Okay, so let’s talk about Manila. This is the fourth time I’ve been there, and I want to share some of my experiences, the good and the bad.
First off, getting around the city is a hassle. Traffic is crazy, like really crazy. I thought I’d seen bad traffic before, but Manila takes the cake. I spent hours stuck in traffic, just to go a few miles. It’s a good thing that taxis and buses are pretty cheap, because driving yourself is a nightmare. I wouldn’t even try it.
But it’s not all bad. I did a lot of walking around. And I’ve found that the people in Manila are generally friendly. I’ve gotten lost a few times, and folks were always willing to help me out, even with the language barrier. It’s a big city, but it has a certain charm, you know?
I also went to Intramuros this time. There’s a famous church there, San Agustin Church. It’s really old and has some interesting history. They did a good job to protect the buildings and stuff. It is good to walk around there. The air is also better than other parts of the city.
I’ve noticed that the city has changed a lot since my first trip there many years ago. There are more buildings and construction everywhere. I guess that’s a sign of development and all, but it also means more people and more pollution. It’s a bit sad to see the air quality getting worse.
One thing that’s important if you’re planning to stay in Manila for a while is healthcare. I heard they have some good hospitals there. But be prepared to pay upfront, at least that’s what I heard from some people I met.
Cost of Living
Now, about the cost of living. To be honest, it’s not as cheap as you might think. I compared it to Hanoi, a city that I visited a while ago. To have the same kind of lifestyle in both cities, you need different amount of money. I guess the rent prices and food are also a bit expensive.
Education
- I found out that the Philippines has a pretty high literacy rate, which is good.
- And a lot of people speak English, which makes it easier to get by as a foreigner.
- I learned that English is widely used in business and education.
Overall, Manila is a mixed bag. There are good things and bad things about it, just like any other big city. If you’re thinking about going there, I’d say do your research, be prepared for the traffic, and enjoy the friendly vibe. And definitely check out the historical sites!
Oh, and one more thing, be mindful of your belongings. As with any crowded place, there might be some pickpockets around. Just be aware of your surroundings, and you should be fine. It is a good place to explore.
Hope this was helpful for you guys!
