A Time for Virtual Christmas Celebrations

The COVID-19 pandemic has altered many facets of everyday life, and researchers suggest that people should also expect their Christmas parties to change their workplaces this year with many businesses switching to online events or outdoor meetings.  Though some people can feel "Zoomed out," businesses have organized simulated office parties that can still be enjoyable and separate from past online get-togethers.

Between the increase of remote jobs, budget cuts, and the fear of the lockdown being prolonged, Christmas parties' work in the conventional sense is unlikely to take place this year. Fortunately, there are a variety of options to get away from the highlight of the career social calendar in the cyber world instead. From festive bakery, craft classes, and immersive escape-room gaming to wine tasting, karaoke, and comedy nights, here's how to make your virtual Christmas party unforgettable for all the right reasons.

It is critical that the event is personalized to the business when organizing a virtual holiday party. Senior employees should be interested in capturing video messages looking back at the organization's past year or reveal some company awards during the function. It is also important to note to retain some aspects of a conventional, in-person working group, but to adapt them for an online audience. This includes a wireless photo booth, a dress code, and a drop-in party favors to employees' homes either before or after the event. While some businesses may feel restricted to what they can have for an online gathering, there are lots of entertainment options to ensure that a simulated experience is not dull, such as recruiting a magician, comedian, or musician to perform during the stream.

Depending on the province or jurisdiction of where you are based, some will even be able to get together for an in-person holiday party in certain settings. For the best outdoor hotel resort in Davao, or a resort with a swimming pool where you and your colleagues can gather for one last time this year, you can check out holiday offers at malagos.com. Davao’s best resort provides you with safe, sustainable, and healing experiences that will ensure a different Christmas party that’s one for the books.

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Christmas Shopping with a Twist

Holiday shopping is a huge industry. Big deals, big crowds, big profits. In order to meet their annual targets and place them on a road to future success, many stores usually focus on good sales in Q4. Just like about everything else in 2020, this year's holiday shopping is going to be anything but traditional. Holiday shopping will be very different this year, fueled by shifts in consumer tastes and economic situations, as well as a global pandemic. Here are some ways Christmas shopping is different this year:

Shopping starts early - Shopping early helps shoppers to be more emotionally remote and secure instead of waiting until shops are busy in mid-December. For retailers, who are urging shoppers to start early, logistical challenges with big, last-minute crowds can also be stressful and costly. Spreading out holiday shopping also reduces the effect on the wallets of shoppers, many of whom are still stressed this year.

An online shift - The 2020 holiday shopping season will feature mainly online shopping instead of in-store doorbusters. COVID-19 regulations that limit the capability and hours of stores are already in effect in certain regions, and the upcoming flu season and cold weather may lead to a rise in cases. Many shoppers are also not happy shopping in the supermarket and are taking their spending online instead, and scavenging for the best Christmas grocery packages or noche buena gift baskets in the surge of promos since 11-11.

Thinking outside the box - Forget the usual toys and stocking stuffers, individuals are going to reach beyond the box this year. Although stores will still sell a huge number of clothing, accessories and appliances, analysts also expect that non-traditional presents that can create partnerships will flock to buyers. Many customers would sell food, video media subscriptions and coupons for potential use after spending more time than usual at home. With more wellbeing presents, people can still want to pamper themselves at home.

Whatever the trends tell us, it’s usually easier if we find our trusted online store where we can shop early, safely, and find all the things we need at once. Malagos Homegrown Produce’s noche buena grocery packages for example are a good place to start if you’re looking for a sulit shopping deal this season. Check out their offers today at malagoshomegrownproduce.com.

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Pandemic Celebration Must Haves

Christmas is right around the corner again! It's time to enjoy Noche Buena again where families assemble at a lovely Christmas dinner to indulge in a wide selection of perfectly delicious dishes. For us Filipinos, joyful family reunions and reunions are not complete without an excess of food on the table. It's a fact that it's technically difficult to finish all the dishes in one sitting, but hey, that's what makes us Filipino. As food lovers, we're bringing you the Noche Buena dishes that carry the gastronomic holiday experience to life!

