PHILIPPINES
Country Overview:
"The Philippines, a country of over 7,000 islands and a rich cultural heritage, offers travelers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and hospitable people."
As an archipelago located in Southeast Asia, the Philippines is a country that is known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and vibrant cities. From the bustling metropolis of Manila to the idyllic beaches of Boracay, the Philippines has something for everyone. The Philippines is a place like no other. It is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, and the people are some of the warmest and friendliest you'll ever meet. Whether you're looking to explore the country's rich cultural heritage, relax on its pristine beaches, or simply experience the unique blend of old and new that makes the Philippines so special, this beautiful country is a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia.
Sabang 2
These were the super not comfortable sleeping arrangements from Sabang down to Cataclan, the place to catch a katamaran to Boracay. Went with economy because 'why not' and was walked into this room with maybe 50 steel frame bunk beds and a mattress pad. I asked if they had fans and the guy said "No, but there aren't any windows so you'll catch a breeze". Cheers man. And yes, it's so hot I'm sweating inside an air conditioned bar
More from Manila
Despite the fact that Manila is a somewhat dangerous and poverty stricken city, the people here are great. Everyone calls us (friend and I) sir, and are very polite. People on the street say hi, hello, how are you, and 'Welcome to the Philippines!' with a big grin on their face. When I catch people looking at me and we make eye contact, they smile or nod, which is so strange compared to the cold and somewhat soulless response from Beijingers.
It's hot and humid, which is a big change from the -5 smog ridden Beijing that I've become accustomed to this winter. The food is delicious, girls are pretty, and I didn't wake up with a hangover that the 'fake' beer in China so often leads me to. Didn't realize the Manila metro was separated separated by sex until I tried to board the female car and was politely told to find the men's.
Most people on the street speak Tagalog with each other, but 90% of the advertising and menus are in English. Everyone seems so nonchalant about speaking 2 languages fluently. So here's to you taxi driver, waiter, and metro ticket vendor: you're miles ahead of most American's language skills. There is a lot of traffic but it moves, not backed up like Beijing. There are A TON of motorbikes, not Harley's, but quick little dirt bike looking motorcycles that aren't super common in Beijing. So I hand it to China for embracing the e-bike and not adding yet another factor to air pollution. On an unrelated note, a day pass at gyms here in PH are only $5. Way to be PH, way to be.
Downtown Manila reminds me a lot of Peru and Porto Alegre, Brazil. The outskirts, with all the vegetation and somewhat mishap brick buildings, makes me think of my time in El Salvador.
My flight leaves for Singapore on the 27th leaving Cebu, so I've got 2 weeks to bounce around this vibrant country and make my way south to catch the flight. Maybe it was because I was in downtown Manila, but there are a lot of hookers and fat white haired men; just what you would imagine in Southeast Asia.
Oh and KKK is a Philipino motto for respect, peace, and something else.
