Culture SHOCK leaving the Philippines and returning to America (Reverse Culture Shock)

[@Kevins-Philippine-Retirement]

I am a Canadian expat married to a Filipina and living in Cebu in the provinces. I have been permanently residing here now for 4 years. I can imagine being back in Canada right now, especially that everything there went through the "COVID" thing. Many shocks you mentioned and more would probably overwhelm me, especially the inflation!

[@kaleeysmith8801]

is it dangerous in cebu? can you walk alone at night or you need a big group?

[@hannahmaebeaver9521]

Its safe most areas.. Be nice dnt give opinions to locals. If you have gold jewlry leave it home their expert thieves. Masters of manipulation Lie cheat steal is a way of life here. I mind my own business. In my barangay town i livw for 12 yrs. 2 foriegnors been murdered because their mouths run to much. The truth is not liked here. 12 dollars a hit man can be hired & many poor uneducated basket cases are willing to participate. To much.... BS. Here.. So lay low be cool no problems..

[@kaleeysmith8801]

@@hannahmaebeaver9521 ty so much, yes i mind my own business because i am a guest and i just want to live a normal life.

[@justinbang6025]

​@Kaleey Smith it's safe but like anywhere else just be decerning

[@jingjing4265]

Thats just BS

[@mikewoodley8767]

When government can print currency for fun, people pay with higher prices at the check out. Wages fall behind and tips are requested. The government is the only one having fun.

[@jerryd9124]

If you go to the major cities like L.A. or San Francisco, you see a lot of homeless people living in tents in the streets. Surely it’s quiet and looks peaceful, but be aware, mass shootings occur almost weekly anywhere in America. Police cars chasing criminals, road rage and drive-by shootings happens regularly.

[@williammit1332]

😢

[@muammarlando8]

It's a new norm here in the US. Soon you we'll get use to it.😂

[@Dalszielle]

😢

[@markjohansen6048]

Maybe there are mass shootings weekly in LA, but certainly not in most of america. My town in michigan, population 30000, has an average of less than 2 murders per year.

[@jayneh2006]

You are absolutely right!here in texas as well, almost weekly theres shooting and police chased the criminals everyday😢

[@jonnieinbangkok]

The lack of street life in America compared to SE Asia is the first thing one notices. While just about any street in an urban area of SE Asia will be bustling almost 24/7, even downtown and "busy" neighborhood shopping streets in America will seem deserted by comparison. I almost think to myself "Where is everybody...does anyone live or work here?"

[@DrLawaytravels]

It really does seem deserted here! It is almost like no one is outside, just see people inside stores. In Asia the streets are alive with people and commerce. I love that about SE Asia, street vendors and open markets

[@ermarios4281]

@@DrLawaytravels u r right. Malls there are always full and crowded. U can feel that most people don’t have hardtime in buying and eating in malls and resto. A lot of transportation , lively streets at nights and street markets tbat’s what i miss in the PH.

[@AnnLabadan-ww4ck]

I am a Filipino born and raised in the Philippines. I hate the noise in my country.

[@Vienne1921]

I have both lived in the metro and in the province. Living in province in the Philippines is a dream life. Noise would only be crickets, frogs, chickens, roosters..Cheap food, you can even produce your own. You have to find a way to be sustainable. You must be someone who loves simple life. I do but sustainability was difficult for me to achieve that time. Then i moved to Manila, busy, fun, salary is high and of course cost of living is high. Every weekend, i would go out of town (nearby provinces) just to relax and find tranquility. The noise in the Philippines depends where you live. I’ve been to Australia (queensland) for a year. I loved it there. They have night life too, but felt like a province at the same time. Night is quiet, groceries are all closed at 7pm. Street is almost empty on weekends but they love malls too and leisure parks.

[@ermarios4281]

Most people loves party, disco, pubs at night bec. that’s the only freetime that most people have and just accept that reality in life. REaLtaLk!

[@jimgauth]

I live in a high elevation (0.5km above sea level) provincial city. It's quiet and peaceful. There are good grocery and hardware stores, plenty of fresh markets, and absolutely beautiful weather (no typhoons). ATM fees are about a quarter unless you use an international bank. I can get to a mall in a bigger city in about 20-30 minutes. Organic vegetables and grass fed meats are plentiful. I never want to go back to the states. I don't get many cold weather vegetables, but I don't miss them. My US dollars exchange rate is way up here lately, so it's an advantage for Americans.

[@grahamhills6849]

My mother recently visited from the UK and was shocked by how cheap day to day living is here in the Philippines. She compared a few items, & the UK was upto 150% more expensive on standard groceries!

[@DrLawaytravels]

That sounds about right, folks I talk to in UK say everything is so expensive now

[@piacash5216]

Yes 2 of My Friends Living In UK Right Now Thinking of Relocating to Portugal Coz The Rental of Theirs Apartment Went Up To 250More Pounds Instead of Paying 650Pounds ….Food and Utilities went up too …

[@markjohansen6048]

Some things in PH seem very cheap and others very expensive. Eating at a restaurant is very cheap. I once took my girlfriends family to dinner at a nice restaurant, 10 people, and it cost me $40. I've spent more than that for just me at comparable places in the US. On the other hand, I was surprised to find that fruit at a grocery store costs several times what it does in US. Like oranges are so expensive they sell in packs of 2 for like $3 or $4.

