Weekend Activities: Four Compelling Reasons You Should Still Watch Movies in the Theater

"The only reason why we ask other people how their weekend was is so we can tell them about our own weekend" –Chuck Palahniuk

In the age of streaming services and applications, it is indeed a wonder why quite a lot of people would still prefer to watch movies in the theater. Despite the plethora of on-demand options conveniently at your disposal, a trip to the cinema is always worth the effort and not just out of sheer novelty either.

Indeed, in this time and age where streaming services seem like the more practical and feasible option to get our slice of entertainment, cinemas should have been rendered obsolete—a thing of the past. And yet here we are, peppered weekly with Ayala Malls Movie schedules, Movies in Greenbelt and even current movies in Makati being advertised in applications and newspapers. Instead of dying out, it seems like the theaters and the cinemas are thriving and they are ever as robust despite having a significant price hike on movie tickets. Why? Well, just because there are some experiences that you can only ever get within the walls of your local cinema.

Sure, there might be a myriad of ways to watch films without setting foot inside a movie theater (most of them legal, mind you) and the novelty of watching movies in theaters might never beat a Netflix subscription, the fact remains that the cinema or the theater has not lost its magic. Indeed, there are only a handful of ways wherein a makeshift home theater can emulate the kind of experience you have in movies, and that is a good enough reason to watch cinemas. Given that there are also a handful of bad experiences that might deter you from stepping in a cinema ever again, there are still compelling reasons why it is still worth watching movies in cinemas. Here are just some of them:

Avoid spoilers and be part of the conversation

Let us be realistic here and attest to the fact that spoilers are always present whenever a blockbuster movie opens. With social media being the constant and consistent medium of communication among many individuals, people would soon get word of what happens in a particular film before even seeing it. More importantly, as social media is a tool that allows users to communicate their thoughts to a broader audience, some netizens would inadvertently read these spoilers regardless of how meticulous they have screened their posts. Incidentally, if you opted to wait for a particular movie to air only on the streaming service then hearing spoilers is inevitable. If you wish to be in-the-know of the latest films without reading them through spoilers, then consume movies in a timely fashion. This process means you have to see them in theaters. Here are some of the ways you can avoid spoilers.

Movie Food

Granted that you can munch on movie snacks in your kitchen or even on your sofa while you are watching a movie, nothing quite compares to snacking on a tub of popcorn while anticipating your film. There is an absolute joy in loading up your movie snacks, beverages and maybe even some candy when you are at a movie theater that cannot be emulated by your home entertainment room. There are some people whose primary motivation for watching movies is getting to eat their favorite movie snacks. That, in itself, is pretty convincing.

Your home theater is good (but not that good)

Regardless of how much you spent on your home entertainment system or whether you have a 90-inch 3D TV with surround sound speakers, all of that would still not compare to the kind of experience you will get at a movie theater. As said above, there are just some cinema experiences that you cannot replicate no matter how hard you try. Certain scenes are made to be viewed in theater or viewed best in them. Scenes such as the ones in Gravity or that particular scene wherein Dwayne Johnson makes a jump in Skyscraper is seen best in a large screen. And let us face it; you really could not fit that kind of television screen in your homes. So, you might as well watch movies the way they are meant to be viewed: in theaters.

Support movies that you love

The movie industry is a business, and of course, it needs to make enough profit for future movie ventures. In this regard, only movies that do well will get sequels or get similarly made. After all, films are made based on what does well at the box office. In this regard, you can cast your vote with dollars and let them know that the movies you watched are the movies you like. If a film does not do well, then you will never see another iteration of it sometime soon regardless of how much you love it. Support the types of movies you love, and maybe you will see more of the same get made.  

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Discover Philippines: All You Need to Do About the Philippine Nightlife

“There is no night life in Spain. They stay up late but they get up late. That is not night life. That is delaying the day. Night life is when you get up with a hangover in the morning. Night life is when everybody says what the hell and you do not remember who paid the bill. Night life goes round and round and you look at the wall to make it stop. Night life comes out of a bottle and goes into a jar. If you think of how much the drinks are it is not night life” –Ernest Hemingway

The nightlife scene in the Philippines is unlike any other.

