Out for the weekend
MANILA, Philippines – Holidays in the tropics aren’t exactly ideal. We turn into green-eyed monsters when we see white Christmases on the other side of the globe. But we have to work with what we’ve got. After all, we only accept the holidays we think we deserve.
If you’re chasing down a cooler Christmas, why not spend a weekend in Tagaytay for some nice R&R before the crazy family reunions start? This is the early Christmas present the folks from Lifestyle Network and Claritin gave us last weekend.
For those unfamiliar with the term, “glamping” is like the sweet spot between camping and staying in a hostel. You have the privacy of your own tent but the company of other campers. It was truly the perfect end of the year detox. From yin yoga, juicing sessions, to acoustic nights under the stars, that quick glamping weekend at Nurture Wellness Village was a traveler’s dream come true.
If you’re itching to give glamping a go, check out these five tips. When it comes to the wilderness, there’s no such thing as being over-prepared.
Essentialism is key
The wilderness isn’t exactly the best place for your entire closet to be in. Pack your essentials and keep things light. Make sure that your items (especially your toiletries) are stored properly. Trust me, wearing a toothpaste-stained shirt during bonfire is not cute.
Stock up with stories
Glamping is more fun when you’re really out of touch with the online world. Get your Instagram out of the way, turn your phone off and actually talk to your campmates. The best memories happen offline and you have all the time in the world to go on your Twitter once the Christmas family reunions start.
Layer your sweaters
This is the time for you to bust out that comfy coat you got at a clearance sale. We know that Manila is not the ideal place to flaunt F/W collections, so the mountains might just be your best — or only — bet to wearing them.
Prepare for the worst
If your athletic level is more AmazingPhil than Casey Neistat, it’s best to keep a first aid kit in handy. Bring Band-Aids, alcohol, anti-allergies and other important medicines. It’s better if you bring anything that is ready for consumption. Check out Claritin Reditabs for quick allergy relief. The holidays may be here but the red nose is only cute with Rudolph.
Don’t panic
No matter how noisy the night gets don’t panic. It’s probably just the wind. If it bothers you, you can always put on your earphones and let Bon Iver or Sufjan Stevens serenade you. And always remember: there are no bears in Tagaytay, at least as far as we know.