[@wavemaker2077]

@@markjohansen6048 Oranges and apples are mostly imported. So they are expected to be really more expensive. Compare the bananas then.

[@eduardochavacano]

@@markjohansen6048 cheap for foreigners, but very oppressive to locals. Actually, Thailand and Bali is a lot cheaper and backpacker friendly.

[@stan-nv6wv]

my first trip to the Philippines was just 10 days, I'm not even home here in Canada yet still at an airport and I'm suffering culture shock. no warm or friendly people and everyone thinks they are a Kardashian. everyone is looking inward not outward.

[@RVboyjunior]

😂😂😂

[@say1706n]

I consider you "lucky", you could live in the US which is even less friendly overall than Canada....

[@eduardochavacano]

And you will feel like a Kardashian in the Philippines, that is why you miss it. The attention of friendly locals dont annoy you, then your inner Kim Kardashian was unleashed.

[@terrydonovan5246]

maybe you are good looking young white guy if you fat belly old n body care at least you want spending tons money to young pinoy take anything

[@DavidHarrisonDGH]

Reverse culture shock is very real. I've always suffered it coming back from China or the Philippines to Australia. I used to live in China for long periods on and off. I think the main point about reverse culture shock is where you really prefer to be. Last November, when I returned back to Australia from the Philippines after 27 days there, it took me a month to get over the shock of being back in Australia, and I probably don't ever get over the shock of returning because I prefer the Philippines and Asia in general.

[@arsinoeegypticum8894]

It's more fun In the Philippines even a simple life

[@lornaramirez90]

Because in Philippines 🇵🇭 not stressful even you have a lots of work ,if going home someone or family takecare ,and weekends they have bonding with them if no family together.The Life is boring ,they don't know where the the happiness 😊, But in western country always working and working ,and no family to takecare coz almost are broken family and independent to each others ,from work they doing to him self ,to find the food what can eat ,find the laundry place to wash the cloth that used,This is why Philippines 🇵🇭 is different to the western country..Family is our number 1 priority ..

[@dan-othemando7958]

@@lornaramirez90 Ya Feels That Way Work Work Work and Less Family Time. Gotta Keep Up With the Joneses.....

[@eduardochavacano]

@@lornaramirez90 so that explains why everyday there is a very long line in the US embassy with people who just sold their buffalo to apply for A US visa, only to be denied entry to the US.

[@eduardochavacano]

@@dan-othemando7958 the Philippines also Work, work, work, and more work. But you will never keep up with the Lim or the Lui. In Amerca, you can be a Pizza delivery boy for 6 months and live like a King in Boracay and Siargao for 1 year.

[@jerrygray5510]

I retired in the Philippines just over a year ago. I will be going home to Texas, the DFW area, in October to see siblings, kids, and grandkids. They are all adults now. I’m really not looking forward to it because I will be around some of the reasons why I left in the first place. It will be nice to see family, but for most of the last 25 years I have always lived out of state and only saw them 1 or 2 times a year anyway. I try to keep up with what is going on in the US. I’m actually glad I left. Thank you for all the content you present. Keep up the good work.

[@rudeawakening3833]

Please share what makes you happy to not BE in the US anymore . Thank you in advance . Peace ☮️

[@landonbarretto4933]

Texas sucks.

[@jerrygray5510]

@@rudeawakening3833 let’s start with the gun violence. This year, Texas seems be leading the country in mass shootings and general gun violence. Another reason is the out right hate of anyone different from you or your group, and that’s on both sides of the political spectrum. Demeaning teachers and calling them groomers when the religious right are the true groomers. I’m sick and tired of the US politics in general. The list is longer, but that’s enough for now. I just feel more relaxed and safer here in the Philippines. I live in the province, away from big cities. I love it here.

[@RetireandGo]

Jerry, I also go to Dallas area for the holidays . I’m a full time nomad and I go back to see family in Texas every year. I enjoy the steaks ! Haha Beef is so pricey in Asia

[@garrylafferty100]

@@rudeawakening3833 they leave U.S because of cost of living there really no other good reason or there with a filipina who don't want to leave her county she the boss

[@jongibbs8115]

tipping is out-of-hand.... self serve places now turn the display around when you order expecting tips. You get no service and self clean your area after. I am a generous tipper when I sit down and are served, but the expectations now are mind-blowing for doing absolutely nothing other than taking my order

[@sunflowermahea225]

My wife's first time in the states she was asking where all the people were and couldn't believe how clean everything was.

[@DrLawaytravels]

That was my wife's reaction as well!

[@marjunmarcelocristobal2678]

Woow!! This is the 1st time i've read about Reverse Culture Shock!! GLAD I HAVE THIS CHANNEL!!❤❤❤❤ Love from the Philippines

[@PhilippinesFarmLife]

Philippines has endless noise from Roosters crowing, dogs barking, music at maximum volumn and litter despite garbage cans inches away. 😊 If I moved back to the states I would have to get a full time job. Living retired in the Philippines my pension lasts All month with a few $$ going to savings. In the USA my pension would last 1 day.

[@louis20122]

Probably Thailand is better. Cleaner and less noise.

