The Real 12 of May 2011, Boracay

12 of May 2011

It appears to be I was busy this morning as I have a lot of things in my mind regarding politics and some system that irritates me as I stated from my 2 previous blogs.

Politics is not my cup of tea, nor anything fake.

As I was saying... we (my sister Diana, the Dutchman and I) are on our way to Kalibo, Aklan  to see what the heck is all about this little white sand island called Boracay. I was hesitant to go to Boracay everybody knows that its a "party island". Thats why Im not so keen. Its like a Benidorm of Spain, its a tourist destination where chav people go to. I have a feeling its one of the tackiest place to be.

When we reach Kalibo Airport, we got pick up  by Southwest Bus Company. We travelled for 2hours by land. Then they dropped us off a place appears to be a waiting area, owned by Regency Hotel. They offered us a cold drink and a cold towel to freshen up and after 10 minutes, they took our luggage and they lead us to a speed boat with Regency Hotel sign on it. Then after 20 minutes we arrived to another port, they moved our luggage again and we got told to ride this Regency van. Finally after 10 minutes... We are in front of the Regency Hotel.

Initially I thought, Oh dear we are quite far from the sea and this hotel is quite average. After we checked in. A guy took our luggage and lead us to our room.

Our room was amazing, the loo is lovely and we have a pool access just 3 steps from our room... that 3 steps BTW is our balcony.

We are all starving, so we went to D' Mall and had some "paluto"...Dampa style. We had 2 kilos of king prawns, 2 kilos of tulya, 4 pieces of medium size fish one of it was Lapu-lapu. Our dinner is delicious!

When we are all watered and fed. We had a splashed in the pool just outside our room  then explored the white long beach maybe just 30 steps from the pool . Water was crystal clear but not as clear as Palawan.  Lots of young people and "Young-Ladies-with-foreign-older-boyfriend" In which criteria do I fall under? Well my Dutchman is definitely not old and I am not so young. Also, I think we both have a disposable income. Shhh...

We explored the night life but not in a club but we spent the night walking to the beach from station 2 to station 1 with a bottle of white wine in my hand. It was the best idea I think.

While we are having a little bite and a little drink somewhere, the Australian couple we met in Palawan turned up and told us about how great Boracay is and they have done this and that. I was a little pissed off as I feel that they were just talking to the Dutchman, so I just looked at them from head to foot then pretended that they are not there in front of me and showed them that I was bored with their presence. Next time I will be much ruder! But I don't think the Dutchman will go with it. By the way, She was still wearing that cheap looking bodycon dress she was wearing when we first met them in Palawan.

Headed back to our hotel and jumped into the pool.

So far so good, Im liking the place. But if we are not staying at Regency Hotel... it will be a different perception.

The Lady In Red with a Fake LV and The Bodyguard

12th of May 2011 

When we reach the taxi drop off at terminal 3 of Manila Airport, I saw the long queue and we have to get in the queue outside, to get in the airport. That didn't bother me. But... It did bothered me when this security guard opened another line for them and just went trough and for this lady in red person to go in by passing all the long queue!  There was a young couple behind us who was offended by this too and wanting to know who is this security guard/personal assistant is. This Lady in red person and this Security/Bodyguard person makes my blood boil. This is where corruption and "palakasan" system starts! These people if they are in power, do  not deserve their power if they do things like this! If Gloria's daughter get in the queue to get in this airport, why cant they? I don't think they are making a difference in the Philippines.

When we get in the queue, this time to checked our luggage in. There was 4-5 tills assigned to checked our luggage in for Kalibo, but there was only 2 tills which are working. Again, the Lady in red and her security guard went in front of the queue. A little justice on this please.

*I dont know who this lady is, but she has fake LV luggages with her. Im sure LV will be offended and rise from his grave to strangle her.

A Very Opinionated Me.

12th of May 2011

While we are in my cousins taxi on our way to terminal 3 of airport. As usual, traffic was moderate to heavy. I was quietly listening to AM radio station and being entertained by Ted Failon and Pinky Webb.

 They were talking to the PNA Chairman about EXPLOITATION OF NURSE VOLUNTEERS and  Volunteerism for a Fee. It was quite degrading, on how hospitals in the Philippines exploit their nurses! It is just ridiculous.

