Easy and Smart Taxi Apps in Riyadh

Last week, Arab News told its readers "Share your experience of using taxis in your city. I was giggling at some of the comments. There should be a forum made to tackle the taxi problems in Saudi Arabia. Some of the comments like drivers being gay and smelly are quite funny but the public transportation issue in the Kingdom is serious. Safety, hygiene, and costs... these should be put in the agenda asap!

Most women are afraid to use regular taxis in Riyadh. By regular taxi I mean this kind:

Photo via Arab News

The Pink Tarha's own fear in using them has spawned different how-to guides which you can read here, here, and here. We can list all the complaints that we can think of and it will probably fill half of this page. So we will not do that. Instead, we will look for a solution. Not fail-proof but at least better than what was used to. 

When I was in the Philippines for vacation, I came across a mobile app called Grab Taxi. It's an app that lets me find a taxi near my place to take me somewhere else. Some of the time, I had good luck in locating one that arrives promptly. Most of the time, no taxi is available. I blame that for our location that loves traffic so much. So there I was wondering when an app like that would arrive in Riyadh. I find it handy. I mean, I'm not sure I will be fully trusting in using a taxi app like this in Riyadh but it's worth a try yeah? 

Imagine my surprise when I found out that hey... there are taxi apps in Riyadh already! I'm probably the one who's late in discovering them. I needed taxi most of the time especially with a project I took on recently so these apps are timely. Don't get me wrong though; I only use them when my trusted, known limo drivers (the service used by most hospitals) are not available and I'm in a hurry. You know how heavy traffic is in Riyadh nowadays? It makes it harder for our trusted drivers to come get us at the appointed time so a faster alternative must always be at hand. So here goes...

First, YOU NEED AN INTERNET CONNECTION TO USE THESE APPS. Just saying. :P Also, these taxi apps uses regular taxis. So if you're allergic to using regular taxis, well, you might want to skip this entry because it's quite long and it's not my fault if you won't still be convinced to give them a try after reading. Haha.

The first app that I downloaded and used is called Easy Taxi. It was founded in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on April 2012 and became the pioneer online taxi service in Latin America. It expanded its services and has now arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This smartphone application that connects taxi drivers and passengers claims to be the largest taxi booking app in the world.

Your Taxi in One Click (the once click is not true)

The app itself looks very professional featuring an orange and black theme that uses sleek lines and fonts. It locates you through a GPS and shows you where you are on the map through a pin. Requesting a taxi can be done by pushing the green button that says "Request Taxi."

STEP 1: Request taxi | STEP 2: Verify pick up point, provide landmark, select payment method, and continue...

It then goes to a page where it shows the name of your location. You can insert a landmark if you want to be more specific. You can also save the location as a favorite if it's your house or office since you're frequently there. You can also choose the method of payment like cash, credit card, or debit card. Press "Continue."

STEP 3: Finding Taxi | STEP 4: Taxi is assigned. You wait. (Details above for display only.)

It will then scan the area for taxis registered with Easy Taxi. What it does is send a message to all nearby taxis that there's a request. The first one to respond would be given the slot. After a taxi has responded, the app will show the taxi driver's details like name, phone number, and plate number. They even have the driver's photo sometimes. It shows you how many minutes will the driver arrive. You can also cancel the request any time (of course as long as the driver doesn't reach you yet!). 

My first time to use this app was a success. My friend and I were waiting at the Alkhozama Hotel and it was already past 11 o'clock. Our trusted limo drivers have all gone home and we were left with no one to fetch us. I decided to use the Easy Taxi app. It sent us the details of the taxi driver and the taxi itself. So we waited... The main problem that I encountered with this app is its inability to give a good estimate on how many minutes the driver will arrive. It was just set to 1 minute. Hello?! The driver took around 20 minutes to get to us. However, we actually like the driver because he was nice and his car was clean. He's even in our roster of trusted taxi drivers now, especially during our late night outs (sorry, we like having coffee and chika too much, haha!). There was no surcharge. 

The second time I used the app, that's when I had problems. I was at the Alakaria 3 building when I requested for a taxi. The app got me one and I waited. I decided I had to call the driver just in case. Good thing I did because the taxi driver informed me that he has passengers! Uhmn, so why take my request?! So I canceled the ride and requested for another one again. This time, upon giving me the details of the driver who responded, I immediately called him only to be told that he's stuck in traffic and that he's a bit far from where I am so he couldn't come to me. Again, why take my request if that's the case?! I guess the drivers need to be more educated about how the app works. 

PROS 

Handy; can be used anytime, anywhere 

Complete information of the driver and car (with photo!) 

No additional fees in using the app 

Sleek, professional-looking app 

Available for download on iOS, Google Play, Samsung, Windows, and Web 

Stores usage history (so we can call back the driver again if he's good) 

More cars than Smart Taxi

CONS 

Location in the map is not precise (the sample above shows me several buildings away from where that locator is pointing)

Time of arrival is not precise (even far from the given estimate)

Drivers lack the knowledge in using the app

No visible sign that it is an Easy Taxi (I made the mistake of entering one taxi that stopped; it just so happens that they had an almost identical plate number!) 

Smart Taxi is the second taxi booking app that I have on my phone. It was created by the AiiA group in Lebanon. It aims to serve the Middle East and is now operating in Beirut and Riyadh. This application allows users to get accredited licensed cabs in just two clicks.

'The smart way to get a taxi'

I used it one morning to go to work because again, my trusted drivers are busy and I was already running late. The app itself is not that pleasing to the eyes because it has too many information (including a pixelated logo!) and colours up front. The map is more detailed though. It shows the street name in English and Arabic. It also shows the number of taxis are within your area. You will be required to sign up before your first use.

STEP 1: Press taxi. | STEP 2: App finds a taxi.

When you press "Taxi" it goes directly to work by scanning and looking for an available taxi. It has a "find taxi in your area" and shows that it's already obtaining the details of the taxi it's going to send you. In this app, it only shows the taxi code and the kind of taxi. What's nifty about this app is that it shows you where exactly the taxi is, even providing the route the taxi will use to get to you. It also shows how many minutes before it arrives and tell you to prepare if it's just one minute away.

