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We see them everywhere. We have relied on them even in times of turmoil. We sometimes had death-defying experiences while riding this legendary mode of transportation. They are the most colorful vehicles on the road and the Philippines will never be the country that we know without jeepneys! Have you ever wondered how they came to be the most popular public utility vehicle in the country? Read on to know more about these epic vehicles and how they evolved to be the jeepneys that we know today.

Philippine jeepneys – what are they?

Philippine jeepneys are considered to be the most popular form of public transportation. Even before the Metro Manila railways system came into existence, people have relied on jeepneys to reach their destinations. It is impossible to miss them on the roads. They are the most decorated among all the other public transportation vehicles. 

Even when the traffic light is still red, you can hear the noise of the engine as the drivers pump their gas pedals along with the full blast volume of their stereo systems. This scene reminds you of the start of a Grand Prix race. This may sound funny and astonishing, but this is just an ordinary scene on the urban roads of the country. This is the infamous Philippine jeepney, a post-Second World War invention that became part of the culture of the country. The undisputed “King of the Road”. 

How it all started

Every iconic image in the world has a story to tell. Even the smallest of all may stimulate your interest. Food, for instance, has an interesting background and is a product of creative minds. Jeepneys were the leftovers of U.S. Willy Jeeps utilized during World War 2. Jeepneys started to prowl the streets in the early 1950s and became the best solution to the problem of public transportation. 

To accommodate more passengers, the length of the jeepneys was increased. A roof was also installed and the original seats were replaced by two benches leaving a narrow space at the center. Jeepney drivers started to make their vehicles look more striking by painting and adding decorations. You will see the designs in various themes. From religious icons to scenes from famous movies, the decor is limitless. 

You may have heard of Sarao Motors as they are one of the earliest manufacturers of jeepneys. They started making them in 1953 and are known for good quality products. The company has significantly contributed to making the jeepney a Philippine cultural icon. 

Philippine jeepneys as part of our culture

Needless to say, the identity of the Philippines is not complete without the jeepneys roaring on both the urban and rural roads. With its origin and evolution, Philippine jeepneys have been considered to be a true Pinoy creation. It became a reflection of the Filipino spirit of resiliency, innovation, and optimism. These days, you don’t only see jeepneys on the streets. They are also seen on the shelves of shops as souvenir items. Examples of these are miniature jeepneys, keychains, mugs, shirts, and others. 

Final Thoughts

For more than half a century, jeepneys have dominated the public transportation industry of the country. Many people have relied on them to go to work, school, or home. In recent years, their existence has been threatened as many proposed to modernize the public transport industry. The production of the said vehicle even declined at the start of the millennium. These obstacles may come and go but one thing is for sure. The Philippine jeepneys are still here and have surpassed the test of time. 

If you are planning for a getaway this summer, then there may be a lot on your list. You do not even have to leave the country for the vacation you deserve. Throughout the year, we have been hectic with our schedules. From the deadlines that we need to beat at work, to the errands we have to accomplish at home. Our plates may sometimes be overflowing with things to do that we tend to forget to take a break to destress and recharge ourselves. 

In the Philippines, there are a lot of travel destinations that can meet our needs. You can choose from a wide range of places. Depending on your budget and availability, there is always the right vacation spot for you. For many of us, there are only two types of places to go. It’s either the mountains for some adventure camping or the beach for a cool and refreshing break. Whatever the choice is, the goal is to go on a furlough. 

Going on mountain climbing is not for the faint of heart. Depending on the mountain that you would like to try, it takes a lot more than just the desire and love for nature. We know that getting close to nature is one of the keys to rejuvenating. However, you also need the strength and stamina to move up and reach the summit. If you have done this trip when you were at the right age, then you must have remembered the very first time you tried this activity.

Starting from the foot of the mountain, you will see yourself about to take on some of nature’s challenges. You will walk for some kilometers with gears that weigh almost the same as you. This is why it is highly recommended to pack lightly. Take only the things that you need. The most important stuff to have are water and food. Believe us when we say that you will need them a lot on this trip. 

Traversing the hiking path is fun and exciting. You will have the opportunity to breathe pure and clean air along with the sight of luscious greens. Walking up the path will also give you the chance to meet other hikers. This trip will also make you feel how to be on top of the clouds and see the world from another angle. 

Seeing the mountains and being part of it is a new kind of adventure. The fun and excitement are at a different levels. The adrenaline rush is unexplainable. Some of the best mountains to climb in the Philippines are Mt. Halcon, Mt. Pinatubo, Mt. Pulag, and Mt. Apo. 

