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Marriage Advice - Expert Marriage Tips & Advice

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Living apart together has become more common than you probably even thought. If you take some time to survey, you may find couples who are married but living apart or those who are together but apart.

In this article, we will walk you through what this phenomenon means and how you can navigate these treacherous times. You will also discover the pros and cons of living apart together because as you know, almost everything in life comes with its upsides and downsides.

What is living apart together?

Living apart together is the term given to the situation in which couples who have an intimate relationship choose to live in different locations for a number of reasons.

has it that about one-third of the entire U.S adults who are not married or cohabiting are in some form of Living Apart Together relationships (LAT Relationships). What this implies is that there are more living apart together couples than you possibly imagined.

Furthermore, couples who are living apart together can choose to live close to themselves or far away from each other and just get to meet up at the times they predict.

Under these circumstances, they are in absolute control over their living apart together conditions and aren't compelled to make decisions based on a couple of factors that are beyond their control.

To some, being apart but together is their definition of love that waxes strong. To others, living apart while married is a complete no-no.

Why live together apart?

There are so many reasons why couples end up living apart after living together or choose to live at different locations from the start. As we have already hinted, here are some of them.

1. Some people just love their space

Being in a romantic relationship with someone else is not about making them trade their peace of mind for anything. They would rather choose the living apart together option and opt in to meet themselves at arranged schedules.

2. Others believe they don't have to live out of each other's pockets

Others don't think that the best and most effective way to show that they love someone is to pack up and move into the same house with the person. For these people, they would rather find other ways to express their love for a person than to live in the same house.

This is also absolutely fine, and if it works perfectly for you, then so be it.

3. Influence of family

Some people come from close-knit families, and they may have spent their entire lives living in the same house as their families. Even when they grow up and get into romantic relationships, they may find it challenging to get out of those houses they've lived in all their lives to start afresh with someone else.

On the flip side, they may just be from families that don't support the entire idea of living together when you aren't yet married.

4. Religious influences

In that case, these people would choose to wait to get married before moving in together. These said, let us quickly take a look at the both sides of this pendulum. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living apart together?

Pros of living apart together

Wondering what could be the living apart together benefits? Here are some of the benefits of being in a relationship but not living together.

1. You have independence

To make this work, you'd have to make a lot of compromises while they do the same as well. Some of the most challenging times come when both of you decide to live together, and you have to find common ground to meet on almost all matters.

When living apart together is your choice action, you'll end up saving yourself so much stress. For one, you wouldn't have to define the decor with someone else. You can choose how you want your space to look, what you want to bring in, if you prefer minimalism over everything else, etc.

The first and major advantage of living apart from your spouse is that you get to decide what you want and how you want it.

2. Living apart together helps you cherish the time you spend with your partner

One of the things you may have to deal with soon enough if you live with your spouse is the familiarity concept. When you know that they'd always be there when you wake up first thing in the morning, there's every possibility that you'll pay them little heed when they try to get your attention.

This can cause friction in the relationship as time passes. However, when you just get to see yourselves at intervals, you'll look forward to the time you'll spend together, and you'll also commit to mailing everything you can from those hours.

3. You have control over your schedule

If you are the person who lives to have their hands over your schedule; to determine what you do, when you do it, and how you do it, then living apart together might just be the perfect choice for you.

When you live alone, you can decide your schedule. First of all, there's no one in your immediate space that you have to think of. No family time. No immediate movie dates to worry about. Nothing that isn't you!

This gives you the space to determine your schedule to the best of your abilities. Also, this can positively impact your career if you are the type of person who places priority on your work.

4. Living apart together gives an opportunity to think for yourself

One of the things that can happen in relationships is that a time may come when you may need some space to think, process, and determine the direction in which your relationship is headed. Sometimes, making the hard decisions is impossible if you are living out of each other's pockets.

When you are living apart together, you can process information concerning the relationship in a clearer headspace.

In addition, not seeing your spouse every other second can actually contribute to making the relationship stronger as you may end up desiring those times you get to hang out and spend quality time with yourselves.

5. Living apart together can come in handy in breaking societal stereotypes

Many of these norms empower the men to chase their dreams while the women stay at home to create a conducive space for the man to thrive while keeping their ambitions in the back seat forever.

One of the major advantages of living apart together relationships is that these stereotypes hold little or no water under these conditions. When everyone has to live in their spaces, they have to figure out how to thrive independently of themselves. Another advantage is that unhealthy dependence on your partner goes out the door.

Cons of living apart together

Just like most things with advantages, living apart together comes with a couple of downsides as well. Here are some of them.

1. Jealousy can easily brew

At least, they could easily navigate themselves and monitor their partners if they were living in the same house. However, when distance is added to the mix, they may begin to doubt their partner's love for them.

2. This might just be the first step in a relationship that will hit the rocks

One of the main challenges that can easily pop up for living apart together relationships is that if extra care isn't taken, the distance can cause both parties to start losing the feeling they once had for themselves over time.

When one person starts feeling like they have to go too far to meet the one they love, they might just be tempted to opt out of the relationship and seek a new love interest that is closer to them.

As much as absence makes the heart grow fonder, it can also cause love to die down with time.

3. Intimacy is somewhat difficult

The heart wants what it wants. Although it is easy to focus on the bright and beautiful side of things, you may want to ask yourself this question. What if you wake up at 3 am, and all you want are the arms of your lover wrapped tightly around you?

You might be able to manage your emotions at first. However, if nothing is done, you may find yourself beginning to look for other options as time passes.

One of the major downsides of these relationships is that sometimes, affection and intimacy can be hard to get. Then again, the spontaneity that most couples who live together enjoy (like having hot sex in the shower and going for a little walk in the evenings) has to be planned and meticulously executed.

Having an order is great. However, what's a healthy relationship without a little bit of spontaneous fun?

4. Financial impact

Crazy, right?

One of the biggest disadvantages of living apart together is its effect on the finances of both people. Instead of taking advantage of all the money you can save, you may have to spend way higher on accommodation and monthly running costs if you choose to live apart.

These numbers still don't mean that married couples living apart are silly or lack financial intelligence. If they have to do that, they must have their strong reasons, right?

Suggested video: What you need to know about financially toxic relationships

5. It takes too much work to maintain a living apart together relationship

You may have to drive halfway across town to see them when you want to. You may have to wait for a couple of days until you can break the good news of your promotion to them.

You can't even get to share the small but precious moments of your life with them. And what's worse? The distance is opening your eyes to many other possible love interests that live just around the corner.

Does living apart together work?

The simple answer to this question is "Yes. Living apart together works."

However, to make it work, you must understand your unique situation and the things you must do to keep the flames of your love life. There are tons of couples out there who have made either scenario work for them. You just have to make sure that you are on the same page with your partner and that both of you are willing to see things through.

It takes a lot to make a living apart together relationship work. However, if both parties commit to making it work and if the situations are right for this type of arrangement, it is bound to work for you.

If it isn't working, however, you may want to sit together and analyze what you are doing. Then match your actions against your goals and see how you can adjust things.

You may also want to consider enlisting the help of professional counselors to help you make the best decision for your unique relationship.

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Living Apart Together: Meaning and Why Couples Do It

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Living apart together has become more common than you probably even thought. If you take some time to survey, you may find couples who are married but living apart or those who are together but apart. In this article, we will walk you through what this phenomenon means and how you can navigate these treacherous times.

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Living Apart Together - Who is living apart together?

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Cycling for Beginners:                                                   6 Need-to-Know Tips to Get Started

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Cycling for Beginners:                                                   6 Need-to-Know Tips to Get Started

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From the outside looking in, cycling looks simple-all you have to do is pedal, right? But it can sometimes come off as intimidating. You might find yourself thinking, "Wait, I need more gear?" or simply, "Yikes. Spandex."

But once you take that first ride, we're sure you'll be hooked by the sense of freedom, adventure, and joy so commonly felt on the bike. Getting started is easier than it seems, and we'll let you in on a little secret: You don't even have to wear spandex if you don't want. To help, we've gathered up five need-to-know beginner cycling tips to keep in mind before you hit the open road.

1. Choose the Right Bike

Of course, you can't get started without a great set of wheels. While we're big fans of all types of bikes, we're specifically talking about bikes suitable for the road here. This is the most common and accessible form of cycling for beginners, and the lightweight bikes, with skinny tires and efficient riding geometry, are designed to help you navigate paved bike paths and city streets.

Just like picking the perfect pair of running shoes, you first need to size your bike. Stand over the top tube and shoot for about an inch of clearance between your body and the frame. If this sounds foreign to you, your local bike shop can help with this. Get more details on how to find the right bike size here.

Next you need to pick a bike that fits your budget and riding style. Are you going to log casual miles on the weekends? Do you want to use your bike for exercise? Are you planning on eventually doing long-distance rides like centuries or racing? Road bike frames have specific geometries and components, tailored for each of these goals at every price point.

Think about how you intend to use the bike, and how you might want to grow with the bike (for example: maybe you can only ride 20 miles now, but you have a 75-mile charity ride in your sights). Then work with your local bike shop to find the right pick.

2. Get Geared Up

Finding the perfect bike is only half of the equation. There's also some essential gear you'll need. A new helmet is the most important and should be worn at all times while riding. Helmets have a shelf life, so it's better to be safe than sorry and buy a new one instead of reaching for that old one hanging in the garage. New helmets meet the U.S. safety standards, so try them all on and choose one that best fits your head, your style, and your budget best. The more you love it, the more you'll want to wear it.

Not quite ready to look like a Tour de France rider yet? No problem. There are plenty of brands that make cool cycling apparel for recreational riders. Check out the Bike Style collection from Pearl Izumi. If you do aspire to look like a pro, we've got you covered there, too. A cycling kit (a jersey, matching padded bib shorts or bike shorts, and socks) is more aerodynamic and comfortable on the bike than other athletic clothes. The material wicks away sweat and helps regulate body temperature, the form-fitting cut reduces chafing, and the padded seat (chamois) protects sensitive areas from road vibration. Jerseys are available in race or relaxed fit and endless colors and patterns.

While we suggest starting your cycling journey with standard flat pedals and athletic shoes, eventually you may want to transition to road bike shoes and clipless pedals. This shoe-pedal combination secures your feet in place to improve pedaling efficiency and bike handling. Unclipping can sometimes be tricky, so be sure to practice in a field until you get the hang of it.

Other important items include some tools (tire levers, a mini pump, spare tubes, and a multi-tool) and a water bottle or two. You can also opt for a cycling computer which comes in handy for tracking mileage and navigating routes.

3. Find Your Ride Style

As you spend more and more time in the saddle, you'll learn more about your personal riding style and preferences. Maybe you love riding non-competitively with a group, or you prefer heading out on solo adventures. Maybe you find yourself yearning to race, or simply using your bike to commute to work every day. There are endless ways to ride and enjoy riding-it just takes a little trial and error to find yours.

Eventually, you may also find that your body type and talents will naturally lend itself to a specific type of riding. If you find yourself breezing uphill faster than your friends, climbing may be your cup of tea. If you can pull away on a "race" to the town line during the Thursday night group ride, sprinting is likely your forte. Being a well-rounded cyclist is always the goal, but fostering your strengths (or what you enjoy most) is a surefire way to keep cycling fun. Plus, it's part of the sport-professional cyclists generally specialize in one style, whether it's sprinting, climbing, or time trialing.

4. Create a Habit

Your first few rides might be tough-your body is adjusting to the stress of a totally new activity. But like all things in life, real progress is made when you stick with it for the long run. The first step to make riding a habit is to be realistic. Don't expect to magically become a morning person just because you have a new bike, or plan to ride 100 miles too soon. Start small and grow from there.

No matter when you choose to ride, lay out your kit, fill your bottles, and pump up your tires ahead of time. Prepping and deciding to get on the bike is sometimes the hardest part-doing a little pre-ride preparation will prevent excuses from getting in the way.

Setting a long-term goal is a great way to stay engaged and track progress. You can aim to ride a certain number of days a week or look for a local charity ride, gran fondo, or create your own long-term mileage goal.

5. Find a Cycling Group

There's something to be said about finding the internal motivation to ride regularly, but sometimes a little positive peer pressure goes a long way. Cycling is uniquely both an individual and group sport. You can certainly ride and accomplish goals solo, but riding with a group can make it physically easier (you can draft off each other for less wind resistance) and more motivating.
Related: Find 52 weeks of tips and motivation, with space to fill in your mileage and favorite routes, with the Bicycling Training Journal.

Many cities have cycling groups who host no-drop group rides, designed to teach beginner cyclists group etiquette and showcase local routes. These groups are usually associated with bike shops, so ask the staff for a ride calendar or resources to learn more.

You'll quickly find that cycling is a surprisingly social and supportive sport. Weekly group rides can hold you accountable and give you the extra push you need to throw your leg over the saddle when motivation is lacking. Many people in these organized rides have advice from years of experience that they're more than willing to share- watch, learn and ask questions!

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How to Start Cycling (and Not Be Intimidated by the Spandex)

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From the outside looking in, cycling looks simple-all you have to do is pedal, right? But it can sometimes come off as intimidating. You might find yourself thinking, "Wait, I need more gear?" or simply, "Yikes. Spandex." But once you take that first ride, we're sure you'll be hooked by the sense of freedom, adventure, and joy so commonly felt on the bike.

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Nowadays, things have changed. People only understand that they are vacations as a tradition.

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Official tourist service for Saint Peter's Basilica

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Easter is the most important Christian festival, being the one with the highest degree of solemnity. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which happened on the third day after his crucifixion.
The date Easter falls upon, unlike that of Christmas for example, varies from year to year.
Easter in the Christian religion has similarities with both the Jewish Passover and with some ancient pagan festivals.

Easter at Saint Peter's

Particular celebrations are held in Saint Peter's Basilica, not just on Easter Sunday, but also during the Holy Week, which starts the previous Sunday, known as Palm Sunday.
The Celebration of the Passion of the Lord takes place on Good Friday afternoon, while in the evening the ritual of the Way of the Cross departs from the Colosseum.
The Way of the Cross commemorates the path of Christ led to the crucifixion on Golgotha or Calvary: it is a route made up of 14 Stations, at the end of which the Pope gives the Apostolic Blessing to the faithful.
While participation to the Way of the Cross is open to all, a ticket is needed to take part the in Holy Mass on Easter Sunday. The tickets are free of charge and can be requested by writing to the Prefecture of the Pontifical House
At the end of Easter Mass, the Pope performs the "Urbi et Orbi" blessing: "of the City of Rome, and of the whole world", invoking the remission of sins for all those present.

What is the meaning of the word Easter?

The word Easter, (in Italian Pasqua) derives from the Greek term pascha, which in turn derives from the Aramaic word paskha. The meaning in both cases is that of "passing" or 'passing over'.
For Christians Easter is the passage of Christ from death to life and the consequent passage of man from sin to salvation.
Jewish Passover, pesah or pesach, remembers the passage of the Jews escaping from Egypt across the Red Sea.
The English word Easter derives from the pagan goddess Ēostre and the farming festivals held for the rebirth of Spring, known as Ostara.

How is the exact date of Easter calculated?

The date of Easter depends on the lunar cycles. The Catholic and Protestant churches celebrate it on the Sunday following the spring full moon: this day can fall between the 22nd of March and the 25th of April.
This system of dating was adopted by the First Council of Nicaea in 325 A.D.
However the orthodox churches celebrate Passover between the 4th of April and the 8th of May, corresponding to the Sunday following the first spring new moon.

The history of Easter

The Jewish Pesach was born as an agricultural festivity, modelled of those celebrated by other peoples of the Near East. Later it was made to coincide with the celebration of the exodus of the Jews from Egypt.
There is a strong link between Christian Easter and Pesach.
The gospels tell us that Jesus died the day before the Jewish festivity, which fell on a Saturday in that year. The resurrection however happened on the day following Pesach, and therefore it became the Day of the Lord (dies dominica in Latin).
The first Christians, up until the second century, celebrated Easter in correspondence with Pesach. This was in order to remember the sacrifice that Christ had made in order to save man from original sin. Only later did they prefer to celebrate the resurrection: the formalisation of the movement of the date to the Sunday following the first spring full moon occurred at the Council of Nicaea.

