What are the problems you faced in the philippines while touring as a foreigner ?

Answer 1

I'm American and live in the middle of Malate, Manila. I walk around that part of town without worry at all times of day and night. I travel all over the country by air, land and sea in my own boat. The biggest problem I've ever encountered was that taxi drivers don't always have change (make them use a meter and the price is no problem), so I usually round up to the nearest 100 pesos. They are happy and I'll never miss it.

You shouldn't have any problems if you use common sense, most people are very nice. The people on here telling you it is dangerous should be ashamed of themselves - the Philippines is one of the nicest countries to live in even with all of the problems there are.

Answer 2

Let me speak on behalf of my friend, Mark Smolen, who visited the country in 2004 and stayed for two months.

His main complaint has been the roosters (he once said that "This town is probably the Rooster Capital of the World!"). He's a light sleeper so noises---of which there is plenty in my part of town---made him sleep very little during his stay in the province.

People here are also inconsiderate. Loud karaoke-singing at 2 in the morning is not uncommon. Everyone just grins and bears it. Motor vehicles and scooters are also many and noisy. It's like they have a motto here: The louder, the better.

Another Smolen complaint: Not many Filipinos can express themselves well in English. He found it hard to carry a conversation with the natives because their English know-how is very limited. Filipinos, for the most part, can understand English. It's when they are expected to reply in English that problem starts.

And also, since Mark is Jewish, he encountered a few unkind comments from ignorant natives who likewise pestered him to attend service in the Catholic setting.

Other than the above minor problems, he enjoyed his stay there and is planning to come back as soon as he has saved enough money for a long vacation.

Answer 3

i love being in the Philippines at Christmas time because it truly is cooler than the Australian summer. there's a distinct version in temperatures. starting from about 38c in middle of summer right down to 17c some months in the past. For those those who opt for the quiet existence the position there is sparkling air, common driving and it truly is secure, per chance you opt for to attempt residing out of the city. yet in case you want what the city promises at the same time with high quality remedy, make it an section the position you would possibly want to be back in the city interior of a short era of time. some places that would want to in structure this criteria are Tagbilaran Bohol or Ormoc city Leyte. With massive city with centers being in Cebu city. to respond to the unique question, all I omit is vegemite. besides the undeniable fact that, I actually have usual mules bringing that into the Philippines for me. Regards: Jim Sibbick

Answer 4

One of the problems I faced while travelling with my Filipina fiancee was language. Yes, they speak English. But, if my fiancee and a fellow Filipino were talking, they'd start off in English (on my behalf) and very quickly lapse into Tagalog which was extremely frustrating.

But other than that, the occasional taxi scam (make sure you have change, check the meter is on, check that it isn't whirring away like a banshee), be careful with dodgy food and water, and avoid certain areas. Much like the USA and any other country really!

Answer 5

at SM Mall, the taxi price to the mall was shown on the meter and i was free to tip as i saw fit, and dont mind doing so for a good ride and i know the drivers earn thier pay, but at night at almost closing time, the same cabs are lined up and each driver trying to outdo the next at ripping you off with twice the normal meter fare plus whatever they can cajole you into while you stand with your arms full of grocery packages and your pinay fiancee is beside you falling asleep on her tiny feet. once in a while an honest driver will come through the crowd and say, "sir, i will take you home for the meter fare, only". and i will take that cab and give him a generous tip, kasi it isnt the money its the principle, of living here and being treated like im a faceless bag of money, when i love it here and feel that i belong till that happens. to the others i will say, Hinde! salamat, aiyo ko! and they look at me as if seeing me for the first time, as something other than a money bag. i hate to go through that every day. i respect the people and want them to respect my fiance, soon to be wife, and i.

Answer 6

Its a beautiful country but as foreigners you have to get used to the....

1.Very Humid Weather.
2.Patethic Heavy Traffic...believe it when i say HEAVY!
3.Drink Purified Water...For your own safety!
4.Pollution...Oh Man Have A Handkerchief ready AT ALL TIMES!
5.Food...It might be a little different for your taste but you'll like some!

Answer 7

Ok, you better let me know when you will arrive so that I can meet you at the airport. Then I will billet you to the Balay Kalinaw International at the University of the Philippines which is near my workplace. The place is safer and the air is pollution free.
If you are interested, do not hesitate to get in touch with me. I will be your tour guide then. For a total stranger here well, you will meet lots of problems.

Answer 8

basically the heavy traffic. but then if you would think about it, there's traffic jams everywhere. If you wanna go around, you'll want to catch a cab. The driver might ask for an expensive fare, but no worries,you try to bargain and they'll give in. Try to experience taking the "jeepneys" (most common transport) as well. Apart from that. it's really nice!

Answer 9

Actually, the biggest problem will be listening to the paranoid idiots who've never been to the Philippines and tell you its full of crime and terrorism. It's not. It's safer than the States, and the people are nicer and more friendly. Have fun.

Answer 10

everyone there wants ur money....the travel isnt very safe on land and in air, at airport security some places barely have metal detectors, instead u r searched by someone....dont go anywhere alone at night if ur in manila or any bigger city, if they spot u as an american, u have a good chance of being robbed. things in america that u find convienent may not be the case in the philippines....like some of the hotels dont have air condition, hot water....be careful when u eat food from stands, its not so clean....ohhh yeah, do not drink the water there or u will be sick ur whole trip....stick 2 bottled water...