On the other hand, if mountain climbing is not your thing, then you may choose to go to the seas and beaches. Having 7,100 islands, the country is filled with beach resorts and diving sites. The sophisticated details, such as underwater rivers and cave formations add an element of exotic adventure to your vacation. The dry season or summer is considered to be the best time to visit these paradises. Therefore, start planning your vacation between November to April. 

All beaches in the country are captivating. Along with breezes and soft sand, they have something remarkable to offer that cannot be seen in other countries. They are simply stunning and you can feast your eyes on caves, corals, and marine life. 

So, choosing between the two may be difficult at times. Why suffer when you can have both of the best worlds. With the different modes of transportation we have, reaching your chosen destinations will not be a problem. Only by going to these places, you will truly say that the Philippines is rich in beautiful places and biodiversity.

Over the years, interior design trends have been used to help designers and homeowners in upgrading their homes. Once the interior appearance has been achieved then people find some sort of inner peace. Think about the ancient Chinese art of feng shui where the arrangement and positioning of furniture pieces and even the whole house correspond with energy flow. The use of colors and geometric patterns, for instance, helps in mimicking the harmony of nature. There are even several studies conducted that show the significance of interior appearance to the total well-being of the homeowners.

This year, experts have predicted some of the design trends. For example, many have seen the rise of earthy colors, such as brown, as well as nature-inspired accents and surfaces. While others long for a cozy and warm room interior. Whatever, the trends are this year, the most important thing is that homeowners are able to enjoy staying in their homes. 

Shades of brown

If you will check the color wheel or other color references, you will notice that there are different shades of brown. But what shade is the most appropriate to use? Many experts say that chocolate browns, camels, and caramels are back. We have seen them in the 70s and this time there won’t be any mixing with orange. These shades of brown were chosen as they are close to the hues found in nature. Try to experiment with neutral colors so that your home will have that look that is close to the environment. 

Nature-inspired objects and surfaces

Since the start of the COVID 19 pandemic, most people preferred staying indoors. Being exposed to nature eventually diminished. Unless you have your own garden or nature-inspired rooms. Think stoneware, marble, terracotta, and travertine to be used in furniture pieces and decorative objects. 

Sculptures and Curved furniture pieces

Many experts believe that a curved form is safe, friendly, and welcoming. As such, furniture pieces with softer shapes and angles are still in this year. This is also true when it comes to architecture. 

Elevated outdoor furniture

With the COVID 19 alert level lowering in the whole Metro and even the whole country, many are now going out of their sanctuaries to enjoy the outdoors. The best way to enjoy this opportunity is to decorate the patio, backyard, or garage with sophisticated and refined furniture pieces. 

Multi-purpose rooms

While many have received COVID 19 vaccines, we should not be too complacent as the threat is still at large. Our living spaces continue to be used for various reasons. Many are still working at home and certain rooms may need to be transformed as the need arises. For instance, the dining room can be used as a conference room, the living room as the home office, and the bedroom as a private meeting room. Decorate them in such a way that they will be conducive to whatever purpose they may serve. Personalize them if you can with wall decors like personalized framed posters. 

Vintage-themed rooms

Just hearing the word vintage means a lot of things. It may mean something classic, old, nostalgic, and others. From the point of view of design, vintage items influence the direction of the room. You can choose any decorative item that will bring back memories. Classic art, for instance, can tell stories of the past and of the artist. Black and white photos arranged on the walls in any layout can tell stories about yourself, family, or friends. 

You may have heard of the statement, “Those who can’t do, teach.” a rather popular sentence that we have heard over the years. Probably, for many people, teaching is a profession for those who have not become successful with their dreams. During childhood, your friends or parents might have asked what you want to become when you grow up. The answers were somehow common, such as becoming a doctor, lawyer, engineer (although the kind of engineer may be vague), nurse, and many more. 

Parents do their best to give their kids the education they deserve to achieve those dreams. However, along the way, some things may have changed. Those kids may have discovered something better or may have experienced some unfortunate events with their respective families. Some may even have encountered financial difficulties. Dreams may be shattered because of these unexpected reasons. As such, people tend to choose another profession. 

Being a teacher is one of the career choices when they were not able to pursue their dreams. Many would disagree with this, but it is a fact. But what’s wrong with being a teacher? Is it a profession to look down to? Why is it that among the careers, teaching is probably at the middle or bottom of the list? Teachers have various reasons why they chose that profession or ended up in that career. 

