Ever stuck out like a sore thumb? Okay, now magnify that by a couple hundred. That's the feeling I've shared with two fellow travelers for the last week.
When you travel through the main hubs of countries, like when in Manila, the white people don't stand out THAT much, and people have definitely become accustomed to it. Travel to the north, more rural parts of the country and you get the celebrity treatment.
Now, this isn't a complaint and I love being the one person who seems he doesn't belong, but the Philippine people are so nice that even existing in some parts seems to bring a smile to their faces. And when you smile back? They're giddy with joy. Myself and two friends, Florian and Süntke have been the Beatles in this small town just south of San Juan.
Sometimes it's nice to take a step back and embrace your travels. We found this small town 30 minutes south of the Philippines surf capital, and have learned to embrace being different.
Alas, this morning my new friends and I have parted ways after a week worth of traveling together filled with Red Horse and O.J. Simpson. From cinnamon bread to The Marine 4. We spent time together hiking, and surfing; but also watching an insane amount of action movies. I think the Germans are even more American than I am!
Alas, this morning my new friends and I have parted ways after a week worth of traveling together filled with Red Horse and O.J. Simpson. From cinnamon bread to The Marine 4. We spent time together hiking, and surfing; but also watching an insane amount of action movies. I think the Germans are even more American than I am!
I guess the point here is this; embarrass what makes you different. Aim to stand out, and aim to please. Smile hard and often, the littlest things may make someone's day.
Until we meet again, Flo and Süntke! Prost! TOR!
May your travels guide you home safely, and to much cinnamon bread and impromptu dance parties.
May your travels guide you home safely, and to much cinnamon bread and impromptu dance parties.