Yup, some of the other commenters have pointed that out as well. I totally forgot about that trait of Filipino people. Family ties are so strong compared to America! 😭I wish the same for America! Thanks for commenting! Merry Christmas and God bless!
Reason Filipinos travel in groups is not always financial. It's more like not wanting to exclude anybody which could offend them. Like you invited so and so but not so and so. Filipinos don't want to exclude anyone.
I didn't think about that but now that you mention it, you're right! I've actually encountered that mentality with my wife and her family. Interesting cultural observation, thanks for pointing that out!
yeah when you invite your best friend she invites her friend too and her friend too invites her boyfriend and this boyfriend also invites his best friend so and so on now it becomes a company that your best friend is already the platoon leader just like that. Everyone wants to join and prepare for the costs 😂😂😂
@@kilometer6712 This is definitely unacceptable even in Filipino standards. I hate it when I invite a friend but that friend would invite other people who barely know.
@@kilometer6712 That's what I do now actually. Better to save my money to buy something nice for myself than spend it on a party or pay for other people's travel expenses.
Because mostly in the US, they use woods on their bathrooms as base floor and walls. Unlike in the PH, we use cement floors and blocks so we're not prone to rot and termites even if it gets wet.
Filipino here. Sari sari stores being everywhere makes sense when you realise it's basically easy money. Since you can basically sell anything, anyone who has the will to do it can easily start their own sari sari store (with the right paperwork, ofc). Plus, if you sell convenience goods (i.e canned food, condiments, spices, drinks, etc.), it is bound to get good money, especially in rural areas. Also, sari sari stores and karinderya are not the same. Sari sari stores would the unbranded Filipino equivalent of 7-Eleven, meanwhile Karinderyas are just eateries, places where you can eat or buy ready made foods and drinks, the poor mans fast food, if you will.
I'm a Filipino introvert but I'd still prefer to travel with a group. One reason is well... being an introvert. I find it a bit hard to talk to strangers especially if I'm not familiar with the place. So I kind of rely for other people in the group to do the talking and I just follow.
I like your observation of the water. Yeah, we tend to use much water in the CR. Also, in the Philippines, the idea of space or personal space does not exist. Everyone is always close by and anyone can jump in into your private life which could be frustrating at times.
The reason why you get stared at is because you stand out and look different from us Filipinos. Such attention is given you mostly in the rural areas but not so much in the big cities or metropolis. You may find it uncomfortable that many will want to befriend you if you're an introvert. But you will find most people helping you out when you do need a helping hand.
Yup, that is true. I do receive less attention in Manila, although, because I carry a camera everywhere I go I still get asked for pictures and whatnot haha! But that's ok I enjoy it. Thanks for commenting and Merry Christmas!
Not all Filipinos are Hospitable…but most of them are. Just be careful whom you trust…when it comes to money…just be careful. Paying their debts is not their strongest points. They are good to borrow money and forget about it.
Filipino Barbers!!!! I've had such great haircuts at the baranggay barbers versus barbers at the mall. I'm glad you mentioned it. Here in the US, I have a hard time finding a good barber where I'm happy with the cost I pay for the cut.
They're amazing! A few of them I've talked to say they learned how to cut hair from UA-cam. Amazing that professionally trained people in the US can't compete with a UA-cam education in the Philippines! Thanks for commenting! ☺
I am a Filipino working overseas and lt always surprised me when ever I am in Philippines there is no place like Philippines. Mabuhay Philippines God Bless You
Pretty much on point 👍. That's why I love my countrymen and my beloved Philippines 🇵🇭. Can't wait to visit again. Watching from San Francisco CA 🇺🇲 ✌️.
Item #8 is accurate. Bathrooms in the Philippines are usually a small/cramp space in the house to save space. Some only has the loo, no sink and sometimes has not water line. Meaning you need to fetch buckets of water from a water source. Water spiling out of the bucket will get you bathroom flr wet so a drainneeds to be put up. Also in the event of floods. Drains in bathrooms helps.
Yeah, thanks for mentioning that! When my wife and I lived in Baguio we had big barrels of water outside our house because we had no running water in the bathroom or kitchen. So I know exactly what you're talking about, it's a simple life. Thanks for your comment! 😁
Also, the average Pinoy would use water instead of toilet paper. Miss the mark = wet floor. Also, the tropical climate breeds stuff that's better washed off with water.
I suggest you also try to stay/visit the Visayas, particularly the provinces. Although Filipinos are roughly more or less similar in culture, our differences kinda cause some conflicts sometimes. The Visayan people are the best and worst aspects of Filipinos combined. Even we Visayans sort of admit to that. But, we are also kinda "humble" though I don't think that is the proper term, maybe "subservient" (?) to the Tagalogs. But, at the end of the day, we recognize a fellow Filipino and so we still help each other out. Thanks for appreciating our country and culture/s!!!!
I've been here since February as well... but the opposite of your locales. Cebu City and Manila so far have been interesting to say the least. Your observations are spot on. I will say that the Karaoke rules have never been applied anywhere I have been... very loud and all night long. The PH, by far, has been the noisiest country I have ever visited yet they have the nicest people anywhere. I'm learning to deal with the noise :)
I appreciate your honesty.... Filipinos love Foreigners simply because their different physically and socially.... Just like cats their curious about this difference....But hey we don't bite or bit up foreigners so don't be shy or get scared....And if I may add maybe our locals in the provinces wants to test their English proficiency that's why they want to talk or interview foreigners.... Overall we feel proud and happy when foreigners visit our country to show our kindnest and hospitality!
I agree that most of us love travelling or hanging out in huge groups. I guess it's because we generally love getting together. We love celebrations because these are occasions when we can reunite with relatives and friends we don't often see. But like you, I'm also an introvert so I don't exactly look forward to family reunions or group travels. This is something you have to bear being an introvert living with a Filipino family.
True, I can relate! I've had to adjust for my wife's family here in the Philippines, as they all travel in groups like that. Although I wish we Americans would adopt that mentality around the holidays. Sometimes American holiday parties can be a bit underwhelming compared to Filipino ones! Anyway, thanks for commenting, my introvert friend!
I am a Filipina and I enjoy traveling alone because I find the tranquility, independence and privacy without bothering everyone. If I would be traveling in groups it is 3 to 5 persons from my closest family members, acquaintances or friends. It is overwhelming when too many people are with you and not everyone has the same mindset as to what is the definition of a quality of time we give to others.
Yes, that is exactly right! I feel the same way. When you're alone there's no friction with deciding where to go or what to do, not even a discussion. You just go do it! Simple! Thanks for commenting! ☺
Filipinos would like their friends and family to enjoy travel with them. That is hitting two birds with one stone. Enjoy the place and be with your friends and family.
You are right. Depends on individual. Me too don't like to travel in big group because you cannot stay long where you are. You have to follow the decision of majority. So sometimes I love to be in a group and sometimes alone or just two or three.
same..its relatively safe here to travel, since we're from here anyway so we know do's and don'ts..wouldn't recommend for female foreigners to travel by themselves tho
These are good observations Asher. There’s depth, context, and effort to understand how the social and cultural Filipino nuances work together. We appreciate you for simply being here. Enjoy your stay and Happy Holidays!
However, if you are in Metro Manila especially in the big cosmopolitan areas Filipinos don't mind any foreigners but simply smile at you. It's different in the province where local people really look at you and get curious about you. Sometimes the relatives of your Filipino partners just barge in to your privacy, they insist going to your place which Americans values appointment visitation. Some get disappointed if you insist your being alone for a while. Don't worry as the time goes by they will understand you better and you too will learn how Asians extend their over hospitality especially Filipinos in the provinces.
Thank u so much for your admiration and liking the Philippines. It's famous for its hospitality. Enjoy your stay and be Merry.Yoy are Most Welcome ! Have a Happy Holidays ! God Bless you In your everyday Journey. Keep going. 🙏🙏🙏🙂🙂
New sub! You got me at your very low key and humble way of speaking. Your observations are quite on point. On #9 - that is the Filipino diaspora. Starting in the 60s - it was professional brain drain to the US mainly: nurses, engineers, doctors, etc....on my Dad's side, 5/6 went stateside. He sent 2 nurses, 2 engineers, 1 lawyer. The main and still reason today is economics. Lack of opportunities plus our deeply ingrained colonial mentality from Spain and US. Skilled and English speaking, the Phils is the largest exporter of Nursing services globally made evident during the pandemic. The 70s saw the boom in the ME and Phils was one of the 1st countries tapped for their large highly skilled workforce. Not only nurses and engineers were going but the skilled construction/mechanical workforce were being recruited. With the noveau rich in ME, HK, Singapore, domestic helpers were also needed. Manpower agencies sprouted locally recruiting all over the country. Our 2nd biggest asset: we speak/understand English: both a bane and boon to us. This mass exodus continues to this day extending to almost all industries. The moniker OFW was born. Phils is also the biggest exporter of maritime skills. We also hv the most number of maritime schools, graduating thousands. Our skills and essentially pliant/easy going disposition and command of English made Filipinos a most sought after nation for the maritime industry. Filipinos are a highly educated people. But our inability to create jobs for them is causing this continuing brain drain and necessary diaspora. You would find us Filipinos everywhere in the globe - in the coldest places in the Scandinavias, in far flung places in the Africas and Central Asia, in many countries in Europe and Asia, in any place and locality where we think there is work to be had. And that is the saddest fact of being a Filipino. This diaspora has created a very deep and basic issue: the break up of the Filipino as a family.
