So I wanted to share some of the cultural differences that I have to get use to and am thinking this is probably going to be a series as I am introduced to new customs. So here is part 1:
1. EAT YOUR RICE WITH EVERY MEAL
That's right, rice is served with every meal... even breakfast. Surprisingly I am not sick of eating rice... yet.
2. NO TP?
The preferred Filipino method is to use a ladle and water bucket to rinse yourself off afterwards. I have yet to use this however since I am at a resort for orientation and they do have toilet paper, however you cannot flush it. Instead it gets thrown in the waste bucket (which gets emptied often).
3. SIRMAM
Everywhere you go you are called sir or mamm. Married couples are simply "sirmamm". As in "thank you-sirmamm" and "Good Morning-mamm"
4. EAT AND EAT OFTEN
The food is quite good, especially the fish, and they love to feed you. We are served large buffets for meals and snacks throughout the day.... I am probably going to gain 50 pounds.
5. MANGOS ARE DELICIOUS
Apparently the Philippines is known for having the best mangoes. I have never been a huge fan of the fruit, but they put it in many things, juice and desserts and I have to say it is really delicious!
more to come later!
You better put a lot of TP in your pocket or duffle bag or something from that resort!
ReplyDeleteTJ
I love your strategy...cultural lessons. Very interesting, I must say. No paper!! Can't say I would be a fan of that. Do they do creative things with the rice? Does it resemble ours? Brown or white?
ReplyDeleteIt is sticky white rice and is really good, especially with whatever stir fry mix and sauce they have with it. So far it's all just white rice so we'll see if they do more with it but I am thinking no!
ReplyDeleteChinese food was my favorite growing up, so I think I'll be able to handle two years of rice no problem.
ReplyDelete