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Luxury Fashion

Road trippin’ Costa Rica — The Collyer Twins

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence



Below I’ve highlighted the two places I visited which stand out for me and left me with nothing but good memories.  

KASIIYA PAPAGAYO 

This was our third stop after Arenal and it really is a little hidden gem! Having opened its doors last December, Kasiiya Papagayo, situated in one of the earth’s “blue zones”  embodies everything I love about Costa Rica. An ecological, luxurious sanctuary nestled amongst 123 acres of wild land, this little hidden paradise is nothing short of exceptional! 

There are only 5 tented suites on the property and each one is strategically placed to offer guests a sense of seclusion, luxury and immersion into the naturural beauty that surrounds it. It really did feel like we were far away from the madding crowd, with the sounds of monkeys waking us up at 5am. (The oddest kind of alarm clock!)

Luckily for the 3 days we stayed there, Jess, myself and another couple were the only ones on the property with a full team of staff catering to our every need and with communication being through a walkie-talkie, Jess and I couldn’t help but find it rather bizarre but we adapted quickly.

Our suited tent was stunning with access to the private beach, a huge open decking with a copper bath tub and shower outside.


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Asian Beauty

Scenic road trips that deserve to be on your bucket list

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


 

We don’t always take road trips to escape. Sometimes, we take them to feel more present, to discover hidden gems, and to make unforgettable memories. As writer Angela N. Blount once said, “Sometimes the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn’t mean to take.” 

 

In rural Philippines, where every curve in the road may reveal a mountain, a scenic cliff, or a coastline, road trips are more than a way to travel; they’re a chance to reconnect with nature, with friends, or even with yourself.  This is the kind of thrill that only a road trip can offer — an adventure that will stay with you for a long time.

 

And with PLDT Home’s One Mega Giveaway (OMG) promo, your next adventure could come with a brand-new Toyota Fortuner, ₱1 million in cash, or free fiber internet for life.

 

Before we tell you how, let’s talk about where to go. Here are four road trips from Manila that are scenic, soul-stirring, and full of moments that you’ll never forget.  

1. SCTEX and Halsema Highway: Baguio and beyond 

Also known as the Baguio-Bontoc Road or Mountain Trail, the Halsema Highway climbs steadily from the lowlands of La Trinidad, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of urban life. Once dubbed the “death highway,” Halsema is now a stunning route through the Cordillera mountains.  

The journey begins on the outskirts of Baguio City. As your Toyota Fortuner navigates the winding ascent, you’ll see the landscape transforming: terraced mountainsides sculpted by indigenous hands over centuries cascade down. During planting season, these terraces mirror the sky in pools of water; during harvest, they turn golden in celebration of abundance.

 

Stop at Atok, Benguet’s Highest Point marker. On clear days, Mt. Pulag, the country’s third-highest peak, looms in the distance, its summit often haloed with a sea of clouds that locals call the “playground of the gods.”

 

The true magic of the Halsema Highway isn’t just in its breathtaking vistas, but in the intimate glimpses of mountain life it offers. Indigenous Igorot communities continue their ways alongside the modern road, women in traditional garb carry baskets of produce on their heads.

 

By the time you reach Sagada or Bontoc, you’ve traversed not just a highway but a living museum of Philippine highland culture, where the past and present coexist in balance.

 

SCTEX Highway Central Luzon

2. SCTEX to Clark: A short but satisfying drive

You can also make a quick escape to Central Luzon’s rich culture with a trip to Clark, Pampanga.. Take Skyway 3, then North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), continue on to SCTEX, and exit at Clark North for a smooth two-hour drive depending on traffic.

 

After exploring golf courses, high-end integrated resorts, and shopping malls in Clark, indulge in Pampanga’s cultural and natural attractions, including famous Kapampangan restaurants — artist and chef Claude Tayag’s Bale Dutung, which now has a walk-in restaurant in addition to the private dining, reservations-only section. Then check out where Claude took Anthony Bourdain to introduce him to Kapampangan cuisine: Aling Lucing (for sisig) and ARlyns Carinderia (for papaitan).