STEP 3: Taxi gets assigned, you follow on the map, and wait.

On the first time I used this app, it got me a taxi immediately and showed me where it was. It also followed a route highlighted in yellow. Every time the taxi moves, it shows a tiny blue dot and shortens the line. So I got to see where precisely the taxi was! Even when it's stuck on the traffic light, I knew because it's not moving on my screen. When it got near my place, I received a notification to prepare. The taxi appeared promptly in front of our building at the same time it says so on the map. Coolio. However, the taxi driver must have forgotten to signal his device that I'm already on the taxi that it didn't record this trip and my arrow on the app kept on moving away from the designated pick-up point. Haha! The taxi driver was quiet and his car was clean. 

I tried the app again and it worked like the first time. I was picked up by the driver in the pick up location on the minutes that was shown in the app. The driver was a bit friendlier this time and he let me see the device they use for the Smart Taxi. He wasn't sure he understood everything about it though so he showed me a Smart Taxi brochure the company provided them. The third time I used the app, I was surprised to see the same driver picking me up (it did say on the app that it's the same driver based on the code). I'm just curious at the coincidence. Anyway, he seems an okay driver but I have a policy in riding regular taxis to not use the same twice. (That's just me.) 

PROS 

Handy, easy-to-use (in just two clicks!) 

No additional fees in using the app 

Precise real-time progress of taxi on the map 

Uses accredited, licensed taxi drivers (as stated) 

Stores usage history 

CONS 

Not sleek-looking app 

Only works in iOS and Android 

Doesn't show in photo how many taxis are in your area 

Incomplete details of driver and taxi on the app itself 
No visible sign that it's a Smart Taxi

Fewer taxis available compared to Easy Taxi

Between the two, I use Smart Taxi more often because it's more hassle-free and it shows the precise location and time of arrival of the taxi so I'm more in control of the situation (control freak!) but I appreciate the more detailed information that Easy Taxi provides when it comes to the driver and car. Here are the most obvious differences:

Showing the number of taxis around you.

When finding taxis, you get an immediate result on both. Easy taxi gives a graphic number of the taxis near your location while Smart Taxi gives a number (10 taxis out of their 548 taxis are near on the example above). Smart Taxi however doesn't show where those taxis are on the map.

Taxi driver and car details

Easy Taxi gives more information about the driver including the name, phone number, type of car, and the license plate. It even shows a picture if available. On the other hand, Smart Taxi just gives a taxi code and the type of car. Although they provide these details, I still want to see a very visible sticker of both apps on the taxis they're using so we can identify them easily.

The taxi apps in the city are geared more for the ladies because guys can just hail one from the street. I mean, they're strong enough to fend off advances and harassment just in case right? The advantage of using these apps is we get to know the drivers who are driving for us. Unlike before when we only have the license plate (sometimes we can't even see and memorize that immediately) and some random numbers inside the car we don't even know if they're real or working. When you use the app, you can just take a screenshot of the driver's info page and send it to your family or friends to inform them of your whereabouts. I can't say I'm 100% trusting the drivers or their cars but it's good to know I have a more secure way of riding a regular taxi cab when push comes to shove. And yes, you can haggle the fare before you step inside the cab or ask the driver to use the meter.

Here are some tips in using the taxi apps: 

- Request a cab 10 minutes (or more) before your intentional departure time to give the driver enough time to travel from where he is to your location. 

- If you see in the map that the driver tasked to pick you up is still a bit far from your location, cancel immediately and try another app. 

- It's rude to cancel the taxi when he's already in your pick-up point so cancel way ahead when you realise you need to. 

- If you don't like the driver that was tasked to pick you up for random reasons, say you changed your mind and pay him for his trouble in getting to your place. Or you can get in and have him drop you off a few blocks after. Hail another cab. (Always weight the situation and go with your gut feel). 

- Haggle fare. Just because you use an app doesn't mean you can't ask for a fixed fare before boarding the taxi. We all know fares here in Saudi Arabia are unfair (hello, have they seen how much gasoline costs here? These taxi operators!).

- Take a screen shot of your driver's and car's information and send to friends especially if your destination is far. 

- Don't get too friendly with your driver; some might take that on a different light. Be polite in answering questions (or just say Mafi mallum Arabi and he will get off your back.) Some drivers are genuinely friendly too so it depends on the situation and your mood for the day. 

- Know where you're going! Refer to our tips here. 

- Travel with friends as much as possible. Avoid going solo.

So there you go. I hope my review and experiences helped. I'm sure I forgot a lot of details still so just comment here or message me in The Pink Tarha's Facebook page for faster replies. 

There's another new taxi app called Uber Taxi but that's a different story. They don't use regular cabs for their service. And there's Careem too where you book a taxi in advance. I'll talk more about ithem next time. Stay safe on the roads everyone! Stay vigilant. ~ Sundrenched

Top 5 Skin Care Tips For Winter

I didn't experience the 0 degree weather in Riyadh this winter season because thankfully, I escaped to my tropical home country before the cold bit me. It's still quite cold in the desert nowadays with the temperature ranging from 10 degrees above. The mornings and evenings are the most harsh; I feel like I undergo botox every time the wind blows on my face. Not that I've tried botox, haha! It just feels like my cheeks are frozen and couldn't move (isn't that the effect of botox? Haha!). I feel for my skin but I don't really make any changes to my skincare routine in the morning thinking that the winter season will be short and will go away any time soon. 

Turns out I should pay more attention with my skin during the cold weather. And so should you. Here are some tips I got from Dr. Lilian Khan, Pond's Arabia's dermatologist and brand expert. She said that there is a need to change cleansers during winter because our skin is not that oily from the heat and humidity that summers bring. So a change of state needs a tweak in skin care regimen even for just 3-4 months, or as long as winter stays. 

1. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! 

All skin types will need moisturizers during winter - even those who have acne-prone skin. If you're suffering from acne, choose hydrating lotion and labeled "non comedogenic." If you have dry eczema prone skin, choose hypoallergenic non irritating moisturizer. The key to this is reading a product's label and choosing those which are specific to your skin type.

