General Info

[Denom]

I never tried their services but I was often proposed changes in Binondo (Manila), on the back of Quiapo, the plaza near Santa Cruz Church and the LRT Carriedo station. I seem to remember something about them having the best rates, better than in Ermita, but not sure it really is true.]

By the way in the evening under the LRT line of this street you can sample the girls too. Many are ugly old bitches but sometimes, surprisingly, a gem appears! They have cheap rooms (100 pesos short time) on the back street paralleling this one. The going rate is 300 pesos for the girl. If she looks better she may try 500.

[Finrod]

For money changers, I can definitely recommend Edzen's on Mabini St in Ermita. Easy walking distance from Robinson's. Reliable, the locals know this place.

In Makati, Sanry's in Glorietta is competitive and reliable.

The banks in the Mall of Asia are a new one to me. Thanks to Puerto La Cruz for this tip. Banks are not normally known for being as competitive as the money changer businesses. I'll check them out next time.

I'd be careful in Binondo (and in Ermita) with touts who promise really good exchange rates. You could be a victim of a scam. Check the rates on Bloomberg or XE.com the day you go.

[Joe Island]

By the way in the evening under the LRT line of this street you can sample the girls too. Many are ugly old bitches but sometimes, surprisingly, a gem appears! They have cheap rooms (100 pesos short time) on the back street paralleling this one. The going rate is 300 pesos for the girl. If she looks better she may try 500.300 pesos? ! Why so cheap? I've never heard of or seen a SW offering any service for less than 1000pesos. If I can pay those rates, I might just extend my trip to a full 3 weeks. Sounds to cheap to be true. What would I tip her 50pesos

[Devils 1]

This next trip I'm planning to use Bank of Americas money exchange service. All you need is a credit card or bank account and they will deduct the amount you want exchange and send you actual pesos in the mail. Yeah I know it's awesome. So now when I hit airport I can just jump in a taxi and look for a good rate else where. The exchange rate is horrible with Bank of America (43. 20PHP-1. 00USD) but sure is going to be nice walking off that plane with a few pesos in my pocket. Might be easier dealing with the taxi now that I don't have to flip him a $5 dollar bill.The best way to do this Joe is get about $100 of Philippino currency from your bank before you leave the US. But the trick is to get it all in small bills. You can get money from any ATM in the PI. The problem is they only dispense 500 and 1000 php notes. If you have ever gone thru the frustration of trying to pay a cab fare of php 150 with a 1000 note it will drive you crazy. Tell your bank you want all of the money in bills smaller than php 200.

I have found the money changer in the airport is not that bad of a deal. Any place to exchange currency is better than a hotel!

[Devils 1]

Any idea what the climate would be like during July and August?

I have hrd PI is a place that has one of the most rains and typhoons.

MaxI was there this time of year two yrs ago. Think of someone pointing a fire hose at you and turning it on. This happens about 3 times per day. So the rest of the time it is reallly humid. Everything floods and screws up the already terrible traffic. The good news is it mostly rains during the day and at night it is clear for pussy chasing!

[GoodEnough]

I was there this time of year two yrs ago. Think of someone pointing a fire hose at you and turning it on. This happens about 3 times per day. So the rest of the time it is reallly humid. Everything floods and screws up the already terrible traffic. The good news is it mostly rains during the day and at night it is clear for pussy chasing!

It really depends on where you are and at what time of year. Mindanao, for example does not experience typhoons and we have not had any rain to speak of here in Davao for a couple of weeks. This is the beginning of typhoon season, so you can expect the island of Luzon -- where Manila is situated-- to get hit fairly frequently.

GE

[Key Master]

Last trip I changed my $1000 USD cash in the airport exhange booth. The exchange counter is located immediatly after immagration/customs check point to the right of the exit doors. I realized later it wasn't the best idea if one is looking to get max pesos for the dollar.

This next trip I'm planning to use Bank of Americas money exchange service. All you need is a credit card or bank account and they will deduct the amount you want exchange and send you actual pesos in the mail. Yeah I know it's awesome. So now when I hit airport I can just jump in a taxi and look for a good rate else where. The exchange rate is horrible with Bank of America (43. 20PHP-1. 00USD) but sure is going to be nice walking off that plane with a few pesos in my pocket. Might be easier dealing with the taxi now that I don't have to flip him a $5 dollar bill.


Why bother with doing this BofA thing if you are going to get ripped off by them? You changed money at the airport before, I seriously doubt that BofA's exchange is even close to as good as the airport exchange.

Also a side note. For me, when I know I'm coming back to a country, I keep small denomination bills in the currency for future usage so if I want to skip changing currency or getting money at the airport, I can just hop a taxi and then get money after I'm settled at a better exchange rate. Personally, I don't think the exchanges at the airport are all that bad in the PI. It's not going to kill you to change $100-200 if you need it along with being comfortable.

[Genuis8]

The best rates and safest places to exchange your $ to Pesos are these banks, who are all over town: Metrobank, Banco De Oro, Bank of the Philippine Islands (#1/2/3 respectively). Or you can go to the Foreign Exchange counter of SM Malls all over town. They are owned by the same owner of Banco De Oro / Equitable Bank (merged). Bank hours are 9-3 while mall hours are till 9pm. Best rates too.

[Cunning Stunt]

I actually welcome the coming of the rainy season and particularly the approach of the odd typhoon (as long as it doesn't get too close). March and April are too hot and being shaved by a typhoon or tropical storm lops 10 degrees off the temperature, and makes the air seem deliciously fresh and cool in comparison to the hot summer days. And my garden needs the water...!

[Wolfie Mike]

Friends,

I've also had the pleasure of some great sessions with Miss N (go read the Abu Dhabi thread). If you are in Manila/Makati etc then I recommend you see her. Treat her kindly and with respect and you will be rewarded with a great and unforgettable time. She deserves a break and you will not regret it.

Have fun

WM

(also posted in other threads like WR)




Fellow Mongers

I will post this in a few threads as not quite where to post this – apologies if you read it more than once

A quick note to say Nikki (Miss N) from the UAE threads is now in the Philippines and is looking for some fun guys.

Her reputation is well known in the UAE where she gave the best ever BBBJ and ‘full menu’ shagging including Greek, sex toys, bisexual (she even picked the girl a couple times for me), loves a good threesome...some guys that took her LT could only manage ST as she shagged them to exhaustion. There many guys here in the UAE asking if/when she will return so if you see her please ask her....;)

The nearest that you could say she resembles sexually (but not in her figure) is Ana. She has the same desire to enjoy shagging. She met me long time back and had never done a threesome but as always Professor WR did his best with lovely results :D

A few pictures are in the Photo Gallery in this forum but much more can be found from 2007 etc in the UAE thread where there a number of FRs on her abilities in the bedroom and everywhere else. I have been given a HJ by this lady in club in the UAE, she has been banned from one in Abu Dhabi as her mini skirt was too mini :D and I fondly remember being in Wild West and Flamingo with her while she chose a girl for a night of pussy licking while I watched and later joined in...

She is now in the provinces and will come to you as long as the bus fare is paid which is not that much (1000 pesos return). Also she will ask for a load so she can call you and chat.

One guy is seeing her soon as he contacted me to ask if she was around in the Philippines as he is visiting the country this weekend and if she was ‘working’. Others will be seeing her sometime next month – the same guy who flew to the UAE a while back to spend his birthday with her (she was his present so to speak) and is now based in Asia so easier to get to Manila.

She has not been knocking off pinoys etc, she does not like them, she has been sorting some bad karma in her family (including the death of 2 family members last year which somewhat rattled her badly). But now she is OK and called me ask if I had ‘friends’. She does not know of ISG and I will not post face pictures here but for those who PM and contact her I have some – well I have a serious large GB external drive full of N pictures...

If you would like to see her and experience her ‘menu’ then PM me please – she is not a young girls she is 29, slim not hanging rack like Ana, always in good shape. Pictures can tell you. But if fancy some variety with a guaranteed naughty edge then she is fun to be with.

Keep hard and horny

[Altered Ego]

I'm planning on spending six weeks in the Phils this summer, and wondered if any of you guys who have experienced a long holiday like this would care to offer any advice about where is the best place to go?

I was thinking I might go somewhere other than Manila/AC this time (because I'd like to try somewhere different. And possibly cheaper. I'm budgeting around 7500 US).

And yes, I have RTFF'd religiously, but I am still seeking an 'informed opinion' before I put together an itinerary, e. G. What is the best place to stay, what to do, what NOT to do, etc.

Many thanks in anticipation. And if anybody is going to be out and about in June please let me know, maybe we can meet up for a beer!

[Bob Bowie]

i'm planning on spending six weeks in the phils this summer, and wondered if any of you guys who have experienced a long holiday like this would care to offer any advice about where is the best place to go?
!
first, 6 weeks of pleasure, how did you pull that off? congrats, i hope to take a long vacation there again.

last summer i went for 3 months and spent about $7500 also. price vary by a lot in each city. manila i found a pinay couple that owns 2 high rise condos and i paid about 38 usd a night, with high speed internet in the condo. i found a hotel on taft street via asiarooms.com for 35usd that was ok.

i spent about 1 month in manila, a month in cebu, and a month in davao, give or take a few days. both cebu and davao have decent pension houses and hotels for around 900-1200 peso.

i like the diplomat hotel in cebu, it is a large hotel with a variety of rooms for decent rates. also has fast internet so you can hit the dating sites during your rest time.

i preferred davao of the big 3 cities. it was very safe, especially for foreigners. i would not venture past the city, but it is huge so you should not have to leave it.

the most important thing for me was flexibility. i could decide to fly to any other city and find a safe place to stay with very little notice. you can find flights for around 30-60 usd, to just about any city you want to visit.

you can pm if you have any exact advice.

[GoodEnough]

If you're planning to spend any length of time in Davao, I suggest you think about an apartment. You can get a studio at Red Knight Garden for about $18 a night, and the place has a small but very clean pool, a small restaurant, and decent service. It's very convenient to the Lanang area, which has become a sort of second city center, and about 15 minutes from the traditional center of town around Rizal St. You might also want to consider Rose's Pension House on which several people from this board have commented.

GE

[Altered Ego]

Bob and GE,

Many thanks for your excellent advice, you've almost convinced me already to try Davao!

Bob, I intend to take up your kind offer and ask a couple of specific questions via PM, but I need to wait a day till my new membership kicks in (it had expired).

If anyone else has any other ideas I would be most pleased to hear them.

[GoodEnough]

Feel free to PM me as well if you have an specific questions. If you do PM, I'll send you an email address for longer messages. Having lived in Davao for almost six years now, I've concluded that it's one of the better places that I've ever lived, and I'm always glad when someone decides to spend some of his hard-earned money here.

GE

[Gaijin Gigolo]

Bob Bowie and GoodEnough, could you also recommend a short term apartment or condo in Manila and/or Cebu? I'll be staying in each of those cities for about a week very soon with a couple of nights in Angeles tacked on for good measure. I just really dislike the hassle of checking my girl in at the desk and us being eyed up and down when passing through a lobby full of porters which seems to be the case at most hotels. Thanks in advance! GG

[Altered Ego]

Thanks GE,

I've already PM'd Bob, but I may take you up later on your kind offer (which you're probably regretting already!)


Feel free to PM me as well if you have an specific questions. If you do PM, I'll send you an email address for longer messages. Having lived in Davao for almost six years now, I've concluded that it's one of the better places that I've ever lived, and I'm always glad when someone decides to spend some of his hard-earned money here.

GE

[GoodEnough]

Bob Bowie and GoodEnough, could you also recommend a short term apartment or condo in Manila and/or Cebu? I'll be staying in each of those cities for about a week very soon with a couple of nights in Angeles tacked on for good measure. I just really dislike the hassle of checking my girl in at the desk and us being eyed up and down when passing through a lobby full of porters which seems to be the case at most hotels. Thanks in advance! GG
Sorry GG but I cannot help. I live in Davao so I know the city pretty well, and I stay in hotels when I'm in Manila and Cebu. However I'm sure there are other guys on this board who know these cities and would be able to help you.

GE

[Puerto La Cruz]

Bob Bowie and GoodEnough, could you also recommend a short term apartment or condo in Manila and/or Cebu? I'll be staying in each of those cities for about a week very soon with a couple of nights in Angeles tacked on for good measure. I just really dislike the hassle of checking my girl in at the desk and us being eyed up and down when passing through a lobby full of porters which seems to be the case at most hotels. Thanks in advance! GG

Go to buyandsellph.com/ and they have short term condo or apartment rentals available.

[Gaijin Gigolo]

Go to buyandsellph.com/ and they have short term condo or apartment rentals available.

Thanks much for the site...am checking it out right now. :-)

[Gaijin Gigolo]

Sorry GG but I cannot help. I live in Davao so I know the city pretty well, and I stay in hotels when I'm in Manila and Cebu. However I'm sure there are other guys on this board who know these cities and would be able to help you.

GE

No worries at all...thanks anyway.

[Brastrav]

Hello,

Did you guys ever had troubles with online booking of tickets at the website of Philippine Airlines? After choosing the fligths and filling in everything what's needed, I always receive an error message that says that they have problems validating my credit card.

I've contacted my bank already and everything's OK with my credit card. Also online booking on the website of Cebu Pacific does not work.

Do any of you guys know what could've been wrong or why it is online bookings can't be made?

Thanks,

Mike Bel

[Devils 1]

Hello,

Did you guys ever had troubles with online booking of tickets at the website of Philippine Airlines? After choosing the fligths and filling in everything what's needed, I always receive an error message that says that they have problems validating my credit card.

I've contacted my bank already and everything's OK with my credit card. Also online booking on the website of Cebu Pacific does not work.

Do any of you guys know what could've been wrong or why it is online bookings can't be made?

Thanks,

Mike BelYes, Mike it happens almost everytime you book with them. you have to call their reservation number and they will fax/email you a form to fill out with all of the information. sometimes they try to charge you a higher fair because you are not paying online so just firmly remind them that it is there problem and not yours.

[Bill Buxton]

again a girl alleges a service man raped her. this was on today's news broadcast. she said she wants nothing done about the incident. i am happy i am out of this game now.got 1 good one and who needs the added worries about this kinda thing.

b.b.

[GregLondon]

I've spent the last 10 day or so in Palawan. As there is not much info on this island inthis site, i thought I should drop a line.

Palawan is not the place to go if your only interest in the Phils is the pussy. You would be better of in any of the big cities such as Manilla, Cebu, Davao etc. However if you want to mix sexy fun with the most stunning scenery in the Philippines (and amongst the most stunning in the whole of SE Asia), it could be of interest.

I am here with a girl I met in Cebu on DIA and have been travelling around with for a month now, however as she is keen on threesomes so we have been checking out other girls.

Most people will fly into Puerto Princesa, the capital of the island. This is a small town with a few Karaoke bars but little sign of western oriented commercial sex. There are relatively few Palawan girls on DIA but quite a few on Tagged. A fair few of these would have been available for 1-1- sex, but we could only find four (young and atractive ones) receptive to threesomes.

Around PP the main thing to do is o island hoping on the breathtakingly beautiful islands of Honda Bay ( about 17km out ofv town (300-500P by tric (return) + 1200-1500 P for a boat for the day good for 6.

From PP mot people set off for El Nido the small tourists village from which to organise trips around the Bacuit Archipelgo. El Nido doesnt have that great accomodation options, and the electricity runs from 2pm - 6am. Boat trip to and around the islands are 500-900P a day and the scenery is spectacular. (Similar to the khast limestone around Halong bay in Vietnam and Krabi in Thailand but much les touristy.) InEl Nido there are a few local girls hanging around the small clubs awho are apparently available, but you are probably better off bring inga girl from Puerto Princesa or anoter island for a holiday. El Nido is not that well known in the Philipinnes, but if ou googel for pics and show her she will probably jump at the chance of accompanying you and fuck for free (if you pay the holiday expenses.)

[Samar 2009]

Thanks for the report GL. Nice to know for my future escapades.

Keep up the good work and give us more nice reports, like this one.

Just LIVE the dream. Cause many people can only dream about these places.

Many regards.

SS


I've spent the last 10 day or so in Palawan. As there is not much info on this island inthis site, i thought I should drop a line.

Palawan is not the place to go if your only interest in the Phils is the pussy. You would be better of in any of the big cities such as Manilla, Cebu, Davao etc. However if you want to mix sexy fun with the most stunning scenery in the Philippines (and amongst the most stunning in the whole of SE Asia), it could be of interest.

I am here with a girl I met in Cebu on DIA and have been travelling around with for a month now, however as she is keen on threesomes so we have been checking out other girls.

Most people will fly into Puerto Princesa, the capital of the island. This is a small town with a few Karaoke bars but little sign of western oriented commercial sex. There are relatively few Palawan girls on DIA but quite a few on Tagged. A fair few of these would have been available for 1-1- sex, but we could only find four (young and atractive ones) receptive to threesomes.

Around PP the main thing to do is o island hoping on the breathtakingly beautiful islands of Honda Bay ( about 17km out ofv town (300-500P by tric (return) + 1200-1500 P for a boat for the day good for 6.

From PP mot people set off for El Nido the small tourists village from which to organise trips around the Bacuit Archipelgo. El Nido doesnt have that great accomodation options, and the electricity runs from 2pm - 6am. Boat trip to and around the islands are 500-900P a day and the scenery is spectacular. (Similar to the khast limestone around Halong bay in Vietnam and Krabi in Thailand but much les touristy.) InEl Nido there are a few local girls hanging around the small clubs awho are apparently available, but you are probably better off bring inga girl from Puerto Princesa or anoter island for a holiday. El Nido is not that well known in the Philipinnes, but if ou googel for pics and show her she will probably jump at the chance of accompanying you and fuck for free (if you pay the holiday expenses.)

[Devils 1]

I've spent the last 10 day or so in Palawan. As there is not much info on this island inthis site, I thought I should drop a line.Thanks for the very informative report. I would love to hear more info if you can remember. I have been meaning to go on a "love trip" with a special girl to Palawan for years and I have never gotten around to it.

Could you talk about hotels, restaurants, bars. Any info with prices and level of service would be much appreciated.

Thanks

[GregLondon]

I should have noted that Palawan is not an ideal destination if you on a tightly scheduled trip. The road from Puerto Princesa to El Nido where the most stunning is an arduous 7 hour minivan (650P) 10 hour bus (350P) ride.
In the wet season the road is sometimes too muddy for the minivans to get through.



Thanks for the report GL. Nice to know for my future escapades.

Keep up the good work and give us more nice reports, like this one.

Just LIVE the dream. Cause many people can only dream about these places.

Many regards.

SS

[Samar 2009]

Thanks again for elaborating more on your trip GL. I don't have any problems staying longer in Phils, cause I took early retirement from my work as an airline employee. However the 7 hour trip, when the wet season is on, looks like is not my cup of tea. I will just have to go there one day, maybe towards the end of the year when the wet season is over.

Thanks again.

Regards,

SS


I should have noted that Palawan is not an ideal destination if you on a tightly scheduled trip. The road from Puerto Princesa to El Nido where the most stunning is an arduous 7 hour minivan (650P) 10 hour bus (350P) ride.
In the wet season the road is sometimes too muddy for the minivans to get through.

[Arrigoa]

Will be in Makati this week, any suggestions on the best place near by with quality V and or C and appox prices?

Many thanks in advance!

[Anonymous]

Will be in Makati this week, any suggestions on the best place near by with quality V and or C and appox prices?

Many thanks in advance!I think the best place is P.Burgos, either day or night. Don't pay more than 300 pesos for a 4 pack. I think they ask for 1500 pesos. It works as good as the real stuff. For all I know, it is. It sure beats the cost of $10-15 dollars per pill back in Shitville, USA.

[Wicked Roger]

Will be in Makati this week, any suggestions on the best place near by with quality V and or C and appox prices?

Many thanks in advance!
Some ISG members but V and C from the guys outside Oxford Suites on Burgos, genuine I am told, prices cheap but have forgotten, maybe someone else can provide.

[Samar 2009]

Will be in Makati this week, any suggestions on the best place near by with quality V and or C and appox prices?

Many thanks in advance! A lot of guys are selling V & C outside Oxford suites and Pallagio hotels. I personally didn't buy any cause I had my own supply from Angeles.

They were selling 5 packets for 1000, but I told them that I was buying 10 packets for 1000 in Angeles.

A Canadian guy I met there bought 10 packets for the price that I told him. He tried the C and V (he bought 5 V and 5 C) and he said to me that the tablets worked like the real McCoy.

Regards,

SS

[GregLondon]

if you come I suggest staying in the Hibiscus Garden hotel in Puerto Princesa.

Rooms are P1500-2500 very spacious and nicely apointed. wifi in the rooms. Its a couple of minutes form the airport and 10 minutes from the centre but you nede to book ahead because it gets top rating sfrom variousonline guides so gets booked early. Another mid price option is puerto pension (1000-1800P inc breakfast) a boutique hotel more than a pension, the basic rooms are a bit small, but the double beds in the larger rooms are really comfortable. That more in the centre of town. Both places in theory ask an extra 400-500P for a third joiner, but u should be able to sneak one in. The big advertised attractiin in Puerto is the Underground river/cave in Sabang, but it gets somewhat underwhelmed reviews from most foreigners who have been there.

Honda Bay (15kms (200P by tric each way) is fantastic. The islands you viist island hopinbg a ja droppingly beautiful on a blue sky day.

After that most people head north to El Nido and do a few days osf island hoping up there amongst som of the most beautiful scenry in Asia. if you have a cutie or two with you, you can take fantastic tropical paradise type shots.



