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As Filipinos, we have been exposed to various foods. Different provinces and cities in the country have their respective dishes that stimulate the palate of every Filipino. Though not all are preferred, they still enhance the identity of every Filipino. Throughout the history of the country, we also have been introduced to various foods as we have been visited and colonized in the past. 

Admit it or not, you may have tasted and eaten American dishes. Visiting some of the popular fast food chains in the country, you will be greeted by the aroma of fried or grilled meat with, deep-fried potatoes, bread, and heavily sweetened desserts or snacks. The question is, how come many Filipinos are so in love with American foods? Hopefully, this article will be able to answer this question. Although this does not speak for all, read on to search for the answers to the question. 

The influences of Filipino taste

Our culture is influenced by other cultures and traditions, such as Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American. Each of these has its own stories and the influence of the Americans is one of the most recent. This influence is mainly due to their occupation in the early 1900s. They brought their food supplies, as these were the necessities during the war period. In addition to these, Filipinos were also exposed to food rations and the convenience of cooking. 

Uniqueness of flavors

American foods are unique in terms of taste and content. You will notice that they are high in fat, salt, and other flavorings. As such, our taste buds have been stimulated to learn to love the taste and make them part of our daily lives. Of course, not all Pinoys come to love the original American taste. This is when we tried to transform them and create something that is more acceptable to our palate. For instance, the traditional American hamburger was adjusted in terms of the dressing, thickness of the patty, and garnishings. American spaghetti was also adjusted by making the sauce sweeter and the addition of sliced hotdogs and hams.

Original American taste in the Philippines

With the adjustment of the flavor to satisfy the cravings of many Filipinos, there are still fast food restaurants that serve dishes with the original American taste. These restaurants offer a nostalgic experience as you enjoy traditional American Diner foods. Go to malls or walk around your neighborhood and check out various fast food chains like Wendy’s, Mcdonald’s, Burger King, or KFC. You will be amazed that their menu still offers the traditional ones. However, as a response to the demand of the market, some dishes were added that somehow deviate from the original taste. 

The global dominance of American foods is monumental. If you are a traveler and not into local foods, most probably, you will see a restaurant that serves American dishes. Even in many streets of the Philippines, you will see stalls that serve hamburgers, fries, mojos, pancakes, and others. 

Did you know that your favorite food has an ancient origin? The world’s favorite fast food has conquered the world. But before that, pizza had a humble origin that we were unaware of. People have been eating pizza for centuries. Of course, the appearance is not similar to what we know nowadays. In the past, people prepared this food with pieces of flatbread, topped with whatever they wanted to add, and served as a simple and tasty meal. Let us see how pizza started and evolved through the years. 

The first pizza in the world

We all know that pizza was born in Italy, but experts believe that the food has a long history. The concept of preparing pizza was first noted by the Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. They prepared flatbreads topped with various oils and herbs. In the 6th century BC, Persians also baked flatbreads covered in cheese and dates. Now we know these ingredients as toppings of the bread. However, the modern pizza that we know started as a flatbread that became famous n the poor areas of Naples, Italy. 

Pizza evolution

The truth is, there is no exact date when pizza was created. However, experts were able to at least narrow down the period. It was in the 1500s that tomatoes found their way to Europe from the West. Tomatoes were not easily accepted by the Europeans since they thought that the fruit was poisonous. 

There was even a description in 1799 about dough with tomato sauce and cheese. The Italian census in the late 1700s listed several people as pizza makers (pizolas) in Naples. Now we know that there were a group of professionals who focused on making this great food. 

The great pizza margherita?

Just like in any story, pizza has an unclear origin. In fact, there are different versions. One story claims that pizza was created when the soon-to-be king and queen of Italy visited Naples in 1889. To gain the confidence of the people, the future royals insisted on eating as the common folk did. This includes eating pizza which during those times was considered to be the food for the poor. 

Margherita of Savoy once summoned Rafael Esposito, a known pizola. Several of his pies were then tasted: one with garlic topping; the other one with anchovies; the next with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil; and the last one was named pizza margherita, the name of the future queen. The last pizza has the colors of the Italian flag and was created as a tribute to the future queen. 