Influenced significantly by Western culture, there might be some aspects in Philippine nightlife that allude to the nightclub scene commonly found in the United States. However, there are also several aspects about it that make it so unique. For an instance, the nightlife in each district is so drastically different than how you would find it in another city. Makati nightlife is associated with upscale living insomuch that you can find some of the most luxurious and exclusive bars and nightclubs here. Other towns are also known for their distinct brand of nightlife—whether that may be a simple night at the pub or a speakeasy that is frequently patronized by up-and-coming writers, singers, artists and poets. Indeed, nightlife in the Philippines is so vibrant and colorful that everyone needs to experience it—whether they may be a local and even more so when they are a foreigner. Regardless of what your poison might be, the Philippine nightlife caters to everyone and you might find something just for you. Everything is there—from laser light discotheques, karaoke bars, underground music gastropubs and exclusive VIP clubs. There is always something for everyone’s fancy and kind of play during the weekend.

So, if you have been looking to hit up some nightclubs or bars this upcoming weekend, here are some of the things you might want to know before going on that nocturnal jaunt:

Friendly attitude towards foreigners

Filipinos are known for their hospitality. In this regard, a foreigner would not have a hard time striking up a conversation with a local. In fact, they may even expect Filipinos to initiate conversations with them first. More importantly, Filipinos have an excellent command of the English language so communication would not be a challenge. Aside from that, foreigners are basically treated like celebrities in the Philippines insomuch that most Filipinos would be receptive to accommodating them. Although things might be relatively different in low-end establishments, you can still expect Filipinos to be welcoming to foreigners.

English-speaking nation

As stated above, Filipinos have an excellent grasp of the English language that communication would hardly be a problem at all. In fact, this is seen as one of the many advantages when it comes to partying in the Philippines as most of the locals can speak English. Even the poorest urban communities can speak Basic English and would be able to accommodate tourists without a hitch. However, even if your trip to the Philippines does not necessitate the reading of a Filipino phrasebook, knowing a few key phrases will earn you extra appreciative smiles from the locals—just for trying!

Unique alcoholic beverages and food

Filipinos love their booze just as much as they love to eat. For this reason, most of their alcoholic beverages have food matches to further improve the taste and the drinking experience. A local drink that is a must-try to beer drinkers is the Filipino local staple for libation, the San Miguel Beer or simply called San Mig. This beer variety comes in a variety of forms from the classic pale pilsen offering to the super dry variant. Apart from alcoholic beverages and spirits, there is quite a number of recognizable American fast food establishments in the Philippines. Recently, there has also been a growth of Japanese, Chinese and Korean cuisines inside shopping malls.  However, if you truly want to experience the diversity of Filipino cuisine, take a stroll in one of the Sunday food night markets and food bazaars. There you can find a range of unique food offerings and flavors all in a single place. Have a taste of the local street food as well as Filipino “pulutan” or finger food and beer matches said to enhance the taste of your alcohol.

Love for KTV

Filipinos love to song—that much is evident from the series of KTV bars you can find in almost every nook and cranny in a major city. In fact, you might even find a standalone one in a local store with a singing patron to match. Indeed, a Filipino’s love for singing has no match and it is something you have to witness for yourself should you ever find yourself in the Philippines. Even those without the gift of vocal prowess can be found singing and belting out tunes in karaoke machines. After all, it is more about your performance rather than the song. So, do not be afraid to try your hand at karaoke too. Let go of your inhibitions by belting out your favorite songs.

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Night at the Cinemas: Snacks to Enhance Your Movie Experience

“Movies can and do have tremendous influence in shaping young lives in the realm of entertainment towards the ideals and objectives of normal adulthood.” –Walt Disney

It is a given that no cinema experience is complete without movie snacks.

After all, what are you supposed to do with your hands while you are waiting for your movie to start? Much like how so many things go together, popcorn and the movies go hand in hand. Indeed, freshly popped butter popcorn is known to be a ubiquitous presence in cinemas that moviegoers are rather used to the scent of popcorn kernels pervading the cinema and the resultant noise that comes in eating them. In fact, it seems almost comforting to be able to smell it while we watch our favorite flicks. 

However, there are other snacks that can elevate and enhance your cinema experience apart from the iconic snack. Although some of the ones listed here are a bit unconventional to munch on while watching a movie, they are incredibly healthy. In this regard, you would not have to worry about the extra calories you consume and can eat away guilt-free.

