Playing with a puppy or going for a long walk with an older dog can also bring a lot of happiness. In a nutshell, dogs enrich our lives in innumerable ways. A life without them is impossible to imagine.

Dogs are man’s best friends. Can you imagine life without dogs?

Dogs have been considered man’s best friend for thousands of years, and there’s a good reason why. Dogs are incredibly loyal and always ready to lend a comforting presence when needed. They’re also great protectors, watchful of strangers, and always alert to potential danger.

What is Happy National Dog Day?

In many homes around the world, dogs have become a part of the family. They fill homes with so much joy. They work selflessly in many fields and should be appreciated. Understanding the importance of these furry friends, Colleen Paige, a pet lifestyle expert, and animal welfare advocate, therefore, created National Dog Day.

A History of the National Dog Day Foundation

The National Dog Day timeline spans back to 2004, when Colleen Paige, who also founded National Cat Day, created National Dog Day. Every August 26, since then, the National Dog Day Foundation has been commemorating this day. According to the pet lifestyle expert, National Dog Day is not just a simple celebration for dogs but also an opportunity to encourage the public to visit public shelters rather than line up at pet shops. allowing them to adopt dogs out of a rescue home.

National Dog Day also promotes dog adoption of different breeds. Dog Day isn’t limited to pure or mixed breeds. Any dog, of all ages and sizes matters. On this day, dog lovers are also reminded to put a value on their animals and always make sure that they will have an abuse-free life.

In the US, 3.3 million dogs enter animal shelters each year. These numbers are at an all-time high state compared to the percentage of dogs being adopted every year. As an animal advocate, pet lifestyle expert, and founder of national dog day, Paige believes that it’s time to raise the awareness and attention of the public to let them know about the increase of dogs in rescue homes that are ready for adoption. Each rescued dog has a story to tell as they wait to be owned. Public shelters are looking for individuals who can give affection, a home, and a healthy family that all pets need.

National Dog Day is close to the heart of its author, who started it because it was the same day that her family adopted their dog Sheltie from a local shelter when she was just 10 years old.

National dog day continued not only in the country of the US but in countries all around the world. In 2013, it was written and established as a holiday under New York legislation law.

Dogs’ Contribution To Society

National Dog Day recognizes the roles that dogs play in society as the years’ progress. Because of their teachable nature, they land a series of jobs that help the community. They’re commonly hired as guard dogs for houses and other properties. They grow to have a kind and protective nature. Dogs function as defenders.

It takes a long time to train to be a K-9 police dog. They save lives on the line by putting their lives at risk when they search for bombs or drugs on a case. Medical detection dogs work selflessly to detect odor signatures of cancer from patients.

Dogs save lives

In addition to this, therapy dogs, on the other hand, act as hands, feet, or eyes for a disabled friend. They are there to guide, bring comfort to humans and relieve a person from stress. The lives have been saved by them.

Dog Facts You Should Know

Dogs are fascinating animals. Any size, type of breed, race, or form can learn tricks and follow commands. Learning more about them can make us understand them better:

Dogs have an amazing sense of smell

August 26th is National Dog Day, and what better way to celebrate than by learning more about our furry friends? Did you know that dogs have an incredible sense of smell? They are built with a great number of nose receptors, reaching 300 million, higher than that of a human.

This makes them suitable for the retrieval of drugs or detecting cancer, and saving lives. And that’s without even mentioning the value they provide to our households. So, on this occasion of National Dog Day, take a moment to reflect on the significance of your dog in your life. Who knows, maybe you’ll end up being the one to save someone’s life!

Dogs protect their organs by sleeping in a circle

National Dog Day honors the contribution that dogs make to our lives and families. It is also a chance to think about the significance of dogs in our society. We frequently take it for granted that dogs are constantly there for us, yet they are truly man’s best friend.

They offer us company, protection, and love without conditions. On this national dog day, let’s take a moment to appreciate everything that dogs do for us and pledge to be there for them always.

Dogs have unique nose prints

Did you know that just like human fingerprints, no two dogs have the same nose print? In fact, dog nose prints are so unique that they can be used to identify individual dogs much in the same way that fingerprints are used to identify people. This makes them an invaluable tool for law enforcement and animal shelters, where they can be used to reunite lost dogs with their families.

But even beyond their usefulness, dog nose prints are simply fun and interesting to look at! So next time you’re giving your dog a good scratch behind the ears, take a moment to admire their unique nose print. It is only one of the numerous characteristics that make dogs so unique.

Dogs have dreams when they sleep

A lot of people don’t know that dogs can dream. It’s something that purebreds and older dogs do more frequently than adult dogs, but all dogs do it. Dreams are a way for puppies and dogs to process what they’ve learned during the day. They help purebreds solidify the training they’ve received and learn how to behave in different situations.

For older dogs, dreams can be a way to relive happy moments from their lives or reconnect with family members who have passed away. Dogs who have had traumatic experiences may also use dreams to work through those events and find a sense of safety. Whatever the case may be, dreams are an important part of a dog’s life – just like they are for humans.

The Best Celebration Ideas for National Dog Day

Dog owner or not, everyone can take part in celebrating national dog day. There are a lot of ways to enjoy the day, the month of August, or even the whole year with these furry animals. Here are examples of activities to add to your dog’s day celebration.

• Adopt a dog
• Take your dog for a walk
• Have a “yappy party” for your dog
• Volunteer at rescue shelters
• Donate to dog shelters
• Giving a dog-related present
• Share your dog day celebration online

Adopt a dog

Adopting a dog is the only proper way to observe National Dog Day. However, it is essential to choose to get more information before visiting your local shelter. Breeds differ in their requirements. You must take into account the responsibilities that come with dog ownership because owning a pet is a long-term commitment.

Take your dog for a walk

Dogs love to walk outdoors every day. Bring comfort, return the love, and win their trust by taking your dog out on a grooming date.

Have a “yappy party” for your dog

Invite your fellow dog lovers on a vacation and beat the heat by hosting a “yappy party”. Or go to a dog café to spoil your buddy with treats to make them happy with their furry friends on dog day to their hearts’ content.

Volunteer at rescue shelters

In order to set an example, enjoy National Dog Day by volunteering at non-profit organizations or a local rescue shelter to provide help. Start by raising money through a donation drive for dog essentials. Level it up by educating another mind as an animal welfare advocate. Spend time teaching topics about dog adoption and how to properly care for your pets.

Donate to dog shelters

When most people think of donating to a shelter, they typically think of donating money or food. However, there are many other items that shelters need in order to care for the animals in their care. If you have any pet supplies that your animal no longer needs, such as leashes, collars, beds, or toys, consider donating them to your local shelter.

The animals will appreciate the new supplies, and it will free up space in your home for new items. In addition to pet supplies, many shelters also accept donations of old blankets and towels. These can be used to keep the animals warm and comfortable or to clean up any accidents. So before you throw out your old pet supplies or blankets, consider donating them to a shelter in need.

Giving a dog-related present

Dogs are known as man’s best friends, and they truly are a loyal and loving companion. They provide us with endless hours of fun and enjoyment, and they are always happy to see us. It is no surprise that people love to give gifts to their dogs on Dog Day. While some people may choose to make homemade toys or treats, others may prefer to spend a little extra money on a special present.

Either way, the important thing is that the dog will appreciate the thoughtfulness of the gift. A new toy will provide hours of fun, and a tasty treat will be sure to make any dog’s tail wag with excitement. So whether you choose to spend a lot or a little, giving a dog-related present is sure to be appreciated by your furry friend.

Share your dog day celebration online

Make use of social media like Facebook by posting content about a photograph of a furry friend wearing an accessory or creating a newsletter to celebrate the event in the online world. They feature how they’ve grown from small puppies.

A Friendly Dog Reminder

Do not buy or sell dogs. There’s a law on that. Dogs are not like food that you will check out a menu for, and when you don’t like it, you will walk away. The right thing to do is to adopt, not shop. Search online for a page or group that takes care of dogs. You can call or text the nearest pet shelter near you to book an appointment for dog adoption. Once in the shelter, you can view their pet hub and choose the pet that you like. If you have a preferred breed, ask.

