#DestinationManila

Every time I think of the Philippines it reminds me of my young high school days where I would binge on Filipino drama like Gulong Palad and Sa Piling Mo. I remember so vividly how my mum and I would make deals with the video store to contact us as soon as they released a new drama series. Once we had our hands on the DVDs, we would rush to the supermarket to get our munchies and cab it straight home. Everything else came later, Filipino movie marathon first. Fast forward 10 years and I find myself planning a trip to the Philippines. It was a place where some of my closest friends from high school (LDS Church College) served their mission, a place flooded with Cathedrals and motorcycles and a place so rich in culture and tradition. If you're a foodie like me, than this is the place for you. Just don't mind the traffic and the j-walkers. If you're planning to visit this part of the world from Fiji, I would suggest you transit through Sydney. The wait is excruciating but it won't leave a hole in your wallets. Unlike transiting through HongKong or Korea. Who pays more than three grand on airfares these days?

The flight from Nadi to Sydney took approximately 4 hours. It was a fast and comfortable flight and as always, Fiji Airways felt like home and the attendants were so welcoming and accomodating . It was only a 3 hour wait at the Kingsford Smith Airport and than the boarding call for passengers bound for Manila on Qantas flight QF19. About 200 passengers and 6 hours and 30 minutes later we could finally see Manila through the clouds. The pilot announced that there was a typhoon approaching the Philippines, but I wasn't paying much attention. I was exhausted from all the traveling. All I wanted to do was sleep. So before coming to the Philippines I was warned that "it'll be HOT". And it really was. The air is stuffy and humid and if you've spent 10 minutes outside, all you'll want to do is shower and stay indoors. But all that didn't dampen this rather big spirit (lol). It's day 6 here in Manila and so far, everything has been great despite the heat. I've managed to check a jeepney and tricycle ride off my list and I'm yet to check out the gay clubs, the street food stalls, markets and some of the museums. It's never an adventure if you're just going to stay indoors right? The Rochester Condominium in Pasig City was home for the twelve days in Manila. It was a great location since we had Maccas and KFC just around the corner and not forgetting the local Chow King and JolliBee. Chow King catered for the Asian cuisine while Jollibee was their version of McDonalds and tasted almost the same but for a cheaper price. There's a lot to see in Manila and I hope that before I leave I am able to visit some of the historic places. Places that still have that touch of Hispanic influence and architecture. Places worth the Instagram shot and most importantly places where memories could be made.

Here's a list of things to do, things not to do, things to watch out for and things you should try. 1. Always keep your phones in your bags. 2. Mega Mall in Pasig City is always busy but has everything you'll ever need. 3. Uber or Taxi would be advisable if you're around the Metro Manila area. 4. Street food is ok to try. Visit the ones that are full of people because you know it's trust worthy. 5. Get your bargaining skills intact. The street markets here is all about the bargaining. 6. Some cars aren't able to drive certain roads so be sure to check first before boarding the vehicle. 7. For the voluptuous, a tricycle isn't ideal. It's too small and slightly uncomfortable. 8. Get your summer wear ready. It's always hot in Manila. 9. A sanitiser is advisable for those clean freaks. 10. Food and alcohol are so cheap.