Eat Well. Travel Often

Sep 14, 2026

Simple Kaffa at Taipei 101: The TikTok Budget View Hack

In an unexpected turn of events, after visiting the Taipei Zoo, we landed right at the foot of Taipei 101. We were originally planning to go straight to Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and took a bus from Maokong Gondola, but we got lost on our first stop and found out that we were already at the base of Taipei 101!

Since we were already there, we decided to go inside and tour around this wondrous structure. First on our list was Simple Kaffa Sola.

The line was crazy! They have a counter on the ground floor to take orders, managed by two staff members. I actually found out about this place on TikTok, where people were saying it's a cheaper way to get a wide and amazing view of Taipei from the highest floor of Taipei 101, instead of paying for the official Taipei 101 Observatory.

The cafe is located on the 88th floor, and it took us around 40 minutes just to line up and place our order.

Once we reached the 88th floor, we were greeted by floor-to-ceiling windows with a sweeping view of Taipei. When you look down, it's so high that you can actually get a bit dizzy! We took a couple of minutes taking photos here because we thought this was already the main viewing deck that TikTok was raving about.

Then we realized that they literally have a proper cafe setup here.

The cafe has enough space for customers to dine in. I'm not sure if you can order food at the ground floor counter, as they only offered us the menu for coffee and drinks. There's also a small space on the right side of the cafe dedicated to the overlooking view, equipped with two cocktail tables. You are limited to staying in this area for just a couple of minutes, which is why there are no seats—just the standing tables.

What's surprising is that most of the visitors here were Pinoys! Haha! But then again, I also found out about this cafe from TikTok, which explains why it got so famous and has long lines daily.

We ordered two drinks (I'll update the exact names here once I recall them!). It took around 15 minutes to get our orders. I actually really liked what we got—I had an iced drink which was very delicious, and Bench ordered a hot coffee which I got to taste, and it was really good as well. The total came to around P500 each for the drinks (I'll confirm the exact pricing once I have the details!).

Is it worth the TikTok hype?

To be honest, when I saw the long line upon arrival, I got disappointed and irritated, haha! We were so tired from our Taipei Zoo tour, and then we ended up in a line that felt like it took forever. Plus, the price is almost double what I usually pay for coffee back home in the Philippines.

However, looking back, you're really paying for the view, the overall experience, and a quality drink. It's definitely a great alternative to going to the Taipei 101 Observatory while paying 3x less!

Should I go back? If I have extra time and budget to do a full dine-in next time, why not? I would love to see the view at night, too.

Have you tried visiting Simple Kaffa at Taipei 101, or would you stick to the regular Observatory deck? Let me know in the comments!

If you are interested to visit to Taiwan and looking for an itinerary?

Visit my full 6-day Itinerary here.

Aug 17, 2026

Walking Through Davao’s Stories: My Dayaw Art Walk Experience

Jexx Hinggo 11:16 AM birkenstock , events 0 Comments

I’ve seen posts before about people joining history walks around Davao City, and I’ve always thought it would be interesting to join one. The problem was, my schedule never seemed to cooperate.

So when Ms. Mae Sanchez, Senior Area Sales Supervisor of Primer Group of Companies, invited me to join the Birkenstock Dayaw Art Walk – Kadayawan Special Edition, I didn’t have to think twice.

I immediately said yes.

This was one of those experiences that reminded me that sometimes, you don’t really have to travel far to discover something new. Sometimes, you just need to slow down and take a closer look at the city you’ve been living in.

The Dayaw Art Walk was brought to us by Birkenstock and the Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts, with a route that took us through familiar places in the Poblacion District—but with stories and history I honestly didn’t know much about.

We started with an introduction from Mr. Oscar Casaysay of the Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts, followed by our tour guide, Ms. Gracie Plata.

And then, the walking began.

From Jones Circle to Acacia Roundabout

Our first stop was Jones Circle, also known as the Acacia Roundabout.