Moisturizers and creams

2. Wear sunscreen. 

The sun is always shining so don't think just because it's cold, that the sun has let up its powerful rays. Wear sunscreen whatever the season is. Wear sunscreen every day! A broad spectrum sunscreen that protects from both UVA and UVB with the recommended SPF 30 and above is still mandatory. A good option is Pond's Flawless White BB+ Cream with GenActiv formula that brightens natural skin tone. It provides both coverage and sunscreen.

A BB cream that works wonders.

3. Use milk. 

I'm not saying you buy milk from the grocery and use them to take a bath. Unless you're Cleopatra (or Gretchen Barretto), you don't need to waste as much milk. Just look for milk or lactic acid in the ingredients of the products you'll use and that's effective already to make your skin soft, smooth, and hydrated.

Kitchen skin recipes

4. Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate! 

Say goodbye to dry skin by using a nice honey and sugar combination (these stuff are easy to find in your pantry!). Honey acts as humectant and reduces inflammation and sugar, when massaged on the skin, increases circulation and acts as mild exfoliant. Use this mixture once per week to elbows and knees to make them softer and brighter. When using exfoliating tools like scrubs, rub mildly. 

5. Shower for 10 minutes only. Yes, 10 minutes only because even if you want to take a longer hot shower and bath because it's cold, the longer you take a bath, the dryer your skin becomes. Make sure that you use of water that is slightly colder in temperature on your last rinse. Also, use shower oils! They're a solution to dry, flaky, irritated skin. 

So there you go, simple skin care steps that will help you go through the cold, dry winter. Personally, I also carry with me a tube of hand cream all the time because my hands get really dry especially with all the washing it undergoes on a daily basis. Let me know if you have more skin care tips and we'll be glad to share them in our Facebook page. ~ Sundrenched

How To Apply For A Passport Extension In Riyadh

There was a time when I begin thinking that I am an employee of the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh. Seriously! Have you seen our entry on How To Renew Your Passports in Riyadh? It has over 100 comments that another page had to be made to accommodate more! Whew! The questions were getting more concrete and my replies are getting more obsolete. Who would have thought consular stuff are that complicated? I salute them who have extreme patience to go through each case/problem in the Consular Services section of our embassy. 

Anyway, just to set the record straight, I am not an employee of the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh. Neither are the rest of The Pink Tarha ladies. I mean I want to just to help our kababayans in Saudi Arabia. Ergo, The Pink Tarha blog. So I am not an expert and feel free to not believe me. I'm quite sure the embassy employees can answer all the questions you have. Sometimes, it's even in their website. And, you can always call them in their hotline: +966-11-4823559. Oh right, they're too busy to answer sometimes? Well, that's what "try and try until you reach your breaking point them" is all about. No, don't think they're ignoring you. No really, they are here to serve and help the Filipino people right? Right? ;) 

IMPORTANT!

In the meantime, I will unravel the mystery of extending your passports. I've received a handful of questions on this and even if I don't need an extension, I just have to research what this is all about. Just in case. 

So, you probably should know that you NEED to renew your passport nine months before its expiry date (quick, check your passports now!) because getting an online appointment is quite tedious. The earliest possible date of renewal might be two months from now. So be as early as possible in having your passport renewed. You cannot travel out of a country into another one if your passport is no longer valid for six months. For example, my passport will expire on October 2014 so I can no longer travel from the Philippines to KSA (or vice-versa) on May 2014. I will have to renew it as early as January 2014 to avoid hassles and stress. 

What if you have some emergencies and your passport is no longer valid for less than six months… or worse, your passport is already expired… what will you do? That's where an extension is granted. 

Passports extensions can only be granted in the following instances: 

1. Death in the family requiring the OFW and members of his/her dependent family to urgently travel to the Philippines. 

2. Medical emergencies requiring the OFW and members of his/her dependent family to urgently travel to the Philippines or another country for medical treatment. 

3. OFWs returning abroad with valid employment contracts processed by the POEA. 

4. OFWs going home on final exit visas. 

If you notice, all of the above are kind of in the category of "life and death situations". Why of course! Because giving an extension should not be as easy as 1-2-3. Remember that a passport is the most important ID you'll ever have (well, except for the iqama here in Saudi Arabia) and it shouldn't be taken lightly. So if you're going to another country just because you're visiting as a tourist and you handily forgot that your passport is already expired? Well, forget about your travel plans too! They won't grant an extension for you. (Hello? If you have a plan to go out of the country for leisure and pleasure, check your passport first!) 

You need to present proof of urgency when you apply for an extension. For example, for reason 1, a death certificate must be presented. For reason 2, a medical certificate. Valid employment contracts processed by the POEA or POLO, along with plane tickets with confirmed flights should be presented for reason 3. 

Reason 4 is what most of our kababayans are asking. Yes, you can go home to the Philippines on a final exit visa even if your passport is already expired as long as you get this extension. 

Now, there are conditions that will apply when an extension is granted. 

1. The extension shall only be done once and shall not be beyond 31 October 2015. 

2. The applicant shall apply for an ePassport at the same time the application for the extension is filed with the Embassy or Consulate. 

3. Payment of the consular fees for the extension of the passport and the application for the ePassport (SR 240). 

4. The extended passport shall be submitted for cancellation on the date of the release of the ePassport. 

*Those who are going on a final exit visa are no longer required to apply for ePassports. 

Those who will be applying for extensions of passport must make an appointment in the Philippine Embassy - Riyadh website (http://philembassyriyadh.checkappointments.com/). But if you are on a final exit visa, you do not need an appointment. You can go as a walk-in. I'm not sure for the other reasons but if you see that the earliest appointment available in the system will be two months away, then that defeats the purpose of your emergency need right? So I suggest you call the Embassy and inquire ASAP.

If you're not residing in Riyadh, what should you do? Well, check the schedule of consular outreach/embassy on wheels in your area. Now na!

Applying for an extension of your passport can also be considered as renewing your passport already (because uhmn, you wouldn't need the extension if your passport is still valid right?) so prepare the following requirements too:

1. Bring yourself because a personal appearance is required.

2. Original passport for renewal

3. Photocopy of passport (data page only: where your photo and details are)

4. E-passport application form (download here; answer it already!)

The Philippine Embassy in Riyadh is open from Sunday to Thursday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM. 

