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FILIPINOE XPATLIVING IN EUROPEFREEINSIDEPasko back homeCOVER STORYYour guideto a wonderful,white ChristmasIssue 4 - Dec 2013ShopGet lost in Germany’sWeihnachtsmarktTipsCool gift itemsDelicious Noche Buena feastTravelRediscovering BaguioPlus!Philippines’unspoiled beachesExclusive:Robin Padillavisits AmsterdamThe Filipino Expat Magazine 1

2The Filipino Expat Magazine

ContentsExpat Issues8 Undocumented kababayans in Spain, the Netherlands and London reveal theirstruggles against stricter migrant policies in Europe.Relationships12 Perpie Poblador shares tips on how to have a romantic and fuss-free wedding inDenmarkParenting15 Get some insights on how to raise intercultural childrenHealth and Beauty16 How to beat the winter blues18 Indoor exercises for the cold weatherShopping22 Gift ideas for ChristmasCover story24 Five countries that you should visit this winter seasonFeatures28 Filipinos in Barcelona tell how to celebrate Christmas the Pinoy way29 Poet Angelica van Doorn details different Christmas traditions that her familyobserves31 Know how we celebrate Christmas in the PhilippinesPersonalities42 Filipino actor Robin Padilla brings joy to kababayans in AmsterdamExpat interviews44 Radio host Ana Lynn Bjørnstad shares the challenges she has to overcome as anexpat in NorwayOn the cover:The winter season means snow, glühwein,skiing holidays and Christmas. The FilipinoExpat hopes to bring you the unique Filipinowarmth in this issue.38Mouth-watering recipesfor the HolidaysTravel26 Things to do in Germany’s popular Christmas markets27 Tips on planning a European group tour32 Experience the cold season in Baguio City34 Undicovered Philippine beaches you should visit now4567Readers’ CornerA note from the editorContributors’ pageEventsThe Filipino Expat Magazine 3

READERs' CORNERFILIPINOE XPATLIVING IN EUROPEThe Filipino Expat likes to hear fromour readers. Keep on sending yourthoughts and comments toeditor@thefilipinoexpat.com.PublisherDheza Marie AguilarEditor-in-ChiefDiana Uyeditor@thefilipinoexpat.comManaging EditorDheza Marie AguilarCreative DirectorRobin KuijsCongratulations! I hope to read more of your magazine. We wereexpats for eight years and I can truly understand and feel how yourmagazine will inspire the readers. We just moved to the USA this year,but not as expats. But again I truly like how your magazine attractsreaders. Thank you.- Marino Perez, USAHow to become a SMARTer Overseas Filipino Investor,published on Thefilipinoexpat.comI am a teacher in Tokyo, Japan. I have alwaysdreamt of having my own school that offersquality education to young children in ourcountry. I finished my degree in Queensland,Australia. I ended up in Japan because I feel inlove with country particularly the safety andsecurity that one can feel here. But my passionis still for Filipino kids. I was encouraged by yourarticle [published online]. And I enjoyed yourmagazine too. It is very informative especially forus Filipinos abroad. It is very professional. There’snothing like this in Japan. I wish to read more,and please keep me updated through email.- Tess Poblador, Tokyo, JapanSocial Benefit Convention between Spain and the PhilippinesThe article is very informative. Thank you, Attorney Tenorio and TheFilipino Expat for this substantial information.-Maria Kristine Fleischhacker, online readerFree legal advice – Partnership of TFE and Habeas CorporationExcellent article on Chona Abiertas Tenorio and her team HabeasCorporation. Very recommended!-Donna AG, online readerEditorial AssistantLyssa Ericka CabarlesContributing Writers:Ed Biado, Perpie Claes-Poblador, Maan PamaranD’Asis, Ana Angelica Van Doorn, Rose Ann Esquibil,Lana Kristine Flores, Pieter van Overbeeke, DeepaPaul, Patrick Camara Ropeta, Rica Unico Santos,and Nats Sisma VillalunaContributing Photographers:Pranz Kaeno Billones, Sonny Dimaculangan, Alexde Vera Dizon, Camilla Jørvad and Clifford T.BadongenAdvertising ManagersDexter Matilla (Philippines)Rhea Topacio-Rogacion (Europe)The Filipino Expat MagazinePublished 6 times a yearBy The Filipino ExpatThe opinions expressed in The Filipino Expatmagazine do not represent the views of TheFilipino Expat company. While we have exhaustedevery effort to ensure the accuracy of theinformation contained in this publication, neitherThe Filipino Expat nor its editors, contributorsand staff will accept any responsibility for anyomission, typographical or printing errors,inaccuracies or changes however caused. Oureditorial and creative teams reserve the right toedit any material submitted at our discretion. Alltexts, photos and graphics have been used withthe permission of the author or artists. All rightsare reserved. No part of this publication may beduplicated or reproduced in a whole in any formor by any means without the publisher’s priorwritten permission.Comments and complaintsshould be addressed to:TheFilipinoExpatMagazineFollow us onTwitter :@thefilipinoexpatThe PublisherThe Filipino Expat MagazineLorentzlaan 743112KP SchiedamThe NetherlandsTelephone +31 (0) 624407692Email publisher@thefilipinoexpat.comadvertising@thefilipinoexpat.comWebsite www.thefilipinoexpat.com4The Filipino Expat Magazine

EDITOR'S LETTERThe time for merrymaking, sharing of joy and gift-giving is finally here.For Filipinos, the Yuletide season is the most anticipated and exciting partof the year. In fact, the Philippines is known to have the longest celebrationof Christmas in the world, starting the preparations as early as September.Why is that? Christmas to us is a flurry of activities that include decoratingour homes with colorful lights and lanterns, prettifying the Christmas tree inthe living room, planning reunions or get-togethers, making our Christmaschecklist, shopping for presents, and best of all partaking of a feastsurrounded by family and/or relatives particularly on Christmas Eve.Our penchant for celebrating Christmas in a big and festive way could beattributed to our diverse influences, largely from Spanish colonizers. We’vebeen doing it since time immemorial and we’re still doing it with as muchpomp and pizzazz today.To our dear readers, however you are planning your Christmas andwhichever traditions you follow, The Filipino Expat is here to guide youin making the most of the holidays. The idea is to give you more optionson what to do whether you are staying in Europe or planning to spendChristmas in the Philippines.We have features on the different ways people celebrate Christmas, travelstories from Europe and the Philippines, a list of Pinoy favorites duringNoche Buena as well as gift suggestions. We even included tips on getting fitduring the cold season.And how could we forget our exclusive interview with famous Filipino actorRobin Padilla? Contributing writer Pieter van Overbeeke writes how Robin,the original “bad boy” of Philippine cinema, charmed Filipina fans during hisrecent visit in Amsterdam on page 42.FilExpat writer and actor Pieter vanOverbeeke with Robin Padilla and veteranactor Michael de Mesa hanging out at theset of of the upcoming movie ‘10,000 Hours’.On another note, The Filipino Expat is greatly saddened by the latesttragedy that hit the Philippines. We join our kababayans worldwide inpraying for the victims as well as the quick recovery and rehabilitationof devastated communities and provinces left behind by super typhoonYolanda (international code name: Haiyan).Those who want to help, turn to page 45 for the list of accredited agenciesthat accept donations and relief efforts. It might be a bleak time for thevictims to celebrate Christmas this year, but we can at least put a smile ontheir faces this Season of Joy.All the best,The Filipino Expat Magazine 5

contributorsDeepa Paul is a freelance writer living inAmsterdam with her Filipino husband, sevenmonth-old daughter and Singaporean cat. Sheblogs about everyday life, travel, motherhood andother passions at www.currystrumpet.com. Sheloves Christmas and would love to know what yourfavorite Christmas market is!Pieter van Overbeeke runs a private tour groupbased in Amsterdam. He is a popular figure in theFilipino community in the Netherlands becausehe speaks Tagalog fluently and is involved in manyFilipino activities. He has also played in severalFilipino films. Overbeeke lives in Hoofdoorp withhis Filipina wife and their daughter.Lyssa Ericka Cabarles is a marketing practionerwho also dabbles in writing. She has a small pastrybusiness and training to become a sous chef. Sheis a book and music lover and volunteers withdifferent organizations trying to make a differencein the lives of other people.Patrick Camara Ropeta is a multimedia journalist,photographer, videographer and producerworking in print, broadcasting and online media.He is a trained media artist from Royal Holloway,University of London, and London College ofCommunication, University of the Arts London.Based in London, he is interested in art, travel,literature, films, music, theatre, among others. Hisworks appear regularly on ABS-CBN Europe.Maan Pamaran D’Asis spent all her childhoodsummers in the Philippines’ City of Pines. Shestill considers it as one of her all-time favoritedestinations and never fails to find another reasonto fall in love with this mountain retreat. Eventhough she is busy beating deadlines and beinga mom of four, she always jumps at the chanceto visit her Baguio haunts. Scoring fab finds atthe night ukay market has become an enjoyableaddiction.Ed Biado is a Manila-based writer who dabblesin all things mass and social media. He writes alifestyle column for the Manila Standard Today,edits ALTMNL.com and has been employed by oneof the top advertising agencies in the world whilefreelancing here and there. Follow him on Twitter@EdBiado to read his snarky comments on currentevents and pop culture.Rica Unico Santos graduated Bachelor of Languagesand Culture from the University of Utrecht inthe Netherlands and specializes in internationalrelations, political history, development in thethird world countries and refugee issues. She blogsabout her life and musings at www.ladyboymirror.com.Lana Kristine Flores Jelenjev is an early yearscurriculum innovator, engaged parent and apassionate educator. One of her passions ishelping parents and teachers provide meaningfullearning opportunities in daily interactions athome and in school. She writes about her activitieswith her children at www.365daysofmotherhood.blogspot.nl and shares her insights on engagingactivities for teachers, parents and children atwww.visiblyengaged.com.Rose Ann Esquibil is a fulltime nurse at Revalidation(Orthopedic) Institute. She works with cancerpatients recovering from chemotherapy. She givesdance and work out lessons to kids and adults alikeat the GM Bodywork at the Evenaar CommunityCentre in Amsterdam. She hopes to inspire peopleon living a healthy, active lifestyle.6The Filipino Expat Magazine

eventsPhoto Exhibit “A Nation Outside A Nation” – The HagueOpening 9 November 2013, 4pm - 6pmExhibition until 22 December 2013Liefhertje en de Grote Witte ReusStationsweg 1372515 BM The HagueThe NetherlandsA Nation Outside A Nation offers a remarkable insightinto the labor migration of Filipinos and focuses on therelationships between migrants and their relatives backhome. Triggered by a personal quest for the identity ofNadine Stijns’ Philippine in-laws, the exhibit tells talesabout family love, inventiveness and traditional values. Italso shows the hardships that come with poverty and theinevitable need to look for a brighter future elsewhere.Nadine Stijns has been working in Asia on projects relatedto labor migration. Her first book about her work in Chinawas launched last September at the Unseen Photo Fair.A Nation Outside A Nation is made possible by the supportof Enfid NL, a NGO that supports Filipino migrant workers inthe Netherlands.The Filipino Expat Magazine 7

