March 29, 2018

Stripping down to Althea's Bare Essentials

Althea, the one-stop online shop for absolutely everything K-beauty, has finally launched its very own skincare line! There's so much gossip going on before the launch of this line that I was already super excited even before it arrived at my doorsteps HAHA

And now, it's my turn to gossip about how awesome these products are.

The latest release from the Althea label is one that addresses a common problem faced by millions of Althea's fans. Many are fazed by the number of steps in skincare routine but when in reality, it shouldn't be a difficult process at all. Some has even 7 or 10 steps to go by (say what!)

But introducing Althea’s Bare Essentials - only 3 steps in your daily skincare routine (as easy as 1,2,3). Althea strips down to the bare essentials with this new skincare line. Riding on today’s current minimalism movement, Althea’s Bare Essentials focuses on skincare fundamentals and drops all the non-essentials. 

These new beauty hybrid products pack a double punch too; they’re products that nourish the skin while leaving it looking bright, glowing, and beautiful. With clean, minimal, yet effective formulas, these straightforward products epitomize simple perfection and delivers maximum results with minimum effort.

Super minimalist and white. I can't express how much I love this bare minimalist theme. The entire product theme feels classy, expensive and elegant. If you don't know, it is actually super reasonably priced! Ohh and those samples are gona be useful for my travels =)

I would like to give a shout out to Althea for being so thoughtful by including this chic mirror as a gift. This would be so handy to keep my vanity in check *laughs*

Not only that, this heavy duty tile is also a gift which is useful as a coaster, paper weight or even as a prop for flatlays hehehe
Kamsahamida!

Ok, back to the main products! I totally believe that great makeup starts from great skin! The Bare Essentials range consists of three hypoallergenic products suitable for any skin types for a greater skin.

The Contour Cleanser 150g, RM23.00
Packed with soothing Ice Plant and detoxifying Lemon Myrtle extracts, this cleanser is densely filled with micro capsules that burst upon contact with water to gently cleanse, exfoliate, and detoxify skin. The Contour Cleanser helps to promote blood circulation, and reduces bloating and swelling for a defined, enviably slim face V shape look.

Yes, it has a dense texture to it which will turn into foam once massaged into skin.

Dampen the skin, then squeeze out a small amount and lather onto the face, massaging in circular motions. Rinse off with water after. The micro capsules helps in exfoliating white/black heads and I could feel my oil seeds coming out easily.

One thing I absolutely love about it, other than it does not have a drying effect, is that it leaves the skin feeling cool! Yes, it has a minty cooling effect ^^ If you don't know about me, I am crazy about everything cool/minty be it, mint ice cream, mint mouthwash, mint drink, mint tea, yes you get me. So this cleanser which has that minty cool 'after taste' has a total stamp of approval from me hehe Especially in the morning, it just makes you feel refreshed and ready for the day or night time, rejuvenates your skin after a tiring day. I'm not sure about the contouring effect though but maybe if I use long enough, I may have that V shape face in time for my wedding *crosses fingers*


The Primer Water 200ml, RM43.00
This hybrid is a hydrating toner and a primer in one. The Primer Water contains patented dewdrop technology (Macro Fluidic Dispersion technology) that gently fills the gaps between pores and allows hydration to penetrate deep within the layers of the skin. Made with Snow Lotus extracts, this skincare heavy hitter has an incredibly smooth and silky texture that enhances the skin’s natural glow, leaving you with the perfect canvas.

The texture is rather dense and not watery. I actually expected it to be watery since it is called Primer 'water' so I  was surprised at the texture.

Pour out a small amount and apply evenly onto the face, gently patting in for better absorption. I love love how it does not leave any sticky feeling on my skin. I was half expecting it to be sticky due to its thicker than usual toner texture. But, the dewdrop technology feels like water droplets once applied on skin and it absorbs rather quickly. After that, it feels like I've not put anything on my face, which is perfect for my oily skin. I have read some other people saying it is perfect for their dry skin because it is very moisturising but I feel that because of it's non sticky nature, it's perfect for oily skin people. I guess Althea did it right this time by catering to all skin types yet perfect for each one <3

Another thing I like about it is that it also acts as a 'primer' which means, it really smoothens skin as a base prepping for the next skincare and for morning, I felt like it really helps my make up to go on smoother and last longer as well.

Kudos to this product and out of all, I would definitely re-purchase this one! 2 thumbs up hehe


The Fixer Cream 50g, RM50.00
This non-oily, quick-absorbing formula harnesses the power of Trehalose, an ingredient found in the cactus plant that prevents its moisture loss, to provide the skin with 24-hour hydration. This ultra-nourishing wonder cream is also rich in antioxidants derived from Camellia Sinensis (green tea) seed oil, and helps to promote collagen regeneration using Baobab Tree extracts. Upon application, your skin is left looking great and feeling bouncy to the touch.