For general embassy matters, you can call +966-11-4823559, +966-11-4820507, and +966-11-4821577. For Consular Services (meaning passports, visas, etc.), call +966-11-482-3816. (This is the number you will call when the entry above didn't answer your question. ;)

Some helpful links:

Consular Outreach / Embassy On Wheels Schedule

How To Renew Your Passport

Make An Appointment (Renewal of Passport; both in Riyadh and EOW)

Consular Advisories and Updates

Extension on Passports (where I got the details above)

Consular Services Fees

Philippine Embassy - Riyadh

Diplomatic Quarter

Ummayah Abu As-Salat Street

P.O. Box 94366, Riyadh

11693 Saudi Arabia

FB: https://www.facebook.com/philembassyriyadh

Map (inside Diplomatic Quarter):

A marks the spot.

Top 5 Reasons Why Men Should Read The Pink Tarha

So there I was walking nonchalantly on an event when a woman suddenly came into my direct view and caught my attention and asked, "Pink Tarha ka diba?" (You are a Pink Tarha, right?) I normally get crazy shy during these kind of moments so I said Opo (Yes) in a whisper. The woman asked "Pwedeng mag-picture tayo?" Whoahhhh! Wait, wait. Is this some kind of a Punked! episode?! Hahaha! I wanted to hide under the table. The first thing on my mind was "Am I beautiful today?! Reputasyon ng Pink Tarha ang nakataya dito!" (It's The Pink Tarha's reputation on the line.) LOL!

Her husband, toting a camera, was with her so I and the woman (who I will not name here but really, she has my eternal gratitude) assumed that the husband would take our photo... but he handed the camera to a friend who was nearby and asked him to take our photo... the photo of the three of us with me in the middle. The woman looked at the husband and asked, "Kasama ka din?!" (You want to be in the picture too?) The husband laughed and said, "Syempre, reader din kaya ako!" (Of course, I'm a reader also.) I was supposed to burst out laughing but I maintained my simple smile (naks!) for the camera. I had a quick chat with the couple and said thanks after that. I was too shy to ask for a high five from the man and shout "You go, bro! You're the man!" after him. :P 

You cannot imagine how thankful we are to our readers!

It's very entertaining for us to know that men read The Pink Tarha. It's a given that most of our readers are women because our topics and status updates tend to sway their way but it gives us a different kind of high when we learn that the guys read us too. I mean, why would they?! Some of you guys might even be asking why should we?! Well, there are very VALID reasons why you should and here, let me help you in uncovering them.

1. Because you need to keep your bored wife unbored. So you had the opportunity to take your wife to Saudi Arabia but she finds herself bored. I don't know, maybe because commuting here is a problem, women driving is non-existent, persistent news of abuse and harassment are well, persistent... so she couldn't go out much. An unhappy wife makes a husband unhappy. So uncover all the possible means to keep your wife busy... and happy! First and foremost, give her the link to our blog, tell her to read our entries in making herself productive in the desert, and discuss the options afterwards. Now, if there's still no solution to your wife's boredom, tell her to message us. We reply and we welcome all kinds of questions so she just has someone to talk to (and someone to talk her out of this desert rut she's currently in). We tell you, she'll be happy in no time at all. Possible side effects would be spending too much time online and persistent nagging to go out to try out new restaurants and visit new shops. Don't say we didn't warn you! Also, unbored is not a real word.

In relation to reason number 1 is reason number 2... (for guys who already have their wives and children with them here in Saudi Arabia)...

2. Because your wife reads The Pink Tarha. And there is a need to relate to her. So you know what she is talking about. I think this is one of the main advantages you'd get from us. By reading The Pink Tarha, you'll know what they want or where they want to go next. Also, the next time they ask you to go somewhere in a random manner, you'll know who to blame and not spend your waking hour fighting with your wife for not telling you sooner. Also, the maps below our places/restos/shops entries can help you find your way faster. You know how most women are, right? One of these days, they will ask you to go at a place/store you haven't heard of and you'll wonder where they got that tip. And then, your wife will forget the directions on your way there and when that happens, you'll just go in circles. Eventually, you will blow your top off. So it's better to be ready yannow. Just in case. ;) 

Number 2 reason in simpler terms is Read The Pink Tarha so you can relate to your wife. Because you know, any additional reason to be closer to your wife is a winner in our books so go for it! 

For guys who don't have their families here or the single guys in general...

3. Because you need to be updated. Seriously guys, just because you're working hard for your families back home and toiling away in the heat of this unrelenting desert, you should be serious all the time. Don't you get tired of being serious and workaholic all the darn time? Have fun!!! (We mean clean fun, okay! No hanky-panky business over here.) You are entitled to some positive and good vibes and reading The Pink Tarha will give that to you (or we hope it does!). Also, our sale updates will tell you when and where to buy pasalubong for your families and friends back home. I swear there are some practical, relevant information in this blog that you can use in all aspects of life. Passport renewal? SSS contributions? Yup, we discusss these, ermn, serious stuff too you know. 

4. Because you have idle hours and you need to do something about those idle hours. Instead of wasting your time on nonsense websites, spend it on our blog! Haha! Reading The Pink Tarha blog is a good way to spend your time while waiting for your favorite teleserye. Oh yeah, you're not into teleseryes... right?!? Haha! Aminin. Or maybe you have nowhere to go to or no one to talk to or nothing to do during your day off. Maybe you want to laugh at the expense of another to tide your time away? Do it with The Pink Tarha. Go marvel at our ability to shop for hours and lie our way into thinking that it's only for "window shopping". Or wonder how we end up eating in restaurants all the time as if we don't know how to cook (uhmn me). Or find meaning into our unconditional love for shoes and travels. Or ask us any question too! (However, we do not accept any marriage proposals at this moment. LOL!)

5. Because isn't it obvious by now? We're funny (or we think we are). And you deserve a good laugh.

There are more reasons (wait for the second entry which might make more sense). For example, in certain highly unlikely random occasion, there would be that moment when your wife will stop someone in an event or in the mall and will ask you to take a photo with her/them. You need to know it's us. Or not. Haha! But who knows? Sometimes, we truly think that our lives here in Saudi Arabia is as random as we imagine it to be. Don't you? You need to be prepared. 

