Even in this Islang Pantropiko, it’s still possible to feel the fantasy during the -ber months.
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From Halloween costumes and slasher-movie marathons to opening presents and eating Noche Buena, no matter what traditions you partake in during the Ber Months, the excitement for the season is undeniable. But it’s not so easy to revel in the joy of it all when the Philippines only has two settings: being battered by storms or being scorched in heat. So, how can we feel the brr in Ber Months? Here are five ways to cash in on the “All Too Well” season and winter wonderland spirit amid the tropics of the Philippines.
FEASTING ON FALL/HALLOWEEN-THEMED SWEET TREATS
One surefire way to emulate the chill of spending the Ber Months in a four-season environment is to relish in some cold, sweet treats. Here are some scrumptious festive treats available to you without having to fly abroad, such as J.Co’s Bloody Halloween series and its three products: the Count Dracula donut, the Night Wing donut, and the Iced Choco Berry Bleed drink.
GO ON A WEEKEND TRIP SOMEWHERE CHILLY
As beautiful as this country may be, the heat in recent years has gotten to an almost unbearable point which has been made even worse no thanks to climate change. It’s not exactly something we are keen on, especially during Ber Months when colder air is supposed to prevail. So, here are three places you can visit for a weekend for a much-needed break from the blazing Philippine heat.
TAGAYTAY
Only about an hour’s drive from Manila, Tagaytay can offer you that quick break from the hot reality of the Philippine climate. Whether you want to enjoy scenic views from Skyranch Tagaytay, sip some piping hot Bulalo soup in Mahogany Market, or just chill at an overlooking cafe, Tagaytay is an all-time spot for chilly vibes.
TANAY, RIZAL
Up for a quick adventure? Then take a ride to Tanay, Rizal. Known for campsites with stunning views of the Sierra Madre mountain range, a speedy visit to Tanay can re-energize you in all the best ways.
SAGADA
Whether you’re broken-hearted like Angelica Panganiban in “That Thing Called Tadhana” (2014) or you just want to taste good coffee and breathe in fresh air, Sagada’s got your back. Check out some local spots that brew unparalleled coffee, camp beneath the stars, and watch the sunrise at Mt. Kiltepan.
VISIT SNOWY THEME PARK ATTRACTIONS
SNOW WORLD MANILA
Ever dreamt of making snow angels or having smoke come out of your mouth because it’s so cold? With temperatures dropping as low as -15 degrees Celsius, Snow World Manila in Star City will bring that winter wonderland experience to you without having to fly to Japan or South Korea.
TRAILS TO ANTARCTICA PENGUIN EXHIBIT
No need to travel across the world to see penguins in all their glory. Pop over to Manila Ocean Park and see their Trails to Antarctica penguin exhibit and see the adorable flightless birds for yourself!
BLAST CHRISTMAS SONGS FROM YOUR FAVE ARTISTS
Holiday music doesn’t have to be repetitive or from the same old musicians. As iconic as they may be, let’s give our speakers a rest from Mariah Carey, Michael Bublé, and Jose Mari Chan. Why not give these Christmas bops from this generation’s top artists a listen instead:
A NONSENSE CHRISTMAS – SABRINA CARPENTER
CHRISTMAS SONG – PHOEBE BRIDGERS
REWATCH SOME *ICONIC* HOLIDAY MOVIES
If Filipinos want to celebrate Christmas months in advance, then might as well enjoy the best things about the season as early as now, like Holiday movies. Bring out the Bibingka and Puto Bumbong, it’s time for a Christmas marathon.
THE HOLIDAY (2004)
Featuring a winter wonderland in rural United Kingdom and a blazing hot Christmas vacay in California, The Holiday will have you hanging up Christmas lights as early as now. Oh, and did we mention it stars Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, and Jack Black?
LOVE ACTUALLY (2003)
With its top-tier cast, Love Actually has been a Christmas staple in households worldwide since it premiered in 2003. The British film revolves around 11 (yes, 11!) storylines all intersecting in one way or another. It features A-list celebs including Keira Knightley, Colin Firth, Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, and the ever-dashing Hugh Grant.
HOME ALONE (1990)
Who didn’t watch this masterpiece as a child? Starring Macaulay Culkin, Home Alone will never fail to make you appreciate your family during the Holidays. Perfectly paired with cookies and chips while watching, head on to your favorite streaming service and watch Kevin get left home alone for the nth time.
It’s already hard enough to keep your cool on a regular day in the Philippines, even harder to do it these days it seems. It’s easy to lose the Holiday spirit amid all the extreme weather and stress, but hopefully, this list will help you feel closer to the Halloween and Christmas season and enjoy the Ber Months a whole lot more.
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