The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the magic of Christmas. One delightful tradition that adds to the anticipation and excitement leading up to the big day is the Advent calendar. In this blog post, we'll delve into the origins of this charming custom, explore the reasons behind its enduring popularity, and uncover the joy it brings during the festive season.

The concept of counting down the days until Christmas dates back to the 19th century in Germany. Early Advent calendars were simple chalk marks on doors or lit candles, marking each day with anticipation. The first printed Advent calendar, as we know it today, emerged in the early 20th century. Originally created by Gerhard Lang, a German printer, these calendars featured small pictures that children could affix to the calendar each day.

Over time, the tradition spread across Europe and eventually worldwide, evolving into the colorful, interactive calendars we see today. Modern Advent calendars can take various forms, from traditional paper versions with small doors concealing treats to more contemporary ones with pockets, drawers, or even digital renditions.

What makes Advent calendars so enchanting? The answer lies in the joyous anticipation they bring to both children and adults alike. Opening a door or uncovering a surprise builds excitement and adds a touch of magic to the holiday season. It's not just about the treats hidden behind each compartment; it's the shared experience of counting down together, creating lasting memories and traditions for families.

Here is a compilation of Advent Calendars I have been eyeing on:

1. Krasloten

I have been doing this for two years in a row. Krasloten are scratch cards in the Netherlands. I got hooked on it during the pandemic. Don't worry; I don't go crazy and blow off our money on Krasloten. I only allot €2-3 per week. Fortunately, I was able to win back the cost of the advent calendar but I am hopeful to win big every year. This year they added a new calendar with a higher pot money of €300,000.

As you feel the cold breeze on your cheeks, your body recognizes that winter is around the corner.

We gear up with layers to keep our bodies warm and our skin demands extra care to combat dryness and cracks. In this Winter Edition blog post, I'll walk you through my winter skincare routine, sharing tips on what worked for my skin through the years. A little reminder, everyone's skin is unique, so take my advice with a pinch of salt and adjust according to your needs.

Halloween in the Netherlands

Halloween, which falls on October 31st, has been gaining popularity in the Netherlands, thanks to global cultural influences. The Dutch have embraced this ghostly holiday with open arms, and you can find many spooky decorations, costume parties, and pumpkin carving events across the country. Here are some key aspects of Halloween in the Netherlands:

Costumes and Trick-or-Treating

Much like in other countries, Dutch children nowadays love to dress up in costumes and go trick-or-treating, knocking on doors in their neighborhoods to collect candy. It's an exciting night for young and old alike. You may need to do some research and ask around which neighborhood participates as these are not the norm in the whole country. 

Pumpkin carving has been gaining traction in the Netherlands. Families gather to carve intricate designs into pumpkins, turning them into eerie lanterns to decorate their homes. Supermarkets now carry whole pumpkins in store for this, and there are also a few farms that have adapted it as well. You can research some farms that transform into pumpkin patches to welcome autumn and the spooky season. You will spot some houses with pumpkins on their doorstep as part of the autumn decorations. 

The Dutch love parties and bigger Dutch cities often host Halloween parties, allowing people to enjoy spooky-themed events. Some Dutch households and businesses eagerly adorn their spaces with cobwebs, skeletons, witches, and jack-o'-lanterns to create a spooky atmosphere. Wallibi annually prepares for the Halloween Spooky Nights where they deck the whole park with Halloween decorations.

Special Halloween treats, like spooky-shaped cookies and cupcakes, are available and enjoyed during this time. Halloween-themed candies can be seen in supermarkets (maybe not too distinct like the kruidnoten and Sinterklaas treats that are rampant as early as September). 

Sint Maarten in the Netherlands

Sint Maarten, celebrated on November 11th, has its roots in Dutch culture and is a delightful holiday for children. Unlike Halloween, which has global origins, Sint Maarten is unique to the Netherlands. Here's what makes it special:

Lantern Processions 

Sint Maarten is also known as St. Martin's Day, and it's a celebration of light. Children create colorful paper lanterns and participate in lantern processions. In some regions, they sing traditional Sint Maarten songs while carrying their lanterns. Many Dutch children look forward to crafting their lanterns and learning the traditional Sint Maarten songs in school.