They talked about Reproductive Health Bill or RH Bill http://rhbill.org/about/ , a highly controversial topic for debate in the Philippines at present, topic that involves the Catholic Church and some popular people and of course, wants-to-be-popular-people. I was born and baptised as a Roman Catholic and I am an experienced Nurse, so I proudly support the Philippine RH bill! I just hoped that whoever is the President of the Philippines right now, should MAKE A BLOODY STAND!!! He should not be afraid of being excommunicated by the Catholic Church and for the Catholic Church not to make such a lame threat to people. I am begging them to open their minds and see what is really happening in the Philippines. For Christ sake.

Also, I think, Marcos deserved a place in Himlayan Ng Mga Bayani. He is a hero. I still can see all the things he has done and started for the Philippines but neglected by people who are in power after his reign.

I feel that most of Philippine Media sucks! They are irresponsible most of the time, they just stating their opinion not the facts. Why can they just make a blog or something!

Meeting By Chance

11th of May 2011

I got MJ's number and got in contact with her,  finally! We started texting each other.

This morning, Richard, an old friend of mine phoned me, I even spoke to his Mother. They said Thank you about something and his mother said I have very good friend... I think she meant MJ, not her son. (Sorry Richie, Im just trying to be funny.)

The Dutchman and I went to Trinoma today to replace my Swatch battery. So we did. Whist we were looking for a restaurant to eat. To proved that the world is so small and we are all connected...I was just talking to him this morning... I saw Richard from a distance holding paper bags from Swatch (meaning they have been to swatch, where we've been). He's accompanied by a young girl. The Dutchman knows Richard and he even remembers his name, which I think Richard was quite impressed! Finally, the Dutchman and I saw another friend of mine, by chance!

Iam not a very keen lover of pizza, I will eat it when Im starving... The Dutchman loves it, but not Pizza Hut or Shakeys. So we dine at Yellow Cab Pizza. He likes it, but I don't.

We went home early, as we need to pack for Kalibo to see what all the fuss is about at Boracay. Im not really keen on going to Boracay, I feel its like a Benidorm of Spain. No,  I've never been to Benidorm... I'm sure its lovely, but I don't have any plan of going, not in a million years, not in my lifetime.

The Cockerel named Four AM

10th of May 2011


I don't recall what happened today. But I can tell you a story about my Uncle's cockerels.

As my room in Manila is at the back of our main street, it is somehow quiet... excepts when the cockerels starts to do the sound "tik-ti-la-ok" at, hmm... actually...basically, all day!

The Dutchman named one of my Uncles cockerels "4am" as they are quite restless around that time, and when one has started, it will basically keeps on going on and on and on...

When the Dutchman Met Yna, Sol and Tina

9th May 2011

It was raining most of the day and it did stopped raining briefly at 5pm. So the dinner plan with Sta. Clara friends are on. Sta. Clara is a hospital in Bulacan where I used to work before England.

Yna San Pedro, whose a superwoman as she can do anything and everything, a friend of mine and also a friend of the Dutchman for so many years too. She pick us up at our house and took us to Sta. Clara Hospital and dropped my sister off as she has to work on a night shift and also to see the place, and to picked up Sol and Tina. Then we went back to Manila.

Had a dinner with Yna, Sol and Tina at Gerry's Grill in Tomas Morato. The music was too loud. Beside our table was Vince Hizon dinning with his kids, he used to play basketball for PBA and used to be cute. Sol was quiet that night, we didn't really had a proper heart to heart talk. Tina as usual, trying to put me on the spot, I just pretended to be surprised. I love Tina just the way she is. I always tease her, bless her. Hope she still doesn't mind.

Had  a Starbucks coffee afterwards at ABS-CBN compound. Yna spotted Johnny Manahan, I told the Dutchman to play cute as he might be discovered as an actor or a commercial model. So I can quit my job and be his manager. He told me to shut up! He said "I wont live in Manila, but I would like a house and lot in Palawan."

It was a lovely night. I'm glad they met the Dutchman in person.

Australian Open VS Boxing

8th of May 2011

Our fourth and last day in Palawan, I went downstairs to have breakfast. The Dutchman normally don't bother having breakfast, so I left him in bed. We need to check out early as our flight is at 10am, the hotel van will take us to airport.

While we were in the van together with another couple they are going back to Manila as well. (they said they are from Australia... the girl is/was a Filipina.) The Australian guy was asked if we enjoyed Palawan...I just replied "yes".  I understand, he was being polite and I was just being a bitch for a reason... I don't like them and they are just talking to the Dutchman so I kept quiet.

While checking in to a Cebu Pacific flight, one of the crew ask me If Im pregnant. I said, "No, I'm just fat!"

Went back to Manila, to my surprised... the traffic run very smoothly! There was a boxing match Pacqiao VS Mosley. All the people are glued to their television watching the match.