If you think that teaching is an easy job, then you are mistaken. There are tons of things to do before facing your students. Preparing the classroom, for one, is one of the most important things to do so that the room will be conducive to learning. Teachers need to choose the right learning materials so that students will be able to learn effectively.

Teachers also need to prepare the lessons they have to teach. It is easy to just go in front of the class and lecture. But, are the kids learning? It is more of using methodologies that will help kids learn. Teaching is a skill and educators need the right attitude and state of mind to be successful. It is not rewarding when it comes to monetary benefits. The reward is actually felt when you see students become successful. 

Teachers also become instant interior decorators, especially those who are teaching in basic education. They need to transform the classroom into something amazing. By adding wall decors, the classroom becomes a learner’s paradise. Visual aids are often displayed on the classroom walls. Posters of alphabets, numbers, plants, and animals are shown so that teachers can use them during classes. 

Without teachers, who will train young minds to be who they will be in the future. Without teachers, who will encourage kids to go on with their lives even if it becomes tough. Sometimes you don’t need to have a teacher’s diploma to teach. We can be teachers in our own special way. Helping your friends with their problems. Teaching kids the facts of life. Tutoring a neighbor with their homework. Aren’t these actions noble enough to be called a teacher? Do you still consider educators to be those who do not have any other paths in their lives and teaching is the last resort? 

As we feel the heat this summer we go our ways to make our bodies cool. Any ideas on your mind? For most of us, the most popular way is to go swimming. This is not the time to be hydrophobic as going for a swim will beat the heat that we are experiencing these days. Seems like every year, the temperature rises and there are many factors to blame. Global warming is surely hitting the planet. 

Since the lowering of alert levels in NCR and others, many people have gone to tourist destinations around the country. Where else will they go, but in beaches, private resorts, pool areas, and others? However, there are those who prefer to stay home and relax. This is when having a good relaxing home environment comes in.

Just by checking out some web pages, you will be bombarded with thousands of venues to spend the summer. You can go to some of the favorite beaches and resorts in the country. Batangas, for one, is packed with resorts that sometimes you will be overwhelmed with the numbers. Laguna is also a haven for resorts and private pools for rent. However, if you want to see and experience white sand beaches, then go further south in Boracay and Palawan. As internationally renowned islands in the Philippines, these travel destinations have received thousands of international and local guests. 

If you have already chosen your vacation spot, then what’s next on the menu? Of course, activities that can be done with your family or friends. The first thing that will pop out of your mind is water activities. As a come-on to potential customers, many resorts include different water activities in the package they are offering. 

Water activities never go out of trend, especially during the summers. Swimming for one has a lot of benefits to the body. To be honest, this is not an easy sport, and for many individuals, it takes them months or even years before they learn the basic strokes. Swimming is not for everybody. Some may even prefer to stay on the shores and make sandcastles. 

Heard of banana boats? Funny as they may sound but, yeah, they are air-filled and banana-shaped water vessels. Then after the ride with the banana boat, level it up with a jetski ride. Personally, these jet-powered rides are not recommended since the force they emit can destroy and kill corals and other water organisms. 

Yes, swimming and other water activities are fun and exciting. However, just keep in mind that we are just borrowing the sea for recreational activities and the flora and fauna need to be preserved. After all, we are the stewards of nature. This may sound like being an environmentalist but nothing is wrong with giving a few reminders before immersing yourself in non-stop water action. 

Maximize your stay in beach resorts and take a peek at the under-the-sea community. There you will be able to appreciate what nature has in store for us. Snorkeling is good enough to see the corals and schools of fish. 

Staying at home and enjoying the comfort of your bed and backyard is not bad at all. All you need to do is create an ambiance that is comfortable and relaxing. Personalize your walls with adornments and trendy art. These will help in turning your home into a vacation spot.

It is known that coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. It is known for its ability to jump-start your day. Many individuals even claim that their day is not complete without having a cup of coffee. In addition to its energizing effects, coffee is associated with a long list of potential health benefits that give you more reasons to drink several cups a day. Here, we have some information about coffee that you might find interesting. You will also learn the top health benefits of coffee. 

Drinking coffee can be comforting

But First, Coffee. For many people, coffee is the first drink to be consumed in the day. It gives the energy to trigger some of the body’s senses. The smell and taste of the drink can give the comfort that many people are looking for in a drink. Other than stimulating your body, coffee can give you a relaxing feeling that will help you get focused and productive. If the weather is cold, just like during the Christmas season, a cup of coffee can be the best way to warm the soul. On the other hand, if the weather is warm, you can have your coffee in a cold brew or iced. Top it with various add-ons, like whipped cream, and partner it with your favorite pastry. 

