On 1st Dec.1985, my best friend James
Goh and I boarded the Phillipines Airline and headed for Manila. We were
on a 5 days package tour but extended 2 extra days. Our group included
an Indian couple, a newly married Chinese couple, a duo made up of a married
Chinese lady and her single lady friend and a solo young Chinese guy. We
were met at the airport by a Filipino-Chinese tour guide. Our itinerary
included the Rizal Park, Imelda Park, The Intramuro and Manila Bay in the
city. After that we were driven northwards to Bagiuo, a journey quite similar
to the drive from KL to Gentings. Midway there was huge stone carving of
a lion's head. Weatherwise it was similar to Gentings. Very cooling. From
there we continued on to Pagsanjan waterfall which entailed a boat ride.A
raft was provided for those who wanted to venture into the falls. I got
my first taste of stewed dog meat, recommended by the guide. Also got a
first taste of the popular snack with the Filipinos- 'Balut' which was
boiled eggs consisting of a developing chicken embryo. There was also 'Adobo'
which was like our Chinese 'Terh Kah'. On the last day of the tour we were
given a dinner replete with a Filipino cultural performance. I remember
being dragged up stage to join some of the hula dancers. We made use of
the 2 extra days wandering around. I think ( hope James Goh wont sue me
for plagiarism) we took a jeepney ride and we had our meals at "The Aristocat"
a popular eating place with the locals. All in all we had a wonderful time,
James with his San Miguel and me with my Sandwich me Girls.
 
   
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