Sweet Treats

Similar to Halloween, children go door to door, but instead of saying "trick or treat," they sing Sint Maarten songs and receive small gifts or sweets. Typically, these sweets include gingerbread cookies, chocolates, mandarines and marzipan.

Sint Maarten has historical roots, dating back to the legend of Saint Martin, who shared his warm coat with a beggar. This act of kindness is celebrated through the sharing of sweets and gifts. It is also fitting as World Kindness Day is also celebrated around the same date. Let me share the video of our first Sint Maarten experience in our neighbourhood:

@carolranas Sint Maarten is a Dutch tradition that we gladly experienced, now that we live in a small village.. #teamperez #sintmaarten #fyp #becarol #zandvoort ♬ Sinte Sinte Maarten - Sint Maarten

In conclusion, both Halloween and Sint Maarten offer unique and enjoyable experiences in the Netherlands. Halloween introduces a touch of spookiness to Dutch culture, while Sint Maarten highlights the country's strong sense of community and tradition. Whether you're a fan of ghostly celebrations or sweet, heartwarming traditions, the Netherlands has something for everyone during these two festive occasions. So, whether you're carving pumpkins or singing Sint Maarten songs, have a delightful time celebrating in Dutch style!

Summer is kind of a big deal here in Europe, as everyone is excited about their summer getaway plans. Every summer, our family eagerly anticipates our annual tradition of embarking on a thrilling European road trip, seeking the cool embrace of mountain air amidst the sizzling summer heat. Our family kind of leaned towards nature experiences, so camping and mountains have always been in the summer plan. 

We went big for our trip this year, calling it our mini-retirement. We planned to do the trip for 26 days, which seemed too long to be on the road, especially with a kid. We saved enough for a trip back to Manila, but circumstances were not in our favor which is why we decided to go with a mini-retirement instead. We knew we wanted to experience a different view of the Alps, so we were contemplating which side are we going to explore. 

Road trips should be broken down into small chunks of driving, giving ample time for the designated driver to rest and enjoy the trip as well. This year, we hit up cities we were familiar with in combination with new cities to explore, to balance the risk of unexpected things in new cities. Below is the route we went for:

Above are the main stops we did during this whole trip. Along the way, we might have made a few quick stops as well. Let me break down below the cities we chose and the activities we had in mind for each location. 

1. Europa Park, Germany - The Kickoff to Thrills and Chills

Our family's summer tradition kicked off at Europa Park, Germany. Picture roller coasters twisting and turning, laughter filling the air, and that undeniable theme park excitement, it's the perfect first stop for families with kids! My son loves attraction parks, so we made sure we included them in our summer plan. 

Europa Park, known as the best theme park in Europe, its captivating rides and enchanting atmosphere, providing a fantastic start to our escapade. Attraction Parks in Europe hits different from the typical parks we have in Asia. Europa Park has themes from different countries in Europe, paired with rides and attractions (not to mention some of its beloved cuisines!), one day in the park is simply not enough. Not to mention that Europa Park has a huge indoor waterpark as well called Rulantica, visiting gave us days of fun that'll be enough to jumpstart our summer vacation.

2. Interlaken, Switzerland - Hiking Trails and Alpine Dreams

I will say it, Switzerland has been a family favorite place to visit during summer. It is the perfect stop, like stepping into a postcard. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails, Interlaken offers an unparalleled mountain experience. We found ourselves coming back to Interlaken for the second time, surrounded by the awe-inspiring Alps. 

Hiking and Exploring the Alps became our daily routine on this trip, and I can't even describe the views – breathtaking doesn't do it justice. We bought the Top of Europe pass for the second time, and tried to hike the trails in Interlaken. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both novice hikers (like me) and seasoned adventurers. Each step brought us closer to panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, making Interlaken a must-stop for anyone seeking the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. We opted to stay for one whole week in Interlaken, so aside from the places included in the Top of Europe pass, we were also able to explore the nearby towns, such as the Aareschlucht Gorge and Reichenbachfall.