Do remember that the food you bring should not emit foul or pungent odor so as not to ruin disturb movie patrons and ensure everyone has a great movie experience all the same. In any case, should you be checking for Greenbelt Cinema schedules or the like, here are the snacks you can alternatively munch on:

1.)    Blueberries

Swap out the crunch of popcorn and try to munch on an alternative superfood such as blueberries. While blueberries can hardly be found in snack bars in cinemas, they are relatively easy to locate in grocery stores and supermarkets. Blueberries are delicious food that has been found to give you a boost in mental memory for up to five hours making it the perfect snack for movies with complicated plotlines.

2   2.)    Walnuts and Flax Seeds

If you wish to pack on omega-3 fatty acids without bringing oily fish inside the cinema outright, walnuts and flax seeds are excellent alternatives. They come in loaded with the essential acids and can easily fit inside your bag or pockets which makes them a snackable alternative to fish.

 3.)    Chocolate

Instead of indulging yourself with a sweet candy treat, why not try a more decadent but healthier alternative? Chocolate has been known to enhance any experience and that would invariably include your cinematic one. Not only does this sweet morsel give you a pleasurable feeling, but when taken in controlled amounts, it can actually be healthy. Moreover, chocolate contains flavanol which has been associated with improving your short-term memory. In this regard, you would not have to constantly ask your seatmate what just happened to your flick every twenty minutes or so.

 4.)    Guacamole

Guacamole is a sure winner with everyone—especially when it comes with its archetypal pair, nachos. This crowd pleasing snack is not only known to be a fan-favorite, but it also helps you boost your brainpower as well. After all, avocados are known to be rich in monosaturated fat which can vastly improve blood flow to your brain.

 5.)    Pistachios

If you are a big fan of nuts then you are going to love pistachios. While nuts are known to be the go-to snack for mindless munching in movies, why not consider this healthier alternative? Seeing as we tend to scarf down food more rapidly in usual when inside movies (mindless munching and all), switching to pistachios will help you address that. Research has shown that eating shelled pistachios can actually aid you in cutting down your caloric intake in a movie. After all, eating even just one in a movie house already takes effort considering you still have to peel the shells. This sends signals to your brain on how much you have been eating which would be a subtle reminder to you to stop wolfing down the snack.      

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City Living: Four Excellent Reasons Why Makati is the Premier City to Reside In

“A great city is not to be confounded with a populous one.” –Aristotle 

Known as the most sophisticated city in the Philippines, there are quite a lot of reasons why one would want to be billeted in Makati. Considered as the most coveted zip code, living in Makati has always been associated with an air of exclusivity and affluence that would intimidate most individuals. After all, the city is deemed to be the country’s financial and business hub so taking up residence there is inevitably going to be rather expensive. A Makati condo alone would set you back by quite a few millions. Apart from having some of the heftiest price tags of real estate in the country, you can expect some certain services to be a bit more exorbitant than they would have been in another part of town. An ordinary meal alone would be quite pricey, and even basic services such as a haircut would cut into your budget. However, all the prospective horrors of living in an incredibly expensive district are well compensated for in a lot of other aspects.

Choosing to live in Makati has its perks after all that you can even consider your zip code as an investment by itself as it would positively income your wallet. Just think of the potential savings you would make by not having to spend a lot (or at all) for transportation services as offices are just in proximity to the city. As a result, what you can potentially save from transportation alone would already offset the amount you will have to shell out for housing among others. Apart from transportation, here are some of the other benefits living in Makati City would afford you:

1.)    Travel time to work is much shorter 

One of the consequences in Makati living is not having to travel very far just to get to your office—provided that your office is located within Makati City of course. Of course, the nearer you are to your workplace, the shorter your travel time will be. In this regard, you would not have to wake up early just to get to your workplace. Moreover, navigating through traffic will be more of a breeze considering you can always choose to walk instead of drive to your destination.

2.)    You have more time to be productive 

As you have a lot of time spared seeing as you do not have to submit yourself to the hours of traffic onslaught, you effectively have more time on your hours. You can then use these extra hours to relax or enhance a skill or talent you have always wanted to pursue. You can learn to cook, have a rendezvous with friends or family in one of Makati’s shopping malls, do some house cleaning, complete errands and even take a side job and earn extra profit.