@@solkalibri1376 was replying to the author who i assumed wanted to delve into why many of us hv ofw kin. I may hv assumed wrongly. Its not as simple as how he makes it out to be.
Wow! Thank you for this amazing breakdown! VERY insightful! I never thought of speaking English as a possible detriment to a country but that totally makes sense. Because the Filipino is so valuable internationally, he is not able to directly aid in the development of his own country. I've had conversations with my wife about the severely negative effects of overseas jobs on Filipino families. It's really heartbreaking to see. Praying that issue will one day be resolved and the Philippines will continue to push itself into an ever brighter future! Thank you for commenting my friend, and God bless! 😊
There is a deeply ingrained and sort of sinister reason for diaspora to continijsly happen and its has a lot to do with geopolitics and how some foreign countries in cahoots with the oligarchs, exploit Philippines as a nation for their own benefit. US govt being one. China through their immigrants and the former colonizers Spain. It has created a new breed of Filipinos or mestizos, who though may have been born and raised in the Phil have a totally different mindset, outlook than the older generations as far as colonial mentality and on the far end spectrum, patriotism or love for country is concerned. The present socio-economic structure that has been established since the early founding years of the Phil republic is no different then the current state of affairs Americans are experiencing under their government as far as their quality of life relative to how their govt is treating them is concerned. But this is an open secret where everyone by now are woke but are completely powerless and to some extent clueless on how to overturn this ancient malady.
Ang problema if wala ng pilipino sa abroad baka mag crash ang economy ng mundo, sabi nga ng isang professor na kahit 1 month lang na walang pilipinong mag tratrabaho babagsak ang mga economia ng bawat bansa
The haircut comment is really spot on. We don't realize it as much while in the PH. But in most Filipino communities abroad, there's always a person who offers to cut hair for fellow Pinoys because going to a salon is very expensive! :D
#9 is more or less correct. The majority of the economic activity is concentrated in the major cities (as for many other countries I would say) particularly in the national capital region. The provinces and its towns, especially the very rural ones, will have a lower standard of living and therefore getting by is comparatively easier even without a family member working abroad. With that said, probably every Filipino family (if not nuclear then extended) is almost guaranteed to have at least a member who works abroad!
The sari-sari store, laundry shops, water stations and carinderia (community eatery) are the primary go-to places of working Filipinos, parents and students. Always Conveniently near and reliable. There are also errand boys and girls willing to do wet market buying, shopping and cooking for a minimum service fee. Foreigners earning dollars can live comfortably in the Philippines if they only know how.🇵🇭✌️🤟
@@miaya3898 That goes for some fastfood but homecooked-meals are more fresh, safer and adjusted according to your taste especially when you're seeing how it is done and a lot cheaper if you know the basic market prices which is easy to access online. Just search for current prices of basic commodities so that you can estimate more or less how much to spend on daily food. All you need are some basic utensils, an inexpensive ceramic induction stove and a daytime cook for hire. You can learn a lot from the helper or cook and do it yourself later. You save a lot that way. As for dry goods, i also do a lot of online shopping but some items like clothes and shoes needs to be fitted and i want to see the actual quality too. You also can hire daytime room cleaner every one or two weeks and just buy a decent and inexpensive washing machine with a dryer for your laundry.👍✌️🤟
As for your 8th observation, it doesn’t apply to all. Maybe in the household your living in but in our household all bathrooms should have glass divider or shower curtains to keep the non shower area dry all the time. It’s hard to clean when too much molds accumulated lol it’s not a Filo thing. Depends on the social status and bathroom etiquette(regardless if you’re rich or poor) of the persons your with :)
I agree with him on this one. I’ve been to many bathrooms here in the Philippines. My cousins live in gated subdivisions/villages with nice houses. They even have bathtubs. Still their bathrooms all get wet 😂 and without shower curtains.
@Lou lou Filipinos who moved and are living in Western countries are not used to wet bathrooms. I grew up in 🇨🇦 n d 🇺🇸. So for me when I had my home built in the 🇵🇭 I made sure that it’s a typical Western design home.
Yeah, that's true. Social status does play a big role in that one. It seems like people with a bit more money will sometimes have more western bathrooms. If I could choose, personally I would choose the wet bathroom!
Same thing happened to me when I visited the Philippines with my Filipina girlfriend. Lots of her female cousins would slap her and then tell her something to the effect of, your boyfriend is really handsome, where in fact, I'm actually pretty average in my family. They keep calling me pogi or gwapo, which flatters me and I got beet red afterwards. I'm introvert myself and people tend to stare at me when I walk outside and smile so I smile back. The problem is, they think I'm rich when I'm not and so I tell them I'm still studying and I'm a student so I don't have that lot of money.
As a Filipino introvert travelling in a group, it's okay for me if I'm close with the people like family outings or with my group of friends. It's actually fun because you can be yourself with them. It's uncomfortable and I usually don't come if I only know one or two of the people in the group.
In addition to your #8 regarding bathrooms in the Philippines; Bathroom doors here all swing in to open. No matter the size of the bathroom where you actually hit the toilet bowl or the vanity when you try to open the door swinging in. In the U.S. a small bathroom door ALWAYS swings out to open unless the bathroom is big enough for the door to swing in to not hit any fixtures inside.
I never thought about number 8 being weird but now that you mentioned it, yes, that's true. Banyo is usually structured as a barhroom and a toilet in one.
Wow North Carolina was just near me, I spent a year as an Intern in West Virginia. I have friends that worked in Raleigh. I could totally relate with the differences. Miss West Virginia tho lovely people out there, They were so hospitable of us as there weren’t much Foreigners in my county 😁
Though odd for foreigners, having a drain On the bathroom floor (besides the shower/tub/sink spaces) is an advantage when you clean your toilet floor with water as it can easily be drained through them. Also if you spilled liquid on the floor, same story. But i do agree with you that bathrooms are ideally kept dry when not in use. Floors inclusive.
7:07 For number 8, I wanna quote Davy Jones from Pirates of the Carribean: "You afraid to get wet?". Philippines is known to be hit by a lot of storms, literally tanking for the rest of South East Asia. It's impossible to not get wet that Schools don't mind students using slippers to get into school due to the amount of rainfall that we receive yearly.
#8 is definitely a thing here, I have lived here for over 4 years now and no matter how much I bring up that issue the bathroom is always wet, we have a mop and squeegee in the bathroom to clean up the water but it's still wet and they just use the rug, which is just as bad if not worse because they just put the rug back like it's not soaked.
Good observations! I've seen sooo many videos/vloggers just focusing on featuring places to go to (fun and recreation). This one is very different amongst and I kind of liked it. Nothing thrills me than seeing foreign visitors see our differences but still appreciates and respects it.
We Filipinos are a celebrating people. Our calendar is littered with holidays on top of many local and personal celebrations like fiestas and birthdays. Unthinkable for us to celebrate without families and friends.
Eating with fork and spoon. This info I picked up is history related. Back in the day, when The Philippines was colonized, Filipinos are skillfully using machete, bolo, etc. So the colonizer change the fork and knives set up into spoon and fork. But using it to scoop rice is a good observation:)
About number 10; We treat everyone as FAMILY. This is a country where humanity manifests within seconds of a tragedy. This is a nation of people that are always ready to lend a hand, or die for the oppressed, particularly children. So, what you need to worry about here is that moment when people becomes aloof or doesn't want your presence. When that happens, you're in trouble, big time. Am also a sort of introvert myself. Just learn how to enjoy, and deal with their attention. You'll be fine here, wherever you go 😊
These are fair and insightful assessment of our difference with America, especially with how different our bathroom is. I guess since the toilet and the bath area are not separated, the bathroom will get wet. Regarding spoon and fork, few people, mostly lefties, have their spoon on the left side and the fork on the right side. As long as you eat with spoon and fork here, you should be ok.
I think you get a lot of attention because aside from being a foreigner, you're actually a good-looking foreigner. Trust me, not every Filipino wants to take photos with every foreigner we see (as what you've experienced). Enjoyed your vid, very insightful👍 and polite. Glad you're enjoying the country 😊
I feel number 7 even if I'm Filipino. While I make myself available to socialize in road trips, I also make it a point to have a vacation where I travel alone to sort out my thoughts.
Welcome to the Phl. I worked and lived in USA for over 20 years and am back here to retire to the house in the town where I was born. Nothing like it. The feeling of being back here is so tremendous and fulfilling. Enjoy the adjustment period of say, at least a year.