We arrived home in 40 minutes from the airport,  had Tinola for lunch and watched the Pacquiao VS Moseley match on channel 7.

Had a nap.

Planned our next escapade.

Dont know what else happened.

Island Hopping Adventure

7th of May 2011 (day 3)

Today we went on island hopping at the Honda Bay or Hunda Bay or Unda Bay as they call it before. We got pick up from our hotel at 7.45 just after breakfast, We met Aling Dina as our guide and chef. We hired goggles and scuba gear along the way. I'm afraid my camera is quite big thats why I was unable to hire a camera case. Thanks to Isko Onde for reminding me to bring a smaller camera for underground cam-whoring purposes ...not! But he was very helpful reminding me with other things.

Armed with SPF 50 and additional 30%. First stop, we went to Sta. Lourdes Wharf and waited for our boat to take us to a makeshift floating island to see  the coral reef they are disgustingly beautiful! ...appreciated it more when I stayed in the water longer. The Dutchman cannot be found at this point as he's enjoying it too much, I think he forgot I was with him. I was preoccupied too, thats why I dont mind. I swam with small and big school of fish. I even saw Nemo!

Second stop, The Snake Island taken by its name, it is a snake like shape! Didn't see any snake though. Here we enjoyed feeding the fish with bread. While our tour guide busy making our lunch. Just two steps from the sand you can see small school of fish and when you ask one of the boys who manages the "bangka" they will take you further and see the bigger school of fish! It was amazing!

I dont feel well all day but I don't want my abdominal pain get in the way of fun. I load myself up with loads of medications!

Third stop, The Pandan Island this Island is privately owned by the Legend Hotel, no one stays in this island overnight. The island is gorgeous! We saw starfish, loads of them... dead! :(

As we reach Sta. Lourdes wharf at 5pm, I vomited my lunch. You see I'm not well.

Went back to Microtel, swam in the pool for half an hour and went to our hotel room, the Dutchman was nagging at me for pushing myself to much.

We had dinner at Puerto Prinsesa's Famous restaurant called Ka Lui. If you don't have a reservation you cant get in! Thank's to Jezza, she was one of the Maple Tour's girls who sorted our dinner reservations at Ka Lui.

As our hotel is quite far from the town there's a van that can take us in any restaurant in the town. In the van, on our way to Ka Lui there was a group of young people, quite educated young people but they talk like they are texting each other. Like: Busy na me. "I'm Busy" instead of saying "ako" they will say me instead. I hate it! The other kid was keep on going on and on about the life in London eg: when someone invited you for a dinner in England people will go "dutch treat" unlike in the Philippines, if you invited me therefore its your treat!  And the different terminology we use in England like handover, how they pronounce certain antibiotics etc. And some infection control, and patients confidentiality blah, blah, blah.... Anyways, when we reach Ka Lui, I asked the kid where is he from... he replied, "I worked in London",  I stared at him from head to foot. In my mind I told him to "shut up!"

We left our Havianas as we came in at Ka Lui' everybody was bare feet even the waiters. We ordered Tubattaha salad composed of fruits, nuts, fresh tuna and chili! it was unique. I feel That restaurant is too overrated, the food was alright. I can say I had better.

To finished the night, I phoned a room service for a traditional "hilot" or body massage. While the Dutchman was rubbing elbow with some rich people in our hotel. He even got an invitation to stay in Tagaytay and for a game of golf.




 

Ugong Rock VS Underground River

6th of May 2011


Woke up early morning against the Dutchman's will as we have a schedule to follow. We had breakfast at the Microtel but the Dutchman didn't really enjoyed it as most of the food are pork. Longganisa, pork tapa and pork lumpiang shanghai to name the few, however I enjoyed everything! We are waiting for our tour guide to advised us when the van is here.
Today we are going to Subterranean River or Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The river flows beneath a spectacular karts mountain before emptying into South China Sea and it the Longest navigable underground river.

We travelled 2 to 3 hours of long and winding rugged road. First stop, we took  pictures of Honda Bay and Ugong Rock from a distance at this viewing deck. It was nothing to me at that time. I am very much looking forward to the Subterranean River cruise, instead of this front acts.

