Here is the deal. We all know that a certain number of men go to bars to pick up chicks. Some do this to get laid, while some do this to find a serious relationship. Although most people would argue that the former is easier to come around to when searching for “love” in a club; I argue that this is not always the case. Contrary to popular belief, the club is filled with normal people. That is to say that the party scene is not filled with sex-crazed people who just party all night. Take me for example. I live a pretty normal life, I do not sleep around, I maintain a positive reputation, and I still want to find myself in a relationship. Do these things change because I enjoy partying? I say “no”. And although most people would still argue with this, the truth is that people will never be as simple as the stereotypes society so convincingly puts on them. People will always have complex personalities; something that may not be evident while in the party setting, but something that is nonetheless true. Where am I taking this? I am taking this to the point where you realize something. Here it is: whether a guy is one of the best pick up artists in town, or one of the geekiest virgins around the area; the possibility that there is so much more to his personality than just simply what you see is very high. Thus, it would be very uncool for you to judge a person for doing what he does. So what if he goes to the club to get laid or is the perfect pick up artist? This still involves skill and a certain confidence. Maybe you should start seeing the positive in people and actually give them a chance? Just saying.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Ethics of Drinking
Rule #1: Never steal someone else’s shot.
Rule #2: Always offer shots to an acquaintance who approaches the table
Rule #3: Never offer someone a drink that isn't full, especially if you've drank from it.
Rule #4: Never keep a drink unmoved for more than ten minutes.
Rule #5: Never waste precious alcohol. Consume all leftovers.
Rule #6: Always pay the bill before you pass out.
Rule #7: When sharing a glass with the whole group, you shall swear on your vodka’s grave that you are free of contagious diseases.
Rule #8: When sharing a glass with the whole group, always drink the same amount as the rest of the group.
Rule #9: Never use alcohol as an excuse to say stupid things. Think of more creative excuses.
Rule #10: Always help a friend nurse a hangover. Do this by offering your friend more alcohol.
Drink of the Week: Big Hug
Since we are celebrating Hug Holiday today, I decided to give out a recipe for the Big Hug. it is warm, chocolaty, alcoholic, and is as comforting as a big hug!
July 29 is Hug Holiday
Today we are celebrating Hug Holiday-- the only time of the year when you can give random hugs to anyone. So come up to your crush, give them a hug, and tell them that it is Hug Holiday. They just might give you a hug back.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Friday State of Mind
Admittedly, a hard and jaded Partyphile like myself have little inclinations on becoming too emotional. In fact, only three things in life make me emotional: good food, good drinks, and weekends. And the emotion I choose to feel when faced with these three elements of bliss is happiness. So yes, I was happy—ecstatic—when I found out that one of the few places that could offer all three elements of my happiness was now in Davao.
TGI Fridays, as you probably already know (unless of course if you have been living under a rock these past few months, which has been out-of-chic since Obama’s death inside a cave) opened some time at the end of May (2011 of course. Check the date on top of the page in case you are reading this some time in the distant future) in Abreeza Mall. Yes, the one owned by the Ayalas, along JP Laurel.
Most of you know that TGI Fridays is a casual dining restaurant; you go there to dine…casually. Duh. However, the fact that they started out as a bar might come as a surprise. I know it gave me that kind of reaction which later developed to a strong infatuation with the brand. In my book, any restaurant that serves good food and alcohol is, well, good. In fact, in my book, any place that serves alcohol is good, but that’s a whole different story. Now, going back to Fridays.
Fridays actually started out as a bar, and even though they gained popularity in the country for being a casual dining resto, they could not forego the bar because it is a very important part of their identity. But of course, this is not what you want to read about. I know what your thought process is when you step inside Fridays.
You got here thinking that you are about to enjoy really good food. And then, all of a sudden, a huge bar comes into your line of sight. Suddenly, you start thinking twice about having some food. Alcohol, of course, is always better than solid food (well, for most of us, that is). But then of course, you decide to do what you went there for: eat. At the back of your mind, you are thankful that you decided to skip their cocktails because you would not really know what to order. And that is where I come in. Being the Partyphile you love (or hate) I have whipped up a review of six of their best-sellers. So no. Do not expect me to say bad things about their drinks because: 1.) They gave them to me for free. 2.) These are best-sellers for a reason. 3.) They are just too good to bash. So without further ado, here are six of the cocktails you must definitely check out at TGI Fridays:
1.) The Classic Mojito: This cocktail is the king of all cocktails as far as TGI Fridays is concerned. Their Mojitos are the stuff of Urban (Cocktail) Legends. Have you ever read passages and stories about the power of a Mojito to transport the drinker to a beach-side setting with a bevy of friends in tow, and a sunny disposition to boot? Well, I haven’t either. But that is exactly where this cool and citrusy Mojito takes you. If this cocktail does not refresh you and remove all the stress that has pent up from whatever it is you do (work, school, or shop), then nothing else in the world can. This cocktail tastes like a citrusy, minty, fizzy burst in your mouth. It is cool and calming and is made with Rum. How can you go wrong with that? Oh, and to make things even better, TGI Fridays offers Bottomless Classc Mojitos from 4PM until closing time at only Pesos 305. And do not even try to argue that you can buy two buckets of beer with that money in your friendly neighbourhood sari-sari store. These Mojitos are BOTTOMLESS. ‘Nuff said.