Dog lovers can celebrate National Dog Day with Brittany.

Our pets deserve to live luxuriously as well. And Brittany Corporation shares the idea of providing the best place and a bright future for dogs and their fur parents. Hold your paws and worry no more about strict landlords when you have a property that brings safety and freedom to its tenants.

Decide now and live the life you need with your beloved dogs every day. Check out Brittany’s site for more details on the house and lot for sale:

• Crosswinds Tagaytay
• Brittany Sta. Rosa Laguna
• Portofino Alabang
• The Lakefront Sucat

Many things have massively changed since the pandemic plagued the world. For more than a couple of years after the lockdowns happened, the world witnessed how various sectors of society have been transformed to adapt to the ever-changing needs of consumers around the globe, including the real estate world.

The real estate industry in the Philippines have experienced a major shift in the recent years. Even with the obvious challenges in the field that impacted not just the local scene but the entire world, the Philippine real estate market showed a good performance at the start of this year. When it comes to property development, real estate professionals including legal and financial advisors, have seen a positive outcome across different property segments.

Since the outlook for real estate continue to look good from hereon, many real estate developers are seizing the opportunity to build another real estate project and entice more real estate investors and buyers alike.

Suggested Read: Why Do Foreign Students Choose the Philippines to Study?
Suggested Read: Can Foreigners Buy a Condo in the Philippines?

Five Real Estate Developments This 2022

For those who are looking into residential real estate or commercial properties at this time, finding out the latest real estate developments or emerging trends in the market will help a lot in the decision making process. Below is a list of several real estate developments this 2022.

1. Increase in Foreign Investments

There is a bright future ahead of commercial real estate as face-to-face work set-up is now slowly being mandated by many companies after two years of remote work. There are many businesses who have embraced the benefits of hybrid work set-up but there are also plenty out there that already transitioned back to fully onsite work.

This may not be an entirely great news for many employees since a huge number of the labor force dislikes the idea of commuting to work everyday, but this is an especially good one for property owners, whether for commercial or residential buildings. This trend will continue to lessen the vacancy for office spaces and apartment rentals in the metropolitan areas.

With the national government’s efforts to fight the pandemic through massive vaccination rollouts all over the country, foreign investments have been pouring in this year. It was noted that there is a total of Php36.49 billion foreign investments at the start of 2022.

These investments are expected to create thousands of jobs in the country which will positively affect the economy—especially the real estate sector. With the presence of more jobs, there will be an even greater demand for more office spaces. More companies will need to rent buildings for their commercial and industrial operations. Indeed, a high employment rate will make a positive ripple effect in different sectors of the society.

One of the sectors that hard carry the country’s economic growth is the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry. As more and more foreign companies turn to the Philippines for their outsourcing and offshoring businesses, real estate investments will continue to be in motion. With the current trend, the rent for condominiums and other commercial properties is seen to increase in the coming months.

2. More Flexible Workspaces

The pandemic have opened the world to endless possibilities of working arrangements. One of the most popular trends that arose during the pandemic is the concept of co-working arrangements. As many employees are hesitant to go through the hassle of everyday commute to work, companies are compensating by offering more satellite offices near the employees’ homes. Now, aside from their headquarters, companies are looking to rent more spaces to make co-working alternatives possible.

Basically, the concept of co-working or having a flexible workspace allows various groups of remote workers, such as freelancers and independent professionals, to work with more convenience in a communal setting. This is far from the traditional office work set-up where employees have to clock in and out of the same place every day, regardless of the inconveniences that the employee had to go through to make it possible.

One of the perfect examples of such inconveniences is the heavy traffic that employees in Metro Manila need to battle each day. The remote work set-up during the pandemic made many people reflect on this and led the majority of workers to not want to go back to the busy business districts in the metro even after the pandemic is over.

This supports the study made by Colliers Philippines, where it was predicted that the number of flexible workspaces will continue to increase for a significant amount in the next three years. It seems that flexibility in work arrangements will soon be one of the priorities of employees in the near future.

3. Millennial Consumer Market

In most industries these days, the majority of consumers are the millennial generation. Even in real estate, there are surveys showing that most potential clients of real estate properties are millennials in their late twenties up to early thirties. This shift in the consumer market surely pushed the real estate market to keep up with the unique needs of Millennials.

One of the attributes that Millennials have is their proficiency in using modern technology. This alone pushed many companies to embrace the digitalization of processes within the business. Marketing is now also done using mostly digital means. This is why e-Commerce has been a huge hit, especially during the early stages of the pandemic.

Another example that is unique to real estate is the rising trend of microcities which is also being attributed to many millennial property buyers. To simply put, microcities are “cities within cities” designed by a real estate developer to meet the specific needs of millennial homeowners. These needs can mean a design that meets or appeals to the 21st-century demands like state-of-the-art amenities where young professionals can live, play, and rest, all within the proximity of their workspace.

4. More Green Spaces

During the pandemic, there are a lot of people who looked into buying a vacation home. One of the reasons behind this is the desire to live in a place that can sustain a healthier lifestyle. This trend created the need for the real estate development process to incorporate green spaces more into their designs. After all, a home should be a place where one can freely do things to improve their health and well-being.

Although, this is not limited for residential properties. Companies are also looking into different ways to incorporate green spaces in the workplace. The goal is to have sustainable workplaces where one can feel safe and healthy, especially in the time of a global pandemic.

In Metro Manila, the pandemic has brought about the need to adopt green workspaces which is causing an increase in the demand for office rentals. In fact, almost half of the upcoming real estate developments have wellness-certified structures to benefit the employees. This is a huge leap forward towards completely green workplace for companies in central business districts and beyond.

5. More Real Estate Investments from OFWs

One of the sectors that the Philippine economy is largely depending on is the remittance coming from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). In fact, the country is one of the largest recipients of foreign remittances around the globe which amounts to billions of pesos each year. From these remittances, one of the main purchases that OFWs are spending on is real estate. Obviously, one of the items that Filipinos abroad want to spend their hard-earned money on is a residential property for their family.

This is why there are many real estate developments that offer affordable real estate financing terms to Filipinos. There is a government-owned fund agency called PAG-IBIG that potential homebuyers can look into. Otherwise, bank financing is always available for eligible clients.

Real Estate Developments to Invest In

Whatever the latest real estate developments are in the market, owning a home where one can live conveniently and comfortably remains to be the ultimate dream for many people all over the globe. Living in a space that enables a person to be their best self can be the greatest gift that one can get for their hard work.

The award-winning luxury real estate developer in the Philippines, Brittany Corporation, aims to make this dream come true for many Filipino families. Brittany built some of the best real estate developments in the country to provide the luxury living experience to affluent homeowners. From the world-class themes and designs, state-of-the-art amenities, and accessibility of these locations, Brittany Homes is the epitome of sophistication and comfort when it comes to luxury real estate.

Brittany has several developments located at prime areas a little south of Metro Manila: Crosswinds Tagaytay, Brittany Santa Rosa, Vista Alabang, and The Lakefront Sucat. To know more about Brittany Corporation, check out their official website or follow their social media pages for the latest updates.

World Photo Day is celebrated on August 19 every year. It is an unofficial holiday that celebrates the art and science of photography. Photographers celebrate it worldwide, they often go online and share their favorite photos during this holiday.

But you do not have to be a professional photographer to enjoy this type of fun holidays. You can absolutely participate even if you are still learning how to take good photos, or if you are a general photography enthusiast.

History of World Photography Day

World Photo Day was first celebrated on August 19, 2010. This specific date was chosen because it is the date in 1839 that the French Government purchased the patent for the Daguerreotype process. In 2010, over 200 photographers shared their photos on a global online gallery for everyone to see.

Since then, this holiday marks a time when photographers and photography enthusiasts celebrate the art that they love and share their passion with the rest of the world.

What is the Daguerrotype Process?

When photography was invented, it was different from what we know today. The Daguerrotype process was one of the first types of photography and it was invented by Louis Daguerre. He was an artist born into a middle-class family. He worked with Joseph Nicéphore Niépce and continued to experiment with photography after Niépce’s death.