Second destination of the Day, The UGONG ROCK!
Ugong Rock is a limestone formation located in the scenic Barangay Tagabinet, a few kilometers away from the well-known Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park 



What is Ugong Rock?
Ugong Rock is a 75-foot limestone formation in the midst of farmlands and karst forests or forests growing on limestone substrate in Barangay Tagabinet, a once sleepy community of indigenous peoples. The word “ugong” stands for the reverberating sound (similar to a bell) that stalactites produce inside the cavernous structures of Ugong Rock when hit or pounded with  the knuckles or the palm.
What’s so special about the Ugong Rock limestone formation tour?
There seems to be nothing special about a rock, or Ugong Rock, for that matter. But discovery awaits the curious tourist looking for a place of challenge. The tour in Ugong Rock is actually a climb to the top of the limestone formation. Tourists need to wear a helmet to prevent head injuries while squeezing themselves through holes and cracks and protect pockets to prevent the camera from hitting the hard limestone while actively climbing up a steep incline midway in the tour.

No worries for chubby climbers. Local tour guides are ready to assist.
The tour consists of an hour or less walk through narrow cracks and caverns, climbing up ladders, and squeezing through narrow holes and crevices that will barely allow chubby, plump persons to go through. About midway, tourists need to clamber upwards a steep incline with the aid of two lines of rope. For those who are not athletic enough or the heavier ones, the tour guides are ready to make the push necessary to hurdle this challenging ascent towards the top of Ugong Rock. Just a few more squeezes and ladder climb, the tourist reaches the top where a view deck awaits. The tour guides provide a cool towel wipe to refresh tourists who sweated it out.

http://factoidz.com/ugong-rock-a-limestone-formation-tour-through-nooks-and-crannies/

After the a half hour climb, it took us 21 seconds each to get down, via Zip Line! It was fun. The Dutchman went on first as the anticipation of waiting kills him. I was giggling and laughing my head off as I was nervous, when it was my turn when I was all fastened and ready to jump, I said, this is suicide... Im not doing this. But the locals whose managing  the zip line are so reassuring, so I jumped! It was all worth it! I will definitely do it again. We even have certificate to proved it that I made it thought the  Ugong Rock Zip line, worth 20 pesos! 


Third Destination, Mangrove boating tour. 
The Tour guide for Mangrove boating tour is Aling Aida (mangrove lady) and Manong Itoy (the taga-sagwan).  They even sing a song for us while on the boat. Manong Itoy does the instrumental bit and keeps on banging my chair as the Dutchman and I was sat the back of the boat. It was annoying but he keeps giving us additional informations about the place and most importantly the whereabouts of the venomous snakes. Its an educational tour, they told us the importance of the Mangroves and wildlife was amazing, if you look up you'll see snakes are hanging on a mangrove tree and when you look in the water you can see school of fish while the boat is passing by the flawless river. It  looks like a scene from Indiana Jones movie. It was raining a bit, but the rains just add up the drama of the scenery. 


Fourth destination: Sabang Beach, had lunch prepared by the locals and drinks for free. We were offered if we like to try the wood worms or oysters I opted for oysters instead. Its only100 pesos per serving we gave the woman 20 pesos more. Wood worms are very clean as they eat wood. But they are both aphrodisiac. Hmm... lets see! The Dutchman had a few and stop me from eating the rest of the oysters as its not in its shell anymore, he said he doesn't trust it as he doesn't know when it was taken out of the shell. I enjoyed it! 
We strolled along Sabang Beach collecting sea shells and wood rock, writing our names on the sand to passed the time, as we are booked to be in the Subterranean River at 4pm... yes booking needed to go in that river! Thankfully as its a package, the Tour guide already booked it ahead for us. We are just waiting for the boat to take us there. They don't want the place to overcrowd, and I agree.


Fifth destination: the Subterranean River or the Underground River. 
Finally, the long wait is over! I can see 
Armed with 3 kinds of Mosquito repellant lotion and patches that matches my dress... we bravely went inside the famous Subterranean River. It was breathtaking. We were told not to say "Wow"with an open mouth, for precautionary purposes otherwise you might catch a warm "bat shit", if it is cool thats alright that might me a mineral water. Inside the river we saw 2 black cats, the Holy Family, Virgin Mary in the Cathedral, tinanic, inverted poo, and many more! 


We saw a lot of beautiful things today and I am so thankful. The Ugong Rock is my personal favourite. 

You haven't seen the best of me yet.

5th of May 2011                   

Woke up at 4am took a shower, straightened my hair and brush my teeth. We set off at 5.30am, there was no traffic along EDSA, which is quite strange! My first time to see terminal 3 of Manila Airport. (FYI: I know what its called but I don't want to say the other name of that airport as I don't understand why we have to change the name MIA to NAIA.) Terminal 3 is way better than terminal 1, why do they not use the terminal 3 for European bound?

