Pre-trip report

[thekfc]

I will be leaving NYC this Thursday morning & will arrive in The Philippines early Friday evening. There will be a stop-over in HK to change planes - same Airline: Cathay Pacific.

Since I am flying out of JFK - I plan on being there 2-3 hours ahead of time- maybe more.

Both my suitcases are pack - I just have to pack my carry-on & laptop (Acer).

Both luggage are around 48.5 lbs (I checked with Cathay & the excess baggage charge if I go over the 50lbs allowance will be $25) - I bought one of these portable luggage scale to weight them.

I had to leave some stuff behind as they were too bulky (stuff animals, etc).

I removes all the small electronics that I am bring from their packaging - they will be going in my carry-on luggage. I mailed all the packaging along with some books/magazines ahead of time (Express Mail)  - they should arrive while I am there - if they are stolen/lost - no big lost.

I have some software & movies I want to take with me  - they are in cd sleeves (I took them out of their packaging) - debating on whether to put them in my laptop bag or in my carry-on.

I installed a MagicJack today - I will be leaving it in the Philippines.

For the next day or so, I will be transfer music to a slim portable hard drive - it will be better (& lighter) that taking the actually CDs.

Anyone know what kind of mosquito sprays are available in the Philippines?  
My girl showed me some coils that she uses & told me that she/her family do not use the spray because they stink.
I wanted to brink some but was told they are not allow on airlines (checked or carry-on) as they are considered flammable.

By this time next week - I will be doing a trip report from Taguig city.

[piglett]

Hey KFC have a great trip dude 


piglett

[Dave H]

Hey theKfc,

To tell you the truth, I really haven't used the mosquito sprays or repellents that I brought to the Philippines much. I brought several different brands of repellents that contained "Deet." My wife also said the mosquito spray (Raid) smelled bad...I actually thought it was quite pleasant! They sell various brands here, probably stronger (less safe) than ours in the US.   Most Filipinos seem to burn stinky mosquito coils at night, which create smoke. Most foreigners that I know don't like them. I have been using an electronic ultraviolet flying insect trap which works very well! It electrocutes them and they explode!!!   I also screened all the windows (many Filipinos leave doors and unscreened windows open. Sometimes we will sleep with the lights on if there are night biting mosquitoes in the house. I have tried to eliminate all standing water near the house. You probably won't have to worry about malaria (a breed of night biting mosquitoes) unless you travel to the bundok. Dengue fever (Asian Tiger mosquito - day biting) can occur in cities. We don't seem to have many day biting mosquitoes where I live, but would use a repellent if we ever do.

A useless, quite annoying and hazardous practice here is the burning portion of the "Four O'clock Habit," which was started by the Philippine DOH a few years back. At 4:00 PM, people are supposed to go out , eliminate sources of standing water, pick up garbage, etc. to eliminate mosquito breeding areas. Unfortunately the DOH included burning green leaves and garbage (to toxic create smoke) in this plan. The smoke was supposed to drive away and kill mosquitoes. In reality they just hid and returned later. The only thing that seemed to be harmed was humans, especially people with allergies, asthma and other lung conditions. The Philippine DOH later wrote a memo rescinding the burning portion of the Four O'clock Habit, since it is ineffective, toxic, violates the Philippine Clean Air Act, and probably more importantly...it is considered a source of "Global Warming" and pisses off Al Gore! Unfortunately, nobody seemed to read the order to stop burning and creating toxic smoke! I think it pisses me off more than Al Gore! Not for "Global Warming," but for the toxic smoke that envelops our neighborhood on many afternoons! I have been known to put out people's fires, including those at government buildings.


Have a GREAT TRIP!!!

Dave

[stevjulietb]

Best of luck and have a great time!

Steveb

[Ray]

Anyone know what kind of mosquito sprays are available in the Philippines?
My girl showed me some coils that she uses & told me that she/her family do not use the spray because they stink.

I wanted to brink some but was told they are not allow on airlines (checked or carry-on) as they are considered flammable.

kfc,

Those stupid mosquito coils (katol) are worthless.

I would bring some good repellent lotion that contains DEET, as Dave mentioned. Just pack it in your checked baggage. I would use it if you’re outside at night, especially in the more rural areas.

The best way to keep mosquitoes off of you while sleeping is to have a fan blowing directly on you, plus screening all windows and doors.

And NEVER do any harm to the house lizards! I’ve watched those little butikis eat their weight in mosquitoes in no time.

Don’t forge to take lots of pictures!

Ray

[Dave H]

The best way to keep mosquitoes off of you while sleeping is to have a fan blowing directly on you, plus screening all windows and doors.

And NEVER do any harm to the house lizards! I’ve watched those little butikis eat their weight in mosquitoes in no time.

Ray

Hey Ray,

Good points! I forgot that we use fans for more than air circulation. My wife said that mosquitoes don't like the breeze and try to avoid it. They can't fly well or land on target.  http://www.channel3000.com/news/16994185/detail.html

Those butikis have gone from being co-inhabitants of our house to being my friends!   They even talk to me, but I don't understand their language yet...perhaps when I find an albino one...

