acation is a calming means to outrun a demanding life at home and at work; however, it requires a lot of vacation planning and budgeting. You do not need to spend too much to make a vacation unforgettable. As a matter of fact, there are several ways on how to cross-cut some expenses in your next get-away.
Known for being part of the hippie culture in the 60’s and 70’s, backpacking is an inexpensive way to enjoy your holiday that traditionally differentiates itself from the other forms of traveling. It’s all about the limited usage of public transport, choosing low-cost hostels over high-priced accommodations, length of the trip versus the typical vacation, eagerness in meeting the locals as well as seeing the sights, and of course, the use of backpacks.
Backpacking dates back in the 60’s when people, specifically the hippies, were searching for new and economical means of integrating with other cultures. It is a brave and bold alternative to going cross-country and requires a huge amount of time, effort and patience. To backpack is to travel by means of walking, avoiding as much as possible the use of public transport. The definition of the activity is not one that is as restrictive compared to other forms of travelling. The key rule is to travel as much by walking, stay in low-cost lodging facilities, interact as much as you can with the locals and their communities, and of course carry around a backpack.
Backpacking is truly an enjoyable adventure filled with fun and learning as well as many unanticipated twists, turns and trials especially when you’re headed for the Philippines. And this is why you should try to keep in mind these couple of pointers before you pack your bags and head over to the highway.
Grab proper garbs – Dressing down is a basic requirement, most especially in the country’s climate. The average temperature in the Philippines varies from 24 degrees to 32 degrees Celsius. Light clothes are advisable, such as cotton shirts and shorts, to avoid from sweating too much during your trip. Also, make a room for insect repellants inside your bags for sake of safety, not just for vanity, since mosquitoes are abundant in tropical countries.
ASK ASSISTANCE WHEN Needed: Known for warm-hearted and hospitable people, Filipino won’t doubt helping you if you need assistance. Renowned as one of Asia’s best English speaking countries, talking to them in English wouldn’t be a problem. Ask help from locals if you need directions but don’t give out too much information. Remember that this is a foreign land so being extra careful of yourself should be the first thing in your check list.
Enjoy native delicacies – You might want to quit dining on fancy restaurants and fast food and try the authentic Filipino street foods that are being sold for a very low price. Fishballs, banana-cue (fried and sugared bananas on a stick), banana fritter (sugared banana steamed inside a wanton wrapper), and isaw (chicken’s intestines) are some of the local’s favorites that you will surely enjoy.
Tip trip – Tip people when you need to. Keep in mind that the salary rates in this part of the world is much smaller compared to the US. In fact, statistics say that the Philippines has the 6th most minimal salary rate in the entirety of Asia. So be generous and tip service crews and cab drivers if you think they deserve it.
Prop up ecotourism and the nation’s culture – Just in case you are on an island hopping adventure, ask for a local boatman instead of grabbing packages from hotel accommodations. Aside from the fact that ecotourism helps to save natural resources, it also aids the economy sustainable in indigenous communities. You can also support their culture by merely respecting them, since the Philippines gives a high regard on respect, most especially to elders. Try your best to fit in and you’ll be pleasantly surprised how locals will show their respect to you in return.
Backpacking in the Philippines is cheaper compared to other countries but as a rule of thumb, never forget to bring extra cash. Also, be extra-cautious in whatever you do and wherever you go while enjoying the beauty of the surroundings and culture.
So if you’re considering going on a getaway, why not visit the Philippines and see what everybody’s been talking about. Wonderful sunsets, breath-taking mountain views, spotless beaches, warm-people and a culture beyond anything you’d ever expect- this is the Philippines.
As Henry David Thoreau, an American writer and nature lover, said:
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