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Philippines | What do expats find most challenging? | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Ayala Triangle in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines

What do expats find most challenging?

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William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Philippines. They wrote...

"English is widely spoken in Cebu. Probably 90% of the people surely understand but some may be shy to speak English (nose bleed it's called) Challenges are: transportation in rainy weather, slow paced lifestyle (for patience challenged), crowded lines, polluted air & lack of trash collection in city, religious customs guiding culture, law & politics (all respect) confronting poverty, pick pockets & beggars. Adjusting yourself to these," remarked another expat in Cebu, Philippines.

"Communication is somewhat indirect. It's so important to watch body language, in particular changes in body language (rather than overt gestures) that indicate 'something's up'. Corruption, when encountered, is upsetting and frustrating. The inefficiency of anything official from receipt giving to getting the driver's licence (though there are notable exceptions). The plus side is that inefficiency is almost always accompanied by a smile," said a member in Manila, Philippines.

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What do expats find most challenging?

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Ayala Triangle in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
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AGS Worldwide Movers

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
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AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
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William Russell
William Russell

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