The eggs, the lamb and the Easter rabbit

Many elements that characterize the Easter celebrations originate in Jewish and pagan traditions.

The egg has always been a symbol for the origin of the life. In ancient times it was connected to the cult of the Great Mother and other female divinities. The goddess Eurynome, for example, transformed into a dove and laid an egg. Then she ordered to the serpent Ophione to coil around it. After it had been coiled around seven times, the egg opened and all things that exist were hatched.

The first Christians coloured chicken eggs red in order to remember the blood of Jesus, or they decorated them with crosses and other symbols. This tradition continued in the Orthodox Church and the rituals of the Greek-Byzantine Catholics.
Pagans in Rome at the time buried eggs they had painted red as a symbol of fertility and as a good omen for the rebirth of spring.
For Christians, however, the egg is associated with the resurrection of Christ.
It seems that the tradition of giving Easter eggs was born in Germany in the Middle Ages; here they also began also to craft artificial eggs, covered with precious materials.
In the 20th century the use of chocolate eggs spread widely, the prototypes of which first appeared in the 1700s in France at the court of the Sun King.

To celebrate Pesach the Jewish eat lamb meat. In this way they remember when their ancestors marked the doors of their homes with lamb blood so that the angel of God could distinguish them from the Egyptians. That night, in fact, the angel killed the firstborn of all men and animals, except those of the houses marked with the blood.
The Christians, instead, cook lamb in order to honour the sacrifice of Jesus. The Son of God, in fact, sacrificed himself like a lamb to free man from original sin.

The rabbit and the hare have always represented fertility, due to the fact that they can both reproduce quickly.
The goddess Ēostre, from which we get the English word Easter, was often represented with the head of hare.
The first to use the hare as an emblem of the Resurrection of Jesus was Saint Ambrose, in the 4th century: the hare's mantle, that changes colour with the alternating of the seasons, was associated with the concept of new life.
The rabbit become a symbol of Easter much later, towards the 16th century, in Germany. The Easter Bunny and preparing cakes in the form of a rabbit are customs mainly used in German speaking countries and the United States.

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Easter is the most important Christian festival, being the one with the highest degree of solemnity. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which happened on the third day after his crucifixion. The date Easter falls upon, unlike that of Christmas for example, varies from year to year.

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Sometimes we are patetics!!

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Do “study with me” videos help with productivity?

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Learn how study with me videos can turn your studies around, and make you more productive, efficient, and result in better grades.

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REAL TIME study with me (no music): 2 hour pomodoro session with breaks (background noise) #2

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https://blog.utsavfashion.com/ensembles/pakistani-wedding-clothes

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A wedding is a day a couple never wants to forget and the wedding clothes are on the top of the list in importance. For people of Pakistani heritage, finding beautiful pakistani dresses is both a delight and a joy considering the wide variety of styles, colors and designs available.

However, you don't have to be from Pakistan to choose to use pakistani wedding clothes, and many women are making that choice because they are looking for a unique, ethnic look for their special day.

Marked for Unique Colors & Prints

Pakistani dresses are known for their vibrant colors and breathtaking embellishments. While American weddings usually include a white , Pakistani wedding clothes utilize an array of colors.

Some of the more popular colors for pakistani dresses, or Lehenga, are bright blues, scarlet reds, golds, greens and purples. Most pakistani dresses you will see online will combine colors and fabrics together in a very eye-catching way.

You may see a dress with a gold foundation and vibrant oranges adornments. Or perhaps olive green and burnt sienna are the color choice that suits the bride best.

The color of the fabric is not the only thing to think about when picking out pakistani dresses. Pakistani wedding clothes are known for their embellishments. Many brides want to sparkle and shine on their wedding day, and these dresses make it all possible.

Styles and designs range from simple to complex, and from quiet to loud in regard to ornaments. Sequins, beads, lace and complex embroideries make pakistani dresses breathtakingly beautiful. Metallic threading and beads will make the bride look like the princess she is. Sparkling jewels dashed here and there, or placed strategically in a lovely pattern can transform a dress into a dream come true.

When picking out pakistani wedding clothes, and especially when selecting the wedding dress, shop for colors and styles that particularly accent the bride's own features.

Skin tone and shade should be considered when looking at colors. Body shape should also be considered. Some pakistani dresses are form-fitting and have somewhat of a corset look to them. Others are more loosely-fitting and would be more appropriate for the more full-figured bride.

The bride isn't the only one who needs to find pakistani wedding clothes. There is a variety of beautiful dresses and outfits for those attending the wedding as guests. Whether the wedding is casual or more formal, in winter or in spring, there are many options when shopping online for wedding wear.

Remember that in Pakistani weddings, it is perfectly acceptable for women to wear a pants suit and they usually are worn with a lovely, flowing tunic-like long dress on top.

Pakistani wedding clothes do not have to be overly expensive. Some online stores can provide the clothing at wholesale costs. Bear in mind that the typical bride will pay anywhere from $500 to $5000 or more on their wedding dress. Shop for deals but do not compromise on quality. In India and Pakistan, weddings are filled with color and vibrance. Shop for Pakistani wedding clothes and make special day bright and colorful as well.

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Pakistani Wedding Attires for Brides - Know everything

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A wedding is a day a couple never wants to forget and the wedding clothes are on the top of the list in importance. For people of Pakistani heritage, finding beautiful pakistani dresses is both a delight and a joy considering the wide variety of styles, colors and designs available.

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Mahdiyah & Ibrar  - Pakistani Wedding Trailer - UK Intimate Wedding

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I Create Love Stories

www.SalmanSiddiqueFilms.com

07470374423 - Manchester, United Kingdom

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What is the Kiri tree and how can it help to fight global warming

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What is the Kiri tree and how can it help to fight global warming

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The Kiri is a tree that could save the planet, for being of great help against the global warming, the pollution and the desertification of the ecosystem. In fact, in many cultures it is known as the "tree of the future ".

There are many more details of the Kiri tree that we want to tell you, are you ready?

Kiri tree: what is it?

The tree Kiri is considered one of the most beautiful trees of the world due to its abundant flowering of pink lilac colour. For that reason, nowadays it is used much like an ornamental plant.

It is also known as the Empress tree or Paulownia tomentosa. It is native to China, belonging specifically to the family of paulowniaceae and its presence contributes to improving air, water and soil conditions.

In this way, they can be a great ally in the fight against pollution, global warming and desertified ecosystems. It is even often called the tree of life, since it produces more oxygen than other trees.

What are the characteristics of the Kiri tree?

There are many qualities of the Kiri tree that make it authentic, and in this section of the post we want to explain them to you in detail.

Tree adaptable to different climates

A Kiri tree adapts to a great variety of climates, supporting extreme temperatures like -20 ºC up to 45 ºC. For this quality, they are considered a great help against the desertification of the planet.

Tree that produces more oxygen

The Kiri expel large amounts of oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide at least ten times more than other trees. An adult tree can even capture up to 21.7 kg of CO2 per day.

High altitude tree

The Kiri trees grow up to 27 metres and in good conditions live about 100 years. Their trunk is between 7 and 20 metres in diameter, and they can even sprout at least 5 times from the same trunk.

Very healthy tree

They are very healthy trees thanks to their high capacity to resist plagues. Moreover, because they regenerate their growth vessels and roots in a short time, they can resist fire and tolerate polluted areas.

Tree with a striking appearance

The showy flowers of the Kiri tree, are of lilac color and can cover it completely when they sprout. Its leaves rich in nitrogen reach up to 40 cm wide and when they fall they enrich the soil, serving as a nutritious fertilizer.

Prosperous tree

The empress tree thrives in contaminated soil and water, and can even purify the soil as it grows. It can also thrive in poor or eroded soils, provided it has access to compost and a good irrigation system.

However, under these bad conditions its growth is slower. The ideal way to ensure optimum development is to plant it in deep, well-drained soil, preferably sandy loam. It should be noted that they do not support saline soils.

Tree of simple reproduction

The reproduction of the Kiri tree is simple, it can be by cuttings or seeds. Its growth is usually faster than other species, increasing about 2 cm every day, for which in a year it grows up to 6 meters high.

Do you know what the Kiri tree is used for?

From Greenuso we want to respond to this question mentioning 8 important aspects on the use of the tree Kiri:

1. It is an excellent ecological resource for the generation of biomass in thermal power stations or home heating.

2. It is ideal to recover, control and stabilize the erosion of the soil thanks to its deep root system and capacity to fix the CO2.

3. It serves as a substitute or complement to coal, as it is an excellent solid biofuel.

4. Its leaves are useful as fodder since they have a very high nutritional value, being excellent for feeding livestock and making compost.

5. Its wood can be used to build aqueducts in rural areas.

6. Many make crafts with their wood because it is easy to carve.

7. It allows to make accessories of airplanes or yachts that require light wood and of good quality.

8. Its wood is ideal for making surfboards, wakeboards, skies, barrels, furniture, drawers and musical instruments because it resists pests well.

Now that you know what the Kiri tree is and how it contributes to the conservation of the planet, it is time to put them into practice.

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What is the Kiri tree and how can it help to fight global warming - Greenuso

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The Kiri is a tree that could save the planet, for being of great help against the global warming, the pollution and the desertification of the ecosystem. In fact, in many cultures it is known as the "tree of the future ".

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GH 125 - "Chemistry and the Human Body" (Zuidgeest-Craft)

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https://writingexplained.org/grammar-dictionary/drama

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The Importance of Drama in the Development of Children by Rachel Lewin

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Often, when choosing GCSE options at school, students open up about their dilemmas - "I want to do Drama, but it clashes with something that my parents think will be more useful in life."

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Kids have been dominating the local stage as of late. From last year's The Sound of Music and Matilda, to this year's The Lion King, you're bound to see a young star holding their own just as well as the adults. Whether it's delivering multiple pages of dialogue, tap dancing off the stage, or hitting those high notes, these kids have done it all, and in front of hundreds of people multiple nights a week.

In BGC Arts Center 's Zobel De Ayala Recital Hall, eight of today's young stars of the stage got candid with TheaterFansManila.com and talked about their sizable careers.

11-year-olds Felicity Kyle Napuli ( Matilda, The Lion King) and Krystal Brimner ( Annie, The Sound of Music), 12-year-olds Albert Silos ( Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Tagu-taguan Nasaan ang Buwan?) and Gabriel Tiongson ( Scrooge, The Lion King), and 13 year-olds Rayne Cortez ( Hansel and Gretel, A Christmas Carol), Tory Cortez ( Newsies, The Sound of Music), Katie Bradshaw ( What's in the Dark?, Fun Home), and Noel Comia Jr. ( Ang Buhay ni Galileo, Pinocchio) share the joys and challenges of performing, how they take on complex roles, and the best advice they've ever been given.
What was your first experience performing in front of people?
RAYNE CORTEZ: Before, my parents always wanted [her and twin brother, Tory Cortez] to sing in front of our family and friends, but then I would always be shy. And then we started doing theater productions. The first one I joined was Trumpets, and then that's when I performed on stage in front of an audience.

FELICITY KYLE NAPULI: My first experience was performing in front of my family in a videoke. I was so curious, so I tried it, and then I realized I could sing!
How old were you?
KYLE: Um... five?

GABRIEL TIONGSON: Mine was in a workshop for Trumpets. My mom [Sweet Plantado-Tiongson] wanted me to do theater because she also does theater. I was really scared, but when I tried that, it was really fun, so I just continued doing that.

KRYSTAL BRIMNER: My first experience was in school. It was a school play-Cinderella-then my mom noticed that I could sing and do all this stuff, so she started getting me in, like, theater stuff.

KATIE BRADSHAW: I never liked performing in front of my family. Of course I was forced to, so I did it sometimes. But, my first professional one was The Sound of Music and that's when I realized that I really liked theater, and that I could sing.

ALBERT SILOS: My first time performing was with my little sister when she was doing voice lessons and I also sang her songs. Then my mom was like, "Can you sing that in front of us?". I was 4 I think? Or 5? And then my first professional theater production was The King and I.

NOEL COMIA JR.: My first time performing in front of people was a gathering for a Christian community, Kids for Christ. But my first professional one was for Kids Act Philippines. It was a recital.

TORY CORTEZ: My first one, I honestly don't remember. I was like 3 or 4 in school. But one of the first, kind of professional but not really because it was a workshop, was with Rayne. I wasn't supposed to start acting, but instead of laying in bed playing games, sleeping for the whole summer, my mom wanted us to do something. I thought of going to computer class, but then Rayne wanted to start acting and there were no workshops for computers that really hit me. So I just thought, whatever, I'll just join Rayne. That's what sparked my interest to act.
For the others, what was your first professional role?
KYLE: My first one was in [Repertory Philippines], A Little Princess. I played Becky.

RAYNE: Mine and Tory's first professional debut was Hansel and Gretel, also by Repertory Philippines.

GABRIEL: Mine was Scrooge, also by Repertory Philippines. We all started from Repertory!
That's also where a lot of our biggest stars have started.
KRYSTAL: My first biggest role was Annie. That was from Full House Theater Company.
Have you ever experienced anything funny or scary on stage or off?
NOEL: I remember one! I was in Scrooge with Albert. We were in the dressing room and we had this costume with gloves, and Albert's had rubber things. So, we left the dressing room and when we entered again, it smelled like smoke! We checked and it was the rubber gloves! It was kind of burning because it was near a bulb.

ALBERT: I was like, "That's my glove!"

TORY: Actually, in Hansel and Gretel, we had the same experience. For some reason, we were kind of dumb enough to think that dropping water on a lightbulb would be a good idea. We got into trouble. The lightbulb, at some point, cracked. And that wasn't the worst part-
This was you and Rayne?
TORY: It was the guys' dressing room. A couple of days after that, for some reason, the sink broke. The sink just fell.

KATIE: It's all your fault!

TORY: My friend was trying to carry the sink. It was super heavy. It just cracked off. He was trying to carry it, and the water was pouring out everywhere.
They think you broke the sink?
TORY: I don't think it was that, but a lot of bad things started happening after that.

KATIE: In The Sound of Music, I don't know why, but I put tape on the lightbulb and it melted.

NOEL: In Repertory-it's at OnStage in Greenbelt-there's a ghost there. Maybe that's why a lot of things are happening. In Scrooge there was a ghost in the restroom.

KATIE: They're always in restrooms! I don't know why!

NOEL: Our co-actor saw the ghost and the light switch was going up and down.

ALBERT: One thing that happened to me was, I'll say in Scrooge. A lot of things happened in Scrooge. Gabriel made a prank that there was a killer outside.

NOEL: (Points to Gabriel and Albert) We were together!

ALBERT: I locked the door in the downstairs dressing room of the boys, and now no one could get through. They had to cross the backstage instead of outside because I locked the door, and we didn't have any keys.

NOEL: We tried opening it with a hair pin.

ALBERT: It didn't work, obviously.
Did you get into trouble for all your shenanigans?
NOEL: Well, there was a company call after that, but then I forgot what happened.

(Everyone laughs.)

TORY: I was kind of scared to meet [Baby Barredo] for the first time because I've heard so many stories about her like, throwing chairs at people. So I was like, oh my god!

KYLE: Yeah, me too!

TORY: she's a really good actor, and the things she teaches you are amazing. She once taught me in Hansel and Gretel that when you play a role, you're not you. You turn into the character. Every character you be, you live their lives. And I've kind of brought that with me all the way through [my career]. It's one of the things that I remember the most, and that's one of the reasons that really pushed me to becoming a better actor.
So, when you finally met her, she wasn't that scary?
TORY: Oh, no. She was!

NOEL: She kind of pushes people to be the role. And we have this experience-Albert and I- in Pinocchio. Our co-actor was being scolded by Tita Baby-

ALBERT: I was personally scolded.

NOEL: She was like, "Goddamnit!" and then she looked at us and said, "Don't say that word. That's a bad word." But I've witnessed her throwing things.

ALBERT: The time she scolded me personally was when I was saying my line, and I was so shy. She was like, "Project your voice! Not even a cockroach can hear you!"

