F'shizzah Manila

Trip Start Apr 16, 2008
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Trip End Apr 15, 2009


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Flag of Philippines  , Luzon,
Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Well Manila did prove to be a bit of a shock. Its big, busy, dirty, hot and sprawling - so why the problem? Surely I'm used to that. Well I think that problem was that after almost 2 months travelling with one friend or another, I was back on my own again. And this time I wasn't in a country where everything is easy peasy for travellers. In the wet season we are thin on the ground in the Philippines so I did feel a bit lost alright for my first few days. It didn't help that I had to sleep on a bench for 3 hours upon my arrival before my room became available.
Anyway, I got stuck in on day two and did a big walking tour of the city. This took me by the old markets, the church of the Black Nazarine, Chinatown, Intramuros and the Promenade and despite some weary feet I got my bearings a bit better. I took another day investigating the Cultural Centre of the Philippines (built by Marcos) and also visited Fort Santiago and some old Spanish colonial buildings. Overall some days of culture after a while partying with the lads.
Apart from one more attempted scam (which now that I am experienced I was able to recognise and neutralise), Manila is a lot safer than it looks and has a reputation to be. Although there are private security guys one every corner with rifles now that I think of it. Anyway I survived.
As I knew I'd be back in town again at least once I headed up to North Luzon after a few days. Next stop Banauae.
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