[@jerrygray5510]

Same here. I feel more financially secure here in the Philippines. Naval, Biliran Province, Eastern Visayas

[@RetireandGo]

I can relate to all your points I was in the Philippines earlier this year Truth about the noise I’m in Indonesia traveling now , similar with roosters and dogs

[@RetireandGo]

@@louis20122 the interesting thing about Thailand is when you are just one alley way away from the main road there is so little noise. Like quiet little alleys Im in Indonesia now and it’s similar

[@garrylafferty100]

That number one reason people move to Philippines a pension go a lot further

[@ceburockhead]

If there is so much noise in a city it means that the economy is vibrant

[@babyggarcia4869]

The noise depends on where you live in tue Philippines.If you live in posh subdivisions.the homeowners associations prohibits noise like honking and even tricycles coming in and if they use karaoke they have to make sure that their houses are siund proof and won't disturb their neighbora.

[@tryscience]

The tip culture has gotten completely out of control here. Essentially it's businesses trying to underpay their workers and shift the burden that should be theirs, to the customers instead.

[@oscarbarragan6675]

Your so right about the ear hustling thing. I spent 6 months on vacation with my wife in the Philippines and when we got back I could not help but hear everyone's conversations. It was maddening to have my own thoughts invaded while trying to get things done with constant talking by people I did not even know.

[@Kraken9911]

It's easy to tune out in the Philippines when you don't speak the language. If I hear any English my ears perk up so fast now.

[@johnclark1469]

I just vacationed for only three weeks in Dauin and that was enough to experience a bit of reverse culture shock when I got back!😂 returning to mostly cars all neatly lined up in their lanes instead of trikes and motorbikes going every which way and constantly moving at 25-30mph, here you drive 50 miles an hour stop at a red light for 5 minutes and repeat. it seems like you cover the same distance either way. and since I’m from northern Indiana when I got back it was freezing even though the days are longer. several other things struck me but it was funny how quickly you adapt to the casual Philippine lifestyle.

[@RetireandGo]

True I have to watch my street crossing when I return to the US I’m so used to just looking both ways and wandering across roads haha

[@vondoromal7016]

Right on good sir!... 👍✌️😁

[@User5260jo]

Welcome back to the U.S., Dr. Laway! You will get over your culture shock in no time.

[@DrLawaytravels]

Thanks for watching!

[@jamesb872]

We expect to go through culture shock also. When we return from the Philippines in September, we would have spent 11 1/2 months over there. We will visit relatives and take care of our home before we travel back to the Philippines.

[@HenriHattar]

I go to The Philippines a lot, I am Australian, although you made me chuckle a bit because what you say is pretty true, there is some missing bits, come to Australia and you will see critters, not litter, not tips, no atm fees. And the cost of items in The Philippines is expensive , especially cars and electric items. Where bouts in the Philippines are you staying? If you haven't visited Mindoro, it's not too bad. OK happy travels.

[@Ymanntronics]

Yes Sir, you are precisely right. Being poor is not an excuse to maintaining cleanliness and orderliness. It is a matter of awareness of the environment and love of country.

[@jefferystrong6852]

My sister gives me regular updates on the costs of things. I don't complain about the price of my ground coffee at S&R anymore. I'm not sure where I'd start if I had to go back. I'm sure the condition of the roads aren't the only difference. Traffic has to lighter and more orderly.The background looks familiar, is that Panther Creek State Park? Stay safe.

[@DrLawaytravels]

That is Panther Creek! I went over to Morristown to go to a eatery that I used to eat at when I would go to Court there a couple times a year. Sadly it was now closed for lunch, but I stopped by the park on the way back.

[@pelyeser9476]

For what I watched from other vloggers in the US most of the states had plenty of homeless people living in the sidewalk

[@Cons2911]

I was fortunate to have worked in the US for a few years. It’s a very beautiful country, I mean just the area where you are now, to me is very very relaxing. Then you have brooks or whatever those small bodies of water are called (I like lakes too but I love the sound of running water).. very very beautiful. I’m not a fan of snow though, but spring, fall.. so so beautiful

[@cebuano101]

Discipline is our biggest struggle in the Philippines.

[@rudeawakening3833]

Can you please elaborate ? Thanks 🙏

[@RetireandGo]

I think the US as well Discipline and responsibility Interesting though , can you explain more?

[@DHcycling]

you mean obeying laws and rules? agreed

[@cebuano101]

@@DHcycling in general😊

[@TheLatinMass]

Filipino time? Obeying traffic lights, road signs, construction detours. Not putting off for tomorrow what we need to do today.

[@jojokrako7818]

I had lived in the Philippines for 3 years and came back to the U.S. a couple months before the covid ordeal struck and I definitely experienced the reverse culture shock. Along with the overall change in understanding the language, it was the change in the noise levels. Over there, I was living out in the province and there were roosters crowing constantly and dogs barking, with the ever present flow of scooters and motorcycles and the beeping of horns. One big shock that took me a while to readjust to was driving here in the U.S. There, you make your own lanes, drive at whatever speeds you need to and of course, the chaotic flows of overcrowded roads and intersections. For some time, I found myself almost passing slower traffic in lanes that I should not be in and would likely go to jail in doing so! I think the biggest thing I found was that of actually feeling like a stranger in a strange land, even in my old homeplace that I had spent most of my life in. Yes sir....reverse culture shock is a big time real thing!

