Adarna Restaurant

What it was like being a part of Meet Manila's 'Tertulia Night'

The Invitation

Meeting the awesome team behind Meet Manila was an enriching and humbling experience. Getting invited to their launch party was to me, by a long shot. I've never considered myself to be well-known in the travel blogging community just yet so I was surprised. But I owe it to my amazing followers who've been supportive of every journey that I've made. 

Meet Manila's Launch Party - 'Tertulia Night'

The launch of Meet Manila introduced the 'Tertulia Night'. I actually had no clue as to what a Tertulia meant, all the more what transpired from such an event. And as I've been enlightened of its true meaning later on, I suddenly felt real excitement for this 'upcoming social gathering'. Now, it wasn't your typical 'party'. The 'Tertulia' itself meant more like an evening affair or a soiree of sorts. So you can just imagine a festive occasion where some of the most inspiring Filipino individuals come together to share their personal views and to meet for the same causes.


Meet 'Meet Manila'

Meet Manila is actually the brainchild of Ms. Ysobel Hamidjojo of Loudwhistle Inc. I was happy to have finally met her in person. Not only was she very interactive with us 'tweeps' online (a term used to identify people on twitter), she was also very nice in person. I was  very much stunned when she said 'congratulations' and made beso-beso with me right after our short 'shining moment' on stage. She's now one of my idols, as she and her wonderful team has successfully made #ThoughtfulTourism a remarkable achievement (special mention to Ms. Francesca and her bubbly personality!). 

From L-R: Mr. Vince, Ms. Noem (aka Momblogger) and Ms. Ysobel. :)


Anyway, after coming home from a 3-day trip from Batangas, I immediately changed into my Filipiniana-ish outfit and went straight to the venue. Guests were also asked to come in their Filipiniana attires. But I, on the other hand, had no luck finding an outfit that would best match my budget and body frame. The closest that I could get was wearing this linen, mid-sleeve blouse with intricate embroidery. This, I pulled right from my Ate's closet. 

The Tertuila Night held at the Adarna Food and Culture Restaurant

Now, the Tertuila Night was held at the Adarna Food and Culture Restaurant (along Kalayaan Ave.). I got there about 6:30 pm and was instantly welcomed with a form of darkness. I looked straight at the place and started asking myself if I had the right directions. My initial reaction was -- deserted restaurant? I was later on informed that an electrical wire had just been cut from its post, causing multitudes of vehicles and people who rode past the hanging wire in a chaotic phase. The place had just experienced an unexpected black-out. But despite the mishap, the organizers behind the event still made the night more inviting for all of the guests. There were actually floating candles on a water fountain, and several more around the establishment. 


As we entered the restaurant, Ms. Francesca and her team immediately greeted me and my friend June, and apologized for the black-out. We were then asked to sign-up, and was lead by Ms. Francesca again towards the buffet tables. Around that time, a 'Bugtungan' (Tagalog for stating out riddles) was just about to transpire, which was initially lead by Ms. Francine Prieto and Bogart the Explorer. :) 


The Meet-A-Hero Initiative

June and I didn't eat just yet. We tried standing outside the garden area, but really couldn't see much from where we were. We just decided to stay indoors and sat by one of Adarna's wooden windows. This was also the time when the Meet-A-Hero nominees were introduced one by one (some of the most well-deserving, motivated, and inspiring Filipino citizens that strived to uphold many great causes). I actually had the opportunity of meeting one of Meet Manila's heroes -- Mr. Froilan Grate of Mother Earth Foundation. Froilan was actually with his bestfriend, Ms. Nyel (she was also chosen as an Empowered Traveler), who both happened to be June's college orgmates! :)


The Mouthwatering Adarna Experience

The food at Adarna was exquisite, despite not clearly seeing what we were putting into our mouths. But all I can say is that the Lumpiang Sariwa was to die for! Kudos to the chef, and of course to the lovely owner, Ms. Elizabeth Angsioco. Anyway, I actually wanted to get seconds but Ms. Francesca requested that I go on stage as soon as I finish my dinner (hehehe.. no worries though!) 

   

When Ms. Francesca asked that I go on stage (an introduction of the contributors for their 'Empowered Travelers' category), I sort of felt a little nervous. There were no speaking parts, so I felt a bit relieved by it. And when they called my name as the first Empowered Traveler, my heart raised. The Editor of Travel Magazine, Ms. Monique was already on stage. She congratulated me while handing out an issue of their noteworthy travel magazine. I actually was awe-stricken by her and just blurted out the words "I've seen you on TV!!" right at her. She actually smiled and felt a little embarrassed by me, which lead to her asking my blog's name. I proudly told her that I owned BUDGET BIYAHERA. :) 

Right beside Ms. Monique of Travel Magazine. :)


The Empowered Travelers of Meet Manila

It was also around that same time when I was given the 'Prize' of the night. I was handed out a Q350 phone courtesy of my travel sponsor -- Lenovo Philippines! :) So, here's a big THANK YOU to Lenovo for their very thoughtful gift! :) 

   

Also, after getting called, a fellow blogger -- Gabz of Pinoy Travel Freak was also awarded as an Empowered Traveler, along with new blogger acquaintances -- Ms. Vera Venus and Mr. Jaypee David. It was truly a winning moment, just being in the presence of these remarkable people.