Lechon - Without a question, the lechon is known to be the "greatest of all at any Christmas celebration. Usually, it is politely positioned in the middle of the Noche Buena table in a rather mouth-watering way. It's only fair to be ranked as the highest because this slow-roasted pig is filled with a flavor that will certainly carry you to taste buds of the stars.

Christmas Ham with Pineapple Glaze - This meal brings out the true essence of one's festive occasion. The Holiday Ham is a must-have addition thanks to the timeliness it adds to the table. The pineapple glaze is not only a perfect esthetic blend, it also matches the intense taste of pork.

Bibingka and Puto Bumbong - Simbang Gabi is usually where this dynamic duo is found. As a Filipino tradition, people giddily gather outside after mass to indulge to the warm welcoming whiff of these festive delicacies. Aside from church vicinity, this combo can always be indulged in one’s household.

Quezo de Bola - Every Ber-month, this red ball of happiness pops out of supermarkets and your local food stores. Cheese lovers never miss the opportunity to place the Quezo De Bola on the Noche Buena table. Sliced, diced or served whole, the Quezon De Bola can be mixed in with the many dishes of the holiday season.

Sikwate - What a better way to chill by sipping hot chocolate in the chilly season of Christmas. This drink is perfect to serve at family celebrations or barkada night-outs as you enjoy the day with long chats about the cozy embrace of hot chocolate. This drink gives every Filipino a great feeling of love while incorporating a tasteful experience.

Noche buena grocery packages come handy in some of Davao’s trusted online stores. For a quick and easy pandemic celeb must-haves, check out Malagos Homegrown Produce’s Christmas basket packages and grocery gift baskets where you will find bundles of joy containing signature Malagos products. Check them out at malagoshomegrownproduce.com.

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Prenup Ideas for the Cash-Strapped

We know how many headaches you may have to prepare for a wedding! There's so much going on and so many choices to pick from that it's an almost impossible feat to do on your own without support or insider knowledge.   Oh, to help you get through the process—which you can really love, no matter how dizzy it may get! —We've covered some pretty critical ground for such a big day: searching for a great spot for your prenup shoot that's not just stunning, but also significant.

• Las Casas, Bataan - Las Casas is without a doubt one of the most remarkable historical, cultural and artistic accomplishments of our country's modern past. If you don't know, it's basically a compound made up of heritage homes and buildings shipped from various parts of the Philippines and made magnificent again. Restored to excel in their former glory, they create beautiful backgrounds for every picture and showcase the beauty of Spanish-Filipino aesthetics. Though wide-angle pictures are sure to turn out to be fantastic (many of the views here deserve to play a starring role in your prenup), go nuts for close-up shots, too and they redefine what it means to pay close attention to detail.
• Biri Island, Northern Samar - While hard to achieve, Biri Island is going to reward those who take the extra mile to get to it. This stunning product of the skillful hands of nature can be the ideal setting for a prenuptial shoot. Biri's rock pools in Northern Samar have stolen the hearts of many with crystal clear turquoise water. Not to be overlooked by the pools are the beautiful rock formations that bring depth to every shot you take.

• Malagos Garden Resort, Davao City - arguably the most glammed up and best prenup location in Davao City, Malagos offers you the best of both worlds. If you want your prenup session to be in the middle of all the lush greeneries, you can easily find instagrammable places in Davao. But the thing about this tourist spot in Davao is that it can dress up even the most mystical of rainforests to something that would definitely make you want to look twice. Its fairytale-like setting gives you a definite advantage on aesthetics alone. What’s even better is that unlike any other locations when you type “prenup davao” on google, this resort offers accommodation, complimentary meals, and even a list of accredited wedding planners and photographers. You won’t have to go through the hassle of planning everything when you decide to have your engagement shoot here. Curious about their offers? Visit them at malagos.com now.