Thanks again for elaborating more on your trip GL. I don't have any problems staying longer in Phils, cause I took early retirement from my work as an airline employee. However the 7 hour trip, when the wet season is on, looks like is not my cup of tea. I will just have to go there one day, maybe towards the end of the year when the wet season is over.

Thanks again.

Regards,

SS

[Samar 2009]

Thanks again GL. Enjoy life and Live the dream. Regards. SS


if you come I suggest staying in the Hibiscus Garden hotel in Puerto Princesa.

Rooms are P1500-2500 very spacious and nicely apointed. WiFi in the rooms. Its a couple of minutes form the airport and 10 minutes from the centre but you nede to book ahead because it gets top rating sfrom variousonline guides so gets booked early. Another mid price option is puerto pension (1000-1800P inc breakfast) a boutique hotel more than a pension, the basic rooms are a bit small, but the double beds in the larger rooms are really comfortable. That more in the centre of town. Both places in theory ask an extra 400-500P for a third joiner, but you should be able to sneak one in. The big advertised attractiin in Puerto is the Underground river/cave in Sabang, but it gets somewhat underwhelmed reviews from most foreigners who have been there.

Honda Bay (15kms (200P by tric each way) is fantastic. The islands you viist island hopinbg a ja droppingly beautiful on a blue sky day.

After that most people head north to El Nido and do a few days osf island hoping up there amongst som of the most beautiful scenry in Asia. If you have a cutie or two with you, you can take fantastic tropical paradise type shots.

[Spam Hog]

Anybody on the board with a Metro Manila area address? It is worth a few thousand pesos if I can use it temporarily as a mail drop. Give me a PM for details, nothing illegal.


Spamhog

[Big Johnson2]

I thought the V & C on the streets of AC and other places is Fake. I bought some Viagra in AC once and it did nothing. What do you guys regularly find?

[Puerto La Cruz]

Commando 6, a bangka owned by Iligan Shipping Lines turtled in the water yesterday on its way from Batangas to Puerto Galera. Maximum capacity for the boat was 42. As many as 65 people including crew were on board. 12 are known dead and another 8 missing. There were two different reports detailing cause of the boat rolling over. One was that its engine quit and waves caused the hull to break up. Another was that an outrigger broke causing it to turn over.

License of Iligan Shipping Lines has been suspended and three coast guard personnel in Batangas have been relieved. These bangkas are the only way to get to and from PG from Batangas. So what will come of this tragedy? Given the thousands of islands traveled to and from by boat, probably nothing. Life jackets are required to be either worn or held by all on the trip to and from PG. In the six passages I have made, I have never seen a life jacket leave the overhead storage area and my impression is that the majority of filipinos can't swim. As they had time to make a distress call, maybe some of the people were able to get to the life jackets.

[FreebieFan]

I thought the V & C on the streets of AC and other places is Fake. I bought some Viagra in AC once and it did nothing. What do you guys regularly find?Most of it in Burgos is fake. Theres a post few months back when I was so bored with these tossers harassing me that I showed them what they sold was fake..

1. Box.. printing color incorrect
2. Absence of a hologram
3. No printed instructions/medical date inside
4. Blister pack incorrect
5. Color of tablet wrong blue
6. Taste.. theirs was sweet.. ( its Sugar country.. what do you expect..)...not bitter as V normally is.

[X Man]

I've had fairly good luck with C which I've purchased on different occasions in AC, MNL, and Cebu. The times it let me down I'd been drinking, so who knows.

Ask inside the bars. Sometimes they have it and maybe they know the best source for legit stuff.

X


I thought the V & C on the streets of AC and other places is Fake. I bought some Viagra in AC once and it did nothing. What do you guys regularly find?

[Wanderer1000]

I'm going to make a first trip to the Philippines in July. I am thinking about renting a car at the Manila airport and exploring Luzon. Haven't read much here about people renting a car. Anybody have some experience and advice?

[Timber Tree]

I'm going to make a first trip to the Philippines in July. I am thinking about renting a car at the Manila airport and exploring Luzon. Haven't read much here about people renting a car. Anybody have some experience and advice?

If you are within the city, it is a nice to have a car. But with so much traffic I'd go with public transportation and taxi. If you are not familiar with city I'd go for a rent a driver for a day. ($50 plus gas and tolls)

Just FYI. When people are stuck in traffic everybody will pretty much go in to every space possible to get ahead of everybody.

If you are planning to go from AC to Manila to Laguna. I'd rent a car.

[Big Johnson2]

My Girlfriend in Samar says her neighbor is selling an inexpensive motorcycle which is 2 years old and hardly used. I think about $500. I'm not sure if I want to buy it because I'm happy w/ public transportation 90% of the time. Not to mention the roads are horrible and people drive crazy, thus I see it as dangerous.

I know why she wants it, because it would be a status symbol in her village (and of course you could use it to go places). And her family would have this means of transportation when I'm not in the country. Thus the use of and status symbol, that their daughter has a rich foreign BF.

Can I buy it in my name? What are my liabilities as a foreigner? What happens if I'm in a wreck, can I get sued? She and no one in her family has a drivers license. What happens if someone uses it when I'm not there and has a wreck? Am I responsible? Are they frequently stolen? Am I exposed? What are the downsides?

[Key Master]

I'm going to make a first trip to the Philippines in July. I am thinking about renting a car at the Manila airport and exploring Luzon. Haven't read much here about people renting a car. Anybody have some experience and advice?

Not sure where your experience is, but you might want to get adjusted first by just chilling first in the PI before committing to driving anywhere there. In my opinion, these are probably some of the worst if not the worst Asian drivers. It's probably not that bad, but I recommend you get oriented somewhat there to learn some of how things work there.

[GoodEnough]

My Girlfriend in Samar says her neighbor is selling an inexpensive motorcycle which is 2 years old and hardly used. I think about $500. I'm not sure if I want to buy it because I'm happy w/ public transportation 90% of the time. Not to mention the roads are horrible and people drive crazy, thus I see it as dangerous.

I know why she wants it, because it would be a status symbol in her village (and of course you could use it to go places). And her family would have this means of transportation when I'm not in the country. Thus the use of and status symbol, that their daughter has a rich foreign BF.

Can I buy it in my name? What are my liabilities as a foreigner? What happens if I'm in a wreck, can I get sued? She and no one in her family has a drivers license. What happens if someone uses it when I'm not there and has a wreck? Am I responsible? Are they frequently stolen? Am I exposed? What are the downsides?

Yes, you can purchase the bike in your name, and you can get insurance immediately from any one of dozens of brokers, many of which will be located around the LTO. If you're buying a used bike you will need a notarized deed of sale and then you will have to pay for a transfer of ownership.

Driving without benefit of license is a definite no-no, and unless you can claim that the bike was stolen from you, then you might be liable in the case of an accident with the bike, since you loaned it to someone who had no legal right to drive it. On the other hand, getting a license for most locals involves, in many cases, a bribe and no requirement to demonstrate driving skills or knowledge.

My advice would be not to purchase it at all, given that you have no idea what will happen to it in your absence except that you can be reasonably sure that no one will maintain it, so there's an excellent chance that when you return it will be inoperable.

GE

[Nightrider1]

I'm going to make a first trip to the Philippines in July. I am thinking about renting a car at the Manila airport and exploring Luzon. Haven't read much here about people renting a car. Anybody have some experience and advice?

I have been to Phil 12 times and the only time I rent is a motorbike in Bhl or Camiguin. At least I have a chance of surviving in those places cause not much traffic. NO WAY i would rent a car in manila. Just too much traffic. I think taxies are the only way to go or hire a driver for day trips. JMHO

[Wicked Roger]

My advice would be not to purchase it at all, given that you have no idea what will happen to it in your absence except that you can be reasonably sure that no one will maintain it, so there's an excellent chance that when you return it will be inoperable.

GE
Or be sold again when the family run out of cash and put pressure on her if you dont cough up more cash..........this is something I am aware of (no, I did not buy, but I do know of 2 guys who did)

But GE's comments about maintenance is very true...and very likely in this case as am sure you able to help the girlfriend etc

[Wicked Roger]

Saw this, am sure they maybe more to the story but sometimes we should be careful who the drinking companions are especially if they have a very jealous, obsessvie pinoy boyfriend?

http://news.ph.msn.com/regional/article.aspx?cp-documentid=3338526

[Sammon]

My Girlfriend in Samar says her neighbor is selling an inexpensive motorcycle which is 2 years old and hardly used. I think about $500. I'm not sure if I want to buy it because I'm happy w/ public transportation 90% of the time. Not to mention the roads are horrible and people drive crazy, thus I see it as dangerous.

I know why she wants it, because it would be a status symbol in her village (and of course you could use it to go places). And her family would have this means of transportation when I'm not in the country. Thus the use of and status symbol, that their daughter has a rich foreign BF.

Can I buy it in my name? What are my liabilities as a foreigner? What happens if I'm in a wreck, can I get sued? She and no one in her family has a drivers license. What happens if someone uses it when I'm not there and has a wreck? Am I responsible? Are they frequently stolen? Am I exposed? What are the downsides?

My GF had a moped in her name. It was very usefull whenever I visited her in BAY BAY, Leyte. I do not think she had a license either.
You should buy and put in her name. However the price of almost 20,000 pesos does seem high for a used bike. When you put in her name there would be no problems for you and whever you visit you can drive it. In my case My GF would ride it and I sit in the back and play around. There is no reason to put anything in PHI and thus bearing legal responsibility.
In small provinces it is always better to have your own transportation.

[Robbaf]

I'm going to make a first trip to the Philippines in July. I am thinking about renting a car at the Manila airport and exploring Luzon. Haven't read much here about people renting a car. Anybody have some experience and advice?
I have rented a car twice in Cebu and once in Angeles to go to Luzon. If you want to explore Luzon I recommend renting a car in Angeles and start from there.

Robb

[FreebieFan]

I have been to Phil 12 times and the only time I rent is a motorbike in Bhl or Camiguin. At least I have a chance of surviving in those places cause not much traffic. NO WAY I would rent a car in manila. Just too much traffic. I think taxies are the only way to go or hire a driver for day trips. JMHOI drove in Phils for 5 years when I lived there and I keep a car there for my monthly trips. IFor me its same as driving in China / Thailand and Indonesia where there are no rules.

Just remember in Manila there are very few signs that are useful or in the right place except in Edsa.

The sign for the main road to the North, the North Luzon Tollway is hidden behind a tree and if you don't see it. Your out of luck.

And yes, whilst traffic is a prob. But parking can be the bigger problem.

[Wanderer1000]

Thanks for all the responses - especially to a "new guy" on this thread.

1. Don't rent a car around Manila - the traffic and drivers will be brutal. Better to do taxis and hire a car and driver for the day.

2. If you want to explore, rent outside the city - when you are in Angeles City, for example.

I want to explore the island when I need a mongering break. Anybody have experience going around the island by car? A Philippine lady at my local optometrist told me that it's no problem renting cars for $30 something per day. How are the roads around the island? Decent shape? Safe in the rural areas up north?

I've been reading the Philippine threads for awhile, and I haven't read anything about this. I like to mix mongering with some exploration of a region. Thanks.

[Spam Hog]

i'm going to make a first trip to the philippines in july. i am thinking about renting a car at the manila airport and exploring luzon. haven't read much here about people renting a car. anybody have some experience and advice?




i own and have driven cars in davao, cdo and now cebu. my advice would be do not rent a car and drive it in the phils. no need to, plenty of transportation here. i can;t imagine driving in manila, the traffic is so bad, besides, you as a foreigner might be a target for every swat and swipe scam since they figure you have insudrance and the wallet to pay for medical bills and to "fix my car since it is your fault".

you can get an international drivers license which is good in the phils for vehicle or motorbike.

if you plan on staying in the phils for some time and driving, getting a license for motobike or car is easy, you just go to lto, stop in the dozens of places they have for a drug free test then present your valid us license and pay someone a bribe to speedily process it for you in one day instead of the one month it normally takes. they give you a temp license and that is good, you need insurance for any vehilce you register, insurance is as cheap as p2,000 a year for a car, less for a motor.


spamhog

[Soapy Smith]

I've spent the last 10 day or so in Palawan. As there is not much info on this island inthis site, i thought I should drop a line.

Palawan is not the place to go if your only interest in the Phils is the pussy. You would be better of in any of the big cities such as Manilla, Cebu, Davao etc. However if you want to mix sexy fun with the most stunning scenery in the Philippines (and amongst the most stunning in the whole of SE Asia), it could be of interest.

Most people will fly into Puerto Princesa, the capital of the island. This is a small town with a few Karaoke bars but little sign of western oriented commercial sex. There are relatively few Palawan girls on DIA but quite a few on Tagged. A fair few of these would have been available for 1-1- sex, but we could only find four (young and atractive ones) receptive to threesomes.


I've spent a little time in Puerto Princesa and agree that it's a gorgeous place to visit. I did like the underground river, perhaps simply because it's the longest river of this type in the world, and the only one that empties directly into salt water.

Although I was escorted around by locals and did not want to have them see me in mongering mode, one of my local friends reports that SWs actually hang out at night in the center of town at the intersection adjacent to the Provincial government capitol building.

On another board I read a reliable series of reports about a club called Phoneix near the airport. A local reported that they have about 40 girls doing "fashion shows," but mamasan will help you make connections. Barfine was 2500 PhP about a year ago. They apparently exploit the reality that they are a limited market. Here's the location as I understood it: The airport has separate entrance and exit driveways coming in off the main street. The Phoenix is on a short side street that turns off the main street across from the airport, and approximately half way between the airport's entrance and exit driveways.

Another monger reported taking a p4p into the downtown hotel named the "starlighter" (or something similar). I stayed there once but can't remember the name.

Greg, if you read this, can you tell me if you saw any signs of strip mining in the rural areas that locals seem otherwise to want to protect for their biodiversity? Strange question for this forum, right? Sorry guys; it's my tradeoff for providing information.

Skip

[GoodEnough]

Even my friends who live in Manila and own cars drive them only on week ends or fairly late in the evening when the traffic has slowed. It's a truly awful place to drive and, even if you survive the scams, the traffic, the lousy signage and the general anarchy, where will you park your car?

I own and drive cars in Davao where the whole problem of parking is lots less severe though the locals are still insane when behind the wheel. The insanity of the other drivers is the basic reason I sold my bike, figuring I had pushed my luck and my aging body far enough. The additional problems for newbies is that they have no idea where they're going, and, given the irrational street systems and the absence of grids, it can be tough to figure out.

My advice? Take taxis.

GE

[Timber Tree]

If I recall correctly there is a coding system in Manila. It's basically ODDS and EVENS of the cars license plate. If your license plate ends in an ODD number, you get to drive your car MWF and vise-versa on EVENs. So it does not get too congested in the city and probably minimizes in the pollution. Just something to think / ask about before renting a car in Manila.

If you are renting a car, you better know where you are going. Otherwise, I would just hire a driver or get a taxi.

[Puerto La Cruz]

You remember right TT and gave excellent advice. Never, ever, ever drive around Manila unless one must. Get a taxi or a driver. And a book to read during the ride.

[Cunning Stunt]

driving in manila is not for the nervous or timid but it is doable. i’ve driven in far worse places i.e indonesia and india. i’ve driven in manila for 5 years and in that time had only two minor scrapes. the traffic is usually moving far too slowly to be a viable danger to each other but the things to look out for are the kamikaze motorcyclists weaving in and out of traffic and slow moving vehicles such as pedicabs and tricies. and watch out when driving behind jeepneys or buses as they tend to make sudden rapid diversions as they spot potential passengers.

as far as i am aware, the colour coding system is supposed to keep you off the road for one day a week but i have often ignored it (becoming a scofflaw like the average filipino:d) and only once been caught which a 200 pesos bribe soon put to rights.

[FreebieFan]

As far as I am aware, the colour coding system is supposed to keep you off the road for one day a week but I have often ignored it (becoming a scofflaw like the average Filipino:D) and only once been caught which a 200 pesos bribe soon put to rights.Yes beware the one eyed jeepney. What I mean is at night theres often a single bright light from jeepneys. They don't follow the side light system. They have one. In the middle of radiator. Very confusing after several smbs.

Gamahucher. You know the locals only pay P100 for color coding violations. Active discrimination against the foreigners in Epxecting us to pay more. LOL

[Cunning Stunt]

Has anyone been to the new, revamped immigration visa office recently? Was quite astonished at the most un-Philippine like efficiency of their service now. Instead of wasting half a day, the turnaround time is now 1 hour and they seem to stick to it. Amazing.

The same cannot be said of the new Cebu Pacific ticketing office at Robinsons Mall (where Robinsons Department Store used to be). Got a queue ticket on entry and was allocated No 32. They were presently dealing with No 08. Went away for a spot of lunch and a wander around the new Robinsons Store. Went back about an hour later and they were now seeing No 12. WTF – four customers dealt with in an hour. At that rate I would have been got to the head of the queue in 5 hours!! Gave up and went off mumbling to myself. Would be interested to know what percentage of their lives, an average Filipino wastes in queues?

[Spam Hog]

has anyone been to the new, revamped immigration visa office recently? was quite astonished at the most un-philippine like efficiency of their service now. instead of wasting half a day, the turnaround time is now 1 hour and they seem to stick to it. amazing.

the same cannot be said of the new cebu pacific ticketing office at robinsons mall (where robinsons department store used to be). got a queue ticket on entry and was allocated no 32. they were presently dealing with no 08. went away for a spot of lunch and a wander around the new robinsons store. went back about an hour later and they were now seeing no 12. wtf – four customers dealt with in an hour. at that rate i would have been got to the head of the queue in 5 hours!! gave up and went off mumbling to myself. would be interested to know what percentage of their lives, an average filipino wastes in queues?




dunno which immegration office you are refering to, but the one in cebu (lapu lapu city) was much improved. they now have a computer system which i beleives speeds matters along. all of us "registered aliens" now have a card which can be swiped rather than the yearly paperwork we needed to fill out....easier.

as for cebu pacific, i've always had trouble with them, i never book online as they will invariably screw up so i go direct. lines and queues are always a problem, most of them pay no attention to it, they get to the clerk and ask a million questions, then the clerks aren't all that efficient, expect a power outage or a computer system shut down at least once a day.


spamhog

[Devils 1]

I just noticed that Filipine air has cut one of its 2 daily flights between Manila and Los Angeles.

If anyone has upcoming flights you should definitely check because they made no effort to contact me to let me know of the change!

I am assuming they have cut others because LAX-Manila is one of their busiest routes.

[Soapy Smith]

Would be interested to know what percentage of their lives, an average Filipino wastes in queues?

I would argue that Filipinos waste a lot of time at various (slow) service counters, but few of these settings actually resemble a queue. I get a kick out of the signs that invariably read "fall in line." Obviously the English is a little contorted. "Form a line" or "line up" would seem like better word usage options. I have asked a few older Filipinos if they can recall where the expression came from. Mostly they remember it from their childhoods, but can't pin down how the expression started. I have suggested to them that it may have been used by American military after WWII in giving instructions to Filipinos for various sorts of handouts. "Fall in" is a common military command for getting into formation, so it seems plausible that this may be its Philippine origin. Having suggested it to several locals, I have not yet had one discount this explanation.

But the major point about the "fall in line" signs is that most Filipinos don't follow them. They'll try various different maneuvers/manipulations to try to buck the line. One place where I've experienced it regularly is at Mercury drug stores. Typically there will be three or four clerks waiting on customers at the prescription counter. So, "falling in line" should be a fairly straight-forward deal: just line up on one of the clerks. But what invariably happens is that some new customer, often as not a woman (not because they're less courteous than men, but because they do the family shopping), will belly up to the counter in between two of the clerks. The new customer waits for either of the clerks to return to the counter after retrieving the previous customer's medications or receipt and change. Then she leans across the counter and starts babbling in the local dialect to the clerk, presumably with some excuse about why she can't stand in line. The clerks are as bad as the line-cutters, because they typically go ahead and wait on the line-cutter, ignoring me or whoever was otherwise next in line. In a country that's so comfortable with bribes, it should not be a surprise that customers and clerks become acclimatized to line-bucking behavior.

So the sign is really a laughable thing, precisely because nobody follows or enforces the sign.

[X Man]

They didn't contact me either, nor did I expect them to.

Do you mean you had a reservation on a discontinued flight and they didn't tell you?

WOW!

X


I just noticed that Filipine air has cut one of its 2 daily flights between Manila and Los Angeles.

If anyone has upcoming flights you should definitely check because they made no effort to contact me to let me know of the change!

I am assuming they have cut others because LAX-Manila is one of their busiest routes.

[X Man]

On the AC thread there is a discussion mostly on how the Philippines falls short on cultural attractions compared to most, if not all, of its neighbors.

I moved here because this seems more appropriate than the AC thread.

I don't disagree with what GE has written, but for the benefits of newcomers who may want to experience some culture, what do the old timers recommend? Here is my list -- maybe some others can add to it.

1) countryside visit: nipa huts, water buffalo, coconuts, simple living.

2) Catholic church or cathedral: Cathedral in MNL Intramuros, Quiapo Church(MNL) and St. Nina in Cebu are worth a visit. I still haven't figured out what I think of the black monstrosity in Davao! Wander thru the after-mass street markets.

3) Market: sometimes colorful, sometimes surprising. Lots of fish usually. Once let my eye wander too long at a young lass working in the market, and the older woman next to her smiled and asked, "Hey, you want my daughter?"

4) Get a ride on a banca boat

5) Festival. You have to plan carefully, but seeing one of the festivals is good fun.

[Cunning Stunt]

..But what invariably happens is that some new customer, often as not a woman (not because they're less courteous than men, but because they do the family shopping), will belly up to the counter in between two of the clerks...

