As the sun rose over Manila Bay, casting a golden glow over the colossal SM Mall of Asia, we knew we were in for an extraordinary day. This wasn't just any day—it was a day dedicated to the exploration of flavors and fashion, a true odyssey within the walls of one of the Philippines' largest shopping havens.
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Our adventure began with a gastronomic journey at the beloved Lugang Cafe. Imagine the scene: plush seats, the clinking of fine china, and the irresistible taste of steamed pork xiao long bao. These little parcels of joy, with their rich, savory broth, were just the beginning of a symphony of flavors.
The fried rice with salted fish and diced chicken arrived, fragrant and inviting, making our meal truly complete. And then came the stir-fried veggies, a garlicky and possibly XO-sauced spectacle, adding a much-needed freshness to our indulgent feast.
But what's a banquet without the grand finale? As we bit into the succulent pork spare ribs glazed with a tangy plum sauce, our taste buds did a little happy dance. Each bite was a perfect balance of sweet and savory, leaving us in a state of blissful craving. Paired with our favorite drinks - Cranberry juice with mango and sago, it was a dining experience to remember.
With our appetites sated, I separated temporarily with HB. He ventured off to an unknown destination, leaving me with the perfect opportunity to embark on a personal journey of self-care. It was during this time that I found solace in the enchanting aisles of The Face Shop, a prestigious Korean beauty emporium. The shelves were a kaleidoscope of skincare and makeup, promising eternal youth and radiance.😊 With the help of the ever-so-knowledgeable staff, I picked out my usual favorites, though I'm known to switch it up now and then. Because, why not?
Next, I dove into the bustling corridors of the mall, where the scent of new leather and the sheen of fresh textiles beckoned me to the fashion emporium of Zara. Zara, the Spanish multinational that has mastered the art of fast fashion, offered a world of chic and trendy apparel. I sifted through racks of clothing that encapsulated the latest styles, each piece calling out to be a part of my wardrobe. The accessories, shoes, and perfumes added layers of sophistication to my shopping spree, making it impossible to leave empty-handed.
The stores were a riot of colors and patterns, with the latest trends on full display. After a whirlwind of trying on outfit after outfit, victory was mine: stunning tops from Zara that whispered elegance with every fiber.
Not far from Zara's modern silhouettes, Mango greeted me with its own Spanish charm as well. Founded in the heart of Barcelona, this clothing design and manufacturing giant presented me with elegant and timeless pieces. Each garment spoke of meticulous design and a flair for the contemporary, ensuring that my fashion-forward heart skipped a beat with every new discovery. Mango didn't disappoint either, as I snagged some chic tops to add to my collection.
Mimi, the delightfully grumpy cat with a frown that could stop traffic, sits perched on her throne atop the upper floor, surveying her kingdom with an air of majestic indifference. She's not just any inflatable; she's a towering feline empress, her larger-than-life scowl a playful paradox that beckons shoppers to come closer, if they dare, for a memorable selfie that's sure to be the envy of cat enthusiasts everywhere.
Meanwhile, down on the ground floor, with a wag and a woof that echoes (hahaha.. in my dreams) through the corridors, is Momo, the ever-jubilant canine, Corgi to be exact. With a grin as wide as the mall itself, Momo's infectious happiness is a beacon of tail-wagging delight. This happy dog's bouncy demeanor and open paws invite one and all to embrace the lighter side of life. He's not just an inflatable; he's a floppy-eared ambassador of joy, ready to turn any shopper's day into an impromptu playdate.
Together, Mimi and Momo are more than just inflatables; they're a fantastical pair of gargantuan guardians, watching over the mall-goers with a silent promise of fun and frolic. So, whether you're a pet parent in need of a giant-sized dose of cuteness or a visitor looking to add a dash of extraordinary to your shopping spree, Mimi and Momo are waiting to make your day unforgettable.
In need of a respite from the retail rush, HB and I met, and ascended to an oasis of calm: the MOA's Sky Garden. With its lush greenery and tranquil fountains, it was an urban paradise. We lounged, soothed by the melodic cascades of water, and found a moment of peace in the heart of the mall.
But the day wasn't over yet. Our curiosity is piqued by the allure of Ma Dao, a sanctuary for Vietnamese spring roll aficionados. The variety was staggering: chicken, beef, pork – you name it. We dove into the spring roll extravaganza, each bite a crunchy, flavorful revelation.
Our adventure continued with the irresistible allure of Din Tai Fung's legendary cuisine, and we couldn't resist taking some of their magic home with us. With takeout bags brimming with carefully packaged gastronomic treasures, we left Din Tai Fung.
Our day at SM Mall of Asia was a tapestry of tastes, trends, and tranquility. It was more than just a day out; it was an experience, a journey through the delights that this shopping mecca has to offer. As the sun set on our adventure, we left with full bellies, stylish finds, and serene smiles, already dreaming of our next visit.
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