3.)    You get sufficient sleep 

Living in the metropolis subjects you to hours upon hours of traffic. When you live near where you work, you do not have to worry about this. In this regard, you do not have to go to bed late and leave very early. As a result, you can leverage your time. Living in Makati effectively mitigates your stressful routine as you are granted more hours of sleep. Moreover, having a restful night of sleep ensures that you will perform well (if not better) at work as you are focused and energized to take on the day.

4.)    It is good for your health

You might be skeptical as to how this is possible, but if you broke down the benefits, it is actually a feasible benefit. A shorter commute would mean the elimination of stress which can significantly boost your health. Moreover, it gives you adequate time to focus on your health and fitness. In this regard, you may choose to walk or ride a bike to go to work. Alternatively, seeing as you have more vacant hours, this might finally inspire you to hit the gym.

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Manila at Night: The Five Types of People You Meet at Bars and Clubs

“In nightlife, you can become a star, while in the daytime you can just be a nobody.” –Eddy de Clercq

Of all the cities in the Philippines, the nightlife is no brighter and more colorful than in the country’s biggest metropolis, Metro Manila. Over the years, Manila’s vibrant nightlife has continuously served the public’s demand for a more diverse experience at night, and it has adequately delivered through a variety of exciting bars and clubs. Today, a typical night out in Manila is not only limited to pre-gaming at a pub or bar, dancing the night away at the club and wrapping it up at a coffee shop. In these days, Manila nightlife is more expansive and would include themed and sports bars, gaming clubs and the like. As a result of this development in Manila’s nightlife scene, bars, pubs, and clubs would now cater to a more varied and inclusive set of partygoers and revelers.

In fact, it is not uncommon to come across a zany or interesting character in one of your nocturnal excursions. After all, in a perpetually bustling cosmopolitan such as Metro Manila,  you would be hard-pressed to find an empty bar or club—even on weekdays. Given this rather busy lifestyle, expect and be prepared to bump into some individuals who are seeking a little relief (and breathing room) from a hard day’s work. Although they might be different from one another, expect to find similar characteristics among them.

Here are some of the common individuals you would bump into on any given night at the bar or club:

1.)    The Cool Kids 

You might have spotted them gingerly waiting their turn to get inside at the queue leading to the club. More often than not, their presence baffles you because for one, they look far too young to be partying (and drinking for that matter) and secondly, they are definitely up way past their bedtime. As a result of this rather rebellious behavior, you might even wonder (and question) their parent’s moral scruples and leverage on disciplinary control over them.

2.)    The Group Taking Shots 

There is no doubt that in one of your nightly excursions; you are definitely going to run into that all-male or female boisterous group. Usually, they are somewhat easy to spot not only because of their crazy antics but because one of them has had too much to drink and would most likely need help just standing up.

3.)    The Group of Girlfriends 

Just one look at them reminds you of an episode of Sex and The City. From the get-go, they seem to be catching up—either on the latest gossip or the comings and goings of their lives. However, while this might seem like a sound idea at first, the club is not exactly an ideal place to hold a conversation. Crowds of people converging on the dance floor, music blaring from the stereo and drunk people all-over are definitely things that do not make an ideal ambiance for a catch-up. Besides, no one really feels like shouting just to be heard by their companions. 

4.)    Foreign Nationals and “Friends”

This is not to say that a foreigner’s companion would immediately be his date, but more often than not, that is the case. Most trendy bars will have their fair share of foreign nationals. In fact, you can rank a bar or club’s popularity based on the attendance of foreigners (and their companions in tow).

5.)    The Scouts 

These individuals are males, and they can come in groups or alone. They have a singular purpose for hitting up clubs: To score dates with women. If a man’s flirting game is pretty strong, he usually would not require a coterie of other men. However, if a man is a novice at the dating game, he might need a few wingmen with him.

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Four Places in Metro Manila to do Your Christmas Shopping

“I do not think Christmas is necessarily about things. It is about being good to one another; it is about the Christian ethic, it is about kindness.”-Carrie Fisher 

As the most awaited season of the year comes nearer, people are starting to complete their Christmas shopping lists, and if you have not, it is highly recommended that you do as well. In anticipation of the holiday season, individuals tend to start their Christmas shopping early to avoid the Christmas rush that happens anywhere between early to late December. As shopping is somewhat known as a sport in the metropolis (and also one of the best things to do in Manila), it would only be inevitable for Filipinos to have a wide array of shopping options to choose from. Where you choose to do your shopping significantly depends on the type of budget you have allotted for buying gifts and the things you want to buy.

