Final Destination:New Jersey

Trip Start May 15, 2010

Trip End Ongoing

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What I did

Crashed at the Ramada

Flag of United States Newark, New Jersey
Sunday, May 16, 2010

After what seemed like a gazillion hours' wait at the Detroit Airport, my boarding time came for my flight to the Newark Airport in New Jersey. The plane was much much smaller this time and the flight was a bit rocky. Since it was already late in the day, I got to see the twinkling lights of the New Jersey skyline. I think there was a basketball star riding in first class that day but since I'm practically oblivious to the who's who in the NBA, I had no idea who he was. I just heard him talking about his game and contracts, etc.

Finally the plane landed in Newark and the limo driver was already waiting in the lobby with a sign held up. We picked up my luggage and stopped by the nearest MickeyD's. Here's where I first had my lesson in American culture. For most restaurants in the Philippines (even fast food restos), there are employed staff members you can readily ask for service or assistance

Comfort food after a long trip

. Once you put in your order at the counter, every item would be prepared and handed over to you. In the US, I learned that a lot of things are self-service. After ordering burgers and fries at the counter you have to get your cup to the drinks dispenser and fill it up. After eating you have to clean up after yourself. In the Philippines, you just leave the trash on the table and the cleaning personnel will clean up after you.
With that being said, paying extra for the tip is mandatory in the US but not in the Philippines.

After about 30 minutes my ride got to The Ramada. I checked in, took a few bites from the burger and literally crashed into my bed. Gotta get up early tomorrow for work!

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