & Resorts. If you are looking for great amenities and exceptional service at a price that won’t break the bank, these hotels are definitely your best choices.

For inquiries and reservations, you may contact B Hotel Alabang at (+632) 8828 8181 or visit www.bhotelalabang.com, and B Hotel Quezon City at (+632) 8990 5000 or visit www.bhotelqc.com.

Foodie Goodie | Sulyap Gallery Cafe and Restaurant.

Sundays, as customary, are for dining together with the family. And for this particular Sunday after our visit to St. Martin de Porres' Kids Home, Mum chose to have our family dinner at Sulyap Gallery Cafe and Restaurant.

Travel back in time at Sulyap Gallery Cafe and Restaurant.

Located in Brgy. Del Remedio, San Pablo City, Sulyap Gallery Cafe and Restaurant gives its visitors a glimpse of the past as it reimagines the Filipino cultural heritage through its colonial era architectures and traditional Filipino cuisine.

The stairs leading to the restaurant.

Blast from the past! More of Sulyap Gallery Cafe and Restaurant after the jump!

Staycation Ideas in Metro Manila.

It can be said that staycations became prevalent when people became super busy with life. Suddenly, no one has the luxury of time to come up with a full-on itinerary anymore. Add to this the costly airfare and accommodation rates. At least with staycations, all you need is a place to chill and spend the night with loved ones. Where you can rest and experience an extra comfortable home while enjoying fun activities with your favorite people. Especially in this rainy season, when going to the beach doesn’t sound exciting due to the sun’s absence.

Yes to staycations!

Staycations are easy to plan – you can compare prices online and think of indoor activities good for all ages if it’s with the whole family. You can choose the best location depending on the things you look forward to whether it is food, night life, or an event nearby. The whole planning can be done remotely! If you’re about to get onto it, here are some staycation ideas:

The Gramercy Residences.

The Gramercy Residences
An affordable staycation option, The Gramercy Residences features a New York-inspired luxury tower. Young professionals and tourists alike stay here to relax for its Instagram-worthy location. You can enjoy the infinity pool with a great view of the Makati skyline at the 36th floor. Other than this, they also have a kiddie pool, lap pool, and steam room and sauna for men and women. You can book a room via Zen Rooms or Airbnb at 1,800 pesos.

Azumi Boutique Hotel.

Azumi Boutique Hotel
Here you can enjoy an infinity pool with a pool bar with the Alabang cityscape in the view. Guests prefer this hotel because interestingly, the pool is salt water and free of chlorine. Definitely good for your skin! Azumi Boutique Hotel is a good choice for those looking for a unique experience.
As for the rooms, Azumi Boutique Hotel is modern and eco-friendly. Its rooms feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls that allow natural light inside. You'll find it at the Madrigal Business Park, close to some of the famous retail & dining options in Alabang. Rates start at 2,300 pesos.

I'M Hotel.

I’M Hotel
Looking for a 5-star hotel in Makati? I’M Hotel has an iconic acrylic-bottomed infinity pool - meaning, you can actually see the bottom of the pool! As a guest, you may also see the lobby area while at the pool, so this is a good thing if you're waiting for someone to arrive. The poolside features murals and lounge chairs. There are also colorful bird cages and sun lounges in the pool area itself. In total, there are 400 rooms and 182 suites in I'm Hotel. Indulge in a club lounge, the Onsen spa (considered the largest spa in Manila), and an upmarket food hall with a variety of dining options for 5, 600 pesos.

Discovery Primea.

Discovery Primea
In search of a good hotel at 7,000 pesos? Discovery Primea is another 5-star hotel in Ayala Avenue, Makati City. It also boasts a beautiful 20-meter infinity pool. After all, it wouldn't be a complete staycation without a nice pool! Discovery Primea has a bar/lounge, in-house restaurant, spa, as well as business and banquet facilities other than the elegant suites. To add, it is walking distance to Glorietta and Greenbelt malls for those who want to stroll, shop and eat in this business district. Worth your money!

Jade Hotel & Suites.

Jade Hotel & Suites
 Have at least 1,500 budget for your upcoming staycation? Jade Hotel & Suites is an affordable option in the expensive city of Makati. But, what are its bestselling points, you may ask? It has a 14-meter infinity pool on the roof deck with a view of the Makati skyline. Jade Hotel & Suites ensures their guests have access to everything they need during their stay.

They have more than 30 well-appointed rooms and sumptuous complimentary breakfast buffet for everyone. This hotel is also the best choice if you want to be 10 minutes away from Glorietta by car. So, you can have a quick trip at the mall, say, you forgot your swimsuit! You can also visit some cheap eateries in the vicinity. Best of both worlds, they say.

Have you ever heard of an unhappy staycation story? Never, right? It is always a happy ending! Quality time and great memories you’d want to go back and do all over again. So, what are you waiting for? Get a pen, paper, calculator, and plan that staycation with your loved ones for the coming weekends and holidays!

Staycations: Holidays in Smart and Sensible Ways.

A staycation is a holiday which starts as soon as you get home from work or school. When you free yourself from your responsibilities or obligations, you get to spend your time off engaging in activities around your home or local area. You can wake up in the morning and take as long as you want to bathe, get dressed, eat breakfast and decide what you will do for that day. It would seem like an ordinary day to anybody, but the essence of staycations is not in the place or activity, but the sense of freedom in doing anything you like. Perhaps you want to explore a farmer's market that is out of your way or even a local museum that haunted you all week.

