Week one is down, and I have to say I am very very much impressed with everything that I have been exposed to here in the Philippines. The area is as I envisioned having lived in Southeast Asia in the past, but the thing that I am truly surprised with is the warmth and friendliness of the people I have dealt with so far in my travels. I am currently living in Bacolod and I am learning so much. First thing I have discovered is there a surprising more modern areas in town that out way the old style wooden shacks. In many ways things are way less expensive compared to home, but then there are things that certainly rival the prices found back in Vancouver. It has taken me a few days to get a full grip on the Peso to Canadian conversion rates, something that is extremely important when shopping!
The next thing I have noticed is that no matter where someone comes from, when the locals are headed to work, they are very well dressed, and I think there is not an average looking woman in all of the Philippines. I say this with the greatest amount of respect. Everyone is very respectful, and conservative in their ways which is very refreshing. There is some homelessness here in Bacolod,
which once again is said as an observation as every city now a days that you visit has their share of street people. At least here, it cools in the night from the sweltering heat, and does not freeze and snow as it does in Canada with our homelessness situations which are very dangerous. Sadly, it seems to be an accepted way of life, which I think should be address well before we start assisting other countries.
If you have never been to the Philippines, I would highly recommend you give it a chance, I don’t think you will be disappointed.
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