Feliz Navidad, friends! ✨
Andy Williams said it best: It’s the most wonderful time of the year, indeed! And though another Christmas has passed us by, the magic in the air lingers. Can you feel it? I definitely can! Wherever you are, I’m wishing you a joyful holiday season filled with warmth and love. 🎄🎄🎄
That said, I know this season can be tough to some - especially to those who are far from their families. I’ve been there. I spent my first three Christmases in Spain alone - only to be "adopted" by my dear friends for the holidays because they couldn’t bear seeing me celebrating solo (THANK YOU, FRIENDS! I LOVE YOU ALL!)
If you’re feeling the same way, I want you to know that you’re not alone, and there are ways to make the holidays brighter. So without further ado, here are some tried-and-true tips and tricks to help you navigate this season as a Filipino international student far from home. Let’s make this time special -together! 💖
1. Organize a Potluck with Fellow Students or Friends
Gather your friends or fellow international students for a potluck dinner. Everyone can bring a dish from their home country (or a Filipino classic like adobo or pancit!!) to share. It’s a wonderful way to bond and create a sense of family during the holidays. I’ve done this for Christmas 2021 with 5 other international students in Barcelona and I cooked our filipino-style fried chicken (with the help of crispy fry lol) and safe it is to say it was a HITTT!
2. Wander Through Spanish Christmas Markets
Step into some of Europe’s most charming Christmas markets and be wow-ed with ´em cute Christmas shops adorned with sparkling lights and colourful ornaments. Whether you’re browsing the Christmas markets with friends or alone, make sure to treat yourself to delicious churros with hot chocolate or to a cup of mulled wine. It’s the perfect way to soak in the holiday magic!
3. Attend Simbang Gabi with the Filipino Community
For me, one of the BEEEST ways to feel connected to home during the Christmas season is by joining the Filipino community for Simbang Gabi. I always make it a point to attend at least a couple of times because there’s just something about hearing Pinoy Christmas songs that makes me feel both nostalgic and full. The Filipino parish in both Madrid and Barcelona hold Simbang Gabi around 8:00 PM. Afterwards, you can even treat yourself to a delicious meal at a Pinoy restaurant!
4. Stay Connected with Loved Ones Back Home through the WWW!
Let’s be real — technology can be a blessing and a curse, but when it comes to the holidays, I am so thankful for it! It’s the perfect way to bridge the distance between us and our families back home. Why not plan a video call with your family (or friends) from back home to share some holiday cheer? You could even host a virtual noche buena or sing Christmas carols together! It might not replace the warmth of being with them in person, but hearing their voices and seeing their faces will definitely make you feel a little closer to home.
5. Pamper Yourself and Enjoy Some Me-Time
The holidays can be overwhelming - and that’s okay! It’s the perfect excuse to take a step back and focus on YOU. Whether it’s cooking your favourite dishes, indulging in a Christmas movie marathon (no shame, it’s a vibe lol), finally diving into those books you’ve been eyeing all year, or treating yourself to a full-on self-care day at home or outside, it’s all about recharging your batteries. This season isn’t just about giving love to others, it’s about giving it to yourself too (and trust me, you deserve it!). Embrace those peaceful moments, rediscover your hobbies, and why not start that vision board you’ve been putting off for months? It’s time to treat yourself like the priority you are!
I know it’s always easier said than done, but I truly hope these little tips and tricks can bring you some comfort, especially during this holiday season. Being far from home can be tough, but there’s also so much joy to be found right where we are. In Spain no less! So I hope you make this holiday season one to remember. You’ve got this!
Sending you so much love, light, and magic!
Happy almost 2025!✨🎆🎉🥂
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