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Top Christmas Staycation Destinations in the Philippines

 

Christmas in the Philippines begins as early as September, so all the lights are up for your best bet, and there are gazillions of enjoyable family-friendly holiday events across the world that will bring you into the festive season's cheerful mood. Christmas is mostly about families in the Philippines. Although some only rest and enjoy the comforts of their homes, in the search for new experiences and memorable memories, others prefer to visit various provinces or nearby resorts. Today, we’ve come up with a list of Christmas staycation resorts for 2020.

1.        Zambales - We deviate a bit from the traditional festivities in the bustling cities and lavish reunions. A growing alternative is to celebrate Christmas by camping, particularly for young families who want to experience the season in a relaxing campfire setup, away from the excessive noise and pollution, while providing an escape from social media and electronics. Zambales provides a perfect spot to have an insightful talk with your loved ones, friends, and better half, with many spots to settle down for a night or two, such as Anawangin and Nagsasa Cove.

2.        Palawan - If you plan to visit this province around Christmas season,' Christmas in Paradise' is perhaps the perfect way to characterize the island of Palawan. Palawan is really a perfect holiday destination for couples and small families, with sandy beaches and natural wonders. Local food is also worth a try, and something worth noting is the unmatched cleanliness. Palawan is a spot worth considering if you are looking to enjoy Christmas and New Year without straying too far from civilization.

3.        Davao - Thanks to the joint efforts of the government and its residents, the city of Davao sparkles during the Christmas season. For the budget-conscious, this destination is perfect. One of the most recommended holiday destinations in Davao’s staycation resorts is Malagos Garden. Experience the healing properties of nature as you explore a host of activities that are guaranteed new-normal safe. With enormous outdoor spaces brimming with a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, all ages and abilities can confidently take on #HealingExperiencesAtMalagos. For more info about this child-friendly resort, check them out at malagos.com.

 

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Gorgeous Garden Wedding Ideas

There's something absolutely romantic about your engagement to the love of your life surrounded by tall trees and lush green lawns with a fragrant fragrance of flowers flowing through the air. It's easy to see why garden weddings are a common option for brides and grooms, but did you know you could have your garden wedding theme? In reality, here are five beautiful garden wedding ideas that you should consider:

1.        A High Tea Affair - A elegant and relaxed afternoon lunch of delicate sandwiches and scones is ideal for the brides who are searching for a more low-key outdoor experience and those who want to stay out of sight, a known Davao florist says, who has arranged hundreds of high-quality tea parties. 

2.        Great Gatsby Glamour - From art-inspired arrangements and flirty flapper skirts to dapper gentlemen and a jazz soundtrack from the swinging '20s, the Great Gatsby-style weddings are dazzling and enjoyable – whether you're throwing them indoors or outdoors. They're a bit more different and not as formal as traditional weddings. In addition, the theme could suit the brides who are looking to make a huge splash on the day.

3.        A Classic All White Wedding - Any suggestions for a classic garden wedding may include tying large white bows to the seats at the reception, a lovely bouquet of tumbling white orchids, large white pillar candles, and strings of white lanterns hanging from the trees.

4.        Boho Chic - Boho Weddings involve the use of old-school suitcases as decorations or the hanging of antique bird cages or mason jars full of tree blossoms. You might also put a weather-beaten ladder under the trees and drape flowers on them or place black and white family pictures on the stairs. Boho brides can choose to wear an ethereal lace dress with no shoes and a crown of fresh flowers instead of a veil. 

5.        Gothic - When we think of the Gothic, we picture the red flowers, the candlelight, the historic buildings and the factor of mystery! Let's start with the clothes at the beginning. Black is an easy option for groomswear, and you might prefer to wear black shirts and deep purple or red accessories. While a bouquet of red roses is the perfect choice, you could speak to your florist about adding black and deep red flowers.