NOEL: There's also one, he's a really good director, he's one of the best that I've worked with. We (Points to Albert) worked with him at the same time. We're always together. (Laughs.)

ALBERT: We're always together! Like, whenever we go to an audition, we see each other.

NOEL: Direk Jamie del Mundo, he's really good right? So, first day of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, it was the rehearsal for the trade show. A lot of actors were talking and he said "Quiet!" the first time. "Quiet guys," and we were still speaking. And then the third time, "Quiet!". It was so loud, the parents outside could hear it. We were all scared. He said, "If I say quiet, you have to stay quiet guys."

KATIE: I experienced ghost activity in Meralco Theater. In the girls' bathroom! I was in the bathroom just washing my hands, and then I tried to go into one of the stalls but it was locked, and then all of a sudden, the toilet flushed! I looked under and on the seat there was a person and I was so scared!

NOEL: Why did you look under?

KATIE: Because I was scared!

GABRIEL: If you're scared, you run away!

KATIE: There was nobody there, so I ran out. It's always the bathrooms!
Aside from the ghosts (Everyone laughs.), what do you love about performing?
KRYSTAL: What I love about performing is that I get to show people my talent. I get to show them what I can do, so that in future projects, they can get me and they know what I can do.

GABRIEL: For me, it's really fun. I love doing it.
If you had to pick your favorite thing about performing, what would you choose?
GABRIEL: What I like about it is that you're somebody else. You're not you. Sometimes, you want to make yourself part of that character so it makes it you, but not you.

ALBERT: It's kind of like a simulation of possession.

(Everyone laughs.)

KYLE: I get to express myself because at home, I have no playmates or anything. And then I'm with my co-actors, which is really fun, and I treat them like my brothers and sisters.

RAYNE: What I really love about theater, besides meeting new people and making new friends, is also making people happy. The reason people watch shows, is because they want to be entertained. I love telling stories. Every single show is always different. There's always gonna be a different story and a different character.

KATIE: My favorite part is telling the story and making new friends. Your friendship grows bigger and bigger until you just cry when it's the last show. But mostly, I really love the choreo. I love doing choreo. It's really fun!

ALBERT: What I like most is, like what Gabriel said, putting yourself in the character's shoes and going through the things that the character is going through. I also like blocking. I love tech week because even though it's tiring and it's stressful, it's the first time you get to see the set, the costume, you get to try everything else.

NOEL: With the experience that I have with theater, it's about the actors that you're with for a very long time. You get to learn a lot of stuff. You get to be the character, like what everybody else had been saying. I also like tech week because I get to hear the orchestra. I really love the orchestration of every play.

TORY: Being in theater, you make new friends. Singing and dancing, most importantly telling the story. And to be in the moment because when you're there...

KATIE: It feels like you're the actual person.

TORY: Yeah. In their shoes. It's like a whole other life that you're in.
What do you find is the hardest thing about being theater performers?
KATIE: The hardest thing is reaching the notes.

KYLE: Memorizing the script.

KATIE: Reaching the high notes or meeting new people. Sometimes I'm really good at it, and sometimes I'm not.

ALBERT: Analyzing the character and putting yourself into them, because it's actually kind of hard if your role is the opposite of you. And it's actually hard to put yourself into their situation if you yourself don't understand theirs.

NOEL: For me, the hard thing is, if you're doing a lot of shows at the same time, it's getting pretty hard to switch yourself. Like, if you're this character, and then you're gonna do the other show and you're gonna be another character. It's hard to change mindsets or yourself. And because you have to memorize a lot of things at the same time.

ALBERT: Imagine all these adults that have multiple roles? Like, whoah! What the heck?

TORY: Well, there are a lot of things that I find hard. Like, sometimes, even reaching high notes. Especially going through the age I'm at now-going through puberty and stuff-it really is sometimes kind of hard to hit those notes perfectly. But in general, the hardest thing for me are the interviews, honestly. You can't see it, but I'm actually shaking.

RAYNE: The hardest thing for me isn't actually the show itself. I think the most challenging thing for me is the auditions.

KATIE: I get so nervous.

RAYNE: When you're in the show, even if you're nervous, it's okay because you still have a lot of time to practice. But during auditions, you don't know if you got in or not. So you're still nervous. But that's the good thing about theater, being challenged because it keeps you on your toes. And I don't think anyone stops getting nervous.
Anything you don't like about theater?
GABRIEL: Waking up early!

KYLE: Yes, sleepless nights sometimes.

ALBERT: Like how I get nervous every time the show is about to start. Like, I'm freaking out. I forget almost everything before the show, and then at the last minute, when the show's about to start and you're about to step in, you're thinking, "Oh no! I forgot something!" You're just like, I'm fired. That's it. I'm done. And then you realize when you get on stage, "Oh, it's actually on pre-set."

KRYSTAL: When the show ends. That's the only part I don't like.
Is that hard? The separation anxiety?
KATIE: Yes!

KYLE: Yes!

KRYSTAL: Yes!

GABRIEL: Sometimes. But we just get to see each other again.

NOEL: There's not a thing I don't like about theater because I really love it, and it's really fun. The show may be done and that's really hard, but you're gonna see each other again. The journey still continues. We're still going to be able to meet each other again.

ALBERT: And, the world is really small.

RAYNE: It's like what everyone said, saying goodbye...Oh! One part I found challenging in The Sound of Music was our costume changes because we had like 6 costume changes, and the Brigitta's and Gretl's, our fastest one was 16 seconds!

KRYSTAL: Yeah, it was like, super fast.

RAYNE: One part I freaked out because when it was Maria's wedding, we had gowns and then when we exited, when I was trying to get it out, it got stuck.

TORY: The most anxiety I got from a show, I think, would be The Sound of Music because we learned it only in a month. We had really little time and it had to be perfect.

RAYNE: And we didn't even rehearse with the whole cast!

TORY: Yeah. We didn't rehearse with the adults. We only rehearsed with the adults during tech week.

KATIE: Same with me. My Sound of Music also. I had a really fast quick change. I did a 10-second quick change. I was only 6 years old!

TORY: All of the guys, we would be laughing-well, not really laughing but it was kind of easier for us because there's a scene where the curtains close and then we have 16 seconds to change. And for the guys we just put a coat and a hat and we're done. And the girls they have to change their dress, their pants right there. So we're just looking at them, we're already in line waiting for them. And the curtain's slowly opening already, and we were like, "Oh my god!"
We didn't notice that!
TORY: Yeah. Actually there were a couple of bad things. [Gwyneth Dorado], her dress, when she was going down the staircase, it got stuck on a hook. It was amazing because even though she was stuck, she was able to go to the other side of the stage in perfect timing. It was cool.

GABRIEL: It just always comes through.
Any other stressful moments?
RAYNE: In our bedroom scene, you know when we're singing and there's thunder, there was a part when we're on the bed, and then there are pillows and blankets. But then, our children's director, she told us that when the scene changes, they take out the whole bed. And then the pillows and stuff can't fall on the floor because the next scene is in the garden. And if they take it out, there will be no one to bring in the pillows and they'll have to stop the whole show to take it out or else there will be a pillow in the garden. So, once when I was on the bed, we had to go down and I accidentally kicked the teddy bear off the bed. And then when the lights changed, I freaked out so I grabbed it and ran out.

ALBERT: Imagine a teddy bear on the garden!

(Everyone laughs.)

NOEL: One of my stressful moments was Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, the second run because my voice is already changing and the notes are really high. So I had to practice reaching it.
Rayne already started talking about auditions. How do you find out about shows?
TORY: A lot of times, my parents. A lot of times, other directors or producers. And sometimes Facebook.

KATIE: My sister [Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante].

GABRIEL: My mom.

ALBERT: Facebook, and whenever someone says, "Hey, audition for this!"

KRYSTAL: For Annie, since that was my first one, I found it out on TV, so I decided to audition. And then the rest, those were just connections.

KYLE: Since the theater world is very small, and we know where auditions are, if there's an audition, we come directly and we don't care if we pass or not. As long as we auditioned and we tried our best, that's the main goal.

RAYNE: But it's also good that you always audition, because even if you don't get it, they know you exist.

NOEL: Yeah. Just in case this person gets sick...

KATIE: Or if you have another show, they'll have you in mind.
Do you pick the shows you audition for, or do you go out for everything?
TORY: Sometimes if I really don't want to do it, I say no.

ALBERT: My parents ask me, "Do you want this?" and most of the time I just say yes.

NOEL: For me, opportunities only come once in a lifetime, so if there's an audition, even if you don't like the role but the opportunity is there, you still have to audition for it. But then, you'll get to love the character.

KATIE: You think you're not gonna get into the role, or you just don't want to, but then you get it and then you're like, "Oh I actually like it!"

ALBERT: I had the same experience in Fun Home, 'cause what happened was I got called for callbacks, but I had a show so I couldn't go. I thought I was never going to be in Fun Home anymore, but then someone called and said, "Hey, can you come back for Fun Home and do the callback again?"

KRYSTAL: Sometimes I choose and sometimes I don't. Whatever's there for me, I'll just do it.
What would make you say no to a role?
KATIE: Nothing.

ALBERT: Nothing.

NOEL: Nothing.

TORY: Honestly, I don't know. It's just sometimes I get a gut feeling. Like, I feel that I just don't want to. But sometimes, there are days when I'm just really tired and I don't want to do anything. So when my mom asks me, I'm like "Can I answer you the next day when I feel better?" After Hansel and Gretel, honestly I was not a good actor. No, I'm not kidding. When I first started acting, my face was nothing. So then after Hansel and Gretel, it was a long process. A hard process. There are many days that I went home crying. So after, I told my mom that I didn't want to act for a while after that. But then a couple of days later, my mom's like, anyway, "I know you don't want to act anymore but we got you an audition." And then I said, "But mom I don't want to do it." And she's like, "Okay if you really don't want to do it, then don't." And I'm like, "I'll just check it out." So we tried it out, we got in, and it became really cool 'cause I made more friends and they pushed me towards acting.
Do the rest of you have any kind of experience like that? Thinking 'Maybe I don't want to do this anymore'?
KRYSTAL: Well, not really.

GABRIEL: Me, sometimes. If I do a show and then it's a long period before you do a next one. In between that, you feel like, "Should I do theater?" And then, "Oh okay! Theater it is!" It's a cycle.

NOEL: Yes. Well, not really. Not at the moment. For me, it's really time management. It's hard to manage your school and theater and TV and movies.

TORY: That's why we're home-schooled now because our old school didn't support our acting.

NOEL: Yeah. There are some schools that don't support acting.

TORY: They want us to stop already because it was a conflict with our school. So, my parents said choose and we really wanted to pursue this, and that's why we chose to continue acting.

KYLE: Yes, because when I started acting I was very tired after a show and I'm like, if I would do this again, I will be more tired. And then I do it again and then, "You know what? I take my words back."

(Everyone laughs.)

RAYNE: Sometimes, I'm just not in the mood. I don't know why I have those feelings that I don't want to do it anymore, but then after awhile I just realize I was wrong, and that I still want to continue.

KATIE: I have one show-I'm not gonna name it-but I didn't like it so much and I was trying so hard to keep on doing it. But at night, I'm like, "Do I even want to go to rehearsals tomorrow?" because there were no kids with me. I was the only kid. But it was good. I met someone that I liked so I was like, "Fine."

NOEL: I know this show.

KATIE: What?

ALBERT: Since you didn't name it, we're not gonna name it.

GABRIEL: It's called "Voldemort."

NOEL: There's a show that shouldn't be named in the theaters. A superstition. It's William Shakespeare's play, Macbeth. You shouldn't say that!
How do you prepare for auditions?
TORY: I drink Salabat. Before I drink Salabat, I would have all kinds of things to warm my voice up because everyday when I wake up, I have rhinitis.

KATIE: Me, I keep on warming up my voice, like, in the car. But I don't like doing it with my mom around! (Everyone laughs.) The thing is, whenever I'm about to go into the room to audition, I get so dry. My mouth is so dry. So when you sing, you sound really bad. But I usually try to learn the song as much as possible, like a week before.

ALBERT: I get so nervous about everything beforehand. I just forget everything and then I keep on studying, and my phone's low-batt na because the lyrics were there and I just keep on checking and checking the lyrics. And then sometimes, when I feel too confident about the song, I just-

KATIE: Mess it up right?

ALBERT: Mess up. I feel like, "Oh, I know this song so well, I'm just gonna relax and I'm gonna chill in this song." And then, I'm like... umm... ohhh... And then you make up different tunes.

KATIE: Yeah, and you're like, "Oh no! I thought I was gonna be good!"

ALBERT: I felt like I made an apocalypse in this one room.

TORY: Yeah, but you know the show must go on.

NOEL: It depends on the audition because some auditions require you to learn a certain song, or certain songs and certain dance steps, but some auditions require you to sing whatever you want and dance whatever you want. So, if an audition requires you to prepare one song from any play, you have to learn it again and again, and you have to learn it by heart, not just by your head because you memorize it, but you don't really memorize it, if you know what I mean.

KATIE: I get so happy when they request a song that I already know.

GABRIEL: I'm not like them. I'm not that nervous, but I do it. 'Cause I know if I get in, then I'm in. If I'm out, then they don't really need me, or I'm not the right person for this show.

NOEL: Some auditions also require you to have a certain height.

KATIE: Yeah, I hate that!

NOEL: And a certain age.

KATIE: Or, you should have a certain height of that age!

KRYSTAL: I drink lots of water. I warm up my voice. Also, praying for me really helps. It keeps me very calm. So praying's my one tip.

KYLE: Yeah, a lot of water. No cold stuff or sweet stuff. And then I do my research about this musical so that I have many ideas about it and the songs as well. Where it originated, stuff like that.

RAYNE: And the character. I think I do a mix of everything. Drink water and practice the songs so that I really know it. Because sometimes you think, like when you're at home and you're singing it, you're like, "Oh I'm so good! I'm totally just gonna go walk in there!" And then once you're there, you just kind of freeze because you're thinking of being there so much and then you just forget everything.
You have been part of these really big productions. Some of you have been leads. Can you tell me what you felt when you found out you were gonna play roles like Annie, or Matilda?
TORY: For me, the first time you find out, it doesn't really hit you yet.

KATIE: Yeah.

TORY: It's still floating in your head.

ALBERT: Yeah. It's not sinking in yet.

NOEL: You're still processing.

KATIE: It's like, I feel so proud of myself! Lead role!

TORY: But then the day after, the week after, or the month after, that's when it hits me and I'm like, wow!

KATIE: I'm so special!

TORY: It's like, you're just shocked. When I find out I get in I'm just like, really shocked. I like to keep the confidence that I'll get in, but at the same time, I don't want to sound selfish. I don't want to sound narcissistic.

KATIE: You're just proud of yourself.

TORY: Yeah. I feel really proud.
Krystal, how did you feel? How did you find out that you were going to be Annie?
KRYSTAL: Well for Annie, they just called all the people in, all the kids that they feel are good? And then they start calling out names. And that makes me very tense. Are they gonna call my name? Are they gonna call her name? So there's a lot of pressure. But once you know you got in, there's so much relief. Like, finally. I got in.

NOEL: When I found out I got in for this certain role, to play Pinocchio in Repertory, they got us through email. So my parents are like, "Hey you got in": And I'm like, "Yay." But then after a few minutes, I'm like "I got in! Yay!"

GABRIEL: For me, because I made a deal with my mom that if I get into The Lion King, she would buy me a Switch. (Everyone laughs.) So when they called my mom when she was doing a show with her group The Company, she found out just then after their show and told the group.
Before she told you?
GABRIEL: Yeah, before she told me. When I went in, they all started going around me, like hugging me so tight. I was so confused. I was like "Huh? Really?" And then they sang, 'Hakuna Matata.' I was so confused. And then my mom said, "You got in." And I was like, "I got in? Do I get the Switch now?"

(Everyone laughs.)

ALBERT: So what happened was, my mom got an email from [Chitty Chitty Bang Bang]. I got Jeremy Potts the role. I was at my sister's school so I can't really burst out and scream. Mom was like, "Oh hey, you got in! And you got like this role!" So I was like, "Okay." But then, when I got home and I was about to change my clothes, I was like, "Yes! Oh my god! This is so... oh my god!"

