What is it like living in the countryside of Batangas?
The city is fast-paced, crowded, loud, and stress-inducing, with an unlimited stream of things to do and places to go. However, life in the countryside is a little different. Admit it or not, some of you, particularly those who live in cities, believe life in the countryside is difficult. You have your own misconceptions and expectation.
For example, you might think the internet connection could be terrible in the province, people are miles away from everything, we are missing out on the fun, and there is little opportunity in the province. Well, yeah, you’re right… the internet is indeed terrible. But! You are wrong about the rest.
Someone may find it tough to live in the countryside, yet a small barangay has its own charm. There are too many things to do here just like in the city. Trust me, I’m from the province. So, let me give you an idea of what it’s like to live in the countryside of Batangas.
Fresh air
Walking, riding a bike, or wandering through a small barangay in the province is relaxing because the air is fresh, mainly if trees surround you. There are lots of trees and grass, which improve the quality of the air. In my case, our area is surrounded by large trees, providing us with fresh air and a warm sitting spot. Every day, you can enjoy the fresh air from the moment you wake up. A breath of fresh air will help you relax and unwind from the stresses of everyday life.
Welcoming community
Living in the countryside allows you to be a part of a much more welcoming community. People in the province are hospitable. People will greet you everywhere with a warm smile, and there will always be a reason to eat. Also, everyone in the barangay is welcome to attend, no matter what kind of celebration it is. However, there is a downside to this. News or gossip, whether good or bad, spreads quickly. Chismis here, chismis there, chismis everywhere.
Slow-paced life
In the province, life moves at a slow pace unlike in the city where everyone seems to be in a hurry. Life in the countryside still allows people to slow down and enjoy life, not feel like they’re always trying to keep up. It’s one of my favorite things about living in the province since, unlike in the big city, I never have to rush to catch the jeepney or bus to get where I need to go. Simply said, I’d like a slower pace so that I can enjoy every second.
Less noise
Truth be told, provinces are not exactly quiet and traffic-free but instead of human-made noises like sirens and the honking of a thousand cars or the distant horn of a train, you do get to hear the sounds of nature. There are birds singing in chorus, dogs barking, kids playing, and leaves rustling in the wind. Nighttime can be noisy as well. Frogs, cicadas, and other nocturnal creatures come out and are making noise. However, this sound is not at all bothersome…. or it is.
Less traffic
When it comes to traffic, most people in our town use motorcycles. And with a relatively low number of vehicles on the road, traffic is moving smoothly. Yet there are also times when traffic is heavy, like holidays and times when there has been an accident on the road.
There are still many things I like to mention to give you an idea of what it is like to live in a place far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. But to put it simply, living in the countryside allows you to have a stronger connection to nature than you would in a huge city.
Living in the countryside may not be for everyone, but there are plenty of benefits to doing so. If you want me to write more of this, feel free to drop it in the comment section.