2.) The Margarita: Served on the rocks, this classic cocktail is one of the more popular items on their cocktail menu. If feels like a shower of citrus and alcohol in your mouth, that is bound to make your knees weak with one sip. Don’t tell me I didn’t warn you. This cocktail is potent but is easy on the palette. In fact, while I was sampling this cocktail, a fine gentleman from Japan kept on giggling beside me. Turns out, he has had 6 servings of this cocktail… and it was not even 6 PM. It seems like, with the Margarita, you just can not stop with one. A well-made cocktail is good in any language, I guess. What’s in it? TGI Friday’s very own Margarita Mix, Triple Sec (a citrus-based liquor; do your own research to find out why it got its special name), and Tequila. Alright. I am ending this paragraph here. Tequila should be enough to convince you.
3.) The Pina Colada: If you do not know what a Pina Colada is by now, shame on you! It is ONLY one of the most popular cocktails in the whole wide world! In fact, I’ve heard some news that aliens in Mars drink the cocktail. And I’m not even making this up. Ok, so maybe I am. But you can bet your bottom dollar that if ever Martians would choose a Pina Colada to booze up on, it would definitely have to be the one they serve at TGI Fridays. Ok. Fine. If you still do not know what it is, here is the proper explanation. The Pina Colada is a blended mix of Coconut Milk, Citrus Fruits, and the king of Tropical fruits, Pineapple. Basically, it is a Tropical Holiday in a glass. A really large one too, if you order it at Fridays.
4.) The Electric Lemonade: Ok. So you think that Lemonade is a boring drink. It is kind of flat and one-sided. It is simply lemon, sugar, and water. Right? Right. Thankfully, the Partyphile Gods have blessed us with Alcohol; and this makes everything a little better. So, TGI Fridays serves up a gorgeous Electric Lemonade: a combination of Lemonade, some really good Vodka, and some Blue Stuff. It might be Blue Curacao; it might be not. But at this point, would you really care? I wouldn't too. All I care about is a good cocktail; and this might be a good introduction for somebody who hasn’t grown accustomed to cocktails just yet. If you are new to the whole cocktail-drinking bandwagon; then this is the one for you. Oh, and by the way, TGI Fridays (as well as most of the food establishments at the Ground Floor of Abreeza) will be extending their closing time to two in the morning. So please, for the love of Alcohol, grow accustomed to cocktails now.
5.) The Appletini: So most martini innovators will tell you that anything that is shaken (or stirred) with ice and combined with Vodka is a Martini. Martini Purists will tell you that all these innovations are fake Martinis, and the classic Martini is the only way to go. I say, if they are really purists, then they should not even drink cocktails in the first place. Whether an Appletini is a real Martini or not, it is far better than any old Martini I have ever tried in my life. And trust me, I have tried one too many Martinis. Fridays’ Appletini is a sweet and tart blend of Apple Syrup, Vodka, and it seems like, Magic. This Appletini is surprisingly good, and is one of the fastest-rising stars in their cocktail menu. It is perfect for ladies who enjoy a really great-tasting cocktail, without the instant buzz; or for gentlemen who just want to drink a cocktail for its taste. It is impossible not to give out a smile after drinking this cocktail; it kind of reminds one of apple-flavored candies that used to be popular during our childhood. Of course, this comes with Vodka, which makes it better than any old piece of candy.
6.) The Mudslide: Before you order this, get ready for an all new cocktail experience. Although the mudslide is served with a simple swirl of chocolate syrup (to line the glass) and some chocolate chips, there is nothing simple about the cocktail. It is made with Bailey’s Cream (which is gorgeous when taken alone), Kahlua (which is comforting at any time of the day), Vodka (which still remains to be one of the most, if not the most, popular alcoholic beverages in the world), and Vanilla Ice Cream. Think of the mudslide as an adult version of the Chocolate Milkshake you used to love as a child. It is creamy, dreamy, smooth, and slushy all at the same time. It seems to provide you with nostalgic memories that bring you to a place of comfort and solace. It is that kind of drink. The experience may be comparable to that of drinking a cup of Hot Chocolate, but we all know that the Mudslide is better (it has alcohol in it). It comes in a tumbler that is the perfect size for really sitting back and relaxing. In fact, I will go as far as to say that it is one of my favorite cocktails so far. It is definitely a must-try. And if you don’t take it from me, well, good luck on finding another valued opinion about cocktails.