It looks creamy but then again looks can be deceiving! I'm mostly skeptical about creamy texture products for my oily skin but this one did not disappoint. The texture is something like the primer water where it has a watery texture upon application.

Apply evenly onto the face and gently pat in till absorbed.

I have used this during the day as well as a night cream and found that it is very suitable for my skin be it day or night. I like the light texture it gives so that I won't have that shiny film on my T Zone yet it hydrates my skin all day long with a velvety matte feeling. I apply a thinner film in the morning and then slap on more moisture before sleep. Another thing is that I love the scent which is probably the green tea which feels quite soothing and calming =)

I love that each product is a hybrid that it can be used as one function as well another. I did not experience any breakouts and I could feel my skin is clearing up because I feel that my oil seeds and whiteheads are clearing off. The super plus point, is the price. All 3 products are available for purchase at Althea for only RM116.

Made with only the best ingredients, it’s no surprise that the Bare Essentials line caused quite the craze in the beauty world. Upon its announcement, there was a 10,000-people wait list for the products! But fret not - you can now get your hands on these highly coveted products; you’re just a click away from glowing, flawless, crystal clear skin. 

Plus, Althea is giving out an additional 10% off with a free special edition mirror if you purchase now so head on over to www.althea.kr today! 

March 22, 2018

Weekend staycation at Armada Hotel, PJ

Last weekend I had an amazing staycation not too far away from home.

If you pass by the Federal Highway, you would be able to spot Armada Hotel and those travelling on the Federal Highway often will know that it is quite a landmark in the buzzing heart of Petaling Jaya.

Let me take you on my journey during the staycation at Armada Hotel, PJ.

Firstly, if you don't know, The Armada Hotel is amongst the finest 4 star hotel in the vicinity. It is conveniently located in the heart of Petaling Jaya, approximately 41 km from Kuala Lumpur International Airport, a mere 5-minutes walk to the Asia Jaya LRT station, close to buses and taxi stands thus allowing more options to major parts of the city and easy access to Klang, Shah Alam and Kuala Lumpur.

To cater to the increasing demands, the 24-storey property features 257 rooms that has been completely renovated in end 2017 to modern and elegant standards. All the rooms have been meticulously designed and planned to give guests a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Each room comes with a USB equipped 40” plasma TV and complimentary WIFI to keep you wireless, yet wired.


We checked in on Saturday and the check in process was rather quick and easy.

We were then given our room cards...

...and took the lift to the 15th floor. The whole look was new and the setting was classy.

Our room was 1503.
It is a Grand Deluxe room with a room rate of RM270+.

The first impression when I first entered was literally, 'Wow'.
I mean honestly, you wouldn't think the rooms were this new and beautiful from the outside building look of Armada because it looked rather old from outside. 

However, the room definitely didn't disappoint. In fact, it even beats some of the 5 star hotels that I've been. My fiance agreed because he knows better as he travels most of the time and stays at luxurious hotels and this one looked luxurious with the furnishings and settings.

It was very spacious which is the number 1 thing that I love. Keep everything simple but give me space and I'm more than happy! I don't like walking into things (which I'm very prone too by the way) so all these space make me very happy. Plus, the bed was very comfy with soft pillows. Not those hard ones which hurt my neck.

The bathroom can fit 3 people at one time! Haha

Towels were arranged nicely underneath the sink and everything was clean and new. I love the 'brick' design and do not like tiles design because tiles make it look old and sometimes rusty/dirty. The brick design is classier looking and because it's black, it's not easily dirty hehe

Toiletries are all provided so don't need to worry.



There's complimentary tea/coffee for guests and a minibar. 

Other Hotel Facilities & Services :
Restaurant
Live Entertainment Club
24-Hour Room Service
Meeting & Banqueting Facilities
24-Hour Front Desk
Communications Centre
Newspapers
Wheelchairs
Elevator
Safe Deposit Box
Luggage Storage Room
Air-conditioner
Gym
Designated Smoking Area
Laundry
Dry Cleaning 
Currency Exchange
Car Rental 
Pressing Service 
Limo & Valet Parking
Complimentary Wi-Fi

Very lovely of them to send over a fruit platter to quench our thirst.


There's a study table and if you're here for business, you can work comfortably.

A wide sofa to chill...

...or even take a short nap.

Nearby attractions include :
1) Jaya Shopping Mall – 1.2km / 5 mins
2) Amcorp Mall – 1.6km / 5 mins
3) Mid Valley Megamall – 4.8km / 6 mins
4) Sunway Lagoon Theme Park – 5.9km / 15 mins

Armada even has a Grab service with a phone where you can book your ride. This is super convenient!

Armada also gave us complimentary tickets to Sunway Lagoon to enjoy the theme park.


Our inner child were unleashed with so many rides to choose from.