I think that you are being charitable. It always amuses or annoys me (depending on in how much of a hurry I am in or which side of the bed I arose from that morning), how it always seem to be unattractive menopausal or post menopausal women who assume that queues does not apply to them and try and jump in front of the feckless foreigner as he is being served. Never men or young hotties, which I would not mind in the slightest:D.

Another thing that winds me up is when you are being served and someone distracts the attention of the salesperson with a question, and instead of being asked to wait until they have finished serving you, are immediately answered, all the time ignoring you as if you have suddenly disappeared. Once again matronly types are the worst culprits. I’ve largely given up on the snappish remarks, either to the saleperson or the intruder, as neither are particularly effective, and usually restrict myself to staring fixedly at the pushy old bag, until they invariably feel uncomfortable and hurry their query. Works every time :D.

[Cunning Stunt]

I moved here because this seems more appropriate than the AC thread.

Agreed that the AC thread is probably not appropriate to discuss the cultural merits of The Philippines:eek:.

Why not the 'Living in The Philippine' thread?

I imagine anybody traveling thousands of miles purely to enjoy the cultural life of The Philippine would, within 10 minutes of landing, wish they had rerouted to Benidorm or Las Vegas!!

[SX Doctor]

It's basically ODDS and EVENS of the cars license plate. If your license plate ends in an ODD number, you get to drive your car MWF and vise-versa on EVENs.Not quite. I believe it is plates ending in 1 or 2 don't drive Mondays, 3 or 4 don't drive Tuesdays, all the way to 9 or 0 not driving on Fridays. Not the whole day, just during certain times of the day.

[GoodEnough]

I just turn to the person doing the interrupting, and say something like: "Excuse me, but I'm being waited on now and you will have to wait your turn like everyone else." It always works.

GE

[Devils 1]

Do you mean you had a reservation on a discontinued flight and they didn't tell you?

XYes, this is an important point to understand, if you have a reservation on a flight that no longer exists they will not contact you!

[Azmodeus Fl]

I'll be going to the philippines in July for the first time in 32 years. Last time I was there the exchange rate was 7 peso to the US dollar. What I would like to know is what is the going prices to tip the girl for special attention. By what I can tell the barfines are 1000 peso to 1500 peso which seems a little high and does the girls get a cut of the fine.

[FreebieFan]

I'll be going to the philippines in July for the first time in 32 years. Last time I was there the exchange rate was 7 peso to the US dollar. What I would like to know is what is the going prices to tip the girl for special attention. By what I can tell the barfines are 1000 peso to 1500 peso which seems a little high and does the girls get a cut of the fine.My god, if I don't go there for 3 months I start going crazy. All I can say is you might see some changes. But then again, maybe not that many LOL.

[Spam Hog]

I'll be going to the philippines in July for the first time in 32 years. Last time I was there the exchange rate was 7 peso to the US dollar. What I would like to know is what is the going prices to tip the girl for special attention. By what I can tell the barfines are 1000 peso to 1500 peso which seems a little high and does the girls get a cut of the fine.




Check on the daily price converter, the Peso is something like 47.30 to the dollar as we speak, just a reminder, bring 100 Bills to be exchanged, make sure they are unfolded, unblemished and new right out of the bank, these command a higher exchange rate premium than smaller, soiled and well used bills. Better to go in the malls than use the "govt" or bank exchanges, better rate....

I used to tip the girls based on performance,(Usually P1000) some of the bars do it differently, most give her a cut (albeit a small one) some do not. Depends on where you are.


Spamhog

[FireWalker]

I'll be going to the philippines in July for the first time in 32 years. Last time I was there the exchange rate was 7 peso to the US dollar. What I would like to know is what is the going prices to tip the girl for special attention. By what I can tell the barfines are 1000 peso to 1500 peso which seems a little high and does the girls get a cut of the fine.

Be sure to send me a PM if you get to Angeles City. I'm moving there permanently in a week or so. We'll have a beer.

[Nvslim]

This is one of the articles in the latest MARGARITA STATION NEWS for June 2009.

http://www.margarita-station.com/newsletters/june09/index.html

Thought it was of interest.

"The Philippines is not a *****house for US soldiers

By Maila Ager INQUIRER.net
First Posted 13:58:00 04/02/2009

MANILA, Philippines Senator Francis Pangilinan on Thursday called for an investigation into reports US soldiers joining the Balikatan military exercises in the Bicol Region are being given sex workers every night. This needs to be investigated and exposed. This is condemnable, said Pangilinan, who initiated a resolution in the Senate calling for a review of the US-RP Visiting Force Agreement.

During his recent visit in the region, Pangilinan said he was approached by concerned citizens, claiming that at least two batches of eight to 10 women were being sent nightly to US soldiers, checking in at 10 p.m. and are out by 4 a.m. the following morning. Every time a owners/manager brings in 10 women, all will be taken. Then they’ll bring another batch of 10, Pangilinan, quoting the locals, said. The service US servicemen were also allegedly seen by the residents in hotels and bars with very young women.

We worked so hard to get rid of prostitution and cleaning our reputation when the US military bases finally left our shores, Pangilinan said. The Philippines is not a *****house for US soldiers."

Damn, I don't remember delivery service when I was in the US military in the 80s.

Slim

[X Man]

Slim, US Navy put me into a port in Luzon (not the usual places) and at some point in the evening I found myself in a bar with some cute ladies. I assumed it was the same program as Subic. I asked about bar fine, but no one knew what I was talking about. I asked the girl if she would like to go and she said "yes, but, my friend..." I took the both of them and there was no bar fine.

My "friend" gave me whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted for the next two days. The other one I introduced to a friend and he got what he wanted too.

It wasn't exactly delivery service, but the girls didn't work at the bar. They were just there because the ship was there. Whether someone organized this or the ladies just used their own ingenuity, I don't know.

X




SNIP OF NEWSPAPER ARTICLE

Damn, I don't remember delivery service when I was in the US military in the 80s.

Slim

[Victorian]

there's a discussion on the photo gallery now about taking pics through customs, particularly in the us. rather than continuing the discussion there (which x-man points out is for photos only), i thought i would post here.

in addition to taking your digital pics through your home country customs, another thing to be careful of is buying a heap of pirate dvds. i once had half a suitcase full and i got caught when the philippines customs (at the pal international terminal) x-rayed my case on the way into the airport.

i was polite and innocent to them and they just took all the porn ones.

when they asked me if the non-porn ones were pirate, i said i didn't know but i had bought them from a good shop. they were nice enough to let me keep those.

however they also took my passport details down. so since then i haven't bought too many dvds there (max 10) and, tempting as they are, i haven't bought any porn ones.

the philippines has laws against porn and i can imagine the penalties for getting caught could be worse than the us.

so if you have some "private" pics on your memory stick, be sure to be careful at philippines customs too.

i also got "caught" once on the way into jakarta airport. the customs guy at the x-ray machine there took me into a small room next to the x-ray machine and asked me directly for a bribe or he would confirep001e the lot.

sometimes i wonder if i had nicely asked when i was stopped in the philippines if there was a fine i could pay, i could have kept all the dvds.

does anyone have a view on the philippines' customs guys? do they also angle for bribes, or is it best to only bribe if requested. some aussies in bangkok recently got into trouble partly because they aggressively offered bribes to some police there. definitely it's better not to bribe at all than bribe the wrong person or in the wrong way.

[Darth Sushi]

Does anyone have a view on the Philippines' customs guys? Do they also angle for bribes, or is it best to only bribe if requested. Some Aussies in Bangkok recently got into trouble partly because they aggressively offered bribes to some police there. Definitely it's better not to bribe at all than bribe the wrong person or in the wrong way. It depends on the customs agent. The younger ones are less likely to angle for one. Try to pick a agent who is alone if you want to try a bribe. Be discrete. Put a bill folded neatly in your passport where the visa stamps are located. If the agent has a problem, just say you forgot you had money there. There are cameras all over the airport so pulling out your wallet is just plain stupid.

[Victorian]

Thanks. Good point about the cameras and it being better if the agent is by themself. As I mentioned, the customs guy in Jakarta told me to come into a small office right next to the x-ray machine where he asked for a bribe. I guess away from other people and cameras. :) It pissed me off, but at least I got to keep all the DVDs.

I've heard before about putting money into your passport, but I would have thought that's a clear bribe and could be used against you (offering a bribe is I'm sure an offense that could be used againt you).

The tactic I was thinking I should have used is being innocent and quietly asking if there was any fine I could pay that would allow me to keep the DVDs. That would avoid getting me into further trouble and avoid potentially upsetting the customs guy.



It depends on the customs agent. The younger ones are less likely to angle for one. Try to pick a agent who is alone if you want to try a bribe. Be discrete. Put a bill folded neatly in your passport where the visa stamps are located. If the agent has a problem, just say you forgot you had money there. There are cameras all over the airport so pulling out your wallet is just plain stupid.

[Big Johnson2]

I have been told that Karaoke bars have girls that you can pay to have sex with. Is this true? Is it at most of the bigger karaoke bars? Is it take out or in the VIP room? If this is true, what experiences have any of you had with girls from these bars?

[Big Johnson2]

Are either of these books good and worth buying?

The Philippines Travel Guide - Jens Peters

A Man's Guide to Life and Love In the Philippines - Larry Elterman

Thanks.

[Manicure]

Greetings

Any of you have tried to ask a girl to leave for a week the philippines? Is it even possible to wait for her in Honolulu and pay for her roundtrip? What are the risk?

[Verdebandit]

Greetings

Any of you have tried to ask a girl to leave for a week the philippines? Is it even possible to wait for her in Honolulu and pay for her roundtrip? What are the risk?Most are going to have visa problems with the US.

Your best bet would be meeting them in SE Asia or HK if you don't want to go to ph.

[GregLondon]

Greetings

Any of you have tried to ask a girl to leave for a week the philippines? Is it even possible to wait for her in Honolulu and pay for her roundtrip? What are the risk?

The main issue would be getting hera visa for the US (or Europe). They can get visas for other poor Asian countries relatively easy but its expensive and a big hassle to get 1st world visas.

[Manicure]

Thanks for the info, How expensive is a visa you think? and how long it takes? I am planning for Jan 2010 and hoping to advertise for the "position" Where should I advertise? Thank you for your time guys


The main issue would be getting hera visa for the US (or Europe). They can get visas for other poor Asian countries relatively easy but its expensive and a big hassle to get 1st world visas.

[Sammon]

Greetings

Any of you have tried to ask a girl to leave for a week the philippines? Is it even possible to wait for her in Honolulu and pay for her roundtrip? What are the risk?

She can apply for a tourist visa at the U.S. embassy with documents including your sponsorship letter. Visa is no way guaranteed but you never know. Depends entirely on the person who interviews her. It is better if you give a letter stating that you are interested in marrying her rather than as a friend.
Frankly what is the point in taking her to Hawaii ?
Philippino girls do not make good travelloing companions except sex. They do not like western food and not used to the high lifestyle. Ofcourse I am not talking about girls from wealthy families who take vacations all the time.

[GoodEnough]

Thanks for the info, How expensive is a visa you think? and how long it takes? I am planning for Jan 2010 and hoping to advertise for the "position" Where should I advertise? Thank you for your time guys
The odds on your obtaining a visa for some girl whom you barely know are between slim and none, and I would advise you not to waste your time and especially your money trying this route. First, you will have to demonstrate the longevity of your relationship and its stability, neither of which you will be able to do. Second, the young lady in question will have to demonstrate not only strong local ties, but financial resources, and it's doubtful that she will be able to accomplish the latter. Thirdly, no matter who interviews her the first time, eventually, she's going to get interviewed by an American consular official, and these folks are tough to fool; they've heard it all before countless times. There is simply zero chance that you will be able to get a tourist visa for some lady you don't really know.

GE

[Matius]

In going down this road, you will learn the reality of the USA Government abroad. They are not very helpful, in any way. Oh, maybe if you are surrounded by a boat load of pirates. But then they get to use their guns. The primary criteria the USA Embassy or consulate will seek is a compelling reason why the girl would return to the Philippines. Does she own land, or assets, does she have a job of significant stature that she would return. Not to disagree with another member, but a letter of sponsorship by you, might work to your disadvantage. As resident in the USA, in your letter, you would be giving a compelling reason for her not to return--ie. Be with you. It in fact states on the USA Immigration website, that officers are not to take such letters as evidence of her willingness to return. Read the USA Consulate in the Philippines website, it is very straighforward on your chances.

Let's take the example of a young girl, early twenties at most, no assets, no job, no money, no education, never left the Philippines before (or worse shows a history of Singapore, Hongkong, Thailand and/or China), and sole reason is to meet her BF, who she has seen in person only a couple of times, met in a bar or on the internet, huge age difference. Any one of these items is likely to result in a rejection. The USA Embassy looks for a reason to reject, its their starting point, thus must be presented with compelling evidence to the contrary. I know Asians working for fortune 500 companies, with sponsorship letters from their companies to attend training or meetings, on their first attempt get rejected.

I agree with one member that it is better to take her to one of the Asian countries. Maybe it might be easier to get into Australia, the beaches there are as good or better than Hawaii anyway.

Good luck


Greetings

Any of you have tried to ask a girl to leave for a week the philippines? Is it even possible to wait for her in Honolulu and pay for her roundtrip? What are the risk?

[FreebieFan]

The odds on your obtaining a visa for some girl whom you barely know are between slim and none, and I would advise you not to waste your time and especially your money trying this route. First, you will have to demonstrate the longevity of your relationship and its stability, neither of which you will be able to do. Second, the young lady in question will have to demonstrate not only strong local ties, but financial resources, and it's doubtful that she will be able to accomplish the latter. Thirdly, no matter who interviews her the first time, eventually, she's going to get interviewed by an American consular official, and these folks are tough to fool; they've heard it all before countless times. There is simply zero chance that you will be able to get a tourist visa for some lady you don't really know.

GEWell said. I have a former colleague that works in US Embassy and their stats this year is that they have rejected almost 90% of all visa applicants ( all those poor souls that stand on Roxas under the sun daily).

Lasy year rejection rate was approx 86%.

[Manicure]

Thanks all for the info, it makes sense... I will not go forward but will consider perhaps local travelling instead when I will be in the Philippines! It is always good to think with your head

[Darth Sushi]

Well said. I have a former colleague that works in US Embassy and their stats this year is that they have rejected almost 90% of all visa applicants ( all those poor souls that stand on Roxas under the sun daily).

Lasy year rejection rate was approx 86%.Wow, that's a lot! My neighbor was denied a visa to visit her mother stateside because her passport was empty. Basically, you should have at least 4 or 5 visa stamps to other countries as proof you're not going to overstay your visa in the US. Also, owning property or a business in the Philippines will boost your chances since you'll have a reason to return to the PI.

[TurdyCurdyOne]

have been chatting with several filipinas, some for a long time.

they have invited me to stay with them at their houses as i am trying to avoid spending alot of money on hotels since i am there for the long haul.

have any of you done this-i.e.-met a filipina on chat and stayed at her place or her parents? i already know i can expect no air cond. and primitive conditions; probably a lack of privacy, although a private room has been offered.

i am usually a pretty good judge of character, but what worries me is if i error and get someone who is going to try to run some scam, maybe with the cops help against me? phil. cops have a reputation for doing this sort of thing to tourists. maybe i need to get them to sign a prenup before staying with the, but i wonder if even that would offer any protections.

i would be great if some filipina falsely accuses me of abuse or [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) or they try to steal from me. i am willing to give a little in return for a room, help with groceries, etc. but not sure if this is a good idea. i won't be doing manila, so the worst place is off my agenda, but not sure cebu or davao is much different.

what do you guys think?

[TurdyCurdyOne]

after searching the board and reading a few threads, i realize now this was kind of a dumb post, sorry. i dont' think i'm going to have much worries since i am staying out of manila. there's alot of good info on this board, but unfortunately my sometimes slow connection makes it hard to search for exactly what i'm looking for.


have been chatting with several filipinas, some for a long time.

they have invited me to stay with them at their houses as i am trying to avoid spending alot of money on hotels since i am there for the long haul.

have any of you done this-i.e.-met a filipina on chat and stayed at her place or her parents? i already know i can expect no air cond. and primitive conditions; probably a lack of privacy, although a private room has been offered.

i am usually a pretty good judge of character, but what worries me is if i error and get someone who is going to try to run some scam, maybe with the cops help against me? phil. cops have a reputation for doing this sort of thing to tourists. maybe i need to get them to sign a prenup before staying with the, but i wonder if even that would offer any protections.

i would be great if some filipina falsely accuses me of abuse or [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) or they try to steal from me. i am willing to give a little in return for a room, help with groceries, etc. but not sure if this is a good idea. i won't be doing manila, so the worst place is off my agenda, but not sure cebu or davao is much different.

what do you guys think?

[GoodEnough]

have been chatting with several filipinas, some for a long time.

they have invited me to stay with them at their houses as i am trying to avoid spending alot of money on hotels since i am there for the long haul.

have any of you done this-i.e.-met a filipina on chat and stayed at her place or her parents? i already know i can expect no air cond. and primitive conditions; probably a lack of privacy, although a private room has been offered.

i am usually a pretty good judge of character, but what worries me is if i error and get someone who is going to try to run some scam, maybe with the cops help against me? phil. cops have a reputation for doing this sort of thing to tourists. maybe i need to get them to sign a prenup before staying with the, but i wonder if even that would offer any protections.

i would be great if some filipina falsely accuses me of abuse or [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) or they try to steal from me. i am willing to give a little in return for a room, help with groceries, etc. but not sure if this is a good idea. i won't be doing manila, so the worst place is off my agenda, but not sure cebu or davao is much different.

what do you guys think?
i think your concerns are legitimate. you know neither the country or the women to whom you have been speaking and it's wise to be cautious. though you have described a worse case scenario, and it's not likely to happen, it is possible and easily avoided by refusing the invitations and taking a hotel room--at least until you get to know the ladies a little. also of course if you accept an invitation to stay with one family, it does pretty much limit your ability to meet additional women, so if you choose badly, you could wind up stuck. staying in a hotel and choosing the "wrong" one however, will not have the same negative consequences.

i do not know very much about cebu, but if you are coming to davao, one alternative to might want to consider is to rent an apartment. though there are a few choices, i would suggest red knight garden, where you can rent a studio apartment for around $20 a night, and will have access to a pool and a small restaurant.

ge

[Run Mann]

have been chatting with several filipinas, some for a long time.

they have invited me to stay with them at their houses as i am trying to avoid spending alot of money on hotels since i am there for the long haul.

have any of you done this-i.e.-met a filipina on chat and stayed at her place or her parents? i already know i can expect no air cond. and primitive conditions; probably a lack of privacy, although a private room has been offered.

i am usually a pretty good judge of character, but what worries me is if i error and get someone who is going to try to run some scam, maybe with the cops help against me? phil. cops have a reputation for doing this sort of thing to tourists. maybe i need to get them to sign a prenup before staying with the, but i wonder if even that would offer any protections.

i would be great if some filipina falsely accuses me of abuse or [CodeWord123] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123) or they try to steal from me. i am willing to give a little in return for a room, help with groceries, etc. but not sure if this is a good idea. i won't be doing manila, so the worst place is off my agenda, but not sure cebu or davao is much different.

what do you guys think?


i recently returned from cebu where i met a filipina online and although i saw her home once we stayed in my hotel room. i'd say base on your sound concerns you should stay in a hotel and get to know her first. you won't lose much of anything by staying in a hotel and but the potential negatives for staying in her home would be too much of a risk for me to take.

[Country Club]

I'm all for skimping when it comes to trips to AC, but Sheet is right, a hotel room is a neccesity, there is no way around it. If you're staying with your girl's family, you are setting yourself up to spending most of the time with them. You and your girl will not go to the mall, Subic or wherever alone, the whole clan will follow you. I know from experience. Everytime I visited my "girl" there was a string of Filipinos along with us. Not saying I didn't enjoy the company but if you're actually going to stay at their place, this will be something that will happen to you all the time. I had my own hotel room at Pacific Breeze (best bang the buck IMHO) so I'd have her come solo and we'd have the whole place to ourselves and bang in peace :) Also it gives you more freedom to try out the AC talent and kinda having some breathing room away from your girl. And AC has a room for anyone's budget, trust me man get a room.

[Ekspat]

Mates,
sort of your opinion is highly appreciated.

Me now 47, physically and mentally pretty much okay.
In less than 2 years I wanna retire.
(Lets assume the inflation remains moderate,
interest rates go up just a little,
crude oil per barrel doesn't shoot above 150 USD.)

My home shall be in Malaysia with PR,
and I want to discover Asia by motorcycle.
Something like BMW GS 1200 or similar.

I drove big bikes (1,000cc) back in Europe for 6 years,
no problems, but this is quite some time ago.
I drove those little motos (125cc) all over Asia,
Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines,
never had any problem or accident.

The plan is to drive through the Philippines.
Getting via Kota Kinabalu to Davao, then to the north
to Samar or Bohol, through the islands northwards to Luzon.
Excluding Manila.
I haven't found out yet whether there is a ferry over to Vietnam,
maybe this way and down back home to Malaysia.

I want to drive only at daytime, stopping whereever it's beautiful,
taking some nice pictures, evening somewhat socializing,
having some drinks and so on.
P4P not in the first place, more important is to see the country.

Next day samesame but different....

What do you think?
Motocycle too big? Too expensive? Does it make me a target?
A foreigner on a big bike is a target anyway I think.
Better a eg. 500cc Japanese moto?
But so far I found the people in the rural areas of PI or Indon overwhelmingly friendly.