NOEL: And then he found out that I was with him.

ALBERT: So I was like, "Yay! Noel... again." (Laughs) Excited, yes, because you're gonna be with your friend again, but it's also like... again.

KATIE: Sometimes I'm like, "Okay, I got the lead role." I'm happy about it but I just don't show it as much. I just go, "Okay." But like what Tory said, whenever I get into the show, that's when I realize, oh wait-I'm the lead role! That's not bad. But I'm not somebody that would scream about it. I would just be like, "I better reserve my voice!"

(Everyone laughs.)

ALBERT: Actually, I'm fine with any role. If I get into this one big production and I just have a small role, I would still be like, "Yeah boy!"

KATIE: I get to meet new people!

ALBERT: I get to meet new people.

NOEL: At least you're there.

ALBERT: At least you're there. If you're in a movie, you're in the credits. But it's theater, so you're in the programme.

KATIE: Because people usually leave for the credits for the movies, but on the programmes, you buy it and you read it!
What about you Kyle, when you found out that you were going to be Matilda?
KYLE: At first, I was like, "I think I'm not gonna get this role because there are a lot of other kids that are better than me, that had more experience, and then when they announced that I'm part of Matilda, and as Matilda, I'm like, "I'm not worthy!" (Everyone laughs.) And then when I realized that the script and everything else is long and hard I was like, "I'm really not worthy." (Laughs.) And then I did it, and I'm very happy that I achieved it.

RAYNE: The first time I got my first lead in Hansel and Gretel, we didn't actually audition for it. So when they told us we got in, we were really shocked. We only did, like, one theater workshop.

TORY: Actually, we didn't even know that theater was a thing.

RAYNE: Yeah, we didn't really get into it. We just did the one before for fun. We didn't do it because we didn't think we were ready, me and Tory. But after we joined the Repertory summer workshop, our teachers, teacher [Cara Barredo] and teacher [Matthew Barbers]-

KYLE: Yes!

RAYNE: Yes! They asked us if we could audition for Hansel and Gretel. So since the auditions were already done, we already went there but it was rehearsals. We just joined the rehearsals and then at the end, they were like, "Okay, so you're in!" And we were like, "What?! But we didn't even do anything!"

TORY: No, but the scary part was that our mom had us prepare a dance and a song before. And that's what I was nervous about. I was so glad that we didn't have to do it anymore.
How do you guys feel when you find out that you didn't get a role?
KYLE: For me, I'm like, okay I didn't get this role. I'm sad and also I feel like there's something that's gonna come to me. Better.

RAYNE: But then you also feel proud that you did your best.

KATIE: Mine is, it depends on what role I'm auditioning for. If it's a role that I really want, and I don't get in, I do feel sad but I don't cry or have a meltdown. I'm just like, "Okay. It's alright." I'm not super sad but there's a weight, but like what everybody else said, there's always another role out there.

ALBERT: Sometimes you just always ask yourself even though you already understand why they didn't get you, but sometimes you just ask yourself.

KATIE: Yeah, what did I do wrong?

ALBERT: Was I not enough or something?

NOEL: Was I not tall enough?

ALBERT: Yeah, there are these times that you ask yourself that question even though you already know the reason why you didn't get in.

KATIE: Because there could be other reasons that they just don't want to tell you.
How do you memorize lines?
GABRIEL: For me, I just do it along the way. I just do it along the way of rehearsal.

KATIE: Me too. I'm like that also.

ALBERT: I usually do it in blockings because in blockings you basically go through stuff and you go through scenes. So whenever you go through a scene, you have to memorize the blockings and at the same time, the lines just get into you as well.

NOEL: Well for me, when I was in Fun Home with Ms. Lea Salonga, because you know she's a really great actor, and she memorizes her script even before rehearsals. So I was like, "I have to memorize this." But in other plays-
Without Lea Salonga.
(Everyone laughs.)

NOEL: Without pressure, you know I just have to-you have to feel it. You have to be in the role. You have to feel it. You have to memorize it in your heart even without your co-actors.

KATIE: Also in Fun Home, sometimes if I was so tired that night and then I woke up late, I would just-usually in the car ride with Mikkie-I would ask her to help me, and we would help each other. But usually the way I would do it if I had time, I would read all the lines and I would cover the lines, and if I can't remember something, I would just look back and put that in my mind.

RAYNE: To be honest I don't even know how. Like, I get surprised with myself when I actually do remember. But I remember when we still went to school, our bus ride going there was really far, so I think I would just bring it and then just always read it over and over and like what Katie said, I would like think of it in my mind and if I don't remember it then I would just look back on it.

KYLE: In Matilda, they had a script in songs so I listened to it like almost every minute of the day. And I'm like okay, so this thing I will listen and listen and listen to it until I memorize it. And then I'll listen to the other one, and then I'll memorize it. And I don't know why, it just comes naturally.
Is it easier to memorize musicals?
EVERYONE: Yes.

KRYSTAL: Well I don't know, it's so weird. I just look at the script like a few times and then later on I've apparently memorized it? It's so weird!

KATIE: Give me the powers!

GABRIEL: The powers of Krystal!
Even for Annie?
KRYSTAL: Yeah. I don't know, it's so weird! It just sticks to my head.

ALBERT: The funny thing is, when you're done memorizing your lines, you end up memorizing everyone else's lines.

(Everyone laughs.)

NOEL: If they forget it in rehearsals, you say it out loud.

KATIE: Like in Fun Home, we would always recite everyone's lines as they were saying it.

ALBERT: Which is definitely not a bad thing, because if you're in a scene and your co-actor forgets his or her lines-

NOEL: You can adlib. Guide.

KATIE: You can help him and say, "Oh you forgot that line," or "You did that line wrong."

NOEL: But also one thing, you can't tell your co-actors notes because you're not the director.

KATIE: Yeah, you're not the director.

TORY: You can't tell your co-actor, you know if they do something wrong, you can't tell them. You can try to help him-

NOEL: But don't be straightforward.

TORY: Yeah. That's a rule.

NOEL: That's a basic rule. I had this experience in a straight play once. So I had this really long monologue, I think 2 pages, A4 paper, I had to memorize it. So, like what Katie and Rayne did I just covered the script and I memorized it in my head. And then after a really long time I get to memorize it without even thinking.
Is it easier to memorize English or Tagalog?
NOEL: It depends.

TORY: I'm not very good at Filipino, so English.

NOEL: For me, I think it's somewhat easier to memorize Filipino lines because I started in Filipino and I'm in the Philippines right now, and I use the Filipino language.
Like Ang Buhay ni Galileo, that was easy? Because I saw you and your lines were very, very long.
NOEL: Yeah. It's one of my Filipino plays. But I get to use the Filipino language more than English.

ALBERT: Yes.

KYLE: Yes, that's true.

NOEL: But you know, I didn't actually know how to speak in English before. I learned it because of theater. That's one advantage.

KYLE: That's true!
Who else learned English in theater instead of speaking it at home?
ALBERT: I learned English in theater.

GABRIEL: English is my first language.

KYLE: I wasn't that confident in English, but everyday in theater you need to speak in English.
How do you get into character? Share your process.
KATIE: I note all the scenes, I think of how they would feel in those scenes, and I just put them all in my head. And then, for some reason, if the character gets emotional and I think of that scene, sometimes I get emotional. So that's how I get into character. I just think of what's gonna happen.

RAYNE: You try to step into that character and think of their backstory, and the reason why they're like that, and then I think it just kind of comes. Like sometimes, when you're off stage, you know you're you, but once you step on stage you're a completely different person.

KYLE: For me, first I have a very very good mentor, Teenee Chan, and also Steven Conde. They taught me how to speak in a British accent. And then, how to internalize and how to be it actually.

ALBERT: I just basically read the script, and then read the character's lines, and then what Rayne said, you just think of your backstory and put them in there and their emotions in that scene, and how they felt by what happened.

GABRIEL: My first step is to know what the character is. I already knew what Simba was 'cause I watched the movie because everyone watched the movie. You know he's this cocky prince who's gonna be a mighty king. Once you know what the character is, for me, there's this barrier from outside and on stage. When you cross that barrier, you're a different person. You're that person, you're not you, and then you go back to yourself.

NOEL: It depends on the plays because you know there are some musicals and straight plays that are adapted from books or adapted from movies, so you have to watch the movie or read the book. But in other cases, if it's an original play or an original musical, I just read the script, use it like a book and imagine what's happening and internalize the character that you're gonna be.

KATIE: No, but if it's an original one, my director would usually explain what the backstory is and I just remember that, so I know how to be the character.
Is that also your experience Albert? Because you've also worked on an original.
ALBERT: Yes. So like in [Tagu-taguan Nasaan Ang Buwan], [Noel Comia Jr. and I] had the same role. (Everyone laughs.) Our director and assistant director guided us because it was an original play. Actually, the role wasn't that hard because it's like me. It's really close to me.

TORY: In Newsies, we were actually told not to watch the movie, so we could make our own. The director really wants us to make the characters. He wants us to not just be the characters, but to create the characters- create the storyline and their backstory. It was really cool. The director always has a vision. Sometimes, he may tweak things, which is normal. You shouldn't be afraid. Because sometimes when I was younger, every time someone changed something which I did, I'd get scared. I would be like, "Oh, did I do something wrong?"

RAYNE: I also did an original play, The Glitter Trap, and it was really challenging at first since it was the first time that we were doing it and showing it to the world. There weren't any videos or anything I could have watched to see how I could have done it, so I had to be the character. But it was also really easy because like what Noel and Albert said, it was modern and I could really relate the character to me because at that time I was 12 and she was also. We were both also in middle school, and she was having so much problems in middle school, which was like the same thing, something I could really relate to.
How do you do emotional scenes?
NOEL: Define emotional.

KATIE: If I'm crying, I just think of something sad that could happen in my life, like my dog dying. I have, like, a funeral for it or something. When I think of that, I get sad.

RAYNE: Yeah like in Christmas Carol, me and Krystal, we-

KRYSTAL: Had to cry.

RAYNE: Yeah, we had to cry in the beginning because Grace Smythe, her mom died. At first it was hard, but then I did the show twice, so like on the second show it was already really easy to just internalize. But then what I would think of, yeah like Katie said, sad stuff and how I would feel if my mom died. And then after it would just come out.
What about you, Kyle?
KYLE: Same thing, and then I usually ask for help.
Ask for help how?
RAYNE: Pepper spray. (Laughs)

KYLE: What reasons would make me cry, because there's not a lot of problems.
So, what would make you cry?
KYLE: Yeah, my dog dying.

ALBERT: Stop talking about dog deaths! My dog just died.

GABRIEL: For me, it's just when I'm that character and something bad happens, like Simba when Mufasa dies in that scene, it's just... his dad died.

KATIE: You gotta think of that.

GABRIEL: You gotta think of that. His dad was laying there and got stepped on by a bunch of bulls.

ALBERT: Bulls?

KATIE: Everybody cried in that scene!

ALBERT: I think those were antelopes.

GABRIEL: Well, wildebeests.
What about you, Krystal? For Annie? You had to cry in Annie.
KRYSTAL: There's only one scene that I had to like, just one teardrop.

GABRIEL: One single tear.

KRYSTAL: Yeah, and I was thinking about sad stuff. Like dogs dying.

TORY: You really gotta think of sad stuff. I don't really want to get into the things I think about...

RAYNE: But on the last show, you know I always think about everything ending.

NOEL: It depends on your definition of emotional, because emotional could be happily emotional. But when you're speaking of sad-emotional, like crying, if you're really into the role, and you feel it in your heart, you're the character and then things happen, you're gonna just burst out in tears without even knowing.

ALBERT: That's also what I do, except if there's something that actually hasn't happened, like something happened to [the character] that hasn't happened to me yet, what I always do is put myself into the character. Instead of thinking of dog deaths, I pretend I was him. Like in one play I was in, I was Basilio. I look at my mother, who is Sisa. So what happens is, if I was Basilio and I saw something like that, I would burst out. But I mean I never saw that in my mom. That would be just so weird. But I was Basilio, so I cried. My brother just died, and so did my mom. So I just have to be him.

RAYNE: There was one time in rehearsal, I tried to cry but I couldn't so when I stepped on the stage, I cried because I couldn't cry!

KYLE: Wow. Amazing.

NOEL: I cried because I didn't cry.
Some of your shows have mature themes or more grown-up themes. Who usually explains the mature content?
GABRIEL: We already know it.

ALBERT: Our director.

KATIE: Yeah, he'll say that "You guys have to understand, okay?"

NOEL: Yeah, our director's like, "Kids! You're still young! Don't do that a! Don't do that!"

ALBERT: Like, the theme of Fun Home is like the theme of family and of course, LGBT. So I think that made me kind of matured for some reason.

NOEL: Opened our minds.

ALBERT: The message of Fun Home is accepting them.
How about you, Kyle? Matilda is very complex and a lot of things are happening to her. Did anybody explain it to you?
KYLE: Yes, teacher Steven. Like, this happened to Matilda and that's why she's like this. She's trying hard to be independent because her parents are not that kind, which every kid knows that her parent should be kind. And then that's how I understood that. That not every kid has kind parents.

ALBERT: You know sometimes you just feel like everything is so bad but then when you look at the other side, you actually feel so lucky that you have that life 'cause others are suffering right now and then you're crying over PS4.

(Everyone laughs.)

Krystal, how about for Annie? Her story was very sad. What did you understand about it? Because you were 9 right?

KRYSTAL: Yeah, nine. Yeah, her story was very sad. And I was 9, and I didn't experience anything of her story. It was hard getting into her character. Her back story's very harsh. Yeah, it was hard for me.
How was it explained to you?
KRYSTAL: It wasn't really explained to me. I had to do my own research. I had to search about her backstory, what happened to her. So yeah, they didn't really explain it. It was just my own research.

RAYNE: In The Sound of Music, they made everything really clear to us. And you know when you think of The Sound of Music, you think of like classic, kiddie movie but then it's like a lot more deeper than that because it was about Hitler and the Germans.

TORY: And their mom who passed away.

RAYNE: Yeah, it's like that was a really bad time and it became history, and I think it's really important that a lot of people learn about it. After we did The Sound of Music, for home school, we learned about the whole story and stuff. But I won't get into that. That's too much.
No, you can expound.
RAYNE: Like they told us how in the real family, the whole play, they just changed it all.

TORY: They Disney-ized it.

RAYNE: Yeah, because it was too gory. Actually in the play, there's a part where Uncle Max, he was only Georg's friend because of his money and stuff, but in the end he actually saved them. He helped them escape, and because of that he sacrificed his life and they killed him because of that.
Katie, in Fun Home you sang 'Ring of Keys' and the theme of the song is very complex. Did anybody explain to you what it means?
KATIE: Yes actually, yes. I think it was my sister or was it my director. It was my director and my sister. They were telling me what 'Ring of Keys' meant and I was like, "Oh, okay!" I was fine with it. I just knew what it meant, so I was okay with it.
I saw you and I thought you captured the emotion of it.
ALBERT: She's so flattered.

KATIE: Thank you.
How did that translate to you, if you didn't really feel the same?
KATIE: Since I like to become my character, I like to imagine that I'm in the area in the diner and I see this girl walking in and for some reason, I see them in slow-mo 'cause like the song. Yeah I'm fine with it. I had a hard time understanding it at first, but now I fully understand it.
Albert, you were also in Kinky Boots as well as Fun Home, and the themes of these shows are about acceptance and LGBT awareness. So what does it mean for you to be part of a show that has that kind of message?
ALBERT: Amazing.

KATIE: I love telling the story. I like to think that it will change a lot of people's minds.

ALBERT: Yeah, 'cause even though there are lots of people trying to change people's minds, there's still like 60% or 40% of the people who hate, or who don't believe in the LGBT. Accepting them is an important thing because some people go beyond than just not believing. I've heard news of people beating up gay people, and actually that's just really sad. Having a chance to be in a play that could change the minds of people, it's really heart-warming and it's really nice because you're part of a cast that probably changed people's lives.

KATIE: At the end of the day, instead of thinking about my recognition or anything, I like to think that hopefully, it changes as many people as possible.