Eventually, he discovered the process of creating a detailed permanent image with the use of copper plates coated with a thin coat of silver. This was the birth of the Daguerreotype process, which he patented as a “gift to the world.”

Evolution of Photography

40 years later, George Eastman from Rochester, New York, refined the Daguerreotype process. Instead of using copper plates, Eastman used dry gel on paper which he called film. Instead of light reacting to chemicals on the copper plate, it would react to this film, producing a photographic image.

Four years later, in 1884, Eastman developed the Kodak camera. The invention of the film camera made the art and science of photography accessible to more people.

Film cameras turned into digital cameras, video cameras, and eventually, phone cameras. Today, almost everyone participates in digital photography, but there are still many who prefer film as the medium for their photos.

Why People Love Photography

Making memories has been part of the human consciousness for generations. The earliest humans left traces of their art on cave walls. Ancient Romans have left messages written on walls. Paintings, sculptures, and illustrations are all forms of preserving memory and letting it live on for future generations.

Taking photos is another way to create a keepsake of a special moment in your life. With the advent of smartphones and digital cameras, taking a quick snap to capture moments is easy and convenient. Having several photos of your most cherished moments helps you relive them at a future date.

Photography is a form of art that anyone can enjoy. You don’t need to have any formal training or expensive equipment to get started. All you need is a camera and the willingness to practice. In fact, some of the best photographers use very simple cameras. The key is to take the time to learn how to use your camera and to experiment with different techniques. With a little effort, anyone can start taking beautiful photos.

How to Celebrate World Photo Day

The best way to celebrate World Photography Day is with other people who share the same interests. Whether you are a professional photographer or a hobbyist, there are many ways for you to celebrate this fun holiday.

Learn More About Photography

Taking photos is a skill, and there are many factors that go into taking a great photo. These include composition, lighting, depth of field, and the several types of lenses you can use, among other things. You may be familiar with the automatic settings and properties of your camera, but have you thought about learning to operate it manually?

Make an investment in yourself and upgrade your photography skills by taking a class on more advanced concepts. The development of your skills is an investment in your passion.

You can also take the time to learn the value of the history of photography. Seeing as it is an art form that is dear to you, it may be a fun activity to dive into how this art form has changed since its invention.

The history of photography is full of fascinating stories and incredible milestones. For instance, did you know that the first photograph ever taken was of a French street scene in 1826? Or that the first color photograph wasn’t taken until 1861?

The history of photography is full of interesting facts like these. Learning about the history of photography can give you a greater appreciation for the art form and how it has evolved over time.

It can also provide you with a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of photography and how they have been used to create stunning works of art. Whether you’re a casual fan or a passionate enthusiast, taking the time to learn about the history of photography is sure to be a rewarding experience.

Take A Photo Walk

Spend World Photography day going on a photo walk. It is exactly what it sounds like, you go on a walk with the intention of taking photos of everything you see of value along the way. You can start in your home and take photos of your personal property before venturing out to your community. Do you see a patch of vacant land that catches your eye? Take a photo there.

Or go to an urban area and go on a photo walk exploring your city or several different commercial real estate spaces. Capture interesting-looking office buildings, townhouses, single family homes, shopping centers, or gorgeous heritage houses.

Experiment with street photography too. Capture people and things out and about, like cars passing, street food carts, vendors selling their wares, or construction workers high up on the construction site.

Share your Photos on Social Media

Take ownership of your craft and share photos on your social media pages for World Photo Day. You can take it one step further and add a watermark to ensure your personal property will be recognized as yours. Building a robust online portfolio is also a great way to invest in your career as a photographer. When customers see the quality of your photos online, it will help you grow your business and augment your income.

Take Photos of Your Beautiful Luxury Home

Luxury real estate is something to be celebrated every day, and what better way to do that than by taking photos of your real estate investments? You can even take progress photos as you build your home, showing it transform from raw land and undeveloped property to a beautiful residential space you call home.

Home ownership is also a milestone to celebrate, and make sure to take a photo after you close a successful sale. This is a moment you should cherish and share with your children in the years to come.

Buying a home, managing mortgages, and investing in residential real estate is a huge step to take. Luckily, Brittany Corporation has your back. As a titan in the real estate industry, Brittany has made it its business to provide buyers with the best properties at reasonable sales prices. They have sold so many luxury homes and helped families invest in their dream homes.

View a Brittany residential real estate property with us soon! Browse our website to see everything we have to offer. Follow us on LinkedIn and Youtube as well for more updates.

Real estate professionals are welcome to work with us! Realtors, sellers, and investors can check our Seller’s Portal and Vendor’s Hub for more information.

As July and August come around, so does Ghost Month. While you may have heard of Halloween and the spooky season, unless you are of Chinese heritage, you may not be familiar with Ghost Month. You may not think much about it, but many investors take Hungry Ghost Month into consideration when making an informed decision about long term financial goals, among other factors.

A Quick Introduction to Ghost Month

What is Ghost Month? When does it happen?

Ghost Month is the term used for the seventh month of the lunar calendar. According to traditional Chinese folklore, this month marks a period when people believe that the gates of heaven and hell open, making it possible for ghosts and spirits to roam the land of the living. These spirits roam the earth looking for food and entertainment.

What happens during Ghost Month?

There are certain practices that are done to celebrate Ghost Month or the Festival of the Hungry Ghost. And although it is called a festival, it is considered a scary time by the Chinese community. This year, the seventh lunar month started on July 29 and will end on August 26. Peak celebrations for the Hungry Ghost Festival fall on the fifteenth day of this month, which was on August 12, 2022.

To celebrate, the Chinese community prepares food offerings and burns incense and joss paper to honor their ancestors. On the last day of the month, the spirits return to their realm, and the gates of hell close as they welcome back these spirits and hungry ghosts.

How does Ghost Month affect the living?

Many believe that Ghost Month can increase bad luck unless you take simple steps to combat that and appease the spirits. Most believers will say that there will be an increased risk of ill health and financial issues during this period. The spirits roaming during this month are said to affect the home as well.

Couples are also advised not to get married during this month as it is believed to lead to an unhappy marriage. A wedding party during this month may also attract uninvited guests of the non-living kind, which may not be the best way to celebrate a wedding.

Children, pregnant women, and the elderly are also susceptible to being preyed on b these ghosts, as these spirits seem to be attracted to these groups of people. Children and fetuses in the womb represent vitality and new life, which is an attractive concept to spirits who are tired of their state. Pregnant women, the elderly, and children are advised to be home before the sun sets so as not to attract or get the attention of a hungry ghost who is said to be more powerful at night.

Many also believe that making an investment during ghost month will bring bad luck. People are often advised not to buy or build a new home, start a new business, or purchase a new car. Of course, any investment is a complex endeavor, and one should always do research and identify any accompanying risks. But if you are superstitious and believe that Ghost Month might affect your prospects, then you can find ways to protect yourself and your investment.

How can you protect yourself and your family members?

There are certain things you can practice to avoid the attention of unwanted spirits. One is to avoid touching or consuming the food and joss paper offerings. These are for the spirits and hungry ghosts, not for the living.

Avoid swimming and other water-related activities as spirits sometimes use the water to find substitutes for them in death so they can be reincarnated. Going out at night is also discouraged because the increased yin energy from the moon makes wandering ghosts stronger. When watching live performances during the hungry ghost festival, leave the front row vacant, as these seats are reserved for the spirits.

How to Invest Safely During Ghost Month

Diversify Your Portfolio

While many believe that Ghost Month is a bad time for investments, you can instead keep a positive outlook and use it as an opportunity for growth. The vast majority of trading may be slow during this period and you can take advantage of lower prices to diversify your investment portfolio.

Take advantage of all the investment options available to you. Just make sure to do the research that leads you to the right financial decisions and invest in companies and products that have proven trustworthy.

Protect Your Real Estate Investment

While it is not usually advised to purchase a new home during ghost month, you can still invest in luxury real estate this month given that you take certain measures and perform rituals to protect yourself and your financial choices.

A Feng Shui expert said that if you are moving to a new home during Ghost Month, light incense outside your new home. This signifies that you are asking permission from the spirits before moving into your new house.

