Ilongga

EXPAT DIARIES: CHELLIE – ILONGGA IN DUBAI

January 18, 2016 by Little Miss Honey 263 Comments

Wikipedia) ‘An Expatriate (often shortened to Expat) is a person temporarily or permanently residing in a country other than that of their citizenship. The word comes from the Latin terms ex (“out of”) and patria (“country, fatherland”).

This blog aims to discover people who are adventurers like me, venturing out in a new place to call home and creating memories. I have previously lived with my parents and siblings in the Saudi Arabia when I was in high school. I have enjoyed and cherished my memories in the beautiful Sandbox I once called my home. Now, I am in a new adventure with my husband and son here in Singapore.

I am featuring Expats in different countries every two weeks to share their experiences and adventures with you and me.

Today’s featured expat is fellow Ilongga. Meet the pretty Chellie who is now in Dubai ”

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1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and where you are originally from?

My name is Chellie, I am 26 years old and I came from Iloilo City Philippines. Currently, I work as Beauty Advisor for Burberry in Dubai International Airport.

2. What made you move to Dubai? How long have you been there?

To be honest, moving to Dubai was a long forgotten “plan”. Way back in college Dubai was starting to wow the world, and I had adventures in mind to work and explore a new world. I had a stable job right after college so I kind of put it aside. Then after several years of working in Iloilo I met up with an old friend who came from Dubai and learned that it was full of opportunities and adventure. I visualized my college dream again and decided to give it a shot. This is my third year in Dubai and I always thank God for giving me strength everyday.

3. What do you miss about your home country?

The food of course! haha! Sure, it’s easy to find Filipino stores and make my own versions of my mom’s dishes, but nothing beats home cooked meals after a long day at work. My palate is still not used to a lot of dishes here, and thanks to that I have learned to cook meals I want without Skyping my mom or YouTube.

I miss also the times where I can bond with my family and friends anytime. Here I have to consider the time difference and the schedules just to call them and ask how their day went.

4. What are the wonderful discoveries and things you like about Dubai?

Dubai has a lot to offer. I mean a lot! I haven’t even visited half of the places here. The tourists destinations, beaches, malls and parks are among the nicest place to see. Dubai is very welcoming to tourists making it even easy and convenient to tour the city. Recently as we celebrated Christmas, they made a Snow Park in Souq Madinat, one of the luxury hotel resorts near the famous Burj Al Arab. There, people from all walks of life had the chance to experience the Spirit of Christmas. There they had a food festival, Christmas music filled the air and gingerbread houses were decorated by children and adult alike. It was amazing.

5. What are the 3 tips you can give to fellow expats in Dubai or those you planning to move there?

Be flexible. Anything can happen here, so always be ready.

Always save money. Honestly we cannot be here forever, so might as well save money. Sale and shopping are your frenemies here- it never ends and it’s very tempting; but as for me, I learned the difference between want and need.

Travel. Dubai is a transit hub for a lot of countries, especially Europe. So take the opportunity to travel once in a while to travel.

6. I have lived in Middle East before and I realised many misconceptions about living in the Middle East. Can you share with us some misconceptions in living in the Middle East?

When I was new here, I thought Dubai was like in the stories- men are feared and women have little rights. But I was surprised that times have changed. Women here have careers, they drive cars and treated with respect. We even have a special cabin in trains and buses. People here are opening up to the idea that everyone has the right to live their life.

7. The LITTLE MISS HONEY community gets inspired through travel, food and books. Can you tell us your current FAVOURITE TRAVEL SPOT, current FAVORITE FOOD/RESTAURANT DISCOVERIES & current FAVORITE BOOK?

During my free time, usually I go to The Beach at Jumeirah- it’s like a food strip and shopping destination in one near the Jumeirah Beach Residences. It’s convenient to go to and I love the relaxing ambience it offers. The best part is strolling in the shore! Currently they are constructing the Dubai Eye- similar to the London Eye.

As for fave restaurant, hmmm. now that it’s winter me and my boyfriend are craving for something with soup and Asian flavors. Our comfort food is The Noodle House, an authentic Asian restaurant. My favorite is the Pad Thai noodles and recently I discovered they serve Laksa too!!! I was so happy because it’s my favorite noodle soup dish!

Recently I haven’t had the time to read, and I have a lot of books on queue. Still my favorite is Paulo Coelho’s the Alchemist.