I’ve passed through this area countless times, but I never really stopped to ask why it was called Acacia.

Apparently, the area was once surrounded by sprawling acacia trees, which gave the place its name. Over time, it was redeveloped into the intersection we see today.

It was such a simple detail, but it immediately changed how I looked at a place I thought I already knew.

Freedom Park and Davao’s history of protests

From there, we headed to Freedom Park.

Like many places in Davao, it’s familiar—but not always fully understood.

Freedom Park became known as a space for protests, rallies, and public gatherings, making it an important site for civic expression in the city.

Standing there while hearing its history made me realize how public spaces can hold meaning far beyond what we usually see. They are not just open areas—they are part of a city’s voice.

Remembering Aldevinco

Next was the former Aldevinco Shopping Center site.

For many Dabawenyos, Aldevinco is more than just a shopping destination. It has long been part of the city’s identity, especially for local crafts, textiles, souvenirs, and traditional products.

The original structure has since been demolished to make way for a modern mixed-use development, while many of its tenants have relocated to Poblacion Market Central.

There was a quiet sense of nostalgia hearing about it while standing in a place that now reflects Davao’s ongoing transformation.

It’s a reminder that cities change—but the stories attached to them don’t have to disappear.

A playful stop at the Upside Down House

After all the history, we shifted to something lighter.

Our next stop was the Upside Down House at the COPE Building along C.M. Recto Street.

And yes—we had so much fun here!

Everything inside was literally upside down, which made the experience both confusing and entertaining in the best way. We took photos, experimented with angles, and just enjoyed the playful break from the walking and storytelling.

It was easily one of the most lighthearted stops of the day.

Coffee, pastries, and a much-needed pause

By this point, we were ready for a break, so Café Gervacios came at the perfect time.

We tried some of their pastries and drinks, and everything was genuinely good.

It was one of those stops where you think, “I need to keep going, but I also want to stay here a little longer.” 😂

Definitely a place I’d go back to.

A taste of history at The Royal Mandaya Hotel

Our next stop was The Royal Mandaya Hotel, one of Davao’s homegrown hotels.

The hotel officially opened in 1998, though its beginnings trace back to 1992 when it started with just 20 rooms.

What stood out during our visit was that it wasn’t just about the hotel itself. The space also offered a glimpse into Davao’s history through artifacts and stories shared with us.

We also had light snacks and refreshments, which were very welcome after walking around the city.

At this point, the experience was no longer just a history walk. It was becoming a blend of heritage, art, food, architecture, and storytelling all in one afternoon.

Ending the walk at Cinematheque Davao

Our final stop was Cinematheque Centre Davao along Palma Gil Street.

I’ve always associated Cinematheque with films, but learning more about its role in the local arts and film community gave me a deeper appreciation for the space.

Operated by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Cinematheque Centres serve as venues for independent, classic, contemporary, and world cinema, while also supporting film education and local filmmakers. (Philippine Film Archive)

It was a fitting place to end the Dayaw Art Walk because film, like everything else we experienced that day, is also storytelling.

And in the end, that was really what the walk was about.

Stories.

Stories of places, people, culture, art, and the city we call home.

Walking Davao in Birkenstock

Of course, I have to mention the part that literally carried me throughout the day.

We were provided with Birkenstock footwear, a shirt, a tote bag, and some hydration and cooling essentials.

To be honest, I didn’t own a pair of Birkenstocks before this event, so I was curious about how they would feel during a long walking tour.

After hours of walking from one stop to another, I was genuinely surprised that my feet didn’t hurt at the end of the day.

For something like this, that already says a lot.

The Birkenstocks became my quiet companion throughout the entire walk around Davao.

Rediscovering the city I call home

What made this experience even more meaningful was meeting fellow media, bloggers, influencers, and people from the arts, tourism, and travel community.

It was refreshing to be surrounded by people who also care about telling stories about Davao and highlighting what makes the city special.

More than anything, the walk made me appreciate Davao in a different way.

