Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Surviving Philippines


images (11)The second-largest archipelago in the world, with over 7000 tropical islands, the Philippines is one of the great treasures of Southeast Asia. Philippines is a vivid tapestry that reflects its varied cultural inheritance. And despite the poverty that afflicts much of the nation, the Filipinos themselves are among the most ebullient and easy-going people anywhere. The island country of Philippines is a melting pot of different cultures owing to the diversity among the people that inhabits the country. An integral part of every countries culture is its code of conduct that is followed strictly by all and is expected to be followed by every visiting tourist. The Etiquettes that one practices and preaches not only shows the character of the person but they are like mirrors in which you can have a glimpse of the cultural life of the country. Philippines is also one such country with its own set of etiquettes and behaviour. Just like how it is when you travel to any other country, there are several things you shouldn’t do if you want your journey to the Philippines be fun and hassle-free.

 

images (13)1. Don’t out rightly refuse anything offered when visiting a Filipino home. They get very offended.

2. Don’t speak too loudly and avoid being too honest and frank.

3. Do not complain about the poverty or dirt.

4. Don't point with your finger as this is considered rude.

5. Do not act like a colonial overlord in an sovereign nation of the Philippines. You are the newcomer- you must adjust. Just like you expect the foreigners to adjust to your country's ways.

6. Don't be offended if everyone in the provinces thinks you are a 'kano'. or somebody will cheerfully greet you like 'Hi,Joe!'. American people left its mark on the national psyche.

7. Do not lose your temper in public. Filipinos hate to be embarrassed in front of others and our culture of revenge is strong, so you might end up being the one that is sorry.

8. Don't get involved with politics. Foreigners are prohibited from joining public demonstrations. You get caught and deported.

9. Don't speak negatively openly about the Catholic Church.

10. Do not automatically trust other expats who live there with business deals. They may cheat you more than the locals would.

11. Don't flash your money or anything of value. Do not wear flashy jewellery and clothes.

12. Do not take all your credit cards, ATM cards and big wads of money outside.

13. Do not leave valuables in room, including identification papers, passports, or anything else of importance. Use the hotel safe.

14. Don't arrive early for a social occasion. It is considered polite to arrive half an hour late. Do not be late for a business meeting.

15. Don't expect people to call you on the phone, too expensive. Text is the way to communicate with you.

16. Don't overstay your Visa.

17. Don't listen to anyone who tells you its unsafe. Just be cautious.

nodrugs18. Avoid traveling in the Typhoon season.

19. Do not get involved with drugs. Possession of drugs can lead to imprisonment. 

20. Do not carry any medicines without a prescription.

21. Do not get isolated in remote areas especially after dark. images (4)

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