Long story short, I'm 33 and I've never taken a vacation. Longer story short, I was supposed to move to the Philippines for a year to work on my dissertation, but before that happened, I decided to leave my field for another.
I always wanted to have that experience abroad, though. It's partly why I chose a dissertation topic that would send me there. The most traveling I have ever done was a year in Toronto during my Master's. Being an American from the East Coast, it was hardly an "international experience".
So, I thought I'd have a mini version of the experience that never was and vacation to the Philippines. As I've never taken a vacation before, I have no idea where to begin in terms of figuring out where to go and whatnot.
I prefer the countryside over urban areas, but I also like the performing arts and other cultural outlets (which tend to be in urban areas). It seems contrary, but I currently live in New England so it's easy to be in a rural area but only an hour or so away from a good theater. I like nature, especially mountains/hills, forests, and rivers, but recently went to a beach and discovered I actually liked that, too. I don't know how much, if any, this helps.
Also, one thing I was thinking of doing is getting a pen pal or a few beforehand. I won't actually be able to take this trip for a while (probably about 6 months) due to work obligations, but I figured if I made some friends with whom I'd be able to hang out wherever I'm going, that would be all the better when I get there. Can anyone advise as to how one goes about such a thing?
Thanks for reading, and I'd appreciate any advice on the matter. Regards!
Can you tell me what kind of work you do??..What is your monthly budget?? With a little more info I can suggest some places to stay which are considered clean and safe..
This country is a real culture shock with someone of your limited traveling experience...I am a 2 year Vietnam Vet and even with all the BS I went through over there in the late 60's; this country with its huge gap between rich and poor, corruption, many ethnic cultural dialects, congestive traffic, dangerous highways and roads, little respect for life, beggars, thieves, prostitutes, rebels, terrorists, typhoons, monsoons, dengue and malaria fever, viral / parasite diseases, rivers & streets which are trash / septic dumps, etc, etc. makes it even hard for a seasoned guy like me not to just pack up and leave...
However, on the bright side, you have some of the most beautiful beaches, lush tropical settings, WOMEN, modern malls, colorful friendly people(depends where), low housing costs in rural areas only, fast food, exotic resorts, etc, etc in the world...So if it is this you are looking for and you have the discipline to disregard or take the appropriate precautions to avoid all the negatives mentioned than by all means jump on that plane and get yourself over here for an experience of a lifetime...You'll have plenty to write about...
Before you do make sure you get a series of vaccines such as Hep B, tetanus, diphtheria, etc, etc...Upon arrival be ready to safeguard all your valuables as well as your own safety...There are many here who will immediately see you as a target for easy pickings...
Whatever you decide to do GOOD LUCK in your future endeavors...
