The ber-months are here! Spending Christmas for OFW can be one of the hardest challenges. The cold weather, busy workdays, and missing family dinners can make it 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. The Christmas season is something to look forward to, after all.
Some OFWs book a luxurious holiday celebration at the Marriott. Others choose budget-friendly places to save money, but still enjoy 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 Filipino spirit.
Tips to Feel Closer to Home This Christmas
1. Plan a Virtual Noche Buena
Pick 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. Have a feast and chat together on the call.
2. Send Digital Gifts or a Balikbayan Box
If shipping feels too long, try a digital gift. GCash load, online gift cards, or e-vouchers 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
Look for a local Filipino church or Facebook group. Many OFWs hold 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’s around you and make it your own.
4. Play Online Games or Quizzes with Family
Online games are a fun way to laugh together. Try guessing games or family trivia. Everyone can join – even from far away. Use simple games that bring out smiles.
5. Mail a Handwritten Letter or Card
A letter from the heart means more during the holidays. Write a heartfelt message. Share your love and hopes. Your family will treasure them.
Keep Filipino Traditions Alive, Wherever You Are
The holiday can be sad because you can’t do things with a family member. But there are some Filipino traditions that you can still do in the spirit of togetherness:
6. Watch a Pinoy Christmas Movie
Pick a feel-good Pinoy film. Watch alone or invite OFW friends over. Add popcorn or holiday snacks. This brings back happy memories.
7. Make Filipino Dishes With What You Have
Can’t find Filipino ingredients for rice cakes and puto bumbong? Try local ones. Use cheddar if there’s no queso de bola for your macaroni salad. Try foil if there’s no banana leaf. Eat yummy chocolates. The goal is to enjoy the flavors of home. Don’t wait for the perfect setup. What matters is that you made the effort!
8. Decorate Your Space
Add a small parol or fairy lights. Put up family photos. Even a few decorations can bring cheer. It will make your space feel more like Christmas.
9. Play Christmas Songs You Grew Up With
Listening to Jose Mari Chan or ABS-CBN Christmas songs brings back warm memories. Sing along while you cook or clean. These songs bring comfort and joy.
10. Attend Online Simbang Gabi Masses
Many churches now stream services. Find one that fits your time zone and join in prayer. Choose one in your time zone. Dress up if you want. This helps you stay spiritually connected.
Care for Your Heart and Mind
11. Talk to Someone You Trust
Being away can feel heavy. Don’t bottle it up. Share them with a trusted friend. Or write in a journal. It 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 mood. Breathe in the fresh air. If it’s safe, take time to enjoy nature. Even 10 minutes can help.
14. Reflect on Your Journey
Think about your sacrifices and achievements this year. Every Christmas for OFWs is proof of strength and love. Celebrate your resilience.
Step-by-Step to a Virtual Christmas With Family
- Pick 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 parol in the background.
- Make it fun – Share stories, eat together, or play games.
- End with a prayer – Close the night with gratitude and blessings.
Even from miles away, these moments create real joy.
OFW-Friendly Tools to Stay Connected & Protected
- Stay Connected – As recommended by seasoned travelers, this reliable eSIM keeps you connected during virtual Noche Buena calls, daily check-ins, and trips across multiple countries.
- Travel Protected – Trusted by frequent travelers and digital nomads, this affordable plan provides both travel and health coverage for emergencies, flight delays, or hospital visits abroad.
- How to Become a Digital Nomad (eBook) – Written by Kach Medina, a Filipina 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 confidently with the world’s most trusted platform, now available with a $179 Lifetime Subscription — perfect for OFWs building connections abroad.
Christmas doesn’t have to feel empty for Filipinos working overseas. Even when apart, you can celebrate with heart. It’s about making the best with 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 to wherever you are this very merry Christmas!
FAQ
Many join virtual calls, 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.