NOEL: These musical plays are really instruments for people to understand. It's also up to us actors to get the message to the people so they can understand the message of the play.
How do you juggle work and school?
KRYSTAL: When I start grade 6, I think I'm going to do home school since I have showbiz. That's what I'm busy with right now.

TORY: Well right now since we are home-schooled, but the thing is we still have to learn, it's just that we...

NOEL: Manage.

TORY: Yes, we manage, thank you. We place it into certain areas so that it's easier. But when I had school, it was really hard since they really didn't support it at all. They kind of did, like my friends supported it a lot. It was really cool because my friends were really nice about it. They were really helpful. Sometimes they even like if you had a script, they'd read it back to you even though they're not even in this play. But how do I juggle it with school? It kind of just happens.

GABRIEL: Now I'm in home-school. My teachers are just gonna make me focus on Math and Science.

NOEL: When I started theater, that was in 2011. I was already home-schooled, so I didn't have to manage that much of my time because the school allowed me to have theater and my theater was actually, like Gabriel, my grade for Arts.
So how does that happen? Like your teacher watches it and then they grade you from that?
NOEL: No. (Laughs) It's up to them. But last year, I was given an opportunity to have a scholarship in OB Montessori. So, I was in regular school for the year end of 2017, so I was having trouble managing school and theater because it was tech week and I had to miss school. And then when I got to school, I had to catch up with a lot of missed activities, quizzes, but the school is really kind about it. So they let me have special classes just for me to catch up.

TORY: Just for you. (Laughs)

ALBERT: I'm home-schooled so I can basically do my activities and stuff wherever and whenever I want. So I'm basically cool with studies and it's actually not that bad.

TORY: Wait- are other kids gonna see this? We're not trying to encourage you to leave school.

NOEL: We're just saying learn how to manage your time.

KATIE: Stay in school kids!

GABRIEL: Stay in school!

KATIE: Don't be like us!

RAYNE: Don't turn into us!

NOEL: If you don't know how to manage your time like me when I started in regular school while doing theater, it was really hard for me. I was really stressed. I slept really late sometimes and I had to learn last minute before exams so I could get a passing grade. So just learn how to manage your time. It'll be fine.

KYLE: For me, I'm the exact opposite of Gabriel. I don't skip class just because I'm too lazy or too tired to wake up.

GABRIEL: Lazy? Rehearsals are to midnight!

KYLE: Yeah, but I still try my best to attend school because I don't want to miss anything. But late at night, I still try to message my classmates and ask "What did you guys do? Did you guys have a quiz? Can I do it tomorrow morning?" So that I can catch up and not let my grades go down.
You love school, don't you?
KYLE: Yes.

KATIE: Since I am home-schooled, I was the same as Albert. It's literally the same thing.

ALBERT: Home-school buddies.
You've been home-schooled since you started acting?
KATIE: No. Like my entire life.

RAYNE: When we weren't home-schooled, sometimes we would be like half-day then we'd do homework in the car. But our school was laidback. We didn't do quizzes everyday. We were more focused on the arts like drawing. We had choir, and violin, and gardening. It was a weird school.

(Everyone laughs.)

TORY: And woodwork.

NOEL: Woodwork?

ALBERT: Actually, that's fun.

RAYNE: I think the one who was most challenged was my dad because we had to drive back and forth or we would take the bus, and he had to pick us up somewhere nearer to our house. But I prefer being in home-school more because you can make time to do acting. And for our PE we just do dance.
Do your friends watch your shows?
KRYSTAL: During Christmas Carol, I invited my classmates. Kind of all of them, but not really. So I was expecting to see them, but they didn't come. Actually, I was so happy during Annie because the principal, she made an effort to do a field trip to Annie. So the whole school came. That was really nice.

NOEL: Because I was home-schooled from grade 2 to grade 6, most of my shows were, you know, my friends were in theater. So they were technically there already.

GABRIEL: We all watch each other.

KYLE: My teachers and my classmates did not watch Matilda, but my other classmate yesterday watched The Lion King!
Do any of you get recognized?
TORY: I have like maybe twice? Most of the times you get recognized it's right after the show. But I have gotten noticed like twice. They just asked me if I was in Newsies or they saw me in Sound of Music. But they don't really engage. They don't really go to you, but they know you. Sometimes they do ask you if you were in Newsies and they say, "Hey. You did a good job."

GABRIEL: Kyle does.

KYLE: No I don't.

GABRIEL: Yes you do.

KATIE: Three times or 4 times I was here in BGC and this mom and this girl came up and said, "Oh hey can I have a picture?" And I'm like, "Okay..." I didn't know I was this recognized. I thought I was just a normal person.

NOEL: Maybe they mistook you for another person.

(Everyone laughs.)

KATIE: You're horrible, Noel!

NOEL: Because I do TV, people recognize me like in malls and pointing fingers.

TORY: Can I have your autograph?

NOEL: But that's because I'm in TV and movies but in theater, because I already did quite a lot of shows already, most people in auditions for plays, they ask for pictures from me. They say, "Hey, you're really good in that show!"

GABRIEL: Si Noel Comia! Si Noel Comia!

ALBERT: Please! Pwede pa-picture?

KRYSTAL: Sometimes I do. Especially when I go grocery shopping, people recognize me because Noel and I we're on TV and we have this show together.

GABRIEL: Thank God I don't!
How does it feel whenever you guys get recognized?
TORY: In Hansel and Gretel, we'd walk out and we'd keep our make-up on. The funniest part is that they'd point at me, 'cause I had long hair, they'd say "Oh that's Gretel! That's Gretel!"

RAYNE: Our make-up was so weird. It was like so much, so much powder, and like on a circular lid they'd put on lipstick and stuck it on our cheeks so there'll be like red circles. When we would be rushing to go, we would take off make-up in the car, but then people would look at us and be like, "Oh my God!"

ALBERT: In Pinocchio, we were supposed to be wood, so there was literally wood stuff on our faces. Like, there would be these weird brown lines on our faces and then we just have a short quick change where they remove our make-up. But then, it's not completely off. So there are still some lines in some scenes.

NOEL: Eyeliner also.

ALBERT: Yes there's still eyeliner. We look like emo people.

NOEL: But it feels good to be recognized because before, it was really my dream to be recognized by people.

KATIE: Because there are only a few people who recognize me, I'm fine with it. So I'm like, "Okay, at least somebody knows me."

ALBERT: I feel happy actually.
You don't feel disturbed when you're out and about and people come up to you?
NOEL: It's part of the business.

RAYNE: You bump into another theater person, 'cause it's like once you join theater it's like such a small world.

KATIE: You know everyone.

RAYNE: Everyone knows you.

KATIE: And you're just gonna be like, "Oh, hi!"

KYLE: "Oh, I know you!"

GABRIEL: If you watch one show, so many people you know pop up.

ALBERT: When I watched Newsies, like half of the people I know in theater were there.

KATIE: Yes, they were there! Also for me! We watched it together!
How about you, Kyle? It gets busy after the show, right? Everyone wants to grab and get a selfie? Is it okay for you?
KYLE: For me, I feel very flattered 'cause the people might have sat at the back and then they still recognized me. So I'm like "Ah! Thank you!" And then I feel very happy that they recognized me.
There's no one who pinches your cheeks or anything like that?
TORY: I would feel kind of violated if someone did that to me.

ALBERT: They pinch my cheeks! But the thing is, I'm so used to it. I'm like, "Fine. Pinch it. I don't care. Just pinch it. Whatever."

NOEL: People just drag me around and kiss me after a show.

KATIE: I don't even know you, we're not close, so please, please don't.

NOEL: It's okay, basta not on the lips.

(Everyone laughs.)
Other than acting, what do you love to do?
KRYSTAL: I love doing YouTube videos on my YouTube channel.

GABRIEL: I also do instruments. Like guitar, ukelele, piano.

KATIE: I like to learn ukelele songs.

KYLE: Ukelele, yes. I like playing the ukelele and also I love arts and crafts.

GABRIEL: Calligraphy! [Kyle] does calligraphy everyday in the dressing room.

RAYNE: Whenever we're with our tita we always bake, like cakes or brownies. Since there aren't any upcoming shows, Tory and I have just been doing a lot of dance. Like everyday.

TORY: Yeah, recently I auditioned for a scholarship at STEPS mainly 'cause kuya [PJ Rebullida], ever since our Newsies, something hit me really hard. I woke up one morning and I was like, I really want to pursue this, but I'm not sure. He told me that I should go to STEPS, because that's where he started. So then I auditioned for it. They were all really good. I got in as a scholar. I'm doing jazz, contemporary ballet, and hip-hop.

NOEL: Wow. Very Nice.

TORY: It's really fun. It's kind of scary and nerve-wracking but it's a really fun experience to be in, and like all the people, the new people you meet, it's kind of intimidating to be near them because everyone's really good. And the ballet class I'm in, it's advanced ballet so everyone's really good. But it's a really good way of learning. I feel like I really improved ever since.

RAYNE: Yeah, so we're taking a break from theater. Well for now because there really aren't any upcoming shows.

KATIE: Especially with our age. (To Noel) You get to go on TV!

GABRIEL: More kid shows!

ALBERT: 13 the Musical.

KATIE: 13 the Musical!

NOEL: I kind of don't have that much time, but if there's some time, I just like to sleep. Second thing, I like to sleep also because that's one of the important things a person should have, sleep. And I also play with my friends if I have time. And the fourth thing is, I like to sleep.

ALBERT: I draw a lot. And I made this one short skit but I didn't show anyone yet. It's animated. It's literally just 22 seconds, but it was so hard. It took me a whole day to animate a 22 second skit.

NOEL: I also like playing instruments. I play a lot of instruments- the guitar, ukelele, piano, violin.

GABRIEL: I play the recorder.

RAYNE: I used to play the drums. In our school we had to learn the recorder. I learned the violin but I just gave up on it. It was so hard.

KATIE: Drawing, sleep, eating, gaming.

NOEL: Well you know, one of the things I love about theater is the orchestra. I really love listening to music, like orchestrated music.

KATIE: Mostly what I do is, I just go to Mikkie's house and I just stay there. I just like to stay at their house because they have a lot of electronics. PS4, Nintendo Switch, like [Nyoy Volante] always has all these electronics. So okay, I'll just stay there.
How is acting on TV and films different from theater?
KRYSTAL: My first movie was Honor Thy Father, and I had to shave my head for that. Like, I really shaved my head. Some people think it's just like prosthetics and stuff but I really had to shave my head.
How did that feel?
KRYSTAL: It felt good 'cause it was summer. (Everyone laughs.) It felt great. I did that when I was 6 I think? I'm not sure. But I was very young the time. And I had a few other commercials. Right now I have a TV show with Noel.
How is that experience different from theater?
KRYSTAL: For theater, it just goes and goes on. You can't cut. You can't stop. But for film and TV you can stop and fix your mistake. So for me it's very different.

NOEL: Yes. For me it's quite a big difference. I can't remember my first film but I can remember Kiko Boksingero. One of the few things is that because theater is really big and the stage is big, you have to project everything. I had to tone it down a lot quite a few times. When you're a theater actor for a very long time then you switch to TV, you tend to-

GABRIEL: Scream it.

NOEL: Overact, and that's very not good and the director gets mad. 'Cause it's just the screen and it's this small and you have to act in a very small space. And it's also like what Krystal said. There's a second take, there's a third take, you can make mistakes. But in theater you can't. That's different also, but you know I try to practice it that I only have one take. Just like what I do in theater. So I don't give my co-actors a hard time.

ALBERT: It's really different because you have to not over-act everything. Like, there was this one take I had in one movie I had, I did everything in the theater way. Like my eyes were moving around. There was this one square I was thinking of and then I thought that was the audience with the camera. But even if the camera was there I was just rolling my eyes around everywhere and I was moving so big, but then I didn't realize that I was actually in close-up in the camera so that was like so stupid. There are many takes you can make in films and TV series and not that it's a lot better that you can make as much mistakes as you want, 'cause that's not good, but in theater, you only get one chance. If you make a mistake, then that's it. No going back. The show must go on. And if you make a mistake in a film, you don't have to adlib that much. 'Cause in theater when someone makes a mistake you have to act fast, make an adlib, make a new thing to stop the silence.

RAYNE: But after the show, you can use that mistake to be better.

ALBERT: Yeah, exactly.

NOEL: One thing different with film is, in theater you have a few weeks of rehearsals, one month or two months. But in film, some films or some TV shows don't have workshops so you have to really use your experience to be in a film. You don't have that long of a preparation. You have to prepare by yourself and memorize the lines in the short period of time.

ALBERT: Yeah, you basically just go there and you memorize your lines and then you know your character, you know how to act it, go there, go in front of the camera, and then you have a take, and then if it's good, then it's good.
Krystal and Noel, you guys have won acting awards. Do you feel that winning awards is important?
KRYSTAL: Well for me, since I shaved my head for that certain movie...

(Everyone laughs.)

NOEL: I better win an award! I shaved my head!

KRYSTAL: I sacrificed my hair. I loved it so much, but it had to go. I think my hard work paid off when you get an award. So for me, it's very important to get an award. But, if you don't get an award, it's fine.

NOEL: But for me, the Aliw Awards, the Gawad Buhay, and all these awards in theater, they're just recognitions of your hard work and all the things you did. It means that the audience really felt what you were doing, and you were really the character. But for me it's just recognition. You don't have to focus on those awards. The Cinemalaya Award that I got was really, you know, parang 'banta sa buhay'.

KATIE: Pressure!

NOEL: Yeah, like a pressure thing that you have to be good in every single thing that you do. Because if you're not good at that, they will use it as-

KATIE: As like a threat.

NOEL: Yeah, as like a threat to you. "Hey I thought you were a Best Actor? How come you're not acting as good as you claim?"
It's like a double-edged sword.
NOEL: Yeah double-edged sword.
Do you have performers that you look up to?
KRYSTAL: Ms. Lea Salonga.

GABRIEL: I don't really have one.

NOEL: (To Gabriel) Your mom?

KATIE: We usually switch to different role models.

KYLE: Lea Salonga.

GABRIEL: All of you are Lea Salonga?

RAYNE: I think when we did Hansel and Gretel I really looked up to [Bituin Escalante] because she was just a really humble and kind person, and she has an amazing voice.

KATIE: Lea Salonga of course. In Fun Home, she helped me with a lot of things. Like one time, I had to do a show for my alternate because she was really sick. All her friends came to watch her, but she wasn't there. So I was like, I don't feel right doing this. So she was helping me, saying it's fine, it's normal, and a lot of these things happen. She even made me laugh backstage. So she's really a role model for me.

ALBERT: Actually, Lea Salonga but that's what everybody has been saying. Can I just say that I look up to Robert Downey Jr.? The thing is, if you've seen his life story, he's been a drug addict and he recovered from that. Not that I'm a drug addict, but he proves that whatever mistake you made, you can always get back from that. And no matter how bad people judge you, there will still be more people that loved you. I mean, look at what he did in Iron Man and the Charlie Chaplin thing he did. That was just amazing. Though his past was dark, but then he changed himself and made a light in himself. He made his own light because he did that.

NOEL: Because I've been in quite a few many things, there are a lot of actors that I look up to. Like Ms. Lea Salonga in Fun Home, she taught me if you feel tense, if you think that you're not gonna reach that note- 'cause I have a high note- she told me that you have to relax your body because if you're tense, and if you think that you're not gonna reach it, you're really not gonna reach it 'cause you know it's your mind. And I also look up to many actors in Repertory, [Naths Everett], [Cara Barredo], [Ayam Barredo]-

ALBERT: [Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo]

NOEL: A lot of titas and titos and kuya's and ate's. In PETA it's Kuya Pepe Herrera, and a lot of people actually. A lot of people I look up to.

TORY: Well the person that I look up to the most would be Jef Flores. Ever since we watched Tick Tick Boom, and he was the main lead, and he was amazing. Like the way he acted, the way he did the things, you know his choices, and the things he did, it was just amazing. It was kind of scary to me the first time when I met him in Newsies, but he helped me out a lot. Not just in acting, but he became like a best friend to me. He became like an actual brother to me. He's a really cool guy. Like when he teaches stuff, he doesn't do it so seriously, you know, he laughs and makes jokes with you. And the way he shares his tricks and tips and stuff, it's just amazing. He's a good guy. I look up to him.