8. Can you share with us your favorite makeup products?

Okay so my latest fave and essential is the Burberry Luminous Fluid Base in Nude Radiance. It’s not just a face primer, it’s a hydrating make up base which gives your skin an effortless glow. I absolutely love it! I love contouring and highlighting, so another of my fave is the Burberry Highlighting luminous pen and contouring pen. Very easy to apply even for daily use whether in a hurry or not. And lastly, I love how red lipstick brightens any look.

9. What are your three favorite travel essentials?
Scarf- it always comes in handy during flights when you suddenly feel cold and still look fashionable

Neck pillow- for that comfy snooze minus the stiff neck

A good book always comes in handy

10. Where do you get your inspirations? Who or what inspires you?

I am always thankful for where I am now and for what I have become. I never thought I would be this independent in my life. My family always inspires me to do more and always give back to those who helped me. Even if tired and sometimes homesick, I always think of how happy I make them feel.

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Thank you Chellie for sharing your Dubai story with us….

If you are an expat or know any expats who are interested to be featured, drop me a line at littlemisshoneyblog@gmail.com.”

EXPAT DIARIES: VICKY – AN ILONGGA MEDIA PERSONALITY / SPECIALIST IN DOHA, QATAR

November 17, 2015 by Little Miss Honey 249 Comments

(Wikipedia) ‘An Expatriate (often shortened to Expat) is a person temporarily or permanently residing in a country other than that of their citizenship. The word comes from the Latin terms ex (“out of”) and patria (“country, fatherland”).

This blog aims to discover people who are adventurers like me, venturing out in a new place to call home and creating memories. I have previously lived with my parents and siblings in the Saudi Arabia when I was in high school. I have enjoyed and cherished my memories in the beautiful Sandbox I once called my home. Now, I am in a new adventure with my husband and son here in Singapore.

I am featuring Expats in different countries every two weeks to share their experiences and adventures with you and me.

Today’s featured expat is a schoolmate from my all-girls high school back in the Philippines. Meet the beautiful and vivacious Vicky who is now living an exciting life in Doha, Qatar ”

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Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and where you are originally from?

I am from Iloilo City, Philippines, and a proud Ilongga. A graduate of Computer Engineering. I have always wanted to work in the media but did not pursue the dream due to the limited opportunities back home. At that time I never thought that I will be living abroad. However, life’s journey has unexpectedly brought me to the Middle East in 2006 and I am now working in the industry where I always wanted to be.

What made you move to Doha, Qatar? How long have you been there?

The financial crisis began in late 2008 in Dubai. Qatar always had an excellent publicity and the media kept on mentioning that it is the next Dubai.

In December 2, 2008, during the UAE National Day, I booked the cheapest hotel and flight to Qatar. I had a list of companies’ where I wanted to work.

I visited Qatar for about three days. On that very short visit I was so determined to get a job, considering that I cannot afford to go back again in Qatar and the financial situation in Dubai was terrible. Thousands were losing their jobs, especially in advertising.

I walked in my target companies offices. Each office I walked in I insisted on meeting the hiring manager as I only had three days. In three days, I managed three interviews. After two months, in February 2009, I was back in Qatar with a job in the biggest publishing house in the country at that time.

What do you miss about your home country?

I miss many things – my son most of all, my family and friends, our fantastic house helps, our dogs, etc. We currently live in a beautiful bubble and as an expat in the Middle East nothing is permanent. I miss the feeling of being settled, knowing how you want to be when you get older.

I may not be a big fan of Filipino food; but I do miss our delicacies in Iloilo – Batchoy of course, pancit molo, even the spicy fish balls by Molo Church…

I used to dislike the Filipino-style spaghetti and now that I am away I found myself enjoying my spaghetti Bolognese with sugar and sausages!

What are the wonderful discoveries and things you like about Doha?

One does not have to like the one he/she loves. It is how I feel about Doha. I love it but I don’t like it. The great comfort and security makes me feel at home; then there will be occasions that it will hit me that it is not my country.

Richard Serra Art installations in the desert

What make Doha a lovable place to live are the community and the friends we meet. People are very helpful. I love how different nationalities integrate. As an expat we meet many friends from different countries. Then they leave after a couple of years. It may be sad but that leaves us to have many friends all over the world which makes the world seemed smaller.

What are the 3 tips you can give to fellow expats in Doha, Qatar or those you planning to move here?

Do not look at people based on nationalities, including your own self. I am sad and very disappointed to hear when Filipinos do not try hard to succeed as they think that the higher positions are only for other nationalities. Honestly, when I first moved in Dubai, as a restaurant hostess in a steak house in a mall, I almost found myself with the same thinking. Until I realized that we can do better and opportunities are for everyone. We do need to exert a bit more efforts; but it is something that Filipinos need to do right now to prove that we should not be treated less.