The Mudslide is as comforting as the good old-fashioned milkshake, but with alcoholAll in all, the cocktails at TGI Fridays are above par. These yummy alcoholic treats, combined with some finger food (Ballpark Nachos, perhaps) seem to be the perfect combination to transport you a weekend-state-of-mind, at any day of the week. After all, in here, it is always Friday.
For comments, suggestions, letters of adoration, and more confessions from this partyphile, log on to http://party.i.ph, or listen to Confessions of a Partyphile on the radio every Wednesday evenings from 6 to 9 PM on 105.9 Mix FM. You may also follow the columnist on twitter.com/zhaun
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Drink of the Week: Smile Cocktail
Since we are celebrating smile Power Day today, I decided to give out a recipe for the Smile Cocktail:- 1 oz of Gin
- 1 oz of Grenadine
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice or lime
Top 9 China Products to Boycott
10.) Collagen shots that they get from Executed Prisoners in China that are taken without permission from the prisoner or their family.
9.) Milk with Melamine
8.) Light Balance: Lip and Eye Remover lightly gel type
6.) Aichen Beauty: Grape Facial Wash. It says on the bottle that it “Eliminate Horniness Essence”
5.) Candies with Formaldehyde
4.) iFan: Portable electric fans that look like iPhones. Why should we boycott it? Because it looks stupid.
3.) Fake Eggs
2.) Dianshu Washing Private Wash: Description at the back says : It are according to the different characteristics cent of the man wash and lady wash. Do you return the iso-WHAT? Take a shower on everyday or the sexual intercourse is in front and back. Use it wash the private parts and is the hygiene the best choice of your health, at romantic tender feeling of personal status of time make you have peace of mide to have no to worry.
1.) Irony Fire Extinguisher: Would you really want an ironic fire extinguisher when you are inside a burning building?
June 15 is Smile Power Day
Today, we are celebrating Smile Power Day. And because partyphiles are ALWAYS happy, you should smile at everyone starting today. It would surprise you how people actually treat you better and how better you would feel once you keep smiling.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Top Signs That You Are A Pinoy Partyphile
8 You always have a shorter name for everything like TAGAKA (Tanduay Gatas at Kape), T-Ice (Tanduay ice), Gin-Po (Gin with Pomelo juice), GPS (Gilbeys Prmeium Strength), RH (Red Horse), LIIT (Long Island Iced Tea… ok, so I just made that up)
7 You take photos inside the club and post them on Facebook. If you happen to drink expensive liquor, you take photos of the bottle. If it is really expensive, you take the bottle home and keep it as a souvenir.
6 You drink everything with ice including Champagne, Red Wine, Beer, and Tequila Shots
5 When entering a bar that does not allow slippers, you argue that your Havaianas should be excused from that rule
4 When your favorite song plays inside the club, you sing at the top of your lungs…even if you don’t know all the words
3 When walking inside a bar with your barkada, you hold hands and form a choo-choo train
2 You point at your eyes with two fingers to ask for ice
1 You eat dinner before drinking, eat pulutan while drinking, and still have the appetite for hot soup after drinking
Thursday, June 2, 2011
The Last Hurrah and A Piece of Heaven
Oh no. The time that we have all feared has now come upon us. The end is near. The end is very, very near. The end of Summer, that is. So rain has been pouring over us like crazy, and we might have even started to enrol ourselves already; but we can still do something about. I suggest that you do a last hurrah of sorts; do something before classes actually start. Here are some of the things that I think would make for good activities before the start of boredom (also known as formal classes).
5.) Try out a new extreme sport or hobby (like bartending!) and master it. Having this much free time during the Summer vacation will allow you to perform and practice your extreme sport of choice more often; thus, giving you more time to master it. If you decide to try out a new hobby (bartending!), it would be extra cool to actually boast of your newly-learned skills come the start of classes.
Going Through Hell to Reach Heaven
Now, I am sure you got a wee bit curious when I mentioned “Maragusan” in my list of Summer-Road trip destinations above. And if you didn’t well, you should have, because that would have been the perfect segue to this, the second part of this week’s article.