Since it'll take more than a month,
I still have to find out how it is with the visa.
How and where to extend.
(Experiences any?)

Will I survive it?

Cheers!

[GoodEnough]

Ekspat that's a great plan. No worries on the PI visa front. You can get the tourist visa extended at any Immigration office, and there's one in Davao, if you cannot find another somewhere along the way. Even if you fail to extend on time, you'll just pay a fine, but it's no big deal.

The only reason to stay away from the big (cc1,000+) bikes is that the roads here pretty much suck and you will never be able to take advantage of the power you have. Then too, if you've got a BMW you might have some difficulty getting a repair if anything goes wrong whereas getting mechanics who know and understand the Japanese bikes is easy.

It's wise to make sure you drive only during the day. In Mindanao, the bad guys can come out at night, especially in the more remote areas, and you want to make sure you are always off the road by 5 and never get on the road before 6 or 7. It's just prudent behavior, and I'm speaking of any specific difficulties; just explaining the rules we have in my company. You've driven bikes before in Asia, so I'm not telling you anything new when I say that the drivers are mindless, and take no cognizance that there's anyone else on the road. They do what they want, when they want, and largely for that reason there are hideous accidents every day between bikes and trucks.

Have a great trip.

GE

[Razzor]

Sorry fellow mongers for the late report.

I hooked up with Nikki the first week of May. I spent a couple of days with her and she is good company and very accommodating. The logistic with getting her to Manila were a bit of show, but all in all everything when as planned. She’s a very talented lady that knows how to make you feel pretty damn good. She is also willing to find another lady or guy and get it on. Basically whatever you want to do, she is probably game for it. We tried to find another girl one night but things just didn’t pan out with the one’s we wanted so it didn’t happen. I wanted to get a buddy of mine to bang her as well but he took off to Subic and didn’t get back in time. All in all I would recommend her to anyone looking for a good time. She is comfortable to be around and not demanding. I would recommend if someone wants to spend some time with a lady that knows how to get it done, she is your lady. If she is around when I go back to Manila I will look her up.

I’ve posted some pictures in the photo section.

RaZZorR









Fellow Mongers

I will post this in a few threads as not quite where to post this – apologies if you read it more than once

A quick note to say Nikki (Miss N) from the UAE threads is now in the Philippines and is looking for some fun guys.

Her reputation is well known in the UAE where she gave the best ever BBBJ and ‘full menu’ shagging including Greek, sex toys, bisexual (she even picked the girl a couple times for me), loves a good threesome...some guys that took her LT could only manage ST as she shagged them to exhaustion. There many guys here in the UAE asking if/when she will return so if you see her please ask her....;)

The nearest that you could say she resembles sexually (but not in her figure) is Ana. She has the same desire to enjoy shagging. She met me long time back and had never done a threesome but as always Professor WR did his best with lovely results :D

A few pictures are in the Photo Gallery in this forum but much more can be found from 2007 etc in the UAE thread where there a number of FRs on her abilities in the bedroom and everywhere else. I have been given a HJ by this lady in club in the UAE, she has been banned from one in Abu Dhabi as her mini skirt was too mini :D and I fondly remember being in Wild West and Flamingo with her while she chose a girl for a night of pussy licking while I watched and later joined in...

She is now in the provinces and will come to you as long as the bus fare is paid which is not that much (1000 pesos return). Also she will ask for a load so she can call you and chat.

One guy is seeing her soon as he contacted me to ask if she was around in the Philippines as he is visiting the country this weekend and if she was ‘working’. Others will be seeing her sometime next month – the same guy who flew to the UAE a while back to spend his birthday with her (she was his present so to speak) and is now based in Asia so easier to get to Manila.

She has not been knocking off pinoys etc, she does not like them, she has been sorting some bad karma in her family (including the death of 2 family members last year which somewhat rattled her badly). But now she is OK and called me ask if I had ‘friends’. She does not know of ISG and I will not post face pictures here but for those who PM and contact her I have some – well I have a serious large GB external drive full of N pictures...

If you would like to see her and experience her ‘menu’ then PM me please – she is not a young girls she is 29, slim not hanging rack like Ana, always in good shape. Pictures can tell you. But if fancy some variety with a guaranteed naughty edge then she is fun to be with.

Keep hard and horny

[ShadowAxis]

I wouldn't ride here in the PI for any amount of money or convenience. I've been a motorcycle enthusiast for 22 years. The people are morons, the roads poor, medical care is not normally available. If the accident doesn't kill you all the stupid things that happen immediately afterward will.


Mates,

sort of your opinion is highly appreciated.

Me now 47, physically and mentally pretty much okay.
In less than 2 years I wanna retire.
(Lets assume the inflation remains moderate,
interest rates go up just a little,
crude oil per barrel doesn't shoot above 150 USD.)

My home shall be in Malaysia with PR,
and I want to discover Asia by motorcycle.
Something like BMW GS 1200 or similar.

I drove big bikes (1,000cc) back in Europe for 6 years,
no problems, but this is quite some time ago.
I drove those little motos (125cc) all over Asia,
Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines,
never had any problem or accident.

The plan is to drive through the Philippines.
Getting via Kota Kinabalu to Davao, then to the north
to Samar or Bohol, through the islands northwards to Luzon.
Excluding Manila.
I haven't found out yet whether there is a ferry over to Vietnam,
maybe this way and down back home to Malaysia.

I want to drive only at daytime, stopping whereever it's beautiful,
taking some nice pictures, evening somewhat socializing,
having some drinks and so on.
P4P not in the first place, more important is to see the country.

Next day samesame but different....

What do you think?
Motocycle too big? Too expensive? Does it make me a target?
A foreigner on a big bike is a target anyway I think.
Better a eg. 500cc Japanese moto?
But so far I found the people in the rural areas of PI or Indon overwhelmingly friendly.

Since it'll take more than a month,
I still have to find out how it is with the visa.
How and where to extend.
(Experiences any?)

Will I survive it?

Cheers!

[X Man]

I'm a hard riding and hard driving bicyclist, so my opinion means jack shit. As for bicycles don't do it on main roads. Jeepneys always have the right of way to the right, which leaves a bicycle in the middle of the road.

I did ride bicycle in the Philippines. Other than the freakin traffic, I felt completely safe. By the time any low life with an economy adjustment plan saw you, you'd already be past him.

A few years ago I remember reading about a guy who did the motorbike ride from north to south (Luzon to Mindanao). It was an interesting read, but I don't know if it is still online.

Have you already communicated with the EasyRider types in AC?

X

[X Man]

Where in the Philippines have you been? Do you live there?

The comment about the "morons" is a bit too negative. Maybe you meant to write, "some of the driver's are morons". Or, "most...."



I wouldn't ride here in the PI for any amount of money or convenience. I've been a motorcycle enthusiast for 22 years. The people are morons, the roads poor, medical care is not normally available. If the accident doesn't kill you all the stupid things that happen immediately afterward will.

[D Cups]

I recently returned from Cebu where I met a Filipina online and although I saw her home once we stayed in my hotel room. I'd say base on your sound concerns you should stay in a hotel and get to know her first. You won't lose much of anything by staying in a hotel and but the potential negatives for staying in her home would be too much of a risk for me to take.Be prepared to pay for all the meals for the extended family and friends (could be 20 -30 people) including if you go out to dinner. This is the norm. They come out of the woodwork for rich foreigners. And believe me, you are rich compared to their standards. I realize there are exceptions for any posters who want to disagree.

[ShadowAxis]

I have lived in Metro Manila for several years, and while I am sure there are exceptions to the rule. The rule says moron. They don't learn to think critically.

Look around you. For the most part this country is being designed, built, administered and policed by the people who a) aren't rich enough, or b) aren't smart enough to leave, or c) can't operate outside a bureaucracy that takes all it's cues from the movie Brazil. The government discourages foreign investment and the population is generally held hostage by about 10 wealthy families. Basically, the place is a mess.

So agreed, moron may be a little harsh. Perhaps idiots? How do you sum up a lack of education, no common sense and a lack of synaptic conditioning to handle even simple scenarios. Here is one little example. I get a new one almost every week.

My girl and I are in a high end restaurant, and we have a coupon! Buy one entree, the second is on the house. So my girl orders the fish, I hand the waiter the coupon and say I'll have the same. They bring us three orders of fish. I ask the waiter what his thought process was, specifically, when he took the order. I get the "dumb deer in the headlights look." He launches into a weird rant about how there are two of us, and I asked for fish, and that's two orders of fish and the coupon makes three. We send one back. The manager approaches. "What is the problem sir? " I tell him we are two, and therefore do not need three dinners. And this goes on for a while, as it tends to do in this country. Until he finally figured it out 20 minutes after the clue train has left the station. And. Just to be clear, the whole conversation above happened in Tagalog. So this isn't a case of misunderstood english.

But X, don't worry. I am not nearly as much of a prick in the office as I am when, admittedly, I vent on this forum.


Where in the Philippines have you been? Do you live there?

The comment about the "morons" is a bit too negative. Maybe you meant to write, "some of the driver's are morons". Or, "most...."

[Ekspat]

Have a great trip.

Way too early, man! :D
The entire thing is just growing in my mind, I still have to fulfill my contract till end of 2010. Untill then I'd never get 2 or 3 month leave.

Thanks for the feedback.

Cheers!

[Ekspat]

Have you already communicated with the EasyRider types in AC?

No, haven't done that so far. If I get the opportunity I'll do.

Cheers!

[X Man]

Interesting story and I feel your frustration.

To paraphrase an ISG elder who is much wiser and more patient that I, "If things worked as well as they do in (your country), then it would be a different place and you wouldn't want to be there."

I realize you are just venting, so no need to respond, but your comment, "the population is generally held hostage by about 10 wealthy families" seems to contradict your points abc.
X



I have lived in Metro Manila for several years, and while I am sure there are exceptions to the rule. The rule says moron. They don't learn to think critically.

Look around you. For the most part this country is being designed, built, administered and policed by the people who a) aren't rich enough, or b) aren't smart enough to leave, or c) can't operate outside a bureaucracy that takes all it's cues from the movie Brazil. The government discourages foreign investment and the population is generally held hostage by about 10 wealthy families. Basically, the place is a mess.

So agreed, moron may be a little harsh. Perhaps idiots? How do you sum up a lack of education, no common sense and a lack of synaptic conditioning to handle even simple scenarios. Here is one little example. I get a new one almost every week.

My girl and I are in a high end restaurant, and we have a coupon! Buy one entree, the second is on the house. So my girl orders the fish, I hand the waiter the coupon and say I'll have the same. They bring us three orders of fish. I ask the waiter what his thought process was, specifically, when he took the order. I get the "dumb deer in the headlights look." He launches into a weird rant about how there are two of us, and I asked for fish, and that's two orders of fish and the coupon makes three. We send one back. The manager approaches. "What is the problem sir? " I tell him we are two, and therefore do not need three dinners. And this goes on for a while, as it tends to do in this country. Until he finally figured it out 20 minutes after the clue train has left the station. And. Just to be clear, the whole conversation above happened in Tagalog. So this isn't a case of misunderstood english.

But X, don't worry. I am not nearly as much of a prick in the office as I am when, admittedly, I vent on this forum.

[Devils 1]

I am looking for frequent flier miles on Philippine Airlines. If anyone would be willing to part with them I will pay you. Please pm me to arrange and discuss details.

Sorry for the solicitation!

[Bay Area Puma]

Be prepared to pay for all the meals for the extended family and friends (could be 20 -30 people) including if you go out to dinner. This is the norm. They come out of the woodwork for rich foreigners. And believe me, you are rich compared to their standards. I realize there are exceptions for any posters who want to disagree.I also recently returned from Cebu where i met a woman online. We stayed in a hotel in Cebu but we had visited her family. When i mentioned let us go out to dinner with her family , as god is my witness a jipney full of her relatives arrived to pick us up at the hotel.I should have taken a foto.

I have met women and their families in china and vietnam but i got the feeling in the PI there bonds are much stronger. Like one of my bros mentioned in an earlier report, when u marry a filipina u better be prepared for the family.

[X Man]

Ekspat,

http://www.dutchpickle.com/philippines/misc/motorcycle-road-trip.html

I imagine you already found this site during your searches. I include it here because it has some nice pictures and the guy has been to some places out of the ordinary. If you find any other interesting sites like this one, please share it with us.

X


Mates,


The plan is to drive through the Philippines.
Getting via Kota Kinabalu to Davao, then to the north
to Samar or Bohol, through the islands northwards to Luzon.
Excluding Manila.
I haven't found out yet whether there is a ferry over to Vietnam,
maybe this way and down back home to Malaysia.

I want to drive only at daytime, stopping whereever it's beautiful,
taking some nice pictures, evening somewhat socializing,
having some drinks and so on.
P4P not in the first place, more important is to see the country.

Next day samesame but different....

What do you think?
Motocycle too big? Too expensive? Does it make me a target?
A foreigner on a big bike is a target anyway I think.
Better a eg. 500cc Japanese moto?
But so far I found the people in the rural areas of PI or Indon overwhelmingly friendly.

Cheers!

[Ekspat]

http://www.dutchpickle.com/philippines/misc/motorcycle-road-trip.html

Great link! Thanks man!
First SMB is on me!

Cheers!

[FreebieFan]

Great link! Thanks man!
First SMB is on me!

Cheers!Sounds like a great trip you got planned.

I rode around for a year when I lived in Manila, and one things is for sure, theres not a lot of orginal quality bike parts there. They can always make something or copy something but some of the key parts I would always have to buy in another country. So be sure you bike is in tip top shape before you start this.

Don't worry about the bike being a target. Outside Manila most of them wouldn't have any idea how to ride a bike bigger than 250cc, and its not like Tokyo where there are organised Harley stealing gangs.

Ride well

[Razzor]

I've been contacted by one of our fellow mongers. He's been working up a meeting with Nikki and she is apparently fleecing him long distance for as much as she can before he get to the PI.

The fellow monger contacted me by PM and I suggest sticking to the plan only sending enough to get to Manila, but that sounded kind of strange because she said she would be entertaining someone else in Manila before he got there. I guess she would go home in between to see the boyfriend and drop off the cash. She told him she needed money to get to Manila, then another request for more to get from Manila to AC and last another because a loved one died. A classic requests. After the second one comes you should always lay it down, that’s it meet me as planned or I’ll find another friend to spend time with, no big loss, it’s Manila and who can’t find another fucket with their eyes closed.

You should always be very careful with these ladies, some may not seem to be so smart, but they are very street smart, don’t play their game with them. Set up your parameters that you are willing to work within with setting up a meeting when you arrive. First I would always suggest, send enough money to get to Manila for transportation and food no more and send this only a few days before your arrival. If they ask for more, f-it and move on don’t send any more unless you’re ready to lose it. You should always try to spend the first night with them in Manila. This so if things don’t click, she starts trying to get more money than agreed on you can dump her and move on. Pay them the agreed on amount and keep moving, don’t f-up your vacation for some street smart gal that is going to play you.

RaZZorR


Sorry fellow mongers for the late report.

I hooked up with Nikki the first week of May. I spent a couple of days with her and she is good company and very accommodating. The logistic with getting her to Manila were a bit of show, but all in all everything when as planned. She’s a very talented lady that knows how to make you feel pretty damn good. She is also willing to find another lady or guy and get it on. Basically whatever you want to do, she is probably game for it. We tried to find another girl one night but things just didn’t pan out with the one’s we wanted so it didn’t happen. I wanted to get a buddy of mine to bang her as well but he took off to Subic and didn’t get back in time. All in all I would recommend her to anyone looking for a good time. She is comfortable to be around and not demanding. I would recommend if someone wants to spend some time with a lady that knows how to get it done, she is your lady. If she is around when I go back to Manila I will look her up.

I’ve posted some pictures in the photo section.

RaZZorR

[Starchild2012]

Razzor....I will add it further to what you said......if a Filipina ask you money for "anything" be it may for travel or buying load..she may not be worth your time.

Their are 100's of women who would not ask you money, but the trouble is they dont span out on the internet 24/7 looking for easy cash...Real women have real jobs and they dont have much time to come online and do the dating thing.

You have to dig it out the real women here.

After living here for few months now, im begining to realise, i was barking at the wroung tree all along.

ofcourse, if a women comes over and does the deeds then its ok to pay her, but all these excuse of sky is faling over the Philiphines all the time so send money is just street smart filipina women.

[Warbucks]

Razzor....I will add it further to what you said......if a Filipina ask you money for "anything" be it may for travel or buying load..she may not be worth your time.

Their are 100's of women who would not ask you money, but the trouble is they dont span out on the internet 24/7 looking for easy cash...Real women have real jobs and they dont have much time to come online and do the dating thing.

You have to dig it out the real women here.

After living here for few months now, im begining to realise, i was barking at the wroung tree all along.

ofcourse, if a women comes over and does the deeds then its ok to pay her, but all these excuse of sky is faling over the Philiphines all the time so send money is just street smart filipina women.

Believe it or not there is a Middle-Class here. If I go after a "freebie" then this is what I want.

But a lot of guys on the PI Thread are not interested in that... :confused:

P.S.

A guy once said you got a good Filipina if she don't burden you down by telling you all her problems. This was regardless WG or non WG.

[Cunning Stunt]

I've been contacted by one of our fellow mongers. He's been working up a meeting with Nikki and she is apparently fleecing him long distance for as much as she can before he get to the PI.


Thanks for the heads up Razz.

I guess Nikki is probably still worth the effort (if the pics and FR's are anything to go by) but the girl does not help logistic matters any by living in a remote provincial town, out in the sticks about 10 hours from Manila and 12 from AC.

It is for this reason that, despite being tempted, I have so far given her a miss. Which is a shame as, otherwise, she sounds like fun.

Cannot blame the girl for padding out her travel and expense claims, though. Its simply up to you to decide if its worthwhile importing coal to Newcastle when you have a perfectly acceptable slagheap on your doorstep:).

[Ekspat]

Then too, if you've got a BMW you might have some difficulty getting a repair if anything goes wrong whereas getting mechanics who know and understand the Japanese bikes is easy.

theres not a lot of orginal quality bike parts there. They can always make something or copy something but some of the key parts I would always have to buy in another country. So be sure you bike is in tip top shape before you start this.
Good points, but thats why I opted for BMW, it's well known reliability.
Anyway, yesterday first setback....
Went to the BMW dealer to somehow initiate the purchase, at least get the things going.

Me to salesman "I'm interested in GS 1200 Adventure."
SM: "No stock."
"Pardon me???!!??"
SM: "Yeah, sold out, next delivery in 2010."
(Me thinking: "WTF!") "Okay, then we order a bike from Germany, whats the problem? With high deposit if necessary."
SM: "Cannot, we have quota per year, we won't get anymore bikes in 2009"

Never heard about such quotas and left the showroom dissapointed.
Even if I would put the entire money cash on the counter, I won't get a bike. :(
Strange!
Maybe I try to get Personal Permission and import myself, what would be even cheaper,
or wait till 2010.

Cheers!

[Warbucks]

http://beatlesnumber9.com/manila.html

Originally posted by Blazers....from another forum.

[GoodEnough]

Believe it or not there is a Middle-Class here. If I go after a "freebie" then this is what I want.

But a lot of guys on the PI Thread are not interested in that... :confused:I agree with Illogic, but would add that for those who do not live here, or who are not making an extended visit, the odds on meeting and establishing some sort of productive relationship with a truly middle class Filipina are not extremely high. I'm not talking about the university girls who party for money to make their tuition, but of an educated, employed, intelligent lady from a family with money. It's not all that difficult to establish such relationships, but you have to know where to look, and most of all, you need some time, which most guys who come here do not have.

GE

[Fshjhn]

Is there a discount flight from Australia to Manila?

Trying to get from NZ to Phils, but everything is pretty pricey. More than a flight from the states?

[Cunning Stunt]

Is there a discount flight from Australia to Manila?

Trying to get from NZ to Phils, but everything is pretty pricey. More than a flight from the states?

Don't think that there are any direct flight from Oz to PI, but Jetstar and Tiger Air both fly cheapies from various points in Australia to Singapore where you can get a cheap flight on Tiger on to Clark or Jetstar or Cebu Pacific on to Manila. Air Asia also fly from Oz to KL where you can also connect to a flight to Clark.

You might have to overnight in Singapore or KL (no hardship).

For all budget flight options, check out www.airninja.com.

[KongKing]

Is there a discount flight from Australia to Manila?

Trying to get from NZ to Phils, but everything is pretty pricey. More than a flight from the states?
There are direct flights from Sydney to Manila via Qantas and Philippines Airlines at about $AUS1,100.

Cheaper but longer flight options are (1) Air Asia Melbourne or Gold Coast to Kuala Lumpur (for about $AUS450 return) with an overnight or two and with an Air Asia connection from Kuala Lumpur to Manila (Clarke) at about $AUS130 return. Or (2) a 9 hour Viva Macau flight from Sydney to Macau China (about $AUS730 return) and combined with a Cebu Pacific flight from Macau to Manila (or to Angeles Clarke) for about $AUS208 return. These prices are a guide, and can change from day to day, but includes taxes and surcharges but does not include terminal fees.

Free checked baggage is now limited to just 7kg on Air Asia and 15kg on Viva Macau and Cebu Pacific, 20kgs on Qantas and Phils Air.

I have tried both the cheaper options and enjoyed the variety offered by the stop-overs but in future I will likely go direct to PPP (Philippines Pussy Paradise) -a new abbreviation to be added!

[X Man]

Good to see the KongKing posting again. He has been a wealth of information in the past.

PPP might not be accepted so quickly. It is too close to the already familiar PPD, or Post Phil Depression.