According to reports in 2012, there are about400,000 to 700,000 illegal immigrants inSpain. Andrea is one of them.In London, “Cherry” and “Shaylee” arefacing the same challenges as Andrea. Theyare undocumented, constantly hiding fromauthorities for fear of being deported.Cherry arrived in the United Kingdom fromQatar, where she worked for a year. Her formeremployers would abuse her by not giving herenough food as well as letting her work atunreasonable hours. When her employers hada trip to London, she ran away five days into thevacation. She never looked back.“We only had dates or tamar for breakfast,”Cherry recalls. “Sometimes we could eat rice inthe morning, but only if the family had leftovers.There were times when there was nothing to eatat all, especially on Fridays when our employerswould be out because it’s their day off,” sharesCherry.Shaylee, on the other hand, fared worse thanCherry at the hands of her former employers.She was working for the said family in Dubai fortwo years when they decided to move to the UK.For two years, she endured exploitation in theMiddle East that continued when the familymoved to London February this year. Heremployers work for a diplomatic embassy inLondon.She was given a salary of £200/month whenher contract actually said £1,000/month withday off. Even worse, she was locked up at homeespecially when the whole family was out.She was also prohibited to speak to anyone,especially fellow Filipinos.When her mother was diagnosed with cancer,she was not allowed to go home or speak tothem. Her employers even volunteered to sendher remittances home. Luckily, she found a freewi-fi connection and was finally able to get intouch with loved ones in the Philippines.“I wanted to cry. I was so grateful. At last I wasable to contact my family and get informationonline,” recalls Sherry.Know your rightsWhile there are not many EU laws protectingundocumented migrant workers, the latestEmployer’s Sanction Directive 2009/52/ECallows certain kind of protection.Some of these rights include allowing victimsof labor abuses, even those without properwork documentation, to file a complaintagainst their employer. They are also entitledto back wages of up to six months as well associal benefits that should have been givento them during their employment period. Insevere cases of abuse, the directive obligesmember states to issue a temporary residentpermit to undocumented migrant workers.Meanwhile, a temporary residence permitmight be issued to victims of gender-basedviolence especially in France and Spain.In the Netherlands, France and Spain,undocumented migrant workers can go tospecial police departments to report laborabuses and crimes without being apprehendedbecause of their residence status.Right to health care servicesDespite experiencing difficulties in manycountries when it comes to availing of basichealth care services, undocumented migrantworkers can still go to clinics and hospitalswhen they are sick or have emergencysituations. In the Netherlands, Portugal,France, Spain and Switzerland, Belgium, Italy,United Kingdom and Norway, undocumentedmigrant workers have greater access tohealthcare under specific conditions. While inother EU countries, undocumented migrantworkers have access to emergency caseswithout being automatically reported toimmigration authorities.One day, Shaylee was left alone at home with thebaby and the door was unlocked (the keys wentsuddenly missing). She did not waste any timeescaping.“I packed quickly, took my passport which washeld by my employers, and made sure the babywas safe. Then, I went out of the building andThe Filipino Expat Magazine 9

got on a taxi. I sent a SMS to the wife of myemployer asking her to immediately returnhome because her baby was now alone.That was it. I was so happy. I was free. I wasno longer a prisoner,” says Sherry.But Sherry is not exactly free. Like Cherry,she is playing a dangerous game of hideand-seekwith the British immigrationauthorities. Both girls don’t have any rightto remain in the UK because technically,they don’t have legitimate working visa.Under UK law, their working visa was tiedexclusively to the employers who broughtthem there.“At first I thought life in the UK wouldbe good. But it’s hard to find a job herebecause of the random checks by the police.Many of us are afraid to go out,” Cherrynarrates.There is an estimated 600,000undocumented migrants in the UK,according to a recent study by the LondonSchool of Economics. Migrant Watch, on theother hand, estimates it to nearly a million,including cases that go unreported.Rights for undocumented workersAndrea, Cherry and Shaylee will continueto fear for their safety and security unlessadequate laws for the protection ofundocumented migrant workers will be putin place by their host countries. Otherwise,they will be continuously prone to abusesand exploitation wherever they are.According to Coring Castillo delos Reyes,president of the United Migrant DomesticWorkers in the Netherlands, most of thesepaperless migrants are left with very littlechoice but to keep mum even if theyare already experiencing the worst laborconditions.“Domestic workers here are abused becausethey don’t know their rights. They don’tknow how to defend themselves becausethey are afraid of losing their jobs,” DelosReyes says at the sidelines of a recent streetprotest against labor abuse and exploitationof undocumented migrant workers held inAmsterdam.experienced extremely low salary as well asverbal abuse from her employers.Michele Levoy, director of Platformfor International Cooperation onUndocumented Migrants, a nongovernmentalorganization that promotesthe rights of undocumented migrants inEurope, reveals that there is an estimatedfour million undocumented immigrants inEurope, including thousands of Filipinos.Majority is employed in domestic work aswell as in industries like agriculture andtourism that include hotels and restaurants.Many are in the sex industry as well. Expertssay that among workers in the EU, those inthe flesh trade are the ones who are mostvulnerable to abuse.“Oftentimes a minimum wage is not applied.Worse, they don’t get paid at all. In somecountries, there are other kinds of abuses:Physical, sexual [or] workplace accidents.Many times they would not be able to getworkers’ compensation. We even have caseswhere the employers denied any workingrelationship with the undocumentedmigrant especially in cases of severe injury,”says Levoy.Stricter laws on undocumented migrantsIn recent years, some member states ofthe European Union have imposed stricterimmigration laws. In 2008, EU membercountries agreed to enforce the “ReturnDirective,” which is aimed at managingillegal migration in the region and obliging“Oftentimes aminimum wageis not applied.Worse, they[undocumentedmigrant worker]don’t get paid at all.”Undocumented migrant workersof different nationalities hold astreet protest against labor abuseand exploitation on the streets ofAmsterdam.The OFW champion came to theNetherlands in 2007 and has since workedas a domestic worker. Delos Reyes,herself, an undocumented migrant worker,Fighting to gain legal status is a continuing battle for paperless migrant workers.10The Filipino Expat Magazine

member countries to return third-partynationals to their countries of origin or grantthem legal status to avoid “legal limbo.”This, however, only served as guidelines forsome member states to toughen up theirmigration policies. In 2009, Italy passed alaw criminalizing undocumented migrantswith fines and detention. It also requires itscitizens, including health care professionals,to report undocumented migrants, cuttingaccess of UDM’s to major health careservices.In the Netherlands, lawmakers are developingcertain measures aimed at criminalizingundocumented migrants while in the UK, thegovernment is making proposals that requirelandlords and landladies to report those withno proper documentation.In the UK, the government, led by theConservative Party, had chosen to tightenthe leash on everything, from budget cuts tostricter rules on immigration.Undocumented migrants cost UK tax-payersan estimated £3.7billion on health andeducation services every year, accordingto a recent study by the Home Office. Thisis fueling new government proposals tocurb illegal migration through the so-calledImmigration Bill alongside fresh NHS reforms,in addition to the already tightened visasystem.Under new proposals, the immigration statusof applicants must be checked when dealing“Domestic workershere are abusedbecause theydon’t know theirrights. They don’tknow how todefend themselvesbecause they areafraid of losingtheir jobs”with banks, landlords and employers, as wellas when applying for a UK driver’s license.Patients could also be screened at NHShospitals and may force ineligible migrantsto pay for the services. Spot checks in publicareas and transportations are also becomingmore prevalent.Migrant organizations in Europe are callingon governments, especially in Europe, torecognize that domestic work as official workand ratify the ILO Convention C190 whichcame into force September of this year.The ILO Convention aims to grant paperlessmigrant workers the same rights as regularemployers including being given the right towork and stay legally in a country.By Patrick Camera Ropeta, NathanielSisma Villaluna and Dheza MarieAguilarWhat the expert has to sayLawyer Chona Abiertas Tenorio, an experton migration policies in Europe, says that asa general rule, aliens enjoy the rights andfreedom according to international treatieson human rights. However, this rule dependson the situation of the individual and the lawof the host country. For those who come toEurope from third world countries, meaningthose states that don’t have an agreementwith the European Union for free entry, theyare required to secure legal documentationincluding an entry visa. Once you are in theEuropean territory, you must secure theextension visa or apply for residence permitdepending on your situation.Foreigners who went through the legal processto stay in Europe are entitled to move freelyaround the community and enjoy basic rights.They will be treated equally as the Europeans,as well.Here are some of the rights enjoyed byproperly documented migrants:1. Free access to public health services,emergencies, family doctors, operations,medicines, etc.2. Access to aid and subsidies from thegovernment.3. Free schooling up to secondary educationand scholarship grants in college.4. Employment in different sectors that willfit your qualifications.5. Those who have university studiesaccredited by the host country can apply foremployment in the government as well asnongovernment companies.6. You can apply for petition of descendentsand ascendants.7. You enjoy all the rights and freedom thatEuropean citizens have, except the right tovote.There are many consequences ofworking/living in Europe without properdocumentation. These include:1. Without proper documentation you can’topen a bank account, rent an apartment, signcontracts, avail of credit cards, have telephonecontracts, and so on2. The possibility of being caught, detainedand deported plus constantly feeling insecureand anxious.3. Getting unstable and low paying jobs aswell as greater exposure to risks of being laidoff without any indemnity.4. Limited medical assistance, except duringemergency situations.5. No social security affiliation.6. High risk of not getting a job, at all.The Filipino Expat Magazine 11

RELATIONSHIPSTying the Knot Easilyin AeroskobingPerpie Claes-Poblador shares how she and hubby got married in a foreign landalmost fuss-freeby Perpie Claes-Pobladorphotos by Camilla JørvadLike any other couples we alsoexperienced the highs and lows of gettingmarried –much more so because we areof different nationalities (a Belgian anda Filipina) and not to mention, we live inanother country as expats.Pinning down the wedding placeFinding the right country where you want toget married is the first and most importantstep. After all, it takes time and effort totake care of all legal requirements. Plus,there’s also the cost and effort you arewilling to spend that you need to consider.Switzerland would have been the mostconvenient choice for us. But securing allthe required documents, translating allthese in three official Swiss languages,waiting for our application to get approvedon top of getting a wedding date and placewere just too much for us to process. Wedidn’t have the luxury of time nor thepatience to do all of that. We decided tolook for other options. It didn’t hurt alsothat we both love traveling, which greatlyhelped us in making a decision.We checked on France. The waiting timewas just a couple of days shorter thanSwitzerland. Still, we needed to residethere for a minimum of one month beforeapplying for a marriage certificate. We thenconsidered Belgium and the Philippines asother options.I’ve heard stories about the tedious processthat a Filipino and a foreigner who want toget married in the Philippines are usuallysubjected to. We did not want that.‘Planning the perfect wedding requirespatience, determination and plenty ofromance’, says Poblador.our families and friends live in differentcontinents.“How about we elope? Nobody will know,except our families, until we tell them,” weinnocently joked to each other one night.Before we knew it, we were heading northand landed in these Scandinavian countries:Finland, Sweden, and Denmark. We foundthe Nordic region romantic, uncomplicatedand free.A Danish “fairytale town” calledAeroskobing caught our attention.Everything about it shouted “perfectwedding venue.” We fell in love with theplace right away.Applying for a Danish weddingDepending on the municipality, the legalrequirements were pretty simple andIn Belgium, the marriage can takeplace 10 days after the posting of themarriage banns, a public announcementof an upcoming marriage between twoindividuals. We also had to consider thatThe author and her husband found their perfect wedding venue in Aeroskobing, Denmark.12The Filipino Expat Magazine

straightforward: Our passports and visas,birth certificates, documentation of maritalstatus, and notice of marriage and bookingform. Normally, the processing wouldonly take a week or two, and the couplemight be required to stay three days inthe country. In Aeroskobing though, wewere required to stay for a day only. But ofcourse, we still decided to stay longer.We were able to immediately provide acopy of our marriage certificate, alreadytranslated into English, German, Spanishand French. The second copy was sent aweek or two later, right after it receivedan apostille, a validation from the DanishForeign Ministry which gives our marriagethat seal of so-called internationalacceptability.My partner, an EU national working inanother European country (Switzerland),can apply for my residence permit as hisnon-EU spouse upon returning to ourPoblador enters marital bliss.country of residence.We could have breezed through thewedding. But there simply no avoiding afew hiccups along the way. For instance,it took some time for the consulate inGeneva to respond to my husband’s requestfor a certificate of no marriage. Later on,we found out that he had to submit hisrequest to the consulate in Copenhagen.Meanwhile, the folks from Aeroskobingadvised us to get our papers translatedin German, English or Danish language.Luckily, the Belgian consulate was able toprovide us a German version. On my part, Iwas anxiously waiting for the renewal of mywork visa. It arrived on the day before wewere to fly for Geneva.Keeping it light and easyGetting married in Denmark is fairly simpleand easy. But we still chose to get our ownmarriage coordinator - based outside thecountry - to help us out. Through emailcorrespondences, our wedding plannerproved to be of great help in terms oftaking care of some paperwork, findingthe place to stay in as well as booking thephotographer to capture our special day.I wanted a wedding dress that was simpleand classy. I found one online, it and wasdelivered to me two weeks later.The wedding ceremony took around 15minutes only. Truth be told, it felt longerthan that. The whole time, my tummy waschurning, my hands were cold, and mythroat was dry. I was holding back tears as Irecited each word of my wedding vows. Infact, when it was my turn to say the magicword that would seal our marriage, I endedup whispering it instead. I had to keepasking everyone if I really did say it. Theyassured me I did.The bride chose a simple yet classy wedding gown.My life will never be the same again. I amnow officially a “Mrs.” and on a new journeyto married life.The Filipino Expat Magazine 13