It is also best to prepare food offerings for the spirits and your deceased relatives: six beverages, six main dishes, and two cups of rice. Also, moving in should only start after leaving your incense and food offerings for at least 24 hours.

To further protect your new luxury home, remove wind chimes above a doorway, balcony, or window. Wind chimes sound like the soul ringing, so a hungry ghost might think you’re inviting them to your house if they hear it. It is also best to leave the main door of your home closed to avoid inviting unwanted guests.

Navigating Investment Objectives During and After Ghost Month

Investments are a great way to create wealth and build a lasting legacy for your family. You may have heard of creating multiple savings accounts, starting an emergency fund, a retirement fund, and consulting a financial professional to help you achieve your financial goals and come up with a financial plan.

Having many investments can pave the way for you to earn more money, but as always, the best investments stem from informed decisions and detailed information. Investing may seem complicated, but it is a sure way to build wealth if you have the patience and full faith in your future plans.

Before you start investing and working towards your financial goal, know what your risk tolerance is. There is always some risk involved in investments, so it is best to know in advance what your risk profile is. If you intend to purchase securities – such as stocks, corporate bonds, or mutual funds – it’s important that you understand before you invest that you could lose some or all of your money.

Be sure to check and update your portfolio at regular intervals. Your assets should reflect your income and financial situation. Make sure you are keeping your plan in accordance with your financial situation and make your money work for you.

Investing Should Start at Home

Purchasing a luxury home with Brittany is a great investment for your future. Luxury homes are some of the best investments and assets you can have. Browse the Brittany website and choose from our different luxury houses and properties.

For more information, you can follow us on Youtube and LinkedIn. Make an investment in your real estate career and join our team! Check our Seller’s Portal for more information.

The Euro is a single currency used by several European Union countries and has always been strong against the US dollar. But in July 2022, the euro falls below dollar in parity for the first time since 2002. This drop below parity against the dollar has fuelled recession fears in the euro area.

The History of the European single Currency

The euro banknotes and coins were introduced into circulation in January 2002. Prior to this, the euro was merely a unit of account for settling transactions across borders with the US and their other trade partners currencies. Since the currency’s circulation in 2002, the euro single currency has spent very little time below parity in its short two decade history. The last time it was reported that the euro falls below dollar was in October 2000 when it sank to an all-time low of $0.82.

Factors Affecting Euro Parity Against US Dollar

In 2022, the European single currency started the year on a strong note with a post-pandemic economic recovery. But surging European gas prices due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has raised recession risks. This risk is also affected by the fear that Moscow could further cut off gas supplies exported to the EU.

While the euro was experiencing a rocky interruption, the US dollar has remained strong. Amidst the heightened global uncertainty with global recession fears, the United States Federal Reserve hiked rates aggressively, benefiting the safe haven dollar in global foreign exchange reserves.

The European Central Bank has since introduced rapid rate hikes after their July 21 meeting. Stuart Cole, the head macro economist at Equiti Capital in London, said, “Gas rationing, stagflation, an expected recession, they are all good reasons to be bearish on the euro.” This statement was made shortly before the euro crossed below parity against the dollar. “These factors would make it harder for the European Central Bank to hike interest rates, which could further widen the interest rate differential with the US dollar.

Euro Falls Below Dollar, But Will It Continue?

Some economists from global banks say that the euro’s slide might continue before it will rise again on the currency markets. Until the economic outlook improves in this heightened global uncertainty, the euro will and euro area might face record high inflation and exacerbate recession risks. Even if the ECB increases interest rates, the US Central Bank is introducing more rapid rate hikes which draws more investments to the United States.

What The Banks Are Saying

The ECB has largely downplayed this currency fall to avoid inducing panic. As Euro falls below dollar, it increases the risk of price growth becoming entrenched above the ECB’s target rate of 2%.

Currently, the euro seems to have stabilized, now sitting slightly above parity with the US dollar. While the Euro fell below the dollar for the first time in 20 years, the global currency reserves are back on a  more stable footing.

Invest Safely in Luxury Real Estate

When euro falls below dollar parity, it fuelled inflation fears. Rising recession risks can make investors wary with their money on a global scale. Fortunately, real estate is always a solid choice for investments. Luxury real estate by Brittany Corporation has a well-known reputation as the gold standard in world-class living. Brittany homes are some of the best and most beautiful houses in the Philippines.

Brittany Corporation is the luxury real estate arm of Vista Land, and it offers world-class themed communities for families who want to live a luxury lifestyle. Their exclusive communities and enclaves offer residents a slice of paradise where they are free to experience Brittany living to its fullest potential. Brittany homes are located in three prime locations: Santa Rosa, Alabang, and Tagaytay. Each location takes inspiration from a world-class luxury destination, so residents not only live in some of the most beautiful houses in the Philippines but they also experience a luxury lifestyle offered nowhere else in the country.

Brittany Santa Rosa

Brittany Santa Rosa has three luxury enclaves located in Santa Rosa, Laguna. This location is the perfect spot where urban city sprawl and rural charm collide to provide the best of both worlds. Brittany living is all about luxury and convenience, so locations like this are always well-planned. These luxury communities are located in Laguna’s educational and commercial hub, giving residents and homeowners access to the best establishments and educational institutions.

Two of Brittany Santa Rosa’s luxury enclaves, Georgia Club and Augusta, are inspired by the grandeur of American colonial architecture, as seen in the American South. Brittany homes here have generous proportions and often feature lovely porches and gardens. Promenade, on the other hand, is patterned after the quaint English countryside, featuring English-style manors and wonderfully landscaped hedge gardens.

Vista Alabang

The Vista Alabang exclusive communities are located along Daang Hari and is conveniently close to Evia Lifestyle Center. It contains three luxury enclaves: Portofino Heights, Portofino South, and Amore at Portofino. These luxury developments transport you to the Italian countryside, with Brittany homes designed with influences from Italian architecture. Feel time slow down when you are surrounded by the most beautiful homes in the Philippines that exude old-world Italian charm and grace.

The Italian-inspired luxury communities of Vista Alabang will help you embody an Italian lifestyle that is carefully crafted for you by Brittany living. Enjoy scenic walks along landscaped gardens and feel free to make use of amenities like the swimming pool, clubhouse, playgrounds, and tennis courts.

Crosswinds Tagaytay

Crosswinds Tagaytay is a Swiss-inspired luxury community filled with hundreds of pine trees. Feel refreshed by nature as you are surrounded by the greenery and rolling hills of Tagaytay, set with the scenic backdrop of Taal lake. Crosswinds Tagaytay offers a Swiss mountain vacation experience, but they also have Brittany homes and condominiums for individuals looking for a permanent home and vacation spot.

The Grand Quartier and Alpine Villas offer luxury condominiums inspired by traditional Swiss mountain chalets. Individuals who prefer to design their dream home in Tagaytay also have a place set aside for them, as Lausanne at Crosswinds offers luxury lots for sale with sweeping views of the Tagaytay landscape.

Brittany Corporation Gives You Only the Best Homes

Brittany living is world-class luxury living. That has always been the brand’s mission. With each exclusive luxury development, Brittany continues to bring luxury lifestyle experiences to more and more homeowners.

Invest in a Brittany home today! Browse our website to see everything we have to offer, from luxury homes to classy condominium units. Follow us on LinkedIn and Youtube for more updates.

Grow your career with Brittany, visit our Seller’s Portal and Vendor’s Hub for more information.

The entrance of any location is extremely important.

As the first thing that our eyes see as we enter something, what our eyes lay upon on make a huge impact on our impressions. Especially in the real estate industry, having an appealing grand entrance can change the value of your properties big time.

What makes a Grand entrance?

What makes a grand entrance stand out cannot be generally defined. This uniqueness and creative property incorporated into not just the grand entrance, but also the other properties, are what makes a big impact.

Suggested Read: How Does A Grand Home Entrance Make A Statement?

Of course, a grand entrance can’t just be made by itself, it should be able to match the overall theme and each individual unit must be in tune with its theme. Starting from just raw land up to the construction of multi unit building, a person must already take these into consideration.