The migration to the West

As early as the 1900s, pizza has already made its way to the United States. Places such as Omaha, Nebraska, and Wisconsin have been enjoying the food. However, the popularity incredibly became famous in New York City. Lombardi in Manhattan was the first licensed U.S. pizzeria in 1905. However, pizza historians claimed that there was no evidence that the first pizzeria was in New York. They believed that it may have started across the river in the borough of Brooklyn.

Since then, pizza has been one of the favorites in many countries. It has even evolved into different flavors according to the preferences of the respective nationalities. Certain fruits were even added, especially pineapple, creating what we now call Hawaiian pizza. Although this variety is believed to have originated in Canada and not in Hawaii, it has been loved by many. 

So the next time you order pizza, think about its colorful origins and how it has changed through the years. 

Cats have been part of human lives from 10,000 to 12,000 years ago in Fertile Crescent. A place where some of the earliest civilizations started. Since then cats have served humans in various ways. When choosing a pet, not all of us are into dogs. Some people prefer cats to accompany them in their daily lives. Just like dogs, cats too offer great benefits to humans. Here are some fun reasons why owning a cat is important for us.

Cats are quiet most of the time

If you are concerned with the noise level in your home or apartment, then cats are a great choice of pet. As such, there will be no complaints from your neighbors. Of course, there will be times that cats will be able to knock down some items in your home, but overall, their silence is beyond comparable. 

Cats can be house-trained

When getting a pet, one of the dilemmas of owners is the process of house training. This is usually experienced when getting a new puppy. On the other hand, kittens usually know how to use the litter box. The only thing you need to do is to introduce it to them and they will use it when the need arises. 

Cats are usually independent

Cats will be there when you need them. However, they do not need your attention in many instances. They are capable of entertaining themselves and doing something when they get bored. Constant attention is for dogs, while you don’t need to do this with cats. 

Pest-free home with cats

Cartoons and other story books have taught us that cats like to hunt rodents. Little did we know that cats can also kill insects. It’s their instinct! Most cats enjoy catching bugs such as flies, spiders, and others. 

Cats live long

Pet owners, especially kids know that losing any pet is heartbreaking. The good news is, that cats have a long life expectancy. On average, they live up to 12 years. However, it is common for them to live beyond the average years. 

Felines offer great health benefits

It has been observed that cats provide a calming effect to their owners. Petting then and the sound of purring help people fall asleep. Studies have also shown that owning a cat can help lower blood pressure and the risk of a heart attack. 

Cats can lower the risk of having allergies

Several studies have shown that kids who are exposed to cats under the age of one were less likely to develop allergies. Being exposed to cats not only protects the kids from pet allergies but other forms as well, such as dust mites and grass allergies. 

Cats give psychological and emotional support

Cats are great companions. They give unconditional love, just like dogs. People who are in need of support significantly lower the risk of having depression and anxiety with cats by their side. Petting them can have soothing effects that calm the mind and body. 

We may have various reasons for having dogs as companions. Dogs are known for the unconditional love, companionship, and entertainment they give. However, are these the only things that we get from them? Science tells us that there is something else at work. Spending time with your dogs helps in our total well-being. Studies have shown that owning a dog is good for your physical and emotional health. They provide happiness and help cope with crises. This is why there are therapeutic dogs who help people in need. Here we have 10 reasons why having dogs is important to humans. 

Constant companion

It is a fact that dogs are there during times when your family and friends aren’t. These fur babies offer unconditional love, emotional support, and constant cuddles that help our cravings for companionship. It has also been observed that they can help reduce the feeling of loneliness and social isolation. 

Dogs can heal your heart

Several studies have also shown that owning a dog can help you live longer. Owners have lower blood pressure levels and improved responses to stress. People who have experienced coronary diseases have an increased level of risk reduction for death. 

Dogs can help lower stress

Pet dogs can help ease worries as they are there to comfort you. They are known to alleviate stress and anxiety in most dog owners. Petting them has also resulted in a lowering of blood pressure, heart rate, breath cycles, and helps in relaxing muscles. The reason is that the action of petting the canine friends helps in lowering the release of cortisol, which is a known chemical that promotes stress.

They help people cope with crisis

Dogs help us recover from a crisis. Soldiers who have suffered from PTSD do better when they have service dogs. Service dogs helped them in improving their psychological and physiological health. As a result, symptoms of PTSD have greatly reduced and soldiers have shown improved coping skills. 