Filipinos travel in group and mostly family it’s just they don’t like to be branded as indifferent to others so as much as we could we would like to bring along all the families no one is left behind and it shows how close the families are.
I definitely agree with everything you said. I love that you mentioned the level of difficulty to succeed here, it's just totally true. Happy Holidays!
'just can't wait to become Pinoy again, after being away for 11 years! Though one thing I think you missed in your list: we pinoys just simply love to "pungko" (squat/sit) in any corners of the streets and chat! But it's a good list. Thanks for reminding me I'm still a true Pinoy!
@@mrccurri13 that's so not true. I see a lot of westerners hunker down or crouch. People who can't do it are just overthinking and doing it wrong. Actually doing an exercise squat instead of just bending the legs at the knees as if picking something up from the floor or when tying shoelaces, etc.
For #10. • From looking up the internet why: It's because you're a foreigner. Filipino and Americans have big difference in their complexities. From height, facial structure, skin tone, and tons more. You're definitely gonna stand out as an American around a country who's average height is far smaller than your country's. • Some of my own guess/opinions why: Philippines also doesn't have much foreigners roaming around it. As you've said yourself which is a matter if fact, filipinos are so close to each other and that applies as we grow too. So when we see a person who's physically different from us in real life will definitely catch our attention. Nothing negative meant, btw. Filipino beauty standards also includes tall height and lighter skin tone. An American physique immediately checks those two. I also think you're good looking! That definitely adds a lot to it. Anyways I hope this could answer some of your questions. And lastly, Manigong Bagong Taon! Happy New Years Day! 🎉🎊🥂
Tact is not a practice among Filipinos. I had to learn this quickly when I arrived in the States.Boundaries are quite blurred so I totally understand what you meant. Filipino humor is very different and difficult to ascertain by a foreigner. You’ll learn a lot along the way.But for sure, what I truly miss living here in the States is the Filipino heart. It is just different particularly in the West!
you are very correct Mr. Curri. it is very difficult to make money in the Philippines. that is why anywhere you look you see more people in dire need of food, clothing, and shelter. despite the challenges we do smile a lot. it is more fun in the Philippines. Mabuhay !
That's true! I always hear, in America, there is more money but more stress. And it's true! Many Filipinos lead simple lives but happy ones. Mabuhay friend! Merry Christmas!
Happy holiday to you and family there in the island and here in states! You’ll definitely a change man! When you comes back here in the US waking up in the morning you’ll miss the people for sure And morning alarm clock the chickens 🐔🐔🐔
Thanks so much, friend! And yes it's gonna be strange living in America again once I get back! I know I am going to miss the Philippines so much 😭 Thanks for commenting, always love seeing your comments! God bless! 😁
Well, i would partly disagree with you on the travel in groups part. There are 2 types of travelling in groups here, its the friends or barkada, work buddies type and the family type. Both types travel to genuinely have fun, i think that's always the primary reason since we are very much rooted in strong family ties. We always find it important to share experiences with others. If u havent noticed, even birthdays are celebrated by the community, not just the family. For barkada trips, the split of costs would be secondary. Family trips are usually shouldered by one or two of the family members. But yeah, I am an introvert too. I just make sure to recharge for weeks after these trips. 😅😅😁
BTW.. luv how natural and observant you are. That makes you different in other UA-cam. You are not eager to gain follower per se. Love the value in your videos.
As a filipino, what you said in #8 is surprising. I always thought bathrooms are supposed to be wet. i didn't know American bathrooms don't have drains on the floor. But yeah, all bathrooms in the Philippines is designed to be wet. I used to live in a house where the bathroom is quite big, maybe about 15sqm, and as a kid I used to spin round and round on the floor just for fun since it's slippery with water.
Thanks for pointing out how much we love to travel in groups. I really did not understand it growing up as a kid of why we travel with so many relatives, even when we go to one country. I grew up in Australia, but I lived for at least 12 years in Philippines as a kid. There are some parts of my life which is just a part of my culture, but barely understand it. It is so nice to hear it from a foreigner's perspective myself. Mum is quite a bit of an introvert more than I am or an outsider and I noticed that whenever she travels, she only travels with whoever she wants at that time, even taking a trip just by herself or her husband. Most people in Philippines here have at least one family member who works overseas to fulfil their family responsibilities. Mum did that herself when she was 21 till now that I'm 28. She always buy things for her siblings and my grandma to send home.
As a Filipino myself I loved to travel in group.It's not really because of financial reason but because the more people are together,the merrier.And I've tried traveling with just 2 of my friends and it's no fun at all.The teasings and laughters are just very good to hear when it is from a large number of people.
#8 Water water every where... yes I've noticed that too. I moved from the suburbs of LA to Talisay, Cebu and all of these are quite a bit of what I find different AND ENJOYABLE about my new happy life here in the Philippines. And I love the warm rain here. I can go out in the rain (or get caught without an umbrella of rain gear) and get totally soaked and it is just cool and refreshing. Even in LA it was just too cold to ever enjoy going out in the rain. Looks like you also found your sweet asawa here. Filipinas are such wonderful, traditional, housewife and mommy types. You being from the more rural are might have had better experiences with American women but I find my own kind harsh. Many of us guys from the USA are just fed up with American females who don't know how to be real women and are coming here to the Philippines to find good wives.
As a Filipino, I find it very concerning how you see our women as 'real women' because they're housewives while American women not because they aren't.
Number 9 is an astute observation. Overseas workers are our main source of foreign currency reserves i.e. dollars. Our country is not a large exporter of goods that generate foreign currency reserves that is why we rely on remittance from our loved ones overseas to keep our economy turning. Unless we find other sources that generate more foreign currency reserves or the US dollar will cease from being standard currency of the world, the overseas worker diaspora will not change.
Thanks for sharing your experience in the Philippines it might not good for others for reason but you are speaking now your CC experience you see how friendly Filipinos are other nationality don’t understand we hope you enjoy being in the Filipino commmmunity
Thank you for your observations regarding my country, the Philippines. We've been living in the US since 1975 and the last time I went home was in 1986. The Christree in your background makes ne feel homesick. In the meantime, be safe, be healthy and enjoy the Philippines 👍
Wet bathroom floors not only happens in the Philippines. I observed this among my Asian friends (Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Thai, Indonesian, Malaysian, Afghanistan etc) and African friends, too!😅😂
Ewwww it sounds dirty!!! I have to clean the and bleach the bathroom every week and everything is CLEAN ( toilet, sink and jacuzzi or bathtub) Sorry for the comment but I’m very particular about CLEANLINESS! A Filipina from NY 🇺🇸
Just came across your insightful video. Always good to learn and understand variances in different cultures. I am born and raised in the Phil, before we migrated. But Pinas will always be home for us. I did enjoy your observations. You may have to add our concept there of "Filipino time" where due to whatever circumstance being on time to an event or appointment maybe a figure of speech. Unlike abroad, time punctuality is really strict. As to the sari sari stores, yes they abound everywhere. My family had one, a rolled into one variety store, eatery, pharmacy. At that time it helped a lot supplement our family's income plus it helps provide service and convenience to the locals. It also becomes a hangout area or meeting place. But those were the days, as my parents retired and most of us kids migrated the ones left has no perseverance to continue it. But growing up with that family owned business, it did teach me how to value proper use of money, having good camaraderie with neighbors and visitors. It was not easy for sure, it will cut into ones social life preferences 🙂 You mentioned about your preference to travel alone or in smaller groups. That is understandable, we all need our own quality time too. But just to caution you though, always be careful. Safety for your own well being should be paramount wherever you are. Whenever we go back to Pinas, we always try to re-learn some stuff as well. Oh, you might also want to add later on, if you wish to update your observations..our modes of transportation used. I have to admit on a very hot and dry day, I wish we have a tricycle here. On your observation #8, yes many family bathrooms are often too wet. In our home before, we do provide a dedicated bathroom slipper or the traditional "bakya" which is like wooden clogs so one can enter the wet area safely. Bathrooms there are often on groundfloor level anyways, so drains are already added at construction time. I do not know if you have tried to travel elsewhere there. Some public toilets are even much harder to use, there is just no toilet seat, just a hole at the floor to do ones business. But that is a public, off road toilet area. Homes are more equipped. The locals in provincial areas are just curious towards you. It is indeed a good and bad thing in terms of privacy, but when you travel alone there, they can also be your security protection. We do have local barangay security personnel there, have you noticed that? We do not have those in the US. We all now rely on installing our own security cameras here, sadly, these days, crime rates are on the rise..anywhere. So be safe, and enjoy our festive Christmas season there.
To each is own... I'm from the Philippines, but I love those quaint towns here in America. I missed Pinoy smiles... But here in the US, I also learned to hold the door When leaving or entering a building. In the Philippines, the sari sari stores are all over the place. But here in the US, we have small businesses but they have to be at one place. What we saw in UA-cam about big boxes shopping places here in the US doesn't mean it's everywhere. We also have a designated spot for it. We have town or buildings ordinances here that everyone should abide. We can't just build huge buildings in a town unless the people living in that town approve it. But this is what I know here, We have many, I mean many beautiful places and towns that are very well kept and preserved. Most people here don't want to wake up and see huge buildings at their backyard. I want to be able to go to a city and enjoy what a city has to offer but at the end of the day, I want to go back home when there is peace and quiet. Where I don't have to travel somewhere and find solitude.