Anyways, had breakfast after checking in. Had calamansi juice and omelet for breakfast, it was lovely! although I already manifesting signs and symptoms of PUD... I still opted for Calamansi juice.

While in the Cebu Pacific aircraft, I must say, the stewardess are all good looking. They are always smiling and It was nauseating at some point. I was expecting for the flight attendants to dance on one of Lady Gaga's song while demonstrating the safety features of the aircraft. But they didn't! Why??? this is why I chose Cebu Pacific over Philippine Airlines!

I consider myself a frequent flyer... but not here in the Philippines, this is my first domestic flight in my homeland which is such a shame. I was quite alarmed when I saw smokes coming from the ceiling of the aircraft, maybe its their way of showing off that they are decompressing the aircraft or something. I honestly don't know. But people in the aircraft who I think experienced flyer are not bothered about it. So it calms me a bit. The dutchman and I took a picture but smoke doesn't show on the pictures.

The coffee mocha in Cebu Pacific is a must try. The Dutchman had a beer but its only 8am, he's quite apprehensive I understand.

We arrived in Puerto Princesa, Palawan safely.
The smell of fresh cut grass... its a bliss!

We were greeted by the locals and our tourist guide named Jeza gave us a garland made of sea shells and a capiz with a picture of Subterranean River. We travelled in style like a proper tourist on our way to our way to Microtel, our hotel. Not to brag but Microtel has its own beach view unlike the Legend Hotel or the Asturias to name a few popular ones.

Whist I was at the front desk of Microtel registering, the Dutchman already roamed around and found the  beach at the back of our hotel. Not to brag but Microtel has its own beach view, unlike the Legend Hotel or the Asturias to name a few popular ones. Its not check in time until 2pm, so we hang around at the back of our hotel. It was gorgeous! White sand with a hint of red, clear water... clearer than NWASA!  It was such a post card picture-esque. The Dutchman cant contained himself and had his feet dipped in the water.

The Tourist guide came back and took us in a van together with 3 other people for a city tour. We saw: 1. Puerto Princesa' own version of Manila' Bay walk minus the snatchers and untrusting people and also with clear pristine water instead of smelly dark water of Manila Bay.
2. Immaculate Conception Cathedral
3. The famous Plaza Cuartel
4. Mitra's Ranch
5. Bakers Hill
6. Binuatan Weaving Center (which I tried to weave for camhoring purposes)
7. Crocodile Farm with mini zoo (cuddled a crocodile, also for camhoring purposes)
8. We went to a souvenir shop and showed my haggling skills to the Dutchman. We bought Lamayo (dried Danggit) and my favourite Dried Labahita.

We didn't go to Butterfly farm, don't know why! But it was on the itinerary. I didn't ask as Im not bother at this point cause Im already exhausted and Im having abdominal pain so I asked the tour guide to take us to Mercury drug. I bought Buscopan, Ranitidine and Gaviscon. I am so well drugged.

When we got to our hotel, had a freshed up and had a dinner by the pool beneath the stars in front of the beach. Had seafood sisig and seafood kare-kare and blue marlin fish covered with mustasa.

Im loving Palawan then even though I have not seen anything yet.

Oh Cubao

4rt of May 2011

Written in retrospect:

Had Jollibee's Burger steak for breakfast, it was supposed to be my sisters pasalubong last night but she had a big tantrums and did not eat her dinner... so I eat it for beakfast instead It was delish! (The Dutchman didn't know I had it for breakfast, so, shhh...)

I finally knew what my sister' tantrums is all about, so I did what she wants me to do. She went to the hospital and sorted it herself. The result: She has now 2 unpaid weeks off work. 

The Dutchman cooked Chicken Palava for lunch, I had some ingredients with me from the Netherlands. All the cleaning and after care. Im thinking, all this hassle from finding a spinach to the actual cooking! I wont have this anymore...We will now have take away all the time! ..but thats just me on my mind, wont dare to tell that to the Dutchman. 

After lunch, I decided to go to Cubao to visit WATCHWORKS the only licensed store to open my watch and for battery replacement. They are charging me 7,000php or a hundred pounds for the job as my watch has a lot of issues not just the battery. The Dutchman and I was like... lets just buy a new watch! But this certain watch has an emotional value, had it after I my first job... and it was my mothers sort of gift. So its very precious you see. 

While we were in Cubao, I must say, this place is very different nowadays... less like Munumento more like Ayala Avenue. But I still don't trust the people here, no offence. 