If you’re looking for the perfect garden wedding venue in Davao that can accommodate all styles and personalities, look no further because Malagos Garden Resort, a premiere Davao wedding destination will soon cater to all your needs. From venue, decors, flower arrangements and even to the organizing part itself, there’s no other wedding place in Davao City that does it like Malagos. Visit their website malagos.com for updates.

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How the Pandemic Changed Online Shopping

The situation is shifting rapidly. The number of people found healthy to meet in one location has declined from thousands, to hundreds, to ten. Restaurants, restaurants, movie halls, and gyms in several big cities have shut down. In the meantime, many office employees are faced with new pressures of working remotely full time. Essentially people come to terms with the complexities of our intertwined society and how impossible it is to briefly isolate those relations from others.

One of the answers we've seen is how people are approaching this period of isolation and uncertainty, with huge overnight changes in their shopping behavior. From bulk shopping to online shopping, people are changing what they're buying, when and how. When more cities go through lockdowns, and as a general rule, consumers avoid public areas. Limiting shopping to everything but the basics is now a modern normal. Brands need to adapt and be agile to meet evolving demands.

1.    Generations of Shoppers - The reaction to COVID-19 has not been widely felt through generations, with customers of different age groups reacting differently to the crisis. It is important to remember that this is a constantly changing situation, meaning that polls are easily out of date as attitudes shift with situations. Although people in general are worried about the increasing pandemic, the youngest generations are especially concerned about their buying actions.

2.     Change of Priorities - Anyone who has faced empty shelves or seen price gouging online knows that health and safety products are being purchased far faster than they can be produced and restocked. Another category of consumer packaged goods that is booming is shelf-stable items. These fit into the category of people planning for long-term quarantine.

3.      A Surge of Online Shopping for the Holidays - Shoppers may spend more online than in store during Christmas season shopping surge. Most consumers say they feel safe shopping in stores, but more shoppers plan to shop online over the Thanksgiving weekend rather than enter stores.

Locally, holiday online grocery and delivery has seen an increase since the onset of the -ber months. With online shopping in Davao rising to popularity more than ever, there are numerous small shops that have introduced us to new kinds of products which we didn’t normally appreciate pre-covid. One of which is davao fresh meal kits, which are practical and convenient in times like this. For more new and fresh products for holiday online shopping, you can check out malagoshomegrownproduce.com. 

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Key Takeaways from First Time Staycationers

Originally from the United States, the word staycation is a neologism originating from the contraction of 'stay' and 'vacation.' According to the Cambridge Dictionary, rather than going to another location, it means holidays that you take at home or near your home. Staycation is not though, a holiday model for learners or low-budget tourists.  Rather a staycation is an ecological way to enjoy your holidays near your house. It is synonymous with reduced congestion, saving money, and not adding to the sheer confusion that exists in some of the most touristic parts of the country. Let's look a little closer. 

Staycation seems to be a perfect solution to the above-mentioned problems. It is an ideal way to enjoy happy holidays while helping one's wallet and the community. In fact, staying close to home reduces the budget for lodging (15% of the average holiday household budget) and transport. So without further ado, here are the top 3 key takeaways from first-time staycationers:

Staycation reduces the burden of arranging a trip: from seeking hotels to planning numerous suitcases loaded with clothes that are not even worn enough times; 

This makes it easier to do things that you cannot do during the year because of a busy schedule, such as visiting the permanent museum collections, taking advantage of the good weather to (finally) practice some sports in the local parks;

The local economy is also highly promoted by staycations. You should take advantage of the holidays to take a tour of the local markets, go to the farm to collect fruit and vegetables, take part in seasonal sports or creative classes, or even spend a night in an unusual hotel nearby.

With the many benefits of local travel, you no longer have a reason to be embarrassed when you're asked where you're going on holiday this year.  On the opposite, not going to the other corner of the planet like anyone else to "visit" the unstable beaches, but instead exploring the area is an eco-friendly and economical option you should be proud of. Lucky for us, there are a handful of staycation resorts in Davao City. Ranging from honeymoon destinations, a solo traveler’s paradise, to family and nature resorts, in Davao, you can choose from a wide range of options.

