Showing posts with label Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Review. Show all posts

Saturday, September 9, 2017

Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico




First of all, sorry for not posting anything last week.  It was the Labor Day long weekend in the States, we're back on track with school schedules, and I’m still daydreaming about our summer vacation, whenever I'm alone!  When I'm not daydreaming, I was actually busy processing the videos and pictures that we took during our summer vacation in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Lobby of Garza Blanca Resort)

Second of all, this is NOT a sponsored post!  We paid for this entire trip out of our own pocket!

Now that the disclaimer is done, if you still haven’t check out my video above, be sure to watch it.  In this video, I’ll give you a virtual tour of our 2 bedroom suite at the Garza Blanca, a beautiful resort where we stayed for 5 nights during our summer vacation.   I also included some of our daily activities and food that we enjoyed.   Although we did experienced some thunder storms (mostly at night), overall, we had fantastic and awesome experience for our stay. 


Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it



Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Click on the images to enlarge)

Besides the beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean by the beach, the infinity pools at this resort are just as gorgeous.  We signed up for the all-inclusive package and the non-motor sports activities at the hotel beach area are all included as well.  For the majority of time, we stayed in our resort, hung out at the beach and pool side.  My Kids declared that it was the most amazing vacation ever!  Honestly, I guess it’ll be quite hard to beat this one though.  No pressure on the person who will be researching and booking our next vacation destination though (a.k.a. my Husband)!


Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it


Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Berry Blush Cocktail)

Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Grilled Mushroom – Side dish from the Steakhouse)

Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Sauces for the Steaks)

Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Veal Chop)


Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Dessert Tree from the Steakhouse - Assorted Desserts)

There are 3 major restaurants in this resort, unfortunately one of them (Italian theme) was under renovation during our stay.  So we only dined in the remaining 2 of them, they are Blanca Blue (Mexican theme) and Bocados STK (modern steakhouse).  The food and service in both restaurants were exceptional!  Be sure to check out more food videos and pictures from my video tour above.  The presentation of the dishes from Blanca Blue were fabulous!


Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Lobby of Hotel Mousai)


Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Pressure Massage Shower – one of the Hydrotherapy Circuit at Spa Imagine)

The sister resort of Garza Blanca called Hotel Mousai is for adults only.  They do have 2 other restaurants but we didn’t get to try them this time.  However, I did get a chance to visit Spa Imagine, which is located in the Hotel Mousai, and enjoyed a relaxing massage as well as their Hydrotherapy services.  That facility and services were just as wonderful as the rest of the resort.  Everyone was very attentive and courteous.   They would go above and beyond to make sure that you are happy and satisfy.  I did had a relax afternoon at the spa and felt rejuvenated when I left!  Thanks to my Honey for watching the Kids!

Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Room Service Food)

Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Mojito from Pool Side Service)

Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Snack from Pool Side Service)


Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico    http://uTry.it
(Seafood Ceviche from Pool Side Service)

As I mentioned before, we opt for the all-inclusive package for our stay.  Therefore, all of our food including room service and pool side snacks and bars were all included.   But I have to say, the room service food was just so-so.  On the other hand, the pool side snacks and drinks were surprisingly delicious!  Overall, we had an awesome vacation and spent some quality time together as a family.  We sure made some unforgettable memories and something to look forward to in the future.  We sure hope to have a chance to be back some day…..but for now, I need to work hard for our next vacation! 

Just in case, below is the hotel website and information if you’re interested to check it out. 

Garza Blanca Preserve, Resort & Spa
Website: http://www.garzablancaresort.com/ Resort Phone: +52 (322) 176 0718
Address: Carretera a Barra de Navidad Km. 7.5 Puerto Vallarta , JAL. ,48390, Mexico.







Disclaimers
uTry.it hotel reviews are solely based on our experience at each hotel or resort we visit.   They were just our opinions. Unless otherwise stated, uTry.it and its owner were not compensated in any way to stay at these hotels nor to write reviews.  We have no control over your lodging experience at any given hotel. Your experience will depend on the staff working that evening, the time of day, the cycles of the moon and many other things beyond our powers to influence.


