The spring months are here! Spent Christmas for OFW can be one of the most difficult challenges. Cold weather, busy work days, and missing family dinners can make you feel lonely. But it doesn’t have to be sad. You can still feel the joy and love of the season, even far from home. After all, the holiday season is something we look forward to.
Some OFWs book a lavish Christmas celebration at the Marriott. Others choose affordable places to save money but still have a merry Christmas. No matter what you choose, Christmas outside the Philippines can be warm and meaningful.
But Christmas doesn’t have to be sad. Even far away, OFWs can still feel the joy, warmth and love of the season. With a little creativity, you can keep traditions alive, connect with loved ones, and celebrate a meaningful holiday filled with the Filipino spirit.
Tips to feel closer to home this Christmas
1. Plan a virtual Christmas Eve
Choose a date and time that works for your loved one and everyone else. Try to match your time zones. Use Zoom, Messenger, Microsoft Teams or Viber. Enjoy a feast and chat together during the call.
2. Send digital gifts or a Balikbayan box
If shipping seems too long, try a digital gift. Loading GCash, online gift cards, or e-coupons all work well. You can also send a sweet voice note or song. It’s kind of a trend now and these little things matter.
3. Join Filipino communities abroad
Find a local Filipino church or Facebook group. Many OFWs celebrate Simbang Gabi and Filipino Christmas events. This is a great way to meet new friends and feel the Christmas spirit.
Some areas even offer Filipino food potlucks. Bring your version of lumpia or spaghetti. Don’t worry if you can’t find all the ingredients. Use what surrounds you and make it yours.
4. Play online games or quizzes with the family
Online games are a fun way to laugh together. Try guessing games or family trivia. Everyone can join in, even from afar. Play simple games that make people smile.
5. Mail a handwritten letter or card
A card from the heart means more during the holidays. Write a sincere message. Share your love and hopes. Your family will treasure them.
Keep Filipino traditions alive, wherever you are
The holidays can be sad because you can’t do things with a family member. But there are some Filipino traditions that you can still practice in a spirit of togetherness:
6. Watch a Pinoy Christmas movie
Pick a Pinoy movie that makes you feel good. Watch alone or invite OFW friends. Add popcorn or holiday snacks. This brings back happy memories.
7.Prepare Filipino dishes with what you have
Can’t find Filipino ingredients for rice cakes and puto bumbong? Try the locals. Use cheddar cheese if there is no queso de pelota for your macaroni salad. Try aluminum foil if there are no banana leaves. Eat delicious chocolates. The goal is to enjoy the flavors of home. Don’t wait to have the perfect setup. What matters is that you made the effort!
8. Decorate your space
Add a small parol or fairy lights. Post family photos. Even a few decorations can brighten up. It will make your space feel more Christmassy.
9. Play Christmas songs you grew up with
Listening to Christmas songs by Jose Mari Chan or ABS-CBN brings back warm memories. Sing while cooking or cleaning. These songs bring comfort and joy.
10. Attend Simbang Gabi Masses Online
Many churches are now streaming services. Find one that fits your time zone and join in prayer. Pick one in your time zone. Dress up if you want. This helps you stay spiritually connected.
Take care of your heart and mind
11. Talk to someone you trust
Being far away can be hard. Don’t repress it. Share them with a trusted friend. Or write in a journal. Helps your mind feel lighter.
12. Take breaks and rest well
Are you working this holiday season? Don’t forget to take breaks. Drink water. Get enough sleep. A calm and rested heart helps you stay strong.
13. Spend time outdoors if you can
A short walk can lift your spirits. Breathe fresh air. If it’s safe, take some time to enjoy nature. Even 10 minutes can help.
14. Reflect on your trip
Think about your sacrifices and achievements this year. Every Christmas for OFWs is a test of strength and love. Celebrate your resilience.
Step by step for a virtual family Christmas
- Choose a date – Choose Christmas Eve or Christmas Day and plan ahead.
- Test your connection – Use a reliable eSIM or Wi-Fi.
- Decorate your space – Add lights or a background parol.
- make it fun – Share stories, eat together or play.
- End with a prayer – Close the night with gratitude and blessings.
Even from miles away, these moments create true joy.
OFW-compliant tools to stay connected and protected
- Stay connected – Recommended by seasoned travelers, this reliable eSIM keeps you connected during virtual Christmas Eve calls, daily check-ins, and multi-country travel.
- Protected trip – Trusted by frequent travelers and digital nomads, this affordable plan provides travel and health coverage for emergencies, flight delays or hospital visits abroad.
- How to Become a Digital Nomad (eBook) – Written by Kach Medina, a Filipino digital nomad and co-founder of Two Monkeys Travel, this guide helps OFWs and aspiring freelancers create a life of freedom, travel, and meaningful work.
- Learn anywhere – As Kach recommends, learn new languages with confidence with the world’s most trusted platform, now available with a $179 lifetime subscription, perfect for OFWs making connections abroad.
Christmas does not have to be empty for Filipinos working abroad. Even when you are apart, you can celebrate with your hearts. It’s about making the best of what you have and creating joy wherever you are.
Celebrate your strength, your love and your Filipino spirit. You are not alone. Start making plans today and bring a piece of home with you wherever you are this very merry Christmas!
Frequently asked questions
Many join virtual calls, join local Filipino groups, or cook Pinoy dishes with local ingredients.
You can send GCash, online store vouchers or even a personal video message.
Check with local Catholic churches or Filipino Facebook groups in your area.
Reach out to friends, join community events, or talk to family online. Taking care of your mental health is important.
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