04/06/2023
POV: After traveling to the Philippines🇵🇭 for the last one month, here a few things I have learned:
▪️One month in the Philippines may not be enough to fully explore all its wonders, but it has been enough to make me fall in love with this country. I have experienced the warmth and hospitality of the locals, who welcome strangers with open arms and share their stories and traditions with pride.
▪️Everywhere I went, I was welcomed with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. The locals were always eager to strike up a conversation, ask me about my background, and share their own stories and recommendations. I felt like I was part of a big family, even though I was a stranger in their country.
▪️The Philippines has some of the most stunning natural landscapes I have ever seen, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery to behold. I was constantly in awe of the beauty of this country, and I felt privileged to be able to witness it firsthand.
▪️Traveling to the Philippines has been a transformative experience for me. I have learned to appreciate the simple joys of life, such as a smile, a song, or a sunset. I have also gained insights into the culture and history of this country, which has a complex mix of indigenous, colonial, and modern influences. I have participated in festivals (fiesta in barangay), and dances that express the creativity and spirituality of Filipino people.
▪️I have experience riding jeepneys, tricycles, and buses which are the most common modes of transportation and they can be a bit challenging for first-time visitors, they can be crowded and confusing, too. However, they are a great way to experience the local culture and meet new people, and I also learned to appreciate the adventure and unpredictability of it all and to embrace the slower pace of life.
▪️Food is a big part of Filipino culture, and I enjoyed trying out different dishes and delicacies. Some of my favorites were Adobo (chicken meat stewed in vinegar and soy sauce), sinigang (sour soup with vegetables and fish), halo-halo (shaved ice with fruits and sweets) and coconut 🥥 - I ate a lot of these when I was there😁. Eating with your hands is a common practice, too.
When you visit the Philippines, be open-minded and adventurous, and embrace the unexpected. The Philippines is a place of contrasts and surprises, and you never know what you might discover along the way.