Coffee date? Why not!

Just like why people go to bars, so are the reasons why people gather at coffee shops to meet with friends or to transact business. In the coffee shop industry of the Philippines, you are not just paying for the cup of coffee you are buying. You are also paying for the experience when you stay in the coffee shop. Many shops have a relaxing ambiance where you can have a quiet time for yourself or even with your friends or loved ones. In the past, coffee shops also served as venues for socializing, writing, reading, or working. If you are planning to have a date with your crush, the coffee shops are the best places to be. However, if staying in coffee shops is not your style, then you can still create the same ambiance in your home. With the help of personalized framed posters, you can create an interior design that will fit your taste. 

Health benefits of coffee

In addition to the reasons mentioned above, drinking coffee also has positive effects on your health. Studies have shown that coffee drinkers are less likely to suffer from coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and kidney disease. It was also observed that caffeine is associated with a lower chance of developing Parkinson’s disease as well as a better chance of controlling their movements. Coffee also has a protective effect on the liver. It helps in normalizing the liver enzyme levels than those people who do not drink coffee. For women, drinking at least a cup of coffee a day is associated with lowered risk of having a stroke. 

Final thoughts

There are millions of people who love the taste of coffee. There is also a wide range of coffee flavors available in the market. Some love deep dark coffee flavors, while others like a lighter roast with smooth and mellow texture and taste. Whatever the reasons may be, for coffee lovers, a cup of coffee is a necessity to start the day right. Many things still need to be unleashed when it comes to coffee. New flavors to be discovered, new preparations that will become the favorites of many, and new add-ons that will make the beverage look more enticing and delightful.

Plants and flowers are known for making the world colorful and cheerful. These are some of the reasons why homeowners display real flowers and floral prints in their homes. These design elements instantly add beauty and evoke a refreshing vibe to any room or space. Floral prints can bring color and life that will surely be enjoyed by its audience. 

Floral prints as a decorative element

Every home deserves to have a refreshing look from time to time. One of the interesting ways to add life to your home is through the display of trendy and chic posters. There are hundreds of designs to choose from and floral prints are among the favorites of many homeowners and designers. These prints come in different colors that can instantly create a joyful vibe. 

Floral prints can be seen in abstract form, contemporary-theme, minimalist, rustic, and others. Floral prints are easy to add to your rooms as they can blend well with any design style. They make a lovely and interesting focal point that will catch the attention of anybody. 

Another way to make the trendy floral prints look more interesting are the frames used. Neutral colored frames such as white and black make the walls look more sophisticated and elegant. They may appear simple at first, but the overall transformation of the walls is awe-inspiring. 

Floral prints allow the atmosphere of summer to spread to your home. Different flowers have their respective effects. For instance, rose and orchids can give a classic and elegant look, while red poppy can give any room with bright splashes of color. Sunflower, on the other hand, can help create a rustic or country-styled room-interior. 

Benefits of floral prints

Seeing plants and flowers inside your home is not just about making it look attractive and vibrant. Studies have shown that seeing plants and flowers can calm and relax the mind and body. In addition to these, several studies have also shown that plants and flowers have various health benefits such as increased productivity of workers and better work concentration. 

Posters that feature flowers and plants can give you a sense of fulfillment and put a smile on your face and your housemates. Especially during these days, the sight of flowers can let you enjoy your stay at home. 

In the world of business and advertising, floral posters have become a fashion statement that encourages consumers to patronize the products or services. Just remember that there are certain elements to consider such as the size, dimension, color, and type of flower. It is a fact that flowers have their respective symbolisms along with the colors used. 

Final Thoughts

Flowers are trending these days in terms of upgrading the interior appearance. Floral posters are readily available as they are one of the interesting and versatile decorative elements. There is a vibrancy, drama, and boldness to the contemporary floral that has never existed before. Imagine how much you can do with floral designs and the colors that they have. 

When it comes to appearance and effects on the room, classical artwork brings life to any living space. In fact, there are effects that cannot be observed from other forms of art. As many of us are probably aware, the choice of art that you display in your room reflects your personality and taste. With classical art displayed in your home, you will be able to bring harmony, proportion, and beauty to a plain and simple-looking room. Modern art has different characteristics and was created from a different period. Just like classical art, modern art evokes wonderful effects on the walls when displayed. 

What is Classical Art?

Classical Art refers to artworks that were created during the classical period. The term Classicism refers to artworks created by the ancient Greeks and Romans. Many experts also categorize classic artwork as one of the ancient arts or called either Greek or Roman art. 