[@RetireandGo]

Good points on driving Also when I cross streets .. I have to careful to use cross walks in the US haha It’s a trip to return home every year for the holidays

[@garrylafferty100]

Imagine a fiance or wife who never been here before that culture shock for me i was back to normal in a week felt like i never left i may have felt like a stranger for a short time jet lag however i was only gone 4 months a lot can change in 3 yrs

[@DrLawaytravels]

I totally get the stranger in a strange land feeling!

[@cecilsultan9010]

@@RetireandGo m

[@RetireandGo]

@@cecilsultan9010 have a great day :-)

[@buddypidco9053]

So true, I didn’t even know it’s reverse culture shock what I experienced, went to Philippines for 2 months, when I came back it’s was so weird that there were very few people in my neighborhood no matter what the time of the day, took me like a week to get used to it. Where I stayed in the Philippines is as soon you get into the streets just so many people and lots of cars, so a live

[@ThomasRose-mu9vg]

Everything changes😊

[@travellolo]

My Filipina wife misses 3 things about the US. 1. The food, how much variety and quality there is in the US. 2. How quite it is in the US. You can walk on the sidewalk and not hear jeepneys and tricycles. 3. How good service is in the US. Going to a US supermarket, fast food or restaurant is such a good experience.

[@garrylafferty100]

There are many advantages to living in america schools job etc

[@DrLawaytravels]

They main things we miss are high quality beef and dairy. Also the easily accessible green spaces that are not too crowded

[@danielver4484]

Here's some serious things that you and your wife must consider about America - kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYC3Zp2ZqNh8aJo

[@granny686]

how about mass shooting??

[@am-fil]

Quiet, not quite.

[@Itsme-jx2ft]

I'm from Philippines and i came from Dumaguete area, if you live in the city, there's a lot of noise. Our place in Dumaguete is closed to the beach we can hear barking dog but most is the wave of the ocean. If me and my Daughter is in Manila, i live in rizal areas in the mountain. By 9 no jeepneys well passed. Only few tricycles. Less noise pollution 😂 more tress a bit cool. But me and my Daughter here now in the US since 2021 because of the pandemic. Just saying

[@RVboyjunior]

😂😂😂

[@grayessamm4203]

Have you been to Seattle, parts of CA recently? It’s worse than the Philippines. 😢

[@d.b.6240]

So the 50 homeless in a city of 10,000 is worse than 3000 homeless in a town of 10,000 in the Philippines?

[@DrLawaytravels]

Been 30 years since I was in CA, probably like a different planet now

[@Mary-zd8xo]

@@d.b.6240 The place where I come from in the Philippines, there are no homeless people. So maybe it depends on which locality.

[@d.b.6240]

@@Mary-zd8xo incomes are low there, home prices are low there, people are kinder and more sharing. But ultimately many times more are homeless but staying with friends or relatives. I can understand why the death penalty for drugs exists, it does curb some cycles of homelessnesses

[@iloveisrael2943]

@@d.b.6240 homeless in philippines had job while your homeless dont

[@jc-1579]

Sharing everyone of Jesus Christ, He is coming back. We are spiritually saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ our Lord God and Savior .

[@toothsayer21]

Hi Dr. Laway. If u experience cultural shocks and reverse cultural shocks, feel good because you are normal. Specially USA vs. PI

[@DrLawaytravels]

Hey guys thanks for watching. The card about Inflation was misspelled by my editor and uploaded to the channel before I had a chance to watch. I caught it but decided to just let it go live with the mistake rather than take a day to change extract and reupload it. Saw a couple of others, but that is life on the road no time to review ahead of time.

[@marcrichard7251]

Yeah I caught that….but I love your channel I only wish the videos were a bit longer….

[@edwardkmichael]

I was gonna bust you man, LOL. Great video. Thumbs up.

[@duals-growthofculture2085]

Your editor? I didn't think this was a professional channel with a crew. Is your editor your wife? haha

[@Nergüi-Khan]

@Dr Laway ty for loving my homeland I'll appreciate it and yeah everything you said is also shocked to us bro we do feel you and you're always welcome back again anytime you want much love from the Philippines bro😊

[@1966bluemax]

wow. how can a lawyer do everything remotely

[@jimwooldridge1721]

Just returned to Texas after 6 months. Biggest shock to me was cost of grocery. Crazy increase in cost in only half year. 2nd biggest of course was driving. No people in the middle of the street.. stop signs, lights, and traffic police. Wow!! complete open roads and no traffic.

[@DrLawaytravels]

It is amazing how fast prices increased. The driving has been a pleasant Suprise, last time I had a car was in Thailand and all I have to say is MY GOD!

[@josephrobi6806]

It is due to Biden the higher cost of living communist mind set to bring down the USA 🇺🇸

[@michaelamontemayor448]

The biggest shock is when you return to the west. You'll understand more about the miserable behaviour of the neighbourhood 😊

[@edhead409]

Enjoyed it because I know when and if I decide to retire there. There will be a few things I'll miss.

[@antoniocdechavez4409]

When it comes to litter, it depends where you are. There's lots of trash here in New York. I live in Brooklyn and there's lots of garbage everywhere. Take a subway ride here and you'll definitely understand what I'm talking about. It also smells like weed almost anywhere. The trains also smell like urine especially if it becomes a sleeping area for the homeless.