We went home whist there was still light. I need to pack our stuff as we are going to catch a Cebu Pacific flight early in the morning bound to Puerto Princesa, Palawan. 

My apologies, I wont be posting for 4 days as I'm going to leave my Macbook, but I will bring my iPhone and Blackberry with me for tweeting needs. 

That Sign Board

I really wanted to go to Coron I heard its the most beautiful place in Palawan. My brother gave me an iterinary for Puerto Princesa, So I tried calling this travel agent, hoping she can shed a light and help me fulfil my plan. I spent the morning arguing with the travel agent, using my Vodafone UK roaming cellphone ( I don't want to imagine how much it will cost me when I get to England.) I think her name is Lisa, she just woken up and was yawning over the phone at me, I know Im boring but... We are talking business here! So when we finally arrived on a hazy plan, she said she will call me back about the clarification or something... I told her she needs to contact my Brother (my brother works for a very popular tourist spots in Bataan and has connections to travel agencies) if she has further queries as Im using my roaming number. She seemed a little pissed off as I told her to communicate with my brother rather than to handle the business myself. Well... she can bloody talk to me if she can call me at my Vodafone roaming number! Simple isn't.


I honestly find it difficult to organise an out of town travel that includes an air flight in the Philippines as you have to pay an airfare separately from the tour itself. And according to Lisa, they don't normally have the package I chose for Coron, what's the point of posting it to their website then? I wonder! 


In the end, I gave up fighting for what I want for 3 reasons. First, going to Coron means we have to travel in a smaller aircraft good for 15 people I know the Dutchman will not be very pleased as he has big problem flying in a smaller aircraft. Second, The package we want to do in Coron,  is unavailable most of the time as I mentioned above. Third, I don't like Lisa, the travel agent. 


Had lauriat  at Chowking for lunch, had it delivered of course!


Finally, our neighbourhood manicurist called Tata made an appearance after 4 days of chasing her. Had my nails done the Dutchman was refusing and not interested and at first but he gave it a go afterwards and commented that he has the cleanest toe nail ever. He didn't had a manicure as he said his hands are sacred... whaevah! 


A sudden gush of rain! Looks like there was a typhoon. Most of the people in our neighbourhood are outside according to the Dutchman. The kids playing in the rain whist adults are on the roof cleaning and making sure that the roof stays on. The Dutchman asked me if he can go up our rooftop to have a shower in the rain. It was an experience, I think. He said he did shower in the rain when he was a kid, but I doubt it. According to a superstition in the Philippines... first rain shower in May will protect you from prickly heat. Hmm... lets see.


 Most of the time, I wake up early when Im in the Philippines, excepts when I got in drunk of course. The Dutchman seemed to don't comprehend it. I love my siesta, an afternoon nap is a must! Reminds me of my childhood really, it is a requirement to have an afternoon nap when we are growing up to grow taller, thats what my mother used to say!   


The Dutchman woke me up, he said he's hungry and we need to buy some groceries. So I got up and took him to one of our street corner and rode a Tricycle! Its the Dutchman's first tricycle ride, bless him, he was crunch down and he said "I don't hope this thing goes to motorway! This is dangerous!" I took him to Monumento, Grand Central. Since its such a hotspot and a center for anything you need fake, there are lots of beggars, a couple of old lady begging on the street. Again, it melts my Dutchman's heart.  He said "they are as old as your Mom, I need to do something." After we had dinner at Goldilocks, (I must say its not the Goldilocks I used to know the standard is appalling.) We had a little grocery, mostly drinks but not alcoholic. 


The Dutchman bought some Goldilocks mamon and a bottled water for the two old lady whose begging for alms. 


When we got home I told my brother about it and my brother assured him. I think, most of beggars in Manila are street smart... I mean, street smart!!! You have to be careful out-smarting them.


My sister arrived from work, with a big attitude! 


By the  way, I bought a red TOMS shoes in England. I think I bought it for £30 or 2000php but in Grand Central you can buy it for 300php and the lady said she can sold it to me for 280php or £4. It looks like a very good copy! But I wont settle for anything less. 


Spent some serious talking at the hammock in our rooftop with the Dutchman regarding Filipino family as a whole. Told him some interesting stories about my mom and dad as we are over looking the NO WORRIES big sign board in front of Eternal Gardens (where my Mom and Dads final resting place). Its quite interesting, actually, I take it personal... I believe that my parents are constantly reminding me and my brother and sister to not to worry about them and not to worry about the future. They are constantly reassuring us. The Dutchman spoke to my brother few day back and my brother told him the same. Quite strange, I haven't talk to my brother about this very personal sign board. 