Of course some might suggest the UHAT-- the unexpected hardon at touchdown. I've had a few of those. :-)

Also the UHATWWPP -- ....while wearing plaid pants.... (old joke, ask the Gamahucher or whoever their names are now).

X


There are direct flights

SNIP

I have tried both the cheaper options and enjoyed the variety offered by the stop-overs but in future I will likely go direct to PPP (Philippines Pussy Paradise) -a new abbreviation to be added!

[Fshjhn]

Great minds think alike. I think I will just break the vacation up into two trips and fly direct from the states- it seems I can unlikely save 300 dollars that way. I always go over or I am close on baggage as it is and hate the time wasted in airports for multiple flights. Thanks for the multiple options.

[Manicure]

As I am starting to plan my trip to the Philippines I wonder any of you experience monger can recommend the best place to stay. My criteria are the following:
1- Close to the nice beach with possible scuba diving
2- Walking distance to most need (food and girls)
3- Girl friendly accomodation ( I am a fan of taking two girls)
4- Budget conscious

Cheers

[Wicked Roger]

Just a belated thanks to some mongers who have contacted me about Nikki. She has indeed met a few ISG guys (manily in AC) who for their own reasons (which I understand) do not FR on her but all have been happy one saying she was too horny :).

A few others are on the radar to meet her if my PMs are to be believed.

Rumour has it she is in Manila now....

PM if you need any info as happy to give you more info offline from this Board.




Thanks for the heads up Razz.

I guess Nikki is probably still worth the effort (if the pics and FR's are anything to go by) but the girl does not help logistic matters any by living in a remote provincial town, out in the sticks about 10 hours from Manila and 12 from AC.

It is for this reason that, despite being tempted, I have so far given her a miss. Which is a shame as, otherwise, she sounds like fun.

Cannot blame the girl for padding out her travel and expense claims, though. Its simply up to you to decide if its worthwhile importing coal to Newcastle when you have a perfectly acceptable slagheap on your doorstep:).

[GoodEnough]

as i am starting to plan my trip to the philippines i wonder any of you experience monger can recommend the best place to stay. my criteria are the following:
1- close to the nice beach with possible scuba diving
2- walking distance to most need (food and girls)
3- girl friendly accomodation ( i am a fan of taking two girls)
4- budget conscious

cheers
there are lots of places you can go, but you ought to consider davao as one of these destinations as i think it meets most of your criteria, if not all.
1. you can dive every day if you like, and there's some beautiful coral at about 20-25m.
2. there are lots of reasonably-priced hotels in the center of town that are near some of the hot spots, and there are eating places rep001tered all over the place.
3. all accommodations are gf
4. it's about 20% less expensive than cebu and about 40% cheaper than manila.
ge

[FreebieFan]

Now we all know that they are millions of "Boys" and then some more fanciful nicknames for Filipinos such as "DingDong" " Baby" etc. But was interested to read that one on Corazon Aquino's daughters, yes daughter is nicknamed "Ballsy".

[Cunning Stunt]

Now we all know that they are millions of "Boys" and then some more fanciful nicknames for Filipinos such as "DingDong" " Baby" etc. But was interested to read that one on Corazon Aquino's daughters, yes daughter is nicknamed "Ballsy".

Named for her dad, no doubt:).

Have you also noticed how they love to abbreviate names, American style, after the first two initials of their christian names. JR etc. Except, Philippine style, they take it to ridiculous levels.

I swear that I have an aquaintance in the provinces, whose christian names are Benjamin John.

You guessed it!

[Tigger Boyd]

there are lots of places you can go, but you ought to consider davao as one of these destinations as i think it meets most of your criteria, if not all.

1. you can dive every day if you like, and there's some beautiful coral at about 20-25m.

2. there are lots of reasonably-priced hotels in the center of town that are near some of the hot spots, and there are eating places rep001tered all over the place.

3. all accommodations are gf

4. it's about 20% less expensive than cebu and about 40% cheaper than manila.
gehi guys.

i am after a similar criteria. whats the best beach/girl combo near ac?

[X Man]

Don't be modest. I'm sure that Mr. BJ is one of your really close friends. It's okay ....we know that you bisxual guys have twice the fun.


Named for her dad, no doubt:).

I swear that I have an aquaintance in the provinces, whose christian names are Benjamin John.

You guessed it!

[Cunning Stunt]

Don't be modest. I'm sure that Mr. BJ is one of your really close friends. It's okay ....we know that you bisxual guys have twice the fun.

Touche, Mr X. But I think you misspelt the word. It should have been buy-sexual, and of this I am regrettably guilty.

[Brastrav]

Collegues,

I've been in the Philippines for the last 3.5 weeks. When I arrived at July 2, 2009 I've bought a Smart SIM-card and some load. I've reloaded my Smart Buddy twice while I was staying there. The last time I've used my mobile phone, for calling as well as texting, was on the day I left: July 23, 2009.

How long will my number stay active. One year maybe? Will it stay active until July 23, 2010? If not, is there a way to keep my number active? Very probably I will returning to the Philippines next year, also in July.

Many thanks in advance for the usefull answers.

Mike Bel

[Sagramore]

Mike,

I have heard that a SIM card will not expire unless it has not been used for 2 years, I'm not sure of the accuracy of this information.

From personal experience I can say that I bought a Smart SIM card on my cherry trip to the Philippines 5 years ago and as of my last trip it is still working. I usually make 2 trips a year about six months apart but I have also had a period where I did not use the card for a year.

Cheers!

[El Culion]

Mike,

I have heard that a SIM card will not expire unless it has not been used for 2 years, I'm not sure of the accuracy of this information.

From personal experience I can say that I bought a Smart SIM card on my cherry trip to the Philippines 5 years ago and as of my last trip it is still working. I usually make 2 trips a year about six months apart but I have also had a period where I did not use the card for a year.

Cheers!Well, you must be very lucky. All mine (Smart & Globe) usually last about 6 months if I don't add load to them.

My last card was from Globe and every 6 months my gwapa had to refill the P100 balance (required for roaming) so she could continue sending text messages to me, even though I never used that sim to call or send messages after I had left Phils.

[El Culion]

How long will my number stay active. One year maybe? Will it stay active until July 23, 2010? If not, is there a way to keep my number active? Very probably I will returning to the Philippines next year, also in JulyAs long as you reload, the number will stay active. I think I had to reload my Globe sim every 3 or 6 months (don't remember exactly), but I'm not too sure if that goes for Smart too. Anyway, find someone there to do that for you with Autoload. Of course your load will be forfeited but in this way you ensure that the number stays active.

[Buko Max]

How long will my number stay active. One year maybe? Will it stay active until July 23, 2010? If not, is there a way to keep my number active? Very probably I will returning to the Philippines next year, also in July.
According to Smart, you have 60 days to use your load up from the date it was loaded into your account. Once your balance reaches zero, you have 120 days to reload or your SIM card will expire.

Like many things in the Philippines, this is not always the case because I have had SIM cards last over six months! At the present time, I'm experimenting on ways to prolong a SIM card and will report my findings.

If you must keep a cp number, you can use services like www.chikka.com and www.pasaload.biz to reup.

[Andre007]

I am a member of several forum groups and over the years I have been able to gather and use some valuble information and have gained much knowledge that has helped me in my 3-year experience here in the Philippines. It's time for me to share my story and I hope it helps somebody.

My Girlfriend gave birth to a baby girl July, 2007. Of course I was happy and excited but had doubts on weather or not it was my child. I am Black American so the baby had some Characteristics including the curly(kinky) hair LOL. The baby did not favor me but mixed babies sometimes are like that.

A year later I learn my Girlfriend may have slept with others before pregnancy. Of course she denied this. I decided it was time to get a DNA Test. After checking here in the Philippines I found out the price was over P50,000 for a legal test and P30,000 for General FYI test, and you had to travel to Manila. That would cost easily another P15,000 for travel expenses. That was way out of my budget.

I decided to do a goggle search and I found a company in Manila selling a home kit for P15,000 which was allot less but in my mind still too expensive for the Philippines.

I also found another one in the USA which charges for $99USD plus express shipping for $60.00. Considering that it was cheaper, I contacted it however, the shipment got caught in customs and I never managed to retrieve it. I asked again the company to send me another kit and reship through regular mail but I never received it. I ended up spending more.

It was then that I contacted an Attorney from a referral who I heard has home DNA testing kits. Apparently, she was able to secure these test kits from a reputable company in the USA which offers Home DNA testing kits for a lot less. The lawyer was charging me for a total of $189USD and if I wanted to express ship back to the USA or their Australia office for the results, I will have to pay $20USD. The results would be made by email.

The kit which had my mouth swab was shipped to the company;s office in Australia. I was able to get results 10 days after receipt. Well as you all probably have guessed the Precious baby girl was not mine. Of course bothered and disturbed I was happy at least I found out. I guess she likes black men because the baby was a black mix.

After this has happened to me my attorney and I started doing research about Paternity fraud and DNA testing in the Philippines. There are no accredited labs in the Philippines and of course the cost is so much. My attorney contacted the company who originally did my test and became a reseller of DNA Testing kits in the Philippines so many won’t have to go thru what I went thru. After a few weeks of being in the market, it is amazing that most clients who have been requesting for test kits are not foreigners but Filipinos especially seamen or overseas workers.

I hope my story will help another person here in the Philippines and everywhere. My Attorney is also challenging Legislator and attempting to set a precedent with case law to allow the Home testing kits for legal testing if a chain of command is followed.

I don't know if I am allowed to give my Attorney name and number thru this site or if admin will allow me to post names or numbers but feel free to contact me thru PM and I will gladly give you her number.

Be Careful and Be Watchful!

EDITOR'S NOTE: I would suggest that the author or another Forum Member consider posting a link to this report in the Reports of Distinction thread. Please Click Here (http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/announcement-reportsofdistinction.php?) for more information.

[FreebieFan]

According to Smart, you have 60 days to use your load up from the date it was loaded into your account. Once your balance reaches zero, you have 120 days to reload or your SIM card will expire.

Like many things in the Philippines, this is not always the case because I have had SIM cards last over six months! At the present time, I'm experimenting on ways to prolong a SIM card and will report my findings.

If you must keep a CP number, you can use services like www.chikka.com and www.pasaload.biz to reup.New law passed recently that says if you reload with P300 the load (not necessarily the SIM) will stay valid for up to 180 days. Congress got involved to pass this law. They had nothing else to do I guess.

[Manicure]

Hi I have just joined this meeting online place and I have been contacted by girls that are located in remote areas. You FH experienced guys have you met girls in remote areas or you do not bother?


Moved to penpal sorry please ignore this post in this section

[Spam Hog]

I am a member of several forum groups and over the years I have been able to gather and use some valuble information and have gained much knowledge that has helped me in my 3-year experience here in the Philippines. It's time for me to share my story and I hope it helps somebody.

My Girlfriend gave birth to a baby girl July, 2007. Of course I was happy and excited but had doubts on weather or not it was my child. I am Black American so the baby had some Characteristics including the curly(kinky) hair LOL. The baby did not favor me but mixed babies sometimes are like that.

A year later I learn my Girlfriend may have slept with others before pregnancy. Of course she denied this. I decided it was time to get a DNA Test. After checking here in the Philippines I found out the price was over P50,000 for a legal test and P30,000 for General FYI test, and you had to travel to Manila. That would cost easily another P15,000 for travel expenses. That was way out of my budget.

I decided to do a goggle search and I found a company in Manila selling a home kit for P15,000 which was allot less but in my mind still too expensive for the Philippines.

I also found another one in the USA which charges for $99USD plus express shipping for $60.00. Considering that it was cheaper, I contacted it however, the shipment got caught in customs and I never managed to retrieve it. I asked again the company to send me another kit and reship through regular mail but I never received it. I ended up spending more.

It was then that I contacted an Attorney from a referral who I heard has home DNA testing kits. Apparently, she was able to secure these test kits from a reputable company in the USA which offers Home DNA testing kits for a lot less. The lawyer was charging me for a total of $189USD and if I wanted to express ship back to the USA or their Australia office for the results, I will have to pay $20USD. The results would be made by email.

The kit which had my mouth swab was shipped to the company;s office in Australia. I was able to get results 10 days after receipt. Well as you all probably have guessed the Precious baby girl was not mine. Of course bothered and disturbed I was happy at least I found out. I guess she likes black men because the baby was a black mix.

After this has happened to me my attorney and I started doing research about Paternity fraud and DNA testing in the Philippines. There are no accredited labs in the Philippines and of course the cost is so much. My attorney contacted the company who originally did my test and became a reseller of DNA Testing kits in the Philippines so many won’t have to go thru what I went thru. After a few weeks of being in the market, it is amazing that most clients who have been requesting for test kits are not foreigners but Filipinos especially seamen or overseas workers.

I hope my story will help another person here in the Philippines and everywhere. My Attorney is also challenging Legislator and attempting to set a precedent with case law to allow the Home testing kits for legal testing if a chain of command is followed.

I don't know if I am allowed to give my Attorney name and number thru this site or if admin will allow me to post names or numbers but feel free to contact me thru PM and I will gladly give you her number.

Be Careful and Be Watchful!

EDITOR'S NOTE: I would suggest that the author or another Forum Member consider posting a link to this report in the Reports of Distinction thread. Please Click Here (http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/announcement-reportsofdistinction.php?) for more information.



Andre,

There are several locations other than Manila where you can take a paternity test with DNA the determining factor, Cebu is one for example. In the Philippines, the general rule of thumb is to have the case handled in the jurisdiction where the subject(s) reside, so if this girl was living close to Manila she would have to go to the closest testing lab available.

Of course everything costs more in Manila (even atorneys), DNA/Paternity testing is becoming more common inthe Phils, thus cheaper, I have heard of some Filipino guys in the same situation as you who got DNA results for under P20,000 (about $400 USD).

You are correct about Filipino's being more likely to use paternity testing
due to their overseas status.


spamhog

[Tungsten Chef]

Where can I find Corona Extra in the Philippines?? I've been to Davao, Butuan, CDO, and Cebu. The only place I found Corona was at FoodA in Consolacion Cebu. Amazing none of the malls have it. I know most places have Heineken, but that's not my fave. San Mig sucks!!

[FreebieFan]

. San Mig sucks!! Well if ever anyone wanted to make a more incendiary comment , this must be it.

Will be amazed if no one here responds to that imflammable comment, aside from making great girls its about the only other thing the Phils is good at making.

[GoodEnough]

Where can I find Corona Extra in the Philippines?? I've been to Davao, Butuan, CDO, and Cebu. The only place I found Corona was at FoodA in Consolacion Cebu. Amazing none of the malls have it. I know most places have Heineken, but that's not my fave. San Mig sucks!!
It's true that San Mig sucks, but you can find Corona in many if not most of the higher end hotels in Davao, and though I'm not sure, I would be that the same is true of Cebu. You can also find it in lots of places in Manila.
GE

[Amavida]

Is there a discount flight from Australia to Manila?

Trying to get from NZ to Phils, but everything is pretty pricey. More than a flight from the states?Examples, Air Asia : Gold Coast/Coolangatta to Kuala Lumpur overnight then on to Clarke (Angeles) with a road trip to Manila. Cheap but they 'nickel & dime' you all the way so not as cheap as it appears. Singapore Airlines : Brisbane to Singapore. short stopover 2 - 4 hours continuing on to Manila. Prices very good if you book well in advance & very nice service. Quantas : Direct flight Brisbane to Manila. Most expensive option. Personally I will not fly an airline that allows its electrical looms on its aircraft to be stapled together...ymmv.

I fly Singapore Air whenever possible.

Cheers
AV

[El Culion]

New law passed recently that says if you reload with P300 the load (not necessarily the SIM) will stay valid for up to 180 days.Not quite so drastic ;) :

Credits worth P10 or lower will be valid for three days from the previous one-day expiration. Loads more than P10 up to P50 can be used for 15 days while credits worth more than P50 up to P100 will remain valid for 30 days. Loads more than P100 to P150 will expire at the end of 45 days while credits of more than P150 to P250 will last for 60 days.

More than P250 to P300 will remain valid for 75 days while credits worth more than P300 will last for 120 days.

http://coolbusteratyourservice.********.com/2009/07/ntc-guidelines-on-prepaid-loads-mc-no.html

[Bonzo1]

there are lots of places you can go, but you ought to consider davao as one of these destinations as i think it meets most of your criteria, if not all.
1. you can dive every day if you like, and there's some beautiful coral at about 20-25m.
2. there are lots of reasonably-priced hotels in the center of town that are near some of the hot spots, and there are eating places rep001tered all over the place.
3. all accommodations are gf
4. it's about 20% less expensive than cebu and about 40% cheaper than manila.
ge

thanks for this tip. i have a similar question. i am going in two days, never been before, and because of the sudden travel plans don't have time to do my usual homework. so i would really appreciate as much advice as people are willing to give.

my criteria are:

1. can go anywhere, and am totally solo. have about 7 or 8 days.
2. going for peace of mind, golf, swimming, and relaxing - scenery and overall relaxing place, ideally by a nice beach (like phuket or koh samui in thailand), but hate to be remote/deserted ...like to have good nightlife.
3. love bars, not so much big/loud discos and go-gos (unless philippines go-gos much more fun than other places). nonetheless, willing to try ac if a must-do.
4. budget is not a concern, but a great experience in every regard is.
5. considering between manila, ac, boracay, davao, and cebu (plan to hit two or three max if i do one night in manilla and two in ac).

a few general questions too:

a. often have trouble finding the "perfect" hotel. i prefer nice places but hate the walk of shame, paying joiner fees, etc. suggestions (in whatever place you recommend)?

b. any laws, courtesies, or other things i need to know about (other than obvious stuff that is common in se asia, like bargaining)?

c. any must-do favorite tourist stuff you can recommend for a first-timer?


apologize for the long and ignorant post. any advice is much appreciated.

-b-

[Tungsten Chef]

It's true that San Mig sucks, but you can find Corona in many if not most of the higher end hotels in Davao, and though I'm not sure, I would be that the same is true of Cebu. You can also find it in lots of places in Manila.
GEI'm looking primarily for take out:) If it's 138p at FoodA in Cebu a bar probably charges around 190p/200p?

[Nvslim]

Personally I will not fly an airline that allows its electrical looms on its aircraft to be stapled together...ymmv.

AV



New one on me, Please explain the electrical looms.

Thanks,
Slim

[Cunning Stunt]

New one on me, Please explain the electrical looms.

Thanks,
Slim

Where do you think that those natty Air Asia t-shirts come from, that they sell on every flight?

Didn't you know that in the hold of every Air Asia flight there is a miniature sweat factory manned by Bangladeshi garment workers? Oh - and they staple them together to stop them escaping! How do you think that they keep their prices so cheap?

Thought that everyone knew that!?

[X Man]

I was surprised at the neg. SM review as well, but then I thought that mayby the overly confident Tungsten was from Germany ....where they do have good beer, if nothing else.

I prefer the Belgium beer over the Germanic brews, but also love lager from Japan.

Oh, ...sorry, the Germans are good at making cars....which is so last century technology.

X




Well if ever anyone wanted to make a more incendiary comment , this must be it.

Will be amazed if no one here responds to that imflammable comment, aside from making great girls its about the only other thing the Phils is good at making.

[Zootsuite]

It's true that San Mig sucks, but you can find Corona in many if not most of the higher end hotels in Davao, and though I'm not sure, I would be that the same is true of Cebu. You can also find it in lots of places in Manila. GEOk. GE. As a longtime reader but first time poster. I wonder do you know anything about beer?

San Mig is no worse than bloody Corona.

Both suck.

Btw. If you know anywhere in Davao where I can find Czech beer. I would be very happy

ZS

[GoodEnough]

Ok. GE. As a longtime reader but first time poster. I wonder do you know anything about beer?

San Mig is no worse than bloody Corona.

Both suck.

Btw. If you know anywhere in Davao where I can find Czech beer. I would be very happy

ZS
Do I know anything about beer? Not much. I rarely drink it and I strongly prefer wine. When I lived in France I would occasionally drink some of the Alsatian beer, which I did enjoy, but you found me out. I do not know much about the subject. And no, I don't know where or if Czech beer is available in Davao, though Swiss Deli does sell some German beer that I drink from time to time.

GE

[Buko Max]

San Mig is no worse than bloody Corona.

Both suck.
Have to agree but would equate San Mig Light with Corona. Both come in a clear bottle that can skunk a beer in no time but I must admit can taste good on a hot Cebu day! The best San Miguel offering without a doubt would have to be Cerveza Negra, a dark full bodied brew! Try it, you like it!

I'm with GE in that wine is where it's at but not a very good aperitif for the Philippine climate.

[Tungsten Chef]

I was surprised at the neg. SM review as well, but then I thought that mayby the overly confident Tungsten was from Germany ....where they do have good beer, if nothing else.

I prefer the Belgium beer over the Germanic brews, but also love lager from Japan.

Oh, ...sorry, the Germans are good at making cars....which is so last century technology.

XI like that. The "overly confident" Tungsten.

Thanks X.

[Tungsten Chef]

Ok. GE. As a longtime reader but first time poster. I wonder do you know anything about beer?

San Mig is no worse than bloody Corona.

Both suck.

Btw. If you know anywhere in Davao where I can find Czech beer. I would be very happy

ZSYou say black, I say white. Corona line up to the left. San Mig to the right.

[Spam Hog]

Yeah, I know, I'm a teetotaller, what do I know about beer? Nuttin' however, at Ayala mall Grocery in Cebu yesterday I took stock of available suds for you gentlemen.