When I was just a little kid, my family had a sari- sari store and most of our customers were PC trainees and regular army. There was a training facility across our subdivision and a small private airport. There use to be a big field there. Now in 2023, our house is still there although we don’t own it , the subdivision still there but the airport , open field got bought by a hotel resort corporation . I don’t use spoon not unless I eat with rice lol
Yeah, I am introvert and I like to stay alone, it is very tiring if you keep smiling to please people. People in the Philippines want to see foreigner in their hometown or just around to be friendly or always smiling otherwise they think that you are not enjoying your stay, or you are rude or condescending ✌️
LOL #8 and wet bathrooms. I grew up in the Phils, so when I visited my grandparents in the U.S., I was dumbfounded to find carpeting in the bathroom. Yes, we slosh that water everywhere. In Austria, I encountered linoleum in the bathroom, and had to ask a work colleague whether or not it was okay to get it wet.
They are all over barangay for convenience for the people. You can walk in few minutes. Spoon is to scoop the rice which you cannot do with fork. Plastic bag is like plastic cups in the USA.
Yup, that is a good point. Rain is such a regular thing in the PH compared to some places in America where maybe it only rains twice a week or even less. Thanks for commenting! 😁
The bathroom was designed to have a pale with tabo. That is why even the shower room has a faucet below the shower. I also don't want to have this kind of design in the bathroom now because it really tends to get wet and I hate that. But that's how Filipino bathrooms are designed.
we are obsessed with water. my mama always used to wet the concrete floor of our front yard, even up to the road because during the summer, you will melt! but the bathroom floor thing is out of lack of space. there's usually no divider between the toilet and shower and by shower i mean a tabo and bucket so that explains the wet floor. but we have toilet slippers! no rugs inside
It really is normal to meet Filipino living abroad. we officially have 10million overseas filipino worker, and it said there are another 10 million more that are not counted. So with a population of 110milion that is normal to see filipino with relatives abroad. That is also why filipino are hospitable too, we experience being a visitor abroad too so we know how to be a visitor.
On no. 9, you are partly right but that is just small %. If you live in Metro Manila, there are millions who are upper middle income to rich who have businesses, steady stream of income from work, leasing and on line businesses. These people do not rely on remittances from abroad.
Yup, that's true! I have seen a couple other foreigners in this area but they seem to mostly stick to themselves. Thanks for your comments friend, stay safe and God bless! 😁
New subscriber here..l agree to all the things that u had said.About rich families who have a relative working abroad or living abroad ,the reason behind it is because of the sacrifices of an Overseas Filipino Worker to work in far away place so that he/she could give his//her family a good life(bec.they were poor before)..in short..it's all about love for the family.
LOL. The bathroom being wet is a pet peeve of mine. Bathrooms having drains is because Filipinos clean mostly with soap and water. We scrub our bathrooms from top to bottom with soap and water, unlike in the US. That's the first thing i noticed about American bathrooms. You do not have drains for when you scrub the floor. But then american bathrooms have a separate shower area compared to Filipino bathrooms. Our bathrooms are small, and there is no separate area to shower. That's why they are always wet (constantly). But good job on making this very informative video. Thank you for appreciating our culture and our country. I live in the US now and feel really homesick. One thing that I also miss there is the palengke. Usually the palengke area is a one-stop shop area where you can get anything and everything you need. Unlike here, where everything is spread out all over the city. And it's also relatively safe to be out and about late at night there. We used to live in San Fernando, Pampanga. I love my hometown. Especially as it is Christmas time. Missing all the festivities there. I'm also missing that silly bee lately (Jollibee). Stay safe and best regards. Merry Christmas.
Thanks so much for your kind words and thoughtful comment! And yes, I LOVE the palengke! I cannot tell you how much I hate shopping in America because of how many stores you may have to drive to. Here, I can just ride my bike to the palengke get what I need, and be done! Simple! America take notes! Also, I hope you get to visit your home soon and enjoy some Jollibee! Merry Christmas, my friend! 😁
@Asher Curri LOL. We're planning to drive to Texas to visit a Jollibee in Houston. Sort of like a Christmas gift to the kids. Seen on UA-cam that chicken joy was voted the best fried chicken in America. They're comparing it to Popeye's. Popeye 's ok, but I'm Pinoy, so... LOL. Regards to the fam and enjoy the holidays there.
Sari sari stores are very convenient for the locals because majority don’t have cars. When I was growing up in the 50’s to 70’s , sodas were sold in bottles. The Filipinos still observe hospitality in the United States so as the karaoke. We travel together with the other members of the family. We are brought up to extend our help to the distant relatives.
hope to see on your next video the top ten differences between the place you stay now to the other places in the Philippines in the visayas and mindanao from an american perspective
I think for the attention part since some areas in the Philippines are homogenous with how many people have the same skin and body type due to their way of life or because that place is full of the same family tree. Which in most cases are in rural areas, it will come as a shock to them to see someone different especially to foreigners because they're used to seeing and interacting with the same people. So they give you attention out of curiosity. The downside of this one tho is that you get alienated, but don't worry once you get used to their way of life and their culture they'll treat you like one of them.
About the water in CR we have notice it, i think its because of most filipinos shower straight on the bathroom floor with tabo and its always wet because of that.
Filipinos are always in groups because that's what makes them happy, that's why they are always smiling and laughing. Try to smile or laugh by yourself and the people around you would surely think that you're crazy., To be with the group is one of the secrets why Filipinos are happy people. Got it?
We have a lot of sari sari in Chelsea, Massachusetts because of the Hispanics living in the city. I bought a beer from a window own by a Cuban lady she sold the beer for $2 bucks not sure with other States but for sure my town has Sari-Sari stores and Convenient stores like 7/11 etc.
WOW, I did not know such a thing existed in the US! That's really cool, thanks for pointing that out. 7/11 is also such a Filipino hangout spot, especially for late-night snacks haha 😅 thanks for commenting!
@@mrccurri13 my Puerto Rican friend that told me about the Cuban lady and we went there. I was fascinated. Take Care. By the way there's more illegal businesses that i can't mentioned in my neighborhood. Haha
![Дон ДОН, Алаудинов и СБЕЖАВШИЕ из под Курска ахматовцы 😁 [Пародия]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/dEfCf5IK26Q/mqdefault.jpg)
One of the reasons why Filipinos love to travel in group because of the sense of family-tight vibe where everyone is enjoying the trip.
Yup, some of the other commenters have pointed that out as well. I totally forgot about that trait of Filipino people. Family ties are so strong compared to America! 😭I wish the same for America! Thanks for commenting! Merry Christmas and God bless!
dont forget the ambagan
We like bonding. Reunions. Catch-up.
Reason Filipinos travel in groups is not always financial. It's more like not wanting to exclude anybody which could offend them. Like you invited so and so but not so and so. Filipinos don't want to exclude anyone.
I didn't think about that but now that you mention it, you're right! I've actually encountered that mentality with my wife and her family. Interesting cultural observation, thanks for pointing that out!
yeah when you invite your best friend she invites her friend too and her friend too invites her boyfriend and this boyfriend also invites his best friend so and so on now it becomes a company that your best friend is already the platoon leader just like that. Everyone wants to join and prepare for the costs 😂😂😂
@@kilometer6712
This is definitely unacceptable even in Filipino standards. I hate it when I invite a friend but that friend would invite other people who barely know.
@@iloveplumpgrannies174 then don't invite anyone jn your party or travel 😂
@@kilometer6712
That's what I do now actually. Better to save my money to buy something nice for myself than spend it on a party or pay for other people's travel expenses.
Because mostly in the US, they use woods on their bathrooms as base floor and walls. Unlike in the PH, we use cement floors and blocks so we're not prone to rot and termites even if it gets wet.
Filipino here. Sari sari stores being everywhere makes sense when you realise it's basically easy money. Since you can basically sell anything, anyone who has the will to do it can easily start their own sari sari store (with the right paperwork, ofc). Plus, if you sell convenience goods (i.e canned food, condiments, spices, drinks, etc.), it is bound to get good money, especially in rural areas.
Also, sari sari stores and karinderya are not the same. Sari sari stores would the unbranded Filipino equivalent of 7-Eleven, meanwhile Karinderyas are just eateries, places where you can eat or buy ready made foods and drinks, the poor mans fast food, if you will.
I'm a Filipino introvert but I'd still prefer to travel with a group. One reason is well... being an introvert. I find it a bit hard to talk to strangers especially if I'm not familiar with the place. So I kind of rely for other people in the group to do the talking and I just follow.
Ahh yeah, that's a good strategy! Thanks for sharing your perspective! Merry Christmas! ☺
I could never survive travelling alone without embarrasing myself or being awkward to strangers ...