 

3. The Tanay-Infanta Road: The Sierra Madre’s secret pass

Some of the most rewarding journeys are those less traveled, and the road from Tanay, Rizal, to Infanta, Quezon, remains one of Luzon’s best-kept secrets. This route cuts through the heart of the Sierra Madre mountain range, the longest in the Philippines– offering a breathtaking transition from the outskirts of Metro Manila to the wild Pacific coast.

 

The adventure begins in the rolling hills of Tanay, where weekend motorcyclists gather at viewpoints overlooking the Laguna de Bay. As you continue, Manila’s sprawl disappears behind you, replaced by increasingly dense forests, and the air grows noticeably cooler and fresher.

 

Indigenous Dumagat communities, who have called these mountains home for centuries, maintain small settlements along the route where traditional crafts and mountain foods can sometimes be purchased from roadside stands.

 

The true drama of this journey comes at Bantakay Falls and the series of hairpin turns known locally as “Magnetic Hill.” As you descend toward Infanta, Quezon, the view gives way to coconut plantations, and eventually, the vast Pacific Ocean.

 

Mayon Volcano

4. Pan-Philippine Highway: Bicolandia’s coastal escape

A road trip through the Bicol region offers more than just the perfect view of Mayon Volcano—it’s a slow-burning adventure that builds with every kilometer. In Legazpi City, the iconic cone-shaped volcano looms dramatically in the backdrop. If you want to go further, follow the Pan-Philippine Highway south through lush coconut plantations and sleepy fishing towns toward the province of Sorsogon.

The drive itself is a visual feast: rice paddies that stretch endlessly on one side, while glimpses of the Pacific Ocean peek out from winding coastal roads. Stop by Bacon District for panoramic sea cliffs, then detour to the quaint town of Donsol, where you can swim with whale sharks (butanding) during peak season. Cap off your journey in Matnog, where pink sand beaches and crystal-clear waters await.

It’s a soul-soothing escape deep into the heart of southern Luzon, where every stop is a reminder that sometimes, the best trips are the ones less hyped.

Drive a Toyota Fortuner on your next road trip

What if upgrading your internet could also upgrade your travel bucket list — and your entire life? PLDT Home One Mega Giveaway (OMG) Promo is back in its second year. New subscribers of PLDT Home Fiber automatically get a chance to win OMG-worthy prizes that go way beyond fast internet.

 

You can’t help but say OMG! to these prizes: one brand new 2025 Toyota Fortuner, ₱1 million in cash, and free fiber broadband For Life. There will also be 10 winners of ₱100,000 in cash, and 10 free fiber broadband for one year. Winners will be drawn in August.

 

 


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Beauty

How to Make Smarter Choices on the Road to Homeownership – Beauty That Walks

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Buying a home can feel like the ultimate milestone, but that doesn’t mean it’s always a smooth ride from start to finish. From saving for a deposit to choosing the right neighborhood and figuring out mortgage details, there’s a lot to think about, especially when everything feels brand new.

The good news is that with the right mindset and a bit of planning, the journey can be a whole lot more manageable and even exciting. It helps to go in knowing what really matters, what can wait, and how to avoid rushing into something that doesn’t fit your needs or lifestyle.

Source: Unsplash (CC0)

Set realistic expectations early

Many people begin their home search with a dream list in hand, picturing the perfect space with everything from extra bedrooms to a huge backyard. However, it doesn’t take long to realize that sticking closely to the budget is one of the most crucial aspects of staying on track.

By understanding what’s truly non-negotiable versus what’s nice to have, buyers can feel a lot more confident moving forward. That shift can lead to smarter decisions and fewer regrets down the line, especially when surprises start to pop up during the search process.

Understand how the process works

Knowing how to buy a property makes a massive difference in how smoothly the journey goes. From pre-approval to closing costs, buyers are more in control when they understand the steps involved and the timeline that goes with them.