This article has got you covered though as it lists some of the best places to do your holiday shopping with any type of budget. All you would have to do is complete your list, sit back and take a gander at the favorite shopping destinations of Filipino holiday shoppers when it comes to Christmas bargain deals:

1.)    Divisoria 

When it comes to having a strict budget for Christmas shopping, Divisoria would undoubtedly come first on the list. After all, you could not find cheaper items anywhere else but Downtown. However, shopping downtown comes with a price: You have to be confident enough to brave the traffic. However, once you have hurdled through the perpetual traffic onslaught, you will be well rewarded. Divisoria is the epitome of budget shopping and the very definition of budget shopping. It offers a massive selection of things that at times you do not even know that you need. They have all sorts of knick-knacks that come at affordable prices and would make perfect gifts.

2.)    Tutuban and Mall Clusters 

Fondly known as the Tutuban Cluster, this shopping destination is a series of adjacent shopping malls which are favored and loved by many. The cluster includes the Tutuban Center Mall as well as 168, and each mall offers inexpensive gift options which they have organized in segments all depending on what you need. The best thing about this shopping district is that the malls are in proximity to each other which means you just hop from one place to another. However, do note that there is a huge influx of consumers and buyers whenever there is a holiday. So, it is best to start your Christmas shopping in this mall early on.

3.)    Malls (SM, Ayala, Robinsons, etc.) 

Although significantly more expensive than any of the shopping districts listed on this article, shopping malls such as SM, Ayala and the like offer their consumers an ease of convenience that is notably absent in other malls. However, the downside to this is that these shopping malls do not allow haggling. But you will be pleased to know that they have huge bargain deals and discounts during the Christmas season and on top of that, they have raffle draws and contests for a minimum amount of purchase. Lastly, they offer complimentary gift wrapping which would save you time from wrapping the Christmas gifts yourself. Indeed, shopping in these malls would be the more convenient and leveled-up way to shop.

4.)    Baclaran 

Widely considered as an offshoot of Divisoria, Baclaran similarly offers a myriad of selections that focus on affordable apparel, colorful accessories, affordable footwear and other items that would make charming gifts for the Christmas season. However, much like how buyers descend in Divisoria in droves, you can expect Baclaran to be one of the most visited shopping destinations during the last quarter of the year.

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Exploring Makati: Five Things to Do and Places to Go

“Given that many of us work more than eight hours a day and five days a week, that free time is precious” –Michael Allen


Known for its allure of sophistication and lush elegance, Makati City continues to entice the country’s most elite to possess the metropolis’s much-coveted zipcode. However, as of late, Makati is not only known for its sheer exclusivity when it comes to residential living but has also been known to be an excellent destination for those looking to have a good time.

Located smack dab in the center of the Philippines’ major metropolis, Makati City remains as the premier place for entertainment and travel opportunities. Considering that this concrete jungle is where individuals all over the country converge to further their careers or look for job opportunities, various watering holes and after work activities would be inevitable results. Furthermore, as Manila is considered as a jumping point for many travelers and tourists en route to smaller and more tropical provinces, it would come as no surprise that some of its major cities, Makati included, would be an eclectic mix between city and provincial living. If you have time to spare on your weekends or simply find yourself in the heart of this major city, here are some of the things you can do:

1.)    Join the Youth Football League 

If you have a flair for sports and a particular proclivity for getting rough and just happen to be a woman, well Circuit Makati’s event is just for you. This November, they are holding a youth football league for the women’s division, and anyone is welcome to join. So, if you wish to engage yourself in a bit of competitive sport and get your adrenaline pumping, then sign up for this activity.

2.)    Play board games 

Gaming buffs and enthusiasts who are looking for an offbeat alternative to computer and console gaming will love Makati’s board gaming scene. Apart from the nostalgic feel these gaming pubs and bars offer their patrons; they also boast a notable game collection so you would never be short and wanting for variety when it comes to games. For those who just wish to check things out, the drop in charge is at around a P180 while membership fees would vary depending on how long you intend to stay with them. Visit Gaming Library, John Bull Distillery, Makati Beer and Board Games and Makati Marauders for these board games.