We always quip that real men not only wear pink, REAL MEN ALSO READ PINK. Because by reading The Pink Tarha, you become a man who understands women. And to us, that's the essence of being a real man. (Shucks, tell me where to sign up for a beauty pageant! I think I just gave an answer worthy of a crown! Hahaha!) ~ Sundrenched

PS. Girl friends, you need to forward and share this entry to your husbands! Pronto! ;)

LBC All Box Promo

Clothes, bags, shoes, perfumes, soap, chocolates… nope, they're not things you can find in my closet. They're things you can find inside a Balikbayan Box… the ubiquitous presence that 'goes' with every Filipino abroad, and back to the Philippines.

For us Filipinos , sending balikbayan boxes is not only a trend but a culture. If a Filipino residing or working abroad hasn't sent one balikbakayan box in his/her time overseas, his/her overseas life remains unfulfilled, haha. We OFWs in Saudi Arabia are known for sending a lot of balikbayan boxes filled to the brim with rubber shoes, clothes, chocolates, fragrances… and soap (yes, even the powdered detergent… because well, they're really cheaper here.) The cargo industry is thriving in the Middle East! 

As OFWs who work hard for the things we send to our loved ones in the Philippines, we shouldn't just settle for fly-by-night cargo companies that promise quick delivery at cheap prices but doesn't get the job done. Did you know that there are a lot of cargo companies blacklisted by the Department of Trade and Industry because apart from boxes and packages not arriving their destination, some arrive with dents or holes, or worse… incomplete and manhandled stuff inside? Tsk, tsk. Also, most cargo companies have a standard box they use and aren't flexible enough to receive various sized boxes. 

That is why, LBC came up with their latest Any Box Size Acceptance Promo where boxes of different sizes are accepted at special rates. LBC, known as the number 1 courier company in the Philippines with over 1,000 branches in the Philippines, opened its first branch in Batha, Riyadh on December 1, 2011.

LBC in Batha (quite obvious eh? :P)

With LBC's Any Box Size Acceptance Promo, even durable drums and oversized boxes are now accommodated. LBC Sea Cargo doesn't have a per kilometer charge, chargeable weight (no per kilo charge) bill of lading, and hidden charges. They offer free pick-up, door-to-door delivery and guaranteed weekly shipping. But get this… when you drop off the box (instead of having them picked it up in your place), you get a SR 15 discount!

(Click for larger version.)

You also get updated regarding your boxes' whereabouts via text alerts. This promo runs from April 1 until June 30, 2013. Prices apply to Riyadh only. LBC's Jeddah and Al-Khobar branches will open soon.

LBC also offers air cargo. For air cargo, they offer sending documents and packages for as low as SR50 and SR60 respectively. The heavier the padala, the lower is the per kilogram charge. (Item may be charged either by volume or by weight.) It doesn't have any per kilometer charge and ships to the Philippines twice a week. You can also send electrical gadgets like cellphones, tablets, and laptops!

Rates for air cargo.

Customers can also follow-up their packages by connecting online with LBC's customer service via LBC Livetalk. Just visit LBC's website or Facebook page for more information.

Now, if you can send a big drum home to the Philippines, what will you send? I'll probably send fresh camel milk or gasoline (because they're cheaper here right?!). Haha. Kidding, kidding. We're sure no matter what the contents of your balikbayan box are, they will bring smiles to your loved ones' faces. :) ~ Sundrenched

LBC RIYADH 

Store 14-16, Abi Alabass cor. Al Murshidi Streets 

(near Pinoy Supermarket) 

Batha, Riyadh, KSA 

T: +966547212962, +966536130643, 

+966-11-4012709, +966-11-4028369, +966-11-4091678 

LBC JEDDAH (opening soon) 

Store 175, Jeddah International Market (SARAWAT) 

Madinah Road, Jeddah, KSA 

T: +966508199437, +966543291624 

LBC AL KHOBAR (opening soon)

King Faisal Bin Abdul Aziz St. Cross A (near Ramaniya Complex beside Seven Eleven) 

Al Khobar, KSA 

T: +966508213741, +966543407283

How To Deal With Christmas in KSA

(or the non-existence of it...)

A few hours to go before Christmas! We all know how hard it is to be away from home during the holidays, especially when you're all alone in a land that doesn't even recognize Christmas. Here are our few tips to our kababayans in the desert of Saudi Arabia where December 25 is considered as a normal working day for every one.

1. Be homesick and do something about it. On ordinary days, OFWs tend to get homesick already but the level of homesickness goes up a notch during holidays when memories of you and your family enjoying Noche Buena come to mind. Acknowledge that you miss your family and friends. Acknowledge that you miss your holiday rituals in the Philippines. Don't deny yourself of these nostalgic yet happy thoughts. And then, call home. Or use Skype and Facetime to see your loved ones after your work. Greet family members and friends, wherever they are, a very Merry Christmas. That's what Facebook and Twitter are for. Of course the chances of you being envious of seeing them celebrating Christmas together in the Philippines might create another wave of nostalgia and self-pity but think of how happy they are and how you helped and caused this happiness. 

