A different kind of blooming holidays

The Philippines is said to have the ‘longest Christmas celebrations in the world’, with four months of festivities starting in September. Most Filipinos see the Christmas holidays as a time for grand celebrations and family reunions. Christmas songs start playing everywhere, holiday promos and Christmas products are already in malls, decorations and festive lights also become common sightings everywhere. While the festivities commonly start in September, it doesn’t even end until January. The Paskong Pinoy is exceptionally unique, interesting, and sometimes, lavish.

But more than the cheers and merriment of the occasion, Christmas time is most meaningful when celebration is paired with genuine connection and meaningful activities. Usually, the Holidays are accompanied by parties, festive gatherings, and grand celebrations, but priorities may change as people grow older. Sometimes, you just want to take this opportunity to take a break and reflect on yourself. Perhaps, you’re not feeling as excited as before, or you get easily tired with all the gatherings. Or maybe, you just prefer quiet time and take some time off from the hustle. Whether you decide to celebrate the Holidays by yourself, with family, friends, or even with your loyal furry companions, it is important to let this season fully bloom with warmth, wonder, and winning moments in life.

Here are some ways you can enjoy meaningful Holiday activities within the Metro for yourself or with your loved ones– if you don’t feel like traveling far - without sacrificing your desire for tranquility.

1. Visit Intramuros  
Revisit your history and explore the Manila’s best cultural spots this Christmas season. It’s always a good idea to visit Intramuros, Manila’s historic walled city. Established by the Spaniards in the 1500s as the seat of power, Intramuros is now a vibrant heritage district with cobblestone streets, centuries-old churches like the Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church, museums, colonial architecture, and fortifications like the Fort Santiago. For a full tour experience, you can ride kalesas (horse-drawn carriages) or rent bamboo bikes. There are also a lot of dining options in the area if you’re up for a food trip inside the walled city.

2. Commune with nature  
If you’re looking for a green space and want to reconnect with nature this Holiday season, the Arroceros Forest Park, a 2.2-hectare green oasis in the heart of the city, is the perfect place for you. It offers a peaceful retreat from the daily hustle and bustle of life. You and your family can enjoy the rich biodiversity and lush canopy found on this riverside urban forest. It’s also a stone’s throw away from the LRT Carriedo Station and the Manila City Hall, and just adjacent to the walled city of Intramuros.       
 

3. Strong at the Pasig River Esplanade  
After a day of moving around, you and your family can wind down and chill at the newly constructed Pasig River Esplanade. This riverside urban landscape is designed to rehabilitate the Pasig River and provide more green urban space for locals and tourists. Spend your much-deserved Holidays sight-seeing the historic landmarks from the river esplanade. You can enjoy revitalized river views, iconic bridges, historic buildings, street food stalls, and pop-up shops. Relish on these picturesque views and feel the blooming vibe of Holiday festivities at this spot.

4. Food crawl at Binondo  
Feeling tired and hungry but not in the mood to visit malls during the holiday rush? No need to worry because you can always have a Binondo food trip. Hit the famous spots for your all-time favorite dumplings, pancit, hopia, and street food, or you can explore food alleys and well-known food shops and restaurants in the area.

5. Unwind at Winford Manila  
Finally call it a day and spend some quality time with your loved ones (or even just by yourself) at Winford Resort & Casino Manila located at San Lazaro tourism hub. After all, nothing beats a comfortable and large bed at their Deluxe Room after a day of strolling. If you need to catch up on some Holiday work, the Executive Suite is more ideal for you as it comes with a large work desk perfect as your home-away-from-home office.

The outdoor heated swimming pool and Winford Health Club, both at the 11th floor, will take your stress and tiredness away. If you feel like having some drinks to cap off the day, have some cocktails at the Zabana Bar, or drink a cup of coffee at the Winford Café.

In the morning, you can enjoy sumptuous breakfast buffet at Copa de Manila and pose for a photo at the blooming Christmas decorations at the lobby. You can even use these snaps as entries for the Snap. Share. Bloom photo contest of Winford Resort & Casino Manila and win exciting prizes!

Holidays need not to be stressful. You can choose to do your holiday traditions, or you can always try something new and still feel the blooming presence of Christmas season. After all, the holidays are the time to slow down and celebrate lasting memories with people who matter the most.