We often pass by places every day without realizing the history behind them. We move through streets, buildings, and landmarks without pausing to ask what stories they hold.

The Dayaw Art Walk – Kadayawan Special Edition gave me that pause.

Not as someone rushing from one event to another.

Not as someone simply passing through downtown.

But as a Dabawenyo rediscovering the city I already call home.

And what better time to do it than during Kadayawan, when we celebrate the culture, heritage, abundance, and diversity of Davao?

I’m truly grateful to Birkenstock, the Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts, the tourism and culture teams, and everyone who made this experience possible. Special thanks to Ms. Mae Sanchez for the invitation, Mr. Oscar Casaysay for the introduction, and Ms. Gracie Plata for guiding us through the stories of the city.

I’m definitely looking forward to joining more walking tours, heritage tours, art exhibits, and cultural experiences around Davao.

Because apparently, there is still so much about my own city that I have yet to discover.

And maybe that’s the best part.

You don’t always have to go somewhere new to have a new experience. Sometimes, you just have to walk a little slower and listen to the stories of the place you already call home.

Aug 13, 2026

Power Mac Center and The Loop Open at Gaisano Mall of Davao

Jexx Hinggo 11:26 AM events , power mac center 0 Comments

Devices, accessories, exclusive opening deals, and tech support are now even closer to Davao shoppers.

Davao shoppers now have more reasons to get excited about their next tech upgrade as Power Mac Center (PMC) and The Loop officially open new stores at Gaisano Mall of Davao.

The new locations expand PMC’s retail presence in the Davao Region, giving Apple fans, tech enthusiasts, and everyday shoppers another convenient destination for devices, accessories, product demonstrations, consultations, and support.

Power Mac Center carries Apple devices and premium branded accessories, while The Loop offers a multi-brand selection featuring Apple and Android technology alongside premium accessories curated for today’s young generation.

Opening Deals You Don’t Want to Miss

To celebrate the opening of its Gaisano Mall of Davao locations, Power Mac Center is offering exclusive discounts on select products for a limited time.

At Power Mac Center, shoppers can enjoy:

Up to ₱19,500 off on select iPad models
Up to ₱17,000 off on select iPhone models
Up to ₱14,500 off on select MacBook Air models
Up to ₱2,500 off on select AirPods models
Up to 20% off on select premium accessories

These Power Mac Center offers are available until August 16, 2026 only.

The Loop Brings More Opening-Day Surprises

Meanwhile, The Loop Gaisano Mall of Davao is also celebrating with exciting opening promotions.

On August 12, 2026 only, customers can get:

Up to ₱36,000 off on select Apple devices
Additional savings of up to ₱6,000 for KasKasan Buddies members
Additional savings of up to ₱5,000 for non-KasKasan Buddies members
Free Gift Certificates for the first 30 KasKasan Buddies members:

- ₱1,000 for the first 10 clients

- ₱500 for the next 20 clients

There’s also something fun in store for shoppers. Spend at least ₱2,000 and get a chance to play the in-store card game for a chance to win prizes such as an HP printer, premium accessories, or a ₱500 Gift Certificate.

The Loop’s opening promotions continue with:

Up to ₱3,500 off on select Android devices from August 12–16, 2026
Up to ₱1,000 off on select Android accessories from August 12–16, 2026
Up to 50% off on select premium accessories from August 12–18, 2026

Terms and conditions apply to all offers.

Earn More with 1 Infinite

Shopping at Power Mac Center and The Loop Gaisano Mall of Davao can also be rewarding for members of 1 Infinite, PMC and The Loop’s premium loyalty program.

Members can continue earning points from their purchases and redeem them for devices, accessories, select services, training courses, and other perks.

The regular conversion is 1 point = ₱1, with special promotion days offering a conversion of 1 point = ₱2.

Members may also enjoy up to 50% off on Apple training courses and other exclusive perks from Basecamp and Mobile Care, Power Mac Center’s official training and service arms.