3. Milan, Italy - Foodie Heaven in a Fashionable Setting

After all that mountain air, we decided to make a city stop in Milan, Italy. I know, it is not your typical mountain destination, but hear me out. Milan is the perfect stop to try Italian cuisine and it also has Jollibee! From authentic pasta to irresistible pastries, it was a culinary pitstop that satisfied our taste buds and gave us the energy for the rest of our adventure. We are also craving something that reminds us of home, so a stop at Jollibee was definitely in the plan!

Aside from our gastronomic plan in Milan, we also visited some of the iconic landmarks such as the Duomo. As we explore the city's iconic landmarks and savor local delicacies, Milan provides a refreshing break before we resume our mountainous journey.

4. Dolomites, Italy - Scaling Peaks and Living the Outdoor Dream

Now, Dolomites – oh boy, this place is a dream for anyone who loves the outdoors. It was our first time in the Dolomites, so we didn't have much expectations, let's just say that it was amazing! We hiked through rugged landscapes, conquered challenging trails, and soaked in the serenity of the mountains. It was like being in a nature documentary, but we were the stars. Unforgettable doesn't even begin to cover it.



From challenging trails to scenic vistas,  Dolomites offer a diverse range of activities for nature lovers. It's a destination that caters to both thrill-seekers and those seeking a more relaxed exploration of the great outdoors. We made Brixen as our base camp, and had a wonderful Italian road trip across the Dolomites. Hiking through the Dolomites is a surreal experience, with towering peaks, rugged landscapes, hidden lakes, and a sense of serenity that only nature can provide.

5. Legoland Germany - A Whimsical Break on Our Way Home

Amidst the long journey back to the Netherlands, we make a whimsical stop at Legoland Germany. This family-friendly theme park is a fantastic way to break up the drive, providing entertainment for both kids and adults alike. The colorful brick creations and exciting rides offer a playful interlude before we reach our final destination.

I can say that Legoland Germany had been included in our favorites as it was the most cost-effective stop. It is perfectly nestled in between the Netherlands and the Alp Regions. The drive was doable, and my kid also got to have fun. A win-win situation at its best!

6. Aachen, Germany - Wrapping It Up with History and Charm

Our last stop, Aachen, Germany, was like the grand finale. Historical charm oozed from every corner of the old town, and the Aachen Cathedral was a sight to behold. We strolled through cobblestone streets, taking in the atmosphere and savoring the last moments of our incredible summer adventure in the mountains.

The picturesque old town, coupled with the awe-inspiring Aachen Cathedral, Aachen is the perfect backdrop for reflecting on our mountainous exploits before heading home. As we stroll through the cobblestone streets and absorb the city's charm, we savor the final moments of our summer escapade.


So that was our unforgettable summer European mountain road trip. Roller coasters, alpine hikes, delicious eats, outdoor adventures, a splash of whimsy, and a touch of history – it was the perfect recipe for an epic vacation. Now it's your turn. Pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and hit the road for an unforgettable journey through the majestic European mountains. We have made lots of memories to cherish and It is your turn to embark on a similar epic adventure. 

Billund is the charming Danish town that's practically synonymous with Lego! If you're a Lego enthusiast or looking for a fun and family-friendly destination, Billund is the place to be. This post will guide you through our family trip to Billund, highlighting the town's connection to Lego and all the must-see attractions, including our day at Legoland Billund.


Billund is a small town located in the heart of Denmark, but it's known worldwide as the birthplace of Lego. The beloved toy company was founded here in 1932 by Ole Kirk Christiansen, and today, it's home to the Lego Group's headquarters and Legoland Billund – one of the world's first and most iconic Legoland parks.


We drove our way to Billund from the Netherlands, which is a whooping 9-hour drive one way! Our journey started at 5:30AM and had two stops along the way, yet nothing stopped our excitement of reaching Billund. We have been to Legoland Germany, so we are definitely pumped to check out Legoland Billund.

Legoland Billund has some similar themes to Legoland Germany like the Miniland, Pirateland, Ninjago, and Duplo Land, mainly because those are the must-see attractions in all Legoland parks. Legoland Billund is launching a new area in their park namely The Ferrari Build and Race, which was unfortunately still closed when we visited. 