The art is diverse and can be seen in temples and many public establishments. Classic art often featured the gods, famous figures, or celebrated a victory. Classic art is also important to many historians as many of them refer to the art to study the lives of past societies and cultures. 

It has been recorded that the classical period lasted for several centuries and up to this day, the classical styles receive respect and reverence. The period started in the Archaic period in the 8th century BC. This continued until the Roman period of the 1st century BC to the 2nd century AD. 

During that period, artworks were created in other parts of the world. However, they do not have the style that was observed in Greek and Roman art. 

Many of the world-renowned artwork and architecture are from the classical period. Examples of these are the Parthenon, Colosseum, and Trevi Fountain.

How about Modern Art?

Modern art is artworks that were created during the modernist period between 1860 to 1970. The styles were dominant during the 20th century, a period when the world of art saw change and development.

There are many styles in modern art but it generally encompasses the movements and philosophies of art produced during this period. Modern art movements are usually associated with their rebellion against the traditional ways of art. Artists often throw out classical and earlier styles and embraced the spirit of experimentation. 

There are also subcategories of art that fall under modern art. These include Impressionism, Fauvism, Art Deco, Primitivism, Constructivism, Cubism, Abstraction, Expressionism, Pop Art, Futurism, Dadaism, Bauhaus, Die Brucke, Surrealism, and others. 

Some differences between the two

In terms of differences, there are many that can be said about classical and modern art. The classical period lasted for hundreds of years and was revisited by the Renaissance and neoclassical periods. On the other hand, the modern art period was quite short and known to have lasted in less than a century. Although the period was relatively short, the evolution is impactful along with the rapid development of technology, the art has greatly influenced many cultures.

Classic art is usually associated with the wealthiest and most influential people of society. Many of them are still seen in various public buildings. Private art was limited to the wealthy and many arts depict religious figures and the portrait of the wealthy and influential people. 

In contrast with modern art, it focused on the ideas and feelings of the artists. Artworks were basically means of self-expression. 

Classical art mainly features scenes, inspires devotion, or tells mythological or religious stories. Modern artworks have no definite meaning, purpose, or story behind them at all. 

In the old days, people are satisfied with displaying their photos on picture frames. Although this is still the trend these days, you can still make it look amazing with some creative and fun ideas. As such, your home will have a cool statement that may serve as an inspiration for others. Read on to learn more about how to be more ingenious in displaying your photos. Who knows, you can be one of the trendsetters in wall decoration. 

Create a photo wall

Creating photo walls or gallery walls is one of the great ways to display your family photos. With this method, you will be able to capture and preserve memories in your home. Many homeowners prefer having the gallery wall in the living room. The truth is, it can be done in any room. Whether in the bedroom for a more private appeal or the dining room so that you’ll have a conversation starter before you dine with your guests. Photo walls do their job in making the wall look fantastic and likewise in creating a nostalgic room atmosphere. 

Use standing frames

Who says that photos can be displayed only on walls? Standing frames are made from different materials such as wood, bamboo, and metals, such as copper. With these, your photos will have a completely different and interesting way of displaying. 

Magnetize them

Photos are not just exclusive to be displayed on social media. You can easily turn those photos into magnets to display in your kitchen. Choose the photos, install magnets, and display them however you like on your refrigerator. 

Mix photos and art

Your photos are not the only ones that need to be displayed for exceptional wall art. Other decors can be added such as art. And when we say art, it does not have to be those expensive ones. You can display the art of your kids to have a more personalized wall design. It is recommended to have framed personalized art so that the wall can represent who and what you are. 

Arrange the photos 

The arrangement of your photos can be in different ways. Be creative and have the family photos arranged in various shapes. You can display them in a heart-shape arrangement or even in a collage-type appearance. 

Numerous photos in a print

Gather dozens of your favorite photos and arrange them in block-style in one print. It is better to have the photos in the same size. Display it over the sofa or in a bare hallway for instant wall art.

Nature-inspired display

Bring the outdoors inside with a rustic display. Get a piece of wood or a stick, attach pieces of rope and fasten mini clothespin for the pictures. Decorate it with ornaments and other items. The photos must be of the same size to make the wall art look cohesive and cool.

Poster prints

Have your photos in print. This is one way to personalize the walls and many experts recommend having the posters in frames. 

Create a gallery vibe

If you want to have that gallery look then use floating frames. These are acrylic displays with screws in brass finish for an elevated look. With these, you can have a modern appeal with your photos on the display.