ROBINKUIJSf o t o g r a f i eWeddings / Loveshoots / Portraitswww.robinkuijs.nlBook before January 2014 and get a €100 discount on wedding packages when you donate €50 toany charity organisation helping the victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in the Philippines.14The Filipino Expat Magazine

familyParenting multicultural kidsby Lana Jelenjecphoto by Robin KuijsParenting is a challenging and rewarding gift. But along with itinvolves a lot of compromises and a lot of redirection. Afterall, the life you dreamt for yourself as a single, free-spiritedindividual changes, as you now have your partner and children toaccount for. But parenting in a multicultural environment has theadded challenges of re-assessing cultural norms, going beyondboundaries, and yes, finding the right balance in providing whateveryone in the family needs.So many nights you ask yourself, how can it be done? How do Iparent in such a way that will meet my cultural expectations andstill merge the philosophies of the Western world I am part ofnow? What language do I expose our children to? How aboutreligion? How do I introduce certain traditions? How do I exposethem to our cultural values?We’ve gathered the following tips from parents who have facedand, yes overcome the various stages and difficulties of raisingmulticultural kids:1. Values are understated. It needs to be in the forefront ofparenting especially with multicultural families whose ideals andpractices are different. In the Philippines, we are raised to havepaninindigan (principles) and pagpapahalaga (value). These valuesare taught starting in grade school. It is highlighted in televisioncommercials, soap operas, television shows, in our religion, ourneighbourhood. It is deeply ingrained in us that we are makingchoices according to our principles and our values.We are brought up with a “WE” mentality, making decisionsdepending on how it will affect us and especially those aroundus. We are bombarded with ideals of pakikitungo (level ofcivility), pakikisalamuha (level of mixing), pakikibagay (level ofconforming), pakikisama (level of adjustment), and pakikilahok“Parenting in a multiculturalenvironment has the addedchallenges of re-assessing culturalnorms, going beyond boundaries,and yes, finding the right balancein providing what everyone in thefamily needs.”(level of participating). Our Filipino upbringing tells us that withour partners and immediate families, including in-laws, we need topractise pakikipagpalagayang-loob (level of mutual rapport) andpakikiisa (level of oneness). We are faced with these values day inand out most of our lives. But now being in a new environment,new people and with new set of principles and priorities, you getto ask yourself, “What do I hold true for myself and for my family?”2. Communication is a MUST. Laying down values andexpectations and communicating them well are important. Thereis no room for blurred lines. Meaning the practices of pagtatampoand paglalambing will only be “lost in translation” especially to ourmulticultural kids.3. It takes a village to raise a child. Know that it is ok to call yourparents, in-laws or one of your friends to take the reins from youfor an hour or two when you think the situation is getting out ofhand. Parenting in a land so different, so unique and so foreigncan be so challenging. But it can also be an exhilarating experienceof learning your values and knowing your boundaries as well asaccepting those of your partner and the world you are a part of.The Filipino Expat Magazine 15

HEALTHHow tobeat thewinterbluesby Dheza Marie Aguilarphoto by Robin Kuijs16The Filipino Expat Magazine

Winter depression, also called seasonalaffective disorder (SAD), is a mood disorderthat affects many people during cold seasons.It is prevalent to those living in the north of the equator(think the Nordic region or countries like Sweden andFinland) or where there is less consistency of sunlightand brightness.Scientists believe that reduced exposure to sunlightalso leads to reduced production of serotonin, aneurotransmitter that is responsible for feelings ofwell-being and happiness. Lack of serotonin results infeelings of depression and frequent mood changes.For expatriates who came from tropical countries,winter depression or sometimes called winter blues isone of most difficult struggles to overcome. It affectsour daily lives, our relationship with others as well asour work.Symptoms of winter depressionSomber, dark and rainy climes will often make you sadand irritable. When these feelings drag on particularlyduring autumn and winter, they can lead to depression.So when you start feeling like not getting out of bedfor days on end, consider that this could be winterdepression.Other symptoms of winter depression includeincreased feelings of laziness, sleepiness, fatigue as wellas craving for carbo-rich food that can lead to weightgain. People suffering from winter depression are alsoless inclined to socialize, preferring to stay at homethan meet with friends.So when you start feeling like those mentioned above,it is very important to talk to your doctor for properdiagnosis and therapy. Remember that there aredifferent levels of winter depression.Beating the winter bluesThere are other practical ways to overcome winterdepression without visiting a doctor.Regular exercise and proper diet are particularlyimportant during bouts of winter depression. Try to havesome outdoor physical activities for a minimum of 30minutes, three times a week. Walking after or duringyour lunch break will help brighten your mood especiallyduring those gloomy days.Eating a balanced diet with fruits and vegetable will helpyour body store more energy and might counteract yourcravings for fattening and/or sweet food.Since winter depression usually occurs around Christmastime, there will be no shortage of parties and activitiesthat you can engage in. Even if it takes incredible effort,drag yourself out of bed, get out of the house andsocialize. If partying is too much for you, go out for a cupof coffee or lunch date with your friends or go shoppingwith your girlfriends.Light therapyFor severe cases of winter depression, doctors mayprescribe antidepressant medications or light therapy.Light therapy is a process wherein a patient is exposedto extreme bright lights for a certain period of timeeveryday, indirectly shining it to the patient’s eyes. Thebrightness can be so extreme that patients are advisednot to look directly into the light.Light therapy is often expensive but it can be coveredby your health insurance. A more affordable alternativewould be to buy energy boosting lights that promisesto help in reducing winter depression. The energy lightsmanufactured by Philips starts at about €150. The brandclaims that it has been clinically-tested to boost energythat can help those suffering from winter blues.Winter blues can be hard to beat especially for Filipinoswho are used to 365 days of sunlight. But as long as weare aware of our emotional reactions to the changing ofseasons, we can surely beat this sometimes paralyzingfeeling of depression. We just have to stay positive.Somber, dark and rainy climes will often make yousad and irritable. When these feelings drag onparticularly during autumn and winter, they canlead to depression. So when you start feeling likenot getting out of bed for days on end, considerthat this could be winter depression.The Filipino Expat Magazine 17

HEALTHIndoor exercisesSeated Toe Touch Stretchby Rose Ann Esquibilphotos by Robin KuijsAs the weather gets colder, it getsharder to get off the bed everymorning to exercise or change intogym clothes after work. But more thanever, we need to exercise and flex ourmuscles during the colder months becausenot only does it make our body stronger, italso makes us warmer and gives us moreenergy that the lack of sunlight could bestripping away from us.When we don’t have time to go to the gymor run outside, these easy exercises areideal for our freezing muscles, even wheninside the office.The exercise is divided into three parts:Feet and Legs, Hands and Arms, and Torso.Legs and feetSeated Toe Touch Stretch. From an uprightsitting position, stretch one leg and reachfor your toes using your hand. Hold theposition for 20 seconds and sit backstraight again. Do the same for the otherleg.Seated Toe Raises. Lift your toes whilekeeping your sole firmly on the ground.Make sure you are sitting with your backstraight.Seated Leg Extension. With one foot onthe ground, raise your other foot untilyour leg is parallel to the ground. Hold theposition as long as you’re comfortable.Repeat using the other foot.Seated Leg Extension18The Filipino Expat Magazine

Elevated Push UpHand StretchesFoot Drill. Rapidly tap your feet inplace continuously for 30 seconds.If you have heels on, take themoff first.High Knees and Chest Press. Usingboth hands, pull your legs towardsyour chest while bending yourknees.Assisted Side Legs Lift. Stand infront of your desk and lift yourright leg to the side at a 45-degreeangle, then bring the leg backdown. Repeat 12 times and do thesame with the other leg.Thigh Tone. To tone inner thighmuscles, place a bottle of waterbetween your thighs and squeeze,doing reps of 10.Arms and handsShoulder Up. Raise your shoulderto your ear. Hold for three secondsand then release. Repeat 10 times.Seated Swimmers. Seated onyour chair, move your arms asif you were swimming; first, dofreestyle five times, followed bybreaststroke and backstroke, alsofive times each.Seated Side Bends. Raise yourright hand, suck your stomach inand bend to your left. The loweryou bend, the tighter your leftabdominal muscles will become.Do this 10 times and the switch tothe other side.Elevated Push Up. Do push upson desks and other pieces offurniture in reps of 10.Hand Stretches. Tense and relaxthe muscles in your hands bymaking fists, and spreading andbending your fingers. Repeat fivetimes.TorsoSeated Russian Twist. Sit straightup on your chair and place yourright arm behind your right hip.Twist your body to the right andhold. Alternate sides.Abdominal Stretch. Sit on theedge of your chair and stretchyour arms in front of you. Whilekeeping your back straight,contract your abdominal muscles.Relax and repeat.Gluteal Squeezes. Tense up themuscle of your rear and hold whilecounting to 10. Repeat five times.Seated Russian Twist“We need to exercise andflex our muscles during coldperiods because it does notonly makes our body strongeragainst common cold diseases,it also makes us warmer andgives us more energy thatthe lack of sunlight maybestripping away from us.”The Filipino Expat Magazine 19

ADVERTISING FEATUREExperience a holistic,non-invasive way tobeauty and wellnessJane Torres, Vietura provides comprehensivetreatments and procedures, nutritionalcounseling, cosmetic dentistry and lifecoaching. All these are part of Vietura’sthree-step philosophy: Measure, mentor andmonitor.“Every patient is carefully assessed as a uniqueindividual by their personal consultant, whothen devises a holistic regimen best suited fortheir particular issues and desires,” explainsTorres, who is resolute advocate of noninvasive,non-surgical solutions.The lounge area as well as the treatmentrooms feature vertical gardens.Non-invasive bodysculpting programslike the ultra slim lightare administered bycertified experts.Nutrional coach and wellness consultant AgnesTumaneng adds, “We aim to bring out the bestin our clients, allow them to enjoy the fullnessof life through Vietura’s non-invasive aestheticprocedures combined with integrativemedicine and nutritional and life coaching.”Vietura offers skin vitality treatmentsto help clients get that smooth, silky,younger-looking skin.Coming home to the Philippines this Yuletideseason should be a treat not only for yourfamily but also for yourself.Take advantage of the time spent in thecountry to finally have those long overduebeauty fixes, anti-aging treatments or weightloss management that you’ve been hesitatingto do in Europe due to their relativelyexpensive clinics and procedures.The Philippines, one of the biggest contendersin Southeast Asia in terms of medical tourism,boasts of beauty and wellness facilities andtechnologies that are not only at par withthe world’s best but also safe and mostimportantly, effective.Vietura, an aesthetic lifestyle institute locatedin Sofitel Philippine Plaza, takes pride in beingone of the first in the Philippines to offer 100percent non-invasive treatment programs thatare tailor-made to their clients’ specific needs.Conceived by its chief practitioner Dr. MaryVietura is derived from vie, which means life,and tura, which comes from natura or nature.It is the first health and wellness institute to belocated in a luxury hotel, a stone’s throw awayfrom the international airport.Vietura offers a range of treatments andservices that promote holistic balance. Havingproblems concealing the signs of aging?Vietura’s natural facelift and contour programemploys the use of platelet rich plasma (PRP)and power cell lift treatments to stimulate thebody’s own healing process and smoothen outlines and deep wrinkles.Vietura’s body sculpting with weightmanagement program is also available forindividuals who wish to attain their dreamfigures without the need for surgery. Itcombines technology with a healthy lifestyleby providing a diet program as well as an inhousepersonal trainer to deliver more lastingresults. This package also includes Resonax,the latest non-surgical face and body sculptingtechnology from Europe.When stress and worries take over one’sbody emotionally and physically, Vieturarecommends a detox program, which includescolonics hydrotherapy, massage treatmentsand a relaxing stay at the Sofitel PhilippinePlaza for a little rest and recreation.“Weʼre not in the business of selling the quickfix,” says Torres. “This is why we spend somuch time talking to each customer aboutmanageable diet and exercise regimens. Welisten and ask relevant questions to help themtake charge of the changes they wish to seeand feel.”Vietura also features effective treatmentsfor conditions affecting oneʼs complexion ordigestion. More so, the center has state-ofthe-artaesthetic technology and equipmentfor stem cell and chelation therapy.To ensure the comfort of their clients, Vieturahas tapped renowned interior designerGruppo Espazio, to create a space that issleek yet natural. The results include warmlighting and a live, vertical garden feature ineach treatment room. The latter is meant toprovide fresh oxygen into every room as wellas lend an ambience of being in a hiddenrainforest of sort, a world away from thestresses and toxins of the city.Under Torresʼ meticulous supervision, theinternationally-trained team consists of 12registered nurses, a dietician, dentist andlifestyle coach.For more information about Vietura, pleasecall +632 551 5555 local 5000 or email atinfo@vietura.com or visit www.vietura.com.20The Filipino Expat Magazine

