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Ellen DinkinsRepostFacebook47
Oct 1

Hi everyone,
My girlfriend lives in the Philippines, and on my next visit I'm planning to meet her family.

In their culture you bring a gift, so any tips or suggestions for gifts?

1
Reactions20 of 308 original comments
Guard your walletKeep it modestNo pressureChocolate & a mealManners & boundaries
Guard your wallet
David Milligan7

Just open your wallet. As long as you pay for everything, they'll love you! My advice: buy the parents a small nice gift, and don't have the whole family meet you at the airport, because they'll bring everyone and expect you to foot the bill! Don't stay at her parents' house, stay at a hotel. Don't listen to their money problems, they'll sneak them in. Don't get a savior complex. Have a nice trip.

Keep it modest
David Agnew5

Nothing flashy. Some chocolate or candy. Don't set the bar too high. Don't dress too nicely: no collared shirts, closed-toe shoes, long pants, or socks with sandals. Beach clothes are best. You're here for the beaches too. Don't stay with them. Pick a 2- or 3-star hotel. Rent a modest scooter if you need one. Best to give the impression you're lower middle class. Never let your partner or the family know your assets and income. The family will add it to the Family Asset Register. Don't become a Financial Service Animal.

No pressure
Loida Galindo-Hilliard4

If it's your first time meeting her family, please don't feel any pressure to bring a gift! If you want to do something special, treating everyone to a nice meal is a lovely, warm gesture. But if your heart is set on bringing something, chocolate is always a sweet and welcome choice. Since you don't know everyone's tastes yet, it's best to keep it simple. Just remember, coming from another country doesn't mean you're obligated to bring gifts. The best thing you can bring is your genuine self. Focus on being yourself and enjoying their company rather than trying to win them over with things. They'll love you for who you are! 😉

Chocolate & a meal
Hans de Beer3

Take the whole family to dinner. Bring chocolate from overseas. You'll be popular. Don't overthink it.

Manners & boundaries
Beaukiss Red1

All I've got to add is: DON'T FORGET TO PAY RESPECT TO HER FATHER WITH THE HAND-TO-FOREHEAD GREETING.

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