A Cultural Dance Performance

When we got off stage, a cultural performance was then being prepared to help end the night. Four kinds of Filipino dances were showcased that evening. And as the lights came back, a little rain transpired. But the dancers were professional enough to brave through this certain situation.


Grateful for #ThoughtfulTourism

I was, and still honored to have been invited to Meet Manila's launch party. Not only was I in the midst of intellects and inspiring advocates, I was also given the opportunity to partake in such a wonderful travel community. 

So, here's to Meet Manila's success on #ThoughtfulTourism, to LENOVO Philippines for providing me my Q350 phone, and to TRAVEL MAGAZINE for choosing me as one of their contributors. Maraming Salamat po! :)

I will truly make every travel count for #ThoughtfulTourism!

Explore & Be Free!
Mai

Budget Biyahera

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54 comments

  1. Pinoy Travel FreakMay 29, 2012 at 3:53 AM

    Hello Mai, congrats again! Wow, new phone! Hehe :) Sayang d na tayo nagka-usap after ng awarding.

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  2. WANDER SHUGAHMay 29, 2012 at 3:53 AM

    wow congratulations ms budget biyahera! :) You truly deserve that recognition :)

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  3. Mary Ann BarbietoMay 30, 2012 at 9:44 AM

    Congratulations! More power to you and your Meet Manila team. :)

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  4. tauyanmMay 30, 2012 at 10:33 AM

    congratulations dear!! all the photos looks good! you totally digg and deserve to have this one! xx

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  5. Kai GrafiaMay 30, 2012 at 10:34 AM

    Wow Congrats Sis! You deserve it! :DD Thank you also for supporting my blog :DD 

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  6. Gigi Celemin-BelenoMay 30, 2012 at 10:58 AM

    congrats Mai! I think it was a great event!

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  7. Maria Gemma Defeo-HilotinMay 30, 2012 at 12:09 PM

    Great Job! Congratulations! Keep it up!!!

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  8. John JoyieMay 30, 2012 at 12:14 PM

    Wow! Being part of it is really an achievement. Way to go. 

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  9. franc ramonMay 30, 2012 at 12:50 PM

    Congratulations for being an empowered traveler !

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  10. Renz BulsecoMay 30, 2012 at 1:05 PM

    Whoa, wish I was there

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  11. faithhopelovecorMay 30, 2012 at 2:47 PM

    First of all, I have to congratulate you, Mhai for being a happy travel blogger and have witnessed this event and of course for being a chosen contributor to a travel magazine. :D

    Okay, here's I shouldn't miss to say: You have great smile there and you should keep it up. You've made it because you are deserving. I wish I could congratulate you in person, but guess it's the only way to stretch my hands. :D 

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  12. Mai_FloresMay 30, 2012 at 8:12 PM

    Thanks Mary Ann! :)

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  13. Mai_FloresMay 30, 2012 at 8:12 PM

    Thanks again sis Tauyanm! :)

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  14. Mai_FloresMay 30, 2012 at 8:12 PM

    You're welcome.. thank you as well! :)

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  15. Mai_FloresMay 30, 2012 at 8:13 PM

    It truly was Ms. Gigi! Thank you too! :)

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  16. Mai_FloresMay 30, 2012 at 8:13 PM

    Will do, Ms. Maria.. thank you! :)

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  17. Mai_FloresMay 30, 2012 at 8:13 PM

    Thanks John Joyie! :)

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  18. Mai_FloresMay 30, 2012 at 8:13 PM

    Thanks Sir Franc! :)

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  19. Mai_FloresMay 30, 2012 at 8:13 PM

    Next time, perhaps? :)

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  20. Mai_FloresMay 30, 2012 at 8:17 PM

    Awwww.. thank you so much Robi. :) Your kind words are so humbling. Thank you for recognizing my passion for traveling, and for recognizing me as a fit travel blogger. God bless you always! :)

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  21. Argee AbadinesMay 30, 2012 at 11:14 PM

    wow, that's a great event. Congrats on making it there and thank you for sharing your experience here :) 

    Hope there are more events like these for bloggers :) 

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  22. Noks Sosa I Tripapips.comMay 30, 2012 at 11:55 PM

    You must be proud of this. This is a rare opportunity and being a part of this means that you are such an inspiration to many. Congrats and keep it up!