2. Always have the Christmas spirit in you. There's no Christmas in Saudi Arabia but you can always bring the Christmas spirit in you. Or at least, create it. No, we are not encouraging you to flaunt your Christmas decors and attend Christmas parties in isterahas... please don't! But here are a few ways on how to get into the Christmas spirit without getting yourself in trouble...

a. Listen to Christmas songs at the comfort of your homes or personal music players. Just avoid "Pasko Na Sinta Ko" and all the other sappy songs that will just make you tear up. Listen to the happy ones. Even Jingle Bells, if you wish, just to get you in that merry groove. 

b. Have an awesome dinner. Even if you're alone, indulge! And what's the very first indulgence that comes into mind? Food! Whether it be in a restaurant that you're trying for the first time or a restaurant that serves your ultimate comfort food... or in the comfort of your flats (because you can cook a mean caldereta or kare-kare or menudo), eat something wonderful and exceptionally satisfying. Have that steak for goodness' sake! Dinner doesn't need to have keso de bola or hamon. It just have to be something special that you don't usually eat or something that reminds you of Christmas Noche Buena back in your home country. You can even host a small dinner for your colleagues or flat mates if you want. All boys or all girls only okay? 

c. Decorate a small space in your room. Don't expect us to tell you where to get Christmas trees and Christmas decors in Saudi Arabia because well, we don't know and that's a little bit too out there. You can, however, print some stuff like greeting cards. Even shiny objects and glittery sashes are found easily in Abu Riyalin stores. You don't have to make it bonggang-bongga. One or two to cheer you up is okay. Light up some candles with peppermint or hot chocolate or pine scents (you can find them in Bath and Body Works) to create a simple holiday ambiance. 

d. Dress up. Red and green are just not the colors of Christmas and we would like for you to avoid these colors when going out tonight or the days around Christmas. Go for something glamorous like black and gold or silver. Don your embellished abayas if you like. Use a lot of accessories. Sparkles and bling bling tend to remind you of the holiday rush. Glam up your nails with glittery, metallic, or uber shiny polishes. Wear red lipstick! Wear something new!

3. Have gifts. You don't have to wrap them in Christmas-y wrappers! It doesn't even have to be big ones. A small special token is enough for your friends or colleagues (who can relate to the celebration, of course). It doesn't even have to mean "Christmas gifts." It can serve as friendship gifts or thanksgiving tokens. It can mean anything good and wonderful, with or without occasions. Stumped on what to give? How about books, frames, scented candles, lip balms, caps, etc.? I'm sure you have a lot in mind. Also, give yourself a gift! (Very important!) Buy something for yourself. Itching to get a new cellphone to replace your battered one? Or maybe a new camera? Or a new abaya? Whatever it is, give yourself a gift. You deserve it.

4. Make December 25 special. You don't have to treat the day as "Christmas" per se but why not do and try something new on this day? Here are some ideas:

a. Write a letter. Remember the days when email and text messages didn't exist? Handwritten letters are still nice. It still creates warm fuzzies in your stomach and brings up a lot of memories when your children used to send you ones. Write letters to them or to your loved one back home. 

b. Relive 2012 by making a collage or a list. It's so nice to reminisce the year that was. The highlights will make you proud and happy. The lowlights will bring a tear and a lesson.  

c. Get a haircut. A new hair style to celebrate? Why not! Book an appointment to salons or go to your trusted barber and get that much-deserve hair or nails service. Get a massage after work! 

d. Donate to charities and causes. Clothes for the victims of Typhoon Pablo, for instance. Or to our kababayans in Riyadh who are in need. Ask the Philippine embassy how you can donate and help! 

e. Get on that ride! Try Riyadh's entertainment centers like Star City and Al Hokair Land. The Pink Tarha ladies haven't been to these places but we'd looove to. 

There are a lot more of "new" things to try and activities to do. Be as imaginative and creative as possible. We support you! (As long as they're legal activities, of course! ;)

5. Be kind. This should be done every day but an extra dose of kindness on special days is not a crime. Smile at strangers (just don't smile like a maniac, haha!). Say hello to your tea boy and ask him how his day was. Give an extra tip to the nice taxi driver that brought you home or the waiter that served you cocktails. Share your lunch with a colleague. Pray for joy and peace. 

Saudi Arabia doesn't recognize Christmas and doesn't tolerate expats celebrating it so we'd like you to treat this day as normal as possible when in public. After all, Christmas, wherever you are, doesn't have to be flaunted to be celebrated. It's up to you how you celebrate this day and how you can translate the message of this special event in your lives. 

Be merry. Be jolly. Always. Happy holidays! ~ Sundrenched

How To Visit the UAE from KSA

Get a visa, of course! The thing is... are you eligible for a visa on arrival? Or do you need to apply for one before going? ;)

I'm sure most of you have read Eyecandy's Dubai entry and we've received a few inquiries regarding UAE visas. Some, we couldn't answer and some, well, we suggest answers. But here's a mini primer, which we hope can help you.

I also had the chance to visit the United Arab Emirates last April to attend my high school friend's wedding. I stayed mostly in Abu Dhabi and visited Dubai for a day (more on my trip on a later entry). The visa policy of the UAE is quite straight forward. Let me zero in on their policy about residents of GCC countries but are not GCC nationals. Ergo, we Filipinos living in Saudi Arabia (or any other non-Arab, non-Western expats for that matter). It's as simple as this:

GCC Residents who are not GCC nationals but who have high professional status such as company managers, business people, auditors, doctors, engineers, pharmacists, or employees working in the public sector, their families, drivers and personal staff sponsored by them, are eligible for a non-renewable 30-day visa upon arrival at the approved ports of entry. 

Did you understand it? Let's break it down a little further if it's still quite confusing. 

(Disclaimer: This analysis is based on our experience and understanding.) 

- What is a visa on arrival? 

This means that you're not required to apply for a tourist visa before you go to the UAE. You can just get the visa once you arrive in the airport. You don't have to go to the UAE embassy to apply for it (like what you do for a US or Schengen visa). You need to pay less than 200 dirhams at the airport of your entry for the visa.

- Who can get a visa on arrival? 

You can get a visa upon arrival only if you're a high professional (listed above) and it says so in your iqama. Those who are working as, say, engineers, but have 'drivers' in their iqama cannot get a visa upon arrival. Don't laugh. This iqama confusion and misrepresentation happen sometimes so better have your professions in your iqama checked.

- You are of a high profession and your family is going with you... can they also get a visa on arrival? 

Yes. As long as they are your eligible dependents (meaning, it says so in their iqama that they are your dependents). 

- Can we travel by land to the UAE?
Only if you're eligible for visa on arrival. Most tourist/visit visas which are released through travel agencies or sponsors should travel by air. From Riyadh, it's a 12-hour journey to Dubai on cars and buses. It's around an hour if you travel by plane.

- You are not of a high profession but you work in the public sector (ex. government hospitals), can you get a visa on arrival? 

