Ways to brighten up your Easter break

“People making lists, planning special trips, taking time to be kind to one and all…” It’s my parody hymn of choice as the vacation spirit rolls in this coming April. Around the country Holy Week symbolizes two things: a time for spiritual devotion and time away for a holiday.

Some take this particular opportunity to gather a group together and go for a bonding adventure. The web has become a virtual marketplace for some of the best deals around. Be patient with it, especially if you’re doing last-minute bookings or changes. Sometimes, a promo will open up last minute that may allow a three-star budget to afford a five-star stay. Like to tweet? Then follow airlines that regularly post their fare deals and other travel specials that could save you a buck or two. Before you book, make sure you’ve gathered up a group of non-flaky friends; the other kind can cause a holiday headache if they can’t make up their minds. Or fly solo; practically everywhere you’ll go you will probably bump into someone you know, and if not, take the opportunity to renew your social energies and make new friends… you never know who you might meet. (Cue: “Summer lovin’ had me a blast… Summer lovin’ happened so fast…”)

Others take advantage of a traffic-less Manila to get some “me” time. Whether it’s a vacation or a staycation, it’s worthwhile to invest in these “life brighteners” to make it a memorable time of the year.

 1. Save your skin. Sunny days are here to stay and getting your glow back on doesn’t necessarily mean having to bake outdoors or cake on concealer indoors. Indulge in a one-of-a-kind treatment of Mistral Gold, which incorporates Light and Heat Energies (LHE) Phototherapy. I went for a few sessions at the Patdu MD Medical Clinic in Ayala Alabang and within 10 to 15 minutes you can get dark spots lightened, wrinkles reduced, past sun damage treated and your facial hair zapped all in one go. It’s non-invasive with zero downtime bringing about radiance to your skin since it also boosts collagen renewal and diminishes the appearance of veins on your face. Put your best face forward even under the brightest sunlight; think of how good you’re going to look in pictures. (A session costs P5,000 - P7,000 depending on area to be treated or treatment required of Mistral Gold at Patdu MD Medical Clinic. Call 818-2698 for more details.)

 2. Sound brights. Music motivates, as they say, and you’re probably going to be toting your laptop or MP3 player around. Share the groove with a group via a stylish portable speaker like the iTour Pop (P1,080) which comes in black, white, blue, red and pink; or if you want dual purpose, grab an iFit 2 (P1,750) which can also act as a dock for your iPad or iPod. If you’ve got a hard drive full of video downloads you can also enjoy great quality sound while watching with your friends and family. (These Divoom audio products are at SM Appliance Center, Rustan’s Department Store, Apple resellers and other gadget stores. For inquiries e-mail divoom.phil@gmail.com or call mobile 0917-5754812.)

Junior jellies: Jelly Nelly has a kids’ line for mommy-matching feet treats.

 3. Sleek feet. Comfortable sandals are summer staples and if your trip keeps you on the sometimes-scorching sidewalks of the city or the hot, sunny sands of the beach, grab a pair of Jelly Nelly sandals that are washable and durable and come in a variety of colors that pack a colorful punch to whatever you wear. It’s also a great excuse to go out and get a very indulgent pedicure to treat your feet. Mommy alert: They come in kids’ sizes too, so you and your tot can play Mom and Mini-Me. (Jelly Nelly sandals range from P700-900. Go to www.jellynelly.com for more information.)

* * *

For more Soul Train visit www.thesoultrain.net.