ADVERTISING FEATUREA taste of homein the NetherlandsThere’s no denying that wherever we are in the world, wewill always crave for the unique taste of Filipino cuisine.But because Pinoy food is not yet popular in Europe, it canbe difficult for us to find a place where we can enjoy suchdelicious indulgence except at home.Located in The Hague, the Netherlands, Manong Alex SizzlingRestaurant brings together all the goodness of Filipino food inone unique setting, reminding kababayans what they’ve beenmissing abroad.The restaurant’s cozy interiors boast of a jeepney counterand a terrace overlooking a small podium. On Fridays andweekends, diners can enjoy live music performed by Filipinobands or sing their hearts out through a karaoke session. Thenipa hut that was set up outside and imported all the wayfrom the Philippines, makes Manong Alex stand out amongthe restaurants in the area. It is a favorite among clients whowant to dine al fresco.But what makes Manong Alex popular not only to Filipinosbut also to other nationalities is the wide selection of Filipinostaples including the regular favorites like sizzling sisig,tokwa’t baboy, lumpiang sariwa and many more. They alsooffer buffet dining at an affordable price of €15.99 everySunday.Pinoy food favorites run the show at Manong Alex.“ Unlike other restaurants thattry to adjust to theEuropean taste, at ManongAlex, we strive to cook ourdishes as close as possible tooriginal Filipino recipes”-Alex Aragon, OwnerOwner Alex Aragon personally goes to the market everymorning to select the best and freshest ingredients for hisdishes. He puts a very high value on serving his customersonly the best and healthiest choices in his menu.“We do not use preservatives in our dishes and we makesure that they are healthy, well-prepared and will satisfyour clients’ palate,” says Aragon, a graduate of culinary artsfrom the Ramon Magsaysay University in the Philippines.Aragon’s love for cooking, combined with his more than 15years of experience as a caterer and businessman, allowshim to provide clients an unforgettable dining experience atManong Alex.Manong Alex Sizzling Filipino Restaurant opens Sundays toThursdays from 12noon - 10pm and Fridays and Saturdaysfrom 12noon to 2am. It is located at Rabbijn Maarsenplein19, 2512HJ, The Hague, The Netherlands. For reservationscall 0702137140A replica of the famous Filipino jeepney is one of the attractions in the restaurant.The Filipino Expat Magazine 21

SHOPPINGAll I want for Christmasby Rica Santos UnicoChristmas is in the air. Bright and colourful lights decorate streets. Depending on which city you are in, temperature drops to all time lowforcing you to stay indoors or brave the cold outside wrapped in layers of thick clothing. The chilly winter breeze makes you grab a tissueonce in a while for your runny nose. Yes, the most celebrated event of the year is here. And it’s time to find the perfect present for ourloved ones. Here are some gift ideas:iPad AirLogging on to social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagrambecomes so much easier with the latest iPad Air. You can also listen to musicand watch movies more with its 16 GB memory. Plus, it is 28 percent lighter and20 percent thinner than its predecessor. Price starts at €479.Philips radio with iPhone dockThis vintage looking radio made by Philips with dock for your iPhoneor iPod will be perfect for your son or nephew who loves music. Heck,your husband might even like one too.Nikon digital cameraCapture those happy momentswith friends and family as wecelebrate Christmas throughthe Nikon digital camera D3100 at €329 a pop.ArytySend free load to loved ones in thePhilippines through Aryty. The loadingservice allows you to send/buy load fromGlobe, Smart and Sun without chargingyou any service fee. It doesn’t have anyhidden charges as well. Using an app onyour smartphone, it is very easy to sendload to the Philippines. Try Aryty’s freetrial. For more information, go to www.aryty.comMagic SingChannel your inner Regine Velasquez with Magic Sing ET23KHSpanish Edition. At $ 399, you are sure to be the life of theparty at your next karaoke session.22The Filipino Expat Magazine

Philips energy lightMany expats especially those who came from tropical countries sufferdifferent degrees of winter depression. Lamps that have been clinicallyprovento help boost energy can aid in the reduction of the secretion ofmelatonin in our body, the hormone that produces drowsiness. Give yourloved ones a gift of “happiness” with these energy lamps. Price starts at€59ADVERTISEMENTwww.facebook.com/LOLLifestyleenFashionAryty, a leading mobile top-up portal, allows you to loadany Globe, Smart or Sun Cellular mobile phone in thePhilippines. Whether you want to buy a load for your ownroaming phone or send load to a loved one, Aryty makes itquick and easy.Best of all, you only pay for what you send – there are noservice charges and no hidden fees.Visit www.aryty.com and start today!Send a load in 3 easy steps!1. Enter your loved one’s mobile number (from yourcomputer or mobile phone)2. Select an amount to send• No service charges• No hidden fees3. Your gift is received. Your loved one will get the loadinstantly.Try mo! Libre! Try it for FREE!If you’re visiting Aryty for the first time, you can send a FREEload to any phone in the Philippines. Give it a try! There isno cost, no obligation, no credit card required – and the loadarrives instantly. Visit Aryty.com to see how easy it is to givea gift of load to your loved one – for FREE.Aryty apps for Apple and Android devicesIf you prefer to arrange top-ups with an app instead of abrowser, Aryty apps are available for FREE Download at theApple and Android stores.With an Aryty app you can:Start Free TrialSend NowSchedule SendingRefer a Friend (earn additional free credit)View Transaction HistoryAnd More…Great Uses for Aryty• Stay connected with family and friends• Send a gift of load• Support your family at homeSend a FREE Load at www.aryty.com today - your familyand friends will thank you.The Filipino Expat Magazine 23

TRAVELExperience funwinter destinationsText and photos by Dheza Marie AguilarThe last of the autumn leaves have started to fall.Daylight has become shorter. Moreover, temperatureshave dropped to levels so low, we simply need to bundleup each time we venture outside our homes. The smell ofpine trees and glühwein somehow makes things a bit better.Winter is almost here. There’s still plenty of time to plan forthe holidays – whether you are looking at doing some wintersports, indulging in a leisure holiday in the mountains orexperiencing a vacation in a sub-zero environment.The Filipino Expat has listed down some of our favorite spotsand activities all over Europe so all you have to do is enjoy:NorwayNorway is probably one of the most picturesque countries inEurope thanks to its unique natural landscapes. There are itsfamous fjords that are best seen during summer. Come winter,the mountains offer a charm that beckons. At this time of theyear, the colorful wooden houses up in the mountains of Geilo,for instance, would be covered in layers of powdery snow.A wide range of winter activities can be had in Norway. Choicesinclude cross-country and alpine skiing, dog sledding and evenriding with the Saami reindeers during their winter migration.Not to be missed is the world famous Northern Lights orthe Aurora Borealis, a winter phenomenon showcasing aspectacular display of colorful lights in the sky.GermanyHave you ever wondered what’s it like to live in a castle ontop of a snow-covered mountain overlooking a small village24The Filipino Expat Magazine

The view from a mountain cottage in Norway.with pretty houses spouting a regular trail of smoke from theirchimneys? If you grew up with Disney movies and have lived ina tropical country almost all your life like myself, then I’m prettysure you would know what I’m talking about.Germany has plenty of these picturesque scenes.During winter, the Neuschwanstein Castle in the Bavarianregion of Germany transforms into your very image of fairytales particularly Sleeping Beauty. Similarly, the Black Forest(Schwarzwald), is a favorite setting in many fairy tales. Theplace is a playground for cross-country skiers. Warm up in themany thermal baths for example, in famous Baden-baden.Don’t miss Germany’s Christmas markets, considered amongthe biggest in Europe. Stock up on yummy sausages, and hams.Buy a souvenir like the famous German cuckoo clock or simplydrink the night away with jugs of glühwein.IcelandUp for a more extreme adventure? Try swimming in Iceland’sBlue Lagoon in Reykjavik amid a subzero temperature. Located40 minutes away from the airport, the lagoon is a geothermalpool where you can enjoy a warm, relaxing and even healingdip despite being surrounded by snow and ice.If you are a fan of the popular American series Game ofThrones, then you will enjoy Iceland as some scenes in theseries are actually shot here. There are a number of travelcompanies who are experts in arranging these kinds of tours.RussiaWinter is the most ideal season to experience Russia. Anumber of classic novels, like Anna Karenina, have been setduring the country’s harsh winters. Plus, you need not worryabout bumping into too many tourists especially if you arevisiting cities like Saint Petersburg.Russia offers tourists unique cultural experiences. You canchoose to watch either classical or contemporary performingarts or both. Museums like the Hermitage, which can take upyour whole day, boasts of rare paintings, statues, jewelry andother incredible treasures that the Russian Czar families haveaccumulated during their heydays.Russia also did a good job in preserving the memories of theirgreat literary minds including Fyodor Dostoevsky, AlexanderPushkin, Vladimir Nabokov and many others. All throughoutthe big cities like Moscow and Saint Petersburg, you can findapartments or house-museums where the original belongingsand some manuscripts of the authors are being displayed.AustriaWarm the soul with a cup of glühwein.Winter is the most ideal season toexperience Russia. A number ofclassic novels, like Anna Karenina,have been set during the country’sharsh winters. Plus, you need notworry about bumping into toomany tourists especially if you arevisiting cities like Saint Petersburg.When it comes to winter sports, Austria is on top of the listof many Europeans. And why not? Two-thirds of the countryis on the Alps mountain range. That means plenty of slopesand pistes for endless skiing adventures, day and night. And itdoesn’t matter whether you are new in the sport or already anexperienced skier, you’d have fun either way.The Christmas markets and villages in Austria’s big cities likeVienna and Innsbruck are also worth checking out. You can buyunique handicrafts from Christmas decorations to artsy trinketsmade by the villagers.Christmas markets are usually located in front of famouslandmarks like medieval buildings or gothic churches.Surely, there will be no shortage of wonderful things tosee, eat, or warm the heart with during these gray and coldmonths.The Filipino Expat Magazine 25

