Bittersweet afternoon at Starbucks

By Yo Han

I remember 7 years ago when I used to drink coffee since I worked the night shift before. The smell of bittersweet coffee is really enticing. Aaaahhh. I feel recharged and alive from slumber the time I take a sip of my favorite coffee flavor, “cappuccino,” with ice in a tall size. Drinking an Ice Cappuccino while sitting on a beautiful couch in a low-temperature environment is a relaxing moment. I have known Starbucks café from a coffeeholic friend until now. So we went there together during our spare time to drink our favorite drinks: Cappuccino, his favorite, and Frappuccino with whip cream in a tall size for me. Yay!

We’ve been to the different Starbucks branches in Lapu Lapu (Mactan). So far, one of my favorite branches is located in Mactan Newtown, next to 7Eleven. It is located 30-minute travel from Mactan airport by taxi. I am in awe of their interior design. It is such pretty to look at, especially the cozy ceiling above where the baristas make the coffee for the customers.

             When you open the entrance door, you can see the marches on your right side and the desserts, pastries, and non-coffee drinks in front of you. The barista area is in between the tables reserved for the customers. My friend and I head to the couch on the corner of the café right after our order.

PERKS OF BEING A STARBUCKS CARDHOLDER

           It has been a long time since I’ve been a Starbucks cardholder. One of the things I like about Starbucks is the time you register by buying their cards; you’ll get a free cake on your birthday every year. Isn’t it amazing? 😀

           Additionally, the moment you order one drink, you’ll get a star which will be indicated on your card. Then, when it reaches 12 stars, you can get one free drink (any drink, be it coffee and non-coffee beverages of your choice) in Grande size, together with your yummy desserts. How cool is that?

           My friend is really into collecting their different cards. The card prices range from P200-P1,500 (the prettiest, well-designed, and unique cards). The good thing is the amount you have paid for the cards is consumable, and you can use it to buy your favorite drink and meals. So it’s a win-win! Yey!

      I have always been looking forward to November since, this time, they started collecting stickers for you to have their customized and friendly planner of your choice. Hurray! Hitting two birds with one stone. You can drink your favorites, plus you’ll get customized merch. Wow!

                           A pouch where the planner can be put into.

                                The travel organizer plus a small notebook

          (the stickers stick on the organizer and notebook aren’t included)

         Sometimes we just need to go out and enjoy hanging out in our most familiar places. As for me, Starbucks has always been the nearest comfortable place for me where I can be myself. 🙂 Until next time again!