To further prove our point, we present to you one of the best grand entrances found in this luxury louse and lot in Sta. Rosa, the luxury real estate of Brittany Sta. Rosa.

Luxury Homes Real Estate Like No Other: Brittany Sta. Rosa

Brittany Sta. Rosa is located in the bustling city of Sta. Rosa, Laguna. The high end residential property sold here are among some of the best houses in the Philippines.

This luxury house and lot in Sta. Rosa has so much to offer, but as stated previously, its grand entrance has definitely become one of its main selling points that produce income.

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Elegance fit for Royalty

This green centerpiece located in the heart of one of Brittany Sta. Rosa’s enclaves, the Promenade, has become a tourist attraction for buyers and even simple passerby.

The centerpiece of the entrance is instantly recognized by most people dues to its resemblance to the royal gardens.

The American Lifestyle

The American theme perfectly fits and highlights the abundance of greenery of those in American Homes.

The simplicity yet lush green characteristics of the entrance has become something buyers search for the moment they enter this luxury house and lot in Laguna.

Suggested Read: Notable Luxury Properties For Sale In Laguna

Top-notch Luxury Houses

While the entrance have become the eye-catching attraction that first gathers the attention of buyers to this luxury house and lot in Sta. Rosa, what makes them stay is of course, the luxury house themselves.

With years of development up its sleeve, these high end residential property in Santa Rosa, Laguna are the prime examples of luxury living home design.

Investors and sellers have been giving much attention to the townhouses as more people are looking to invest in luxury living recently.

With the vast examples and projects found in the enclaves of this luxury house and lot in Sta Rosa, you’ll want to invest in this luxury real estate too.

AUDREY

The Audrey Model unit is a one of the business prides and single family homes of Promenade.

With a lot area of 249 square meter and a floor are of 211 square meter, Audrey is good for those looking into buying or investing in a home for a moderately sized family.

The classic architecture and design of this unit allows simplicity yet elegance which allows the person with ownership a serene environment to wake up to everyday.

LAWRENCE

This property in the residential real estate of Brittany has been making waves recently due to its amazing construction.

Even when it was still an undeveloped property, many real estate professionals in the real estate industry have taken interest in this real property project.

With promising architecture and design, the Lawrence home unit is another real property currently in pre sale that worth investing in dues to its well-made construction.

With sales prices of this new housing starts at 81,000,000 for a home with a whooping 803 square meter lot area and 349 square meter floor area, buying and possessing ownership of this home will be one of your best value real estate transactions.

MILTON

Another one of the largest projects in this luxury house and lot in Sta. Rosa that is currently still in development, Milton is another promising residential real estate property of the Brittany Sta. Rosa.

Everyone has been waiting on the grand entrance that the Milton home unit will unveil. For a real property with a lot area of 759 square meter and floor area of 493 square meter, the pre sale price of this individual unit starts at 53,384,000 and is definitely worth its value.

The search for a luxury home for you and your large family ends with the finished building and construction of Milton.

World-class Amenities

What contributes to quality luxury living is more than just the home you live in.

Managing tenants is no easy job, but Brittany Sta. Rosa makes it seem like it is. With many facilities available at your service, you’ll never run out of activities here in Brittany Sta. Rosa.

Award-winning Company

Brittany Corporation is known for their numerous awards both internationally and locally. Real estate investments made with Brittany have been proven over and over again to be worthy of such praise and awards it receives.

Live life to the fullest with Brittany Living

Any purchase made with Brittany is bound to exceed your expectations.

From having the best single family homes and amenities, the development of Brittany homes never stops growing. We assure you that investing in Brittany will be one of the best decisions in both yours and your family’s lives.

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A luxury lifestyle does not only mean living in luxury homes or a luxury condo. To truly experience world-class lifestyles, one must also have hobbies that reflect the upscale lifestyle. Some may think of collecting art as a high-class hobby or buying vintage cars. But for some with a more active lifestyle, world-class sports is their hobby of choice.

There are many sports that are familiar to most people, such as basketball, baseball, soccer, and swimming. But there are certain world-class sports that feel more exclusive. This may be because of the athletic skill required, the resources needed to fund training and equipment or the need to go to a certain destination to play the sport.

Suggested Read: Top 15 Millionaire Hobbies

Whatever the reason may be, these world-class sports are a staple in a luxury lifestyle.

1. Golf
2. Car Racing
3. Horse Racing
4. English Riding
5. Polo
6. Snow Skiing And Snowboarding
7. Water Skiing
8. Sailing
9. Fencing
10. Tennis

Golf

Golf originated in Scotland and is often referred to as “the Gentleman’s sport” due to the emphasis on etiquette in the game. It is characterized by an elegant movement when striking the ball with a club. What sets golf apart from most other world-class sports is the lack of a fixed playing surface. Golf courses can have different terrains such as hills of varying inclines, sandy areas, or holes with varying distances. Part of the challenge of golf is getting past these terrain challenges and getting the golf ball to the hole with the least strokes possible.

Experience world-class hobbies like golf when you live in Augusta Sta Rosa, Promenade, or Belle Reve. Luxury homes by Brittany in these developments are only a quick drive away from prime golf courses and country clubs like Sta Elena Golf and Country Club and Alabang Country Club.

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Car Racing

Who doesn’t enjoy watching cars speeding past each other in a race to the finish line? Car racing is extremely competitive and can get expensive, especially when it comes to the upkeep of the racecars used in the sport. This thrilling sport has many well-known events, happening in different parts of the world and different kinds of automobiles. Fans of the sport may watch Formula1, IndyCar, Nascar, or the Grand Prix.

Horse Racing

Horse racing is an equestrian performance sport involving horses ridden by jockeys in a race over a set distance. One of the oldest world-class sports, horse racing dates back to some of the first Greek Olympic events.

Modern-day horse racing is highly correlated to sports betting, with spectators placing huge bids on their favorite horses or riders.

English Riding

English riding refers to a style of horse riding that is used in several equestrian sporting events. Common events include: 1.) show jumping, where horse and rider have to jump over a series of obstacles set at varying heights, 2.) dressage, where horse and rider perform a series of predetermined movements from memory, and 3.) equestrian vaulting, dancing or gymnastics while on horseback.

Training and maintaining a horse takes a lot of time and resources. But if you want a horse riding experience for you and your family, stay for a weekend at Crosswinds Tagaytay or buy a luxury condo at Alpine Villas, where horseback activities are close by.

Polo

Another equestrian sport, but this time a team sport. World-class sports come in different forms, and polo is another ancient sport that traces its origins to Persia. Players ride on horseback, and the goal of the game is to strike the ball into the goal with the use of a wooden mallet. Deemed the “sport of Kings,” Polo has been the sport of choice by the aristocratic class since it grew in popularity in the West.

Snow Skiing and Snowboarding

Snow skiing and snowboarding are both world-class sports that require you to travel to snowcapped mountains. The most popular destination for skiing and snowboarding is of course the Swiss Alps. Going to your favorite ski resorts in the winter may be the perfect way to celebrate the outdoors during the colder climate.

While the Philippines is a tropical country, you can still experience world-class Swiss lifestyle at Crosswinds Tagaytay. The Swiss-themed resort and community will remind you of the Swiss chalets that dot the countryside of Switzerland, and the cool weather of Tagaytay is refreshingly different from our usual tropical climate.

Water Skiing

Water skiing is an exciting sport played in a body of water such as a lake. Usually, it requires the use of a boat to get water skiers to the required speed, but most water sports facilities nowadays also have cable systems set up to pull the skiers along the water.

Invest in a luxury condo at Alpine Villas and live close enough to Taal Lake to experience the water sports available in the area.

Sailing

A competitive sailing event is called a regatta, a race of skill on a sailboat. There are three main types of races in the world of competitive sailing: coastal inshore races, offshore races, and short course races. Competition can happen between single sailing boats or fleet races.

Fencing

World-class sports are refined and developed over time, which is what happened with fencing. This sport originated in Europe and was refined by the Italian school. The Italian style was then further refined by the French school. To the aristocracy, fencing was the fashionable art of swordsmanship with set rules of posture and footwork. Today, fencing is one of the five world-class sports that have been permanent events at the Olympics since 1896.