TRAVEL10 thingsto do inGermany’sChristmasMarketsText and photos by Deepa PlazoCrowds of shoppers fill Germany’s Christmas markets.It is usually on the last week of Novemberthat I begin putting up Christmasdecorations while humming Pasko Na SintaKo and getting into the Christmas spirit. ByPinoy standards, this is embarrassingly late.After all, SM malls (a popular mall chain inthe Philippines) has already started playingChristmas carols on the first day of September.In Europe, especially in Amsterdam where Ilive, this is unspeakably early. Here, Christmasis verboten until Sinterklaas is celebrated onthe 5th of December. Only then can Christmastrees be discreetly rolled out for sale andChristmas mentioned with a kind of cautiouscheer.Luckily for me, the Weihnachtsmarkt ofGermany is just a few hours away by train orcar. Germany’s Christmas markets are famousfor their picturesque scenes reminiscentof Christmas wonderlands. Seeing them,one can’t help but think that the Germansmust have bottled up their Christmas spiritall year long just to have this incrediblybeautiful release of the holiday cheer ofsort –something that I can’t fully indulge inHolland.Whether you’re a wide-eyed first-timer or alongtime veteran, there are a few things youshouldn’t miss at a German Christmas market.Here’s a list of my top 10 things to do to makeyour experience here even more special.1. Get caught up in the scale and spectacleof a big city market. For its sheer size, nothingbeats the wow factor of a Christmas marketin one of Germany’s major cities. At my firstChristkindlmarkt in Köln, I’ll never forget thesight of the Kölner Dom (with 515-foot hightowers and the largest façade of any Churchin the world) looming over me from behind aveil of twinkling Christmas lights. Whether it’sa giant gingerbread man or a Christmas treeover 100 feet tall, German cities know how togo big… or go home.2. Marvel at the fairytale feel of a smalltown market. Away from the big city crowds,a Christkindlmarkt becomes intimate, cozy,and magical, with wintry scenes right out ofa storybook. I discovered this when, whilevisiting the city of Aachen, our German hostsuggested a side trip to the small town ofMonschau nearby. Decorated by a windingriver and picturesque half-timbered houses,Monschau turned out to be a snow-coveredgem tucked into the hills, and an unforgettableChristkindlmarkt experience.3. Choose a handcrafted ornament to add toyour Christmas tree. Traditional handicraftsmay be a dying art, but in Germany, theycome alive at Christmastime. From blownglass to hand-carved wood and more, GermanChristmas markets have a wonderful varietyof ornaments to choose from. My husbandand I always have a hard time picking out justone! A perfectly matching set of store-boughtornaments can’t equal the unique sentimentalvalue of a collection built up slowly over time.“Germany’s Christmasmarkets are famous fortheir picturesque scenesreminiscent of Christmaswonderlands.”4. Add a new piece to your family’s belen.If your family has a belen, German Christmasmarkets are the best place to find unique,realistic furnishings handcrafted in the tiniest,most adorable proportions. Whether you’relooking for a sweet figure of the newborn babyJesus or a miniature clay jug of water for yourshepherds, this is the place to deck your belenhalls in style.5. Find out what the town’s Christmasspecialty is… and eat it. Every town has itssignature treat that only makes a very specialappearance at Christmas time. For example,Aachen’s Christmas markets are filled with thespiced cookies called Aachener printen. Makesure to try it… it might be another year till youget your next chance.6. Fill up on grilled meats and wurst.Germans love their pork as much as Pinoysdo. Sizzling hot and fresh off the grill, varioustypes of wursten (sausages) and grilled meatsmake inexpensive dinners that are easy toeat while strolling around the market. Mycarnivorous husband especially loves theAachen market for the stands that sell onemeter of meat on a stick.7. Stay warm with a mug of glühwein.Glühwein, or hot spiced wine, is the best wayto stay warm at a Christmas market. A fewEuros’ deposit is part of the price of eachdrink, in case you wish to take home the mug,which typically shows the year and name ofthe market, as a souvenir. Prost!8. Take pictures in the snow. After three yearsof living in Europe, I still turn into a little kidwhen it starts to snow. A snow shower duringa Christmas market makes for a truly pictureperfectwinter wonderland. Folks back homelove to see these pictures, too!9. Go market hopping. Visit more than onemarket in a day. Major cities typically haveone main market in the center of town, withsmaller, different-themed markets within easywalking or commuting distance. Or, makea weekend of it and visit the smaller townssurrounding the big cities to get the best ofboth worlds.Children enjoy some of the fun rides.10. Experience the wonder of Christmasthrough the eyes of a child. They sayChristmas is for children. True, but to that Iadd: there’s a child in every one of us. Don’tbe a Scrooge! Let the festive spirit take holdand let a Christmas market be the playgroundfor the child in you. Eat too much lebkuchen,have some extra whipped cream on yourgluhwein, splurge on something beautifulfor your family’s Christmas tree. After all,Christmas and the Christkindlmarkt only comeonce a year.26The Filipino Expat Magazine

Makingthe most ofEuropeangroup toursby Dheza Marie AguilarGoing on a group tour is a fun and economical way of visitingEuropean cities. Discovering a new place together with yourfriends is often unforgettable and can enrich or sometimesbreak friendship. It’s also a nice way of meeting other people andmake new acquaintances.There are many tour companies arranging group tours but mostof the time, you will end up in a very big group of tourists that candecrease the experience of fun and discovery. Operators tend tocram so many activities in a strict schedule which can limit theexcitement of exploring a new place.Independent tour operator Pieter van Overbeeke had beenarranging group tours for tourists for several years now. Sincebeing married to a Filipina entails a regular flow of Filipino visitors,Overbeeke has been accompanying their guests to different touristsights in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. What started asa way of entertaining friends and relatives now becomes a regulargig for him. Majority of his clients are Filipinos but he also doestours for other foreign clients in partnership with several bed andbreakfast accommodations in Amsterdam. He speaks fluent Dutch,Tagalog, English, French and German, making it easier for him tocommunicate with his guests as well as the locals.Overbeeke suggests three tips on how to get the maximum out ofyour group tours:1. The more, the merrier. Arranging a tour for a group of four willsave you a lot of money of money especially on accommodationsand transportations but a group of six would be ideal. Overbeekehires a mini-van for transportation, especially going to othercountries like Belgium and Germany to save on travel time and ticketprices. A group of six can comfortably fill up a mini-van and the costsof renting it would be much cheaper.When it comes to overnight accommodations, the price of a doubleor a triple room and a single room does not differ significantly so themore people that can share in the accommodation can reduce thecost of travelling.Overbeeke estimates that for a group of four people coming fromAmsterdam, doing a day trip in Brussels or Bruges, Belgium, abudget of €80 per person, including the transportation and the tourguide.Tour guide Pieter van Overbeeke poses with a group of tourists infront of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.2. Know your schedule and book well in advance. Airfare, traintickets and even hotels charges less when you book in advance,eight weeks before your travel date in particular. Also be on thelookout for early bird promos of airline companies or hotels. You cando this by subscribing in a newsletter or websites that regularly sendsale alerts.Knowing your schedule will also help you in planning for activitieswhich may be free of charge or discounted in the place that you arevisiting, for example entrance fees in museums or parks. Museumssometimes offer free entrances on the first or last friday of themonth or particular days when there is a festivity going on.Visiting a place during a festival also offers a lot of perks like freetasting and free drinks during food and wine festivals. Do yourresearch and reduce your costs by planning in advance.3. Hire a local guide. Hiring a local tour guide will make your visitmore efficient and memorable. By having someone with a localknowledge, you will be able to know more about a certain place andwill make you appreciate your travel more.It also helps to hire a guide who speaks multiple languages.Although many Europeans speak English, you get a warmerreception when you have a guide who speaks the language of thecountry you are visiting.Pieter van Overbeeke or more popularly known as Pedro Pinduko inthe Filipino community may be reached via email agentpedro44@gmail.com or mobile number +31610716363.Overbeeke speaks multiple laguages including Filipino.The Filipino Expat Magazine 27

featuresJust like Homeby Nathaniel Sisma VillalunaThe start of Daylight Saving Time, thecool breeze of autumn and the longchilly nights signal the arrival of themerriest season of all.Ask a Pinoy which month of the year is thehappiest and you will get only one answer:December. Christmas time.The Philippines has the longest Christmasworldwide. The arrival of the first dayof September marks the unofficial startof the Yuletide season as local radio DJsrace among themselves who play the firstChristmas song of the year. As the popularsaying goes, “Iba pa rin ang pasko sa atin.”“I can barely wait! I will be home in threeweeks. Christmas with my family is all Iwant this Christmas,” says Andrew, 29, ashe proudly brandishes his newly boughttwo-way ticket to the Philippines from aPinoy-owned travel agency in Barcelona.For most of our kabayans abroad though,Christmas is not always the jolliest,especially to those who can´t go homeand be with their families due to work,financial concerns or legal conditions.It has been 16 years since the last timeTess celebrated Christmas with her familyin Cebu. Always being tagged alongto out-of-town trips by her employersDURING Christmas, her last Noche Buenawith her kids was in 1997.“I can still remember my last Christmaswith them, our Noche Buena, the Simbanggabi. Although, I get to see them everytwo years, still, it´s different going homeon Christmas. Thanks to Skype, I can seeand hear them even if we are far fromeach other,” says Angela.Angela, 25, can´t go home because of herillegal status. This is her third year awayfrom home.“Here, Christmas is a lot different. Ours isnoisier, happier, more festive and colorful.You can really feel Christmas is in theair. Once I have solved my legal situationhere, I will see to it that I go home everyDecember.”euros. To Spanish kids, the most-awaitedYuletide celebration is the arrival of TheThree Wise Men. Santa Clause or PapaNoel is not that popular in this part of theworld.“My employer starts putting up theirChristmas tree two days before ChristmasEve. I told them that in the Philippines, myfamily had already set up the Christmastree right after All Saint´s Day. They lookedat me as if I was crazy,” says Angela.Glenda, 36, is lucky to finally have her twosmall sons with her this Christmas. Theyarrived last summer and to her, this will beone of the best Christmases in her life.“It was sad, of course, spending threeChristmases without my children. I wascrying all the time. It was hard. Goodthing I had my friends to cheer me up.We cooked Filipino dishes, dressed upand attended the simbang gabi [eveningMass]. We even exchanged gifts onChristmas eve. We tried to make ourselveshappy even if our hearts were longing tobe with our families on this special day,”says Glenda.Some opt to attend every Christmasparty they’ve been invited to and singChristmas carols with friends to forgettheir loneliness during Christmas.“We end up gaining a lot of weightbecause each Filipino family prepares‘meryenda’ for us. Imagine five houses per“Here, Christmas is alot different. Ours isnoisier, happier, morefestive and colorful.You can really feelChristmas in the air.Once I have solvedmy legal situationhere, I will see to itthat I go home everyDecember!”night!,” says Olive, who has been carolingfor three years now.The countdown towards Christmas Evein Spain starts on the 16th. But insteadof attending Mass at dawn, Filipinos inBarcelona brave the cool winter eveningbreeze just to complete the nine-day nightmasses in the hope that prayers andwishes are answered.Outside the San Agustin church, under thegiant twinkling parol, a handful Pinoy foodvendors along with their rich, mouthwateringnative kakanins are swarmed byhungry mass attendees wishing they wereputo bombongs and hot bibingkas.Just like home, in the Philippines.In Spain, Christmas “officially” gets intofull swing on December 22 with one ofthe world´s biggest lottery draw popularlyknown El Gordo (The Fat One) with thegrand prize amounting to over 2.1 billionThe streets of Barcelona come to life with kiosks selling Christmas items.28The Filipino Expat Magazine

A Salad of Christmas Traditionsfeaturesby Ana Angelica Abaya van DoornLike in the Philippines, we would start hanging Christmas decors athome even before December came. We would have the traditionalparol (Christmas lantern in Filipino), little ceramic angels, and adventwreath with lighted candles on Sundays. We even had a smallChristmas tree with the nativity scene, also called “presepio” in Italianor “belen” in Filipino. Daily Christmas music filled our home.Moving to the Netherlands, we celebrate Sinterklaasavond on Dec. 5.On St. Nicholas eve, we give chocolates engraved with the first letterof our names as well as the letter “S” that stands for Sinterklaas.Legend has it that Sinterklaas came from Spain, who spends mostof the year recording the behavior of children in a big red book. Hisassistant, Black Pete, helps him in delivering gifts to kids.Like a bowl of salad, we celebrate a unique, happy mix ofChristmas traditions: Swiss-Italian, Filipino and Dutch. Whenwe were living in the Swiss Italian canton, my six- and fiveyear-olddaughters did not believe in Babbo Natale (Italian forFather Christmas or Santa Claus) because their Swiss dad said he isnot real and giving gifts is a symbol of consumerism.But after watching The Polar Express film in 2004, my daughtersstarted to believe in Santa Claus. They wrote letters to the followingaddresses:Babbo Natalevia dal gelo -40Polo NordEvery year, we attend Filipino-Christmas parties complete with parlorgames and all-time favorite Pinoy dishes. At home, we do the manitomanita,a traditional Filipino way of exchanging gifts. Aside frompresents, we also give each other funny drawings and chocolates.We cook up a feast that include lasagna, pandoro, leche flan, freshmangoes, kutsinta and homemade cake. We attend midnight masson Christmas eve and we have a family dinner. Then we play and singcarols by the piano, share stories near the fireplace, Skype call withour relatives in the Philippines and if we’re lucky, watch a snow fall.ADVERTISEMENTSend your love from Europe tothe Philippines through Pinoy Balikbayan BoxSanta ClausFreezing Point Road -40North PoleBabbo Natale is from the North Pole. He has dwarves for assistantsand rides a sleigh driven by reindeers. Come Christmas Eve, hehops on his swanky, incredibly fast mode of transportation to bringgifts to children who have been good the whole year round. Thosewho have been bad will receive charcoal.My sweet daughters will also send prayers to San Nicolao (or St.Nicholas), known as the gift giver. He was born to a rich family inTurkey but decided to use his inheritance to serve the poor andthe needy. He eventually became a bishop who was known for hisgenerosity and love for children.“Ciao San Nicolao, please give me a St. Bernard dog to embrace.I’m in grade 1. I hope you’ll be able to pass in our small chimney,”one of my girls would pray.So as not to disappoint my daughters, I would usually stage the“arrival” of Babbo Natale when I knew they were fast asleep. Iwould leave the presents where they can immediately see themwhen they wake up. The next morning, I let them think BabboNatale came over bearing gifts by pointing to them the “shoeprint”that he supposedly left on the carpet on his way out. Afterward, wewould head to the plaza for the Mercatino di Natale, a Christmasfair that sells handicrafts, staying a bit longer to admire the giganticreal pine tree adorned with Christmas lights, balls and bells.The Feast of St. Nicholas falls on Dec. 6. I remember the familysailing in Lake Lugano, with cups of hot chocolate and panetonebeing passed around. While San Nicolao, with white, thick beard,dressed in red mantel and holding a golden arched cane and adonkey, told tales to children. San Nicolao would also visit schoolsto hand out peanuts, oranges and chocolates to kids.Pinoy-BoxMobile: +31 (0) 613183722info@pinoy-box.comwww.pinoy-box.compinoy.balikbayanboxThe Filipino Expat Magazine 29