Dave

[robert angel]

Kfc,

I'm sure you know the 3 ounce liquid rule for personal hygiene items, etc. on carry on luggage. They've actually confiscated my 4.3 oz tube of tooth paste before --not always. But at $4 a pop for the Listerine brand, I stopped trying my luck and brought mini tubes. I never used any spray or lotion repellant--fans or sleeping under a net at night was more common  for us, but if I was going to, I'd probably use what the locals use for mosquitoes. The more DEET, as politically incorrect as it may be, (like I care) the better for keeping skeeters off of you.

I think you said you were bringing some melatonin--take a handful on the longest leg of the flight going and again coming back. For me, the jet lag always seems worse coming back--probably fatigue from making the most of our last days/hours there and emotions.

Again, if you lock your check in bags, they probably will hack saw off the locks. They probably won't give you crap for customs and duty fees on gifts you're bringing, but if they do, don't hesitate to get verbally aggressive w/o going ballistic. They will usually change their tune when they see you're not a patsy.

Don't exchange too much money at once. Somedays, the rate can be up a whole peso to the buck--on a $100, that'll buy a meal over there. Check around, but often the malls have better exchange rates than the banks do.

Again, brush your teeth and clean your tooth brush w/ bottled water. It's pretty normal to be really worried going over there the first time--overly so in fact--but things will fall  almost certainly fall into place just fine, especially because it seems like you'll be in good 'protective custody'. Next time you go over there, it'll seem safer and saner than the south Bronx.

I think a lot of us are just tickled about you heading over. You've shown a lot of smarts doing your homework, a heart bigger than Montana, and it should be a great time. Looking forward to you getting us back some reports if you can some time in edgewise!

[Ray]

They probably won't give you crap for customs and duty fees on gifts you're bringing, but if they do, don't hesitate to get verbally aggressive w/o going ballistic. They will usually change their tune when they see you're not a patsy.

Get verbally aggressive with a customs officer?

Bad advice in any country!

Ray

[robert angel]

As said: >>don't hesitate to get verbally aggressive w/o going ballistic<<

Perhaps 'aggressive' is too strong a term, but I have found making a case--especially if items in question are not in their commercial packaging as is the situation here, can help.

Yes--beeing too aggressive just might get you a private room at the airport with your own 'security detail' and full body cavity searches!

Didn't Clint Eastwood (Dirty Harry) say "A man's got to know his limitations"?

[Dave H]

Get verbally aggressive with a customs officer?

Bad advice in any country!

Ray

Right...it is best to be polite and respectful! "Kanos" (most western foreigners are considered Americans) in the Philippines already get a bad reputation from a few A-holes who act up. Even still, "Kanos" are generally well liked. Remember that you are a guest in their country. Most Filipinos are easy going, polite, and friendly...unless provoked (they seem to tolerate a lot more BS from foreigners than I ever would!). Philippine government employees have a lot more freedom to act in a manner that they feel is appropriate, than what we are used to in our very litigious society in the US. If need be, they know how and are willing to take care of business!

Dave

[thekfc]

I plan on declaring everything & being respectful. I have no intention of being aggressive.
My #1 rule when traveling is to respect & follow the laws of the host country.
I have read on the board that foreigners are considered off limits but if I have to pay a fee - I will.

There are a few electronics that I will be taking 2 or more with me.
MP3 Player - my personal & one to give.
Cell Phone -  mine & one to give
Digital Camera - one I plan on leaving behind.

All electronics have been taken out of the original packaging & place in a leather/caring case.

I went looking for the lotion with Deet but couldn't find any - the store told me that they are seasonal but they had the sprays  .

I have to get some melatonin again as the ones I bought - I mis-placed it at work (aka someone took it).

I will hit the drug store today at lunch -  I saw that they have a new Listerine flavor,
I will get the small bottle along with a small gel toothpaste and some Advil, Aleve, Tylenol & the likes. Oh wait there is a recall on Tylenol so scratch it off 

[Dave H]

Hey thekfc,

The main thing is to relax and enjoy your trip! I have never had a problem with Philippine customs. Visitors are allowed to bring in duty free personal belongs. The main thing is not to bring any items into the Philippines that are banned, like guns, ammo, and illegal drugs, which I am sure you are not.

Dave

[Capstone]

kfc,

It sounds as though you have thought things through and are very prepared for the trip - I am sure that you will have a great time.  How long of a layover will you have in Hong Kong? The Hong Kong airport is really nice and you shouldn't have too much trouble killing time there if your layover is a couple of hours. If you have time I would suggest taking advantage of one of the shower facilities in the airport - after a long flight there is nothing like a nice hot shower to get you ready for your next flight. I have used them there before - I think that they call them something like Shower and Relaxation Lounges.

