Philippines - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs Culture

Culture Smart / Cultuur Bewust

by Graham Colin-Jones, Jorge Mojarro, Yvonne Quahe Colin-Jones

Don't just see the sights—get to know the people.

The Philippines may appear to be one of the most Westernized countries in Asia. However, the realities of Filipino life are complex; the faÇade of the English language does not run deep.

Culture Smart! Philippines gives you the inside story of this unique and attractive country and unpacks the daily lives of its inhabitants. An explanation of the values, attitudes, and customs of the Filipinos today opens the way to a more meaningful experience, while an abundance of practical information on socializing, working, shopping, and communicating will help to make it a more enjoyable experience, too.

Have a richer and more meaningful experience abroad through a better understanding of the local culture. Chapters on history, values, attitudes, and traditions will help you to better understand your hosts, while tips on etiquette and communicating will help you to navigate unfamiliar situations and avoid faux pas.

Genres: History, Asia, Travel, Nonfiction, Audiobook, Cultural

200 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2004

Reviews

[Fredrick Danysh · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a brief guide for the traveler to the Philippines. In it is a brief history and geography of the islands. Included are many cultural aspects to include religion, values, and everyday life. A good starter read for anyone wishing or intending to spend time in the Philippines.

[Krista · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some helpful information and suggestions for adapting to the culture of the Philippines, if the reader can overcome a condescending tone at times.

[Kimson Dooland · Rating 2 out of 5]

I give very few books 2 star rating. This is one of them. I finished this book just now. Its 2:12 AM. (Isn't it fun to read at late night. Just you and the book and no one else)



There are a few good information about the Philippines. But not up to the mark as other Culture Smart Books I have read.

I feels like the author is looking down on them. The way the book is written, makes you think. Does the author have a grudge on the Philippines?

There is another book series called "Culture Shock". I'm going to pick that up and read it. This ones not up to the mark. Yes, it gives out a few information and that's why it's got a 2 star.

Anyhow, I like reading these culture books. I use google map and google street view and check out the places and do a walk around in the places while I'm reading about a place or time. Its good to know the culture.

This book is easy to read. Of course the English its written in is not complex. But would I suggest this book for you to read if you want to learn about the Philippines? No!!

I read a few pages from Culture shock series. Pick up Culture shock Philippines instead of this. But I would say I have read other culture smart series book and found them lovely.



Rating : 2.9

[Jodi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dass ich diese Reihe sehr schätze, dürfte unterdessen bekannt sein. Auch dieser Titel reiht sich ein in die Sammlung der Culture Smart!-Titel, die mich fasziniert und begeistert haben. Während der Lektüre fiel mir hier, mehr noch als bei allen bisherigen Ländern auf, wie wenig ich doch über die Philippinen weiss. Zum Glück hat mir dieses Buch die faszinierende Lebenswelt dieser Inseln vor Augen geführt. Somit war dies das bisher spannendste Buch für mich. Dennoch bin ich scho auf die nächsten Titel und Länder gespannt.

[A. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good introduction to the Philippines

[DeeJade · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Philippines - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture" serves as a valuable introductory resource for non-Filipinos looking to understand the customs and culture of the Philippines. This compact guide provides readers with useful insights into the rich and diverse heritage of the Filipino people, making it an ideal starting point for travelers, expatriates, or anyone interested in gaining a general appreciation for Filipino society.

The book is well-structured, offering concise information on various aspects of Filipino culture, including history, social norms, traditions, and etiquette. It successfully highlights the warm and welcoming nature of the Filipino people, their strong family ties, and their love for hospitality and food. Readers will gain valuable insights into the nuances of Filipino communication styles and social interactions.

However, like many guidebooks of its kind, "Philippines - Culture Smart!" should be approached with a grain of salt. While it provides a solid foundation for understanding Filipino culture, it's important to recognize that cultures evolve over time, and some customs described in the book may be outdated or not applicable to all Filipinos.

As with any culture, there is diversity within the Philippines, and regional differences may influence customs and behaviors. Therefore, it's advisable to supplement this book with current and local insights when navigating Filipino culture, especially if you plan to engage deeply with the local community.

In summary, "Philippines - Culture Smart!" is a valuable starting point for those seeking an introduction to Filipino culture. It offers a well-rounded overview of the country's customs and traditions. Still, it should be used alongside more current and localized sources to ensure a well-rounded and up-to-date understanding of this vibrant culture.

[Elle Tzie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Racist. Assumes the reader is a white man (says that the locals may say to the reader "hey, Joe!" which they just say to white men) who is going to have Filipino employees and a luxurious lifestyle with servants. It advises "you" lie to your employees because apparently every single Filipino person is too unreliable to get their work done on time. Returned it immediately after that sentence.
The narrator is aight. His pronunciation of Spanish was quite good, but his Tagalog needs a bit more effort.

[Diane · Rating 3 out of 5]

One incorrect bit of information can make you wonder about the rest of the information provided. The authors note that cars will not stop for you crossing the street - I found it to be exactly the opposite where I was in Manila. Filipinos driving cars are just as polite as Filipinos you meet outside of cars. They do like to use their horns, but only as a kind of “excuse me” and a polite “watch out.” Never saw even so much as a fender bender in absolutely insane traffic.

[Wulfgar's Papa · Rating 3 out of 5]

It covers a lot of topics, some more detailed than others. I would have liked more details on a few topics. And a lot of info is centered around Manila with less information about the other parts of the Philippines. I guess it's a decent overview and a good starting point. There was some good info in it on some topics. I'd like to find other books that go into greater detail than this does.

[Paulien · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this book in order to learn more about the Philippine culture. It gave me some useful insights, but the explanations about the culture are short and quite superficial.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

some of the things written are cheesy but I enjoyed the book. it explained some of the behaviors I noticed within my family.

[Max · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was well done and provided some helpful context and insights for my visit. I would get another one of these books next time I visit an unfamiliar country.

[Joshua Friesen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Smart little guidebook for armchair travelers.