I have a major guilty pleasure confession to make: I’m in love with autumn with the passionate frustration of someone who lives in a tropical archipelago close to the equator (i.e., it doesn’t exist in my part of the world). Much as the concept of 365 days of summer seems like a very aspirational thing for people who don’t enjoy our six seasons (I say the Philippines has six seasons: Hot, hotter, hell, rainy, rainier, and holy hell we’re flooded in), I’ve enjoyed (and am currently missing) the slight chill in the air, the delicious wind, the gorgeous change in colours, the wonderful smell of spice… All of which exist far away from Manila.
I think the blissful emotions I attach to fall have something to do with being with family and friends in the US. As Facebook Memories kindly reminded me recently, I spent this time last year in Manhattan and San Francisco. I remember that having been surrounded by loved ones, great food, and great drinks just as festivities were about to begin (it’s not a coincidence that two of my favorite holidays happen in autumn, by the way: Halloween and Christmas) was such a treat.
Alas, because of work (#adulting), I’m stuck (clearly against my will) in Manila this year…
BUT.

Photo courtesy of Starbucks Philippines
I found a way to reminisce my holiday memories right here. I just found out that Starbucks Philippines is bringing in my ultimate American indulgence (which I swore I’d never tell anyone but I got too excited to keep it to myself): PUMPKIN SPICE LATTES.
Available starting 25 October 2018, Starbucks is bringing in my favourite fall drink in hot, iced, and blended formats. There’s really nothing like the flavours of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to really usher in the autumn spirit.

Photo courtesy of Starbucks Philippines
On that note, I’m off to swaddle myself in a cozy sweater and go to my nearest Starbucks for a cup. Oh who am I kidding, it’s hotter than hell here. Still, I’m off to get myself a PSL on Thursday. Cheers!
*Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Lattes are priced at: Tall – P155, Grande – P165, and Venti P180
Very special thanks to Ms. Jo Ann Ramos of Starbucks Philippines