On My Watch

2nd of May 2011

Had breakfast take away from Jollibee, chicken joy of course with extra, extra gravy!

Had an appointment to see Dave, I always go to him when I want m hair cut, Of course I took the Dutchman with me, he haven't been to a salon or barbershop for 18 years as he cut his own hair... I think this is sort of a pampering for him. I had my hair chopped with a fringe.

Watching the news: Osama died! Good for him.

Woke my sister up, she was from a night shift. WE, (Diana, the Dutchman and I) went to Trinoma, bought some kitchen appliances for my sister. Also at the Techno Marine store, I accidentally dropped my watch and it sustained a broken face, I mean glass! ...I was gutted. But they have a good and bad news. Good news is: they can replace the glass for 3,000php. Bad news: they don't have the technician and they are on hiring at present... So I said to the Lady, they need to make sure that the new watch technician is very good and experienced, I don't want my watch to be his first job though. So she referred me to their Greenbelt branch!

Went to a nearby shopping mall, SM city! I used to be here all the time during High School and College years. It has change... OMG its huge!!! But Trinoma shops are posher.  I have 2 agenda in this mall, First, My Tag Heuer watch needs a battery, I usually go to Royal Time at the main building, again... they don't have a technician! They referred me to the Tag Heuer in Cubao! Bloody Hell!!! ...I'm not happy!

Perked up when I saw an IMAX sign... We watched Thor, he is so fit! IMAX was an experienced for the Dutchman, I said, even though this is a Third world country, we do have IMAX here. The Dutchman and I have been to Hilversum in the Netherlands they show an educational movie, wherein the entire ceiling is a screen and you have to lie back in 45degree angle and you have to wear an earpiece and no 3D glasses if I can remember it right.

Had "merienda" (translates to: an afternoon light bite) at North Park as the Dutchman would like to eat some noodles, Wagamama style.

We bought bread at Bread Talk, to bring home. Its my moms favourite bakery shop and "pasalubong".

I saw Araceli, (my kababata, kalaro, matalik na kaibigan) we grew up together. She's bubbly, fun and a witty person. Time just flew when we talk. I introduced her to the Dutchman. I told her to reassure the Dutchman to go to Coron, Palawan.

The Dutchman is quite pre-occupied about his foundation website that he shares with his friends.

By the way, when I was in Trinoma, I popped my head in to Kamiseta... a couple of dresses caught my attention... I love the print! ...then I had a look closely, well at the back of the label, its Liberty of London! No wonder those dresses caught my attention. Also they have a butterfly maxi dress, very similar to one of my favourite Topshop tunic. Hmmm...

*Kamiseta is a brand of clothing in the Philippines and I grew up with it. No wonder the the love for Topshop is mutual.

NO WORRIES my children... No Worries, mum

1st of May 2011, Labor day

Woke up very early  around 5.00am by the Dutchman to complain about my Uncle's cockerels as they are very noisy and continuously  making that sound. He was really pissed, as the Dutchman is normally a light sleeper... it didn't help. 

Unable to go back to sleep, A little bit down today, I miss my Mom, when I woke up early in the morning we always catch up, telling me stories about our neighbourhood. Telling her about my failure and accomplishments, my plans and my journey my clothes etc. So I  went to our rooftop and finished my favourite Brownies Unlimited brownies in a hammock. Looking at the NO WORRIES sign board. Whilst Tweeting. 

He dreamt about killing those cockerels with a shot gun. He told me also he's willing to pay an amount of money for my Uncle to kill all his cockerels I told my cousin Carol about it and she said that those cockerels are our Uncles hobby and he makes sure that they have vitamins everyday and forgets about his own children's vitamins. 

Yes! finally played a little catch up with my Cousin Carol over longanisa breakfast. 

After the breakfast, I did fall asleep for 4 hours according to the Dutchman, felt re-fresh! 

Had dinner in Trinoma, my first visit for 2 years... The Dutchman was quite happy as he thought that it will be an hour and a half travel to the mall, duh! The Taxi driver was good, so I gave him a tip for making my Dutch friend happy and not moaned at me and most especially not vomited along the way. 

1/20 Must Do In the Philippines

Day 2, 30th March 2011

Went to introduce the Dutchman to my Aunt Nita who lives just  seconds away from our house. My Cousin Carol was not there.

The Dutchman was upset about a child playing with a very young kitten. Don't want to go into details but he ended up getting involved and killed the kitten himself. I understand the Dutchman as he always love animals and has a soft spot especially for cats.