NOEL: One of the guys who's good in theater.
Do you have dream roles?
KRYSTAL: I don't know, whatever's there for me.

GABRIEL: I wanna play Evan from Dear Evan Hansen. I love the music, I love the character. The music. Mostly the music. It's really nice.

KYLE: Me, I want to be Eliza in Hamilton, and Kim in Miss Saigon, and Elphaba in Wicked.

RAYNE: I don't know, honestly.

KATIE: I don't even have a goal. I just want to do theater. I just want to experience more theater.

ALBERT: Whatever comes to me, but Marius from Les Miserables is a common choice right? But I also want to be that kid, you know, that guy also in Les Miserables? Yeah, Gavroche. Because he's awesome and he's played by Gaten Matarazzo.

NOEL: Well, because I have been training in theater for a very long time, I have a lot of characters in mind. But theater has taught me to accept everything that the director gives me. Anything. So whatever role comes up, just accept it.

TORY: I'm with everyone, you know whatever role comes up, but honestly if I had to choose a really dream role that I want to go for, it would be Billy Elliott.

GABRIEL: Yes!

TORY: And Pippin.
What's the best advice anyone has ever given you?
KRYSTAL: With advice, not really from a popular person, it was just my teacher. She was talking to me about school and my work and she said don't ever forget school. Finish school. And that's one advice that's really great 'cause I'm gonna finish school. I don't want to end it or anything.

KYLE: For me, it's "Don't be afraid to reach your dreams" and "Always be humble."

RAYNE: Never give up and always learn from your mistakes, because you know whenever people make mistakes, you want to feel bad about it but then you should just use it to bring each other up and just do better the next time. Always be yourself, unless you're playing another character. (Laughs.) Yeah just try your best and be true to yourself.

KATIE: This is advice for everyone out there, and it was advice for me also: have fun and stay grounded. Don't let fame get to your head. I was told this multiple times. People used to say that our Fun Home was better than the Broadway Fun Home, but they were saying that don't get that into your head.

ALBERT: Of course, all of the best advice come from my parents, but Ms. Lea Salonga herself had advice for me.

KATIE: All of us. She even said "stay grounded" to me.

ALBERT: But the one that stuck with me the most was, [Andee Achacoso] asked, "What do you think about the people that claim that their kids are the next Lea Salonga?" and she said that the people who idolize someone, when you idolize someone, you don't have to be that person. You don't have to be exactly that person. You don't have to copy their clothes, or kind of acting. Everyone's different. Tita Lea said she made her own path and so should everyone. Everyone should make their own paths. You just have to follow that. You don't have to be all in the same path following someone.

KATIE: They can be your role model.

NOEL: Yeah, inspiration.

ALBERT: Yeah, they can be your role model. But you don't have to be them. Copy, or be the next them. Or be the new generation of them. You just have to use them as inspiration and carve your own vase.

NOEL: Just be yourself. Don't stop dreaming and just follow your road. Follow whatever you want to be. Learn how to manage your time. Always respect other people and their privacy, and their rights. Never forget to thank God for everything and be humble and stay on the ground. I could say a lot more.

TORY: I've taken a lot of advice throughout my whole life. The things that hit me the most are the things that Rayne said. Another thing that someone told me, is that if you're in theater for the money, the fame, then you just shouldn't be here. Because you should be here to tell the story which I really agree with. But I'd say like 15% of me is still there for the fame. (Laughs.) But I don't mean it in a narcissistic way but I kind of want to go somewhere. I don't just want to stop there. Try to tell the story, be in the moment, and to really just do what you feel is right. If you believe in something then you should really go for it.
This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.
With Additional Reporting by: Elfrida Tan
Venue: BGC Arts Center
Special Thanks to: Erickson dela Cruz, John Mark Yap, and Yvonne Russell

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Star Kids: A Roundtable with Theater's Child Actors

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Kids have been dominating the local stage as of late. From last year's The Sound of Music and Matilda, to this year's The Lion King, you're bound to see a young star holding their own just as well as the adults.

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How To Get Invited To Fashion Week, No Matter Who You Are

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How To Get Invited To Fashion Week, No Matter Who You Are

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Scroll To See More Images

It's Fashion Month and you know what that means! If you live even remotely close to New York, London, Paris or Milan, you're probably asking yourself this exact question: How the heck do I get invited to Fashion Week? Luckily, there are more right answers here than you might expect, so allow me to break them all down below.

As a fashion editor, most of the time my inbox starts filling up with invitations to shows, presentations, events and parties a few weeks out. But not everyone can expect the invites to roll in organically! Sometimes, you need to reach out or take matters into your own hands-but be forewarned, some of the ways into the world of Fashion Week call for some seriously hard work!

If you're a celeb, influencer or editor, congrats! You've probably already got a stacked calendar. If you're just a regular guy or gal with incredible style and a hunger to know what Fashion Week is really like, I promise you don't have to deal with FOMO for long. Below, read on for everything you need to know about how to get invited to Fashion Week and get in on the action for yourself.

1. Be a Fashion Editor

Fashion editors, writers and freelancers usually don't ask for invitations. The designers and brands they feature on the reg reach out to them and extend invites in advance, so they can plan coverage accordingly.

2. Be a Celebrity

Obviously, being a celebrity is a guaranteed way to sit front row at all the biggest shows if you aren't invited to get up and model in them. If you're famous-uh, why are you reading this? You're probably late to your next show!

3. Be an Influencer

Influencing certainly has its perks: Brand deals, product giftings and of course, Fashion Week invitations. Whether you're an OG blogger like Aimee Song or a rising TikTok star, social media can help you lock in the calendar of your dreams.

4. Work in PR or Volunteer

Fashion PR guys and gals work hard during Fashion Week, but they do usually get to stay for the shows they plan, which is a pretty sweet reward. If you're a little younger, reach out to PR firms, designers, brands and venues to see if you can volunteer to help out at the shows and worm your way in to watch.

5. Be a Model

Obvi, Fashion Week would be nothing without models. Keep an eye out for all the appropriate castings and do your research to ensure you can tailor your look to match each designer's desired aesthetic. Once you book a show or two, you'll be surprised how quickly your calendar fills up between fittings, glam, the shows themselves and of course, the afterparties.

6. Be a Hair Stylist or MUA

Another way in that requires some seriously hard work! Glam squads are in charge of getting models ready to hit the runway and it's no easy feat. Expect to work long hours on your feet, but if you're in it for a love of fashion and not a desire to get your street style photo snapped, it'll be worth it.

7. Be a Stylist or Buyer

Like editors and writers, stylists and buyers are at Fashion Week for work, not play. They attend the shows and presentations, but they often prefer ree-sees, or one-on-one private appointments throughout the week during which they can see the clothes up-close and talk business with the brands.

8. Be a Photographer

If you're a photographer with good credentials, congrats-you can plant yourself at the end of almost any runway and start snapping. If you're more into shooting real people on the go, park yourself outside of the hottest Fashion Week venues and start snapping street style.

9. Research Open Events

Believe it or not, most Fashion Weeks worldwide have at least a handful of events that are open to the public. Do the research based on where you are and show up in style! Or, dress to the nines and strut your stuff outside the invite-only stuff. No one needs to know you got your street style photo taken and then went home!

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How To Get Invited To Fashion Week, No Matter Who You Are

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Scroll To See More Images It's Fashion Month and you know what that means! If you live even remotely close to New York, London, Paris or Milan, you're probably asking yourself this exact question: How the heck do I get invited to Fashion Week ?

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24 heures à la Fashion Week de Paris avec le top model Rebecca Longendyke | Vogue Paris

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𝑹𝒉𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒎𝒊𝒄 𝒈𝒚𝒎𝒏𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒔

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𝑹𝒉𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒎𝒊𝒄 𝒈𝒚𝒎𝒏𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒔

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What is the history of rhythmic gymnastics? And what can we find?

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What is the history of rhythmic gymnastics? And what can we find?

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https://www.prahranrg.com.au/about-rhythmic-gymnastics.html

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This is what our club is all about, the most beautiful Olympic sport. Rhythmic Gymnastics, the history of it and the background, apparatus we use: hoop, ball, clubs, ribbon, rope, Free hand (FX)

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All about Rhythmic Gymnastics - We are Gymnastics!

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Kiwi fruit is not often considered a "superfood", but in fact, it's a fruit that is full of important vitamins and minerals and can have a very positive effect on your health. These brown fuzzy fruits have a sweet and slightly tangy taste with green flesh on the inside that lends a unique flavor and tropical zing.

Kiwi boasts a whole range of nutrients such as fiber, vitamin C, folate, copper, potassium, antioxidants, vitamin E, and vitamin K. The skin and seeds are edible, though many people choose to peel it off because of its fuzzy texture.

Kiwis are a tough-growing fruit and are readily available throughout the year in supermarkets. They are grown in California from November to May and in New Zealand from June to October.

The fruit also comes in 50 different varieties with flesh ranging from custard-like gold to bright pink, each with a varying flavor profile and use.

Table of Contents:

Nutritional Value Of Kiwi Fruit

You may have heard that kiwi fruit is high in vitamin C, but besides that it has an incredible nutritional profile. This low calorie fruit (61 calories per 100g) can provide your RDA with many vital nutrients.
Here is the nutritional profile of 100g of raw kiwi fruit:
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid is responsible for the growth and repair of body tissues as well as immune system support. In addition to vitamin C, kiwis contain a good amount of vitamin K.

Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin that regulates blood clotting, metabolism and blood calcium levels. Considering it's a fruit, kiwi contains an impressive amount of vitamin K at 40mcg per 1 cup.

Copper is a nutrient that works with iron to form red blood cells, supports healthy bones, nerves and immune function and helps iron absorption.

Copper is a prevalent nutrient in kiwis and provides 14% of your recommended daily intake. Kiwis also contain reasonable amounts of folate, potassium and dietary fiber.

9 Proven Health Benefits of Kiwi Fruit

Let's get into why you should eat kiwi fruit and how it can impact your health:

1. Kiwi Fruit Prevents Blood Clotting

Kiwis were found to prevent blood clotting and manage blood pressure by reducing the amount of fat in the blood. It was found that this happened without negatively affecting blood cholesterol levels.

Aspirin is usually the recommended drug to prevent those from cardiovascular events. However, Aspirin can cause inflammation and ulcers in the GI tract.

Studies show that consuming 2 to 3 kiwi fruits a day can replace a daily aspirin to help thin the blood and improve heart health over a period of time.

2. Kiwi Fruit Can Help Asthma

Asthma can be debilitating. Wheezing and breathlessness are some of the most common symptoms relating to this condition.

The presence of high amounts of vitamin C and antioxidants in kiwis can help control symptoms of asthma.

A study demonstrated that lung function was improved in those who consumed kiwi regularly.

3. Kiwi Fruit Improves Digestion

Kiwi contains a good amount of dietary fibre making it useful for improving digestion. Apart from the fibre content, kiwi also contains an enzyme, actinic in which can effectively break down proteins in the gut.

After eating a large meal, it's advised to eat a kiwi because it can help break down tough proteins from meat and fish that often can cause bloating.

Kiwis also have a mild laxative effect that can help a slow digestive system.

4. Kiwi Fruit Helps Regulate Blood Pressure

Kiwis can help reduce high blood pressure and prevent diseases such as heart attack and stroke.

A study showed that those who ate 3 kiwis a day for 8 weeks had a reduction in their diastolic and systolic blood pressure.

Kiwis contain an antioxidant, lutein that may be the cause of its blood pressure regulating ability. Vitamin C in kiwis can also contribute to a reduction in blood pressure.

5. Kiwi Fruit Supports Immune Function

Vitamin C is important for cellular function and protects cells from free radical damage in the body. It's responsible for the growth and repair of tissues and provides support for the immune system.

The high concentration of vitamin C in kiwis can do wonders for the immune system.

At 103% of your recommended value of vitamin C per 1 cup, eating kiwis can effectively ward off infection, common cold, and flu when eaten regularly.

6. Kiwi Fruit Reduces DNA Damage

Oxidative stress is the imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in your body. This process can also cause strand breakage of DNA. This can lead to health problems, some of which can be hard to detect or treat.

Kiwi fruit contains antioxidants that can reduce oxidative stress. A study that tested people's cells by damaging them with peroxide, showed that those who supplemented with kiwi showed an improved ability of the DNA to repair itself after applying the peroxide. This means that kiwi might help prevent long-term cancers and lifestyle diseases such as colon cancer, which is closely linked to DNA damage.

7. Kiwi Fruit Prevents Vision Loss

Kiwis can prevent macular degeneration and ultimately, vision loss. Kiwi contains zeaxanthin and lutein (or the "eye vitamin).

These two compounds perform the same function as antioxidants and help to form vitamin A, an essential nutrient for your eyes. They also absorb excess light that may damage our retinas and protect the eye from cataracts and other eye-related diseases.

A healthy nervous system can have positive effects on your retina, which contains the highest concentration of nerves and is essentially the center of communication of the eye.

Kiwis also contain a good amount of copper, which is an essential nutrient that supports the nervous system and therefore supports the healthy functioning of the eyes.

8. Kiwi Fruit Fights Inflammation

Bromelain is an enzyme found in kiwis, pineapple, and green papaya which can break down proteins and heal inflammation. Upon consuming the kiwi, bromelain is released into the bloodstream where it breaks down inflammatory complexes.

Kiwi has also shown to lower the inflammation relating to arthritis and prevent it from leading to other diseases such as heart disease and stroke.

High amounts of vitamin C can also curb inflammation by fighting against free radicals that can cause an inflammatory response in the body. Since Kiwis have a high concentration of vitamin C, it can promote the healing of inflammation when consumed regularly.

9. Kiwi Fruit Improves Skin Health

Collagen is an essential nutrient that supports the structure of the skin and strengthens bones.

Vitamin C in kiwi is a key component in the synthesization of collagen in the body. Eating kiwi can help support the structure of your skin and keep it hydrated and healthy.

Acne is an inflammation of the skin and can cause embarrassing pimples on the face and body. The anti-inflammatory properties and vitamin C in kiwis can be beneficial for those dealing with acne and can greatly reduce sebum production in pores.

Just apply kiwi extract mixed with aloe vera to your skin and leave overnight for best results.

Benefits of Kiwi Fruit for Weight Loss

Kiwis are among some of the best fruits to eat if you are looking to lose weight.

They have a high water content, are low in calories, and have a good amount of fiber. This makes them perfect for a snack or as part of a breakfast smoothie.

The high amount of vitamin C in kiwis is the key to weight reduction. Vitamin C helps control blood pressure, manages cholesterol levels, supports gut health, and supports immune function.

It also plays an important role in metabolizing fats. These are all important factors when embarking on a weight loss journey.

Kiwis have a low GI, meaning the sugar contained in the fruit is released more slowly. Because of this, kiwis can also help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing uneven blood sugar spikes. Foods high in dietary fiber promote weight loss by increasing the feeling of being full and supporting the digestive tract.

Kiwis contain both insoluble fiber and soluble fiber. The insoluble fiber (contained in the seeds) provides bulk and encourages the movement of stool through the digestive system. Soluble fiber is a gel-like substance that traps bile acid and as well as reduces blood cholesterol levels. Both of these types of fiber help digestive system health and prevent overeating when on a diet.

Kiwis contain actinidin, an antioxidant that breaks down proteins in the body. This antioxidant is a great ally when dieting because it can help a sluggish digestive system. It helps digest proteins and can help those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome.

Conclusion

Kiwis are not only delicious to eat in fruit salads, smoothies, and as a snack, but they are also packed with vitamins, minerals, enzymes, antioxidants, and fiber. All of these nutrients are essential for our health and the optimal functioning of our bodies. Kiwis contain an extremely high amount of vitamin C when compared to an orange. Because of this, kiwis are effective for immune support, blood pressure regulation and they can even help diseases such as asthma and macular degeneration.