Photo credit: FOX News.

The best thing about having a staycation is that there are not exorbitant hotel bills or foreign tour schedules to worry about. You spend your money on things that matter to you and take the time to go slow and appreciate your locality. A staycation could not be compared to travels abroad, but with a tight budget and restrictive schedule, a free day or two can make a difference in your life.

Why not enjoy your staycation away from your city and visit a local place that have a lot to offer in terms of food, entertainment and culture? If you do, you will find various Philippines real estate properties that suit your vacation style and budget. You will be surprised to discover more about your country without spending half of your savings account. Here are some tips that could enhance your staycation experience:

Explore Outside the Usual
Be open to trying new experiences and cultures. You could take your family on a shopping trip to an ethnic food store and then have fun preparing a new meal together. If your kids love sports, enroll them in a summer sports class or watch minor playoffs with them during your staycation.

Find the Free
Check the community news sections of local newspapers and websites that feature location­ exclusive information. Your village, town or city may have a listing of all events occurring without costs. Many family­friendly events will be free of charge, as well as local attractions.

Turn Off The Tech
To get the most out of your staycation, turn off your TV, phones, and computer. If you are on a paid holiday, enjoy it by putting a distance between you and work. This is a good chance to enjoy family time and relaxation to the fullest.

Although there are disadvantages to a staycation, such as having to come up with your own activities and schedule, the benefits you can derive from it are numerous. Use these tips to have a great time in your home and local area without exhausting your savings and energy.

Solaire Exclusives for Mother's Day 2014!

On Sunday, May 11, we celebrate the day of the most important women in our lives - our moms.

And our friends from Solaire have came up with the best treats to honor our beloved moms. From the special discounted rates in the ultimate family staycation, to the exquisite set menus in our fine dining establishments, they’ve made sure that this will be one unforgettable Mother’s Day.

On Mother’s Day weekend, bring your entire family to Solaire and stay in one of their luxurious suites with discounted rates. Under the Summer Family Getaway packages, their rooms go as low as PhP6,000++ for Deluxe Room Cityview and PhP7,000++ for the Deluxe Room Bayview. The special rates are also available in Grand Deluxe Cityview (PhP8,000++), Grand Deluxe Bayview (PhP9,000++) and 2-Bay Suite (PhP12,000).

Amazing accommodation at Solaire.

Their amazing staycation packages come with an impeccable buffet breakfast for two adults and two kids age 6 years and below. For kids who are 7 to 12 years old, they offer a 50% dining discount. Your stay also includes free use of the swimming pool and the fitness center. To test your luck, the package comes with PhP500 worth of gaming credits.

If you opt to celebrate mom’s special day with a lavish dinner, they have set menus in Fresh, Yakumi, Finestra, Red Lantern and Strip. Everyone in the family can enjoy their mini pizza creation of the day (Roasted Branzino in potato crust, Versuvio tomatoes, white wine and Gamberoni), Pasta Carbonara in rich and creamy sauce with pancetta bacon, Limon Cello lemon and Chicken Parmigiano at their Italian restaurant Finestra.

Pasta Carbonara from Finestra.

For the lovers of Japanese cuisine, Yakumi offers a special menu that includes Gyuniku Tataki (Seared beef strip loin with onion dressing and micro herbs), Yakumi Sushi and sashimi sampler, Lobster mini soup, Ebi tempura, Chilean Seabass teriyaki and Steamed Japanese style egg custard with foie gras.

Steamed Japanese style egg custard with foie gras from Yakumi.

Red Lantern also offers a sumptuous set menu for those who prefer Chinese dishes. The family can feast on Hand rolled Beijing duck, Pumpkin soup with seafood and white fungus, Deep fried crispy shrimps with sweet mayonnaise, Wok fried prime beef black pepper sauce, Steamed sliced fish with Tofu in black bean sauce, the season's best vegetables with oyster sauce, and Braised noodles with spring onions and ginger sesame oil.

A sample of what Red Lantern has to offer.

Strip, the hotel's steak house, also offers a Mother’s Day menu consisting of Green Pea sphere and crisp ham; Tomato salad dried olive oil and goat’s cheese; Foie gras crumble mousse with candied fruit and nut; Seared tuna blood orange sponge, watermelon and labuyo chili crust; Pork belly beer braised and tomato relish; Smoked Angus beef and Caramel Sand torch banana. All of the set menus are priced at PhP1,900 and all come with the Solaire Mother’s Day creation, the Caramel cheesecake with red berries and white chocolate silk.

Sumptuous food from the Strip.

If you want to go all – out however, their buffet outlet Fresh is ready with Lechon (Charcoal grilled suckling pig), Roasted prime rib of ‘Gold Label’ prime beef, Brioche baked whole salmon Coulibiac, seafood delights and a long list of desserts which include tarts, cupcakes, cookies, parfaits, doughnuts, puddings and cakes.

May it be the ultimate staycation or a gastronomic adventure in one of our first-class restaurants, Mother’s Day at Solaire is definitely a great bonding opportunity for the entire family. For reservations, call 888 8888 or log on to www.solaireresort.com for more details.