Getting familiar with things like inspections, contingencies, and what agents actually do helps take the mystery out of everything. The more knowledge a buyer has, the less likely they are to feel overwhelmed or caught off guard as things progress.

Create a budget that works for now and later

When it comes to budgeting, it’s not just about how much the mortgage payment will be. First-time buyers often forget to include things like moving costs, maintenance, and even furniture, which can all add up fast.

It’s a good idea to look at monthly expenses with a wide lens and figure out how future bills will fit into day-to-day life. That kind of clarity brings peace of mind and lets buyers focus on what matters most–finding a place that truly feels like home.

Know the common traps for first-timers

First-time homebuyers sometimes fall into the trap of listening to too many outside voices or getting caught up in what others are doing. It can be easy to chase trends or stretch the budget just because someone else did it.

Instead, it helps to focus on personal goals and keep the process rooted in what feels right. Slowing things down and asking lots of questions is usually a much better strategy than rushing into a deal that doesn’t actually feel like a good fit.

Be prepared for some compromise

Even the best searches usually involve some compromise, and that’s not a bad thing; it’s just part of balancing dreams with reality. Letting go of a feature or two might open the door to better financing, a shorter commute, or a more welcoming neighborhood.

Instead of thinking of compromise as a loss, it can be helpful to see it as making room for what really matters most. That mindset keeps the search grounded and helps buyers stay flexible, which is often the key to landing the right place at the right time.

Tione
Tione

Tione is a full-time student and a Blogger. When she is not in class she is actively working on her blog.


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aber falls wales
Plus Size Fashion

Wales Road Trip – Accessible Travel In Wales

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


When looking for somewhere to celebrate Alfie’s 31st birthday, we really had no idea where we wanted to go. We had it in our minds that we wanted to do a road trip and even considered driving to Germany but then a friend said how beautiful North Wales was and that was it! As soon as I started looking, I couldn’t stop.

There was so much to see and do, and the fact it was only a 2 hour drive away to get to Wales was really appealing. We decided we’d do a little Wales road trip around the north of Wales and it was so beautiful. As an ambulatory wheelchair user, we found some great places for accessibility, and others that were only doable because I can walk short distances.

Day 1 Wales Road Trip

Stop 1: Gwrych Castle

Wales Road Trip - Accessible Travel in Wales, Gwrych Castle

We nearly turned around when we saw how difficult the terrain was here, but if you head into the ticket office and let them know you’re using a mobility aid and you can park further up on flatter, less rocky grounds! It is the most beautiful castle I’ve ever seen and being able to explore it was so magical. I would highly recommend a power chair as it’s all mostly uphill, but there is a large area where you park that you can see a lot of the castle. At £11 for two of us, I think it’s a great price and they do a great job at making it accessible so more people can enjoy it.

@georginagrogan_ Gwrych Castle Wales wheelchair accessibility was super surprising! @Gwrych Castle Head into the office and let them know you’re using a mobility aid and you can park further up on flatter, less rocky grounds! We loved exploring Gwrych Castle, it is truly beautiful! #wales #visitwales #GwrychCastle #wheelchairuser #accessibletravel ♬ original sound – Georgina Grogan

Stop 2: Llandudno

Llandudno, wales road trip

This is an absolutely beautiful seaside town that is really flat and easy to get around. We headed to the pier which was so busy (we visited on a Sunday) before heading for lunch a little further down where it was quieter. I quickly googled for seafood recommendations and Dylan’s Restaurant came up as a great spot. It’s a fully wheelchair accessible restaurant with a great accessible toilet, and everything really impressed us. We absolutely loved our food and really recommend it. They have several branches around North Wales and even have some shops and bakeries!