I like your observation of the water. Yeah, we tend to use much water in the CR. Also, in the Philippines, the idea of space or personal space does not exist. Everyone is always close by and anyone can jump in into your private life which could be frustrating at times.
The reason why you get stared at is because you stand out and look different from us Filipinos. Such attention is given you mostly in the rural areas but not so much in the big cities or metropolis. You may find it uncomfortable that many will want to befriend you if you're an introvert. But you will find most people helping you out when you do need a helping hand.
Yup, that is true. I do receive less attention in Manila, although, because I carry a camera everywhere I go I still get asked for pictures and whatnot haha! But that's ok I enjoy it. Thanks for commenting and Merry Christmas!
Igop (handsome) din si kuya kaya ganun🤣
You don’t need to to follow how Filipinos use their utensils…just do what can help you eat better.
I agree about haircut here in the U.S.
Not all Filipinos are Hospitable…but most of them are. Just be careful whom you trust…when it comes to money…just be careful. Paying their debts is not their strongest points. They are good to borrow money and forget about it.
Filipino barbers are artist, they are pure talent because there is almost no school to make one a barber or a hairdresser.
That's right! I didn't think about that but makes sense. I wish it was the same in America haha 😅 thanks for commenting!
Filipino Barbers!!!! I've had such great haircuts at the baranggay barbers versus barbers at the mall. I'm glad you mentioned it. Here in the US, I have a hard time finding a good barber where I'm happy with the cost I pay for the cut.
They're amazing! A few of them I've talked to say they learned how to cut hair from UA-cam. Amazing that professionally trained people in the US can't compete with a UA-cam education in the Philippines! Thanks for commenting! ☺
I am a Filipino working overseas and lt always surprised me when ever I am in Philippines there is no place like Philippines. Mabuhay Philippines God Bless You
Pretty much on point 👍. That's why I love my countrymen and my beloved Philippines 🇵🇭. Can't wait to visit again. Watching from San Francisco CA 🇺🇲 ✌️.
Hope all is well in California! Thank you for your comment! God bless 🙏🏼☺
Item #8 is accurate. Bathrooms in the Philippines are usually a small/cramp space in the house to save space. Some only has the loo, no sink and sometimes has not water line. Meaning you need to fetch buckets of water from a water source. Water spiling out of the bucket will get you bathroom flr wet so a drainneeds to be put up. Also in the event of floods. Drains in bathrooms helps.
Yeah, thanks for mentioning that! When my wife and I lived in Baguio we had big barrels of water outside our house because we had no running water in the bathroom or kitchen. So I know exactly what you're talking about, it's a simple life. Thanks for your comment! 😁
Also, the average Pinoy would use water instead of toilet paper. Miss the mark = wet floor.
Also, the tropical climate breeds stuff that's better washed off with water.
I suggest you also try to stay/visit the Visayas, particularly the provinces. Although Filipinos are roughly more or less similar in culture, our differences kinda cause some conflicts sometimes.
The Visayan people are the best and worst aspects of Filipinos combined. Even we Visayans sort of admit to that. But, we are also kinda "humble" though I don't think that is the proper term, maybe "subservient" (?) to the Tagalogs.
But, at the end of the day, we recognize a fellow Filipino and so we still help each other out.
Thanks for appreciating our country and culture/s!!!!
I spend 9 months in the Philippine Province last year and these observations are very true. I came back less introverted for sure. Nice video.
I've been here since February as well... but the opposite of your locales. Cebu City and Manila so far have been interesting to say the least. Your observations are spot on. I will say that the Karaoke rules have never been applied anywhere I have been... very loud and all night long. The PH, by far, has been the noisiest country I have ever visited yet they have the nicest people anywhere. I'm learning to deal with the noise :)
I appreciate your honesty.... Filipinos love Foreigners simply because their different physically and socially.... Just like cats their curious about this difference....But hey we don't bite or bit up foreigners so don't be shy or get scared....And if I may add maybe our locals in the provinces wants to test their English proficiency that's why they want to talk or interview foreigners.... Overall we feel proud and happy when foreigners visit our country to show our kindnest and hospitality!
I agree 100%
I agree that most of us love travelling or hanging out in huge groups. I guess it's because we generally love getting together. We love celebrations because these are occasions when we can reunite with relatives and friends we don't often see. But like you, I'm also an introvert so I don't exactly look forward to family reunions or group travels. This is something you have to bear being an introvert living with a Filipino family.
True, I can relate! I've had to adjust for my wife's family here in the Philippines, as they all travel in groups like that. Although I wish we Americans would adopt that mentality around the holidays. Sometimes American holiday parties can be a bit underwhelming compared to Filipino ones! Anyway, thanks for commenting, my introvert friend!
The more, the merrier.😄
I am a Filipina and I enjoy traveling alone because I find the tranquility, independence and privacy without bothering everyone. If I would be traveling in groups it is 3 to 5 persons from my closest family members, acquaintances or friends. It is overwhelming when too many people are with you and not everyone has the same mindset as to what is the definition of a quality of time we give to others.
Yes, that is exactly right! I feel the same way. When you're alone there's no friction with deciding where to go or what to do, not even a discussion. You just go do it! Simple! Thanks for commenting! ☺
Filipinos would like their friends and family to enjoy travel with them. That is hitting two birds with one stone. Enjoy the place and be with your friends and family.
You are right. Depends on individual. Me too don't like to travel in big group because you cannot stay long where you are. You have to follow the decision of majority. So sometimes I love to be in a group and sometimes alone or just two or three.
same..its relatively safe here to travel, since we're from here anyway so we know do's and don'ts..wouldn't recommend for female foreigners to travel by themselves tho
These are good observations Asher. There’s depth, context, and effort to understand how the social and cultural Filipino nuances work together. We appreciate you for simply being here. Enjoy your stay and Happy Holidays!
Thank you so much for your kind words! Much appreciated and I am happy to be here! Merry Christmas! ☺
Do you know that karaoke was invented by a Filipino.
Yep he is dofferent from the other click baity vloggers
However, if you are in Metro Manila especially in the big cosmopolitan areas Filipinos don't mind any foreigners but simply smile at you. It's different in the province where local people really look at you and get curious about you. Sometimes the relatives of your Filipino partners just barge in to your privacy, they insist going to your place which Americans values appointment visitation. Some get disappointed if you insist your being alone for a while. Don't worry as the time goes by they will understand you better and you too will learn how Asians extend their over hospitality especially Filipinos in the provinces.
Filipinos tend to be clingy to foreigners -,-
Thank u so much for your admiration and liking the Philippines. It's famous for its hospitality. Enjoy your stay and be Merry.Yoy are Most Welcome ! Have a Happy Holidays ! God Bless you In your everyday Journey. Keep going. 🙏🙏🙏🙂🙂
Filipinos are just fun loving people and very sociable.
You are right about that! Thanks for commenting again! God bless and stay safe ☺
New sub! You got me at your very low key and humble way of speaking. Your observations are quite on point. On #9 - that is the Filipino diaspora. Starting in the 60s - it was professional brain drain to the US mainly: nurses, engineers, doctors, etc....on my Dad's side, 5/6 went stateside. He sent 2 nurses, 2 engineers, 1 lawyer. The main and still reason today is economics. Lack of opportunities plus our deeply ingrained colonial mentality from Spain and US. Skilled and English speaking, the Phils is the largest exporter of Nursing services globally made evident during the pandemic.
The 70s saw the boom in the ME and Phils was one of the 1st countries tapped for their large highly skilled workforce. Not only nurses and engineers were going but the skilled construction/mechanical workforce were being recruited. With the noveau rich in ME, HK, Singapore, domestic helpers were also needed. Manpower agencies sprouted locally recruiting all over the country. Our 2nd biggest asset: we speak/understand English: both a bane and boon to us. This mass exodus continues to this day extending to almost all industries. The moniker OFW was born.
Phils is also the biggest exporter of maritime skills. We also hv the most number of maritime schools, graduating thousands. Our skills and essentially pliant/easy going disposition and command of English made Filipinos a most sought after nation for the maritime industry.
Filipinos are a highly educated people. But our inability to create jobs for them is causing this continuing brain drain and necessary diaspora. You would find us Filipinos everywhere in the globe - in the coldest places in the Scandinavias, in far flung places in the Africas and Central Asia, in many countries in Europe and Asia, in any place and locality where we think there is work to be had. And that is the saddest fact of being a Filipino. This diaspora has created a very deep and basic issue: the break up of the Filipino as a family.
@@solkalibri1376 was replying to the author who i assumed wanted to delve into why many of us hv ofw kin. I may hv assumed wrongly. Its not as simple as how he makes it out to be.