[@Dalszielle]

Be careful there , I saw on the news that homeless that died and that it’s dangerous to take the train. I’m driving on my own and try to be in the safe side because you never know-there’s a lot of crazies

[@antoniocdechavez4409]

@@Dalszielle In New York "crazies" are everywhere. They call it "mental health problems, " and there's plenty of them around. Not just the subway.

[@Kraken9911]

Gone for two years and he's culture shocked? I've been away from America for ten consecutive years now. I probably wouldn't recognize it anymore. It's been so long that the thirty years I spent living in America feels like a distant dream.

[@JamesKay007]

Are you retired in the Philippines or do you work here? Where abouts in the Philippines do you reside? Which province?

[@Kraken9911]

@@JamesKay007 I came here when I was 31 to Negros island. My wife and I do all our work online.

[@tonyjtaps18]

Your home town is like a dream land for me, so much cleanliness, so quiet, surrounded by nature plus the services are excellent. If I were you I will never again leave that beautiful place. Sadly I'm stock here in the Philippines, can't do much to change it, I was born and raised here. Lucky me.

[@stoneagedjp]

One that blew my mind was looking around and realizing I was surrounded by people who looked like me -- but I could no longer identify with them. I also learned that the reverse culture shock you experience during a visit is but a mild version of what will hit you when you commit to living there again.

[@MrWackydoodles]

what you mean when you said you could no longer identify with them?

[@stoneagedjp]

@@MrWackydoodles Difficult to describe. Lost sense of belonging, lost sense of connection?

[@georgeince4136]

L.O.L., I love your videos they are very informative. My wife is from Pasig City, and when she came to a senior citizens development in suburban N.J. she was shocked at the quiet and lack of people. Thank God she has received her green card and will be returning to visit the Philippines next year. Have a great visit in America, but I know that you will want to return home to the Philippines again soon. Ingat.

[@RetireandGo]

Good point The size of people too Tall and big It’s a shock after I have been in Asia for a year and return to visit family haha

[@stoneagedjp]

@@RetireandGo Shock is the right word. The size of people is the first thing I notice every time.

[@dochi1958]

The P.I. are so beautiful it's heartbreaking to see all the trash. When I stayed there I recycled about everything but had to dig a very deep hole to bury the rest as I refused to burn it like many locals will.(mostly plastic) as there is no trash pick up where I stayed. I would also gather all the trash along the road leading to the house but would have to do that at least once a week as they throw every thing on the ground. I guess locals take for granted the beauty of the place while an outsider like me sees it differently.

[@U_KCuF]

Yes am a filipino but i not throw trash everywhere.. i hope some filipinos will be responsible of there garbage. And i hope govt will be strict implementing the laws about garbage. Sorry my bad grammar or english..lolz

[@dochi1958]

@@U_KCuF Thank you for being responsible with your trash. I'm sure many others would like to be but where do they put the trash? It's a chicken-egg thing, imo. If there are no trash cans or trash service, why bother not throwing trash on ground? It's just a very sad state & I pray a solution is coming. And your English is very good! (I wish my Ilongo was as good!)

[@ironorchid]

The trash problem in the Philippines is not being address properly by the gov't, and no strict implementation of the law to segregate and proper disposal of the trash. The schools doesn't teach much the students about not throwing trash and it's hazards to the health and environment.

[@wavemaker2077]

The people need to be educated about caring for the environment. Maybe you can start it by talking to the mayor or the barangay captain. The children grew up seeing the adults throw their trash everywhere so it became normal for everyone to throw trash everywhere.

[@edwinmendija8087]

Riding out to the Province, I choose to look at distant places so as not to focus on how all that trash ruins the beauty all around.

[@gabeghiby6935]

yes, it's not so noisy and it's clean indeed (most of the time) in the US, with a few exceptions if you go in the ghetto or the wrong side of the tracks... I lived in Memphis - and I loved it - and there too are such areas, same as any other big city NYC, L.A. Chicago, Detroit, San Fran, Dallas, Houston, Phoenix, Atlanta, or any other metro area... that's my main concern for moving to the PH, in Davao initially, the noise pollution, the garbage situation, and the slow, very slow service, with long waiting lines everywhere you go... this is a quality of life that often in the states we take it for granted... but we pay heavily for it... about inflation, I'm living in the states, and me too I'm stunned, shocked... housing, the rents are double, utilities, groceries, gas, everything virtually is more expensive... hence homelessness is more and more a problem, and we all are just a few paychecks away from becoming homeless... and indeed, salaries are the same, no one increased the salaries, except maybe for the fast food industry, and they still can't keep the kids working there... while there are millions of immigrants, able and willing to work, but are not allowed to work due to their "undocumented" status... while the social security system will collapse soon because there is not enough input, to support the payments they need to make, often to white trailer park trash people, able but unwilling to work, complaining about the government that sends them a check... which is why I will move to the PH despite my concerns... my girl is waiting for me in Davao

[@garrylafferty100]

So the girl dont give you a choice ? Some are not willing to leave her country

[@DrLawaytravels]

Memphis is a great town. I always like going down near the river, amazing view, great food!

