Ascott Soirée: The Art of Wellness gives city dwellers more reasons to slow down with wellness-focused activities and a filling Filipino-Hispanic afternoon tea.
When was the last time you spent an entire hour doing absolutely nothing?
No checking emails, worrying about deadlines, or mentally running through the next day’s to-do list. For people who always have somewhere to be and something to finish, slowing down can feel like another task that needs to be scheduled.
Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila wants to make that pause a little easier. Following the launch of Ascott Soirée: The Art of Wellness, the property plans to introduce more wellness-focused experiences in the coming months.
I attended the first event, which gave guests an early look at what Ascott BGC has in store. There was good food, blooming tea, and my first-ever sound bath, which was nothing like I expected.
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My first sound bath was a welcome surprise
Going into the session led by Muni.co Wellness, I had no idea what a sound bath would actually involve. I soon found out that all I needed to do was lie down, close my eyes, and listen.
That was it. There were no complicated poses or steps to follow. Falling asleep was completely fine, too.
For about an hour, I stopped thinking about deadlines, responsibilities, and all the things waiting for my attention. I simply rested and let the calming sounds fill the room. As someone who is always on the go and juggling several things at once, the stillness felt unfamiliar at first. But once I settled in, it became the kind of reset I did not realize I needed.
The experience was also a good reminder that being present takes intention. Sometimes, it means setting aside enough time to stop, breathe, and let everything else wait. The sound bath offered a glimpse of the thoughtful wellness moments guests may look forward to as Ascott BGC develops future editions of the program.
This afternoon tea will not leave you hungry
Food will also be part of Ascott BGC’s upcoming wellness plans. The property is preparing to make its wellness-inspired afternoon tea one of its signature offerings. Created by executive chef and director of Food & Beverage Dennis Peralta, the Tropical Fiesta: A Filipino-Hispanic High Tea combines familiar Filipino flavors with Spanish influences.
Do not let the words “afternoon tea” fool you into expecting a few tiny bites. The spread was filling, hearty, and satisfying enough to feel like a proper meal. The savory selections included Mini Shrimp and Green Mango Tartlets, Adobo Chicken Croissants, Smoked Bangus Mousse on Malunggay Pandesal Crisps, and Roasted Piquillo Pepper and Goat Cheese Pintxos.
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There were also warm dishes such as Garlic Prawn Croquettas, Beef Albondiga with Saffron Aioli, and Crab and Coconut Empanaditas. Desserts included Basque Burnt Cheesecake, Churros with Dark Chocolate Ganache, Raspberry Rose and Calamansi Macarons, and Choc Nut Chocolate Éclairs.
Another highlight was the Blossom Jade Tea, a handcrafted tea that slowly opened into a floral formation. Apple petals arranged inside the cup completed the blooming effect. It was almost too pretty to drink, but of course, we still did.
More reasons to slow down at Ascott BGC
More editions of Ascott Soirée: The Art of Wellness are expected in the months ahead. The wellness-inspired afternoon tea will also become one of Ascott BGC’s signature experiences.
Through these upcoming offerings, the property plans to bring wellness, culture, food, and community together in ways that feel approachable and enjoyable.
For anyone who wants a break from the usual city rush, these experiences will offer something to look forward to. No long retreat or packed wellness itinerary needed. Sometimes, a hearty afternoon tea, calming sounds, and permission to do nothing for an hour can be enough to feel like yourself again.
For inquiries or reservations visit www.discoverasr.com
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