I hope you learn something from the first travel tip, it’s so easy that even the most experienced traveler forgets. Anyway, here’s the second one: ASK A LOCAL.
The best guides in every town that you set foot are the locals. I have nothing against tourist guides but most of them offer what their agencies have- mostly more expensive than doing it your own. You can do this in two ways, ask friends who are in the area for tips and ask people you meet along the way.
A tableeg or tabligh in Rio Hondo
I saved PhP128 (US$ 2.80) when I ask a local in Silay-Bacolod airport on “how to get to Bacolod City other than riding the airport van?” He said, “just walk towards the airport gate and find a tricycle going to Silay then from Silay you can find jeepneys going to Bacolod.” Instead of using the van which will cost me PhP150, I took the tricycle (to Silay town proper) and jeepney (to Bacolod) for only Php22.
Back in 2008, I was able to peacefully enter Rio Hondo, Zamboanga City (tourists and locals fear this place) when I ask a Baranggay Counselor for help. I don’t know why they fear this place but the people I met are still my friends until now. Nothing to be feared. Oh, I became friends with him too! Thanks again Gammar!
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Hi James! this holds true in our recent trip to Boracay. Since we asked the local tricycle driver kung saan ang palengke nila, he directed me to their local public market, separate from D’Talipapa. everything sold there was cheaper by 50 pesos. Also in our Bohol trip, we asked local vendors along Alona kung saan ang murang kainan, and they directed us to the Budget carinderia, and our meals were complete with omelet, longganisa, rice (na may extra pa) and coffee, all for 420 (good for 7 dinosaurs) …compare that to the way overrated breakfast meals found along the beach.
indeed! im happy to be reading these kind of stories. indeed, asking a local goes a long way.
and yes, going to the public market saves you a lot.
thanks for sharing your story elaine!
Thanks for very good information