New members can sign up through the 1 Infinite app, while purchases made through the Power Mac Center web store can also qualify when members are logged in.

More Ways to Shop in Davao

With the opening of the new Gaisano Mall of Davao stores, Davao shoppers now have even more options when looking for Apple devices, Android smartphones, accessories, and technology products.

The new Power Mac Center Gaisano Mall of Davao is open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Other Power Mac Center locations in the Davao Region include:

Ayala Malls Abreeza
Gaisano Mall of Digos
Gaisano Mall of Tagum
Gaisano Mall of Toril
SM Lanang, an Apple Premium Partner store
Sta. Lucia Mall Davao

Meanwhile, The Loop Gaisano Mall of Davao becomes the brand’s 65th branch nationwide and its second branch in Davao City, joining its existing location at SM City Davao.

Time for Your Next Tech Upgrade?

Whether you’re looking for a new iPhone, iPad, MacBook, AirPods, Android device, or simply a new accessory, the opening of Power Mac Center and The Loop at Gaisano Mall of Davao gives shoppers another convenient place to explore the latest technology.

And with opening promotions offering discounts of up to tens of thousands of pesos, this could be a good time to finally make that upgrade you’ve been waiting for.

Visit Power Mac Center and The Loop at Gaisano Mall of Davao and check out the opening offers while they last.

Terms and conditions apply. Promotions are subject to availability and the specific validity periods stated above.

Aug 6, 2026

Visiting Houtong Cat Village: Taiwan’s Village Where Cats Outnumber People

Jexx Hinggo 8:18 PM itinerary , Taiwan 0 Comments

Cat-themed decorations and statues at Houtong Station in Taiwan⁠

When Bench Payla and I were planning our Taiwan trip, Houtong Cat Village was an absolute MUST on our itinerary.

How disaster-proofing businesses can help mompreneurs thrive

Jexx Hinggo 4:40 AM lifestyle , pldt 0 Comments

A typical day for a mompreneur involves balancing family responsibilities, customer orders, and business growth. In the Philippines, where typhoons, floods, and other calamities can disrupt daily life without warning, business as usual can change in an instant.

Jul 31, 2026

Gaisano Market (GMarket) Launches on foodpanda Shops

Jexx Hinggo 1:34 AM food , foodpanda 0 Comments

If you’re a fellow Dabawenyo, you know that Gaisano Market (GMarket) has basically been a staple in our homes for as long as we can remember. I’ve personally lost count of how many times I’ve dropped by their physical stores for last-minute essentials.

Gaisano Market (GMarket) Launches on foodpanda Shops

But here’s the best news: we don’t even have to leave the house to get our GMarket favorites anymore! They’ve officially joined foodpanda Shops, and honestly, it’s a total game-changer for my grocery routine.

Why I’m loving this move:

Convenience: We’re combining that classic GMarket reliability we’ve trusted for decades with the ease of the foodpanda app.

Accessibility: Whether I’m stuck in a meeting or just having a lazy day, I can get my household essentials delivered straight to my doorstep.

Joseph Wijesekera, Director of Q-Commerce at foodpanda Philippines, hit the nail on the head: "We aren't just delivering groceries—we're making everyday living simpler." And as someone who uses the app all the time, I can definitely vouch for that.

Patricia Gaisano, Business Unit Head at GMarket, mentioned that they wanted to meet us "wherever we are," and this is exactly what we needed. It’s great to see a local brand adapting to how we live today without losing that familiar touch.

A sweet moment to kick things off:

To celebrate the launch, they actually surprised one of their riders, Ka-panda Johannah Ranera, with the ceremonial "first order." Instead of a regular pickup, she got to take home the groceries as a gift! It’s such a nice gesture to acknowledge the riders who keep our city moving.

So, if you’re like me and need to restock your pantry, open your foodpanda app and check out GMarket on Shops. They’ve got some launch promos running right now, so it’s the perfect time to try it out!