There was a mini keg of Heineken for P1459

Bottles of Carlsberg in the P250 plus range

Hoeegarten from Brussels @ P275 a bottle

Ottingers (many different varieties) @ P60 a can

Found a few cans of Tecate, some Singhai from Thailand, Japanese Karin and of course some chinese brands.

Most of the importer groceries like Ayala, Robinsons and Rustans carry foreign beer, varies from store to store.

Chug a lug!

Spamhog

[Cunning Stunt]

As a sideline to the beer discussion, when I lived in the UK, I was into home brewing and made some pretty decent suds. I also made some mean homemade wines including a saké that would blow your socks off.

I’ve often thought about having my equipment balikbayaned out here so I can recommence my mad professor experiments and maybe brew up a decent pint of warm English ale. And I imagine you could obtain some interesting wines using local fruits.

Two things stayed my hand

1. The weather. Would the warm and humid air make it difficult to obtain consistent results? I’ve had disappointing results from my bread making efforts, also I believe down to the climate.

2. The law. Wasn’t sure about the legal situation. Didn’t want to get busted running an illegal booze making plant.

Any ideas?:D

[Amavida]

New one on me, Please explain the electrical looms.

Thanks,
Slim
Cheap outsourced labour has been found repairing broken electrical cables on Qantas aircraft by stapling the wires together. Yes STAPLED as in office paper stapler.

Gives me the creeps just thinking about it..

http://iserv.com.au/default.asp?t=360

http://www.news.com.au/travel/story/0,28318,22093844-27977,00.html

[Betong]

San Mig is no worse than bloody Corona.Well come on, there really aren't many beers that are. Anyhow for most of us SMB is just something cold and wet to swill while enjoying other pleasures.

But for those who care, San Miguel have recently come out with an all-malt premium beer which might be OK. The new Spanish restaurant up on Perimeter near Cottage Kitchen seems to have it, and apparently pretty good food too.

[FreebieFan]

as a sideline to the beer discussion, when i lived in the uk, i was into home brewing and made some pretty decent suds. i also made some mean homemade wines including a saké that would blow your socks off.

i've often thought about having my equipment balikbayaned out here so i can recommence my mad professor experiments and maybe brew up a decent pint of warm english ale. and i imagine you could obtain some interesting wines using local fruits.

2. the law. wasn't sure about the legal situation. didn't want to get busted running an illegal booze making plant.

any ideas?my homebrew attempts in uk was dreadful.

but when i moved to saudi a man obviously needs a drink now and again. and the process was simple.

buy grape juice, but sugar, buy large plastic container, get yeast, stir daily. and after two weeks, home made wine. tasted ok, but better when cut with sprite. maybe can start a wine making industry in phils too. lol

[Nvslim]

Cheap outsourced labour has been found repairing broken electrical cables on Qantas aircraft by stapling the wires together. Yes STAPLED as in office paper stapler.

Gives me the creeps just thinking about it..



When I was in the USAF, a stunt like that could get you shot. One Avionics Tech got a couple of plugs in the wrong place and a plane crashed killing the pilot. AF tried to charge him with manslaughter.

Slim

[Cunning Stunt]

buy grape juice, but sugar, buy large plastic container, get yeast, stir daily. and after two weeks, home made wine. tasted ok, but better when cut with sprite. maybe can start a wine making industry in phils too. lol

have a heart! my liver is curling up at just the thought of this rough hooch.

mind you, i guess its a question of 'needs must' in saudi.

[FreebieFan]

Seems like this guy tried to get a little player action going in his home town but he got "stuck "

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1204038/women-revenge.html

Poor bastard.. he should have got on a plane to Asia quick.

Imagine trying to pork those uglies. Yuck.

[FreebieFan]

Have a heart! My liver is curling up at just the thought of this rough hooch.

Mind you, I guess its a question of 'needs must' in Saudi.Well another strange fact from Saudi. When I left the place I sold a bottle of Johnnie Walker Black ( provided by some great US Marines ) for US$ 200.

But what was weirder, was I sold a slightly used Penthouse mag for US$ 400.

Needs must indeed!

[FreebieFan]

Over past year have seen lots of whingeing about Cebu Pacific and their website, difficulty in booking flights etc.

So, having had chats for a year with a sweet young thing from the south, and after she had assured me that I could do " absolutely anything " with her, could dress her up in "absolutely anything" and take all the pics I wanted I proceeded to book flights for her for a shagfest later this month.

Credit card procedure was fine, and readily acccepted, until the calculation for costs page.

I'm booking for a service in Phils, have an address in another Asian country, and paying for this with a credit card issued in HK.

The page says do I want to pay in Pesos or in home country currency.

It had calculated the home currency based on my address. And so an airfare of US$ 90. Could potentially have been charged at US$ 240 if I had elected for the payment in home country currency. Strange

[Spam Hog]

over past year have seen lots of whingeing about cebu pacific and their website, difficulty in booking flights etc.

so, having had chats for a year with a sweet young thing from the south, and after she had assured me that i could do " absolutely anything " with her, could dress her up in "absolutely anything" and take all the pics i wanted i proceeded to book flights for her for a shagfest later this month.

credit card procedure was fine, and readily acccepted, until the calculation for costs page.

i'm booking for a service in phils, have an address in another asian country, and paying for this with a credit card issued in hk.

the page says do i want to pay in pesos or in home country currency.

it had calculated the home currency based on my address. and so an airfare of us$ 90. could potentially have been charged at us$ 240 if i had elected for the payment in home country currency. strange




you got to understand all the crazy stuff that is going on with credit cards, banks, the phils economy etc i suppose. not to long ago i was going thru cebu pacific to book a flight and they would not longer accept credit cards so i had to respond in person to buy a ticket, i hate that with all the pushing and shoving at a counter to get served.

what i hear via the grapevine is cebu pac got their credit rating zapped coz they got burned too much over credit cards, so they limit it to international flights, don;t know if that is correct.

the other thing you got to account for is the forex currency rates which change hourly for usd vs peso, lately it has been moving between the 48 and 47 mark, a few centavios can throw the exchange rate off.

cebu air is still the best as far as varying flights and timliness better than pal which i will never fly again.


spamhog

[Robbaf]

what i hear via the grapevine is cebu pac got their credit rating zapped coz they got burned too much over credit cards, so they limit it to international flights, don;t know if that is correct.i think you may be right. i have booked 10 flights or more this year on cebu pacific.com and no problems. last week it wouldn't take my cc. funny though when i checked my cc the next day, cebu pacific charged the ticket and then refunded it. oip! (only in the philippines)


cebu air is still the best as far as varying flights and timliness better than pal which i will never fly again. spamhogi have had bad luck on cp and great luck on pal. i don't want to fly cp, unless i have no other choice.

robb

[Gangles]

There have been lots of complaints on this forum about credit cards with cebu pacific.

I have had the same problem in the past.

However, rather than whinge, I went to my bank when I got home to find out if there was a problem with the card.

The teller checked, and said no problem.

Just on a whim, I asked if I could see the information that they had on record for my credit card.

She turned the screen around, and I was stunned. Most of it was different to the info tht I had put on the card application, and therefore that I was putting in the payment info.

They had made abbreviations which are not standard, had capitalized some words, and had got some info wrong.

When I asked her for the formal name of the bank she actually got it wrong. She said ANZ bank, which is what I had ben using. However, when I did some investigation, I found that the formal name of the bank is Australian & New Zealand banking Group Limited. So, no wonder my payments were having problems.

So I copied it down, and use this info whenever I pay for Cebu Pacific.

I have not had a single proble, or refusal since.

So the answer is for you to do the same.

Gangles

[KyCuriosity]

I actually had my credit card rejected the first time I used it with CP to book a ticket a few weeks ago. I actually looked at my online bank account info and I didn't type my address exactly the same either. I took out the # sign out of the condo number and it worked just fine. I think you have to have it EXACTLY the same in both places I have used a mastercard and a visa from the US to buy the tickets since fixing the addresses.

[Robbaf]

As I stated in my last post, I have purchased 18 tickets (check my cc statements) this year and now it will not take. I didn't change anything. I will call my bank today and ask the questions for S & G's.

Robb

[Bob Bowie]

As I stated in my last post, I have purchased 18 tickets (check my cc statements) this year and now it will not take. I didn't change anything. I will call my bank today and ask the questions for S & G's.

Robb
Is strange that as a group we can not figure this out. I would like to use CB whenever possible, but I have been forced to pay more for PAL.
Last year I had the laptop in my Davao hotel room and tried 6 credit cards and 1 debit card and none worked. A big pain in the ass, typing all my info in for each attempt.
The next day I went to the mall and waited an hour to buy the tickets there.

[Sprokit69]

PLanning a trip next month and want to bring a cell phone from the US to use while there. I'm planning on buying a Smart Sim online. Will a dual or triband phone from the US work down there? Anyone the frequency bands they use?
Thanks in advance.

[Cunning Stunt]

Have recently made my first successful purchase of air tickets from CP, using a credit card. Amazing! It went like a dream.

I suspect that the reason it may have worked this time was because I used a card registered for the 'verified by visa' password safe security scheme.

Anyone else had similar results or was I just lucky this time:).

[Sun Chaser]

Have recently made my first successful purchase of air tickets from CP, using a credit card. Amazing! It went like a dream.

I suspect that the reason it may have worked this time was because I used a card registered for the 'verified by visa' password safe security scheme.

Anyone else had similar results or was I just lucky this time.3 weeks ago, I actually couldn't use it after 6 tries with 2 different cards. The next morning, my credit card companies (CapitalOne and CitiBank) called to verify it was me. And then I tried again with CapitalOne and I had no problems booking a trip from Macau to AC. A week later, I was still able to book a return trip from Manila to Macau with no problems. It looks like credit card companies might block it as a standard policy and only unblock when verified.

[Azmodeus Fl]

I took an old 3G phone and had it unlocked. I purchased a smart buddy sim card in the US but found out later it was locked to text only. My suggestion is to purchase your sim card in the Philippines as it will be fully opened for text and calls.


PLanning a trip next month and want to bring a cell phone from the US to use while there. I'm planning on buying a Smart Sim online. Will a dual or triband phone from the US work down there? Anyone the frequency bands they use?

Thanks in advance.

[Gumby2004]

A quad-band will always work in the Phils.

A tri-band will more than likely work, although I have never tried.

I don't know about a dual-band phone.

Before you try, make sure the phone is SIM Unlocked, to enable you to pop in a SIM for another carrier. If you bought your phone from a US carrier, your phone is likely locked. If so, expect a hard time if you ask them for the unlock code. But there's plenty of alternatives, . You can even have it done in manila for a few bucks.

I carry an unlocked blackberry (quad-band) that I use both at home and the phils. The keyboard saves alot of time when dealing with the bombardment of messages we all get. I've never been patient enough to learn how to efficiently text with just nine keys.


PLanning a trip next month and want to bring a cell phone from the US to use while there. I'm planning on buying a Smart Sim online. Will a dual or triband phone from the US work down there? Anyone the frequency bands they use?
Thanks in advance.

[Bob Bowie]

a quad-band will always work in the phils.

a tri-band will more than likely work, although i have never tried.

i don't know about a dual-band phone.

before you try, make sure the phone is sim unlocked, to enable you to pop in a sim for another carrier. if you bought your phone from a us carrier, your phone is likely locked. if so, expect a hard time if you ask them for the unlock code. but there's plenty of alternatives, . you can even have it done in manila for a few bucks.

i carry an unlocked blackberry (quad-band) that i use both at home and the phils. the keyboard saves alot of time when dealing with the bombardment of messages we all get. i've never been patient enough to learn how to efficiently text with just nine keys.

i would like to use my iphone there also for the texting speed and also you can now use yahoo chat on it. (i have not tried it yet)

i can use my iphone for wifi as stores/cafes, i hope i can use it in the wifi malls, becasue it is so handy and easier than a laptop.

as far as credit cards, i notified all of them before i left for manila, and still none of them worked on cebu pacific.

[Ham Yai]

Cebu Pacific accept your credit card and the either deny the flight or make you pay more at check in. That is if they don't refuse you to fly, which they do if they are over booked.

Oh and by the way check you credit card for scams after you used it on CB.

Philippine Airlines are safer. They spotted scamed airline tickets and reported it to the Phili Police who arrested 4 Nigerians and have their sights on two more.

By the way, always pay cash in Thailand too. Airline ticket fraud and CC scams are common.

[GoodEnough]

i would like to use my iphone there also for the texting speed and also you can now use yahoo chat on it. (i have not tried it yet)

i can use my iphone for wifi as stores/cafes, i hope i can use it in the wifi malls, becasue it is so handy and easier than a laptop.

as far as credit cards, i notified all of them before i left for manila, and still none of them worked on cebu pacific.

tribands will work fine as will dual bands, if there are really any dual bands left.

[Sammon]

i would like to use my iphone there also for the texting speed and also you can now use yahoo chat on it. (i have not tried it yet)

i can use my iphone for wifi as stores/cafes, i hope i can use it in the wifi malls, becasue it is so handy and easier than a laptop.

as far as credit cards, i notified all of them before i left for manila, and still none of them worked on cebu pacific.

it is very difficult to book on cebu pacific website with western credit cards. if you call them they say cheaper flights can only be booked at the website.
i have tried visa vierified cards and successfull in only half the time. the problem is i do not want to do multiple bookings and i do not know whether the booking has gone through. still end up calling them and frustrating to wait a long time to get in touch with them. they never send reply to your e mail.
i do not know why a so called major airline has not fixed their computer system to accept credit cards from all over the world. it is possible major banks have blacklisted them for inefficiency. forget about going to their reservation offices, wait will be close to 2 hours. for a fee many travel agents will book the ticket if you are already in phi. but i like to make plans and reservations from here in u.s. there was a time i used to make reservations for my girl friends as well and send them a copy. now i have to send them the money for them to book themselves. added money transfer charge.
for the many number of times i have travelled with them i am quite satisfied with the service and punctuality. maybe couple of times they were late but usually due to bad weather. it happens anywhere. for cheap fares and no frill service you cannot beat them.

[Fast Eddie 48]

Cebu Pacific accept your credit card and the either deny the flight or make you pay more at check in. That is if they don't refuse you to fly, which they do if they are over booked.

Oh and by the way check you credit card for scams after you used it on CB.

Philippine Airlines are safer. They spotted scamed airline tickets and reported it to the Phili Police who arrested 4 Nigerians and have their sights on two more.

By the way, always pay cash in Thailand too. Airline ticket fraud and CC scams are common.Ham yai,

I got scam in China once on a fake airline ticket, only deal with large travel agent or buy ticket in the airport even you paid more it is safer.

Fast Eddie 48

[Geneva Guy]

i would like to use my iphone there also for the texting speed and also you can now use yahoo chat on it. (i have not tried it yet)

i can use my iphone for wifi as stores/cafes, i hope i can use it in the wifi malls, becasue it is so handy and easier than a laptop.

as far as credit cards, i notified all of them before i left for manila, and still none of them worked on cebu pacific.bb

you need to do the following to your iphone to use it in phil

1. jailbreak it using redsnow (assuming you have the 3g and not 3gs)

2. unlock it (unlock the sim) using ultrasnow

if you are in another country that locks the sim, make you you do this before you leave and try another sim card (other than your own carrier) in it before you leave. if you use t-mobile, then turn off 3g before trying a tmobile sim.

you can look on line at www.thebigboss.org for lots of info on how to do this. i have done it, works fine.

oh, turn on your wifi after you try it, and you can use it with any network

gg

[Gumby2004]

i would like to use my iphone there also for the texting speed and also you can now use yahoo chat on it. (i have not tried it yet)

i can use my iphone for wifi as stores/cafes, i hope i can use it in the wifi malls, becasue it is so handy and easier than a laptop.

as far as credit cards, i notified all of them before i left for manila, and still none of them worked on cebu pacific.while the iphone is quad-band, it will need to be unlocked first if you bought it from a us carrier before you can sms and, of course, make local calls in pi. (there are factory unlocked iphones available, but be prepared to put out the big bucks. you're welcome to pm me for details.)

either way, you'll definitely find its wi-fi features, like ym and email, very handy. your iphone will also serve as a cool attention getter, since cell phones and other personal accessories are widely recognized status symbols. (my blackberry has started many conversations with potential honeykos.) with that being said, watch out for snatchers when showing off your gear.

[GoodEnough]

That last caveat should be underlined repeatedly. My Blackberry attracts all sorts of attention, and typically I keep it in my bag or in my pocket unless I'm using it. Cell phones are widespread marks of status here and make attractive targets for the more avaricious.

GE

[Manta Ray]

I will be moving to Manila for one year for my work from September 1st. I will most likely arrive with a 59 day tourist visa procured from the Tokyo Philippine Embassy, then renew my visa every two months for the year.

I have RTFF regarding opening a bank acct, but unfortunately the information seems to be a bit contradictory. Therefore if you have any good answers to the following questions, I'd be very appreciative:

1) Is it actually necessary to have a Phil based bank acct? In other words, for one year, is it feasible to just use an ATM (I am a Citibank customer), to withdraw money whenever I need it?

2) Is it possible to open a bank acct as a short-term visitor (with a 59 day tourist visa)?

3) If answer to number 2 above is 'Yes', any recommendations about which bank(s) would be best to open an account?

Many thanks!

[Benzedrine]

1. Jailbreak it using redsnow (assuming you have the 3G and not 3GS)

Redsn0w works for every iPhone now. Source: I used Redsn0w 0.8 on my 3GS successfully.

[Benzedrine]

PLanning a trip next month and want to bring a cell phone from the US to use while there. I'm planning on buying a Smart Sim online. Will a dual or triband phone from the US work down there? Anyone the frequency bands they use?

Thanks in advance.As long as your phone supports GSM 900 you should be ok. Some areas MAY use GSM 1800 though, but 900 should get you by. Be careful, because some dual band phones marketed in the US are only GSM 850/1900, which is pretty much worthless outside the Americas.

[Robbaf]

I will be moving to Manila for one year for my work from September 1st. I will most likely arrive with a 59 day tourist visa procured from the Tokyo Philippine Embassy, then renew my visa every two months for the year.
Can you work on a tourist visa?

[GoodEnough]

I will be moving to Manila for one year for my work from September 1st. I will most likely arrive with a 59 day tourist visa procured from the Tokyo Philippine Embassy, then renew my visa every two months for the year.

I have RTFF regarding opening a bank acct, but unfortunately the information seems to be a bit contradictory. Therefore if you have any good answers to the following questions, I'd be very appreciative:

1) Is it actually necessary to have a Phil based bank acct? In other words, for one year, is it feasible to just use an ATM (I am a Citibank customer), to withdraw money whenever I need it?

2) Is it possible to open a bank acct as a short-term visitor (with a 59 day tourist visa)?

3) If answer to number 2 above is 'Yes', any recommendations about which bank(s) would be best to open an account?

Many thanks!
In answer to your first question, "no," it's not necessary. I have an account at Metrobank and I live here, yet I rarely use the account. I use primarily a Debit/Visa from a US bank and it works fine, both as a Visa card and as a way of getting funds. If you decide to open an account here, you might as well use Citibank in Manila, as you already have an account with them in the US and thus, they would probably make it easy for you.

Opening a local bank account here seems to depend less on regulations and more on whom you know. I opened my Metro account without ever going to the bank and it took less than an hour--but then my company's accounts are there and our accountant merely made a call and got my account opened.

GE

[Cunning Stunt]

Having at various times held accounts with many of the local banks, I can assure you that Metrobank is easily the best of the bunch, as well as having the most branches. Their online banking service is particularly good and as efficient and secure as any in the west. Money transfer facilities are quick and easy as you would expect from a Philippine bank (a large part of their business is overseas remittances) and they have branches and affiliates abroad, which can be useful. I have a savings and checking account with them and have never had a problem with either.

As GE mentioned, in the Philippines it is not what you know but who, that matters the most and a bank manager friend is a great asset to have. Mine is the wife of a business associate which smoothed the way no end. She actually came round to my home to open the account. That is a personal service you would not expect to receive back home!!

Whatever you do avoid using the Landbank which is the worst bank I have ever encountered anywhere. Put money in there and they seem to assume it is theirs and make it a very tedious and time consuming procedure when you have the temerity to visit a branch to try and get some of your money back:).

[Manta Ray]

Many thanks GE and CS for your sage advice concerning opening a bank account!

Next step as soon as I arrive in Manila is to cruise the nearest mall, catch the eye of a slim, sexy, 20-something (er, OK. 30-something) bank manager, and invite her back to my place to open an account and make a deposit.

[GoodEnough]

If you decide to open a local account I can second CS' points. I have used them to transfer funds and the service was quick and efficient. I also routinely use the Metrobank ATM at my office to pay my Citibank Visa and again, it's efficient and accurate. My only complaint (due purely to my mistake) is that I once lost my ATM from Metro and it took about three weeks to get a replacement, since it had to come "all the way from Manila." But that's a very minor complaint and it was precipitated by my own stupidity.

GE

[Andre007]

I will be moving to Manila for one year for my work from September 1st. I will most likely arrive with a 59 day tourist visa procured from the Tokyo Philippine Embassy, then renew my visa every two months for the year.

I have RTFF regarding opening a bank acct, but unfortunately the information seems to be a bit contradictory. Therefore if you have any good answers to the following questions, I'd be very appreciative:

1) Is it actually necessary to have a Phil based bank acct? In other words, for one year, is it feasible to just use an ATM (I am a Citibank customer), to withdraw money whenever I need it?

2) Is it possible to open a bank acct as a short-term visitor (with a 59 day tourist visa)?

3) If answer to number 2 above is 'Yes', any recommendations about which bank(s) would be best to open an account?