When looking for the best staycation destination in Davao City, you might want to consider Malagos Garden Resort. Check them out today at malagos.com

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Meal Kits against all the Holiday Rush

The delivery systems for meal kits are more than just a chance to learn how to cook or even try something different. In reality, for them, there are some unexpected advantages that you might not have even known especially now that we’re entering the critical phase of Holiday Madness.

We highly recommend that you check out where to buy meal kits in Davao, if you have not yet tried a meal kit at home, so you get a decent start on something enjoyable, new, and delicious. Maybe these unexpected advantages will help you make the jump to check them out if you're already on the fence (even if it is just for one week). 

Portion Powers - You are not sure how much chicken or even vegetables each plate is intended to get when you make something at home, and that is why we Filipinos are infamous for overeating. Meal kit distribution providers provide pre-measured and portion-ready single meals. You know how many to place on each plate until you are finished cooking. Some businesses offer heart portions, and with too few calories, you'd be shocked by how much you get to consume. So if you struggle with the perfect portions, these packages are going to help.

Healthy Cooking - Healthy cooking is not always easy, particularly if you're coping with children and/or a busy work schedule. You may have the intention of cooking something nutritious and equally tasty, but boxed and/or frozen choices are just that much better by the end of the day.

Time and Cost Saving - You save the time and expenses involved with going to the store (including petrol cash) when you use a home kit! You save on the hassle of buying ingredients, weighing and cooking them when you have your recipes pre-portioned and packed and ready to cook. When you just need two tablespoons, you decrease the amount of wasted ingredients-no more buying a quarter of something! You save time preparing your menus on a weekly basis, so you no longer have to sit and sift through countless recipes.

For the best Davao meal kits, check out malagos homegrown produce Davao online store and delivery. They don’t only sell individual meal kits for you, but also veggie bundles with meal kit inclusions that are not only healthy but also definitely practical at times like this! Visit their website now at malagoshomegrownproduce.com.

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A Unique Experience Refined by Nature at Malagos Davao

Davao City is one of the bustling big cities in the Philippines. It's a colorful Land of Promise located in Mindanao that boasts not only white sand and clean beaches, abundant mountains but also cool and exclusive nature resorts. If you're cramped and too filled-up to travel for a few hours to other destinations, there are a few locations you need to check out for a fast weekend getaway.

One of which is Malagos Garden Resort. I was one of the lucky few who was able to check them out first when they reopened last November, right before the city reverted back to General Community Quarantine. Unfortunately, they had to close once again for a week to clear up things and make sure that they’re following protocols. Now you might have all heard about them as the usual field trip destination when we were kids (Hello Batang 90s!), but more than that, they are also a Davao staycation hotel and resort where the entire family is welcomed with safe, sustainable, and healing experiences refined by nature.

Safe - Cashless, contactless, and convenient: the moment you set foot inside the resort premises, have confidence that they’ve enhanced their safety protocols to ensure you and your loved ones only #SafeExperiencesAtMalagos

Healing - Experience the healing properties of nature as you explore a host of activities that are guaranteed new-normal safe. With enormous outdoor spaces brimming with a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, all ages and abilities can confidently take on #HealingExperiencesAtMalagos

Sustainable - From their farm to your table, and table to soul, this family resort in Davao is committed to sustainable practices that are environment-friendly and put forward the well being of the community. Be confident that you are guaranteed with #SustainableExperiencesAtMalagos.

At Malagos Garden Resort, they are committed to providing clean, and new-normal compliant environments for our guests and colleagues. Your safety is their top priority, now and always, that’s why they have taken important steps to ensure that you and your loved ones can #StayWIthConfidence at Malagos Garden Resort as you take on sustainable and healing experiences refined by nature.

For more inquiries about this Davao staycation resort with a pool, you can check out their website malagos.com and know more about their ongoing promos!

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