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Christmas in the Philippinesby Lyssa Ericka CabarlesPhoto by Michael Carlo CaparasfeaturesThe Nativity Scene is a prominent feature in most homes and some buildings during Christmas.Photo shows an interpretation of the Belen at the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati.Christmas is the most celebratedand most festive holiday forFilipinos. As early as September,you can already see some people startingto decorate their homes with colourfullights and decors while the radio begin toplay Yuletide ditties. The celebration hereactually ends on the first week of January.Suffice to say, Christmas in the Philippinesis known to be the world’s longest. Partof the reason is that Filipino Christmas isa blend of cultures and traditions greatlyinfluenced by the Spanish colonizers.The celebrations begin with Misa deGallo, popularly known to the Filipinos asSimbang Gabi. It is a series of dawn massesstarting on the early morning of Dec. 16and ending on the midnight of Dec. 24.After each mass, families gather outsidethe church to enjoy native delicacies soldby vendors most especially during theChristmas season. These include bibingka,a yellow rice cake made of rice flour andcoconut milk wrapped in banana leavesand cooked using coals on top and under it,and the puto bumbong, a purple rice cakenamed after the bamboo tube in which it issteamed and is usually served with coconutshavings and brown sugar.One of the most distinctive FilipinoChristmas traditions is the hanging ofparol, derived from the Spanish word“farol” or lantern. It is usually a starshaped ornament made of coloured paper,bamboo sticks and light bulbs, symbolizingthe Star of Bethlehem that guided theThree Kings to the manger.When you start hearing groups ofchildren singing Christmas carols out inthe streets, then you’ll know Christmashas really begun. These kids go aroundthe neighbourhood to serenade eachhousehold using makeshift musicalinstruments like drums made of cans, and atambourine made of flattened soda crownsjoined by a thin metal wire. At the end oftheir set, they will receive money or foodfrom the homeowners.More than the merriment and longpreparations, Filipinos celebrate Christmasfor its spirit of giving. At this time ofthe year, companies and even groups ofindividuals organize fund-raising eventsand outreach programs to give gifts andHanging of a colorful parol is a Pinoy tradition.Streets are brightened up by colorfulChristmas lights sold by vendors.joy to the less fortunate. Schools andoffices all hold Christmas parties completewith exchanging of gifts, otherwise knownas Monito-Monita or Kris Kringle whichis the Filipino version of “Secret Santa.”On Christmas day, Children would visittheir ninongs and ninangs (godparents)and would receive money as gifts calledaguinaldo.Family is the heart of a traditional FilipinoChristmas. It is the time when friends andrelatives come together for a reunion.On Christmas Eve, families would gatherto enjoy a sumptuous feast known asthe Noche Buena, the Filipino versionof Thanksgiving. The highlight of thefestivities, no Filipino Noche Buena iscomplete without hamon and keso debola among other favourites like paella,mechado, lechon and fruit cake.All things considered, Filipino Christmas isnot only about the family gatherings, thefood and merry making. It is also aboutlove, sharing The and Filipino giving Expat joy to each Magazine other. 31

TRAVELBaguio BeckonsThe cool climes of the City of Pines areperfect for unwinding with the family.by Maan D’Asis PamaranPhotos by Alex de Vera DizonThe holidays are upon us, and a popularway to enjoy “sweater” season is tohie off to the highlands for a quickretreat from the pressures of living in theMetro. Baguio is a great destination not onlyduring the summer, but any time of the year,as it never ceases to amaze with all the oldand new hotspots that offer something forevery member of the family. Here are somehotspots that make for delightful discoveriesat your next Baguio journey.What to Visit:The Bencab Museum. The beauty of Baguiocertainly inspires, this is one of the reasonswhy National Artist Ben Cabrera established anart gallery showcasing Filipino talent rangingfrom young and upcoming artists all the wayto the Masters. The exhibits include artifactsfrom hinterland tribes, showcasing whatour ancestors used for their rituals and dailyroutines.Not to be missed, too, is a room where minorsare not allowed, as the Erotica gallery featuresexactly what the name suggests. The artist’sown works figure prominently as well and themuseum guides will be able to share vignetteson the connection between artist and muse,leaving one with the lasting impression thatbeauty and inspiration can lie hidden evenunder layers of dirt and grime. If one is luckyenough, the artist himself may be in residence,and may be cajoled for a photo opportunityor two.Behind the museum is a colorful restaurantcalled Café Sabel, named after theaforementioned muse, with a view to a lovelygarden, that, in turn spills out towards anecotrail leading to a natural waterfall. It islocated at Km 6, Asin Road, Tadiangan, openon Tuesdays to Sundays; general admission isat P100/head.Tam-awan Village. The aim of this amazingplace is to preserve the Cordillera’s culturalheritage, and at the same time nurtureemerging local talent. It regularly holdsexhibits and workshops for buddingartists, and a yearly festival that displaystribal traditions kept alive for the youngergeneration.It offers affordable lodging at the Cordillerahuts, each unique and named for the regionthat it represents – to give an experienceof living the tribal life. Picnics and bonfiresare also offered, along with eco-tours anddemonstrations on crafts such as printmaking,wood carving, solar drawing, and painting toawaken that artist in you. It is located at 366-CPinsao Proper, call (074) 446i8990-2949.Ukay-Ukay Night Market. Shopaholics willdefinitely enjoy bargain-hunting at this vintagerepository that appears nightly starting 7:30p.m. along the stretch of Harrison Road. Here,one can grab a designer dress for as low asP50, or a pair of leather boots for P300. Partof the fun is in the haggling, so don’t forgetto ask the seller for the “best price” beforereaching for your wallet.Baguio City Public Market. Baguio is famedfor its fresh produce, and the best place tofind healthy treats to bring home is at thePublic Market. It is also a place to find all thepasalubong goodies and souvenir items-- frompeanut brittle, ube jam, and inuyam all theway to t-shirts, wooden back scratchers, andyes, that classic guy in the barrel that packs abig surprise.Easter Weaving. The tradition of items wovenat the loom has faded into the backgroundwith the advent of industrial machines.However, Easter Weaving seeks to keep thecraft alive by setting up and selling items thatare made by hand from start to finish. They32The Filipino Expat MagazineThe Bencab Museum exhibits artifacts showcasing what Filipino ancestors used for their rituals.

Easter weaving keeps alive the traditions ofitems woven at the loom.are the suppliers for the UP Sablay, by theway, and while the design for the Maroons isexclusive to them, there are other patternsto choose from, and these come in the formof table linen, bags, and even indigenouscostumes. The workshop and showroom islocated at Easter Road, Guisad 2. Visit www.easterweaving.comWhere to Dine:Balajadia Restaurant. The Slaughterhouse isBaguio’s meat district. It is where livestock isbrought and butchered. Restaurants such asBalajadia have sprung up in its periphery, andthese offer meat at their freshest and mostflavorful. The specialties at this eatery includeIlocano-style igado, sisig, and bulalo. A musttryis the inihaw, which one dips not in suka ortoyo but in dugo, which is coagulated blood.The owner’s answer to Manila’s Soup Number5 is his Bat and Balls, a saucy dish that is saidto have aphrodisiac effects.Choco-late de Batirol. A good way to feelwarm and toasty in the cool mountain climesis to have a cup or two of hot chocolate doneold-school down at Camp John Hay. Instantimports are no match for this rich cocoa bean“A good way to feel warmand toasty in the coolmountain climes is to have acup or two of hot chocolatedone old-school down atCamp John Hay.”Choco-Late de Batirol serves cupsof hot chocolate done old-school.brew whisked by hand, meant to be enjoyedin this quiet piece of paradise. The café alsooffers hot meals, and native faves such ascrunchy turon, puto bumbong, and bibingka.Baguio Deli. Aside from the strip malls thatoffer outlet shops that sell designer gear atdiscounted prices, Camp John Hay is alsohome to dining places such as Baguio Deli,which offers an all-day breakfast menu, to bepaired with hot and cold drinks. Pasalubongfare is also available, headlined by northerndelicacies longanisa and bagnet.Where to Stay:Azalea Residences. This hotel offers a tasteof the Suite life in Baguio, as all its 99 roomscome equipped with a kitchen, dining set,and living room area. The structure, whichresembles a ski-resort, comes with modernamenities akin to a serviced apartment. Thelocation is a secluded hill, not too far fromBaguio’s hotspots, but remote enough to beinsulated from the city noise, to give a feelingof tranquil mountainside living. Its TradisyonRestaurant offers an extensive breakfastbuffet, along with a popular weekendMongolian buffet every weekend.For more information, visit www.azalea.com.phLe Monet. This upscale hotel veers away fromthe usual log cabin look and presents itself asa sparkling gem among the pine trees of CampJohn Hay. The lobby simply sparkles with acrystal chandelier, and the outdoor fountainslight up at night accompanied by a soundshow. It has 65 deluxe and 5 suite rooms, agym, an indoor heated pool, complimentaryshuttle service to select locations, and F&Boutlets under the supervision of the famedChef Robby Goco. For room rates andreservation, visit www.lemonethotel.phThe Azalea Residences highlights tranquil mountainside living.The Filipino Expat Magazine 33

TRAVEL5 Fantastic Beaches inthe Philippines ThatVery Few Have Beenby Ed Biadophotos by Robin Kuijs, Pranz Kaeno Billones and Clifford BadongenForeign tourists, domestic tourists and balikbayans alikeflock to the famous beaches of Boracay, Puerto Galera,Batangas and a few other familiar locations whenvacationing in the Philippines. And why not? These are some ofthe best beaches in the world. But being a tropical country madeup of over 7,000 islands, the country is blessed with countlessbeach destinations from the expensive, such as Amanpulo, to theaffordable, like Subic.So why go to the places where everyone has been? Instead, trythese places that are unspoilt, semi-undiscovered and mostlyuntouched by commercialization (and pollution).Banana IslandCoron, PalawanBeachfront nipa huts and pretty much nothing else exist on thislittle slice of paradise in between the South China Sea (WestPhilippine Sea) and the Sulu Sea. Coron has been getting quitecommercial these past few years and high-end resorts arepopping up all over the islands. Banana Island, on the other hand,retains its rustic peacefulness away from it all.If you’re lucky enough to not share the beach with other tourists- that can happen, depending on the season and if you’re actually34The Filipino Expat Magazine

that lucky - take Banana Island for all it’s worth, as if it’s your veryown private island: the pinkish white sand beach, the schoolsof fish swimming very close to the shore, where even the mostneophyte swimmer can snorkel to their heart’s delight, dozing offand waking up to the sound of waves crashing, and your hosts’good old home-cooked meals. Big fat danggit for breakfast,anyone?Getting there: From Coron town, charter a boat to take you tothe island. Coron is less than hour away from Busuanga Airport byvan.Laswitan LagoonCortes, Surigao Del SurEver heard of seawater waterfalls? That’s exactly what you’regonna get at Laswitan Lagoon hidden away in the town of Cortesin Surigao Del Sur. The “falls” are not a true waterfall. Bummer?Not quite. They are intense Pacific Ocean waves so high that,when they crash onto the rock formations, they spill over to theopposite side, creating an effect similar to how waterfalls, well,fall. The water is collected in a basin that people can swim inprotected from the harsh waves. And that is more awesome thanreal waterfalls.However, this wonder of nature can only be experienced whenthe amihan is strong enough, particularly between the months ofOctober and March.Getting there: From Cortes town, take a habal-habal to BarangayMadrelino, where the lagoon is. Cortes is four hours away fromSurigao City by bus.Palaui Island (Punta Verde)Santa Ana, CagayanPalaui IslandA sliver of white is what the beach looks like from afar, separatingthe clear waters from the green hilly landscape. It’s raw and,Tinaga Island is home to MahabangBuhangin, a beach escape with adedicated cult following of backpackers.The Filipino Expat Magazine 35

