Toyota Hilux Maintenance at Toyota Lapu-Lapu Cebu: A 50,000 KM Checkup Journey

Keeping your Toyota Hilux in top condition is essential to ensure safety, reliability, and optimal performance on every adventure. For over six years since purchasing our trusty Toyota Hilux from Toyota Lapu-Lapu Cebu, this service center has been our go-to for all maintenance needs. This year, the first maintenance service for 2025 included a comprehensive 50,000-kilometer checkup and several key repairs and replacements.

Comprehensive Maintenance Checklist

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the services and inspections performed during this visit to Toyota Lapu-Lapu Cebu:

• 1. Engine Oil Replacement – Essential for smooth engine performance and to prevent wear and tear.
• 2. Engine Oil Filter Replacement – Ensures the new oil stays clean and debris-free.
• 3. Battery Inspection – Verifies battery health for reliable starts.
• 4. Brake Pedal and Parking Brake Inspection – Keeps your brakes responsive and safe.
• 5. Fog Lamp Bulb Replacement – Maintains visibility during inclement weather.
• 6. Wiper Rubber Blade Replacement – Ensures streak-free performance for clear visibility during rains.
• 7. Air Conditioner Filter Inspection – Keeps the cabin air fresh and allergen-free.
• 8. Brakes Cleaned and Adjusted – Optimizes braking efficiency.
• 9. Tires and Inflation Pressure Inspection – Ensures safety and maximizes fuel efficiency.
• 10. Inspection of Lights, Horn, Wipers, and Washers – Checks functionality for road safety compliance.
• 11. Chassis and Body Bolt Tightening – Prevents unnecessary vibrations and enhances structural integrity.
• 12. Front and Rear Suspension Inspection – Detects potential wear and prevents long-term damage.
• 13. Propeller Shaft Bolt Tightening and Lubrication – Ensures smooth and noise-free drivetrain operation.
• 14. Steering Wheel Linkage and Gearbox Inspection – Keeps the steering system precise and safe.
• 15. Power Steering Fluid Inspection – Ensures smooth and responsive steering.

Why Toyota Lapu-Lapu Cebu?

For six years, Toyota Lapu-Lapu Cebu has proven to be a trusted partner in maintaining our Hilux. Their technicians are well-trained, use genuine Toyota parts, and deliver excellent customer service. Whether it’s a minor repair or a major checkup, their attention to detail ensures that our Hilux stays road-ready.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

• 1. Longevity: Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your vehicle.
• 2. Safety: Inspections and repairs minimize the risk of breakdowns or accidents.
• 3. Resale Value: A well-maintained vehicle retains higher resale value.
• 4. Fuel Efficiency: Properly tuned engines and inflated tires reduce fuel consumption.

Conclusion

A Toyota Hilux is built for durability, but regular maintenance is key to keeping it running like new. If you’re in Cebu, the Toyota Lapu-Lapu Cebu Service Center is highly recommended for comprehensive and reliable car care. Whether you’re gearing up for a long drive or need routine maintenance, trust their expert team to keep your Hilux in peak condition.

Welcoming the New Year 2025: A Heartfelt Celebration of Family and Tradition

A Feast to Usher in Good Fortune

Homemade Roasted Pork Belly
The centerpiece of our New Year’s Eve dinner was the roasted pork belly, which my husband and I prepared together. Cooking it in the oven filled our home with a tantalizing aroma, adding warmth and festivity to the evening.

My First Prosperity Bowl
This year, I embraced a new tradition by creating a Prosperity Bowl. Filled with pink-colored salted duck eggs, gold chocolate coins, rice, and Chinese lucky envelopes, the bowl symbolized abundance and blessings for the year ahead—a meaningful addition to our celebration.

A Bounty of Fruits
In keeping with tradition, we filled our table with various fruits, each representing prosperity, health, and happiness. The fragrant persimmons and pears joined a colorful selection that included grapes, apples, melons, pineapple, lemons, kiwi, oranges, and bananas, all sourced from SM Hypermarket.

Sweet Treats and Festive Drinks

Our dessert spread included a chocolate moist cake from Patty’s Bakeshop and a Red Velvet Cake from Red Ribbon. The latter didn’t last until midnight, as our kids couldn’t resist the temptation to dig in! We also added Dunkin’ Donuts munchkins and Lays potato chips to the mix for a variety of flavors.

The beverages were equally festive, featuring Baron D’Arignac Moelleux Medium red and white wines from Duty-Free Philippines, Coke Zero Sugar, Sprite, and Del Monte’s Four Seasons and Orange Juice.

Midnight Magic: Dinner and Fireworks

When the clock struck 12, we gathered for a special midnight dinner. The sound of fireworks outside added to the excitement as we exchanged hugs and kisses—reminding me that my family is the greatest blessing of all.

