Includes index.

Front Cover -- Title Page -- About the Author -- Contents -- Map of the Philippines -- Introduction -- Key Facts -- 1. Land and People -- Geography -- Climate -- The Environment -- Natural Disasters -- A Brief History -- The Republic of the Philippines -- The Marcos Years -- The Philippines Today -- EDSA II -- The Economy -- 2. Values and Attitudes -- A Relationship-Based Society -- Bahala Na -- Mañana-Filipino Time -- Attitudes Toward Foreigners -- Making the Right Impression -- 3. Customs and Traditions -- Religion -- Christian Festivals -- Fiestas

Islamic Festivals -- Other Celebrations -- 4. Making Friends -- Meeting People -- Invitations Home -- Inviting Others -- The Online Generation -- Dating -- Homosexuality -- 5. The Filipinos at Home -- Housing -- Daily Life and Routines -- The Family and Children -- Family Celebrations -- Household Help -- 6. Time Out -- Shopping -- Sports and Games -- Gambling -- Nightlife -- Food and Drink -- 7. Travel, Health, and Safety -- Road Travel and Transportation -- Rail -- Ferries and Boats -- Air -- Places to Visit In and Around Manila

Places to Visit Away From Manila -- Health -- HIV/AIDS -- Medical Care -- Safety -- 8. Business Briefing -- Office Etiquette and Protocol -- Management Style -- Speeches and Presentations -- Bureaucracy and Corruption -- Women At Work -- Business Entertaining -- Gift Giving -- Patience and Perception -- 9. Communicating -- Languages -- Face to Face -- Nonverbal Communication -- Services -- Conclusion -- Appendix: Useful Apps -- Further Reading -- Picture Credits -- Copyright -- Index

The Philippines may appear to be one of the most Westernized countries in Asia. However, the realities of Filipino life are complex; the façade of the English language does not run deep.

Culture Smart! Philippines gives you the inside story of this unique and attractive country and unpacks the daily lives of its inhabitants. An explanation of the values, attitudes, and customs of the Filipinos today opens the way to a more meaningful experience, while an abundance of practical information on socializing, working, shopping, and communicating will help to make it a more enjoyable experience, too.

Have a richer and more meaningful experience abroad through a better understanding of the local culture. Chapters on history, values, attitudes, and traditions will help you to better understand your hosts, while tips on etiquette and communicating will help you to navigate unfamiliar situations and avoid faux pas.