Stop 3: Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle is absolutely incredible, it’s so grand and you can see it for miles around. It isn’t wheelchair accessible though but they do let you know that straight away and give you a lot of information. They actually don’t even charge wheelchair users to go in, or their companions, because they realise you might not be able to see much! You will have to be able to navigate up a very steep hill, and then walk up 15 steps, with more random steps throughout, as well as lots of towers. I managed to get into the great hall and then let Alfie go and explore more. There are such stunning views here and I’m so glad we went in!

@georginagrogan_ Conwy Castle Wales is not wheelchair accessible, but they let you know at the ticket office and don’t charge you to go in! It’s up a steep incline and then 15 steps, with more steps inside. If you’re ambulatory and can manage it’s so beautiful with stunning views! #visitwales #wales #ambulatorywheelchairuser #conwy #conwycastle #walestravel ♬ original sound – Georgina Grogan

Stop 4: Conwy

The Smallest House In Great Britain, conwy, wales

Conwy is such a beautiful little town, I actually found it quite easy to get around although most shops and restaurants would have been a struggle. We went to visit The Smallest House In Great Britain, which I didn’t realise if you get there within opening times, you can actually go in! We just had a photo outside and carried on exploring Conwy.

Stop 5: Ixora hotel

Ixora Hotel

I picked the Ixora Hotel for us to stay at as it seemed quite central to where we wanted to explore and it’s a really beautiful hotel. If you’re doing a Wales road trip, I would definitely suggest this to be a place you stop! The accessible rooms were really impressive too but I have a full blog review on them.

Stop 6: Fairy Falls (failed)

fairy falls wales

We were so in love with Wales that we decided to try and visit a waterfall that wasn’t too far away. We followed the instructions of where to park, and then followed the route up an extremely steep hill, I felt like I was going to fall back out of my chair. That’s when the torrential rain started and we had to run back to the car, on full speed for me! Fairy Falls does sound like a lovely place to visit but I wouldn’t say wheelchair friendly based off the parking situation and just gaining access to the route.

Stop 7: The Old Ship

the old ship wales

This was a very random pick but oh my goodness, some of the best food we’ve ever had. We still drool thinking about it! We headed into this little pub just before they stopped taking food orders (they were closing earlier that day), and we were so grateful that they let us order. We didn’t have chance to read the menu properly and both ordered the lamb, but it ended up being half a lamb shoulder and it was flipping huge. The best lamb ever though, and we kept complimenting them! If you’re in the area, we’d both highly recommend.

Day 2:

Stop 1: Aber Falls

aber falls wales

This is described online and by others, as an wheelchair accessible route to a beautiful waterfall. I nearly fell out of my chair, feared for my life and I’m surprised my chair didn’t completely break, but it was magical and we absolutely loved it. I’d actually say if you do have a similar chair and you’re ambulatory, or a better chair with a 4 wheel drive, it’s well worth it. But I wouldn’t attempt it as a manual user or transit user, because it’s really rocky, uneven, up steep slopes, and overall quite a difficult trail. They advertise it as ‘accessible for all’ but a couple people on food stopped us to ask how we were getting on (they knew wheelchair users or had disabled children that used chairs) and said how much they were struggling.

Is Aber Falls actually wheelchair accessible? It really does depend on your type of chair and your disability. It’s possible for some people, but it is definitely not an easy trail.

@georginagrogan_ Aber Falls in North Wales is described as an accessible trail to the waterfall, but is it? My chair only really struggling towards the waterfall, most of the trail was doable but quite painful! You definitely need a power chair or power attachment, I wouldn’t recommend for manual wheelchair users or pushing someone sadly! Aber falls is really beautiful though and I’m so glad we experienced it! #aberfalls #wales #northwales #ambulatorywheelchairuser #accessibletravel ♬ original sound – Georgina Grogan

Stop 2: Bodnant Gardens

bodnant gardens wales

If you want something absolutely stunning and that has really great accessibility, the National Trust Bodnant Gardens is a true beauty. There are two paths marked with red for easy, or blue for harder and they take marking those paths very seriously. We had such a gorgeous time here, it was a welcome break for my chair with much easier terrain, so many gorgeous flowers, and we kept seeing people coming away with some, so we had to go buy a few plants for my friend.