[@gabeghiby6935]

@@garrylafferty100 oh, my girl is living and working in Davao for over 4-5 years and so I'll be there with her at least for a start... I didn't gave her a choice because I don't want to bring her to the states we'll be living there not in the US However we agreed that if I can't adapt to the lifestyle there - especially humidity and noise pollution and critters and garbage and the slow pace with long waiting time - we might move together to Thailand or Malaysia but not the US... I will never bring her to the US to live and work...maybe as a tourist to visit and get a general idea but we'll never live in the states again once I'm there... Sadly the US is not what it used to be and I can't put up with me latest trends... so once I'm out I'm out for good...

[@gabeghiby6935]

@@DrLawaytravels oh yes... some of my most beautiful memories are from Memphis... and Beale street is unique in the states and has its own charm... I lived there over 5 years and loved it...

[@Dalszielle]

Just learn to adapt and be streetsmart wherever you go and that helps a lot. 👍🏻

[@stephenpavy2501]

Yeah that English thing was something I never knew would be so strong when coming back into Australia from being in Thailand. Even with the extra noise in a place like Bangkok. You can tune out and concentrate on your own thoughts. But back in Australia. You hear everyone's conversations, the quiet streets is actually scary when you first notice it. Couple times I felt like I was in post apocalyptic world back in Australia. They animal thing. Is two ways. Back in Australia you go, "where are all the dogs and cats" oh inside houses and as for wildlife. Thailand has quite a few wild things in the street, as in Australia. In a city like Bangkok you get used to seeing giant lizards and the odd snake compared to Australia in the city it's rare. But in Australian cities you see more birds as there is more parks and trees in cities. But what I noticed more of Asian cities are hawks etc. Especially in Hong Kong

[@usersubscriberSC]

If you want peaceful communities, try the gated, exclusive villages in South Luzon. Rent in some areas range from US $400-700 a month

[@scorpio7seven28]

If you go to the high end urban areas in Metro Manila, you hardly see trash.

[@Steve7318]

Greenfield District I think it is called and others I have seen in Metro Manila it's because they have their own paid street cleaners and also green spaces that are clean and not littered with trash. Both Cebu and Manila have a lack of green spaces compared to City parks that we're used to at home.

[@DrLawaytravels]

Several places I went in Manila were very clean, more so than big cities in America

[@GAMMASP8]

I was laying in bed with my wife when she arrived here in the USA she said "I can't sleep it is too quiet"

[@DrLawaytravels]

My wife said that as well years ago

[@bigwaidave4865]

I found it very interesting. I live in Bangkok Thailand for the past five years and will be traveling back to the Usa to see if my folks in California. They also live in a rural area.. I think I’m in for a bit of cultural shock myself. Btw.. do you want to see spotless, travel to Tokyo, Wow!!! 👍Thanks for the video. 👍

[@kevinreist7718]

Yeah, lots of restaurants try to get you to pay the tip up front. Before you've even received or tasted the food. Since the tip is for timely service, well prepared food, a clean table, and good service by the waiter / waitress., I always choose no tip. Then, If a tip is deserved, I will go back up and give one after the meal. Everyone needs to tell them how unprofessional it it to ask for a tip up front. I usually do.

[@willmaniulit8581]

They ask for the tip ahead of service because most tourist don’t give tips!!!

[@rudeawakening3833]

Where is this taking place ?

[@kevinreist7718]

@@rudeawakening3833 All around the united states. Especially in restaurants.

[@kevinreist7718]

@@willmaniulit8581 I always do when traveling. But based on quality and timeliness of service and if the table was clean and the food was good.

[@rudeawakening3833]

Perhaps I never “ got that memo “ because I ALWAYS pay in cash …

[@jonathangoins2196]

I've forgotten how things are in states, I left to Asia in 2012, and haven't been back, I am a chiropractor working in the Philippines. I hear how expensive things have gotten, its sad...Don't miss being there with the way inflation has hit.

[@garrylafferty100]

I only miss Philippines for extended vacation i dont want to live there

[@danielver4484]

Here's more for you Jonathan - kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYC3Zp2ZqNh8aJo

[@RetireandGo]

Thanks for the thoughts on your return home !

[@DrLawaytravels]

Thank you so much!

[@RetireandGo]

@@DrLawaytravels have a great day

[@edwinmendija8087]

I'm an American born Filipino and the cultural shock visiting the Philippines was that I was now surrounded by people that looked like me or rather I looked like them! Honestly, I've always felt like a second class citizen either here in my home country of the United States or when visiting the Philippines as I am told that I do not know what it is to be a "real" Filipino. My experiences though are what I have grown up to mildly accept. The only place I really felt accepted most was actually in the military. Love watching your videos...Aloha!

[@magnapearl9506]

Great video!

[@DrLawaytravels]

Thank you so much!

[@edifierbass7821]

Well of course its different why? becoz Philippines is another different country, every time we go to a different place or country always bare in mind program yourself that things are not the same the way you used to back home, in that way culture shock will be lessen..... god bless

[@jefferywise1906]

You were very fortunate. ATM fees have been around as long as I can remember ATMs. Out of your bank there’s a charge. It’s been going up over the years as well, no surprise there. You bank at B of A, Wells Fargo, etc then use their ATM and no charge. 1996 is when they got greedy. Multiply a $3.00 service fee by a few million transactions a day CaChing $$$

[@DrLawaytravels]

Those fees add up quick for the banks at that scale for sure

[@andrisstanga5938]

I can definitely identify with the language one... I had been living in Ukraine for a while and when I returned to UK I had a weird experience in London Airport. There was an announcement on the Tannoy, and I was asking myself, I wonder what language that is? Then it hit me hard: it was English! I didn't recognise my own language! I had become so used to hearing only Russian or Ukrainian. I hadn't even realised that when you begin using a foreign language for long enough, you even begin to think in that language and not your own language. It's five years since I returned from Odessa and I still catch myself sometimes thinking in Russian...