Dogs help in giving physical activities

With the COVID 19 still lurking around the corner, we tend to stay in our homes and decrease any physical activity. Owning a dog encourages us to have long walks along the sidewalks, trails, or parks. As such, we can meet the recommended daily physical activity. 

Dogs add to your appeal

If you are looking for a partner then it’s time to get a dog. The presence of a dog while taking a walk make people appear more attractive. Studies have shown that men were likely to get a woman’s attention when they have a dog with them. People also look happier in photos when they are with their pet dogs. 

Dogs help us become more sociable

Walking with our dogs helps us become more approachable. They even become conversation starters, helping us break the ice when we see our neighbors or friends. Dogs help us meet new friends and strangers. Experts likewise believe that people who have pets feel more connected with humans and their communities. 

Dogs make us happier

Even just looking at photos of dogs can lift our spirits. What more when owning one. It was also observed that looking at dogs increases the level of oxytocin which is generally called as “love hormone”. 

Dogs are so adorable 

Do you know why people are so into looking at puppies? Their facial features have positive responses to most humans. This response is what most caregivers are looking for from the people they are attending to. The appearances of the puppies are what we call social releasers that trigger positive responses. 

Dogs help the elderly in cognition and interaction

Pet dogs have been observed to help elderly people in improving their cognitive function, especially those with mental illness. There was also a significant decrease in agitated behaviors in individuals with dementia as well as a marked improvement in social interactions.

Whether you are from another country or from provinces and other cities of the Philippines, Manila is surely a place worth going to. You may have heard the song, “Manila”, which topped the chart in the 80s. Surely, there are tons to see and experience in the city during those days, as well as today. So what is so special about the city that made it so popular with foreign and local tourists? Here are the things you need to know if visiting Manila is on your bucket list.

No need to fill your pockets with cash

In contrast with other tourist destinations in the country, you do not need to break your bank when going around the city. There are a lot of affordable places to visit and still enjoy the experience. Different landmarks, parks, museums, and other places do not cost that much. In fact, some of them are even free of charge. Take Rizal Park or Luneta for example. This is a historic place where the national hero, Jose Rizal, was executed during the Spanish regime. This event sparked the hearts of many Filipinos in fighting for their freedom. 

Shopping for essentials and souvenirs is likewise affordable. You can find your favorite brands in typical malls, but the highlight of the city is thrift shopping. Try going to Divisoria or Carriedo and feast your eyes on numerous stalls and shops that offer items at much lower prices as compared to those sold in famous malls. You just have to prepare yourself for the crowd, especially during the holiday season.

If you love food, then Manila is known for restaurants and food stalls that offer sumptuous and affordable dishes. Binondo, for example, has restaurants that offer authentic Chinese dishes and you will be surprised with the little amount that you will spend. Want to be adventurous? Visit some sidestreets and more likely than not, you will find food stalls that sell exotic Filipino street foods. Ever tried balut, isaw (IUD), samalamig, grilled chicken feet (adidas), or chicken blood (betamax)? These are something worth trying. 

Adventure with the public transportation

Jeepney is the main mode of transportation in  Manila. Of course, there are also the LRT, tricycles, pedicabs, and taxis. But your stay in Manila is never complete without riding these king of the roads. For many Pinoys, riding the jeepney and going to various destinations is common. Some would even say that this is like experiencing an extreme sport. Imagine those colorful rides, with ear-splitting sound systems, and roller coaster riding adventures. Fare is likewise affordable, even though the global oil price hike has affected the minimum fare of jeepneys.

Tricycles and pedicabs are also not to miss, especially if you are going to the outskirts and several streets of the city. The fare, though is quite higher than the jeepneys, they will definitely take you to places. However, if you do not feel these modes of transportation, you can always get a taxi cab or book a Grab.

Enjoy the tropical climate

Yes. Manila is not like Boracay or El Nido, but you still experience the warm weather of the country. Sometimes a bit too warm than what was announced in the news. When traveling the city, you should complete your gear, like umbrella, caps, handkerchief, and other means to battle the heat. Depending on the months of visit, you might also experience some rainy days that might progress to flooding. 

Prepare for Filipino hospitality

Filipinos are known for their caring and hospitable attitude. Try visiting a friend’s place and you are up for some surprise. You will immediately be offered drinks, and snacks, and might even be asked to stay for dinner. Prepare to meet the family as well as friends and even though you do not remember their names, you will be greeted with a smile. Many of them enjoy a little chit-chat, whether in your personal experience of the city or your personal life. Admit it, we Filipinos enjoy hearing stories and gossip from time to time. 