Learn from, integrate to and respect other cultures… and please socialize with other nationalities!

Appreciate what the country offers. If you do not like it, just think if you are actually better off back home. If yes, then simply pack and go back.

I have lived in Middle East before and I realized many misconceptions about living in the Middle East. Can you share with us some misconceptions in living in the Middle East?

Among misconceptions that I realized are not true are…

Arranged marriages are sad and bizarre.

Guess what? I have friends and colleagues whose marriages were arranged by their families and they live very happily.

Women need to cover up.

Not really! Simply dress decently and respect the culture.

at the Museum of Islamic Arts in Doha

The Middle East is a desert and is always boiling hot.

While the beautiful desert is outside the city, for 6 months from November until about May, the weather is perfect.

There is war and chaos in the Middle East.

It is among the safest place on earth! Theft very rarely happens. Majority of the time anything you forgot or misplaced will always be returned.

The LITTLE MISS HONEY community gets inspired through travel, food and books. Can you tell us your current FAVORITE TRAVEL SPOT, current FAVORITE FOOD/RESTAURANT DISCOVERIES & current FAVORITE BOOK?

FAVORITE TRAVEL SPOT – Paris! I traveled by myself in Paris a couple of months ago and I am in love with the city. I found my soul-church, Sacre-Coeur.

Current FAVORITE FOOD/RESTAURANT DISCOVERIES – The celebrity hotspot from New York and Rome which has opened in Doha – Antica Pesa; the famous Japanese Restaurant – Nobu; and the Michelin-starred Chinese Restaurant – Hakkasan.

FAVORITE BOOK – I don’t read much anymore. I developed difficulty focusing while reading. But two books have made me glued in reading them. One is ‘The Secret’ – which has become my mantra in life. The other one is ‘Princess by Jean Sasson’ which is about the life of a Saudi princess.

Where do you get your inspirations? Who or what inspires you?

My family is a great inspiration to me. My Grand Father was a self-less politician and has donated many properties for the common good. My aunt who was also our English teacher took care of me, my sisters and my cousin while our father was ill and our mother was extremely busy. I always hear people compliment my English – big thanks to my Auntie Inday for this! And of course our dear mother who worked and still does works 24/7 to raise us and also to selflessly help other people as a social worker and a politician.

Can you tell us more about your profession?

I have been working in the media industry in Qatar since 2009. When I first moved in Qatar I realized that many complain about not having much to do. Thus through the previous brand that I worked with I started doing and partnering with many events. I have always been a supporter of people in Qatar who are making things exciting and happen. I have moved with different companies and now I am in the Sales team. While my actual role is to generate revenue, being still in the media kept me on my toes to know what is new, who’s who and what are the upcoming events to look forward to.

with Antica Pesa Restaranteur and TV host, Francesco Panella

with famous model Poppy Delevingne

with boxing champ Amir Khan

with Ed Sheeran

How is fashion important to you? Can you share with us your regular OOTDs?

Fashion is among many factors that excite me to start my day! I used to work in a fashion magazine. I really miss styling and making fashion shoots happen. Fashion is very important in the media industry. We do not only represent ourselves when we meet clients and contacts, but most importantly we represent a brand.

OOTD will always involve high heels for me due to my height limitation, a beautiful handbag, and a day-to-night stylish dress since my work involves me being in meetings during the day and in events during the night.

OOTD – Furla handbag, LK Bennett shoes, Miss Selfridge dress, and a hand-made embroidered cape

I believe you love beauty products too. What are your Holy Grail beauty products and skin care products?

A visit to Dr. Tetchie Layson while in Iloilo is a MUST! It is important to have a daily day cream with SPF, a hydrating night cream and do not underestimate the power of an eye cream.

Lastly, can you share with what is your inspirational mantra?

What we conceive we perceive.

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Thank you Vicky for your insightful tips in living in the Middle East and sharing your story. I totally agree with everything that you said. I missed living in the Middle East which surprised me sometimes. More power to you and I hope a lot of people will be inspired by your courage, determination and outlook in life.

If you are an expat or know any expats who are interested to be featured, drop me a line at littlemisshoneyblog@gmail.com.”

EXPAT DIARIES: VERON – FILIPINA IN CANADA

June 15, 2015 by Little Miss Honey 403 Comments

“(Wikipedia) ‘An Expatriate (often shortened to Expat) is a person temporarily or permanently residing in a country other than that of their citizenship. The word comes from the Latin terms ex (“out of”) and patria (“country, fatherland”).

