A month has passed in the year 2011 and since then, some festivals were already done. I am always fascinated with the Asian continent with its rich culture and tradition. The Philippines, an archipelago located in the southeast, has something to be proud of. It may be a small country but it has colorful celebrations especially on Christianity as it is mostly composed of Roman Catholic citizens.
January is the month for its world’s best known festivals like the Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, Aklan near the famous beach of Boracay, Sinulog in Cebu and Dinagyang in Iloilo. Different people around the world are fascinated with how Filipinos pay tribute to Sr. Sto. Niño during these month. It is a reminder of how the Philippines became a Christian country during the Spanish invasion. Individual differences became one in the hope of keeping the spirit alive with street dancing and colorful tribal presentations with various choreography on how the tradition has evolved over the years.
Is it your first time in the Philippines? There are certain things that you need to consider so you can better enjoy your stay and experience. Take note that it is a developing country and it very much different from the place where you’ve been – where you grew up and lived. Expect a bit of culture shock and the attitude of some people around you. Your physical appearance is new to their eyes and that they are not accustomed to the way you dress yourself. Remember also to take extra care with those who might take advantage since you are new and is less familiar with the place. And be careful with some beggars and street children who see the event as a chance to collect some money.
Never mind being new to the place. What’s important is that you enjoy the sight and the colorful surroundings with the tribe’s costumes and the decorations. And it will be even more an experience if you share the joy with your family and friends way back home. Take photos during the festival and send to them. Pose with a tribe member after their performances. Share these in social networking sites or your personal online photo album. And find time to call them and tell over the phone how great it is to be in this place and feel the joyful festivity.
How do you keep in touch with your family and friends? Call them using your mobile phones. But the rates will be higher and you will surely have high monthly bills. Use an alternative with an application for your smartphone. You need not use your cellphone minutes. Instead, you can use this dialing software that is provided by a telecommunication company that usually offers cheap calling card service where you can enroll online. You can easily access your contact in your mobile phones. If you can get a prepaid calling card, it will also be helpful but a smartphone application is more hassle-free unless you get a virtual calling card of course. There’s no chance that you’ll lose that piece of paper and run around looking for it. You can also opt to use VoIP services, the softphone like that from Pingo. It is a service that can be accessed using an internet ready computer in places like restaurants or hotels where you stay.
Just be safe in your trip and enjoy your vacation in the country. Meet new faces and be friends with them. Be sure to keep in touch with your loved ones for them to know that you’re safe and sound. Surely, being in these festivals will be an experience to share and tell with pride.
Febe is a freelance writer who does reviews and contents on telecommunication companies, services and products for international calls like Pingo prepaid calling cards.