[@DrLawaytravels]

lol it is shocking to me to here everything in English now, been a strange feeling

[@floren879]

Great vid

[@sgb.3999]

Beautiful looking nature there Dr Laway. What state are you filming?

[@DrLawaytravels]

That was Tennessee

[@say1706n]

Regarding tipping: It has changed; I think it's in response to the low wages some people are making in the service industry especially considering recent inflation. I don't think anything of throwing on a 25% tip or even a little more if the service was exceptional. Some friends of mine will even tip more...

[@melecioseverino2222]

It is not a question of tipping, it is more of a burden to doll out extra $, remember not all have the luxury of wealth. I know of so many who do not have enough but occasionally would like to take the family to eat out and the 20% tip is over the budget.

[@GUITARTIME2024]

I haven't seen doubling here in NC. I'm starting to see some sales again, gas seems a bit stable, lumber fell back. It's mixed. Strategic shopping helps.

[@gilberturesti338]

good video👍

[@rockycata6078]

#CultureShock🤔😄 Sometimes better when you can 'tune-it-out', and just be you in any culture. The language is in the common humanity that you care about people, if only a smile. Hard to find in the US, and everywhere in the Philippines☺

[@markrenne6136]

I thought your comments about the out of control tipping were revealing. I just ignore it except restaurants and traditional items like a transport driver or an Uber. When Starbucks is looking for a tip on the now $6 cup of coffee not going to happen. In the Philippines I always look on my receipt to see if there is already a service fee and if not I tip 10* Maybe I’m being cheap but I work hard for my money and am not handing out as a welfare provider

[@DrLawaytravels]

delivery drivers and waiters makes since to me, but take out?

[@American_Mike]

Prisoners have not been cleaning most of the roadways since about 2012. The tipping suggestions on Point of Sale, really started to pop up in 2021. TIP nothing. The workers do not get it.

[@quangb8448]

ATM fees are normal if you're not pulling money out of your bank's ATM. Some banks will refund you the fees at the end of the month but if you don't have one of those banks, then yes, you'll be paying for the fees. Yeah, they expect to be tipped everywhere. I'm waiting for the day where cashiers at grocery stores and department stores have a tip jar out.

[@DrLawaytravels]

It looks like that may be where they are heading with the tips

[@eleanorhernandez2348]

The Philippines is an overpopulated Country! It’s a total opposite from the US, in so many ways... culture and so many aspects in life! Very much appreciated that you have a liking in staying in the Philippines😍

[@RogueMI6]

You have to visit Cities in California and Oregon to see how nice and clean places are

[@jims3114]

I'm back to U SA after 42 days in the Philippines. I noticed how quiet it is here.

[@mackijs1]

The Federal Reserves answer right now to inflation (might be a new dynamic now because of the prevalence of telework) is to raise interests rates. This hammers young people and people on the margins. Firms are not increasing their wages like you said, instead I think just more people are turning to debt to keep up unfortunately.

[@Cons2911]

About the noise, I agree with that (I’m a local)..but, there are places where it’s not an issue, my home for example, I don’t hear any rooster. There are dogs but they are inside their home. Some may be uut but they don’t really venture out that much. Karaoke.. not in our vicinity. Depends on where you are I guess, but I imagine it is true for a lot of places

[@williammit1332]

I've been away almost six years, retired in Thailand, and haven't looked back. Sounds like I couldn't afford to move back to the States. I live on under 2k like a king in Thailand.

[@DrLawaytravels]

Thailand has some of the best value in the World. Really spoiled me living there. Spent about 2k a month but for a family of four and was living really good

[@chrisnkai4073]

Had to come back to the US for a short stay. Was on the plane and had to listen to a fellow American on his cell phone talking to a co-worker. I had to listen to the whole bloody conversation for 10 minutes. So annoying! I had no way to tune him out! Why do my fellow Americans have to be so dam loud on their phones??

[@Marabella1]

How can I reach you? I think you are near my town in the U.S. I moved to the Philippines a little over a year ago. We live on Samal Island now. I would love to speak with a fellow Tennessean. Thanks

[@Steve7318]

I have noticed that as well, after being in the Philippines for a year at a time and then going back to the US you don't realize how peaceful it is there until the noise stopped. I have lived here for over five years, 4 of which have been in Cebu City and I deal with constant noise here. You can't even go into a store without dealing with noise. When you get back to the states, the noise stops and I'd say it's actually a nice thing to have peace for a change. The culture here is very noisy and it's public. Even living here in a Condo on the 21st I hear it all, so if you want peace and quiet the PI is definitely not the place to be.

[@RetireandGo]

It was a good point to bring up about the noise in the Philippines The traffic and music I’m in Indonesia now and the towns are noisy but just a few blocks out of center city and it’s silent Interesting

[@Fireballzzzz]

I wouldn't generalize ALL of the Philippines. I live in a city where it's pretty quiet, my European husband loves it here, he doesn't like Cebu though (he thinks it's rowdy). We live in my hometown in Butuan City, Philippines. He loves it here, it's very walkable, lots of quiet places, mountain cafes, quiet subdivisions, and friendly neighbors.