3.)    Solve a Mystery 

Self-proclaimed sleuths and individuals with a penchant for solving mysteries will love Mystery Makati. Channel your inner Nancy Drew and experience a whole different kind of fun with your friends at Mystery Makati where you would be locked in a room and have an hour to figure a way out. There is a wide selection of “mysteries” you can choose from. Horror lovers would enjoy “Debby’s Doll” while those who wish to just get their hearts’ racing sans the fright and terror would prefer “Sinister Sensorium” and “Pym Particle.”

Bonus Tip: If you can solve the mystery within the allotted time frame of an hour, your group’s name goes on the leaderboard. Assemble your team and go for a unique experience.

4.)    Learn to skate 

If you have always wanted to try your hand at skating or just wanted to improve your skating skills, then head out to MTN DEW Skatepark—the only skatepark in Makati wherein you do not run the risk of getting run over. They only charge fifty pesos per hour provided that you bring your own roller skates and safety gear with you.

5.)    Go on a retail therapy 

Makati has some of the most coveted designer retail shops in the country, so it would be a complete waste if you do not take advantage of this while you are in the city. The city boasts a wide array and selection of designer and upscale stores that are found nowhere else in the Philippines. So, prepare your wallets and load up your carts and prepare to do some serious shopping.

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Casual Running: Five Tips to Prepare You for Your First Run

“Running is nothing more than a series of arguments between the part of your brain that wants to stop and the part that wants to keep going.” –Author Unknown 

So, you have decided you wanted to try a fitness activity and signed yourself up for a running event (If you have not yet, Circuit Makati is hosting one this month). So, after signing up and doing all the necessary training you need to do in order to prepare yourself, what else is there left to do? Well, participating in your first fun run—especially when you have to run a considerable distance in order to complete it—can be an intimidating experience. This is all the more true for first-time runners who have no prior experience with running before. However, by doing some of the tips and techniques down below, you can maximize your experience while enjoying it.

Here are the best ways you can make your first fun run a no-frills and fun kind of event:

1.)    Prepare your body beforehand 

Of course, there is no absolute need to train like you are joining the Ironman marathon. However, you do need to adequately prepare your body beforehand and make sure that by the time you run the race, you would not end up being winded. If this is your first run, having your body get used to the strenuous activity by actively running for short distances for at least a couple months before the event is paramount.

2.)    Do not overtrain at the last minute

One of the common mistakes that even seasoned runners commit is to aggressively train a week before the event in an attempt to build up their strength and stamina. However, this can be incredibly detrimental to your body as it needs to recover and rest to ensure you would avoid stress injuries. Furthermore, overtraining yourself might result in exhaustion. In this regard, you might even have to forfeit attending the running event due to your injuries. Ensure that you have sufficient intervals between training times, and avoid overtraining at the last minute.

3.)    It is more than just about running 

While running the fastest would help you accomplish getting to the finish line first, it is not the only thing you should focus on. Apart from running, it is also essential to work on your core and technique so that you would successfully maintain a good posture throughout the entire run. Good posture is integral to comfortable running.

4.)    Do not go crazy on the carbs 

Carbohydrates are an excellent source of energy, and they might give you that extra boost comes running day. However, you should not drastically change your diet just the day before the running event. Doing so could result in indigestion and even fluctuating energy levels. In extreme cases, it might even cause you to pass out while running. If you wish to incorporate more carbohydrates to your diet or make any changes to it, give it a test run weeks before your scheduled running day so that your body will have enough time to get used to them.

5.)    Prepare what you need and have fun 

Apart from the extra shirt and bottle of water, you would need on the event day itself; you have to ensure that you are adequately geared up for running a significant distance. This means that the shoes that you wear and the clothes you would run in are all comfortable to wear. In this regard, your clothes should not chafe as you run. Moreover, it is best if you packed snacks with you and apply sunscreen before positioning yourself at the starting line. Lastly, remember to have fun. Remember, your objective here is to relish the experience. It is fun run after all and not a marathon. 

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Four Reasons Why You Should Visit Art Fairs in the Philippines

“Art is freedom. Being able to bend things most people see as a straight line. “- Author Unknown

Back in the day, art appreciation was exclusively done only in art galleries and art museums. Considering that most art galleries and museums charge an exorbitant entrance fee, admittance was limited only to those who can afford it. As a consequence, these events were seen as a converging spot only for society’s most elite individuals, esteemed artists or local celebrities. However, as of late, art fairs have started cropping up, and they have caused quite a buzz in the Philippines. Heavily regarded as an avenue for relatively unknown artists, startup entrepreneurs and the like to showcase their wares, art fairs are somewhat an eclectic fusion of trade fairs and art museums—thus the appropriate moniker. Art fairs are not limited to individuals engaged in the art business, however, as it is also a place for art dealers, advisors and collectors to make deals.