Maragusan is actually a town in Compostela Valley. It is a four-hour drive away (including rough roads and extreme conditions (which for me, simply mean, no clean comfort rooms along the way)) from Davao City but is well worth the travel. Over the weekend, I was invited by DabTOA or Dabaw Tourism Operators Association and Ms. Editha Julian to attend a familiarization tour and Press Conference at Ms. Julian’s gorgeous mountain resort: Haven’s Peak.
Haven’s Peak was different from all other mountain resorts I have been to in Mindanao because of its location. It is literally atop a hill and it was 4000 feet above sea level. This made it extra cool during the night, and painfully cold, during the day. In fact, fog was all around the property as we marvelled at its simplistic, but aesthetically pleasing interiors, and exteriors that include two swimming pools, several cottages, an open restaurant, a cozy lobby, a viewing deck (that provided not only a view of Maragusan town proper but also a grand view of surrounding mountains that conceal the gorgeous wonders of Compostela), and several pocket gardens.
Even thought he resort is gorgeous and is a perfect place to relax over some drinks, Maragusan offers so much more than just Haven’s Peak. Because of this, the resort has partnered with the local Tourism Office to provide activity packages and tours for their guests. These activities include Trekking and Falls-Hopping; an exciting day-tour that involve stopping over some of the most beautiful water falls in Compostela Valley (naturally, this involves an allotted time for bathing in pools by the falls); Mountain Climbing for 3 days and 2 nights at Mount Candalaga; Swimming at Cold and Hot Springs; Cultural Enrichment tours at the Mansaka Village; a tour of DOLE Stanfilco Banana Plantation; and of course (because Rafflesia, the largest flower in the world is endemic in this part of the country) Rafflesia Watching.
“What about the rates?” I could almost hear your thought process all the way from the future (I am, of course, writing this a week in advance). The rates are surprisingly affordable. Their meals for example, range from about 30 pesos to 100 bucks. You could take a dip in their pool for 80 pesos per person and sleep in their Tribal Huts (good for 3-5 people) for only 1,400 inclusive of free usage of swimming pools and breakfast for two. If you prefer to sleep with a large group of people, their dormitory type rooms go for 350 pesos, with 8 people per room. Their tents go as low as 250 pesos (for single occupancy) up to 750 pesos (good for five people).
Truly, Maragusan, and Haven’s Peak is sure to be one of the hottest summer destinations from here on end. It is a wonder how this hidden mountain paradise has been hidden from pop consciousness for this long; but maybe therein lies its allure.
So if you are looking for that last summer destination, or find that you need a safe place to find solace in away from the busy city life; travel al the way through a hellish road to get to a piece of heaven that is Haven’s Peak.
Catch Confessions of a Partyphile on the radio every Wednesdays from 6 to 9 in the PM on 105.9 Mix FM or www.mixfm1059.com. You could also follow the columnist on twitter.com/zhaun or facebook.com/confessionsofapartyphile. For comments, suggestions, and more confessions from this partyphile, log on tohttp://party.i.ph
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Things You Should Do Before School Starts
5.) Try out a new extreme sport and master it. Having this much free time during the Summer vacation will allow you to perform and practice your extreme sport of choice more often; thus, giving you more time to master it.
4.) Go on a road trip across Mindanao. Going on a road trip with your friends is a wonderful experience all to itself. It allows you to bond without actually doing anything but just sitting for the whole trip. Of course, the destination also counts. Look for fun, new and exciting summer destinations. Suggestions: Maragusan, Dapitan, or Siargao
3.) Throw a house party. It is better to throw a house party during the summer vacation because people are not as busy as when school starts. If you appreciate a perfect attendance; do this before classes start.
2.) Find a summer fling. There are two ways this could go. First, you can find a summer ling which turns into a full-blown relationship or extends until classes start and use this as inspiration. Or, it could end before classes start, so you could focus on your studies. Either way, remember that flings are for fun, not for emotional attachment.
1.) Get totally wasted. Get it out of your system and make sure that you get totally wasted that you would not want to drink or get drunk again. This will help you focus in school.
Drink of the Week: Mind Eraser
Since we are celebrating Coin Flip Day today, I suggest that you play a little round of heads or tails. If you pick heads, you are drinking some simple, traditional, beer tonight. If you pick tails, then you must create your own cocktail and get drunk on it. for this purpose, i have decided to give out a recipe for the Mind Eraser Cocktail. Here is how you make it:
- grab an old-fashioned glass and fill it with ice
- pour one shot of vodka
- pour one shot of kahlua
- fill to the brim with soda water
- DO NOT STIR
June 1 is Coin Flip Day
Today is Coin Flip Day. To celebrate this quirky holiday, make sure to use the traditional coin-flip method for every single decision you have to make today.