Probably. Eyecandy's iqama states that she is a librarian and she works for a government hospital. She got a visa on arrival. A reader said they were medical secretaries but they work for a government hospital, they also got visa on arrival. To be sure, visit the UAE embassy in the Diplomatic Quarters (this is what E did) or call them in their phone number below. 

- What if you're not of a high profession but still wants to visit the UAE? 

You will require a visa before going and a sponsor for your visit. The sponsor will be the one to apply the visa on your behalf. Valid sponsors may be as follows: 

a. Hotels and tourist companies can apply, on your behalf, for a tourist visa (valid for 30 days), or a service visa (14 days), or visit visa (30 days extendable).

b. Airlines and airline handlers on behalf of their crew members for a 96-hour transit visa 

c. Other organizations based in the UAE 

d. Individuals (relatives or friends) already UAE residents may apply on your behalf. 

The easiest way among the four is the first option, especially when you have no family or friends in the UAE who can help you. Use an authorized travel agency in the UAE to apply the visa for you. 

When I was still clueless about all this process, I inquired via email in one of the travel agencies in Dubai. Here's what I gleaned on my email with South Travels JLT. (Disclaimer: The Pink Tarha is not related to South Travels JLT.) 

*This is for the visa valid only for 14 days. 

- They can process a visa request for $180 (per passport). 

- The visa they process is valid for arrival by plane only, NOT by bus. 

- Visa processing takes 3-4 UAE working days (take note that in the UAE, their weekend is Friday and Saturday). 

- Visa processing will start 10 days before the guest's arrival. 

- Submit the following via email attachment: 

* Clear copy of passport page with your personal information 

* Clear copy of iqama page 

* Colored passport size picture 

* Confirmed return airline ticket 

* Duly filled up application form (that will sent to you by the agency via email) 

- There's no guarantee that your visa will be approved, and immediately. And like any other visa application, yours can also be denied on various grounds. Visa approval is still subject to UAE Immigration Rules and Regulations. 

South Travel JLT answered all my questions regarding the visa process and they were really helpful. However, it turned out I wouldn't be needing their service.

I'm quite sure you will still have lots of questions. You can read this primer from UAE Interact, which we used in this entry. And you can inquire with various authorized travel agencies in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Most of them answer inquiries. But to be really, really sure, you can also visit the UAE Embassy here in Riyadh to inquire. Don't be afraid to ask. 

United Arab Emirates Embassy in Riyadh 

Diplomatic Quarter Abu Baker Al-Karakhi, 

Q. Omer Bin Omaiah Street, 

P.O. Box 94385, Riyadh, 11693, KSA 

T: +966-1-4881227

E: uaer@cyberia.net.sa


NOTE: To all those who are asking if their job positions in their iqama will entitle them to a visa-on-arrival, we cannot say for sure. We can not confirm this so please, call the UAE Embassy for proper verification. We don't want you to get in trouble just in case we say yes, you are entitled to it, and end up having problems when you arrive in the immigration.

How To Spend Your "Staycation" in Riyadh

The eid vacation is upon us! Where are you going? Visit our revamped travel page for some suggestions. We're pretty sure a lot of our kabayans are getting ready to hit the outdoors as far from Riyadh as possible. Al-Khobar and Dammam, anyone? Or Jeddah perhaps? Some are going out of Saudi Arabia. Sampaguita Pride is currently on a Europe trip with her family (such a lucky gal) while the rest of The Pink Tarha ladies will be spending our eid vacation at home. At home. Yes, seriously. 

Eyecandy and I have been out of the country months ago so we're lacking money to fund more trips. Shoegarfreeruby is going to the Philippines this September so she's saving up for that. All in all, we're really stuck in the house for the time-being. Well, as we always say, find positivity in your situation. So for those who will be hanging out their houses with no plans of going out this week, here's how to have some awesome "staycation" (stay-at-home vacation)! 

1. Take naps. 

More time to snooze!

Lots of it, if you want! You can even sleep through your vacation and we won't take it against you! Haha! You deserve it. Also, the idea of staycation is feeling the feeling of being on a vacation by deviating from your daily routine. You can disregard your chores for 2 days or more and just eat and sleep; the same things you can do while staying in, say, a hotel or a resort. Of course you have to get to your chores after but at least you get to relax, have fun, and enjoy your time first. You earned this free time  this year so... own it!

How To Send Money Back Home

We know a lot of you already know how to remit money to your home country but we are quite forgetting that a lot more expats are new in Saudi Arabia and a stream of new blood is coming in almost every day. They might require assistance and information on such processes. We were surprised when one of our kabayans emailed us on how to send money to the Philippines and we all went "Oo nga naman pala!" We haven't written a how-to on this topic. So here it is! :)

First and foremost, you need to have an iqama (residential permit) to do this. It will be easier for you to sign up. Every thing in your Riyadh life becomes relatively easy when you have your iqama already. I signed up for an account in Enjaz a few months ago. It was my first time to do so.

REMITTANCE CENTERS

Enjaz is one of the popular remittance centers in Riyadh. A lot of Filipinos and other nationalities go to Enjaz and I'm not surprised when I saw branches packed to the brim during salary day. Fortunately, I am living near the Suleimania branch. It's in front of the Military Hospital and beside Blue Ribbon Bakery. I went on a Thursday morning and it was already packed with people. 

1. Fill-up a form that will ask you about your important information (name, address, birth date, etc.). Check the form if you've filled it up completely.

2. Present your iqama (residential permit) along with the form to the person behind the computer desk. He'll input your information in their system and photo copy your iqama to go along with your form.

3. Receive your Enjaz card with a smile (yes, with a smile dapat... bawal ang masungit! Hehe!). Check your card if it contains the following information: Name, CIF No., and Center No. They will all be filled by the Enjaz representative.

4. To remit money to the Philippines, just fill up a form for bank transactions. The remittance fee now is SR16. You can also send via Western Union for SR25. Their is a smaller form that only asks for the receiver's full name, country, and amount. Present the forms along with your Enjaz CIF Card and money to the window. Ladies have a separate line and window.

That's it! Easy as 1-2-3! They also keep track of who are you sending to, especially when you have a few accounts or persons in mind. It gets easier and faster when you come the next month and the next... These remittance centers offer cash payouts, credit to account on all banks, and door-to-door cash delivery.

