5 Things To Do For The Homesick Filipinos In Dubai

Avatar

Whether you’re an international student studying here or an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), or simply born and raised in the city, there is no denying the specific things that will make a lot of us miss the culture and vibes of our homeland, the Philippines. 

However, Dubai, being the multicultural hub that it is, is no place to frown about homesickness. Here’s a list of 6 things to do (or places to go) when you’re missing home:

1. Have the C1 meal at Jollibee! 

No, this is not an ad. You aren’t a true Pinoy unless you’ve munched on the oh-so-delicious and crispy chicken with the gravy and white rice from this franchise. 

Luckily, for those of us in Dubai, we don’t have to salivate over the thought of the Chickenjoy and spaghetti meals. Jollibee has opened up branches in Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, fret no more. 

6X4Kqf

2. Go for Karaoke with friends in private booths (if you’re too shy)

Let’s not even deny that one of our favourite things to do in birthday parties or family events is to off our vocal skills, through singing. Although, the rest of the family won’t be able to cheer you on as you belt out to “My Way” by Sinatra, the Makati Comedy Bar, is famous for their Karaoke Suites costing Dhs 100 for a private booth. There’s a wide range of Filipino, Chinese and English songs that can accommodate everyone’s preference. The place can be found in the 7th floor of the Asiana Hotel in Deira.

Or opt to sing in front of a crowd, if you’re feeling courageous like she is

3. Miss your toknene? Halo-halo? Cheese sticks?

You are not alone. We all miss hearing the voice of the taho guy in the mornings, or walking to our favorite local street vendor for the cheese sticks dipped in a combination of ketchup and mayo. We found this little gem of a restaurant with a name that stays true to the Filipino culture, Jeepsilog. 

Check them out on Talabat.com and enjoy munching on the turon, so well-cooked that’ll make you feel right at home.

4. Missing Papa Jack? Well, this radio station will get you nostalgic

Love Doctor, Papa Jack, who is notorious for his comedic approach to giving people love advice through his late night radio show may not be live in Dubai. However, you can YouTube the old sessions and listen in while at work or before bed. 

Other than that, Dubai is home to Tag 91.1 Mahal Ko Music, UAE’s first Filipino radio station. Not only will tuning in when they’re on air leave you feeling more at home away from home, but they regularly inform Pinoys on the happenings in the city and play some very popular songs from back home.

5. Be around other Pinoys in comedy bars 

It can get a little lonely sometimes, but Filipinos know how to make good out of the negative, because they’re generally such optimistic people. If you’re feeling a little down, google a couple of comedy bars in your area, sit and be entertained by jokes that everyone in the room can relate to. 

It’s a good place to meet a lot of other friendly Pinoys. The Boracay Club in the same Asiana Hotel mentioned above, there’s lots of various acts that’ll get you laughing while you munch on crispy patas and any other Filipino delicacy. Sometimes, OPM singers even come to visit and perform.


Shopping

See more

More like this