Yesterday, I hopped on a jeepney at Robinsons Mall, Bata Libertad to get to the SM Mall. 3/4 of the way there, these two well dressed Filipinos with backpacks board the jeepney, young men. The one sits beside me and pulls out his coins, the coins hit the floor and I automatically start to lean forward to pick them up, then I realise, I have read about this, and I quickly sit back and keep my hands on my pockets. The guy shoots a glance at my right pocket and I catch his look, but he does not see me notice it. The very FIRST thing he did was to apologise to me in ENGLISH, after I noticed the locals do not speak to foreigners on the jeepneys. I said nothing. I immediately want to switch seats but another Filipino has already climbed aboard and taken the seat directly across from me and is studiously reading his text and ignoring me. He too, is well dressed. Later, I realise, the third guy...
Beware of Pickpockets
by cyndymc
We were forewarned many times by many people: "Beware of pickpockets!" Since the rise of popularity of the Masskara Festival, so many people go to watch the parade and street dance. You'll literally be swamped by people in the crowd. For your own safety and security, avoid wearing expensive jewelry and keep your wallet and valuables (like cellphone, ATM cards in a secret place unnoticed by people beside you. Keep your cellphone in silent mode. If you are expecting a call (like from someone you'll meet), go inside a safe place (like a store) away from the crowd before you check on your cellphone. If there is nowhere to go for a discreet phonecall, position yourself near a policeman or festival marshal. BUT THE BEST is really to avoid using your mobile phone because there have been a lot of pickpocketing in the past festivals.
the worst coffee on earth
by shohman
The Philippines doesn't have much to offer in the way of decent coffee. Occasionally you will see a Starbucks but otherwise, prepare for severe withdrawal. Without a doubt, the WORST coffee experiance of my life happened at Jean's Place at the Mambukal Resort. I ordered a coffee and as I was about to take my first sip, my father in law informed me that not only was this instant coffee, but it was 3-way instant, which already has cream and sugar included. I cannot describe how god awful this is and I am sure that it is somehow the work of the devil.
don't try this at home part II
by shohman
In addition to swimming at the edge of the falls, these locals will also scale the rocks and dive into the pool below. It's amazing to watch how quickly they climb the slippery rocks. I suspect if I tried this I would get about 1 foot up the face of the rock before smashing my skull, face, and neck on the hard rock and plunging down the falls.
don't try this at home
by shohman
As we hiked seven falls, we came upon some locals bathing (as in taking a bath with soap) and also some swimming in a pool that was right at the edge of the falls, I'm talking about a foot or two from the edge. They boys didn't have a worry in the world as they know the falls like the back of their hand, but don't try this yourself. It's a long, rocky fall.
boiling mud!
by shohman
the resort is on an active volcano. You will often see signs warning of boiling mud and in fact, you will see steam coming from the ground. Do not step in the boiling mud! And furthmore, at night stick to the paved paths because it's very easy to mistakenly step in the mud otherwise.
Immunizations in the Philippines
by bulldogtwo
Yeah the shots are really expensive and don't worry about being concerned about the prices, they are very expensive.Having said that, the ones that I would be concerned about getting are the hepatitis series and the dengue fever immunizations. Hepatitis you can catch anywhere, even in the states. You are at risk anytime that you eat out, again, anywhere. Dengue fever has a history of being a problem in the Philippines, even in Manila. Anywhere there may be standing water there can be a problem. In Manila they were having a problem with the flower pots that lines the blvd and streets that had water in them. Unless you are going into an area that has recently been flooded I would be too concerned about Typhoid, but just because it has not flooded doesn't mean that you will not catch it. As far as the web sites go, of course they are going to tell you to get the immunizations. And now I am...
Snatchers
by tidzy
Lately I've been the unfortunate victim of snatchers. Yes, people..you can never be too careful. I urge you not to show your valuables(meaning cellphones, laptops, mp3 players and digital cameras). This is especially directed to those who would be adventurous enough to ride public transports(like jeepneys and tricylcles) because I've lost two cellphones riding these. And for those nocturnal folks who love to party, it would be best not to bring bags. Just bring your cellphones, handkerchiefs and money(stow it all in your pockets). Never, and I say NEVER let your cellphone, mp3 player or cellphone dangle from your wrist or neck--I lost my digital camera while it was hanging on my wrist. I hope this helps--coming from a local like me--because tourists would be likely targets too.
Creepy Looking Fellows
by tidzy
You would have to be careful about creepy looking guys especially during the Masskara festival. You never know what they're going to do to you. Its best to travel in large groups and keep whatever you are bringing at close hand.
be careful of pickpockets
by eversure
If you're taking public transportation, always know where your wallet is. Several instances of pickpockets in full jeepneys. They will usually distract you with a mock fight or a fallen coin. Also be careful of tricycle drivers at night (past 9pm) in dark areas.
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