What Makes a Traditional Filipino Weddings Different
Getting married in the Philippines is something that most ‘Pinoys’ (a term for addressing the locals) would desire even if they have previously tied the knot in another country. Considering how ceremonious and lengthy a Filipino wedding is, the practice of coming home to get hitched for a second time does not come as a surprise anymore. And with how the culture highly regards the sanctity of marriage, there is no doubt that the bride and the groom can expect a deeper and more permanent bond with each other.
What can spice up the celebration even further are the numerous wedding-related folk beliefs being practised. Although they may not have logical or scientific bases—sometimes even downright ridiculous—most people adhere to them, an unmistakable manifestation of the people’s there-is-nothing-to-lose-if-we-comply attitude. Here are some interesting examples of cultural wedding traditions that have withstood the test of time.
• Brides should not try on her gown before the big day; otherwise, the union would not push through.
• Giving knives or any other sharp, pointed objects as wedding gifts are believed to be bad choices as it might lead to a broken marriage. On the other hand, chamber pots will bring good fortune to the newlyweds.
• Travels and long drives should be avoided before the red-letter date as altar-bound couples are prone to accidents.
• If the groom does not want to be a henpecked husband, then he must do his best to sit ahead of his bride during the wedding ceremony.
• Even the weather is believed to have a hand in the outcome of the union. For instance, if it rains on the day of the nuptials, the spouses can expect a happy and prosperous life ahead. This is the same reason behind the practice of throwing rice confetti at them.
• Though a bit eerie, an extinguished flame on one of the wedding candles is a hint of who between the couples will pass away ahead of the other.
Though some of these superstitions may be hard to believe, they can be factors that spice up the occasion and make it into something truly ‘Pinoy’.
Caring for Your Skin When Travelling in a Tropical Country
When preparing to spend a holiday in the exotic islands of the Philippines, it may not be enough to bring along light clothing to be able to adapt to the weather. With its tropical climate, your skin will likely face different kinds of challenges.
Especially in the summer months when the heat is at its peak, humidity can stress out the pores and make you sweat a lot to cool down the body. In the process, clogging of these openings may occur and cause oiliness or, worse, pimples. Thus, applying some sunscreen is an imperative rule for all – not only in this beautiful archipelago, but in any other location where heat is prominent. So, here are a few beauty and personal care tips that will help steer you from the said dangers.
1. Opt for light and non-greasy formula. If there seems to be an oil build-up due to excessive production of moisture, you should apply just enough lotion to keep the sun and its hotness from toasting your skin.
2. Chill out under a relaxing, cool shade. This will help relieve the burning sensation and the UV-induced redness that results after spending sometime at the beach or exploring the sceneries of the island.
3. Have a shower if you cannot bear the discomfort. Since the climate might keep you perspiring throughout the day, grab the chance to have a quick bath whenever you can. Or better yet, bring along sweat-control towelettes that have antiperspirant therapy formulation.
4. Wash your face with a dependable cleanser. Do this to keep your hardworking pores clear and clean. You can try products that have acne-fighting salicylic acid and potent antibacterial triclosan, as these will help reduce blemishes.
5. Use exfoliating scrub at least one or twice a week. This will remove hard-to-eliminate debris and dead skin cells. Do this before you sleep, especially when you are wearing make-up. It will allow your epidermal layers to breathe overnight.
So, whether you are visiting for short or extended periods, always remember to consider your destination’s climate when preparing for a trip.