[@lulululu8922]

😂😂😂

[@kimkong9622]

crazy Noisy nation...

[@RetireandGo]

@@kimkong9622 it’s tough to find a quiet place to film haha

[@markjohansen6048]

My first visit to the Philippines I noted, they have pretty much the same lines and markings on the roads that we have in the US. But in the philippines, no one pays any attention to them. They're just for decoration.

[@observations2011]

In life there's just pros and cons. All we have to do or choose is wc one is the better option.

[@yolandafestejo7810]

Yes discipline is one of the biggest challenge her in the Philippines

[@grumpyolddude439]

Felt it after 3 1/2 years in (then West) Germany in the Army, then transferred to Ft Ord, California. Going from Germany with it's pricing...to California and IT's pricing...was frightening. As for hearting the English around you...situational awareness. You've been subconciously seeking people you could converse with. Your brain began to passively (passive sonar), listen for your native language. As for wages...Tennessee is one of 5 states with no state min wage; so the min wage there is $7.25/hr in 2023, same as it was in 2009.

[@danielver4484]

Here's more other than pricing, kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYC3Zp2ZqNh8aJo

[@edwinmendija8087]

Missing Ft. Ord....Lightfighter!

[@intuitivesean443]

I’m on A bus leaving dumageta as we speak time to go back to Las Vegas 😢

[@DrLawaytravels]

Safe Journey!

[@richieliper4720]

Good bye, doc Laway! Take care!

[@alanthompson1151]

My home bank won't change an ATM fee for using, in-network ATM'S. For years now, I get a serve charge for using, out-of-network, plus an extra charge from my home bank! A $20.00 to $60.00 out-of-network withdrawal can cost $3.75+- , plus a $1.50-$3.00 home bank service fee! The service fees are ridicules!

[@DrLawaytravels]

Crazy fees

[@noutheticcounseling5447]

Any advice for me to prepare my filalina to bring her to the US? She has never been out of Cebu. So what will be the most radical culture shocks for her? I already the weather will be a huge change.

[@celesteprudente8774]

Yes, parks are clean in the US, because there’s no people outside.

[@grayessamm4203]

Mass shootings, theft, etc. it’s unbelievable!!! It’s a good thing I live in a decent location.

[@WilliamFluery]

enjoyed the video. i was expecting this to be a social decay culture shock

[@yukiyuko-so4st]

I can relate with unintentional eavesdropping hehe

[@dog-thebackwardgod]

Everything doubled in price but we've only got 10% annual inflation according to the government. How they figure inflation is purely about the banks interests and not ours. Actual inflation is many times more then they claim

[@DrLawaytravels]

Yeah they are gaslighting

[@remytrail3944]

Hello again Dr Laway, I really enjoy listening and watching you. Where are you in Tennessee? I’m from Nashville. What’s the name of the that camping area you are now. Reason I’m asking, cause I love camping.

[@DrLawaytravels]

East Tennessee. That was at Panther Creek State Park in Morristown about 1/2 hour from Knoxville

[@fan_lankybox]

i am from a small town in East Tennessee and have lived in Davao City, Philippines for the past 22 years.May I ask what part of Tennessee you are from? Your accent sounds a lot like an East Tennessee accent.

[@crewcutter2030]

Litter is relative to the size of population you are in, california is really bad with litter.

[@yomaikimurillo5074]

Lots of changes here in the US everything is went up the rent the prices from the bigger items and cheaper price now is they make it smaller and double the price not good for now for those guys work as minimum wage

[@PhotoVideoDream-lz9ut]

Inflation is the killer in North America and you are right, the prices have doubled and more but wages...have not doubled...so now you know....

[@Nergüi-Khan]

Most retired U.S employee live in Asia why it's because everything is cheap and it's more fun in here your pension last for many years if you spent it wisely but in Europe or America bro your money will not last for a year😂

[@yomaikimurillo5074]

You got back here in the US how long you gonna stay I always watched your vlogs

[@DrLawaytravels]

Only about three weeks in the US, then back to South East Asia

[@Zee_1003]

the independent media that I've been watching regardithe situation in the US reports that the worst is yet to come so ppl shpuld brace themselves...

[@JosephOccenoBFH]

In California, there's a $1000 fine for littering so that serves as a deterrent.

[@Ohyet0210]

Where is the best place to retire in Tennessee? I'm from NYC.

[@TheSwede70]

Recognize these things all too well. To me it is always more of a culture shock to come home to Europe than too arrive in Asia or south America or even Africa. Nice video. By the way, I have a diagnosis now. Tropical sprue. It mimics celiac a lot. So I am nack on gluten again! And travel will be like before :-) :-)

[@tomstubbs1]

Welcome back to the States!! What part of Tennessee? I am from Georgia.

[@DrLawaytravels]

Currently in East Tennessee

[@tomstubbs1]

Where I grew up in Northwest Georgia was 45 minutes south of Chattanooga. My Filipina fiancé is from Davao City. We plan to get married and I will be moving to the Philippines in the near future. My fiancé doesn’t want to live in the States.