Philippines: The Recap

So when ever traveling there is always something to be learned. My trip to the Philippines was no different. It all started with Manila.

Manila:

• I learned this from my very first trip to India, but completely forgot. Do not trust those at airports. On my first trip I got conned into getting a room and paid 5 times the normal price. In Philippines I was kind of pressured into giving tips (that unwarranted in a country that does not give tips) for a large amount compared to the Philippine peso.
• People say to leave Manila quick and see the other sites. I say that is boo-hockey. I found I did not have enough time to see Manila. I did not get to see the “university belt”, only barely saw Intramuros, and never got to see the sunset or sunrise of Manila Bay. Not to mention the other things I didn’t even get to do.
• Visit Divisoria, and Wagas Market. Wasag Market you have to worry about at late night, as I was warned that there are snatchers around. But I had the most fun eating in a small shack of a home with people from the streets. I learned a lot.

General:

• Wander around the beach. Many times I walk the beach and locals would just invite me over to eat and enjoy sometime with them.
• Enjoy some Tuba. It is a great way to meet some people. When people are getting drunk off of some tuba it is always a good time for everyone there. If you are the kind who doesn’t drink, drink some slowly and take your time.

• Leyte I was told was no big deal to see. I say the opposite. I visited a springs, enjoyed the beach, climbed up a mountain, went on a pilgrimage, and that was a fraction of what I could have done.
• Although Bohol is a tourist trap, run with it. I usually do not do tourist traps, but it was actually fun for a day, at least. Do the Chocolate Hills, the tarsiers and all the other touristy things. It was actually fun for the day.
• Make new friends. Do not be afraid to go out of your comfort zone, it is a great way to meet some people and have new fun things to do.
• Stick to your budget. There are times where I was told A when I heard, or expected B. But sticking to my budget, B worked out, A would have costed me more money.
• Book your flights online. It is cheaper.
• Eating vegetarian is hard, but if you keep looking around you can find vegetarian options. Usually have to avoid the fast food/chain restaurants. Especially the chain restaurants may say vegetable/veggies, it mostly still has meat in it.
• A size Medium Tshirt from the Philippines does not fit the same as a size Medium from the USA.

Edit: 9/25/11 8:15AM

• I forgot the most Important thing I learned. That I am now thankful for what I have. There were conditions I saw that I never have been in. My friends live in way poorer situations than me. I am very lucky for the things I have in my life, and it makes me realize that I have almost too many things in my life. That is the most important thing I got from my trip.
• I also learned that the Ferry in Maasin to Ubay no longer leaves at 8:00 am, but instead at 7:30 PM.
• My friend Jess is an amazing cook.

There was a lot I learned. I hope this helps others in the future. Or you can just explore and let us know what you have learned as well. Happy future travels to all.