The culture of the Philippines is still alive and well… Veronica, Toronto, Canada
Most people complain that Manila is too busy and westernized, and does not compare to other locations in Asia. For a long time I thought the same way. Last year, though, I had a business trip in Manila and for a while I thought Manila was what I expected it to be, until I actually had the time to take a closer look. Although the country does suffer from westernization, the culture of the Philippines is still alive and well. Anywhere you might be in Manila, colorful jeepneys roam the streets, and customs and traditions are still alive and kicking. I was surprised that although Manila is a chaotic place, people are laid back and don't seem to have a care. Traffic might be horrible, but you can't find people yelling at each other in the streets (or elsewhere, for that matter!). Time just seems to pass a little slower in the Philippines. For tourists who plan to relax, then try other cities in the country, but for travelers, Manila is a must-see. Manila is chaotic, busy and hectic, but if you can learn to live with it, then you see an entire world only known to some. Nowhere else in the world will you see the harmonious clash of Asian, Spanish and American culture mixed with the Philippines' own unique culture!
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