How to live Monday unscathed

THE post-apocalyptic inspired title takes little from what’s left of the Mayan scare last year, and kicks off this article that should probably be of help to fellow or stranger alike now stranded in this island.

How in the world do people survive Sinulog?

No, this isn’t one of those cynical hate articles (which aren’t too bad either by the way). But in fact, this story/guide celebrates the beauty of how a religious festival unites everyone; even if it’s on a commercial standpoint.

Just about one of the merrier festivals in the Philippines, the Sinulog festival in Cebu City continues to invite visitors from all over the world. With news stories reporting an expected crowd turnout of four million people for today, chances are that for a rarity in this lifetime, you’ll meet more friends offline than on Facebook.

So, now the question: how does one enjoy Sinulog without a hitch?

Well, dissecting the query, throwing in both words “enjoy” and “sinulog” into one sentence, then the answer would be: “that’s not quite possible.”

Sorry to burst one’s bubble, but Murphy’s was probably right with this one. “Anything that can go wrong will go wrong.”

So the best bet of minimizing bad vibes would all now fall under preparation and flexibility. Let spontaneity takes its course and enjoy the ride (aboard your favorite celebrity’s float would be fine too). Here are some quick tips to help you wake up tomorrow in the best possible way.

Tip 1. Water wherever. Don’t go spending all your cash on booze. Yes, parties will be held left and right (and maybe on streets after midnight), but science won’t let you skip the truth that your body needs some good rehydrating. So bring a water bottle with you if you want to save yourself the hassle of looking for vendors within the parade. Speaking of vendors, these aren’t the only guys after your money.

Tip 2. Bring just enough cash. Emphasis on “just enough.” Like that last line said, vendors aren’t the only ones after your cash, but a few terrible people who are out to steal are also enjoying the Sinulog in their own horrid way. So don’t give the wicked the chance to pick your pockets; and that just doesn’t go for money, but for other expensive looking gadgets as well.

Tip 3. Wear closed and comfy shoes. No Brazilian flip flops will save your feet from all the walking that day. Not even Japanese or Filipino rubber—if you’re planning to go out with slippers or sandals. Because of the heat (or rain), people will be stepping on each other’s toes, literally and figuratively speaking. So stay on the safe side of caution and wear some comfortable rubber shoes instead.

Tip 4. Load up. Forget sending text messages. There’s a chance the networks might get flooded and you just can’t risk the time element of delayed communication. Make sure, and this goes for people with prepaid accounts, that you load up enough to make calls during the day. Don’t go out on the streets looking for a stranger whose phone you want to borrow. No way.

Tip 5. Plan and execute accordingly. All praises to the spirit of spontaneity that seems to make every gimmick the best that it could ever be. But it won’t hurt to plan your itinerary for today. Ask yourself questions like, “What time will I leave the house.” “Who will I be meeting with and where will I be going.” “What time do I go home and how?” You can even leave some note with your housemates if you’re planning to spend the night somewhere else, if they’re the type to go all frantic on you if you’re not back before midnight. But seriously, nothing beats a good plan—better safe than sorry.

Follow, add or modify these suggestions, and chances are that you’ll enjoy Sinulog with nothing but a few bruises to prove that you braved the crowd and got it on, unlike those who choose to witness the parade on their televisions.

Which, could be Tip 6 by the way.