INTERVIEW WITH HENRY

May 19, 2010 by Jawz

I got the chance to interview an American online buddy through Facebook. He recently had just come back from Davao City after a short visit. A writer, on my friend Bob's Live in the Philippines site, even met up with him while he was here (CLICK HERE to read the article).

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INTERVIEW WITH HENRY

In short, these visits to the Philippines have opened a whole new world to me. I've never ventured outside the United States until my first trip in 2008. Call me a late bloomer in that regard, but I'm happy I waited. I was never one to take the initiative on such a personal quest. For me, I was comfortable here at home in Chicago. After completing my undergraduate degree in International Business, I knew the next step was to go abroad. However, I needed more of a push to get the wheels in motion. I guess my desire to visit the Philippines stemmed from a Filipina I once dated here in Chicago many years ago. Although that relationship didn't work it, it was enough to compel me to go to the Philippines. Taking fate to the wind, I set out to find, perhaps myself, on a trip to the Philippines. In my learning strategies, I did a lot of online chatting as well as frequented a few websites. I corresponded with a few ladies mostly from Davao. That said, I decided to fly over to meet a particular lady in person. Fast forward to present day and I've fallen for this lady as well as Davao City. As I focus on my retirement plans, I see myself living in Davao with my better half. Each visit there present new wonders and fascination. True, it will be an adjustment, but I'm looking forward it.

-Henry

JAWZ: Where are you originally from?

HENRY: Born and raised in Chicago.

JAWZ: What brought you to Davao City, Philippines?

HENRY: I came to Davao to meet my girlfriend after a few years of online chatting.

JAWZ: How long did you stay in Davao City on your last visit?

HENRY: My stay in Davao lasts from 10-11 days. This gives me 2 days when I arrive in Manila to recoup and 2 additional day in Manila to prepare to return to the states. My vacation is only 2 weeks long.

JAWZ: How many times have you been to Davao City before?

HENRY: This is my third trip. I've been coming to Davao every April for the past 3 years.

JAWZ: What are some adjustments you’d have to make if you were to live in Davao?

HENRY: I won't be driving any time soon in Davao! Defensive Driving 101 must be offered somewhere in the Philippines.

JAWZ: What are some major cultural differences you have noticed in your visit(s)?

HENRY: Probably the most obvious is the hand-to-forehead gesture displayed by the younger ones to their elders. That's a sign of respect I wasn't used to.

JAWZ: What would you say is your most favorite thing about Davao City?

HENRY: Strangely enough, I love the new sounds! I enjoy the horns of the jeepneys. I would sit on the balcony of my hotel room watching the traffic, listening to the horns and smiling the entire time.

JAWZ: What are some places in Davao that you’ve visited?

HENRY: I've visited the beach in Toril, shopped a few stores along San Pedro, checked out People's Park, NCCC Mall, Gaisano Mall, Victoria Plaza, SM and a few places I should not have explored.

JAWZ: Where are some places you have stayed in Davao City (hotels/inns and the like), and how would you review them?

HENRY: While in Davao City, I've been staying at Josefina Condotel. It's conveniently located across from NCCC Mall. Plus, I have a great rapport with the owner. She always accommodates the needs of me and my guests. I like their free WI-FI and the staff is very attentive.

JAWZ: What are some foods you have tried and enjoyed?

HENRY: Prior to my first visit to the Philippines, I visited such restaurants here in Chicago to prepare my palate. I've developed quite the appetite for chicken adobo, pancit, banana bread, tapsilog, lumpia and BBQ.