Summer Do's & Don'ts 
by Ellen Joy Anastacio
April 2003

Summer's back, and it's back with a vengeance.

From the cool, balmy weather last January and February here in the Philippines, the temperature's been rising and the sun's been shining even brighter than ever. So if you're planning a trip to the Philippines, check out some do's and don'ts for the summer season!

DO make sure to keep some sun block handy. The sun's rays do penetrate our skin whether we're at the beach or not, so if you're planning to stay out in the sun to swim or even for just some prolonged strolling, be kind to your skin! You'll be grateful for it 20 years from now.

DON'T waste your time! Tempting as it is to just lay around in air-conditioned splendor in the comfort of your home, there's so much to see and do in the Philippines that it would be a shame to stay cooped up at home.

DO drink a lot of fluids. Try everything from iced candy to gulaman to iced tea to fruit shakes to ice cold soft drinks to plain old water, and feel refreshed from the inside, out!

DON'T forget to sample all the yummy food that the Philippines has to offer.Try ensaladas, empanadas from Vigan, tupig from Ilocos, biscocho from Iloilo, otap from Cebu, sapin-sapin from Malabon, bibingka from Binan, palitaw from Pangasinan, chicken inasal from Bacolod, choco flakes from Baguio, durian from Davao, lansones from Laguna, and a whole lot more.

DO visit a pool, beach, lake, or any body of water. Key this summer: COOL OFF! With the summer sun beating down your back, what could be better than having cool water all around you? Ahhh! And of course, it's a great excuse to wear those sexy bikinis and swimming trunks! Or better yet, it's a fabulous way to sightsee, if you get my drift!

DON'T cover up too much! Now's the time to bring out those shorts, tank tops, and flip flops! As long as you've got sun block on, you'll be glad to wear these to beat the heat!

DO go out on excursions with your family and friends. Go out of town and see more of the Philippines! With time at your disposal, enjoy the carefree rhythm of the islands.

DON'T forget to take a break. While going out is a lot of fun, our bodies do need time to rest. This way, you'll get to experience everything better; with a fresh mind and body!

DO take advantage of mall air-conditioning systems. Watch movies, eat out, window shop, or simply, hangout with your friends! This way, you won't spend too much on your electric bill at home AND you'll still get to see and do a lot! And lastly,

DON'T forget to have fun! Try new things! Have an adventure! Whatever you're doing or wherever you are, let loose, and enjoy. That's what summer, and the Philippines, is all about anyway!

So what are you waiting for? Dive right in to a fun Philippine summer!



Beach pictures copyright by Pen Cristobal. Mall picture copyright Filgifts.com. Food pictures copyright Philrice Online. Unauthorized copying, reproduction, or deep-linking is strictly prohibited.
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