Manila Mayhem: Rain, Ramen, and Seriously Weird Vibes

okay, so i’m pretty sure i’m running on fumes and lukewarm coffee. 1701968… that’s the timestamp on my phone, which is currently displaying a picture of a very confused pigeon. 1608166320 - that’s the time i started this, and honestly, i’m not sure i’ll finish it. the weather here is… there right now, hope you like that kind of thing. it’s like a perpetual drizzle mixed with a heatwave. 28 degrees, feels like 30.41, temp min 26.72, temp max 28.36, pressure 1014, humidity 68. it’s sticky. really sticky.

manila. it’s a sensory overload in the best and worst ways. i landed yesterday and immediately felt like i’d stepped into a hyper-saturated film. neon signs screaming for attention, jeepneys blasting music that sounds like a dying robot, and the smell of street food… oh god, the street food. i’m pretty sure i’ve consumed my weight in siomai and kare-kare in the last 24 hours. my stomach is protesting, but my soul is happy.

i’m staying in this tiny little place near *Intramuros - it’s basically a crumbling fortress that’s been turned into a tourist trap, but it’s charming in a dilapidated sort of way. the landlord, a guy named Benny, keeps leaving me these little notes with cryptic drawings. like, a stick figure riding a motorcycle. i have no idea what it means.

someone told me that the best taho (sweet soy pudding) is at a stall near Quiapo Market. i’m on a mission. i’m also trying to avoid getting scammed by anyone offering me a ‘genuine’ Rolex. it’s a constant battle.

i spent this morning wandering around Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world. it’s insane. like, seriously, a labyrinth of tiny shops selling everything from dried seafood to jade jewelry. i got hopelessly lost three times. i ended up buying a ridiculously ornate fan that i don’t even know what to do with. it’s just… there.

Pro-Tip: Download the Grab app. Seriously. It’s the only way to get around without getting completely overwhelmed. Also, learn a few basic Tagalog phrases. ‘Salamat’ (thank you) goes a long way.

i heard that the San Agustin Church in Intramuros is breathtaking, but it’s always packed with tourists. i’m going to try to go early tomorrow.

i’m trying to keep a journal, but my handwriting is atrocious and i’m constantly distracted by the sheer chaos of this city. i’m pretty sure i’ve forgotten what day it is.

aerial view of city buildings during daytime

i’m seriously considering just buying a sari-sari store and opening up shop. it seems less stressful.

Overheard Gossip: A group of guys at a bar were arguing about the best lechon (roasted pig). apparently, there’s a legendary spot in Marikina that’s worth the trip. i’ll look into it.

i’m meeting a friend, Lito, tomorrow to check out some street art in Makati. he’s a total hipster and knows all the cool spots. i’m hoping he can drag me out of my comfort zone.

i just checked TripAdvisor and Yelp - there are a lot of amazing restaurants. i’m overwhelmed. i’m going to just pick one at random and hope for the best.

if you get bored, Quezon City is just a short drive away. there’s a massive mall called SM Megamall that’s basically a city within a city.

i’m starting to think i need a nap. or maybe just a strong cup of coffee. or both.

i’m also trying to find a decent place to get a massage. my back is killing me.

i’m going to go explore now. wish me luck. and maybe send coffee.

Important Note:* Don’t trust anyone who offers you a ‘free’ tour. Seriously. Just say no.

Check out this local board for events: https://www.facebook.com/events/search/?q=manila

And for some great food recommendations: https://www.yelp.com/manila-ph

Need a place to stay? https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g298460-Manila_National_Capital_Region_Metro_Manila_Philippines.html

Seriously, I need to sleep. Or at least stare at a wall.

Manila Mayhem: Rain, Ramen, and Seriously Weird Vibes

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About the author: Ruby Wilder

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