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  23. YuukiMay 31, 2012 at 1:31 AM

    congrats and more power as empowered blogger/ traveller

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  24. athena bellotindosMay 31, 2012 at 1:43 AM

    Congrats Ate Mai for being the awesome travel blogger that you are and sharing snippets of your travels to your readers. At least you also have a new phone too :D

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  25. Mai_FloresMay 31, 2012 at 10:47 AM

    For sure there will be more for us bloggers! Thanks Argee! :)

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  26. Mai_FloresMay 31, 2012 at 10:48 AM

    I sure am proud, Noks Sosa! Who wouldn't be? :) It is truly a rare opportunity for someone like me that's why I'm very grateful of the recognition. Thanks again! :)

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  27. Mai_FloresMay 31, 2012 at 10:48 AM

    Thanks Yuuki! You too! :)

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  28. Mai_FloresMay 31, 2012 at 10:49 AM

    Thanks so much Athena! Onga, I'm grateful for the new phone.. still tinkering with it, as I'm still confused by its features.. hehe!

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  29. mhe-anneMay 31, 2012 at 3:17 PM

    wow congrats Mai for the phone gift and for being an Empowered Travel blogger. inuna ko na yung sa phone kasi no strings attached haha, may issue kasi ako nasagap dun sa isang awardee eh. 

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  30. Kathy Kenny NgoMay 31, 2012 at 9:40 PM

    I wish I was able to participate on this one. Sigh.

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  31. Janette ToralMay 31, 2012 at 10:10 PM

    Congratulations Mai! Galing. :)

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  32. Maria Estrella LedesmaMay 31, 2012 at 10:36 PM

    I am not much of a traveller so I can never hope to win something like this...hehehe. Congratulations!

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  33. KarenMay 31, 2012 at 11:36 PM

    You're lucky to be a part of this event. Congrats and more travel stories to come.

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  34. Mai_FloresJune 1, 2012 at 12:27 PM

    Oh... I grew curious. Care to share more, Ms. Mhe-Anne? :) 

    Actually may duties din ako for this specific sponsorship. But I'm super excited to use the phone and promote it through my local travels. :)

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  35. Mai_FloresJune 1, 2012 at 12:28 PM

    You can still try next time.. :) There might be a second batch for this. Visit Meetmanila.com for more details. :)

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  36. Mai_FloresJune 1, 2012 at 12:28 PM

    Salamat Ms. Janette! :)

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  37. Mai_FloresJune 1, 2012 at 12:28 PM

    Hehe.. that's ok! Thanks Ms. Maria! :)

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  38. Mai_FloresJune 1, 2012 at 12:28 PM

    Thanks Ms. Karen! :)

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  39. Ric / Life N CanvasJune 1, 2012 at 2:05 PM

    The images speak for themselves! One truly fun-filled  and  a worthy experience! Congrats to you Mai! Keep it up! 

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  40. Mai_FloresJune 1, 2012 at 4:49 PM

    Thank you Ric! Your words are much appreciated. :)

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  41. Claire RafolsJune 1, 2012 at 8:32 PM

    Wonderful! such an awesome event. Congrats!!!

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  42. Mai_FloresJune 1, 2012 at 9:42 PM

    Thanks Claire! :)

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  43. Hazel MCDJune 2, 2012 at 8:24 AM

    Thoughtful tourism sounds like a very good concept. It's great that there are social groups like this for Filipino travelers.  Congratulations to you.

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  44. Mai_FloresJune 2, 2012 at 2:27 PM

    it is indeed a very good concept -- more in tune with our very own #itsmorefuninthephilippines :) Anyway, thanks as well! :)

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  45. marrimyeJune 2, 2012 at 2:39 PM

    I am so PROUD of you,
    MAI aka Budget Biyahera!
    You deserve the title of being
    one of the Empowered Traveler.
    This calls for a celebration... TAKE CARE!

    ReplyDelete
  46. Mai_FloresJune 2, 2012 at 2:42 PM

    THANK YOU Ms. Marri! :) I am glad that you are here, cheering me on through my small yet significant achievements! God bless always po. :)

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  47. docbienJune 3, 2012 at 4:38 PM

    this looks fun. Nice to know that there are occasions such as this.

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  48. earlieJune 3, 2012 at 7:58 PM

    Wow..that does not only sounds brilliant initiative..it is in fact towards a more meaningful and sensible tourism advocacy..Well done indeed Mai.

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  49. Mai_FloresJune 4, 2012 at 11:37 PM

    I'm glad too! :)

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  50. Mai_FloresJune 4, 2012 at 11:38 PM

    It truly is a worthy campaign.. Let's start promoting #ThoughtfulTourism!!! :) And thanks ya! :)

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  51. LilyJune 18, 2012 at 4:55 PM

    I've never been to such event. Seems like fun! Congrats =)

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  52. Mai_FloresJune 18, 2012 at 4:56 PM

    Thanks Lily! :)

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  53. Mai_FloresJanuary 18, 2013 at 12:23 PM

    Thanks so much Ms. Wander Shugah! :)

    ReplyDelete
  54. Mai_FloresJanuary 18, 2013 at 12:23 PM

    Thanks Gabz!!! Ikaw ba.. what's your prize? Heard about the good news na din? :)

    ReplyDelete

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