Known as some of the friendliest people in the world, there are plenty of reasons why, when choosing a travel companion, Filipinos should be at the top of your list.
They’ll strike up a conversation with anyone
It’s always fun to meet new people on your travels – after all, that’s part of enjoying new experiences in faraway parts of the world. Friendly by nature, Filipinos are great at meeting fellow Filipinos, as well as at making conversation (and friends) with people from across the globe. With English being one of the nation’s two official languages, they’ll find it easy to build a rapport, and their “accent-neutral language” only enhances their ability to communicate.
They know good food when they see it
The food of the Philippines is both eclectic and tasty. According to a recent poll, the Philippines has the second best food in the world. It’s fair to say Filipinos know what they like and where to seek it out. And the same goes for traveling. Willing to try new things, they’ll seek out the best of the nation they’re in, and take you along for the ride.
They are thrifty
Filipinos want to feel like they are getting what they pay for, and they will seek out the best quality. They are practical when it comes to spending their hard-earned money, so travel with one and you are guaranteed a fantastic trip that won’t empty your wallet.
They know how to have a good time
Naturally happy people – in fact, they are among the world’s happiest – you’ll often find your Filipino friend laughing and smiling, even if at nothing in particular. Filipinos have a cheerful approach to life and a good sense of humor, so traveling with them will usually be a good time, whether it’s time spent dancing, singing or hanging out with their nearest and dearest. Like they say in their home nation, “it’s more fun in the Philippines,” and the same can be said when it comes to traveling.
They make the best of any situation
When things don’t go quite according to plan, Filipinos know how to make the best of the situation. Whether you have lost your luggage, missed your flight, been pick-pocketed, or had your plans thwarted by a bout of bad weather, Filipino travelers may not be able to immediately solve the problem, but they have a way of always looking on the bright side, finding that silver lining, or cheering you up. Their optimistic nature is contagious and they’ll always find a way to smile – and make you do the same – even in the most challenging of situations.
They are hard-working
Known for their diligent and hard-working nature, your Filipino travel companion will probably put a lot of effort into the planning of a trip – researching where to go, when the best time to visit might be, what to do when you get there and, especially, where to eat. Once you arrive, everything will be a breeze thanks to their dedication.
They kill it on the karaoke machine
“I’ve learned two things about TV,” tweeted Ellen DeGeneres in 2010. “It’s always easier with vodka and some of the best singers are from the Philippines.” There is hardly a reality television singing competition without a contestant of Filipino heritage, from “American Idol” to “The Voice” franchises around the world. So, take your Filipino friend to karaoke– you’ll find opportunities around the world, whether it’s a specialized KTV bar or a pub with its own karaoke machine – and they’ll be sure to leave the whole room wanting more.
They deserve some good karma
Known for their hospitable nature in their own land, it only seems right that, when traveling, what goes around comes around. Along with their helpful disposition, if karma is working its magic, you and your Filipino friend should be in for a warm welcome wherever you go.
Feature image: iStock.com/LordRunar
Slider image: Anthony Alger, A Philippine tricycle, via Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 3.0
