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Culture and Daily Life
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Topic starter
12/11/2025 12:15 am
If you’re planning to move to the Philippines, hearing what everyday life is *really* like can help a lot.
What’s something that surprised you — in a good or unexpected way?
It could be about culture, food, people, or daily routines.
Newcomers often wonder what “normal life” feels like here, so your honest experience can really help.
Topic starter
14/11/2025 12:06 am
When I first flew into the Philippines, my destination was Ozamiz, where my girlfriend was living at the time. We stayed at the Royal Hotel downtown — it was inexpensive but very nice, and the free breakfast every morning was a bonus.
What amazed me first was the traffic — the way motor scooters, tricycles, and cars all moved together. It felt like organized chaos — the Wild West of traffic. I’d just stand by the window watching in total amazement at how somehow, nobody hit anyone!
But what shocked me even more was the “no smoking” rule. Nowhere in the city could you smoke publicly. I couldn’t believe it. As a smoker, I had to stand behind pillars or find hidden corners — not an easy thing to do. Most of the time, I’d just lean out the bathroom window, watch the traffic below, and get my nicotine fix (lol).
During my six weeks there, we took trips to Manila, Makati, and even Thailand, and I also got to visit my girlfriend Beth’s family. Everywhere I went, the people were incredibly friendly — always smiling, always helpful. I instantly fell in love with the warmth and simplicity of life in the provinces.
It was on that trip that I decided I would move here. I didn’t know where exactly yet, but I knew the Philippines was going to be home.
How about you?
👉 What surprised you most on your first visit?
👉 And where did you decide to settle after arriving?
