I have taken two trips to the Philippines and I wanted to share my experiences with you. The first time that I went to was back in 2013 to meet my future spouse and his family for the first time. It was an absolutely enjoyable experience for me. I had so much fun while I was there and enjoyed every moment. I learned a great deal about the Filipino culture and felt very comfortable there
I flew out on Korea Air to Incheon International Airport in Seoul South Korea and then took another flight from there to Cebu International Airport in Cebu, Philippines. I was very impressed by the professionalism of the staff at the airports and the flight attends and ticket agents. When you arrive at the destination make sure to have your travel documents in hand and expect long waits at the international arrival area. The local authorities will need to check your passport and other documents and stamp your passport. I believe that when visiting another country you should go there not only to get away on a vacation but to take it as a learning experience. Eat like the locals and immerse yourself in the culture. Look at the world through another person's eyes. Through the eyes of one who lives in the country that you are visiting. You will learn many things by eating like the locals do and seeing things as they do. You may even gain a greater appreciation of how good you have it.
I was very fortunate to have my husband and his family there as guides. My husband and I spent the first few days at a hotel on both visits and then at his aunt's home for the remainder of the visit. On our second trip, we stayed a few days at the Raddisun Blu in the city of Cebu. The Raddisun Blu was absolutely beautiful and the pool was huge.
I was able to shop at many of the local malls while I was there. The first thing that I noticed was the attentiveness to their customers. For instance, I went into a music store to find a cd of the K pop band Big Bang. The clerk greeted me at the door and took me right where the cd was that I wanted. She remained right by my side just in case I needed anything else. I was not used to this because in the United States it is hard even to find someone who can give you assistance in a store much less greet you when you enter the store. Another tip. Although accept American currency it is easier to use the peso which is the local currency. You can take out money at the local ATM. You will, however, charged an exchange fee at the terminal. The malls are also much larger there compared to the states and sell a variety of designer clothing as well as less expensive clothing and other items.
Here are a few things that I learned from my trips. If you need to drive while you are there get a driver. They are familiar with the area and are accustomed to the type of driving that the locals do. Many Americans would freak out at the driving habits that the locals have. Secondly when purchasing souvenirs have a local bargain the prices. In fact, do not even let the vendor see you. Locals can get better prices on things you need or want.
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