Tennis

The history of tennis dates back to France in the 16th century. When the sport gained popularity in England, it became known as “lawn tennis.” Today, tennis is played on a variety of surfaces, which include grass, clay, and hard surfaces such as concrete, wood, or Astroturf.

Tennis opens are some of the most well-attended sporting events in the world, and you can be expected to see many high profile figures and even royalty on the stands watching the match. If you or your family want to learn how to play tennis, then you are in luck. When you invest in a home at Portofino Heights Alabang, you can play tennis without straying too far from your luxury homes. The clubhouse at Portofino includes a tennis court that residents can use to brush up on their tennis skills.

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Indulge in a World-Class Lifestyle with Brittany Homes

Brittany homes are the gateway to your dream lifestyle. Luxury homes by Brittany are designed to support you and your lifestyle needs, with themed luxury communities that have amenities such as tennis courts, swimming pools, and gyms you can use to kick-start your sports skills. Experience Brittany living and take one step closer to a world-class lifestyle when you invest in a luxury home developed by Brittany.

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For many individuals, a glass of wine is the perfect way to start a relaxing evening after a long day of work. These kinds of people drink wine casually, and maybe they break out the more extravagant bottles of red purchased for certain special occasions such as an anniversary, a birthday, or economic growth on their personal property.

Some wine lovers, though, take their interest in wine up a notch by taking the time to learn about different kinds of wine, the flavor profiles to be expected with each bottle, wine value, and even the best food to pair with a glass of red. They may even have a growing wine collection of tier favorite bottles and hard-to-find vintage.

Another event worth celebrating is the purchase of a new home. Wine lovers know a thing or two about luxury living, and what better way to celebrate it than with a bottle of red in your new luxury house or luxury condominium developed by Brittany Corporation?

With a long history in luxury real estate, Brittany has built some of the best luxury houses in the Philippines. Their residential real estate developments in Alabang, Santa Rosa, and Tagaytay are known as one of the best in the country.

Brittany living offers an elevated luxury lifestyle for buyers, with exclusive communities designed and inspired by the beautiful locations and architecture of Italy, America, England, and Switzerland. When you purchase a high-end residential property or vacant land with Brittany Corporation, your real estate investments are worth celebrating with a good glass of wine.

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A Gift Guide for Wine Lovers

If you have loved ones who value wine and champagne as an essential part of their life, you may want to give them wine-related gifts for their birthday or to celebrate their life milestones. While a bottle of red wine is always a stable option, you may want to give them something more special and unique. There are several luxury items that make perfect gifts for your favorite wine lover.

This article will list eight gift ideas for wine lovers for you to choose from.

1. A wine carrier
2. A wine aerator
3. An elegant decanter
4. Personalized Wine Bottle Opener
5. Bottle stopper
6. Chilling wand
7. Wine charms
8. A book about wine

A Wine Carrier

Some wine lovers also love picnics, but what picnic would be complete without a bottle of wine? By giving them a luxury wine carrier, you give them a safe and stylish way to transport their wines without fear of it breaking.

You can choose from several styles, like a backpack, a tote, or a single-bottle carrier. You can even choose premium materials like leather. Or, for a more rustic vibe at lower costs, you can pick a wine carrier designed like a wicker picnic basket.

Have an elegant picnic in the many open park spaces in Brittany communities. Aside from providing residents with world-class house and lot properties for sale, Brittany living also gives an emphasis on amenities and connection to nature. Brittany homes are built in communities with lush greenery and ample open spaces for residents to enjoy the outdoors. You don’t even need to rent a sport to enjoy the grounds. Even if you don’t stray too far from your luxury house, you can always enjoy a glass of wine in your garden or private courtyard.

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A Wine Aerator

Wine lovers will know that good wines need time to breathe. Uncorking wine and exposing it to air gives the wine time to oxidize, changing the flavor profiles and highlighting some of the more subtle taste notes. Aeration can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

To help speed up this process, give the wine lovers in your life an aerator. Aerators are one of the best gift ideas because it’s a very useful tool to have. It attaches to the mouth of the bottle and aerates the wine as you pour it into a glass, significantly cutting down total aeration time.

Convenience also has its value in luxury living, which is why Brittany’s luxury condominium developments and luxury real estate communities are located close to shopping centers and other commercial real estate property and establishments. The best houses in the Philippines have everything you can ever want, and you can have everything you need just a short distance away when you live a Brittany lifestyle.

An Elegant Decanter

During the time when butlers were still a fixture in upscale homes, part of his duties would be to decant the wine before serving it with dinner. A decanter is not only a great way to aerate the wine and develop its flavor, but it can also function as a beautiful art piece owing to the intricacies and artistry of its designs.

Giving wine lovers a glass or crystal decanter can make their bottle of red feel even more extravagant. Anyone who owns a beautifully designed decanter adds a flair of drama and elegance to any evening celebration.

Elegance and sophistication are hallmarks of a luxury lifestyle and exquisite taste. Showcase that with your high-end residential property investment at Brittany Corporation. Take your pick from any of our beautiful luxury houses for sale in Alabang and Santa Rosa. Or if you want to invest in another type of real estate property, check out a luxury condominium in Tagaytay at Alpine Villas or Grand Quartier.

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Personalized Wine Bottle Opener

A wine bottle opener is one of the more simple and more thoughtful gift ideas you can give to the wine lovers in your life. Choose one that is sturdy and easy to use, so you save your friends the hassle of needing to use too much force to uncork a bottle.

Make this perfect gift even more special by having the bottle opener engraved with their name or initials. Stamp your personality into your Brittany homes as well by decorating and furnishing your luxury house with items that display your interests, identity, and taste. House and lot properties for sale are waiting for you to take ownership and start your luxury lifestyle with your new high-end residential property. Invest in Brittany luxury houses for sale and experience the trademark world-class Brittany living.

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Bottle Stopper

Exposing wine to the air for too long can negatively affect how it tastes. To stop that from happening, give your favorite wine lovers their very own set of wine stoppers. Wine stoppers provide an airtight seal to already uncorked bottles, making them keep fresh for a little longer.

What’s even better about this particular gift idea is that it can easily be personalized. There are many designs and styles to choose from. For example, a nature-loving wine lover will enjoy this leaf-themed pair, while a more eccentric individual might get a kick out of a pineapple-inspired stopper.

Houses in the Philippines should reflect the tastes and values of their residents. Much like choosing the perfect style of wine stopper, you should invest in luxury real estate that fits your lifestyle perfectly. Brittany homes can give that to you, especially with the different styles of luxury houses for sale on our website. Choose from Italian, Swiss, American, or English-style homes and live the life of your dreams.

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Chilling Wand

Wine has to be served at the optimum temperature for maximum enjoyment. Adding ice to a glass of wine is a huge faux pas as it will water down the wine and affect its natural flavors. To get that perfectly chilled glass of wine, invest in a pair of chilling wands.

Chilling wands are awesome gift ideas for your wine-loving friends who enjoy having a glass of perfectly chilled wine. These wands sit in your glass of wine, or you can gift your friend a wine stopper with a built-in chilling wand to keep an entire bottle of wine at the perfect temperature. Take advantage of sales prices when buying this kind of gift.

Wine Charms

Wine charms are great gift ideas for wine lovers who also love to entertain at home. Wine charms hook to the stem of a wine glass, and each charm in the set is unique, making it easy to identify which person is using which glass for their wine.

Wine charms make great party favors as well if you get ones with engraved names on them. Buting a little something for friends who enjoy drinking a glass of wine can go a long way toward forming deeper friendships.

A Book About Wine

Of course, a lot of wine lovers also love to read about wine, or at the very least, they would love to own a beautiful coffee table book that highlights wine. Whatever type of wine book they may prefer, wine books are thoughtful gift ideas.

Choose a wine book that talks about the history of their favorite bottle. Or you can gift your friends a wine cookbook, giving them a useful set of recipes for cooking with wine.

Beautiful books like these can also be used to decorate a home, particularly a shelf near the bar or the kitchen. New homes can always need books.