Summer may be the best time to visit Legoland because the weather is warm, but keep in mind that most people visit during the summer holidays so it will be crowded. We planned our trip during the May vacation when the weather is a bit forgivable given that it is springtime. Here's a glimpse of our Legoland trip:

Aside from the Legoland Billund Park, there are also places you can check out in Billund. The Lego House is an immersive museum that celebrates the creativity and innovation behind these iconic plastic bricks. Here you dive into the history of Lego and you can even build your Lego creations here! There is also an interesting restaurant called, Mini Chef, which we happily indulged in. Let me share with you how it went:

Aside from the Lego House and Legoland, there are still other places you can include in your itinerary for Billund. We sure did explore Billund during the spring break vacation. There is a Sculpture Park that you'll encounter if you choose to walk your way from Legoland Village to the Lego House. We strolled through this beautiful park filled with different Danish sculptures and art installations, which are sure to make the walk to Lego House very interesting.

Lalandia is also another place you can visit in Billund. This indoor waterpark and holiday center is perfect for a rainy day. It features thrilling water slides, wave pools, and relaxing spa facilities. It also includes an indoor playground for kids, restaurants, and cafes for parents, it is indeed a perfect spot for a holiday break. Here's a glimpse of our experience at Lalandia:

If you think we already explored everything in Billund, yes we did! Yet there are also nice places to check out that is a few minutes away from Billund like the Givskud Zoo and nice Danish town around Billund like Vejle, Kolding, and Jelling.


Overall, Billund is a Lego lover's paradise and an ideal destination for a family adventure. Whether you're exploring the town's Lego history or enjoying the excitement of Legoland Billund, this Danish gem promises unforgettable memories for both kids and grown-ups. So include Billund in your next school holiday plans!

Growing up, I was always fascinated with theme parks. Our family is quite big, so it is not often that we can go to a theme park because it can get quite expensive. When I have a chance to go on an adventure, I usually go to theme parks. My husband and I have our fair share of experiences in theme parks back in our home country. Now that we have a family, we try to let our son experience the thrill of theme parks even at a young age.

In the Netherlands, there is also a wide selection of theme parks for every kid at any age. We have visited the famous Efteling. And we also have brought our kid to Disneyland Paris. Now that our kid is getting bigger, we try to get him comfortable around theme parks as well. For his birthday (and meivakantie), we decided to bring him to Walibi.

Walibi Holland, formerly known as Walibi Flevo, is an awesome theme park located in Biddinghuizen, Netherlands. It's a place where thrill-seekers and fun-lovers unite for a day of adrenaline-pumping adventures It was originally called "Flevohof" when it opened in 1971, then "Walibi Flevo" in the late '90s, and finally "Walibi Holland" in 2005.



Walibi is home to a bunch of exhilarating roller coasters and attractions. From "Lost Gravity" with its crazy inversions to "Untamed," which is the only hybrid coaster in the Netherlands, there's no shortage of heart-pounding experiences. One of the park's standout rides is "Goliath." It's a monstrous roller coaster that ranks as one of the tallest and fastest in Europe. The view from the top is breathtaking, and the drop is a real scream-fest!

We decided to visit Walibi mainly because of Walibi Play! This event is relatively new and it's all about gaming and e-sports, It's like a paradise for gamers. My son recently has been into Minecraft, and they are launching the new Minecraft Legends at Walibi Play. Let me share with you our video at Walibi.

If you're a fan of competitive gaming, you'll love Walibi Play. They have different areas where you can play e-sports like Minecraft, Call of Duty, FIFA and Fortnite. The event featured a massive gaming zone where you can play all kinds of video games. From retro classics like Pac-man and Mortal Combat to the latest releases like Mario Kart and Just Dance, there is no shortage of game experience. They also had VR headsets, arcade machines, and simulators. It's a gamer's dream come true.

You also get a chance to meet some of your favorite gaming personalities and YouTubers. It's a great opportunity to get autographs and take selfies with your gaming idols like Paraduze and the like. Aside from Walibi Play, we were able to try some of the rides in Walibi. I can say that most of the rides in Walibi are geared towards the older children for it has lots of adrenaline-pumping rides.