“A sliver of whiteis what the beachlooks like fromafar, separatingthe clear watersfrom the green hillylandscape. It’s rawand, until recently,it was a secret.”Charming bucolic scenes can be captured in some hidden Philippine beaches.until recently, it was a secret. That was before the world gotacquainted with its pristine isolation via the American TV showSurvivor. It was the perfect location for the challenging realitycompetition because conditions there can be harsh. In fact,simply getting there is a feat on its own - you need a trusted guideto get you through the mangrove forest that conceals the cove.But it’s an adventure well worth it. Make sure you have yourcamping gear in tow. There are no resorts on the beach and you’llwant to spend the night after the long trek. And bring a friend ortwo - there’s no one there at all most of the time.Getting there: Charter a boat and a guide at the San Vicenteport in Santa Ana town to take you to Punta Verde. Santa Ana is athree-hour van ride from Tuguegarao, which you can reach by busor plane.Tinaga Island (Mahabang Buhangin)Calaguas, Vinzons, Camarines NorteCamarines Norte is not getting as much attention as CamarinesSur (or CamSur, as their local government markets the province).This is why Caramoan in CamSur comes to mind when talkingabout Camarines instead of the Calaguas group of islands. Thisis why the latter is less commercialized and more serene, whichmakes it more beautiful.Diniwid BeachBoracay Island, AklanIf the other options in this list are too obscure for your taste,there’s Diniwid Beach found on the island of Boracay. Unlike thebeach party capital of the Philippines, White Beach, this is thealternative side of Boracay that not many people go to. Most ofus go to the island to party, after all. But just like on White Beach,Diniwid sand is white (albeit not as fine) and the water is crystalclear and calm. The only thing that’s missing? The noisy rowd.The best thing about this beach is that it’s only a few minutesaway from the main beach, where you would probably be stayingif you’re on the island. So there’s always the opportunity toexperience both the serenity and privacy of this tiny hideawayand the comforts and the social scene that Boracay is known for.Without needing to sleep in a tent and braving tedious treks.Getting there: Take a tricycle from anywhere in Boracay to go toDiniwid Beach. Boracay is a 15-minute boat ride from CaticlanAirport.The biggest island in the Calaguas archipelago, Tinaga, is hometo Mahabang Buhangin, a beach escape with a dedicated cultfollowing of backpackers. Tents are mandatory here because ofthe lack of accommodation options. It is recommended to visitthe place as soon as possible because it is now touted as anemerging tourist destination and, before long, resorts may startlining the incredible strip of white sand beach.Getting there: Charter a boat to take you to the island from thefish port of Vinzons town. Be prepared, though, because thejourney will take more than two hours. Vinzons is a short jeep ridefrom Daet, which is eight hours away from Manila by bus.Clear skies and cerulean waters are aplenty in the Philippines.36The Filipino Expat Magazine

The Filipino Expat Magazine is FREE!Get your copy atSunro BVDamrak 17 II1012 LH AmsterdamThe NetherlandsTHE NETHERLANDSSPAINCentro Filipino Tuluyan San BenitoCalle Riera Baixa 4-6, 108001 Barcelona, CataloniaArea distributorsPinoy VillageMathenesserweg 70-A3026 HE-RotterdamThe NetherlandsADVERTISE. CONTRIBUTE. COLLABORATE.Contact us:publisher@thefilipinoexpat.comeditor@thefilipinoexpat.comadvertising@thefilipinoexpat.comFollow us www.thefilipinoexpat.comTheFilipinoExpatMagazineFilipinoExpatMadrid, SpainNeil Cruz(+34) 667 992581Barcelona, SpainNats Sisma Villaluna(+34) 636 942614Zurich/Luzern, SwitzerlandMaria Kristine Fleischhacker(+41) 78 799 5484Sardinia, ItalyElmer Orillo(+39) 32 92245322Florence, ItalyAlvin Umahon(+39) 3248616450For an updated list of distribution points pleasevisit our website.IN THE NEXT ISSUE:New BeginningsThe Filipino Expat will put the spotlight onmulticultural kids and how they keep up with thedifferent traditions and cultures of their parents.There will be a feature on the latest trends infashion and accessories. Plus, a travelogue on oneof the hottest luxury destinations in the Philippines.Don’t believe in luck? FilExpat will interview a fengshui expert for tips and guides on making luck andopportunities work for you this 2014.Dutch-Filipina beauty queen Sheryl Lynn Baastells us about how her mother influenced her togive back to the Philippines, inspiring her to starta charity foundation helping children get qualityeducation.SUBSCRIBE NOW! Send us your nameand address to receive your copy!The Filipino Expat Magazine 37

RECIPESNoche buena feastingThe Pinoy celebration of Christmas culminates on Christmas Eve when families gather around the dinner table topartake of the Noche Buena, Filipinos’ version of Thanksgiving. At this time, food is the centerpiece. Some serve thesame dishes as the previous year while others put a little twist on age-old recipes.San Miguel Pure Foods company culinary center suggests a few heartwarming Christmas fares:Crown Roast of Pork with Saffron ChorizoRice and Roasted Bell Pepper CoulisIngredients:1 whole crown roast of pork(16 ribs)1 tbsp salt½ tbsp ground black pepper1 tbsp garlic powder2 tbsp olive oilFor the rice:1-210g can Purefoods chorizo debilbao, thinly sliced½ cup Magnolia Gold Butter, unsalted2 cup uncooked jasmine rice, washed2 strand saffron thread2 cup chicken broth, hot2 tbsp Magnolia Gold Butter, unsaltedFor the coulis:3 pc large red bell pepper, cored,seeded and chopped¼ cup extra virgin olive oil2 tbsp shallots, chopped¼ cup chicken broth1 tbsp balsamic vinegarsalt to tasteground white pepper to tasteProcedure:Preheat the oven to 200F. Trim off anyexcess fat in the center of the crown asthe rice stuffing will be placed here. In abowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, andoil. Rub the marinade all over the pork. Letthe pork rest for 1 hour minimum insidethe ref. Roast the pork in the oven foraround 1½-2 hours or until the pork juicesare clear and not pinkish. Wrap pork withaluminum foil to keep warm. Set aside.In a medium pan, melt butter and sautéchorizo slices. Set chorizo aside. Using thesame butter use for sautéing the chorizo,sauté rice until well coated with the oil.Set aside. Using a mortar and pestle, grindsaffron threads and combine with the hotbroth. Transfer sauteed rice and saffronbroth in a rice cooker and cook until done.Add in the chorizo slices together with therice and finish off with 2 tbsp butter. Mixwell. Set aside, covered with aluminumfoil.Heat a medium sauté pan over moderateheat. Add in the oil and sauté shallots untiltranslucent, about 2 minutes. Reduce heatto low and add the bell peppers. Cover andsweat for about 15 minutes or until tender.Add a couple tablespoons of broth andcook for another 2 minutes. Remove fromheat and puree mixture in a blender. Addthe balsamic vinegar and more broth untildesired thickness is achieved. The coulisshould be slightly thick in consistency.Season the sauce with salt and pepper.To assemble, place the crown roast in alarge serving platter. Place the saffron ricein the center of the crown roast and alsoaround the sides of the meat. Serve thecoulis on the side.38The Filipino Expat Magazine

ROAST CHICKEN WITH SHITAKE RICE STUFFINGIngredients:1 pc Magnolia jumbo chickenFor the Herbed Butter:1/3 cup Magnolia Gold butter unsalted, softened1 tsp dried rosemary¼ tsp thyme leaves1/8 tsp sage¼ tsp garlic saltFor the marinade:3 tbsp soy sauce1 tbsp lemon juice1/8 tsp ground black pepperFor the rice stuffing:1/3 cup Magnolia Gold butter unsalted1/3 cup white onions, chopped2 pc Purefoods chorizo de bilbao½ cup shitake mushrooms, sliced2 cup glutinous rice (malagkit), washed¼ tsp ground black pepper2 pc chicken bouillon cubes dissolved in,5 cup waterProcedure:Soften butter and blend in the herbs andgarlic salt. Loosen skin of chicken and rubbutter well in between the skin. Marinatechicken in soy sauce mixture for at least 1hour in refrigerator. In a wok, melt butterand sauté chopped onions. Add chorizoand mushrooms. Cook for another 3minutes. Add washed rice and cook for 5minutes while constantly stirring. Seasonwith pepper. Transfer rice mixture into arice cooker. Ass prepared chicken brothand cook until done. Stuff chicken withprepared rice stuffing with prepared ricestuffing. Do not overstuff. Extra stuffingcan be served on the side. Bake chicken ina turbo broiler at 300 degrees F for aboutan hour and 30 minutes at 350 degreesF. brush with marinade halfway throughcooking time.The Filipino Expat Magazine 39

Ingredients:EDAM AND MIXED DRIED FRUIT SPREAD2 cups Magnolia Gold Edam cheese,grated¾ cup Magnolia Gold butter, softened2 tbsp dried mangoes, chopped2 tbsp dried cranberries, chopped2 tbsp dried pineapples, chopped2 tbsp dried apricots, chopped2 tbsp raisins, chopped1 tbsp honey1/8 tsp ground nutmeg1/8 tsp ground all-spiceProcedure:Combine grated Edam cheese,softened butter, dried mangoes, driedcranberries, dried pineapples, driedapricots and raisins in a food processor.Add honey, nutmeg and all-spice.Continue mixing until all ingredientsblend together. Transfer cheese anddried fruit mixture into a serving dishand serve together with crackers,crostinni and/or toasted bread.STRAWBERRIES AND CREAM TRIFLEIngredients:2 cups Magnolia all purpose cream, chilled½ cup powdered sugar2 cup peanut brittle, crushed500 gm fresh strawberries, quartered and stemand leaves removed½ cup almonds, toasted and choppedProcedure:Whip cream with powdered sugar until formsstiff peaks. Chill in the refrigerator until readyto use.Divide crushed brittle in 5 serving containersor put in 1 trifle bowl. Divide strawberries andtop over brittle in container/s then spoon inwhipped cream over strawberries then sprinkletop with almonds. Chill until ready to serve.Note: If strawberries are not very sweetaccording to your liking, you can cook it with½ cup of water and ½ cup of sugar just untilstrawberries starts to soften, then use asdirected.40The Filipino Expat Magazine

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personalitiesThe ‘bad boy’ charmsPinoys in Amsterdamby Pieter van Overbeekephotos by Sonny Dimaculangan42“As you know I am a Muslim, but Christmasis a very important time in our country. It’ssomething that needs to be celebrated forall involved. It keeps family-ties strong”The Filipino Expat Magazine

