In many cultures, “yes” can mean “I heard you,” “I don’t want conflict,” or “maybe.” If you don’t learn how to ask better questions, you’ll live in a fog of misunderstandings. Why “yes” doesn’t always mean yes In the U.S., “yes” usually means agreement and commitment. In the Philippines—and in a lot of high-harmony cultures—“yes” … Read more
In the U.S., when the power goes out, we call it a blackout—which makes sense. If it happens at night, everything goes dark, and that’s usually the moment people start imagining monsters coming out of the shadows. Americans even have famous blackouts that live in the national memory. The 1977 Great New York Blackout turned … Read more
Ever notice how what we expats call flip-flops are pretty much the national footwear of the Philippines? Sandals—tsinelas—are everywhere. Jeepney? Sandals.Market day? Sandals.Mountain trail that would make a goat nervous? Still sandals. Not tennis shoes for traction.Not boots for motorcycle safety.Not galoshes for the mud. Just those trusty rubber sandals, slapping along like it’s the … Read more
If you’re an American eyeing the Philippines, you’ll hear the same three places over and over: Manila (Makati/BGC), Cebu/IT Park/Ayala, and Dumaguete/Valencia/Dauin. But there are way more you havn’t heard of that don’t require big city life. Here’s the simple, no-nonsense way to help you choose. Philippines are comprised of more than 7000 islands with … Read more
Thinking about swapping snow shovels for palm trees? The Philippines can be an incredible place to retire: warm weather, widespread English, welcoming people, and a lower cost of living. It’s not all sunsets and San Miguel, though. Here’s a straight-shooting guide from someone who actually lives there. Where to land (quick takes) Visas (what actually … Read more