Friday, December 2, 2016

Origami Zoo Review and Giveaway

Origami Zoo Review and Giveaway

What was your favorite hobby when you were young?  For a while, I was obsessed with Origami.  From the classic cranes, to the lucky stars, and all sorts of shapes and boxes!  It’s a fun way to unwind, relax, and forget about homework for a while.  My Little Girl is also into Origami now.  There’s even an after-school programs where kids learn how to make different origami animals.  It costs over $100 for just 8 sessions!  Boy!  Luckily, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy this hobby!  Check out this Origami Zoo Kit!  It has everything you need for a fun project.

This Origami Zoo Kit contains:
  • Full-color 48 page booklet
  • Clear, step-by-step diagrams and instructions
  • 15 fun origami projects
  • 95 animal parts stickers
  • 40 sheets of origami paper
  • Fold-out zoo map
The Origami Zoo Kit will provide hours of enjoyment for your kids while at the same time teaching them a valuable new skill!  No wonder this kit is the Winner of the 2016 Creative Child Magazine Preferred Choice Award! 

The instructions in this kit is easy to follow.  Each character comes with simple folding instructions, and the patterned papers can be folded up in just a few minutes.  I love all the stickers included to provide a wonderful finishing details to the animals and models.  My Daughter and I had so much fun playing with this kit. 

Origami Zoo Review and Giveaway

As you know, the holiday is fast approaching!  This Origami Zoo Kit will make a wonderful stocking stuffer for any kid!  Interested to win a copy?  Check out the giveaway detailed below on how to win a copy of the Origami Zoo Kit, courtesy of Tuttle Publishing.

Here is the Giveaway details:

One lucky uTry.it reader (open to U.S. residence only) will win a copy of “Origami Zoo Kit” craft book.


To enter:
1) Simply Liked my Facebook Page by clicking here.
2) Then, leave a comment below to let me know that you’ve done so.  If you’ve already liked my Facebook page before the giveaway, simply let me know in the comment and you’re entered!


All entries must be received by December 18th, 2016 mid-night PST.  Winner will be selected through Random.org and announced shortly after the giveaway is closed.
Good Luck!



If you can’t wait for the giveaway and want it now, you can click on this link https://goo.gl/oLs3ko to purchase your own copy, or two.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the Origami Zoo Kit free of charge for the purpose of this review.  All opinions are 100% my own and always will be.

Thursday, November 10, 2016

Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas Review and Giveaway - How to Wrap Gift Cards



Are you ready for the holiday seasons?  I’m quite excited this year as we’ll have some relatives visiting from overseas to spend the holidays with us.  It’ll definitely be a wonderful family reunion and great celebration!  I can’t wait!  What are your family traditions for the holidays?  For my family, gift exchange is one of our favorite tradition during Christmas.  It does not have to be expensive gifts as it is always the thoughts that matter the most!  I personally like giving out homemade gifts.  Or, gifts that are useful and practical.  If you wrap or package your gifts nicely, it’ll definitely elevate the appeal of your gifts.  Today, I’m excited to share the review with you on the “Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas” craft book, the Chinese Silk wrapping paper, and the Japanese Kimono wrapping paper!  

Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas Review and Giveaway - How to Wrap Gift Cards   http://uTry.it

If you haven’t check out the video tutorial above, don’t forget to do so.  In the video, I’ll show you how to wrap and package your gift cards, in a unique and personal way.  Did I say I like practical gifts that people can use?  Yes!  Handing out gift cards to the recipients’ favorite stores are some of my favorite gift giving ideas!

Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas Review and Giveaway - How to Wrap Gift Cards   http://uTry.it

I love that the “Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas” books comes with colorful step-by-step pictorial!  With the illustrative photos and easy instructions in this craft book you can:
  • Find interesting ways to use almost any kind of paper
  • Creatively and neatly wrap gifts of any size, shape and purpose
  • Make containers such as bags, boxes, unique envelopes, and even a pencil case
  • Add a little romance with sealing wax, washi tape, custom-made tags and more
  • Use personally significant embellishments to make every gift a personal conversation between you and the receiver

The Chinese Silk wrapping paper, and the Japanese Kimono wrapping paper are among the highest quality of wrapping paper that I’ve ever used.  They are thick and sturdy.  Definitely won’t rip or tear during the wrapping process, which is important to me!  The unique printing truly resemble the Chinese Silk and the Kimono prints on garments.  I’m totally in love!  

Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas Review and Giveaway - How to Wrap Gift Cards   http://uTry.it

Check out this adorable Christmas Tree wrapping above!  I can’t wait to surprise my kids with this wrapping method! 

Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas Review and Giveaway - How to Wrap Gift Cards   http://uTry.it

I always have trouble wrapping cylinder shaped objects!  Now, this wrapping method will come to the rescue!  It’ll be perfect for homemade canning goodies!  Yay!  Another wonderful news is that the generous people at Tuttle Publishing is sponsoring a giveaway for you! 


Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas Review and Giveaway - How to Wrap Gift Cards   http://uTry.it



Here is the Giveaway details:

One lucky uTry.it reader (open to U.S. residence only) will win a copy of “Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas” craft book, and one package of wrapping paper (winner’s choice).  Choose from the Chinese Silk wrapping paper, OR the Japanese Kimono wrapping paper!   


To enter:

1) Simply click here to subscribe to my YouTube Channel. 
2) Give my video a "thumb's up". 
3) Then, leave a comment below to let me know that you’ve subscribed to my YouTube channel.  If you’ve already subscribed to my YouTube channel before this giveaway, simply let me know in the comment and you’re entered!

*Gift card and other tools appeared in the video tutorial are NOT included in the giveaway.


All entries must be received by December 4th, 2016 mid-night PST.  Winner will be selected through Random.org and announced shortly after the giveaway is closed.

Good Luck!



Product links in this review:

Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas:
https://goo.gl/cbmgD2

Chinese Silk Wrapping Paper:
https://goo.gl/tSnOAw

Japanese Kimono Wrapping Paper:

https://goo.gl/jFHAxY



Disclaimer: I received a copy of the Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas and a package of the Chinese Silk wrapping paper and the Japanese Kimono wrapping paper free of charge for the purpose of this review.  All opinions are 100% my own and always will be. 

Sunday, October 4, 2015

Paleo Italian Cookbook Review and a Worldwide Giveaway

Paleo Italian Cookbook Review and Giveaway http://uTry.it

Recently, I have the honor to partner with Tuttle Publishing to review the Paleo Italian cookbook, by Cindy Barbieri.  Cindy has been cooking and hanging out in her Nana’s Italian kitchen before she was tall enough to reach the kitchen counter-top!  Her Grandmother believes in “feed your man and he’ll always come home to you”.  What a wise women and I totally believe in that as well. 
   

Paleo Italian Cookbook Review and Giveaway http://uTry.it

This Paleo Italian cookbook is for someone who is somewhat familiar with the basic principles of Paleo diet, which avoids dairy, grains, legumes, vegetable oils, processed sugar and most other processed foods.  Pretty much a clean, healthy and wholesome diet, in my humble opinion.  At the beginning, I was really doubtful on how authentic Italian cooking could also be Paleo compatible as most Italian dishes involve pasta, pizza and pastry!  Barbieri sure did proved me wrong from her cookbook.  She cleverly substitute some ingredients such as using coconut oil and olive oil instead of vegetable oil; she also used almond and coconut flour instead of traditional wheat flour, to make Paleo cooking a breeze. 

