Our last days in the Philippines were spent around Manila, Laguna, Calamba, and Los Baños.
In Manila, we visited the Sangri-La Plaza, "168", Makro (for all the goodies!), Market Market, and got to see some interesting nightlife...
We made a trip to Los Baños for some private pool-time and one of the best home-made meals of my life! On the way, we made a stop in Laguna to get 3 "original" buko pies, which were fresh, hot, and AMAZINGLY good!! We also grabbed lunch in Laguna on a water-front (or over-water) restaurant that served up lots of fresh fish and some great sinigang and desserts. When we settled down at the house and pool, everyone started swimming or "videoke'ing" until dinner was ready.. At dinner, I got schooled, as well as participated, in not leaving any part of cooked-fish untouched. That was a treat! ;) Oh, and our stop in Calamba was to pay homage to Dr. José P. Rizal, a hero of the Philippines, and visit his shrine in his this, his birth city.
I just have to say that I had so much fun in the Philippines... Palawan was gorgeous! Great food, scuba diving, island hopping, laguna visiting, snorkeling, sun-bathing, gracious local named Jamille(sp?) helped us the whole time there... WOW! More than I ever expected, and I owe it to Tita Del, plus everyone at her house(s) for being so hospitable and making me feel at home. It was great to spend some much needed quality time with Charlene's family... We agree that we want to make sure we visit at least every other year, and for longer than 2 weeks!! Can't wait!
Pictures: People walking in the streets / Jeepney "Ambulance" / Many Jeepneys / "168" market / Restaurant "over-water" in Laguna / Food at Restaurant / Pool House / Pool / Fiesta Market (Market Market) and all the food we ate (minus the lechon)
