Philippines Survival Kit: Organizing a Family Reunion

Alvin and Queenie Bolanos

Excitement to meet brothers, sisters,
cousins  after a long time.

Before even going to the Philippines,
make sure the reunion is planned
to the last detail.



Easiest way to organize a reunion is to
celebrate it in a restaurant.

Unfortunately most restaurants have super
load music, that  you cannot talk to each
other sanely.

So most families opt to have a pot luck
reunion at the short term stay 
in the Philippines. Which I think is the best.

It is wise to have the reunion after
one week of rest, especially if you
come from the other end of the world... like
for example Iceland or Italy, the time is really
confusing upon arrival in Manila.

So, allow your body clock to set its time.
Do not attempt to have the reunion the
next day...

Make sure you prepare a pasalubong, not
really expensive, just to make them feel
special.

A bar or three of chocolates are usually
appreciated. Best to buy at Balikbayan Store.
But if you want to buy chocos which are not
found in the Philippines, its best hand carried.
Most pasalubong boxes are either left in
transfer flights and sometimes luggages are opened.
So just bring pasalubong that are best hand
carried not very expensive.

Do not forget a snap shot of the event
which will serve as a memento.