Philippines Archives - Page 5 of 12 - Down Under Visa - Australian Registered Migration Agents

Western society vs Philippines? Not so perfect either

by Jeff Harvie | Jan 7, 2016 | Philippines

I’ve been an expat in Philippines for a lot of years now, and I try my hardest not to get into the expat habit of running down the locals and Filipino culture, habits and practices. This is my home, my business Down Under Visa is here, and I have an intense aversion...

australia.com.ph – an Aussie-friendly directory

by Jeff Harvie | Nov 18, 2015 | Philippines, Uncategorized

It would be safe to assume that most of our BLOG readers and Down Under Visa clients have been to the Philippines at least once. And if you haven’t, no doubt you’ll be heading here in the near future. I remember my first trip here back in the 90’s....

Filipino patience and tolerance – something Aussies should learn

by Jeff Harvie | Oct 9, 2015 | Philippines

I thought I might go off visas for just a bit to share my long-term observations about one of the key differences between Filipino culture and Australian culture, especially obvious as Australian culture is changing. I just turned 50, and I’d like to believe I’m not...

Generosity – when it becomes too much! Part Two

by Jeff Harvie | Aug 21, 2015 | Philippines

I can remember a time years ago when Mila gave a P200 donation at the post office near to our old office for someone’s despedida (going-away) party. Never lost any mail after that, and they always texted us when there was mail waiting for us! And we give the...

Generosity – when it becomes too much! Part One

by Jeff Harvie | Aug 19, 2015 | Philippines

It’s relatively easy to be generous in the Philippines. Opportunities present themselves everywhere, given that most westerners are comparatively rich compared to many of the locals here. There is need everywhere you look, and sometimes it takes so little effort to...

Philippines – The Boys Club – Part Four

by Jeff Harvie | Jul 31, 2015 | Philippines, Relationship Issues

Are Filipinos prudish about sex? No….no….definitely not! Far from it! Grubby humour is very popular, and it crosses age barriers. The humour generally mixes very well with irreverent Aussie humour, and is one of the reasons that Australian Filipina couples get on so...