The transition from Florida to the Phillippines has been easier than I imagined. Linguistically, there are many different dialects that are present, however, the main two languages spoken where I am stationed are English and Visayan. Culturally, there are many differences between here and home, however, I am keeping myself open to new experiences and the Filipino people are welcoming and understanding. As per the climate, the current season is named habagat which is comprised of a strong breeze and plenty of rainfall. The adjustment to this climate has been the easiest because it isn’t too unlike south Florida.
My typical day consists of morning housekeeping chores at 6:00, breakfast at 7:00, day’s debrief at 7:40, dive training from 9:30-1:00. Lunch 1:30- 3:00. Between 3:00 and 7:00 we are either doing homework for a cert, entering data, or we are free to do what we want. Dinner is at 7:00. After dinner is more free time.
The two most difficult things about the transition process have probably been the 12-hour time difference and the metric system, especially considering how important measurements are in scuba diving.
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