Unwind With a Bottle of Wine in Your Luxury Brittany Home

Live a life of pleasure and elegance with Brittany, where a glass of wine is always welcome after a long day. Browse our website and listings for house and lot properties for sale and find your dream luxury house.

To keep updated in other Brittany news, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to our Youtube channel.

Are you looking to grow your real estate business? Real estate professionals and sellers are welcome to work with us. For more details, visit our Seller’s Portal.

Afternoon tea has been a tradition in the United Kingdom since the time of Queen Victoria. From a simple afternoon snack, it became a social tradition where friends and acquaintances could come together and spend an afternoon catching up with each other.

With origins tracing back to the royal household, it comes as no surprise that afternoon tea has a specific set of rules and etiquette. An invitation to afternoon tea is a social event that should display your best manners and showcase your sophistication and elegance.

Brittany Corporation can bring you a lifestyle filled with sophistication and elegance with its world-class luxury real estate properties open for purchasing and investment. They are a trusted name in luxury developments, bringing the best houses in the Philippines located in exclusive themed communities and locations.

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Brittany homes are perfect for your first luxury house or luxury condominium investment. Invest in high-end residential property and experience the sophistication of world-class Brittany living.

Being familiar with tea etiquette will subtly hint at your luxury lifestyle. Being part of a tea party, or even hosting one yourself, becomes a breeze when you know the rules to be followed.

Host your first afternoon tea soiree at your high-end residential property courtesy of Brittany Corporation. Choose from our listings of luxury real estate properties, whether you are looking for a luxury condominium or the best luxury houses in the Philippines.

To get you started on your tea party planning in the gardens of your personal property, here are 14 rules you should know about afternoon tea etiquette.

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Afternoon Tea Etiquette: 14 Rules You Need to Know

We’ve listed down 14 rules you need to know when it comes to Afternoon Tea Etiquette.

1. Call afternoon tea by the correct name
2. Dress appropriately
3. The table is for food, not your things
4. Use the table napkin
5. Learn how to pour the tea
6. Stir your tea quietly
7. Wait for tea to cool
8. Hold your tea cup with grace
9. The saucer stays on the table
10. Food is consumed in proper order
11. The proper way to eat a scone
12. Do not dip food into your tea
13. How to handle your utensils
14. Have a great time

Call Afternoon Tea by the Correct Name

You may have heard of high tea, but that is not the same as afternoon tea. Historically, high tea is generally defined as a hearty meal at 5 in the afternoon served with a cup of tea. On the other hand, afternoon tea is a more elegant afternoon affair where tea is served in fine china, and finger foods like sandwiches, scones, and sweets are provided. This is done between 2 to 5 in the afternoon, as a light meal between lunch and dinner.

Dress Appropriately

You don’t need to have a lavish outfit, but most afternoon tea venues and events enforce a smart casual dress code. A modest sun dress paired with low heels will suffice. Or you could also opt to wear a pair of tailored trousers and an elegant blouse.

Just as your outfit showcases your elegance, so should your luxury house reflect your elevated lifestyle. Brittany living spares no expense to give residents the best experience. Purchase your first luxury residence with us and check our website for house and lot properties for sale or a condo for sale. Take your pick from Britanny Corporation developments in Santa Rosa, Tagaytay, or Alabang.

The Table is for Food, Not Your Things

When sitting at afternoon tea, the table and the fare are the main attraction. Tabel settings at afternoon tea venues are beautiful and meticulously done. Do not undermine that by using the table to hold your phone or purse.

Keep them on a chair close to you instead so you do not distract from the elegance of the event. Keeping your phone away from the table also creates a more social atmosphere, where you can better connect with the person you are having tea with.

Use the Table Napkin

As you are seated for afternoon tea, you will find a cloth napkin folded on top of the plate. Take it and place it on your lap immediately, with the crease facing towards you. As you take and eat the food, wipe your fingers free of crumbs on the napkin.

Use the napkin to clean your lips as well. But remember to dab your lips with the napkin instead of wiping, then place it back on your lap. When you are finished with tea, place the napkin on the left side of your used plate.

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Learn How to Pour the Tea

At home, you may be familiar with using tea bags. But during afternoon tea, you will have different teas made from loose tea leaves. After brewing them for about 4 minutes, place the strainer on your cup and pour the tea. Once you have your cup of tea, set the strainer aside, then add sugar and milk to your liking.

Milk is usually added last, as a way for socialites to show off their fine china. Cheaper cups tend to crack and break when hot water is poured directly into them, exposing them as low-quality cups. Remember that milk is only added to black tea and not to green, white, oolong, and herbal teas.

Stir Your Tea Quietly

Stirring your tea, milk, and sugar in a circular motion can lead to accidentally clanking your spoon against the cup. This makes unnecessary noise and has the potential to cause a spill. To avoid this, stir in a gentle back-and-forth motion. And when you are done stirring, flick your teaspoon above your cup without banging it directly on the cup.

Wait for Tea to Cool

Afternoon tea is always served hot, but it is bad form in afternoon tea etiquette to blow your tea to actively cool it down. Rather than doing this, simply wait for your cup of tea to cool down before having a taste. And remember, take small sips and not slurps.

Imagine yourself taking in the views while you wait for your tea to cool. You can do that and more with your very own luxury condominium by Brittany Corporation. Their condominium developments in Tagaytay give you sweeping views of the hillside and the greenery. Check out a condo for sale at Alpine Villas Tagaytay or at Grand Quartier at Crosswinds and experience afternoon tea with a view.

Hold Your Tea Cup With Grace

Contrary to popular belief, you should not hold your tea cup with your pinkie finger up. And you shouldn’t loop your fingers through the handle, either!

To hold your tea cup the proper way, pinch the top of the handle with your thumb and index finger. Then, place your middle finger along the bottom of the handle to help you balance your cup. Keep your other fingers tucked away towards your palm.

The Saucer Stays on the Table

A teacup always has a matching saucer. It is where the cup rests when you are not drinking your tea. To follow proper etiquette, it remains on the table as you bring the teacup up to drink. Then, gently place the cup back down on the saucer.

Food is Consumed in Proper Order

Traditional afternoon tea is served with a variety of finger food. Often, these delectable morsels are served on a three-tier rack.

The rules of afternoon tea etiquette state that you should eat the food in three courses, starting from the bottom tier and working your way upwards. First, you start with the savory tea sandwiches, then the scones, then the sweets and desserts on the top tier.

The Proper Way to Eat a Scone

Scones are always present at tea time, even in the simplest of afternoon tea affairs. It is best enjoyed with jam and clotted cream. But there is a method to eating your scone following proper afternoon tea etiquette.

Break the scone in half, then into bite size pieces with your hands. Scoop cream and jam onto your plate, then use the knife to spread them on the scone. Whether you spread jam or clotted cream on first is a matter of preference. Then, eat delicately with your hands.

Do Not Dip Food Into Your Tea

Dunking tea biscuits in your cup may be a fine practice at home, but it is an etiquette faux pas for a formal tea event. During a traditional afternoon tea, do not dip any of the food in your tea and simply enjoy the pairing separately.

How to Handle Your Utensils

An afternoon tea table setting comes with a teaspoon, a knife, and a small fork. The teaspoon should only be used to add sugar and stir your tea. Never drink from your cup with the teaspoon is still in it.

The knife is for spreading jam and clotted cream on your scone.

While the tea sandwiches and scones are eaten using your fingers, the sweets served on the top tier should be eaten with the small fork. Break the dessert into small parts and scoop a bite size portion into your mouth.

Once you are finished with afternoon tea, place the utensils on your plate in the 4 o’clock position.

Have a Great Time

While the set of rules for afternoon tea etiquette may feel extensive, do not let it prevent you from enjoying this experience. It is rare now that people experience a full traditional afternoon tea. When you do get the chance, savor this moment of luxury and treasure this experience with your family and friends.

Luxury living is all about enjoying the best moments in your life. An elegant tea service is one way to do this, but another way is by living in an elegant luxury home, such as one from Brittany.