Wow! Thank you for this amazing breakdown! VERY insightful! I never thought of speaking English as a possible detriment to a country but that totally makes sense. Because the Filipino is so valuable internationally, he is not able to directly aid in the development of his own country. I've had conversations with my wife about the severely negative effects of overseas jobs on Filipino families. It's really heartbreaking to see. Praying that issue will one day be resolved and the Philippines will continue to push itself into an ever brighter future! Thank you for commenting my friend, and God bless! 😊
There is a deeply ingrained and sort of sinister reason for diaspora to continijsly happen and its has a lot to do with geopolitics and how some foreign countries in cahoots with the oligarchs, exploit Philippines as a nation for their own benefit. US govt being one. China through their immigrants and the former colonizers Spain. It has created a new breed of Filipinos or mestizos, who though may have been born and raised in the Phil have a totally different mindset, outlook than the older generations as far as colonial mentality and on the far end spectrum, patriotism or love for country is concerned. The present socio-economic structure that has been established since the early founding years of the Phil republic is no different then the current state of affairs Americans are experiencing under their government as far as their quality of life relative to how their govt is treating them is concerned. But this is an open secret where everyone by now are woke but are completely powerless and to some extent clueless on how to overturn this ancient malady.
On point with "...a bane and boon..."
Great observation there!👌 It's why some of us grew up estranged with a parent.
Ang problema if wala ng pilipino sa abroad baka mag crash ang economy ng mundo, sabi nga ng isang professor na kahit 1 month lang na walang pilipinong mag tratrabaho babagsak ang mga economia ng bawat bansa
The haircut comment is really spot on. We don't realize it as much while in the PH. But in most Filipino communities abroad, there's always a person who offers to cut hair for fellow Pinoys because going to a salon is very expensive! :D
#9 is more or less correct. The majority of the economic activity is concentrated in the major cities (as for many other countries I would say) particularly in the national capital region. The provinces and its towns, especially the very rural ones, will have a lower standard of living and therefore getting by is comparatively easier even without a family member working abroad. With that said, probably every Filipino family (if not nuclear then extended) is almost guaranteed to have at least a member who works abroad!
General rule whenever you choose to live in another country is to always be open-minded & understanding to be able to adapt!
The sari-sari store, laundry shops, water stations and carinderia (community eatery) are the primary go-to places of working Filipinos, parents and students. Always Conveniently near and reliable. There are also errand boys and girls willing to do wet market buying, shopping and cooking for a minimum service fee. Foreigners earning dollars can live comfortably in the Philippines if they only know how.🇵🇭✌️🤟
True! It's such a happy and fun place to live! Thank you for your comment! 😁
Why bother? It's the era of grab and online shopping. Just have them delivered
@@miaya3898That's fine for some items. 🙂
@@miaya3898 That goes for some fastfood but homecooked-meals are more fresh, safer and adjusted according to your taste especially when you're seeing how it is done and a lot cheaper if you know the basic market prices which is easy to access online. Just search for current prices of basic commodities so that you can estimate more or less how much to spend on daily food. All you need are some basic utensils, an inexpensive ceramic induction stove and a daytime cook for hire. You can learn a lot from the helper or cook and do it yourself later. You save a lot that way. As for dry goods, i also do a lot of online shopping but some items like clothes and shoes needs to be fitted and i want to see the actual quality too. You also can hire daytime room cleaner every one or two weeks and just buy a decent and inexpensive washing machine with a dryer for your laundry.👍✌️🤟
There’s a lot more to explore, thank you for loving my country and it’s people. God bless.
As for your 8th observation, it doesn’t apply to all. Maybe in the household your living in but in our household all bathrooms should have glass divider or shower curtains to keep the non shower area dry all the time. It’s hard to clean when too much molds accumulated lol it’s not a Filo thing. Depends on the social status and bathroom etiquette(regardless if you’re rich or poor) of the persons your with :)
I agree with him on this one. I’ve been to many bathrooms here in the Philippines. My cousins live in gated subdivisions/villages with nice houses. They even have bathtubs. Still their bathrooms all get wet 😂 and without shower curtains.
@@amaliahightower my house in the Philippines have 3 bathrooms 2 has each curtains bathtub.. the 3rd 1 is near the kitchen for visitors.
@Lou lou Filipinos who moved and are living in Western countries are not used to wet bathrooms. I grew up in 🇨🇦 n d 🇺🇸. So for me when I had my home built in the 🇵🇭 I made sure that it’s a typical Western design home.
Yeah, that's true. Social status does play a big role in that one. It seems like people with a bit more money will sometimes have more western bathrooms. If I could choose, personally I would choose the wet bathroom!
@Asher Curri if you are not used of it I doubt you gonna want it anymore. To be frank I do not want wet bathroom
Same thing happened to me when I visited the Philippines with my Filipina girlfriend. Lots of her female cousins would slap her and then tell her something to the effect of, your boyfriend is really handsome, where in fact, I'm actually pretty average in my family. They keep calling me pogi or gwapo, which flatters me and I got beet red afterwards. I'm introvert myself and people tend to stare at me when I walk outside and smile so I smile back. The problem is, they think I'm rich when I'm not and so I tell them I'm still studying and I'm a student so I don't have that lot of money.
Haha, all foreigners are rich 😂
Lol!
@A JW US median income is 30k
As a Filipino introvert travelling in a group, it's okay for me if I'm close with the people like family outings or with my group of friends. It's actually fun because you can be yourself with them. It's uncomfortable and I usually don't come if I only know one or two of the people in the group.
on
In addition to your #8 regarding bathrooms in the Philippines; Bathroom doors here all swing in to open.
No matter the size of the bathroom where you actually hit the toilet bowl or the vanity when you try to open the door swinging in.
In the U.S. a small bathroom door ALWAYS swings out to open unless the bathroom is big enough for the door to swing in to not hit any fixtures inside.
I just happen to see your views about the Philippines. I say, you are spot on. I hope you don't stop making videos.... Keep it up.
travelling alone is boring and scary..so we travel with the whole family or with gang of friends whenever we can
I never thought about number 8 being weird but now that you mentioned it, yes, that's true. Banyo is usually structured as a barhroom and a toilet in one.
Filipinos do wash with soap and water after doing their thing...they are not contented using toilet paper ..
Wow North Carolina was just near me, I spent a year as an Intern in West Virginia. I have friends that worked in Raleigh. I could totally relate with the differences. Miss West Virginia tho lovely people out there, They were so hospitable of us as there weren’t much Foreigners in my county 😁
Though odd for foreigners, having a drain On the bathroom floor (besides the shower/tub/sink spaces) is an advantage when you clean your toilet floor with water as it can easily be drained through them. Also if you spilled liquid on the floor, same story. But i do agree with you that bathrooms are ideally kept dry when not in use. Floors inclusive.
7:07 For number 8, I wanna quote Davy Jones from Pirates of the Carribean: "You afraid to get wet?". Philippines is known to be hit by a lot of storms, literally tanking for the rest of South East Asia. It's impossible to not get wet that Schools don't mind students using slippers to get into school due to the amount of rainfall that we receive yearly.
Really glad that you're learning our culture and starting to adapt... Good job! I hope you enjoyed ur vacation.
#8 is definitely a thing here, I have lived here for over 4 years now and no matter how much I bring up that issue the bathroom is always wet, we have a mop and squeegee in the bathroom to clean up the water but it's still wet and they just use the rug, which is just as bad if not worse because they just put the rug back like it's not soaked.
Good observations! I've seen sooo many videos/vloggers just focusing on featuring places to go to (fun and recreation). This one is very different amongst and I kind of liked it. Nothing thrills me than seeing foreign visitors see our differences but still appreciates and respects it.
Thanks a lot for your kind words! It really means a lot to me! 🙏🏼☺
We Filipinos are a celebrating people. Our calendar is littered with holidays on top of many local and personal celebrations like fiestas and birthdays. Unthinkable for us to celebrate without families and friends.
Eating with fork and spoon. This info I picked up is history related. Back in the day, when The Philippines was colonized, Filipinos are skillfully using machete, bolo, etc. So the colonizer change the fork and knives set up into spoon and fork. But using it to scoop rice is a good observation:)
About number 10; We treat everyone as FAMILY. This is a country where humanity manifests within seconds of a tragedy. This is a nation of people that are always ready to lend a hand, or die for the oppressed, particularly children.
So, what you need to worry about here is that moment when people becomes aloof or doesn't want your presence. When that happens, you're in trouble, big time.
Am also a sort of introvert myself. Just learn how to enjoy, and deal with their attention.
You'll be fine here, wherever you go 😊
You are so welcome in the Philippines brother ! Hope you will learn much as time goes by !God bless and mabuhay !
These are fair and insightful assessment of our difference with America, especially with how different our bathroom is. I guess since the toilet and the bath area are not separated, the bathroom will get wet. Regarding spoon and fork, few people, mostly lefties, have their spoon on the left side and the fork on the right side. As long as you eat with spoon and fork here, you should be ok.
I think you get a lot of attention because aside from being a foreigner, you're actually a good-looking foreigner. Trust me, not every Filipino wants to take photos with every foreigner we see (as what you've experienced). Enjoyed your vid, very insightful👍 and polite. Glad you're enjoying the country 😊
I feel number 7 even if I'm Filipino. While I make myself available to socialize in road trips, I also make it a point to have a vacation where I travel alone to sort out my thoughts.