Paleo Italian Cookbook Review and Giveaway http://uTry.it

In the Paleo Italian cookbook, you’ll find useful information from ingredient and tool lists, helpful cooking method and tips, to places to visit and dine out in Italy!  It also includes 100 authentic and easy-to-follow Italian recipes ranging from Sauces & Condiment, Appetizers, Brunch, Tuscan Favorites, Soup & Stews, Meat & Seafood Main Courses, Side Dishes to Dessert and cocktails.  Many dishes are perfect for weeknight dinners as well as weekend entertaining.  I can’t wait to try the Brick-Baked Cornish Game Hens, Braised Tuscan Pork Chops, Dover Sole Piccata, and the Lemon Apple & Caramel Bread Pudding, just to name a few!        

Paleo Italian Cookbook Review and Giveaway http://uTry.it

Interested to get your hands on some awesome Paleo Italian recipes and start cooking?  You can order your own copy of Paleo Italian by clicking here.   Or, try your luck to win one because I’m giving  away a copy of Paleo Italian cookbook, to one lucky uTry.it reader, courtesy of Tuttle Publishing.


Here are the details on how to enter.
One lucky uTry.it reader (open to my worldwide readers) will win a copy of “Paleo Italian”.


To enter, simply leave a comment on this post and tell me if you love Italian food or if you’re interested to start a Paleo diet.  Please also leave your email address along with your comment so that I can contact you if you're the winner!  Deadline to enter is October 25th, 2015 by mid-night PST.  Winner will be selected through Random.org and announce shortly after the giveaway is closed.

For extra entries, do any or all of the following (leave a separate comment for each extra entry):
1)  Add me to your Google+ circle here
2) "Like" uTry.it's Facebook Page, click here.
3) Pin a picture from this post onto Pinterest.
4) Share this giveaway on Facebook (with a link back to this post please)
5) Share this giveaway on Twitter (with a link back to this post please)
That’s all and Good Luck everyone!

Disclaimer:  I received a copy of “Paleo Italian” for the purpose of this review and I was not compensated in any way to write this post.  All comments and opinions are 100% my own.

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Ultimate Origami for Beginners Kit Giveaway Winner Announcement



Ultimate Origami for Beginners Kit Review and Giveaway
 
 
Thank you everyone who participated in The Ultimate Origami for Beginners Kit giveaway.  Special thanks to Tuttle Publishing for providing the prize.  We have selected a winner through Random.org!

random winner

The winner is Ellen Mae Barrientos who siad,
”I've tried it when i was in college. but that was a long time ago”
Congratulations, Ellen Mae!  I’ll be in contact with you soon.

If you didn’t win the giveaway, you can still purchase a copy of the Ultimate Origami for Beginners Kit here.

It’s a wonderful kit not just for Origami beginners but for everyone in the family to enjoy.  My kids love this kit so much and we had fun working on different projects.

Thank you all for reading.  Stay tuned for more fun recipes, video tutorials and giveaway soon.

Friday, October 31, 2014

Dark Chocolate Espresso Madeleines and a Giveaway


Dark Chocolate Espresso Madeleines and a Giveaway   http://uTry.it

After my very first trip to France this summer, I fell in love with Madeleines!  Well, I pretty much fell in love with everything in France, not just Madeleines.  Madeleines were originated in France, they’re small and light sponge cakes in the shape of shells; baked in special baking pans, such as this one that I own (click here to check it out).  The pan is not expensive at all.  I say, it’s a very good “investment” because you can bake and enjoy these delicate and elegant little tea cakes any time you want at home.  With this Madeleines recipe book (see picture above) to help you bake along, you’re all set! 

Dark Chocolate Espresso Madeleines and a Giveaway   http://uTry.it

There are many wonderful recipes from this Madeleines book, both savory and sweet.   From morning madeleines option, such as lox and cream cheese, to indulgent ones, such as Hazelnut & Frangelico and Banana Foster; this book got you covered with its wide varieties selections.    Another great thing about this book is that you’ll get some great tips from the author, as well as simple storage solutions. 

Dark Chocolate Espresso Madeleines and a Giveaway   http://uTry.it

Of course, elegant photos of the final products along with pictorial illustration is another big plus (see picture below).  I truly love madeleines, they are so simple to prepare.  As you can see from the picture below, all the tools you’ll need are a mixing bowl, a whisk, maybe an ice cream scoop for even distribution (or you can just use a measuring spoon), and the madeleine baking pan.  That’s it!  No other special equipment needed and all the recipes are super easy to follow. 

