March 24 - Manila, Philippines

 Our first port in the Philippines is the big city of Manila (Maynila).
And as with all big cities, there was a little haze (smog) when we first arrived.


I went on the Manila City Classic Tour. (Cathedral, Government Buildings, Park
We started at Rizal Park, which is dedicated to Dr. Jose Rizal, the liberator of the Philippines. 
This was the location of his execution/martyrdom

Bronze Diorama of Rizal's execution/martyrdom


His last poem. Every Pilipino is required to memorize it.

Rizal Monument

Chinese Garden


It was on to the Cathedral Manila




Where we also saw some government buildings - Treasury and Governor's Palace

Then we headed to Fort Santiago and the Walled City


The Walled City is where thousands were tortured and killed




We then headed over to Saint Agustin's Church and Convent. I only perused the Museum.


In the same plaza was the Augustinian Provincial House so we headed in.

Bedroom and Partner's Desk

Grand Room and Ornate Hutch

Bath for two - OK. Toilet for two - not so OK

After roaming around the house it was time for a local Beer.
I paid $2 US and got enough change back to buy a Key Chain



And what would a trip to Manila be, without a stop at the Mall of Asia.
Way, too many people for my liking so after a half an hour I got back on the bus and headed to the ship

Here are some cool, structures. The tall one is a condo complex.


My favorite thing was the different modes of Transportation.



This one is called a Jeepknee. 
Because when the USA left, they left all their Jeeps behind.
The Philipinos modified them, and now they are the free public transportation system.
They only fit 10 people, who sit on either side in the back - Knee to Knee. Thus the name.


And of course, when I got back to the ship I had to have another one of the local beers.
Good Night Manila


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