Family visits to the Philippines: How this Sydney couple keeps the Filipino culture alive for their children

The Carvajal family often travels back to the Philippines to visit relatives and help their children connect with their Filipino roots.

The Carvajal family often travels back to the Philippines to visit relatives and help their children connect with their Filipino roots. Credit: Julius Carvajal (Facebook)

The Carvajal family from New South Wales often travels to the Philippines to visit their children’s grandparents and relatives. For them, these visits are more than just reunions—they are essential opportunities to connect their kids to their Filipino roots and culture.


Key Points
  • The Carvajal family from Sydney regularly returns to the Philippines to visit their relatives.
  • Julius and Athena believe they are giving their children a valuable opportunity to experience their parents’ homeland and stay connected to Filipino culture and heritage.
  • The couple ensures their children experience life in the province, including through local food, beautiful landscapes, and learning the Filipino language.
I know the Philippines isn't as comfortable as Australia, but going home and experiencing life in the provinces gives you a new perspective and helps you appreciate everything as a blessing.
Father of two, Julius Carvajal
For couple Julius and Athena, beyond the holidays, it’s important that their daughters, Julianna, 15, and Julianne, 9, experience life in the Philippines, from visiting the provinces and tasting Filipino cuisine to learning the Filipino language.
Carvajal Family at Mangodlong Rock at Camotes Island.jpg
Couple Julius and Athena Carvajal make it a point to explore lesser-known destinations in the Philippines with their two daughters, allowing them to enjoy the experience away from the crowds. Credit: Tiny Carvajal (Facebook)


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