Also do remember that many people are helpful. Whether you are asking for directions or just any inquiry. Many Manilenos will try their best to answer your questions. 

Now that you have enough knowledge about Manila, then you are prepared to have the adventure of your life. Kudos!

Mount Fuji is a volcano in Japan and is in fact the highest in the country. It is a popular icon in Japan because of its symmetrical form and perfect shape. The volcano has been depicted in many art and poetries because of its attractive appearance, especially with the snow-capped view. 

If you think that people only marveled at it, then you are wrong. Hundreds, if not thousands, of mountain climbers have attempted to reach the summit during the months of July and August. People tried this feat for religious reasons. Read on to learn more about Mount Fuji and why it is one of the popular travel destinations in Japan.

About the volcano

The volcano has been commended for its overall appearance. It has a perfect circular shape and snow covering the top. Looking at it evokes a peaceful and tranquil feel that can surely give its viewers goosebumps. It is an active volcano and the last eruption was recorded in 1707. During this time, the Hoeizan crater formed. 

Climbing Mount Fuji

Climbers who want to reach the summit may take around 8 hours. The best time to climb it is in July and August when the number of climbers can be overwhelming. There are 4 routes going up and each has 10 stages of different lengths. Yoshida Trail is the most popular trail and climbers can see paved roads to the 5th station with mountain huts between the 7th and 8th stations. In these huts, travelers are offered food, drinks, and a place to stay for the night. Once the summit has been reached, climbers can take a rest, and walk around the Naiin or shrine or summit Crater. Viewing the sunset at the summit is probably one of the most rewarding scenes. 

Fujiyoshida

Fujiyoshida is a city situated on the foot of Mount Fuji. If you are not planning to climb the mountain and just want to enjoy the view, then this is the perfect place to visit. The city can likewise offer a peaceful environment for travelers.

The Fuji Five Lakes

Fuji Five Lakes is the area located on the northern side of the volcano. This is composed of the five lakes of Yamanaka, Motosuko, Saiko, Kawaguchi, and Shoki, and they are admired for their beauty. Tourists can take a cruise ship tour, kayaking, and fishing, as well as a visit to the Healing Village to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Who climbed it first?

The first person who climbed Mount Fuji was a monk in 663. Those days, only men are allowed to climb the volcano until the 19th century. Lady Fanny Parkes was the first woman to climb Mount Fuji in 1867.

A military background of the volcano

Mount Fuji was known for having a military background. The noble samurais were known to have trained in the mountain. Military camps from both Japan and the USA also operated in the volcano.

The Japanese culture

The shape of Mount Fuji has greatly influenced Japanese culture and art. It has been an inspiration to many artists in poetry, music, and art. In fact, the artist, Katsushika Hokusai has accomplished painting 36 views of the volcano. 

You may have read about a charcuterie board or have seen them on menus. Have you tried them? Charcuterie is a fancy word used to refer to cured meat. The word is of French origin and can be traced back to the 15th century. It was during these times that the people consumed every last bit of a meal and left nothing to waste. 

This is served as an appetizer and served on a wooden board or a slab of stone. On the board is a selection of preserved foods, particularly cured meats or pates. The board also includes cheeses, crackers, or bread. 

A brief history in Europe

As mentioned above, charcuterie is cured meat and is derived from two French words: chair, which means flesh, and cuit, cooked and was used during 15th century France. Shop owners who specialize in charcuterie became popular as they have shown the detailed preparation of meats. The arrangement of the boards has made charcuterie boards part of the French culinary culture.

Studies on European history also have revealed that the charcuterie board also has roots in the simple meals that were eaten by the people of the working class around Europe during the medieval times. The board is usually composed of meats, cheeses, bread, local produce, wine, or beer. The meal eventually evolved and found its way to the higher classes of society along with the cheese course meal. These are commonly seen in formal dinners during the 18th and 19th centuries in France, Great Britain, and colonial America. The cheeses were then replaced by desserts in the 19th century. 

