What nobody tells you about visiting Philippines

After a lot of research I thought I knew what to expect from Philippines. Some things matched: Mayon Volcano is as spectacular as every review says, and Siargao has a genuine energy I'd read about. The sinigang obsession is completely justified.

What I wasn't prepared for: world-class island beaches and diving. That element genuinely surprised me and added something I hadn't seen in any review. Also: typhoon season disrupts plans. That part the reviews undersell. Overall a wonderful trip — just a more layered experience than I anticipated.