There’s an accessible cafe at the entrance (before you pay to go in) and accessible toilet. It costs us £18 for two. (Please note wheelchair users and companions do get different rates for lots of places.)

@georginagrogan_ Bodnant Gardens – North Wales Looking for something wheelchair accessible to do in north wales? It’s a National Trust garden and it’s absolutely beautiful. There’s a red route for wheelchairs and prams and a blue route for a less easy route. With accessible parking, accessible cafe, and wheelchairs to hire, Bodnant Gardens is a gorgeous day out! @National Trust #northwales #wales #visitwales #bodnantgardens #nationaltrust #ambulatorywheelchairuser #accessibletravel ♬ original sound – Georgina Grogan

Stop 3: Tu Hwnt L’r Bont Tearooms

Tu Hwnt L'r Bont TearoomsTu Hwnt L'r Bont Tearooms

How can you go to Wales without visiting the most photographed house in Wales? We were told that the tearooms had scaffolding up, but it’s off now and they’ve just removed the greenery on the roof to do vital repairs so the house can be enjoyed for many more years to come. It’s still so beautiful. We made a point to go in and support them, as I imagine they might have lost custom with the scaffolding so Alfie had the welsh rarebit and I had some coffee cake, that was so nice I took the rest back with me! It’s not wheelchair accessible (obviously, but you know I still have to say) and I didn’t see a toilet so please bear this in mind.

Stop 4: Betws-Y-Coed

Betws-Y-Coed

Honestly everywhere in Wales was absolutely stunning but I knew we had to add this to our Wales road trip plans. It’s such a gorgeous little town, with a waterfall that’s really easy to get to and see (it’s on the bridge.) We pitched up for a while to enjoy the sun, people watch, and have a little drink. There are lots of lovely bars, restaurants, and shops so we also bought some more gifts for our family too.

Stop 5: Groes Inn

Groes Inn wales

Alfie made his own list of places he wanted to try for our Wales road trip and this was on it. The food in Wales really did impress us, I wasn’t expecting it to be such a foodie trip but we were really blown away. With this being our last meal, we really took our time. We sat outside in the sun, attempted to play Uno and ordered some starters to share, which included the best duck spring rolls of my life. They were that good, we ordered more for our mains!

We’d actually go back to Wales just for the food, but the views? The people? Everything is just beautiful there.

For day 3 we spent the morning at the Wave Garden Spa before heading home, but there is so much to do and see, you could easily extend a Wales road trip and see so much more. For us, this was a perfect taste of Wales and left us wanting more!

Have you visited Wales before?

 




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Women's Fashion

Spring Porch Refresh with Grandin Road – Edit by Lauren

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Spring is in the air and patio season is here! I just refreshed our back porch by adding new pillows, rugs and faux flowers from Grandin Road. You may recall I partnered with Grandin Road in the Fall for new furniture and new fire-pit area. Check out this post for that reveal.

I am always drawn to black and white “resort” vibes when it comes to outdoor spaces. I added some pops of green and pink for color. It’s incredible how changing out rugs and pillows for the new season can totally transform a space. Grandin Road has such an incredible quality outdoor pillows and rugs at an affordable price point. This new Macey Outdoor Pom Pillow is just the cutest!

 

This Portland Woven outdoor furniture is SO comfortable and holds up amazingly in all weather! I love that these oversized chairs swivel. Our guests compliment how cozy these pieces are each time we entertain.

We enjoy this outdoor table several times a week during patio season! The table is lightweight, aluminum frame with durable powdercoat finish that looks like real wood! The chairs have built in cushioning for comfort. Grandin Road has a nice selection of umbrellas, too!

We also love to entertain around our Fulton Fire Pit. These stunning All-natural Teak Outdoor Adirondack Chairs are fantastic for any back yard!

Shop my full Grandin Road outdoor setup here! Happy patio season, friends!

 



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