In sum, it is a spectacular visual emporium that is open to the public. To attract and delight crowds, art exhibitors stipple the events with fantastic and impressive pieces—after all, an art fair should entice crowds to come. From many excellent galleries, instructive forums, and lectures, here are some of the reasons why you should visit an art fair in the Philippines soon:

1.)    Galleries galore 

Major exhibitions such as art fairs are excellent avenues for top galleries, collectives, and artists and other visual arts organizations to converge and showcase their works. You might be surprised to see as many as forty of the most prominent modern-art exhibitors to be participating in just one event—making it incredibly easy for you to flit from one art space to another. Furthermore, it features not only local art galleries but are slated to include some foreign collectives as well. Art Fairs allow visitors to explore their specific art tastes and preferences by holding a diverse set of art galleries all in just one venue. Whether your art palate is invariably unconventional or a little more traditional, an art fair has everything for everyone.

2.)    Hang out with a cool crowd 

Back in the day, art fairs were seen solely as a meeting ground for artists, millennial hipsters or young professionals seeking to acquire new art. Nowadays, however, art fairs host a smorgasbord of diverse individuals—with students, homemakers, creative professionals and even executives peppering every event. With this in mind, it would be easy for you to mingle and rub shoulders with a very varied collection of people and share your enthusiasm for art with them. If you hung out long enough, you might just bump into a famous face as well

3.)    Enrich your knowledge 

It is no question that art fairs have their own fair share of art lectures and forums and if you are committed to expanding your knowledge as regards this area, you can simply attend these events. Speakers range from prominent and well-regarded individuals in the creative field to fresh faces in the art industry. Regardless of who it will be, it is a guarantee that there is always something to learn from them. Moreover, your appreciation for art will significantly increase as you learn about the latest art trends, pieces or particular movements. If none of these appeals to you, perhaps getting to meet and talk to the artists themselves will convince you otherwise.

4.)    Must-see masterpieces 

It is no question that any art fair would give you a sense of overwhelming calm as well as euphoria. Seeing the expertise and talent made by our fellow Filipinos manifested through their art is nothing short of exhilarating—it makes you feel quite proud as well. Immerse yourself in an exhibition space that features innovative, unique and introspective visual interpretations. Almost every art-form known to man can be found there—from interactive installations, mixed medias, collaborations and the like.

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Reasons To Move To The Philippines

The Philippines is a country known for many different things but not as a country that a foreigner might move into except in cases when a foreigner has married a Filipino or Filipina. In fact, there are more Filipinos moving to other countries than foreigners moving to the Philippines.

Despite this, there are a lot of reasons why one would want to live in the Philippines.
Below are some of these reasons.

• English is easily understood and spoken. For a foreigner moving to another country, the country’s language is a huge factor. Of course, it is very important that you can converse with the locals. Since English is easily understood by almost everyone in the Philippines, there is not much language barrier and it can be quite easy to communicate with the locals without much adjustment.

• Happy disposition of Filipinos. Filipinos are known for their cheerful and happy dispositions. For those who are looking to be around people that have so much optimism and love for life, the Philippines is a country where you can be surrounded by such. Being happy-go-lucky is not unusual for many Filipinos and being surrounded by these kinds of people can be a breath of fresh air. Also, Filipinos are always ready to lend a helping hand. Community support is almost always strong no matter where you may choose to settle.

• Lower cost of living. If you are a foreigner who has saved up money or who receives retirement fund, your money will go a long way in the Philippines where the cost of living is probably so much lower than where you might come from. This is exactly why a lot of Filipinos leave their country to work overseas. They earn money in other countries and then send their earning back home where they can use it to buy properties, send their children to school, or maybe even start a business in the Philippines.

• Tropical paradise. For those who are looking for a tropical paradise, the Philippines is the country to go to. This country has endless beautiful beaches for you to enjoy and diving is something that makes a lot of foreigners stay or at least keep coming back for over and over again. There are so many places to see, enjoy, and discover in the Philippines and it is a great place to live in for those who love nature and the sun.