Many thanks!The most simplest and easy no hassle way to open a bank account is to open a Unionbank EON account. It's a savings Visa Debit Card with online access.

Go into any Unionbank. They will only ask for 1 piece of identification. No ACR card or anything other ID matters. After filling out your information they will ask you to come back in 2 weeks to pick up your card. It is normally there earlier. When you pick up your Visa Debit card you are required to pay the annual fee only which I think is P350. There is no minimun balance to maintain. I'ts that simple!

As someone once said the actual card is very nice to look at as it has a nice design

[Spam Hog]

I will be moving to Manila for one year for my work from September 1st. I will most likely arrive with a 59 day tourist visa procured from the Tokyo Philippine Embassy, then renew my visa every two months for the year.

I have RTFF regarding opening a bank acct, but unfortunately the information seems to be a bit contradictory. Therefore if you have any good answers to the following questions, I'd be very appreciative:

1) Is it actually necessary to have a Phil based bank acct? In other words, for one year, is it feasible to just use an ATM (I am a Citibank customer), to withdraw money whenever I need it?

2) Is it possible to open a bank acct as a short-term visitor (with a 59 day tourist visa)?

3) If answer to number 2 above is 'Yes', any recommendations about which bank(s) would be best to open an account?

Many thanks!



Like you the spamhog is a Citibank (usa) customer. I have found that Metro bank is the best, however, I transfer my money from Citibank in the USA to Banco De Oro BDO monthly simply because one has to go thru BDO if you want to get a cash advance on your mastercharge/visa. You might be able to get away doing cash advances instead of a debit card (my atm debit card from citi works well in metro or BDO atms here, lousy in most others, you might not even ned to open a termporary bank account, which you can do.

Iv'e never had a problem with international wire transactions and BDO has online banking.


spamhog

[Wizard561]

For the Aussies that travel to the Philippines it will be a lot easier to get money as ANZ has purchased the Philippines branches of RBS..

So we may have an easier time there now from a banking point of view.

Wizard

[Amavida]

I will be moving to Manila for one year for my work from September 1st. I will most likely arrive with a 59 day tourist visa procured from the Tokyo Philippine Embassy, then renew my visa every two months for the year.

I have RTFF regarding opening a bank acct, but unfortunately the information seems to be a bit contradictory. Therefore if you have any good answers to the following questions, I'd be very appreciative:

1) Is it actually necessary to have a Phil based bank acct? In other words, for one year, is it feasible to just use an ATM (I am a Citibank customer), to withdraw money whenever I need it?

2) Is it possible to open a bank acct as a short-term visitor (with a 59 day tourist visa)?

3) If answer to number 2 above is 'Yes', any recommendations about which bank(s) would be best to open an account?

Many thanks!Answer in order of questions :
1)No. Citibank has been ok for me. You can get a local citibank account easily if you are an existing customer.

2) Yes but choose carefully. Some banks are more 'fussy' about the rules than others. BDO may [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) you off. China bank is pretty easy. If you get to know people or have business contacts you can get literally anything with an 'express fee' regardless of the rules.

3) See 2.

AV

[Amavida]

Can you work on a tourist visa?Legally? No. You must have residency or a special work visa, the name of which escapes me for the moment. However many do work illegally here. Just go to the many 'Universities' here to see all the westerners doing sly work as 'english teachers'. Incidently this is a great way to get amongst the 18 year old aspirational chicks from what I have seen. The little bitches will happily bonk for credit.

AV

[GoodEnough]

Legally? No. You must have residency or a special work visa, the name of which escapes me for the moment. However many do work illegally here. Just go to the many 'Universities' here to see all the westerners doing sly work as 'english teachers'. Incidently this is a great way to get amongst the 18 year old aspirational chicks from what I have seen. The little bitches will happily bonk for credit.

AV
The problem with working as an English teacher, or as anything else, while on a tourist visa is that if that 18 year old you're boinking gets pissed off, and if she's of a vindictive stripe and decides to report you to immigration, you're toast. You can be and you probably will be hauled off to the immigration detention center for a couple of days or weeks and then be booted out of the country never to return. I've seen it happen, and whiling away time in the Immigration detention facility is not something that's considered terribly enjoyable, according to a friend of mine who spent the better part of three weeks there.

GE

[Ekspat]

I have a Premier Account here in Malaysia with HSBC.
They told me they can easily open an account in the Philippine branch of HSBC in Manila.
So far I haven't done that, but this would be my procedure if I need an account there.

Cheers!

[Amavida]

The problem with working as an English teacher, or as anything else, while on a tourist visa is that if that 18 year old you're boinking gets pissed off, and if she's of a vindictive stripe and decides to report you to immigration, you're toast. You can be and you probably will be hauled off to the immigration detention center for a couple of days or weeks and then be booted out of the country never to return. I've seen it happen, and whiling away time in the Immigration detention facility is not something that's considered terribly enjoyable, according to a friend of mine who spent the better part of three weeks there.

GEYeah Im a little tongue in cheek about that GE. Its more of a day dream really.. I've known some guys who do get away with it but I can only imagine how stressful it must be trying to manage multiple illicit relationships with teenage hormone slaves in the confines of a school setting. Not to mention the sweet sorrow of tasting the nectar of the flowers of PI & then never being allowed to come back here after being booted out.. :)

AV

[Brastrav]

Collegues,

Since a few weeks I'm chatting with a cute lady from Ozamis City. To chat she's using the laptop of a friend. Unfortunately, this laptop has no webcam.
I've asked her to go to a cafe and use a computer with a webcam. She told me that webcams in cafes – as well as microphones – are prohibited there by the police and the local government.
Is this true?

The truth is I want to see her by webcam. According to her, the only way to make that happen is that she buy a webcam. The price would be 5,000 Pesos for the cheapest model.
Is this true also?

To end this story... Of course she has no work and want me to send money to her, so that she can buy the webcam. I'm not sure about this whole case, because she mentioned Western Union and Xoom directly while I didn't mentioned about that.

Any advise is much appreciated. Thanks...

Mike

[FreebieFan]

Collegues,

Since a few weeks I'm chatting with a cute lady from Ozamis City. To chat she's using the laptop of a friend. Unfortunately, this laptop has no webcam.

I've asked her to go to a cafe and use a computer with a webcam. She told me that webcams in cafes – as well as microphones – are prohibited there by the police and the local government.
Is this true?

The truth is I want to see her by webcam. According to her, the only way to make that happen is that she buy a webcam. The price would be 5,000 Pesos for the cheapest model.

Is this true also?

To end this story... Of course she has no work and want me to send money to her, so that she can buy the webcam. I'm not sure about this whole case, because she mentioned Western Union and Xoom directly while I didn't mentioned about that.

Any advise is much appreciated. Thanks.

MikeMike,

I think ( and I vould be wrong ) that you are being played.
Kids and adults in Phils thrive on internet and there are 100,s of cafes in every town large and small. All the girls I know have no prob going on cam and Ive never heard of a ban on cams and mikes. Maybe there is a local ban in some small barangay but I cant beleive a city can ban.

Cheap cams are available for a heck of a lot less than P5000 thats for sure.

[Trajano]

Collegues,

Since a few weeks I'm chatting with a cute lady from Ozamis City. To chat she's using the laptop of a friend. Unfortunately, this laptop has no webcam.

I've asked her to go to a cafe and use a computer with a webcam. She told me that webcams in cafes – as well as microphones – are prohibited there by the police and the local government. Is this true?

The truth is I want to see her by webcam. According to her, the only way to make that happen is that she buy a webcam. The price would be 5, 000 Pesos for the cheapest model. Is this true also?

To end this story. Of course she has no work and want me to send money to her, so that she can buy the webcam. I'm not sure about this whole case, because she mentioned Western Union and Xoom directly while I didn't mentioned about that.

Any advise is much appreciated. Thanks.

MikeI have chatted a cutie from Ozamiz, had her on cam, no issue.

A cheap web cam is more on the 1.500 PHP range.

T

[X Man]

I don't live in Philippines, but this is what I have come to understand:

COMPLETELY private booths with web cams are often targets of the authorities. Offically, they are targeting web nudity/sex.

Net cafe's have been raided and harassed for this.

If you are asking for nudity, then maybe your gal is telling a version of the truth. Are the authorities in O city more heavy handed than in other places? Someone else will have to answer that question.

My guess is she's pulling your leg...or some other part of your anatomy. Have you done photo sharing?

X


Collegues,

Since a few weeks I'm chatting with a cute lady from Ozamis City. To chat she's using the laptop of a friend. Unfortunately, this laptop has no webcam.
I've asked her to go to a cafe and use a computer with a webcam. She told me that webcams in cafes – as well as microphones – are prohibited there by the police and the local government.
Is this true?

The truth is I want to see her by webcam. According to her, the only way to make that happen is that she buy a webcam. The price would be 5,000 Pesos for the cheapest model.
Is this true also?

To end this story... Of course she has no work and want me to send money to her, so that she can buy the webcam. I'm not sure about this whole case, because she mentioned Western Union and Xoom directly while I didn't mentioned about that.

Any advise is much appreciated. Thanks...

Mike

[X Man]

disclaimer: I quote AV, but this is not directed at him and I do realize I'm just rewording something GE said earlier. It's just a post, please refrain from unnecessary attacks. I apologize in advance if my style seems abrasive or critical.

...Hopefully, you keep it as a daydream. Or if you actually pursue the dream, try to maintain some professionalism.

"manage multiple illicit relationships with teens" -- no, it doesn't work that way. If you do one, all her friends know, and eventually teachers know, and then the administration, and then you get called into an office, and then you get fired, or worse."

I've seen it happen. I saw a guy go drinking (their invitation) with some college girls, they missed the last train, stayed at his place for the night (two ladies in a seperate room) and he was on the carpet two days later. He survived, but gives students a wide berth these days.

X




Yeah Im a little tongue in cheek about that GE. Its more of a day dream really.. I've known some guys who do get away with it but I can only imagine how stressful it must be trying to manage multiple illicit relationships with teenage hormone slaves in the confines of a school setting. Not to mention the sweet sorrow of tasting the nectar of the flowers of PI & then never being allowed to come back here after being booted out.. :)

AV

[Cunning Stunt]

Collegues,

Since a few weeks I'm chatting with a cute lady from Ozamis City. To chat she's using the laptop of a friend. Unfortunately, this laptop has no webcam.
I've asked her to go to a cafe and use a computer with a webcam. She told me that webcams in cafes – as well as microphones – are prohibited there by the police and the local government.
Is this true?

The truth is I want to see her by webcam. According to her, the only way to make that happen is that she buy a webcam. The price would be 5,000 Pesos for the cheapest model.
Is this true also?

To end this story... Of course she has no work and want me to send money to her, so that she can buy the webcam. I'm not sure about this whole case, because she mentioned Western Union and Xoom directly while I didn't mentioned about that.

Any advise is much appreciated. Thanks...

Mike

Sounds to me like she is tugging your string, Mike.

She is probably really 20 stone and would spend your 5 thou on burgers down at her local Jolibee. Tell her to haul her lazy, fat ass down to her local branch of CD-R King (they are everywhere) where she will be able to pick up a decent webcam for 280 pesos and a super-duper 2mp model for 600! (http://www.cdrking.com/local/products/index.php?action=mnu&temp=2&typeno=1637494-383700-555758761-3625123&prod=PC%20Cameras).

As to webcams being banned in Ozamis City - sounds like Class A bullshit to me.

But you have to admire their ingenuity:).

[Puerto La Cruz]

Definitely bullshit. Could even be a ladyboy.

[Member #3428]

Collegues,

Since a few weeks I'm chatting with a cute lady from Ozamis City. To chat she's using the laptop of a friend. Unfortunately, this laptop has no webcam.
I've asked her to go to a cafe and use a computer with a webcam. She told me that webcams in cafes – as well as microphones – are prohibited there by the police and the local government.
Is this true?

The truth is I want to see her by webcam. According to her, the only way to make that happen is that she buy a webcam. The price would be 5,000 Pesos for the cheapest model.
Is this true also?

To end this story... Of course she has no work and want me to send money to her, so that she can buy the webcam. I'm not sure about this whole case, because she mentioned Western Union and Xoom directly while I didn't mentioned about that.

Any advise is much appreciated. Thanks...

Mike

I donate to more girls in South East Asia then most but I hate questions like this. A simple search and thinking with the big head would answer your question for yourself so step back, take a deep breath and relax.

OK, I have an employee who is from Bacolod which is a barangay in Ozamiz City. He web cams his family all the time. Illegal, I doubt it. How do I know he is from Bacolod, I hired him and have his paperwork, how do I know he web cams to his family, because all my filipino workers use the next office over to chat / skype / yahoo to their families.

Secondly 5000 peso is over 100 USD... does a web cam cost you 100 USD where you live? Especially a cheap ass chinese knock off? Sure sounds like pure BS to me.

Third, if she knows Western Union then I'm sure she's played the game before, but she is so honest and sweet and love you long time that she is really only try to get money so she can chat to you.

Fourth.. if you not seen her live on cam how do you know it's not some ladyboy or guy with some girls picture he's emailing you? If it really is a she, and she really likes you, she'll get on cam for you.

If you do a google search you will find quotes like this:

" Am glad i’ve read this entry. I’ve been in ozamiz and have been conversant with the culture there… sadly, my visit was a bit frustrating. i was there to meet my chatmate turned girlfriend for 3 years. i came all the way from texas only to find out that my girlfriend does not exist! i later found out that this is very common to them in there. i later learned from a govt employee that most gays in the area are doing this job to get money from foreigners!"

". I have a webcam that I use all the time, there is no law against it."

"I decided to find a girl online and after talking to a couple i met my lady from Ozamis. We talked on cam etc for around 6 months before my visit."

"I’ve been corresponding (web cam) with a lovely filipino woman from Ozamiz City "

Do any of those quotes that come from a simple google search tell you anything? Bottom line... tell her to go to Sip n' surf Internet Cafe, 50 peso an hour.

But I'll be happy to ask my employee's family if it is illegal to web cam in public cafe's if you like... cuz I'm such a nice guy.... :D

[Warbucks]

Collegues,

Since a few weeks I'm chatting with a cute lady from Ozamis City. To chat she's using the laptop of a friend. Unfortunately, this laptop has no webcam.
I've asked her to go to a cafe and use a computer with a webcam. She told me that webcams in cafes – as well as microphones – are prohibited there by the police and the local government.
Is this true?

The truth is I want to see her by webcam. According to her, the only way to make that happen is that she buy a webcam. The price would be 5,000 Pesos for the cheapest model.
Is this true also?

To end this story... Of course she has no work and want me to send money to her, so that she can buy the webcam. I'm not sure about this whole case, because she mentioned Western Union and Xoom directly while I didn't mentioned about that.

Any advise is much appreciated. Thanks...

Mike

Mike do not send money to someone you have never met.

A web cam does not cost a C-note no where on earth.

If she knows about Xoom and Western Union she or "HE" has received before.

Do not send money to someone you have never met.

[FreebieFan]

Collegues,

Since a few weeks I'm chatting with a cute lady from Ozamis City. To chat she's using the laptop of a friend. Unfortunately, this laptop has no webcam.

I've asked her to go to a cafe and use a computer with a webcam. She told me that webcams in cafes – as well as microphones – are prohibited there by the police and the local government.

Is this true?

The truth is I want to see her by webcam. According to her, the only way to make that happen is that she buy a webcam. The price would be 5,000 Pesos for the cheapest model.

Is this true also?

To end this story... Of course she has no work and want me to send money to her, so that she can buy the webcam. I'm not sure about this whole case, because she mentioned Western Union and Xoom directly while I didn't mentioned about that.

Any advise is much appreciated. Thanks...

MikeSo there you have it Mike. All the good and great ( the regular contributors of the Phils board that is ) have all deemed that there is no such thing as a webcam ban and we all agree that webcams are a lot less than a nice round figure of P5,000.

Call her on it and share with us her ( his?) response please.

[X Man]

Illogic claims to live in Philippines, but never gives any substantial reports.

The post below is kind of ridiculous in that several people have already given excellent responses.

Illogic...I have overestimated you by far.

and far too long....

X


Mike do not send money to someone you have never met.

A web cam does not cost a C-note no where on earth.

If she knows about Xoom and Western Union she or "HE" has received before.

Do not send money to someone you have never met.

[Brastrav]

Dear collegues,

Thanks a lot for the mass of answers I received about the topic "Ozamis City: webcams prohibited in cafes? ". I've read them well and as you all I'm convinced that somebody is fooling around with me.

So far I didn't send money at all! These days I'm very strict to her (or him). She (he) e-mailed me and chatted with me a few times the past days, but always I'm keep asking her (him) to go to a cafe with webcam. I want to see her (him). Period!

Tansak KTV: To be sure completely you can ask your employee's family if it is illegal to use a webcam in a public cafe. Thanks.

Cunning Stunt: Thanks for the URL. I was looking for this kind of website which shows webcams and prices, but couldn't find it while I was chatting with her (him) the past days. I have to admitt, such people are clever indeed.

X Man: She (he) did photo sharing with me. I received about 8 pictures of her (pictures of a female), but that doesn't prove if the pictures and the person who sent them are the same.

Thanks to ISG I'm more cautious now! Thanks to all.

Mike

[Robbaf]

Dear collegues,

Thanks a lot for the mass of answers I received about the topic "Ozamis City: webcams prohibited in cafes? ". I've read them well and as you all I'm convinced that somebody is fooling around with me.

Mike
Mike,

I webcamed a Ozamis City (Zamboanga Del Norte) DIA girl yesterday for an hour and I have webcamed with her a lot in the past 6 months. She was in an internet cafe and I saw around 6 computers with webcams when she turned the camera around.

[Member #3428]

Tansak KTV: To be sure completely you can ask your employee's family if it is illegal to use a webcam in a public cafe. Thanks.

OK.... I did and they laughed and asked me if I was stupid. :D the things I do ;)

[Amavida]

collegues,
i've asked her to go to a cafe and use a computer with a webcam. she told me that webcams in cafes – as well as microphones – are prohibited there by the police and the local government.
is this true?firstly internet cafes are on every street corner in pi, they are all equipped with webcams. girls sitting on line chatting to gullible westerners is a major reason the cafes exist. secondly, from time to time barangay captains or mayors go on a little moral crusade to crack down on internet cafes that allow girls & boys to display naughty bits on cam. some of my 18 year olds have done it to me & shown me web cam snaps of their displays to others (often showing off to other girls in their peer group or teasing teenage male classmates. so there is a grain of truth of this but i have not heard of any cafe crack downs in ozamis lately.
the truth is i want to see her by webcam.i want to see her too mike :d
according to her, the only way to make that happen is that she buy a webcam. the price would be 5,000 pesos for the cheapest model.
is this true also?she's either lying or very mistaken about the price. webcams are about 1/4th the price she is quoting.
to end this story... of course she has no work and want me to send money to her, so that she can buy the webcam.not worth the bother mike, there are literally millions more for you to lust after that are much easier fish to land.
i'm not sure about this whole case, because she mentioned western union and xoom directly while i didn't mentioned about that.ahh, im sorry but this is the straw that breaks the camels back in this story for me.. if she knows about western union it _may_ be because she has relatives who have received remittances but if she knows about xoom then she is almost certainly a high mileage girl. move along these are'nt the droids you're looking for..

cheers
av

[Amavida]

(insert ISG member name here) claims to live in Philippines, but never gives any substantial reportsVintage Xman.. same old tired phrase repeated adnauseum about a never ending series of ISG members.
The only purpose seems to be to troll the forums.

http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=troll
One who posts a deliberately provocative message to a newsgroup or message board with the intention of causing maximum disruption and argument

Sorry I don't usually 'feed trolls' but I feel compelled to call the member on this.
AV

[X Man]

the original poster has received some good advice from several people.

i'm sorry to repost something, but it seems to have been ignored.

**completely private booths with web cams are often targets of the authorities. a private booth can be used for many different reasons, but of course they can be used for pay for show. offically, authorities are targeting web nudity/sex. unofficially....

net cafe's have been raided and computers confirep001ed for this. it has been reported on several sites and i've communicated directly with net cafe managers / owners.

x



ok.... i did and they laughed and asked me if i was stupid. :d the things i do ;)

[Member #3428]

the original poster has received some good advice from several people.

i'm sorry to repost something, but it seems to have been ignored.

**completely private booths with web cams are often targets of the authorities. a private booth can be used for many different reasons, but of course they can be used for pay for show. offically, authorities are targeting web nudity/sex. unofficially....

net cafe's have been raided and computers confirep001ed for this. it has been reported on several sites and i've communicated directly with net cafe managers / owners.

x

mike asked me to check i did with folks living there. so i did.

who ignored your post? because no one commented on what great knowledge it was then you think your comment was ignored? it is common knowledge net cafe's get raided for bribes and shake downs for private booths. and if a girl goes to a private booth for nudity then you sure know she's working an angle. many girls who work the life will go onto cb and ultimately go nude for you but they are working the life.

when did mike state it was a private web cam show? so who is talking here about private web cam nudity? i know a girl who is working burgos who does web shows on the side. the company moves locations and pays off local officials. they have 25 computers and booths that the girls get a salary and 50 peso per 10 minutes. salary is 2,000 peso per month part time when she has time to go there. if she meets minimum hours there and minimum numbers of minutes of customers. she get's paid her 50 peso per 10 minutes when she is doing billable time on line.

have no idea if this is low or high as she is the only girl i've ever known to admit to doing this work. but.... :d she doesn't ask me to send her money she just is telling me what she does when she doesn't have customers ;)

[X Man]

The original comment was about "web cams prohibited by government". Every post other than mine (and yours quoted below) has suggested that this is nonsense. If in fact Mike was asking to see a little skin, then what his girl said may in fact be true.

