Manila Concierge Online

The Philippines has many critics from within and outside of the country; much of that criticism is valid, some of it is not.

The Philippines has a million problems and there is much to say and complain over, but what’s the point. It’s all been said before and it detracts sometimes from some more positive things that are unsaid. If you want perfection, then don’t come to the Philippines. It’s as simple as that.

As a foreigner that has come to love this country, warts and all, I hope to be able to present a realistic reflection, and put across why I sometimes hate it here, but for the most part, love it. The contradictions will be apparent, but this country is a mass of contradictions, so I can’t see how I can talk about it here in any other way other than somewhat contradictory.

Without having any firm ideas on direction as a writer, I would just like to express what I hope this site can become. It’s written predominantly with foreigners in mind, and I want to try to be advisor, guide, as well as an aid to anyone that has thoughts of coming here, living, or setting up business.

I want outsiders to know the real Philippines, not anything sugar-coated. I have no intentions to seek accreditation from the tourist board; to do that, I would probably have to lie and sprinkle bullshit along with glitter.

Manila itself is a staging point for most travelers, and as it’s somewhere that most are forced to see before they move on to better destinations, it should at least be explained. Despite the many problems the capital has, it still is worthy of exploration. If you think outside of the usual things to do, it can be quite an eye-opener.

As the site builds, the number of followers will build with it both local and elsewhere. With greater numbers, then you can learn from each other. It can also be a vehicle for sensible debate and exchange of views. It could be a genuine opportunity to learn from each other.

A little exchange between outsiders and locals just may shatter a few misconceptions. Your input as a reader and contributor will be essential if this site is to be a success. Yes, of course, I want it to be a success for myself, but equally, I hope it can inform foreigners around the globe and expats living here, as well as Filipinos who are curious about others perceptions of their country.

So come with me. If you’re a local and you feel my reporting is inaccurate, I’m only too happy to learn from my mistakes. It may come down to simply a difference of opinion, but the whole point is exchange and the sharing of minds and ideas as well as giving us the opportunity to learn from each other.

As previously stated, this land is about as contradictory as it can get, but it’s definitely an adventure once you start to get used to it. At first, many people that come here think they will never adjust, but you do. A little help from others can speed that process along.