Dark Chocolate Espresso Madeleines and a Giveaway   http://uTry.it

I’ve tried the Dark Chocolate Espresso Madeleines and it’s rich and decadent, just as how it looks and sounds.  I can’t wait to try some other recipes in this book, especially the savory ones.  The Guyere & Rosemary ones, and Herb de Provence are on my to bake list!  They’ll be elegant appetizers for holidays and gatherings for sure.   

Dark Chocolate Espresso Madeleines and a Giveaway   http://uTry.it


Today, you’re in luck! Because I’m giving away a copy of Madeleines recipe book to one uTry.it reader, courtesy of Quirk Books.

Here are the details on how to enter.
One lucky uTry.it reader (with an U.S., Canada or U.K. mailing address) will win a copy of “Madeleines”.

To enter, simply
leave a comment on this post and tell me if you prefer to enjoy Madeleine as breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert (or all three, like me)?   Deadline to enter is November 9th, 2014 by mid-night PST.  Winner will be selected through Random.org and announce shortly after the giveaway is closed.

For extra entries, do any or all of the following (leave a separate comment for each extra entry):
1)  Add me to your Google+ circle here
2) "Like" uTry.it's Facebook Page, click here.
3) Pin a picture from this post onto Pinterest.
4) Share this giveaway on Facebook (with a link back to this post please)
5) Share this giveaway on Twitter (with a link back to this post please)

That’s all and Good Luck everyone!


Disclaimer:  I received a copy of “Madeleines” for the purpose of this review and I was not compensated in any way to write this post.  All comments and opinions are 100% my own.


Dark Chocolate Espresso Madeleines and a Giveaway   http://uTry.it

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway


Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway  http://uTry.it

Hello, to all Hello Kitty fans out there!  Yes, this post is all about the adorable Hello Kitty, again.  My Little Girl is a super fan.  She has over 10 Hello Kitty plush toys, big and small, along with dresses, slippers, utensils, hair clips, stationaries, etc.  My Hubby and I would get a little plush toy for her, whenever we traveled to different city, or country.  This particular one was from, France, of course.  I think she’s the perfect company to these cute Hello Kitty French Macarons!

Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway  http://uTry.it

My Baby Girl loves these macarons so much.  She thinks they are almost too cute to eat, almost!  I made these macarons in the morning and I purposely left a few without any decoration and let My Girl decorate her own after school.  She had so much fun!

Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway  http://uTry.it

I’m sure you’ve seen me made all kinds of different macarons, with various flavors and shapes (such as these, these, these and these).  These Hello Kitty are one of the most adorable ones I’ve made.  And they are inspired by The Hello Kitty Baking Book (see picture below), by Michele Chen Chock.  Michele is the author of the I Heart Baking blog, which I love and personally followed for quite some time.  She always share her whimsical cakes and cupcakes decorations on her blog.  If you haven’t done it yet, you should go check out her blog. 

Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway  http://uTry.it

One great thing about this book is that you don’t necessarily have to get the Hello Kitty character molds or cutters to made these adorable treats.  Michele would show you step by step in how to create these cuties with just a few basic baking and decorating tools.  But if you’re a Hello Kitty fan, or have a fan in the family, I’m sure you might already got some Hello Kitty kitchen tools around the kitchen. 

Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway  http://uTry.it

Another reason why I love this book is that you get 'options' with one recipe.  For instant, you can prepare this Ombre cake (see picture below) by baking the batter in a large cake pan cake; or into adorable cupcakes, or make both, whichever fits your needs.  

Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway  http://uTry.it

Halloween is coming up and these Jack-O-Lantern Spice cookies are just perfect for the occasion.  In this book, not only you’ll find recipes for cookies, cupcakes, but also pies, cake pops and many many more. 

Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway  http://uTry.it

You’ll also get the templates for Hello Kitty, and her friends.  Yay!

Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway  http://uTry.it

Check out these adorable cake pops!  I can’t wait to make them with my Kiddos!

Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway  http://uTry.it

The recipes and instructions in this book are simple and easy to follow.  Whether you’re a Hello Kitty fan or not, this is a great book to own.  I’m sure you have some Hello Kitty fans in your life.  This book will definitely make a great stocking stuffer for the holidays!

Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway  http://uTry.it

You can get your own copy of The Hello Kitty Baking Book here.  Or try your luck with my giveaway today!  Yes, you’ve heard me right.  I’m giving away a copy of The Hello Kitty Baking Book to one uTry.it reader, courtesy of Quirk Books.

This Giveaway has ended.

Here are the details on how to enter.
One lucky uTry.it reader (with an U.S., Canada or U.K. mailing address) will win a copy of “The Hello Kitty Baking Book”.

To enter, simply
leave a comment on this post and tell me if you are a Hello Kitty fan, or how many Hello Kitty dolls do you have in your collection.  Deadline to enter is October 26th, 2014 by mid-night PST.  Winner will be selected through Random.org and announce shortly after the giveaway is closed.


For extra entries, do any or all of the following (leave a separate comment for each extra entry):
1)  Add me to your Google+ circle here
2) "Like" uTry.it's Facebook Page, click here.
3) Pin a picture from this post onto Pinterest.
4) Share this giveaway on Facebook (with a link back to this post please)
5) Share this giveaway on Twitter (with a link back to this post please)
That’s all and Good Luck everyone!

Disclaimer:  I received a copy of “The Hello Kitty Baking Book” for the purpose of this review and I was not compensated in any way to write this post.  All comments and opinions are 100% my own.

Just a side note: before I decorate the Hello Kitty Macarons, my Hubby thought I was making piggy macarons!  So, I decorated a few with piggy faces.  I guess they do work as piggy, too.  But next time I’ll make pink ones instead.  

Hello Kitty French Macaron and a Giveaway  http://uTry.it

Saturday, June 7, 2014

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) and a Giveaway!


Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

The official first day of summer is June 21st this year!  Seriously?  I thought summer has arrived 2 months ago.  Well, at least in Los Angeles, it has!  That’s why I’ve been posting Shaved Ice, detox soup, salad, and icy treats recipes on my blog and Facebook page.  I hope you like them all so far.  And today, I have another refreshing and delightful treat for you, Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶).  Plus, a wonderful giveaway that you don’t want to miss, more to that in just a minute.  Have I grabbed your attention yet?

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

The first time when I tried a sweetened fruit tea was during a visit to Taiwan.  I felt in love with the tea right away.  It’s fruity, refreshing, slightly sweet, and packed with wonderful aroma.  What’s not to love, isn’t it?  Of course, I can’t help it but to replicate it at home.  And I found the tea leaves and a secret ingredient that can take this lovely drink to the next level.  The kind folks at Singing Dog Vanilla sent me a collection of their vanilla tea leaves to try out along with their latest product, the Vanilla Coconut Palm Sugar!

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

I have to say, the Vanilla Coconut Palm Sugar is the bomb!  You can taste each element from it and the aroma is so complex, yet, each aroma compliments each other.  This is the secret ingredient that I used, to flavor the Mixed Fruit Ice Tea.  Okay, I guess there’s no more secret now.

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

I’ve always loved Singing Dog’s Vanilla Tea.  I’ve used their Vanilla Blackberry Sage Tea and made a berry version of this tea and it was so wonderful.  Take a look at the tea leaves in the picture below.  You can see the vanilla bean pieces among the tea leaves.  The vanilla aroma would slowly releases while you steep your tea.  You simply can’t get this gourmet vanilla bean aroma from anything else.  It’s sweet, fragrant and oh so soothing.

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

Each package of Singing Dog Vanilla Tea comes with a reusable tea bag for steeping. 

