Daily Life

How to Ask Better Questions When “Yes” Doesn’t Mean Yes

by

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

Blackouts vs. Brownouts: What Every Expat Should Know About Losing Power in the Philippines

by

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

Filipinos and Their Sandals: What Flip-Flops Taught Me About Home

by

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

Cebu vs. Dumaguete vs. Manila: Where Should You Retire?

by

Three of the Philippines’ most popular retirement destinations offer very different lifestyles. Here’s what long-term expats and retirees should know before choosing. Note: These observations are based on my personal experience living in the Philippines since 2012, primarily in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro. Your experience may vary depending on your budget, health, personality, location, and … Read more