Before we went to Fort Bonifacio, we visited My mom and dads grave just to let them know that I'm here. The Dutchman thinks its a city of dead people as it was big and it looks like a proper park. (it is sort of!) 

Also this day we went to Old Manila, they now called it Fort Bonifacio or Intramuros... with My family and sporting same Union Jack printed T-shirts I got from England and travelled travelled in style, in a jeepney  of course! Then we caught the traffic in Divisoria and felt like it was not a brilliant idea. My brother have a copy of 20 MUST DO IN PHILIPPINES and riding a jeepney to Intramuros was included. We had a walking tour from Intramuros to Luneta (Rizal Park). Saw the sounds and light show and introduced the Dutchman to Jose Rizal's guards. 

You might love you might frown walking round Manila, today was an experience to the Dutchman, not just about the tour in Intramuros, but the story to tell behind every people who live in the streets of Manila. It melt his heart. I was born in Metro Manila, seen them all my life. I was tougher because of it and its so sad as I cant do anything about it. I just blame it to the Politicians, and I hate politics in the Philippines! 

After Luneta park, we had our dinner at Dampa along Coastal road... I think the Dutchman had fun, he loves mussels and shrimps. Seeing it fresh is an experience. 

Had Starbucks at Mall of Asia, my family's favourite coffee shop. 

Again, the Dutchman complained about the Taxi drivers way of driving.

We arrived home late, had a thorough shower to washed away the Manila's pollution.

The Arrival, The Royal Wedding

Arrived in Manila at 9am, while waiting for my 2 other pink suitcases and a red suitcase for Dutch at the baggage claiming area ... the Porter was entertaining me asking me what our baggage looks like. And I don't like it! So I asked The Dutchman to stay at our trolley together with my Mulberry bag and 3 more hand carries (all mine) and counter act what the Porter was planned.

I was scared to take the Dutchman home on a taxi but I don't want to bother my family with all the waitings at airport.

The Dutchman felt queasy at the taxi, was not impressed by the taxi driver at all.  I asked the taxi driver about the meter as it says 2809,  I have an idea that the driver thinks... he thinks Im minted and I feel like he's asking me that amount of money. So as soon as we arrived home I left my things including the Dutchman in the Taxi and went inside the house. (I always do this, as I don't want to be seen by my neighbours)  My brother was immediately visible and pays the driver 1,100 php. I think the Taxi driver's plan didn't go through against my plan!

My first time to see My family house, I must say My brother is an engineer after all! All minute details of the house is designed for Lady Florentina. Im sad that she didn't see and explore it herself. I personally love the rooftop, dries all my hand wash clothes easily and of course the 360 degree view of the entire neighbourhood. And if I look further southwest I can see Makati skyline, I can see metro rail too from west I can see my school I went when I was in college, from North I can see La Salle Araneta my school from elementary and highschool. My favorite view North is The Eternal Garden where my Mom and Dad's body are resting. It has a billboard saying NO WORRIES.

As usual, my nieces and nephew are all shy seeing the Dutchman for the first time. He also met my Aunt Miming (wife of my mothers brother) she looked after the house whist my brothers family went to Dipolog, she stayed a bit longer maybe a month to wait for me and I think she's curious to see the Dutchman as well.

Had Pinakbet and Chopsuey for lunch.

My brother and The Dutchman bonded.

First and Foremost

28th of April 2011, a dream come true. 

I was 2 hours early, my friend Georgie took me to Manchester airport, Im sure he was a F1 driver in his past life. I had the chance to go roam around Manchester duty free, contemplated about the Aviator Sunglasses If I really wanted it or not... In the end, I didn't bought it as my face looks sad with it. I know its a classic design but I prefer the sophisticated classy style, not that I am one. 

Had a opportunity to have a full english breakfast at Frankie and Benny's it was delish!

My flight from Manchester to Schipol was 10 minutes late, so I informed the Dutchman who will be travelling with me to Manila. He was quite apprehensive, as If I missed my connecting flight he will be traveling to Manila on his own. 

As soon as the aircraft landed, I legged it to gate E 22, the Dutchman was impatiently waiting. While in the security boarding the aircraft bound to Manila, The Dutchman has loads of creams in his check in bag (nivea, sun protector etc) and was confiscated at the security. We had the first fight. 

Travelling with KLM, Netherlands flagship airline means the Dutchman cannot moan and groan about it, so I was happy about that. So I did all the moaning and the groaning instead.