Philippines 2010

February 22nd - March 15th

Not sure where to begin with our adventure to another country together!

We took Asiana Airlines and had a lay over at Incheon International Airport in Korea.  That flight was about 10 hours or less.  From there, it took us 4 hours to get to Manila.  Both flights were very pleasant because they served us great food and had a decent amount of movie selections for us to watch.  On our flight to Korea, we played Battle Ship and battled each other.  That was fun!  

Once we landed and retrieved our luggages, Uncle Norman and his brother-in-law came picked us up.  From there we went straight to his condominium in Makati which was not too far away from the airport.  Maybe 15-20 minutes.  As we drove and pulled away from the airport, it almost felt like LA for a moment (as far as the scenery) because of the palm trees.  But once we get on to the roads, it's a different story.  Tricycles, jeepneys, scooters and small cars occupied the road.  I have never seen a jeepney before so that was interesting as well as seeing 3 people on a scooter too!  After our luggages have been brought upstairs, me, Topher, and Uncle Norman went downstairs and ate at Andock's.  By that time it was Tuesday night around 11:30pm.  So our choices were limited.  

The next day, Auntie Pearla, Uncle Norman and Tophuu went to Market! Market! for lunch and explored one of their many malls there.

Topher's mom arrived, I think 1 or 2 nights after we did.  She travelled with 2 of Topher's dad's co-workers, Mary and Susy.  Uncle Norman and Auntie Pearla's condo only has 2 bedrooms but had these convenient sleeping sofas to accommodate all of our sleeping arrangements.  

Topher's dad has been in Gapan, which was about 2-3 hours away from Makati.  Topher's cousin came from Gapan to pick up our luggages so that they can accomodate everyone in the car the next day to transport us from Makati to Gapan.  

We stayed in Gapan for a little less than a week.  At this time, there were many other people that are also staying at the house from the States.  There were all there for a family reunion as well as celebrating Topher's dad's 65th birthday.  There were 2 days of partying and tons of great food!