I assure you I'm not fishing for compliments, especially not from you. I'm just reluctant to call Mike's friend a lying scammer based on the little knowledge we have.

X


Mike asked me to check I did with folks living there. So I did.

Who ignored your post? Because no one commented on what great knowledge it was then you think your comment was ignored? It is common knowledge Net Cafe's get raided for bribes and shake downs for private booths. And if a girl goes to a private booth for nudity then you sure know she's working an angle. Many girls who work the life will go onto CB and ultimately go nude for you but they are working the life.

When did Mike state it was a private web cam show? So who is talking here about private web cam nudity? I know a girl who is working Burgos who does web shows on the side. The company moves locations and pays off local officials. They have 25 computers and booths that the girls get a salary and 50 peso per 10 minutes. Salary is 2,000 peso per month part time when she has time to go there. IF she meets minimum hours there and minimum numbers of minutes of customers. She get's paid her 50 peso per 10 minutes when she is doing billable time on line.

Have no idea if this is low or high as she is the only girl I've ever known to admit to doing this work. But.... :D she doesn't ask me to send her money she just is telling me what she does when she doesn't have customers ;)

[Amavida]

The original comment was about "web cams prohibited by government". Every post other than mine (and yours quoted below) has suggested that this is nonsense. If in fact Mike was asking to see a little skin, then what his girl said may in fact be true.

I assure you I'm not fishing for compliments, especially not from you. I'm just reluctant to call Mike's friend a lying scammer based on the little knowledge we have.

XJesus Xman, you really know how to milk every post for all its worth don't you? :D

AV

[X Man]

I quoted Tansak KTV because I did NOT think it was a "stupid" question. He seemed to take my post the wrong way, so I tried to clarify what I meant.

What do you mean "milk every post for all its worth"? If you have some valid criticism, at least explain what it is.

May I respectfully remind you that you made statements to the ISG board that you intend to ignore me -- it might be best if you renew that commitment.

X

Oh, and thank you Tansak for adding some interesting info about the pay for view biz.



Jesus Xman, you really know how to milk every post for all its worth don't you? :D

AV

[Amavida]

So what's the origin of the filipino love of acronyms?
Is it just an attempt to ape a western habit but taken to extremes?
Some days when I try to read the news headlines here I go cross eyed trying to make sense of it.

AV

[Amavida]

What did you guys think of this years PI entrant Miss Philippines Bianca Manalo?
While she is a fine looking woman I feel she looked nothing like a filipino. She looked so much like a generic caucasian woman..
Miss Iceland on the other hand was a very feminine natural beauty compared to many of the other stick insects parading around on the show.
The winner from Venezuela did'nt do it for me Im afraid.

AV

[X Man]

It's not to hard to imagine AV going cross eyed trying to read a newspaper.

(Joke....I couldn't resist)

I think it's on the chat board where AV has also started a similar thread about Filipina text message abbreviations / translations. That should be interesting.

X


So what's the origin of the filipino love of acronyms?
Is it just an attempt to ape a western habit but taken to extremes?
Some days when I try to read the news headlines here I go cross eyed trying to make sense of it.

AV

[Member #3428]

I quoted Tansak KTV because I did NOT think it was a "stupid" question. He seemed to take my post the wrong way, so I tried to clarify what I meant.

Not skin of my nose X, my skin isn't that thin. We're cool but your PM box is damn full or I wouldn't have to post this here.

And the girl was at more training yesterday for her "job" of video chat. Will post on that if folks are interested. Got a layover with her Saturday and assume we'll chat atleast for a few minutes during the 12 hour layover at Dusit. :D Of course she promising our own video movie and giving me her virgin back side (how the hell to know it's virgin, I guess only the video of her face might provide it).

My damn question to her was how the hell they keep folks from capturing the video feed and posting on web for free?

[FreebieFan]

So what's the origin of the filipino love of acronyms?
Is it just an attempt to ape a western habit but taken to extremes?
Some days when I try to read the news headlines here I go cross eyed trying to make sense of it.

AVA lot of it came from US military and their love of abbreviations.

When I first lived there I had no idea what college girls were talking about when they said their scheds were MWF. Then learnt it was Monday Wednesday Friday. Then got to learn hundreds more acronyms. Some interesting some weird etc. For a Filipino to overstay his visa ussualy in US means he is TNT. Something na tayo)

For a Filipino to have an upset stomach is LBM (loose bowel movement)

[Vandaddio]

Does anyone have info re- FREE, websites for finding Phillipina's?

So many suck you in and if you want to look for free, is ok, but if you want to message it costs?

Cheers

Vdd

[X Man]

Really? Must have been an error because a few days ago I just cleaned out some of the fan / hate mail. I saved the one from gamahucher which is titled "hey asswipe". I probably deserved that (as Capt. Jack Sparrow would say).

I'm not very interested in video chat as in the actual viewing, but I'm interested in the logistics, pay, mindset, etc...

X


Not skin of my nose X, my skin isn't that thin. We're cool but your PM box is damn full or I wouldn't have to post this here.

And the girl was at more training yesterday for her "job" of video chat. Will post on that if folks are interested. Got a layover with her Saturday and assume we'll chat atleast for a few minutes during the 12 hour layover at Dusit. :D Of course she promising our own video movie and giving me her virgin back side (how the hell to know it's virgin, I guess only the video of her face might provide it).

My damn question to her was how the hell they keep folks from capturing the video feed and posting on web for free?

[Member #3428]

I'm not very interested in video chat as in the actual viewing, but I'm interested in the logistics, pay, mindset, etc... X

Me too, they actually have training classes for this crap. The girls have to take computer courses first, actually have orientation and other junk. It's quite the business set up. I'll post as I get more info from her. But so far the basic computer courses are at a decently high level of training.

[X Man]

Long ago, I had met an accountant in GSC at Cherry blossom. She said some of her friends had quit work in order to go into business on chat. They could make more money.

Chatted with a girl in Silay, Negros, who worked for an "aunt" at a dodgy webcam site. She's cute, but I somehow never make it to Negros.

Gents, please don't give specific names or locations here. Sometimes authorities monitor this site.

X






Me too, they actually have training classes for this crap. The girls have to take computer courses first, actually have orientation and other junk. It's quite the business set up. I'll post as I get more info from her. But so far the basic computer courses are at a decently high level of training.

[Robbaf]

Does anyone have info re- FREE, websites for finding Phillipina's?

So many suck you in and if you want to look for free, is ok, but if you want to message it costs?

Cheers

VddGo to Date in asia.com and it is free, just watch for the ladyboys, scammers and girls who delete their ad and repost it just so it will say "New":D

Robb

[Member #3428]

Ok folks, I transit NAIA every other month atleast. I am going through what I call Aquino and Centennial all the time (others and it is officially called terminal 1 and terminal 2).

I DO NOT NEED INFO

I do this all the time but I've had about 8 pm's recently with an ISG member who is pretty much doing his cherry trip to Cebu and I've shown him wiki maps, wiki reports, etc... describing to him the conditions of international arrival then moving over to PR flights out of centennial. He's coming in on JAL at Terminal 1 at 10 pm and leaving at 4 am or so on PR to cebu.

He still wants to think that he is landing at an airport like BKK or Narita and has options but really NAIA with the 3 terminals and then the old domestic one is not set up to play nice between the terminals.

He is talking about hitting LA cafe... but doesn't think he'll have his luggage with him, he is talking about running into town but again his luggage, he thinks he might stay in the JAL lounge in Term 1 which doubt at 10 pm and that he is arriving itnernational he's going to immigration immediately, etc...

I've told him he's sitting his arse outside terminal 1, he can taxi or shuttle over to terminal 2 and checking in maybe or sitting his arse outside terminal 2 waiting for check in, he can walk down to airport hotel for a shower / stretch / arrange a girl there or all the above, he can taxi into a nicer hotel (risk traffic accidents or delays but why waste the time / money on a nice hotel if he has 4 or so hours only), or he can take his luggage into a bar and stand out like a sore thumb.

Maybe I'm wrong.. what other options does he have?? Me, I get a room and a girl as I have 9 pm arrival and next day 10 am departure at the earliest or a 2 pm departure at the latest so I got more time then him.

Since his search function is broken I DID DO A SEARCH and maybe I did not use the right search terms or definitions, and with so many posts I'll admit I did not RTFF looking for a post on the Airport operations as I wanted to point him to something in the Philippines ISG section so he might understand better. I looked in reports of distinction and nothing there. Maybe I'm blind so hopefully someone can point to a good post on the airport operations so I can show to these guys who keep PMing me. I can't believe there is not a thread / sticky on this issue as MNL is more messed up in airport operations then other places in SEA. Don't you more experienced PI guys get a lot of PM's over this issue ???

SO CAN SOMEONE point me to a good post on this to prove to the guy that Terminal 1 is NOT connected to Terminal 2 and / or do a thread of the definitive airport guide for arrivals, transits etc... for NAIA. I'll put in my two peso's opinion worth as I'm an international arrival with international departure term 1 to term 2 and in reverse also every other month.

I get these questions alot and people on their cherry trips seem to believe they land at terminal one and depart terminal two and it's connected or they transfer items for you or such.... And then I end up having 10 + pm's trying to get the idea through their head that they are not understanding but they just don't get it.

[Vandaddio]

Go to Date in asia.com and it is free, just watch for the ladyboys, scammers and girls who delete their ad and repost it just so it will say "New":D

RobbHey Robb, thanks for the site, lots of girls.

Now I just need the wallet and the time for them.

I don't want marraige, just want to meet them when I get there, and date them. Maybe better than pay 4 fuk?

I'm not sure how Phillipinas are and how many dates it will take to bury the sausage?

[Buko Max]

Maybe I'm wrong.. what other options does he have??
Tell him to check out Air Force One!

[Finrod]

I'm not well enough read to point to posts in ISG describing the airport layout, but it turns out that Google Maps now has excellent mapping for Metro Manila. Just enter Aquino International Airport, Manila, Philippines and zoom in. You will see Terminals 1, 2 & 3 clearly marked as well as the Domestic Terminal which is separate. You can even get the satellite pictures of the area. And as anyone capable of reading a map can see, these terminals are not set up for easy access to each other. Gotta run outside and take a taxi or shuttle between them. If your ISG buddy can't read a map, he's beyond our help...

Regarding running out for an ST then returning for the 4am flight: your friend will need to wade through immigration and baggage pickup. Maybe customs too if they want to stop him. That can easily kill 60 to 90 minutes post-arrival. Then he has to get to Terminal 2 in time to check in for the 4am flight so practically speaking, he's got maybe 3 1/2 hours at most. If he's taking luggage with him, I would say the best thing to do would be to try Air Force One. Search Manila reports for it; it is in Paranaque not too far from the terminal, a lot closer than LA Cafe. Won't be as cheap as LA Cafe, but at least he's almost guaranteed to get some and it will be easy to take the luggage to the room there. LA Cafe is hit or miss, might not have anyone doable by his standards at the time he's there.

[Member #3428]

Yeah guys I got all this but the point was to make a thread for it or a sticky or such so people don't keep asking the same questions. Am I the only one who get's these types of emails from folks.

Here's a good map but some folks just refuse to believe..

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:NAIAMap.png

And I'm not a MNL / PI expert like you folks... So thought one of you with more experience then me should write up a good report on how to wade through the different terminals.

[GoodEnough]

It's easy. Just follow the the steps listed below:

1. First, accept the fact that it may be the worst, most screwed up airport in Asia, and perhaps beyond; that it's designed mindlessly, with no consideration for passengers. Once this idea is rooted firmly in your brain, proceed to step two:

2. Walk outside the international arrivals terminal--assuming that you have eventually found your bags--and flag down a decrepit, almost surely un-airconditioned, and probably filthy taxi; then ask the driver politely to take you to the next terminal; if you have several hours to kill you're pretty much screwed as there's nothing to do and you probably do not have time to go anywhere;

3. Flinch, and repress the urge to kill when the driver quotes you an absurd price for driving you and your luggage a couple of kilometers; make sure to enunciate your terminal choice clearly or you may wind up in the wrong place and have to repeat this semi-unwholesome experience;

4. Arrive at your new departure terminal and go through the hassles of screening, removing shoes, long lines and lack of service again--smile throughout it all cause you know that you're gonna get laid in but a few hours and the sex will push the hassles into irrelevance quickly;

5. Board plane for onward journey.

GE

[Member #3428]

It's easy. Just follow the the steps listed below: GE

Dang we need to hang out, get over to Dusit you lazy bastard :D

It's been too long we haven't caught up.

[Broko]

I thought a shuttle bus was running between the terminals.

I took it once. Don't know the operating hours.

[Devils 1]

Ok folks, I transit NAIA every other month atleast. I am going through what I call Aquino and Centennial all the time (others and it is officially called terminal 1 and terminal 2).Tell him to go to Air Force One. It was made specifically for this situation. They have a baggage holding room there. It is close to the airport. The lineup there is absolutely spectacular. They have showers and steam rooms and the pre-sex massage is what everyone needs after a long flight. They also have a lounge there where he can hangout for free between pops if he would like to have more than one session! No brainer, yes it is expensive, but compared to sitting in the airport for 6 hours it is cheap.

[Buko Max]

I thought a shuttle bus was running between the terminals.

I took it once. Don't know the operating hours.
Yes you are correct sir!
Cebu Pacific operates a shuttle bus between terminal 1 and terminal 3.
I believe they stop service between 2:00 and 6:00 am.

[Member #3428]

I thought a shuttle bus was running between the terminals.

I took it once. Don't know the operating hours.

PR runs a shuttle between Term 1 and 2... when it runs... old beat up thing... supposed to be every 20 min or so but..............

[Brymor]

It's easy. Just follow the the steps listed below:

1. First, accept the fact that it may be the worst, most screwed up airport in Asia, and perhaps beyond; that it's designed mindlessly, with no consideration for passengers. Once this idea is rooted firmly in your brain, proceed to step two:

2. Walk outside the international arrivals terminal--assuming that you have eventually found your bags--and flag down a decrepit, almost surely un-airconditioned, and probably filthy taxi; then ask the driver politely to take you to the next terminal; if you have several hours to kill you're pretty much screwed as there's nothing to do and you probably do not have time to go anywhere;

3. Flinch, and repress the urge to kill when the driver quotes you an absurd price for driving you and your luggage a couple of kilometers; make sure to enunciate your terminal choice clearly or you may wind up in the wrong place and have to repeat this semi-unwholesome experience;

4. Arrive at your new departure terminal and go through the hassles of screening, removing shoes, long lines and lack of service again--smile throughout it all cause you know that you're gonna get laid in but a few hours and the sex will push the hassles into irrelevance quickly;

5. Board plane for onward journey.

GE

What an excellent summary and sums up perfectly my experiences there. Another thing to remember is that you can spend ages queuing at the entrance to the domestic terminal to get through security only to be turned away if you have not printed off your domestic flight details off the internet. Happened to me the first time, I stupidly thought I could do the same as I do in Europe and just turn up with my passport and they would match my details on the computer. If you do not have some printed confirmation from the internet or an actual ticket then forget about trying to get into the terminal. I then had to queue again to the airline desk for 40 minutes to get a printed receipt before re queueing to get into the domestic terminal. Probably the most frustrating experience I have ever had at any airport in my entire life

[Thaifun]

What an excellent summary and sums up perfectly my experiences there. Another thing to remember is that you can spend ages queuing at the entrance to the domestic terminal to get through security only to be turned away if you have not printed off your domestic flight details off the internet. Happened to me the first time, I stupidly thought I could do the same as I do in Europe and just turn up with my passport and they would match my details on the computer. If you do not have some printed confirmation from the internet or an actual ticket then forget about trying to get into the terminal. I then had to queue again to the airline desk for 40 minutes to get a printed receipt before re queueing to get into the domestic terminal. Probably the most frustrating experience I have ever had at any airport in my entire lifePic up your luggage (never had any problem, actually pretty fast on international arrivals), change some money at the bank (exchange rate is better than at the money lenders in makati - especially if you arrive late), take the elevator or escalator to the departure level. DO NOT PAY THE OFFICIAL RATE at the arrival level. Tell the driver to put on the meter or refuse. 95% they oblige.

Depending on the terminal you have several choices. Centennial Terminal has a nice restaurant with acceptable food choices, just ask for it after you checked your luggage but before you walk through the final security check.

Terminal one has some fast food choices as has the new Terminal 3. If you have a longer wait, say 6-7 hrs. Take a cab to the next sogotel and rest, perhaps with some assistance.

Yes traffic is bad but not overwhelmingly if you stay nearby in pasig or makati.

No need to despair, its not like other places but the airport is actually in the city.

Makati should be around 120 -130 peso, Pasig less, always allow some variation for distances depending on the Terminal.

For intra-terminal transfers, you might do good to ask for the free shuttle. If your lucky it is right there waiting for you.

All Terminals offer very decent coffee at a price. The food choices are chain food or overpriced sandwiches. I paid a bit at Terminal 2 (Centennial) in the restaurant (canteen) but not too bad.

[Cunning Stunt]

Happened to me the first time, I stupidly thought I could do the same as I do in Europe and just turn up with my passport and they would match my details on the computer.

Hahaha - but this is The Philippines, chock full of little brown jobsworthies who are paid peanuts and who therefore display all the sense and initiative of trained monkeys. But there again, knocking back a rich foreigner is probably one of the few kicks that they enjoy in their sad, humdrum, little lives.

On a similar theme, I was fighting my way through the crowds (and it was not even rush hour) at Ayala MRT station yesterday and it occurred to me that this particular station must have being designed by a sadistic misanthrope or maybe more likely an architect who would find difficulty getting a job as a toilet cleaner in the west. It’s the main commuter station for the up market financial district and yet it is dull, gloomy, airless, dirty and with so many stupid design faults that it could be used as a role model of how not to build a transport facility. Climbing up from EDSA (no escalator to the first floor) the ticket concourse is way up in the sky even though the actual line is back down nearly back at street level. So you go up and you come down:D. Ticket machines exist but have not worked in living memory. So there are long snaking queues for the 3 or 4 harried ticket sellers and which apparently, at rush hour, extend all the way back down to EDSA. And then after all this, when you have got a ticket, its time to join another queue for the cursory and therefore pointless security check. Grrrrrrrr!!

I have nothing but admiration for the long suffering commuters who have to put up with this shit every day in sauna conditions, gulping in lungfuls of the fetid air that wafts up from EDSA . It must be a indication of the cheerful fatalism of the average Filipino that they tolerate this nonsense without more of them jnot running amok and engaging in a spot of commuter rage.

[X Man]

A stunning and humorous report by the cunning stunt -- and very British in its absolute negativity. We'd have thought you could have led the Manila transportion rebellion yourself!

Backing up a bit to the Manila airport taxi situation, I was pleasantly surprised earlier this month when I flew Davao to Manila via Cebu pacific. There were three taxi queues (spelling?) and all three were clearly labeled. One was something like contract price, which I assumed would be the most expensive. Then there was yellow taxis which had a 70 pesos start. Then there was the line for regular taxis with a 30 peso start. I opted for the yellow taxi and ended up getting flagged just over 200 pesos to get to hotel near Robinsons Ermita. The guy drove well, didn't honk incessantly, didn't try to sell me his little sis, and actually helped me with my bag. I tipped well...much less stress than the old ordeal.

I can't recall, but wasn't it over 300 in the old days when they had a special counter with the fees written on the wall?

Maybe there are different systems in the different terminals so if you are a newcomer, please read previous posts as well.

I wonder if all that British complaining my be making a difference!!! Before you know it, there will be a special 1st class lane at MRT for people willing to pay a bit extra.

X

[Robbaf]

Hey Robb, thanks for the site, lots of girls.

Now I just need the wallet and the time for them.

I don't want marraige, just want to meet them when I get there, and date them. Maybe better than pay 4 fuk?

I'm not sure how Phillipinas are and how many dates it will take to bury the sausage?
Your welcome and one date will work:D

[Vandaddio]

Your welcome and one date will work.you have to love the catholic girls

I hear you have to escape the parents or relative chafferone.

You have to love the freebie girls as to the pay 4 however pay 4 makes things mor eblack and white. And less complicated. Kinda like ordering a pizza.

Pic your size and toppings.

[FreebieFan]

It's easy. Just follow the the steps listed below:

1. First, accept the fact that it may be the worst, most screwed up airport in Asia, and perhaps beyond; that it's designed mindlessly, with no consideration for passengers. Once this idea is rooted firmly in your brain, proceed to step two:

2. Walk outside the international arrivals terminal--assuming that you have eventually found your bags--and flag down a decrepit, almost surely un-airconditioned, and probably filthy taxi; then ask the driver politely to take you to the next terminal; if you have several hours to kill you're pretty much screwed as there's nothing to do and you probably do not have time to go anywhere;

3. Flinch, and repress the urge to kill when the driver quotes you an absurd price for driving you and your luggage a couple of kilometers; make sure to enunciate your terminal choice clearly or you may wind up in the wrong place and have to repeat this semi-unwholesome experience;

4. Arrive at your new departure terminal and go through the hassles of screening, removing shoes, long lines and lack of service again--smile throughout it all cause you know that you're gonna get laid in but a few hours and the sex will push the hassles into irrelevance quickly;

5. Board plane for onward journey.

GEWhilst I agree with some the taxi situation has improved a lot. Now you can pay slightly more and get decent airport taxis in old Naia and in Aquino. They are the yellow ones. Clean and decent and way better than the normal crap thats on the streets in Manila.