The development in the United States

During the 19th and 20th centuries in the United States, hosting informal dinners are greatly increasing. Formal dinners were replaced by cocktail parties and finger foods were served and more preferred over the course meals. During World War II, American soldiers were introduced to various charcuteries and cheeses in France, Italy, Germany, and Greece. This exposure to European dishes was brought home to the U.S. and charcuterie boards became popular in the 90s and have been sold in American grocery stores. The dish also became popular in specialty food stores with diversified contents. 

Charcuterie boards are usually served as appetizers in many restaurants. They still are served in private gatherings and dinner parties since they are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by many. 

What’s on the board

The boards used are usually made of wood or stone to keep the food cool. Diners will also see other equipment such as cheese knives, spoons, and ramekins. 

In addition to meats, cheeses, and bread, the board also includes flavors and textures that would complement the main components. Examples are fruits, olives, olive oil, nuts, vinegar, pickled or fresh vegetables, herbs, edible flowers, mustards, and honey. In many instances, charcuterie boards are served with wines of any variety. 

Filipinos love to eat. This is a fact that we cannot deny. Walk around your neighborhood and you will surely see good food being sold. You can find restaurants anywhere or even street food on every corner of the street. On holidays and any other occasion, food takes center stage in every celebration. There are always reasons to gather around the table and enjoy sumptuous meals. 

For over 2 years, we have been suffering from the pandemic. Many establishments have closed because of the unpredictable lockdowns. This includes many small and medium enterprises like certain bars, restaurants, stores, and others. However, the resilience of Filipinos helped them survive this dilemma. Online selling became a hit and work-from-home setup became a trend. What was sold online? Almost anything! Check various social media platforms and you will see all sorts of items and services offered. 

Now that the COVID19 pandemic is somehow being controlled, businesses are opening again. You may be planning to put up your restaurant business over the years but are not sure if you are up for it. Here are some tips on how to start a restaurant business and be successful with it.

The name of the restaurant

Think of a name that both reflects your restaurant concept and something that sticks to your mind. It should be a word or three and will stand out in conversations and on search engines. This means that you need to be creative and innovative when coming up with a name. 

Layout your business plan

This is used to outline the business, especially the projections for the succeeding years. Without this, you will not know the path you will be taking. Business plans explain the details of how to operate your restaurant before opening it to the public. 

Choose the right staff

As an entrepreneur, you need to have people who will be part of your success. Hire hosts, servers, cooks, dishwashers, cashiers, and others. Do some research on their job descriptions and the number you need to hire. 

Finances

A restaurant requires the right location, staff, equipment, and other resources. As such, you will need money to complete this project. Be sure to list everything that you need before starting the business. If money becomes a problem, then you may have to deviate from the original plan. Better yet, look for some sources to achieve your dream. 

The right location

Location is critical to making your restaurant a success. It should be visible and can easily be spotted from the street. Pick a location where people usually pass by like a public transportation terminal, near offices, parks, or near the neighborhood. Be sure that your customers will have a place to park.

Menu

Once you have established the concept of your restaurant, you need to know and study the food trend. Be sure that when planning the menu, it coincides with the theme of your business. Consider all kinds of customers, and to do this, you need to prepare the menu, especially for them. Vegans, kids, the elderly, and meat-lovers, are the people who will make your restaurant business a success. Plan carefully. 

Promotion and marketing

Spread the word! Plan on how to promote the existence of your new restaurant. These days, different social media platforms are the heart of many businesses. You can work with influencers, friends, and restaurateurs to promote. There may also be groups in your respective communities that can help you with this endeavor, so join them. Participate in different activities like food tasting and food festivals. These will help a lot in introducing your restaurant to the public. 

Permits and licensing

Before opening the doors to the public, be sure that you have secured all the proper licenses and permits. Depending on the city or municipality you are in, you need to follow some steps to have everything legal. Check out the requirements from your local government. Do some research and act on them fast. Processing these documents may take some time. 

Target customers 

In dealing with the target customers, you need to consider some metrics like income level, age, and lifestyle. For instance, are they students who usually hang out with their friends? Or professionals who will have to do some work with their laptops while enjoying the food. This means that they need to use the table for some hours after their meals. Will they be able to spread the word that your restaurant is already open? Once you know the answers to these questions, then you have a clearer vision of the type of restaurant to operate.

Competition

It is vital that you know what your competition is. Go around the area and visit as many restaurants as possible. Looking for the preferences of the customers and learning the strengths and weaknesses will give you a competitive advantage.