Just got back from Manila. Had a great time with the very lovely Joy. I could only stay for 8 days, thats all the time I could get off work. We stayed at the Manila Diamond, bay side. We started the week by falling into a very deep sleep, the time difference really screws me up. Then spent most of the time tripping around Manila doing all the normal touristy things. We went over to Corrigidor Island and spent some time there. Went by the DENR where Joy works and visited with some her friends, they were all great to talk to. We went over to Joys place in the squatters area, I wanted to see where she lives before they tore the place down to widen the road.
Mostly we ate at the malls, Robinsons is walking distance from the Diamond and has a Fridays. I wouldn't normally eat there at home, but I do like a hamburger with bacon and mushrooms. We did a lot more walking then I would normally do, but I'm used to having my own wheels. Not that I would want to drive in Manila, I would be on the side of the road in the fetal position after about two blocks.
It was great to finally meet Joy after communicating with her for more than a year. Mostly we went wherever she wanted to go, so I gave her the money I planned to spend there, and let her deal with it. She did a great job, we did a lot for not a lot of money. It would have been nice to spend maybe a little more on taxis, but I suppose I could use the exercise.
We are working on a fiance visa now, but I wouldn't mind going back again before she comes here.