Starting the New Year with Gratitude

On New Year’s Day, we attended a holy Mass to thank God for His blessings and guidance. Later, we honored our youngest daughter’s request with a simple yet joyful dinner at McDonald’s, enjoying chicken meals, burgers, and fries.

The Significance of New Year’s Celebrations

New Year’s celebrations hold a universal significance—they offer a chance to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future. Every culture has its unique traditions, whether it’s preparing symbolic dishes, sharing special moments with loved ones, or participating in rituals that usher in good luck.

For our family, it’s a time to reconnect, express gratitude, and renew our hopes for the year ahead. The shared meals, laughter, and love make this occasion unforgettable and deeply meaningful.

Make Every New Year Count

As you plan your New Year’s celebration, remember that the heart of this tradition lies in togetherness. Whether it’s a grand gathering or an intimate dinner, cherish the time spent with loved ones. Celebrate the blessings of the past year and welcome the new one with an open heart.

The New Year is a fresh chapter waiting to be written. Let’s fill it with love, joy, and hope, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy cafe or restaurant in **Cebu City**, look no further than **Livin' La Vida LOCA Kitchen & Cafe** at **SM Seaside Cebu**. Nestled on the mall’s third floor, this gem offers delicious meals, excellent service, and a relaxing ambiance—perfect for a family dinner, a casual hangout, or even a quick bite after shopping.  

Our Christmas Feast  

For our Christmas dinner, we indulged in a variety of dishes that left us craving for more. Here’s what we ordered:  

**Main Courses:**  

- **Sweet Soy Pork Belly (4 orders)** – Tender and flavorful with a sweet-savory glaze that melts in your mouth.  

- **Fried Chicken Steak with Cream Gravy (2 orders)** – Crispy perfection served with a creamy, comforting gravy.  

**Sharing Plate:**  

- **Pepperoni Tortilla Pizza** – Thin, crispy, and topped with savory pepperoni and gooey cheese.  

**Drinks:**  

- **Pitcher of Apple Passionfruit Watermelon** – A refreshing and fruity drink that’s perfect for sharing.  

- **Coke Zero (2 cans)** – For those who prefer a sugar-free soda option.  

**Dessert:**  

- **Pistachio Sans Rival** – A decadent layered dessert with creamy pistachio and crunchy textures, perfect for ending the meal on a sweet note.  

Why You’ll Love Livin' La Vida LOCA Kitchen & Cafe  

1. **Delicious Food:** Every dish we tried was flavorful, well-prepared, and satisfying.  

2. **Great Service:** The staff were polite, attentive, and quick to take our orders, even though we arrived close to closing time.  

3. **Relaxing Ambiance:** The cafe offers a quiet and cozy setting, making it a great spot to unwind after exploring the mall.  

4. **Convenient Location:** Located on the third floor of SM Seaside Cebu, it’s easily accessible from various mall shops and attractions.  

5. **Payment Perks:** The cafe accepts both cash and card payments. Plus, we received a **10% discount** on our orders using our RCBC credit card as part of their Christmas promo!  

Things to Note  

The food was served in about **30–45 minutes**, which is a reasonable wait time given the quality and care put into each dish. Arriving earlier in the evening might give you more time to enjoy the experience without the rush of closing hours.  

Whether you’re looking for a cafe in Cebu City for a quick meal or a restaurant for a special occasion, Livin' La Vida LOCA Kitchen & Cafe is a top-notch choice. With its delicious menu, friendly staff, and convenient location, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.  

Visit Livin' La Vida LOCA Kitchen & Cafe Today!  

If you’re planning a visit to Cebu City or just exploring new dining spots, add **Livin' La Vida LOCA Kitchen & Cafe** to your list. With its mouthwatering dishes, excellent service, and festive offers, it’s a place that will make your dining experience truly memorable.  

Tag your family and friends, and head over to **SM Seaside Cebu** for a delightful meal at Livin' La Vida LOCA Kitchen & Cafe!

A Cozy Stay at IBOŞ Hotel, Izmir Turkey

Arrival and Location

We arrived at IBOŞ Hotel around 10 PM, thanks to a reliable van service from Izmir Airport. Despite the late hour, the staff welcomed us warmly. The temperature outside was a chilly 5°C, making us appreciate the cozy ambiance of the hotel even more. Located in a prime spot, the hotel provides easy access to nearby attractions and has a charming coffee shop for quick caffeine fixes.

Rooms and Amenities

Our group booked two triple-occupancy rooms—one on the 3rd floor for my husband and me, and another on the 6th floor for our two sons.

Room Comfort: The rooms were clean and well-maintained. The beds were plush and cozy, although we would have appreciated thicker blankets, especially for those accustomed to warmer climates.

