Philippines Vacation and Long Term Stay

by: Mrs. Aileen B. Soriano This is the last week of November, and once the first day of December steps in... Its officially Christmas time in the Philippines. Here are some nice places you can visit while you are in vacation at the Furnished Apartment in Novaliches 1.  Parol Fest at the University of the Philippines which is on 15 December 2014. I suggest that you bring the children to the historic Holy Sacrifice Parish before the parade starts. The Holy Sacrifice Parish houses the work arts of National Artists. The dome and the paintings are done by awarded artists in my country. Taste the historical fish ball and other street food in the university. It is best to come at least 30 minutes before it opens to avoid the long line. Visit the Tiangge or small stores afterwards at super affordable prices. 2. Simbang Gabi at the University of Sto. Tomas which is usually held at the grand stadium during the cold winds of December. 3.  Watch a play and concert at the Ateneo de Manila Universit

by: Me (Aileen Soriano) with my sweetheart :) When its Christmas time most prices of food and commodities tend to spike high. Going to the market early to get the first pick in the Philippines is when the prices are usually reasonable. Instead of going to the peak hours when the vegetable sellers tend to add a bit more on the prices. Ask for a discounted price every time you buy from the fresh market in the Philippines, especially when you are buying in bulk. Example is when you want to buy 12 coconuts. If the price is at Php 22.oo, you may haggle to get it at Php 18 pesos or Php 20.00 mid price. If you are buying vegetables, fish or meat, the sellers usually give you a 3% discount especially if you buy lots... you can even ask for an add on fresh fish.

by: Mrs. Aileen B. Soriano If you will be staying at the furnished apartment in Novaliches Quezon City,  there are several Parish Churches nearby, where you can complete the 9 days novena Mass or "Simbang Gabi" in preparation for Christmas: Parokya ng Pagkabuhay Parish Evening Mass typically starts at 8:00 p.m. of the 15th of December, which is the anticipated Mass of the 16th of December. The real early dawn Mass for the 16th of December starts 4:00 a.m. Tip: It is best to be at Church at 3:15 a.m. to assure yourself of a sit in the pew.

by: Mrs. Queenie T.  Bolanos Choosing the right vacation apartment this Christmas in the Philippines -  really depends on how many you are, and where  you want to be near too. I have two considerations when going for a vacation all the time: First consideration is near the family, safe, homey, near the supermarket, hospital and Church. I may be in vacation but typically it is best to be near family relatives as they know the best place to visit. Second  consideration is the number of people who will be with me during vacation. If its a family vacation, it is best to make sure that the rooms are comfortable, and they will enjoy the stay. Hope you will find this Christmas really happy.

by Charlene Bolanos December is like spring of Italy in the Philippines. Most Filipinos find the weather cold already, just like me... Honestly it is 22 degrees C! Nice weather, cool, and you can wear your favorite  cotton sweater.  I think having a pashmina and scarf is not advisable  if you are in the tropics. Manila is relatively pleasant weather, not too hot. So here are some things which you need to wear for December till March. Casual Wear Ladies: 1. Skirts made of light cloth: cotton, polyester, mix fabrics. We never wear woollen cloth in the Philippines. But lots of cotton in colorful designs. 2. Smart blouse and smart tee shirt. I do not go for sleeveless, my top priority is also to protect my arms from the pesky mosquitoes which is always around in the Philippines. Do not be afraid of mosquitoes, as long as you have your insect repellent and malaria shot. Do not stay near stagnant waters because there will always be deadly mosquitoes flying around. Make sure you always apply

Here are more tips for December: by: Mrs. Aileen B. Soriano 1. It is best to stay near your family, relatives or friends. You will save on time traveling and you will be able to rest well. The traffic this December eats up time. Saved time is time spent. 2. If you plan to catch up on sleep after a jet lag trip from the other  side of the globe. Request ahead of time your families, relatives and friends that you prefer to sleep for the next 7 days to rest. This will give you an allowance to sleep and unpacked. Distribute gifts little by little. 3. Make sure you inform them if you will be the one to visit them or you would like to be visited. Request them to come on in your rented furnished apartment or temporary housing; at a specific time . 4. If you plan to rent a short term apartment, you need to reserve ahead of time. There are different types of Furnished Apartments available in the Philippines: a. Furnished Apartments Self Service  Expect that you will come in without any food e

by: Mrs. Aileen B. Soriano November is for the Philippines the whole month for our faithful departed. Offering Holy Mass, prayers and sacrifices. November is a serious preparation for December. Here are three important things to prepare during December: 1. Gifts list.  Starting from: a. close relatives b. god sons and god daughters c. relatives d.  friends (barkadas (chums) and co-workers) e. clients etc...outreach... 2. Christmas Card list. Copy the list from above, and you can add some more if you want. 3. Carollers 4. Specific dates for: a. family gatherings, it is safest to have this date posted ahead of time. December is the time you may encounter the worst traffic during peak times and rush hours. b. Christmas Parties with friends...same arrangement as above c. Weddings... of friends... d. Singing engagements e. Office Parties with gifts... boxes. Traditionally Christmas gifts are given on 16th of December...but I usually start distributing early to make sure it reaches within th