After a long, bumpy jeepney ride and a short flight we were back in Malate, Manila. Our base. The area where you have to walk down the middle of the road amongst the traffic because there are no pavements (not a problem because they swerve to avoid white people apparantly), where child beggars hit or swear at you if you don't give them money, and where everyone you meet on the street is selling something; but we loved it because everyone had a sense of humour abo...

On arrival in Manila I was greeted by Dominique (friend from Uni those that don't know) and Paddy - fantastic to see both of them. Once we had left Dom's air conditioned jeep however, I was all too aware how inappropriate most of my luggage was - expect a package home (sleeping bag, gloves, hat, scarf, hoody joggers and more ridiculous items for sweltering heat). Those checking my bags at the airport thought I was a madman. Anyway, Paddy and I enjoyed 5 days in...