Bathroom Features: The bathrooms were modern and spotless. A highlight was the built-in bidet within the toilet bowl, which added to the comfort and convenience. The shower provided excellent water pressure and warm water, perfect for the freezing weather outside.

Wi-Fi Connectivity: The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, accessible with a login linked to your passport and room details. The connection was stable and fast, making it easy for us to stay connected during our stay.

Dining Options

The Olympos Restaurant serves a hearty breakfast buffet daily, offering a mix of local and international options to suit diverse palates. We especially enjoyed the freshly baked bread and flavorful Turkish spreads. For coffee lovers, the nearby coffee shop is a great spot to relax and savor a cup of authentic Turkish coffee, “Turk Kahvesi”.

Climate Considerations

Given that the temperature outside was near freezing, the rooms didn’t have air conditioning, but it wasn’t necessary. However, for travelers from tropical countries, like us, additional warmer blankets would have been a welcome touch.

Final Thoughts

IBOŞ Hotel offered us a pleasant and convenient stay during our time in Izmir. Its strategic location, excellent bathroom facilities, and friendly service made it a memorable experience. If you’re planning to visit Izmir, whether for leisure or events like the World Robot Olympiad, IBOŞ Hotel is a reliable choice for comfort and accessibility.

Tips for Travelers:

Bring warm clothing if visiting during colder months, as the temperature can drop significantly.

Don’t miss the breakfast buffet at Olympos Restaurant for a taste of Turkish cuisine.

Book rooms in advance, especially during large events like WRO, as the hotel can get fully booked quickly.

For a hassle-free stay in Izmir, IBOŞ Hotel checks all the boxes for comfort, location, and service.

We stayed at a flat in 101 Newport Boulevard near NAIA Terminal 3 for one night this November to ensure easy access to the airport for our international flight from Manila to Istanbul, Turkey, with a connecting flight in Bahrain.

The check-in process was seamless and stress-free, even though we arrived late at around 10 PM. The caretaker was ready and waiting for us at the lobby, which was a great relief after a long day of travel preparation.

Sun, Sea, and Memories: A Family Adventure on Sumilon Island, Cebu

For those yearning for a tropical escape brimming with natural beauty, Sumilon Island in Cebu is an unbeatable destination. This marked our fourth journey to the southern part of Cebu, and despite previous visits, the allure of Sumilon’s pristine waters and stunning landscape remains as captivating as ever.

Setting Out for the Adventure

Our day began at Island Front Resort and Restaurant, where we enjoyed a hearty breakfast surrounded by the early morning breeze and breathtaking ocean views. The resort’s welcoming atmosphere and delicious local dishes set the perfect tone for the day ahead. We embarked on our island adventure at around 7:30 am, opting for the second boat trip—a slight delay, courtesy of our son’s Mobile Legends ranking game! This small pause only added to the excitement as we geared up for the trip. This time, only our two sons joined us for the adventure, as our daughters decided to stay back to avoid the intense sun and enjoy a more relaxing morning at the resort.

How to Get to Sumilon Island from Lapu-Lapu City

If you’re starting from Lapu-Lapu City, as we did, the journey to Sumilon Island involves a combination of road and sea travel. Here’s how you can reach this beautiful island:

1. By Car or Bus:

   • Travel Time: Approximately 3-4 hours by private vehicle or 4-5 hours by public bus.
   • Route: Drive or take a bus southbound via the Cebu South Road, passing through Talisay, Carcar, and finally reaching Oslob.
   • Mode of Transportation: If you’re driving, the scenic coastal views and quaint towns along the way make the journey enjoyable. Public buses from Cebu South Bus Terminal also provide an affordable and comfortable ride.
   • Fare: The bus fare from Cebu City to Oslob ranges from P180 to P250, depending on the type of bus (non-airconditioned or airconditioned).

2. Boat Ride to Sumilon Island:

   • Boat Service: Prices for boat transfers are P1,500 for groups of 2-5 people and P2,000 for 5-10 people.
   • Departure Point: Most boats depart from Oslob, where you can coordinate with local resorts or tourist service providers.
   • Entrance Fees: Entrance to the island is P100 per person, with an additional P100 for access to the marine sanctuary and P100 rental for snorkeling gear.

Island Experience and Reminders

Sumilon Island is famed for its white sandbar and crystal-clear waters, making it a must-visit for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. As soon as we docked, the island’s beauty greeted us with open arms. The shimmering turquoise water seemed to stretch endlessly, inviting us to dive in. We spent our time capturing countless photos against the backdrop of the picturesque sandbar, sharing laughter, and making memories that will last a lifetime. A quick headstand added some playful fun and energy to our morning. Although I swam just a little—savoring the cool water and gentle waves—our sons fully embraced the sea, splashing around and snorkeling to their hearts’ content.

The Island’s Unique Charm

Sumilon Island’s appeal extends beyond its picturesque sandbar...