Kiwi also contains bromelain, a special enzyme that can fight inflammation and improve digestion in the body. Kiwi is low in calories, high in fiber, and contains protein digestive enzymes, and vitamin C, which means it can effectively promote weight loss.

Eating 1 or 2 kiwis is a great idea if you want to improve your cardiovascular and digestive health. Incorporate kiwis into your diet through a daily smoothie or small snack and watch how it affects you in a positive way.

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Kiwi Fruit - Benefits, Nutritional Value & Kiwi for Weight Loss

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Kiwi fruit is not often considered a "superfood", but in fact, it's a fruit that is full of important vitamins and minerals and can have a very positive effect on your health. These brown fuzzy fruits have a sweet and slightly tangy taste with green flesh on the inside that lends a unique flavor and tropical zing.

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WeGrow AG 2021 Paulownia Kiri Tree Paulonia sustainable timber production

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Birds in Spain are diverse and abundant, due to a combination of factors: its geographical location, great variation in the local geography and topography, and a wide range of microclimates present in many regions. The proximity of many habitats, especially on migration corridors leads to a rich mix…

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Fun facts about art: 7 curiosities about the Mona Lisa 

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Fun facts about art: 7 curiosities about the Mona Lisa 

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14 Things You Didn't Know About the Mona Lisa

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When you walk into the exhibition space at SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film right now, you're met with a breathtaking homage to the history of fashion. Mannequins are dressed in everything from the court gowns of Queen Elizabeth I to the crinoline tutus of the Ballets Russes, and the overall impression is one of almost otherworldly beauty.

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Learn more about the Olympic form of the game, Rugby Sevens.

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Millions of drivers entitled to claim €2,000 upwards in compensation after being overcharged at car dealerships across Spain - Olive Press News Spain

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A NEW compensation scheme could see millions of drivers claim back between €2,000 and €9,000 after illegal price-fixing was detected at hundreds of car

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Fiji Rugby GIF - Fiji Rugby Sevens - Descubre & Comparte GIFs

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El GIF animado de Fiji Rugby Sevens perfecto para tus conversaciones. Descubre y Comparte los mejores GIFs, en Tenor.

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If you bought a car between 2006 and 2013 claim back a compensation on your purchases

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Top 10 Men's Rugby 7s Tries at the Olympics | Top Moments

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Many car dealership are involved in a market "Cartel"

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Many car dealership are involved in a market "Cartel"

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Companies like Citroen, Bmw, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Volkswagen and others, overcharged to 10 million buyers between 2006 and 2013, who reportedly paid between 2,000€ and 9,000€ more than they should have done

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Valencia is the World Design Capital 2022 - Interni Magazine

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Interni Magazine - More than 100 events, 150 international guests, 65 educational projects: Valencia World Design Capital 2022 told by those who designed it

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Look for your name and post: - Name of your topic. - An article. - A photo/gif/meme. - A youtube video. GOOD JOB!

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Family and people are at the heart of the culture of Japan, which is famous for its many rites and traditions.

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Japan Culture Shock: My Top 5 Shocks Living in Japan

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Hand made jewelry

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Handmade jewelry can offer variety where factory pieces fall flat, especially when the typical offerings in brick and mortar, big box stores may not be the exact piece desired. From the earliest handmade jewelry of ancient times to today's artistic creations, the unique, one-of-a-kind pieces offered by jewelry artists can be a conversation piece that highlights any wardrobe.

Materials

Handmade jewelry makers use a wide variety of materials and techniques to create their pieces. The materials are only limited by the artist's imagination and creativity. If you purchase a machine-made piece of costume jewelry, you risk someone else wearing the exact same necklace, ring, earrings, or bracelet. If you purchase a piece of handmade jewelry, you are assured that there is no other jewelry like it. Many jewelry artists will create pieces on commission as well, allowing you to design your own look or choose the colors that will match an outfit to perfection.

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Although it requires more training, working with metals can help the jewelry maker create elegant pieces and add gemstones for any occasion. Metalsmiths use processes such as forging, soldering, raising, and chasing to manipulate gold, silver, and other precious metal. The metal can also be colored and engraved for finer detail and originality. Special equipment, such as a soldering iron or engraver, is necessary and materials are not always readily available at the local craft supply.

Other jewelry makers use beads and wire to create pieces. Those who are experts in the field of jewelry making often utilize many different mediums and products to come up with their creations. Items used can include anything from plastic to glass. Many artists now use recycled or unused common household items as a way to benefit the environment by reducing waste. Also popular are handmade clay beads and glass beads. Many kits are available to help the beginner get started in producing their own beads and materials.

Quality of Handmade Jewelry

Because of the availability of jewelry making products through craft stores such as Hobby Lobby and online outlets such as Jewelry Supply, many people are able to make jewelry. Some are true craftsmen and take pride in the quality of their work. However, a few produce fast, shoddy creations trying to turn a quick buck. It is important to know what to look for when purchasing a handmade jewelry piece in order to avoid the few unscrupulous sellers. Here are a few things to look for in quality handmade jewelry:

The clasp is firmly attached to the rest of the piece of jewelry

For thick beads, the wire is thick enough to hold the beads together permanently

If there is metalwork on the item, the solders are solid

The level of experience of the jewelry maker, where they studied, and how long they've been making jewelry

Places to Buy Handmade Jewelry

Designers often sell their pieces at local craft fairs, resell stores, mall kiosks and specialty boutiques. You can also find designers online at:

Resources for Jewelry Makers

Perhaps you'd like to make your own jewelry or create the perfect piece that you've been unable to find elsewhere. There are many books available to help get you started, such as:

You can also find articles about basic jewelry making on topics such as:

Handmade jewelry can enhance any woman's wardrobe and provide conversation starters at parties and get togethers.

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Introduction to Handmade Jewelry & Useful Websites | LoveToKnow

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Handmade jewelry can offer variety where factory pieces fall flat, especially when the typical offerings in brick and mortar, big box stores may not be the exact piece desired. From the earliest handmade jewelry of ancient times to today's artistic creations, the unique, one-of-a-kind pieces offered by jewelry artists can be a conversation piece that highlights any wardrobe.

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Taking up most of the Iberic Peninsula, Spain has a beautiful blend of rocky peaks, pine tree forests, rolling green olive fields, dry desert land, rugged cliffs, and white fine sanded beaches. It's a true haven for any outdoor enthusiast with gorgeous day hikes up tall peaks with breathtaking views or along vivid rivers winding through canyons to multi-day pilgrimage treks.

I have spent a lot of time hiking in Spain, mostly in the south where I've been living for several years. To expand this list of hikes in Spain I have partnered up with other outdoor enthusiasts so that you can enjoy the best of what this country has to offer. Let's bring on the itchy feet!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
How to get to Spain

Before we look at some of the best hikes in Spain, let's look at how to get to Spain in the first place. As a center of tourism in Europe, Spain was the most equipped country to receive tourists in 2019 according to CNBC, so getting there should be fairly easy from most places in the world.

By plane

There are more than 35 international airports spread around the country (including the islands), so it's easy to pick an airport close to your hiking destination. Flights are frequent to most airports too.

By train

The rail connections with the rest of Europe are pretty good for the big cities. However, they might not take you everywhere you want to go hiking in Spain. Nevertheless, Spain is included in the Eurail Global Pass if you are traveling around Europe by train.

Trains in Spain are in good condition and usually run on time. There is also the AVE High-Speed train that runs between the major cities of Madrid and Barcelona connecting with Valencia, Cordoba, Seville, and Malaga.

By bus

Spain is also well connected to the rest of Europe, and even to Morocco in Africa, by bus. Once you get to the major cities there are usually bus connections to different hiking routes around the area, though not always as frequent as one should wish, so it's worth checking up the bus hours in advance.

By car

Also by car, it's easy to access Spain from the rest of Europe and from Morocco in Africa. There are frequent ferries from Tangier in Morocco to Algeciras or Tarifa in Spain that only take 30 minutes to an hour. Another option is to cross the border to Ceuta (Spanish territory on the African continent) and take the ferry from there.

Otherwise, Spain borders Portugal and France in Europe and roads are in good condition. It's not normal to be stopped at border crossings as all these countries are in the European Union so the driving goes pretty smooth.

Traveling by car also assures you the easiest access to any of the below Spain hiking trails.

When is the best time to hike in Spain?

Depending on the hiking trail you're planning to take, different seasons are more adequate to hike in Spain. I'll give you a short insight so you can pick the best time for your hiking adventure.

In the hot summer months from mid-June to mid-September, going for any low-altitude hikes that don't include hiking in a river, is complete madness. The temperatures are too high to enjoy the hike and you would need buckets of water to drink and pore over your head.

However, if you are hiking up high altitude peaks like Mulhacen, then summer is ideal as the trails will be covered in snow in the winter, thus dangerous to ascend. Also river hikes are great in summer, often they bring natural shade by a gorge or surrounding trees while the river cools you down.

Any other hikes are recommended in the autumn and spring. Depending on how far south in Spain you are, even the winter months are perfect for hiking. Maybe even the best months if you ask me, as temperatures are mild and pleasant. However, if you are north in the country it can be colder, but still beautiful.
READ: Best sustainable backpacks for the eco-friendly traveler
Do you need travel insurance when hiking in Spain?

Like any other travel destination, it's essential to have travel insurance in Spain in case something happens. One thing is if your stuff gets stolen, but imagine you're hiking in Spain and have an accident in the mountains! You surely don't want to risk it.

Luckily there are good and reasonably priced travel insurance companies out there looking after us adventure travelers.

My pick is World Nomads. They are super easy to relate to from getting a quote, buying, and in the worst-case scenario make a claim.
Get travel insurance here.
Further, World Nomads is a travel insurance company that promotes responsible travel and that is completely in line with my ethos! You can read my complete review .

Top hikes in Spain

Mulhacen

No list of hikes in Spain is complete without Mulhacen hike in Sierra Nevada, the highest peak in mainland Spain with its 3479 meters! Mulhacen can be done in two days by hiking from Hoya del Portillo to Poqueira Refuge where you will spend the night before climbing to the top of Mulhacen on day 2.

However, it's also an easy day hike if you take the shuttle bus from Capileira to Mirador de Trevelez. The shuttle bus will pick you up 6 hours after drop off which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the walk up and take as many photos as you like, including a lunch break.

The hike is not hard in itself, but the altitude makes it though.

However, if you make this a two-day hike, it gets harder. You can hike either from Capileira or Trevelez and sleep at any of the guarded or unguarded refuges on the way.

El Caminito del Rey

The most famous hike in Spain, El Caminito del Rey! It used to be the most dangerous footpath in the world, hanging on the vertical cliff of the Gaitanes Gorge in Ardales, Malaga. That was before the trail was restored and opened to the public again in 2015.

The old path, which is completely gone several places, still sits beneath the new, secure footpath to remind visitors about the original structure. A memorial is made to those who died in the attempt of hiking there before the trail was rebuilt.

The 8-kilometers hike is linear and flat. It goes through a forested area, continues along the river and ends with the breathtaking (literally!) boardwalk along the cliffside, more than 100 meters from the ground. The hike will normally take you around 4 hours to complete.

You need a ticket, which now costs 10 Euros including the rental of a mandatory helmet. If you want a guide, the price is 18 Euros.

You can buy a combined ticket and bus ticket to get back to the start of the trail if you have your car parked there, it will then be 1,55 Euros more. As tickets get quickly sold out, especially on the weekends, make sure you get your tickets in advance from their official website.

El Saltillo

El Saltillo trail is El Caminito del Rey's little brother. Staring from the white village Canillas de Aceituno in the Malaga province, this spectacular, yet quite unknown hike takes you along the surrounding steep hills with outstanding views of green valleys spotted with olive groves. This is perfect if you want to explore hidden gems in Spain.

Also this hike ends with a short boardwalk along the vertical cliffside before crossing Spain's third-longest hanging bridge. Only, El Saltillo is free to walk, you don't need a helmet, and not too many tourists have found their way here yet - though the hike was promoted strongly within Spain when they reopened with the hanging bridge in October 2020.

This is a 3-4-hour hike to the hanging bridge and back and 5-6 hours if you do the whole hike to the viewpoint where you get astounding views of La Maroma - Malaga's highest summit.

The hike is narrow along the steep edge most of the way, but near the hanging bridge it's a steep descent and after it a steep ascent. If you suffer from vertigo, El Saltillo trail might be hard.

Simancón and El Reloj

In the mountain range of Sierra de Grazalema in the province of Granada, you find some astounding hiking routes. One of these is the loop trail passing the two peaks Simancón (1569m) and El Reloj (1535m). The hike starts by the campgrounds of Grazalema and continues up a pine forest before it opens up and you get the breathtaking views of the village of Grazalema and the mountains behind you.

The trail is badly marked, so even though the hike should take around 7 hours, be prepared for it to take longer in case you lose the trail. In the case that you lose track of the trail on the top of El Reloj, it's safer to turn around the same way you came from. This hike is steep in some parts and you will need a basic level of fitness to enjoy the day.

Unlike many other hikes in Sierra de Grazalema, this hike does not require a permit.

Siete Lagunas

Siete Lagunas is one of the most beautiful hikes in Spain's Sierra Nevada. But it's also a hard one, so make sure you have a decent level of fitness before you head out on this adventure.

The hike from Trevelez to Siete Lagunas is only 8.7 km one way, but it's a brutal ascent of 1500 meters! It passes farmland, a pine forest, green meadows, rivers, and finally the astounding Chorrera Negra Waterfall. The views along this hike are breathtaking.

After the grueling final ascent along the waterfall, you're finally at Siete Lagunas - which means the Seven Lagoons. The green meadows dotted with lagoons that meet you are perfect for a break before heading back down. Or if you're adventurous, continue up to Mulhacen or Alcazaba peak.

El Chullo

Almeria is not very famous for hiking, but truth is, a big chunk of Sierra Nevada's National Park belongs to Almeria. And the province's highest summit is in the national park.

El Chullo (2613 masl) is an easy-to-access mountain and you can do the return hike in only 4 hours. Including breaks. This is a hike you can do all year round, though there is usually snow in winter, there are no steep or dangerous parts along the way so it's still accessible.

The hike starts at Puerto de La Ragua, which is also a cross-country ski resort in the Sierra Nevada in winter. The rest of the year this is even a hike you can do with kids and there's a big chance of seeing wildlife like mountain goats.

Via Verde

Not many people know that Seville boasts a lush mountainous area just an hour north of the city. One of the best hikes you can do there is the Via Verde. It's actually a perfect bike path that goes 20 kilometers from Isla Margarita to Cerro del Hierro.

The hike itself is not the most exciting with a lot of straight stretches, but the stops along the way are so worthwhile! About 15 kilometers go along the old railway.

Especially worth mentioning is Cascadas del Huesna (turn left into the forest right after the tunnel) with multiple astounding waterfalls and waterholes. Unfortunately, it's not allowed to go swimming in the rivers in Sierra Norte de Sevilla.

Next, stop at San Nicolas del Puerto. A super cute village with an artificial beach. This is the perfect stop for buying cold drinks.

At the end of the trail, you'll reach the Cerro del Hierro mining area. It's a really cool natural monument that includes a little loop walk you can do in about half an hour.

If you don't want to do the whole 20 kilometers, you can do the 10 kilometers between Camping Batán de Las Monjas and Cerro del Hierro and you'll see all the above attractions.

This is a good one-day hike that most people divide in two or three days due to the stops along the way.

Pico Lucero

Pico Lucero (1779 masl), towering above Nerja with its astounding 360 views is a true bucket list hike! Starting from Puerto Blancillo above the village of Cómpeta is a medium to difficult-rated hike. Simply because you need to have a basic level of fitness to enjoy the route.

It has several steep sections, especially the last ascent up the actual peak. But it's totally worth it. Not only is the natural scenery along the trail amazing all the way, but the mountain and the views are some of the best you get along Malaga's coastline.

You can expect to hike for at least 5 hours, up and down, but most likely longer. Passing the mine, turn the first track to the right and continue until you see the signs to Pico Lucero on the right side by a little wooden bridge.

The iconic peak is recognized by the ruined refuge on the top.

