Once we landed ashore, we again hopped into a taxi (the back bed of a tiny truck) and headed off to our final destination. On the way there though, we would go through the part of the island that wasn't meant for tourists, quickly reminding me that I am no longer in a first world country.

Every armored vehicle I've seen so far has been unique, though this looks more professionally made than others. I'm guessing this one is based off a Toyota HiAce.

Wires on wires on wires. Not really very welcoming.

Soon we began to see larger buildings and spotting some tourists wandering around.

I gotta give it to MD, they do a solid job making sure that where ever you are in the world, they have a restaurant that's as nice as any other. Admittedly, the two I've seen so far in the PI are much cleaner than the ones in London.

Passing by one of the entrances to D*Mall. We didn't know at the time, but we'd later realize that the beach was just a quick walk down that alley.

Next post, we finally arrive.

And so begins the last trip of the year, two weeks in the Philippines. We'll be spending a couple of days in Boracay and then about a week in Manila. First thing first though, we got to get there which was a bit of an adventure in itself. Since we're traveling off season in October, we knew we were tailing the end of the monsoon seasons so we were expecting some rain. Fortunately, so far things haven't been too bad with a light drizzle in Manila but my God the HUMIDITY. It's like stepping into a spa room. So despite how dark the images are for the first day, do not mistake the grey sky for being cold.

After a short trip to Michelle's grandfather's place, we returned to the airport to take off again, this time only an hour long flight to a tiny airstrip on a nearby island to Boracay. Once we landed, we got into a taxi that took us to a nearby dock.