I haven't opened an account with Telemoney but I'm guessing they have the same process as Enjaz. If you'll ask me what's better between Enjaz and Telemoney, I can't answer you. It probably depends on what's nearest to you. Haha. (That's what my father said. He has both Telemoney and Enjaz cards so...) Here's where to find branches for ENJAZ and TELEMONEY.

How to Register as Overseas Absentee Voters

When I was on vacation in the Philippines last November, my sister handed me an envelope that arrived a few months before. It contained my absentee voter's ID. Wow, finally, another government ID that I can present whenever an official ID is needed (hindi na lang passport ang official ID ko, yey!). In fairness, I didn't expect it to arrive at all. Looking at it, I remembered the day I dragged my father to register for the absentee voting here in Riyadh and the day I get to vote again, It was my first time to vote outside the Philippines. How time really flies. 


It was in 2010 that we elected the Philippines' president, vice-president and 12 senators. What do you think of their performance now? Do you like it? Abhor it? No comment? If you want to have your say on the next legislative elections on 2013, the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia has opened the OAV Registration last November 12, 2011 and it will go on until October 31, 2012 . If I were you, I won't wait until the deadline to visit the embassy to register. Register now! Habang maaga pa at wala pang pila, gooo! :)


Here's how (madali lang 'to, promise!):
1. Visit the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh on Saturdays to Wednesdays during working hours (8:00AM to 5:00PM) or Thursdays (8:00AM to 12:00Noon).
2. Bring your passport or iqama for registration.
3. Look for the registration booth and follow their procedures.

You can only register if you are:
1. a Filipino (syempre)
2. at least 18 years of age on the day of the election (May 13, 2013)
3. not disqualified by law
4. registered overseas absentee voter with approved application to vote in absentia
* If you're a registered absentee voter who didn't vote in the 2007 and 20120 elections, you need to register again because your name was already removed from the National Registry of Overseas Absentee Voters.

Fast and simple! You'll be finished in no time at all. Read my experience in 2009. It's probably more or less the same.


Once registered, you'll be able to vote in the senatorial and party-list representaive election. For more details and information, contact Attaché Maribeth T. Ferrer at telephone number 01-480-1918.

Here we are again convincing you to register and vote. You might wonder, "Why would I waste my time in going to the embassy to register and then to vote in 2013 for a government that doesn't exactly know I exist or a doesn't take care of me or is corrupting my country?" First and foremost, this is not a waste of time. Like what I said to my father when I was convincing him to register in the OAV, we are given the right to vote. We should claim it! This is one of life's free things that gives us the power to decide what we want and who we want to lead and serve us. It does sound nationalistic (chos!) but it's true. Your government doesn't know you? Well, it's time they should! It doesn't take care of you? Well, it's time to choose people who will! It's a corrupt government? It's time to clean house then! When you register, vote, and see the performance of the people you voted and did not vote, you can brag of their achievements as leaders or can tease your father (who voted differently) for voting such a corrupt official. Hahaha. 

Even if we're far away from the Philippines, we are given a chance to 'say' something about our government. The OAV gives us that voice. REGISTER NOW! :)

How To Keep Your Skin Moisturized in the Desert

I really love beauty products especially natural and organic ones. I also like to try new things on my own. I make my own facial masks and color my own hair. *yes, it's actually easier than I thought.*

I was already a lotion junky in Manila. Even though it's really humid I would still wear lotion. Why? Because I've seen the long term benefits of moisturizing your skin. My grandmother had the smoothest skin and even at 50, her skin was still supple. She didn't have a lot of wrinkles and if she did, it was only visible when she smiled.

The skin is the largest and most exposed organ in our body and we should remember to take care of it. Beautiful skin really glows and makes one look youthful. And I would gladly endure the lagkit factor (though I don't really feel it) if it will ensure that my skin will age gracefully.

When I moved back to Riyadh a few years ago, I had to slowly change my beauty regimen to fit the climate. You see, in Riyadh, regardless whether it's summer and winter, it's always dry... really dry... so I really had to double my efforts to take care of my skin. Here are my tried and tested natural remedies to dryness.

For the body:

To lock in moisture, I use olive oil! Yep, olive oil. Right after I shower, before I towel dry, I lather on some olive oil. When I'm done, I use the excess olive oil on my face and massage it for a minute. Then I towel dry and put on some lotion on my body. I find that lotion glides on smoother when I do this and it keeps me from re-applying.

Virgin Olive Oil at our local bakala

Don't forget to wear lotion with SPF 15 to protect your skin from sun damage! This is actually the key to taking care of your skin. I usually apply a mix of sunblock and lotion on my arms, the back of my neck, my feet and wherever else my skin is exposed to the sun. This is the best way to maintain your fair skin and avoid further sun damage like darkening, sun spots and sun burn. Wa-epek lahat ng whitening creams if you don't use sunscreen. Do remember that even though it's winter, you still need the SPF. The sun is still there... no matter how cold it gets.

For the face:

After I wash my face, I apply a mix of Aloe Vera gel, SPF 15 lotion and my liquid foundation. This combo helps prevent makeup from looking "caked on". During the evenings, I use Vitamin C serum or Aloe Vera Gel before hitting the sack. On weekends, I prepare a yogurt facial mask for deep moisturizing. ^_^ (I use full cream natural yogurt, it's only 1sr per cup at any bakala or grocery store.)

For the hair:

Oh let's not forget our hair! Conditioning is really important if you regularly blow dry, curl, iron or color treat your hair. And because I color my hair, it's really important for me to keep it moisturized to prevent split ends. I use shampoos and conditioner specifically for color treated hair. Apply conditioner from the middle down to the tips to avoid product build up on your scalp.

Almarai natural yoghurt for 1sr.

On the weekends, I use a mixture of yogurt and olive oil on my hair and leave it on for at least an hour. Then I wash it off. The yogurt hair mask has the consistency of coconut milk minus the smell. Plus natural yogurts are cheaper here as compared to buying gata at the Pinoy market.

So what are you waiting for? Bring on the TLC!

xoxo,

Sampaguita Pride