People understand boundaries. They just have different levels and types of boundaries which often leads to misunderstanding.
Welcome to the Phl. I worked and lived in USA for over 20 years and am back here to retire to the house in the town where I was born. Nothing like it. The feeling of being back here is so tremendous and fulfilling. Enjoy the adjustment period of say, at least a year.
Filipinos travel in group and mostly family it’s just they don’t like to be branded as indifferent to others so as much as we could we would like to bring along all the families no one is left behind and it shows how close the families are.
I definitely agree with everything you said. I love that you mentioned the level of difficulty to succeed here, it's just totally true. Happy Holidays!
'just can't wait to become Pinoy again, after being away for 11 years! Though one thing I think you missed in your list: we pinoys just simply love to "pungko" (squat/sit) in any corners of the streets and chat! But it's a good list. Thanks for reminding me I'm still a true Pinoy!
That's true I did forget about that! A lot of Americans don't have the ankle flexibility to deep squat like that 😅Thanks for your comment! God bless!
@@mrccurri13 that's so not true. I see a lot of westerners hunker down or crouch. People who can't do it are just overthinking and doing it wrong. Actually doing an exercise squat instead of just bending the legs at the knees as if picking something up from the floor or when tying shoelaces, etc.
wow! its true that in america , theirs no small store's. specially in the county area were the land is so vast to walk.
Yup, it really is! I wish there were small stores though it's so convenient to have that in the Philippines. Thanks for your comment!
For #10.
• From looking up the internet why:
It's because you're a foreigner. Filipino and Americans have big difference in their complexities. From height, facial structure, skin tone, and tons more. You're definitely gonna stand out as an American around a country who's average height is far smaller than your country's.
• Some of my own guess/opinions why:
Philippines also doesn't have much foreigners roaming around it. As you've said yourself which is a matter if fact, filipinos are so close to each other and that applies as we grow too. So when we see a person who's physically different from us in real life will definitely catch our attention. Nothing negative meant, btw.
Filipino beauty standards also includes tall height and lighter skin tone. An American physique immediately checks those two.
I also think you're good looking! That definitely adds a lot to it. Anyways I hope this could answer some of your questions.
And lastly, Manigong Bagong Taon! Happy New Years Day! 🎉🎊🥂
Tact is not a practice among Filipinos. I had to learn this quickly when I arrived in the States.Boundaries are quite blurred so I totally understand what you meant. Filipino humor is very different and difficult to ascertain by a foreigner. You’ll learn a lot along the way.But for sure, what I truly miss living here in the States is the Filipino heart. It is just different particularly in the West!
you are very correct Mr. Curri. it is very difficult to make money in the Philippines. that is why anywhere you look you see more people in dire need of food, clothing, and shelter. despite the challenges we do smile a lot. it is more fun in the Philippines. Mabuhay !
That's true! I always hear, in America, there is more money but more stress. And it's true! Many Filipinos lead simple lives but happy ones. Mabuhay friend! Merry Christmas!
Happy holiday to you and family there in the island and here in states!
You’ll definitely a change man!
When you comes back here in the US waking up in the morning you’ll miss the people for sure
And morning alarm clock the chickens 🐔🐔🐔
Thanks so much, friend! And yes it's gonna be strange living in America again once I get back! I know I am going to miss the Philippines so much 😭 Thanks for commenting, always love seeing your comments! God bless! 😁
Well, i would partly disagree with you on the travel in groups part. There are 2 types of travelling in groups here, its the friends or barkada, work buddies type and the family type. Both types travel to genuinely have fun, i think that's always the primary reason since we are very much rooted in strong family ties. We always find it important to share experiences with others. If u havent noticed, even birthdays are celebrated by the community, not just the family. For barkada trips, the split of costs would be secondary. Family trips are usually shouldered by one or two of the family members. But yeah, I am an introvert too. I just make sure to recharge for weeks after these trips. 😅😅😁
BTW.. luv how natural and observant you are. That makes you different in other UA-cam. You are not eager to gain follower per se. Love the value in your videos.
Sir we Filipinos love tourist where ever you coming from.. We welcome you to our beautiful country Philippines.. Mabuhay po kayo... GOD BLESS
As a filipino, what you said in #8 is surprising. I always thought bathrooms are supposed to be wet. i didn't know American bathrooms don't have drains on the floor. But yeah, all bathrooms in the Philippines is designed to be wet. I used to live in a house where the bathroom is quite big, maybe about 15sqm, and as a kid I used to spin round and round on the floor just for fun since it's slippery with water.
Thanks for pointing out how much we love to travel in groups. I really did not understand it growing up as a kid of why we travel with so many relatives, even when we go to one country.
I grew up in Australia, but I lived for at least 12 years in Philippines as a kid. There are some parts of my life which is just a part of my culture, but barely understand it. It is so nice to hear it from a foreigner's perspective myself.
Mum is quite a bit of an introvert more than I am or an outsider and I noticed that whenever she travels, she only travels with whoever she wants at that time, even taking a trip just by herself or her husband.
Most people in Philippines here have at least one family member who works overseas to fulfil their family responsibilities. Mum did that herself when she was 21 till now that I'm 28. She always buy things for her siblings and my grandma to send home.
As a Filipino myself I loved to travel in group.It's not really because of financial reason but because the more people are together,the merrier.And I've tried traveling with just 2 of my friends and it's no fun at all.The teasings and laughters are just very good to hear when it is from a large number of people.
#8 Water water every where... yes I've noticed that too. I moved from the suburbs of LA to Talisay, Cebu and all of these are quite a bit of what I find different AND ENJOYABLE about my new happy life here in the Philippines. And I love the warm rain here. I can go out in the rain (or get caught without an umbrella of rain gear) and get totally soaked and it is just cool and refreshing. Even in LA it was just too cold to ever enjoy going out in the rain. Looks like you also found your sweet asawa here. Filipinas are such wonderful, traditional, housewife and mommy types. You being from the more rural are might have had better experiences with American women but I find my own kind harsh. Many of us guys from the USA are just fed up with American females who don't know how to be real women and are coming here to the Philippines to find good wives.
As a Filipino, I find it very concerning how you see our women as 'real women' because they're housewives while American women not because they aren't.
Number 9 is an astute observation. Overseas workers are our main source of foreign currency reserves i.e. dollars. Our country is not a large exporter of goods that generate foreign currency reserves that is why we rely on remittance from our loved ones overseas to keep our economy turning. Unless we find other sources that generate more foreign currency reserves or the US dollar will cease from being standard currency of the world, the overseas worker diaspora will not change.
Thanks for sharing your experience in the Philippines it might not good for others for reason but you are speaking now your CC experience you see how friendly Filipinos are other nationality don’t understand we hope you enjoy being in the Filipino commmmunity
Thank you for your observations regarding my country, the Philippines. We've been living in the US since 1975 and the last time I went home was in 1986. The Christree in your background makes ne feel homesick. In the meantime, be safe, be healthy and enjoy the Philippines 👍
Wet bathroom floors not only happens in the Philippines. I observed this among my Asian friends (Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Thai, Indonesian, Malaysian, Afghanistan etc) and African friends, too!😅😂
Ewwww it sounds dirty!!! I have to clean the and bleach the bathroom every week and everything is CLEAN ( toilet, sink and jacuzzi or bathtub) Sorry for the comment but I’m very particular about CLEANLINESS! A Filipina from
NY 🇺🇸
Thanks for appreciating "some culture" of the Filipinos. hope you stay longer. Keep safe - God bless
Just came across your insightful video. Always good to learn and understand variances in different cultures.
I am born and raised in the Phil, before we migrated. But Pinas will always be home for us.
I did enjoy your observations. You may have to add our concept there of "Filipino time" where due to whatever circumstance being on time to an event or appointment maybe a figure of speech. Unlike abroad, time punctuality is really strict.
As to the sari sari stores, yes they abound everywhere. My family had one, a rolled into one variety store, eatery, pharmacy. At that time it helped a lot supplement our family's income plus it helps provide service and convenience to the locals. It also becomes a hangout area or meeting place. But those were the days, as my parents retired and most of us kids migrated the ones left has no perseverance to continue it. But growing up with that family owned business, it did teach me how to value proper use of money, having good camaraderie with neighbors and visitors. It was not easy for sure, it will cut into ones social life preferences 🙂
You mentioned about your preference to travel alone or in smaller groups. That is understandable, we all need our own quality time too. But just to caution you though, always be careful. Safety for your own well being should be paramount wherever you are.
Whenever we go back to Pinas, we always try to re-learn some stuff as well.
Oh, you might also want to add later on, if you wish to update your observations..our modes of transportation used. I have to admit on a very hot and dry day, I wish we have a tricycle here.
