You're dealing with the Aussie government. They consider a poor girl from a poor family from a poor country who's ALSO of marriageable age far too much risk. They believe she won't return. Whether her uncle's a politician or the Queen of Sheba won't thaw their mean little hearts. This is the same government department who locks up refugee kids in cages in the desert for years, remember.

Shots? Nahhhh. Just don't drink any water unless it's purified or comes out of a sealed bottle of purified water. You can buy this in huge bottles very cheaply.....so be sure to do so. Don't drink anything with ice in it, either.....as it's usually made from filthy water. And don't eat anything that hasn't been freshly cooked. Filipinos have this habit of leaving things on the table for days and then eating it. Save yourself some squatting! And avoid mossie bites. Dengue Fever is rife.

Aussie meal? You COULD if you were feeling brave. Chances are they won't like it, though. YOu and I as Aussies are used to other cultures. They're not. Bring some Tim Tams.....some Cadbury chockies.....lollies for kids. Those will go over well, as Filipino chocolate tastes like ta-e (and yes, you CAN ask your girl what that means). :D

Bring light clothes. Not too many. You can buy cheap clothes over there. Anything you want, you can get there. You'll find the yanks who go there are very soft, and want to bring their own dunny paper. Us Aussies are too tough for that. If our girls can wipe their bum with water and left-hand, so can we!

Otherwise, yes....be respectful.....be patient...and bring your sense of humour. And remember it's a different country and different culture.


Jeff_from_Australia

Forum Tanduay Master