Rio Chillar

No list of hikes in Spain is complete without at least one river trek. Rio Chillar is the most popular river hike in Costa del Sol and an easy day trip from Malaga as it starts from Nerja. The 8-kilometer long trail goes along the Chillar river through beautiful, narrow gorges. This is perfect to do in summer, though there are fewer tourists once it gets to September. In the winter months it's too cold to wade in the water for the 6-7 hours it takes to complete the trail there and back.
Note! Rio Chillar is currently closed due to the pandemic (updated summer 2021)
The trail has frequent water holes to swim in and there is shadow from the gorge and surrounding trees along most of the way. Anyhow, I suggest you bring a hat. You will need to bring comfortable shoes that can get wet and don't forget your swimwear! The river ends with a small waterfall, where you can choose to turn around or you can continue in a loop. Though you will not walk in the water if you opt for the loop, you will get rewarded with mesmerizing views as you walk above the gorge.

Rio Verde (Granada)

Another river hike that's absolutely worthy of reaching the list of the best hikes in Spain is the Rio Verde in Otívar, Granda. Make sure you drive from Almuñecar on the Granada coast and pass the village of Otívar.

A few kilometers after, on a windy mountain road, you'll see a yellow ticket booth on the left. That's where you enter and have to pay entrance (5 Euros per person + vehicle.) Due to the hike being on private property, you can't enter for free.

And remember not to mix this up with Rio Verde in Malaga.

The hike itself is partly in water but mostly on trail. However, bring your swimwear for this hike as you'll die to get into the natural waterholes along the river. Being so lush and green with multiple waterfalls along the way, Rio Verde is a dream to walk in the hot summer months.

This is not a hard hike and makes the perfect family day out.

El Pinzapo

In the heart of Sierra de Grazalema, you find El Pinzapo trail showcasing the rare Pinzapo fir trees that can only be found in such a density in this area.

Starting by the white village of Grazalema, the hike takes you up to 1310 meters of altitude, through dense pine forest. The views from the top are mesmerizing with the towering mountains behind Grazalema village on one side and the never-ending landscape spotted with pine trees and Pinzapo fir trees on the other side. Continuing down through the thick fir forest, the hike ends in Benamahoma.

Hiking there and back takes approximately 4-5 hours and it is necessary with a permit to enter the protected nature park. You can get a permit both at the Grazalema and El Bosque Information centers. The permits are free of charge, but it fills quickly up at the weekends and other public holidays as it is a popular area for hiking.

La Concha

La Concha hike starts at Refugio de Juanar above Marbella in Costa del Sol. The start of the trail is pretty flat along a dirt road before it takes you through the olive groves to your right. Once you enter the dense pine forest the trail gets steeper for the next half an hour before it opens up to mesmerizing views of the Mediterranean on the other side of the hill.

Turn right (not left, that will take you up to Cruz de Juanar) and continue along the top of the hill with sea views all the way. A small detour around a smaller peak takes you along the steep cliffside before winding up to safety again. Once you see the ridge you need to get past a few meters where the path is nearly non-existent and the only safety you have is a metal wire hooked onto the rock wall. If you are scared of heights, don't look down. Once this part is passed, walking the ridge is easy, but rocky.

The tip of La Concha has breathtaking views of Marbella. The hike takes about 6-7 hours including photo, lunch and snack breaks.
By Joanna of The World In My Pocket
El Torcal de Antequera

Hiking in El Torcal de Antequera National Park is an activity suitable for the entire family. There are four trails that tourists can follow in the National Park, the most popular being the green and the yellow ones.

The green trail is an easy 45 minutes' walk along a rocky path, between the karst formations of the national park. Even if the terrain is quite uneven, the path is mostly flat so people all ages can do it and still experience the beauty of El Torcal.

For people who have more time to spend in the National Park of El Torcal de Antequera, the yellow route is a great way to explore the rock formations more in-depth. The trail takes around 2 hours to complete and it is still quite flattish, however, due to the unpredictable weather from El Torcal, it can be quite muddy and very slippery, which makes it more difficult than the Green trail.

No matter which trail you choose to follow, hiking in El Torcal National Park is a fantastic experience due to the uniqueness of the landscape. Millions of years ago this entire area was the bottom of the sea. Today, El Torcal sits at over 1,200 meters high and has its own climate, which facilitated the erosion of the rocks in the shapes we see today. The visitor's center from El Torcal runs special paid tours on the red trail, which is not marked and not accessible without a guide, in which they point out the geology of the area and the fossils discovered in the caves and on the rocks around.

The perfect time to go hiking in Spain is either spring or autumn when the weather is mild and El Torcal de Antequera is no exception. Winter is also a great time to go but check the weather forecast as it is the time of year you can get fog and rain. In summer the temperatures can easily reach 40 degrees and there is no water to cool down in on this hike.
By Paulina of Paulina On The Road
Masca, Tenerife

Tenerife is much more than a coveted holiday destination for beach and sun lovers. If you enjoy spectacular hikes, then, Tenerife should be on your travel bucket list.

Probably one of the best and most emblematic hikes in Spain is the Masca trail. It takes you from the village of Masca through the spectacular canyon of Los Gigantes down to Masca beach.

Masca village had no paved road access until the 70s, that's how it could preserve its authentic charm. I recommend having a cactus fruit in the village before starting your hike.

The hike takes about 3 hours in order to get to Masca beach. Please note that you need to take a boat to get from Masca beach to Los Gigantes harbor. Unless you are super motivated and want to hike up the entire canyon.

Difficulty level if you hike down is easy-intermediate and the best time to go is in spring when the trail is less crowded. It's an experience for the entire family and one of the best things to do in Tenerife with kids.
Please always inform yourself at the tourist board whether the trail is open.

Masca | Image by Hans Braxmeier from Pixabay

By Carol of Wayfaring Views
Frances Route (The Camino de Santiago)

The Camino de Santiago (or The Camino) is a 1,000 year old network of pilgrimage routes that all end in Santiago Spain. The cathedral in Santiago houses the remains of Saint James, and it's long been a place for the faithful to seek forgiveness. In more modern times, many non-Catholics tackle the trail for self-discovery or the athletic challenge.

I've been twice, the first time was intended as a life re-boot after deciding to leave my 9-5 life. The second, because the Camino got into my blood and I wanted to explore more of the trail. I took the Camino Frances, which is the most popular trail on the Camino. It covers 780 kilometers (500 miles) from St Jean Pied de Port, over the Pyrenees, and across northern Spain.

Walking the Camino is a very personal thing and you can do as much or as little of the trail as you wish. Most people take 30-45 days to complete it, sometimes over multiple years.

For the most favorable weather, the best time to do the Camino is May-October. If you wish to avoid crowds, go anytime but July-September. You'll need to spend some time training and planning for the Camino de Santiago. But, you don't need a permit or any special equipment, other than a 35-liter backpack, three days of clothes and the will to keep walking. As they say on the trail... Buen Camino!
By Claudia of My Adventures Across The World
Camí dels Ganxos

Camí dels Ganxos is one of the best hikes in Garrotxa, as well as one of the most challenging ones.

This is a circular trail that starts and ends on Joanetes and goes all the way to the Hermitage of Santa Magdalena on Les Agulles mountain, a church that was founded by the monks of Sant Mary of Besalú between 977 and 988. The views are incredible throughout - you get to see a beautiful part of the Pyrenees, and the thick forest of this part of Catalonia.

The trail runs for about 14.5 km on a steep mountain, on uneven terrain. The path isn't easy to follow - you have to look for the yellow marks on trees and rocks and some of them have been removed by rain, wind, and nature.

The first part is a steady ascent until you reach the "gantxos" - the hooks via which you have to lift yourself all the way to the plain where the hermitage is located.

There is no protection whatsoever in the area where the hooks are placed, so you really shouldn't be hiking this trail alone - not unless you are a very experienced climber; and even then I do not recommend it.

The hike takes an overall 7 to 8 hours to complete - even though the signs along the route mark an overall waking distance of 5.5 hours, which seems to be a massive underestimation, given the difficulty of the trail.

There are no fountains along the trail, and you will have to take enough food and water for the duration of the hike. Make sure to also take a GPS and a torch with you, and only go if properly equipped with good hiking shoes.
By Marilyn of A Soul Awakening
Camino de Santiago

Camino de Santiago is one of two or three long-distance hikes in the world that holds cultural, religious and spiritual significance. 'The Way' as the Camino is referred to is the finest pilgrimage covering approx. 1000 km across Northern Spain. The path is neither a road nor a highway; it's a path trod by travelers of all kinds since the 9 th century. Passing through landscapes of exquisite beauty and showing a time when life moved at a slower pace. Hamlets, villages, and cites provide insights into this area of Spain's significant cultural heritage and history.

If time permits, and you decided to walk the full journey it will take on average four to six weeks as there is much to see, admire and experience. Alternatively, many opt to walk a section of 'the way' each year and continue when time allows.

Late European summer into early autumn sees the crowds subside and assures accommodation in one of the many Albergue (hostels) that have traditionally provided accommodation to a weary traveler. Alternatively, you can stay in charming and quaint accommodation that offers a restful night away from the hordes of pilgrims. A pilgrim's passport ( Credentcial del Peregrino) is required and can be obtained at various major towns and cities.

As the days pass and the historic and diverse landscape unfolds, you'll likely connect and reconnect with other travelers from across the world. Until you find yourself standing in awe in the Cathedral of the fabled city of Santiago de Compostela. Be sure to register with the Pilgrim's Reception Office on arriving in Santiago de Compostela to attend the daily mass held at midday each day in acknowledging pilgrims who completed the journey.
By Kevin of KEVMRC
Ruta del Cares

La Ruta del Cares, also known as the Cares Gorges Trail, is definitely one of the best hikes in Spain. The hike is located in the north of Spain, in the Picos de Europa National Park, the first National Park in Spain.

While there are quite a few hiking trails in the area, the one I'd recommend doing if you only had to choose one would be the Ruta del Cares.

This day hike will take you from Poncebos to another mountain village, Caín de Valdeón. What's so special about this hike is the hike itself: it's directly carved in the side of the mountain, and you're guaranteed to have absolutely epic views for the whole hike!

In addition to the stunning views, you'll get on the trail, you'll also get to see quite a lot of wild animals during your hike: mountain goats, sheep, and horses. Oh, and best of all? It's not crowded and you'll get to enjoy the peace & quiet of the mountains for most of the year; if you do go in July & August, it's a bit more crowded but still enjoyable.

Alright, let's get into the details of this hike:

Difficulty Level: Medium

Time: 8h

Total Elevation Change: 1,000 meters / 3,300 feet

To get to the start of the hike, you can drive from Santander (1h30) or Bilbao (2h30). You can also get there by bus, but only in summer (from July 13th to September 1st): first get to Arenas de Cabrales, then take another bus to Poncebos.
By Laura of Travelers Universe
Ruta del Agua

The breathtaking Ruta del Agua (Water Route) is less than an hour's drive away from Valencia. It's a fully signposted route and it features a landscape of great beauty. It roughly takes half a day to complete and it's one of the best day trips from Valencia.

You can do this route without great difficulty, as it alternates with trails, paths, dirt roads, and asphalted roads. And since it's a circular route along the Juanes and Buñol rivers, you'll have many opportunities to enjoy new landscapes from beginning to the end.

The starting point is in the town of Buñol (best known for La Tomatina festival). From there you can access the river park promenade, which leads you to the Galán Mill where you can see a large chimney reminiscent of Buñol's industrial past.

Following the marks that you can find along the way, you'll arrive at the Cave of Turche, a natural place of great beauty. During the rainy season, from the top of the great rock wall, a 60-meter waterfall falls over a lake. If you feel tired, you can rest on the small river beach, and at the same time enjoy one of the best swimming spots on the route.

Next is the Mirador de la Cueva del Turche, a place with privileged panoramic views over the typical Mediterranean landscape.

Finally, you'll arrive at the enclave of Charco de Mañán or Las Palomas, a place of great beauty where you can enjoy a swim. Here you can see the Cave of the Doves, which was formed by the erosion of the Juanes River. When the water rushes to the great pool, it forms a curtain of water that creates an incredible magical atmosphere.
By Sally of Sally Flint
Béjar-Calendario Trail

If you are looking for a relatively easy 'serendismo' then a great hike to complete is Béjar-Candelario in western Spain. There's a bus station in Béjar so it is possible to get there by public transport, though many people do this hike as part of a broader traveling itinerary. As such, hiring a car is the means by which many people travel. Béjar is approximately an hour's drive from the famous historic city of Salamanca from which many people venture forth.

The hike unofficially begins at the bus station in Béjar itself. It is a fairly flat and easy walk. On route to Candelario, there are beautiful mountain landscapes to enjoy. At the very top of the mountains is a tiny village with a single and very welcoming pub. The pub plays popular movies and when we arrived they were showing Harry Potter's Chamber of Secrets which seemed popular amongst other younger hikers.

The walk is quite long and in total is not far short of 25 km, but it is nonstrenuous. It can take up to 8 hours if, like us, you take it leisurely with lots of breaks for snacks and photos. There are guides available to hire ensuring that there will be no wrong turns along the way but permits are not required.

Béjar-Candelario is a hike that can be done at any time of the year but in the autumn the temperate is fresh whilst not too chilly. In addition, the beauty of the landscape is improved tenfold by the yellow-orange colors of the season.

Tips for responsible hiking in Spain

When hiking in Spain it is important to be a mindful hiker so that you contribute to protecting the natural beauty in the country. As a hiker, you should always aim for leaving no trace. That's why I have put together a checklist for you so you don't have to regret anything after your hike, and so that you go well prepared.

Bring a reusable water bottle

This is, needless to say, an essential even for your day hike packing list. While we speak about reducing single-use plastic waste at home, it is just as important to reduce single-use plastic waste when we are out in nature.

I love this eco-friendly steel bottle from Greens Steel. It keeps the water cold for the whole day and the brand is totally aligned with my ethos.

Though the water in Spain is perfectly drinkable, I know a lot of tourists think it tastes bad or just don't want to drink it for whatever reason. If that is your case, or you just like to filter your water (there is a lot of lime in the water in Spain), this filtered water bottle from Brita is a good option.

Buy your snack locally

If you buy your snack locally in the closest village to where your hike starts you contribute to the local economy. It's also a great way to get a sneak peek into the local village life.

Bring eco-friendly sunscreen

While hiking in Spain there is a big chance you will be exposed to large amounts of sun, even in winter. That's why it's important to bring sunscreen on your hike. Make sure you make it an eco-friendly one so it doesn't affect the environment.

This sunscreen from Hello Bello is both eco-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free).

Bring a bag for your waste

No need to say you shouldn't leave any waste behind. Still, I have found myself far out on a hike and forgotten to bring a bag for my waste. With some inventive solutions, it usually sorts itself out, though.

While you might be good at bringing your own trash back down from a hike, it doesn't hurt to pick up whatever you find on the trail too.

Respect the wildlife

You might meet wildlife while hiking in Spain. Make sure you don't interfere in any way, don't chase the animals to get a better photo, and definitely don't feed them.

This is important for two reasons, mainly because whatever you have in hand is surely not that animal's natural diet. And secondly, you don't want to make the wildlife used to ask people for food and maybe even venturing down to the towns for human food where they might get hit by cars on the road.

Stick to the marked path
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By staying on the marked path you make sure you don't interfere with the natural fauna. Stepping on plants can have many effects. Other species can be dependent on these plants for their survival and when hikers step on them they can ruin small areas so that bugs and other animals lose their homes and food.

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20 Extraordinary hikes in Spain not to miss - Brainy Backpackers

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Taking up most of the Iberic Peninsula, Spain has a beautiful blend of rocky peaks, pine tree forests, rolling green olive fields, dry desert land, rugged cliffs, and white fine sanded beaches. It's a true haven for any outdoor enthusiast with gorgeous day hikes up tall peaks with breathtaking views or along vivid rivers winding through canyons to multi-day pilgrimage treks.

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This hiking route i like very much, it's fast, intermediate level and near of home

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Spain's MUST SEE Hidden Gem | Hiking Congost de Mont-rebei Catalonia | Full Time Travel Vlog 11