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

And the plastic bag comes with a re-sealable tape to assure freshness with the remaining tea leaves, how thoughtful! 

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

The traditional fruit tea usually calls for using black tea as a base.  In this recipe, I used the Singing Dog Vanilla Black Assam Tea.  A one cup serving of tea requires 1 teaspoon of tea leave.  Since I’m making a concentrated tea mixture (for a large pitcher), I used 2 tablespoons of tea leaves.  Here’s how I made it.  First, fill the tea bag with the tea leaves, then place the tea bag in a large heat proof pitcher along with the Vanilla Coconut Palm Sugar. 

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

This time, I chose the fruits that are commonly used to make Taiwanese Mixed Fruit Tea.  They are apple, lime, nectarine, and lemon.  You can basically use any kind of fruit you prefer or in season.  Simply pick three to four of your favorite fruit and include a citrus one in there.  The tang from the citrus will brightens up the tea.

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

Next pour in hot water and let the mixture steep for 5 minutes.  Stir with a wooden spoon until sugar dissolved.  Then, remove the tea bag and discard the tea leaves.  Rinse and dry the tea bag for future use.  Next, pour in some apple juice and ice cubes.

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

As simple as that, and your Mixed Fruit Iced Tea is ready for your enjoyment!


Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

This will be the most refreshing drink for the summer!  The tea is slightly sweetened and not overly sweet.  The fruits will retain their natural sweetness and as they steep with the tea leaves, they will  release their wonderful flavors into the tea.  You can taste the wonderful vanilla bean and see the little specks in your tea as well.  The subtle coconut and palm sugar flavors give this tea depth, and compliment the black tea and fruit wonderfully.  

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

And the best part of my photo shoot always comes at the end when I can finally enjoy my iced cold drink in these steamy hot days!  Ahhh…..so good!

Mixed Fruit Iced Tea (冰鎮水果茶) http://uTry.it

What is better than enjoying the Mixed Fruit Iced Tea in the hot summer days?  It certainly is enjoying my fruit tea while I can share my recipe and these awesome ingredients and products with you! Yes, it’s Giveaway time!

Singing Dog Giveaway   http://uTry.it


How about winning a set of Vanilla Black Assam Tea (2 oz) AND the Vanilla Coconut Palm Sugar (2.5 oz), as shown in the picture above, courtesy of the kind folks at Singing Dog Vanilla!?  And there will be 3 winners.  Thank you Singing Dog Vanilla for providing the giveaway.  Here’s how to enter.

This giveaway is over!

To enter the giveaway, simply leave a comment on this post and tell me what’s your favorite fruit.   Please also leave your email address so I can contact you if you are one of the 3 lucky winners.

3 lucky uTry.it readers will win the Vanilla Black Assam Tea AND the Vanilla Coconut Palm Sugar. This Giveaway is open worldwide.  Deadline to enter is June 15th by midnight PST. Winner will be selected through Random.org and announce shortly after the giveaway is closed.  Prizes will be shipped out directly by Singing Dog Vanilla.


For extra entries, do any or all of the following (simply leave a separate comment for each extra entry):

1) “Like” Singing Dog Vanilla on their Facebook Page, click here.

2) "Like" uTry.it's Facebook Page, click here.
3) Follow Singing Dog Vanilla on Pinterest, click here.
4) Add me to your Google+ circle here.
5) Share this giveaway on Facebook (with a link back to this post please)
6) Pin a picture from this post onto Pinterest.

Good luck everyone!   


Props and Tools used in this post:

Weck Jars with lids (Click here for more information)
Blue Paper Straws (Click here for more information)
Classic Glass Pitcher (Click here to see similar product)
Long Wooden Spoon (Click here to see similar product)
Measuring Spoons Set (Click here for more information)
Two Tone Bamboo Cutting Board (Click her to see similar product)



Disclaimer: I received the Singing Dog Vanilla Teas and Vanilla Coconut Palm Sugar free of charge for the purpose of this review. I was not compensated in any other way.  All opinions are 100% my own and always will be.