Host a Lovely Afternoon Tea in Your Brittany Homes

Brittany living has always been about luxury and sophistication, and nothing says that like hosting an elegant afternoon tea party in your luxury house. Brittany Corporation has several house and lot properties for sale. Choose from several themed neighborhoods, such as Georgia Club, Augusta, and Promenade in Santa Rosa.

If a high-end residential property in Alabang is more to your taste, then check out some of the best Italian-inspired houses in the Philippines at Vista Alabang. This location is also conveniently close to commercial real estate establishments and shopping centers.

Give your family the gift of world-class Brittany homes and luxury real estate. Invest in a luxury house and check the house and lot properties for sale on our website. You can also look for a condo for sale with us.

Browse our website for more information on real estate investments and luxury living, and follow us on LinkedIn and Youtube. Are you a real estate professional who wants to grow your career? Work with us at Brittany! Check out the Seller’s Portal for more information.

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The number one feature a lot of buyers look for in their luxury real estate investment is access to ample amounts of sunlight. A mark of a luxurious high-end residential property is an abundance of natural light through windows, skylights, and strategic but beautiful light wells. No luxury living home design plan is complete without the addition of windows that let in gentle natural light. The effect of light filtering in from the sun is equally important in breathing life and happiness into your luxury house.

Houses in the Philippines are known to get beautiful sun all year. Make the most of it and insist on having a lot of natural light when planning your luxury living home design. Luxury real estate and high-end residential properties are sound investments, and you deserve the best in the Philippines. Brittany Corporation has been a titan in the luxury real estate industry for years, consistently delivering the best residential real estate, luxury communities, condominiums, and houses in the Philippines.

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Brittany is known as the premier developer of themed exclusive communities, with luxury properties available in Alabang, Santa Rosa, and Tagaytay. Vista Alabang is home to three Italian-inspired luxury enclaves: Portofino Heights, Portofino South, and Amore at Portofino.

Brittany Santa Rosa brings you the grandeur of the American South at Georgia Club and Augusta while it welcomes you to the feeling of the quaint English countryside at Promenade.

Brittany’s residential real estate properties in Tagaytay, on the other hand, give you a Swiss-inspired lifestyle, that is also conveniently located close to a commercial real estate strip with amazing restaurants and cafes. Its luxury developments in Tagaytay are lined with hundreds of pine trees, giving you a taste of idyllic Swiss towns with Swiss-inspired condominiums and chateaus at Alpine Villas Tagaytay and Grand Quartier Crosswinds. Design your dream luxury home in one of the lots for sale in  Lausanne at Crosswinds.

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Benefits of Natural Light in Your Home

We’ve listed down some of the benefits of natural light to your home and your health:

1. Good for mental health, productivity, and focus
2. Vitamin D
3. Align’s the body’s natural rhythm
4. Make’s home’s energy efficient
5. Prevents proliferation of mold

Good for Mental Health, Productivity, and Focus

Everyone loves a nice, sunny day. When the sun is out, people often feel better and readier to face the day ahead. Exposure to a good amount of sunlight can reduce stress and anxiety levels. It can also alleviate some of the effects of depression.

Natural lighting has also been known to improve focus and productivity. Having a good amount of sunlight streaming into your home office while you work can make you feel more focused and help you work more efficiently.

Vitamin D

Exposure to direct sunlight signals our body to produce vitamin D, which we need in order to absorb calcium and aid in bone growth and development. A vitamin D deficiency can lead to a host of other conditions, such as depression and obesity. While vitamin supplements are available, it is always best to get vitamin D the natural way through the sun.

Aligns the Body’s Natural Rhythm

Our body clock, also known as our circadian rhythm, runs close to the sun’s 24-hour rhythm. Our circadian rhythm dictates the cycles of our bodies, such as sleep, digestion, and cell regeneration.  Before the advent of artificial lighting, humans woke up with the sun and set their daily routines in time with the sun and natural light exposure.

Now that people stay indoors more, with less daylight exposure and more exposure to artificial light from cellphones, computers, and television screens, their circadian rhythms become less attuned to their natural state, which has negative effects on the body. Regular exposure to the natural rhythms of light and darkness can help realign the body clock.

Makes Homes Energy Efficient

Having a home filled with natural light can lower your energy consumption. This is also evident in commercial real estate buildings, office buildings, and shopping centers, as more sunlight streaming in throughout the day can lessen the need for electrical lighting. Take some of the burdens off of your power consumption and have a more energy-efficient home.

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Prevents Proliferation of Mold

Mold is unwelcome in a home, especially in a high-end residential property investment. Having adequate windows for lighting and ventilation can help prevent mold spores from developing and spreading all throughout your luxury house.

Design Inspirations for More Natural Light in Your Home

We’ve also listed down some design inspirations you can use to allow more natural light in your home:

1. A Wall of Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
2. Glass Walls in a Contemporary Home
3. Double-Height Ceilings and Tall Windows
4. High Windows for Maximum Light

A Wall of Floor-to-Ceiling Windows

This luxury loft apartment in New York features a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows that bring in a lot of natural light into the main living areas. Large windows such as these also make the home feel bigger and much more spacious. And all these windows along a wall make it a grand statement feature when friends and loved ones come to visit. It makes this home feel bright and open, making these rooms a more inviting space to spend time in.

Aside from a good deal of natural light, this luxury living home design feature also affords the residents beautiful views of the New York cityscape, making them feel connected to the lively hub of the city.

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Floor-to-ceiling windows in this luxury condominium from Grand Quartier at Crosswinds bring in light. Experience the feel of a Swiss lifestyle with a lovely balcony opening to the view of numerous pine trees and the Tagaytay landscape. You can also find a similar floor-to-ceiling window feature at Alpine Villas Tagaytay.

Glass Walls in a Contemporary Home

Glass walls can line the outer walls of your home to bring more light in, but another way of inviting sunlight to your home is by adding glass walls inside. An inner courtyard at the center of your home can be a fun way to mix indoor and outdoor living spaces, but what this also does is create a light well.

Add windows or glass partitions adjacent to the inner courtyard to take advantage of the additional light and airflow created by the courtyard. The addition of interior glass partitions also connects the different areas of the home together. Parents sitting in one room can look through the glass and see their children playing in another area of the house.

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Achieve this design with the Antonello house, available in Vista Alabang. This luxury real estate property features a glass exterior wall, allowing sunlight to filter into the home. Or, if you prefer a home with an interior courtyard, you can purchase the Rafaello house, also at Vista Alabang.

Double-Height Ceilings and Tall Windows

Make the most out of the double-height ceilings in your luxury house and have tall windows installed. Double-height ceilings make a room feel grand and luxurious. To add to that feeling of extravagance, tall windows not only bring light in, they also give you sweeping views of the sky, the clouds, and the surrounding greenery.

Design a grand home such as this at Lausanne at Crosswinds, or take your pick from the gorgeous American-inspired houses available at Brittany Santa Rosa.

High Windows for Maximum Light

If your home does not have double-height ceilings, you can still maximize sunlight by having high windows in strategic areas in your home. Make these windows feel intentional by designing them in a way that feels true to your home.

In this high-end residential property that just sold in Los Angeles, California, the windows are cut following the slope of the ceiling and roofline. Having windows done this way becomes an integral feature of your home’s design while letting the beautiful natural light filter in. Your home becomes bright, airy, and cozy, a suitable place to relax at the end of a long work day and a beautiful environment for young children to grow up in.

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Invest in a Happy Home at Brittany

Natural light makes a home happier, but what makes the residents feel most at ease in their home is knowing that it is built and designed with luxury in mind. The luxury properties developed by Brittany Corporation have given Filipinos the best luxury houses in the Philippines, and real estate transactions with us are always a breeze.

Browse our website and choose from any of our properties at Vista Alabang, Brittany Santa Rosa, and Lausanne at Crosswinds. Find your dream luxury condo at Alpine Villas Tagaytay or at Grand Quartier at Crosswinds. Brittany is an expert at luxury and class, and you are sure to find your happy home real estate investments with us. Follow us on LinkedIn and Youtube for more updates.

Build your real estate career and join Brittany! For more information, real estate professionals can check our Seller’s Portal here.