Property Location and Criteria – My rented house (more accurately – bungalow) location is shown in the attached image – about 25-30 Km south of the capital Manila (and about one to hours by car, going through various “Toll” stations en route). The main selection criteria were (1) detached property (2) reasonable rental (3) good internet (4) fully furnished and (5) smoking allowed! (6) proximity to local stores/shopping.

Impressions (after 2 months occupancy) – The property is located inside what is called a “Gated Community” which offers some privacy and personal security. However, although it met and  continues to meet the main criteria, my initial impression is one of profound  disappointment. It reminds me of “shanty town” living – there are no views, no garden as such, no local walks available and the area is completely “built up”. On the positive side, I have been very lucky to have had the assistance of the local members of the owner’s family, who have been extremely helpful and supportive in the admirable tradition of Philippino hospitality.

Quirks of the local Culture – Some of the basic things you would expect in a house inventory in Europe were completely lacking. For example – cutlery. There were no knives provided (only kitchen knives for food preparation) and no teaspoons, No eggcups. No wine glasses. On the other hand, there were a large number of small rugs – mostly circular- distributed in the kitchen, living area and bathroom – even though the floor is tiled and easy to clean, these bits of carpet are traditional and meant to preserve cleanliness. The “Eastern” custom of removing shoes when entering someone else’s property is observed – even to the extent of providing several pairs of house “slippers” for use by visitors.

Eating Habits – When eating their meals, Filippinos use spoons and forks – and fingers. A normal home meal consists of, not one, but three or more different dishes. Meat is served up with fish – mixing food types is commonplace. Any dessert comes at the same time as the main dishes. The food – although delicious – is cooked with the emphasis on taste and flavour (a lot of oil and frying) and not with any regard to the dangers of high cholesterol 🙂 Even tinned food – e.g. corned beef or tuna fish – gets re- cooked!

Other Observations –Religion plays a big part in the lives of most Filipinos, and there is a very strong Catholic community. Sundays are family days. The most popular national sports are Basketball and Boxing. Music has a high priority, and many homea have karaoke sets. Most job opportunities are in the Customer Service sectors, and courier businesses.

Language – Most Filipinos will speak and understand English to an extent. English words or phrases are often used in local conversation: for example, TV News Bulletins will refer to “Areas of Responsibility” in a Filippino language broadcast. Many find it difficult with English to put the emphasis of a word on the right syllable. As an amusing example, I was trying to work out what a magOTT and a gallON were before, I finally understood that they were referring to an  undeveloped fly and a measure of liquid 🙂