Robin, together with director Joyce Bernal and friends, relaxes at a restaurant.Famous Filipino movie actor Robin Padillawas recently in Amsterdam to shoot hislatest film titled “10,000 Hours.”Directed by Joyce Bernal, the movie isbased on a true story of Philippine SenatorPing Lacson who was accused of crimes inthe 90’s and went into hiding for about 14months including outside the Philippines.The movie is set to be one of the entries inthe 2013 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF)slated this December. Other cast membersare Michael de Mesa, Pen Medina, BellaPadilla and Carla Humphries.Robin was charming as ever. Die-hardFilipina fans couldn’t help but follow himaround wherever he went. And needless tosay, their phone cameras were ever ready totake an “obligatory” photo with the popularand good-looking “Bad Boy” of Philippinecinema. Robin even treated some of them tolunch and gave them money.He went as far as making a video of hisfans and posting it on his Facebook andInstagram accounts.“As you know I am a Muslim, but Christmasis a very important time in our country. It’ssomething that needs to be celebrated forall involved. It keeps family-ties strong,” saysPadilla.He adds, “We all celebrate it with mydaughters and relatives. It’s a bit hectic atthis time because of the film-premiere,but I surely will make time for it. It is ourtradition.”Robin praised the OFWs he met whileshooting here.“They [OFWs] are fundamental to oureconomy because it is them who bringhome to the Philippines billions offoreign currencies while working hardabroad, many times in difficult and simplesurroundings,” says Robin.A fan gets cozy with her idol.Robin’s wife Mariel Rodriguez also flew infrom the Philippines for a short Europeantrip. Ever the loving husband, Robin tooksome time off from work to tour his wifearound the Anne Frank Museum as well asthe famous canals. Both husband and wifeare very much into organic food. So theyvisited organic restaurants and shops. Theychecked out an organic farm located southof Holland as well.Unbeknown to many, Robin has a softspot for overseas Filipino workers. Infact, whenever he travels abroad, he likesengaging fans to a conversation.When Robin was asked what Christmasmeant for him?The Filipino Expat Magazine 43

expat interviewsNordicLivingby Dheza KuijsAnna Lyn Bjørnstad, 44, has beenliving in Oslo, Norway for thepast 13 years. She lives with herhusband, two daughters and a dog namedMax. She works at Scandinavian Airlineand hosts a weekly radio show calledUgnayon at Pinoy Radio Nordic.Why did you move to Norway?Thirteen years ago, together with myNorwegian partner, my daughter andI flew to Norway intending to have aone-month vacation. We planned to goback to Manila before the school yearstarted. Our plans changed because mypartner and I got married that summer.We decided to stay and technically, I amstill on holiday.What are your biggest challenges? Howdid you overcome them?My first year in Norway was the mostchallenging. My husband is very sociable.We get visitors almost all the time. Andwhen two or three Norwegians cometogether, you don´t expect them tospeak English. So there was me, sittingwith them and understanding nothing.My husband tried to translate a fewconversations but it was impossible tokeep up.I had to find things out on my own:How to enroll a child in school, how toget listed in a Norwegian class, how thepublic transportation works and believeit or not, as simple as finding out whereto buy rice. My husband and his familyhelped me, of course. But they knowvery little about how to help immigrantsadjust to life in Europe. Good thing, I amthe type who is not afraid to ask for help.I asked his friends and even strangers.Along the way, I gained friends.There was also my lack of skills inhomemaking. I could not cook, clean thehouse properly, and wash clothes. Youcan just imagine how many kilos of meatand fish were thrown into the trash binjust because they were not cooked theway they should. We invited ourselvesfor dinner at my parents-in-law´s place alot. I remember calling my mother after afew weeks of craving for rice. She walkedme through the process of cooking riceand I can now proudly say that I can do itwithout a rice cooker. I am still probablythe worse homemaker there is but I amgetting better.Apart from personal or family challenges,frustration with the system is one of thethings I had to struggle with in Norway.Bjørnstad.While I am thankful that we do not payanything when we get hospitalized, thewaiting time and process to get thetreatment you need is extremely long. Itis not easy to get sick in this country. Youmight want to have a person who cansupport you. The money from the socialsystem does not come automatically.You should know that you have filled outall the necessary papers. I am hopingthat with the new government, therewould be a little improvement on theeffectiveness of the system.“There are just a few things Idislike about living here andone of them includes the longwinters. It may almost beimmaculate when the snowcomes but the work thatcomes with it is heavy -literally.There´s not much light duringthe day. It can be slippery attimes. We have to put on layersof clothes.”What do you like most about living inNorway?You would probably find it strange thatthe best things I like about living inNorway are simple things. I can drinkwater from the tap, you can walk inthe forest even in big cities and not tomention, it is a safe country to raise afamily. Plus, it is generally a clean country.The waste management here, especiallyin my area, is fascinating.There are just a few things I dislike aboutliving here and one of them includesthe long winters. It may almost beimmaculate when the snow comes butthe work that comes with it is heavy-literally. There´s not much light duringthe day. It can be slippery at times. Wehave to put on layers of clothes. I guess,I am not the only person who has a longlist of why I prefer spring.What are the three important thingsFilipinos should remember when movingto Norway?Learn the language as soon as you can.The faster you learn the language, thebetter your chances of being satisfiedwherever you are.Learn the culture. The more youunderstand Norwegians, the sooner youwould be able to integrate yourself in thesociety. Remember that people will notadjust to your culture.Listen to the locals. They are your greatestallies on your first year. They’ll let youknow what to do and what not to do.Norwegians may seem overbearing butthey will try to help you in any way theycan.44The Filipino Expat Magazine

Sending help to thePhilippinesA destroyed house on the outskirts of Tacloban on Leyte island. This region was the worst affected by the typhoon, causing widespread damage andloss of life. (Photo courtesy of Eoghan Rice - Trócaire / Caritas)by Lyssa Ericka CabarlesThe Philippines recently made international headlineswhen it was hit by one of the world’s super typhoonscalled Yolanda (international codename: Haiyan). As ofthis writing, the report from the National Disaster Risk ReductionManagement Council (NDRRMC) said that an estimated 4,000have been found dead, some 12,000 suffered injuries and morethan a thousand are still missing. Earlier reports said that deathtoll could reach up to 10,000. Yolanda made its first landfall onthe early morning of Nov. 8, in Guiuan, Eastern Samar beforecontinuing on its destructive path to ravage neighbouring citieslike Tacloban, Capiz, and some parts of Cebu, Iloilo and Palawan.While relief efforts from both the local and internationalcommunities are pouring into the destroyed areas, thousandsremain in desperate need of food, water, medicines, clothing andshelter.The nightmare is far from over. The affected provinces and itspeople need full rehabilitation of their homes, community andlivelihood. The Filipino Expat has listed down the followingagencies where you can send help:Habitat for Humanity- PhilippinesThe Habitat for Humanity Philippines is raising funds to provideCleaning Kit to 50,000 families, Shelter Repair Kit to 30,000families and 10,000 Core Houses - all to the affected areas ofSuper Typhoon Yolanda.For Peso Donations, deposit your contributions to BPI currentaccount 2421-0014-24For Dollar donations, deposit your contributions to BPI US Dollaraccount 2424-0111045Visit their website for more information: http://www.give2habitat.org/philippines/ReBuildPhilippinesGawad KalingaGawadKalinga (GK) is a Philippine-based organization knownfor building homes and communities across the country, haslaunched Operation WalangIwanan: Typhoon Yolanda. Aside fromthe immediate relief they are providing for the victims, they arealso planning to build new housing units to relocate the displacedpoor families and rehabilitate damaged homes.For details on how to donate, you could visit their website http://gk1world.com/typhoon-yolandaUNICEFUNICEF is appealing for $34 million to help 4 million Filipinochildren who survived Typhoon Yolanda.UNICEF Philippines is accepting donations through the followingmethods:Online donation site: http://donate.unicef.phCash/Cheque deposit (account name: UNICEF)• Metrobank: C/A 066-706631209-3• BDO: S/A 002-08016364-3• Land Bank: C/A 0052-1393-17• BPI: S/A 001-50100335-9• PNB: S/A 531-10730001-3• RCBC: C/A 500000-1882PayPal: Log in to PayPal, choose ‘Send Money’ option, key inUNICEF email address (psfrmanila@unicef.org) and select ‘I’mpaying for goods or services’ option.The Filipino Expat Magazine 45

newsPAL flies to LondonPhilippine Airlines launched its inaugural flight toLondon last Nov. 4, fulfilling the flag carrier’s promiseto return to Europe four months after the lifting of theEuropean Union ban.“We’re very happy that London is PAL’s first Europedestination since flights to that continent werediscontinued in 1998,” said Ramon Ang, PAL presidentand COO.PAL flies five times a week (Monday, Wednesday,Thursday, Saturday and Sunday), departing Manila inthe morning and arriving at Terminal 4 of Heathrowairport in London, the premier gateway to the UnitedKingdom and the world’s busiest international airport.“That we have been given permission to fly toHeathrow makes our return much more meaningful... We take this as a strong vote of confidence by UKauthorities in PAL’s ability to bring in the passengertraffic volume worthy of the world’s top airlines,”added Ang.PAL operates direct, non-stop flights, providing thefastest travel to London (average 13 hours) as wellas convenient connections from the UK capital totop Philippine tourist spots and other destinationsin Southeast Asia, Japan, South Korea and Australia.British business travelers can also make Manila agateway to PAL’s extensive international network.Ramon Ang, PAL’s president and COO.“With the new direct air links, our country is looking ata potential windfall in tourism, trade and investmentfrom Europe,” said PAL’s chief operating officer.In 2012, one third of the estimated 349,000 Europeanvisitors to the Philippines came from Britain. In the firsthalf of 2013, arrivals from UK reached 60,234. “WithPAL’s new non-stop flights, we are sure these numberswill rise even further,” said Ang.PAL aims at providing the more than 664,000 Filipinosin Europe with the most convenient travel to returnhome.100 Lucky Juans treated to a joyful homecomingin December),” said Joanna Baluyut, who has beenworking in the Middle East for two years.“’Yung ticket ko na panalo, sobrang laking tulong napo sa’min na OFW. ‘Yung pera ng pambili mo ng ticket,pampasalubong na sa ‘Pinas (Winning the ticket to flyhome is a big help for OFWs like us. The money wecould’ve spent on the ticket, we can now give to ourfamilies),” added John John Cabrillos, who has beenbased in the Middle East for a year.A total of 100 winners were named in the promo’s 14-week run from June 3 to September 2, 2013. To join,the contestants simply had to “like” the official CebuPacific Facebook page, click on the 100 Lucky Juansapplication, and answer the question: “How will I makemy homecoming in the Philippines fun?”Lance Gokongwei (right), Cebu Pacific President and CEO, with Alex Reyes, Cebu Pacific GM for the long-hauldivision.A total of 100 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) basedin the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were reunited withtheir loved ones in the Philippines through Cebu Pacificand GMA Pinoy TV’s 100 Lucky Juans promo. Familiesand friends of the winning OFWs surprised their lovedones in a touching reunion celebration at ResortsWorld Manila.The 100 Lucky Juans flew back home last Oct. 7 aboardthe Dubai-Manila maiden flight of the country’s leadinglow-cost carrier. These include Michael Cerillo, whohas been working in the UAE for 23 years. “Mulano’ng pagtapak ko sa UAE, ngayon lang nagkaroon ngganitong promo kaya nagpapapasalamat ako sa kanila.Gusto ko na umuwi kasi nami-miss ko na aking pamilya(Since I set foot in the UAE, this is the first time thatthey had a promo like this, so I’m really thankful. Ireally wanted to go home because I miss my family),”he said.“Nami-miss ko na ang aking bulinggit. Sobrang sayakasi napaaga ‘yung bakasyon ko instead of December(I really miss my little one. I’m so happy because Igot to go home earlier for a vacation instead of goingAnswers were submitted as a photo collage, twominutevideo or essay with 200 words or less. Thesewere judged based on creativity, adherence to thetheme and the number of “likes” they garnered on thesocial networking site. The contestant’s length of stayin the UAE was also a factor in the results.“Cebu Pacific is very proud to be reuniting 100 of ourhardworking kababayans with their families in thePhilippines. This has made our maiden Dubai-Manilaflight a truly meaningful milestone,” said Cebu PacificPresident and CEO Lance Gokongwei. “We look forwardto be of service to even more Filipinos, as we continueto offer our trademark low fares to even more longhaul destinations in the future. ”The first and only Philippine carrier with direct flights toDubai, Cebu Pacific now offers daily flights from Manila.46The Filipino Expat Magazine

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