[robert angel]

That HK airport is really a sight to see. It's so big and opulent. Not enough land? They simply made land by dumping whatever they had on hand. Capitalism in a supposedly communist country (I know HK isn't 'supposed to be in full mainland Chinese control until 2047, but it basically is already) --amazing how they have things like huge platinum crucifixes and other religious jewelry in the many jewelry stores and countless high end designer shops.

The construction and how clean it is is also amazing. The airport alone is worth taking a few pictures of, but then again, I take tons of pictures everywhere.

Speaking of which, memory for digital cameras is a lot more expensive in the RP last time we checked, so make sure you have enough.

Have a great time!

[Capstone]

Capitalism in a supposedly communist country (I know HK isn't 'supposed to be in full mainland Chinese control until 2047, but it basically is already) --amazing how they have things like huge platinum crucifixes and other religious jewelry in the many jewelry stores and countless high end designer shops.

Hey Robert - you actually see the same things throughout the Mainland as well where capitalism rules now. I see more high end luxury cars (Ferrari, Lamborghini, etc) when I visit China than I do here in the US. The first time that I ever visited China I was very surprised at the number of Christian churches that I saw as I had thought that they would have all been destroyed during the Cultural Revolution but there are many that are still standing and in use.   

[thekfc]

How long of a layover will you have in Hong Kong?

My layover is a little over 2 hours.

[Ray]

You shouldn’t have any problem with Philippine customs. You likely won’t even have to open your bags. Just don’t ever try to argue with them! As a general rule, they go out of their way to accommodate foreign visitors.

While you’re clearing customs, you may want to inquire about the rules for duty-free shopping. I think you used to have something like 72 hours to use it, but I think it has been extended now. Maybe Dave H knows…(?)

There is a large duty-free store in Manila.

One more point. If you ever have any trouble in the Metro Manila area, if a cabby or someone tries to rip you off, you can call the Tourist Police for assistance. The number is easy to remember… write down 911 and turn it upside down = 116  (if it hasn’t changed…)

Ray

[thekfc]

Thanks Ray for the Info.

[Dave H]

I have never had my bags opened in Manila. After I arrive, I clear immigration, get my bags off the belt, take them over to the customs officer. He asks me a few questions, tells me to enjoy my stay, and then my bags are placed back onto the belt for my connecting flight. If you have no connecting flight, you exit the building with your bags and find transportation.

Philippine Department of Tourism. There are some useful Tagalog phrases listed on the site. Although not absolutely necessary because most Filipinos speak English, people will really appreciate your efforts.
http://www.wowphilippines.com.ph/

A foreign tourist can shop within 48 hours after arrival at Duty Free stores.
http://www.dfp.com.ph/modules/cjaycontent/index.php?id=63

Duty Free store locations.
http://www.dfp.com.ph/modules/cjaycontent/index.php?id=53

Dave

[Ray]

Thanks for that info Dave.

I checked that link and I guess the duty-free shopping period was only extended for Balikbayans & OFWs, to 15 days (30 days during Christmas season).

Also, seniors & handicapped have up to a year to utilize this privilege.

I remember that PAL also sold some duty-free items on board prior to arrival, like booze, cigarettes, etc…

I don’t think the bargains in the duty-free shops are all that big of a deal anyway…(?)

Ray

[piglett]

And NEVER do any harm to the house lizards! I’ve watched those little butikis eat their weight in mosquitoes in no time.

Ray

Are these house lizards anything like a lot lizards ??
I myself have had a few encounters with them back when i was trucking.
I don't recall ever harming any of them.
Infact there were a few that left my truck with a few extra dollars in their pockets.



piglett

[robert angel]

Manila's generally pretty easy to get through with customs.  Even in Davao Airport, they might open your bag and do a quick look, but if you're a kano--it's a breeze. It's so busy in Manila's airport that they just sort of push you on thru pretty quick. It can seem like a blur, especially the first time.

It's amazing all the guys who want to carry your bags and help you in any way possible for a buck or two. I remember the first time I went there and my then GF, being from Manila, couldn't enter the terminal--luggage area. The place was a zoo--inside and out so crowded. Some guy asked me who I was looking for. I described what my GF looked like--I didn't even know what she was wearing. Amazingly, this guy was able to find her in the thick crowd waiting outside in the steamy heat, come back get me and link us and get us a cab. It would've taken me a whole lot longer. That guy earned his two bucks and probably did the same thing 50 times that day, plus carried as many suitcases. I really respect people like that.

[Ray]

Can "lot lizards" crawl upside down on the ceiling?

If they ate your insect, then they may be related to house lizards (geckoes)… ROFL

[piglett]

Can "lot lizards" crawl upside down on the ceiling?

If they ate your insect, then they may be related to house lizards (geckoes)… ROFL

I have never seen them upside down on the ceiling however, they are a crafty bunch so who knows what type of tricks they would be willing to do for a a little extra cash. 


piglett

[thekfc]

I am currently in HK waiting for my connecting flight.

You guys are right - The HK airport is a beautiful airport.