Well I am leaving Gen San tomorrow and a part of me is really sad to say goodbye to the Philippines… I have come to love this place and the people here and am proud to say that after a month here, I feel like a Filipina. When I first arrived here, the culture was new and strange and very different from what I was used to experiencing. Before flying to Gen San, I was told that this place was dangerous and the place of past terrorism… Looking back after a month’s experience, I feel that my opinion has definitely changed. The people of Gen San are beautiful and full of life. I feel completely safe here and it is unfortunate that this place has a sore reputation. I suppose I just wanted to mention that my time here has been the best, and I wanted to set the record straight. Other than ALL THAT, I will try to do a top ten list of things I find interesting or fun or hilarious at the end of my stay in each country, so here goes Top Ten Philippines-Gen San style!!
1-Rice and/or fish is a possibility (rice a definite) for every meal including breakfast
2-Durian and Ballut are not just accepted but celebrated here
3-Kareoke is the national pastime
4-Although I am average size where I live, I am pretty much a giant here
5-Two words – HALO HALO!!
6-Bring your own tissue/soap/toilet seat to the bathroom because you may not find any of it in there… and don’t forget to never flush anything
7-Facebook exists where there is no running water
8-Tricycles should be legal in the states
9-Jeepneys on bumpy roads are not a place to sleep… trust me
10-The running of the rats takes place in our ceiling every night
