"Hey, It's Raining" a Manila Travel Page by OnTheRoadGoombah

This year, I have travelled to Italy, Korea, and Bulgaria (twice each), as well as Australia once and am now in Manila. All my trips this year have been rain-free...until I landed here. Friday night, I landed in a torrential downpour but made it to my hotel relatively dry.

Saturday was a rain-filled day and Sunday followed suit. Despite that, I have managed to get out and explore a little of Makati section of Manila.

My initial thoughts:

1. There are more weapons in Manila than in any other city in the world. Most commercial buildings have armed security guards and there are police stationed everywhere. I am not sure if this makes me feel safe or not.

2. There are many people who work in retail stores. I walked the mall (it's what you do when it is raining) and noticed the inordinate amount of people working in the stores...the prices are still cheap, so I am not sure how the stores can afford to pay all these people.

3. Filipina/o's are extremely friendly and polite. I am amazed at how friendly folks are in the hotels/restaurants/stores that I have encountered.

4. I think Manila is a place that you really need a colleague or travel mate to fully enjoy. While I travel alone alot for work, I think I would be a bit more adventurous here if I had another traveler with me. Maybe next time.

Well, those are my initial thoughts...maybe they will change as I make it through the week.