This is a MUST TRY! This Vuvuzela almost made my heart drop LOL


We thoroughly enjoyed our day like small kids playing water in Sunway Lagoon and scared the shit outta me in Scream Park's ghostbuster house -___-

Since it's the school holidays, you may want to enjoy this family package which includes 2 nights accommodation with complimentary tickets to Sunway Lagoon! Quite worth it to me <3 

We then went back to the hotel in time for dinner and karaoke at the private suite at The Merchant Live.

The signature striking neon tunnel is not to be missed.

The Merchant Live is a definite must-visit for those seeking to have some fun. The hotel’s entertainment bar offers an excellent range of food and beverage and comes with three private suites with karaoke entertainment in every suite. In addition to karaoke, the biggest suite, the Gold Suite also features a British pool table and an Electronic Darts machine. Perfect for guests who prefer to entertain in private. 

Just take the flight of stairs to first floor and The Merchant will greet you.

We were in the Gold Suite just chilling on a Saturday night.


Our private dinner was held there with karaoke sessions, dart and pool playing and not forgetting yummy food!

I'm obsessed with their desserts haha

There is also a Japanese deli, Shokudo, which delivers the best dishes from the Land of the Rising Sun, respecting traditions of the past, in a small cozy setting. The deli is located on Level 1 and opens from 12.00p.m to 2.30p.m and 6.00p.m to 11.00p.m daily (except Sundays & Public Holidays).

If you are a coffee or afternoon tea person, snacks as well as an extensive range of beverages are available at either Kafe’ 52 or the Piano Lounge. Both venues are open from 11.00am to 2.00am daily.

Utara Coffee House is the main food haven, well known for its delicious and addictive array of local and western cuisine that also includes its daily Gastronomic Buffet featured during breakfast and lunch and weekend buffet dinner and high-tea. It opens from 6.30am till 11.00pm daily. If you have seen my previous food review with Armada, you would know that that I have always loved their food. This was also where we had breakfast buffet in the next morning.

Can never miss Nasi Lemak at Malaysian buffet hehe




Eggs station.

 
My very own remake of roti telur >.<


There were so much selection of food from western to Malaysian and I love a good buffet spread. Suffice to say that the spread satisfied my tummy to the max. No complaints there haha

And then newspapers arrived and was reading news, watching the television while snacking on the bed. *blissful life*

Can any Sunday be more perfect and lazy than this? =)

After that, took a nap due to the full tummy from the breakfast buffet and then finally it's time to check out. After checking out, Armada so kindly invited us for afternoon hi tea as well. I thought afternoon hi tea would be some pastries and snacks, suddenly I saw the food and I thought I was walking through a dinner buffet LOL! Erm...my breakfast has not digested and now time for hi-tea hahah Oh Armada, you are spoiling me so much!
  
Nasi Lemak again and this time with sambal sotong and rendang chicken. I could eat this ALL day!

Small bites

Soup and bread

Assorted tapas

Pasta with pomodoro sauce and carbonara sauce.

Ais kacang

Lamb stew

Kuih-kuih

EBIKKO!!! MY FAVE. I almost wanted to empty this whole bowl haha

Dim sum and pau. Freshly steamed.

Desserts <3

Pasembor.

All mineeeee.
The laksa was really good and so was the nasi lemak.

Can't live without my ice cream.

I asked for plain ais kacang without the 'kacang' hehe just syrup and cincau. Turned out exactly how I wanted it to be.

I would say for RM72.10, this buffet was super worth it. I ate till I didn't even need to eat dinner AND the next day breakfast. No kidding! Haha

I even wanted to go up to the gym at Level 2 to burn my fats but I couldn't move *laughs*


Here's the price list for the gastronomic buffet which is not to be missed.

The Armada also accommodates to corporate functions as well as weddings. The Ballroom on Level 3 can accommodate up to 350-seated guests or 500 guests for conference meeting. Supported by state-of-the-art facilities, the ballroom is an excellent venue for seminars, conferences, wedding and annual dinners. Along with this, there are six other function rooms on the same level. Located on Level 1, is The Latitude, a multi-event venue which is a recent addition to the existing
function rooms on Level 3. The Latitude is a stylish and spacious venue consisting of three suites which combine multifunctional facilities for meetings and events and can accommodate a standing cocktail group of up to 250 guests.

So why you should choose Armada?

Because:

-the location's perfect
-the room is super spacious
-the food is ah-maaa-zinggg
-the staffs are friendly
-the room service is efficient (we asked for some toiletries and within minutes, it arrived)
-the stay is comfortable
-suitable for business and leisure

What more can you ask for?

Don't be deceived by the outer look. Come inside and stay in it and you'll be surprised ^_*

HOTEL ARMADA (PJ) SDN BHD (Co. No: 116095-U) 
LOT 6 LORONG UTARA C, SECTION 52, 46200 PETALING JAYA, SELANGOR 
Tel (603) 7954 6888 . Fax (603) 7956 8088