This blog aims to discover people who are adventurers like me, venturing out in a new place to call home and creating memories. I have previously lived with my parents and siblings in the Saudi Arabia when I was in high school. I have enjoyed and cherished my memories in the beautiful Sandbox I once called my home. Now, I am in a new adventure with my husband and son here in Singapore.

I am featuring Expats in different countries every two weeks to share their experiences and adventures with you and me.

Today, I am featuring a colleague that I respect and admire so much. Presenting the beautiful and intelligent Veron, an Ilongga like me, creating new adventures with her family in Canada”

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Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and where you are originally from?

I love to read, write, and travel. I also have a passion for sports. I was born and raised mostly in Iloilo City, Philippines.

What made you decide to move to Canada? How long have you been there?

Even before my husband and I got married, we were already planning on immigrating. We wanted to raise our children in what we think is a close to ideal environment. As for me, I also wanted to get away from the scorching heat of the Philippine tropics to a more diverse climate. We’ve now been in Canada close to five years.

What do you miss about Iloilo?

Family and friends, definitely! Not too far behind is the food. I love that technology has allowed us to communicate at the touch of a button, but I miss being able to hug and be physically with my loved ones. I also miss being able to gorge on fresh and cheap seafood. When I first saw Talaba (Oysters) here, I almost cried because a SINGLE big piece costs as much as whole platter back in Iloilo!

What are the wonderful discoveries and things you like about Canada?

I like that people here are so courteous and considerate. Everyday you can witness someone thanking somebody (like a bus driver), saying sorry (even if it wasn’t their fault), or opening and holding doors for somebody else. Also, they have beautiful landscapes and wildlife here that they put a lot of effort into preserving.

What are the 3 advices or tips you can give to fellow expats in Canada?

The most practical advices I can give are:

1. Check the weather so you can wear appropriate clothing. (I’ve seen some people wearing winter clothes on a warm spring or summer day).

2. Courtesy goes a long way. Always say please, thank you, sorry, etc.

3. If you need help, ask. You’ll find most people here will go out of their way to assist you.

The LITTLE MISS HONEY community gets inspired through travel, food, and books. Can you tell us your current FAVORITE TRAVEL SPOT, current FOOD/RESTAURANT DISCOVERIES and current FAVORITE BOOK?

Favorite travel spot: Vancouver, British Columbia. It’s a beautiful and modern seaport city surrounded by majestic mountains and with gorgeous weather. Jasper, Alberta is a great place to visit, too.

Food/Restaurant Discoveries: Tropika is a great restaurant here in Edmonton for those who want to try a variety of yummy Malaysian, Thai, and Singaporean dishes.

Current Favorite book: I like reading just about anything and everything I can get my hands on. I’ve read some good ones, and entertaining ones lately especially since the library here has a vast collection and membership is free (hurray!), but the latest book I’ve read that has really made an impact is CUTTING FOR STONE by Abraham Verghese.

Where do you get your inspirations? Who or what inspires you?

Ever since I became a mother, my world started revolving on my children. So I would say my children inspire me. Anything I consider beautiful, like breathtaking scenery, for example, also inspires me.

If you have a friend from the Philippines visiting Canada, where will you take him/her first?

West Edmonton Mall is the largest mall in North America, and I imagine any Filipino would want to go shopping there.

Tim Horton or Starbucks or Kape Barako?

Tim Horton’s makes delicious and cheap coffee. But I like the option of customizing my drink, because what I want to drink depends on my mood. So it is hands down Starbucks for me. In fact, I am a gold card member. They give me free coffee every now and then and it is awesome! To be honest, I don’t even think I have even tasted Kape Barako because it wasn’t until I got here in Canada that I jumped into the coffee bandwagon. When I was in the Philippines I was more of a milk girl. Lol!

What do you often do in a very cold winter day?

Bundle up, make sure the heater is on and drink a cuppa coffee or hot chocolate, of course!

Lastly, can you share with us what is your inspirational mantra in life?

Winter is coming! Sorry, just had to say that since it is apropos with the weather here. On a more serious note, my motto that I know has always been so congruent with the way I live my life is:

Discover the path, and make your own.

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“Thank you Doc Ve for granting us this interview and sharing with us your stories of Canada.

If you are an expat or know any expats who are interested to be featured, drop me a line at littlemisshoneyblog@gmail.com.”