On your observation #8, yes many family bathrooms are often too wet. In our home before, we do provide a dedicated bathroom slipper or the traditional "bakya" which is like wooden clogs so one can enter the wet area safely. Bathrooms there are often on groundfloor level anyways, so drains are already added at construction time. I do not know if you have tried to travel elsewhere there. Some public toilets are even much harder to use, there is just no toilet seat, just a hole at the floor to do ones business. But that is a public, off road toilet area. Homes are more equipped.
The locals in provincial areas are just curious towards you. It is indeed a good and bad thing in terms of privacy, but when you travel alone there, they can also be your security protection. We do have local barangay security personnel there, have you noticed that? We do not have those in the US. We all now rely on installing our own security cameras here, sadly, these days, crime rates are on the rise..anywhere.
So be safe, and enjoy our festive Christmas season there.
To each is own... I'm from the Philippines, but I love those quaint towns here in America.
I missed Pinoy smiles...
But here in the US, I also learned to hold the door
When leaving or entering a building.
In the Philippines, the sari sari stores are all over the place. But here in the US, we have small businesses but they have to be at one place. What we saw in UA-cam about big boxes shopping places here in the US doesn't mean it's everywhere. We also have a designated spot for it.
We have town or buildings ordinances here that everyone should abide.
We can't just build huge buildings in a town unless the people living in that town approve it.
But this is what I know here,
We have many, I mean many beautiful places and towns that are very well kept and preserved.
Most people here don't want to wake up and see huge buildings at their backyard.
I want to be able to go to a city and enjoy what a city has to offer but at the end of the day, I want to go back home when there is peace and quiet.
Where I don't have to travel somewhere and find solitude.
What a nice way to express all these observations...which is all so true part of Filipino way of life.....
Thanks so much for the kind words! ☺
Enjoy your stay in the Philippines , adopting to our culture is not hard. We are very hospitable.
True! I am enjoying it very much so far! Thanks for the nice comment ☺
the most hospitable friendly and gentle on this planet.
When I was just a little kid, my family had a sari- sari store and most of our customers were PC trainees and regular army. There was a training facility across our subdivision and a small private airport. There use to be a big field there. Now in 2023, our house is still there although we don’t own it , the subdivision still there but the airport , open field got bought by a hotel resort corporation .
I don’t use spoon not unless I eat with rice lol
Yeah, I am introvert and I like to stay alone, it is very tiring if you keep smiling to please people. People in the Philippines want to see foreigner in their hometown or just around to be friendly or always smiling otherwise they think that you are not enjoying your stay, or you are rude or condescending ✌️
How accurate-a shovel to describe the function of the spoon!
Close family ties is observed in the Philippines.the more the merrier,that includes cousins ,nieces and nephews
LOL #8 and wet bathrooms. I grew up in the Phils, so when I visited my grandparents in the U.S., I was dumbfounded to find carpeting in the bathroom. Yes, we slosh that water everywhere. In Austria, I encountered linoleum in the bathroom, and had to ask a work colleague whether or not it was okay to get it wet.
They are all over barangay for convenience for the people. You can walk in few minutes. Spoon is to scoop the rice which you cannot do with fork. Plastic bag is like plastic cups in the USA.
You got new subscriber here bro!
Filipino watching from the cold place of Saudi Arabia Hai'l.
#8 is because (random) rain is a regular part of the daily life.
wait till you get to vietnam, cambodia, thailand area where monsoon is shocking.
Yup, that is a good point. Rain is such a regular thing in the PH compared to some places in America where maybe it only rains twice a week or even less. Thanks for commenting! 😁
The bathroom was designed to have a pale with tabo. That is why even the shower room has a faucet below the shower. I also don't want to have this kind of design in the bathroom now because it really tends to get wet and I hate that. But that's how Filipino bathrooms are designed.
Filipino hospitality is sincere, that sums it all😊
we are obsessed with water. my mama always used to wet the concrete floor of our front yard, even up to the road because during the summer, you will melt! but the bathroom floor thing is out of lack of space. there's usually no divider between the toilet and shower and by shower i mean a tabo and bucket so that explains the wet floor. but we have toilet slippers! no rugs inside
It really is normal to meet Filipino living abroad. we officially have 10million overseas filipino worker, and it said there are another 10 million more that are not counted. So with a population of 110milion that is normal to see filipino with relatives abroad. That is also why filipino are hospitable too, we experience being a visitor abroad too so we know how to be a visitor.
Amazing! Filipinos are truly an international people. Thank you for your insightful comment! ☺
It's heartwarming to hear a true personal perspective of the Philippines as he saw it.
On no. 9, you are partly right but that is just small %. If you live in Metro Manila, there are millions who are upper middle income to rich who have businesses, steady stream of income from work, leasing and on line businesses. These people do not rely on remittances from abroad.
I'm a Filipino who moved to NY. The most comparable stores here to a sari -sari stores are our local Bodegas and Neighborhood Deli.
Yes you will get so much attention especially if you are the only tourist in the area, many vlogers experience that 😂 enjoy and take care.
Yup, that's true! I have seen a couple other foreigners in this area but they seem to mostly stick to themselves. Thanks for your comments friend, stay safe and God bless! 😁
New subscriber here..l agree to all the things that u had said.About rich families who have a relative working abroad or living abroad ,the reason behind it is because of the sacrifices of an Overseas Filipino Worker to work in far away place so that he/she could give his//her family a good life(bec.they were poor before)..in short..it's all about love for the family.
LOL. The bathroom being wet is a pet peeve of mine. Bathrooms having drains is because Filipinos clean mostly with soap and water. We scrub our bathrooms from top to bottom with soap and water, unlike in the US. That's the first thing i noticed about American bathrooms. You do not have drains for when you scrub the floor. But then american bathrooms have a separate shower area compared to Filipino bathrooms. Our bathrooms are small, and there is no separate area to shower. That's why they are always wet (constantly). But good job on making this very informative video. Thank you for appreciating our culture and our country. I live in the US now and feel really homesick.
One thing that I also miss there is the palengke. Usually the palengke area is a one-stop shop area where you can get anything and everything you need. Unlike here, where everything is spread out all over the city. And it's also relatively safe to be out and about late at night there. We used to live in San Fernando, Pampanga. I love my hometown. Especially as it is Christmas time. Missing all the festivities there. I'm also missing that silly bee lately (Jollibee).
Stay safe and best regards. Merry Christmas.
Thanks so much for your kind words and thoughtful comment! And yes, I LOVE the palengke! I cannot tell you how much I hate shopping in America because of how many stores you may have to drive to. Here, I can just ride my bike to the palengke get what I need, and be done! Simple! America take notes! Also, I hope you get to visit your home soon and enjoy some Jollibee! Merry Christmas, my friend! 😁
@Asher Curri LOL. We're planning to drive to Texas to visit a Jollibee in Houston. Sort of like a Christmas gift to the kids. Seen on UA-cam that chicken joy was voted the best fried chicken in America. They're comparing it to Popeye's. Popeye 's ok, but I'm Pinoy, so... LOL. Regards to the fam and enjoy the holidays there.
Sari sari stores are very convenient for the locals because majority don’t have cars. When I was growing up in the 50’s to 70’s , sodas were sold in bottles.
The Filipinos still observe hospitality in the United States so as the karaoke. We travel together with the other members of the family. We are brought up to extend our help to the distant relatives.
Youre so right, I live here in the USA too. Our culture , Filipinos are of course different in someways.
hope to see on your next video the top ten differences between the place you stay now to the other places in the Philippines in the visayas and mindanao from an american perspective
Thank you for your nice observation and appreciation to our country as well as to our people..,.
I think for the attention part since some areas in the Philippines are homogenous with how many people have the same skin and body type due to their way of life or because that place is full of the same family tree. Which in most cases are in rural areas, it will come as a shock to them to see someone different especially to foreigners because they're used to seeing and interacting with the same people. So they give you attention out of curiosity. The downside of this one tho is that you get alienated, but don't worry once you get used to their way of life and their culture they'll treat you like one of them.
About the water in CR we have notice it, i think its because of most filipinos shower straight on the bathroom floor with tabo and its always wet because of that.
Point 8 - American homes are mostly made with Lumber, whereas in the Philippines, we use mostly concrete:)
Thanks, Asher for your observations and we welcome you to our country.
Filipinos are always in groups because that's what makes them happy, that's why they are always smiling and laughing. Try to smile or laugh by yourself and the people around you would surely think that you're crazy., To be with the group is one of the secrets why Filipinos are happy people. Got it?
We have a lot of sari sari in Chelsea, Massachusetts because of the Hispanics living in the city. I bought a beer from a window own by a Cuban lady she sold the beer for $2 bucks not sure with other States but for sure my town has Sari-Sari stores and Convenient stores like 7/11 etc.
WOW, I did not know such a thing existed in the US! That's really cool, thanks for pointing that out. 7/11 is also such a Filipino hangout spot, especially for late-night snacks haha 😅 thanks for commenting!
@@mrccurri13 my Puerto Rican friend that told me about the Cuban lady and we went there. I was fascinated. Take Care. By the way there's more illegal businesses that i can't mentioned in my neighborhood. Haha