Manila, Philippines, Is A Very Modern New Beginning Point
May 2, 2018 by admin
Wednesday, May 2: I’m in a very modern, brand-new, high-rise, hostel, the Lub-d, in Makati City, a section of sprawling downtown Manila.
Lub-d Hostel in Manila
I was at the sister hostel in Bangkok and knew this one would be very comfortable. It’s the newest hostel in the whole 7000 island Philippine chain. But, there are very few big cities out here and I’m keen to explore the smaller spots on the map.
I’m still sleeping off my overnight trip flying from Vietiane, Laos, last weekend; so I’ve merely walked through this particular neighborhood, ranging about for new restaurants to try. Though all the American chains like Subway, McDonalds and Wendys are ever-present too. I was thrilled to learn that the local taste isn’t dependant upon chilis and hot flavors, but consists of plenty of seafood, rice and veggies. Portions are huge and prices are low, so I get by on two big meals a day. Such a deal for really upscale living!
A toast to the Philippines
My eight-bunk, female dorm contains sturdy, curtained, cubicle beds and there’s a bathroom down the hall. So far, I have only a few roommates, but it’s so private and quiet that even at full steam, it would feel that way. My nightly rate is $15.
The atmosphere is still somewhat Asian but comes closer to the Western vibe than Southeast Asia. Maybe because everyone speaks English and there are all the familiar brands on the shelves. The weather feels exactly like Florida.
Now I’m planning my transportation to Cebu City further south on Cebu Island. It’s a 1.5 hour flight or a 26 hour sea voyage on a fancy cruiser ferry boat, and I’m leaning towards the water route as I haven’t done enough of that in my life. I’ve chosen a Health and Wellness nature retreat and spa as my accommodations there for as long as I decide to stay in that town, which is the second largest town of this country.
The photo course I was interested in isn’t available any more here; but I’m hoping I can find one in the college town of Dumaguete, where I’ll head after Cebu. I must start shooting pictures of my new life here, anyway; new skills or not.
This is a good possibility for a retirement, once I stop traveling. The country bends over backwards to attract retirees with a serious discount card (did I hear 20%?); a long-term visa; and a monthly living cost of $800 to $1300 per person, per month. And yet, high quality standards and excellent medical facilities. Social Security won’t send checks here, but it’s easy to have it deposited in a stateside bank and then accessed by ATM, as I do now. I’ll keep mentioning this attractive possibility as I learn more.
Haven’t laid eyes on the famous turquoise blue water yet, but that will happen soon.
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Hi Ms. Linda!
I am happy to read this post of yours 🙂
I hope you are enjoying your stay here in the Philippines 🙂
Take care always and Godbless 🙂
xoxo